AND BOURBON
Feeling stuck, worn out, or like you’ve hit a wall?
This year at Avon Orthodontics we are celebrating Dr. Gregory Johnson’s 30th year of service to the Hendricks County community.
Over the last 30 years, Dr. Johnson has helped over ten thousand patients achieve the smile of their dreams. Our office is full of friendly smiles from our team members, including the occasional tail wag from our office dog, Karma. Some of our employees here at Avon Orthodontics have been working for Dr. Johnson for over 20 years!
Our practice has a fun, easy-going atmosphere to welcome patients. Whether it is your first appointment with us, or you are a current patient, we will make it our priority to ensure you are comfortable during your visit.
Avon Orthodontics welcomed another doctor into the practice, Dr. Lauren Wright. Both Dr. Johnson and Dr. Lauren trained and graduated from the Mayo Clinic, so their practice philosophy and approach to patient care is very similar. As our practice continues to grow, we are blessed to have Dr. Lauren as a part of our team.
Our Avon Orthodontics Team looks forward to serving the Hendricks County community for years to come!
DARREN BOSTON darren@townepost.com (317) 716-8812
FOUNDER,
tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
TOWNE POST NETWORK,
8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
BASEBALL AND BOURBON
DREW STOREN GIVES BACK TO BROWNSBURG BASEBALL THROUGH YOUTH SPORTS
Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Amy Payne
In 1999, Drew Storen moved to Brownsburg with his family and got involved in Little League. It was there his life took a turn that would spark a career, a passion for a nonprofit, and a new business.
“I’ve always loved the game, but Brownsburg was a special place. It’s always been different. A team a year older than me and a year younger than me went to the World Series. It was a great group of talent and competition but also supportive parents, which is equally as important,” Storen said. “You played competitively against your buddies and then you came together to play against other teams.”
Storen went on to play for Brownsburg High School and was a member of the team that won the state championship in 2005.
“I think we were one of the first high
schools with a fan section at baseball games. There was a great support system in the town. It’s really special and something you don’t see as much of anymore,” Storen said.
Right out of high school, the pitcher had opportunities in the Major League Baseball draft but chose to go to Stanford on a baseball scholarship and earn his degree in product design.
“I took the opportunity to get an education. I wanted baseball to be house money and not like my life depended on it, but after graduating, I was drafted to the Washington Nationals in 2009,” Storen said. “I went on to play for the Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds before I retired in 2020.”
As a relief pitcher in MLB, Storen was living his dream — though he said he doesn’t know how he ever made it.
“I was lucky enough to get up there and have a career. I always wanted to do it, but I just kept my head down and kept playing,” he said.
When the MLB chapter was over, he had the chance to explore other passions too — namely, the nonprofit Brownsburg Youth Sports program.
Storen serves as chairman of the Project Campaign Cabinet. They’re working on developing a new youth sports complex that will feature 10 baseball and softball fields on 60 acres of land on the northeast side of Brownsburg.
The plans include a community walking path and playground space and, eventually, fields for other sports in the community.
When a friend asked Storen to get involved, they were in the beginning stages — not sure if it was going to happen.
“I really think this is something Brownsburg needs, and I think we’re coming up short as far as space for youth sports. To me, we were losing what really put Brownsburg on the map,” he said. “But we’re moving forward now.”
Looking back, he’s grateful for the time he spent in Brownsburg and everything Little League and high school baseball did for him — and now, he’s giving back.
“It was always on the radar — figuring out how to replace at least the main diamond in Brownsburg. I remember playing at Arbuckle Park as a kid. The place was always packed and not just with parents but people who came to watch our games,” Storen said. “This isn’t about the big business side of baseball. It’s tradition. You don’t have to be a major leaguer. You can be a kid that wants to go out and play and learn the game and make lifelong friends along with life lessons and growth as a person. This is important.”
He’s quick to point out, the youth sports complex is for everyone. For Storen, it’s also about green space, parks and places for the community to gather.
“This is not just about a baseball diamond. It’s another park in the community. Everyone will benefit. The diamond got the conversation started, but it’s really about having a place to go to play,” he said.
Today, in addition to coaching his two sons and pouring his energy into the development of Brownsburg Youth Sports and the future sports complex, Storen is cofounder of Field of Dreams Whiskey Co.
It’s a combination of Storen’s love for baseball, whiskey — he’s collected rare bourbons throughout his career — and the 1989 movie starring Kevin Costner, “Field of Dreams.”
“I take corn from the ‘Field of Dreams’ movie site in Dyersville, Iowa, and make bourbon. I used my project design degree to create the logo and partnered with my best childhood friend from Brownsburg
Little League and another best friend from MLB and started the company,” Storen said.
The area is currently undergoing changes to further entice movie buffs and baseball fans.
“They had an MLB game there in 2021 with the White Sox and the Yankees. Now, it’s been put on pause because
ORTHO
Orthopedic Urgent Care directly from the specialistsit doesn’t get better than that. And because life happens after hours, we accept walk-ins with no appointment necessary and provide extended hours for evenings and weekends.
they’re building a permanent stadium, so hopefully, we’ll have more games in the next couple of years,” he said. “The field has always been maintained, and we work with the local farmers to harvest what we need for the bourbon. It’s sort of like combining all of my passions into one.”
In the process of it all coming together, he hopes others — particularly youth — find the passion for baseball or youth sports in general that he has had over the years.
“It’s extremely important for kids to be able to play with their friends. I think youth travel ball has turned into a professional sport pretty quickly, and it cuts some of these kids off from a great game and great life lessons,” he said. “We don’t want anyone to be shut out.”
For more information about Brownsburg Youth Sports and the future sports complex, visit brownsburgsports.org. For more about Field of Dreams Whiskey Co., visit drinkfieldofdreams.com.
Suspected
The LIV Golf Championship is coming to Chatham Hills Golf Club in August.
The tournament will take place August 15 – 17, with some golfers competing for the 2025 LIV Golf League Individual Champion title, and all fighting to secure contracts for next season.
Expect to see top golf players at this tournament, including Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Bubba Watson.
Team captain of the RangeGoats GC, Watson joined the LIV Golf League in 2022. He is excited about the league’s future and views it to attract new and younger fans to the game.
“We’re entertainers. We’re trying to win a trophy and beat everybody in that field,” Watson said. “But at the same time, we’re trying to get people to love the game of golf, see the game of golf, get off video games and go outdoors. We got something for everybody.”
Hosting an international sports event in Westfield is a rare opportunity, and Mayor Scott Willis hopes it will open doors for
THE BIG TIME
THE LIV GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP COMES TO WESTFIELD
more. “Westfield has carved out a reputation for hosting sporting events at Grand Park now for several years. But we’re now taking this international. FIFA announced Grand Park as a base camp location for the World Cup, and now LIV,” he said. The tournament is expected to draw up to 25,000 visitors and bring an estimated $21 million to $29 million in economic impact for that weekend.
Panelist Betsy Garfield of Henke Development Group, which orchestrated Chatham Hills, echoed her excitement. “When we were first presented with the opportunity, it just seemed like we couldn’t pass this up,” she said. “Professional, elite golf hasn’t been back in Indianapolis for almost a decade. This is a sports town. We rally for sports.”
LIV Golf is also working with boys and school golf teams from Westfield High School and Guerin Catholic High School, as well as representatives from the Indiana Special Olympics, inviting them to an on-course clinic with Watson.
The LIV Golf League features 54 players and 13 teams competing throughout a 14-event season for the Individual and Team Championships. The tournament begins with a shotgun start —
Writer / Stephanie Duncan Photographer / Ramsey Baltz
meaning all groups tee off simultaneously from different holes. Foltz said LIV Golf offers a supercharged fan experience that’s best enjoyed in person.
“What you’re going to notice is that everybody is in a better mood. They’re not afraid of their phone clicking at the wrong time or being at the wrong place at the wrong time. If you don’t feel like walking around and following the bigname stars, you can stay in one place and watch every single star of LIV in a fivehour span,” he said.
A superior fan experience and festive atmosphere set LIV Golf apart from traditional golf events, but fans should still expect fierce competition. “The competition is real. We’re not goofing around,” Watson said.
He added the relaxed environment and team dynamic improve the player experience. “I’ve always been scared inside the ropes, and when it gets quiet, it’s more demons in your head. It’s just you and the golf ball. With music going on, it quiets down the thoughts in your head,” Watson said. He also enjoys cheering on his teammates. “It’s been an amazing journey. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
Chatham Hills is the last golf course designed by legendary architect Pete Dye, who preferred hands-on construction over detailed plans. Garfield described the effort Dye and his wife, Alice, invested in the course. “They were out here all the time, and Pete would always bring his dog, Sixty,” she said. “Both of them actually hit inaugural tee shots on 10.”
Expect special events leading up to competition weekend, including live music and interactive fan experiences.
Three-day and single-day passes are available at LIVGolf.com, with discounts for students, teachers and first responders. Learn more about Chatham Hills at chathamhills.com.
AUGUST
Submit Your Events!
5
DROPKICK MURPHYS AND BAD RELIGION*
7 p.m.
Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park, 801 W. Washington St.
6 BABYFACE
7:30 p.m.
Indiana Farmers Coliseum, 1202 E. 38th St.
Indianapolis native Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds is a 13-time Grammy Awardwinning artist, songwriter and producer.
INDIANAPOLIS
INDIANS VS. OMAHA
STORM CHASERS
1:35 p.m.
Victory Field, 501 W. Maryland St.
WILD
WEDNESDAYS
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, 10267 U.S. Highway 136 Open to all makes and models. Bring your favorite car.
8
BILL MURRAY & HIS BLOOD BROTHERS
7:30 p.m.
Indiana Farmers Coliseum, 1202 E. 38th St.
Featuring artists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia.
9
INDIANA FEVER VS. CHICAGO SKY
8 p.m.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 125 N. Pennsylvania St.
TIM MEADOWS
7 p.m.
Shelton Auditorium at Butler Arts Center, 1000 W. 42nd St.
Actor and writer known for 10 seasons on “Saturday Night Live.”
10
CHRIS TOMLIN
7:30 p.m.
Indiana Farmers Coliseum, 1202 E. 38th St. Time magazine called him the “most often sung artist in the world.”
16
PRESEASON GAME 1 –GREEN BAY PACKERS VS. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
1 p.m.
Lucas Oil Stadium, 500 S. Capitol Ave.
23
INDY ELEVEN VS. MIAMI
IU Michael A. Carroll Track & Soccer Stadium, 1001 W. New York St.
26
INDIANA FEVER VS. SEATTLE STORM
7 p.m.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 125 N. Pennsylvania St.
29
LOUIS CK | RIDICULOUS
7:30 p.m.
Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St.
Mature content, 18+ only. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m.
Sara H., patient
LET’S GO CAMPING
YOUR GUIDE TO THE 2025 COLTS TRAINING CAMP
Writer / Devon Dean
Indianapolis Colts training camp in Westfield is already underway, but it feels a little different this year. Sure, the team and fans are back out in the August heat in anticipation of what will hopefully be a successful season under head coach Shane Steichen. But there is a noticeable absence on the sidelines.
Beloved team owner Jim Irsay passed away in May at the age of 65. Irsay’s passing has left the team with a hole in its heart and a renewed sense of purpose and motivation.
“We have a lot to play for this year,” says wide receiver Alec Pierce, a fifth-year player. “We are extra motivated this year. I’ve never been in a playoff game.”
Colts fans will notice homages to Irsay immediately when they visit training camp.
The week after Irsay’s passing, team officials announced plans to honor him with a special jersey patch during the 2025-2026 season.
Those patches will also be on the practice jerseys. “The patch is a visual reminder to everyone of his presence and legacy here in Indianapolis,” says Colts Vice President of Marketing Stephanie Pemberton. “Mr. Irsay loved coming to camp.”
Irsay could often be spotted on a golf cart, chatting with fans, coaches, players, and staff, just as enthused about the start of another season as everyone else.
Pemberton says Irsay’s love for the game was second only to that of his family. “He cared deeply about the horseshoe,” she says. “We want to recognize his community impact and the thousands of lives he touched.”
Irsay’s three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson — are now at the helm of the team, with IrsayGordon serving as CEO, Foyt as executive vice president, and Jackson as chief brand officer and president of the Indianapolis Colts Foundation. All three share ownership duties.
“To say that we love our dad and miss him terribly would be an understatement,” Irsay-Gordon said. “We are so proud to continue our dad’s legacy, beginning with carrying out his foremost wish — to keep the Colts in our family.”
“We want our fans to know that we’ve spent decades in our family business learning every aspect of our organization under our dad’s leadership. It was sometimes trial by fire, and I’m forever grateful for the invaluable experience that I’ve gained. It has prepared me and my sisters for moments like today.”
All three will be at camp to help honor their father’s legacy ahead of the season.
CAMPING GUIDE
Training camp will be held through August 14 at Grand Park in Westfield. Pemberton says tickets can be reserved via the Colts’ website. The team is hosting 13 open practices, including seven primetime practices on select nights and weekends, giving fans even more chances to catch the team up close.
“We are one of the few teams in the league where training camp is open to fans for every practice,” said Pemberton. “We want fans to be part of the players’ journeys.”
Kids 17 and under can enjoy free entry to every practice, with open bleacher seating that offers great views of the action. Fans can also explore Colts City, an interactive fan zone featuring football drills, live performances by Colts Cheer and Blue, giveaways, and more. Plus, postpractice autographs are back! Select players will toss signed footballs into the crowd, creating memorable experiences for fans of all ages.
“The Colts will host a joint practice with Green Bay on Thursday, August 14, from 3 to 5 p.m. as a camp finale,” Pemberton says. “Primetime sessions start at just $5, and all ticket proceeds benefit USA Football, helping expand access to youth flag football right here in Indiana.”
The pop-up Pro Shop will also return so fans can stock up on the latest gear ahead of the 2025 regular season.
Yes, three-time NFL Mascot of the Year Blue will also be around. Pemberton says to keep your eyes peeled for flying pies. “Blue will throw a pie in your face if you ask,” she joked.
Training camp will use the same clear bag policy as Lucas Oil
Parking is available all over the Grand Park campus and can be purchased in advance.
Misting stations will be available at camp. • Bring sunblock — training camp is during the hottest months of the year.
For Pierce, it’s another chance for the offense to gel as a unit. “The objective is to win the division,” he says. “Whatever we have to do to win.”
HONORING THE LEGACY
Jim Irsay will be inducted into the Colts Ring of Honor as part of the celebration of his life and legacy on Sunday, September 7, during week one of the NFL regular season.
“There was no bigger advocate for the Colts, the NFL, the city of Indianapolis, and the state of Indiana than our dad,” said Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Colts owner and CEO. “It’s only fitting that he now
joins the other amazing Colts legends in our Ring of Honor who contributed so much to our franchise and our community over the past four decades.”
The Colts kick off the 2025 season against the Miami Dolphins at Lucas Oil Stadium at 1 p.m on September 7. The first
preseason game will be against the Ravens in Baltimore on Thursday, August 7.
For the complete camp schedule, tickets and more information, visit colts.com.
Custom Closets, Garage Cabinets, Home Offices, Laundries, Pantries, Wall Beds, and more!
A FRESH START
HENDRICKS COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL REBRANDS AS HENDRICKS COUNTY ARTS COLLECTIVE
Writer / Melissa Gibson
They’ve been around for nearly two decades, but this year, the Hendricks County Arts Council has officially changed its name to the Hendricks County Arts Collective (HCAC), and artists and patrons are embracing the new direction.
“We wanted to move beyond the traditional arts council model, and the feedback we were getting was the word ‘council’ was a little off-putting,” said Anne Johansson, president of the board. “We moved to this collective brand for a more collaborative and inclusive spirit, and we’ve seen the numbers grow exponentially. It’s been a good change.”
With help from new member and graphic artist Madison Pence, HCAC established a new logo and website. The organization held a kickoff meeting this spring and refocused its mission toward shared ownership among artists, patrons and community members.
HCAC is an independent volunteer organization, and it plans to concentrate on a few main pillars: art exhibitions at Hendricks Live! and other locations, educational workshops and public art.
Not only are patrons able to take classes from photographers, painters, sculptors and mixed media artists — the artists themselves are getting support, too.
“We’ve heard from artists who say, ‘I don’t know how to price my art,’ or ‘I don’t know how to file my taxes as an independent artist,’ and we’re looking at providing programs that support them as well,” Johansson said.
The public art piece was launched through the first-ever “Hues of Hendricks County Public Art Initiative.”
Renowned artists were chosen to create five vibrant public art installations in communities across the county.
• Tree Removal, Topping & Trimming
• Shrub Trimming & Removal
• Light Hauling
• Construction Clean-up
• Junk Removal
• Brush Pile Cleaning
• Garage/Basement/ Attic Cleanout
• Gutter Cleaning
• Mini Barn / Shed / Fence / Deck Demolition & Removal
• Appliance / E-Waste Removal
• Stump Grinding
“The funds come from the state’s READI 180 in Color grant — economic development funds specifically for public arts — and are distributed through the Arts Council of Indianapolis,” Johansson said. “We raised $90,000 and received a $90,000 matching grant. So, we’re putting $180,000 back into the county in public art.”
Four murals and one large-scale art installation are underway in five towns: Coatesville, at the A&D Hardware Building; downtown Danville’s East Alley on the back corner of the Gallery on the Square building; an art installation in downtown Plainfield on the Center Street Parking Garage; the Lizton Fire Station; and along Broadway Street in North Salem.
“Each project celebrates the character of the community, and they’ll all be completed by the fall,” Johansson said. “We had an open call out for artists in March. There were 40 artists who applied from all over the world, and we had to choose five.”
HCAC selected experienced muralists Anthony Brooks, Angie Jerez, Andrey Kravtsov, Andrea Myers and Efren Rebugio Jr.
Each completed piece will be added to HCAC’s Mural Trail on its website, giving residents and visitors a chance to explore local art and perhaps plan a sightseeing or photo-op trip.
The Arts Collective is also partnering with Hendricks Live! for
an annual juried art exhibition, with cash awards for winners. It’s open to all Indiana artists over age 18 with original work to display.
Opening Night Reception and Awards will be presented at 7 p.m. Aug. 6, and the exhibit will remain open to patrons for viewing or purchase through Sept. 21.
“Main Street Plainfield and downtown Plainfield has completely transformed. Now, with Hendricks Live!, it’s really a different place. All of the performing arts groups — from the theater to ballet to the symphony — have a home now,” Johansson said. “We’re able to collaborate on these things because of this new space. It’s been a real game changer.”
Along with the kickoff and name change, HCAC introduced memberships for artists and patrons, with a tiered pricing structure.
“We’ve restructured to be member driven. If you’re a member, you have a vote and a say at how the funds are spent, and I think it’s a little more accessible to people. We want to make connections with individuals and with community partners like parks departments and town leadership too,” Johansson said.
Memberships include networking opportunities, exclusive events and workshops, a platform for artists to showcase their work, and a collective voice advocating for the arts.
Studies show that public art and its support greatly increase a sense of community and enhance the local economy as residents and visitors enjoy art and community activities.
“It really builds a sense of pride in your community — that sense of place. It inspires young people and brings color, both
Tox-Away Day
August 16
8 8AAMM--11PPM M
Hendricks County Fairgrounds (Enter at Gate 5)
Hendricks County households are encouraged to use Tox-Away Days to recycle and dispose of chemicals, fluorescent bulbs, batteries, medicines, medical sharps, tires, electronics, and appliances. Regulations prohibit wastes from businesses or other organizations from being accepted at Tox-Away Days.
Fees are charged for the recycling of TVs ($20/$25), appliances ($5/$10), and certain tires. Cash and check only.
Call ( 317 ) 858 - 6070 orvisit RecycleHendricksCounty.org formoreinformation.
literally and figuratively, to the town,” Johansson said. “It’s important because without people getting involved and improving things and inspiring others, your community dies.”
Not all of HCAC’s activities are covered by membership fees. Sponsorships are always welcome for exhibitions and other events. For more information, visit hendrickscountyarts.org/collective.
High Performing in Cancer Care
IU Health Medical Center, the academic medical center of Indiana University Health, is ranked #1 in Indiana and recognized as highperforming in cancer care by U.S. News & World Report.
