Brownsburg Magazine June 2024

Colorful Occasion Hendricks County Fairgrounds Welcomes Indy Tattoo Expo

ALL’S FAIR

STEVE PATTERSON TALKS 10 YEARS AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HENDRICKS COUNTY 4-H FAIRGROUNDS AND CONFERENCE COMPLEX

Clean Cut It’s About More Than Just Business for Freddy Niblack of Garage 17 Barbershop JUNE 2024

All Suite Hotel

Newly remodeled rooms, heated indoor pool & complimentary breakfast.

500 W Northfield Dr. | Brownsburg • 317-852-2000

WE CAN FIX IT FAST FOR A LOT LESS MONEY

49

Panel Changes Lightning Strike Repairs Hot Tubs Home Inspection Lists Outdoor Receptacles Security Lighting

Proud supporter of the DPD Safety Education Program

Electrical Repairs GFCIs 220 Circuits Landscape Lighting Outlets & Switches Ceiling Lights/Fans

24 HOUR SERVICE FREE QUOTES

/FryeElectric

FryeElectricInc.com • 317.271.1099

10

PUBLISHER DARREN BOSTON darren@townepost.com (317) 716-8812 KEY CONTRIBUTORS CLAIRE-ANNE AIKMAN MELISSA GIBSON AMY PAYNE DR. ARPAN PRABHU

6

COLORFUL OCCASION

Hendricks County Fairgrounds Welcomes Indy Tattoo Expo

10

ALL’S FAIR

Steve Patterson Talks 10 Years as Executive Director of the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and Conference Complex

16

MEN’S HEALTH MONTH

JUNE 2024

Understanding Prostate Cancer

17

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

19 19

CLEAN CUT

It’s About More Than Just Business for Freddy Niblack of Garage 17 Barbershop

SIMPLE STEPS TO HELP FIND THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR

/BROWNSBURGMAG 4 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

/BROWNSBURGMAGAZINE

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

Make your summer sizzle with our great selection of annuals, perennials, shrubs, vegetables & much more!

(317) 852-8661 | 721 N. Green St. – Brownsburg

Complete Bathroom Remodeling COME VISIT OUR BEAUTIFUL INTERACTIVE SHOWROOM IN BROWNSBURG

•FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES •TUB TO SHOWER CONVERSIONS •ONYX SOLID SURFACE EXPERTS •CUSTOM BATH REMODELING EXPERTS

BEFORE

AFTER

601 E. Main St. – Brownsburg | Chapmancustombaths.com | (317) 207-1107 TownePost.com | June 2024 | 5

COLORFUL OCCASION

HENDRICKS COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS WELCOMES INDY TATTOO EXPO Writer / Melissa Gibson Photography Provided

6 | May 2024 | TownePost.com

Chris Taylor & Trina Sanders-Sours

T

he Indy Tattoo Expo is returning for its fourth year, and this time it’ll be at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and Conference Complex, bringing more than 200 tattoo artists to showcase their talent.

The family-friendly expo is the result of the passion that Chris Taylor, owner of Ink Therapy Tattoo and Piercing studio in Plainfield, and others at the shop have for their craft.

“I’ve been tattooing in Indy for 30 years now and it’s just a representation of my life’s work,” Taylor said. “Hopefully people see tattooing at a high level. All of the artists were preselected, and we want to show people what it is and what it has to offer.”

Thirty years ago Taylor had a chance to learn from his mentor, James “Rabbit” Sanders, one of the tattooing pioneers in central Indiana. Through conversations with Sanders’ daughter, Trina, the two devised a plan to bring tattoo artists together under one roof.

Expos are often held in major cities and continue to pop up across the country, but Taylor said as a young artist, he couldn’t afford to travel to the tattoo shows in New York City or San Francisco. Bringing something similar to the local Indianapolis area is an opportunity for artists and customers alike.

Like any other artistic outlet, education and inspiration allows for growth, and the Indy Tattoo Expo supports both. They’re able to promote themselves and learn from each other. Creating an artist network allows younger people in the business to find mentors and resources they might not have been able to receive otherwise.

“It’s a chance to go out and be inspired, and be around other artists,” Taylor said. “We compete and we learn about other styles. You can make good connections, connect with new clients and compete with fellow artists.”

Across the country styles differ, meaning the color palette and tattoo style one would get in California might be completely different than the options you’d see in Florida. Customers looking for the perfect tattoo might have to travel a large distance to find just what they are looking for. However, an expo brings artists from across the country to the customer.

“You can get that right here under one roof, instead of flying to California,” Taylor said. “It’s good for everyone.”

Perhaps at one time tattoo artists had a negative reputation, and perhaps the art form didn’t bring the kind of appreciation other forms of art have enjoyed. However, Taylor said this perception is changing. Television shows premiered, tattoo artists became influencers, and some have year-long waitlists for their work.

“There has been a stigma but I’ve seen it improve over the past

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: OFFER EXPIRES:7-31-24 9/01/21

TownePost.com | June 2024 | 7

30 years,” Taylor said. “The expo allows people to come in who aren’t sure what this is about, and they get to see the great smiles and happy people. These artists are finding joy in their work, and you’ll see young kids and families; it’s not a bunch of rough guys. The kids in particular are fascinated with it, because who has a better imagination than kids?”

Taylor said what used to be a name or initials has become a blank canvas with colorful, detailed designs, similar to what one would find in an art gallery.

Throughout the three-day event, the main attraction will be live tattoo artists working on their craft, amidst decor with a “Great Gatsby” theme. However, they haven’t forgotten about the entire family. Entertainment includes the Peru Circus, featuring acrobats and other performers with unique and special talents.

All ages can enjoy laser tag, face painting, balloon artists, belly dancing, and also get their energy out in the numerous bounce houses. A+ Barber School will be taking appointments for haircuts, and art and jewelry vendors will be on hand.

Each evening there will be tattoo competitions for best style, design and work. Don’t forget to see the 1920s-themed display, sharing 100 years of tattoo history.

Much of the live tattooing has been pre-scheduled (something to remember for the 2025 expo). However, some artists will be taking customers on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the day.

Not only are they getting rid of the stigma that might be associated with tattooing, but Taylor said there’s an education element too. Think of the body as a canvas. Some tattoos are for the artistic outlet and others are very personal.

“I think it’s good for mental health,” Taylor said. “No one cares what you look like. You’re doing something just for you, and there’s something about the endorphin rush or release. There are groups that pay for soldiers with PTSD to get a tattoo. I’ve

worked with women who have overcome breast cancer. It’s just that powerful.”

For others, it’s simply marking the occasion - their story in an art form.

“Maybe it’s Florida spring break with the girls or a portrait of your grandmother,” Taylor said. “There’s a story, a timeline, a history behind each one.”

It’s the first time the Indy Tattoo Expo will be held at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and Conference Complex.

As the City of Indianapolis is taking notice and they outgrew their previous venue, Taylor was glad to find the perfect fit.

“We’re able to add an additional 40 booths at this location,” he said. “I was sort of worried about moving my event but they were so helpful at the fairgrounds. It was a great experience and I think for the price and wanting to help the community, it’s going to be great. We’re bringing close to a half a million people into Hendricks County.”

In addition, visitors are supporting more than 200 local businesses.

“Each booth is a separate business - a separate artist making a life and career out of their work,” Taylor said. “I don’t have big corporate businesses sponsoring this event. It’s out of my own pocket, but I think elevating people is where real success is measured. Putting all of these artists under one roof is elevating our art and each person.”

Ink Therapy is the largest known shop in the area for piercings.

They’re heavily involved in the community, sponsoring organizations like Sheltering Wings, Susie’s Place and others.

The Indy Tattoo Expo will be held from noon to midnight on June 14, 11 a.m. to midnight on June 15, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on June 16. Visit indytattooexpo.com for tickets and more information.

JOINT PAIN?

MAKE A MOVE. Joint pain shouldn’t keep you from adventure! The Center for Hip and Knee Surgery gets you on a path to relief with joint replacement surgery.

• Specializing in hip, knee and shoulder replacements • World-class surgeons and dedicated orthopedic nurses • Outpatient joint replacement surgery • Over 45,000 joint replacements performed since 1986

We keep you in motion!

SCHEDULE YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT TODAY.

TownePost.com | June 2024 | 9

ALL’S FAIR

STEVE PATTERSON TALKS 10 YEARS AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HENDRICKS COUNTY 4-H FAIRGROUNDS AND CONFERENCE COMPLEX Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Amy Payne & Provided Steve Patterson

A

nyone who has hosted an event at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and Conference Complex has likely had the opportunity to meet Steve Patterson.

He loves meeting and working with people, serving others, and multitasking.

In 2024 he’ll celebrate 10 years as the

10 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

executive director of the fairgrounds.

For those who haven’t hosted an event, Patterson’s the one we don’t often see, balancing and organizing the year-round conferences, festivals, events and more at the fairgrounds.

He has had 4-H in his life for decades.

“I was in 4-H for 10 years and when I was in college at Ball State in the mid to late 1980s, I worked in the Extension office as a summer assistant,” Patterson said. “I put together the 4-H fair during the summers and then I started working at the Indiana State Fair too. Fairs and events have been in my blood for many years.”

In 1992 Patterson joined the Hendricks County 4-H Fair board. He served in all of the roles: treasurer, secretary, vice president and president.

Then, in 2014 the executive director position opened up, and after much discussion the board voted to hire Patterson to lead the way.

It’s safe to say the decision paid off.

The position isn’t an easy one, and requires someone who can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

It’s a 110-acre facility with outdoor, indoor and campground accommodations, and it welcomes everything from small conferences to large festivals and events.

“When you look at my job, there are four pillars,” Patterson said. “I do rentals, financial management, board governance and their committees, and the county fair. The county fair is a whole different thing outside of renting the grounds for an event.”

The reputation of Patterson and the 4-H Fairgrounds speaks for itself. In fact, they consistently book out up to several years at a time. After one positive experience,

Dad, don’t forget to take a timeout for yourself Talk about health screenings with a doctor or care team who listens Health screenings are important for all of us. Taking care of yourself means being proactive about your health. Talk with your doctor or care team about the screenings that are right for you, based on your age and family history. They may help detect complex issues early, when they are most treatable.

If you need more care, including more advanced treatment options, you are connected to compassionate care teams that are right for you.

Start a conversation with a doctor or care team at ascension.org/StVincentScreenings or call 866-835-4252 © Ascension 2024. All rights reserved.

TownePost.com | June 2024 | 11

guests will schedule their annual event as far out as possible.

He isn’t searching for them either. The majority of the events come to Hendricks County through word of mouth.

The fairgrounds hosts the Purdue Small Farm conference, Indiana Vegetables Growers Association conference, and the Indiana Fire Investigation Conference to name a few. It’s home to the Indy Tattoo Expo, the Indiana Junior Rodeo Association and international events like the National Powwow.

Patterson is behind it all, helping guests create the best experience possible.

Anyone who has hosted a barbecue or birthday party knows not everything goes smoothly. Just imagine that with tens of thousands of people in attendance.

“I love working with people and seeing their event be a success,” Patterson said.

“It’s not always rose-colored glasses.

Sometimes there’s issues but people don’t realize it. There might be some tweaking of schedules or changing layouts, but the bottom line is, the event is an overall success.”

It’s what Patterson does best.

“When I came in it was all white walls, so one of the first things I did was buy some piping and drapes to create the look and feel we’re going for,” Patterson said. “We want to be able to utilize the space and create a cozy space for those events.”

12 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

Fairgrounds Staff

It’s these special accommodations and the extra effort that cause some groups to return after they’ve left for a few years for a different venue. They know that Patterson and the fairgrounds team will do their best to meet their needs.

Of course, most anticipated is the annual county fair.

Patterson said planning for next year’s fair begins the day after the current year’s fair ends.

“We’re already looking at 2025 and the entertainment we need,” he said. “We have to think about that about a year and a half in advance because it’s so competitive out there. When I walked in, we didn’t have committees and we’ve created those to run the fair and operations. They meet throughout the year and give us feedback, and we have a lot of talks and discussion.”

He’s even got what he calls the Fair Bible.

“It’s a living document that we keep updated,” he said. “My goal is, by the time the fair starts in July, we have all of Is dotted and Ts crossed. If I’m not

there, it still runs smoothly. We have a great full- and part-time staff that understand the overall vision. It’s sort of a joke to follow ‘Steve’s fair template.’”

As requests for accommodation continue to pour in and the calendar routinely gets

Introducing

HCWA

Hendricks County

Wealth Advisors

Investment services you need at a financial institution you trust Hendricks County Wealth Advisors can help youWealth with: Advisors •Investment Advisory Services •Retirement Income Planning •Portfolio Construction and Management •Life, Disability Income and Long Term Care Insurance Planning •Education Savings Accounts •Easy(k)™ — 401(k) Open Multiple Employer Plan •Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plan Analysis for Business Owners •Smartdonor™ Charitable Giving Services for donors and not-for-profit organizations

(317) 204-7979

www.hcwealthadvisors.com Hendricks County Wealth Advisors is a division of Hendricks County Bank and Trust Company (HCBT). Securities are: not insured by the FDIC; not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, the depository institution; subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested. Securities, Insurance and Investment Advisory Services are offered through Midwestern Securities Trading Company LLC (MSTC). Member FINRA/SIPC. MSTC and HCBT are not affiliated.

Seth Cromer Financial Advisor scromer@hcwealthadvisors.com

TownePost.com | June 2024 | 13

booked years in advance, Patterson knows it’s time to look at growth.

“The discussion is always, ‘Are we a fairground or a conference center?’ and I say we’re both,” he said. “For the conference center, however, we need to take it up to the next level. The board and operations committee are aware and we’re currently working on a feasibility study and developing a master plan.”

Patterson said they’ll be looking forward to the next 20 years for the 4-H Fairgrounds and identifying needs in further development.

“There’s plans underway to see what we need to do,” he said. “We’re looking at improving parking, accessibility, traffic flow, etcetera. We really haven’t done anything since we moved in, in 2006.”

He’s even thinking about the next person who will take his role - not that

RESEARCH STUDY SEEKING Men 65 or Older or Women 50 or Older

Purdue University, College of Pharmacy is seeking healthy volunteers who are at least 65 years old (men) or 50 years old (women) to participate in a study to determine if a hormone called testosterone or progesterone can reduce the risk of a heart rhythm abnormality.

If you qualify for the study: • You will complete one 2-hour visit and two 10- hour visits at the Indiana Clinical Research Center (ICRC) located on the IUPUI campus in downtown Indianapolis • Prior to the 2nd and 3rd visit, you will apply testosterone or a placebo for 3 days and during the 2nd and 3rd visits, you will receive a medication called Ibutilide (Covert) by IV, have your blood taken and ECGs performed throughout the day.

• You will receive up to $500 after completing all study visits.

Parking and meals during the study are included.

If you are interested in participating, please call or text 317-847-2094 or email: hwroblew@iu.edu

14 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

retirement is coming anytime soon.

“It’s a lot of multitasking and customer service,” he said. “You can’t just walk into it and be able to pick it up. We’re a pretty lean staff right now and we could expand it. I’d love to have the next person in line within the next few years.”

For now, frequent visitors to the fairgrounds know that when the red truck is parked outside, Patterson is there and ready to help in any way he can.

“I’m there a lot but I love my job,” he said. “It’s fun to see these events come together and see the parking lot full.

When we started, we had hopes it would be successful. You have goals and dreams, and I’ve enjoyed it and it was fun and it’s still fun.”

For more info, go to 4hcomplex.org.

Imagine your home, totally organized!

Custom Closets, Garage Cabinets, Home Offices, Laundries, Pantries, Wall Beds, and more!

40% Off

Free Installation 15% Off Plus

2023© All Rights Reserved. Closets by Design, Inc.

PLUS TAKE AN EXTRA

CLOSETS

Terms and Conditions: 40% off a ny o rder o f $ 1000 o r m ore o r 30% off a ny o rder o f $ 700-$1000 o n a ny complete c u stom closet, garage, or home office unit. Take an additional 15% off on any complete system order. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $850 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Offer not valid in all regions. Exp. 07/07/24.

12 MONTH

SPECIAL FINANCING!

With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details.

Not available in all areas.

Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate

317-779-3212 www.closetsbydesign.com

TP

Locally Owned and Operated

TownePost.com | June 2024 | 15

UNDERSTANDING PROSTATE CANCER

Writer / Dr. Arpan Prabhu, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at IU Health West

June is National Men’s Health Month, a time to encourage men to be proactive when it comes to their health. Prostate cancer is a significant health concern for men that affects the prostate gland, a part of the male reproductive system. Being educated about this condition is vital for early detection and effective management.

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER? Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland mutate and grow uncontrollably.

It is one of the most common cancers in men but often progresses slowly, with many cases remaining asymptomatic for years.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS? Several factors contribute to the risk of developing prostate cancer. Risk increases with age, particularly after 50. Most cases are diagnosed in men over 65. A family history of prostate cancer or certain genetic mutations can elevate the risk. Poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and smoking may contribute to an increased risk.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS? In its early stages, prostate cancer often presents with no symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, men might experience: Urinary changes: This includes difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak or interrupted flow, frequent urination or 16 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

blood in the urine.

Erectile dysfunction: Prostate cancer can cause difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

Discomfort or pain: Pain in the back, hips or pelvis can indicate advanced stages.

HOW IS PROSTATE CANCER DIAGNOSED AND TREATED? Early detection significantly improves outcomes. Screening for prostate cancer usually includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, a blood test that measures a marker specific to the prostate. An elevated PSA can be caused by cancer or noncancerous changes, and further testing is needed for a conclusive diagnosis. It is important to talk with your primary care doctor about the pros and cons of screening for prostate cancer with a PSA test.

TREATMENT FOR PROSTATE CANCER DEPENDS ON THE STAGE, AGGRESSIVENESS, AND INDIVIDUAL HEALTH FACTORS. OPTIONS INCLUDE: Active surveillance: For earlystage disease, this includes closely monitoring for changes in the cancer without immediate treatment.

Radiation therapy: This is a noninvasive, painless treatment that uses pinpointed high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells.

Surgery: Removal of the prostate gland may be recommended for localized cancer.

Hormone therapy: Injections or pills can be used to lower testosterone levels and slow cancer growth.

CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR RISK? Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, may reduce the risk. Discussing screening options with your physician, especially for those at higher risk, is essential.

SIMPLE STEPS TO HELP FIND THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR Writer / Claire-Anne Aikman

R

ecently I agreed to help a friend who was having difficulty finding a few good contractors. Their experience up to that point included contractors not showing up as scheduled (one even stated they were at the property when they were not), trying to add work that did not need to be done, and showing up but never delivering a quote afterward.

Our mission was clear, and we started by following a few simple screening steps.

We checked reviews from multiple sources including Facebook, Nextdoor and Google. We looked at old and new reviews alike. Did they respond to the reviews? If someone was unhappy with the work that was done, was a resolution offered? Were they professional? Spending a little time here saved us a lot of headaches down the road.

We also went to Lowe’s in the early morning and noted the contractors’ trucks in the parking lot (Menards and Home Depot work as well - Lowe’s was the closest). We went inside to the aisles that pertained to the work we needed done (electrical, plumbing, decking) and asked the people there if they had space for available work. If they did, we got their name and number, and gave them ours as well.

Next, we called them and had them come out to give an estimate for the needed jobs. We also asked for their certificate of insurance information. We asked for a detailed estimate, which would help us compare each quote (scope of work, length of time to complete the job, any guarantees they offer, etcetera).

We selected a few that we felt were a match for the job and called their insurance

provider to find out their policy limits, verify coverage, and verify that the policy is still active.

Once we made our selections, a deposit was made and we went through the home to prep the space, removing clutter to make access easier and ensure the contractor can move around safely while doing the work. Was it tedious? Yes. Should you do your research before hiring someone to come into your home? Also yes. It might help to treat the process like a treasure hunt, because the reality of it is that a good contractor is a true treasure and worth their weight in gold.

Claire-Anne is a west side realtor helping people make Hendricks County their home. You can reach her at 317-345-6640 or thepointinrealestate@gmail.com TownePost.com | June 2024 | 17

ALIVE IN THE WORD CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 1 HOUR SUNDAY WORSHIP @ 1PM (Simple yet Powerful...)

Seeking a Worship Leader or Keyboardist.

Come Spring Forth

If interested, please email AITWMinistry@gmail.com

6690 E. US Hwy 136, Brownsburg, IN 46112 (Look for the Alive in the Word Sign)

For contact email AITWMinistry@gmail.com www.aliventheword.blogspot.com

What are your real estate needs?

Patio

Smaller Stone Fire Pit

Lake House

Water View

Back Yard New Build Nook and Cranny Rooms Closer to Family Fire Place

Pool

Bigger Family Room

Updated

Nice Details

Open Concept

Two Car Garage Outbuildings Low Taxes Move In Ready In-Law Quarters Charming Street Shorter Commute Time Lots More

Want a Basement

Deck

Tennis Court

Great Neighbors

Storage Space Room for Dogs

Near Shops

Less Bedrooms

Vibe

Big Front Porch

Home Office Space

Beautiful Garden

Retro

Bigger Family Room

Duplex

Carriage House

Low Maintenance

Farm House Investment Property

Craft Room

Horse Stables

Sunny

Three Car Garage

Carport Wooded

More Space

Community Playgrounds Nearby

Charming Private Lots of Bathrooms Big Lawn Modern Design Country Living Room for Chickens Fenced Yard

Bigger Backyard

Life happens, home needs change.

We understand. Real Estate For Real Life, that’s the Point Claire-Anne and her team have skillfully helped hundreds of local families make their home dreams a reality and they would be honored to help you too, call them today!

Contact us at 317.345.6640 Claire-Anne Aikman REALTOR, SRES, CRS

Closer to City Amenities Historic

No HOA Downtown Living New

Community Great Schools

The Point Real Estate for Real Life™

THE POINT IN REAL ESTATE LLC

18 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

CLEAN CUT

IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN JUST BUSINESS FOR FREDDY NIBLACK OF GARAGE 17 BARBERSHOP Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Amy Payne

TownePost.com | June 2024 | 19

F

reddy Niblack has been a barber for more than 30 years.

Just one year ago in March, he left his job at Dappered Man in Brownsburg to pursue his own location, Garage 17 Barbershop.

“Honestly, I was a little burnt out, but when I came to Dappered Man, my heart kind of healed there,” he said. “Elaina [Bibler, owner of Dappered Man] was so supportive. I was always amazed at how well she did with kids, especially special-needs kids, and when my building came up for rent, she supported me all the way.”

He set up his hours, Tuesday through Saturday, and got to work, but a social media post changed everything for the experienced barber. A Brownsburg mother posted on the Brownsburg Chatter Facebook page about taking her young son with special needs to a local hair salon.

“She said her son had trouble handling

• Tree Removal, Topping & Trimming

• Garage/Basement/ Attic Cleanout

• Shrub Trimming & Removal

• Gutter Cleaning

• Light Hauling • Construction Clean-up

• Mini Barn / Shed / Fence / Deck Demolition & Removal

• Junk Removal

• Appliance / E-Waste Removal

• Brush Pile Cleaning

• Stump Grinding

Machine Repair

Is your sewing machine sick?

See Skip Quick!

SAVE $10 OFF

Call today for prompt service!

Any Sewing Machine Repair

317-626-5973 FredAndSons.com

Plainfield Magazine Not valid with other offers or discounts.

Expires 7-31-24

We’ve Moved - Call to Schedule Repair Appointment

(317) 749-4304 • SkipsSewandVac.com 20 | June 2024 | TownePost.com Fred+SonsAd_Geist_3.5x4.75.indd 1

2/5/18 11:46 AM

the activity and loud music, etcetera, and basically they were asked to leave,” Niblack said. “I was eating dinner with my parents at the time and when I saw the post I didn’t even think about it. I sent her a message and said, ‘My shop is closed on Mondays. I can be there in 30 minutes. Please bring your son and I’ll take care of him.’ ” Niblack said he sat on the floor with the young boy, who requested hugs every few minutes. He cut the customer’s hair, being careful around sensitive ears, moving slowly so as not to startle, and watched the young boy’s mother sob in the waiting area.

“She still brings him to me and that’s what started it all,” he said. “That post received 80 to 100 comments that were from parents in the same position.”

It’s not uncommon for loved ones of individuals with special needs to know the struggle of trying to do a task that others

Need a New Roof?

Rick’s

ROOFING Local Company Serving The Community Since 1986 Roofing • Siding • Gutters Licensed, Insured and Bonded

FREE ESTIMATES (317) 223-3972 • (765) 993-0377 RICKSROOFINGAVON.COM rick@ricksroofingavon.com TownePost.com | June 2024 | 21

might find simple. It might be the noise, the distractions, or simply the fear of a strange environment that can make a trip to the barber shop difficult.

By early April, Niblack was scheduling special-needs kids and adults on one Monday per month. He’s closed to the public, and it allows him to create the atmosphere some of his clients need to get through the haircut.

He even purchased special clippers, each one more than $100. They are quieter than standard clippers and the blades don’t break the skin if it happens to touch.

“If you knick their ear, they’ll always remember that,” he said. “I’ve had several come to me crying and holding their ears because they don’t want to go into the shop, but if you clip for a minute or two and then give them a break, it’s better. We don’t want them to be terrorized. I’m often undoing what’s been done. Mom and dad didn’t feel like they had any options. They’ve sat on the kids, used terrible clippers, nicked ears or simply never cut their hair. They don’t have access to professional tools and it makes things worse.”

He doesn’t charge his Monday clients either.

“Most parents with special-needs kids are paying so much money for so many different things,” Niblack said. “This is a group that is kind of left out, so I don’t do it for a pat on the back. I have a community of people that support me and the community I serve.”

It doesn’t hurt that Niblack has years of experience.

“I think as a veteran barber, you have more patience,” he said. “A lot of barbers don’t like cutting kids’ hair because it’s like hitting a moving target. It can be a challenge but someone has to do this for them. They deserve the right to feel and be treated like everyone else.”

The community support continues to pour in, and Niblack said what he’s doing has triggered a response from other business owners.

22 | June 2024 | TownePost.com

Bibler covers Niblack if he needs a day off, and even comes down to his shop on Mondays to sit with certain clients who adore her and sit on her lap while getting their haircut.

cream, and a willingness to cut hair from the floor, the barber’s chair or elsewhere, Niblack and his staff provide a respite for families who have been looking for support for many years.

Dr. Jack Swartout, a Brownsburg dentist, works with children and adults with special needs, and has been supportive of what Niblack is doing.

Niblack said if he lost it all today, he’s do it all again.

The team at Mandy’s Ice Cream has always displayed paintings created by special-needs kids and Niblack has always admired them.

They insisted the next set of paintings would be hung in Garage 17.

“When I go home at night, my heart is full,” he said. “A lot of these people in the

community are doing things in silence because that’s what’s in their heart. I just want parents to know they have a home to go to.”

Garage 17 Barbershop is located at at 17 South School Street in Brownsburg. For additional info, call 317-717-0127 or visit garage-17-barbershop.square.site.

On Mondays the kids know that once the haircut is complete, they can head over to Mandy’s for an ice cream.

“We had one lady buy gift cards at Mandy’s to give to the kids here,” Niblack said.

“Random people have dropped off money and we don’t even know them. Brownsburg has wrapped their arms around me and my shop. You can feel the love from our community and it’s the same love these parents and kids have been missing. I’m so proud of our community and just feel blessed.”

He’s also trying to pass along his knowledge and patience to others. Niblack has welcomed students from A+ Barber School in Indianapolis for special classes.

Ranked #1 in Indiana for Spine Surgery Patient Safety

ORTHO INDY

“I feel like there’s not enough barbers trained to work with people with special needs,” he said. “Eventually they’re going to have a special-needs person in their chair, and we talked about how to work with different clients.”

Tending to special-needs clients wasn’t covered in barber school 30 years ago, Niblack said. However, he said it’s important that younger generations learn how to work with everyone as they develop their skills.

“Just because a person is different doesn’t change who I am or the license on my wall,” he said.

New Brownsburg hospital coming this summer!

Visit OrthoIndy.com for doctors, hours and locations.

Urgent Care • Clinic • Physical Therapy • Surgery • Imaging

With his box of fidget toys, money for ice TownePost.com | June 2024 | 23

For Advertising Information, Contact: DARREN BOSTON DARREN@TOWNEPOST.COM (317) 716-8812

Your little one will be truly unique and special.

Our highly skilled team knows you are, too.

At Indiana University Health West Hospital, our highly skilled team of doctors and nurses will provide you with exceptional care throughout the entire birthing experience. With comprehensive maternity services, from birthing classes to our Level II Special Care Nursery, each interaction is designed to make you and your family feel safe and special. Because when everything is taken care of, you can focus on your newest family member.

iuhealth.org/maternity

©2024 IUHealth