Boone County Magazine July 2024

LEGACY OF VISION

DR. JAMES HAINES OF ZIONSVILLE EYECARE

RETIRES AFTER 44 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

DISCOVER THE VIBRANT FARMER’S MARKETS OF BOONE COUNTY, INDIANA

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, Boone County boasts a rich agricultural heritage that is beautifully showcased through its vibrant farmer’s markets. Towns like Zionsville, Whitestown, Lebanon, and Jamestown offer more than just fresh produce; they provide a delightful glimpse into the local culture and a welcoming community spirit. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these markets are must-visit destinations that promise a delightful experience.

ZIONSVILLE: A BLEND OF TRADITION AND INNOVATION

Zionsville’s Farmer’s Market is a testament to the town’s commitment to preserving its small-town charm while embracing modern sustainability practices. This market transforms the downtown area into a bustling hub of activity. Local farmers and artisans gather to offer an array of products ranging from organic vegetables and fruits to homemade jams, baked goods, and artisanal cheeses. The market also features live music, making it a lively spot for families and visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the Zionsville Farmer’s Market is the focus on locally grown and made products. Buying from this market means supporting local farmers and producers, ensuring that the food you bring home is fresh, seasonal, and sustainably produced. May 18th-September 28th, 8am-11:30am, Saturdays.

Whitestown: A Growing Hub of Freshness

Whitestown’s Farmer’s Market, held at the Main Street Park, is a growing favorite among locals and visitors alike. This market operates from June 13th to August 29th (no market July 4th), Thursdays, 5p-8p and features a wide variety of vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. The community-centric atmosphere is palpable, with friendly vendors who are always ready to share the stories behind their products. Food trucks are also at every market.

Visitors to Whitestown’s market can expect to find high-quality fruits and vegetables, locally raised meats, fresh eggs, and an assortment of baked goods. The market also emphasizes the importance of buying local, with many vendors highlighting their sustainable farming practices. Main Street Park also features a splash pad and sports courts, so every member of the family will enjoy the experience!

LEBANON: A HISTORIC MARKET WITH MODERN APPEAL

Lebanon’s Farmer’s Market is one of Boone County’s oldest, held in the historic downtown square. Open from June 4th through September (Tuesdays, 5p-7p), this market is a beloved tradition that brings together the best of local agriculture and craftsmanship. Shoppers can find a diverse selection of fresh produce, flowers, honey, and homemade crafts.

The Lebanon market is not just a place to buy goods; it’s a community event where people gather to enjoy live entertainment, participate in family-friendly activities, and catch up with neighbors. For visitors, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm of smalltown Indiana, meet local farmers, and taste the flavors of the region. They also host a Junior Market, where junior entrepreneurs come and sell things they have made.

JAMESTOWN: SMALL BUT MIGHTY

Jamestown’s Farmer’s Market is a hidden gem in Boone County. Held at the town’s downtown park, this market is a cozy spot where you can find fresh, locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, and unique handcrafted items. The market operates the first and third Saturdays, April-September from 9am to 2pm. It is a great place to support small-scale farmers and artisans.

Jamestown’s market may be smaller, but it makes up for its size with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop for those who appreciate the simplicity and personal touch of a small-town market. Visitors are often pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety of products available, all while enjoying the laid-back pace of life in Jamestown.

A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL FLAVOR AND COMMUNITY

The farmer’s markets in Boone County are more than just places to shop; they are celebrations of local flavor, community, and sustainability. Each market offers a unique experience, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer. Whether you’re looking for fresh, locally grown produce, handmade crafts, or just a friendly place to spend a Saturday morning, the markets in Zionsville, Whitestown, Lebanon, and Jamestown are worth a visit. They provide a wonderful way to connect with the local community, support sustainable practices, and enjoy the simple pleasures of small-town life. Find out more at: www.

DiscoverBooneCounty.com

SPOTLIGHT Discover Boone County

SPOTLIGHT Mackenzie Schick

PEOPLE The Heartwarming Mission of the Humane Society for Boone County

PROJECTS Breaking Down the Differences Among Service Animals, Therapy Pets and Emotional Support Pets

Give Your Furry Friend the Best With Walkadoodles & Whiskers Pet Concierge

ZIONSVILLE PET GROOMER NAMED INTERNATIONAL CERTIFIED MASTER GROOMER

OF THE GANG Chicken Nugget and Gang Serves as a Small-Animal Rescue, Foster and Support

CAN-DO ATTITUDE ICAN Brings Humans and Canines Together to Unleash Independence

BRANDON BALTZ brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522

Donna Chandler Has a True Love for Dog Training

OF VISION Dr. James Haines of Zionsville Eyecare Retires After 44 Years of Dedicated Service

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 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

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL SERVICES DEVON DEAN

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

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

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MACKENZIE SCHICK

Writer / Matt Keating

Mackenzie Schick, a 2024 graduate of Western Boone Junior-Senior High School (informally known as WeBo) said her school has helped her tremendously.

“In my opinion, WeBo really pushes progress over perfection,” Schick said. “From many of my teachers, specifically Jennifer Brunty, who teaches Spanish, I have heard repeatedly that it matters more that I improve in my own educational journey - progressing throughout the year and doing better than I did during the last nine weeks, rather than meeting perfection

by other people’s standards. I feel like pushing progress over perfection on students keeps the motivation alive and lets students know that even the tiny improvements/achievements are noticed and matter.”

Schick said she has learned a lot over the years.

“During my time at WeBo, I participated in National Junior Honor Society and National Honor Society, completing community service hours and participating in service projects,” Schick said. “My junior year I was selected to become an AMP mentor, which is an upperclassman who is chosen to guide incoming seventh-graders through their first year at WeBo. Throughout my senior year I took an emergency medical technician class through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, where I was presented an award for excellence in CTE. Over my six years at WeBo I have taken multiple Honors and AP courses, along with dual-credit courses, which gave me college credits through Ivy Tech. In addition, I was the Mr. WeBo choreographer for 2023 and 2024, as well as maintaining top 10 of my class for 10th, 11th and 12th grade. On May 25 I graduated with both Academic and Technical Honors diplomas.”

“While maintaining the academic value of the classroom, all the teachers are very good at creating fun learning environments for the students,” Schick added. “Not only are the classrooms enjoyable, but the teachers make it a point to build relationships with their students, which contributes to an overall caring community experience. A great example of this would be John Brunty’s math classes, of which I have so many lasting memories.”

Schick was also involved in other school activities.

“I’m also a competitive dancer at Talent Factory Arts & Dance in Lebanon, Indiana,” she said. “I have danced with them overall for nine years and have been a competitive dancer and student helper for six years. I participate in jazz, hip-hop, tap, lyrical, ballet, pointe, and acro recreationally, and have competed in jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, tap, and musical theater. In addition, I have been a student helper in the dance classes for the younger age groups. I spend many hours and evenings out of the week at the studio practicing with my team. Aside from being a fun activity, I feel as though dance has really helped to develop important characteristics. Skills I have learned from dance, such as perseverance and determination, I have been able to carry with me in all aspects of my life, including my academic career at WeBo.”

Schick has appreciated the support system at her school.

“I could not have achieved everything I have so far without the amazing support system I have around me,” she said. “The family, friends, students and teachers I am surrounded with have been incredibly helpful in my journey.”

PAW PEOPLE

THE HEARTWARMING MISSION OF THE HUMANE SOCIETY FOR BOONE COUNTY

Writer / Macy Walts

Photographer / Krystal Dailey

Susan Austin is a beacon of hope for animals in need. Fifteen years ago she began volunteering at the Humane Society for Boone County, and today she stands as its executive director.

Over the years Austin has had her fair share of adventures. She looks back fondly on the last decade. “We’ve run after puppies down fields,” she says. “There are a million and one stories that could be told.”

Despite these moments, the work at the shelter is emotionally taxing, given the difficult circumstances many animals come from. “It’s heartbreaking,” Austin says. “I don’t want to say that your heart gets hardened to it, because it doesn’t.”

However, the fulfillment from seeing animals find their forever homes makes these challenges worthwhile. “You see a successful adoption and hear from the adopter that the dog came in, laid down and sighed - and they know they’re home,” Austin says.

One can imagine how tempting it might be for staff members to bring an animal or two home. According to Austin, this happens frequently. “Many of our volunteers are actually former adopters or are fosters themselves,” she says. “I’m a foster fail, multiple times over. Some of them just attach to you, and you say ‘OK, yes, your home is here.’”

Adoption is open to everyone, and there is no shortage of animals in need of a home. The shelter houses dogs and cats of all sizes, ages and even breeds. “These aren’t discarded animals,” Austin emphasizes. “They’re just waiting for the right home.”

However, some animals face more

difficulties finding their forever homes. In particular, large or senior dogs often struggle with adoption. Among them is Mark, an 8-year-old white pitbull-Labrador mix recovering from a skin injury. “If any dog deserves a home, it’s this sweet little boy,” Austin says. “Well, he’s not so little, but he’s so sweet.”

Another notable resident is Jack, a medium-sized brown mutt brimming with personality. “He’s just a hoot,” Austin says. “He’s got personality galore. He’s a good boy, and he needs a home too. He’s been here too long.”

Volunteering doesn’t just benefit the animals; it also provides a sense of fulfillment and belonging to those involved.

For those interested in meeting pets like these, the shelter hosts various events including the Fur Ball, a Mardi Gras-themed party, and the Golf Scramble. They also appear at the Zionsville Farmers Market once a month.

Austin’s years at the shelter stand as a testament to her unwavering dedication and the profound impact one person can make. As she retires, Melanie Evans will be taking over as the new executive director, continuing the heartfelt mission of the Humane Society for Boone County.

The facility is located at 5366 South Indianapolis Road in Whitestown. Call 877-473-6722 or visit hsforbc.org for more

PET PROJECTS

BREAKING DOWN THE DIFFERENCES AMONG SERVICE ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT PETS

Writer / Tara Dorsett

One of the most controversial topics in the world of pets today swirls around service animals, therapy pets and emotional support pets. As a trainer, I’m frequently asked how to train pets to fill the needs of their owners. Each category has its own requirements. The time it takes to train your pet depends on which job your furry friend has applied for. State and federal regulations are also different for each category.

Service animals, including psychiatric animals, are trained to perform a certain job. These jobs are as varied as the dogs themselves. Service dogs can be trained to bring things to you, open doors, watch for traffic, alert you if a phone is ringing,

or tell you if someone is at the door. Other dogs help with less noticeable illnesses like diabetes, autoimmune disorders and seizures. Psychiatric dogs help people cope with trauma. They alert someone to situations that could result in harm to that person.

Service animals require more training because their jobs are more specialized. It is also extremely important that the service animal has a strong bond with the person they will be helping. The bond between a human and an animal affects the way the animal responds to the human. It also changes the way the human responds to the animal. The more you do with them, the more they are going to want to be with

you, and the easier it will be for them to determine when something is not right. If they don’t spend as much time with you, they may sense something is off, but not alert you as quickly or as effectively as they could. State and federal regulations allow service animals to accompany their human everywhere.

Therapy pets are not service dogs or emotional support pets. They help people mentally and physically. I break this group into two categories: mental health and physical health. The mental health therapy pet is there to brighten someone’s day. The physical health pet helps people improve their fine motor skills through petting, grooming and playing.

Therapy pets migrate toward places where people are “house bound,” like hospitals and nursing homes. There are very few restrictions regarding the type of animal, but the requirements remain the same. A therapy pet must respond to basic commands: sit, down, come and wait. They must not jump on people or pull on their leash when walking. They are required to pass a temperament test. Your pet must enjoy being around people and crowds. The pet should not get upset if they get bumped, their tail accidentally gets stepped on or their fur gets tugged. State and federal regulations limit where these pets are allowed to go.

Emotional support pets are not service animals or therapy pets. This group of pets offers support to their owners during difficult situations. They do not require any special training, and there are no restrictions on breeds or species. Emotional support pets should have some basic mannerscommands like come, sit, lay down and wait,

as well as walking on a leash without pulling - and be comfortable in new environments. The number of places where you can take your pet is slowly increasing. Several restaurants now have areas designated for pets. Bookstores, craft stores, hardware stores, home improvement stores and bigbox stores are changing their views on pets. State and federal regulations don’t offer guidelines for emotional support animals. Individual business and managers usually decide if these pets are welcome in their establishments.

There are some big differences between these three categories, but the bottom line is our pets make a big difference in our lives and the lives of the people they come in contact with.

Have questions about training your pet? Send me an email at taramarie611@gmail. com and I’ll be happy to help.

PART OF THE GANG

CHICKEN NUGGET AND GANG SERVES AS A SMALL-ANIMAL RESCUE, FOSTER AND SUPPORT ORGANIZATION

When you walk into the new location for Chicken Nugget and Gang, Rock may plop down and rollover onto your feet, trapping you from exploring the rest of the rescue and sanctuary. Rock is a 156-pound therapy dog, and he would enjoy a good pet before you visit the smaller and more exotic animals at the center.

Now open at 117 West Elm Street in Lebanon, Chicken Nugget and Gang houses doves, chinchillas, hamsters, bunnies, hedgehogs, and domesticated ducks and chickens, just to name a few of the critters. The rescue occasionally helps with puppies and kittens, but does not take in adult dogs or cats.

The rescue takes in small animals that have been abandoned or surrendered, and works with the Johnson County Animal Shelter and the Humane Society of Boone County, specifically in urgent cases.

Keir Schutte and her husband, Fritz, started the rescue out of their garage in 2015, after realizing how many small animals are abandoned each year by owners who were unaware of how to take care of them. It’s named after Chicken Nugget, a bantam rooster the couple fell in love with while

touring another rescue. The rooster, who typically didn’t like to be picked up, promptly fell asleep on Keir’s shoulder.

“I was shocked at how much of a need there was for a rescue to help with these types of animals, and not just cats and dogs,” Keir Schutte says. “We provide temporary housing, and facilitate fostering and adoption for these animals that are given as gifts for Easter and then surrendered to local shelters, left at parks or dumpsters, or for those whose owners no longer want the sweet animals.”

Chicken Nugget and Gang also assists with veterinary bills, pet food and other unexpected costs that may arise for pet owners, but the rescue is not limited to petrelated assistance; the team strives to be a support system for the entire community by teaming up with other rescues and shelters to provide the resources necessary for the animals of the region to thrive.

“Besides assisting with animals in need, we have helped folks who have fallen on tough times and needed pet food or litter,” Schutte says. “We’ve also collected and donated to other nonprofits like the Refuge teen home. We consistently volunteer and

Writer / Natalie Platt Photographer / Michaela Hoover

are committed monthly to The Waters of Lebanon Nursing Home, and fit in other locations when we can.”

To integrate further into the community, the rescue holds events like Bunnies and Beverages, a fun event with a silent auction, bingo and opportunities to meet some of the available bunnies. Schutte and her team also frequent local establishments and farmers markets to spread the word about

the organization and the animals.

And now, Schutte is asking the community to give back. The rescue is in need of volunteers to join four specific areas in order to move Chicken Nugget and Gang to the next level: bookkeeper, volunteer organizer, fundraising specialist, and donor and volunteer appreciation specialist.

“If we could get support in these areas, I can

focus on the big picture on how to grow the rescue,” Schutte says. “We are very easy to get a hold of through Facebook, email, or calling the center. We are always looking for consistent volunteers.”

For more info, visit chickennuggetandgang. com, call 765-481-2133, or email contact@ chickennuggetandgang.com.

WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED OF CARMEL

POOCH PASSION

Donna Chandler, a distinguished canine behavior professional, brings her clients a wealth of experience in dog training, spanning over 30 years. Her expertise extends beyond traditional training methods, as she is the author of five books and the creator of an online canine training

program available through her company, Good Dog All Behaviors.

Notably, her work is endorsed by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. What truly sets her apart is her unique ability to train service dogs for

individuals with specific conditions such as PTSD, diabetes and seizures.

“When someone is about to have a panic attack, or say a diabetic is experiencing a change in their blood sugar, they emit adrenaline,” Chandler says. “The dogs

DONNA CHANDLER HAS A TRUE LOVE FOR DOG TRAINING

Writer / Renee Larr

Photographer / Michaela Hoover

can smell the adrenaline being emitted. They’re taught to calm you down or alert you when they smell it. You can tell what the temperament of a puppy is going to be around eight to 10 weeks old.”

Her online puppy and adult dog training courses implement highly effective, positive reinforcement techniques meant to fit into today’s active lifestyles. The videos are self-paced and should be watched by everyone living in the home with the dog. Chandler also provides phone calls with her clients as often as needed. She says behavior takes about four to six months to become habitual.

Chapters of the program include operant training, behaviors you should never do with your dog, bite inhibition, six golden rules of house training, food plants and poisons, hide-and-seek and mind games, the first two weeks at home, as well as commands such as up, sit, stay, fetch, wait and down. Chandler says her passion

is teaching others how to make dogs enjoyable, lovable members of a their family. The course is $179 to enroll.

“I also consult on heartbreaking dog bite cases,” Chandler says. “There aren’t many people that can do those. I also took an animal behavior class at Purdue with Andrew Luescher.”

Chandler’s work has had a profound positive impact on countless families. This success story is not limited to a specific region, but resonates globally, offering hope and optimism to dog owners worldwide.

Throughout the course Chandler is there for her clients, ready to answer any questions or provide additional coaching. Her empathetic approach ensures that no one feels alone in their dog training journey, fostering a sense of reassurance and support.

For more information, visit k9.teachable.com.

THE ANIMAL DEN

OWNERS: MARY ELLEN AND WILL LOBERGER

ADDRESS: 5338 WHITESTOWN PARKWAY, LEBANON, IN 46052

WEBSITE: ANIMALDENINDY.COM

PHONE: (317) 769-5100

RATING: GOOGLE 4.4

The Animal Den is a family-owned business designed to provide exceptional and worry-free pet care. In business since 1998, we have provided a state-of-theart pet resort combined with unparalleled attention to detail and outstanding customer service where everyone feels comfortable leaving a member of the family. Our company’s business concept is to ensure that every pet is safe, secure, and content.

REVIEW:

This was the first time boarding our two dogs with Animal Den. We will most definitely be back - the employees were thorough and friendly at both drop off and pick up. I appreciated that they did an intake to learn about our dogs and had a recap at pick up. My dogs came home happy and tired and looked wonderful from their bath. Glad to have a great option so close to us.—Brecken VanHoy

The Animal Den is my favorite place to house my dog when I’m gone. They take great care of him and provide thorough feedback on how he behaved and what they observed during his visit. Highly recommend for anyone who needs some love and care for their furry family members! —Karl Knarr

DOG-GONE EXCEPTIONAL

GIVE YOUR FURRY FRIEND THE BEST WITH WALKADOODLES & WHISKERS PET CONCIERGE

Writer

/ Matt Keating

Kathy Vorisek, owner and founder of Walkadoodles & Whiskers Pet Concierge, said she treats all of the pets she works with as if they were her own.

“My business idea really came from my own thoughts as to how I want to feel when I leave my own pet,” Vorisek said.

All of the employees at Walkadoodles & Whiskers Pet Concierge, which serves Westfield, Whitestown, Zionsville, northside Indianapolis, Meridian-Kessler and Carmel, are trained and vetted.

“All new hires and pet sitters/dog walkers go through a thorough training program,” Vorisek said. “This includes shadowing an existing pet sitter/dog walker, as well as going through standard operating procedures, just to name part of the process. In addition, every pet sitter and dog walker is required to go through Red Cross CPR pet certification to become certified. Every prospective employee goes through an extensive criminal background check, which gives us and our clients peace of mind. We are extremely diligent in our hiring process and truly hire people who genuinely love animals, and will love them like they are their own. After all, that is how I’ve built this company’s reputation in its early stages, and that is something we will not compromise on.”

Walkadoodles & Whiskers also supports pet charities.

“We currently partner with an app called WoofTrax, and our walkers are registered with them for every walk,” Vorisek said.

“When we walk with your dog, WoofTrax donates to our animal charity of choice. We are just getting this kicked off officially, and are looking to donate to two or three different charities in the area, to be determined. In addition, we sponsored our first dog walk this year called Beau’s Walk that benefited the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and raised over $1,300. We are most excited to begin work on a multi-state project that will benefit the mental-health community. Our pets provide incredible benefit to our mental health, and we can’t wait to do more in this arena using our business to advocate for more awareness and greater programs for people - more to come on that very soon.”

Walkadoodles & Whiskers offers a wide variety of services.

“Walkadoodles & Whiskers Pet Concierge currently offers drop-in visits, pet sitting and overnight pet sitting packages, which include more house-sitting features such as mail retrieval, etcetera,” Vorisek said.

“We feature an amazing app that allows pet owners to receive photos and videos along with the report on how their furry friends are doing while they are away. The app also has GPS capabilities and truly gives us an accountability to our clients. It has truly been a game changer. Our clients love this. We also have an agreement clients sign that covers everything needed to assure that no stones are unturned.”

Pet transportation is also available.

“Walkadoodles & Whiskers Pet Concierge

also offers pet transportation to and from the groomer, to and from doggy day care, or anywhere else you need your pet transported in the local area,” Vorisek said.

Vorisek noted that pet care is always the highest priority.

“We are truly a high-level concierge service with the highest level of customer care,” she said. “We will always show up when we say we will, be there no matter what, and we will take care of your pets as if they were our own. Currently we also offer additional services such as doggy excursions to the dog park, wedding weekend, doggy concierge services, puppy showers and doggy birthday parties, to name a few. We do many community events and are happy to talk to anyone interested in doing one with us. There’s a lot more to come, so stay tuned.”

To find out more about Walkadoodles & Whiskers, call 317-207-0311, visit walkadoodlesandwhiskers.com or email kathy@walkadoodlesandwhiskers.com.

UNCLE BILL’S PET CENTER ZIONSVILLE

OWNERS:

LORI WILSON & SCOTT WILSON

ADDRESS: 3101 US-421

ZIONSVILLE, IN 46077

WEBSITE: UNCLEBILLS.COM

PHONE: 463-276-9259

RATING: GOOGLE 4.2

Since 1985, Uncle Bill’s Pet Centers have served pets and pet parents throughout Indiana and the surrounding areas. Uncle Bill’s Pet Center is a locally and 3rdgeneration, family-owned Indiana business who’s dedicated to humane animal care, educating pet owners, connecting the right pet with the right family, and providing the best and largest variety of pet supplies in the area. Here you will find a diverse selection of unique pets, including reptiles, fish, puppies, kittens, birds and small animals. Our friendly and knowledgeable pet specialists are happy to assist you in choosing a pet for your home, or in finding the proper pet supplies. At Uncle Bill’s, our customers are like family, and we love building relationships with our customers and their pets to help all our visitors grow in their knowledge, appreciation, and enjoyment of animals of all kinds.

ZIONSVILLE PET GROOMER NAMED INTERNATIONAL CERTIFIED MASTER GROOMER

In January, Zionsville resident and pet groomer Jody Olson received international recognition, as she was named International Certified Master Groomer (ICMG) by International Professional Groomers (IPG). Olson is owner of Hometown Pet Grooming in Zionsville.

Olson’s certification is the culmination of five years of work, having passed both written and practical exams in terrier, non-sporting, sporting, and mixed-breed grooming standards. She achieved certification after completing the final exam, proving her experience in meeting ICMG standards. The certification is awarded by IPG’s independent evaluators.

“Caring for animals is my life’s passion,” Olson said. “I’m fortunate to be able to follow this career and serve my clients. Receiving this certification is an honor. It’s important that my clients know of my commitment to high grooming standards. Anyone looking for a new groomer should choose one with certification by a major grooming association with a visible code of ethics.”

As an ICMG, Olson meets the highest in industry standards for pet and staff safety, health, sanitation, groomer ethics, and grooming expertise. In addition to demonstrating safe and professional handling of animals as well as basic to advanced grooming skills, Olson is specially trained in the

CAN-DO ATTITUDE

The Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) is a remarkable nonprofit organization based in Indiana that has been on a mission to bring hope to children, adults and veterans living with disabilities, through partnerships with service dogs.

Since its establishment in 2002, ICAN has successfully placed over 250 service dogs with Hoosiers needing assistance.

Its training program offers three types of service dogs to qualified applicants, including:

MOBILITY ASSISTANCE DOGS

Service dogs trained to help individuals who use wheelchairs or have mobility limitations, enabling them to move around safely and independently.

FACILITY ASSISTANCE DOGS

Service dogs trained to work with professionals in settings such as schools, courtrooms, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities to provide support to clients, patients or students.

PSYCHIATRIC SERVICE DOGS

Service dogs trained specifically to aid military veterans in overcoming servicerelated challenges and trauma.

What’s truly remarkable is that each ICAN canine undergoes a rigorous two-year training program, with a significant portion of the training conducted by incarcerated individuals at the Indiana Women’s Prison, Pendleton Correctional Facility, and Correctional Industrial Facility.

This not only allows the dogs to receive specialized training, but also allows the incarcerated individuals to learn new skills, find purpose and gain hope for their future reintegration into the community.

It is important to note that training one service dog costs ICAN nearly $30,000. This cost includes training, nutrition, veterinary care, and lifetime support for the dog-client partnership. The organization relies entirely on private donations, charitable foundations and fundraising initiatives to cover these expenses.

Despite this, ICAN requires clients to pay only $2,500 for their canine partner. For qualifying veteran clients, the dogs are free.

“We are committed to making this resource available and affordable to all who need it in Indiana, which is a value we hold dear,” says ICAN President Jillian Ashton, CFRM.

ICAN has made it possible for individuals to support its mission by establishing offices in both Zionsville, Indiana, and Fort Wayne, Indiana.

For those interested in learning more about ICAN and supporting its cause, please visit icandog.org.

ABOUT ICAN

ICAN’s mission changes lives on both ends of the leash. Our service dogs provide independence and confidence for children, adults and veterans with disabilities, while offering purpose and a second chance for inmate handlers.

LEGACY OF VISION

DR. JAMES HAINES OF ZIONSVILLE EYECARE RETIRES AFTER 44 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

Dr. James Haines has dedicated his life to the Zionsville community, both as the founder of Zionsville Eyecare and through community outreach. As he announces his retirement, he leaves the community in capable hands.

Haines’ personal vision challenges since childhood inspired him to become an eye-care professional. “That experience motivated me to become an eye-care

professional, and my love of my hometown inspired me to come back to start my private practice, later known as Zionsville Eyecare, alongside my childhood eye doctor and current friend, Dr. James Kramer,” he says.

Under his leadership, Zionsville Eyecare has grown into one of the state’s most admired private optometry practices. Haines attributes his success to always prioritizing patient needs, and giving back to the

community through steadfast support and volunteerism.

Community outreach is integral to Zionsville Eyecare’s mission. Dr. Evan Murray, a new team member, emphasizes the importance of community involvement stressed by Haines, acknowledging that “Zionsville Eyecare has a long history of community outreach. You’d be hard-pressed to find a Zionsville resident that hasn’t

Writer / Jaelyn Allen Photographer / Rebecca Hampton

encountered a touchpoint of this outreach. It’s important that we find new and creative ways to grow our generosity in sync with the rapid growth of Zionsville.”

In 2020 Haines and his family established a recurring scholarship for a Zionsville Community High School student, aiming to support continued education and active community participation.

The legacy that Haines leaves at Zionsville Eyecare is built on the highestquality patient care, cutting-edge technology, a positive workplace environment, and ongoing community support. These principles will continue under the guidance of current practice owner, Dr. Nicholas Garn.

Dr. James Haines

Garn credits Haines for his own career trajectory, stating that Haines hired him as a tech with no experience, guided him, wrote recommendation letters, and taught him to be forward-thinking with technology while never losing focus on community support.

Zionsville Eyecare is committed to embracing new technology and continued education. Zionsville Eyecare is about all eyes, not just Eagle Eyes, which is why they have planned to launch Cadre Vision, a software platform soon to be available to other like-minded, private eye-care facilities, to ensure quality eye care for patients across Indiana.“We’re trying to create a better opportunity for private practices to keep health care affordable,” Garn says.

In bidding farewell to Haines, the Zionsville community expresses deep gratitude for his tireless service and profound impact on countless lives. As he embarks on this new chapter, his legacy of compassion and commitment to excellence will continue to guide Zionsville Eyecare.

MEET THE NEW FACES OF EYE CARE

ZIONSVILLE EYECARE WELCOMES DR. MERET THOMAS-HUEBNER, DR. GRACE ARNOLD AND DR. EVAN MURRAY

Welcoming back Dr. Meret Thomas-Huebner, along with new doctors Dr. Grace Arnold and Dr. Evan Murray, Zionsville Eyecare is well-prepared to meet the needs of the growing community. The practice also benefits from the expertise of Dr. Ami Fraser, Dr. Julia Blank, and Dr. Matthew Clark.

DR. MERET THOMAS-HUEBNER

Dr. Meret Thomas-Huebner has the desire to further her education to better serve her patients. She has a personal goal of being more efficient without compromising patient care and interaction. Her favorite part of her job is meeting new people and learning new things every day. She values making meaningful connections, and she has several past patients that she is eager to get back on her schedule. “Our hope is that the community sees Meret coming in as a necessary growth move,” Garn says. “Many of our patients are excitedly anticipating Dr. Meret’s return, and so are we.” Garn jokes that he always knew that her absence was temporary, so they kept her email accessible.

DR. GRACE ARNOLD

Dr. Grace Arnold has a passion for helping people meet their vision goals. Arnold takes patient-centered care seriously and makes it a point to hear and address questions or concerns. Arnold has a goal that her patients leave the office with a better understanding of their ocular and systemic health.

DR. EVAN MURRAY

Dr. Evan Murray hopes to grow as a leader within the practice, both from a clinical and organizational standpoint. Murray takes pride in providing whole-patient care. He has experience with family eye care, LASIK consultations, and co-management

of ocular diseases and conditions. Murray is committed to using his knowledge and expertise to help others maximize their health.

“At Zionsville Eyecare, we work hard to ensure each and every patient’s needs are met, and they leave our facility knowing that we have enhanced their vision and preserved their sight,” adds Murray, when reflecting on the guiding philosophy of Zionsville Eyecare. “We want each patient to feel as though we are a partner in their vision, and we are providing all the tools necessary for a maximized visual experience.”

This guiding philosophy resonates throughout the practice.

For more info, go to zeyecare.com.

UPCOMING GAMES AT CARROLL STADIUM KICKOFFS @ 7PM*

WED., AUG 7 VS. RI SAT., JULY 13 VS. LDN MIKE NIGHT AT THE MIKE MARGARITAVILLE NIGHT KICK CANCER NIGHT CHRISTMAS IN JULY NIGHT

*SUN., AUG 11 VS. NM @ 5PM SAT., JULY 20 VS. TBR

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