THE JOURNEY FROM PLAYER TO SCOUT IN MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
A World of Color
Avon’s The Tie Dye Lab Offers Creative DIY Experience for All Ages
The New Frontier
Indianapolis Colts Drive
Girls’ Flag Football Growth
Dr. Johnson & Dr. Lauren
7 SCOUTING FOR SUCCESS The Journey from Player to Scout in Major League Baseball
13 THE NEW FRONTIER Indianapolis Colts Drive Girls’ Flag Football Growth
18 A WORLD OF COLOR
Avon’s The Tie Dye Lab Offers Creative DIY Experience for All Ages
22 KNOWING THE SIGNS May is Stroke Awareness Month
24 MAY EVENTS
27 BARRE IN THE PARK RETURNS Pure Barre Expands Annual Event to Support Community Causes
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SCOUTING FOR SUCCESS
THE JOURNEY FROM PLAYER TO SCOUT IN MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
“The better the floor, the better chance you have of reaching your ceiling. It’s the guys of character who stay for the long term.”
looking at the following year’s list.
“The talent part is easy; you can sit and watch and see the talent, but to me, probably the most important is the makeup and character of the player,” Medici said. “What is their work ethic? Who is in their inner circle? You can tell a lot about a person based on who they hang out with. There have been athletes that were very talented but I’ve stayed away from them due to character.”
There’s a saying Medici said he stole from Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard - the talent of a player will tell you his ceiling, but his character determines his floor.
“The better the floor, the better chance you have of reaching your ceiling,” Medici said. “It’s the guys of character who stay for the long term.”
In 2023 the Texas Rangers won the World Series. Medici was on the field to see it and brought his then-10-year-old son. It was an experience neither are likely to forget.
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“[My son] is not even a baseball guy and he still wants to know when we’re going back to the World Series,” Medici said. “To get there again is the hope. We had first-class treatment. There was a gala the night before with the Eli Young Band playing and my son and I held the giant U.S. flag on the field. It was an awesome ride and to be a part of that - not much can top it.”
Just weeks into the 2025 season, Medici said the Rangers have a good roster this year and he’s hopeful. The biggest derailment is injuries, so if everyone stays healthy, he thinks they have a chance of repeating their earlier success.
Knowing the players from the time they were teens or young adults creates a lifelong bond. For example, when the Rangers won the World Series, Medici received several congratulatory texts from athletes across the country.
It’s watching their success that keeps him motivated.
“The greatest part of my job is to get that call from a player, and he’s telling you he’s headed to the big leagues,” he said. “This is their dream. Ryan Borucki, pitcher for the Pirates, texted me when he first found out. I was so excited and nervous for him.”
Medici said signing an athlete means you often stay in touch from youth to retirement. You’re friends for life.
“A lot of people think scouting is watch and report,” Medici said. “You might miss talent, but my goal is to never miss on the person. Every time I see a player I’ve known since he was an amateur, I guarantee his character is off the charts.”
Despite all the experiences his career has afforded him, Medici isn’t going to scout forever.
Three years ago he launched his own baseball training program, Medici Training Center, with two locations in Brownsburg and
Avon. With 250 athletes aged 8 to 17, his goal is to help players develop not only in the sport, but in character as well.
“Some of these athletes want to get on the varsity team in high school, others are going to play in college,” he said. “Ninety-three percent of them will go to college and they won’t play. They’ll go as a student and that’s perfectly fine. In the meantime, I’m looking at what I can do so they are a better human being when they leave here. Have they learned better work ethic? Have they learned how to overcome adversity? It’s the game of life in a way.”
The lines between coaching and recruiting are often blurred, because ultimately both involve looking for the best in the athlete.
Medici said he can’t believe he’s been scouting for 15 years already. He’s been to many towns across the country and enjoyed the World Series experience. Yet, he sees his future in the athletes that come to Medici Training Center.
kim@kimmorgan.net 317-698-9927 www.kimmorgan.net
“I’ve had an amazing scouting career but I know my future will be the training facility,” he said. “I want to build up youth baseball on the west side. My end goal and vision are to see what I can do to help kids on this side of town play to the next level.”
THE NEW FRONTIER
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS DRIVE GIRLS’ FLAG FOOTBALL GROWTH
Writer / Melissa Gibson
lag football is one of the fastestgrowing sports in the world. It will be added to the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. More than 50 colleges are expected to have girls flag football teams by 2028 in response to overwhelming interest.
That’s why the Indianapolis Colts and the Jim Irsay family committed $1 million to growing the girls high school flag football program in Indiana. In order to make flag football a sanctioned sport with the Indiana High School Athletic Association, 100 high schools must participate in the program.
They’re calling the new campaign “Road to 100” and they’re nearly halfway there.
In 2023 the Colts formed a high school football league with eight teams, and in 2024 the league expanded to 27 teams. It’s a statewide network to grow the game in Indiana and help connect young athletes to NFL FLAG-sanctioned programs.
There are 43 Indiana high schools, including Beech Grove, Warren Central, Pike and beyond, that have committed to offering a girl’s flag football program, with more signing up every day.
When a new team is launched, the Colts help offset costs with funds for equipment, uniforms, training and coaching.
“We want to drive participation to the
game and continue to support and amplify the game,” said Andy Matis, senior manager of football development at the Indianapolis Colts. “As we grow, we’re able to incorporate more audience, which is a key focus.”
Unlike tackle football, play consists of two 24-minute halves. It’s a five-on-five format and players rotate positions throughout the game. The field is smaller than a standard tackle football field, 40 yards in width and 100 yards in length. Of course, instead of tackling the opponent, the goal is to pull a flag from their waistband. Point scoring is similar, with six points for a touchdown.
It’s safe to say that in the past, young women have not had the same elite-level options in football as young men have had, but when the Colts opened up the opportunity for a women’s league, they were met with plenty of interest.
In fact, 50% of the girls coming out for flag
football tryouts have signed up for their first high school sports program ever.
“Even in youth leagues they’ve consistently offered coed options, but there’s two girls in the midst of all the boys coming out for these,” Matis said. “They might not feel inclined even though they’re interested. Now, having your own space in sports, you don’t have to ask if you love the game enough to try tackle. You have your space in the sport.”
Young women from the original eight teams have enjoyed the nature of the game and the relationships formed through the process, just like many other tight-knit sports teams. It’s a memory they’ll never forget.
Players from the Colts team have been supportive as well, happy to see the sport continue to grow in unique and inclusive ways.
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin has recently been named Global Flag Ambassador for the NFL’s commitment to growing flag football across the nation. Franklin has been working with the league over the past few years, and wants to help drive support and make the program fun.
“This is just a great opportunity,” Franklin said. “Everyone loves the game and football has taught me so much about life. This program gives young women the opportunity to learn those lessons and build those bonds.”
He’ll be hosting a clinic for flag football teams in the state soon and hopes to invite a few individuals from the U.S. team to get involved.
“Last year I had the chance to help coach girls flag football players at Lucas Oil Stadium and I was so impressed by the skill, tenacity and passion of these young ladies,” Franklin said. “I look forward to helping grow flag football in Indiana and around the world, and providing more opportunities for girls and boys alike to learn, play and connect through this awesome sport.”
Like most team sports, flag football offers physical and mental health benefits, hones teamwork skills, and teaches discipline and resilience.
Just in the past few years, reports from high school athletic directors across the state have been positive. Young women who were having a tough time in school are now getting better grades. Attendance is up and the empowerment they feel is evident.
“We’re building the next generation of strong adults,” Matis said. “The appetite is there. The interest is there. To see these girls come out and bring their competitive fire to this sport has been really inspiring.”
School representatives interested in participating can find more information at colts.com/ footballdevelopment/ flag/high-school-girlsflag.
Photographer/Nicole Green
A WORLD OF COLOR
AVON’S THE TIE DYE LAB OFFERS CREATIVE DIY EXPERIENCE FOR ALL AGES
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Photography Provided by Visit Hendricks County
Most of us have had an opportunity to tiedye a T-shirt at camp or a birthday party. It’s a style that has stood the test of time and sparks creativity and a ton of fun. However, the chances for a local tie-dye experience were few and far between until a couple of Hendricks County families decided to provide one.
What began as a family enjoying a little tie-dye shop in Kentucky resulted in Avon’s The Tie Dye Lab, a creative and indoor DIY activity many have known and loved since 2017. The Polley family entered the scene three years ago when they purchased the business.
“I used to work for the Indiana Department of Corrections, but when I had my daughter and
she had special needs, it kind of changed the life plan,” Amanda Polley said. “We wanted to find a solution that would allow my daughter to come to work with me.”
It’s a simple concept and only takes 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
“When you come in, we’ll walk you through the design patterns available or you can freestyle it if you’d prefer,” Polley said. “Choose an item; we have T-shirts from three months to 5X, scrunchies, beach towels, hoodies, shirts for the dog, and more. Then, we’re there to help guide you through
the process and you can take your product home with you that day.”
In 2025 The Tie Dye Lab moved locations. It’s currently at 7508 Beechwood Centre Road, Suite 500 in Avon.
More space equaled more options.
The Polley family added new designs such as polka dots and rainbows for dyeing, and revamped some of the color options. There are 28 colors to choose from and sometimes more.
“We make the dye from a powder,” Polley said. “A lot of people think they come in liquid form and they think it’s one single color, but in the powder form we can use anywhere from five to 12 colors to make the end result. We can also play with new colors and always offer seasonal colors.”
The high ceilings in the new store allow for a special added perk too. The Polley’s own a bounce-house company and will now include bounce-house rentals with privateparty rental packages.
While guests wait for their finished product, they have a chalkboard, games and a lounge space for families and friends. The bounce houses give birthday party renters one more thing to do in the spare time.
The Polleys also pride themselves on offering a solution for all ages and all abilities.
“We’re handicap accessible and specialneeds friendly,” Polley said. “There are no steps into our building and we have adjustable tables, so if a person in a wheelchair comes in, for example, we can adjust the table to bring the tie-dye project in front of them. We also have birthday
parties for 4-year-olds and a tour bus of seniors coming in next week. We want to be inclusive to everyone.”
While families, friends, co-workers and others enjoy using their creativity to make the unique product, for Polley, it’s fun to watch the process, from doubt to success.
“I love the start-to-finish process,” Polley said. “A lot of people aren’t sure but they come up with their own vision, and when I hold it up, just the look on their face is worth it. You can see their sense of pride.”
They also also host special events such as Senior Citizen Tie Dye Days and Children Days.
For more information, visit thetiedyelab.com.
•
KNOWING THE SIGNS MAY
IS STROKE AWARENESS MONTH
Writer / Susanne Crotty, Stroke and Quality Coordinator at IU Health North
Over the last few years, there has been a noticeable increase in strokes happening in younger generations, specifically Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z. Approximately 800,000 people suffer a stroke each year, with around 10-15% of these incidents occurring in people aged 18 to 45.
One contributing factor is the growing rates of obesity and other related issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol within these age groups. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to this trend.
Moreover, higher stress levels across generations can also play a significant role. Collectively, these elements can elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases and strokes.
MITIGATION
While genetics can play a factor, lifestyle choices play a big role in stroke prevention. By adopting healthier habits, you can lower your risk of experiencing a stroke. Your
diet plays a crucial role, and your healthcare provider might suggest consulting with a dietitian to assist you in making dietary adjustments. These changes can enhance your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels:
• Decrease your fat intake
• Cut back on salt (sodium), especially if you have high blood pressure
• Increase your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables while reducing processed foods
• Opt for more lean proteins and limit red meat
It’s also essential to restrict alcohol consumption and quit smoking if you currently smoke. Regular exercise and stress reduction techniques can further minimize your stroke risk.
THE WARNING SIGNS
With younger people at a higher risk for strokes, it’s crucial to recognize the signs to respond quickly. When thinking about
the symptoms of a stroke, remember the word “sudden.” A person may suddenly experience weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg on one side of their body. They might have trouble speaking or finding words, or experience sudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyes.
They may also notice drooping on one side of their face or appear suddenly confused. Additionally, a person may experience sudden difficulty walking or a loss of balance or coordination. These symptoms can be identified quickly because they typically occur suddenly. It’s important to stay alert to these symptoms as they could indicate a stroke.
You can also use the FAST acronym (Face, Arms, Speech, Time). FAST is a simple way to remember the signs of a stroke and the appropriate steps to take if you encounter someone displaying these symptoms:
F for Face: Is one side of the face drooping or numb? Ask the person to smile to check if their facial appearance is symmetrical.
A for Arm: Is one arm weak or numb?
Request that the person raises both arms and observe if one drifts downward. They may also feel weakness or numbness in one leg. S for Speech: Is their speech slurred? If it is, or if they appear confused or struggle to understand you, this could indicate a stroke.
T for Time: If any of these symptoms are present, it’s time to call 911 for assistance. A stroke is a medical emergency, and every moment is critical.
In recent years, the BEFAST acronym has also emerged, which includes two more signs to watch for when assessing a potential stroke:
B for Balance: If the person feels dizzy or is losing their balance, this could signal a stroke.
E for Eyes: Is the person experiencing vision loss or double vision? If so, this might also indicate a stroke.
Beyond these acronyms, it’s important to remember not all strokes are the same. There are two primary types of strokes: ischemic, which results from a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, and hemorrhagic,
which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Ischemic strokes are the most common, accounting for about 80-90% of all strokes. While all strokes can potentially harm the brain, every stroke is unique based on its location within the brain.
NEW ADVANCES
In recent years, healthcare has experienced significant advancements in stroke treatment, particularly for ischemic strokes, which are the most common type. Stroke treatment involves two key phases: the acute (short-term) phase and the long-term phase. During the acute phase, the objective is to minimize brain damage. The faster this can be done, the better the chances for recovery.
Treatment options in this phase include:
Administering clot-busting medications within the first 0-4.5 hours after symptoms arise, which can dissolve the clot. Performing surgical procedures within 24 hours to remove the blood clot from the brain, thus restoring blood supply. Conducting tests to assess any potential
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brain damage, using brain imaging to identify areas that may be treatable with medication or surgery. Time is critical in the acute phase of stroke treatment.
In the long-term treatment phase, the focus shifts to preventing future strokes and aiding recovery from the initial stroke. Key components of this phase include:
Rehabilitation or therapy, which begins in the hospital and typically continues in either inpatient or outpatient facilities, eventually transitioning to home. This phase concentrates on regaining lost skills. Administering medications to prevent subsequent strokes, such as those aimed at controlling blood pressure and preventing bleeding.
Keep in mind that time is crucial: every moment lost can mean brain loss.
For more information on stroke prevention, visit iuhealth.org/findmedical-services/stroke.
Submit Your Events!
1 THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
7:30 PM
Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W. Washington Street. irtlive.com
RIVERDANCE
7:30 – 9 PM Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave.
4
PC500 TRICYCLE RACES
12 PM
The Shops at Perry Crossing, 2499 Perry Crossing Way. facebook.com
7
AN EVENING WITH NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON
7:30 PM
Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St. Murat Theatre at Old National Centre All Ages Doors: 6:30 pm Show: 7:30 pm
8
LARRY FLEET: HARD WORK AND HOLY WATER TOUR
8 PM
Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St. Deluxe at Old National Centre This is a general admission, standing-only event. ADA seating is available upon request Doors: 8:00 PM Show: 7:00 PM All Ages
10 WARREN ZEIDERS & TYLER BRADEN
6 PM
Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park, 801 W. Washington Street. bandsintown.com
11 MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND 2025
Newfields, 4000 N Michigan Rd. discovernewfields.org
14
INDIANAPOLIS 500 PRACTICE
10 AM – 6 PM
Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 4790 W 16th St. indianapolismotorspeedway.com
16 FAST FRIDAYINDIANAPOLIS 500 PRACTICE
Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 4790 W 16th St. indianapolismotorspeedway.com
21 PARLIAMENT FUNKADELIC FEAT. GEORGE CLINTON 2025 TOUR 8 PM
Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St. Egyptian Room at Old National Centre Doors: 7:00 PM Show: 8:00 PM All Ages
23 MILLER LITE CARB DAY 8 AM – 6 PM
Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 4790 W 16th St. indianapolismotorspeedway.com
25 INDIANAPOLIS 500 PRESENTED BY GAINBRIDGE
Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 4790 W 16th St. indianapolismotorspeedway.com
BARRE IN THE PARK RETURNS
PURE BARRE EXPANDS ANNUAL EVENT TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY CAUSES
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Two years ago, Marlo Miller, owner of Pure Barre in Avon, started hosting a special event to promote the opening of her new location.
Barre in the Park is an outdoor event, designed to give current members a change of scenery and a fun day together while exposing nonmembers to what barre is all about.
“Pure Barre is a workout facility that’s designed as more of a community than a gym,” Miller said. “We’re supporting our members physically, mentally and spiritually. We want it to be a place where everyone feels welcome.”
The low-impact, high-intensity moves incorporate ballet practices and target the smaller muscles that ballerinas use to make them lean and strong. There are four different classes focused on cardio,
“No one is dancing around the studio, but we’re using the bar for balance or stability,” Miller said. “Sometimes you’re only moving your arms and legs inches to work that specific muscle. There are modifications for every move so if you have a bad knee or a sore muscle you can still attend.”
Miller would know. It was her first class at a barre facility in Greenwood that sparked her interest. As a lifelong marathon runner, she was surprised at her body’s reaction after one class.
“I couldn’t sit down for three days,” she said. “While I was doing it, it didn’t feel like I was going to die. It was actually really fun. You’d look around the room and there’s someone older than you doing it and they’re kicking your butt. My friend told me they were interested in a location in Avon and I went home and talked to my husband. There were lots of prayers on this one.”
Miller said she likes to plan ahead. Her
then earning her doctorate during the pandemic, equals a woman who is organized and knows her next step at all times - but not this time.
“It was a ton of faith in God to see if this is really what I was supposed to do,” Miller said. “When I decided to jump in, I knew I needed 1,600 square feet, and the next day
the door and said, ‘I’m a teacher. Are you looking for anyone?’ It’s really been a faith journey. I believe in this so much and it’s more than someone wanting to open a gym. It’s just this full sense of community.”
HAS SHOWN ACUPUNCTURE HELPS WITH:
Miller hopes she’s creating an environment where people can come as they are.
“If you’re having a bad day, that’s OK,” she said. “We just started a book club recently. We’re going to meet up and discuss over dinner. Another woman just started a Bible study. Everyone is welcome to join if they’d like.”
It’s that welcoming and positive atmosphere that brings the community together for the seasonal Barre in the Park events too.
After the public barre workout session, there will be snacks and drinks available.
Last year they hosted three events in an Avon, Brownsburg and Danville park. This year, they’re taking it up another notch.
“We’re now adding a charity component to
Dr. Vicki Crum
it,” Miller said. “We will raise funds to benefit Family Promise of Hendricks County, Misty
and
We wanted to give back to our community.”
On May 17 at Washington Township Park, they’ll have a wine truck and doughnut truck included in the price of the ticket. Additional donations will also be welcomed and will go toward Family Promise of Hendricks County.
July 12 will be the second Barre in the Park event at Beasley’s Orchard in Danville. Admission will include entrance into the flower gardens, an apple cider slushy and a doughnut. All proceeds will benefit Misty Eyes.
The third event will be held at Ellis Park in Danville on August 23. More information to follow.
For more information or to purchase tickets, stop in to Pure Barre in Avon or visit Pure Barre Avon on Facebook.
