Hendricks County Icon - 10.20.23

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OVERCOMING THE ODDS

LHendricks Regional Health names Shane Sommers as Chief Operating Officer

Hendricks Regional Health President & CEO Dr. Michelle Fenoughty today announced that Shane Sommers, MS, PT, OCS, has been selected as the healthcare system’s next Chief Operating Officer, effective Oct. 30. Shane started at Hendricks as a physical therapist in July 1999. He’s held positions of increasing responsibility since those first eight years, serving next as the director of physical therapy, occupational therapy and sports medicine, then executive director of professional services, and most recently, vice president of professional services. Shane earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Indianapolis and a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Duke University. He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association - Indiana Chapter and previously served

on the group’s Board of Directors as president. In April 2023, Shane completed the Baldrige Executive Fellows Program®, a nationally ranked leadership development experience of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology. He is an elected member of the Washington Township Board (Hendricks County/Avon), currently serving as chairman. He is also a Hendricks County Senior Services Board of Directors member, a Hendricks Regional Health YMCA Advisory Board member and a Director Emeritus of the Avon Education Foundation. Shane is a prior member of the Hendricks County Community Foundation and the Leadership Hendricks County Boards of Directors and volunteered for nearly a decade with local breast cancer awareness and fundraising efforts.

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Shane Sommers (Submitted photo)

“It’s exciting to see the Community Foundation serving as such an able convener, bringing together people from all walks of life to explore new ways to enrich the quality of life across our communities. It’s an honor to volunteer and give back with so many others helping improve Hendricks County.”

www.hendrickscountycf.org

EDITOR’S NOTE

The long game of life

One of the most incredible traits that humans have is resilience. This becomes more obvious the older we get. Take a second to look back at the setbacks you have overcome in life. Think about all the challenges you have faced, whether emotionally, physically, or otherwise. Yet here you are, ready to face another day in spite of all of those things. You are truly amazing!

You may not feel that way though. The fast pace of life tends to overwhelm us easily and keep our minds in survival mode. We see our current obstacles as being insurmountable and we are only able to think as far out as the end of our noses. If this is you, remember that there is a bigger picture in life. As hard as it might seem, try to think about yourself 5, 10 or even 15 years down the road. Start making decisions today that will move yourself closer to where you want to be. That might mean starting a small savings account and saving a couple bucks a month, studying a skill that you would like to pursue, or maybe taking

baby steps toward finishing a task that has been weighing on you.

When you stretch your timeframe out and take tiny steps, you will be amazed at what that amounts to over time. You don’t have to do it all at once! When you think long term, you will also make fewer decisions out of desperation, which rarely pay off. Our culture tends to talk up get-rich-quick propositions and demand immediate results. What we really need is to be ok with being a work in progress.

First let’s start setting this standard for ourselves, and then let’s give room for others to live this way too. We like to write people off quickly when we see them fail, but the beauty in life is when people get back up. If we allow ourselves to fail and press on, we can make true progress in life. If we doom ourselves to our current situations, change will never come. Trust in your resilience and commit to the long game of life.

UNSTOPPABLE expertise.

Over a year ago, Hendricks Regional Health was selected to be a part of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. That means our doctors have access to the knowledge and expertise of the No. 1 ranked hospital in the nation – Mayo Clinic. Because when your experts have experts, you have healthcare that makes a difference.

hendricks.org/MAYO

ELIZABETH WRIGHT, MD

Pet Lovers contest

We know that Hendricks County residents love their pets.

To celebrate that affection, the Hendricks County Icon will have a special section in the November 3rd edition.

Readers are asked to submit a photo of their cat, dog or other pet. All entries will be published in this edition of the Icon.

Please email your pet’s photo - along with their name and your area of residence - to todd@icontimes.com.

Put “Pet Lovers” in the subject line, and email it to Todd by no later than October 26th .

ICONIC

brief

Scare up some fun on the square in Danville

Downtown Danville Partnership, Danville Rotary Community Corps, and the town of Danville invite the public to the spookiest free event of the year, Scares On The Square, Saturday, Oct. 28 from 6 - 9 pm. New to Scares on the Square this year, visit over 25 cars on Jefferson Street for trunk-or-treating. Play games, get your free popcorn at

the Royal, bouncy house and obstacle courses in our Boo Bash Kid zone, sponsored by D.R. Horton and Firefly Children and Family Alliance. Everyone in the family will find something to enjoy, a scavenger hunt around the square, face painting and balloon animals sponsored by Hawkeye Storage, DJ, tarot readings at The Author’s Patch, activities at the Library, Nest Realty South alley selfie station and much more! Come hungry and enjoy dinner at one of our local restaurants or food trucks at the event. Costumes are encouraged! Make sure to take a walk around the courthouse as we will have over 30 Scarecrow entries this year. Winners of the Scarecrow Festival will be announced at 6:30 pm. For more information and a full schedule, visit discoverdowntowndanville.org or contact Beth Ann Holmes at Downtown Danville Partnership at danvillepartnerhsip@gmail.com.

Road improvements in Danville begin Bond team aligned

The Danville Town Council met Oct. 4. These 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 was Oct. 18.

WHAT HAPPENED: The public works department was given the go-ahead to spend $488,235 on the resurfacing of streets throughout the town.

WHAT IT MEANS: This resurfacing project falls under the community crossing matching grant (CCMG) for 2023. The CCMG is, as its name implies, a 50/50 grant program meaning that the town is responsible for half of the expense. This program was initiated by the State of Indiana in 2016 and provides funds to Indiana cities, towns, and counties to make improvements to local roads and bridges. The CCMG is a partnership with INDOT and municipalities to improve local transportation infrastructure.

WHAT HAPPENED: The public works department was also given the okay to resurface all of Northview Dr. at a cost of $100,095. The department was also given approval to complete the road work on Sherwood Dr. and Old Farm Rd.

WHAT IT MEANS: It was originally proposed that only the northern half of Northview Dr. be resurfaced. The resurfacing of both sides of the road ensures that the road remains on a single maintenance schedule. The resurfacing will also improve drainage. Due to a clerical error with INDOT, the area of Sherwood Dr. and Old Farm Rd. was not able to be completed as scheduled. The approval by the council for the department to finish that work also keeps that area of road on the same maintenance schedule.

WHAT HAPPENED: The council chose Bondry Consulting as the financial advisor for the town’s general obligation bonds. Also named in the town’s bonding process is Robert. W. Baird & Co. as underwriters and Bose McKinney & Evans as legal counsel.

WHAT IT MEANS: This item was presented to the council and tabled at its previous meeting on Sept. 20. The council held a special work session on Sept. 25 to hear presentations from Baker-Tilly Municipal Advisors LLC, Bondry Consulting, and O.W. Krohn and Associates. The naming of Bondry as financial advisor completes the town’s team for the bonding process.

WHAT HAPPENED: The 2024 Marion Township fire contract was approved. This contract is for the town to provide fire service to that area. This is an annual contract.

WHAT IT MEANS: This contract was taken into consideration by the council during a prior work study. Based on the findings of that work study, Marion Township agreed to add $8,834 to the contract. That payment will be added to the township’s first installment to the town in 2024.

GRANT NAME:

Log Cabin Homestead Project benefitting all third-grade students in the Brownsburg Community School Corporation

During the month of September, all BCSC third graders visited the Log Cabin Homestead project to experience life as a pioneer child. Through this hands-on, immersive visit to the cabin, they enhance their study of Brownsburg history. Originally built in 1998 as a gift from the Brownsburg Sesquicentennial Committee for the school district, the log cabin sat unused for many years. The Brownsburg Education Foundation brought the cabin property back to life, with the help of the BHS History and Environmental Clubs who researched history and native plants from the mid-1800s and helped clean up the space. Thank you to the Brownsburg Kiwanis Club for purchasing all of the consumable materials for the log cabin project again this year!

My students love the log cabin experience!

Every year they come away with an appreciation of the hard work of the pioneers and how different our life is today. The hands-on activities and authentic learning are fantastic! We are so lucky to have this program!.

- Nancy Straziscar 3rd grade teacher, Brown Elementary School

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 2023-2024 school year.

Brownsburg Town Council approves final reading of 2024 budget

The Brownsburg Town Council met Oct.12 for a regular meeting at the Brownsburg Town Hall. The next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 26 at 61 N. Green St., Brownsburg.

WHAT HAPPENED: Development Services Director Jodi Dickey was not present at the meeting, but Town Manager Deb Cook shared information regarding recent Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Committee activities.

WHAT IT MEANS: Cook said the UDO information is live on the Town of Brownsburg’s website with the ability for the public to respond and provide feedback. Maps are available online and a public input session is scheduled for 6 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Brownsburg Town Hall, 61 N. Green St., Brownsburg.

Councilman Ben Lacey said he did not believe the document was ready for implementation but would value the public input. “No need to rush to through something if it’s not correct,” Lacey said. He requested the public input session be livestreamed and recorded for future reference.

WHAT HAPPENED: The proposed third reading and final adoption of the 2024 Budget was presented.

WHAT IT MEANS: No changes were made from the previous meeting and the $78,697,067 budget still included an eight percent increase for town employee salaries and a five percent tax rate increase.

Several members of the public spoke against the proposal, asking the council to find other ways to cut, rather than increasing the tax rate for residents of Brownsburg.

Councilman Mark Tieken also voiced concerns. “I do not approve of the tax increase at all. I’m asking my colleagues to reconsider their previous votes and ask the administration to sharpen their pencils.”

Despite concerns, Councilman Lacey said the five percent tax increase was an estimate and simply taking five percent off of the top of the current budget wasn’t possible. All members of the council agreed with the increase to town employees salaries, calling it a “correction” or one-time increase to make up for previous years. The budget was passed 4-1 with Tieken opposed.

A detailed account of the proposed 2024 budget can be located on the Town of Brownsburg’s website.

WHAT

of the

were presented with a certificate and took photos with town administration in recognition of their completion of the program.

Your tenacity, bravery, and strength have been such an inspiration to our family these last few years.

We love you and are so proud of you always.

WHAT HAPPENED: The Council recognized members of the Leadership Academy of Brownsburg, thanking participants for their commitment to the town.
IT MEANS: Graduates
2023 Leadership Academy of Brownsburg
ICONIC SALUTE TO FIGHTERS
Maria Ridenour

Avon Town Council approves Riverwalk civic center agreement

The Avon Town Council met Oct. 5. Meetings can be viewed at avonindiana.gov/ livestream. The council normally meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of the month at the Avon Town Hall, 6570 E. U.S. 36. However, the council will meet the first and third Thursdays of the month for the balance of the year in Avon Town Hall. The next scheduled meeting is Oct. 19.

WHAT HAPPENED: Garmong Construction was approved by the council to be the construction manager for the new Avon civic center that will be built as part of the Easton Grey project. All four of the members of the primary team at Garmong are Hendricks County residents. This was scheduled to go before the Avon school board on Mon. Oct. 16.

WHAT IT MEANS: A five-member selection committee reviewed five responses to the town’s request for proposals process for this project. Garmong was selected as the committee’s recommendation to the council. The redevelopment commission has approved Garmong as well. The Easton Grey project is a planned mixed-use housing development that will be built in the western section of Avon. There will be a river district that will serve as a gathering center with shopping, retail establishments, and a new civic center. Garmong has projected that construction on the civic center will begin in the second quarter of 2024 and be completed in the third quarter of 2025.

WHAT HAPPENED: A five-year agreement between the Avon police department and Axon Enterprises was approved for the purchase of new tasers at a cost of $186,378. The cost will be paid in a five-year purchase plan that also includes a warranty and technical support associated with the new devices.

WHAT IT MEANS: This agreement with Axon Enterprises (formerly known as Taser International) is for the purchase of 45 new taser devices, identified as the Taser 10 that is considered a game changer within the industry. These newer devices are less lethal and have up-to-date technology that improves accuracy. The new platform also provides more use information following the deployment of the tasers. Three staff members from the police department have attended training on these new devices and are prepared to begin training within the department. This is the first complete department taser upgrade since 2007.

WHAT HAPPENED: A request from Lennar Homes to rezone approximately 11 acres near N. 900 E. and Prairie Trail (next to Costco) from R2 (low density residential) to R4 (most often for apartment complexes and/or townhomes) was presented to the council. This was only an introduction.

WHAT IT MEANS: Lennar came before the council last year with a different proposal for the building of 109 townhomes on this property. That proposal did not come to fruition. This proposal reduces the number to 80 townhomes on that property. The density then would go from about ten townhomes per acre to about seven per acre. Lennar also added a common park and playground area to their proposal. This introduction is only the beginning of the approval process.

OVERCOMING THE ODDS

Indianapolis Tissue Bank offers a one-of-a-kind approach to fighting breast cancer

Twenty years ago, if a researcher was looking for normal breast tissue to compare with abnormal samples, they would have been out of luck. In fact, 18 years ago at a conference with some of the great medical minds in attendance, a scientist asked that exact question. The answer they received was that those normal breast tissue samples simply did not exist. That didn’t really sit well with Connie Rufenbarger, a two time breast cancer survivor and advocate who sat in the audience. She turned to Dr. Anna M. Storniolo, who was beside her and said “What do you mean they don’t exist?” Dr. Storniolo replied “Who’s gonna go and have a breast biopsy for research unless they have a reason to have it?” To which Rufenbarger replied “Well I think that’s the silliest thing I’ve ever heard. Have you asked people?”

Rufenbarger’s question sparked a curiosity that would change the landscape of breast cancer research forever.

Dr. Storniolo decided to go out and begin to ask that question and see what response she would get.

“I was a soccer mom at that point living in Carmel, so at Carmel Dad’s Club Field, I went up to ten people who I had never met before, and I asked them if they would consider doing a biopsy to help contribute to this kind of research. The answer from all of them was overwhelmingly yes!” remembers Dr. Storniolo.

That’s when she realized that she needed to do something. She also learned a lifechanging lesson of the importance of asking the simple question “why,” or more appropriately “why not?”

Once she got moving on this project there was no stopping her. In 2007 she went before the president of the Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and asked for their support. Without hesitation, she was extended the financial backing she had asked for and the Susan G. Komen Tissue Bank at Simon Cancer Center was born. It is the only normal breast tissue bio-repository of its kind in the world!

As of today, over 5,000 breast tissue samples have been collected as well as about 11,000 blood and DNA samples. In

Maria works under the hood. (Submitted photo)

addition to the samples, mountains of data come attached with the samples which help the researchers understand a woman’s risk. That data is the key to getting the answers that are needed to move forward in cancer research.

“I went up to ten people who I had never met before, and I asked them if they would consider doing a biopsy to help contribute to this kind of research. The answer from all of them was overwhelmingly yes”

- Dr. Anna M. Storniolo, founder of the Susan G. Komen Tissue Bank

Just a little over a year ago, Dr. Storniolo, who founded the tissue center, passed her responsibilities into the capable hands of Dr. Michele Coté, who brings her expertise and passion to the table as she continues this legacy. While she is new to the Indianapolis area, she is no stranger to the tissue center. Back in 2016, while working at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, MI, Dr. Côté actually hosted a collection event in partnership with the Komen Tissue Bank. For the event, they recruited 189 women who all gave a blood sample and a piece of their tissue. Of course, the ever-important data that helps this research was collected as well. At the time, she never would have imagined leaving Detroit, but life threw a

Two-time breast tissue donor

Heather Davis from Avon shares her experience:

“Upon hearing about the Komen Tissue Bank, I asked about whether I could be a potential donor. At the time, I was nursing my third daughter. It turns out that breast tissue from nursing mothers was the most coveted kind of tissue for research. I was told that I could donate, but not until I began weaning, which is what I did. Years later, I was asked to give a second time when I was no longer nursing so they could compare the nursing tissue vs. non-nursing tissue, and I agreed to that as well. Overall, the process is relatively painless and leaves a very minor scar. It’s so worth it for all the good it does for cancer research.”

curveball as it tends to do sometimes.

“I wasn’t really interested in moving, and I was dragging my feet a little bit when I was first asked to consider the position. Finally, Jill Henry, Director of Operations, convinced me to come and visit, and when I got here I was really able to see how great the opportunity actually was.” Dr. Côté shared.

As the Executive Director, Dr. Côté’s goal is to manage the scientific direction of the center and to make sure they are being good stewards of the data and of the samples that women and men donate to the tissue bank. Yes you did hear correctly that the Komen Tissue Bank is now also asking for samples from men as well.

To find more information about this wonderful resource, visit: komentissuebank.iu.edu

Komen Tissue Bank at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center breast tissue collection

Date: Saturday, Nov. 11

Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: IU Health Simon Cancer Center, 2nd floor, 1030 W. Michigan St., Indianapolis

Pre-registration is required; appointments are limited. Call 866-763-0047.

Donor and plebotomist in the blood draw area. (Submitted photo)

UNSTOPPABLE care.

When you come to the Hendricks Regional Health Center for Breast and Bone Health, you can count on two things: patient-centered care and a team approach by highly experienced and specialized providers. And, if you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, one of our breast surgical oncologists will meet with you within 24 hours to begin developing a plan. Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither do we.

Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early when it is easier to treat. Schedule your annual appointment today at Hendricks.org/Mammogram or call (317) 745-3404.

MONET BOWLING, MD

We love our Hendricks County communities. If you have something you believe we should know about, please send to editorial@icontimes.com.

Important advice from breast cancer survivors

Maria Ridenour

““Everyone is reminded to get a mammogram, but I’m here to tell you I found mine, about the size of a pea, thankfully because I do breast self-exams. I noticed a very small lump and I asked to get a mammogram early. After a few phone calls I was able to convince them to allow me to do that because I felt like I knew my body enough to know something was there. It was an ugly kind called triple negative, which has a five year watch period. There are also not a lot of options besides chemo and radiation. I was hit hard with two chemo’s for 12 weeks. I’m currently in year three and a half of the watch period. During this period, we have what we call “scanxiety” and we have to learn not to dwell and to believe that it’s gone, which is hard. My message to women is to push ahead if you face doubts to what you are feeling. You know your body.”

Brandy Jones

“The biggest thing for me was taking all the next steps. I was 38 when I got my mammogram and I wasn’t sure if insurance would cover it, but it does, under certain conditions, such as being preventative. I was recommended to have one, solely as a preventative measure and they said they saw some small specks. So I went back, but was told it probably wasn’t serious. The second time, they saw it again and gave me the choice to wait 6 months or to do a biopsy. I said I think I should keep going, and I think that’s the main thing- when given an option, keep going. The biopsy came back benign, but they gave me the option to remove the area even though it wasn’t cancer, and that’s what I did. After removing the area, they did find out that it was cancer, and I had to do radiation and one more surgery to remove the rest. My main story is, if you’re given an option to move forward, always move forward. Had I waited, I do think it would have progressed and things would have been more difficult.”

Get to know your local breast center resources

Hendricks Regional Health Breast Center

Web: Mammography Services | Hendricks Regional Health (317) 718-9000

Monet Bowling, MD

100 Hospital Lane, Suite 315, Danville, IN, 46122

Bio: Dr. Bowling’s Story | Every Woman Has a Story (hendricks.org)

Anne Mattingly, MD, FACS

100 Hospital Lane, Suite 315, Danville, IN, 46122

Bio: Physician Details (hendricks.org)

IU Health West Hospital

Web: iuhealth.org/find-locations/ iu-health-west-hospital (317) 217-3000

Tahereh Soleimani, MD, MPH

1111 N Ronald Reagan Pkwy, Suite C1100 Avon, IN 46123

Bio: Tahereh Soleimani, MD, MPH | IU Health

JoAnna HunterSquires, MD, BA

1111 N Ronald Reagan Pkwy, Suite C1100 Avon, IN 46123

Bio: JoAnna L. Hunter-Squires, MD, BA | IU Health

Brannon Malicoat, NP

1111 N Ronald Reagan Pkwy, Suite C1100 Avon, IN 46123

Bio: Brannan D. Malicoat, NP | IU Health

Hendricks Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Web: Hendricks Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (317) 718-7980

Rachel E. Scott, MD, FACS

100 Hospital Lane, Suite 325, Danville, IN, 46122

Bio: Rachel E. Scott, MD, FACS (hendricks.org)

ICONIC brief

Plainfield Lions continue to offer vision screenings

Every year the Plainfield Lions volunteer to help preschools throughout Hendricks County by way of performing vision screenings for all students. Operation KidSight is a nonverbal, preschool age vision screening program sponsored by the Lions of Indiana, under the oversight of the Indiana Lions Eye Bank, Inc. Twelve screenings took place during the month of September and early October at Imagination Station in Danville and Avon, Little Cadets Preschool in Clayton, Bartlett Chapel Church in Avon, Little Warrior Center in Danville, Little Quakers Academy in Plainfield, Our Shepherd Lutheran Church in Avon, Plainfield Christian Church, and Plainfield United Methodist Church. Additional monthly screenings are scheduled all the way out to December. These screenings are provided at no cost to the child, parents, or facility where the screenings are performed.

The six Lions who volunteered have screened a total of 360 children with 10 being referred for further examination by an Ophthalmologist or Optometrist. Any school of childcare provider who is interested in having the Plainfield Lions Club provide free vision screenings at their facility can contact Tom iles at (317) 600-5193 or via email at plainfield.in.lions@gmail.com

Lions Worth Donaldson, seated, and Tom Iles, standing, perform a screening at the Plainfield Christian Church. (Submitted photo)

Hendricks County 2023 General Election Candidates

In Indiana, General election day is November 7 with voting hours 6:00am to 6:00pm. Below is a list of candidates on the ballot.

For an official list for Hendricks County, candidate information, and voting locations visit https://www.co.hendricks.in.us/department/division.php?structureid=51

AMO TOWN COUNCILAT LARGE

• A Rene Gay (R)

• Michelle Kelley (L)

• James Ronald Travelsted (R)

• Mark Wicks (R)

• Donna J Watson (D)

AVON TOWN COUNCILAT LARGE

• Robert Pope (D)

• Jayson Puckett (R)

• JD Thomas II (R)

BROWNSBURG TOWN COUNCILWARD 3

• Cindy Hohman (D)

• Mark Tieken (R)

COATESVILLE TOWN COUNCILAT LARGE

• James W. Creekbaum (R)

• Jerry Decker (I)

• JamesB Ellet (I)

• Chris Johnson (I)

• Frieda Ann Plasters (R)

• Linda Stoddard (R)

Candidate Questionnaire

AVON TOWN COUNCIL

Robert Pope (D)

What is your Work/Political/ Philanthropic Background?

For the last four years I’ve been working hard for our residents on the Avon Town Council and for the last dozen or so years I’ve been engineering software and IT systems. I believe my community service is an extension of my active duty military service and I treat my responsibilities with the same values- integrity, duty, and honor. That being said, I am far more passionate about my work for our community than my professional career.

What are your top three priorities if elected to office?

My top 3 priorities are;

• Develop our undeveloped parks land to improve our community green spaces and smartly invest in road projects to improve our infrastructure without taking away from other services. I can’t stress enough how expensive roads are to build and maintain.

• Continue to work balancing our community’s tax base without compromise to our recently improved building standards as well as see through to completion the game changing project of our Town Center at Easton Grey, which will begin construction soon.

• Grow Avon Sports into the #1 youth sports program in the state while also expanding the sports programs available to our community’s young people.

What do you feel is the greatest strength of your community?

I believe our biggest strength is our wonderful Avon schools system. They are continually the largest draw for families to our community. With the coming soon government center and schools administration building at our Town center we have clearly seen the positive impacts of the strong working relationships between local government and our amazing public schools.

AVON TOWN COUNCIL

What is your Work/Political/ Philanthropic Background?

I worked in the Hendricks County Auditor’s

office serving as the Chief Deputy Auditor for a little over 11 years. I left that position last year to work with SRI Services, a company that assists Treasurers and Auditors in 86 of the 92 Indiana counties. I currently serve on the Community Corrections Advisory Board as the Vice President and was a graduate of the Leadership Hendricks County class of 2014.

What are your top three priorities if elected to office?

I want to broaden and strengthen our property tax base to keep taxes as low as possible for our constituents, while still increasing funding to continue to provide the same level of services that our residents are accustomed to. This can be accomplished by utilizing the economic development tools available to bring in higher assessed value projects that also pay a larger percentage of property taxes and by strategically annexing portions of Washington Township into the corporate limits of Avon to keep them from being annexed into the neighboring communities.

I want to ensure that the Town of Avon is prepared for the continued population growth that we’ve seen in the past handful of years. This means a focus on building the infrastructure and roadways to accommodate increased traffic, expanding or adding new schools, and funding training and additional employees for our police and fire services.

I want to encourage transparency and community engagement. As a member of the council, it would be my job to represent the people and do what is best for the community. I want to use my platform to get more people involved in the decision-making processes by having those conversations with the constituents to determine what their needs are.

What do you feel is the greatest strength of your community?

For me, Avon’s greatest strength is the services that it provides. There are great parks, an amazing library, police and fire protection services that do an outstanding job with the limited employees that they have, and countless community events to keep people coming out and interacting with their neighbors.

County 2023

TsT Construction, LLC Tip of the Month

As a contractor, service and customer satisfaction should always come first and at TsT we always put that as a first priority. With that being said, coupling a service priority with the construction industry can make things challenging to say the least due to all the variables that can impact a construction project.

There are a few things to understand and keep in mind as a customer. Construction is a challenging business, so many factors have impact to the daily success of a project. Weather obviously can not be controlled and can delay exterior projects. It also impacts means and methods of how things are built. Consider the season when planning an exterior project. Suppliers and labor also create a daily challenge. Changes and additional work being added during the project create significant challenges. Try to avoid added scope and changes unless it is understood that additional time and cost will be incurred. None of these items should be used as an “excuse” by your contractor, but a customer understanding these challenges will make for a better relationship between you and your contractor.

A good contractor does their best to plan for the unexpected, but sometimes “issues” happen that are out of their control. Unforeseen existing conditions can be discovered during construction that were

Early Voting Calendar

NOVEMBER

not expected. A few examples are hidden or undocumented underground conditions, water damage or interior mold or termite damage. These kind of issues can cause significant impact to a project and can cause delays and added cost. The best strategy is to keep the customer informed and work hard to resolve issues when they develop.

The challenges listed above lead to a key component of a successful project. Trust and relationship with your contractor. Ask for references from previous projects, take time during the interview process, develop a trust and relationship that will be comfortable during the course of the project. Keep in mind that the lowest bid is generally not the best. A good contractor should always return communications in a timely and professional manner. Of course choosing a contractor that will stand behind his product and installation is critical.

Hope this months tips were helpful, have a nice fall season and we look forward to hearing from you when your next construction project comes to mind! TsT

Notables

Cascade boys soccer picked up the program’s second sectional championship by edging Danville, 1-0, in the title match of the Class 2A Danville Sectional. The win improved the eighth-ranked Cadets’ season record to an impressive 16-1-1 entering the regional round against Indianapolis Brebeuf. Through the team’s first 17 matches, senior Ethan Edwards led in goals with 23, followed by junior Colson Mendenhall with 15 and sophomore Declan Dodson with 10. Junior Max Stucky had a team-best 11 assists.

Brownsburg volleyball finished the regular season with a 16-11 record after losing to Noblesville in four sets. Senior middle hitter Abby Sollenberger led the way for the Bulldogs with 13 kills, while teammates Keira Fetz and Delaney Steers added 12 apiece. Senior Brynn Burton provided the team three service aces, sophomore Kate Vrabel had 24 digs and Steers 16, while junior setter Aysa Thomas had 42 assists and 11 digs.

The Tri-West football team ran its record to 7-1 with a 41-0 shutout of Crawfordsville, led by senior running back Brady Hamstra with eight carries for 89 yards. Nolan Cooper, a junior, rushed for a pair of touchdowns with Malachi Walden accounting for the other. Kellen Dakin had six tackles to lead all Bruins’ defensive players, while Reece Mendenhall added five.

Plainfield football dropped a 22-8 decision at Mid-State Conference rival Whiteland. Leading the Quakers’ offense was senior quarterback Hunter Newell completing 16 of 26 pass attempts for 157 yards and a touchdown. His top targets with five receptions each were senior Isaiah Miller and junior Ja’mir Bouie. Senior Seth Martin was Plainfield’s top tackler with 11, followed

Hendricks County ICONIC Athlete

HER OWN THREE-PEAT

Danville senior on track to graduate with 12 varsity letters

The three-sport athlete capable of moving seamlessly from one season to the next is the exception, not the rule.

And yet it’s here Danville senior Kooper Stone, well, rules.

Stone, a 6-foot middle hitter who helped the Warriors’ volleyball team complete the regular season with a 21-9 record and No. 23 ranking in Class 3A, also is part of the school’s girls basketball and track and field programs.

A forward in hoops, Stone averaged 7.7 points and 5.2 rebounds per game last winter for a 21-5 squad that won the Sagamore Conference title with a spotless 7-0 mark. She went on to place fifth in the high jump at the Zionsville track sectional with a top effort of 4 foot, 8 inches, while also taking seventh in the shot put with her best of 33 feet, 3¾ inches.

Earlier, she finished runner-up in high jump and fourth in shot put at the conference meet. Prior to postseason action in volleyball this season, Stone had 77 kills, 44 blocks and 31 digs.

Stone’s achievements also extend into the classroom; her 4.022 grade-point average ranks her 14th in Danville’s senior class of 185 students.

“Even though volleyball is not her main sport, she’s there. Kooper just kind of sees a bigger picture,” said Warriors volleyball coach Danielle Shepherd. “It’s not just about the sport. It’s about everybody’s development as a person.

“Kooper’s biggest asset is that she is a strong encourager. She’s always very

mindful with her approach to younger players to see how they’re doing. She’s just always checking in with everybody.”

Stone, who is on pace to graduate with 12 varsity athletic letters, did a Q&A with ICON:

Q: Growing up in Danville, was there an athlete you looked up to that helped shape your athletic career

A: I guess the first person who comes to mind is Ella Collier because she was a senior when I was an eighth-grader. You could just tell she was a leader on the team, which gave me something to strive for because it’s something I thought I was capable of doing.

Q: How difficult is it playing a sport in all three seasons?

A: I’ve done three sports since the eighth-grade. To me, it’s not difficult, and I just don’t accept me not doing my best. It’s a lot of prioritizing and time management.

Q: What are your plans after graduating from Danville High School in the spring?

A: I am going to Indiana Tech in Fort Wayne for basketball. I committed there in July. I know it’s cheesy to say, but it just felt right. Just the atmosphere, it reminded me of Danville. It just seemed familiar to me. I’m going to major in sports media communications.

Why we have to start talking about suicide

(If you’re thinking about suicide, know that help is available for you. Your life is important. Tomorrow needs you. Please find someone who you can talk to. You can text 741741 right now to connect with someone who cares and will listen, or you can call us and sit down with one of our professionals. Please don’t delay, because the sooner you find help, the faster you’ll find your way out of the darkness.)

An old friend died by suicide. Hadn’t seen or talked to them for a dozen years. Nobody seemed to know the “why,” as usual.

Too many people I’ve known have died this way. And I know you can say the same. When I mentioned suicide, you immediately remembered the people in and around your life who chose to end their own lives.

We always say, “I wish there were something I could have done.” Suicide doesn’t offer us this luxury, and it’s painstaking.

It’s time to start talking about suicide prevention with our families, our neighbors, our co-workers, and (especially) our faith families. It’s time to share our own stories of loved ones lost to us. It’s time to help people understand suicide is not the result of some personal flaw, weakness, or selfish act.

Do you know the single biggest factor leading to suicides? It’s untreated depression. People who are experiencing depression and not receiving counseling, medication, or other services are at significantly greater risk of death by suicide. Some have come to believe they’re a burden on friends and family. Some have given up hope that better times are ahead. Some are painfully lonely. Most are some combination of the three.

Now that we know those things, what can we do? We can walk alongside them without ever letting it seem like an inconvenience. We can remind them of reasons to hope. And we can make sure they aren’t alone by building strong connections and support networks. And we have to talk about it. We have to be willing to ask some simple questions that can be tough for us. “Are you doing okay?” “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” “Have you considered suicide?” If their answers lead us to worry about their wellbeing, we can help them find someone who knows how to provide the support they

need. We don’t have to have the answers -we just need to help people around us find them.

For far too long, suicide has been a taboo topic among many people. Some are frightened or overwhelmed by the topic. Others worry that discussing suicide might lead others to take their lives. The reality is that the best way to keep suicides from ending the lives of those we love is to bring the topic into the open, encourage people to discuss it, increase awareness of the warning signs and to get help when struggling.

Suicide doesn’t discriminate. It happens in all kinds of families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and churches, all across the spectrum from poverty to wealth. When someone is deeply depressed or overwhelmed by life’s challenges, they may not be capable of thinking clearly enough to seek solutions. In their minds, suicide appears to the only way to end the pain they feel. Most don’t really want to die, but don’t see an alternative.

Everyone needs to know that depression, anxiety, and other conditions that can lead to a greater risk for suicide can all be treated. In other words, we know how to help people who are thinking about suicide overcome medical and other issues so they rediscover reasons for living.

If someone you know or love appears to be thinking about suicide, talking with them can be the first step in protecting them. Care to Change offers training in QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer), an extremely effective approach to determining whether someone is considering suicide and encouraging them to seek help. We can come to your workplace, your church, your organization, or wherever to help others better understand the warning signs and know the simple steps anyone can take to keep people from making the wrong decision. Contact us today so we can work together to save lives … because we don’t get a re-do when it comes to suicide.

April Bordeau is the managing director at Care to Change.The professional counseling center has offices in Avon, North Indy and Prestwick. Contact: (317) 431-9979, help@caretochange.org or visit caretochange.org.

James is our Maintenance Assistant at The Creek, and it is safe to say his hard work does not go unnoticed. Since the day he started, he has received compliments from residents, families, and staff on his work ethic and positive attitude. No matter what the job is, we can count on James to get it done for us with a smile on his face. We are so thankful to have someone like James on our team!

Thank you for all you do, James!

HENDRICKS REGIONAL HEALTH CELEBRATES THE UNSTOPPABLE

SPIRIT OF TOMORROW’S LEADERS

A feature in the Hendricks County ICON highlighting leaders of tomorrow.

Mission for new Avon Academy is to help students graduate on time

Quite literally, Sam Clemens is in a class by himself.

Clemens graduated from the new Simon Youth Academy in Avon on September 15, breaking the seal as the school’s first person to explore a new avenue in terms of accruing the credits necessary to graduate.

The Avon Academy opened in July.

It is located on the first floor and basement of the Avon High School Administration Building.

“I went to Avon High School my freshman year through my junior year, and then went to Avon Academy my senior year,” said Clemens, 18. “My girlfriend and I are having a baby, so they gave me the opportunity to graduate early.”

According to Kellie Rodkey, coordinator of Avon Academy, its purpose is to remove barriers for students who have not been successful in a traditional high school setting.

This includes those who fall into one of three categories:

1) students who are credits deficient;

2) young mothers or fathers (the academy has an on-site daycare);

3) those students who, for whatever reason, haven’t been successful in a traditional high school environment.

Clemens primarily falls into the latter category, as he and his girlfriend, Trinity, were expecting their daughter to be born on October 16.

“I loved being there,” said Clemens, who is currently working two jobs and aspires to eventually be employed as a lineman for a power company, of Avon Academy. “The teachers were great, and all of the students were really nice. Just a very welcoming environment. It was good for me so that I wouldn’t have to balance work, school and a baby.

“This way, I just have to concern myself with work and the baby.”

Avon Academy’s mission is to inspire students with school and community-based partnerships and consistent adult relationships, engage learners with direct instruction and individual service learning plans, and empower citizens to graduate on time and take ownership of their future.

“Instead of semesters, we offer four quarters, and each of those quarters is a nine-week semester, basically,” said Rodkey. “Students master the state standard, and then move onto the next standard. It’s very individual-based.”

Avon Academy, presently comprised of 85 students from grades 10-12, is designed to help them graduate on time. Beyond that, it works to build a bridge for student in terms of finding employment after high school.

The Academy’s official ribbon cutting took place on July 25.

Joining Rodkey for the ceremony were Avon Schools

Superintendent Dr. Scott Wyndham, President of the Avon Board of School Trustees

Anne Engelhardt, CEO/President of Simon Youth Academy Andrea Neely, several Avon Academy students, and Rev. Danielle Cox of Avon Christian Church.

And yet no matter how many years and decades pass, the Avon Academy will always have Sam Clemens as the answer to one of its main trivia questions.

Who was the first graduate?

Those interested in learning more about Simon Youth Academy at Avon should go to ahs.avon-schools.org/avon-academy.

Sam Clemens is the first graduate of the new Avon Academy. (Submitted photo)

Mindful eating

Have you ever sat down in front of a screen with a bag of popcorn or chips and started eating? Suddenly, your fingers are searching for that last bite, and you realize you’ve eaten the entire bag! This is an example of mindless eating, and its incidence is commonplace in today’s world. Mindless eating, while very normal, can also be harmful over time. When we eat mindlessly, two things happen:

1. We stop listening to our bodies and, 2. We stop tasting our food. This, in turn, can lead to a lack of satisfaction, eating more than we need (which can cause overfullness and discomfort), and eventual weight gain.

So, how do we rectify this potentially harmful habit? Mindfulness. Specifically, mindful eating.

Mindful eating is the practice of slowing down and paying attention to the scents, tastes, and textures of your meal so you can notice how the food makes you feel and enjoy the eating experience. The benefits of mindful eating are plentiful. It helps you make more satisfying choices, nourish your body properly, stop eating when you are full and genuinely enjoy food again! It has even been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression among some adults.

Follow these 5 tips to eat more mindfully:

1. Take a moment before diving into your meal to feel grateful for the food in

How do you make room for something good?

Why would you have to make room for something good in your life? You deserve good things regardless of how much “room” you have for more, don’t you? Even though that is true, there is a valid reason that we would be well served to “clean house” every once in a while.

Have you ever heard the expression, “When one door closes, another opens?” The point is that for us to be able to allow room for good things in our lives, sometimes we need to eliminate elements of our lives (people and things) that no longer serve our happiness, our best interests. It is likely that soon after you let go of some negative influences in your life, something helpful or joyful came into your life. How and why does that happen?

having already achieved it, you give it the best chance of becoming realized.

These natural laws work in every aspect of our lives, and we can make them work for us or we can let them work on us. Have you ever lost a job only to find a better one? Have you lost a relationship, and as devastating as that might have been at the time, you were blessed with an even better partner sometime later? Whether you initiate the change or not, change is inevitable, and the most successful of any (read every) species are those that are the most adaptable to change.

front of you. Take a deep breath before you begin eating.

2. Slow down! Try putting your fork down between each bite or eating with your non-dominant hand.

3. Remove distractions. Turn off your TV and your phone. Dedicate your attention to your meal.

4. Engage your senses! Smell the food before you take a bite. Then, take your first bite and pay attention to which flavors and textures you are experiencing as you slowly chew and swallow. Do this regularly throughout the meal or snack.

5. Pay attention to your body. Ask yourself questions, such as, “How hungry am I?”, “Am I getting full?”, “Am I feeling satisfied yet?” Ask these questions at your first bite, sometime in the middle of your meal, and as you’re becoming satisfied and nearing the end of your meal.

As you master mindful eating, you can defeat overeating habits and truly derive joy and satisfaction from food.

Natural forces are at play in our every-day existence, and even though we can’t “see” them, they are real, nonetheless. You’ve heard about the law of attraction and the notion that, “Worrying is like praying for what you don’t want.” By eliminating negativity in your life, you project that you deserve to be happy and without negativity, and the Universe will respond. You see, when you project a desired outcome, especially if you do so fully congruent and with the positive emotion of

ICONIC brief

The key to your happiness is in understanding these natural laws and making them work for you. Eliminate negative people and things from your life. Be grateful for all the good that you already have. And believe, better yet know, that even more good is coming your way. 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.

Renee Tomlinson assumes leadership role at Hendricks County Communications Center

The town of Plainfield recently introduced Renee Tomlinson as the new director of the Hendricks County Communications Center (HCCC). In her role as director, Renee will oversee the management and operations of 911 communications for the entire county. Renee Tomlinson brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having previously served as the chief of the Manatee County Emergency Communications Center. With over two decades of service as a dispatcher for police, fire, and EMS, she is well-prepared to lead HCCC into the future. Before her tenure in Florida, Renee Tomlinson made significant contributions to public safety in Porter

Renee Tomlinson (Submitted photo)

County, Ind., where she held roles as the dispatch coordinator and certified training coordinator for the Porter County Central Communications.

EVENTScalendar

OCTOBER

Now - 21 Daily

Nehemiah Fall Harvest Days

6 - 9 p.m., Nehemiah Ranch, 1420 N. County Road 600 E., Avon. Fall Harvest Days Festival. Hayrides, pumpkin patch, firepit, food/ hot chocolate, smores, and live music. Family friendly event for people of all ages. $5 suggested donation per person. Nehemiahranch.org

Now - 31 Daily

Scarecrow Display

Courthouse Square, Danville. $10 per entry. This unique, annual event is a great way to enjoy Indiana in the Fall. Come stroll around the courthouse square and see how the creative folks from Danville and the surrounding areas have outdone themselves creating dramatic scarecrow displays. The Scarecrows disappear before Halloween so don’t wait too long. Discoverdowntowndanville.org

20–22 Friday - Sunday

2023 Fall Indianapolis Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show

10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Daville. Price: ages 18 and older: $7; ages 11-17: $2; Ages 10 and under: free. Annual Show Bringing the finest Gems, Minerals, Jewelry, Beads, Fossils and Meteorites from around the world! americangemshow.com/

NHRA Fall Classic National Open

NHRA Fall Classic National Open

8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, 10267 E. U.S. Highway 136, Brownsburg. The 32nd annual NHRA North Central Division 3 Fall Classic returns to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in 2023.

20–28

Halloweekend

9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, 12 - 6 p.m. Sunday, Beasley’s Orchard, 2304 E. Main St., Danville. Enjoy the last weekend of the corn maze in spooktacular fashion with Halloweenthemed farm ag-tivities! Don’t forget to dress in your spookiest costume for the costume contest!

Beasleys-orchard.com

21 Saturday

Doctoberfest

Times listed online, Courtyard by Mariott, 450 Marketplace Mile, Plainfield.Come join in our Annual Doctor Who-centric Fall Festival. Take part in our Costume competition, custom action figure contest, shoebox diorama contest, shop vendors and Doctor Who Merch, enjoy games, and win prizes! Whona.com

Fall Colors Fest

10 a.m. - 3 p.m., McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem. Because of the multitude of tree species found within the park, the wide variety of autumn colors lead McCloud Nature Park to be voted by the public through Visit Indiana as one of the Top 10 Places for Fall Foliage in the state every year! As such, celebrate the fabulous fall foliage every October with this fun, free, family-friendly Fall Colors Festival. hendrickscountyparks.org/programs/fallcolors-run-and-festival/

Fall Colors Run

8:45 a.m. - 10 a.m. McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem. $20/ person (5K), $30/person (10K). Enjoy the beautiful fall colors and the crisp air while running the trails at McCloud Nature Park. This event will include a 5K walk/run and a 10K walk/run. Scenes will include forest, prairie, Big Walnut Creek, and the historic truss bridge! After the professionally-timed race, stick around for the McCloud Fall Colors Festival. hendrickscountyparks.org/

Fall Into Fun Community Event

1 - 6 p.m., 7209 E. County Road 100 S., Avon. Food trucks, craft vendors, locally owned business vendors, bounce houses, live music, car show and more for the whole family. facebook.com/ events/973651357251432/

Indianapolis Cars and Coffee

8 a.m. - 11 a.m., Hummel Park, 1500 S. Center St., Plainfield. Back by popular demand is this Trunk-or-Treat! Costumes, candy, and spooky car decor highly encouraged. indianapoliscarsandcoffee.org/ home/hummel-park-halloween

Meet James Whitcomb Riley

2 - 3 p.m., Pecar Park, 5203 E. 150 N., Avon. $5/person, children 3 and under are free. Danny Russel from Famous

Hoosiers will be portraying one of our famous poets, James Whitcomb Riley! wtp.recdesk.com/Community/Program/ Detail?programId=2165

21 Saturday

Sweetest Day

3:30 - 5 p.m., Sweet Minis, 824 E Main St, Brownsburg. Take a couples cake decorating class. facebook.com/sweetminisindy/

Spooky Movie in Town Square

4 p.m. pre-show activities, 6 p.m. movie, The Shops at Perry Crossing, 2499 Perry Crossing Way, Plainfield. Guests can grab their lawn chairs or blankets to watch “Hocus Pocus” in the Town Square. perry-crossing.com

Spooky Sips & S’mores

7 - 9 p.m., Washington Township Park - lower part. Join for a Halloween bash. Costumes are not required but encouraged. $30 per person, $50 for two. This is an 18 and older event. https:// wtp.recdesk.com/Community/Program/ Detail?programId=2264

22 Sunday

Drug Awareness Night

5:30 - 6:45 p.m., Danville Community High School, 100 Warrior Way, Danville. Danville Community School Corporation Police Department is hosting a drug awareness night to educate the public about detecting dangerous behaviors and identifying drug usage trends among young people. This event is for parents, guardians, and members of the Hendricks County community. To sign up, visit the DCSCPD Facebook page or email moliphant@ danville.k12.in.us.

23 Monday

Teddy Bear Concert

11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Avon-Washington Township Public Library, 498 N. Avon Ave., Avon. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra presents the Teddy Bear Series program, The Giant’s Violin! Young children are invited to move along to music as they listen to the mysterious tale of a boy who believes a giant and his violin live in the attic above his room. Designed for ages 3-6. Register online. avonlibrary.net

25 Wednesday

Sweet Minis Spooky Treats 1 - 3 p.m., Sweet Minis, 824 E Main St,

Brownsburg. Join this fall break and make spooky treats! Class for ages 6 - 12. facebook.com/sweetminisindy/

27 Friday

The Prestwick Halloween Bash

5 - 8 p.m., Prestwick Country Club, 5197 Fairway Dr., Avon. Come join us for The Prestwick NIGHT OF FRIGHT Halloween costume party. LIVE MUSIC. Wear your best costume because there will be judging and door prizes. facebook.com/PrestwickGolf

27 Friday, 29 Sunday

“Magic, Mystery, and Mayhem”

7:30 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Sunday, Calvary United Methodist Church, 575 W. Northfield Drive, Brownsburg. Hendricks Symphony Orchestra and Chorus features the works of Schubert/Berlioz, Orff, Offenbach, Grieg, Webber, Dukas, Mussorgsky. hendrickssymphony.org/

28

Saturday

Ghosts & Goblins

1 - 5 p.m., Washington Township Park, 115 S. County Road 575 E., Avon. Local groups and businesses are invited to participate by hosting their own creatively decorated booths along the enchanting trick-ortreating path. Register online! business. avonchamber.org/communitycalendar/ details/ghosts-goblins-935256

Bartlett Chapel Holiday Craft Bazaar

9 a.m. - 3 p.m., 4396 East Main, Avon. Holiday gifts, original artwork, woodcrafting, home-baked goods, and much more. Lunch offered at a nominal fee. facebook.com/bartlettchapel

Indy Cat Show & Adoption Event

10 a.m. - 5 p.m, Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. $8/ adults, $5 seniors 60+ and children under 5. Join for this Cat Show & Adoption Event! Kids can trick-or-treat for candy all day. See some of the Season’s Finest Pedigree & household pets compete for Top Regional & National Winner Titles! Visithendrickscounty.com

Sat-Terror Day

11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Plainfield Parks & Recreation, 5344 Pike Lane, Plainfield. Plainfield Parks and Recreation’s Sat-Terror Day Festival is back this year with even more fun! This free spook-tacular event will

NIGHT & DAY

include hayrides, music, trunk-or-treat and, other family fun activities. Come dressed in your best Halloween costume. facebook. com/PlainfieldParksandRec

28 Saturday

Scares on the Square

6 - 9 p.m., Downtown Danville. Scare up some fun at the second annual Scares on the Square event downtown Danville! Join us for a hauntingly good time on the evening of Saturday, October 28. Costumes encouraged, and lots of spooktacular fun for the whole family. facebook.com/ downtowndanvilleindiana

Trail & Treat

5 - 7 p.m., Williams Park, 940 S. Locust Lane, Brownsburg. Enjoy safe trick-ortreating while walking the paved trail! brownsburgparks.com

NOVEMBER

4 Saturday

Ultimate Storm-Chasing Experience

8 a.m. doors open, Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. Storm chasers, weather enthusiasts and meteorologists from across North America will gather next month for what has become one of the best annual educational

weather gatherings. The goal of the annual convention is to create a relaxed and enjoyable environment for those in the weather community to meet, interact and learn about severe weather. Presentations are full of interesting information, images and videos. $45 at the door. indchasercon. eventbrite.com, indchasercon.com.

4 Saturday

St. Malachy Altar Society’s Annual Christmas Bazaar

9 a.m. - 3 p.m., St. Malachy Catholic School, 7410 N. County Rd. 1000E., Brownsburg. Over 50 vendors, raffles, baked goods, lunch available & free admission. (317) 852-3195 or altarsociety@stmalacy.org

11 Saturday

2023 Holiday Craft Fair

9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E. Main St., Danville. $3/person, 12 and under are free. Come shop from local vendors. There’s a variety of homemade crafts and direct sales companies to choose from. This show has taken place for over 20 years. (ICON & Flyer Group) This event is presented by Hendricks Regional Health. 4hcomplex.org/p/other/ 2023-holiday-craft-show

ICONIC brief

St. Malachy’s Christmas Bazaar offers food and shopping for all ages

The best shopping for the Christmas Holiday is at St Malachy’s Christmas Bazaar on Saturday Nov. 4, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the high school building. Admission is free. There will be 140 gift baskets of all kinds, homemade veg/beef soup or chicken salad sandwiches for lunch (hotdogs available for kids). Try some tasty baked treats. There will be more than 50 area vendors with amazing gifts to choose from for that special person on your list.

Spooky word origins that go “bump” in the night

It’s scary how early I get excited about PSL season. Of course, I’m talking about punctuation, syntax and language! Add an extra pump of grammar to mine.

We all know about the origin of the word “Halloween,” but what do we know about the etymologies of other spooky season sayings? Today we’ll explore these ominous origins.

The word “haunt” comes from the Old English word “hamettan,” which means “to bring home.” This suggests that the original meaning of “haunt” was to visit a place so frequently that you might as well live there. For instance, I like to haunt my local coffee shop.

“Haunt” in a ghostly sense developed in the 14th century. This is probably because people back then were a lot more superstitious than we are today; they were convinced that ghosts were everywhere, just waiting to pounce on the unsuspecting.

The word “spooky” comes from the Dutch

word “spook,” which means “ghost” or “specter.” So, next time you’re feeling scared, just remember that you’re not actually scared — you’re just being spooked by a silly Dutch word.

“Spooky” originally meant something related to ghosts or spirits, but over time, the meaning has expanded to include anything that is strange, eerie or unsettling. So, if you see a clown at midnight, that’s spooky. If you hear a weird noise in the middle of the night, that’s spooky. And if you realize that you’ve been using the same toothbrush for ten years, that’s definitely spooky.

The phrase “trick-or-treat” is thought to have originated in the early 20th century in North America as a combination of the words “trick” and “treat.” It’s basically a way for kids to extort candy from their neighbors. But hey, it’s only once a year! Every Halloween, my friend Brenda simply turns off her lights and pretends she’s not home.

“Trick-or-treat” is thought to have

evolved from a number of earlier customs, including souling, guising and mumming. These customs were all about begging for food or money in exchange for prayers or performances. So, trick-or-treating is basically just begging for candy in exchange for a cute costume. Case in point: my daughter will be a ladybug this Halloween, while my oldest son is dressing up as a hot dog.

While I calculate my annual “dad tax” on my kids’ Halloween candy, you can now rest assured your eerie etymology questions will haunt you no more.

Curtis Honeycutt is a wildly popular syndicated humor columnist. He is the author of Good Grammar is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life . Find more at curtishoneycutt.com

RAAYS RECYCLING

NEGATIVE CHARGES!!

Yesterday I walked in the house and casually asked Mary Ellen, “You haven’t had a chance to call the plumber yet, have you?”

“Why do you have to be so negative?” she asked.

“I’m not being negative, Mary Ellen. I don’t know what you mean. Didn’t I just ask a question?”

“See, there you go. In that one response you used three negative words. You could have said, ‘I am a positive person. I’d like to know what you mean. I always try to be agreeable.’”

This was not a discussion I was looking forward to. Not then, not ever. (Oh dear, three nots.) Time for lunch…

“Mary Ellen, we don’t have any peanut butter, do we?”

I did it again. Maybe Mary Ellen was right. I asked for advice on how to change.

“Next time, Dick, simply ask: ‘Do we have any peanut butter?’” I was guilty as charged, of course, and she was not about to drop the topic. Not while she was on a roll.

“Mary Ellen, this is not fair. We’ve been married a long time, haven’t we? You haven’t ever mentioned this issue before. (Okay, that was three negatives right there.) This is not an easy thing to stop doing. Don’t you agree?”

I decided to show my wife that this was not really an uncommon way for people to communicate. Before she returned from shopping this afternoon, I purposely didn’t shut the garage door and I didn’t turn the lights off in the kitchen. I also didn’t check the dishwasher contents before starting it. And I didn’t feed the cat. When she returned, I’d hear about all the things I didn’t do. And I’d be told, “don’t do them again.”

When Mary Ellen walked in the door, she approached me. I was ready for her to

explode with negativity. “In the future, Dick, please remember to close the garage door when you come home. And you left all the lights on in the house. Let’s try to save on electricity. By the way, the cat is meowing. Make sure to feed her when I am gone. It also appears you ran the dishwasher halfloaded. We should always try to conserve water.”

“No, no, no, Mary Ellen: a typical wife would not respond that way when her husband messed up so many things.”

“That’s four negatives, Dick. You’re getting worse at this.”

I told Mary Ellen what I thought most wives would say in a similar situation.

“Don’t leave the lights on in the middle of the day, Dick.”

“Don’t leave the garage door open when you get home.”

“Don’t forget to feed the cat.”

“Don’t run the dishwasher half-loaded.”

“Sorry, Dick,“ she responded, “I’m a positive person. I would ne...ne...

“Yes, say it—say it, Mary Ellen! Say the word ‘never.’ It will help you get out of this positive rut you are in.”

“Ne...nearly every day I strive to be optimistic. And I do that by using positive words. Do you see the difference?”

I wanted to say “I don’t,” but that would have really gotten me in trouble.

Instead, I decided to play it safe and repeat something smart I said almost 44 years ago: “I DO.”

HISTORY finds

The object pictured above is a vintage bottle capper, manufactured by the Comstock-Bolton Company in Kansas City. Placing it on top of a bottle and pulling the handles down causes the collar to wrap around the rim of the bottle and lock the cap in place.

The device bears a patent date of December 21, 1920. It is not a coincidence that the 18th Amendment which began the era of Prohibition had become the law of the land in January of that same year. To quote from a teacher’s lesson plan available online from the National Archives, “The intensity of the temperance advocates was matched only by the inventiveness of those who wanted to keep drinking.”

The Volstead Act, which had been passed two months before the 18th Amendment, provided details and the means for enforcement. It was illegal to manufacture, sell, or transport (though not to consume) intoxicating liquors. Home manufacturing, with an alcohol limit of .5 percent, was allowed for medicinal or religious use.

We will assume that this capper, which can be found in the museum’s early kitchen, was used for legal purposes.

Hendricks County Historical Museum is at 170 S. Washington Street in Danville, one block south of the courthouse. The building was the sheriff and family’s residence from 1866 to 1974, with the jail in the basement. It is furnished as it would have been in the late 1800s. It is open Fridays and Saturdays, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and for groups by appointment. www.hendrickscountymuseum.org 317-745-6158.

PUBLIC AUCTION

REAL ESTATE AUCTION

FORtheRECORD - HC OBITUARIES

AVON

David J. Cutler

David J. Cutler, 83, passed away Oct. 7, 2023. He was born Feb. 2, 1940. Services were held Oct. 15. Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg, was entrusted with the arrangements. .

Edward H. Heckman

Edward H. Heckman, 77, passed away Oct. 6, 2023. He was born Jan. 19, 1946. Services were held Oct. 11. Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg, was entrusted with the arrangements. Contributions may be made to Ark Christian Ministries or Future Farmers of America.

Cecel M. Williams

Cecel M. Williams, 72, passed away Oct. 4, 2023. She was born Dec. 1, 1950. Private services were held. Conkle Funeral Home, Avon, was entrusted with the arrangements.

BROWNSBURG

Linda L. Crusoe

Linda L. Crusoe, 83, passed away Oct. 6, 2023. She was born Dec. 28, 1939. Services were held Oct. 14 at Stevens Mortuary, Indianapolis. Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Morris L. Lewis

Morris L. Lewis, 94, passed away Sept. 27, 2023. He was born March 14, 1929. Services were held Oct. 4 at Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg.

Florence Rumrill

Florence Rumrill, 104, passed away Sept. 30, 2023. She was

Jameson C. Johnson

Jameson C. Johnson, 52, passed away Oct. 3, 2023. He was born March 9, 1971. Services were held Oct. 7. HamptonGentry Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with the arrangements. Contributions may be made to Seedline or Lifegate Ministries.

John B. Stanley

John B. Stanley, 72, passed away Sept. 27, 2023. He was born Sept. 20, 1951. Services were held Oct. 1 at Bousley Funeral Home, Coatesville.

COATESVILLE

Jesse D. Spurlock

Jesse D. Spurlock, 91, passed away Oct. 1, 2023. He was born April 26, 1932. Services were held Oct. 4 at Bousley Funeral Home, Coatesville.

PITTSBORO

Ira E. Garrett

Ira E. Garrett, 94, passed away Oct. 8, 2023. He was born Nov. 5, 1928. Services were held Oct. 14 at Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Pittsboro. Contributions may be made to New Life Christian Church.

Glenda C. Gray

Glenda C. Gray, 77, passed away Oct. 7, 2023. She was born July 13, 1946. Services were held Oct. 12 at Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg.

PLAINFIELD

Damon N. Jones

Damon N. Jones, 90, passed away Sept. 29, 2023. He was born April 12, 1933. Services will be held Oct. 29 at 1 p.m. Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, is entrusted with the arrangements.

William Lee

William Lee, 72, passed away Sept. 29, 2023. He was born June 7, 1951. Services were held Oct. 6 at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Morris A. Parsons

Morris A. Parsons, 92, passed away Sept. 30, 2023. He was born June 8, 1931. Services were held Oct. 5 at Helton and Harris Funeral Home, Danville. Contributions may be made to the Boy Scouts of America or the University of Tennessee.

John S. Phillips

John S. Phillips, 97, passed away Oct. 3, 2023. He was born March 27, 1926. Services were held Oct. 13. Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Beth T. Pilcher

Beth T. Pilcher, 103, passed away Oct. 2, 2023. She was born Aug. 3, 1920. Services were held Oct. 16 at Hall-Baker Funeral Home, Plainfield. Contributions may be made to In Touch Ministries.

Michael S. Woodward

Michael S. Woodward, 73, passed away Sept. 30, 2023. He was born April 6, 1950. Services were held Oct. 5. HallBaker Funeral Home, Plainfield, was entrusted with the arrangements. Contributions may be made to the Bellevue

A few weeks ago I went hiking with my friend Josh at Eagle Creek. Now let me start by saying, I am far from being the “take a journey outside, explore God’s creation, nature walk” type of person. In fact many who know me personally tease me about how much I hate being outside and refuse to go camping. But a few weeks ago, I “braved” the hiking trails at Eagle Creek to spend some time with a brother of mine who I have been privileged to disciple over the last year.

During our hike, he began to disciple me. I had no idea what to expect or what to do. He gave me the tools (a hiking stick, water, directions, how to read the trail maps, etc) and he walked with me the entire time. In most cases it was me following him, but every now and then he would have me walk ahead of him while he followed closely behind. The experience was overwhelming in all the good ways.

One of our final stops along the trail included looking at a beautiful body of water. What impressed me the most was the reflection of the trees (showing the beautiful colors of autumn) above it and how the water’s image of the trees weren’t perfect but still a beautiful imitation that made me look up to see the original image. A few days later I got a text from a church member named Phil. His wife had recently gone to the local coffee shop Best Friends Coffee and Bagels and “experienced” (I use that with much bias…lol) the sandwich

called “The Rappin’ Rashad”! Can you guess who had some say in the creation of that sandwich? After Nikki, Phil’s wife, experienced the Rappin Rashad she went to the grocery store and bought the ingredients that would allow her to replicate the same experience for her husband. In his text it said the sandwich was fantastic.

Both of these stories made me think of the Bible verse John 8:12. Jesus says “I am the Light of the World”. But He also calls for us to be the “light of the world” in Matthew 5:14-16. Perhaps our greatest way to glorify the “original” Light, is to be like the water at eagle creek or the sandwich at Phil and Nikki’s house. Like the water, we should “reflect” His image and like the sandwich we should “replicate” His “taste” so that the world responds like my eyes and Phil’s taste buds.

Dear siblings in Christ, help others EXPERIENCE what you have EXPERIENCED in CHRIST JESUS by REFLECTING and REPLICATING HIM as much as possible! LOVING YOU and FULLY DEPENDENT on HIM.

to link up? Connect with me by scheduling at https:// calendly.com/pastorrashad/ meetingwithrashad

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A messier fall cleanup

GARDENING

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For generations it’s been standard practice to clean up flower beds and home landscaping before winter sets in. This fall ritual includes cutting off old foliage and stems of perennials and raking up fallen leaves and sticks. However, there’s a new movement in gardening practices regarding this fall cleanup of general garden debris. With a growing awareness of the importance of beneficial insects and their role in not only healthy gardens (pollinators and predators of insect pests) but as a crucial food source for songbirds, more attention is now being given to their life cycles. Many insects overwinter in leaf “litter’ that accumulates on the forest floor… or our gardens. Many of these insects hibernate as adults (ladybugs and many native bees), some as nymphs or larvae, and some as pupa (moth cocoons or butterfly chrysalises), while others, such as the native Carolina Mantis and spiders, lay eggs which survive the winter. There are literally hundreds of insect species that survive the winter in a period of suspended development called diapause, either in the leaves or underground, insulated by the leaves.

So, with this increased awareness of insect life cycles, many are now recommending that leaves be left where they fall to avoid disturbing any overwintering insects. Some perennial seed heads are a winter source of food for songbirds. In general, this is wellintentioned advice, but there’s a flip side to this practice.

The traditional practice of a fall garden cleanup removes or reduces pests and

pathogens that help insure a beautiful and healthy garden. Some of the insects that overwinter in debris are not welcome in ornamental or vegetable plantings and many plant diseases, including cankers, blights, botrytis, and powdery mildew, remain on old foliage and stalks to survive. Leaves, piling up on lawns, will damage or even smother the grass. Removing this debris every fall, often referred to as “sanitation” is sound gardening practice. This is especially important in vegetable gardens. Tomato, bean, cucumber, and squash diseases and pests overwinter in old foliage. Asparagus beetle adults hunker down inside the hollow asparagus stems. Instead off “vacuuming” your garden, do some “editing” to minimize pest and disease problems while maintaining winter shelter for beneficials. Remove debris, old foliage, and stems from particularly disease prone perennials, including peonies, roses, and phlox as well as the spent vegetables. Mow to chop up leaves on lawns, which make great fertilizer, but rake up large piles to make compost by piling leaves in an out-of-the-way corner of your yard to let decompose, or use them to mulch more “wild” areas. Be a little messier! This will be a little less work for you and a great benefit to beneficial insects.

Happy Gardening!

Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls

Today, in our continuing tour of Israel and the Palestinian Territories we come to Qumran National Park, about 10 miles south of Jericho.

Qumran National Park lies at the foot of a cliff in the Judean Desert, about a mile northwest of the Dead Sea. In 1946, Bedouins exploring caves in the cliff found the first of what became known as the “Dead Sea Scrolls.” Archaeologists then explored the nearby area, discovering more than 950 complete manuscripts and fragments in 11 additional caves, with Cave 4 yielding the largest cache. The scrolls include at least portions of all the books of the Hebrew Scriptures except Esther, pushing the dates of the oldest known copies of those books back about 1,000 years. Others contain recognized books not in the Hebrew Scriptures, including Jubilees and 1 Enoch.

After finding the scrolls, archaeologists excavated the nearby ruins of Qumran, unearthing a narrow room, ceremonial baths, pottery and inkwells. Some scholars are convinced Qumran was home to the Essenes, a strict first century Jewish sect,

who wrote or copied the scrolls in their “scriptorium.” Qumran guides recite this idea, speculating that John the Baptist may have been an Essene. Others argue, with equal conviction, that Qumran was a villa, a fortress or perhaps a pottery factory having no connection with the scrolls, which they claim were hidden by people fleeing Jerusalem before its fall in 70 A.D. Others believe the scrolls were written at Qumran, but not by Essenes.

No matter who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls, their discovery has added greatly to understanding the diversity of Jewish thinking about the Messiah at the time of Jesus. Their discovery has also spurred a new interest in Essenes, known from the writings of first century historian Josephus but previously ignored because of the biblical emphasis on the Sadducees and Pharisees.

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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• Nine conference classrooms and boardrooms

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• 12,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose auditorium

• 24’ x 36’ stage

• Easy load-in areas with overhead door

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Sites in Qumran National Park (Photo by Don Knebel)

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