Brownsburg Magazine June 2024

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

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 Understanding Prostate Cancer

19

CLEAN CUT

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

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COLORFUL OCCASION

HENDRICKS COUNTY

FAIRGROUNDS WELCOMES

INDY TATTOO EXPO

Writer / Melissa Gibson Photography Provided

The 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

Chris Taylor & Trina Sanders-Sours

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.

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ALL’S FAIR

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

Anyone 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

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.”

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Photographer / Amy Payne & Provided

Steve Patterson

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,

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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.”

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

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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

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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.

UNDERSTANDING PROSTATE CANCER

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

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.

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

SIMPLE STEPS TO HELP FIND THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR

Writer / Claire-Anne Aikman

Recently 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

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CLEAN CUT

IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN JUST BUSINESS FOR FREDDY NIBLACK OF GARAGE 17 BARBERSHOP

Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Amy Payne

Freddy 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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

“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.

With his box of fidget toys, money for ice

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.

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

“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.

ORTHO INDY

DARREN BOSTON DARREN@TOWNEPOST.COM

(317) 716-8812

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