Avon Magazine September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021

MAGAZINE

Simply the Fest AVON COMMUNITY HERITAGE FESTIVAL RETURNS A HEART FOR GIVING

Local Girl Spreads Joy Through Selflessness and Creativity WESTSIDE MUSIC ACADEMY

Music Instruction Facility Celebrates First Anniversary in Avon

TownePost.com

DRIVEN TO BE #1 IN INDIANA FOR YOUR HEART CARE At Franciscan Health, we’re driven to keep you doing what you love. It’s what’s inspired us to become the number one hospital in Indiana for interventional coronary care*. So, let’s get you on the road to better heart health.

Visit FranciscanHealth.org/HeartCare to request an appointment

*CareChex® Awards by Quantros

We Can Fix It Fast For A Lot Less Money NOW HIRING LEAD ELECTRICIANS The ideal candidate will have 5 year minimum experience in Residential and Commercial work.

INCLUDES FULL BENEFITS & EQUAL PAY Generators

Outdoor Receptacles

220 Circuits

Lightning Strike Repairs

Security Lighting

Landscape Lighting

Hot Tubs

Electrical Repairs

Outlets and Switches

Home Inspection Lists

GFCIs

Ceiling Lights/Fans

and Much More!

24 HOUR SERVICE FryeElectricInc.com /FryeElectric

FREE QUOTES 317-271-1099 @FryeElectric

A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

For advertising information, contact:

IN THIS ISSUE

SEPTEMBER 2021

PUBLISHER DARREN BOSTON darren@townepost.com 317.716.8812

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER/CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ROBERT TURK rob@townepost.com 317.810.0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT JOSH BROWN

7

28

CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL HACKER

Avon Community Heritage Festival Returns

Tips to Ensure Safety During Baby’s First Year

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ROBBY BERRY COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

SIMPLY THE FEST

13

32

Local Girl Spreads Joy Through Selflessness and Creativity

The Goddard School of Avon

A HEART FOR GIVING REAL-TIME ANALYTICS Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

#SPOTLIGHTINGLOCAL FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT franchising.townepost.com

NATIONAL BABY SAFETY MONTH

21

7 REASONS TO GET EXCITED FOR FOOTBALL SEASON

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT™

37

WESTSIDE MUSIC ACADEMY

Music Instruction Facility Celebrates First Anniversary in Avon

25

A WEIGHT LIFTED

EMDR Therapy Helps to Reprocess Traumatic Events KEY CONTRIBUTORS ABIGAIL HAKE / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING DR. NICOLE STEBER / JAMIE HERGOTT

Dr. Shannon L. Austin, Au.D. Serving the West Side Community Personalized & Comprehensive Hearing Healthcare • 18 years of experience • Accepting patients of all ages • Able to determine plan of care for devices purchased elsewhere

Online Ordering Available at: cabincoffeeonlineordering.com

• Evening & early morning appointments available weekly

(317) 563-3060

5530 E. US Hwy 36

FREE FREE CHOCOLATE SHORT DRINK

CHIP COOKIE with any purchase

(317) 932-0099 | SLAaudiology.com 480 E. Northfield Dr., Ste. 600 | Brownsburg

Not Valid With Any Other Offer.

Expires 10-31-21

Buy 1 drink & get any short drink for free.

Not Valid With Any Other Offer.

Expires 10-31-21

We’re Bursting With Color McCammon’s Irish Market is a unique store offering the finest line of Irish & fall gifts.

We feature a large variety of indoor plants & beautiful fall perennials & annuals.

We have over 2000 trees to choose from with free delivery within a 35-mile radius.

Please let us help you with all your landscaping & tree installation needs.

Check out our great selection of fresh produce.

Choose from our huge selection of mums.

5 for only $40

Check out our great selection of fresh produce.

All Trees Now 20% Off

Fall Festival

Sept 18th Stop by & enjoy live music, food & fun!

(317) 885-8707 3480 N State Road 267 – Brownsburg www.mccammonsirishmarket.com

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 5

6 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Simply the Fest AVON COMMUNITY HERITAGE FESTIVAL RETURNS Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

The past year and a half has prompted patience, perspective and perhaps a newfound appreciation for change. Still, there’s something to be said for nostalgia, which is why it’s nice to be able to welcome back many activities and annual traditions that were put on pause last year.

One of those is the Avon Community Heritage Festival, which started in 1998 and is all about celebrating and showcasing the community.

“When it first started, there were a

few community members looking for something they could do to bring the community together because we didn’t have any celebrations at the time,” says Tracy Justice, human resources director with Washington Township, Hendricks County, and this year’s festival president.

“This festival pretty much pioneered celebration in the community.”

It rained during the festival’s first year, but many people came nevertheless - a clear sign that the community was hungry for a gathering. It became a tradition that expanded into the annual TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 7

tree lighting to welcome the winter holidays.

“The Avon Community Heritage Festival was really about bringing the community together so that local business owners could showcase their products, and then it expanded into the schools getting involved,” Justice says. “Each year we highlight all the great things we have

going on in this community and enjoy it together.”

THINKING ABOUT YOUR FUTURE? Your future begins with us! Harlan Bakeries, a family-owned, award-winning baked goods manufacturer with over 30 years of delivering exceptional products to millions of households.

One in 10 Americans have enjoyed a food product manufactured by Harlan. If you want more than just a job, becoming a Certified Food Manufacturing Professional may be for you!

• Full-time employment with a minimum of 40 hours a week • Competitive pay and benefits • Free healthcare clinic • Opportunities for growth Harlan Bakeries offers careers in production, warehousing, maintenance and sanitation.

Snap this QR code or visit our website to start your signature career with real professional advancement today!

w w w.j o i n h a r l a n . com

Harlan Bakeries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, race, ethnicity, religion, veteran status, disability status, genetic information, or any other protected category.

The festival returns this year on September 25, and while some things remain the same, other things have changed for this year. COVID-19 affected a lot of sponsorships, which means the event will not include the talent show, local choirs or dance teams. However, each year the board of directors tries to incorporate new ideas into the festival, so this year in lieu of the talent show, parade and bounce houses, they are including a 5K Color Throw and Color Fun Run. Participants can register to run individually or in groups of four or more.

“As you run, volunteers will throw color at you, and then at 6 p.m. runners will congregate by the amphitheater for a color splash where people will get their packets together and throw them all up for a color-bomb explosion,” Justice says.

“We’re hoping for a beautiful, pictureworthy moment.”

Justice says the idea for the 5K was tied into the fact that for many, this year has been all about getting outside and moving, not to mention that Avon has a number of trails. The run will take place on White Lick Creek Trail starting at 4 p.m.

“This 5K may draw a new crowd as it appeals to those who love to gather for active events,” Justice says. “Plus, it’s a chance to work towards shedding those COVID-19 pounds while mingling with members of our community.”

This employer participates in E-Verify

Folks of all ages are welcome to sign up for the run.

8 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

“We thought the run was a fun way to celebrate the return of the Avon Community Heritage Festival,” Justice says. “Plus, there hasn’t ever been a color throw and fun run here in Avon, so we thought we might as well start one.”

As always, the event will include nonprofit, craft, and business vendor booths, but instead of being located on the lawn by the playground equipment, everything will be set up in the lower park where Festival After Dark has happened in previous years. The time of the festival is also different this year. In years past, the daytime portion of the festival took place from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. This year, however, festivities begin at 3:30 p.m.

Vendors will be set up until 7 p.m.

“It’s always fun to see what the vendors have as they pass out a lot of free swag,” Justice says.

GOIN’ FRESH FOR GOIN’ FALL

FRESH FOR GOIN’ FALL FRESH FOR

NEW

NEW

Now Hiring

GOIN’ FALL

Full & part-time positions with paid benefits for full-time crew members.

Applications can be submitted at: www.tropicalsmoothie.com

FRESH FOR FALL NEW

NEW

GREEN GODDESS FLATBREAD

GREEN GODDESS FLATBREAD

NEW

NEW

STRAWBERRY CHIA LEMONADE SMOOTHIE

STRAWBERRY CHIA LEMONADE SMOOTHIE

(PICK YOUR PROTEIN)

NEW

STRAWBERRY CHIA LEMONADE SMOOTHIE NEW ©2021.

Tropical Smoothie Café, LLC. While supplies last.

GREEN GODDESS FLATBREAD (PICK YOUR PROTEIN) (PICK YOUR PROTEIN)

From 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., folks can participate via smartphone in a trivia contest, and winners will receive a prize.

Following the trivia contest will be a special presentation to recognize the community’s essential workers. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. a beer and wine garden will be available. There will also be two food trucks and a dessert truck so that everyone’s palates will be pleased. At 7 p.m. local band Crowd Therapy will begin playing a selection of pop, dance, blues, country, R&B and rock cover tunes.

Fireworks shoot off at 9 p.m. Deejay Shane Ray from WYRZ will emcee the event.

GREEN GODDESS FLATBREAD (PICK YOUR PROTEIN)

STRAWBERRY CHIA LEMONADE SMOOTHIE

$2.99 ANY 24 OZ SMOOTHIE

©2021. Tropical Smoothie Café, LLC. While supplies last.

$$2.99 2.99

©2021. Tropical Smoothie Café, LLC. While supplies last.

©2021. Tropical Smoothie Café, LLC. While supplies last.

©2021. Tropical Smoothie Café, LLC. While supplies last.

With purchase of food item (excludes breakfast, kids, and sides)

$2.99

National Code: 1151

(317) 941-7337

Not valid with any other offer or discount, A NYY 224 4O Z OValid Z only in-cafe at participating locations.TropicalSmoothieCafe.com AN third-party services, online orders or the Tropical Smoothie Cafe® app. Must surrender original plus applicable tax. Modifications, fresh S MOOOOT T E at time of purchase. Copies not accepted. Price SM H IHEIcoupon 10720 E US Hwy 36 - Avon add-ins and supplements extra. Limit one smoothie per coupon. Expires 11/02/21. Code: 1151

With purchase of food item item (excludes breakfast, kids, and sides) With purchase of food (excludes breakfast, kids, and sides)

National Code: 1151

The community buzz surrounding the return of the festival is upbeat and positive.

National Code: 1151 Valid only in-cafe at participating locations. Not valid with any other offer or discount,

third-party orders or the locations.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe®with app. any Must other surrender original Valid onlyservices, in-cafeonline at participating Not valid offer or discount, coupon at time of purchase. Copies not accepted. Price plus applicable tax. Modifications, fresh third-party services, online orders or the Tropical Smoothie Cafe® app. Must surrender original add-ins and supplements extra. Limit one smoothie per coupon. Expires 11/02/21. Code: 1151

ANY 24 OZ SMOOTHIE TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 9

coupon at time of purchase. Copies not accepted. Price plus applicable tax. Modifications, fresh add-ins and supplements extra. Limit one smoothie per coupon. Expires 11/02/21. Code: 1151

With purchase of food item (excludes breakfast, kids, and sides)

Selling Solutions, Not Promises

Kim Morgan kim@kimmorgan.net 317-698-9927 www.kimmorgan.net (! S

“People are excited that we’re bringing it back,” Justice says. “They are ready to get out of the house and do something fun, and this festival is family friendly.”

Justice is thrilled that organizers get to hold the event again, because perhaps this year more than ever, connecting with friends, neighbors and loved ones is important.

how to get started. We’re always looking for new board members who can bring in fresh ideas.”

If you love live music, tasty food and creating great memories with your community, come check out the Avon Community Heritage Festival on September 25.

To register for the 5K run, visit avoncommunityheritagefestival.org. To share your interest in becoming a board member, call 317-745-0785 or email avonheritagefestival@gmail.com.

“I love being outdoors and meeting new people, and just seeing the joy on people’s faces,” says Justice, a sixyear Hendricks County resident who decided to get involved with the board of directors after living here for a couple years because she yearned for community connection.

“It’s a great opportunity for people to get to know one another,” she adds. “If you’re interested in joining the board, send us an email and we can tell you

We love your grandparents like they’re our own.

Our residents are a part of our family, and we’re honored to earn the right each day to be considered a part of theirs. Call today to learn more about joining the Independence Village family!

317-406-4537 | IndependenceVillages.com Independence Village of Avon 182 S. County Road 550 E., Avon, IN 46123

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 11

Now accepting new patients!

Avon health services We founded American Health Network, part of Optum on the belief that health care is a collaborative effort. It needs to be proactive, not just reactive, meaning we need to help patients stay healthy and avoid sickness in the first place.

Our address: 8607 E US Highway 36 Avon, IN 46123

Primary care providers • • • •

Abbie Tolliver, MD Monica Hauger, NP Jennifer Pelley, NP Mary Schmoll, NP

N County Rd 900 E

Mark Benson, DO Eric Hewitt, DO Mark Lamb, MD Thaddaeus Poe, MD Daniel Storey, MD

Dan Jones Rd

• • • • •

Get in touch!

We’re now accepting new patients and would be honored to help you achieve your healthiest life! To find a primary care provider or schedule a video visit, call our office at 317-745-5403 American Health Network does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in its health programs and activities. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call 888.255.2246.

ATTENTION: We provide free services to help you communicate with us such as letters in other languages or large print.

Or, you can ask for an interpreter. To ask for help, please call 888-255-2246. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español (Spanish), hay servicios de asistencia de idiomas, sin cargo, a su disposición. Llame al 888-255-2246. 請注意：如果您說中文 (Chinese) 我們免費為您提供語言協助服務 。請 致電：888-255-2246.

Visit us at

ahni.com

© 2021 Optum, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

2131_210517 Avon Primary Care 7-125x4-75.indd 1

5/20/21 11:42 AM

Hendricks County. Make it your home.

Life Happens.

Claire-Anne Aikman

Baby. New job. Toddlerdom. New puppy. Teenagers.

Graduations. Promotions. Empty Nesting.

317.345.6640 caikman@encoresothebysrealty.com encoresothebysrealty.com

Claire-Anne puts her heart into finding you your perfect home to house your memories.

12 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

A HEART FOR GIVING LOCAL GIRL SPREADS JOY THROUGH SELFLESSNESS AND CREATIVITY Writer / Jamie Hergott Photography Provided

At the tender age of 11, Ellie Hart has already been through enough medical procedures and doctor’s appointments to rival many adults. However, no one would ever guess it when they witness her sweet smile and joyful countenance.

“I’m in sixth grade,” Ellie says. “I like training my cat, playing video games with my brother Corban, and I love doing clay.”

Creating clay items, specifically handheld hearts, is a passion and hobby that was born out of her life’s greatest adversity so far. She creates multicolored hearts out of polymer clay and passes them out to anyone she can find, to spread love and kindness.

At 6 years old, Ellie was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis ( JRA). She woke up one morning and came into her

parents’ room, unable to walk with a swollen key to finding out Ellie had JRA. As an autoimmune disorder, JRA causes Ellie’s knee. body to attack itself, including her joints and eyes. She began weekly shots right away.

“She hadn’t injured it, and it was warm to Her mom had to administer them, and not the touch,” says Ellie’s mom, Mindy Hart. only were they painful, but as a low dose of “We kept an eye on it and eventually she chemotherapy they also made Ellie sick. could bear weight on it. This went on for about two weeks.”

Finding out the answer to Ellie’s health issues was both relieving and terrifying to Mindy and her husband finally took Ellie Mindy. to her pediatrician. After X-rays, doctors still couldn’t pinpoint the problem so they assumed Ellie had injured it. Mindy knew “On one hand, it was a relief to know there something wasn’t right. After sitting for long was a reason for her struggles,” Mindy periods of time in school assemblies, Ellie says. “It was also definitely overwhelming. wasn’t able to walk. Finally, an orthopedic Learning to give her those shots, especially doctor suggested they see a rheumatologist when they hurt her and made her sick, was for blood work. so hard. I felt like I was poisoning my child.

We got through it with the amazing support At this point, Ellie’s eyes were becoming of friends, family, and church family.” affected with inflammation. This was the SEPTEMBER 2021

Ellie doesn’t remember too much from those early days of her diagnosis, but she does remember the shots.

“I remember being scared,” Ellie says. “It was painful, but soon my body knew that I’d also get sick after my shot so it got really hard.”

Ellie has always had the support of her older brother Corban. She loves playing video games with him, and he’s always been sympathetic to her health struggles.

“Corban has been so understanding,” Mindy says. “Usually in a family, when one

kiddo is sick, the other one can struggle. He never did.”

After two years, Ellie’s body began rejecting the chemo, but by that point she was in non-medicated remission. She still enjoys remission now, and is staying busy with her clay project.

Her passion for clay came from a general interest in crafting. She could never do a lot of sports because of her health, so Hobby Lobby became a place to find things to do.

During the COVID pandemic, Ellie wanted to do something to help others. She knew how it felt to miss out for health reasons,

and her empathy compelled her to act.

She discovered that she could flatten polymer clay, use tiny heart-shaped cookie cutters to make little hearts, bake them, and create beautiful handheld creations to pass out. She decided to make a batch of hearts and pass them out at a local nursing home.

She passed out 80 hearts that day and knew she was onto something.

“It just felt good to make people happy,” Ellie says. “Especially during COVID, when people couldn’t have visitors, I just felt so bad. Some people cry when I give them the hearts. Most are just really appreciative.”

NEED AN AFFORDABLE MEDICARE PLAN THAT’S IN STEP WITH YOUR LIFE? Choosing the right Medicare coverage can be confusing.

I can help you find the Medicare plan that’s right for you and your budget.

DANNA GREEN

Licensed Insurance Agent

I CAN HELP!

(317) 430-7094 Walk-ins welcome!

HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, Inc. is licensed as an insurance agency in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability varies by State.

SEPTEMBER 2021

Since then Ellie has created more than 5,000 hearts, with plans to create even more. Sometimes she creates custom orders with the colors people ask for.

Other times, she just passes out what she has.

Mindy remembers one specific time when their family was in Nashville, and Ellie spotted a homeless man in a motorized wheelchair. Ellie tugged on her mom’s arm, asking, “Mom, do you have any hearts? Quick!” Ellie grabbed one, jumped out of the car, and gave the man one of her clay hearts.

Personalized vascular care close to home

“He was so touched by this little girl getting out of a car and giving him a heart,” Mindy says. “He put it in his pocket and said he’d hold onto it forever.

She has chased down people in stores before and once people realize she’s just doing it to brighten their day, their countenance changes.”

The Hart family is part of several Facebook groups connecting families struggling with JRA. The groups offer community and support, and through those groups, Ellie has been able to make and send hearts to multiple locations across the globe including Europe, South Africa and Australia.

Ellie has also made items for Riley Hospital for Children, and hopes to make connections to pass out hearts for Veterans Day at the VA medical center in Indianapolis. She’s created batches for birthdays, holidays and special events.

People have even asked her to create and sell batches so that they could pass the hearts out themselves. Armed with business cards, her plan for the near future is to create batches of 20 hearts for $5 to help others spread the same cheer and kindness that she does.

“We just love the idea of helping others spread kindness too,” Mindy says.

In-person and virtual visits available The vascular specialists you trust are at Ascension Medical Group Avon Heart and Vascular Care. We offer heart and vascular testing on-site, as well as virtual visits. If we do see you for an in-person appointment, know we’re fully prepared for your safety in our care.

Brent Marsden, MD Vascular Surgery

Katiri Elkins, NP Vascular Surgery

Get the heart and vascular care that’s right for you at Ascension.org/StVincentHeart or call 317-204-8140.

Avon Heart and Vascular Care 9166 E. US Highway 36 Avon, IN 46123

Corban is inspired by his little sister’s resilience and mission to spread love.

“She just spends hours in her room making them,” Corban says. “Once after only about two days she made 1,000

Sarah Strot, DO Vascular Surgery

Ascension St. Vincent © Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.

SEPTEMBER 2021

hearts. After seeing people’s reactions to her, it’s just nice to know she’s doing something that’s making her and everyone else happier. She’s doing something good and something she enjoys. It’s amazing.

She’s going to be a sensation.”

Ellie’s mom sees a greater purpose at work in her daughter’s diagnosis and hearts. As Ellie has latched onto her clay heart project, Mindy sees the healing that has come to Ellie by focusing on others in her time of struggling with JRA. “It helped her in her pain,” Mindy says. “It helped her focus on other people instead of focusing on what was going on with her.

She has always been really sensitive to other people and their needs, so it’s amazing to see that sensitivity and compassion for others nurtured and heightened.”

To stay up to date on Ellie’s clay heart project, visit facebook.com/ ElliesClayCreations.

NOW HIRING! TJMaxx in Plainfield

is Hiring!

At TJX, we embrace the unknown & support each other along the way. Everyday is a new adventure, a fresh chance to experience retail. We are not afraid to stand out. Stand for something. Our merchandise is ever-changing & our approach is continually evolving.

Plainfield TJMaxx is currently looking for: • Part time associates for days, nights & weekend shifts • Flexible hours in a variety of positions • Markdown & stocking team working 7am to 12:30pm

Career opportunities are always in style at TJMaxx!

Go to: JOBS.TJX.COM

Type in Plainfield to direct you to our store.

SEPTEMBER 2021

Welcome to Better

2 Communities in Brownsburg Schools!

The Villas at Wynne Farms & Sonora in Brownsburg Call 317-532-5313 or email salesindy@mihomes.com mihomes.com/Indy SEPTEMBER 2021

LOOKING FOR A GREAT WAY TO

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR UPCOMING EVENT?

Contact us to find out more!

CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE!

Darren@TownePost.com MEDIA KIT 2017

E PR

MI

ER

IS S

UE

(317) 716-8812 Darren@PlainfieldMag.com MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2016

N OW H IRIN G !

Meteorolgist

Chuck Lofton

life in Avon loves EXCELLENT COMPANY! EXCELLENT BENEFITS! EXCELLENT CAREER! atAvon.com

MAGAZINE

MARCH 2017

MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2017

LET’S GET MACHINING! TAMIKA CATCHINGS

POSITIONS AVAILABLE: Entry Level CNC Operators Experiences Machinists Shipping/Receiving

GREEK RESTAURANT

Enjoying Retired Life on the West Side

OWNER GUS DAGRES REFLECTS ON THE GUIDE TO GREEK CUISINE

AvonMagazine.com

AvonMagazine.com

CONTACT:

Phone: 317-244-7724 Email: tri.k.machining@gmail.com www.tri-k.net

SEPTEMBER 2021

120 Commerce Drive Danville, IN 46122

are you a WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS?

DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 3RD

SUBMIT YOUR BUSINESS LISTING ONLINE AT TOWNEPOST.COM/WOMAN-OWNED TO BE INCLUDED IN OUR SPECIAL OCTOBER ISSUE

Windows - Siding - Doors & More

Industries Strongest Limited Lifetime Warranty - Including Glass Breakage

Call Today For a Free Virtual Estimate

Buy Today, Take Time To Pay *Special 0% Financing Available

Rated #1 in Price! — 2019 Ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power More Times than Any Other Window and Patio Door Retailer.

Window World received the highest score among Retailers in the J.D. Power 2013, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2019 Window and Patio Door Satisfaction Study of customers’ satisfaction with their windows and/ or patio doors purchase. Visit jdpower.com/awards Color Palette

CMYK: 0, 100, 36, 37

317-209-0008 | WindowWorld.com

CMYK: 0, 8, 22, 56

RGB: 147, 22, 56

PANTONE® 1955 C

SEPTEMBER 2021

Hex #: 931638

RGB: 140, 127, 112

PANTONE®

Warm Grey 9 C

Hex #: 8C7F70

Fall Is The Best Time To Aerate Your Lawn!

Contact us today to schedule your service

BENEFITS INCLUDE: • More nutrients, air & water to the roots • Thicker & deeper roots • Decrease in thatch layer & soil compaction • More room for new seeds to germinate (if overseeding)

136 Casco Drive – Avon • (317) 339-8536 info@allterrainlandscape.com

SEPTEMBER 2021

7 REASONS TO GET EXCITED FOR FOOTBALL SEASON Writer / Abigail Hake Photography Provided

F

ootball season is right around the corner and while you may or may not be a diehard fan, lots of people are ready for the season to get started, not only because of the game but because of all that goes along with it! Many Americans would suggest that football is the best sport in the world. Here are seven reasons why fans and non-fans alike are ready for the season to start again.

1. TOGETHERNESS No matter what you think, football brings us together.

At all levels of the game, people come together to cheer or boo. You bond with those sitting next to you in the bleachers or standing next to you on the field. You root for your team and hope for a win together with all the rest of the fans around you. You watch together with your family and friends in the comfort of your own home. It’s a common bond between you and those on your favorite team.

2. RIVALRIES Don’t say you like all teams because that’s not true, and you know it.

We all know there are teams that just don’t get along and don’t like each other. Like the Packers and Bears, the Cowboys and Eagles, and obviously the Colts and the Patriots. Rivalries bring out the best in athletes and encourage competition, but the most intense rivalries are amongst the National Football League teams. And a good rivalry is not only exciting, but great for ratings!

SEPTEMBER 2021

3. FOOD Football food is just the best. Dips, pretzels, burgers, nachos, beer.

What more could you ask for? The best part of watching a game is lingering around the kitchen island or visiting the concessions during halftime at the stadium. And did you know that more food is consumed on Super Bowl Sunday than at Thanksgiving?

4. TAILGATING When you go to a game, high school, college, or NFL, you don’t show up right at gametime. Like any good fan, you arrive a little early and with a cooler! Hanging outside the venue with friends for hours before the big game is a must-have experience and can be extra special if you are visiting somewhere like Lambeau Field or Notre Dame Stadium. No matter the weather, tailgating is all about having fun and indulging in unhealthy food, drinks and games. Oh, and you

might even make friends with those on the other side!

5. TRADITIONS Football is a tradition most enjoyed on Friday nights while growing up and Sundays with family. If you love the NFL, it’s very likely that you grew up watching with relatives who followed a favorite team or just the sport in general. I mean, what do you think of when Thanksgiving comes around? That’s right, food and football. Families across the country go out to play America’s favorite sport on the front lawns and when they are done, everyone heads back inside to watch the game. It’s almost religious.

6. FANTASY FOOTBALL The return of the NFL also means that fantasy football is upon us. Not only is it a hobby for many, it’s a multi-million dollar industry that paved the way for all other fantasy sports. People

SEPTEMBER 2021

can compete with friends by picking and following their favorite players to create their fantasy team. It requires a little savvy and strategy, but is fun to follow and also to try to one-up your friends!

7. THE SUPER BOWL Even those who don’t like football love the Super Bowl. Considered a national holiday by many, this is a spectacle enjoyed by all. The rivalries are fierce, the stadiums are packed, the half-time shows are unreal, and obviously the commercials are amazing. The Super Bowl is the culmination of the entire season and watchers

everywhere stay up late and call in sick the next day just to enjoy the entire show.

In the end, when fall rolls around, we are totally ready for Fridays to be spent at the local game, Saturdays to be taken over by the best college games, and Sundays to be taken over by pregame shows and commentators. We all feel better when football is back in action and we can enjoy the season for all the right reasons, with family, friends and even those who are cheering for the other side.

THERE’S STILL TIME TO ENTER!

EXTERIOR IMPROVEMENT

GIVEAWAY

WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH $10K? • Windows • Siding, Soffit & Fascia • Roofing

• Gutters & Covers • Doors • Garage Doors

SPIN TO WIN EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS! ENTER NOW AT whiteoakconstruction.com

Amish Quality Baked Fresh Everyday

FIND YOUR STRENGTH Open Mon-Sat 7am-6pm | (317) 384-1024 9263 E. US Hwy 36 – Avon Across from Walmart

Whether individually through personal training or with a team in small group training, the Y has what you need to find your strength.

Learn more at INDYMCA.org.

P U M P K I N PATC H I S H E R E !

FALL FESTIVALS SEPTEMBER 24TH THROUGH OCTOBER 31 ST Apple Cannons · Hay Rides to the Pumpkin Patch Corn Maze · Barnyard Bonanza · Food Vendors

ORDER YOUR TICKETS ONLINE TO START HARVESTING MEMORIES WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS FARM MARKET HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 9 AM - 6 PM | SUNDAY: 12 PM - 6 PM | 2304 E. MAIN ST. DANVILLE, IN 46122 | 317--745-- 4876 BEASLEYS-- ORCHARD.COM @BEASLEYSORCHARD @BEASLEYS.ORCHARD

SEPTEMBER 2021

A WEIGHT LIFTED

EMDR THERAPY HELPS TO REPROCESS TRAUMATIC EVENTS Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

It was a sunny August day in 2017, the week following her son Matt’s 23rd birthday, when Teresa Youngen experienced a tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure. She was outside vacuuming her pool, and came inside and knocked on Matt’s bedroom door. When he didn’t answer, she opened the door and was horrified to find that he had taken his life.

Anyone who has ever lost someone to suicide can tell you there is no moving past such a catastrophic event. From that moment forward, there is “before” and “after,” but never again “normal.”

“It’s horrifying to walk into a room and realize that the person you love so, so, so much has done this to himself,” Youngen says.

pills to numb herself.

“I knew I couldn’t go on living at that level of agitation and horror,” she says.

One day when she was attending a suicide survivor support group at Hendricks Regional Health, someone suggested she try eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. During “It was like I’d been struck by a lightning EMDR the patient thinks about the bolt,” Youngen says. “In my mind’s eye, I’d see Matt in the closet and my blood pressure trauma, while the therapist waves a hand would spike, my throat would go dry, I’d feel or baton in front of them as they follow the sick to my stomach, I’d burst into tears, and movement with their eyes. The therapy, I’d be right there, back in the moment.” which helps the brain process memories and reduce negative feelings about them, It got so bad that Youngen considered taking has been around since the 1980s but has As the weeks and months passed, Youngen was plagued by the terrible vision that was seared into her mind.

SEPTEMBER 2021

grown in popularity in recent years.

“With EMDR, we go back,”says Wendy Byrd, president of the EMDR International Association. “We look at how your past may be affecting what’s happening to you currently. It’s changing the way that the experience is stored, and when the brain changes the way it’s stored, you feel differently about it.”

Through EMDR, Youngen found that her brain was pulled away from reprocessing certain thoughts.

“It’s like being stuck in a rut that you can’t get yourself out of, but with EMDR there is this second thing that’s going on, so now your brain is distracted and is able to reprocess it,” Youngen says. “You’ll never forget it, but you get away from that autonomic response of sky-high blood pressure, anxiety, crying and crashing.

The memory is still painful, but EMDR made it so that it’s no longer debilitating.”

Emily Koehler, LMHC, lead therapist at the Willow Center in Brownsburg, finds

this therapy to be beneficial for clients who have experienced trauma that is negatively impacting their life.

“This could be something that happened last week or several years ago,” says Koehler, noting that the eye movement portion of EMDR helps to stimulate both hemispheres of the brain, assisting with bypassing the part of the brain that has gotten stuck due to the trauma. “I love utilizing EMDR because it empowers clients and helps them build new beliefs around their trauma, promoting inner peace. Each session begins and ends with grounding and stabilization practices, and clients build the inner resources to self-regulate between sessions.”

reprocessing this traumatic image, Youngen decided to use EMDR to help her reprocess other thoughts that trigger her. For instance, the sequence of events that led to finding her son began with entering her house through her back door. As a result, she has refused to use that door ever since.

“It’s as if my brain is telling me, ‘If you never go through that back door, that event never happened,’” Youngen says.

“My brain processes that door as the portal to hell and that if I go through it, my life will be forever horrible.”

She even hung a blanket over the door to avoid seeing it.

Koehler notes that in cases where eye movements are not possible or appropriate for a client, they can offer alternatives for bilateral stimulation.

“It’s been my coping strategy, but the problem with coping strategies is that they get you through the day, not the rest of your life,” Youngen says.

Youngen felt instant relief after just the first session.

In March of 2020, she decided she was ready to tackle this issue so she started EMDR sessions with her therapist.

Because EMDR worked so well with SEPTEMBER 2021

Following her first appointment, she felt so empowered that she drove straight home and removed the blanket from the door.

“I was super excited,” she says. “As I looked outside I thought, ‘I can do this. I’m going to reclaim an area of the house that I truly enjoy.’”

Unfortunately, soon thereafter, COVID-19 hit and she was unable to see her therapist in person. Without that reinforcement, she found herself draping the blanket over the door again. Now, however, she is once again seeing her therapist and making progress using EMDR. “I needed relief because there were days when I thought I was going to fall off this cliff and be completely unable to function,” says Youngen, who encourages anyone who struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder to consider EMDR. Veterans, survivors of violent crime, those involved in accidents or natural disasters, and emergency responders can find healing in this therapy.

what to bring to the party? what to bring to the party?

Y O U ’ R E L O O K I N ’ AT I T Y O U ’ R E L O O K I N ’ AT I T

Youngen has seen others who have benefitted from this type of therapy. For instance her niece, who was an emergency medical technician, witnessed a traffic accident that was burned into her brain, making it difficult for her to eat and sleep.

Youngen recommended EMDR. “While it’s not a panacea or a one-sizefits-all kind of thing, it can be so helpful if you’re open to it,” Youngen says.

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. If you are feeling overwhelmed by feelings of depression and anxiety, call 800-273-8255 or text “TALK” to 741741. For more information, contact the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at afsp.org.

neld Hendricks Regional Health’s suicide

9-4886 survivor support group meets on the first Main St.and third Tuesdays of the month from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information, m/Plain-eld contact Sharon Samsell at 812-494-7783.

catering c a t e r i n g www.Chick-fil-A.com/Avon Avon Plainneld

(317) 271-7760 (317) 839-4886 (317)www.Chick-fil-A.com/Avon 271-7760 10791 Avon,E. INMain 46123 St. 10791 E. US Hwy 36E. US Hwy 36, 2687 Chick--l-A.com/Avon Chick--l-A.com/Plain-eld ©2016 CFA Properties, Inc. Chick-fil-A Stylized® is a registered trademark of CFA Properties, Inc. Nov. ‘16 • MF-035

(317) 271-7760

10791 E. US Hwy 36, Avon, IN 46123

©2016 CFA Properties, Inc. Chick-fil-A Stylized® is a registered trademark of CFA Properties, Inc. Nov. ‘16 • MF-035

SEPTEMBER 2021

NATIONAL BABY SAFETY MONTH

TIPS TO ENSURE SAFETY DURING BABY’S FIRST YEAR Writer / Dr. Nicole Steber, Riley Hospital for Children Pediatric Hospitalist at IU Health West Hospital Photography Provided

September is National Baby Safety Month. During a baby’s first year, they develop many skills such as how to focus their vision and explore their environment. It’s important to understand how to keep your baby safe.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH. One of the best things we can do for our children is take good care of ourselves.

Postpartum anxiety and depression are very common. Talk with your doctor if you are feeling down, stressed or having scary thoughts. It’s normal for babies to cry up to three hours per day, and they are often more awake and fussier at night. It’s important to know that it’s OK to lay them down on their back in their crib and take a break nearby.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help whenever possible.

PROTECT YOUR BABY FROM

SECONDHAND SMOKE. Infants and young children are extremely vulnerable to the poisons in secondhand smoke. Protect your baby from secondhand smoke by not letting anyone smoke near baby. Make sure your home, car and day care are smoke-free. Anyone who smokes should change clothes before holding baby.

KNOW YOUR ABCS. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly encourages safe sleep to decrease the chance of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and suffocation. The ABCs of safe sleep are: Alone on their Back in a Crib (or bassinet). Make sure there are no toys, stuffed animals, pillows or loose blankets in the crib. Be very careful not to fall asleep with your baby, especially near cushions, pillows or blankets.

OPTIMIZE NUTRITION AND AVOID CHOKING HAZARDS. For the first four to six months, babies should only have breastmilk and/or formula.

Drinking water or other fluids can lead to SEPTEMBER 2021

abnormal electrolyte levels and possibly seizures. After four to six months, it’s OK for babies to have soft table foods like avocados, cooked carrots, bananas and pureed baby foods.

Babies explore their environment with all senses, including putting anything they can reach in their mouth. Make sure any small toys or objects such as pills, magnets or batteries are stored away securely. It’s important to always follow the age recommendation listed on your child’s toys.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH VACCINATIONS. Routine vaccinations are crucial for your child’s health and safety. Delaying your child’s vaccines leaves them vulnerable to diseases and can cause serious complications. Talk with your child’s pediatrician to make sure their vaccinations are up to date. It’s also important to make sure everyone around your baby is vaccinated.

NOW

FIXED MY DEER HIT “DIAMOND IS YOUR CAR’S BEST FRIEND”

HIRING

EPICALLY AWESOME, FROYO-LOVIN’, TOTALLY RAD PEEPS Avon & Plainfield locations • • • • •

REPAIRS FROM SMALL DINGS AND DENTS TO FULL ‘TRAIN’ (OR MAYBE THIS TIME ‘DEER’) WRECKS INSURANCE CLAIMS SPECIALIST

COMPUTERIZED PAINT MATCHING

REPAIR ADVISORS

LOCAL FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

• • •

(317) 272-6820 292 S. CO. RD. 800 E. (BEHIND LOWE’S)

DIAMOND-COLLISION.COM

Must be 16 years or older Daytime Availability (10am - 4pm) Weekend Availability (all day) Great first job Great for someone who wants to work on a smaller team Very flexible scheduling $9.00 - $11.00/hour Free Froyo

Apply in store or email stephanie@orangeleafavon.net

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 29

2021

30 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

STRONGER IN 30 MINUTES,

PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY

• • • • •

CARDIO kickboxing STRENGTH training CORE conditioning HIIT/CIRCUIT training Stress relief!

FREE

Introductory Workout

7615 E. US 36 (Rockville Rd.) Avon, IN. 46123

Valid at Avon, IN only

To Sign Up - Call or Text FREETRIAL to:

(with trainer)

www.9round.com/avoninrockville

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 31

(317) 268-6486

THE GODDARD SCHOOL OF AVON 8547 East U.S. Highway 36 Avon, IN

317-272-1337

goddardschool.com

“Students are playing and learning at the same time,” says Robert Cummins, on-site owner of The Goddard School of Avon.

when, 12 years ago, the opportunity presented itself to open The Goddard School of Avon.

As they go from classroom to classroom, students build upon learning experiences so that by the time they graduate from Goddard, they are prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

Being an on-site owner at Goddard enables him to get to know the families.

“The curriculum is play-based because children learn best when they’re having fun,” Cummins says.

Teachers map out the day before students arrive. With Goddard’s flexible curriculum, teachers also build in time for children to explore on their own.

CONNECT

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

The Goddard School provides fun learning experiences for students. This means each individual age group meets curricular goals through play-based activities.

“We had a little boy whose mom recently had another baby - he was struggling with not feeling as important, so he came here for extra TLC,” says Cummins, who made the boy his helper for the morning. “We read books, and he pressed the buttons on the copy machine for me. He appreciated that one-on-one attention.”

In addition to teaching math, literacy and handwriting skills, the staff also teaches Spanish, sign language and yoga. The yoga helps with self-control and calmness, and Serving infants through age 6, the school’s teacher-to-infant ratio is 1:4, teacher-tothe sign language helps younger children toddler ratio is 1:5, teacher-to-2.5- to 3-year- who don’t yet have the verbal skills to communicate. At Goddard, the staff also old ratio is 1:7, and teacher-to-preschooler ratio is 1:10. The actual classroom numbers teaches manners. are doubled because the school has two teachers per class.

“Social-emotional learning is a main focus of our curriculum,” says Cummins, who loves watching children grow in all stages of Cummins, who has a degree in marine science, was halfway through a graduate development throughout a six-year stretch. program in environmental education when “That’s a special treat to see that happen,” he began working in the business world.

He was a plant manager, a project manager Cummins says. “I look forward to another 12 years.” and a corporate quality assurance manager

32 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

• Affordable, Comfortable, State-of-the-Art Care • Same Day Crowns • Teeth Whitening • Invisalign Braces • Fillings and Root Canals • Dentures and Partials • Implants • All Insurances Accepted

Rebecca J. De La Rosa, DDS • www.avonfamilydentist.com • (317) 272-7715

Avon Family Dentistry • 7318 East US Highway 36 Suite 100

Chicken or Steak

$3 OFF ANY $15 PURCHASE $5 OFF ANY $30 PURCHASE $7 OFF ANY $40 PURCHASE El RODEO • AVON Valid with coupon only. Not valid with any other offer.

One coupon per party. Before tax. Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine

STEAK OR CHICKEN - $1.89 EACH GROUND BEEF OR SHREDDED CHICKEN - $1.25 EACH El RODEO • AVON Valid with coupon only. Not valid with any other offer.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 33

LUNCH COMBOS 1-34 INCLUDES FREE SOFT DRINK MON-SAT ONLY El RODEO • AVON Valid with coupon only. Not valid with any other offer.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine

STEAK OR CHICKEN *ONLY VALID ON MONDAYS El RODEO • AVON Valid with coupon only. Not valid with any other offer.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine

Expires 10-31-21

Mr. Handyman® is the most trusted and professional handyman you can call for all your household maintenance and repairs!

Minimum of 4 hours of service. Offer valid one time per household. Available at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer.

OFFER EXPIRES: 9/01/21 OFFER EXPIRES: 10-31-21

20 OFF

$

Brake Repair ’s Ralph

MUFFLER & BRAKE SERVICE

Valid at Avon location ONLY. Most passenger vehicles and light trucks. Disposal or Environmental fees not included. Not valid with other offers. Must present coupon before service.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine.

20 OFF

$

Any Exhaust Service Over $150 lph’s RaMUFFLER & BRAKE SERVICE

Valid at Avon location ONLY. Most passenger vehicles and light trucks. Disposal or Environmental fees not included. Not valid with other offers. Must present coupon before service.

s ’ h p l Ra

MUFFLER & BRAKE SERVICE

Family Owned & Operated Since 1948

Mufflers • Brakes • Shocks/Struts • CV Axles • Belts and Wipers • Oil Changes and Batteries • Coolant System Maintenance • Air Conditioning Service • Alternators and Starters • AND MORE

20 OFF

$

A/C Service or Re-Charge Valid at Avon location ONLY. Most passenger vehicles and light trucks. Disposal or Environmental fees not included. Not valid with other offers. Must present coupon before service.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine.

Mon–Thurs: 8 am–5 pm Fri: 8 am–6 pm, Sat: 8 am–1 pm

PUT OUR EXPERTISE TO WORK FOR YOU

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine.

lph’s RaMUFFLER & BRAKE SERVICE

No Appointment Necessary

240 S. Dan Jones Rd (Behind Lowes) AVON • 317-272-6294 ralphsmufflerandbrakesshops.com 34 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

10% OFF ENTIRE BILL

present this coupon to receive 10% OFF your lunch or dinner

FREE APPETIZER

UP TO $7

WITH ANY PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE

Valid Mon-Fri only with coupon.

Not valid with any other offers.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine.

Valid 7 days a week with coupon only.

Not valid with any other offers.

Expires 10-31-21. Avon Magazine.

1 FREE MEAL & DESSERT ON YOUR BIRTHDAY

*When dining in with your family or friends.

DINE WITH AN ISLAND VIEW • Full Bar • Gyros • Saganaki • Fresh Made Hummus • Dolmades • Lamb • Big TVs • Reservations Welcome

FOLLOW US! Owner, Gus Dagres

7900 US HWY 36 • AVON | (317) 707-7513 | OPAOFINDY.COM

50% Off Entrees

for Seniors every Wed. (EXCLUDES RIBEYE & SEAFOOD MEALS)

With this Avon Magazine Coupon. Not Valid with Daily Specials or Other Offers. One coupon per guest check. Expires 10/31/21.

Save $3 Off Any Check of $20 or More BEFORE SALES TAX

With this Avon Magazine Coupon. Not Valid with Daily Specials or Other Offers. One coupon per guest check. Expires 10/31/21.

Save $5 Off Any Check of $30 or More BEFORE SALES TAX

With this Avon Magazine Coupon. Not Valid with Daily Specials or Other Offers. One coupon per guest check. Expires 10/31/21.

Avon: Camby: Clermont:

7840 E US Hwy 36 • (317) 742-7212 8411 Windfall Ln • (317) 821-2943

9045 Crawfordsville Rd • (317) 757-2620 Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm • Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm • Sun 11am-10pm TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 35

10% OFF To Go Order BEFORE SALES TAX With this Avon Magazine Coupon. Not Valid with Daily Specials or Other Offers. One coupon per guest check. Expires 10/31/21.

Velez Dentistry provides comprehensive dental care in our new state of the art clinic. Our services include: Exams & Cleanings Fillings & Crowns Dentures Dental Implants

Invisalign Clear Aligners Professional Whitening Extractions Digital Smile Design

FREE

Consultations Smile Analysis

(317) 745-6355 www.velezdentistry.com 5250 E US Hwy 36, Ste. 800 | Avon

Bring Your Landscape to Light!

custom outdoor lighting solutions that make your property shine and add safety and security to your home

francoland.com 317-858-3858

Contact Us For A Free Lighting Demo

36 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Christian Academy, where she also took on many other roles, from choir director to music librarian to harp tuner. When she began teaching music theory, she met Kirchenbauer and they worked together for five years.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION FACILITY CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY IN AVON Ogden’s childhood was adventurous as she learned to hunt and fish with her dad. She began learning piano at the age of 7 and was At 14 years old, Erica Ogden announced to not motivated to practice. However, her skill her parents she was quitting piano lessons. It’s was evident, and as a young adult she opted a good thing they didn’t allow it. Ogden never for a degree in music at Pensacola Christian would have guessed that as an adult, she would College. open Westside Music Academy in Avon along with friends and business partners Saundra “It was my skill that captured me as a Kirchenbauer and Susan Finney. At Westside freshman,” Ogden says. “Once I got to college, Music Academy, students learn musical theory I was around people in the same field and and skills in piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, getting inspiration from teachers. I saw what it guitar, concert percussion and voice, from could be.” skilled, passionate and degreed teachers.

Writer / Jamie Hergott Photography Provided

Growing up in the mountains of Virginia,

She began teaching music at Pensacola TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 37

When Ogden’s husband took a job in Indiana and they moved, Ogden decided she could teach piano anywhere. She opened Erica’s Piano Studio in 2013, quickly growing her enrollment to 50 students per week. By the time she closed the doors in 2020, she had 40 students on her wait list. She wanted to continue teaching but knew she needed help, and there was only one person she would trust her business with.

“Saundra is highly talented, skilled and organized,” Ogden says. “I called her in Florida, and I thought for sure she’d shut me down, but we began talking through what it could look like.”

Unbeknownst to Ogden, Kirchenbauer was already contemplating moving back to the Indy area, where her family is from, as was Finney. The opportunity, while out of the blue, turned out to be the perfect solution for all three women.

The three women opened Westside Music Academy in August of 2020, and just celebrated their first anniversary.

“We opened right in the middle of a pandemic,” Ogden says. “We took my little studio of almost 50 and we’re knocking on the door of 200 now. That’s my next goal.”

The staff has a wide range of skills, and all of them have teaching experience and degrees in music, which is rare in a music studio. Cindy Porzio teaches voice and the Music FunTime program, William Sousa teaches strings and piano, and Ben Edwards teaches guitar. Finney will be teaching bassoon lessons this fall.

Kirchenbauer teaches beginning piano, and all woodwind and brass instruments.

“There are six of us, and we’re a very diverse group,” Ogden says. “We have a great team, great culture, we have fun, we laugh a lot, but we take great care in staying focused on the same goals.”

Need a New Roof?

Rick’s ROOFING

Local Company • 30 Years Experience Roofing • Siding • Gutters Licensed, Insured and Bonded

FREE ESTIMATES (317) 223-3972 • (765) 993-0377 RICKSROOFINGAVON.COM rick@ricksroofingavon.com 38 / AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Those goals revolve around instilling a love for music in students and furthering the advancement of music on the west side of Indianapolis.

“Music is a very special thing,” Kirchenbauer says. “There really isn’t much you can learn and enjoy like this for your entire life. Our goal isn’t to just teach, but to instill a love of music.”

Finney also feels an immense sense of purpose in the work of the academy. While she handles all the finances of the business, she is excited to start teaching bassoon lessons this fall. She started playing piano at 6 years old, and music has always been a constant, calming skill she could turn to in all seasons of life.

“Music has always helped me significantly in life,” Finney says. “It’s a crucial tool for a lot of kids in many areas of development.

It has a calming effect, helps with mood enhancement, stimulates the brain, and helps with retention.”

Coming Soon!

Luxury Senior Living Community in Avon.

Students’ ages range from toddlers in the Music FunTime program, where students get introduced to different types of instruments, all the way up almost 70 years of age.

“We want to encourage creating music, sharing music, and communicating using music,” Ogden says. “It is a language after all, that can be felt across every culture. Kids need caring and skilled teachers who love what they do. The marching bands here are brilliant, and we just want to keep furthering music in Hendricks County and beyond.”

Call t rese oday to r mos ve ou r t floo popula r rpla ns!

After increasing enrollment from 50 students to nearly 200 in a short time, Ogden has plans to continue growing.

The academy’s first anniversary was in August, and as the staff members focus on current customers, they keep their sights on possible expansion in the future.

Westside Music Academy is located at 79 Park Place Boulevard in Avon. For more information, call 317-771-3084 or visit westsidemusicindy.com.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 317.451.6038 • HarmonyatAvon.com 2141 North Dan Jones Road | Avon | IN | 46123

TownePost.com / SEPTEMBER 2021 / AVON MAGAZINE / 39

Wish you could distance yourself from knee or hip pain?

You can. We can help.

Learn how to distance yourself from the pain. Register for a free hip & knee replacement seminar (online or in person).

At our seminar you’ll: ■

■

■

■

Get answers from our highly skilled surgeon

IN-PERSON HIP & KNEE SEMINAR

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 26

Discover the benefits of our personalized approach

Marketplace Meeting Room IU Health West Hospital | Lower level 1111 N. Ronald Reagan Parkway | Avon, IN

Learn more about our experienced care team

Enter through Main Entrance | 6 – 7 PM

Get answers to the most common questions about hip and knee pain

Michael Gabbard, MD RSVP and masks required.

To register visit iuhealth.org/joints.

©2021 IUHealth

/ AVON MAGAZINE / SEPTEMBER 2021 / Reagan TownePost.com IU Health West 40Hospital | 1111 N. Ronald Parkway in Avon