SUMMER 2021 | VOLUME ONE, ISSUE TWO

All hands on deck Wynn family goes all in for 4-H Closer for your swingset superman.

Accidents happen, especially when you have a daredevil in the family. But don’t worrry. We are here for you. With walk-in hours at Schneck Pediatrics and Schneck Orthopedics, you’ll have quick access to the experts you need. And our Emergency Department is always open, if things are more serious. Get the expert care you need, close to home.

SchneckMed.org healthy together. IN-35073361 contents Publisher Account ExecutiveS SUMMER 2021 | VOLUME ONE, ISSUE TWO Bud Hunt Sally Lawson, Hallie Stuckwisch AIM Media Reader Services

4 Book nook: Editorial Mailing Address P.O. Box 447 Editor and Senior Graphic Designer Seymour, IN 472074 Recommendations Anna Perlich from the library Advertising Inquiries Copy Editor 812-523-7062 Lyndsey Wolfe 6 Wynn family goes comments Contributors Have something you would all in for 4-H Carla Clark, Barney Quick, like to see in Heartland Family? Jordan Richart Send your ideas to aperlich@ aimmediaindiana.com. 12 Community arts Advertising ©2021 by AIM Media Indiana Advertising Art Director Your ideal retirement community All content © 2020 The Tribune. All rights center reopening Amanda Waltz reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without 16 Advertising Design permission from the publisher, except as might have a waitingLakeside Retreat: list! Erin Caplinger, Ashley Curry, permitted by U.S. copyright law. Julie Daiker, Jessica Dell, Starve Hollow Kassi Hattabaugh, Josh Meyer, on the cover Tina Ray, Robert Wilson Conner and Allison Wynn in back, Planning ahead for comfortable, secure retirement living is wise. and from left to right in front, 18 Nonprofit spotlight Advertising DIRECTOR Maggie, Amy, Jason and Cora Wynn By being prepared with anYour understanding ideal ofretirement available accommodations, community Tracie Lane at the Wynn Family Farm on April 17. services and amenities, along withmight the associated have costs,a waiting you’ll be able list! to Four Seasons is on a 26 acre campus with beautifully Your ideal retirement community appointed apartments and an architecturally important make decisions that workPlanning for you ahead and for your comfortable, family. secure Four retirement Seasons, living the is wise. chapel, all on one level. The campus is a wonderful setting for seniors to enjoy a comfortable, fulfilling area’s only Continuing CareBy being Retirement prepared might with Community, an have understanding a waiting has of been available Columbus’ list! accommodations, lifestyle. servicesPlanning and amenities, ahead for comfortable, along with secure the associated retirement living costs, is you’llwise. be able toAs a Life Plan Community, Four Seasons offers preferred choice for independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and independent living, assisted living, short-term make decisionsBy being prepared that work with foran understanding you and your of family.available accommodations,Four Seasons, the rehabilitative stays in our Medicare-certified health rehabilitative care for overarea’s 50 only servicesyears. Continuing and In amenities, fact, Care alongwe Retirement havewith the a associated waitingCommunity, costs, list you’ll has for bebeen manyable Columbus’ to center, and long-term skilled nursing care. To make it make decisions that work for you and your family. Four Seasons, the easy to find an option that suits each resident’s needs styles of our newly updatedpreferred apartments. choice for independent living, assisted living, skilled nursingFour and Seasons offers a variety of financial plans including area’s only Continuing Care Retirement Community, has been Columbus’ affordable monthly rental options. rehabilitativepreferred care choice for for over independent 50 years. living, In fact, assisted we living, have skilleda waiting nursing list and for many Life at Four Seasons includes life enrichment programs, Start to create your plan stylesfor retirement ofrehabilitative our newlyFour care updatedtoday for over byapartments. 50 years.scheduling InSeasons fact, we have an a appointment waiting list for many social, cultural and spiritual opportunities. styles of ourA newly tradition updated apartments. of excellence in senior living to learn more about FourStart Seasons to create and your how plan for to retirementjoin our today waiting by scheduling list. an appointmentWhen a little assistance helps make life more enjoyable, to learnStart more to create about your Four plan Seasons for retirement and howtoday to by joinscheduling our waiting an appointment list. Four Seasons provides a wide range of supportive care to learn more about Four Seasons and how to join our waiting list. and services in the privacy of resident’s apartment. Our Please call Lisa Kelly at 812.372.8481 for further information. assisted living program is customized specifically to Please call Lisa Kelly at 812.372.8481 for further information.each resident’s needs so he or she pays only for what is Please call Lisa Kelly at 812.372.8481 for further information. needed. Four Seasons is a financially secure, non-profit community, part of the BHI Senior Living family of communities. RETIREMENT CENTER RETIREMENT CENTER To learn more about Four Seasons EQUAL HOUSING RETIREMENT1901 TaylorCENTER Road • Columbus, IN 47203 OPPORTUNITY or to arrange a visit, please call EQUAL HOUSING 1901 Taylor Road • Columbus, IN 47203 OPPORTUNITY 812-372-8481 EQUAL HOUSING 1901 Taylor Road • Columbus,A BHI SENIOR IN LIVING 47203 COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITY www.fourseasonsretirement.com THE TRIBUNE 3 book nook Find something new to read Recommendations provided by librarians from the Jackson County Public Library. for teens middle grade

“Here the Whole Time” “The Magic Misfits” By Vitor Martins By Neil Patrick Harris This is a heartwarming love story that Do you believe in magic? deals with a variety of topics teens Join young street magician will be able to relate to. Felipe is fun, Carter, in the first book of smart and quirky. At school he is this series, as he adventures teased constantly about his weight to a new town. You’ll dis- by his peers, and he is so tired of cover hidden truths about being self-conscious all the time. his past, make new friends Winter break is nearly here and he’s and find adventure! Carter looking forward to two weeks away and his friends learn new from school. But that excitement dies things about the town they quickly when he learns that Caio, a are in and the carnival that’s boy who lives in his apartment building, will be staying with visiting. They remind us to look for new ways to use Felipe and his mother while his parents are on vacation. Felipe magic. You’ll even find close-up magic lessons from has had a crush on Caio for as long as he can remember. But the author, Neil Patrick Harris, in this book. Caio, who’s handsome and skinny, would never be interested in Available in print and digitally on OverDrive. him, right? Like in a cheesy rom-com, you know what will hap- Review by Nikki Axsom pen, but you enjoy the journey of getting there. Vitor Martins created such a terrifically beautiful teenage love story. This was “Love Like Sky” just so special, funny and sweet that I highly recommend it to by Leslie C. Youngblood anyone wanting something lighthearted. Georgie and her little sister Available in print Peaches have a new step- Review by Hillary Pacheco dad and new step-sister. Their dad has also remarried “Pumpkinheads” and everything is changing. By Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks Georgie tries to be a good Josiah and Deja have worked to- big sister, but things hap- gether at the Pumpkin Patch every pen. When Peaches gets year, but they are finally seniors and really sick, Georgie thinks it is their last night. Josiah is ready to it is her fault. This is a story mope through his last shift, but Deja about what it means to be arranges for them to see the sights, family and how love, like the taste the snacks … and give Josiah a sky, never runs out. chance to talk to the girl he has been Available in print and digital audiobook on Hoopla crushing on for three years. Review by Janet Hensen Beautifully drawn, you can practically smell the fall air and taste the pump- kin snacks in this charming graphic novel. The relatable charac- ters find themselves in one situation after another as they figure out how to get through their last night together and say good- bye to the familiar. It is a quick read but be sure to take time to check out the hilarious things going on in the background! Available in print and digitally on OverDrive Review by Janet Hensen

4 HEARTLAND FAMILY picture book

“What Color Is Night?” “What Can You Do with a “Another Book About Bears” By Grant Snider Color?” By Laura & Philip Bunting By Gülşah Yemen “What color is night? Is it only black… There are so many books about bears and white?” At first glance this is an un- Illustrated by Çağrı Odabaşı and the bears are tired of it! They must assuming book but opening its pages A color theory book for the youngest of stop whatever they are doing and act reveals its complexity. The illustrations artists, this book goes beyond primary out the story every time someone are childlike but striking and combined colors and mixing to get secondary opens a book about them. They quit! A with the simple text they provide a re- colors. The illustrations themselves give hilarious conversation between the nar- markable look at the colors and beauty children permission to color things as rator and the bear ensues over how to that make up the night. Read in hushed they see them, like an orange forest or solve this interesting problem. Illustra- tones it becomes a perfect bedtime green monkeys. The end of the book has tions are minimalistic, but this doesn’t story. a little more for explorers to think about keep the characters from expressing Available in print and includes the tertiary colors plus a few themselves clearly. A delightfully funny Review by Lola Snyder “Did you know?” facts. A wonderful read- tale to share again and again. a-loud for budding artists. Available in print Available in print Review by Lola Snyder Review by Lola Snyder

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205 S. Chestnut St., Downtown Seymour Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4 l 812-522-2397 www.greemannfurniture.com IN-35074303 THE TRIBUNE 5 Fun for the whole

6 HEARTLAND FAMILY Conner Wynn feeds Tortilla at the Wynn Family Farm on April 17. Every member of the Wynn family actively participates in 4-H

STORY BY barney quick | photos by Carla clark

The Wynns are one busy day, before they had any of family. One wonders how their own, they were walking they find time to fit school through a barn at the fair and and work into their schedules, found themselves greatly im- given everyone’s deep involve- pressed, not only by the activ- ment in 4-H. ity but by people’s willingness Jason is the father and to talk to them about what husband, Amy the mother and was going on. So they became wife, and there are four chil- volunteers. dren: Allison, 17; Conner, 15; Jason, a corporal with the »Maggie, 10; and Cora, 7. Every Seymour Police Department one of them is bringing along by day, serves on the county’s projects for this year’s Jackson 4-H Council, the policy-mak- County Fair, as they do every ing body for the area, as do year, and/or volunteering with Allison and Conner. Jason 4-H in some capacity. also serves on the livestock Neither Jason nor Amy had and auction committee and Allison Wynn holds Loki, one of the rabbits, at the been in 4-H as kids, but one the awards committee. Amy, Wynn Family Farm.

Jackson County agent, Jim Hoffman, has the knowledge to keep you and your family protected. He began his career with Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance in 1998 and has been a consistent qualifi er of company- sponsored awards for sales and service. He is a graduate of Austin High School and Hanover College. Jim and his wife, Paige, and daughter, Kennedy, live in Seymour and attend Immanuel Lutheran Church. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf, basketball and coaching the 8th grade boys’ basketball team at Immanuel Lutheran You’re good at being you. We’re good at your insurance. School as well as the Seymour High School’s boys & girls golf teams.

IN-35073834 Conner Wynn feeds Tortilla at the Wynn Family Farm on April 17. THE TRIBUNE 7 a nurse practitioner in her occupational life, makes sure tables, sign-in sheets and food are set up for events, and she orga- nizes a breakfast for auction buyers. The three older kids show dairy goats, meat goats, sheep, swine, poultry and rabbits. That started with Allison getting a goat in the second grade. Cora is in the Mini program, for people in kindergar- ten through second grade. “She’ll have some kind of poster or little project,” says Jason. Allison’s other projects include scrap- book, food preservation, pet science, wildlife, pocket pets and plant science. For wildlife this year, she’s putting together a poster and conducting an in- dependent study on endangered species in Jackson County. Pocket pets refers to animals such as guinea pigs, hamsters and hedgehogs. Conner has taken an interest in rockets and woodworking in the last

few years. He’s built some impressive As Maggie Wynn leads a goat to the gate, all the other goats follow.

From left, Cora holds Tamatoa, Jason, Maggie with goat Marcy, Allison with goat Susie, Amy and Conner with goat Kaycee out- side the barn at the Wynn Family Farm.

8 HEARTLAND FAMILY furniture in his grandfather’s shop. them in good stead later in life,” says His projects involve a lot of sawing, Jason. sanding, fitting, staining and var- Allison is quite emphatic about the Jackson County Fair nishing. The rocket activity involves impact 4-H has had on her develop- When: July 25-31 assembling one and getting judged ment as a person. This will be the last Where: 476 E. County Road 100S, on the altitude of the trajectory when year she’ll be able to participate in Brownstown it’s launched, as well as the parachute projects, but she says that as soon as coming out correctly. she turns 18, she plans to fill out an Phone: 812-358-2751 “He’s very good about staying on application to be a volunteer. Website: jacksoncountyfair.org task,” says Amy. She’s gained self-confidence and Maggie has amassed a sizable a sense of direction. In the fall, she’s insect collection for her entomology headed to Hanover College to study project. She catches bugs, stores education. as you can imagine,” she says. “If them in the freezer, mounts them to “We didn’t even know she’d applied anyone spoke to me, I would try to a poster and labels them with their until she’d been accepted,” says Jason. find something or someone to hide scientific and generic names. Along with serving on the council, behind. 4-H pushed me out of my All the Wynn kids are involved in she’s on the expansion and review comfort zone. I’m now perfectly shooting sports as well. Safety is a big committee and serves as a 4-H am- comfortable speaking to a group of element of that activity. bassador. In that capacity, she serves 100 people.” Everybody keeps workbooks for as an advocate for the organization, Families these days looking for each project, including record sheets promoting it to peers who might be a way for their members to bond for documenting the costs and hours interested, as well as interacting with would do well to take a cue from the involved. various people in the community. Wynns. 4-H seems to have worked “This is something that stands “When I started out, I was as shy well in their case.

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FAMILY’ YOUR SERVING church. their at It has now been more than a year year a than more been now has It second new a people, 225 seats that el service isn’t about business. 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Daniel moments?”itself,” in istry a ribbon cut- home, be a blessing and to start a new new a start to and blessing a be home, buri- tryarrange fulland time.here service funeral them the personally’at California in living 2019, In ting and grand legacy of the Christensen family in in family Christensen the of legacy WhileAmerica. at IBC,Central or DanielMexico plannedin al on becausebe- wife I wanthis toand he said Daniel time, opening with the this community. We feel like God sent sent God like feel We community. this family, going Hispanic into any the ministryserve can fi eld.“We But when know the their hob-“What’s God, ask -and Betsypray to Christensengan chamber. us here. We want every family that we we that family every want We here. us who Betsy, his stepfathersaid that,” died,doing helove saw I howand the Owners - Family Christensen The bies, their likes, life?” our for phase next “We feel like serve through Woodlawn to feel like like feel to Woodlawn through serve Schneck funeralat directortranslator a helpedas works his mother.also their loves.”know- even not time same the “At that this was they were ministered to, not a busi- a not to, ministered were they “That’sSeymour. whenin I realizedCenter thisMedical is a min- is casket a of selection The funerals. opportu- an at jump just to want don’t The attend, we church the because Woodlawnwho alsoRumph, is proudBrandy toand be a Andy ing totally a God transition,” he said. “We ness transaction, but the Christensen Christensen the but transaction, ness istryplayroom in itself,”children’s Danielthe said.Adding them steer don’t I thing. private very make to want We pray. to want We nity. 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We want every family that we that if you stay faithful, he gives it to to it gives he faithful, stay you if that a was it so “At on?’ the samegoing timeWhat’s not evencrying? know- someone wants never he said He this prepared you’ve God, ‘Yeah, that people how noticed also They also works asWoodlawn aas translatorknown at Schneckbecame It 2011. serve through Woodlawn to feel like you back plus,” he said. “To have my my have “To said. he plus,” back you place ingsafe a Andy have and to Brandymine of Rumph,burden who at becausemoney themuch churchtoo spent we attend,they say to The don’t want to just jumpin at anSeymour opportu-to back came We us.’ for funerals.police Thefrom selectionservices, of a casketfuneral is respect a Medical Centeroffering in Seymour.Centre, Celebration Life they were ministered to, not a busi- kids here with me, to have my busi- my have to me, with here kids visita- werefor thecome owners offamilies Woodlawn,when that were Tabernacle, Pastor (Larry) ArrowoodWoodlawn. nity. 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It became known as Woodlawn They also noticed how people that ‘Yeah, God, you’vefami- for prepared thisimportant it’s said Daniel Heand saidhotel he nevertheir left wantsthey someonevisit, their crying? asking What’shim going on?’messaged so itAndy wasand a sale, that if you stay faithful, he gives it to Life Celebration Centre, offering respect funeral services, from police for us.’ We came backbe- to Seymourfunerals in prearranged had who lies to say they spent too muchWoodlawn. moneyby at stopped burdento ofcoming minein to have interested a safebe placewould he if you back plus,” he said. “To have my O ce: 812.523.1074 ce: O funeral services and a place to host escorts to the cemetery to vehicles November 2019, closedknow to on the funeralownership of change the fore Woodlawn.build- the on hands laid simply “We that when families come for visita- Seymour. kids here with me, to have my busi- events. stopping as a procession passes. home and took over Dec.written. 1,as 2019.” honored fully be will they will, “I encourageyour is this if people ‘God, to shopsaid, and ing tions, kidsabout haveexcited their environment,immediately was “I ness again, married, it has just been a 311 Holiday Square Rd, Seymour Rd, Square Holiday 311 Daniel posted on a funeral di- “I criedWoodlawn every time when I saw that. The full-service funeral homelow-cost a has also Woodlawn be becausewill It in thesehappen. economicthis make times,just a you’ll their safe place.”home,” to closer it’s because that good journey. Bringing us here was an www.woodlawnfamilyfuneral.com rectors group on FacebookCentre asking if Funeral I was like, Family ‘Oh my gosh!’” Betsy said. offers traditional funerals, cremation, guarantee. to funeralhave is awon’t bigWe purchase,”transition. he said.smooth “Ia Daniel has done the remodelingsaid. of Daniel amazing journey.” anyone knew of a funeral home for Around midnight one day during pet cremation and headstones.expen- be to have don’t “Funerals don’t caresaid. what yourDaniel fi nancialopen,’” door condi-a kick the to building andSeymour to soonew fl will startBetsy and Phase He sale, and Andy messagedFamily” himYour asking Serving theirFamily visit, “Our they left their hotel and Daniel said it’s importantsaid. Daniel for fami- meaningful,” be to sive then and home returned They also they and Woodlawn, out check Se habla español habla Se if he would be interested in coming to stopped by Woodlawn. lies who had prearranged them, tell funerals I in, be-walks family a “When forward move to decision the made Oktoberfest. Seymour the attended Seymour. Christensen “WeBetsy simply& laid handsDaniel on the build- fore the change of ownershipdon’t I tobecause know budget?’ your ‘What’s business. the purchasing with town,” the with love in fell just “We O ce: 812.523.1074 Low Price Guarantee Price Low “I was immediately excited about ing and said, ‘God, if this is your will, they will be fully honoredfor debt asin written.getting people in believe we where people of kind the “We’re excited very was “I said. Daniel Owners IN-35074486 that because it’s closer to home,” you’ll just make this happen. It will be Woodlawn also has a low-cost Woodlawn 311 Holiday Square Rd, Seymour Daniel said. a smooth transition. We won’t have to guarantee. Family Funeral Centre He and Betsy fl ew to Seymour to kick a door open,’” Daniel said. “Funerals don’t have to be expen- www.woodlawnfamilyfuneral.com check out Woodlawn, and they also They returned home and then sive to be meaningful,” Daniel said. “Our Family Serving Your Family” attended the Seymour Oktoberfest. made the decision to move forward “When a family walks in, I tell them, Se habla español “We just fell in love with the town,” with purchasing the business. ‘What’s your budget?’ because I don’t Daniel & Betsy Christensen Daniel said. “I was very excited “We’re the kind of people where we believe in people getting in debt for Low Price Guarantee IN-35074486 Owners

10 HEARTLAND FAMILY IN-35074486 O Daniel said. “I was very excitedDaniel said.“Iwasvery attended theSeymourOktoberfest. check outWoodlawn, andtheyalso Daniel said. that becauseit’sclosertohome,” Seymour. if hewouldbeinterestedincomingto sale, andAndymessagedhimasking anyone knewofafuneralhomefor rectors grouponFacebook askingif events. andaplacetohost funeral services Life CelebrationCentre,offering 2011. ItbecameknownasWoodlawn Daniel said. couple (totakeoverthebusiness),” praying thatGodwouldsendtheright were theownersofWoodlawn, were ing AndyandBrandyRumph, who next phaseforourlife?” gan toprayandaskGod,“What’sthe time, Danielsaidheandhiswifebe- in itself,”Danielsaid. istry funeral directorhelpedhismother. his stepfatherdied,hesawhowthe figoing intotheministry eld. Butwhen full time. try taught therebeforegoingintominis- Life CollegeinCaliforniaandthen degreesfromChristian bachelor’s ville, Tennessee, andsheearnedtwo GuptonCollegeinNash- at JohnA. school and latercompletedmortuary Mexico. years, whileBetsyisoriginallyfrom for26 and hasbeeninfuneralservice ing peopleonefamilyatatime.” our ministry. It’sjustlovingandserv- Woodlawn isanabsoluteextensionof families, andsoourmaingoalwith said. “We bothcomefromministry yourfamily,’”family serving Daniel lawn iswechangedoursloganto‘Our came toSeymourandboughtWood- at theirchurch. funeral directorsintownandpeople and becamefriendswiththeother families comingtothefuneralhome to They valuedprovidinggoodservice immediately fellinlovewiththecity. Christensen, 21,joinedthestaff. dler Christensen,24,andHayden tre inSeymour, andtheirsons,Chan- “We justfell inlovewiththetown,” He andBetsyflew toSeymour “I wasimmediatelyexcited about Daniel postedonafuneraldi- The Rumphs startedWoodlawn in “At thesametimenotevenknow- In 2019,livinginCaliforniaatthe “That’s whenIrealizedthisismin- While atIBC,Danielplannedon He attendedIndianaBibleCollege Daniel isanativeofWisconsin “The first thingwedidwhen Upon movingtoSeymour, they Woodlawn Family Funeral Cen- Christensen becameownersof n Dec.1,2019,DanielandBetsy ‘OUR FAMILY with purchasingthebusiness. made thedecisiontomoveforward kick adooropen,’”Danielsaid. a smoothtransition.We won’t haveto you’ll justmakethishappen.Itwillbe ing andsaid,‘God,ifthisisyourwill, stopped byWoodlawn. theirhoteland their visit,theyleft I waslike,‘Ohmygosh!’”Betsysaid. stopping asaprocessionpasses. tovehicles escorts tothecemetery frompolice respect funeralservices, with thepeople.” and asafeplacewiththeArrowoods, school. We foundSeymourtobehome was oneofmyprofessorsinBible Tabernacle, Arrowood Pastor (Larry) because thechurchweattend,The “We’re the kindofpeoplewherewe They returnedhomeandthen “We simplylaidhandsonthebuild- Around midnightonedayduring timewhenIsawthat. “I criedevery They alsonoticedhowpeople PAID ADVERTISEMENT SERVING YOUR FAMILY’ The ChristensenFamily-Owners

IN-35074486 believe inpeoplegettingdebt for ‘What’s yourbudget?’because Idon’t “When afamilywalksin,Itellthem, sive tobemeaningful,”Danielsaid. guarantee. they willbefullyhonoredaswritten. fore thechangeofownershiptoknow lies whohadprearrangedfuneralsbe- pet cremationandheadstones. offers traditionalfunerals,cremation, home andtookoverDec.1,2019.” November 2019,closedonthefuneral for us.’We camebacktoSeymourin that ‘Yeah, God,you’vepreparedthis just completely, smoothlyshowedus abouthowthings whole otherstory how weoperate,”Danielsaid.“It’sa sure thatthisisGod’swill.That’s nity. We wanttopray. We wanttomake don’t wanttojustjumpatanopportu- O Daniel said. “I was very excitedDaniel said.“Iwasvery attended theSeymourOktoberfest. check outWoodlawn, andtheyalso Daniel said. that becauseit’sclosertohome,” Seymour. if hewouldbeinterestedin comingto sale, andAndymessagedhim asking anyone knewofafuneralhome for rectors group on Facebook askingif events. and aplacetohost funeral services Life Celebration Centre, offering 2011. It becameknown asWoodlawn Daniel said. couple (to take over the business),” praying thatGodwould sendtheright were the ownersofWoodlawn, were ing Andyand Brandy Rumph, who next phasefor ourlife?” gan toprayandaskGod,“What’s the time, Danielsaidheandhis wifebe- initself,”Danielsaid. istry funeral directorhelpedhis mother. his stepfatherdied,hesaw how the figoing intotheministry eld. Butwhen fulltime. try taught therebeforegoingintominis- Life CollegeinCaliforniaandthen degreesfromChristian bachelor’s ville, Tennessee, andsheearnedtwo GuptonCollegeinNash- at JohnA. school and latercompletedmortuary Mexico. years, whileBetsyisoriginallyfrom for26 and hasbeeninfuneralservice ing peopleonefamilyatatime.” our ministry. It’sjustlovingandserv- Woodlawn isanabsoluteextensionof families, andsoourmaingoalwith said. “We bothcomefromministry yourfamily,’”family serving Daniel lawn iswechangedoursloganto‘Our came toSeymourandboughtWood- at theirchurch. funeral directorsintownandpeople and becamefriendswiththeother families comingtothefuneralhome to They valuedprovidinggoodservice immediately fellinlovewiththecity. Christensen, 21,joinedthestaff. dler Christensen,24,andHayden tre inSeymour, andtheirsons,Chan- “Funerals don’t havetobeexpen- Woodlawn alsohasalow-cost Daniel saidit’simportantforfami- funeralhome The full-service “We justfellinlovewiththetown,” He andBetsyflew toSeymour “I wasimmediatelyexcited about Daniel posted onafuneraldi- The Rumphs started Woodlawn in “At thesametimenoteven know- In 2019,livinginCalifornia atthe “That’s whenIrealizedthis ismin- While atIBC,Danielplannedon He attendedIndianaBibleCollege Daniel isanativeofWisconsin “The first thingwedidwhen Upon movingtoSeymour, they Woodlawn Family Funeral Cen- Christensen becameownersof n Dec.1,2019,DanielandBetsy ‘OUR FAMILY with purchasingthebusiness. made thedecisiontomoveforward kick adooropen,’”Danielsaid. a smoothtransition.We won’t haveto you’ll justmakethishappen. Itwillbe ing andsaid,‘God,ifthisis your will, stopped byWoodlawn. theirhoteland their visit,theyleft I waslike,‘Oh mygosh!’”Betsysaid. stopping asa procession passes. tovehicles escorts tothecemetery from police respect funeralservices, with the people.” and asafeplace with the Arrowoods, school. We found Seymourto be home was one ofmyprofessors inBible Tabernacle, Arrowood Pastor (Larry) because thechurch weattend,The “We’re thekindofpeoplewherewe They returnedhomeandthen “We simply laidhandsonthebuild- Around midnightonedayduring timewhen Isawthat. “I criedevery They alsonoticed howpeople PAID ADVERTISEMENT SERVING YOUR FAMILY’ don’t carewhatyour financial condi- funeral isabigpurchase,”hesaid.“I because intheseeconomictimes,a Woodlawn. to saytheyspenttoomuchmoneyat room.” can lookat.Idon’t even stayinthe what wehave.Ihaveacatalogthey one wayortheother. Ishowthem private thing.Idon’tvery steerthem funerals. Theselectionofacasketis “I encouragepeopletoshop He saidheneverwantssomeone Daniel & Betsy Christensen Daniel &Betsy The Christensen Family-Owners “Our Your Family Serving Family” Family Funeral Centre Woodlawn Owners believe inpeoplegettingdebtfor ‘What’s yourbudget?’becauseIdon’t “When afamilywalksin,Itellthem, sive tobemeaningful,”Danielsaid. guarantee. they willbefullyhonoredas written. fore thechangeofownership toknow lies whohadprearrangedfunerals be- pet cremation andheadstones. offers traditional funerals,cremation, home and tookoverDec. 1,2019.” November 2019,closed onthefuneral for us.’ We came back toSeymour in that ‘Yeah, God, you’ve prepared this just completely, smoothly showed us about howthings whole other story how we operate,”Daniel said.“It’s a sure thatthis is God’swill.That’s nity. We wanttopray. We wanttomake don’t wanttojustjumpatanopportu- “Funerals don’t havetobe expen- Woodlawn alsohasalow-cost Daniel saidit’simportantfor fami- funeral home The full-service the buildingandsoonwillstartPhase their safeplace.” tions, kidshavetheirenvironment, that whenfamiliescomeforvisita- burden ofminetohaveasafeplace What’sgoingon?’soitwasa crying? ‘Why isDadinabox? WhyisMom died,” hesaid.“All Irememberwas was particularlyimportanttoDaniel. Medical CenterinSeymour. also worksasatranslatoratSchneck and Ilovedoingthat,”saidBetsy, who al inMexicoorCentralAmerica. hereandarrangeburi- funeral service bilingual funeralhomeandcanhavea their loves.” bies, theirlikes, know theirhob- because Iwantto them personally’ like I’veknown I’m goingtofeel time we’redone, loved one,bythe did notknowyour ond ofall,whileI selected us.Sec- honored thatyou foremost, I’m them, ‘First and when Iwaiton “I tellfamilies me,” Danielsaid. importantto very faith, traditionorculture. suite. also willbeapastor’s a kitchenandplayroom.Soon,there chapel thatseats70,afellowshiphall, el thatseats225people,anewsecond take thatvery, toheart.” very honor ofbeingbyyoursideasfamily. I moments?” Betsysaid.“Itgivesusthat service. isn’tservice aboutbusiness.It’s how weoperate.That’swhoare.” family, I’mheretoloveyouandthat’s with $1millionor$1.You’re ahurting same. Idon’t careifyouwalkinhere tion is.You’re goingtobelovedthe Daniel hasdonetheremodelingof “I was4yearsoldwhenmyfather Adding thechildren’s playroom “We anyHispanicfamily, canserve Woodlawn alsoisproudtobea “Tradition is Woodlawn issetuptohandleany The funeralhomefeaturesachap- “What canwedoinyourhardest For theChristensens,funeral PAID ADVERTISEMENT your hardest moments?” “What can “What - BetsyChristensen www.woodlawnfamilyfuneral.com we doin 311 Holiday Square Rd, Seymour Low Price GuaranteeLow O ce: 812.523.1074 Se hablaSe español amazing journey.” good journey. Bringingusherewasan ness again,married,ithasjustbeena kids herewithme,tohavemybusi- you backplus,”hesaid.“To havemy that ifyoustayfaithful,hegivesitto get towhereitis,Danielsaid. family lovedusthroughthisprocess.” ness transaction,buttheChristensen they wereministeredto,notabusi- through Woodlawnserve tofeellike us here.We familythatwe wantevery this community. We feellikeGodsent legacy oftheChristensenfamilyin home, beablessingandtostartnew feel likewecameheretocallthis totally aGodtransition,”hesaid.“We Seymour andBrownstownhave bought an1860farmhousebetween have “throwndownrootshere.”They Woodlawn, andDanielsaidthey since theChristensenstookover home,” Betsysaid. this isahome.’You’re walkingintoa living roomarea. in thedoor, theywillseeapianoand one,’” hesaid. here tocelebratethelifeofyourloved organ music.We wantittobe‘We’re andit’sfland it’sscary owers andit’s funeral homefeelwhereyouwalkin 4 ofthatproject. “God hasaprincipleofrestoration Staying faithfulhelpedthefamily It hasnowbeenmorethanayear “We wantthemtofeellike‘Oh, That’s whyassoonpeoplewalk “We didn’t wantthetraditional don’t carewhatyourfinancial condi- funeral isabigpurchase,”he said.“I because intheseeconomic times, a Woodlawn. to saytheyspent toomuchmoneyat room.” can lookat. Idon’t even stayin the what we have. I have a catalog they one way or the other. Ishow them privatething. Idon’tvery steer them funerals. Theselection ofacasket isa “I encouragepeople toshop He said heneverwants someone Daniel & Betsy Christensen Daniel &Betsy that thiswas chamber. opening withthe ting andgrand a ribboncut- want tohave Daniel saidthey is completed, the remodeling ease upand restrictions COVID-19 Tabernacle. active atThe along withbeing of Commerce mour Chamber joined theSey- “We feellike Once the H TRIBUNE THE “Our Your Family Serving Family” Family Funeral Centre Woodlawn Owners 11 the buildingandsoonwillstart Phase their safeplace.” tions, kidshave theirenvironment, that whenfamilies comeforvisita- burden ofminetohave asafeplace What’s going on?’ soit wasa crying? ‘Why is Dad in a box? Why is Mom died,” he said. “All I remember was was particularly important toDaniel. Medical Center inSeymour. also worksas a translatoratSchneck and Ilovedoing that,”saidBetsy, who al inMexicoorCentralAmerica. hereandarrange buri- funeral service bilingual funeralhomeand canhavea their loves.” bies, theirlikes, know theirhob- because Iwantto them personally’ like I’veknown I’m goingtofeel time we’redone, loved one,bythe did notknowyour ond ofall,whileI selected us.Sec- honored thatyou foremost, I’m them, ‘First and when Iwaiton “I tellfamilies me,” Danielsaid. important to very faith, traditionorculture. suite. also willbeapastor’s a kitchenandplayroom.Soon,there chapel thatseats70,afellowshiphall, el thatseats225people,anewsecond take thatvery, toheart.” very honor ofbeingbyyoursideasfamily. I moments?” Betsysaid.“Itgivesusthat service. isn’tservice aboutbusiness.It’s how weoperate.That’swhoare.” family, I’mheretoloveyouandthat’s with $1millionor$1.You’re ahurting same. Idon’t careifyouwalkinhere tion is.You’re goingtobelovedthe Daniel hasdone theremodelingof “I was 4years old whenmy father Adding thechildren’s playroom “We any Hispanicfamily, can serve Woodlawn alsoisproudtobea “Tradition is Woodlawn issetuptohandleany The funeralhomefeaturesachap- “What canwedoinyourhardest For theChristensens,funeral PAID ADVERTISEMENT your hardest moments?” “What can “What - BetsyChristensen www.woodlawnfamilyfuneral.com we doin 311 Holiday Square Rd, Seymour Low Price GuaranteeLow O ce: 812.523.1074 Se hablaSe español amazing journey.” good journey. Bringing ushere wasan ness again, married,it hasjustbeen a kids herewith me, tohave mybusi- you back plus,” he said. “To have my that if you stay faithful, he gives it to get towhere itis,Daniel said. family lovedus throughthisprocess.” ness transaction, buttheChristensen they wereministered to,notabusi- throughWoodlawnserve tofeellike us here.We familythatwe wantevery this community. We feellikeGodsent legacy oftheChristensenfamily in home, beablessingandtostart anew feel likewecameheretocall this totally aGodtransition,”he said.“We Seymour andBrownstownhave bought an1860farmhousebetween have “throwndownrootshere.”They Woodlawn, andDanielsaidthey since theChristensenstookover home,” Betsysaid. this isahome.’You’re walkingintoa living roomarea. in thedoor, theywillseeapianoand one,’” hesaid. here tocelebratethelifeofyourloved organ music.We wantittobe‘We’re andit’sfland it’sscary owers andit’s funeral homefeelwhereyouwalkin 4 ofthatproject. “God hasa principle ofrestoration Staying faithful helpedthefamily It hasnowbeenmorethanayear “We wantthemtofeellike‘Oh, That’s whyassoonpeoplewalk “We didn’t wantthetraditional that thiswas chamber. opening withthe ting andgrand a ribboncut- want tohave Daniel saidthey is completed, the remodeling ease upand restrictions COVID-19 Tabernacle. active atThe along withbeing of Commerce mour Chamber joined theSey- “We feellike Once the Tap Into CREATIVITY

Community arts With new renovations complete and a diffi- cult 2020 behind them, the center reopens in Center for the Arts is ready to begin offering new exhibits and classes as well as some time for summer returning favorites. The center reopened May 7 with an art STORY BY Jordan richart show by Alexander Winch and the return of the summer concert series Friday Night Live. Winch, a former classmate of SICA director »Speck Mellencamp, also taught a class over the weekend. Artists featuring their work and becoming involved is one of the new features Mellen- camp wants to offer. “I want to get artists to show their art and then sort of have them teach a class,” Mellen- camp said. That will be made possible with additional studio space following recently completed renovations.

12 HEARTLAND FAMILY “The upstairs hadn’t really been all that functional for a few years, so Speck’s vision was to make that more studio and gallery space,” Eric DiBlasi Jr., SICA board president, said. “And then for the down- stairs, there’s more of a gallery-feel to it.” DiBlasi said with the additional space upstairs, there can be more rotation for galleries while the downstairs can have galleries on a lengthier basis. “It was a lot more time and effort when we switched the downstairs out monthly, so those will be more quarterly while the upstairs will be more frequent to give people more of a reason to come back,” he said. “We are going to try to keep people engaged to come back by offering more classes and space.” Mellencamp said with more space comes more classes throughout the year. Some of those will be led by Mellencamp when classes will feature oil painting and SPECk mellencamp IN-35073489

THE TRIBUNE 13 Speck Mellencamp, center, talks as Eric DiBlasi Jr., left, of Seymour and Mike Wooten of North Vernon work on oil paintings during a class in February 2020 at Southern Indiana Center for the Arts in Seymour. Tribune file photo

drawing, while others will be taught teers and a few contractors com- series was held each Friday in June, by other artists depending on the pleted other renovations including but now organizers have made it the medium being showcased. new flooring, freshly painted walls, first Friday of the month from May Other mediums Mellencamp restored downstairs walls, improved through Sept. so it lasts all summer hopes to offer includes free drawing, the kitchen area, upgraded the long. guest classes, painting, pottery and masonry work and completed other Each show will feature a different even book binding. small projects. artist or band that play different “That was something mentioned The projects were paid for through genres of music. the other day, and I think that would grants and a lot of the work has been A version of the children’s summer be an interesting one to have,” he done by Mellencamp and volunteers. art camp is also planned for this said. Not everything is complete, but summer and details will be released Mellencamp said the new space the center will be able to show gal- later. DiBlasi said the programming will even allow him to offer lessons. leries again will be outdoors and a complete re- “I’m really looking forward to hav- “It’s a great facility and building, turn of the popular camp will return ing more classroom space,” he said. it’s just we want to get every part of it in 2022. “We were limited on space the last usable and having more area to show Mellencamp said that expanding time I taught a class, having to stand art and teach,” he said. classes and programs will allow things up and create more room, so While there are plenty of new SICA to continue to offer Jackson it will be really nice to have a class changes at SICA, some of your County and other communities where everyone can just take their favorite events are returning. something that is needed. stuff up.” Friday Night Live has returned, “I think it is really important that In addition to creating the new but there will be changes to how it everyone has access to a creative spaces upstairs, Mellencamp, volun- is offered. In the past the concert outlet,” he said. “I think everyone

14 HEARTLAND FAMILY can enjoy some aspect of art. Whether Become a member it’s just looking at it, making it or The Southern Indiana Center for the Arts is membership driven. anything, I think anyone can have fun Become a member today by calling the center at 812-522-2278, with it.” emailing [email protected] or stopping by the center at 2001 DiBlasi agreed and added that SICA North Ewing St., Seymour. is something Jackson County can be proud of because of the high quality events and programs it can offer. Hours: “It’s a hidden treasure for a commu- The Southern Indiana Center for the Arts is open from 11 a.m. to 5 nity this size,” he said. “It’s a gem for p.m. Wednesday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; or by us and the setting out here is perfect, appointment. so it’s a unique thing.” Mellencamp said all of it is possible because of the dedication of people Friday Night Live throughout its history. He said people SICA is offering Friday Night Live 7-9 p.m. the first Friday of the donating their time to the organiza- month from May through Sept. tion is the engine that keeps it going. June 4: Bad Medicine “Everyone on the board and our volunteers do this because they care,” July 2: Sounds of Dreams he said. “They’re not trying to get Aug. 6: Skyline Drive anything out of it, but only because Sept. 3: John Whitcomb t h e y c are .”

BOOK Your gifts to the Community Foundation YOUR of Jackson County NEXT EVENT are part of a recipe for a positive, lasting difference for today, With Us tomorrow and forever. • RECEPTIONS & REHEARSALS • CIVIL EVENTS • COMPANY PICNICS • ON-SITE INDUSTRIAL CATERING • BOXED DELIVERIES IN-35074426

IN-35073488 812.522.4955 •[email protected] THE TRIBUNE 15 retreat Starve Hollow offers unique camping experience close to home

STORY BY and photos by Jordan richart

Summer break is almost here and these cabins. Many times during the this could be the year to start a new early morning you may see a great blue tradition. heron fly over the cabin area of the lake A little bit about What better way to start something or see the resident bald eagles.” Starve Hollow new than to look nearby? The cabins have electricity along with Founded in 1938 A growing trend with those who a heat and air unit, but no running Starve Hollow Lake is stay at Starve Hollow State Recre- water or restrooms inside the cabins. 145 acres ation Area in Vallonia is renting a People can walk to the property’s The lake was originally cabin on the property. comfort station nearby for restrooms built to supply water to The property, which is located on and showers. »a 280-acre recreation site, boasts 18 the state fish hatchery Cabin guests should bring their and federal tree nursery rent-a-camp cabins. own air mattress, linens or sleeping These cabins are small but have bags as those are not provided. Each 90 Electric hook up sites everything you need for a simple stay cabin has wooden bed frames for a 18 rent-a-camp cabins with air conditioning, a table and double bed and twin bunk bed. Pets two beds. 11 miles worth of trails are not allowed inside the cabins. Each site comes with a front porch Cooking can be done along the fire and swing, picnic table and fire pit. pit or you can pack your own grill. Indiana Depart- You also can select from nine ment of Natural cabins with a lake-front view of the Stilwell said the cabins have grown a lot in popularity throughout the year. Resources Free 145-acre lake at one of the state’s Fishing Days most popular public camping sites. “They are a nice alternative for May 2 “People enjoy the lakeside views people who may not have a camping of many of the cabins,” said assistant unit but aren’t quite comfortable with June 5 and 6 property manager Cassie Stilwell. tent camping.” September 25 Stilwell said that all the popular ac- But if you are comfortable with tivities Starve Hollow offers are easily tent camping or own a camper, accessible from the cabins. “Fishing Starve Hollow also is a must-stay. and kayak docking are very popular at The area has 90 electric campsites

16 HEARTLAND FAMILY with 40 being lakefront and 55 full hook-up sites with water and sewer. Starve Hollow camping has grown so much in recent years that Stilwell said staff experience weekend occupancy rates at or near 100% from mid-April to November. That makes it one of the most popular campgrounds in Indiana. “It now ranks as a top 10 camping destination in Indiana,” she said. “Full hook-up and lakefront electric sites and cabins draw the attention of recreationists while the beach and picnic areas provide entertainment for the whole family.” Stilwell said she believes that Starve program and more in order to be across the almost 60 participating Hollow’s reputation, word of mouth eligible to purchase an Explore Pin. locations within the state. and social media has played a role Pins are $2 and can be collected at On top of all that, the staff also in how people have discovered and more than 30 different participating works hard to create a quality park enjoyed Starve Hollow. properties across Indiana. and family-friendly place for peo- “There are various online camping Starve Hollow is also a venue ple to enjoy, Stilwell added. groups for Indiana, and Starve Hol- location for the new Indiana State “They take a lot of pride into cre- low is one of the most heavily talked Nature Passport program. Guests ating a family-friendly atmosphere about properties on them,” she said. can check in and earn prizes as they that is clean and safe and the small “The lakefront views looking out at travel and explore Indiana’s unique size of our property makes it easier Jackson-Washington State Forest are and remarkable natural features to do so,” she said. stunning in the mornings, and the convenience of being able to fish and launch a boat, canoe or kayak directly from your campsite is something campers aren’t able to experience at many other properties.” And what doesn’t Starve Hollow offer? “It now In addition to camping, it offers boat, ranks as canoe, kayak rentals, a nature center with edu- a top 10 cational programs and various special events on camping holiday weekends, a boat house with camping es- destination sentials as well as fishing gear and snacks, hiking in Indiana.” trails, a swimming beach with a beach volleyball Cassie Stilwell Chris E. Hunter net, several playgrounds, Real Estate Broker picnic areas, fishing and hunting Phone- 812-521-6893 during appropriate seasons. Many people are unaware that Mensendiek’s Real Estate Starve Hollow is one of the properties included in the Indiana State Parks & Reservoirs Hoosier Quest patch and pin program, Stilwell said. Partici- pants are required to perform certain activities such as hiking, a volunteer service, attending an interpretive IN-35073616 THE TRIBUNE 17 nonprofitspotlight Blessings in a Backpack A Q-&-A with Pam Kindel who oversees the national program, Blessings in a Backpack, locally.

PAM KINDEL Compiled by Lyndsey Wolfe

What is Blessings in a Backpack and as Head Start. Outside of Seymour, we Can people donate in-person? If so, who does it serve? work with Brownstown, Medora and how? The program mobilizes communities, Crothersville elementary schools. People can donate in person at the individuals and resources to provide Schuler Bauer Real Estate office at 209 food on the weekends for elementary How can people get involved? S. Carter Street Seymour, Indiana 47274. school children in 46 states and the Blessings in a Backpack has mobilized However, the more convenient and District of Columbia who might oth- a community of volunteers to handle preferred method of making a donation erwise go hungry. In fact, 11 million the logistics of the program. We have is to mail a check directly to Blessings kids in America won’t have enough streamlined the process of receiving in a Backpack. Donations can be mailed food to eat this weekend, according to the food, packing based on the need to Blessings in a Backpack, P.O. Box blessingsinabackpack.org. Blessings in per school and delivery, and we are 950291, Louisville, KY 40295. Put “Bless- a Backpack works with nutritionists to booked for months in advance as far as ings in a Backpack Seymour, Indiana” in develop weekend menus that provide volunteers. the memo line. the most protein and nutrients for the dollar spent. According to Blessings in a Backpack national guidelines, we must make all Any upcoming events/fundraisers? The food given to the kids is shelf food purchases through their national Blessings in a Backpack Jackson County stable, easy to open and requires no organization. However, on occasion, just hosted our first golf outing at Shad- preparation or access to appliances. food distributors have made donations owood Golf Course in Seymour on May We work closely with each school of prepackaged snacks that we have 7th. We were excited by the turn out counselor to determine the exact need accepted and evenly distributed to the and overwhelming support. We were of children potentially facing weekend able to raise several thousand dollars schools we work with. In general, we food insecurity in their school, and that in sponsorships and donations, as well cannot accept donations of food. is the number of weekend meals we de- as come together with our friends, liver every week. It costs nearly $130 per Our greatest need is financial support. volunteers and supporters to have a fun kid each school year to send the weekly We began the year with sustainability afternoon of golf. This will become an meals home with them. concerns, and we made an appeal for annual event to be hosted on Mother’s corporate sponsorship. The program Day Weekend every year. In the fall we Why did you decide to start Blessings has grown so large so fast, in order plan to have a soup tasting fundraiser in a Backpack locally in the Jackson to keep up with the demands, we are similar to the Empty Bowls fundraiser. County area? needing a larger pool of funds to help We will partner with local restaurants Blessings in a Backpack Jackson County take the pressure off our many individ- to make a variety of soups for tasting, started with us seeing a need within uals, local businesses and organizations and we hope to partner with the kids the community and deciding to take that we partner with. themselves to make the bowls in their action. At Schuler Bauer, we are always We have received some of the cor- art classes that will be used in the fund- looking for ways to connect within the porate support and grant dollars we raiser. Tickets for this event will begin community. have reached out for, but our need being advertised and sold sometime for the remainder of 2021 has not yet this summer. How many families/students have you been met. So please consider donating helped so far? generously. All of the local partners are Where to find information or someone In Jackson County, 329 elementary regularly advertised on the Blessings in to contact? school children have come to rely on a Backpack Jackson County Facebook Anyone interested in helping the Blessings in a Backpack to provide page that has a 12,000-person post Blessings in a Backpack program or them with weekend meals every week. reach. We have some donors who pre- wanting more information should email In Seymour, that’s Brown, Redding, fer to remain anonymous and we are [email protected] or call Emerson, Jackson and Cortland, as well happy to honor those requests. 812-216-2297.

18 HEARTLAND FAMILY IN-35073614 IN-35073360