Plainfield Magazine April 2018 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

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APRIL 2018

MAKING A SPLASH

PLAINFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVER COMPETES IN JUNIOR WORLD TRIALS FOR TEAM USA

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AKING A SPLASH: PLAINFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVER M COMPETES IN JUNIOR WORLD TRIALS FOR TEAM USA

6 Making a Splash: Plainfield Middle 34 At Peace: The Gathering Together School Diver Competes in Junior World Trials For Team USA

9 A Heart For Korah: Family Creates Outreach Program to Provide Support to Ethiopians Living in Poverty

15 April Crossword Puzzle 17 Women's Health: Take Control of Breast Cancer

Provides a Peaceful Place for the Terminally Ill

39 Supporting the Arts: The Hendricks County Arts Council Appreciates & Celebrates Art

43 Quakers Plunge for Indy Plunge and Special Olympics

44 Business Spotlight:

Safe Dryer Vent Solutions

19 Avon & Plainfield April Events 49 A Servant Heart: Chicago’s Pizza Owner Tom Booher Talks Army 21 A Practical Guide for Parents: Mom, Career & Volunteer Work Teacher & Advocate Writes Memoir Guidebook About Daughter’s Emergence from Autism

25 College Mentors For Kids Honors Community Leaders at 2018 Inspire Awards

30 Wine Women & Shoes: Gleaners

52 Arts Gala Committee Names Signature Artist: Printmaker Becky Heimann’s Piece “The Wave” Selected

54 Business Spotlight:

ADVERTISING DESIGNER Valerie Randall

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APRIL WRITERS

Christy Heitger-Ewing / Sabrina Kapp Suzanne Huntzinger

APRIL PHOTOGRAPHERS Ben Feria / Brian Brosmer Loree Alyane Photography Ron Wise / Sabrina Kapp

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Kelli Waggoner Athletic Director of Brownsburg Community School Corporation

At Brownsburg Community School Corporation, Kelli oversees thousands of kids spanning 18 sports. Her number one priority? To ensure they succeed as both students and athletes. Through Brownsburgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partnership with Hendricks Regional Health, Kelli works with a team of athletic trainers, sports medicine physicians, physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons to provide a specialized continuum of care for student athletes. The partnership focuses on preventing and treating injuries to help students return to their sport as quickly and safely as possible. Learn more at HENDRICKS.ORG/SPORTSMEDICINE.

MAKING A SPLASH

PLAINFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVER COMPETES IN JUNIOR WORLD TRIALS FOR TEAM USA Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing . Photographer / Ben Feria

Sean McCarthy, Executive Director of the Indiana International School of Diving, has a knack for spotting talent in children ages 6-10 and working with them to achieve international-level success. Five years ago, McCarthy watched 9-year-old Daryn Wright perform several dives. Immediately, he knew she was something special. A former gymnast, Daryn was agile, supple, coordinated and quick. “It was easy to see skill sets that could be molded because she was already on a good path of flexibility, strength and coordination,” says McCarthy, who is also the Chairperson for USA Diving Competitive Excellence. Daryn, now 14 and an eighth-grader at Plainfield Middle School, has made tremendous strides in the past five years. It’s not surprising when you consider that she practices 20 hours a week during the school year, plus another six hours on weekends. In the summer, she trains between 30-35 hours weekly. Monday through Thursday, Daryn’s mom, Christie, picks her up from school and heads straight to practice at IUPUI. She gobbles down a protein snack in the car, then begins “dryland,” which includes core strengthening work and trampolines from 3:30-4:30 p.m. She practices in the pool between 4:30-7 p.m. and lifts weights from 7-8 p.m.

McCarthy has been really good about helping Daryn see that her potential is directly proportional to the effort she puts in. “Daryn is polite and respectful of authority, yet she continues to find her voice so that she can articulate to her coach and others the things that bother her,” Christie says. When Daryn first entered the competitive circuit at age 11, she suffered significant performance anxiety. As she got closer to each meet, her nerves would increase steadily, thereby affecting her practices. Out of frustration, occasionally she lashed out at the coaching staff. “One day she was practicing on the 7-meter platform, and I told her that it’s not about where you place, it’s about improving skill,” McCarthy recalls. “She challenged me and said, ‘Well, if it’s not about where I place in the meet, why don’t I do all my dives on a 5-meter instead?’” McCarthy calmly explained that her diving career isn’t about him or her parents. It was her choice. “She spent the night digesting that talk and the next morning, she said, ‘I want everything on 7,’” says McCarthy, noting that she killed it in the warm-ups and won the meet. “That was the first sign of her overcoming her anxiety. At that point, she started to trust me to

6 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

push her out on a limb she may not think she’s ready for.” Daryn, a top-tier elite junior diver who often competes alongside college students, has participated in more than 25 regional, national and international meets. (International qualification only happens for the top two divers at national.) She’s traveled to Ohio, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin, Florida, Texas, California and Cuba. This past January, she went to the USA Olympic Training Center in Colorado where she gained tips and training techniques from sports psychologists and nutritionists. This month she will go to Miami of Ohio in Oxford for the Junior World Trials. There they will pick the team that will compete in Ukraine in July. In addition, because she is one of 34 who made the high-performance team, later this month she will compete in Dresden, Germany. By far, the most difficult aspect of the sport is overcoming fear. “That’s something that I’m constantly working on,” says Daryn, noting that when she’s doing a 10-meter dive, that’s an equivalent to plunging off a three-story building. “If you’re diving off the 10-meter and you impact the water the wrong way at 35 mph, you’re going to be sore for days,” says McCarthy, who incorporates fear management skills into his athletes’ daily routines. The kids simulate dives on dry land, using trampolines and rope and harness. “This way they can gather experience and exposure to a new skill without the impact of a splat,” McCarthy says. After hundreds of repetitions, they introduce that new dive in the water. He uses a water agitation system wherein bubbles are sprayed up from the bottom of the pool so that if a diver lands incorrectly, they don’t experience as much of a sting. McCarthy also provides verbal cues during the dive so Daryn knows what to do when. Perfecting a dive takes a lot of patience and repetition and therefore gets monotonous at times. “It’s the ‘wax on, wax off ’ theory of the ‘Karate Kid’ movie,” McCarthy says. “The myelin sheath of basic motor skills has to be refined to a measure of mastery of the most simple and seemingly boring skill. At the same time, to keep the kids interested, I have to introduce new skills in a safe way.” McCarthy maintains that the human body is ready for a skill months before the human mind acknowledges that same degree of confidence. “This is why they must not overthink things,” McCarthy says. “Instead, they must focus their attention to the present moment, exhale tension, inhale confidence and trust their training.” PlainfieldMag.com / APRIL 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 7

When Daryn travels with USA Diving, her family (which includes mom Christie, dad Todd and siblings Andie and Derek) isn’t allowed to accompany her. If they attend the meets, they must travel separately and stay in a different hotel. They’re also not allowed to take Daryn out to dinner or interact with her outside of the meets. “We can wave to her from the pool deck and that’s it. She’s pretty isolated with the group,” Christie says. “The coaches want the kids to learn how to travel as a team — especially for international meets.” Due to her small size (she’s 5'1"), Daryn’s best event is tower. “I can’t jump high because I’m short so I get a better entry off tower,” Daryn says. “I spin really fast.” Her all-time favorite meet took place in Moultrie, Georgia. It was pouring down rain during the final event, but despite the deluge, the boisterous group of spectators were cheering wildly in the stands. “The kids were thriving on that energy from the crowd and they all hit their dives,” Christie says. Daryn, whose favorite divers include Purdue alum and Olympic gold medalist David Boudia and David Dinsmore, who hails from Ohio, admits that her diving career takes up most of her free time. “My friends are always asking if I can hang out on a certain day, and I say, ‘No, I have diving,’ and they’re like, ‘You always have diving!’” says Daryn with a chuckle. “Which is pretty much true.” But she’s not complaining. In her little bit of down time, she likes to go to musicals, connect with her friends on social media and attend youth group events at Plainfield United Methodist Church. “I usually have to miss the summer camp, but I attend the fall retreat and Sunday services,” Daryn says. “Our church family has been very supportive of my diving.” Though Daryn plans to continue pursuing diving throughout high school and college, she’s unsure at this time of her Olympic aspirations. “I think it would be cool, but I haven’t made up my mind yet,” Daryn says. “All I know is that I’m loving what I’m doing and am grateful for this life.” 8 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

Tisha & Monte Alexander

A HEART FOR KORAH Family Creates Outreach Program to Provide Support to Ethiopians Living in Poverty

into various adoption options. After initially considering China, they learned that in Ethiopia they could adopt siblings. After Though they were a happy family of five, starting the paper work to adopt in Ethiopia, Tisha and Monte Alexander knew deep in in 2009 they flew to Africa to pick up their 2 their hearts that they wanted to expand their and a half-year-old twin girls. family through adoption. They had three biological sons and in 2006 began looking “It’s kind of crazy. When you walk into the Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Melissa Nowak

APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

orphanage, they literally hand you your kids and are like, ‘Have a nice day!’” says Tisha, noting what a shock to the system it was for all involved. Nevertheless, Tisha and her husband welcomed their daughters Hannah and Chloe with open arms and were excited to introduce them to their sons Isaac, John and Josiah.

The Alexanders’ eight chidren

The couple thought their family was complete, but then the earthquake hit Haiti in January 2010 and their plans changed. Tisha and Monte felt they had space in their hearts for more children. So in 2011, they started the process once again. “It hasn’t been easy. I’m never going to tell anyone that adopting a child is easy,” says Tisha, though she admits that she went into the second adoption with her mind set to only adopt one more. They knew, however, how hard it is for sibling groups to be placed. One night Monte, a mortgage underwriting manager, told his wife, “I think we should be open to adopting three siblings.” Tisha’s jaw hit the floor, but it didn’t stay there for long. About this time, a friend of the Alexanders posted to social media a plea to help three Ethiopian brothers who were waiting to be adopted. They were older children—ages five, six and seven at the time, but Tisha and Monte felt a visceral pull to move forward.

In May 2012, the Alexanders singed to adopt David, Jude and Simeon. When Tisha flew to Africa to pick them up in December 2012, she took her mother Sheila with her. When the women stepped off the plane, the man who picked them up asked if he could take them to tour Korah, a community of 130,000 people who live on the outskirts of the city dump. “I can honestly say that my life changed the moment I stepped into Korah,” says Tisha, whose nose immediately crinkled at the rancid smell of rotten, decomposing food and the stench of overwhelming sickness. In Korah, villagers forage for scraps from the trash trucks. Their homes are made out of plastic tarps, secured only by wooden sticks. Most every person living there is plagued by modern-day leprosy, HIV and AIDS, polio or tuberculosis. Since they all live in such close proximity, illness spreads rapidly and cannot be eradicated. “Korah means ‘cursed’ in their language,” Tisha says. It seems appropriate as these AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018

people have no government assistance, no modern medicine and no place to go. “The hopelessness is overwhelming,” Tisha says. “But even so, they wanted to serve us coffee. They wanted to share with us what little they had.” Her time in Korah completely transformed her heart, and when Tisha first returned home to the United States, she talked to her husband about sponsoring a family (doing so involves providing a family with 80 pounds of dry stock food each month, including wheat, macaroni, rice, cooking oil and bananas). “I thought we would sponsor a family or two and that would be it,” Tisha says. “Turns out, the Lord had a different plan.” Ultimately, Tisha created A Heart for Korah, a non-profit 501c3 whose mission is to demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ to the people of Ethiopia —primarily Korah — through outreach programs designed to

support families, economic means, Christian education and community development. The adoption process has been painful at times for all involved. “You see photos of these kids and you fall in love with them,” Tisha says. “But then you get them home and they’re yelling at you, spitting in your face and being very defiant. [That behavior] makes it really hard to bond.” You have to remember that adoption is trauma. Taking a child away from its biological family, whether it’s from foster care or traveling from a third-world country, is traumatic. As a result, every adopted child has some sort of attachment issues. “It’s not easy taking in kids with raw trauma,” Tisha says. “Their hearts are healing. You don’t speak their language. You’re bringing them into a first-world country. I can’t begin to imagine how overwhelming that is for them.”

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The second adoption journey was easier on the family as Tisha knew what to expect. They also saw an adoption counselor to assist with the transition. “It helps having multiple people invested in your kids,” says Tisha, who homeschools the children simply because it’s the most practical option. “Three of my Ethiopian-born children excel at soccer. My oldest just went for national training. If we didn’t homeschool, I would never see my kids,” says Tisha, who has been a stay-at-home mom for the past 16 years. Prior to that, she worked for the National Institute for Fitness & Sport. Her biggest piece of advice when it comes to bonding after bringing a child home is to try and make the world as small as possible. “Resist the urge to do all the extra stuff initially — big family trips and things like that,” Tisha says. “Instead, establish routines at home.”

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Tisha and Monte, who have recently become foster parents to a 4-yearold boy and a 9-month-old baby, find overwhelming satisfaction working with the people of Korah. “It’s funny. You think you’re giving your time and resources by helping another family, but what you aren’t prepared for is what you receive in return,” says Tisha, noting that unlike America, where you have to make an appointment to visit a friend, in Ethiopia, you walk into people’s homes and they are eager to spend the afternoon with you. “They’re so joyful and so giving,” Tisha adds. “They want to be with you.” The Alexanders occasionally travel back to Africa so that the children can visit with their birth families, but since a single plane ticket costs roughly $2,000, each child raises money to help fund the trip. Last year, for instance, the girls sold 450 dozen cookies,

delivering 50 dozen cookies on Christmas Eve to various families around town.

she insists that her life, her children and her mission work are a privilege.

“They had money left over after purchasing their tickets, so they gave it to their birth families to help them start a business,” Tisha says.

“The people of Korah deserve to know that people on the other side of the world care about them,” Tisha says. “My greatest wish is for them to really see their worth.”

The phrase Tisha most often hears from friends is, “I don’t know how you do it,” but

For more information or to sponsor a family in Korah, visit aheartforkorah.com.

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Women’s Health: Take Control of Breast Cancer For women in the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer, behind skin cancers and it’s the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Breast cancer is often curable if detected early, and that’s why regular screening tests and selfexaminations should be a vital part of your health and wellness routine. Dr. Jennifer Medley, radiologist, and Dr. Samilia Obeng-Gyasi, breast surgeon at Indiana University Health West Hospital, offer advice to help you take control of your breast health.

about self-exams, where you can check for anything abnormal.

appointment longer, but the mammogram itself only takes about 15 minutes.”

“It’s important to know what’s normal for you,” Dr. Medley says. “If you notice changes in your breast, don’t be afraid to get it checked out. If it’s determined not to be cancerous, the news will calm your nerves, and if it’s determined to be cancerous, you’ll start treatment right away.”

What happens if breast cancer is detected?

What’s the process like to get a mammogram?

A standard screening mammogram involves two images of each breast. You’ll be positioned into a machine and the breast will be compressed to take the Breast cancer prevention starts with images. When the imaging is finished, the healthy habits, such as limiting alcohol, radiologist will interpret your mammogram avoiding tobacco and maintaining a healthy and you’ll be notified of the results. weight. It’s also helpful to learn about your family health history. Share your medical “The compression from the machine helps history with your doctor and ask about spread out the breast tissue and helps the your breast cancer risk. If you’re a woman radiologist see through the tissue to detect over the age of 40, your doctor will likely breast cancer,” Dr. Medley says. “While a suggest a yearly mammogram. Even if you mammogram isn’t comfortable, I wouldn’t haven’t reached the age to start scheduling describe it as painful. The entire process regular mammograms, ask your doctor – paperwork and all – might make the

How can I reduce my breast cancer risk?

APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

If an abnormality is detected on a screening mammogram, you will likely be asked to schedule a diagnostic mammogram, where extra images will be performed. The additional images help the radiologist determine if the area of concern should be biopsied. If the biopsy reveals breast cancer, you’ll likely work with a radiologist and breast surgeon to determine a treatment plan. “In general, if a patient is diagnosed with cancer, we determine if the cancer can be removed with a lumpectomy, which removes the tumor, or a mastectomy, which removes the breast,” Dr. Obeng-Gyasi says. “Multiple factors affect this determination, including the size of the tumor, the size of the woman's breast, genetic factors and prior history of radiation. Talk with your surgeon about your options and choose one that offers you the best clinical and cosmetic outcome.”

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APRIL AVON & plainfield Events VIEW FULL EVENT CALENDAR AT EVENTS.TOWNEPOST.COM

Musicians from all over Central Indiana come together to buy, sell & trade with national dealers once a year. Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. $8/Person

Come play a game provided by Who’s Yer Gamers or try out our open mic with your talent all while enjoying our coffee bar. Pavilion, Washington Township Park 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. FREE

ArtScape is a celebration of all art forms; music, dance, painting, video etc. Each year, Avon Library hold this fabulous event to showcase local artist while raising muchneeded dollars. Avon-Washington Township Public Library 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $15 Advance / $20 at the Door

INDIANA GUITAR SHOW

OUTDOOR NERF TOURNAMENT

Team tournament style with six players per team. You can jump on a team when you get here. Bring eye protection, a red and a blue shirt. You can pre-register and must sign a waiver. Upper Park, Washington Township Park 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. FREE

AVON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL DINNER AUCTION Registration Required Washington Township Park Pavilion 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $40/Person

OPEN MIC/GAMER NIGHT

DANCING WITH THE HENDRICKS COUNTY STARS

The Museum / Arthur Murray event will feature 10 Hendricks County residents. The event will also include time for open dancing, as well as dinner and a silent auction. Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds 5:30 p.m. – End $50/Person

STARLIGHT RECEPTION FOR PATRONS OF THE ARTS

This spectacular event allows Patrons of the Arts to meet the artists and gives them the first opportunity to view and make their purchases from the displayed art. Attendees will enjoy live music, hors-d'oeuvres from local eateries, wine and craft beers. Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library Art Gallery 7:00 p.m – 10:00 p.m. FREE APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

ARTSCAPE

AVON NIGHT LIGHT

This event is a place for individuals and families to enjoy 5K races, food trucks, activity booths and interactive games in celebration of the community. All proceeds from sales go to Hendricks Regional Health's Pediatric and Prenatal units. Hendricks Regional YMCA 6:00 a.m.– 9:00 p.m. $15/Person

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MOM, TE ACHER & ADVOC ATE WRI TES MEMOIR GUIDEBOOK ABOUT DAUGHTER’S EMERGENCE FROM AUTISM

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography provided by Loree Alyane Photography

Twelve years ago, Lori Taylor walked into a bookstore in search of answers, hope and clarity. Her 2-year-old daughter, Hannah, had recently been diagnosed with autism and Taylor was trying to come to grips with what that diagnosis meant.

teacher at Avon Intermediate School West, did her own research and got her daughter into occupational, speech, developmental and physical therapies. She also enrolled Hannah in equine therapy, water therapy — anything and everything she could think of to help make her better.

“I was looking for a story that followed what our family was going through,” says Taylor, eager to find a memoir that would help her navigate life going forward. Few books on the subject existed, and those that did were either fiction or centered on boys.

“I wanted to save her,” says Taylor, who came to learn that her daughter didn’t need saving. “When I was telling Hannah to be or act a certain way, I was trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. She has autism and she always will. She’s hardwired to be who she’s going to be. And in the end, I love my daughter just the way she is.”

So, Taylor, a sixth-grade math and science

Taylor’s new perspective enabled her to APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

appreciate the qualities in her daughter that once embarrassed her. For example, Hannah tends to blurt out whatever is on her mind. One day, they were at Walmart and Hannah told an overweight man with a receding hairline that he looked like the chicken guy from “Toy Story 2.” Although the incident was mortifying, at times Hannah’s bluntness is refreshing — even empowering. For instance, last summer Taylor and her daughter were attending an autism conference in Milwaukee when a participant raised her hand and shared that though her son had been diagnosed with autism, he didn’t look like he had autism. Hannah stood up, turned around, and stated candidly, “Autism doesn’t have a look.”

Hannah, who was diagnosed at 18 months, had all the signs of classic autism. As a baby, rice cereal mashed potatoes, mac-n-cheese and applesauce were her staples, but if any of these foods touched her skin, she would scream bloody murder. She also struggled to transition to finger foods and only tolerated being held for five minutes at a time. “She was my first baby. I thought it was normal for her to want to stay in her bouncy seat all day,” Taylor says. If Hannah’s name was called, she wouldn’t turn her head. Her wave was also different. Plus, she didn’t talk until she was four years old. “There were so many signs of autism, but I didn’t see them,” says Taylor, who had a revelation several years ago when she was at church. The minister posed the following question in his New Year’s Eve sermon: “What are you going to do this year with what you’ve got?” Something about that question resonated with Taylor and she got to thinking about all of the research and note-taking she had done through the years regarding autism, not to mention the stories she’d collected from friends in the autism community. “I’ve got all these resources that could potentially help others,” Taylor thought. “What if I put them together to make a book?” Though the book-writing process was both brutal and bittersweet, Taylor hopes the end result will provide other families with awareness, acceptance and hope. Her newly published book “Dragonfly: A Daughter’s Emergence from Autism — A Practical Guide for Parents,” is a hybrid between a memoir and guidebook. It includes early signs and worries, intervention techniques and best practices, as well as insight from five parents, all respected members of Hendricks County who have children with autism. “Dragonfly” spells out the hallmarks of autism (e.g., communication delay, lack of two-way communication and perseverated interests) so that parents can intervene earlier when the brain is more pliable.

Taylor knows firsthand how difficult it is to initially accept that your child is different. “I believe in the beginning, we all believe we’re going to raise the quarterback of the football team, the front row hitter in volleyball or the valedictorian,” Taylor says. “I would wake my husband up in the middle of the night, mourning Hannah never walking down the aisle or attending IU.”

inside the high-energy establishment and got her hand stamped, she repeatedly screeched, “It hurts! It hurts!” “Her eyes were as big as arcade tokens,” Taylor says. It was sensory overload. Hannah, now 13, is a piano player, artist and avid animal lover — particularly cats. In fact, she volunteers on Sundays at the humane society. She has a younger brother named Connor (10), who is included in the book in a chapter about siblings.

Slowly Taylor came to grips that life was different — even on occasions when she tried to pretend that it wasn’t. On Hannah’s fourth birthday, the family took Hannah to “It’s been challenging for him as through the Chuck E. Cheese’s so that she could fit in years he’s had to go to a lot of OT, PT and with her peers. The moment Hannah stepped feeding appointments,” Taylor says. “I’ve AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018

had to make sure I’m providing him with plenty of support all his own so that he feels like his own person.” A behavior specialist (whom Hannah calls her “life coach”) comes to the house twice a week to help her understand figurative language. “She has a hard time catching on to what others are saying when it comes to receptive and expressive language,” Taylor says. In addition, tactile experience and occupational therapy have helped Hannah make great strides. For example, there was a time that she wouldn’t tolerate being touched. Now she’s okay with hugging. The book got its name from the fact that Hannah likens her own physical and cognitive journey with that of a dragonfly, which can live up to the first four years of its life underwater.

“Hannah was in an inaccessible world for the first four years of her life,” Taylor says. “Then, when she emerged, she had to learn how to fly. And, is still learning.”

Corporation’s Autism Team. She says the most joyful part of being Hannah’s mother is bearing witness to her brave and resilient spirit.

Thankfully, autism awareness has grown substantially over the past decade, which means when people hear the word “autism” they don’t automatically think of the character from the movie “Rain Man.” Taylor, who has taught in the Avon schools for 23 years, is the founder and publisher of the blog “Emerging from Autism” and a member of Avon School

“She owns who she is,” Taylor says. “And that’s beautiful.” “Dragonfly” is available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Target. The book can also be found on Skyhorse Publishing’s website. Taylor will be signing books at Barnes & Noble on April 7 from 1-4 p.m.

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Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb presents the Lifetime Achievement Award in Mentoring to Jim McClelland.

COLLEGE MENTORS FOR KIDS HONORS COMMUNITY LEADERS AT 2018 INSPIRE AWARDS College Mentors For Kids hosted its 2018 Inspire Awards on Feb. 22 at a packed ballroom in the JW Marriott in downtown Indianapolis. The event celebrates outstanding mentors in the Indianapolis community. Seven inspiring community leaders were named Mentors of the Year in their respective fields. Jim McClelland, Executive Director for Drug Prevention, Treatment, and Enforcement, State of Indiana, was also honored at the event with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Mentoring for his collaborative approach to mentoring and looking for entrepreneurial solutions that bring together organizations and individuals who can learn from each other and create long-term positive impact for

people and communities.

HEALTH & HEALTH SCIENCES MENTOR OF THE YEAR Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb presented Jean Scallon, Springstone, Inc. the award to McClelland. Jean Scallon is the CEO of Bloomington “Simply put, Jim has been a mentor to Meadows Hospital and a mentor who leads many throughout his career,” Governor by example. Today, Scallon continues to Holcomb said. “He’s created his own serve a special role in her mentee’s life, ‘mentoring tree’ with professionals all pushing her to work toward her goals, over Indiana and the country who are advocating for and supporting her along leading organizations, giving back to their the way. communities and starting the mentoring cycle all over again. He has graciously “In short, Jean is a humble, passionate, given advice, supported and encouraged authentic change influencer who never loses his mentees and challenged them to think her desire to serve others,” says Christian, as an entrepreneur, all while balancing the her mentee. “It’s empowering to have her priority of being a humanitarian and giving rooting for you because she wants to see you back to the community.” win in every avenue of life.” The 2018 Inspire Awards’ Mentors of the Year include: TownePost.com / APRIL 2018 / INDY METRO

BUSINESS, RETAIL & SERVICES MENTOR OF THE YEAR

John Lamprinakos, Worthington Steel John Lamprinakos is the President of Worthington Steel and has served as a mentor to countless employees over the course of four decades with Worthington Industries. During that time, his work ethic, integrity and ability to build meaningful personal connections have made him a popular advisor and role model. “[ John] will push you past what you thought were your limits,” says one of his mentees. “He does not allow you to get comfortable in your success but is also compassionate in your failures. It makes you want to push yourself and your team further.” MARKETING, MEDIA AND ATHLETICS MENTOR OF THE YEAR Fanchon Stinger, Fox59 Fox59 anchor Fanchon Stinger is a mentor who is always willing to go to bat for her mentees and colleagues. A veteran reporter and Emmy award winner, Fanchon helps new reporters, production assistants and other team members understand how to best serve the people of Central Indiana,

At Conner Prairie, we’re more than just an unforgettable day. Come out and meet all the new babies born here this spring! Our team is working hard to save these rare, heritage breeds from extinction. Engage with nature in our new Fort Hoosier, before igniting your imagination inside our new Makesmith Workshop. What will you see today?

“She doesn’t just spew out suggestions and then send you on your way,” one mentee says. “She wants to work with you, help you grow and continue to enhance your abilities. She inspires me, and many others here at Fox59.” YOUTH MENTORING MENTOR OF THE YEAR Julie Bullard, OneAmerica Julie Bullard is a marketing manager for OneAmerica and devotes countless hours to mentoring children and young adults through volunteer organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, Trusted Mentors and Starfish Initiative. In every case, Bullard develops a unique and special relationship with her mentee, using her time, talents and resources to guide and support them through every challenge or opportunity they face.

INDY METRO / APRIL 2018 / TownePost.com

“I have never met someone with such devotion, dedication and passion for helping economically disadvantaged and at-risk students,” her nominator said. CONSTRUCTION, ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY MENTOR OF THE YEAR Steve Jones, Center for Information and Communication Sciences at Ball State Dr. Steve Jones is a professor at the Center for Information and Communication Sciences at Ball State University and a consultant in the technology field, but his personal mission is to positively impact the lives of others. He has served as a mentor and role model to thousands of students over the course of his career, going out of his way to help them personally and professionally. Remaining a beloved advisor and friend well after their student-professor relationship has ended, more than a dozen former students have even asked him to officiate their weddings. EDUCATION, GOVERNMENT & NONPROFIT MENTOR OF THE YEAR Kathy Souchet-Downey, Office of Congressman Andre Carson Kathy Souchet-Downey is a Constituent Services Liaison for the Office of Congressman Andre Carson. As a volunteer with El Puente Project, Souchet-Downey provided invaluable guidance to one mentee, Cari, helping her navigate college as a first-generation college student. “Without hesitation, Kathy took me under her wing,” Cari says. “She was patient, caring, understanding and very supportive through the journey. She broke down this whole system that was completely new to me. She taught me about the many doors college could open and helped me think through my studies.” ACCOUNTING, LEGAL & FINANCE MENTOR OF THE YEAR Matt Hawkins, Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana Matt Hawkins is the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana and is described by one nominator as “the consummate mentor.” Hawkins generously invests his time in mentees, getting to know their specific goals and interests, providing encouragement, ideas and the constructive feedback necessary for growth. “He is always forward thinking and anticipates the skills and knowledge employees will need to achieve their goals,” one mentee says. “He truly wants to see his current and former employees succeed and challenges me as well as others by always looking ahead and asking what’s next.” For more information, visit collegementors.org.

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TLC, Total Lawn Care, Inc. was founded in 1989 by Terry Jungels and Mark Cavin. They had two goals when they started the business. One was to provide a Professional Service using professional products and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) at a reasonable price. The second was to enjoy what they do and provide a superior service. “When we started this business we used Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which allowed us to minimize the amounts of pesticides we used as well as the fertilizers,” Jungels says. “Over time, we have evolved into an organic approach. We are reducing the nitrates and using more biology and less chemistry.” Even when companies use “organic” fertilizers they have to put down a large amount to get to a certain level of nitrogen. It has been shown that a turf plant might only use a small percentage of what is applied and the remaining runs off, vaporizes (ammonification) or turns into nitrates. TLC is trying to build the soil so that it can utilize the nitrogen in the soil and metabolize the products they use. The lawn care company adds a variety of nutrients and biology into the soil with its applications. “We do this to build the carbon and allow the turf to prosper in a more organic soil,” Jungels says. “We want to create some sustainability in the soil to help keep your lawn consistent and looking good. By doing this, we can reduce the amounts of nitrogen we put down.” TLC uses five treatments throughout the year, fewer than many of the other lawn care companies out there. Occasionally, some of the newer lawns or neglected lawns may need a little more, and TLC can always add to the program. TLC recommends good cultural practices like mowing high, watering correctly and aeration to also reduce the amounts of fertility and pesticides needed.

TLC separates its weed controls and fertilizers so they can target the weeds and reduce the total square footage where herbicides are applied. The company uses products like imidacloprid and bifenthrin for insects and grubs. The products are used in pet care for flea and worm control as well as food storage areas and are safe when used properly. “Our staff is professional,” Jungels says. “We have had many of our technicians with us for more than five years, some

more than 20 years. We train throughout the year, and the technician on your lawn will be there on a consistent basis so they can monitor any changes they see. This continuity is important because each year and each season is different. Each year temperatures, dryness, rainfall, humidity, length of season all have an effect on how the lawn responds. As a local company with professional technicians, an Agronomist on staff and a solid relationship with manufacturers, distributors and researchers, we can

modify what we are doing very quickly to provide optimal results.” TLC still has many clients from when they first started up nearly 30 years ago. “We have moved into taking care of their children and other family members,” Jungels says. Call TLC today at 317-638-1862 for a free estimate, or visit them online at tlctotallawncare.net for more information.

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TownePost.com / APRIL 2018 / INDY METRO

GLE ANERS FUNDRAI SER PULLS OUT ALL THE STOPS TO RAI SE MONEY FOR YOUTH HUNGER PROGRAMS Writer / Suzanne Huntzinger Photographer / Ron Wise

It’s time for the fifth Annual Wine Women & Shoes Event Benefiting Gleaners Food Bank Indiana Youth Programs. The Gleaners fundraiser and massive shopping extravaganza will be held May 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m, at the Lucas Estate in Carmel, 1143 116th Street Carmel, IN. Wine Women and Shoes is a nationwide fundraising concept introduced in the Indy area almost five years ago. Last year’s Gleaners Wine Women & Shoes raised more than $345,000. This year, Gleaners is aiming for $400,000 - enough to provide 1.2 million meals. That sounds like a lot of money, but one in five Hoosier children does not have

enough to eat. That’s why Wine Women & Shoes raises funds to support Gleaners’ Youth Programs. Three programs make up the youth hunger initiative — BackSacks, School-Based Pantries and Summer Meals for Kids. BackSacks’ Weekend Food for Kids is designed for elementary aged children who may not have enough to eat between school lunch on Friday and breakfast on Monday. Meals are kid friendly, easy to open and require no cooking. School-Based Pantries operates in 53 schools, two of which are in Hamilton County. These pantries provide food for students and their families. Some are open year-round. The Summer Meals for Kids program has INDY METRO / APRIL 2018 / TownePost.com

two components, Summer BackSacks and Family Meal Boxes. Tickets for the event are already on sale. The price is $200 each and gets you into a fun experience, including wine tasting, delicious food bites and unique shopping opportunities. A variety of vendors will be there featuring their merchandise including clothing, jewelry, perfume, beauty products and much more. Plenty of other fundraising opportunities await at the event. Shoe Guys, a crowd favorite, will once again be on hand at the event. More than 20 local guys who are local celebrities, business owners and community leaders, have each committed to raising at least $2,500. The goal for the entire group is $50,000. Guests and fans can vote for their favorite shoe guy and donate to help him

win. The Shoe Guy who raises the most will be named “Sole Man of the Year.” The Shoe Guy who receives the highest number of donations is crowned Mr. Congeniality. Not only will the Shoe Guys be mingling to get donations and votes, they’ll be on hand to serve guests wine or other refreshments and highlight merchandise for sale. “It’s a great cause and a fun way to get involved and give back,” says Shoe Guy and Lake City Bank Branch Manager, Whitney Hamilton, Jr. “I’m amazed at the number of kids affected by hunger, especially during the summer.” Hamilton says he’s a formidable competitor and he plans on going head to head with fellow Shoe Guy and racecar driver, Kristian Aleixo. “He keeps talking smack, but I’m very competitive and I’m going to beat him, hands down,” Aleixo vows. “But mostly, I want to raise money to bring more attention

to childhood hunger. I can relate to it, because after my mom passed when I was 13, I was homeless until age 18.”

The Shoe Guys aren’t the only attraction. Besides all the great shopping, there will be lots of other exciting opportunities to win great prizes.

While some Shoe Guys prepare to duke it out in a little friendly competition, one Shoe “Guests look forward to some of the same traditions every year for the event, but we Guy is doing it for the love of fundraising. keep it fresh by offering new and creative opportunities to engage the guests and raise “I love fundraising. I’ve been involved in money,” says Debbie Dreiband, Gleaners non-profits in one way or another for years Strategic Events and Sponsorships Director. now,” says President/CEO of the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Jeff McDermott. “I’m always amazed at the Wine is the first name in the event’s title, generosity of people. We’re so fortunate to and guests won’t have to work hard to live in such a generous community.” find it. The Wall of Wine, literally a wall

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TownePost.com / APRIL 2018 / INDY METRO

stacked with bottles of wine, offers guests a chance to win a fine bottle of wine. Guests can purchase a ticket for $25 to choose a bottle which could be valued anywhere from $25 to $500. Guests can also play to win the Moyer Fine Jewelry Key to the Closet. Purchase a key for $100 and see if your key opens the closet. The person with the winning key gets everything in the closet. Several auction items will be up for grabs, too. Bid to win dinner with the fire department, including dessert and surprises. Bid online before May 11 to win transportation to the event and a fabulous VIP beauty package from Saks Fifth Avenue to get you ready for the event. “That’s sure to be a popular item, because the transportation is in a Tesla Model X and Saks is providing their Trish McEvoy beauty experts,” Dreiband says. Gleaners is grateful to the many sponsors who’ve lent their support and generosity, like Saks Fifth Avenue Indianapolis, who extends its resources immeasurably every year.

That’s right. Here, you’ll discover stories unfolding in unexpected ways. Everyday, we preserve pop culture, excavate ginormous bones, and curate one-of-a-kind rarities to reframe big discussions. FIND WHAT’S NEXT. At the Indiana State Museum.

“Each Saks Fifth Avenue store is very involved with supporting their local charities,” says Curtis Spaulding, General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue Indianapolis, “I’m happy to say that Saks Indianapolis has been supporting the Gleaners Wine Women & Shoes charity since its inception. The great work that Gleaners does in Central and Southern Indiana by touching so many people who need a hand up is applause worthy.” Get your tickets at gleaners.org/events/ wine-women- shoes/. “Only 500 tickets are available, so get yours now,” Dreiband says.

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For more information, contact Debbie Dreiband ddreiband@gleaners.org, or call 317-829-1769.

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Years ago, Rita Fiorentino, a former hospice nurse from San Francisco, recognized that there was a missing piece of the puzzle for families as their loved ones neared the end of life.

By week’s end, Fiorentino had made an offer on a house in Plainfield, naming it “The Gathering Together” because a minister once told her that their meetings were “the best thing this side of The Gathering Together.”

“It’s a difficult period of time because patients are often bedbound and incontinent,” Fiorentino says. “They need someone to care for them and keep them clean but don’t want to put that burden on their loved ones. At the same time, they want their family around.”

Though she fell in love with the property — especially the gorgeous winding staircase — the interior was in shambles.

God put it on Fiorentino’s heart to do something bold. Since she couldn’t go stay with every person during their time of need, she decided to bring people to her place instead. In 2001, she started house hunting in the Bay Area, but nothing felt right. Then she flew to Indiana for a wedding. When she stepped inside the church prior to the nuptials, she heard God whisper, “Come back to Indiana. This is home to you now.”

“It looked like a bomb had gone off inside,” Fiorentino says. Renovations, which included ripping out the kitchen and replacing the woodwork, took about a year. She wanted guests to be able to walk on a floor that was soft on their feet and sink into a couch that felt like a fluff of heaven. In short, she longed to create a relaxing sanctuary. “I wanted everything about the place to be inviting so that folks would feel safe and peaceful,” Fiorentino says. She clearly achieved her vision as people always comment that they feel the peace of God here.

APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

RITA FIORENTINO - FOUNDER -

The Gathering Together is neither a nursing home nor hospice care. Each room has two beds in it — one for the patient and the other for Fiorentino. The family quarters are located upstairs, accessible by that winding staircase. If rooms are full, family members can bunk in the spacious living room. Though some guests have stayed at The Gathering Together for several months, a week is the typical length of time. Some have

only resided for a few days or even hours. The home is unique in that it not only cares for the needs of the dying but for the living as well. It relieves family members of burdens that can keep them from enjoying those final precious moments with their loved ones. “I’ve had women tell me, ‘This place was a gift because I could stop being my mom’s nurse and just get to be her daughter,’” Fiorentino says. “I’ve had men confide that they’re grateful to take off the caregiver hat and step into the loving husband role.”

Mary Curl - TGT Volunteer

To keep the house running, they hold three fundraising events a year. One, held in June, is The Gathering in the Garden. “We serve a beautiful dinner and have live music, as well as a cake/dessert auction and silent auction,” Fiorentino says. A second event, held in October, is called Soup’s On at The Gathering Together. It’s a thank-you to the community for their ongoing support. They make a number of soups as well as pies, sold for $10 apiece. Last year a local girl scout troop partnered with U-Paint Pottery and arranged a community painting party. “We ended up with 283 soup bowls, which we sold for $10 each,” Fiorentino says. The third event is December’s Holiday Open House — an affair that has grown into a huge Christmas boutique. “Hundreds of people come to that.” Many of these events are sponsored by organizations like Hendricks Regional, IU West, Heart to Heart Hospice and St. Vincent Hospice. In addition, a number of local establishments regularly donate, including Chicago’s Pizza, Dairy Queen and PTI Industries. Active Grace has sponsored a 5K walk, and Eagle Riders sponsored a ride to raise money for the house. In addition, the Gathering Together staff hosts craft and gardening workshops, bereavement groups and caregiver support groups. They have crafting volunteers who coordinate weekly projects, including sewing, stained glass, ceramics, felting, mixed media, basket weaving and cupcake decoration. “There’s something for everyone and every ability,” says Fiorentino, noting that sometimes friends all sit down and have a meal together. “Though we’re AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018

not a social club, it becomes an outlet for people who don’t have a lot of social interactions.” The home’s name is appropriate on so many levels. Church groups and women’s groups, social clubs and nurses all gather together for parties, meetings, even Celebrations of Life. “We love to share our space,” Fiorentino says. “We’re open to anyone who wants to use it.” Fiorentino is happy to open the home to the community because the community has been so welcoming of her.

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“I’m so thankful that God plunked me in this unique Quaker town,” Fiorentino says. “The people of Plainfield are good to me.” Folks have gotten to know about The Gathering Together mainly through word of mouth since Fiorentino doesn’t advertise. “There’s no appropriate place in the Yellow Pages for what we do here, really,” says Fiorentino, who has had people knock on her door to share their burdens, their hopes and their dying wish. An Avon woman brought her dad down from Ft. Wayne. Another woman checked the place out for herself several months prior to getting really ill. She lived alone and didn’t want to die alone.

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John Hall, a 67-year Plainfield resident, had never heard about the Gathering Together until his wife, Pam, got sick, and they met with Fiorentino. “Rita and her staff of volunteers provided such an outpouring of love that really made my wife and I feel comfortable,” Hall says. “Rita is a miracle worker. It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen.”

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Art by Pam Halliburton Professional Artist from Avon

THE HENDRICKS COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL APPRECIATES & CELEBRATES ART

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

When Peg McRoy Glover moved to Hendricks County, her first priority was getting involved in the arts community. “I’ve been a lover of the arts my entire life,” says Glover, who prior to relocating to Danville had worked in advertising, marketing and public relations. “When my husband and I moved here, I was so pleased to discover that there is a thriving, exciting arts community in Hendricks County.” For instance, in 2016 artist Tiffany Black painted a giant mural on the side of the Diesel building. Titled “Open Window,” it features the Amphitheater and Hendricks Symphonic Society, County Courthouse, Old Fashion Days Parade, Avon 200 Bicentennial Statue, Vandalia Trail, McCloud Nature Park, Hendricks Civic Theater and Lucas Oil Raceway, among other things. The man in the open window is former Indiana Governor William Hendricks (after whom the county was named). Black included snippets of pictures throughout the mural as well as a scroll that acts as a key to explain everything in the painting. The Hendricks County Arts Council (HCAC) began in Danville, but Glover, now president of the HCAC, recognized that the group was not fulfilling its original vision, which is to be a leader and collaborator of the arts in Hendricks County. Therefore, Glover and her board members have been working to connect with leadership not only in Danville but also in Avon, Plainfield and Brownsburg as well. “These communities have been reaching out to us,” Glover says. “They’re as interested in supporting the art community as we are.” As a result of such collaboration, the HCAC has experienced amazing growth during the past year. “As a visual artist, who had put my art career on hold for many years, Hendricks County has given me the opportunity to finally have the art career I always wanted,” says Pam Halliburton, a painter and HCAC board member. “I’ve participated in events and activities I never dreamed I would.”

The reason so many folks feel so passionate about the arts is because they recognize the beneficial nature of the arts in our lives.

Art by artist Elizah Monai, a junior at the Herron School of Art...

“Studies have shown that children who participate in the arts perform better in school,” says Glover, noting that in the future they would like to develop a children’s program. “We feel it’s our responsibility to help foster creativity and enthusiasm for the arts in our youth.” Elizah Monai Griffith, a student at Herron School of Art and HCAC board member, is pleased by how the people of Hendricks County have embraced her. “I’ve found nothing but support — no head-shaking, fingerwagging, or parental lecturing when I say proudly, ‘I’m an artist!’” she says. The HCAC supports the Hendricks Symphonic Society, the Biz Academy of Musical Theatre and the Sketchpad Art Studio. Last summer Plainfield hosted Play-n-Field in the Park, which combined both visual and performing arts. That event is scheduled to repeat annually. This past winter, the Hendricks Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performed Heroic Music, featuring Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony and a side-by-side with Brownsburg Middle School Strings. In March, the Hendricks Civic Theatre performed “Shrek, the Musical.” Upcoming events include the Hendricks Symphony Orchestra and Chorus: Celebrating Brahms on May 4 at 7:30 p.m. & May 6 at 3:00 p.m. at Avon Middle School North and the Children’s Ballet performs “The Golden Cuckoo” on May 24 at 6:30 p.m. and May 26 at 2:00 p.m. at Danville High School. “The 30th season of the Children’s Ballet is turning out to be one of our best, and we look forward to even more opportunities this year to share our love of dance with the community,” says Anne Johansson, Executive Director of the Children’s Ballet. In addition, Reflected Light 2018: A Midsummer Art Exhibition by artist Brian Russelburg will take place at the Gallery of Bread of Life located in Avon on July 20 from 6-9:30 p.m. “The Arts provide for us all a means to express our individuality, our loves, needs, even disappointments,” says Russelburg, curator of Make an Impression and Reflected Light. “When we understand this, then we are all artists, and since we share the same human emotions, it opens doors for us to agree, relate and love those creative expressions from others.”

Art by artist Elizah Monai, a junior at the Herron School of Art...

Glover maintains that the preservation and celebration of art AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018

“We’re always looking to grow our board and hear fresh ideas from the community.” - Peg McRoy Glover

is crucial to civilization because art is the one thing that survives us all. “Art speaks to generation after generation,” Glover says. “Think about it. When people travel, they want to hit the art museums and see the public art displays. It’s a universal language. Michelangelo’s David still speaks to us through the centuries.” Plus, artists oftentimes can see something that the rest of us don’t. So, when they create a still life, a portrait or a landscape, they enable the world to see the beauty of something or someone through their lens. The HCAC meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month in the boardroom of the Hendricks County 4H Fair Complex. The meeting is always open to the public. In fact, they welcome newcomers. “We’re always looking to grow our board and hear fresh ideas from the community,” Glover says. Anyone who would like to support the arts in Hendricks County may send a donation through the website. The Council is also recruiting volunteers to help with event planning. “It’s such an exciting time to be part of the Arts Council right now,” Glover says. “We welcome others to join the fun.” The HCAC is located in Danville. For more information, visit hendrickscountyarts.org or call 317563-1115. APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

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The morning couldn't have been more beautiful, with a bright blue sky and plenty of sunshine. According to @SeanWTHR it was 45 degrees when Team #QuakersPlunge raced into Eagle Creek in support of Special Olympics Indiana. This marked the 50th year for the #IndyPlunge, where Freezin' for a Reason is the name of the game. Hundreds of people from throughout Central Indiana take part in the Polar Plunge, which includes costume contests, an Executive Challenge, and school plunges. For the first year, #QuakersPlunge took part in the Executive Challenge, raising $3000 from teachers, administrators and supporters. And that was just a portion of the more than $100,000 raised from today's event. Team #QuakersPlunge was led by PCSC Superintendent Scott Olinger, with fellow administrators Laura DelVecchio, Beth Shepperd, Julie Thacker, Pat Cooney, Kyle Tutterow, Devin Carter and Mel Siefert joining in the plunge. AvonMagazine.com / APRIL 2018 / AVON MAGAZINE / 43

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him feeling unloved and unwanted. That hostility carried over to school where he Scott Stein is a dreamer — both literally and regularly got into fights with his peers. figuratively. Feeling worthless, the cycle of abuse continued for years. “I’ve had so many things come to me in dreams,” says Stein, who, after many Eventually, he joined the Army. He later difficult years, is living the dream of loving became an EMT and electrician’s assistant. his family, sharing his faith and owning his He married and had a daughter but still own business. struggled with residual pain from his childhood. Stein grew up in a broken home, separated from his siblings when he was young. “Back then there was no professional help He endured beatings at home that left for dealing with trauma. It was just the Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018

‘suck it up’ mentality,” Stein says. Bottling up his emotions caused him to repeatedly make the same mistakes — especially where relationships and career choices were concerned. After divorcing, he overate to self-soothe. When his weight became dangerously high, he opted for gastric bypass surgery. When he could no longer numb his pain with food, he turned to alcohol. “I went from a beer to a 12-pack to a 24-pack, then hard liquor,” Stein says.

“Basically, I became a functioning alcoholic.” Lost in a world of hurt, Stein retreated from his second wife, Erika, who was the breadwinner of the family. Every morning Stein would get his oldest daughter, Samantha, off to school, then stay home to care for their youngest daughter, Alyssa. The moment Erika returned from work, however, Stein would run to the local bar and drink himself into a stupor. Until one day when he started drinking early in the day — a decision that ultimately landed him in jail. After his release, he found himself homeless, living at Wheeler Mission in downtown Indy. “I hit rock bottom and lost everything,” says Stein, who ultimately found a job through a friend. He also began attending an addiction program called Celebrate Recovery. Even though he was going through the right motions, his heart wasn’t syncing up with his head and he continued to spiral. One night Stein passed out drunk on the couch and had a vivid dream.

As Stein got in touch with his spiritual side, he grew a conscious. “I suddenly cared about the proper way to treat people,” Stein says. He and Erika began repairing their relationship, and in August 2016, Stein established his own business — Safe Dryer Vent Solutions. “My goal is to use my skills, talents, faith and integrity to enrich the Central Indiana

Getting dryer vents cleaned regularly is the number one way a homeowner can help prevent a house fire. Signs that it’s time clean the dryer vent is if a) it’s taking more than one cycle for clothes to fully dry, b) you see bird feathers across your vent, c) the top or side of your dryer is super hot to the touch, d) your dryer has moisture on the inside of the door, or e) your laundry room gets really hot and/or dusty. Not only does Stein offer a free quote and inspection, but he also offers group discounts to townhome owners as well as home owners associations. Stein, who also replaces bathroom vent and bathroom vent motors, notes that the most common issue he sees is vent covers that have multiple doors on them.

“I was in the desert, hot and thirsty. My mouth was dry, and I was chugging a gallon of vodka as fast as I could,” recalls Stein, who woke up sweaty and disoriented. Immediately he fell back asleep for part two of his dream. “This time I was by a pool with a nice breeze, feeling cool, content and calm. Then I heard a voice say, ‘Now you choose.’” The dream’s message was clear: He could continue to drink and live in misery. Or he could sober up and find peace. When he awoke on July 24, 2015, he poured out the vodka and has been sober ever since.

community,” says Stein, who is now a male ministry leader for Lyndhurst Baptist Church and board member at his church, Avon Light and Life. Stein insists that his journey was not easy or miraculous. “It’s not like I had a dream, poured the vodka down the drain and everything turned magically great,” Stein says. “Even today there is still healing to be done, but I’ve learned to communicate and trust God.” APRIL 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

“They’re made out of plastic so when they freeze, they expand, then shrink. They also have a grid behind them that will catch lint and cause the dryer vent to back up,” says Stein, who recommends installing a pestproof vent. Stein appreciates his customers just as he appreciates his second chance at life. Dedicated to helping those in need, Stein is eager to serve Hendricks County. Contact Scott Stein by calling 317-430-3993 or visiting safedryerventsolutions.com.

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CHICAGO’S PIZZA OWNER TOM BOOHER TALKS ARMY CAREER & VOLUNTEER WORK Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography / Brian Brosmer

Some people have an entrepreneurial spirit. Some have a passion for protecting others. Some like to offer a helping hand. Then there are those — like Tom Booher — who are all of these things and so much more. Born with a great big, wide open heart, throughout his lifetime, he’s worn a number of different career hats, including law enforcer, military soldier, restaurant owner and loyal humanitarian.

Booher started out in the Army Reserves back in 1975. After earning a degree in criminal justice, he worked with the Southport Police Department for 20 years and as a deputy in Marion County for four years. In 1998, he and his wife, Karla, briefly relocated to Florida after their son, Sean, graduated high school. Four years later, however, they moved back to the area and Booher did surveillance work for a friend who owned a detective agency. He then spent 2004-2005 in Afghanistan. PlainfieldMag.com / APRIL 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 49

“It wasn’t as pleasant as being home, but it wasn’t horrible,” says Booher, who was there with a small group of soldiers in the Army Corp of Engineers. His job mainly involved providing security for civilians, getting them to and from where they needed to be in order to build bases for the Afghan National Army. In 2009, he switched gears once again when he entered the restaurant business.

“The guy who founded Chicago’s Pizza was the father of my son’s best friend,” Booher says. “Sean had worked with him throughout high school and we had become friends. One day he asked if I’d be interested in opening up a store in Plainfield. I thought, ‘Why not?’” Booher has spent the majority of his life diving into projects, usually ones in which he has the opportunity to help people. “I like to focus on giving back and doing positive things for the community,” says Booher, who for the past 25 years has been involved with Faith Ministry, an organization in Reynosa, Mexico, that is supported by churches all across the country (five or six of which are located in the Indy Metro area). Faith Ministry builds houses for families who otherwise wouldn’t have one. Sometimes these families consist of a single mother and a couple of kids. Other times it’s a husband and wife, several children, and a set of grandparents all living together. In all cases, the house is the same — a 12x24 block building that has electric but no plumbing. “It’s a pretty basic structure but certainly much better than cardboard or shack or whatever they were staying in before,” Booher says. To be eligible for Faith Ministry to erect a house, the person must own the land the home is going to be built on. They also must

Texas) for one-week stretches. Typically, one team will put in the floor and walls of one house and then go pour the roof of another. That gives the roof a chance to set up so that the next team can come in and do the same. Back in its heyday, Booher estimates that Faith Ministry erected close to 100 houses annually. Last year they built 40. Every person who receives one, however, remains eternally grateful. “Our church built the very first house in Mexico back in 1994 and that homeowner still invites us to dinner whenever we’re down there,” Booher says. “We develop long-lasting relationships with all of these people we work with and see when we’re there.” Booher also does mission work close to home as every Thursday he distributes

"I LIKE TO FOCUS ON GIVING BACK AND DOING POSITIVE THINGS FOR THE COMMUNITY" commit to volunteering with the ministry five days a week for nine months to help build houses for others. Booher travels to Mexico two or three times a year with different church groups to build homes. Teams of 6-20 people go to Reynosa (just across the border from McAllen,

meals to the homeless in downtown Indy. He follows in his father’s footsteps, who began volunteering years ago when the Midwest Food Bank first opened. It seems that outreach work is simply part of the fabric of Booher’s soul. 50 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

“It comes from my upbringing, I guess. I was brought up in a Christian home. My parents were always involved in that kind of stuff,” says Booher, noting that long ago his family quit exchanging Christmas gifts with one another, opting instead to pick a project every year and use the money they would have spent on presents to support that project. “One year we bought blankets for the homeless and went around town distributing them. I thought, ‘Hey, this is pretty special.’ I’ve been going every week since.” Booher serves both on the board of directors of Faith Ministry and the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he’s an honorary member of the Rotary Club and is a Red Cross volunteer with the Service to Armed Forces (SAF) where he connects members of the U.S. Armed Forces with their families during times of crisis. “I follow up with soldiers’ families as kind of a quality control thing,” Booher says. He also works with Red Cross’s Disaster Action Team (DAT), which responds to local residential emergencies. “For example, if someone’s house catches on fire, Red Cross will send someone out to provide immediate emergency assistance and emotional support to help get them through the next 24 to 48 hours. They might need food, clothing, medication, shelter,” explains Booher, who often goes to the scene of the fire to comfort the homeowner. “They’re having one of the worst days of their life. We do what we can so that they don’t feel completely lost about what to do next. Our presence lets them know that somebody cares.”

According to Booher, that’s what life is all about — caring, sharing, learning and loving. Not long after graduating high school, his son spent six months in Mexico in a volunteer internship program. “That experience turned him around following some rough years,” Booher says. “He gained a new perspective and greater clarity for what he wanted to do with his life.” Now Sean runs three Chicago’s Pizza locations in Franklin, Greenwood and Mooresville. He also helps his dad with the Plainfield store and will take over down the road when Booher retires. Retired or not, it’s safe to say that Booher won’t be slowing down anytime soon — not with his mission work, community service work and four energetic granddaughters, ages 3-15. In fact, this year the hope is to get the entire family to Mexico. “I believe that God put me on this earth to bring glory to Him,” Booher says. “One way to do that is by helping people.”

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Ask about our party room for your next team banquet, club meeting or work event. 317-837-1717 | CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT 2230 STAFFORD RD. AT THE CORNER OF 267 | CHICAGOSPIZZA.COM PlainfieldMag.com / APRIL 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 51

ARTS GALA COMMITTEE NAMES SIGNATURE ARTIST P R I N T M A K E R B E C K Y H E I M A N N ’ S P I E C E “ T H E W A V E ” S E L E CT E D

The Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library Arts Gala committee has chosen printmaker and fine artist Becky Heimann to be honored at Arts Gala: Impact on April 27. “We are so delighted to have Becky Heimann join us as our Signature Artist. This year her piece, ‘The Wave,’ is a magnificent visual representation of our Arts Gala theme ‘Impact,’” says Laura Appleby, Gallery Manager, Plainfield Library. The Arts Gala is now in its sixth successful year and this fundraiser is one of the largest indoor fine art events in Hendricks County. Visitors are expected from all over the state

to view the gallery displays, experience artist book maker from Indianapolis, Indiana. demonstrations and purchase fine art. Heimann graduated from Ball State University in 2007 with a Bachelors in Fine To distinguish this event, it was decided Art and an emphasis in printmaking and to select a particular art medium and book arts. She is a teacher at St. Monica theme to represent the exhibit each year. In School in Indianapolis and teaches 4th previous years, Arts Gala has highlighted grade. She is a member of the Indianapolis photography, glass, abstract painting, fiber Arts Council and Nickel Plate Arts. This is art and ceramics. her first year at Arts Gala. “This year printmaking was selected along with our theme, Impact. Our goal at the Library is to bring artistic opportunities and impact everyone in our community,” Appleby says. Our Signature Artist is a printmaker and 52 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

Heimann is passionate about the environment, and her work often celebrates the breathless beauty of our world. Her work is not meant to be a literal reflection of nature, but rather an emotional response to its ineffable beauty. She also takes inspiration from fairy tales and folk tales and

is currently working on a book series that reimagines the visual elements of tales from around the world. She lives with her husband, Matthew, who is also an artist. Together they have a son, Oliver, and a cat, Cleo. She enjoys reading, cooking and spending time outdoors. Her family loves to have adventures together, and they travel and camp as much as possible. Patrons of the Arts are invited to attend the Starlight Reception where “The Wave” will be featured April 27 from 7 – 10 p.m. Heimann will be in attendance and loves to discuss her work. There will also be live music, local craft beers, wines and hors d'oeuvres. The Arts Gala spans the weekend and will

be open to the public Saturday, April 28 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 29 from 1 – 5 p.m. During these times expert docents will guide art lovers through the gallery and all artwork will be for sale. New this year there will also be a “Last Chance Monday” sale. Drop by Monday, April 30 to see what is still for sale. This event will offer quality fine art such as original paintings in a variety of styles; glass, ceramics, woodworking, jewelry, textiles, and sculpture. This fundraiser benefiting the Friends of the Library is in support of community enrichment and events for all ages at the Library. In previous years, funds went towards updating the Children’s Room and mental health events and awareness. This event has raised more than $30,000 for the Library.

For more information about Arts Gala, or how you can become a Patron of the Arts, please visit or plainfieldlibrary.net/artsgala or call Joanna Sproull at 317-839-6602 ext. 2159. The Library is located at 1120 Stafford Road, Plainfield, IN.

STARLIGHT RECEPTION

Friday, April 27, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.

A fine art fundraiser, live music, wine, craft beer, and hors d’oeuvres. To attend this exclusive reception, please contact 317-839-6602 ext. 2108 or email Kathy McGillem at kmcgillem@plainfieldlibrary.net.

ARTS GALA OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Saturday, April 28, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, April 29, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Library.

The Wave by Becky Heimann

317-839-6602 1120 Stafford Rd. Plainfield, IN 46168 www.plainfieldlibrary.net

PlainfieldMag.com / APRIL 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 53

COPPER RIDGE HOME SERVICES 8485 W. Washington St., Suite #5 Indianapolis, IN 46231 317-839-6100 copperridgehomeservices.com

“It’s stressful enough to have to deal with an emergency situation like a flooded After working in the electrical and plumbing basement,” Fenrick says. “The last thing repair industry for more than two decades, a customer needs is to be told that it’ll in 2014 Mike Fenrick opened Copper Ridge cost $90 to come out take a look and an Home Services with his wife Janet. Eager to additional $100 an hour for however long be in charge of quality control, their number they’ll be there.” one priority was to offer their customers fair pricing. Frustrated by the way that so many At Copper Ridge Home Services they companies charge a fee simply for stepping provide customers with a quote, right foot on a property or charging exorbitant from the start, to avoid surprises and hourly rates, Mike created a fair and costconfusion. In addition, during their initial friendly business model. troubleshooting assessment, technicians Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

54 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / APRIL 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

offer multiple alternatives for how to proceed. “We firmly believe in providing our customers with as many options as possible,” Fenrick says. So, for instance, for the customer with the flooded basement, they provide a quote for what it will cost to fix the problem. They also identify other items that could be purchased to help prevent a recurrence — in this case, installing a backup sump pump.

Because their pricing is guaranteed, should a technician encounter some unexpected circumstance along the way, the price won’t suddenly change. Fenrick has every customer’s best interest at heart, but he’s especially empathetic to those with financial limitations. For instance, he recently installed handicap bars in an elderly person’s shower. Though the woman desperately needed the bars to keep herself safe, she was struggling to determine how she was going to pay for the service. “We budget for such situations,” Fenrick says. In fact, sometimes he will perform jobs at little or no cost simply because he feels it’s the right thing to do. His customers appreciate his honesty and integrity. It’s why he has so many repeat, referral and word-ofmouth customers. Plus, Fenrick and his five technicians are highly versatile. Trained to do electrical, plumbing and general contracting work, they’re equipped to tackle most any inhome situation. As a result, they do a lot of home inspection jobs for realtors as well as homeowners. Being a “one-stop-shop” makes the work go more quickly and the closings go more smoothly. Besides repairs, Copper Ridge Home Services installs recessed and landscape lighting, tankless water heaters, battery backup sump pumps, generators and whole home surge protection. “We guarantee every bit of our work, no matter what it is,” says Fenrick, noting that people are often initially leery when their technicians come out simply because they’ve been burned by contractors in the past. Once they see firsthand that Fenrick and his crew are the real deal, however, they become loyal customers. When you call Copper Ridge Home Services, they will typically come out for a free inspection within 24 hours. To learn more, call 317-839-6100 or visit copperridgehomeservices.com. PlainfieldMag.com / APRIL 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 55

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