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Brownsburg West Middle School seventh grade boys basketball team had an undefeated season. Accolades include a Hendricks County championship under the leadership of coach Givon Dickerson. Team members include Justin Baker, Landon Ball, Owen Brooks, Crew Brown, Asher Easton, Wesley Grant, Brayden Greathouse, Canyon Koonce, Parker Moore, Tyler Neese, Xavier Smith, Todd Stuart and Carter Wells. (Photo provided)
Dancers for the 2023 Dancing with the Hendricks County Stars gathered at Arthur Murray Dance Center in early January to begin their routines. They will perform May 20 at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds Expo Hall, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. The event is the major fundraiser for the Hendricks County Museum. Residents are paired with professionals to learn dance routines. Participants include Dianne Frewer (front, left), Angela Jenkins, Kristy Cheek, instructor Ana Fernandez, instructor Jamis Wadsworth-Carr (back left), Joe Brooks, Kevin Miller, instructor Katie Toth and instructor Alex Skudrovskis. Participants not pictured include Jenna Berry, Monet Bowling, Brett Clark, Joe Helfenberger, Jeremy Miers and
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.
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Compiled by Peg McRoy Glover
The Avon Town Council met Jan. 26. 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 Feb. 9. The ICON will report on this meeting in a future issue.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved the economic development commission (EDC) 2022 annual report.
WHAT IT MEANS: The EDC met four times in 2022 to approve and forward recommendations regarding bonds for developers including Avon Landing and Chicago Industrial. John Taylor, director of economic development, gave recommendations for projects including Avon Landing, Avon Logistics, Chicago Industrial, Reagan Logistics, Easton Grey and Rise at EDC meetings. A resolution was adopted allowing remote EDC meetings if a quorum cannot be reached in person.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council gave approval for the police department to purchase two new in-car video and radio systems and high-resolution body cameras from Motorola for $14,310.
WHAT IT MEANS: The equipment will be used by two new uniformed police officers. Council approved purchase of seven new police cars in May. Two are enroute to the dealership and will be outfitted with this equipment.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved a three-year contract with Toler Street Sweeping.
WHAT IT MEANS: The town received two bids for street sweeping services. Toler offered a bid for $35,000 per sweep. Sweeping Corp of America’s bid was $40,898 per sweep.
WHAT HAPPENED: A subrecipient agreement between the town and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Organization (IMO) was approved for a grant of $877,726. This grant money from the IMO will be used to install public infrastructure in the Easton Grey residential development.
WHAT IT MEANS: Easton Grey is being developed by Republic. It includes 500 acres of mixed-use residential dwellings and commercial structures along White Lick Creek. A 65-acre riverwalk district is planned along the creek for community gathering, shopping, dining and recreational activities. Five neighborhoods will surround the district.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved a resolution that designates property located at 8838 E. CR 100 S as an economic revitalization area and approved a personal property tax abatement for Radial.
WHAT IT MEANS: Radial development company plans to have a 600,000 square foot ecommerce fulfillment center in an already existing structure. Personal tax abatement is set at 50% for five years.
Talk N Take is a short, engaging educational program offered by Beth Switzer from the Purdue Extension in Hendricks County. In one hour, talk about a topic and create something to take home.
Sessions occur at 11 a.m. at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. Upcoming sessions include Social Events and Lowering Risks of diseases — flu and COVID Feb 16. Make charcuterie boards. Another session called Stop the Bleed will also be scheduled.
For more information about Purdue Extension-Hendricks County, call (317) 745-9260 or email hendrces@purdue. edu.
Compiled by Melissa Gibson
The Brownsburg Town Council met Jan. 26 for a regular meeting at Brownsburg Town Hall. The next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 9 at 61 N. Green St., Brownsburg.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council heard the Police Department Report update from Chief Joe Grimes.
WHAT IT MEANS: The police department has several officers retiring soon, and they began realigning staff with promotions and the process to hire officers. Grimes received 29 applications from inexperienced people, and lateral recruitment applications will be available in early February.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council heard the Fire Territory Report from Todd Mille, Deputy Chief of Administration.
WHAT IT MEANS: The Fire Territory is beginning their hiring process soon. The executive board recently passed a policy to allow lateral transfers a credit of three years of vacation and sick days. Six recently hired members will be caught up retroactively.
WHAT HAPPENED: Community relations manager Shelby Abner shared information about grants and the communications report.
WHAT IT MEANS: In addition to a new camera in place at the Brownsburg Town Hall, Abner shared a guide created with the Brownsburg Chamber that highlights local businesses and town offerings. They hope to make connections between residents and businesses. Abner also shared the town was awarded $1.1 million grants in 2022 with future projects planned for those funds.
WHAT HAPPENED: Jodi Dickey, development services director, presented the second, third and final adoption for an ordinance to rezone 46 acres from agricultural to motor sports.
WHAT IT MEANS: Just west of Lucas Oil Raceway Park, the property located at the northeast corner of Ronald Reagan Parkway and Raceway Boulevard includes six lots. The plan is to create a commerce park for the motorsports industry. “This is exactly the type of project we’re looking to bring to this location,” council president Travis Tscheann said. The council unanimously approved the second, third and final adoption.
United Way of Central Indiana announced 20 finalists for the fifth annual ELEVATE awards, a fundraising event that recognizes the region’s top young philanthropists ages 21-40.
This year’s finalists include Joel Reichenbach, Sheltering Wings.
ELEVATE raises money for United Way’s Basic Needs Fund, which helps provide Hoosiers with healthy food, affordable housing, reliable transportation and access to health care services. The finalists were chosen from more than 80
nominees. The 20 finalists also are eligible to win the People’s Choice award, presented by Katz, Sapper & Miller.
Winners will be announced Feb. 18 at the Biltwell Event Center, 950 S. White River Parkway W. Drive, Indianapolis. Tickets start at $50. Leading up to the event, nominees’ work will be highlighted on social media and the public can vote for their favorite.
Buy tickets, vote and learn about nominees at uwci.org/elevate.
Kim Speer, wife of Hendricks Regional Health president and CEO Kevin Speer, encourages heart health, through the Go Red for Women campaign.
To learn more about CPR classes go to CPR information cprindianapolisin.com/bls_class/ near_you
The luncheon sponsored by Hendricks Regional Health is sold out, but an online purse auction will raise money for Go Red for Women. Each purse is themed, for example such as a purse to carry while traveling or one for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The auction runs 12 p.m. Feb. 13-12 p.m. Feb 17. Visit event.gives/indygored/items.
The scans are quick, painless, last about 15 minutes and cost
$49. Heart scans provide early detection of heart disease even when symptoms may not be present. A heart scan takes pictures of the heart’s arteries, allowing physicians to check for coronary artery disease, which occurs when plaque builds up.
By Peg McRoy Glover
Kim Speer’s dedication and enthusiasm for the Go Red for Women initiative from the American Heart Association (AHA) is so contagious it is hard not to want to be part of it when in her presence.
Named this year’s chair following last year’s Go Red for Women Luncheon, Speer is honored to have been asked.
“I am so proud to be the leader this year,” said Speer. “When I got a call from Amanda Mills, (Indianapolis AHA executive director) last year to have coffee with her, I had no idea what it was all about. Frankly, I was floored that I had been recommended and immediately accepted.”
Started in 2004 by AHA, the Go Red for Women program, campaign and platform increases women’s heart health awareness and provides information about prevention of cardiovascular disease, which is the No. 1 cause of death among women, causing one in three deaths each year.
“The No. 1 key of the campaign is prevention through education,” said Speer. “If people make healthy eating choices and make their health a priority, we can reduce our risks of heart disease. We don’t have to lose our mothers, sisters and friends to cardiovascular disease.”
Indianapolis AHA relies heavily on its volunteer network, board of directors and leadership teams for nominations and recommendations about who leads their initiatives. Speer was nominated to be this year’s leader through these networks.
“There are key things that we look for,” said Mills. “We obviously want someone who is going to be passionate about our mission, have the ability to inspire others, lead by example, support our work on all fronts and open doors to more people. I was told Kim would be dynamic in the role. I was sold at our first
coffee meeting.”
Aside from Speer’s fundraising responsibilities this year, she also worked with two other groups of women. The Circle of Red are community leaders who bring more attention to the issues. Women of Impact work diligently for nine weeks trying to raise as much money as possible.
“Working with Kim this year has been such a joy and blessing,” said Mills. “She really stepped in and elevated this campaign. Over the past couple of years things have been a little rough with COVID. Going virtual we lost some momentum. Kim has turned that around. She stepped up into a leadership position and rallied friends, colleagues and partners in the community to support Go Red for Women.”
Go Red for Women launched almost 20 years ago because women were not represented in cardiovascular disease science and research. Women were often misdiagnosed and brushed off and told they suffered from something less serious.
In the last couple of decades, research has uncovered misconceptions about women and cardiovascular disease. Women have different signs, symptoms and present differently when examined by health care providers.
Go Red for Women helped turn all of that around.
Recognized annually during National Heart Month, the Go Red for Women campaign culminates at its annual luncheon Feb. 17. This year’s luncheon is themed Be the Beat, a reference to learning hands-only CPR. AHA has a goal to train at least one member of each household in hands-only CPR that can save the life of someone having a heart attack.
ON THE COVER: Kim Speer will chair this year’s American Heart Association Go Red for Women event and help with fundraising.
People should get a scan if they fit in these categories:
• 40 years old or older
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Overweight or obese
• History of smoking
To request a scan for yourself or to gift a scan to a loved one scan the QR code or visit Hendricks.org/heart/scan.
Website: goredforwomen.org
• Support awareness, research, education and community programs to benefit women
• Provide programs to increase women’s knowledge of heart disease and stroke risk
• Provide tools and motivation to help women reduce risk and protect health
• Support scientific research so healthcare providers have up-to-date strategies, treatments and tools
• Advance their mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases
• Improve educational resources
Compiled by Peg McRoy Glover
The Danville Town Council met Feb. 2. These meetings can be viewed on the town’s YouTube channel after the meeting. The council typically 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 Feb. 15.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council president David Winters presented a service award to former council member Tom Pado.
WHAT IT MEANS: Pado served on the council for five years. Winters gave an overview of Pado’s life taken from his book, “Damn the Pressure, Full Speed Ahead,” including Navy service and developing undersea robots for oil and gas industries.
WHAT HAPPENED: The council approved executing paperwork to submit for an opioid settlement for the town. This is a local settlement with more anticipated. There will be a national settlement at a later date.
WHAT IT MEANS: Danville is a plaintiff in a lawsuit filed by a group of Indiana municipalities regarding the opioid crisis and costs related to prescribing activities. This settlement is with Meijer and will be distributed among the defendants. Funds received will be unrestricted.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council approved street closures for Tri-Kappa’s Fair on the Square and the Destination Danville Festival.
WHAT IT MEANS: Jefferson, Marion and Washington street will be closed around the Square for both events, June 3 and Sept. 8-20.
WHAT HAPPENED: Tom Downard, Avon Chamber of Commerce executive director requested $5,000 to help pay for Hendricks County Rib-Fest. Council approved.
WHAT IT MEANS: The Chamber manages Rib-Fest. The 18th event is June 24, and 11,000 are expected to attend at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds.
WHAT HAPPENED: Council gave Andrew Pitcher, public works superintendent, approval to purchase a new asphalt patch trailer for $121,171.
WHAT IT MEANS: This purchase replaces a 2006 piece of equipment with rust and a faulty burner. The new trailer can carry and distribute asphalt tack oil, a hydraulic jackhammer and lifting plate.
Compiled by Nicole Davis
The Plainfield Town Council met Jan. 23 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 Feb. 13.
WHAT HAPPENED: The council approved two ordinances on first reading to amend the Plainfield zoning ordinance.
WHAT IT MEANS: Ordinance 3 would remove article 4.1 from the zoning ordinance and replace it. Accessory uses are garages, patios, bathhouses, game courts, parking areas, storage buildings and more. Ordinance 4 makes numerous changes to the town’s development standards for each district.
4.70
John Penola
Energy employees to honor MLK’s legacy through service
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Duke Energy employees and their families gathered at Mary Lee Maier Community Pantry in Avon and Sheltering Wings in Danville to help organize donations and prepare the facilities to serve those in need. It coincides with community service events across the country to honor the life and legacy of King. For more information, visit duke-energy.com/community. (Photo provided by Duke Energy)
People and organizations interested in planning the Hendricks County Bicentennial can attend an initial meeting at 11 a.m. Feb. 16 at the 4-H Fairgrounds and Convention Center, 1900 E. Main St., Danville.
“The Friends of the Hendricks County Historical Museum realized that the bicentennial of the County was rapidly approaching and asked the County Commissioners if we might see what interest
and ideas are out there to recognize this milestone,” said board president Pat Baldwin. “The museum has some ideas for activities, and we hope other groups may have their own. The bicentennial should reflect all of the county, and not just the founding history back in 1824.”
Anyone who cannot attend may email the museum to explain their ideas or in what way they would like to participate, at hcmuseum@co.hendricks.in.us.
Support public safety at the First Annual Back Your Badge Marathon Sept. 23.
The race will start at the Richard A Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center, 651 Vestal Road, Plainfield. It features 5k, half marathon and full marathon distances. The course travels a mix of everything in Plainfield. Run historic U.S. 40, Plainfield Parks trail system and run by or through your local police station, fire station and communications center.
For a friendly competition, participants will pick an agency to support, and each mile run or walked will be added to that agency’s total. The agency with the most total miles will earn the bragging rights and traveling trophy for 2023. All proceeds will benefit public safety beneficent programs, local youth assistance programs and a paramedic scholarship program. For more information, visit backyourbadge.org.
Hendricks County lawmakers invite local students to spend a day serving as a page at the Indiana Statehouse during the 2023 legislative session through April. Students ages 13-18 can sign up to page and assist lawmakers and staff with daily duties while touring the governor’s office, Indiana Supreme Court and House and Senate chambers. Pages will receive an excused absence from school and can participate in groups such as Scout troops. For more information, visit indianahouserepublicans.com/pageprogram or call (800) 3829841. Students are responsible for their lunch and transportation.
What would happen if you helped the next generation establish itself upon a foundation of trust, honor, and mutual respect?
We believe the men in our community have a unique role to play in this endeavor.
We are asking YOU to read a book to students at a local school on Thursday, March 16, 2023.
Scan the QR code to register and learn more!
We love our Hendricks County communities. If you have something you believe we should know about, please send to editorial@icontimes.com.
Hendricks County Community Foundation (HCCF) announced new board members and new roles for current members.
Jessica Ledford is new to the HCCF board. Current board member Brad Riley is transitioning to chair, and Joanna Kennedy is transitioning to secretary. Ledford volunteers currently on the HCCF Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. Ledford is the West District vice president at the Hendricks Regional Health YMCA and has worked in Hendricks County for the last 11 years.
By Peg McRoy Glover
Hendricks Regional Health (HRH) has been recognized by The Leapfrog Group as one of the top two teaching hospitals in Indiana and shares that same ranking with only 58 other hospitals among 3,000 nationally.
Leapfrog has also consistently rated HRH as a grade A hospital when it comes to hospital safety.
Kevin Speer, HRH president and CEO; Dr. Michelle Fenoughty, chief medical officer and Lisa Imlay, vice president of quality, safety and compliance, accepted the award for being a top teaching hospital last December at a Leapfrog national event in Washington, D.C.
Leapfrog, an independent national nonprofit, serves as a watchdog and advocate for positive change in hospital safety and reducing medical errors in the healthcare industry.
Leapfrog uses the same grading system utilized in most school systems in assigning an A, B, C, D or F rating to a hospital. Many consider this the gold-standard for measuring hospital and patient safety.
“We strive to be the best high-quality low cost healthcare provider in our region,” said Speer. “Achieving these sorts of accolades and recognition just verifies our commitment to quality, safety and patient care.”
Hospital rating grades of A-F are assigned by Leapfrog every six months based on a rigorous data collecting system from approximately 3,000 acute-care hospitals. Top hospital rankings, like the top teaching hospitals, are announced at the end of each calendar year.
HRH has consistently been graded an A hospital. This is the first time it has been awarded a top hospital ranking.
this organization.”
“It takes a team, and that is the piece that fits so well with Hendricks,” said Fenoughty. “To achieve these standards, it takes a team and collaboration is one of our core values. Working together comes naturally for us. Pulling a team together that constantly focuses on quality patient care is in our DNA. It is part of who we are.”
respiratory therapy, radiology, physician assistant and physical therapy students who rotate through at varying levels,” said Fenoughty. “We get great feedback from Marian about how well we prepare these students for their future.”
Fenoughty said that they are proud of their few fourth-year medical students as well.
Riley, a lifelong Hendricks County resident, has served on the HCCF board since 2020. He previously served as deputy chief counsel for the Indiana Department of Child Services for Hendricks, Putnam, Boone, Montgomery and Morgan counties and recently transitioned back into private practice in Danville at Harrington Law, P.C. Kennedy, also a lifelong Hendricks County resident, has served on the HCCF board since 2018 and this year is serving as secretary. She is the human resource officer for North Salem State Bank.
“Dr. Fenoughty is the person who is responsible for the fact that we received an A grade, especially during COVID when many hospitals were unable to achieve that,” said Speer. “The fact that we are a top teaching hospital goes straight to her efforts and leadership around the quality and safety in
HRH meets the criteria of being a teaching hospital with the number of medical students who circulate through the organization every year. HRH has a close affiliation with the Marian University School of Medicine whose students come through the hospital on a regular rotation. Indiana University medical students also rotate through.
“We have hundreds of nursing,
$ 1,500
“We treat our fourth-year medical students like residents because we don’t have residents or fellows,” said Fenoughty. “We are reaping the benefits, too, because often they get out of their residency and want to come back here and practice medicine.”
To find out the safety grade of any hospital rated by Leapfrog visit hospitalsafetygrade.org .
Sertoma International awarded a $1,500 grant to the Brownsburg Sertoma service club to help support its Christmas project to aid needy families in our community.
The local club has been running this program for more than seven years. This past Christmas Brownsburg Sertoma helped 10 families with 25 kids, spending $3,663.
The club works with the Lincoln Township trustee and Family Promise of Hendricks County to reach out to families in need. “The generosity of The Brownsburg Sertoma club made Christmas wishes come true for five Family Promise families who were struggling to cover their basic needs, said Heather Heikkila from Family Promise. “The Sertoma Club not only purchased the gifts, but took the parent shopping so they could pick the perfect gifts for their children. We are so grateful for the kindness of Brownsburg Sertoma Club and the impact they have on Hendricks county.”
Compiled by Mike Beas
The Brownsburg wrestling team got its postseason started by winning the Avon Sectional, racking up 283 points to second-place Avon’s total of 194.5. Individual champions for the Bulldogs were Revin Dickman (106 pounds), Preston Haines (113), Jake Hockaday (126), Brady Ison (132), Mason Day (145), Caden Brewer (182), Gunner Henry (195) and Leighton Jones (285). For the Orioles, Cheaney Schoeff won the 138-pound weight class, while Tri-West 220-pounder Spencer Watson also took home a blue ribbon.
The Bulldogs boys basketball squad scored a 44-40 triumph over Zionsville, led by juniors Kanon Catchings and Grant Porath with 16 and 10 points, respectively. Senior forward Elhadj Diallo had eight points, five rebounds and two steals; Catchings tied Diallo for team rebounding honors. The girls team had its three-game win streak halted with a 50-41 loss to Zionsville as junior Emma Hendricks tallied 10 points and nine boards. Sophomore center Avery Gordon had six points and six rebounds, while seniors Kailyn Terrell and Megan Eaker scored six each.
Cascade upped its season mark to 20-2 in girls hoops with a 69-39 rout over Speedway. Seniors Sydney Warran and Abby Parsons led the way with 26 and 18 points, respectively. Warran also snagged 16 rebounds and dished out six assists, the latter sum tied by junior Creedance Chittenden, who also had nine points.
In boys basketball, Tri-West scored a 62-43 win at Greencastle as Bruins sophomore Wes Ward delivered a 19-point effort. Juniors Drew Miller and Landon Gardner chipped in 11 apiece. Another 11th-grader, Max Robertson, scored nine points, collected six rebounds, had five assists and made two steals.
By Mike Beas
The roster for the 2022-23 Brownsburg boys basketball team includes only two seniors, one being Elhadj Diallo.
In his 10 seasons as the Bulldogs coach, Steve Lynch has had many outstanding leaders in his program with Diallo, a 6-foot-3 senior forward, being among the latest.
Statistically and motivationally, Diallo is one of the main components for a squad that has been at or near the top of the weekly Class 4A poll all season.
“All kids would like to be a leader, and Elhadj does a good job of making leadership about the team and what’s best for us,” said Lynch. “And people respond to that. He demonstrates how you’re supposed to go about your business.”
Diallo averaged 15.6 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.6 steals to help lead the Bulldogs to a 16-2 record through Jan. 27 – the program’s best regular season since the 2013-2014, squad (and Lynch’s first) that finished 21-3.
His consistency, too, is something special, as Diallo has scored in double-figures in all but two games. His season-high of 24 points has been achieved three times, in victories over North Central, Pike and Westfield.
In what was perhaps Brownsburg’s finest overall performance to date this season, a 73-51 dismantling of host Kokomo in the championship game at its own Phil Cox Memorial Tournament in late December, Diallo sprung for eight points, a season-best 14 boards and two assists.
Brownsburg then went on to win the annual Hendricks County Tournament in dominant fashion, defeating its three opponents by a total of 90 points. Diallo averaged 16 points and 4.3 rebounds over this stretch.
Diallo, whose excellence extends to the classroom (3.8 grade point average), did a Q&A with ICON:
Q: How old were you when you started playing basketball at the competitive level?
A: I started in second grade because my older brothers got me interested. I really love the game. It’s brought me a lot of fun. Just the best part is making memories with my friends.
Q: As one of only two seniors on the current Brownsburg team, what has this season been like for you?
A: The past couple months have been good — a lot of hard
Michael Gabbard, MD
practices and teammates making each other better. I feel we have a lot of chemistry from the team last year.
Q: Statistics aside, what type of input do you attempt to bring to the program from a leadership standpoint?
A: When guys have their head(s) down, I like to bring up their self esteem. I’ve been in those same shoes. It’s important because it reflects onto their game when they’re playing.
Q: Have you committed to a college yet, and what will be your major?
A: The plan is to go to college and major in computer science. I like the aspect of working with technology.
Avon High School hired Robert Gibson as head football coach. Gibson was part of three NAIA National Championships at Marian University, one IHSAA 2A State Championship at Indianapolis Cardinal Ritter and multiple conference and sectional championships as a player and coach.
Most recently, in two seasons as head coach, he led Owen Valley High School to a 22-3 record. Gibson will start at AHS this winter and fill an open temporary physical education position and planning for the 2023 football season.
The Hendricks County Community Foundation (HCCF) announced the results of the 2022 Needs Assessment Survey, an abbreviated version of the 2019 survey designed to update data resourced by people across the community.
The survey reached 3,600 people who live, work and play in Hendricks County. In October 2020, HCCF was awarded a $200,000 Community Leadership Grant from Lilly Endowment to use to implement plans for a more united Hendricks County.
HCCF is addressing three issues: increased civic engagement, more collaboration and increased efficiency of county services and a stronger sense of community pride. The results of the 2022 Needs Assessment inform HCCF’s work in these areas and other emergent needs of the community. For more information, visit hendrickscountycf.org/for-our-community.
Ballet
After 35 years of classical ballet in Danville, The Children’s Ballet is adding a second classroom and studio space in Plainfield at 211 W. Main St. The location will more than double the studio space and accelerate the school’s plans to stage future productions at the
new Plainfield Performing Arts Center.
The Children’s Ballet is a nonprofit school, founded in 1987 in Danville, that draws more than 125 students, ages 3-18. Visit TheChildrensBallet.com/Plainfield.
A feature in the Hendricks County ICON highlighting leaders of tomorrow.
By Mike Beas
In January, Meghan O’Brien was named Champion Senior Showman at the National Junior Swine Association’s (NJSA) Southeast Regional in Perry, Ga.
For this and assorted other reasons, O’Brien, a junior at Danville High School, has had her reasons to smile.
Perhaps foremost is the fact O’Brien, who has experienced her share of uncertainty in terms of her health for the past year, is again enjoying a sense of normalcy.
“It’s been really hard. But just having family and friends and the things I enjoy made it a lot easier,” said O’Brien. “What I’ve learned most about myself is that I’m stronger than I thought I was.
“I’m not taking life for granted, and am enjoying the moments I have with my family.”
O’Brien has lived the majority of her 17 years with a disease that primarily affects children under the age of 5.
“When Meghan was 4, she was diagnosed with Kawasaki disease. It’s extremely rare, and is only diagnosed based on symptoms,” said O’Brien’s mother, Ginger. “She had a swollen neck lymph node, and cough and cold symptoms that progressed to fevers.”
Meghan O’Brien spent nearly a month at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis following her initial diagnosis.
In the years that followed, she has returned to Riley cardiology and endured numerous tests and procedures all the way up to today.
More recently, Meghan called her mom in March com plaining of chest pains. She was taken to the hospital where it was discovered Meghan had 100% blockage in
She was sent to IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis where a stent was placed in her heart.
This past December, while at Riley hospital for a followup appointment, it was discovered Meghan was again experiencing 100% blockage in her right artery.
This time around, doctors chose not to place another stint.
“Her vessel was so damaged and her blood flow was so disrupted that another stint could have caused a blood clot,” said Ginger O’Brien. “Her heart function, thankfully, is now totally normal.
“At the time, it was the scariest time in my life. In December, it was a smidge of relief because they said she’s stable and nothing should change.”
Besides family and friends, being involved in 4-H is also close to Meghan O’Brien’s heart. She started shortly after completing her third grade school year.
Meghan likes to show pigs, having won Senior Showman at the Hendricks County 4-H Fair; O’Brien has twice won at the Indiana State Fair in Senior Showman and Intermediate Showman categories.
“I tried out a couple of other species, and pigs just stuck with me,” said O’Brien. “The things I enjoy the most are the competitions, and I like that it teaches me responsibility. And, I’ve made a lot of friendships through 4-H.”
Her involvement in 4-H has potentially poured the ground floor of O’Brien’s eventual career, as well.
“I would definitely like to stay around the (agriculture) industry because I’ve grown up around it,” said Meghan.
Leslie “Les” W. Buhrmester
Leslie “Les” W. Buhrmester, 89, passed away Jan. 22, 2023. He was born Nov. 7, 1933. Services were held Feb. 1 at Conkle Funeral Home, Avon.
Dennis Haddix
Dennis Haddix, 71, passed away Jan. 29, 2023. He was born Jan. 27, 1952. No services are planned. Contributions may be made to the family.
James H. “Jim” Lipps, Jr
James H. “Jim” Lipps, Jr., 62, passed away Jan. 31, 2023. He was born July 24, 1960. Services were held Feb. 10. Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements. Contributions may be made to National Alliance on Mental Illness, Indianapolis, or Misty Eyes Animal Center, Avon.
Wendy R. Lux
Wendy R. Lux, 63, passed away Jan. 20, 2023. She was born July 18, 1959. Services will be planned for a later date. Baker Funeral Home, Danville, was entrusted with arrangements. Contributions may be made to Autism Speaks.
Danny Joe Spratt, 53, passed away Feb. 2, 2023. He was born May 10, 1969. Services were held Feb. 8 at Conkle Funeral Home, Speedway. Contributions may be made to the Sarcoma Foundation of America and Fishers of Men.
Betty Louise (Baker) Corn
Betty Louise (Baker) Corn, 87, passed away Jan. 29, 2023. She was born March 11, 1935. Services were held Feb. 4 at Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg.
Nichole Dawn Coyle
Nichole Dawn Coyle, 53, passed away Jan. 23, 2023. She was born July 3, 1969. Services were held Jan. 27 at Conkle Funeral Home, Avon.
Jeffrey L. Cox, 80, passed away Jan. 21, 2022. He was born April 26, 1942. Services will be held April 26 at his sister Marti’s residence in Martinsville, Ind. Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg, was entrusted with local arrangements.
Harriett “Jo” Gross (Fitzpatrick)
Harriett “Jo” Gross (Fitzpatrick), 82, passed
Frank Ray Keeton
Frank Ray Keeton, 72, passed away Jan. 24, 2023. He was born Dec. 17, 1950. Services were held Feb. 4 at Calvary Baptist Church, Crawfordsville.
Paul Lee Reichard, Jr
Paul Lee Reichard, Jr., 79, passed away Feb. 2, 2023. He was born March 30, 1943. Services were held Feb. 7 at Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Kevin Randolph Rollings, Sr
Kevin Randolph Rollings, Sr., 61, passed away Jan. 25, 2023. He was born Aug. 27, 1961. Services were held Feb. 6 at Eric M. D. Bell Funeral Home, Pittsboro. Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association or St. Jude’s Hospital for Children.
Dorothy (Joan) Smith
Dorothy (Joan) Smith, 83, passed away Jan. 16, 2023. She was born Nov. 23, 1939. Services were held Jan. 28 at Hampton Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Bobby Lee Benedict
Robert T. Kulka
Robert T. Kulka, 69, passed away Jan. 26, 2023. He was born March 27, 1953. Services were held Feb. 4 at Baker Funeral Home, Danville.
Karen Parks
Karen Parks, 79, passed away Feb. 2, 2023. She was born Oct. 13, 1943. Services will be at a later date. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Judith “Judy” Ann (Levenhagen) Woolsey
Judith “Judy” Ann (Levenhagen) Woolsey, 82, passed away Feb. 3, 2023. She was born Nov. 26, 1940. Services were held Feb. 9. Conkle Funeral Home, Avon, was entrusted with arrangements. Contributions may be made to Our Shepherd Lutheran Church and School, Avon.
Karen “Katie” K. Williams
Karen “Katie” K. Williams, 75, passed away Jan. 27, 2023. She was born July 23, 1947. Services were held Feb. 3 at Eric MD Bell Funeral Home, Pittsboro. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Stacey Lewis
Stacey Lewis, 59, passed away Jan. 30, 2023. She was born July 14, 1963. Services were held Feb. 7 at Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home, Pittsboro. Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Judy Parker
Judy Parker, 72, passed away Feb. 2, 2023. She was born Dec. 1, 1950. Arrangements are currently pending with Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Pittsboro.
Alfred R. Bennett
Alfred R. Bennett, 86, passed away July 29, 1936. He was born July 29, 1936. Services were held Jan. 27. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements. Contributions may be made to The Hendricks County Community Foundation, c/o The Al & Nancy Bennett Family Legacy Fund.
Hendricks County obituaries are printed free of charge up to 50 words. Funeral directors are encouraged to send obituaries and photos to lyla@icontimes.com.
Robert A. Blue
Robert A. Blue, 72, passed away Jan 24, 2023. He was born Feb. 8, 1950. No services are planned. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Kit L. Bowermaster
Kit L. Bowermaster, 58, passed away Jan.25, 2023. She was born April 27, 1964. No service is planned. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Roberta K. (Van Horn) Brownewell
Roberta K. (Van Horn) Brownewell, 84, passed away Jan. 21, 2023. She was born Oct. 23, 1938. Services were held Jan. 25, 2023 at Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Anna Louise Cobb
Anna Louise Cobb, 85, passed away Jan. 31, 2023. She was born April 4, 1937. Services will be planned for a later date. Stevens Mortuary, Indianapolis, was entrusted with arrangements. Contributions may be made to Crosswalk Community Church of God or Wheeler Mission.
Gary L. Day
Gary L. Day, 62, passed away Jan. 23, 2023. He was born May 30, 1960. Services were held Feb. 1 at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Tammy L. Gipson
Tammy L. Gipson, 60, passed away Jan. 24, 2023. She was born May 3, 1962. Services were held Feb. 3. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Phyllis Harris
Phyllis Harris, 91, passed away Feb. 1, 2023. She was born July 18, 1931. Services were held Feb. 8. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Harriet Blanche Varney Hays
Harriet Blanche Varney Hays, passed away Jan. 13, 2023. She was born June 1, 1930. Services with military honors were held Feb. 4. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Marc Sonny Harber Hays, 93, passed away Jan. 5, 2023. He was born April 17, 1929. Services with military honors were held Feb. 4. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Dick Clark Hightshue
Dick Clark Hightshue, 68, passed away Jan. 21, 2023. He was born Dec. 3, 1954. Visitation was held Feb. 1 at Jones Family Mortuary, Mooresville.
Ramona Marie Kersey
Ramona Marie Kersey, 93, passed away Jan 23. 2023. She was born Oct. 31, 1929. Services will be private. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
Margaret L. Long
Margaret L. Long, 96, passed away Feb. 4, 2023. She was born Nov. 19, 1926. Services were held Feb. 7 at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Timothy Reed Mongan
Timothy Reed Mongan, 81, passed away Jan. 4, 2023. He was born Aug. 7, 1941. Services were held Feb. 5 at HamptonGentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Chere Marie (Brown) Smith
Chere Marie (Brown) Smith, 75, passed away Jan. 21, 2023. She was born Aug. 1, 1947. Services were held Jan. 27. Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements. Contributions may be made to the St. Elizabeth Coleman Pregnancy and Adoption Services, Indianapolis.
Frances “Rene” Smith
Frances “Rene” Smith, 81, passed away Jan. 26, 2023. She was born May 26, 1941. Services were held Jan. 29 at HamptonGentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.
Clifford W. Zimmerman Jr
Clifford W. Zimmerman Jr, 83, passed away Jan. 21, 2023. He was born April 28, 1939. Services were held Jan. 31. Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with arrangements.
John H. Porter
John H. Porter, 85, passed away Jan. 25, 2023. He was born Dec. 29, 1937. Services were held Jan. 30 at Bousley Funeral Home, Coatesville. Contributions may be made to Amo Baptist Church.
By Deanna Hindsley
When I see a sampler, I picture a young girl in a fine dress stitching in a window seat.
Young girls who lived in the 1700s or 1800s learned these important needlework techniques from their mothers by stitching familiar letters or numbers onto a piece of fabric, usually cotton or linen. Parents often framed these pieces to show their child’s accomplishment. Many samplers included decorative borders and motifs and often the name of the person who embroidered it.
This type of needlework was popular in early America. However, samplers began in Europe as early as the 1400s and even earlier in Egypt, although no known examples still exist.
The earliest known American sampler is in the Pilgrim Hall Museum in Plymouth, Mass. It was made by Loara Standish, the daughter of Miles Standish. Loara died at the young age of seventeen, but her work is preserved there.
Usually, a sampler started as a collection of patterns. A needleworker might copy a beautiful stitch she admired onto a scrap piece of fabric for later reference and might have collected these stitches throughout her lifetime.
Visitors can find the sampler shown here, the only one displayed, in the parlor of the Hendricks County Museum. The embroidered name in the corner is Leirel, with an 1862 date. Perhaps other residents have a sampler stitched by a Hendricks County ancestor to add to the museum collections.
The Hendricks County Museum is closed for deep cleaning and setting up new displays for its March reopening at 170 S. Washington St., Danville. The building is furnished as it would have been when sheriffs and their families lived there from 1866-1974. Visit hendrickscountymuseum.org.
LEGAL NOTICE - 2021
Kymco scooter VIN LC2U2A029MC200380 Will be sold for outstanding repair and storage charges totaling $1909.58 plus applicable taxes on Feb. 23, 2023 at 12:00 PM at 3464 W. 16th St. Indianapolis, IN 46222. Interested parties should appear in person with cash or certified funds.
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I have been in the HVAC industry for 29 years now and worked most of my career as a field trainer, Service manager and General manager. After doing the work for others, I decided it was time to start my own business. I had already held my Marion County HVAC contractors license for years and have been NATE certified for over 22 years so Price Point Comfort, LLC began. In June 2022 my son and business partner joined my team and we have continued to grow. As we have expanded we have been able to build a Great Team of co-workers that have a long history with us. We are an HVAC Service Company first and our goal is 100% customer satisfaction. We believe in doing the job right and offering the customer all of their options to make sure they can make informed decisions about their heating and cooling needs. We offer Maintenance, Service, Sales and installations on new systems, Indoor air quality products, water heaters, Geothermal, ductless mini splits and light commercial work.
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Across
1. Bad thing to “drop” while doing a live shot on WRTV
6. Leg bone
10. La Hacienda green dip, slangily
14. Like Mill Creek Cemetery at night
15. Godby living room piece
16. Mideast ruler
17. Hyatt Regency Indianapolis restaurant
19. Poi base
20. Cry of surprise
21. Tic-tac-toe winner
23. Kitten’s sound
24. ___-mo
27. Little devils
30. Sporty Ford, briefly
32. JW Marriott Indianapolis restaurant
36. Concur
37. Chinese currency
38. USMC bigwigs
42. Turn sharply
43. Lawyers’ employers
44. Off-Broadway award
45. Gaelic tongue
46. Machu Picchu builder
47. Hundred bucks
48. Holiday Inn Indianapolis Airport restaurant
51. Wharves
54. Lip-puckering
55. Campground letters
56. Ref’s kin
57. Greyhound, e.g.
60. React to a bad call at Lucas Oil Stadium
62. Comfort
64. Sheraton Indianapolis
City Centre Hotel restaurant
70. Exploiter
71. ___ sapiens
72. Butler frat letters
73. Latin 101 verb
74. Thus far
75. Sticking points? Down
1. Service charge
2. Cole Porter’s “___ Clown”
3. Assn.
4. “Venus de ___”
5. Honey factory?
6. Nine-digit Indiana tax ID
7. Garden tool
8. “In that case...”
9. Defense acronym
10. Understand
11. Savory taste
12. Broadcaster
13. Hinkle Fieldhouse spectators
18. Not many
22. Giant Mel
24. Close cut
25. Hybrid big cat
26. Fairy tale baddies
28. Practicing, as a trade
29. ICON reporter’s contacts
31. Former
33. “I ___ declare...”
34. Sporty Chevy
35. Powerful bunch
39. Kindle download
40. Explosive stuff
41. “Ta-ta!”
43. Evergreen tree
47. Persistent
49. $, for short
50. Red Pride Marching Band instrument 51. Line 52. Amherst campus, familiarly
53. Church areas
Waikiki’s island
Yucky stuff
Scent
The Danville Metropolitan Police Department is now accepting pre-applications for Full-Time Patrol Officers for the Town of Danville. The online Pre-Application and online Release and Hold Harmless Agreement MUST be submitted by Friday, February 17th, 2023, at 4:00 PM.
Applicants shall be a United States citizen, at least 21 years of age at the time of employment, possess a valid Indiana driver’s license, be a high school graduate or equivalent, have no felony convictions, no serious misdemeanor convictions, no domestic violence convictions, and if offered a position, must obtain residence within a contiguous county to Hendricks County, Indiana within 180 days.
• Patrol Officer salary $60,165.56 per year (Probationary Year $57,242.64)
• $1000 Yearly uniform & equipment allowance
• Take-home car program
• On-Duty fitness program with onsite gym/workout facility
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance plans
• Group Life, Disability, Term Life, Accident, Cancer and Critical Insurance Offered
• Overtime/Off-duty employment opportunities
• INPRS 1977 Pension
• Additional 457B Retirement Plan offered
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• Paid vacation, holiday, sick, personal and bereavement time
• Town Wellness Program (Including Employee Health Clinic)
• Health Savings Account with Town contribution
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Authorized arm tattoos and facial hair
• 12-hour Work Schedule (every other weekend off)
• Field Training Officer compensation
• MUCH MORE!
Completed online pre-applications are to be submitted by Friday, February 17th, 2023, at 4:00 PM. The physical and written examinations will take place on Saturday, February 25th. After submitting your pre-application, you will be notified with additional information regarding the testing time and location. To complete the online pre-application, go to: www.DanvilleIN.gov
11 Saturday
Valentine’s Dinner & Music
5:30-9:30 p.m., Avon Wedding Barn, 7424 E. CR 100 N., Avon. Cost: $65-120. Dinner by Hoosier Roots, entertainment by American Idol finalist Clark Beckham and dancing. Tickets include entry, dinner and one glass of wine or beer. ticketor.com/awb
12 Sunday
Valentine’s Day @Pecar Nature Center
2-3 p.m., Pecar Park Nature Center, 5203 E. CR 150 N, Avon. Show love to animals with a treat making station and a card making station. Cost: $5. Children under 5, free. Washingtontwpparks.org
16 Thursday
Hendricks County Bicentennial Planning Meeting
11 a.m., Hendricks County Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. People and organizations can start planning the 2024 bicentennial. Those who cannot attend may email the Hendricks County Historical Museum at hcmuseum@co.hendricks.in.us.
17 Friday
Live Concert Performance
7 p.m., Westlake Community Church, 6696 Rockville Road, Indianapolis. Indiana State University guitar teacher and Wabash Valley Hall of Fame inductee Brent McPike and three-time national mandolin champion Solly Burton will perform in concert. Free. indstate.edu/cas/music/brent-mcpike
18 Saturday
Vandalia Trail Brisk Bike Ride
9 a.m.-12 p.m., Vandalia Trail, 302 Dan Jones Road, Plainfield. In its fifth winter, this monthly bike ride series in Plainfield by the Friends of the Vandalia Trail is held one Saturday each month through March. Gather behind Biggby’s Coffee and the Metro Diner and in front of Meijer. Ride on the nearby trails and return for breakfast. nrht.org/vandalia
22 Wednesday
Senior Center: Maple Syrup
12:30-1:30 p.m., 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville. Join naturalists the fourth Wednesday each month for a free naturethemed program during lunch. Donations accepted for lunch. Call (317) 910-5356
by 11 a.m. the day before the program for lunch reservations.
24 Friday
Critter Feeding Time
12-1 p.m., Pecar Park, 5203 E. CR 150 N, Avon. $3. Join a naturalist and learn about animals that live at the nature center and help feed the critters. washingtontwpparks.org
24 Friday and 25 Saturday
Daddy Daughter Dance
6-8 p.m. Friday; 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Richard A Carlucci Recreation Center, 651 Vestal Road, Plainfield. Cost: $30. Dancing, fun and treats. facebook.com/PlainfieldParksandRec
24-25 Friday-Saturday
Indianapolis Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Getaway
10 a.m.-4:30 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-
4 p.m Saturday, Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. Cost: $8, 12 and under, free. toomuchfunpromotions.com/ indianapolis%2C-in
24, 26 Friday, Sunday
Hendricks Symphony Concerts: Scenic America
7:30 p.m. Feb. 24 and 3 p.m. Feb. 26, Calvary United Methodist Church, 575 W. Northfield Drive, Brownsburg. Musical tour of America. Cost: $20 adults, $15 seniors and $5 students. hendrickssymphony.org
25 Saturday
Tapping Maple Trees for Syrup
10 a.m.-2 p.m., McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem. Join naturalists tapping trees for maple syrup. Learn tree identification and hang buckets on the trees to collect sap. hendrickscountyparks.org
27 Monday
B&O Trail Association annual meeting
7 p.m., Washington Township Park Pavilion Center, 115 S. CR 575, Avon. Hear about developments along the West Central Indiana section of the B&O railroad corridor, including Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Hendricks and Marion counties.
28 Tuesday
Coffee & Canvas
6-8:30 p.m., Pecar Park, 5203 E. CR 150 N, Avon. Cost: $25. Register: washingtontwpparks.org
1 Wednesday Digital Parenting
6:30 p.m., Lincoln Elementary, 4807 Bulldog Way, Brownsburg. Brownsburg Community School Police Department will lead a discussion about parenting and social media. Police officers and school counselors will share tips for parents on keeping kids safe.
5 Sunday
Phi Beta Psi Annual Purse Auction
2 p.m., Tri-West Middle School, 555 U.S. 136, Lizton. Doors open at 1 p.m. Food, door prizes, raffle and auction. Proceeds benefit cancer research, Tri-West High School scholarships and Northwest Hendricks families in need.
10 Friday
Rally for our Kids Gala
6 p.m., Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, 10267 E U.S. 136, Indianapolis. Brownsburg Education Foundation fundraiser. 21 and older. Tickets: $100. Visit brownsburgeducationfoundation.org.
11 Saturday
Severe Weather Presentation
11 a.m.-1 p.m., Hendricks County Government Building, rooms 4 and 5, 355 S. Washington St., Danville. The National Weather Service (NWS) Indianapolis will give a severe weather presentation to radio amateurs, first responders and the public. Doors open at 10:30 a.m.
By Dick Wolfsie
I’ll be honest. I do not like to travel. I like being there; I don’t like getting there. As we sat in one airport waiting to board, I made the huge mistake of buying a magazine containing an article called: “Your Feel-Good Vacation.” This feature detailed all the potential woes of reaching your destination. Here were a few:
TRAVELER’S DIARRHEA: Apparently, seven out of 10 vacationers experience this, which is why aisle seats on a plane are requested more than window seats, especially on overseas flights.
One infectious disease specialist is quoted as saying that “many people are de-railed by this problem.” My guess is that even more have been de-planed and de-boated. But I suppose it happens on trains, as well.
This doctor suggests you take a drug called bismuth subsalicylate with you on the trip. But in a real emergency, I’d suggest just saying Pepto Bismol to the druggist in a foreign country. You might not have a great deal of time to mess with pronunciation. The doctor also suggests you do not drink tap water or eat local fruits and veggies that may be contaminated, but he obviously did not read the warning in the next paragraph.
CONSTIPATION: This is a different doctor (I know, medicine is so specialized). He says that four out of ten people suffer from this on a trip. Hold on! If seven out of ten people have the first problem and four out of 10 have the second problem, that means one person has both problems. Or does that mean he doesn’t have any problem? It does mean that four out of 10 people do not need an aisle seat. This guy also suggests eating lots of fruits and vegetables. Do these doctors ever talk to each other?
The magazine warns you not to buy these in a foreign country because they may be counterfeit, but if you have been buying health and beauty products from a dollar store your whole life, you have probably built up a pretty good tolerance.
BLOOD CLOTS: Here’s another cheery paragraph in the article. It begins by telling readers who travel by plane to stand often and stretch — so always take an aisle seat. Sadly, most of those seats are taken by people who have you-know-what. If you end up in the middle seat, you should be okay since the guy on the aisle won’t be there much of the time. Are you following this?
MOTION SICKNESS: Once again, an aisle seat is recommended. But, if traveling by car, sit by a window. If you drank heavily in college, you already know this.
BACK PAIN: An orthopedic surgeon says to be careful when lifting your carryon bags into the overhead compartment. You can hurt yourself or in some cases take out an entire family in the seats below. “To protect your back, hold your bags close to your body before lifting.” Holding your bags really close is overall some good advice,
To the Editor:
Hendricks Humane would like to formally recognize the winners in the Any-Dog Dog Show held at DOGTONA!
Best Dressed:
1st — Emma (caring human, Carole)
2nd — Sarge (caring human, Calleigh)
Best Talent:
1st — Sheena (caring human Debi)
2nd — Piper (caring human Olivia)
Best Ears:
1st — Noodle (caring human Daphne)
Tie for 2nd — Pepper (Olivia) and Emma (Carole)
Best Singer:
1st — Moshu (caring human Amanda)
2nd — Pippa (caring human Erin)
Best Tail:
1st — BoBo (caring human Madison)
2nd — Indy (caring human Christina)
Congratulations to all the entrants. Even if you didn't win on stage, you are winners for having such great families that care about you.
Get ready for DOGTONA! Jan. 21, 2024. Thanks for coming and participating.
Hendricks Humane and the DOGTONA! committee
especially if you are landing or connecting in New York City.
Finally, the article includes a photo of suggested travel drugs and how they will appear if you pack them neatly into a designer bag that they are offering for $39.95. There’s Miralax, Ricola, Dramamine, Lomotil, Benadryl and Metamucil, to name a few. The magazine warns you not to buy these in a foreign country because they may be counterfeit, but if you have been buying health and beauty products from a dollar store your whole life, you have probably built up a pretty good tolerance.
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.
“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”
— Hamilton Wright Mabie
Kendra Myers was named the new Plainfield community engagement manager. Myers will help coordinate DPW and Plainfield Parks & Recreation programming, outreach and events and develop partnerships with community organizations, vendors and residents.
Parents have found broken alcohol bottles littered in the playground and along sidewalks in Brownsburg neighborhoods.
Central Elementary students adopted high school players on the Plainfield basketball teams and wrote them letters and notes that get delivered to them before games. Students improve writing skills and encourage the teens.
White Lick Elementary Card Club in Brownsburg met at Brownsburg Meadows assisted living facility before school to play cards with residents. The third and fourth grade students taught the residents games and left having learned a new one.
Brownsburg offered residents free hot chocolate on National Hot Chocolate day Jan. 31.
Former Hendricks County Sheriff Brett Clark received the Sagamore of the Wabash award from Gov. Eric Holcomb in December. It is one of Indiana’s highest honors given to those who have rendered a distinguished service.
Swensons Drive-In opened its Avon location at 8894 U.S. 36 Feb. 6. It is the first Indiana location for the Ohio-based chain that serves burgers, milkshakes and sides to guests’ vehicles.
Our nation has all sorts of arcane, nonsensical laws on the books. Each issue, we’ll share one with you …
In North Dakota watch when ordering appetizers because serving beer and pretzels simultaneously is not allowed.
By Rashad Cunningham
According to the Law of Moses (specifically found in Leviticus 12), after giving birth to Jesus, Mary would have had to wait 40 days before she could “touch any holy thing or enter the sanctuary” until the days of her purification were completed.
Through this time of being “ceremonially unclean,” a mother was reminded symbolically that another sinner has been brought into the world. In Psalm 51:5 David says, “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me.”
This was not to say that he was birthed from a “sinful relationship” but rather that the human race at its very core has a sinful nature. This was not necessarily a reflection on the mother, rather a reflection on humanity as a whole.
So the beauty of motherhood, which in itself is a good thing (see Genesis 1:28 where it tells us to “be fruitful and multiply”) was tainted by the reality of sin. SIn is the one thing that separates us from our creator.
How much more amazing is it that Mary, who was “unclean” during these 40 days, was holding the holiest thing possible, holiness itself, Jesus the Christ, our Lord and Savior.
In church spaces you often hear the sentence, “Come as you are.” In Luke 2 we see Mary was allowed to touch the Savior just “as she was,” unclean according to the Law of Moses.
Dear reader, I am not sure what has made you unclean by the standards of our culture. I am not sure what has caused you to be outcast by those in your community. I can’t imagine the shame or guilt you may feel because of choices you have made as recent as yesterday or even today.
However, this is the simple Gospel. Our holy and righteous Lord and Savior allowed himself to be touched, or even reached out and touched us, the unclean and unrighteous. This is why we invite people to “come as they are.” We believe that the same Jesus who allowed himself to be held by Mary wants to hold you.
By Camille Gillespie
Did you know many factors affect blood sugar aside from what we choose to eat? If you are worried about your blood sugar, these are helpful to know.
First, physical activity and certain medications play a role in what happens to blood sugar levels. Light exercise can help stabilize and even lower blood sugar, while moderate and intense activity can either increase or decrease it.
Of note, if you have diabetes (either type 1 or 2), consult your doctor about exercise in relation to your blood glucose. When it comes to medication, steroids are the culprit behind increasing blood sugar. Steroids often end in “-one.” Prednisone and cortisone are common examples.
Next, biological factors such as stress, illness and insufficient sleep can all cause higher blood sugar levels. Stress is notorious for increasing blood sugar. Even the stress response that occurs in your body in reaction to a sunburn can elevate your blood sugar. Consider how you cope with stressors in your life. If you don’t have solid coping mechanisms, brainstorm techniques that might work for you when you feel stressed, or consider asking a trusted therapist for ideas.
Illness wreaks havoc on your body, including your blood sugar. When sick, it’s very important to continue taking prescribed medication, prioritize proper rest, stay hydrated and try to eat regular, balanced meals or snacks.
Finally, getting enough sleep is a struggle for many of us. The recommended amount of sleep for adults is 7-9 hours a day. If you are not meeting this, consider how you could adjust your schedule to make sleep a higher priority.
Other biological factors including puberty, allergies and smoking can also raise blood sugar. While there’s not much we can do about puberty, treat your allergies appropriately and consider quitting if you smoke. If you are concerned about your blood sugar, be mindful of what you eat, but remember other factors should also be considered.
www.lawsonandco.com
By Karl Zimmer
We all deal with loss, especially as we get older. It is never easy, and as much has been written about the grieving process, we know that even though we all go through the stages, none of us goes through them in the same way.
I lost my younger brother Jan. 12, and it has caused me to revisit my own take on grief and how I process the stages.
The hardest loss I went through was my mother’s passing in 2010. The best way I could deal with that loss was to focus my attention on all that I had learned from her and the wonderful times we shared, rather than the loss.
After many losses, I’ve also realized that no two are the same. Some may surprise you, and that whatever you feel, it is the right feeling for you in that moment. Like all natural processes, each unfolds exactly as it is meant to.
I am a “silver lining” kind of guy. There is a silver lining in every situation, and so it is with loss. This in no way minimizes the sorrow we all feel when we lose a loved one. It is merely to propose and to encourage each of us to seek the silver lining, the blessing
in every situation, even one so fraught with sadness. And so my brother’s passing caused me to revisit how best to navigate that loss.
My brother suffered for years with many health issues brought on by his choices, rapid-cycling bipolar disorder and chemical dependence. Our relationship had been complicated, but we had a nice visit in October. His long-term outlook was tenuous, and he was afraid of being confined to a wheelchair.
His passing was a shock for us because it was sudden due to complications following surgery. Yet for him, it was a relief. His last wish was realized, to join his parents and his favorite cousin. He was no longer in pain and suffering. That was the blessing. How cool is that?
Karl is the author of, “The Boy Who Grew Up to RULE® the World…,” a speaker and board certified hypnotist. Karl can be contacted at Karl@iRULEtheWorld.com. RULE® is a Registered Mark of Karl R. Zimmer III. Information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any condition or illness.
A note to our valued customers: As it relates to COVID-19, change is happening rapidly. While we don’t know how everything will work out, we plan to have daily lunch and dinner specials. The normal carry-out and delivery options will be available. You can stay informed by checking our Facebook page or calling the store. Thank you for your support during these unprecedented times!
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I have reservations about scheduling an exam because I don’t want to be pressured into buying devices. What if my only problem is earwax? What if I’m not ready to proceed at all? With so many myths and misconceptions around treatment of hearing loss, it’s difficult to know who to trust. Hearing aids are not the solution for all hearing difficulties, and that is why a thorough evaluation is necessary. At SLA Audiology, you will be comprehensively evaluated in a no-pressure environment. You will receive a copy of your plan of care that you can take to any provider should you choose to proceed elsewhere. If earwax is the cause of your hearing difficulties, we can also help with cleaning. With 20 years of audiology experience on the west side of Indianapolis, we have many satisfied patients. Please check out our 5-star reviews online.
I have hearing loss in both ears. Is it necessary to wear two hearing aids? If you have treatable hearing loss in both ears, then two hearing aids are recommended. Your brain will have an easier time localizing and focusing on speech in background noise. You will also preserve your ability to process sounds and prevent further hearing deprivation by providing consistent auditory input to both ears.
How much will hearing aids cost? SLA Audiology offers many options at different price levels. We offer an “unbundled” approach to pricing to allow for less up-front cost. You have the choice to pay as you go for ongoing support/care and, therefore only pay for what you actually need and use. It is a transparent pricing structure that allows you to see exactly what you are paying for.
Will my insurance help cover the cost of hearing aids? This will vary from plan to plan, and you will want to check with your individual policy to determine coverage. SLA Audiology is in network with many insurances, and we are glad to help you understand your benefits.
What is the warranty on the hearing aids? Most of our prescription hearing aids include a 3-year repair warranty as well as a 3-year loss and damage warranty.
SLA Audiology is an independently and locally owned private practice hearing healthcare clinic in Brownsburg. Extended and virtual office hours are available in our convenient location Monday thru Friday. We care for the whole patient with the highest standard of care.
By John Chapin
Vegetable gardeners are itching to start sowing vegetable and flower seeds indoors to have transplants ready for our gardens this spring, but most vegetables shouldn’t be sown for another month yet.
However, there are a few exceptions. Onions, both scallion and bulb varieties, as well as leeks are easy and fun to grow from seed. Being sown indoors in early February will give them time to develop into strong seedlings that can be transplanted outdoors in late March or early April. They are tough vegetables, tolerating late frosts.
Onions and leeks can be planted densely in a pot with no need to plant in individual cell trays. I sow a whole seed packet in an 8-inch pot using potting mix. I cover the pot with plastic wrap after watering well.
They will sprout in about a week, and that’s when they should be uncovered. As soon as they are a few inches tall, every time I water, I fertilize with a very dilute solution of balanced, soluble plant food.
Provide good light either on a sunny window, or better yet under lights. I use inexpensive LED shop lights. It’s advisable to
fan
keep the air moving. I
my fan on a timer to run every 30 minutes for 10 minutes.
In just a few weeks, you will have what looks like a pot of grass, but resist the urge to thin or transplant into cells or small pots. They will be just fine until they are transplanted outdoors if you provide lots of light and keep them fertilized. I always set my pots of onions outside on days when temps are in the 40s to harden them off, bringing them indoors at night.
When you’re ready to transplant, it’s fine to cut back the foliage to 3 or 4 inches. Carefully tease the seedlings apart and space scallion onions two or three to an inch, thinning them as you harvest them. Bulb onions are usually spaced 3 inches or more.
Early indoor sowing of onions is easy and helps scratch the itch to plant this time of the year.
Happy Gardening!
By Don Knebel
Just a three-hour drive away, Chicago has many excellent places to visit, any one of them justifying a trip to the country’s third most populous city. This column visits two of them for an architectural tour – Navy Pier and the Chicago River.
Navy Pier is Chicago’s second most visited site after Millennium Park, drawing about 9 million visitors each year. The pier extends 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan and opened in 1916 as a dock for ships carrying freight and passengers and a waterfront recreation site.
Originally known as Municipal Pier, it became Navy Pier in 1927 in honor of Chicago’s World War I veterans.
The name became literal during World War II when the United States Navy used the pier as a training center, employing about 10,000 people on its 50 acres. After the war, shipping use at the pier. It was reimagined and opened to the public in 1995 as a place for dining, relaxation and entertainment.
Among its most popular attractions today are the Chicago Children’s Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, botanical garden, a large Ferris wheel and a drop tower. A variety of tour boats leave from Navy Pier, some offering dinner cruises.
The most popular cruises depart from Navy Pier and near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Tour the Chicago River and explore the city’s history and unique architecture.
The Chicago Architecture Foundation runs one of the most informative tours. The 90-minute tour includes a description of 50 landmark buildings visible from the river,
including the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Marina Towers, Willis (formerly Sears) Tower and the Montgomery Ward Complex. Knowledgeable guides explain how the flow of the Chicago River was reversed to keep sewage from flowing into Lake Michigan and how some of the buildings along the river are perched above rail lines.
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!
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