MUNCIE FOOTBALL STAR RETURNS TO TOWN TO OFFER YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOOTBALL CAMP
4 FLAGS OF HONOR A Tradition of Tribute and Service in Muncie
8 BACK TO SCHOOL Ivy Tech Muncie to Host Annual “Downtown Motown” Kick-Off Event 11 READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL Muncie Football Star Returns to Town to Offer Youth Development Football Camp 16 AUGUST CALENDAR 17 BASKETBALL IN THE PARK Zion Strong Revitalizes Local Courts 20 FAIR TIMES Your Sneak Peek Into the 2025 Indiana State Fair
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FLAGS OF HONOR
A TRADITION OF TRIBUTE AND SERVICE IN MUNCIE
Writer / Jennifer Criss
Every September, a striking display of American flags ripples across the lawn at Minnetrista Museum and Gardens. It’s not just a powerful visual tribute — it’s a weeklong expression of gratitude, remembrance, and community spirit known as the Flags of Honor. Now in its 13th year, this annual event is organized by the Exchange Club of Muncie, a local service organization with a century-long legacy of community leadership and civic engagement.
“It started with one member and an idea,” said Warner VanFleet, a longtime member and past president of the club. Rebecca Gill joined our club after moving from Utah, where she had participated in a smaller version of this event. She brought
us the inspiration — and the energy — to do something meaningful and lasting for Muncie.”
Flags of Honor invites the public to sponsor a flag in honor or memory of a loved one — local veterans, current service personnel, fallen heroes, and all those who wish to display their pride for the country. For $30, a name is printed on a yellow ribbon attached to a flag that waves proudly on the Minnetrista lawn throughout the week leading up to September 11, Patriot Day. The event culminates in a moving closing ceremony at 6 p.m., starting with a performance by America’s Hometown Band. The event is free and open to the public.
But behind the beauty of the flags lies months of work — and a whole community effort.
A LABOR OF LOVE
“The logistics are intense,” VanFleet explains. “We lay out a grid with more than a thousand plotted points. Rebar is driven into the ground, and each flag is set by hand with the rebar holding it in place. It used to be our members doing the heavy work, but most of us are in our seventies or eighties now. That’s where Muncie Central’s Junior ROTC has been a godsend. They help us put the flags up and take them down, year after year.”
This partnership is one of many that make
the event possible. Minnetrista provides the space and contributes signage, setup, credit card processing, and facilities support. Local law enforcement and veterans’ groups volunteer for overnight shifts to keep the flags safe, ensuring a 24-hour watch throughout the display period.
FUNDING WHAT MATTERS
While individual ribbons bring in heartfelt contributions, the club’s real fundraising power lies in corporate sponsorships, which range from $100 to $2,500. Sponsors receive visibility through banners, media promotion, and event signage. More importantly, they become part of a mission rooted in service.
Proceeds from the event are distributed annually to four core beneficiaries — always nonprofits that support youth, families, or veterans. These vary from year to year. Last year’s recipients included Delaware County’s Prevention of Child Abuse Council, United Daycare, Ball State’s Guardian Scholars program, and Beyond I Can. Other funds support long-term partners such as Veterans Affairs, Toys for Tots, and the Salvation Army. None of the funds raised support the Exchange Club or its operations. Every dollar goes to help these meaningful charities.
“We only pick four charities, so our
donations can make a real difference,” VanFleet said. “We want to give meaningfully, not just symbolically.”
A CLUB WITH DEEP ROOTS
Founded in 1921, the Muncie chapter of the Exchange Club is one of the city’s longest-standing service organizations. As part of a national network in Toledo, Ohio, the club was historically composed of local professionals, school leaders, and civicminded individuals.
VanFleet served as an administrator for Muncie Schools for many years prior to his retirement.
“When I joined the Exchange Club in 1989, [school] administrators were expected to join service clubs,” he recalls. “Some organizations around here have faded with time, but Exchange has stayed around — largely because we’ve evolved and stayed active.”
That activity has included programs like “Give a Kid a Flag to Wave” during the Ball State Homecoming Parade and Minnetrista’s 4th of July celebrations, maintenance of the Cardinal Greenway McCulloch Park trailhead, Delaware County Prevention of Child Abuse’s Pinwheel Project, and Kids Comfort Zoo — donations of small comfort items for
children experiencing trauma, distributed through emergency responders.
MORE THAN A DISPLAY
Flags of Honor has become a signature event for the Exchange Club and the city of Muncie.
People drive by and see the field of flags, but they might not know the stories behind them. It’s easy to overlook how much coordination, fundraising, and volunteerism it takes. But the result is powerful.
As the 13th annual display approaches, the club remains committed to making it more than just a photo opportunity. It’s a space for healing, remembering, and giving back. It’s also a reminder of what a small, dedicated group can do when they work together to serve others.
“We’re not a big club anymore,” VanFleet said. “But we’re mighty. And as long as we’re able, we’ll keep showing up — flag by flag.”
The Flags of Honor will be displayed on the grounds of Minnetrista from September 4 to September 11. Friends, families, and organizations can purchase a ribbon sponsorship to honor a loved one and display it among the flags by visiting mmg. ticketapp.org/portal/product/26.
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BACK TO SCHOOL
IVY TECH MUNCIE TO HOST ANNUAL
“DOWNTOWN MOTOWN” KICK-OFF EVENT
Ivy Tech Muncie will welcome students and community members to its annual kick-off event on Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 1 to 5 p.m. at 345 South High Street. This year’s theme, “Downtown Motown,” promises an afternoon of live music, food, and fun for all ages.
Admission is free and open to the public.
Writer / Kimber Hercest
The event will feature live music by Toy Factory, one of Indiana’s premier Motown and R&B bands, along with a variety of local food trucks. Attendees can also explore community services offered by local vendors and enjoy family-friendly games and activities.
Thrive Federal Credit Union, a supporter of education and community events, is sponsoring the event.
“This event is a chance for students, families, and neighbors to come together and celebrate the start of a new academic year,” said Wayne Johnson, vice chancellor for enrollment and student success. “Downtown Motown is more than just a party — it’s a celebration of the vibrant energy and potential that exists here in Muncie.”
Whether new to Ivy Tech, a returning student, or a local resident, “Downtown Motown” provides an opportunity to connect, explore, and enjoy the afternoon in the heart of the city.
At the start of the fall term, Ivy Tech will shut down Charles Street for the most anticipated event of the year. This year’s theme will bring the soulful spirit of Detroit’s legendary music scene to the streets with live performances, delicious food, games, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet community partners, discover everything Ivy Tech MuncieHenry County has to offer, and have a great time with family and friends.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable celebration as Ivy Tech welcomes everyone back in style.
For more information on how to apply, class registration, or to schedule a tour, visit ivytech.edu/locations/Muncie.
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READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL
MUNCIE FOOTBALL STAR RETURNS TO TOWN TO OFFER YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOOTBALL CAMP
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
Eddie Faulkner was just 9 years old when he first started playing football in the fields behind Muncie Central High School. He went on to become a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and running track in high school, but football remained his jam.
“Indiana has always been such a heavy basketball state, but football in Muncie took root during that time period as we had several Division I players then,” said Faulkner, a Muncie Central graduate who was recruited by several Big Ten schools before going on to play tailback for the University of Wisconsin, where he went to five bowl games and won two Rose Bowls between 1996 and 2000.
He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and then the Edmonton Eskimos. He started coaching in 2002.
“Originally I got into coaching to impact kids’ lives and have a way of connecting with them in order to help them succeed with their ambitions and goals,” said Faulkner, who comes from a family of educators, including his mom, Ermalene.
“Coaching is a form of teaching, and I had a passion for it,” said Faulkner, the current Pittsburgh Steelers running backs coach. “That segued into a love of matching wits against like professionals who fancy themselves good at their profession, and so the competitive spirit is also a driving factor in what I like about coaching.”
Faulkner, who was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame in June of this year, has always cared a great deal about community. That’s why for years he and his family have donated holiday meals and gifts to families in need. This year, he launched the nonprofit Team Faulk Inc. with a mission to positively impact young lives by providing structured exposure to accomplished
professionals across educational, athletic, relational and societal platforms to support the achievement of their maximum potential.
Team Faulk includes board members, many of whom are family. Faulkner is the president, owner and founder. His wife, Anissa, is vice president, treasurer and secretary. His oldest son, Eddie Faulkner IV, is second vice president, co-owner, graphic designer and camp coach. An All-American and academic All-American football player at Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania, Eddie IV was also a rookie mini-camp invitee for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
His daughter, Madison, a junior at Indiana University Bloomington, is co-owner, board member and quality control director. His mother, Ermalene, is chief of staff. His sister, Edie Reaves, is senior adviser. Jason Delk provides legal counsel. His niece, Kennedy Davis, designed and set up the website. His father, Eddie Faulkner Jr., is also heavily involved with the organization. The Faulkners also have a 9-year-old son named Xavier.
When Faulkner was growing up in Muncie, he attended a free football camp for youth that was run by Muncie legend Dave Duerson, who went on to play for the Chicago Bears in the 1980s. Even as a kid, he realized how cool this was and vowed to one day do the same. That dream came to fruition in June 2024 when he held the first Youth Development Football Camp. The fact that it’s 100% free makes it even more special.
“We want to remove any barriers that would keep kids from coming, and that’s usually money,” Faulkner said.
In June 2025, they held the second annual Team Faulk Youth Development Camp, where more than 300 kids ages 8 to 18 preregistered. The threat of rain kept numbers down, but Faulkner said that doesn’t matter.
“If we got 500 kids there, that would be a blessing, but if we affect one kid in a positive way, then it’s worth it,” he said.
Next year, they plan to open the camp to kids ages 6 to 18.
Every year, Faulkner uses his contacts to build a dynamite coaching and mentorship roster. He invites former players from Muncie Central who have gone on to a variety of careers, from NFL players and coaches to engineers.
This year, former Muncie Southside star and two-time Super Bowl champion Brandon Gorin attended, as did former Central and Ball State wide receiver Louis Johnson, a member of the Bearcats’ 2002 sectional championship team. In addition, former Cardinals tight end Darius Hill, defensive back Chris Allen and linebacker Wendell Brown helped, as did current Cardinal quarterback Kiael Kelly.
“It’s amazing to get a bunch of people from near and far to support,” said Faulkner, noting that people came from California, Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Minnesota and Wisconsin. This year, Jaylen Warren, a running back for the Steelers, made an appearance. Roughly 98% of these people offer their time for free.
“At this camp, kids see guys who stood where they are and played on these same fields. Those guys applied themselves and went on to do great things,” Faulkner said. “The message is that they can do great things, too.”
The camp is run a bit like the NFL season—from the Combine all the way through the Super Bowl. They start off the day with Combine drills, followed by a speaker. Then they run through some practice drills and hear from another speaker. That’s followed by a Q&A with former or current college athletes where campers can ask recruiting or academic questions. Then they have a competition where the best athletes are selected. It creates a real atmosphere of what it feels like to make an NFL team. They end the day with a competition and awards presentation before leaving with a swag bag of goodies.
Brandon Crawford, a former Ball State football player, has brought his children to the camp both years. He said they love the family feel, the welcoming atmosphere and the competitive spirit. His daughter was named MVP.
“It’s great that Coach Faulkner has the opportunity, with all the relationships he’s built with people over the years through the fraternity of football, to give back to this community that raised and nourished him,” Crawford said. “I think Coach Faulkner has a lot of blessings ahead of him as far as what he’s trying to accomplish.”
For more information, visit teamfaulkinc.com or email teamfaulkinc@gmail.com.
Solutions
AUGUST CROSSWORD PUZZLE
43. European viper
45. Extinguishes
48. Kind of flour
49. Half and half
50. Highflying industry
56. Dawn discovery
57. During 58. Australian export
59. Mouse catcher
60. Die
61. Duration of office
DOWN
1. Aromatherapy site
2. Is up to the task
3. Coffee holder
4. Two-spots
5. Bill producers
6. C’est la ___
7. Hostel
8. Block or dissuade
9. Incense stick
10. Soothing plant
11. Flower plots
16. Christmas song leapers
20. Elaborate
21. Equestrian contest
22. Heaven on earth
23. Pond swimmer
24. “Bullitt” director
25. Pub pints
28. British noble
30. Became mellow
31. Plain
32. Practice in the ring
35. Doesn’t go
38. Bark
42. Biblical patriarch
44. Stop
45. Extinction exemplar
46. Again, in different form
47. Whimper
48. Was a passenger
51. Flightless bird
52. Barbecue offering
53. Make like
54. Game show giveaway
55. Glade shade
AUGUST
1
KYLE MERCER
9 p.m. | Oasis Bar & Grill, 1811 S. Burlington Drive Arizona-raised and based in Nashville since 2010, Mercer tours extensively throughout the northern and southern United States.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
FARMERS MARKET AT MINNETRISTA: OUTDOOR MARKET
9 a.m. to noon | Minnetrista, 1200 N. Minnetrista Parkway Held every Saturday through October. Discover fresh produce, baked goods, plants, eggs, meats and more.
MUNCIE CARS & COFFEE
9 a.m. to noon | Corner of Walnut and Charles streets, Old National Bank parking lot, 116 W. Charles St. Open to all years, makes and models. Hosted by the Muncie Volkswagen Club.
MUNCIE MAKERS MARKET AT FIRE UP DWNTWN
1 to 10 p.m. | Canan Commons and downtown A family-friendly event with a wide range of engaging activities and attractions.
7
FIRST THURSDAYS WITH THE MUNCIE MAKERS MARKET
5 to 8 p.m. | Adams and Walnut streets, downtown Muncie
Enjoy a fun outdoor community event featuring local growers and makers.
LIVE GEODE SLICING
During First Thursday 5 to 8 p.m. | Kat’s Crystals & Curiosities, 111 E. Adams St. Live geode slicing experience during First Thursday.
16
MUNCIE THREE TRAILS MUSIC SERIES: BLUE MOON MARQUEE
7 p.m. | Canan Commons, 500 S. Walnut St. Free, all-ages concert featuring the awardwinning Canadian blues/ swing/jazz group.
21
AHB’S GOT TALENT
7:30 p.m. | Westside Park, 801 S. Nichols Ave. and 2400 W. White River Pkwy Concert featuring soloists and small ensembles from AHB.
THIRD THURSDAYS WITH THE MUNCIE MAKERS MARKET
VETERANS COFFEE CLUB
9 to 11 a.m. | Muncie Delaware County Senior Center, 2517 W. Eighth St.
5 to 8 p.m. | Madjax Maker Force, 515 E. Main St. An indoor “night market” vibe featuring local makers and growers.
22, 23, & 30
MAGIC TREE HOUSE: SPACE MISSION
5 p.m. | Ball State University, 2000 W. University Ave.
SKY SKILLS LIVE
6:30 p.m. | Ball State University, 2000 W. University Ave.
23
MUNCIE SENIOR CENTER BENEFIT CAR SHOW
Noon to 4 p.m. | Greg Hubler Ford, 6400 W. Hometown Blvd. Open to all car clubs. Registration starts at 10 a.m.
MUNCIE THREE TRAILS MUSIC SERIES: VANESSA COLLIER
7 p.m. | Ball State University, 2000 W. University Ave. Free, allages concert by 15-time Blues Music Awards nominee and four-time winner.
30
LABOR DAY LAUNCH
6 to 8 p.m. | Minnetrista, 1200 N. Minnetrista Pkwy
MUNCIE THREE TRAILS MUSIC SERIES: JENNIE DEVOE
7 p.m. | Canan Commons, 500 S. Walnut St. Free, all-ages concert by native Hoosier Jennie DeVoe.
BASKETBALL IN THE PARK
ZION STRONG REVITALIZES LOCAL COURTS
Writer / Heather Collins
Twenty-year-old Zion Strong is bringing basketball back to Muncie parks.
Following in his late father’s footsteps, Zion has launched a basketball court revitalization project to unite and uplift the local community.
Zion’s father, the late Marwin Strong, was a well-known community activist and author of the book,”Back From the Shadow of Death: Fulfilling Life’s Mission With God’s Help.”
In 2022, during Zion’s junior year at Muncie Central, he tore his ACL and
meniscus while playing basketball.
In the first game of his senior season, he reinjured the same knee and was out for the year. That same year, his father died.
“I was in a very dark place,” Zion said.
While recovering from his injuries, Zion began designing clothing on his iPad and soon launched his clothing brand, 4everLasting. The performance line features bold cuts, meaningful messages, and “4everLasting” energy.
In March 2025, Zion launched Superator
Inc., the nonprofit arm of 4everLasting. He said the word “superator” is Latin for overcomer.
The 4everLasting x Superator Inc. Basketball League creates safe, positive spaces that engage youth, unite neighborhoods, and promote leadership.
Through Superator Inc., Zion has begun revitalizing the basketball courts at Munsyana Park and Heekin Park, including clearing trees and weeds growing through the concrete, removing trash, filling cracks with sealant, and repaving the parking lot.
In July 2025, restoration began at Heekin Park, including a repainted court featuring the Heekin Park logo.
By the end of August 2025, each court will have new goals, rims, padding, paint, bleachers, and restored benches.
In memory of Zion’s father, the Muncie Housing Authority will rename Munsyana Park to Arthur Marwin Strong Park.
Zion said Marwin Strong Park will be a place of comfort for the community— created with intention and purpose.
“The park isn’t just about basketball courts,” he said. “It’s about community, growth, and keeping his spirit alive where it matters most — right here at home.”
The City of Muncie has sponsored Superator Inc. x 4everLasting tournaments and the court revitalization project.
“Together, we’re restoring our basketball courts — not just with paint and pavements, but with purpose, pride, and legacy,” Zion said. “These courts will be more than places to play … they’ll be places where stories are told, youth are empowered, and culture lives on.”
Zion said the City of Muncie and Mayor Dan Ridenour have shown strong support for his family and his community efforts.
“Zion Strong’s dedication to revitalizing Heekin Park and Munsyana Park is a powerful tribute to his father, the late Marwin Strong, whose legacy of service and community impact lives on through this work,” said Mayor Ridenour. “Through his nonprofit, 4everLasting, Zion has brought energy, vision, and compassion to spaces that mean so much to the people of Muncie. The City of Muncie is proud to support his efforts as we work together to build safer, more vibrant, and more welcoming parks for every resident.”
In 2025, Zion coordinated the 4everLasting x Superator Inc. Summer Showdown. Jamal Harris, a professional hooper in China and viral jumper known as “Mr. 52 Inches,” attended the event and brought elite-level bounce to Heekin Park.
On July 11, 4everLasting x Superator Inc. presented the Summer Showdown Pro-Am Basketball Tournament at Heekin Park, featuring elite teams from nine Indiana cities, including Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Richmond. In honor of Muncie Central basketball standout Dylan Stafford, the tournament included the Dylan Stafford 3-Point Contest | Long Live 22.
Throughout the summer, Zion hosts Hoop Session Saturdays at Heekin Park. The event features music, vendors, open runs, and friendly competition in a family-
friendly atmosphere.
Zion’s cousin and mentor, Lathay Pegues, is his entrepreneurial inspiration. Pegues owns JohnTom’s BBQ and hosts “765 Business Journal” on WMUN 92.5 FM.
Pegues said in the 1980s, Muncie parks were packed with thousands of people— babies to senior citizens—enjoying fish frys, barbecue, and uniting over basketball.
“Basketball was the event that brought everyone to the park,” Pegues said. “Your entire family would go to the parks throughout the summer and gather. I think Zion is the right person to bring that type of atmosphere back to Muncie.”
Zion said he hopes Superator Inc. can eventually expand globally to serve underserved communities.
“God put a mission in my life — to bring people closer together and bring people closer to Him,” Zion said.
For updates on Zion’s projects, follow Zistro_ on Instagram or 4LastingB on social media.
With his clothing brand and restoration projects, Zion is calling on the Muncie community to be part of something 4everLasting. To donate or learn more, visit 4lastingB.com.
FAIR TIMES
YOUR SNEAK PEEK INTO THE 2025 INDIANA STATE FAIR
Writer / Ashley Watters Photographer / Michael Durr
If you’re a foodie, thrill seeker or entertainment junkie, you’ll likely be among the crowds headed to the 2025 Indiana State Fair. Running from Aug. 1 through Aug. 17, this year’s fair attractions will feature a variety of new themes, food selections and shows that will keep the whole family enthralled and coming back for more.
The 2025 Indiana State Fair has been dubbed the “Soundtrack of Summer,” with organizers urging patrons to turn up the volume and turn on the memories, promising a whole playlist of your favorite things this coming August.
“The Soundtrack of Summer theme will bring a vibrant array of music and sound-related attractions. Visitors can look forward to the Vinyl Revival exhibit, which celebrates the connection between music and visual art, and various live performances that capture the essence of summer. From the roar of the midway rides to the melodies of live bands, the fair will be a symphony of summer sounds,” said LeRoy Lewis III, director of community and media engagement for the Indiana State Fair.
One of the most important items on everyone’s need-to-know list is the food. Every year, patrons show up to discover which delectable concoctions will be featured. To help whet those appetites, the public is invited to participate in the Taste of the Fair contest, a competition
where vendors compete to create what Lewis calls the most “unique, mouthwatering and buzzworthy bites.” This interactive tradition immerses the public in the grand tradition of Indiana’s best fare. And of course, the fan favorites — deep-fried corn on the cob, giant tenderloin and lemon shake-ups — will be available.
Entertainment seekers should check out featured events including the World-Famous Big Top Circus, The Art of Music Experience exhibit, Mighty Mike strongman shows, DockDogs and Wolves of the World. Many of these exhibits are free with paid admission.
There will, of course, be bands on the grandstand, enticing crowds with sing-along favorites and dance-worthy beats. Fairgoers are encouraged to check out the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage for the summer concert feature. That lineup will be unveiled closer to opening day.
Families will have plenty of options to choose from, with free displays, interactive activities and mesmerizing demonstrations for every age. For a full list of things to do with kids under 10, visit indianastatefair. com/events/kids for a full schedule of crafts, encounters, play areas and more.
Those looking to show off their skills or watch the action can catch competitions ranging from livestock to LEGO, including the Supreme Drive, Indiana Brewers’ Cup and Grand Champion Showcase.
“There’s a competition for nearly every passion — from 4-H projects, home and family arts, livestock showmanship, baking and quilting, to street dancing, photography, cheerleading, gardening and more. These competitions are the heart of the fair, where rural meets urban and excellence is celebrated daily,” Lewis said.
Patrons over 21 looking for their beverage of choice can enjoy award-winning brews and spirits. The Indiana Brewers’ Cup competition, held prior to the fair, determines which brewers will be featured.
“The competition showcases the creativity, skill and innovation of brewers from across the country. With over 100 style categories judged by certified experts, the Brewers’ Cup is a true celebration of the art and science of brewing. Winners are recognized during the Indiana State Fair, where select brews are also featured for public tasting in the Indiana Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden,” Lewis said.
Wine and spirits lovers will have a variety of options thanks to the Indiana State Wine and Spirits Competition. Top vintners and distillers will showcase their creations in the Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden.
“From bold reds and crisp whites to small-batch bourbons and botanical gins, the competitions honor excellence in every pour. Award-winning selections are proudly showcased during the fair, offering visitors a chance to sample the state’s finest in a festive, educational setting,” Lewis said.
Lewis also offered some advice to make your visit run smoothly. He suggests arriving early to beat traffic and crowds. Public transportation can ease parking woes, and E-Z Park locations are available around the fairgrounds. Visitors within biking distance can use monitored bike parking for $1 off admission.
To score a deal, fairgoers can take advantage of advance discounts for parking and admission, wristbands and family four-packs.
“We’ve blended timeless traditions with bold new attractions, so every visit feels like a brand-new adventure. Come hungry, bring your curiosity and leave with memories that smell like popcorn and sound like laughter. This is Indiana’s biggest celebration — and you’ve got a front-row ticket,” Lewis said.
Don’t miss this time-honored tradition. For more information, visit indianastatefair.com.
FULL-CIRCLE MOMENT
A VOLUNTEER’S KINDNESS LEAVES A LASTING IMPACT
When Ashley Reff gave birth to her first son, Cooper, a familiar face brought comfort during his short stay in the NICU, just as it had during another difficult moment years earlier.
Reff’s story began in 2017, on what seemed like an ordinary Sunday. Driving home from church with her parents and brother, a tornado struck unexpectedly, sending a massive tree crashing onto their car. Reff, just 16 at the time, was pulled to safety alongside her brother. Her parents, however, were trapped in the wreckage for hours, their injuries requiring immediate and complex care.
As doctors worked to stabilize her parents in the IU Health Ball emergency department, Reff sat in shock, overwhelmed by the chaos of the day. That’s when Kay Stickle, a longtime hospital volunteer, appeared with a calm and gentle presence. Stickle brought Reff a small stuffed horse, a simple gesture that became a lifeline in the moment.
“She was like this sweet grandma,” Reff says. “That little horse stayed with me the whole night and gave me something to hold onto.”
The experience stayed with Reff for years. She kept the stuffed animal as a keepsake — a small symbol of kindness that meant so much — and placed it in her son Cooper’s nursery, never expecting their paths would cross again.
In August 2024, Reff returned to the hospital as a new mother. Cooper, born three weeks early, had breathing complications that required a short stay in the NICU. While
the staff cared for her newborn, Reff was transported back to the same fear and uncertainty she had felt years earlier. Then, just before the NICU care team began their rounds, a familiar face entered the room: Stickle, now a volunteer with the NICU.
Reff couldn’t believe her eyes.
“She came in smiling, straightening things up, just like before,” says Reff.
When she introduced herself, Stickle remembered her immediately — her name, her family, and even that unforgettable night in 2017. For Reff, the moment was both
surreal and deeply comforting.
“It’s hard to put into words, but seeing her again made me feel like everything was going to be okay,” Reff says.
Over the next day and a half, Cooper improved and was soon discharged. As the
family left the NICU to begin their life at home, Reff reflected on the extraordinary connections that had marked her journey. Stickle’s small act of kindness, first for a scared teenager and now for a worried mother, reminded her how much volunteers matter in moments of crisis.
“It may not seem like much,” Reff says, “but those small gestures mean the world when you’re struggling.”
For Stickle, who has volunteered at the hospital for years, it was a full-circle moment as well. While she doesn’t always get to see the lasting impact of her work, she was grateful to reconnect with Reff and her family.
Now, the small stuffed horse remains a fixture in Cooper’s nursery — a tangible reminder of the quiet kindness that spans generations. For Reff, it’s proof that compassion, no matter how simple, can leave an impact that lasts a lifetime.
