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18 BURNING BRIGHT Penn & Beech Candle Co. Is Simply Slaying the Scent Scene
20 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT DeVeau’s School of Gymnastics
(317) 829-6670
LARRY LANNAN
RENEE LARR
NATALIE PLATT
JUSTIN SICKING ASHLEY WATTERS
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
(317) 810-0011
CONTACT
Writer / Larry Lannan
The City of Fishers took another step toward a citywide trash collection service August 27 when the Board of Public Works and Safety unanimously voted in favor of the final version of a 10-year trash collection service agreement with Republic. The board held a public hearing on the proposed contract with Republic earlier in August. The pact is now in its final form, and that is the version approved by the board. The city council will vote on the rate structuring contained in the agreement.
The earliest start date for the citywide trash collection service is January 15, but Mayor Scott Fadness made this clear: “We don’t start until we can deliver the services.”
Fadness told the city council finance committee August 29 that he is aware of the “noise” around town about his proposal to charge a $2 per month administrative fee, as part of a proposed citywide trash collection contract with Republic, but does not plan to make any changes.
“I’m a little bit unapologetic, I guess, about the $2 admin fee, because I want to make sure when a resident calls [City Hall], there is a staff person that picks up the phone and is able to deal with that issue.” The mayor said he wants the city to “own” the customer service piece of the trash collection contract.
Fadness laid out his 2025 Fishers city spending plan before the city council finance committee August 29, totaling $182.5 million. Of that total, just under $144 million will go to operations and capital projects, with $38.5 million going to debt service. The 2024 Fishers city budget totaled $164 million. The mayor says his
budget calls for no change in the city’s part of the local property tax rate, which will remain at $0.707. Fadness says this keeps the rate at or below this level for the fourth straight year.
Also on the income side of the ledger, Fadness once again voiced his frustration over the imbalance of local income tax distributions. Hamilton County is set to receive $262 million in local income tax revenue. Of that total, Fishers will receive $36.2 million and Carmel is set to have $64.9 million.
City employees would receive a 6% pay increase in 2025, including elected officials. Fishers also plans to increase the match to workers’ 457 retirement plans an extra $1,000 each, with a total match for each worker up to $2,500. The 457 plan is a way municipal workers can save through a retirement account, roughly similar to a private sector 401(k) plan.
Fadness says he has made no final commitment yet, but as of now, it is his intention to close the intersection of 116th Street and Allisonville Road during construction of the roundabout at that intersection during 2025. Speaking before the Fishers city council finance committee August 29, the mayor said he wants the work at that location done in roughly 65 days. If traffic is allowed to traverse the intersection during construction, the project could take months. He intends to use what are now private roads, make them public under the current program to improve private roads around the city, and use them as detours for motorists during the work.
The mayor also promised not to begin
the 116th Street and Allisonville Road roundabout construction until the roundabout at 96th Street and Allisonville Road is open, and the county project at 146th and Allisonville is open to traffic. He said the goal is to complete the roundabout at 116th Street and Allisonville Road “as quickly as possible.”
“There are many opportunities for celebration in tonight’s report, and I am happy to share those with you.” That’s how Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Deputy Superintendent Matt Kegley opened his presentation on academics in the HSE school district August 28.
Although he emphasized there is always room for improvement, overall these numbers are good news. Kegley pointed to five elementary schools that had reached the state goal of 95% of third-grade students passing the IREAD-3 reading exam. There were comparisons with scores for the past three years, including 2024. There were also charts comparing HSE scores with those of school districts to which HSE is often compared. Demographic groups of students within the HSE system were compared in the report, with Hispanic students having the most difficulty academically, based on the test results.
Individual buildings needing improvement have a school improvement plan aimed at helping struggling students. Kegley said the teachers and administrators at the building level know best what the students need. New state requirements mandate thirdgrade students failing the IREAD test to take third grade again, unless the student goes to summer school and passes the IREAD test there.
Writer / Natalie Platt
Prevail, Inc., a Fishers-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for victims of crime and abuse, was founded in July 1986 by Beth Gehlhausen and Judge Steve Nation, who wanted to do more for crime and abuse victims in the U.S. The organization was set up as a nonresidential, communitybased victim advocacy agency that works closely with government and community partners to break the cycle of violence and support empowerment. This approach remains the core of what Prevail strives to do today - saving lives, restoring hope and empowering those they serve.
Tami Wanninger, executive director of Prevail, wants the community to know that their services, all confidential and free of charge, extend beyond the limits of Noblesville.
“Many in our community think, because our offices are located in Noblesville, that we only serve that community,” she says. “We are a countywide organization serving Hamilton County and the surrounding communities. Our office just happens to be in Noblesville.”
Some of the key services Prevail offers include: immediate and crisis help with access to a 24-hour crisis line that any survivor or loved one can call 24 hours a day, seven days a week; general support services available by phone, video call or in person; support groups; and housing support.
Prevail also provides primary prevention, and the nonprofit serves over 5,900 youths through the Hamilton County school health program, which provides healthy relationship education to students in grades seven through 12. This is a 12% increase from the last school year.
Wanninger wants to focus on the continuous needs of survivors that local community members could help support.
“One of the biggest barriers a survivor
faces when fleeing from domestic abuse, sexual assault or other type of crime is immediate support during this transition,” she says. “Gas, grocery, and ride-share gift cards in the amount of $25 help these families in crisis stabilize. These are a lifeline for survivors, helping them reach safety, find jobs, attend appointments and maintain their independence.”
For those without their own vehicles or who fear their location might be tracked, ride shares offer a safe way to get the support they need. Additionally, survivors who are financially constrained or whose spending is monitored by an abuser may struggle to afford fuel. Gas gift cards give them a chance to regain control over their lives and travel safely. Likewise, survivors may need immediate food assistance until they can get to a food pantry or secure money to pay for food.
As a 24/7 program, Prevail also encounters families on the scene with law enforcement or at hospitals who need emergency meals. These gift cards offer quick, reliable food support when it is needed most.
The community can best support Prevail and strengthen survivors by volunteering, donating items from the wish list on the Prevail website, attending or sponsoring a fundraising event, as well as following the nonprofit
on social media and sharing or liking posts that resonate.
“Prevail’s biggest challenge has been federal funding cuts,” Wanninger says. “Nationally [Victims of Crime Act] funds have been cut by nearly 40% to providers advocating for victims to crime and abuse. The nonprofit relies on and needs the Hamilton County community more than ever to help advocate for victims and survivors with local legislators.”
Community members can also support Prevail during their Go Purple with Prevail campaign in October, which coincides with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Local offices and communities are encouraged to wear purple, take a group photo and submit it to Prevail. You can also make a lifesaving gift on October 17 for Prevail’s Day of Giving.
For more info, visit prevailinc.org or call 317-776-3472.
“If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you are an excellent leader.”
—Dolly Parton
One of the most inspiring aspects of being part of the Towne Post family is witnessing the remarkable contributions of our exceptional female publishers and leaders. This month, we’re sitting down with these dynamic women to get a closer look at what drives their success.
JEANNE BRITT, TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. CO-OWNER AND PRESIDENT
Jeanne Britt and her husband, Tom, recognized the need to showcase the uplifting things happening in the community. In 2004 they started Britt Interactive, LLC, with the atgeist.com Community Newsletter, which eventually became Geist Magazine and led to Towne Post Network coming to life. Twenty years and 19 publications later, it still remains a labor of love.
“Connecting people and businesses in the community is a source of pride for us,” Britt says. “We hope to bring a publication to readers’ coffee tables that is as enjoyable to read as it is filled with positive information showcasing all that makes each community great.”
The Britts initially operated their business out of a spare bedroom, with Tom focusing on sales, Jeanne managing the finances, and their small children folding and sealing the newsletters as they were back then - just six pages. As the company started to grow, the pair saw the potential for this model to work in other communities. Therefore, in 2015 they converted Towne Post Network, Inc. to a franchise system. “It has been so rewarding to bring the love for showcasing our community to our franchisees and see them grow in bringing the Towne Post Network mission of advocating for local businesses, being a positive voice, and a champion for the nonprofits in their communities,” Britt says.
Being part of the Towne Post Network family, she has been involved with many community events such as co-founding Vines for Life to benefit local cancer charities in Geist, and working with the Geist Half Marathon organizers in its early days.
Through the years, Britt has taken part in women-owned business groups and has found that the primary challenge most women express is finding a healthy work-life balance. “I love being a part of a community of women supporting one another in that endeavor,” she says.
Fishers has been home to me longer than any other place. Even though we have seen a lot of growth, I believe we can still have that small-town feeling when we feel connected. Local publishing is the perfect platform to bring residents, businesses and nonprofits together. When the opportunity came available, I jumped at the chance! I have never worked in publishing before so there’s quite a bit of learning left to do, but our team and awesome advertisers make it so much easier.
My favorite part of the job is storytelling! I love telling the stories of the local businesses that have been around forever, the mom who finally expanded her garage business to a brick-and-mortar, the resident who spends all their free time supporting our first responders, nonprofits working endless hours to bridge the gap in services for residents, and the history of our growing city for newcomers to join in setting their roots. It’s a pretty cool gig!
I received the Towne Post Network community magazine for years and loved it. I always looked forward to a new monthly issue, as did my husband. It was the one publication that we fought over who would get to read it first. I’d always learn something new and interesting, whether it was a new restaurant or shopping spot, an interesting hiddengem story about someone in the community, local organizations that positively impact our lives, things happening in and around town, and school-related information. The content was, and is, always local, relevant and timely.
My career is rooted in the media, dating back to my time in radio sales. I wasn’t actively seeking a change, but I found I wanted to be closer to the community I live in. Our hyper-local publications are a perfect platform to inform, engage, entertain, and have a positive impact on the community. It has allowed me to have more personal connections and interact one-on-one with advertisers while doing good in the community.
As an extremely curious person, I’ve always been intrigued by the stories behind success. Questions such as: Who’s idea sparked an invention, and how did they use that idea to increase productivity or produce something for the greater good? What chain of events took place that brought someone from a position of seemingly impossible circumstances to a place of victory? How did these ideas grow and develop in the minds and efforts of passionate individuals? You might say I enjoy an underdog tale.
As publisher of Carmel Magazine, I have a unique opportunity to share these stories of our local leaders and business owners with the community. Celebrating the success of those who have taken up the challenges of owning and operating a business, supporting a valiant cause, or investing in a community is one of my greatest pleasures.
KIM SENKUS, OWNER, KOKOMO/ TIPTON MAGAZINE
I just want to tell everyone’s story. I want Kokomo to know the people behind the businesses, in the classrooms and in the community. Kokomo Magazine was launched to remind us how and why Kokomo truly is a great city! I loved growing up here. Marsh’s fresh donuts, Fred’s smooth voice, Hill’s fireworks, birthdays at Happy Joe’s, and the Russiaville ballpark made my childhood! I went to Purdue with many of these classmates and remain friends.
There is so much tradition in Kokomo. It’s a small enough town where people know who Hope is, but a large enough city to sustain a revitalization that now includes concerts in the park, farmer markets, bike paths, First Fridays, and festivals galore!
My husband, John, and I started The Lakes Magazine, a division of Towne Post Network, in 2019. When John first suggested starting our magazine, I thought he was crazy! We had just had a baby, were in the middle of building our dream home, and both had comfortable jobs, John in marketing and me as a registered nurse. However, owning The Lakes Magazine has allowed me to step away from the demanding hours of nursing and create my own schedule. The biggest reward has been spending more time at home with our son before he started
kindergarten, and during the summers now that he’s in school.
The past five years as a magazine owner have brought me more joy than I ever imagined. We’ve been able to expand and now cover eight counties with The Lakes Magazine East and West editions. As an owner, my favorite part is featuring local businesses, organizations and individuals each month. I love getting a glimpse into their world, learning about their journeys from where they started to where they are today, and sometimes even hearing about their plans for the future. It’s incredible to see their dreams come to life.
Personally, the most rewarding experience is handing someone a copy of the magazine in which they’re featured. Seeing their excitement and the feeling of being a local celebrity is hard to put into words. The magazine has given me the opportunity to meet and develop working relationships with many wonderful people, all while learning about their new products, businesses and organizations. It’s an honor to help share their goods and services with our local communities and sometimes beyond.
Holt Dental: 96th Street Family Dentistry
Dr. Marie Holt & Dr. Anya Chowdhary 7862 E 96th Street • Fishers, IN 46037 holtdentalindy.com • 317-576-9393 smile@holtdentalindy.com
Writer / Natalie Platt & Devon Dean
Photographer / Tom Klubens
recent research out of New Zealand proves a “pop” doesn’t necessarily need to happen for treatment to be effective.
A few things in life are guaranteed: death, taxes, and aches and pains. For the latter, chiropractic care can make all the difference.
For Dr. Julie Carleton and Dr. Victoria “Tori” Hughes at About Life Chiropractic, treating patients with expanded services and groundbreaking techniques is a passion.
While About Life has been at its current location near 116th and Cumberland for four years with great success, many people don’t know its services go far beyond traditional adjustments.
For example, Carleton and Hughes are the only Activator-certified and -trained team in Fishers. “The Activator is a handheld tool allowing for a controlled, gentle impulse to the affected area in the spine and surrounding joints,” Carleton explains. “The Activator can be used on almost any area of the body where a patient is experiencing pain.”
Carleton says she and Hughes have even used the Activator to treat TMJ issues in patients’ jaws. “The Activator makes a clicking noise,” she says. “The purpose of the force is to restore motion to the targeted vertebrae or joint. The quick impulse causes the muscles to be less tense in response to receiving the chiropractic adjustment. Unlike manual chiropractic adjustments, the Activator allows for specificity to a region without twisting or bending of the body.”
The Activator also avoids an all-too-common concern people have about chiropractic carethere is no cavitation or “popping” noise that comes with traditional methods. Carleton says
To maintain the Activator certification requirements, the About Life team takes annual training, including 12 hours of technique. While she admits the certification is expensive, it seems to be paying off. “I have patients who come from as far as Tipton because we’re the only Activator-certified practice nearby,” she said.
The Activator certification courses are in addition to the countless hours both doctors have spent learning and training. Carleton and Hughes have hundreds of hours in prenatal and postnatal care. “We are trained in infant care, including cranial work,” Carleton says. “We love to see families. We are both Webster certified to help ease pregnancy discomfort.”
The Webster technique is used to help pelvic and uterine function. It involves gentle adjustments to the pelvis, sacrum, muscles and ligaments to improve alignment and reduce tension. With many pregnant women facing pain as the baby grows, Carleton believes chiropractic care can make a huge difference for both mom and baby. It is completely safe and the baby is never touched. “We use gentle, subtle techniques to improve health and wellbeing.” Carleton says.
The practice also recently became certified in dry needling. Dry needling is a treatment that involves inserting thin needles into muscles, ligaments, tendons and scar tissue to relieve pain and improve movement. “The needles don’t contain medication or injections, and the procedure is considered safe with little risk of complications,” Carleton explained. “The needles stimulate the muscles, causing them to
contract or twitch, which can help relieve pain and improve range of motion. Dry needling is often used to treat pain and movement issues associated with myofascial trigger points, which are taut bands of skeletal muscle within a larger muscle group.”
Carleton says her practice took off at its previous location in Fishers, leading to a wait list for new patients in late 2022 and the need for an additional set of hands. Fort Wayne native Hughes came aboard that November. “I needed someone who was Activator trained,” she says. Hughes is an Activator expert, having seen an Activator-trained doctor for chiropractic treatment since she was a toddler. “Chiropractic work was her calling for sure,” says Carleton.
Carleton says her practice is dedicated to enhancing people’s lives through chiropractic care, and continuously learning and mastering disciplines. “Our practice serves everyone from in the womb to 95,” she said. “Our most common patient population are those who want to enjoy ease of movement in everyday life. We have infants who need a tune-up from the birth process to our favorite ‘girls’ club of 80 year olds. We are well-suited through the use of Activator to help co-manage additional complaints besides spinal complaints, from dizziness to scoliosis.”
About Life Chiropractic is a proud sponsor of the Hamilton Southeastern Royals cheerleading squad.
Writer / Renee Larr
Photographer / Justin Sicking
This year marks the 34th anniversary of the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Fishers-based Skulski Consulting LLC has been instrumental in making parks and recreation facilities more accessible to people with disabilities.
Skulski Consulting serves federal, state, local and private entities, and its principal, Jennifer Skulski, is a nationally known expert on ADA compliance with over 30 years of experience. Her work has not only shaped accessibility and disability inclusion policies for organizations such as the National Park Service, the Field Museum, and the Audubon Nature Institute, but also supported ADA compliance for cities like Fort Collins, Minneapolis, Mobile, Fishers, Zionsville, Fort Wayne and West Lafayette.
Skulski has conducted accessibility assessments of more than 1,800 municipal recreation facilities and 60 national parks. These assessments have led to significant improvements in accessibility, such as the installation of accessible entrances and restrooms, the addition of accessible picnic facilities and trails, and the redesign of playgrounds to be inclusive for all. These changes have not only met ADA requirements, but have also enhanced the overall experience for all visitors. Skulski recently completed ADA plan reviews for the Fort Wayne riverfront expansion and the Fishers community center under construction.
“I love my job and our amazing clients who want to improve accessibility for their residents with disabilities, not because it is the law, but because it is the right thing to do when it comes to building healthy communities,” Skulski says. Her passion and commitment to inclusion of people with disabilities has galvanized organizational change for hundreds of entities throughout the country over the last three decades.
The data and recommendations from Skulski Consulting provide municipalities with guidance on making their parks, playgrounds, trails, picnic areas, golf courses, swimming pools and other facilities accessible to people with disabilities.
“While we are 34 years into implementation of the ADA, we have found that public entities still need guidance on policy, procedures, design and construction to ensure their services are accessible and inclusive of people with disabilities,” says Skulski. “Successful inclusion of people with disabilities starts with a commitment from the top, quality customer service on the frontline, and a thorough understanding of the standards, regulations and emerging best practices.”
An Indiana University graduate, Skulski started her career at the Rockford Park District in Illinois as the ADA coordinator, shortly after the federal legislation was passed. She completed one of the first model Title II self-evaluations and oversaw the district’s ADA transition plan implementation there. In 1995 Skulski joined the National Center on
Accessibility at Indiana University’s Bradford Woods. She quickly emerged as one of the premier national experts on including people with disabilities in parks, recreation and tourism. Over the years she has consulted with organizations such as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Grand Canyon National Park, Alcatraz, Hoover Dam, Rocky Mountain National Park and the Smithsonian Institution. Skulski is likely most well-known in the parks and recreation industry for her research on the accessibility of playground surfaces. She authored the U.S. Access Board publication “7 Things Every Playground Owner Should Know About the Accessibility of Their Playground Surfaces.”
She has worked with numerous manufacturers to improve the accessibility of products like playground equipment, swimming-pool lifts and drinking fountains. Currently she serves as the vice chair of a national standards committee working to adopt accessibility standards and a test method for outdoor surfaces. In 2014 Skulski formed her own consulting firm in Fishers to work more closely with clients to implement their accessibility management programs and better include people with disabilities in all facets of service delivery. She says that as a mother, she can relate to parents who want the best for their children regarding accessibility. She says speaking with hundreds of parents over the years has served as the catalyst for her career.
“This fall we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of Skulski Consulting,” Skulski says. “It was a huge leap of faith to leave the university setting and go out on my own as a woman-owned, small business. Thanks to the incredible support of my family, it has proved to be the best career decision. I love working directly with clients, and it’s most exciting to see families be able to access parks and recreation facilities because of our recommendations.”
Our philosophy is to inspire hope and nurture the well-being of the whole person, focusing on physical and social needs to deliver the highest quality therapy services to our families. TOTS Physical, Occupational, and speech therapists provided one-on-one therapy and custom-designed home programs to enable your child to improve functional independence and gain those skills needed to live life confidently.
physical and social needs to deliver the highest quality therapy services to our families. TOTS Physical, Occupational, and speech therapists provided one-onone therapy and custom-designed home programs to enable your child to improve functional independence and gain those skills needed to live life confidently.
TOTS Physical, Occupational, and speech therapists provided one-on-one therapy and custom-designed home programs to enable your child to improve functional independence and gain those skills needed to live life confidently.
Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Sarah Browning
Penn & Beech Candle Co. started in 2017 in Indianapolis, in a basement on North Pennsylvania Avenue, with two sisters-in-law experimenting with pouring candles and developing custom scents. Brianna and Lacey Doles launched the small, in-home business as a side venture spread through word-of-mouth advertising.
“People would just come to the door and pick up their candles,” Brianna says. “It started as a basement operation for about a year and a half. Then we moved to an online business, and thought maybe we could open up a location close to where my husband, Seth, and I lived. That’s how the first location opened in downtown Indy.”
Brianna says the idea to move the business from the basement to a storefront happened organically, with people curious to see the candle pouring for themselves. She says they would bring friends to the basement to enjoy a glass of wine and watch the process. Seth says the founders developed the idea to move the business to an experience-based brand.
The mix-and-pour-your-own candle company allows guests to customize their unique candle scents. Customers smell over 100 scents and narrow their likes to just a few. Penn & Beech employees then assist guests in narrowing down the scents to a few that blend well together. Next, guests choose a vessel for their candle. Guests can also enjoy a glass of wine, beer, kombucha or coffee while they decide.
The namesake is a wink and a nod to where both women lived - Brianna on Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis, and Lacey on Beech Street in Columbus, Ohio. Since their official launch of the downtown brick-and-mortar location in 2018, Brianna, Lacey and Seth have opened a Carmel location and three locations in Columbus, Ohio, with one in the works in downtown Fishers.
“When we opened the downtown location it was a huge success, but we did keep hearing from customers that they wanted a more accessible location rather than driving downtown,” Seth says. “We started on the building in 2019 and opened in 2020. Much like other businesses at the time, we had to close during the height of the pandemic.”
The couple says they fought through the shutdown like many other small businesses, and now the Carmel location is one of their busiest. It’s also by far the largest, with a private event space for hosting bridal showers, bachelorette parties, girls-night-out events and corporate functions.
The trio is currently working to round out their central Indiana locations with a new Fishers location, set to open in spring 2024 in the historic Nickel Plate District. Seth says the new space is situated inside a historic brick building.
“It’s one of the buildings left after all the renovations to the Nickel Plate District in downtown Fishers,” he says. “Design-wise, it will be an elevated version of what we’re already doing in the area. Guests can still have a glass of wine or a beer while they mix their scents, choose their vessels and pour their candles.”
Seth says they plan on moving their current downtown location to the Bottleworks District during its second development phase. “Our original Mass Ave location will always be special to us, but we’ve simply outgrown the space,” Seth says. “Our new location is just across the street from our current one and will provide us the extra space to accommodate all our guests. We are thrilled to join the Bottleworks family while operating in the same community we love.”
Penn & Beech has experienced tremendous growth in their relatively short time on the scene. Seth and Brianna say they are proud of the growth and can’t wait for more expansion in the future.
“One of the things we’re most proud of is growing from a small, self-run basement business to having over 100 employees now,” Seth says. “Running a small business is tough to navigate, especially during a time of so much growth, but I think we’ve gotten a lot smarter in terms of managing it. I have to give credit to our amazing team. As long as we have our close relationships dialed in with the folks leading our stores, managing our warehouse, heading up our marketing and so on, we’re equipped to handle the growth.”
Brianna says it’s crucial to each and every team member for the guest to have a fantastic experience. She says they place high importance on each location’s look, feel and even smell. Seth says they listen to customer feedback and implement change when necessary. They have even expanded the brand’s wholesale line to large businesses wanting a custom candle scent to represent their brand.
Penn & Beech loyalists know to be on the lookout for holiday offerings like new scents, as well as special offers like buy three, get one free. For more information or to make a reservation, visit pennandbeech.com.
The Tot Spot Early Education Academy
Writer / Natalie Platt
Photographer / Justin Sicking
Women’s gymnastics continues to inspire on a global stage, with events like the summer Olympics and exciting performances from athletes like Simone Biles. DeVeau’s School of Gymnastics in Fishers continues to provide a foundation and encouragement for athletes to pursue the sport.
Now in the 42nd year, the DeVeau’s team credits its longstanding success to an unwavering commitment to the athletes. From helping kids improve in gymnastics to boosting their self-confidence to instilling discipline and focus, the reputable training facility’s priority has always been the athletes.
“What truly sets DeVeau’s apart is our dedication to putting the needs of the children first, ensuring that every child who walks through our doors feels supported and encouraged to grow - not just as gymnasts, but as individuals,” says Lindsey Elliot, preschool gymnastics director at DeVeau’s. “It’s that focus on the whole child that has kept our gym thriving for over 40 years.”
DeVeau’s is family owned and has been a part of the central Indiana community for decades. While the gym started small, it has grown into a world-class, 57,000-squarefoot facility with top-notch equipment and dedicated and experienced gymnastics coaches.
Amy Replogle, head coach of the compulsory girls program at DeVeau’s, has been with the training facility since 1984, first as an athlete until 1991 and then as a coach from 1995 until present.
“Gymnastics is a great foundation for whatever your child may want to do in the future,” she says. “Many of our athletes have transitioned from gymnastics to diving, pole vaulting, track and field, or soccer. We meet the athlete where they are and help them to where they want to go, whether that is the best cartwheel on the playground or a
competitive gymnastics route.”
Taryn DeVeau Lautzenheiser, president, loves helping the athletes excel at all aspects of life. Attaining new skills can improve a child’s mind and body connection, focus, determination, self-esteem, and overall physical health and mental well-being.
“At DeVeau’s we focus on our athletes and what we can teach them each week,” she says. “We spend a great deal of time on our lesson plans, staff training, and ensuring our facility and equipment is the very best so we can provide the best experience for our athletes.”
DeVeau’s School of Gymnastics has seen an increase in the gymnastics program (preschool, recreational and competitive teams) as well as some of the other sports they offer (ninja and cheerleading teams).
“I can only imagine the growth comes from a change in culture; prominent athletes in the gymnastics community have really pushed for that cultural change, and it’s something DeVeau’s takes very seriously,” says Shannon Browning, general manager of the training facility.
One of the secrets to the gym’s longevity is that the team always does its best to put the
athletes, and their families, first.
“We care deeply for our athletes and they are our top priority in every situation,” Browning says. “What goes hand in hand with that is making sure we keep their families involved along the way. Whether you are one of our competitive students or someone who enjoys taking our recreational classes, we have something for everyone.”
Although DeVeau’s continues to produce high-level competitive athletes every year, the biggest successes at the training facility are having kids come back to visit (or work) after they are done with the sport. The gym becomes their home away from home.
“Knowing that we were an integral part of their growth, watching them form lifelong friendships with their teammates and witnessing the amazing young adults they become, is the greatest success to us,” says Leigh Uhlik, director of girls artistic gymnastics.
9032 Technology Drive, Fishers, IN 317-849-7744 deveaus.com
Writer / Natalie Platt
Photographer / Olivia Keith
Kelsey Randle opened her online jewelry store, Samisi, in July of this year. She’s wanted to own her own business since she was a teenager, and has always loved jewelry.
“I’ve always wanted to do this and believe it was just the right time to start,” she says. “I would love to have a brick-and-mortar store, but an online store keeps overhead low until the business grows. I know my calling in life is to help people, and I was limited in ways to do that with my nine-to-five job, so I decided to start a business.”
Randle’s first way of helping people through her business is by partnering with Shared Hope International (SHI) to help fund and further the fight against child sex trafficking. SHI has made a difference in countless lives. With every purchase made, customers will be making a difference in a child’s life; 20% of all Samisi sales go to support this organization.
Customers can expect to see diamonds, gold and silver pieces on the Samisi website. Randle knows buying fine jewelry can be intimidating, but wants customers to know that Samisi pieces can help you feel beautiful on the inside by knowing the purchase is making a difference in someone else’s life.
“So far, our most popular items have been the rose gold engagement rings and other rose gold items,” Randle says. “My favorite piece is the 14K gold curb chain necklace with diamonds.”
Even though Randle doesn’t have a standalone store that Fishers residents can visit, she has felt the community support since day one, especially through ITOWN, the church she attends in Fishers. She hopes to expand to a physical location and add other items to her jewelry store, including watches.
“I’m really proud of creating something out of nothing,” she says. “I didn’t have the traditional schooling in business or a
large amount of money to turn my dreams into a reality, and look how far we’ve come. Whenever any of my friends and family ask me about my business goals, I tell them it’s not a matter of if, but when.”
With that determination and drive, Randle knows she will go far and give back to the local community and beyond.
Starting on October 20 and running through December 31, Samisi will have a sale offering 10% off all items when you use code GIFT10, to help usher in the spirit of giving during the holidays. Samisi will also donate pieces to charity events and galas in the greater Indianapolis area in the coming months.
From stunning engagement rings to elegant everyday pieces, Samisi offers a diverse range of jewelry designed to celebrate life’s special moments. Through her online store, Randle is sharing her passion with a wider audience, offering a blend of elegance and the personal touch of a small business that makes every piece special.
You can see Samisi jewelry at samisi.store, and also on Instagram. You can email Randle at kelsey@samisi.store.
kelsey@samisi.store samisi.store
OWN Tactical Workshop
December 4th @ 8:30 AM Keep an eye out for our
Sales Growth Series
October 1st @ 11:30 AM Member Orientation
October 3rd @ 8:30 AM
Eggs & Issues
October 4th @ 8:00 AM
Caffeinated Conversation
October 24th @ 8:30 AM
Carmel State of the City
October 29th @ 4:00 PM
Eggs & Issues
November 8th @ 8:00 AM
Are you ready to elevate your business and connect with like-minded professionals? OneZone Chamber of Commerce is the leading business organization in Fishers, Carmel and Northern Hamilton County, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, growth, and community engagement.
OneZone Women’s Network was created as an environment that empowers all women to achieve personal and professional success. We achieve this by educating for growth, sharing experiences to inspire, connecting to develop relationships, including all women to encompass every age and season of life.
“I have had the privilege of working on the OWN committee for the last three years and have seen firsthand how the OWN events are furthering its mission to ‘create an environment that empowers all women to achieve personal and professional success.’ Whether it is one of the hands-on tactical workshops or a panel discussion featuring accomplished and inspiring women business leaders, I see women at all stages of their careers connecting, sharing and supporting one another. Connections I have made at OWN events have led me to new friendships, clients, civic involvement and participation in nonprofit organizations.” —Tammy
Haney, Kreig DeVault
Don’t miss out on being part of a dynamic, supportive community that’s shaping the future of business in Hamilton County. Join OneZone Chamber of Commerce today!
Ranae Gourley, Fishers Police Corps secretary, didn’t grow up in Fishers, but her love for the city she has called home since 1995 runs deep.
Originally from Dyer, Indiana, Gourley graduated from Ball State University and married her husband, Darren, right after. She worked most of her career in insurance, but once the couple had children (Ben, 25, and David, 22), she decided to stay home and enjoy their years of childhood. As her
Writer / Natalie Platt
children grew up, Gourley started giving back to the community by working within the Hamilton Southeastern school district as well as Geist Elementary and Fall Creek Intermediate schools.
“Darren and I moved to Fishers in 1995 mainly because of the location and the wonderful schools,” she says. “Over the years we have watched Fishers grow from a town to a city. I love the growth. Even though we have grown by leaps and bounds,
Fishers still has a small-town feel.”
Gourley describes feeling a sense of belonging in Fishers, appreciating that everywhere she goes, she sees people she knows.
“I really feel like people go out of their way to get to know each other and take care of each other,” she says.
Gourley felt that sentiment more than ever in 2020, when her niece passed away in a car accident in the Fishers/Noblesville area.
“We went to the scene, and as chaotic and stressful as it was, the one thing I noticed were the first responders and all they were doing for our family,” Gourley says. “I believe it was Fred Rogers who once said “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” That is what I did that night, and from that point forward I wanted to help those who help others.”
As a civilian, Gourley knew she couldn’t really comprehend everything that first responders face. They have dedicated their careers to help and protect others, and she knows how important it is to take care of them and let them know how much they are appreciated.
So, Gourley went one step further after a friend told her about the Fishers Police Department Citizens Academy.
“The Academy was a great opportunity to learn about the operations of the police department,” she says. “It exceeded my expectations, and once I graduated I joined
the Fishers Police Corps, an organization made up of the graduates from this academy. We have 66 active members on the roster who volunteer their time and talents for the betterment of the Fishers Police Department in a variety of endeavors.”
The mission is to support the department’s goal of protecting and securing the city, and protecting the future of local children - and supporting the officers to enable them to achieve their highest standards.
Gourley also enrolled in the Fishers Fire Department’s (FFD) Citizens Academy a couple of years ago.
“Once again it exceeded my expectations and I wanted to be involved, so I joined the Fishers Fire Corps,” she says. “This amazing group of volunteers plays a vital role in helping FFD achieve their mission of providing the highest level of prevention, preparedness and intervention in all hazards, by helping educate more community members about prevention and preparedness through community events.”
She has been volunteering 12 to 15 hours a week at the fire department for two years now and looks forward to every day that she goes in.
“They have welcomed me as a part of their family, and I hope they feel appreciated by me as much as I feel appreciated and cared for by them,” Gourley says.
Her favorite accomplishment, though, has been her children.
“Like most moms, I would say my biggest success has been my children,” she says. “They are who I am most proud of. I can honestly say that my parents instilled a servant’s heart in me to serve with the right motivation and put the needs of others in the community first. That brings me joy. I am also super thankful for my husband, Darren, who supports me 100% with what I do, because he knows my passion to help others and also knows how much I love our community.”
School safety is an ever-growing topic of concern for parents and educators alike, as the number of incidents, ranging from bullying to violent threats and deadly shootings increase across the country.
At Hamilton Southeastern Schools, safety is not just a practice – it’s a commitment.
Leading this crucial effort is Mike Johnson, Director of School Safety. A former police officer, Johnson now develops emergency plans, oversees safety training for staff and students, and implements the latest safety technologies across the district’s campuses.
“I’ve been part of Hamilton Southeastern Schools in various roles for 29 years. While our tools and methods have evolved, our mission remains clear: to ensure safe and supportive environments for students, teachers, and staff. Prevention is key, and we work diligently to stay ahead of potential emergencies,” Johnson explains.
Johnson stresses that school safety is a shared responsibility across the Fishers community. Hamilton Southeastern Schools benefit from a close partnership with the Fishers Police Department, which provides 11 full-time
School Resource Officers (SROs) -- fully sworn and certified officers to patrol campuses.
Additionally, the district has more than 50 statecertified school safety specialists, who complete mandatory training each year to stay updated on the latest safety practices.
Students at all grade levels are led through monthly emergency drills. The district also uses a shared, common language, ensuring clear communication and responses during crises.
“It’s crucial that everyone, from students to first responders, understands these safety terms for a seamless response during an emergency,” Johnson explains.
Some less visible safety measures include extensive background checks, school entrance procedures for visitors, and a web-filtering system called Securly. This tool monitors districtowned devices for harmful or inappropriate content, helping to identify potential safety issues early on.
In addition, students can anonymously report concerns through the district’s mobile app, HSE Report It! “This tool allows users to share information about their own safety or the safety of others, and they can engage in a two-way dialogue with a real person if needed,” says Johnson.
Thanks to these comprehensive efforts, Hamilton Southeastern Schools continues to foster a safe, supportive environment where students can focus on learning, knowing that their well-being is always the district’s top priority.
Mayor Scott Fadness presented a balanced budget for 2025. Learn more at FishersIN.gov/Budget.
4th straight year of flat or reduced tax rate while investing in major amenities such as the Fishers Event Center, Fishers Community Center at Johnson Farm, and Fishers Municipal Center (City Hall & Fishers Art Center)
Continued funding in the neighborhood vibrancy grant and teacher innovation grant funds
Operational funding for the launch of Fishers
Community Center at Johnson Farm in Fall 2025 and expansion of the Fishers AgriPark
Continued investment in our road infrastructure: 116th and Allisonville intersection, Nickel Plate Trail Bridge over 96th Street, 136th Street widening, street resurfacing
Lower employee healthcare costs through partnership with Community Health Network and preventative health programs
Sewer rate increase, only the second increase in 27 years, to bring revenue and operational support to current demand
The City of Fishers has awarded over $80K in grant funding to date to HSE Schools’ teachers as part of the Educator Innovation Grant program, bringing innovation to the classroom and inspiring students to rethink learning
HSE Schools’ educators are invited to apply! Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and project requests have no funding cap Learn more at FishersIN gov/Grants
The Fishers Art Center at 1 Municipal Drive offers art classes and programs for all ages, unique gallery exhibitions, and more Registration is open for fall semester classes for children and adults and Make It Take It classes for adults Learn more at FishersArtCenter org
City of Fishers official Trick-or-Treat hours are Thursday, October 31 from 5:30 to 8:30 p m Police cars will be patrolling the neighborhoods to ensure everyone ' s safety, but remember to walk in groups and stay on the sidewalk when possible
The City of Fishers is currently pursuing a city-wide contract with Republic Services for residential trash service to go into effect in early 2025 Benefits of a city-wide contract include: the ability for the City to assist residents with trash concerns and issues; reduced wear on neighborhood roadways; a leveraged economies of scale to secure services not currently offered to the majority of residents, such as leaf and landscaping pickup; and a locked-in rate for 10 years.
For proposed pricing, services, and to learn more, visit FishersIN gov/Trash
Construction continues on the Fishers Event Center, with its opening scheduled for November 2024! Snag tickets to these opening events before they sell out:
Nov 22 | Turnpike Troubadours
Nov 29 | Lindsey Stirling: Snow Waltz ‘24
Nov 30 | Leanne Morgan: Just Getting Started
Dec 1 | Nitro Circus
Dec 4 | AEW
Dec 9 | Alabama Roll On II North America Tour
Dec 20 | Mudsock Rivalry Basketball Game
Double Header
Jan. 23 – 26 | Cirque Du Soleil® Crystal
Apr 24 | Megan Moroney: Am I Okay? Tour
Buy tickets at FishersEventCenter com
Non-swim season: playground, kayak launch & trails open dawn to dusk | 10811 Olio Rd.
Swim season may be over, but there's still plenty of fun to be had at Geist Waterfront Park, including our piratethemed playground, kayak launch, and trails. Free for residents and nonresidents Learn more at FishersParks com/GWP
Friday, October 4 at 4 p m - Saturday, October 5 at 10 a m
Saturday, October 5 at 4 p m - Sunday, October 6 at 10 a m Fishers AgriPark (11171 Florida Rd.) | $75/resident family, $112 50/nonresident family
Group registration (up to 6 people) includes a grass area for a tent or canopy, a personal fire pit, a movie, activities, and breakfast Bring your tent, food and drinks, and sleeping gear Register at FishersParks com/AgriPark
Give back to your community this summer with volunteer opportunities at: Fishers Parks & Rain Garden Stewards 3rd Grade Study Trips Fishers Maker Playground
Tuesday, October 8 - Saturday, October 12
4 – 7 p m | Fishers AgriPark | $3/resident, $4 50/nonresident (children 2 & under free) Fall-themed fun will fill your visit! Activities include a scarecrow trail, campfire and s ' mores, pumpkin painting, animal encounters, inflatables, games, crafts, music, food trucks, and more! Pre-registration is required and no walk-ups permitted. Learn more and get tickets at FishersParks com/AgriPark
Hamilton County offers early voting at Billericay Park (12690 Promise Rd ) and Holland Park (1 Park Dr ) on the following dates Find more info at HamiltonCounty.IN.gov.
Wednesday, Oct 23 and Thursday, Oct 24: 2 - 7 p m
Friday, Oct 25 and Saturday, Oct 26: 10 a m - 3 p m
Wednesday, Oct. 30 and Thursday, Oct. 31: 2 - 7 p.m. Friday, Nov 1 and Saturday, Nov 2: 10 a m - 3 p m
Saturday, October 26 | 10 a m - 2 p m
NPD AMP | Free Boo Bash returns to downtown Fishers, encouraging all ages to come in costume to celebrate Halloween as a community with music and entertainment, food trucks, games, and more Learn more at FishersParks.com/BooBash.
Writer / Ashley Watters
Photographer / Justin Sicking
Auravex Gutters is taking to the skies to offer customers a new perspective on gutter installation and maintenance. The company, new to the Noblesville area this year, is using a unique approach that gives customers greater insight into what’s happening with their homes, using drone footage.
The company utilizes drones to capture imagery of hard-to-reach areas and identify what’s needed. The technology eliminates the need for homeowners to personally climb up to inspect gutters, an oftendangerous undertaking. “People really like that bird’s eye view of their gutters without having to climb up on a ladder,” says Logan Howard, owner and operator of Auravex.
Auravex specializes in all things gutters, including installation, filters, cleaning and maintenance, as well as downspout replacement, drip edge installation and fascia board replacement. The team has more than 30 collective years of expertise in the industry, and all of the lead technicians have more than six years of installation experience.
Howard launched Auravex Gutters at the start of 2024 with the help of Anthony Smith and Josh Brown. A resident of Noblesville, he was compelled to disrupt the
industry with a new type of gutter business that combines expertise with integrity, foregoing traditional, high-pressure sales tactics and focusing instead on customers,” he says. “I wanted to offer quality products at a reasonable price and make sure that everything’s above board. We want to sell people what they need, and be able to show them why they need it. That’s why we use drones.”
The approach has been so successful that the team added a sales rep and second installation crew to meet the local demand. Auravex services areas across Hamilton County and within a 30-mile radius. The team plans to open a second location in early 2025 to service the south side of Indianapolis. “We’re hoping to be able to service even more customers in the Greenwood, Southport and surrounding areas,” Howard says. “We’ve had requests
from the south side and we are excited to expand in that region.”
Despite the use of drones in capturing footage, all cleaning and maintenance tasks are done by hand to ensure everything is functioning properly. Basic cleaning services begin at $1.50 per linear foot and include an expert inspection to ensure all downspouts are functioning properly, along with clearing any blockages, checking for leaks, inspecting the pitch, and identifying any areas that are sagging or pulling away from the home. Advanced services are offered at an increased rate.
Auravex also offers annual maintenance programs at a discounted rate, which can be tailored to the needs of any home. Services are also available for commercial projects and multi-tenant residences. Twoyear warranties guarantee the quality and durability of their work.
Howard hopes to see Auravex continue to grow, and he plans to support the local community with superior customer service.
Writer / Natalie Platt
When you walk in the door at Fritz in Fishers, the longtime car dealership on 116th street in downtown Fishers, you’re likely to see Fritz Kreutzinger. The same approachable, friendly face has been greeting his customers for 41 years, making him a mainstay in the community and the dealership.
Fritz started his automotive dealership in 1983 and recalls the very first car he sold - a mustard-colored 1974 Ford Courier pickup truck that he washed and shined, and drove to the front of the property to show off. Less than two hours later, someone stopped to ask if the car was for sale and bought it on the spot. Fritz in Fishers was a small, independent car dealership with only a handful of cars, and he has grown the operation into the size it is today - selling nearly 1,000 cars per year, and most recently shipping a car to the Netherlands for a customer.
Hard-working and self-made, Fritz has sold over 35,000 cars during his career, and attributes his success to honesty and fairness.
“In the car business it comes down to reputation,” he says. “Honesty, fairness and great employees who are the face of the business, who represent Fritz in Fishersthat is the core of our success, along with my personal drive to make my family proud. All you have to do is do it right Why would I want to do it any other way?”
And doing it right - building long-standing
relationships with customers and a reputable business that has withstood the test of time in ever-growing Fishers - is what Kreutzinger has done. He takes pride in seeing repeat customers visit the store, some who bought cars from him 25 years ago and are now buying cars for their grandchildren. He finds fun and fulfillment in those moments and is proud of the credibility he has built at his dealership - and who he gets to do it with.
“My dad, Hank, would be proud to know that my son, Kyle, is following in my footsteps now, running the dealership,” he says. “He’s doing a great job. Kyle has two sons, so maybe my father’s love of cars and all things mechanical that he passed on to me will become a fourth-generation business.”
Owning a successful business for more than 40 years, and in the same location, isn’t something many Fishers businesses can boast - especially businesses based downtown and around 116th Street. Once a sleepy area, the city is booming with new developments, from hotels to entertainment, making the Fritz in Fishers building a bit of an anomaly between the burgeoning new construction sites.
“We used to be the only dealership up here 30 years ago,” Kreutzinger says. “Keeping our business in downtown Fishers adds to our credibility that we’ve sustained all these years. The growth helps attract more activity to downtown and for us, but our success
Celebrating local businesses that have
served our community for 25 years or more.
right now comes from adapting to the economy and the right business model.”
As a family-owned used car dealership in Fishers, the Fritz in Fishers mission is to connect individuals with the highestquality used vehicles and financing plans. Kreutzinger and his team would love to help you find your next used car, help you fix your current vehicle, or help you with any other automotive needs. Their used car inventory ranges across makes and models, with favorite brands like Chevrolet, Dodge, Honda, Ford and more. Customers will also find pre-owned vehicles from luxury car brands including Audi, BMW, MercedesBenz and more.
You can find the dealership at 8599 East 116th Street in downtown Fishers, and can reach the dealership at 317-842-2228. Also visit fritzinfishers.com.
For 50 years, Godby Home Furnishings has been providing Central Indiana with quality furnishings at affordable prices. When my dad, Jim Godby, started this company back in 1974 he never dreamed we would grow to be as big as we are today. It was his friends and family who helped him get started back then, and it is your loyalty and support today that have helped us reach this milestone. We are truly grateful to be a part of this community with you! Please join us as we celebrate you, our friends and family, and this great accomplishment of 50 years as a locally owned and operated business.
Historians have traced the origins of Halloween back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated on October 31. The Celts believed that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to roam the earth. People would light bonfires and wear costumes to disguise themselves to ward off these spirits. As Christianity spread, the festival was blended with All Saints’ Day, a Christian holiday held on November 1 to honor saints and martyrs, making October 31 All Hallows’ Eve, which later became Halloween. When the U.S. saw an influx of Irish immigrants, they brought their Halloween traditions with them. Originally Halloween was local only in the Irish communities, but slowly spread throughout the U.S.
One of the most popular traditions of Halloween is dressing up in costume. It is a practice enjoyed by children and adults. It is also a significant revenue booster for retail businesses. According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween costumes are expected to surpass $12 billion in 2024. People
dress in Halloween costumes to disguise themselves, hoping to blend in or scare away the supernatural. The Celts referred to it as “guising.” Costumes have evolved. Some costumes, such as witches, princesses and even the devil, have remained the same over the years. However, they also reflect current pop culture trends, which may include political figures, musicians and movie actors, and those may fluctuate from year to year. An article in the Hamilton County Ledger from 1897 lists many of the costumes from that year: “Nearly every nation on the globe was represented. There was the Indian, the flower girl, the nun, the dude, the tat man, the sailor, the bicycle girl with bloomers, the snake charmer with her pompadour hair, the clown, the fashionable lady, the two faced man, the Chinaman, and the devil himself.”
Another tradition that evolved is trick-ortreating. “Souling” was a Celtic tradition where villagers would leave offerings of food and drink outside their homes to appease the spirits during Samhain. Instead of candy being handed out, villagers would leave round cakes.
The children, dressed in costumes, would perform songs, skits or jokes in exchange for food. When the Irish emigrated to the U.S., it slowly evolved into children going door to door for candy.
Carving pumpkins has long been a favorite Halloween tradition. The practice is deeply rooted in Irish folklore, but started with carving turnips. According to the legend, Stingy Jack was a man who tricked the devil multiple times. As punishment for his deceit, when Jack died, he was not allowed into heaven or hell. Instead, the devil sent him into the night with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack placed the coal in a carved-out turnip and has been wandering ever since, giving rise to the figure of “Jack of the Lantern,” later shortened to “jack-o’-lantern.” When the Irish emigrated to the U.S., they found that pumpkins were easier to carve than turnips. Pumpkins have now become a significant symbol of Halloween.
Halloween has always been associated with the supernatural, but it was also believed that
young women would find their romantic partners on this night. This was accomplished through games or superstitious rituals, such as apple bobbing. Although associated with fall festivals, it would either consist of bobbing for apples in a tub or hanging them from the ceiling. There were a few different variations of this activity. Apples would be marked with the names of potential male suitors. Whichever apple the female bit into, the male represented on the apple would supposedly be matched with her. Sometimes the apple would just be of one male suitor. If the female bit into the apple on the first try, they were fated for love. On the second try, they would be mated, but the love would not last. On the third try, the courtship would not even happen. Sometimes it would be a race among multiple women to see who could get the apple first.
Along with apple bobbing, apple peeling was another related Halloween activity. A female would peel an apple and throw it over her shoulder. The peel was believed to land in the shape of the first letter of their future spouse’s name.
Other rituals brought over from Europe to determine one’s mate were even more bizarre than bobbing for apples. People would pull kale out of the ground at night with their eyes closed. The length and shape of the stalk were said to represent the future lover’s height and figure, and the amount of soil around the roots represented wealth. A game mentioned in the Hamilton County Ledger that was popular at the time was called Three Luggies. Three bowls would be placed on a mantle. One bowl had clear water, one had milky water, and the other was empty. The blindfolded female would stick her hand in one of the bowls. If she picked the clear water, she would marry a bachelor; the milky water would result in
being a widower; and the empty bowl would ensure that she would remain single the rest of her life. The female would do this three times, and the hand must have been dipped twice in the same bowl for it to be true.
In modern times, as a scary activity, people will go into the bathroom and recite a chant while looking in a mirror, hoping to see a ghost standing behind them. However, in the past, this was how young women could see their future mates. It required them to walk backward down a staircase holding a candle. Upon looking in the mirror, she would see the image of her future husband. Nut burning was a popular activity for recently engaged couples. Each person would throw a nut into the fire. If it burned quietly, it was a sign that the relationship was a good one, but if it crackled, then a turbulent future lay ahead.
Halloween has always been a popular time for residents in Hamilton County. The streets would be filled with masqueraders. Young children would be out before dark, and as night set in, teenagers and adults would roam the streets or hold parties. Halloween parties looked a lot different than they do today. As the Hamilton County Ledger described in 1892, “rooms were lighted by candles instead of gas: pumpkin jack o’ lanterns stood in unexpected places about the halls and rooms. The mantels were stacked with brightly polished apples, and fancy dishes of nuts, raisins, grapes, oranges, figs, dates, and homemade candies were set everywhere…”
As fun as Halloween can be, it is also a night when vandals cause mischief, leading to increased law enforcement presence. At the turn of the 20th century it was still an issue that plagued Hamilton County. Teenagers would routinely flip over outhouses or
toss wagons into the White River. They would vandalize houses and blame it on the supernatural. Today most cities in Hamilton County have implemented certain hours for trick-or-treating. Many of the games and superstitious rituals for females to find a future mate have been discontinued. Adults still get together for parties and dress up in costumes, but many of the decorations of old have been replaced.
Fishers residents looking for fun ways to celebrate Halloween can visit Conner Prairie’s Headless Horseman Festival during October, and take a hayride through the spooky forest in search of the headless rider. Stop at the Apple Store and grab a candied apple or a cup of apple cider. Boo Bash, hosted by the Fishers Parks and Recreation department, is another friendly event held at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. There will be candy, costume parades, photo ops, magicians and more. Boo Bash will be held on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Or perhaps get together with family, sit around a fire and tell ghost stories. However you celebrate Halloween, be safe and make some lifelong memories.
