Plainfield Magazine October 2018

OCTOBER 2018

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FRANCHISE PUBLISHER Darren Boston

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KNOCK ON WOOD: HOOSIER BARN HEROES BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO OLD WOOD

Despite the various twists and turns in his career path, there was one constant in Bobby Williams’ life: his passion for wood. “I’ve always enjoyed the side hustle of woodworking,” says Williams, who, as a newlywed, built decks and custom furniture for friends so he could earn money to buy fun tools like screw guns and air compressors.

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34

Valerie Randall

EDITORIAL MANAGER Josh Brown

Josh@TownePost.com

OCTOBER WRITERS

Christy Heitger-Ewing / Jamie Hergott Stephanie Singh / Heather Chastain Josh Duke / Julie Young Lynda Hedberg Thies / Carrie Petty

SHOP LOCAL! Help our local economy by shopping local.

Advertising supporters of the Plainfield Magazine offset the costs of publication and mailing, keeping this publication FREE. Show your appreciation by thanking them with your business.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS ARE SPONSORED CONTENT

6 Historic Grounds: Town of Plainfield 26 Autumn Months Bring the Harvest!

Acquires Prewitt Theatre, Continues 29 The Optimist Miracle Movers: Success of Restoration Projects Program Enables Special Needs 11 Knock On Wood: Hoosier Barn Children to Play Organized Sports Heroes Breathes New Life Into Old 34 Full House: Mother of Nine Gives Wood 16 Fall Festivals In Hendricks County 21 Business Spotlight: The Academy Volleyball Club

22 Business Spotlight: Candlelight Theatre

25 Back To School Photo Winners

The Plainfield Magazine is published by the Towne Post Network and is written for and by local Plainfield area residents. Magazines are distributed to more than 11,000 Plainfield area homeowners and businesses each month.

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Insight Into Their Chaotic Love

42 Speak Out: Sheltering Wings Hosts October Events To Raise Awareness Of Domestic Violence And Abuse

For Advertising, Contact Darren Boston Darren@PlainfieldMag.com / 317-716-8812

45 Q and A: Dan Bridget – Plainfield Town Council

4 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

PlainfieldMag.com TownePost.com

Billy and Senga, Avon

Childhood sweethearts Senga and Billy share a lifetime of memories – and a history of cancer.

Both Senga’s mother and grandmother had breast cancer, and Billy lost his mother to ovarian cancer when he was 18. When Senga was diagnosed with breast cancer, Billy initially feared the worst.

Senga’s cancer, however, was caught early due to regular high-risk screenings at Hendricks Regional Health. Today, Senga is cancer-free, and Billy is looking forward to many more years with the love of his life. Schedule your 3D mammogram at HENDRICKS.ORG/MAMMOGRAM.

PlainfieldMag.com / OCTOBER 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 5

6 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

HISTORIC GROUNDS TOWN OF PLAINFIELD ACQUIRES PREWITT THEATRE, CONTINUES SUCCESS OF RESTORATION PROJECTS

Interurban Station

Writer / Stephanie Singh Photography provided by Plainfield Public Library & Amy Payne

The Town of Plainfield recently closed on the historic Prewitt Theatre on Main Street. This purchase is cause for celebrating the Town of Plainfield’s rich history of preserving historic buildings. This property is the former anchor of our downtown and has sat empty for some 15 years. Plainfield will continue to study the property for appropriate and accurate restoration as well as working with those that have already reached out for possible reuses to support its renewal as a vibrant part of our downtown. For years, the Town of Plainfield has worked collaboratively with

private and non-profit partners to ensure that developments emulate the character of existing properties within historic districts.

It has been a priority of the town and remains a priority outlined in the Land Use and Development section of the Town of Plainfield Comprehensive Plan.

The Town of Plainfield has invested in many projects in order to preserve the character of some of the most notable buildings. In 2002, the Plainfield Restoration Project initiated a facade improvement plan in the downtown district and offered matching grants to improve and restore building facades to enhance the appeal and condition of our historic downtown properties. When

the First National Bank was constructed in 2003, there were intentional design elements of the building to ensure it blended with other downtown buildings on US 40. The Restoration Project also included sidewalk, signal and light pole investments as well as crosswalks and other improvements to complement these buildings.

Plainfield also partnered with the owners of the Oasis Diner to relocate the classic diner from the east-side of town to its new home in the center of town. This project was a direct effort to save this historic and iconic eating establishment. Now prominent on US 40, Oasis Diner is hugely successful

PlainfieldMag.com / OCTOBER 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 7

Prewitt Theatre

and exemplifies the town’s efforts to honor our history all the while supporting a private establishment that now connects to the economic vibrancy of our Town Center.

Additional preservation efforts have included the historic iron bridge now used as a trail crossing of White Lick Creek in Friendship Gardens and the Interurban Depot Train Station building on Vine Street. The Depot, built in 1906, was purchased by the American Legion Post No. 329 in the 1940s after interurban use declined. On October 29, 2003, after being transferred to the town, the building was restored and dedicated to community use, as it is now managed by the Plainfield Parks Department for programs and private rentals for meetings, family gatherings and events.

Apple House

These projects demonstrate the careful consideration that is paid to the ‘right project for the right reasons’. Often times the town is asked to participate in efforts to save a property that might have historical ties. In all cases, the town deploys thoughtful and careful efforts to ensure that such participation is the best stewardship of taxpayer dollars and can have a reuse or property transfer plan that is sustainable and makes sense. As we embark on the multi-year Downtown Redevelopment Conceptual Plans, these same considerations will be made when we have new requests to consider historic properties. It is the intention of the Town Council to celebrate and protect our historical character and “small-town feel” through our on-going historical preservation efforts.

This commitment is validated by projects such as the plan to restore the “Apple House” and “Garden House” on the Al and Jan Barker Sports Complex property. These buildings originally part of the former Indiana Boy School property.

The buildings are listed as a historic site and the town is committed in the near future to have it fully restored. The reuse of the property could include additional administrative office space for our Parks Department, office and community space for our youth sports non-profit partners and might include a small measure to honor the history of the building and property.

Most recently is the consideration of the “Little House,” also known as the “Carpenter House,” which is the Victorianstyle house just west of Town. Many residents have inquired about the fate of this property. Recently, the town has been asked by Hendricks Regional Health to consider a potential partnership to study the feasibility of saving this iconic house.

The adjacent property is currently planned for redevelopment

by HRH and Plainfield is exploring options that might save the structure should it be deemed it is indeed able to be rescued.

These efforts — past, present and future — are significant examples of the commitment of the Town of Plainfield to honor and preserve our history. We are devoted to such efforts and look forward to the future of our current acquired properties to continue preserving the past of Plainfield.

8 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

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Writer/ Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

As he was growing up, Bobby Williams gravitated towards a career in the church.

He attended a Bible college for a year and a half before switching gears, transferring schools and pursuing a degree in pre-law.

He made another pivot-turn while attending Indiana University, changing majors and ultimately earning an Education degree.

Following graduation, he landed a job at Covenant Christian High School teaching English. Despite the various twists and turns in his career path, there was one constant in

Williams’ life: his passion for wood.

“I’ve always enjoyed the side hustle of woodworking,” says Williams, who, as a newlywed, built decks and custom furniture for friends so he could earn money to buy fun tools like screw guns and air compressors. In 1999, Williams launched his woodworking business, BGW Construction.

When Williams was hired in 2000 at Plainfield High School as an English teacher and football coach, he tripled his workload.

OCTOBER 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

Even in the summer when he wasn’t teaching, he was firing on all cylinders.

“I’d have football practice in the morning, then build a deck in the afternoon,” says Williams, who landed several big jobs, including building a bar at Three Pints Brewing Company in Plainfield and a tasting room in Martinsville.

“Those jobs put me on the map as a designer and architect because they were unique custom millwork projects,” says Williams, who also built a cool pirate ship at a preschool in Noblesville.

It was a productive life, but between creating lesson plans, grading papers, coaching football and running his business, he had little time for family.

“My wife Karen looked at the numbers and said that the first thing to give up would be coaching,” Williams says. He did, and two years later, after 18 years of teaching at PHS, Williams quit teaching in order to devote himself to the business.

Williams hired his former PHS colleague and business-savvy buddy Jason Schoeff to help run it. The pair work well together in a yin/yang sort of way. As Williams puts it, “Jason is OCD to my ADD. He’s very good with the organizational side of things.”

For 50 years, his grandfather owned Williams Brothers TV and Appliances, a staple in Plainfield.

“Anybody from the baby boomer generation would remember the place,” Williams says.

“They were the Walmart of the town before there was such a thing.”

Named after his grandfather, Williams recalls the confusion at family reunions when he was young.

“Someone would yell, ‘Hey, Bob!’ and 15 people would turn around,” says Williams with a chuckle.

Though his grandfather sold part of the property in the early 90s, the family still owns nine acres, two of which Williams uses for his business. He erected a 7,200 sq. ft. building (4,800 of which is used as a millwork shop). The rest is leased out for weddings and other events.

In 2014, a friend asked Williams to do the carpentry work for his 30x40 ft. booth at the Indiana Flower & Patio Show. They participated in the Belgard Challenge, an attraction that pits three Central Indiana landscape designers against one another.

Williams outfitted the space with 1860s barn wood, and they won the challenge.

“No one else was doing barn wood back then,” Williams says. “Now it’s all the rage. I

GM Jason Schoeff & Owner Bobby Williams

WE’RE TAKING DOWN OLD WOOD THAT’S GREY WITH LITTLE PIECES OF DIRT IN IT. ITS COLOR HAS BEEN WORKED ON BY GOD FOR THE PAST 150 YEARS - BOBBY WILLIAMS

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was an unintended trendsetter.”

Though Williams gets a kick out of the fact that he’s more qualified to teach Chaucer than to build a table, he recognizes that he’s got a skill set in both. In fact, this year Williams’ business won Best in Show at the Indiana Flower & Patio Show for their barn wood pergola, hand-hewn post-and-beam construction and bar with poured concrete countertops.

In 2015, a buddy of Williams’ named Jeremy Riddell, who had a bunch of old barn wood, asked Williams if he wanted to buy him out.

Though Williams loved the idea in theory, in practice, he knew there was no money in it.

“There’s a saying in the barn wood industry that if you want to be a millionaire selling barn wood, start out being a billionaire,” Williams says.

Nevertheless, he was intrigued. He knew that barns are a bit like an endangered species. According to Williams, in 1992, there were two million antique barns in the Midwest. Ten years later, that number had dropped to 600,000 — many of them pushed over and buried. Williams loved the idea of saving the artisanship of some of these beautiful structures.

“I was romantically inclined to buy Jeremy’s business, but I wanted to run it in a different way,” says Williams, who launched Hoosier Barn Heroes in 2016 and has since used the wood to create furniture and home accent pieces.

The name Hoosier Barn Heroes was conceived by Williams and Schoeff, both IU fans and also fans of saving history.

Customers frequently request mantles, tables and carvings. Wall art is also in high demand. For example, they created a “tree of life” piece for a family that’s 4x4 feet.

“The family has lived in America for generations but has a German heritage so the tree portion above the ground is of an American flag and the roots are painted as the German flag,” says Williams, who loves to repurpose century-old wood so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.

“We’re taking down old wood that’s grey with little pieces of dirt in it. Its color has been worked on by God for the past 150 years,” Williams says. “We sand it down, put a coating of polyurethane on it, and craft this beautiful piece of art.”

Though Williams thoroughly enjoyed his years of teaching and coaching, he has settled into a more balanced lifestyle now — one that enables him to spend more time with his wife and four children: Maci (22),

“No matter where we are in life, no matter what we’ve done, no matter our mistakes or missteps, we can still be redeemed,” says

Williams, who hashtags every post on social media #redemption.

“This wood can tell a story for the next 150200 years,” Williams says. “I love that we’re reclaiming history.”

Hoosier Barn Heroes is located at 172 Williams Trace in Plainfield. For more information, visit bgwconstructionllc. com/hoosier-barn-heroes or call 317268-4487.

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Writer / Josh Duke Photography Provided

Can you feel it? The air is getting a little crisper and soon the leaves will turn our Midwest outdoors into a beautiful landscape filled with orange, yellow and red hues. Yes, the fall season has arrived, and it is time to look ahead to local events and activities right here in Hendricks County.

I look forward to these columns because my day job at Visit Hendricks County

focuses on promoting our attractions to visitors. So, I don’t get many opportunities to share what I know with our locals.

Hendricks County. If you want more information like this regardless of the season, I encourage you to check out our website at VisitHendricksCounty.com.

This time of year, I love talking about Beasley’s Orchard and Natural Valley Ranch. And while you likely have heard of those attractions, have you heard of Hogan Farms or Who North America?

Narrowing down all the festivals, activities and other fall attractions in Hendricks County can prove to be a difficult task because of the sheer number of fun things to see and do.

I will cover that and more as I highlight the fall attractions, events and activities you won’t want to miss this year in

But I always find that Beasley’s Orchard provides a good starting point.

20 / AVON OCTOBER MAGAZINE 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD OCTOBER 2018 / MAGAZINE AvonMagazine.com

Beasley’s Orchard Heartland Apple Festival This must-see autumn institution in Danville also hosts our county’s largest fall event, the annual Heartland Apple Festival.

Always held the first two weekends in October — Oct. 6-7 and 13-14 this year —Indianapolis Monthly magazine featured this festival as one of “50 Things Every Hoosier Must Do!” Visitors can tour the orchard, take a hayride to the pumpkin patch, pick apples from the U-pick area, enjoy live entertainment, buy fresh produce and other goods in a Civil War-era barn turned rustic market or wind their way through a huge corn maze. Your children will love hay mountain, the apple cannons and Barnyard Bonanza, which features ball throws, a spider web, a huge jumping pillow and more.

But you don’t have to visit Beasley’s during those two weekends to enjoy the fun as the orchard remains open every day during the fall season with many of the above activities available.

6 More Fall Events While Beasley’s and the Heartland Apple Festival may be the autumn headliner, it merely scratches the surface of fall events you can enjoy with your family. Six other favorites in October include: • Nehemiah Ranch Fall Harvest Days (Oct. 6, 13 & 20) – This free evening event on three consecutive Saturdays in Avon includes hayrides, a pumpkin patch and other activities.

• Scarecrow Display (Oct. 6-28) – Beginning Oct. 6 and on display most of the month of October, the Historic Hendricks County Courthouse Square in Danville becomes a spot that repels fowl but attracts people. This annual display brings out the creative side in local businesses as they try to land their best haymakers.

• The Smiley Morning Show Pumpkin Drop (Oct. 18) – This annual morning event at The Shops at Perry Crossing in AvonMagazine.com / OCTOBER 2018 / AVON MAGAZINE / 21

Plainfield never disappoints as they drop a massive pumpkin from a crane. The event includes tons of giveaways and activities.

• Fall Colors Festival (Oct. 20) – Enjoy the best public place to see fall foliage in Hendricks County -- McCloud Nature Park in North Salem. This event boasts lots of fun activities including archery, tree-climbing, throwing an atlatl, operating an apple cider press, hayrides and more.

• Doctoberfest (Oct. 27) – This fall celebration focuses on the TV show “Doctor Who” with a costume competition, pumpkin carving, games and much more at Who North America in Camby. More on this attraction in a moment.

• Dog Daze at the Maze (Oct. 27) – Beasley’s Orchard turns its popular corn maze over to the dogs with a weekend dedicated to our four-legged friends.

22 / AVON OCTOBER MAGAZINE 2018 // OCTOBER AVON/PLAINFIELD 2018 / AvonMagazine.com MAGAZINE

Other Fall Attractions Before I close, I wanted to briefly mention a couple of fall attractions in Brownsburg that I highly recommend. Hogan Farms has become a popular autumn spot with activities that include a huge corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo and hayrides.

I took my son a few years ago, and he loved it.

If you’re into horseback riding, there truly is no better season to experience a ride through the scenic woods at Natural Valley Ranch than in the fall. The Brownsburg ranch spans 70 scenic acres and offers 30, 60 and 90-minute guided trail rides along the banks of White Lick Creek.

I briefly mentioned Who North America in the events above. Did you know that it is the only retail store and museum dedicated to the TV show “Doctor Who” in North America? If you love the show, venturing to this attraction in Camby should be on your bucket list.

Finally, I wanted to mention that if you are looking for a fall maze that is a little different than the typical corn mazes, you need to venture out to McCloud Nature Park in North Salem. During the month of October, visitors to McCloud can experience the park’s free prairie maze with a grasshopper theme this year.

For more information about any of these attractions or events or other things to do in Hendricks County, our massive Events Calendar and more, go online to VisitHendricksCounty.com.

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THE ACADEMY VOLLEYBALL CLUB 6635 E 30th St. Suite B Indianapolis IN, 46219 theacademyvolleyball.com 317-545-3880 Writer / Julie Young

If your child is looking to learn a new sport or is eager to take their skills to the next level, The Academy Volleyball Club is ready to serve you.

Founded in 2014 by a group of parents and coaches passionate about volleyball and possessing a desire to share the sport with others, The Academy Volleyball Club is a place where athletes of all ages learn to play, train and love volleyball. Headquartered in a 70,000 square-foot facility on the near eastside of Indianapolis, The Academy has additional locations at Grand Park in Westfield and Legacy Courts in Lafayette.

“We offer opportunities to every player regardless of their experience or skill level,” says Executive Director Emily Hawthorne. “We know that every athlete is coming to us with a different story and background with the sport, so we provide several different ways for them to get involved, whether that be through one of our club teams, summer camps, beach program, little spikers or even private lessons."

A quality experience is at the heart of every program at The Academy.

Players ages 4 through 9 can take part in a Little Spikers clinic to learn the fundamentals of the game, while boys and girls ages 6-18 can take part in a variety of training opportunities offered year-round that will continue to build on their skills. The fall youth league is one of the club’s top youth programs, with more than 500 young athletes training each week in the fall, between the three locations.

While building youth players is a focus at The Academy, their success in advancing their top players into the collegiate ranks is also a priority. Club teams allow athletes with several months of focused training, strong competition and ongoing development.

Each year, more than a dozen upperclassmen commit to continue their playing careers at the college level, a dream come true for many of them. This past season, Freshman Raven Colvin committed to Purdue University, marking the first Big Ten commitment for the young club.

“We are not a one-size-fits-all organization,” Hawthorne adds.

“We pride ourselves on our personalized service, welcoming atmosphere, caring staff and knowledgeable coaches who care about player development both on and off the court."

Although they are one of the largest volleyball clubs in the state, they maintain the feel of a smaller, intimate club. The Academy cares about keeping costs affordable for families. while providing an exceptional experience. With its extensive fundraising programs, non-travel teams and extended payment plans, The Academy is one of the most budget-friendly clubs in Indiana and committed to making every dollar go as far as possible.

“The Academy has been a home away from home for my daughter and family these past few years,” says Robin Snyder, mother of Jill, a club player. Not only have her skills improved, but her confidence, knowledge and love of the game have increased as well. We can really tell that the coaches care about their athletes and the gyms have such a welcoming atmosphere. Being a part of The Academy family has been such a positive thing for us.”

For those wanting to become a part of a club team at The Academy, your opportunity is quickly approaching. Club tryouts for 2nd to 8th graders begin in mid-October at all locations. Tryouts for 9th– 12th graders begin in early November. All locations also provide free pre-tryout open gyms this fall, to encourage athletes and their families to visit the facilities, meet coaches and train with some of their top youth and club coaches.

The Academy Volleyball Club is located at 6635 E 30th St. Suite B, Indianapolis. Information on all three locations can be found online at theacademyvolleyball.com or by giving them a call at 317-545-3880.

TownePost.com / OCTOBER 2018 / INDY METRO

CANDLELIGHT THEATRE at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site 1230 N. Delaware Indianapolis, IN 46202 317-631-1888 candlelighttheatre.org

Photo by Susan Fleck

CHANGING THE WAY PEOPLE EXPERIENCE HISTORY AND THE THEATRE When you visit Candlelight Theatre at a stunning Italianate mansion in historic downtown Indianapolis, you experience a piece of history that will likely stick with you forever. As a guest, you get to sit in the same room former U.S. president Benjamin Harrison sat in when he lived in the home.

More than 15 years ago, Creative Director Donna Wing performed at the Harrison’s national historic landmark residence for a Halloween event. She had dreamt of starting her own theatre company, and she had been looking for a distinctive venue. Wing, a former dancer, actor and model in New York and Tulsa, had an epiphany walking through the home. “This would be an awesome place to perform theatre,” she realized.

It is a unique partnership between the theatre company and the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. Candlelight Theatre is the only program in the country performing staged theatre in a former U.S. President’s home.

Instantly Wing began to visualize an audience immersed in the rooms and what it would look like to perform there. It all came together in her mind. Her dreams were further validated when she later realized that President Harrison’s wife, Caroline, actually

Writer / Lynda Hedberg Thies

INDY METRO / OCTOBER 2018 / TownePost.com

hosted theatre performances in the home.

“Caroline had a wagon placed in the library and they were performing by candlelight,” says Wing in regards to the inspiration for the theatre’s name.

After a 90-minute meeting with the former Presidential Site CEO Phyllis Geeslin, Candlelight Theatre opened its curtains a year later in 2004. Since that time, the partnership has continued to flourish and grow. In 2014, Wing and new CEO Charles Hyde discussed how to further increase Candlelight Theatre’s impact. That conversation resulted in doubling annual productions.

Wing is proud of the partnership and the success that the Candlelight Theatre has experienced in the last 15 years. “As a national landmark, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site attracts people from all over the globe,” she says. “This venue is unlike any other in the world.”

For more information about the Candlelight Theatre and where you can purchase tickets, visit CandlelightTheatre.org or call 317-631-1888 and make plans to attend a performance during the 2018-2019 season. All proceeds go right back to the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site.

Wing, joined by Playwright in Residence James Trofatter, along with seasoned actors, now produce four plays a year at the Candlelight Theatre. They offer a combination of distinctive mysteries, comedies and historically-inspired plays brought together with ambient candlelight. It all comes together to create a one of a kind experience that keeps patrons coming back.

These high quality productions are unique in style and theme, and almost always sell out. Fall performances have a ghostly, Halloween theme where audiences experience the entire mansion. Winter features favorite holiday traditions and folklore. The spring production includes a full evening of theatre with three short-act mysteries performed intimately, each using a room in salon style. Summer is hosted either at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site or a specially selected satellite location where guests are seated in a traditional theatre setting for a full-length play.

With a nationally-significant collection of over 10,000 artifacts, and 75-80% of the furnishings in the home original to the Harrison family, this accredited museum exudes special authenticity as a theatre venue. The original furniture in the home has been maintained and is kept in the rooms for guests to see during the performances. The furnishings serve as a stage unlike any other, and add a deep layer of history to the overall experience.

The combination of venue and unique theatre offerings have built a strong local following. Season ticket holder Marian Haerle is one of many who keep coming back.

“I enjoy theater as well as history,” Haerle says. “Candlelight Theatre allows me to combine great acting in a historical setting. I am always excited to share the experience with family and friends. I have gone so far as to become a member of the Benjamin Harrison [Presidential Site] and a season ticket holder for the theatre. The theatre is not only entertaining but gives me a chance to learn as well.”

Photo by Ryan Wing

2018-2019 SEASON THE (WHITE) HOUSE OF HORRORS OCTOBER 12, 13, 19, 20, 27, 28, 2018

'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE… DECEMBER 13, 14, 15, 16, 2018

MURDER AND THE MACABRE APRIL 13, 14, 26, 27, 28 | MAY 3, 4, 2019

NIGHT WATCH JULY 12, 13, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 2019

While the plays are professionally run, the actors are local volunteers. Because of the wide range of theatre productions, they are constantly looking for seasoned actors. Those interested should email CandleLightTheatreBHPS@gmail.com.

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BACK TO SCHOOL PHOTO CONTEST THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED IN OUR BACK TO SCHOOL PHOTO CONTEST! CHECK OUT SOME OF THE TOP SUBMISSIONS! Photo From Trung Chenh

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TownePost.com / OCTOBER 2018 / INDY METRO

Writer / Carrie Petty

future seasons to come!

With the hot summer days comes a slight tendency to desire her to come to an end.

Fall brings such a welcome relief to Indiana gardeners. It is the most glorious season for Hoosiers, what with the fall color and fun autumn weekends with tailgates and bonfires. If autumn were a family member, she would most certainly be your mom.

She is beautiful, full of activity, brings a wonderful harvest to the family dinner table and swift to teach us to prepare for the

Autumn rains and chilly nights bring on a quick shift in the amount of time left to complete our many outdoor tasks before the hustle of the holiday season begins. This is the time to pack it up, folks! Putting the garden to ‘bed’ for a long winter’s nap is important to her health and important to the abundance of success for the following spring growing season.

Remove any plant foliage that has gone to INDY METRO / OCTOBER 2018 / TownePost.com

seed and died back, if left in the garden it will create disease and fungus. No one likes fungus among us! Mulch over any tender perennials so that the winter’s freezing and thawing won’t make the root balls of the plants heave up close to the surface, which then allows them to freeze and die.

One of my favorite tasks is planting an abundance of spring flowering bulbs, do you know why? Because I constantly forget what I have planted and where, then when spring comes it is a wonderful surprise.

Croms, however, I make sure I lift and sort out the old from the new croms, let them dry a bit and store them in a box of sawdust indoors, away from varmints. This allows the flowers, like your gladioli and begonias, to stay healthy for the spring planting season to come.

Now, a quick word on chemicals, not all are terrible and some are utterly necessary if you want to grow flowers, like roses. But find organic types if you can. And please note that using last year’s chemicals only creates a stronger infestation, due to the fact that a weakened, older chemical is easier to survive as a beetle and strengthens the insect’s resolve, manifesting in a resistant strain of insect that can beat the system.

Water features, ponds and fountains need to be cleaned out of autumn falling leaves, drained and covered. I keep our pond running with a heater for the winter, it is always so beautiful when the ground is covered in snow. I use nice hunter green tarps with elastic cords to cover our fountains for the winter, this way it is not too unsightly.

Cuttings from the plants you love are a wonderful way to keep the garden growing indoors during the long winter months. I bring indoors some tender annuals and make cutting of my Coleus, Salvia and Hydrangeas. I place the cutting in a terra cotta pot and place in a sunny window. Keeping everything well watered. You will have new garden family members in no time.

Enjoy these glorious months ahead, get outdoors and get busy. Wash windows to let in the abundant sunshine and fill your family harvest table with delicious meals of soups and stews. Keep visiting the farmer’s markets as they come to a close and mostly give thanks. Be proud to be a Hoosier, because we truly live in one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. Just all a part of helping you all, “Grow a More Beautiful Life!”

FALL GARDEN CHECK LIST • Compost your annuals • Plant a multitude of spring flowering bulbs • Save seeds from flower heads, dry on newspaper and store airtight • Journal the year’s successes, failures and needed changes • Keep up with leaf removal • Fall application of lawn weed and feed • Empty gardening containers, disinfect well and store • Cut dried Hydrangeas and bring indoors for fall arrangements • Service outdoor equipment • Sharpen, oil and store gardening tools • Add good compost to the garden beds & turn under • Wash windows to let as much sunshine in for winter months • Drain hoses and turn off spigots to prevent freeze • Make any outdoor repairs now • Roast some marshmallows

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When Megan and Brandon Paschal stepped inside the natatorium, their stomachs were all aflutter as they anticipated what their son, Nolan, might experience. Nolan, 6 years old at the time, was born with Williams Syndrome, a condition characterized by issues such as cardiovascular disease, developmental delays and learning challenges. Ever since he was young, he gravitated towards sports, but with his condition, it was difficult for him to play in organized leagues. So when he asked to participate in swimming, his parents signed him up for Optimist Miracle Movers (OMM), a program formed in 2010 that invites athletes with special needs to play organized sports, including basketball,

softball, soccer and swimming.

athletics,” Megan says.

Athletes up to age 21 of varying needs and ability levels are paired with a one-on-one “buddy” who acts as a mentor throughout that session to assist during practices and games.

For several years, Nolan has participated in swimming through OMM. He walks in, meets up with his buddy and off they go.

“There are no explanations or stares or giggles when he gets loud and excited or says something silly or inappropriate,” Megan says. “OMM is a place that just gets it.”

“I sat in one of the chairs to watch — not follow, chase or correct. After an hour, I leaned over to Brandon and said, ‘These are our peeps,’” recalls Megan, noting that often in the land of special needs parenting, misunderstanding, lack of empathy and isolation set it, leaving parents feeling out of place themselves.

“With OMM, parents can observe their child while he or she is getting access to OCTOBER 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

Anna Sparks, mother to 9-year-old Aaron, agrees. Aaron has participated in OMM for four years — all the while having the same buddy Brayden, who is now in high school.

“When Aaron sees Brayden, he’s super excited, and Brayden feels the same way,” Anna says. “I think it’s a life-changing experience for both of them.”

Not only have the kids made great connections but so have the parents.

“We’ve built a community as we’ve gotten to know other moms and dads,” Anna says. “In fact, we’ve started a Life Group where we gather for Bible study and other activities.”

Each sport lasts four to six weeks long.

Basketball takes place in the winter, soccer in the spring, softball in the fall and swimming in the spring and fall.

“Aaron did Upward basketball for a couple of years, but as the kids got older, it became evident he couldn’t participate in that any longer as he couldn’t keep up with the skill levels,” Anna says. “But he still really wanted to play. OMM has made it possible for him to continue doing what he loves.”

The children who participate in OMM struggle with a variety of issues, including autism, Down syndrome and a number or rare genetic syndromes such as Williams

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syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome and arthrogryposis.

Each four- to six-week session costs just $25, which is why OMM relies heavily on fundraising to pay for equipment such as floatation devices, specialized bats and larger, softer soccer balls.

Though volunteers only have to commit to one session, many of them find that they so enjoy the interaction with their athlete that they stay on as a volunteer for many years.

“The bonds that develop are super special,” Karen says. “We have pairings that become like little buddy soulmates. They connect in a way that’s hard to describe.”

They also rely on volunteers as the program wouldn’t be possible without them. Because each child has a buddy, if there are 24 athletes, that means the program needs 24 volunteer buddies. OMM also has three swim coaches, two basketball coaches, a soccer coach, a softball coach, and a volunteer coordinator.

Many of the volunteers research their buddy’s disorder, and it’s not unusual for them to even pursue careers in health care or educational fields—e.g., nursing, occupational therapy, special ed teaching — because of the connection made at OMM. Karen notes that programs like this continually draw families to an area.

“We have a lot of people wearing a lot of different hats,” says Karen Cravotta, OMM’s program director, who is always on the lookout for additional helpers.

“When parents know they’re facing a lifetime of special needs, they want to plan ahead,” Karen says. “They look at schools and outside support systems and programs like this so they can give their child the best

opportunities for success.”

OMM has partnered with the Richard A. Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center for the swimming sessions. Basketball takes place at the Plainfield Community Middle School gymnasium. In 2014, OMM built the Al & Jan Barker Sports Complex Miracle Field south of 40 off Vestal Road for softball and soccer.

Swimming takes place on Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30. Soccer is on Saturdays at 11 a.m. Softball and basketball are on Sundays.

Some athletes participate in all four sports while others do just one or two.

“A child might find the pool to be really loud with too many distractions, but that same child might love getting out on the basketball court and passing the ball to his friends,” says Karen, who time and again has been inspired by the progress she sees kids make as they move through the sessions.

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For example, she’s seen children who were utterly terrified of water progress to the point of being excited to get in.

Karen, a mother of three — Joslyn (8), Elise (6) and Tyce (1) — sometimes has difficulty juggling her hectic life with the hours of volunteer work.

“When I’m frustrated about how I’m going to get everything done, I ask myself why I’m doing this,” Karen says. “Then I see a child put his head underwater for the first time and I’m like, ‘Yup, that’s why.”

She also recalls an amazing boy named Joey who had endured major surgery and was working on walking.

“He’s in the wheelchair most of the time, but during one softball game, he used his walker to walk from third base to home,” Karen says.

“Everyone was going crazy cheering for him.”

Last summer, Megan’s son Nolan began asking to play basketball with OMM. She wondered if his desire to play might run its course but Nolan persisted. That’s when she and her husband offered to coach while their daughters acted as buddies for the program.

“I think Brandon, the girls and I have gotten more out of volunteering than the kids,” Megan says. “OMM is allowing kids, parents and siblings to enjoy different sports in a safe and understanding environment. It’s been a deep blessing to our family.”

Registrations for each OMM sport opens one month prior to the start of each individual sport season. For additional info, visit plainfieldoptimistclub.com/ miraclemovers.

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Mother of Nine Gives Insight Into Their Chaotic Love Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

When local mom Megan Delaney first gave birth in 2008 at IU Health West Hospital in Avon, she never imagined she’d be back every year since to do the same, but that’s the way her big, beautiful life has played out — to create a big, beautiful family. And she couldn’t be happier, having given birth this past July to her ninth child — a daughter named Sloane.

She and her husband Sean’s other children are Coyle (9), Shea (8), Cayce (7), Cael (6), Quinn (5), Brynn (3), Colyn (2) and Cadyn (17 months).

Though nurses in the maternity ward are taking bets on whether Megan will return next year to make it an even 10, one thing is certain: the Delaneys feel beyond blessed.

Megan, who has essentially been pregnant for a decade, doesn’t mind the physicality of the pregnancy. Nor does she mind the chaos of a growing family — in fact, she thrives on it.

“It’s a team effort, for sure,” says Megan, who is grateful to Sean for playing a big role in the day-to-day life of their family. “I couldn’t do this if it weren’t for him.”

“We have two quotes hanging in our home that nicely sums up our household,” Megan says. “One is, ‘Normal around here is just a setting on the dryer.’ The other is, ‘Some call it chaos — we call it family.’”

Though Sean works a full-time job in sales and engineering, he is sure to be present for meals, sports practices and morning and afternoon routines.

OCTOBER 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

Though pandemonium reigns, Megan has found the secret to enjoying a slice of morning calm is to get organized the night before by packing lunches and setting out clothes, shoes

and hair bows. They also stagger their morning wake-up routines to keep the line for the bathroom to a minimum.

“Don’t get me wrong. We’re never early birds to anything,” Megan says. “My husband jokes that loading the car or getting the kids ready for bed is like landing a 747 in that we have to start planning our approach well in advance.”

Thankfully, the older offspring are now able to assist with things like rocking, burping and changing the babies — a responsibility they relish. Family and friends also pitch in — especially Sean’s father and Megan’s mother.

They often split up the tribe so no one person is responsible for nine children.

“Not many people can handle all of them at once,” says Megan, noting that although she attempts to plan a monthly date night with her hubby, realistically that happens just once or twice a year.

“It usually involves dinner and a trip to Sam’s Club,” says Megan with a chuckle. “But that counts if I get to enjoy adult conversation without being interrupted 50 times.”

Both Megan and Sean grew up in large families — four children on both sides, each with two boys and two girls. But that’s nothing compared to their parents. Sean’s dad comes from a family of nine. Megan’s dad was one of 12 and her mom was one of 10.

“My granddad sends me a big bouquet of flowers every year when I give birth,” Megan says. “This year Sloane became his 78th greatgrandchild!”

Though the Delaney’s knew they wanted a big family when they got married, they never had a set amount in their heads. As if nine children doesn’t keep them busy enough, last Christmas the family adopted two Mini Goldendoodle puppies.

“It was my husband’s idea,” Megan says.

“And he insisted we get two because he was afraid one wouldn’t survive all the attention.”

Speaking of attention, the couple sometimes tires of fielding the same questions and

comments from passerbys such as, “Wow, are they all yours?” or “Woah, you’re nuts!” They do, however, hear plenty of kind comments as well, often from older generations who encourage the family to appreciate every minute.

“They tell us what a blessing the children all are and how lucky we are,” Megan says. “And they’re right.”

Nurses at IU Health West have told Megan the same about her nine easy-peasy smooth as silk deliveries. That’s due, in large part, to the tremendous care Megan has always received at the hospital.

“IU Health West feels like home to me,” she says. “I can’t imagine giving birth anywhere else.”

“Megan has been an inspiration to many of the moms in our breastfeeding support group.”

got to get those falling-asleep-in-the-highchair pics!”

The couple does their best to make every dollar stretch given the various expenses children bring, including food, doctor visits, school tuition and sports registration fees.

Though Megan occasionally ventures out in public with all the troops in their 12-passenger van (“You can’t miss us!” jokes Megan), she readily admits to adoring the curbside grocery pick-up systems that are now offered at several stores.

Then there are the pitifully sick pics. Though thus far the family has not experienced any terribly contagious illnesses that have, one by one, wiped out the entire clan.

“The kids like to help the employees load the van and look at all the stuff as it comes in,” Megan says. “I like not having to battle the aisles with nine kids in tow.”

And that’s true when everyone is healthy as well. Megan and Sean carve out individualized time with each of their children so none of them feels neglected.

“So far, there’s not much jealousy among them,” says Megan, though she admits that in the presence of nine children, there’s always a playmate nearby.

But if she does go inside, there’s a good chance she’ll snap a photo of the experience. Because the old joke about parents losing interest in Breastfeeding has been an integral part of commemorating special moments with each her journey as well. Through the years, Jan Record, lactation consultant at IU Health West subsequent child does not hold true of Megan.

In fact, she’s so intent on capturing each one of Hospital, has gotten to know the family well. her baby’s firsts that multiple times she has run “It’s been a privilege supporting Megan out of storage space on her phone. through her breastfeeding experience with each of the nine babies, and then getting to see “I’m a picture-a-holic,” she admits. “But I’ve the babies grow into healthy kids,” Jan says.

OCTOBER 2018 / AVON/PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE

“We sanitize like crazy and keep the sick one isolated from the others,” Megan says.

“The hardest part of the sickness challenge is making sure you’re giving equal attention to every one of them.”

“Sometimes one of the kids will ask me if they can have a friend over, and I’ll tell them to go grab a sibling,” Megan says.

“They are close in age so everyone has a buddy.”

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SPEAK OUT Writer/ Heather Chastain

I had a friend die due to domestic violence.

It’s a situation that still weighs heavily on my heart nine years later. We were gym buddies.

We saw each other five times a week, talked every day and even spent time outside the gym together occasionally.

When Angela Warnock would speak about her husband, it didn’t sit well with me. She never said anything specific and I was unsure how to broach the subject, so I stayed out of it. It wasn’t until June 22, 2009, when I became involved in an unexpected way. I was a T.V. news producer in Indianapolis and suddenly realized I was

SHELTERING WINGS HOSTS OCTOBER EVENTS TO RAISE AWARENESS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ABUSE reporting on her murder as breaking news during the morning show.

Her death and the details surrounding it haunted me for months. I realized I could never ever let what happened to her happen to anyone else I knew. I wanted to learn how I could have reached out to her and tried to help.

So, I contacted Sheltering Wings and asked to take domestic violence awareness training and learn more about how to educate others.

“Angela’s death was so tragic, but it has opened up a conversation in our

community. One we need to have,” says Autumn Bucy, Sheltering Wings Annual Fund Coordinator. She credited em Studio Salon with their annual events to help spread awareness about domestic violence in Angela’s name.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. People are encouraged to wear purple to help spread the word and start the conversation about domestic violence.

“There are things we can do to prevent domestic violence. We can educate the community about what domestic violence and abuse is and who it affects. We don’t just want to speak to women, but we also want

42 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

to speak to the men as well,” says Melissa Echerd, Sheltering Wings Outreach and Education Coordinator. “We want to help raise men who respect women. We want to help raise girls to respect themselves so they don’t get in these situations.”

Experts say 1 in 4 families are affected, but only 1 in 10 cases are reported.

“We want to stop the cycle of abuse,” Bucy says. “A lot of the kids we see think abuse is normal. They think it happens in every home. They don’t know it’s not normal or acceptable.”

Sheltering Wings is a 68-bed domestic violence shelter centered around helping build stable, independent lives. At press time, 30 women and 34 children were staying with Sheltering Wings and taking part in their programs. Sheltering Wings provides emergency services for victims needing immediate access to safety and shelter. They help provide life skills to help victims become economically and emotionally independent. Children’s services are offered to support the silent victims of abuse. Public education is critical to preventing domestic violence. Every Thursday, Sheltering Wings offers a support group that’s open to the community.

Donations are always needed & welcome.

The shelter also provides a 24/7 help line (317-745-1496). This is not just for victims of domestic violence, but also for those who suspect they may know someone who needs help and is looking for guidance about how to help.

“The helpline isn’t just for victims,” Bucy says. “So often we hear people are afraid to call because they are worried they are keeping someone from getting the help they need, but they shouldn’t worry. We have multiple lines and people always ready to help.”

Help line advisors can help talk to those concerned about possible domestic violence and explain what to look for and give suggestions on how to speak to a potential victim.

During the month of October, help spread the word about domestic violence

and abuse. Domestic abuse is the use of controlling or hurtful actions in a couple of dating relationship to gain control through the victim’s fear. It may include any combination of physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, digital and financial abuse or control. Domestic violence happens in every community, at every income level, race, religion, education or gender.

During the month of October, Sheltering Wings has several events planned to help raise awareness.

Tuesday, October 9 – Men’s Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. – Washington Township Park Pavilion This is a new event this year aimed at working on prevention. It’s to get men thinking about how they can prevent domestic violence and changing the culture around men and how they view women and

the role they can plan in prevention.

Sunday, October 14 – Purple in the Pews This is a church-focused event where congregations are asked to wear purple to church. Participants are also encouraged to share a picture of their family wearing purple together to show support for Sheltering Wings and other domestic violence organizations. This is an effort to help start a conversation in the community. #PurpleInThePews Thursday, October 25 – Dine Out Against Domestic Violence All Cunningham Restaurants in Hendricks County – Charbonos, Boulder Creek, Stone Creek and Bru Burger – will donate a portion of their proceeds that evening to Sheltering Wings. No flyer is required.

For more information about Sheltering Wings, visit shelteringwings.com.

PlainfieldMag.com / OCTOBER 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 43

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DAN BRIDGET – PLAINFIELD TOWN COUNCIL Writer / Jamie Hergott

Where are you from, and what’s your background?

I grew up in Decatur Township. I used to ride my bike to Plainfield at the age of eight years old with my best friend.

I have been in quality management since I was 30 years old. I’ve been a consultant for a large firm and for myself. I’m retired from Gilchrist & Soames where I was

the Director of Quality and Regulatory Compliance. I always did what I loved, that’s the amazing part. I’ve worked with 70 different organizations as a consultant, including Notre Dame and Purdue University.

Tell us about your family.

I’ve been married for 43 years. I have one daughter and one grandson. My daughter teaches at Cascade High School. My grandson Gabriel is my buddy. We talk

about guy stuff. He and I have done day hikes, primarily in the Smoky Mountains.

How long have you been on the Council, and what is your role on the council?

This is my first term. I came on two and a half years ago. I’ve lived in the town for 33 years, and I noticed when the infrastructure went in, it was done well. I really admired it. Since business planning and quality management are what I’ve always done, I had the opportunity to run for office.

PlainfieldMag.com / OCTOBER 2018 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 45

Other people have a lot to teach you if you’re willing to listen.

Smoky Mountains, and I have hiked the backside of the Swiss Mountain Eiger.

What is your favorite book?

I love biographies. The most interesting person to me is Winston Churchill, so I think my answer is the book Warlord: A Life of Winston Churchill by Carlo D’Este.

The book that woke me up to reading again, which I think is one of the greatest books of western literature, was All Quiet On The Western Front. I love the historical aspect.

Being able to climb inside the head of someone who was there is fascinating.

There’s a lot of continuity in the leadership of Plainfield, and it shows in the way the town was planned. I always did that in my business career: long-term planning for a company to grow into a system. I’m able to keep doing that for Plainfield.

What do you like most about the Plainfield community?

We have the atmosphere of a small town but the amenities of a large town. That’s because of the planning. Our trail system and the quality of life here and the things we are working on for quality of life is so exciting.

All of the leadership thinks in systems rather We are simple people. The roots of the town than currents. That’s what makes the town are deep. It’s a very old town. We’ve been work. able to keep that small-town atmosphere My grandfather taught me you’re never and constantly strive for excellence. old as long as you’re teachable. I’ve always taken it to heart. Even now my life is about What do you enjoy doing in your spare learning. When everything is interesting, time? everything is fun.

I really enjoy bike tours. I’ve done the My main responsibility is sewers, and I also Tour Across Indiana. I have done the Hilly Hundred for 31 years. I like to backpack. I work on a focus group for the downtown summited Mt. Rainier in 2012 with a friend. project, a telecommunications team and I hiked rim to rim on the Grand Canyon in an ordinance committee. I love it. I’d be so bored in retirement. I’ve always been able to 2013 with some friends who are marathon runners, and we did it in 76 hours. I’ve do what I like. I’m very blessed. hiked the Appalachian Trail across the

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever been on?

It’s a tossup between two. In my daughter’s senior year of high school, we took a family trip to Ireland. We rented a car and went around for three weeks. That was wonderful.

The other trip was when my wife and I spent 18 days in northern Italy. It was amazing. I never travel with a tour. My fun is planning the trip.

What do you want people to know about what’s coming up for Plainfield?

The big thing I want people to know about is the plan we are working on for downtown. The plan is available through the website at this link: evogov.s3.amazonaws.com/media/30/ media/95623.pdf. The original village that was Plainfield has been marked off. We started formulating, in our perfect world, what would our town look like? The things we have didn’t happen by accident. We want people to choose to live in Plainfield because it’s the best place they can think of to live. You can either manage change or let change happen to you.

If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?

Other people have a lot to teach you if you’re willing to listen.

46 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2018 / PlainfieldMag.com

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