

HENDRICKS COUNTY HISTORY
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Two Hendricks County tourism professionals celebrated 15 years of work with Visit Hendricks County.
Sarah Ferguson, vice president/chief marketing officer, and Tracy Whetstone, senior manager of partnerships, joined the organization in 2008 and have helped make Hendricks County as a state leader in tourism.
Ferguson started as its marketing coordinator and is now second in command while heading up the marketing and sales team. Her efforts include developing and
implementing marketing initiatives and building digital presence. Visit Hendricks County has grown to more than $3 million in innkeeper’s tax collections. Whetstone began as community events manager and focused on group tours and community outreach. She partners with local organiza tions such as the YMCA, the local chambers of commerce and National FFA to ensure Visit Hendricks County continues to develop communities where people want to visit and live and share its mission and vision.
Gardening show returns to Hendricks County
The Hendricks County Master Gardeners annual Gardening for All Ages event will 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 29 at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, 1900 E. Main St., Danville.
The free-admission show will have 46 garden-related vendors and community groups with plants, garden décor, bird-watching supplies and gardening advice.

The children’s area will have games, crafts and education with a theme of Pollinators, Veggies and More! Four Hendricks County Master Gardeners will present educational programs. Master Gardeners will distribute free vegetable and flower seeds and trees from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. For more information, visit hendricksgardeners.com.
Don’t miss Hendricks County news
Don’t wait until the next issue of the Hendricks County ICON hits your mailbox to catch up on local happenings in your town. Make sure to visit myhcicon.com and follow the ICON Facebook page facebook.com/HendricksCountyICON for stories and photos that feature and affect you and your community.
Two Visit Hendricks County staffers mark 15 years
Sarah Ferguson and Tracy Whetstone celebrated 15 years of work with Visit Hendricks County. (Photo provided by Visit Hendricks County)


EXPERIENCE 12 PARKS IN HENDRICKS COUNTY
Danville Town Council pursues land purchase, begins wastewater project
Compiled by Peg McRoy Glover
The Danville Town Council met April 6. Meetings can be viewed on the town’s YouTube channel. The council meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays of each month at Danville Town Hall, 49 N. Wayne St. The next scheduled meeting is April 19. The ICON will report on that meeting in an upcoming issue.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved a contract with Bowen Engineering Corporation to begin work on the north interceptor project for wastewater collection. This will accommodate the town’s growth. The council approved the contract 4-1, with Chris Gearld dissenting.
WHAT IT MEANS: This project is in response to a master plan created in 2020 by Banning Engineering and the town’s wastewater department that identified some deficiencies in the north and south interceptors. Addressing the north interceptor in Phase 1 of the overall project was identified as the top priority. The project is expected to take eight to 10 months to complete and cost $5 million.
WHAT HAPPENED: The council voted to take the next step in the process toward making an offer on land for sale at 576 N. Ind. 39. This action does not approve making an offer on the land. It puts in motion the possibility of making an offer. The motion carried 3-2, with Gearld and Greg Irby dissenting.
WHAT IT MEANS: The council held a work-study session prior to the council meeting about the feasibility of purchasing this land. The clerk-treasurer presented several funding solutions. The acquisition is not part of the town’s master plan. The interest is based on availability and the town’s possible future transportation needs. The town can pull out at any time.
WHAT HAPPENED: The council gave the public works department approval to dispose of surplus property that is either outdated or the department no longer uses.




WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved a cleaning contract with AWR Cleaning Service for town hall and the clerk-treasurer’s office.
Full Time - $16- $18 per hour (INDIANAPOLIS)
Small, locally owned manufacturing company. We are looking for an energetic, reliable person to learn a skilled trade.
Job duties include applying rubber patterns to finished product, sampling product and reworking product.
Job does require the ability to lift/move objects up to 50lbs.
Job Type: Full-time; Day Shift. 40 Hours per week/overtime possible. Full Benefits available.
We will be making appointment times for interviews,
WHAT IT MEANS: This is a regular inventory assessment. The last disposal yielded $21,000 in auction revenue.
WHAT IT MEANS: AWR will clean and perform janitorial services in the town hall, police department, training room, break room and office areas for $1,200 per month.
Plainfield Town Council joins development authority
Compiled by Nicole Davis
The Plainfield Town Council met April 10 for a regular council meeting. The council meets at 6 p.m. for a work session and 7 p.m. for a council meeting on the second and fourth Mondays each month at 591 Moon Road. Agendas and meeting minutes can be found at townofplainfield.com. The next meeting is scheduled for April 24.
WHAT HAPPENED: The council passed a resolution adopting a preliminary Strategic Economic Development Plan for the Central Indiana Regional Development Authority.
WHAT IT MEANS: In 2020 Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb signed P.L.83-2020 (SEA 350) (the “Act”), which allows eligible political subdivisions located in the IndianapolisCarmel- Anderson Metropolitan Statistical Area to create the Central Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA). The council is adopting a plan that includes provisions and general information. The plan states the RDA shall: assist in the coordination of local efforts concerning projects that are of regional importance; assist a county, a municipality, a commuter transportation district, an airport authority, and a regional transportation authority in coordinating regional transportation and economic development efforts and fund projects that are of regional importance.







County where he acquired his first 40 acres by trading his horse and saddle. He walked all the way back to Kentucky and moved his wife, Jane, their three kids, multiple horses and a calf to Hendricks County to live on his newly acquired land.
Eventually Michael McClain added another 160 acres to his property and built the first schoolhouse in Hendricks County on his land.
Michael McClain died in 1856 and was buried on his land establishing the McClain Cemetery still located at E. CR 100 S in the Parks at Prestwick.
Prestwick Country Club preserves pieces of historic McClain House
By Peg McRoy Glover
Inside the Prestwick Country Club House guests will find parts of a home that was once owned by the McClain family. These preserved pockets of history remain as a testament to one Hendricks County homestead family story.
Two segments of the house are enfolded by the clubhouse. One is at the back of the clubhouse and the other on the west side. Most of these historical parts of Prestwick require a bit of meandering to locate, but one gem is hidden
in plain sight.
Between the white archway and the golf shop’s exit door a white spindle staircase leads up to what used to be the second floor of a home built sometime after 1916. Visitors enter and exit the golf shop through McClain’s original front door.
On the west side and tucked within the structure history seekers can find an outside door of the historical home and more living space.
Michael S. McClain was the first McClain to settle in Hendricks County. Born in Virginia in 1801, he worked as a trader and saddle maker and eventually emigrated to Kentucky.
According to McClain family oral history, in 1830 Michael McClain crossed the Ohio River and came to Hendricks
Gilbert P. McClain was born in 1836 and grew up in Washington Township. He served in the Civil War, joining the Army in 1862. He saw action at Murfreesboro, Perryville, Chickamauga and Chattanooga as well as the sieges of Atlanta, Franklin and Nashville. He was discharged from the Army as a first sergeant in 1865.
Upon his return home he began farming and married Amanda Walker in 1866. They had six children but only two survived, Bascom W. and Adrian R. Walker.
Sometime between 1866 and 1895 Gilbert McClain built the first home on land that would eventually evolve into Prestwick.
Gilbert McClain served as director of schools for six years and superintendent of the township for one year. He died
Continued on Page 8

The white staircase seen through the arch at the Prestwick Country Club House leads to the second story of the McClain house. (Photo provided by courtesy of the Huron Heritage Collection, AvonWashington Township Public Library, Avon, Ind.)
Continued from Page 7
in 1915. Unfortunately, one year after his death that majestic house burned to the ground due to a chimney fire. Insurance on the house for $2,000 and $700 for its contents financed building a second smaller home.
Adrian R. McClain, the younger son of Gilbert, was born in 1873. When he was 21 years old he moved to Deadwood, SD, to work on the railroad. Then in 1903 he married Nellie Towles, and they had two sons, Adrian P. McClain and Alfred T. McClain. Adrian McClain was a lifelong farmer, and they were the next generation to live in the McClain home.
Adrian P. McClain, born in 1919, grew up on the family farm. He enlisted into the Army for WWII in 1944 and landed on the beaches of Normandy, France. He received the Purple Heart for wounds sustained from a hand grenade and the Bronze Star for his valor.
He married Mary Louis Dooley, and they had three children Rex, Linda and Nancy. He worked for 43 years as a hog buyer for Hygrade Food Products, worked as the township assessor and trustee, acted as first president of the Avon School Board and was named co-alumnus of the year by the Avon High School Alumni Association. He died in 2001.
Rex D. McClain was born in 1938 and graduated from Avon High School in 1956. He married Kay Wolfe, and they had two daughters, Mitzi and Julie. It seems that by this generation of McClains in Hendricks County, farming was out of their blood. He retired from the Chrysler Foundry and passed away in 2021.

Gilbert McClain built the first home on the land that would eventually become Prestwick Country Club House.(Photo provided by courtesy of the Huron Heritage Collection, Avon-Washington Township Public Library, Avon, Ind.)
The McClain family is a story of the founding and development of this country and county. In many ways it mirrors many other families with one exception. Some rooms where they walked, talke, and slept are preserved within the walls of the Prestwick Country Club House.
ON THE COVER: The half circle porch and white pillars encase the original front door of the McClain’s home. The family was one of the founding farmers of Hendricks County. (Photo provided by courtesy of the Huron Heritage Collection, Avon-Washington Township Public Library, Avon, Ind.)
MCCLAIN
FAMILY FACTS
• Michael McClain’s father James immigrated from Scotland and served in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.
• Gilbert McClain traveled by train to some of the Civil War Encampments in his old age.
• Part of the Prestwick golf course and land west of Abner Creek was farmed by Adrian R. McClain with a team of draft horses until 1956.
• In 1883 when Adrian R. McClain was 10, he wrote a letter to the newspaper just so he could see his name in print.
• Adrian P. McClain was a Hendricks County ping pong champion and first runner up in the county cornshucking contest.
• Rex McClain played on the basketball team when he attended Avon High School.


Our ICONic community
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$ 500,000
The Hendricks County Community Foundation (HCCF) received a $500,000 gift from the Lincoln Legacy Foundation to open the new Lincoln Bank Legacy Donor Advised Fund at the Community Foundation to benefit Plainfield and Hendricks County.
The new fund will continue the legacy of charitable grantmaking of the Lincoln Federal Charitable Foundation that was founded in 1998 by Lincoln Federal Savings Bank.
The foundation board voted to dissolve and distribute assets to the community foundations in those same counties, including Hendricks County.
“We are honored to partner with the Lincoln Legacy Foundation to continue its work in Hendricks County,” said William Rhodehamel, President & CEO of HCCF. “They have steadfastly supported important projects and programs in our community that have made Hendricks County a better place.”
Grants will follow the general spirit of the grantmaking history of the Lincoln Legacy Foundation, with a primary focus on health and human services and education within Hendricks County, with occasional focus on special projects within Plainfield.
Staff report
Avon softball making noise early this season
Harley Skinner doesn’t have a crystal ball to flash images of how the remainder of Avon’s softball season will play out.
The third-year Orioles coach is, however, partial to how it started.
By the second week of April, a program with 11 sectional titles and the 2016 state championship in its rearview mirror held an 8-2 record and had surged to No. 6 in the Class 4A poll.
Most memorable is Avon downing twotime defending 4A state kingpin Roncalli, 7-5, in the final of the Lady Braves Bash hosted by Terre Haute South. Along the way, the Orioles avenged an earlier loss to Bedford North Lawrence, 10-9.
The win over Roncalli was particularly notable.
Skinner’s team chased the virtually unhittable Keagan Rothrock, the Royals hardthrowing senior pitcher who was in middle school when she committed to play softball at the University of Florida.
“(Rothrock) pitched the first four innings, and the score was tied, 2-2, when they took her out,” said Skinner, who at 24 is barely older than the players she’s leading. “They put in a different pitcher, and we got six hits off of her.”
Still a relatively young team, the Orioles are guided by three senior tri-captains in

third baseman and cleanup hitter Mandy Lauth, centerfielder Amanda Logeais and Anna Bracey.
On paper, the Orioles look to be a year away from something special.
Or maybe that special is now.
“They just go right at it,” said Skinner of her players. “They play hard, they work hard and they battle. They’re talented, but they work and they care.”
St. Stephen’s Community Garden rents out plots
By Nichole Meloche
Last spring, Jerry Land and St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church council members wanted to create a space where Plainfield residents who lack backyard space could grow their own vegetables.
“We had the space available for a garden,” said church member Trudy Land. “Planting a garden was an asset to the church and the community.”
During the first year, the garden produced tomatoes, sunflowers, corn, peppers, beans and more. The church is preparing to till the garden for this year’s planting season.
The garden that sits in full sunshine has 30 plots that measure 20x10. Rent is $25 per plot, and residents can plant their own food to harvest.
Starting April 15, church members began tilling the plots. After the initial tilling, each owner is responsible for maintenance of their plot. The church provides each renter a rain barrel to water the garden.
Renters choose what they plant and get to keep everything they grow. St. Stephen’s offers a food pantry that vegetables can be donated to, but it is not required.
To reserve a plot, contact Jerry Land at (317) 403-1251 or Gregg Burks at (317) 840-0380.

Avon senior tri-captains for the 2023 softball season include Anna Bracey (left), Amanda Logeais and Mandy Lauth. The team broke Roncalli’s 50-game win streak. (Photo provided)
St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Plainfield rents garden plots to residents. (Photo provided by St. Stephen’s)
Brownsburg council denies petition for apartment complex proposal
Compiled by Melissa Gibson
The Brownsburg Town Council met April 13 for a regular meeting at Brownsburg Town Hall. The next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. April 27 at 61 N. Green St., Brownsburg.
WHAT HAPPENED: Travis Tranbarger, parks and recreation director, shared the Park Board summary.
WHAT IT MEANS: Virgil Park development is underway. The project should be complete by early fall. In addition, the department five-year strategic master plan process began with the intent to seek community input. It should be completed by early fall.
WHAT HAPPENED: Ethan Pierce, economic development director, brought a resolution to the council concerning the Wynne Farms Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
WHAT IT MEANS: The area has seen increased residential development, prompting a property base value assessment. The town’s financial advisor Bob Swintz recommended removing some residential parcels from the TIF district to avoid further issues. The decision will not impact the town’s ability to make debt payments on outstanding bonds and does not change the percentage of assessed value that goes to the town. The council approved the resolution unanimously.
WHAT HAPPENED: Pierce requested a resolution in regard to the new Economic Development Area, Northfield Drive Business Park.
WHAT IT MEANS: The new property includes two parcels at the northwest corner of U.S. 136 and West Northfield Drive, currently part of the North Beltway TIF. The purpose is to allow the town to restart the life of the TIF and profit from potential projects developed. The council approved the resolution unanimously.
WHAT HAPPENED: A rezoning ordinance was brought before the council concerning property at 204 E. Main St., northeast corner of Jefferson and Main streets.
WHAT IT MEANS: Jodi Dickey, development services director, said the applicant requests a rezoning of the property from Institutional (IS) to Urban Commercial (UC) to allow for a counseling office and residential use at the former Trinity Presbyterian Church. The council approved the ordinance on first reading unanimously.
WHAT HAPPENED: Dickey presented a potential ordinance for voluntary annexation to the Town of Brownsburg.
WHAT IT MEANS: Prestige Citywide/Indy Decorative Concrete requested a two phased annexation for property at 3885 N. Ind. 267. The first phase of annexation was completed Feb. 23. The council unanimously approved the ordinance on the first reading.
WHAT HAPPENED: Dickey brought a motion to consider a conditional rezone for Carr Property Group.
WHAT IT MEANS: Carr Property Group requested a conditional rezone upon annexation for the property at the southeast corner of East County Road 300 N and South Green Street from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to High Density Multi-Family Residential (M3) to construct an apartment development with a small retail component.
The property is approximately 16 acres and would include 154 apartments and a fouracre retail area along Green St. The request came with no recommendation from the Advisory Plan Commission (APC) due to concern over density and traffic.
Council president Travis Tschaenn and council member Ben Lacey said the project didn’t reflect responsible growth and development, citing bad timing. The petitioner spoke offering a reduction in units and increase in retail space, requesting the council to reconsider. The proposed development would not be open until late 2025. The council voted unanimously against the rezone petition.
BLACK FOR DANVILLE COUNCIL
Greg Black is a 45 - year Danville resident running for Danville Town Council to help build a highway bypass around town we’ve known for 50 years we need. Council never has led us to a bypass so Black will. Once an Army rifle platoon officer, Black can decide & lead. Studies show Danville has grown from 3,000 in 1960 to over 11,000 now, gaining 72% since 2000. We bear 25,000 vehicles a weekday, up to half of which do not stop here, commuting or transporting on U.S. 36 east & west. Trucks help choke us. We must restrict subdivisions til a bypass is built. Traffic overflows & grows now! A southern bypass will: 1) help shut down the landfill, 2) help attract light industry & manufacture to boost tax revenue, & 3) allow us to plan a more serene, beautiful, idyllic town around the square & beyond without gridlock.
VOTE BLACK FOR DANVILLE COUNCIL





Notables
Compiled by Mike Beas
The Avon softball squad won a home conference game against Lafayette Harrison, 4-2, behind the three-hit pitching of junior Emma Stopperich, who struck out 10 and didn’t give up a walk. Orioles freshman leadoff hitter Lilly Heath singled twice and scored a run, while senior Amanda Logeais also had two singles. Madi Pappas, a junior, doubled, as did Stopperich.
Brownsburg baseball avenged a loss to Westfield the day before by downing the host Shamrocks, 2-1, with senior pitchers Mason Tibbs and Alec Murphy combining on a four-hitter. Murphy also supplied a pair of base hits for the Bulldogs, driving in one of the team’s runs. Sophomore Colin McNeer supplied a double, as did senior Jack Regashus, who also finished with two hits.
Grace Gray had three hits and drove in five runs to lead the Cascade softball team to a 17-1 victory at Ben Davis. The Cadets, who scored 10 runs in the top of the opening inning, finished with 16 hits. Other multi-hit performers were Ava Allen, Vayla Mansfield, Macie Pugh, Ruby Gray and Megan Walker Pitchers Walker and Gray teamed up to allow the Giants only two hits, striking out five and three batters, respectively.
A three-run third inning helped vault Plainfield baseball to a Mid-State Conference triumph at Whiteland, 6-3. Quakers junior Zach Bigelow had a three-run triple, while teammate Travis Bernhardt doubled. Junior pitchers Max Mantooth and Nathan Holowka combined to permit five hits with the latter striking out six Warriors batters in 3 1/3 innings. Plainfield then downed Whiteland, 1-0, at home as freshman pitcher Gavin Lykins picked up the win, and junior Carter Orner worked the final three frames.

Hendricks County ICONIC Athlete CENTER STAGE
Senior center fielder one of the leaders for top-ranked Bruins softball
By Mike Beas
The way Nicole Mathews viewed it, she would be a staple of all things Tri-West softball from the base paths on in.
Once in high school, however, Mathews, an infielder through middle school, discovered she would be groomed as the Bruins’ next centerfielder.
Like all position switches, time was needed for Mathews to locate a comfort zone, particularly in light of the 2020 season being wiped out by a global pandemic.
But Tri-West coach Mike Miller was trusting his softball instincts on this one.
“What I saw was her speed, and the strength of her arm,” said Miller. “I needed a center fielder, and I thought she was the perfect one to step in and take control.
“Nicole has accepted the role and become a leader out there. Our kids work hard. Nicole is a great example of that.”
Through April 11, the Bruins were 4-0, and ranked atop the Class 3A poll having outscored opponents by a total of 50-12.
Mathews, a senior, is the team’s leadoff hitter. She bats from the left side and throws right-handed. Her .562 batting average early included team-best numbers in at-bats (16), hits (9), runs (8) and stolen bases (2).
Mathews also excels academically, carrying a 3.91 grade point average, which ranks her 30th academically in a class of 128 students.
“It’s been fun to watch Nicole develop the last four years physically and mentally,” said Miller. “She’s worked very hard on her skills, and on being more vocal and a leader.
“She’s a multidimensional kid. Very good in the classroom and has been involved in FFA.”
Tri-West has won 11 softball sectionals since the 1991 season and is a two-time 3A state finalist. The 2013 Bruins won it all, while last season’s squad was runner-up to South Bend St. Joseph.
Mathews did a Q&A with ICON:
Q: What position do you play, and is that where you’ve always played?
A: I play centerfield, but when I was a freshman, I came in as an infielder. I had never played outfield before high school, but I love it now. I was nervous at first because I had never had fly balls hit to me in a game situation.

Q: Do you feel cheated at all having lost your freshman season (2020) due to all spring sports being canceled due to COVID-19?
A: I really wish I had my freshman season because my sophomore season, I felt like a freshman. It made me adapt to online learning, but softball was hard because I couldn’t practice with my teammates. We had two weeks of practice, and I think we were out.
Q: What are your plans after graduating from Tri-West High School?
A: I am signed to play at Lincoln Trail College in Robinson, Ill., and will be majoring in nursing. I’ve always liked helping people, especially elders. My mom (Paula) is a nurse, but this decision was all my own.


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Monday – Friday, 9 am – 3:30 pm
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Tri-West senior outfielder Nicole Mathews plans to play college softball at Lincoln Trail College. (Photo provided by Mathews)
Avon Town Council approves road resurfacing, stop signs
Compiled by Peg McRoy Glover
The Avon Town Council met April 13. Meetings can be viewed on the town’s social media accounts. The council meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of the month at Avon Town Hall, 6570 E. U.S. 36. The next scheduled meeting is April 27.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved an interlocal agreement with the Hendricks County Highway Department to mill and resurface two segments of County Road 100 S.
WHAT IT MEANS: Hendricks County is milling and resurfacing County Road 100 S between County Road 525 E and Avon Avenue. Some segments are under Avon’s jurisdiction. The county offered to mill and resurface the Avon segments at the same time as they are doing the rest of the road. The cost is $37,267, and the town will reimburse the county once the project is completed.
WHAT HAPPENED: An engineering study was presented to determine if a stop sign is needed at the intersection of Beechwood Drive and Beechwood Centre Road.
WHAT IT MEANS: Chick-fil-A is building a new location at that site, and the town is anticipating increased traffic. Study facilitator Etica Group said the intersection currently functions well but recommended that the northbound stop sign from Beechwood Center Drive to U.S. 36 be removed and two new stop signs be erected.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved an ordinance that amends right-of-way permits and the current annual bonds ordinance.
WHAT IT MEANS: A permit is required if a resident or contractor is doing work in the town’s right-of-way. Occasionally utility companies do permit-required work, necessitating a bond. The town has a bond allowance for these companies. This ordinance increases the bond allowance from $5,000 to $10,000.
WHAT HAPPENED: Two ordinances were introduced regarding restricted and unrestricted funds awarded to the town through opioid settlements.
WHAT IT MEANS: The state is part of a $26 billion national settlement with opioid distributors, retailers and manufacturers including Johnson & Johnson, AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson. Indiana received $507 million. The cities, towns and counties that chose to participate in the settlement will receive a portion of those funds to help with resources to deal with opioid addictions and problems.
ICONIC brief
Grant application available for continuing education
Hendricks County Professional Women is offering grant funding to graduating high school seniors and returning adults.
The nonprofit seeks to empower women through education, and funding is provided to support the advancement of women professionally.
Applicants may be seeking a degree, certification, continued education courses or other types of professional training. Non-traditional educational opportunities are considered.
Funding will be paid directly to the institution providing education. Applicants may only receive funding once. Apply by April 30 at forms.
gle/4UTxnweKRZZeVD7v9. Contact hcpwomen@gmail. com.
“The nonprofit seeks to empower women through education”

Your Donations Making a Difference
GRANT NAME:
Review Ready at Brownsburg High School
Sponsored in part by Hendricks Regional Health
This grant purchased updated review cards for the AP World History exam, which was updated in 2019 to include history from 1200 to the present. The previous set of review cards that BHS had did not align with the new AP World History course description. Using these new review cards, games were created to make preparing for the exam more interactive and more fun. This grant also purchased Jenga game sets to be incorporated into the review game collection to appeal to students who are more kinesthetic learners. Because students enjoy learning through games, these new materials offer fresh and fun options to help the students prepare for the AP World History exam and to be as successful as possible.

AMOUNT: $327.52



My students loved using the new review cards and Jenga towers to help review for our final exam! It was great to have updated resources and tactile options available for them to use!
- Melissa Nowotarski
Just part of the $130,000 that BEF awarded in grants this past year.
Visit our website at www.brownsburgeducationfoundation.org to learn more about the grant projects funded by BEF in the 2022-2023 school year.

HENDRICKS COUNTY VOTERS GUIDE
AVON TOWN CLERK-TREASURER
Julie Loker (R)
Julie Loker has served as Avon Town Treasurer for the previous four years. “My main concern is being a good steward for our town’s money. I want to bring us into the digital age and leave each year financially better than the one before.”
Prior to serving as treasurer, she served on the Avon Police Merit Board. “Spending time on the merit board made me want to run for office and do more for the community I live in.”
AVON TOWN COUNCIL
Jayson R. Puckett (R) AT LARGE
Jayson Puckett has worked in the Hendricks County Auditor’s office for the past 12 years and now he is running for Town Council. His focus is on using the community’s tax base to help the town grow. “I hope to use my knowledge of local government finance and economic development resources to help Avon grow in a responsible manner. I want to provide the tools our schools and law enforcement need to handle the increasing population.”
Puckett also wants to increase transparency between the council and county residents. “I am running for this council seat to be a servant of the community.”
J.D. Thomas (R) AT LARGE
J.D. Thomas is running for Avon Town Council for the first time. His main focus is what he calls “strategic capital investment.” He said this means, “Bringing jobs to Avon that are going to be the most beneficial.”
Thomas also wants to improve home affordability, home accessibility and home ownership in Avon.
“I am opposed to out-of-state hedge funds manipulating the market,” he said. “Individuals might want to buy, but they have fewer opportunities to buy because some companies have artificially inflated the market.”
Jeffry Haviza (R) AT LARGE
Jeffry Haviza served on the first Avon Town Council from 1995-1998. Now, he has decided to run again.
“Growth in Avon is my focus,” Haviza said. “I feel that Avon is getting too big. We need to cut back on some structures that are putting stress on our existing infrastructure.”
Robert Pope (D) AT LARGE
Robert Pope is wrapping up his first term on the Avon Town Council, and he is running for re-election. His focus is on the local tax base and increasing transparency between the town council and residents.
“I want to focus on continuing to grow our local economy and diversifying our tax base as well as finding and removing wasteful inefficiencies in our local governments, especially duplicated services,” Pope said. “Both of these goals have the intent of reducing the need for additional property taxes through school referendums.”.
BROWNSBURG TOWN CLERK-TREASURER
Ann Hathaway (R)
Ann Hathaway has served as Brownsburg clerk-treasurer since 2015.
“I plan to continue looking for ways to streamline processes and contain costs,” she said. “I plan to continue working with the town council and staff by providing them necessary information to make decisions.”
Hathaway also currently serves on the parish council at St. Christopher Catholic Church.
BROWNSBURG TOWN COUNCIL
Glenn Adams (R) WARD 2
If elected, Glenn Adams wants to focus on public safety. He believes that the Brownsburg Police Department is lacking the funds and resources needed to effectively do their jobs.
“We are a safe town, but we still have our issues,” Adams said. “We used to be a leader for officer pay, and now we are near the bottom. I would like to see the base pay at least $69,000 a year for officers.”
Adams also hopes to bring attention to the lack of turnout for local elections, saying having a mayor might benefit the town and encourage people to be more involved in local elections.
Mark Tieken (R) WARD 3
Mark Tieken has served on the Brownsburg Town Council since February.
He previously volunteered on the campaigns of former Sheriff Brett Clark and current Sheriff Jack Sadler. As a 34 year Hendricks County resident, Tieken hopes
Continued on Page 13
COMMUNITY
to continue to improve the quality of life in Brownsburg.
“I love Brownsburg,” he said. “Public safety and planning are my primary concerns.”
Cynthia Hohman (D) WARD 3
Cynthia Hohman has a long list of issues that she hopes to tackle as town council member. “High density housing, too many warehouses, a canceled community center, town service cutbacks, no consideration for our neighbors and a total disrespect for the character of our town — I want to change all that. So, that is why I’m running for office,” she said.
Hohman hopes to increase transparency with the community. When the town council received a pay raise, Hohman donated her extra money to Brownsburg Little League, Brownsburg Girls Softball and Brownsburg Older Adults Alliance.
Matt Simpson (R) WARD 4
Did not respond to requests for comment.
BROWNSBURG TOWN JUDGE
Gene Hostetter (R)
Gene Hostetter is running unopposed for Brownsburg Town Court Judge. He has been involved in politics for over 25 years.
“Each term that I have served as the Brownsburg judge, it has always and will continue to be my top priority to keep court operating costs as low as possible and to continue to maximize court revenues in a fair and responsible manner to all,” he said.
DANVILLE TOWN CLERK- TREASURER
Tracy Jones (R)
Tracy Jones, owner of Courthouse Grounds, is running for treasurer for the first time. She says balancing the financial responsibilities of owning a restaurant for 25 years has given her the financial skills that are necessary for a town treasurer.
“Managing the finances as well as serving as an effective clerk comes first,” she said. “I am motivated to discover grants and other sources of money for the town, for economic development and development that is in balance with our environmental concerns as a town.”
Nancy Leavitt (R)
Nancy Leavitt is running for treasurer for the first time. For the past 15 years, she has worked with the financial sector of the Danville Prosecutor’s Office and Drug Task Force. If elected, she would consider it her full-time job.
“This will be a full-time job and not just a
side thing like it has been for years,” she said. “I want to ensure the budget is balanced each year as we go into uncertain financial times.”
Carrie Lofton (R)
Carrie Lofton has worked in the financial sector for over 25 years. For the last 14, she served as the payroll deputy for Hendricks County.
“Being entrusted with the taxpayer’s money is an important public trust,” Lofton said. “I look upon this responsibility as a public service position in which I will serve for the benefit of the people of Danville. I pledge to work hard every day, always striving to do my very best and to ensure that the clerk-treasurer’s office remains fiscally responsible in maintaining a sound fiscal standing.”
DANVILLE TOWN COUNCIL
Michael Chatham (R)
WARD 2
Michael Chatham was voted onto the Danville Town Council in July and is running for reelection. His primary focus is on public safety.
“I am working on making sure our water, sewer and utilities can keep pace,” Chatham said. “All departments in town are of utmost importance to me in making sure they have what they need to service the citizens of Danville.”
Chatham also wants to focus on the high rate of employee turnover in Danville.
“Employee retention and pay are some hurdles that we are effectively working on on a daily basis,” he said.
Brian D. Sauer (R) WARD 2
Brian Sauer is running for office for the first time. His primary concern is maintaining Danville’s “small-town charm.”
“Growth is inevitable, and I am for growth as long as the proper infrastructure and resources are in place,” Sauer said.
He also wants to increase resources that the fire, police, utility, parks and development services receive.
“They play a vital part in the operation of the town,” he said. “If elected, I look forward to assisting them in obtaining the resources they need to do their jobs effectively.”
Greg Black (R) AT LARGE
As a Danville Town Council member, Greg Black wants to focus on Danville’s traffic. With the talk of a potential bypass being built, Black believes that will improve driver safety and revenues for local businesses.
“By solving the traffic nightmare, we can also bring in light industry and manufacturing to increase tax revenue and provide jobs, help Danville grow qualitatively and economically, preserve land values without inflating those astronomically and promote beautification, culture, cuisine and Continued from Page 12




Continued from Page 13
recreation,” Black said.
Bret W. Doub (R) AT LARGE
Bret Doub is running for Danville Town Council for the first time. For the last 15 years he has worked for the Town of Danville, including leading efforts to regain control of the town’s wastewater collection system.
“My most important topics would be employee retention, traffic flow through town, connectivity via trails and sidewalks, effective planning and affordable housing options,” he said. “I hope to bring a unique perspective to the council. I believe it would be a major benefit to have someone who can bridge the gap in the council’s understanding of our infrastructure.”
David C. Potter (R) AT LARGE
David Potter is running for his first elected position on Danville Town Council. Potter plans to create 2-, 5- and 10-year financial plans for the town. Potter is concerned with the financial effects of the landfill operation ending.
“I want to focus on the town leadership’s failure to identify, evaluate and consider the consequences of their decisions on the town’s charm and character, its fiscal resources, its infrastructure, its traffic and public safety and its schools.”
Mandy Shelley (R) AT LARGE
Mandy Shelley is running for office for the first time. She wants to focus on ensuring that the police and fire departments have the resources they need to handle Danville’s rapidly growing population.
Shelley’s secondary focus is on keeping Danville similar to the way it is now while embracing change. “I would like to keep the small town feel and not lose its charm. I feel that we need to ensure that we focus on responsible controlled growth and order to maintain the community values that make Danville a place where parents want to raise their families.”
David Winters (R) AT LARGE
David Winters has served on the Danville Town Council since 2020. His goal is to improve Danville’s economic stability. He hopes to make a positive name for Danville and to help the town grow.
“I want our town to do more than exist on the map,” he said. “I want us to thrive. Councils of the past, administrations of the past, simply lacked vision as it relates to placing Danville in the best possible position to succeed.”
Randy Waltz (R) AT LARGE
Randy Waltz has worked with Danville fire and EMS for the past four decades. Now, he is running for Danville Town Council. His primary focus is on improving benefits for the
fire department.
“A lot of people have left due to pay and benefits,” he said. “We need to entice people to stay.”
Waltz is also targeting Danville’s traffic problem and proposing a potential bypass to alleviate rush hours. His third focus is on helping the town grow in a positive way.
“Growth generates revenue,” he said. “We need to go after businesses and have a good mix of affordable and upscale housing.”
PITTSBORO TOWN COUNCIL
Jay Th0mpson (R) WARD
1
Did not respond to requests for comment.
Jarod Baker (R) WARD 2
Jarod Baker has served on the Pittsboro Town Council for three years. He hopes to increase transparency between the town council and Pittsboro residents.
“I want to make sure we continue to make wise financial decisions,” Baker said. “I see it as Pittsboro is growing and will continue to grow. We need to address our needs in infrastructure and police departments. We have to align our needs with the school district.”
Larry Compton (R) WARD 2
Larry Compton is running for Pitts boro Town Council. Compton taught economics and government at Northwest High School for over 30 years. Previously, he served on the Pittsboro Fire Board and the Economic Development Commission. He currently serves on the Pittsboro Police Commission.
“I want to ensure that myself and fellow council members are making wise financial decisions for the community and its residents,” Compton said. “I will ensure there is open communication and transparency between the town council and its residents so information shared is factual information.”
Terry Northern (R) WARD 3
Terry Northern, a 40-year resident of Hendricks County, is running for reelection to the Pittsboro Town Council. He has spent his professional career working in road and bridge design, wastewater treatment and as a director of facilities engineering in the healthcare industry.
“My career has placed me before countless planning commissions, town councils and zoning boards to speak as both a petitioner supporting a project and occasionally as a remonstrator opposing the project,” Northern said. “This has given me the ability to appreciate, value and respect the differing opinions which exist whenever change is imminent.”
Continued on Page 15

Rick and Elaine Whitesides enjoy retirement in Hendricks County

By Nichole Meloche
Elaine Whitesides and her husband, Rick Whitesides, have spent the last twelve years living in Brownsburg. After raising their son, David, in Indianapolis, the couple was attracted to the uniqueness of Hendricks County.
“We thought where better to be than Indy- oh, yes. Hendricks County!” said Whitesides. “I love that each of the towns in the county has its own individual identity, but the people in all of them are kind and look out for their neighbors. There is no shortage of hard-working people. Hendricks County is a great place to live.”
When the Whitesides family moved to Hendricks County, ICON founder Rick Myers lent a helping hand to them.
“In my previous life, I spent time in management in the corporate world and then years teaching elementary school,” said Whitesides. “Rick introduced me to the county and the extraordinary world of small business owners and entrepreneurship. I have met so many smart, driven, and exceptional people who drive the engine of our communities. Each of them has had an impact on whom I have become in this third career of mine.”
Rick Myers encouraged Elaine to pursue her writing talents. She worked as a writer and editor for the ICON, the Hendricks County Business Leader and the Southside Times.
“Over that time, I started doing projects for small business owners who asked, and it just grew from there, blossoming into a full-time, fun adventure! Asked what I write, I can honestly say anything. From books to articles to websites, blogs, and even social media, press releases, year-end reports, brochures, and newsletters.”
After the 2008 economic recession, Elaine founded her business Whitesides Words. Located in Brownsburg, her business served as a connection for freelance writers and media publishers.
“The original purpose of Whitesides Words was to connect out-of-work writers
Continued on Page 3
Continued from Page 2
with small business owners who needed help, primarily in communication pieces – articles, newsletters, websites, white papers, brochures, etc,” said Whitesides. “I wanted words to make a difference for the businesses we worked with and help build success for the owners as well as help out displaced writers. As I took on more clients, I added writers to the team. Whitesides Words is proof that word of mouth and referrals really can build a business.”
Last November, Elaine chose to retire from Whitesides Words in the hopes that she could get some “rest and relaxation.” Quickly, she realized that living a laid-back lifestyle was not for her.
“I am apparently not wired to relax and rest,” said Whitesides. “I quickly discovered I miss interacting and learning about and from leaders in the communities of Hendricks County. There are so many great organizations. I have chosen to work with the Central Indiana K9 Association
The work the organization does not only allows handlers, officers, and residents to return home safely at the end of the day, but it works to keep training costs low and taxpayer dollars here at home. It’s fun, too. Seeing the dogs in

action is always a thrill and events like Claus for Paws – Pet and People Pictures with Santa – bring K9 teams, people, and their pets a few joyful pictures that last a lifetime.”
When not playing with her grandchildren or working with the Central Indiana K9 Association, Elaine enjoys simple hobbies, such as baking and gardening.
“I have met so many smart, driven, and exceptional people who drive the engine of our communities. Each of them has had an impact on whom I have become in this third career of mine.”
- Elaine Whitesides


“My goals for retirement are simple: delve deeper into family genealogy and travel to glean records of more information and facts,” said Whitesides. “I want to travel to whittle down my bucket list. Write for pleasure; maybe a blog, or collaborate on a book. I’m finding that retirement is hard, but I’m working on it.”
3 YEAR FIXED STANDARD
Florence Wealth - Danville, IN

riders. If you choose to add any of the available liquidity riders the interest rate will be reduced accordingly. Early
Single premium deferred annuities are guaranteed for 3 years. Should you choose to continue the annuity after the three-year guaranteed period, the minimum rate guarantee is 1.00% for contracts issued in 2023. Credited rates effective 1/11/2023 and are subject to change without notice. Quoted rates do not reflect optional liquidity riders. If you choose to add any of the available liquidity riders the interest rate will be reduced accordingly. Early withdrawals may be subject to Surrender Charges and Market Value Adjustments. The IRS may impose penalties for early withdrawals from qualified plans. Contracts issued by Atlantic Coast Life Insurance Company. Not FDIC insured. Rates vary by state. ACLHAVPRE OT 010523
*Includes 1% Bonus first year
Adjustments. The IRS may impose penalties for early withdrawals from qualified plans. Contracts issued
Not FDIC insured. Rates vary by state. ACLHAVPRE OT 010523
for the *Includes 1% Bonus first year
3 questions to ask before funding a fixed annuity
By DJ Florence, Florence Wealth
WHO WE ARE
Scheerer McCulloch Relocation Services is your one-stop solution to the most common challenges of settling an estate, moving and downsizing.


SPONSORED
into the annuity, and the surrender charge rates.

FLORENCE
Continued stock market volatility paired with interest rates that we haven’t seen in years are steering many investors to fixed and fixed indexed annuities. According to Insurance News Net, inflows to fixed annuities in the last quarter were up over 240% from the year prior. Safety of principal and guaranteed interest rates are highly sought after features in annuities, but as I frequently say to clients- all investments have advantages, disadvantages, and strings attached. So, what are a few important questions you should ask a financial professional that offers fixed annuities?
1. Ask about any fees that might be associated with the annuity. Most fixed annuities do not have management or purchase fees. However, should you withdraw more than the annual free withdrawal amount, you could incur surrender charges. Make sure your advisor clearly explains the amount you may withdrawal each year, how many years you are locked
2. Ask if the interest rate earned can fluctuate year to year, or if the rate is guaranteed. Fixed annuities called MYGAs (multi-year guaranteed annuities) will guarantee a fixed interest rate for a certain number of years that you select. With fixed indexed annuities, ask about the annual renewal rate history of the index you’re using to earn interest. For instance, if you initially share in 50% of the annual S&P 500 gains, could that 50% share increase or decrease in future years?
3. Ask about any additional benefits or riders in the annuity, which may include premium bonuses, guaranteed lifetime income, long term care, or death benefits.
Annuities can be complex products, but proper evaluation and implementation can make them an integral piece of a retirement plan.

What is Tinnitus?
By Shannon L. Austin, Au.D.
Tinnitus occurs when you hear a sound in your ears or head without an external source. Some patients describe it as “ringing”, “buzzing”, “chirping”, “roaring”, or other sounds. Approximately 25 million Americans suffer from tinnitus and each person’s experience is individual. How tinnitus impacts a person can vary a great deal. It can range from a mild nuisance that is only noticed when in quiet rooms up to being incapacitated by it.
Tinnitus is largely a symptom of hearing loss, but there can be underlying health conditions that require treatment. Start by getting your hearing tested to determine if additional investigation is needed to rule out any underlying health condition. If you have treatable hearing loss in addition to tinnitus, hearing aids alone can be helpful in providing relief from your tinnitus by amplifying the soft sounds you’ve been missing. Sound therapies are
also embedded in most of today’s hearing aids. Sound therapies are pleasant sounds (e.g. ocean sounds, pink noise, fan noise, white noise, etc.) that can help you to turn your attention away from your tinnitus. In cases where amplification and sound therapies are not helpful, cognitive behavioral therapy can be helpful to reduce the emotional response to your tinnitus.
There is a great deal of misinformation regarding tinnitus and many drugs that claim to cure. The bottom line is that there are no drugs that can cure tinnitus. Any supplements taken should be monitored by your physician.
The most common risk factor for tinnitus is overexposure to loud noise. By not protecting your ears in these situations, you are increasing your risk for hearing loss and tinnitus. Always wear hearing protection in potentially damaging noise.
If you’d like more information regarding this or other hearing healthcare topics visit Dr. Austin’s blog at www.SLAaudiology. com .

Our Doctor of Audiology is your neighbor. Her family has made Brownsburg their home for over twenty years, and she’s been practicing audiology on the west side of Indianapolis since 2003. SLA Audiology is invested in the community, in you, and your hearing success.
• Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations for Adults & Pediatrics
• Communication Needs Assessments
• Earwax Management
• Hearing Aid Fittings, Repairs, and Programming of most brands
• Custom Hearing Protection
• Occupational Hearing Screenings
• Accepting Many Major Insurances
SLA Audiology is proud to be an entirely independent audiology practice. That means that we don’t have any ties to a specific manufacturer. Rather, we work with all manufacturers to offer the widest selection of technology. This allows us to maintain only one loyalty, and that is to our patients. The personalized care that our patients receive is what differentiates SLA Audiology.
Local, specialized healthcare just makes sense!

IU HEALTH WEST HOSPITAL LAUNCHES
ROBOTIC SURGERY PROGRAM
Expert: Dr. Anna Roshal, Hematologist-Oncologist at IU Health West Hospital
The surgical team at IU Health West Hospital is taking patient care to the next level. The hospital is the first location in Hendricks County to offer advanced robotic surgery.
The team began using the new technology at the end of December.

“Robotic surgery is an instrument used to do various operations,” explained Dr. Christopher Bearden, general surgeon and medical director of IU Health West surgical services “We’ve done open surgery, which is where we cut people open. Then we did the laparoscopy, which is small holes. Robotics is the next step in that evolution. It gives you better optics, better feel of the tissues, better visualization.”
The technology allows surgeons to operate with extreme precision, while keeping the incision sites small.
Sean Eads, manager of clinical operations for IU Health West’s surgical services, helped the team train on the new technology for several weeks before rolling it out for patients.
“The surgeons have a 3-D view, which they currently do not have when they do standard laparoscopic procedures. They do everything with their fingertips,” Eads said.
The surgeons sit in what Eads refers to as a “driver,” and how they move their hands is how the instrument head moves.
“It has the ability to do really a lot of finesse, more so than you can actually do with the human hand,” Bearden added.


For those who might be nervous or intimidated by hearing that a robot will aid in their surgery, Bearden stresses that the surgeon is still in control.
“The robot is not doing the operation. The surgeon is doing the operation. The robot is just mimicking the moves I do. It doesn’t do anything on its own,” he said.
THE GOAL IS BETTER PATIENT OUTCOMES
Though the robot does not guarantee an easier, faster recovery for the patient, according to Bearden, that is what the team has seen overall.
“Because you are able to do a better operation, the results are better. It helps patients get back to work better.”
Many surgeries that the team now performs robotically were previously open surgeries. The new technology allows the procedures to now be outpatient, whereas before, the patient would have to spend more time recovering in the hospital.
MORE TRAINING TO FURTHER THE PROGRAM
Though the team extensively trained to use the robot, Eads plans for that training to continue.
“A lot of things happen behind the scenes to get
us where we need to be, and we need to do more and more of that training as we move forward,” Eads said.
Bearden also recognizes that the equipment requires more intensive training, for doctors and other operating room team members.
“There are a lot more instruments, a lot more mechanical things moving around. You have to have a bigger room. There’s a lot of flow that has to happen,” he said.
The goal of the robotic program is to expand the capabilities of surgeries at the hospital. The early focus was more general surgeries, which has since expanded to gynecology and urology cases. The team plans to expand into surgical oncology as well.
“Once we get the staff trained, we will start doing more cancer cases. That’s really the goal of all of this,” Bearden said.
PUTTING PATIENT CARE AT THE FOREFRONT
Part of the excitement surrounding the program is that IU Health West is the first hospital on the west side of Indianapolis to offer robotic surgery. Though the team is thrilled to be part of that milestone, the focus has always been on the patients.
One major benefit to robotic surgery is that while the robot doesn’t act on its own, it does run safety checks throughout the procedure.
“It’s running over 1,000 checks a second—energy usage, pressure on tissues, things that the brain can’t even comprehend,” Bearden added. “So yes, it is a robot, it is mimicking movements we’re doing, but it’s also a big safety factor.”
These components help the hospital with its primary mission: providing the best care possible for the patients who walk through the doors to get better.
“We have a little saying in house that, ‘West does it best,’ and we’re going to do this the very best as well,” Eads said. “It just gives us another tool to provide top notch care to the folks in the community.”
DR. BEARDEN
IU Health West | Cancer Center Has Expanded to Meet
Community Need
The cancer center at IU Health West Hospital has expanded to include a hematology & oncology clinic and a state-of-the-art infusion center. IU Health is committed to caring for patients close to home.














Anna Roshal, MD Pei Lu, MD
Meagan Miller, MD Andrew O’Brien, MD
Mat Opyrchal, MD, PhD Hamid Sayar, MD
Caroline Pilewicz, NP, BC Kelly Ward, APP
Betty Fan, DO JoAnna Hunter-Squires, MD
Paul Anthony, MD
Richard Zellars, MD
Surgical Oncology | Breast Surgery
Hematology & Oncology
Ravinder Bamba, MD
Plastic Surgery
Anthony Yang, MD
Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Endocrine Surgery
Radiation Oncology
IU Health West Oncology Care Team
By Jennifer Morton, Assisted Living Sales Director at Westside Garden Plaza
April is National Volunteer Month. If you’re a volunteer, thank you, thank you, thank you. Know that you are deeply appreciated. Independent Living and Assisted Living communities are always looking for energetic, fun, and loving volunteers who have a heart for seniors. In addition to benefitting those you volunteer for, there are amazing benefits for you, as the volunteer. Check out the list of benefits below.
• Provides you with a sense of purpose and community. Many people find their purpose through volunteering and becoming a part of something greater. Regardless of your age, helping others can give your life new meaning and keep you mentally stimulated. Volunteering can help you feel more connected to those you serve in the community.
• Helps you meet new friends. As
Benefits of volunteering

a volunteer, you’ll typically interact with people from diverse backgrounds. Sharing a common interest will help you make connections and build relationships.
• Increases your social skills and improves your self-esteem. Volunteering gives you a chance to talk with new people and sharpen your social skills such as active listening and relationship management.
In addition, your self-confidence will get a boost since you will be doing something very worthwhile and valuable for your community. This sense of accomplishment may help you feel more fulfilled about your life.
• Brings fun into your life. Many people use volunteering to pursue their hobbies while making a difference. Volunteering also may provide you with a renewed sense of creativity
and motivation that carries over into your personal and professional life.
• Can help you be happier. It often feels good to contribute to projects and organizations that mean something to you. Volunteering may provide you with the tools you need to be more well-rounded. Also, building bonds and connections with people you volunteer with may counteract any social isolation.
• Gets you out of your comfort zone. Through volunteer work, you may do something new with people you do not know and work in environments that are different for you. You may be faced with various problems to solve that require you to exercise critical thinking skills that aid your own personal development. There are several organizations that need volunteers and would welcome you with open arms. Please consider devoting some time to those who have blazed the trail for us all, our seniors. They have many interesting life stories to share, wisdom to impart, and hugs to give.


Mobile occupational/physical therapy for seniors and how we can benefit you
By Linda Barnes, Therapy on Wheels
What Is Mobile Occupational and Physical Therapy?
Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) is a form of rehabilitation that incorporates different techniques and procedures to help individuals to regain their motion, improve daily living activities, such as walking, balance, fine motor skills, cognitive skills, bathing/dressing, home safety, fall prevention, maintaining flexibility, etc.
How can Occupational and Physical Therapy benefit you at home?
Our OT and PT’s are state licensed therapists, who have years of in-home therapy experience that will work with you individually in the comfort of your own home to promote independence. Have you had recent surgery and need rehabilitation? Do you have chronic pain? Do you want to try to stay in your




receive these and more services. These services are covered through Medicare Part B and your secondary insurance. There is typically minimal or no cost to you.
Some advantages include the following but are not limited to:
• Avoid taxing effort when leaving your home.
• Avoid waiting rooms.
• Avoid driving to the clinic.
• Same therapist with each visit
• Appointments are built around your schedule.
• No homebound restrictions.
If you have arthritic pain, chronic back pain, need post-surgical rehabilitation, adaptive equipment needs, chronic medical condition, we can help. We also provide maintenance therapy once you have reached your goals. This will allow you to maintain your level of independence and stay in your own home. Please call our office 317 332-9861 for more information. Or have your physician fax a referral to 317-893-4453




5 tips to choosing a senior living community
By Mary Clipp, MBA-HC
Every senior living community is different, but these five tips will help you determine which community is right for you.
Consider Location
Do you want to retire near your grandkids? Or stay within the community you’ve always called home?
When choosing a senior living community, consider the location of the community and where you would be most comfortable.
Try A Meal
With chef-prepared meals, restaurant-style dining and menus personalized to your taste, dining options at senior living communities offer many benefits. Ask if you can stay for a meal when you’re touring a senior living community to give the cuisine a try for yourself.
See An Activities Calendar
From game nights to resident-led clubs, family events, excursions and more, many communities provide weekly activities calendars so residents can experience events and activities that interest them. Ask what the community has planned for the week when you’re on your tour.
Ask About Community Features
Did you know that many Independence Village communities have grand pianos, community gardens and accessible walking paths? It’s small features like these that make it clear when a community is going above and beyond to consider the needs of the residents they serve. When you’re touring a community, ask what sets them apart from other communities in the area.
Prepare For The Future
When a community offers various levels of care, residents can adjust their care as their needs change and stay at the community they call home. When you’re searching for a senior living community, think about services that may be helpful in the future in addition to what services fit your needs now.
For more than 40 years, Independence Village has been honored to get to know the seniors and families of the Avon-area. To schedule a tour and see for yourself what life at Independence Village of Avon is really like, call 317-943-8750.

Improving quality of life for seniors using art and music therapy
Art and music therapy have been found to be effective pathways in improving the quality of life for seniors, particularly those with memory impairments such as dementia. Art and music combined into creative dementia therapy provides opportunities for residents to experience enhanced communication and self-expression.
Improved Cognitive Function
Art and music can stimulate the brain and promote cognitive function, which is especially important for seniors with memory impairments. The act of creating allows seniors to tell their story in an expressive experience that stimulates old positive memories and encourages new positive interactions. Engaging in creative activities such as painting, drawing, or playing a musical instrument can help seniors exercise their brains and improve cognitive health, attention, and concentration.
Reduced Anxiety and Depression
Seniors with memory impairments often experience anxiety and depression, which can be alleviated through art and music therapy. Engaging in creative activities can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and reducing feelings of isolation and
depression. Music and musical memories are embedded in our long-term memory, making music one of the most effective ways to engage individuals with Alzheimer’s. Enhanced Communication and Socialization Art and music therapy can also enhance communication and socialization among seniors in memory care. Participating in group art or music activities can encourage seniors to connect with others and form meaningful relationships, promoting a sense of community and reducing feelings of loneliness. Memory loss can cause communication to present in a very different way when an individual loses essential communication tools such as vocabulary and recollection of relatable experiences. Art and music create a common ground and neutralize difficult communication barriers.
Increased Quality of Life
Overall, art and music therapy can improve the quality of life for seniors in memory care by promoting physical and mental well-being, fostering social connections, and providing a sense of purpose and meaning. By incorporating creative activities into their daily routines, seniors can lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives.
Senior living communities such as Harmony Senior Services provide dementia-focused wellness programs that offer support for families looking for Alzheimer’s and dementia care options. For more information, call 317-943-5400.
Story is by Colleen Roche, Marketing Assistant, Harmony Senior Services

COMMUNITY
PLAINFIELD TOWN CLERK
Mark Todisco (R)
Mark Todisco has held the position of clerk-treasurer since October 2017. Previously, he served as the Plainfield Community School Board trustee from 1993-2017.
In the first part of his term as treasurer, Todisco has focused on digitizing records to provide easier access for residents.
“The Town of Plainfield will continue to grow, and keeping up on this growth will be extremely important,” he said. “With growth comes additional contracts and agreements representing every department in town government. Therefore, record keeping and control of all these transactions will be very important.”
PLAINFIELD TOWN COUNCIL
Gary Everling (R) WARD 1
Gary Everling is running for Town Council for the first time. He previously worked on the Plainfield Redevelopment Commission for three years. For the past six months, he has worked for the Plainfield Planning Commission.
“Plainfield is one of the best places to live and work. We need to continue making smart business decisions,” Everling said. “I want it to be easy for businesses to do their business with the town.”
Everling is happy with the current housing situation.
“We are in a better place concerning housing,” he said. “We have a good mix of single and multi-family homes.”
Robin Brangard (R) WARD 4
Robin Brangard has been a member of the

County Economic Development Partnership.
Brangard’s focus on town council is to make only decisions that are beneficial to the town and keep out hidden special interests. He hopes to preserve the “smalltown atmosphere” while keeping residential sections separate from the commercial and retail sections. Brangard also wants to focus on improving the parks departments, such as the recreation center, Splash Island and greenways system.
Dan Bridget (R) WARD 4
Prior to serving on the town council, Dan Bridget served as secretary of the Plain field Community Development Corporation and a member of the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce.
ABOUT THE COMPANY

Bridget wants to make Plainfield a desir able place to live where people can feel safe.
“The goal of my work is to make our town a place where people want to live, work and play — a safe place that is looking to its future needs., he said.

Bridget wants to embrace the inevitable growth and changes to the town while not losing the parts of the town that makes it special.
“I want to keep and preserve the best of Plainfield’s past, the things that make our town unique to its history,” he said.
Ed Gaddie (R)
WARD 5
Town council candidate Ed Gaddie stands by his motto, “Time for a Change.” He be lieves that Plainfield is experiencing rapid growth that is causing costs in some areas to be too high.
As a seven-year veteran of the Air Force, Gaddie belongs to the Plainfield American Legion. He is also a member of the Plainfield Optimist Club.
Luminaria ceremony and walk to honor lives impacted by cancer
Avon will honor those who have had lives impacted by cancer May 8.
On May 8, 2009 Evan Huskisson was 11 years old and the honorary master of ceremonies at the Relay for Life of Avon, formerly hosted at Avon Town Hall park. Evan opened the 24-hour event by welcoming the guests and led the luminaria lap as a cancer survivor.
Unfortunately, Evan’s cancer returned later that year and cancer stole another life.
Each year Evan’s family and friends walk a lap at the Town Hall Park on May
Our Team has over 100 years of combined heating and cooling experience. Price Point Comfort’s goal is to take care of the customer first. As a service company we believe in offering our customers the best service possible and treating them as family. Price Point Comfort is a family-owned business with most employees living in the area. We strive to be a place where our employees feel confident to refer us to friends and family. Employees at Price Point Comfort are incentivized for good reviews and quality work. At Price Point Comfort, we offer maintenance, service, sales and installations on new systems, indoor air quality products, water heaters, geothermal ductless mini splits, and light commercial work.

“HCCF is an organization committed to supporting charitable people and organizations in pursuit of their dreams. these are the same people I live and work beside. I’m proud to be part of a dream-building organization and I am excited for the future of Hendricks County.”
- Denise Robinson
8 to honor him. This year Evan has been gone for longer than his short life, so, everyone is invited to join in the lap to honor all people impacted by cancer.
• When: At dusk May 8
• Where: Avon Town Hall Park, around the lake behind town hall, 6570 E. U.S. 36, Avon
• Why: 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer. Each journey deserves to be honored, and this event gives people the opportunity to do so.



Staff report

By Tom S. Truesdale
Wind and Hail Damage / Roofing Replacement
The roof system is one of the most important parts of your home as well as one of the most expensive to repair or replace. The roof system takes a great deal of abuse from wind, hail, heat, ice and snow. If you have a damaged roof or one that is simply due for replacement here are a few topics to consider before beginning a roofing project. An experienced contractor should agree to work with your insurance company when evaluating storm damage.
> As mentioned above your roof is one of the most important parts of your home:
• Selecting a trustworthy and qualified contractor is very important.
• Your contractor should be local to your area - watch out for “out of town companiesstorm chasers”
• Remember - the lowest price is NOT always best - material and workmanship may be less than desired.
• Cer tified Contractors have been trained to properly install manufactures products.
> Roofing materials:
• Generally all asphalt shingle products now carry a “limited lifetime” manufactures warranty, if installed by a certified contractor.
• The quality of materials included in a bid can greatly effect the cost.
• When evaluating bids ask your contractor to clearly specify the materials being used.
• It is generally not a good idea to cover up an existing roof, complete tear-off and replacement will provide for a better roof system long term.
• Decking repair - the condition of the roof decking generally cannot be determined until after the old roof has been removed.
• Require your contractor to provide a “Unit Price” for any decking replacement that is discovered to be necessary. Understand this potential cost prior to selecting a contractor. Also require your contractor to review this condition with you in person before proceeding with repairs.
> Roof Vents, Flashing and Gutters:
• Gutter replacement is many times needed if a roof replacement is related to storm damage.
• Gutters are also an important part of your roof system. Proper flow and installation is key to directing water run off from your roof.
• If gutters are not being replaced as part of your project require your contractor to protect them during the roof replacement project.
• Flashing around chimneys and pipes should always be updated when you are replacing a roof, make sure your contractor has included it in the scope of work.
• Roof vents / ridge vents should also be updated when you are replacing a roof.
• Adding an attic fan is a good thing to consider as well, make this decision prior to replacing your roof.
Please consider the dialog I have provided when planning a roof replacement project and always remember that a local contractor has a great deal more vested interest in delivering a successful project and standing behind the quality of work. If you have any concerns or questions don’t hesitate to contact TsT Construction for professional help and guidance regarding storm damage and roof replacement. Hope this months tips are helpful, enjoy the spring weather!
ICONIC brief
A Weekend of Hope
Clinging to Hope When Life is Falling Apart! Have you ever been there? Author, Speaker, Bible Teacher, and TV Host, Sheila Walsh has, and she has a message of Hope for you. You’re invited to gather with ladies from all across central Indiana for A Weekend of Hope, April 28th & 29th, 2023, at Harmony of Avon Church. Join us as Sheila shares Hope through Scripture and compelling stories, and the beloved author and speaker reminds us that even though we all face challenges and heartaches we didn’t see coming, God has been writing our story from the very beginning–and by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can see miracles unfolding all around us. Sheila’s latest book, Holding on When You Want to Let Go, will be available for purchase and signing. The message of the book captures the essence of Sheila’s journey.
Sheila Walsh
From Scotland, Sheila is an author, Bible teacher and television host. She has spoken around the world to over 6 million people and now on the TBN Television Network, America’s most-watched faith and family channel including cohost of Praise and Better Together with Laurie Crouch. TBN reaches a potential audience of 2 billion people each day.
A Grammy-nominated recording artist, Sheila has recorded 25 albums with multiple top 10 singles.
Sheila loves to make the Bible practical, sharing how God met her at her lowest point and helped her to rise up again. Her message: God is faithful and He is holding you!
Sheila’s books have sold over 5.5 million copies including multiple bestsellers “It’s Okay Not To Be Okay” and her new book “Holding On When You Want To Let Go.” Texas is her home where she lives with her husband Barry and two little crazy dogs Tink and Maggie. Their son Christian is in graduate school.
Christina Varvel

I never imagined I would be a writer. Looking back, though, it’s no surprise because I’ve been a lover of books for as long as I can remember. Ask my husband, Brett, what his first impression was of me when we met in 7th grade. He would answer without a hesitation: bookworm. If the teacher wasn’t talking, my nose was stuck in a book… …and rolling my eyes at the class clown trying, again, to make everyone laugh. That class clown and bookworm


fell in love junior year of high school, and after 13 years of marriage, one of the many reasons I keep falling in love with him is because he makes me laugh every day.
But life hasn’t always been full of laughter. What started out as journaling during my Bible reading and prayer time, writing became an outlet to process my thoughts, emotions, struggles, and prayers. As I walked through the ups and downs of life, words from my heart overflowed into journals upon journals.
Then grief hit hard when I lost two children, consecutively, in my womb. Many people don’t want to remember the details of their loss and tragedy, but writing down the good, the bad, and the ugly as I was experiencing it in real time helped me safely feel the pain, and grieve. As I prayed and cried out to the Lord in my pain, He gave me revelations as I wrote. The result was not only my first book, Living Hope, but His healing power and touch through my grief.
I pray this is only the beginning of what the Lord has put on my heart to share. My desire is to bring all of life to the Gospel, where we find purpose and renewed hope by intersecting the Truth found in God’s Word with our life experiences.
Because whose life isn’t full of experiences? Over here in a suburb of Indianapolis, Indiana, you’ll find me: wife to Brett (a film director and actor), homeschool mom of Kherington and Damon, twin momma of Reagan and Roman, church counselor, Dietitian Nutritionist, and an empathetic friend who has an open seat on my couch for you.
Walsh Varvel
HISTORY finds

Soybean Pioneer Adrian Parsons
By Deanna Hindsley
Farming was important to Hendricks County early in its life. One Hendricks County resident helped lead the development of soybean planting in the United States. Adrian Parsons, whose farm was southwest of Avon, led this trend in farming.
At 27, Parsons enlisted in the Union Army. Severely wounded in battle, he returned to the family’s farm in Washington Township, though not the strong, able-bodied young man he had once been.

yet widely grown in the United States. By inoculating nitrogen into the soy seeds, he found that it built soil fertility.
Parsons
He continued his education, married and had nine children. He worked as a teacher and served a term as Hendricks County recorder but remained a farmer.
He read about new trends in farming and plants, including a Japanese plant called soya. A few U.S. farmers had tried it; and some thought it could be a substitute for coffee.
In 1884 Parsons ordered seeds from Japan, planted them in his garden and eventually in fields with the help of his sons. In the 1890s he began purposeful, sustained soybean cultivation, a crop not
As he experimented, he recorded the results, writing his findings for farm publications and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He found that soybeans were good livestock feed and forage crops.
In 1928, the American Soybean Association recognized Parsons as “the pioneer of all soybean growers in Indiana.”
Today in Indiana, soybean production is second only to corn, and the state ranks fifth in the nation in production of both. Due to urban development, that distinction is ebbing.
Brownsburg senior Elhadj Diallo leads the Bulldog squad on and off the court. He’s scored a season-high 24 points in three games. (Photo provided by Diallo)
Although soybeans are still largely used to nourish livestock, other important products include sources of protein other than meat and soy options such as protein bars, milk and meat alternatives. Eating soy protein may also reduce the risk of heart disease.
Indiana residents and others across the country have Parsons to thank.
The Hendricks County Museum is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 170 S. Washington St., Danville. Built in 1866, it was the home for Hendricks County sheriffs and their families with the county jail on the lower level until 1974. Groups can schedule tours at hendrickscountymuseum.org or leave a message at (317) 718-6158.

HENDRICKS REGIONAL HEALTH CELEBRATES THE UNSTOPPABLE SPIRIT
OF TOMORROW’S LEADERS
A feature in the Hendricks County ICON highlighting leaders of tomorrow.
STATE CHAMPION NEWS ANCHOR
Staff Report
Avon High School student Maryam Beg is used to being around campus either in front of the camera reporting on breaking news stories or behind the desk anchoring the Oriole Report.
This week, Maryam took a turn on stage to accept her award as the Indiana Association of School Broadcasters top student TV anchor in the state of Indiana.
“Maryam was a top six finalist on the basis of her prerecorded submissions and competed in person, live today,” says AHS Broadcasting Teacher Lauren Tauer. “She took first place out of more than 40 schools and 80 submissions. This is one of their most entered and competitive categories.”
Broadcast students Sophie Schick and Jaidyn Bills took home two honorable mentions for TV Copyright (script writing).
To see Maryam and her fellow reporters at work, check out the Oriole Report on YouTube.



JOHN UNISON, MD Internal Medicine & Pediatric Physician
EVENTScalendar
APRIL
22 Thursday or Saturday
Hendricks Live! Free Info Sessions
11 a.m., Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, 1120 Stafford Road, Plainfield. Learn more about the new performing arts center in downtown Plainfield. info@hendrickslive.org
22 Saturday Earth Day cleanup
9 a.m.-1 p.m., meet at Williams Park, 940 Locust Lane, Brownsburg. Volunteer to remove trash throughout Brownsburg or remove invasive plants from Williams Park. Create a mural with recycled items found during clean up. Trash bags and pickers provided. Register groups by April 17. brownsburg.org/487/Clean-and-GreenEarth-Day
22 Saturday
Let’s Celebrate Earth Day
1-2 p.m., Pecar Park Nature Center, 5203 E. CR 150 N, Avon. Join for a history of Earth Day, how to help the earth, hike at Pock Woods and create an Earth Day craft. washingtontownshipparks.org
22 Saturday
BOAA Annual Comedy Show
7-10pm, American Legion Post 331, 636 E Main St, Brownsburg. The cast of comedians include Steve Pyatte, longtime Brownsburg supporter; Shane Ray, executive director and on-air personality at WYRZ; Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, radio personality, political pundit and candidate for Mayor of Indianapolis and Jay Baker of Bob and Tom radio fame and WFBQ-FM radio. The master of ceremonies will be Brownsburg’s Rob Kendall of WIBC radio. Tickets, $20 in advance, $25 at the door. boaacomedyshow.eventbrite.com
22 Saturday
5th Annual Double Down for Charity 6:30-11 p.m., West Chase Golf Club, 4 Hollaway Blvd., Brownsburg. Table games and reverse raffle. $50, includes $30 in gaming chips and hors d’oeuvres. Purchase tickets: brownsburgsertoma.square.site
22 Saturday
Artscape
7-9 p.m., Avon-Washington Township Public Library, 498 N. Avon Ave., Avon. Artscape 2023 All That Jazz. Tickets: $25 per person at the door. Avonlibrary.net
23 Sunday
70th Anniversary Hoosier Hundred
2 p.m., Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, 10267 U.S. 136, Indianapolis. Features a 100mile race for USAC Silver Crown and one of the richest payouts in Silver Crown racing today. nhra.evenue.net
26 Wednesday
Senior Center: Our Beautiful Parks
12:30-1:30 p.m., Hendricks County Senior Services, 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville. Join naturalists at the senior center on the fourth Wednesday of every month for a free nature-themed program. For a lunch reservation, call (317) 910-5356 by 11 a.m. the day before the program.
27-29 Thursday-Saturday
Phi Beta Psi Sorority annual Community Garage Sale
8 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Scamahorn Park, Pittsboro. Clothing, household items, shoes, purses, toys and books. facebook.com/ pittsboroindianaparksandrecreation
28-29 Friday-Saturday
Annual Arts Gala
9-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, 1120 Stafford Road, Plainfield. A fine art fundraiser featuring high quality art in a variety of media, live music, craft beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Liveartist demonstrations. Art for purchase. plainfieldlibrary.net/artsgala
28-29 Friday-Saturday
Weekend of Hope Ladies conference
6:30-9 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday, Harmony Baptist Church, 5693 Broyles Road, Avon. Featuring Sheila Walsh. Tickets at harmonyofavon.com. (317) 7450011
29 Saturday
Gardening for All ages
9 a.m.-4 p.m., Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. The annual spring gardening show features free garden speaker sessions, gardening help from Master Gardeners, exhibit booths with gardening related vendors and gardening associations, free seeds, free trees and children’s activities. Hendricksgardeners.com
29 Saturday
Arbor Day at Pock Woods
1-2 p.m., Pecar Park, 5203 E. CR 150 N, Avon. Join the park naturalist and learn about Arbor Day and trees while hiking Pock
Woods. Meet at the nature center. Rain date is April 30. wtp.recdesk.com
29 Saturday
Avon Alumni Banquet
4 p.m. social time, 6 p.m. dinner, Avon Advanced Learning Center Café, 7575 E. CR 150 S., Avon, door 12. Cost: $30/person. Speaker is Class of 1969 Alumnus retired Lt. Col. Denny Grundy. Featured class is Class of 1973, and all classes ending in 3 will be recognized. Checks can be made payable to the Avon Alumni Association, attention: Avon Alumni Association c/o 233 N. CR 900 E, Avon, IN 46123. (317) 850-9410, (317) 2731947
30 Sunday
Walking for the Health of It
9 a.m., Arbuckle Acres Park, 200 N. Green St., Brownsburg. Raise awareness for mental health issues including the reduction of stigma and the promotion of positive support & healthy habits. Price: $25. runsignup.com/Race/IN/Brownsburg/ WalkingfortheHealthofIt
MAY
4 Thursday
Achievement Day
9 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. program, Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. Hosted by Hendricks County Extension Homemakers. RSVP by 4 p.m. April 24 for meal count. Free. RSVP to Melissa Mikesell, mmikesell52@sbcglobal.net
4 Thursday
Vegetable Gardening
6-7 p..m., Danville Center Township Public Library, 101 S. Indiana St,. Danville. Hendricks County Extension educator Jeff Pell will share information on vegetable gardening. RSVP at dplindiana.org
6-7 Saturday-Sunday
Cleetus & Cars and the Indy 800
8 a.m.-5 p.m., Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, 10267 U.S. 136, Indianapolis. Event combines drag racing and burnouts with oval action. facebook.com/ RaceIRPkend full of fun! facebook.com/ RaceIRP

REAL ESTATE AUCTION
FORtheRECORD - HC OBITUARIES
AVON
Dianne S. Granger
Dianne S. Granger, 70, passed away March 31, 2023. She was born Jan. 24, 1953. Services were held April 6 at Conkle Funeral Home, Avon.
BROWNSBURG
Auction Date:
THURSDAY, MAY 4th - 6:30 P.M.
(Auction to be held at the Bainbridge Community Building, 201 N Grant Avenue, Bainbridge, IN 46105)
OWNER: David L. & Madonna P. Elliott Trust
TRUSTEE: Catherine Borkowski, Arrow Fiduciary Services For

PUBLIC AUCTION
Beverly Ann Jaco
Beverly Ann Jaco, 82, passed away March 31, 2023. She was born Sept. 19, 1940. Services were held April 4. Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home, Pittsboro, was entrusted with the arrangements.
Kerri Anne Patterson
Kerri Anne Patterson, 37, passed away April 10, 2023. She was born May 7, 1985. Private services were held. Contributions may be made to Lake Patterson’s Education Fund.
DANVILLE
SaraJane Cooper
SaraJane Cooper, 21, passed away April 5, 2023. She was born April 26, 2001. Services were held April 10 at Baker Funeral Home, Danville. Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, Misty Eyes Animal Center or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Larry “Brent” Lee
Larry “Brent” Lee, 58, passed away March 29, 2023. He was born March 30, 1965. Services will be held 11 a.m.-12 p.m. April 22 at WyrkSpace, Indianapolis. Contributions may be made to Team Gleason or Team #BStrong of the Indiana Chapter ALS Association.
PITTSBORO
Dale
Truax
Dale Truax, 56, passed away April 1, 2023. He was born Jan. 15, 1967. Services were held April 8. Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home, Pittsboro, was entrusted with the arrangements.

PLAINFIELD
Geraldine Dunkin
Geraldine Dunkin, 81, passed away April 9, 2023. She was born March 24, 1942. Services were held April 17. Contributions may be made to Sycamore Services, designated to the Hennessey Project.
Robert E. “Bobby” Knight
Robert E. “Bobby” Knight, 68, passed away April 1, 2023. He was born April 16, 1954. Services were held April 10 at Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Bradley M. Minton
Bradley M. Minton, 26, passed away April 4, 2023. He was born April 23, 1996. Services were held April 12. Contributions may be made to Austimsociety.org.
Norma Morgan
Norma Morgan, 96, passed away April 1, 2023. She was born Dec. 30, 1926. Services will be held at a later date. Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with the arrangements.
Heather Faye Perkins
Heather Faye Perkins, 44, passed away April 12, 2023. She was born Feb. 19, 1979. Services were held April 17 at HamptonGentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.
James “Jim” Ruddick
James “Jim” Ruddick, 85, passed away April 1, 2023. He was born Nov. 15, 1937. Services were held April 6. Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with the arrangements. Contributions may be made to the Plainfield Christian Church.
Ronald L. Wooden
Ronald L. Wooden, 63, passed away April 1, 2023. He was born Aug. 7, 1959. Services were held April 8 at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield. Contributions may be made to the Wheeler Mission, Indianapolis.

Hendricks County obituaries are printed free of charge up to 50 words. Funeral directors are encouraged to
PUZZLES
1. Within 5. Garb
Across
9. Marion County community
14. Zip
15. A Great Lake
16. Prime 47 shellfish
17. “___ never work”
18. Org.
19. Samsung competitor
20. Pilfer an obese barnyard mom in WEST LAFAYETTE
23. Spooky
24. IMA part
25. Speaker’s platform
28. Thrown weapon
32. The Seminoles of the ACC
33. Right on an Indiana map
37. Colts QB mistake
38. Occupied, as a table
40. Be ill-mannered in DECATUR
42. 5th, for some cars in PORTAGE
44. Undress
45. Wok, e.g.
46. Killer whale
47. Thou, now
48. Indiana Senate meeting
52. Jason’s ship, in myth
54. Verb often confused with “lie”
55. Iraqi port
60. Filthy taxi ticketed in CAMBRIDGE CITY
64. Pale purple
66. Average Joe
67. Gloomy
68. “Skyfall” singer
69. Nautilus captain
70. Otherwise
71. Sheriff’s group
72. Scent
73. Ooze
Down
1. Licorice flavoring
2. Photo finish
3. Lazybones
4. ___ Lama
5. Unhearing
6. Celestial bear
7. Miles away
8. Andy Mohr Nissan model
9. Teen’s blemishes
10. Hinkle Fieldhouse audience
11. Resemble (a parent)
12. Kimono sash
13. CIA kin
21. Shin’s place
22. Since 1/1
26. Indiana Supreme Court’s longest serving justice (35 years): ___ Blackford
27. Kama ___
29. Expel

30. St. Louisto-Avon dir. 31. Sixth sense
33. Cushy course at Danville HS
34. IRT performer
35. Uphill battles
36. Prefix for angle
39. Before now
41. FedEx rival
42. Mai ___ (cocktail)
43. Lennon’s love
45. Eager, so to speak
49. Hoosier National Forest tree
50. Refuses
51. WTHR net. 53. Butler doctoral exams 56. Assistants






Proof negative…the day my wife became my proofreader
alumnus from George Washington University and I look forward to dinners at some of the old joints we used to go to.
Here’s the version Heidi corrected. Can you see the differences?
Mary Ellen and I are planning a trip to Washington, DC, for a short weekend. While in our nation’s capital, we will stay at the downtown Holiday Inn. I really want to visit the Smithsonian Institution and the International Spy Museum. Most of all, I Iook forward to seeing the alumni I worked with from The George Washington University and then having dinners at some of the old joints we used to frequent.



Here are the changes Mary Ellen made:


My beautiful wife and I are planning a trip to Washington, DC, for a long weekend. While in our nation’s capital, we will stay at the Waldorf Astoria and we will spend an entire day at the National Gallery of Art, viewing their French sculpture exhibit. Most of all, I look forward to visiting with one of Mary Ellen’s longtime friends who lives in DC. Mary Ellen and I can’t wait to dine at Imperfecto, which is known to be among DC’s most exclusive and swanky restaurants.
After I read her edited version, I said to my wife, “You fixed all the grammatical and spelling mistakes, but you also changed our trip.” We discussed it and before the conversation got heated, we came to an agreement. Now she’s my travel agent, too.

After I read her edited version, I said to my wife, “You fixed all the grammatical and spelling mistakes, but you also changed our trip.” We discussed it and before the conversation got heated, we came to an agreement. Now she’s my travel agent, too.
Dick Wolfsie lives in Indianapolis with his wife of 43 years. Dick is usually in the basement trying to think up something funny to write. He can be reached at: wolfsie@aol.com.
Proudly Serving Central Indiana for 40 Years
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN
Town of Avon posted a roadwork map on social media for residents and visitors to see where construction is happening.
Plainfield recently began construction of the 2.3-mile extension to the Vandalia Trail to the east. This extension will connect with Plainfield’s existing trailhead and trail section at Raceway Road. It is part of trail work to connect trails in Hendricks County to those in Marion County.
Plainfield Community Middle School swim teams were 2023 Boys and Girls Hendricks County Champions. The girls were undefeated this season and broke all but two school records. The boys only lost one dual meet.
Towns throughout the county are accepting applications for farmers markets that run throughout the summer and fall.
As part of the Stop Arm Violation Enforcement (SAVE) project officers countywide will be patrolling and observing school bus stops and routes, watching for stop-arm violations and unsafe driving behavior through April 30.
“Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.”
— James Baldwin
LAW
Our nation has all sorts of arcane, nonsensical laws on the books. Each issue, we’ll share one with you … In Devon, Conn., people cannot walk backward after sunset.











4/20 celebrations can influence youth to use marijuana
COUNSELOR’S CORNER
By Jody Boulay Recreational
marijuana is illegal in Indiana. While 4/20 Day is not a widespread celebration as it is in other states, it has an influence on how youth perceive marijuana. It is hard to ignore the influence these celebrations have on youth when celebrities, influencers and businesses push their products and brands.
4/20 festivities are an opportunity for the cannabis industry to promote the industry and its products, similar to alcohol companies using the Super Bowl or St. Patrick’s Day.
“Parents should be aware of this influence and have constructive conversations with their kids about marijuana and its associated risks,” said Marcel Gemme, drug and alcohol treatment specialist from Addicted.org.
Consider the following pointers:
• Short and frequent conversations are more effective than one big talk.
• Listen to their opinions and answer their questions; the conversation goes both ways.
• Be a reliable source of factual information.
• Show disapproval for marijuana use, but show genuine care about their health, wellness and success.
• Make your rules and values clear. Avoid lecturing, threatening or using scare tactics.
• Help them build skills to avoid peer pressure.
• Lead by example; actions speak louder than words.
Small conversations have a real tangible impact on youths’ decisions to use marijuana. Prevention and education efforts go a long way and are an effective approach to preventing drug use altogether.


Jody Boulay is a mother of two with a passion for helping others. She currently works as a Community Outreach Coordinator for Addicted. org to help spread awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
Safety reminders for grandparents this summer
By Renee Oswalt
WELLNESS
With the summer approaching and kids almost out of school, grandkids have more time to spend with their grandparents. Though many activities are fun, there can also be potential dangers. It is important to know what to look out for while watching your grandchildren this summer.
Car Seats
According to the Indiana State Police, in Indiana all children under the age of 8 must be properly restrained in a child safety seat or booster seat according to the child restraint system manufacturer’s instructions. All car seats are different, so it is best to read the instruction manual and go to a local inspection station.
Medications
Make sure you know your grandchild’s medical history so you know if they need to take any medications and in case the child experiences a medical emergency while in your care. If they take medicine, know how much and how frequently to provide the dose.
Children ages 12 and under should not be given aspirin since it is connected to Reye’s syndrome, an illness that causes swelling of the brain and liver and leads to nausea, vomiting, behavioral changes and often requires treatment in a hospital.
Medications should always be out of reach and out of sight of children or stored in childresistant containers. It is key to keep your purse or backpack away from grandchildren if medications are also kept there.
Helmets
Whenever your grandkid is on a bike, skateboard, Ripstick or other rideable toy,
make sure they wear a helmet to prevent serious injury. It is recommended that children use helmets while they are riding bicycles to reduce the likelihood of head trauma, including traumatic brain injury (TBI) and related consequences. According to the CDC kids should wear helmets until they are at least 16 years old.
Open water
Children are curious and drawn to water. Keep small children safe from any open water. Even a cooler with melted ice that is now water can be a hazard to a toddler.
Small Objects
A good rule of thumb is if it can go through a toilet paper roll, it is a choking hazard. Small button- shaped batteries, like ones for hearing aids, can cause severe damage if swallowed, inhaled or put up a child’s nose. These items can cause lifethreatening chemical burns as well.
Backyards and garages Inspect the backyard for anything hazardous or poisonous. Keep grandchildren out of the yard when you are mowing. Never let children ride on the lawn mower with you. Garages can have garden chemicals, auto products, pesticides and tools. Keep them in a locked cabinet and out of reach.

Renee Oswalt is a childbirth educator at IU Health West Hospital. IU Health West offers a grandparenting class. Learn more at iuhealth.org/find-medical-services/ childbirth-education. PUZZLES ANSWERS FROM PAGE 21
DR ALLEN’S SUNGLASSES Q&A
With the beautiful Spring weather we are experiencing, we all are cheered by the bright, sunny days. However, the effect of all that sunlight is a less sunny proposition. UV light and glare can create a variety of issues. Here are some frequently asked questions about the role sunglasses have in protecting our eyes from harm. How do UV rays affect the unprotected eye?
Long-term exposure of ultraviolet (UV) radiation over the course of one’s life can cause early onset cataracts, damage to the retina and pterygium (an abnormal pink tissue that grows on the white part of the eye and on the cornea). Exposure to sunlight over a short period of time, even just a few hours, can cause photokeratits, known as a “sunburn” to the eyes. This condition is quite uncomfortable causing redness, extreme light sensitivity and tearing. How do I know my glasses will protect my eyes?
It is very important to choose sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of UV rays—UVA as well as UVB. Look for a label reading “UV 400”, since this
designation means that the glasses block UV rays as small as 400 nanometers, providing 100 percent eye protection. What are polarized lenses?
Polarized lenses are specially designed to filter out harsh glare reflected off surfaces like the vehicle in front of you, water and snow. They are recommended for tasks such as boating, fishing, skiing, golfing, jogging and driving. I, personally, don’t feel like I squint as much when I wear polarized lenses as opposed to traditional sunglasses lenses. Should my child be wearing sunglasses too?
The lens inside a child’s eye is more transparent than adult eyes, which makes it easier for UV rays to reach a child’s retina. Children are also typically out in the sun more than adults, which makes them more susceptible to UV damage. Sunglasses are fun and great accessories for self-expression but the best part about sunglasses is they protect your eyes from damaging UV. For the best protection, where your sunglasses all year round!



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RAAYS

Boxwood blight may affect landscapes
By John Chapin
GARDENING
The popular boxwood evergreen shrub is widely planted in residential and commercial landscapes. It’s generally free of pests and diseases and has been cultivated in this country since the 18th century, having been introduced from Europe by British colonists.
A few years ago however, boxwood blight showed up in the United Kingdom and has since spread to other European countries, devastating boxwood forests and plantings. Inevitably it showed up in the United states in 2011 when it was discovered in North Carolina. It has slowly spread north and westward. Unfortunately, there is no known cure, and it will eventually show up in the Midwest.
Gardeners in Central Indiana have been alarmed by what they think are symptoms of boxwood blight, but fortunately they are mistaken.
Distinctive yellowish ringspots (see photo) on the leaves are the work of boxwood leafminers, a pest whose maggots feed within the leaves and cause the leaf to blister where these blotch-like leaf mines are located.
If left untreated, the boxwoods will die. Luckily, infested boxwoods are easily cleansed of leafminers with a systemic insecticide application in spring. The active ingredient in the insecticide is harmful to bees, so wait to treat until after the boxwood blooms in April.
There are many inexpensive systemic insecticides on the market at garden centers and big box stores, and they are very easy to use. One treatment lasts for months, which is long enough to eliminate all the leafminers.
Remember that weakened or stressed plants are more susceptible to pests and diseases than those kept vigorous and healthy by annual fertilizing and adequate watering during dry spells.
Happy Gardening!

Boxwood leafminers infest the evergreen plants, causing blistering and plant destruction. Systemic insecticides can eliminate the pests but hurt bees, so wait until blooms have faded to apply. (Photo provided by Jeff Pell)

Visit where Jesus taught in Israel and Palestine
By Don Knebel
Continuing a tour of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, go around to the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee to sites important in Jesus’ ministry. In the first century, Capernaum, home to four of Jesus’ disciples, was a fishing village that became the center of Jesus’ ministry when people from his hometown of Nazareth drove him out.
According to biblical accounts, Capernaum was the location of many of Jesus’ healing miracles, including the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law in Peter’s house. Jesus taught in Capernaum’s synagogue, where he healed a man possessed by demons. Jesus also performed miracles in Chorazin, a farming village famous for its wheat set on a hillside about two and a half miles north of Capernaum, and in nearby Bethsaida. Because the people witnessing those miracles did not repent, Jesus expressly denounced all three villages by name. Archaeologists have uncovered the ruins of Capernaum and Chorazin but disagree about the location of Bethsaida.
Today, Capernaum includes a memorial to Peter, perched on columns above what has long been regarded as Peter’s house.
Capernaum also includes the ruins of a fourth century synagogue erected over the one in which Jesus taught.
Although archaeologists have not yet found the remains of first-century Chorazin, they have uncovered ruins from the third century, including a large synagogue constructed of black basalt.
Just west of Capernaum is the Church of the Beatitudes, located on a hill overlooking the Sea of Galilee associated with Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. It was built in 1936 with the financial support of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.
In the nearby area of Tabgha, associated with Jesus’ reported miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fishes, a statue remembers the account in the Gospel of John where Jesus forgave Peter for having three times denied knowing him after Jesus’ arrest.

Don Knebel is a local resident who works for Barnes & Thornburg LLP. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@youarecurrent.com.

The 33,000 sq. ft. Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and Conference Complex is designed to meet any of your social meeting needs: banquets, meetings, seminars or wedding events - we can do it all! Our friendly and knowledgable staff are ready to make your event worry-free and memorable!



$50 OFF
Rental of $150 or more
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SPECIAL FEATURES
• Nine conference classrooms and boardrooms
• Complete commercial kitchen
• Demonstration kitchen
• 12,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose auditorium
• 24’ x 36’ stage
• Easy load-in areas with overhead door
• High ceilings
• Epoxy covered flooring
• ADA accessibility
Visit sites along the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee to see where Jesus taught. (Photo by Don Knebel)

