Autism: Putting the Pieces Together

Ann Marie Noll, MS, Director of Outpatient Therapy Services for TOTS in Fishers gives parents some tips on how to tell if your child(ren) may be autistic.

There’s a reason why one of the most recognized symbols for autism is a ribbon made of puzzle pieces. Autism is perhaps one of the most mystifying disorders that a family can deal with. Why? Because no one really knows what causes it, and there is no way to stop or reverse it.

The term autism is used to generally describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders knows as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). It is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. And according to government statistics, diagnosed cases of autism are increasing every year by 10 to17 percent, with the vast majority of those cases being idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown.

“One of the hardest parts for families is the identification process,” says Ann Marie Noll, MS, Director of Outpatient Therapy Services for TOTS, Fishers (totsindy.com). “Our therapists are often in the position to see those first signals that a diagnosis might be in order, but parents aren’t always ready to hear that.”

Noll says that since autism is a spectrum disorder, every child shows different characteristics, which makes it that much more difficult for parents and physicians. “The process that parents go through is tough,” she says.

“They experience a variety of emotions before they are ready to accept that their child’s delay may be more complex,” Noll explains. “Once families are ready, referrals are made so that they can get the appropriate help.”

So what are initial signs to look for that a child might have autism? According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, you should visit a physician if your child:

• Does not babble or coo by 12 months of age
• Does not gesture (point, wave, grasp, etc.) by 12 months of age
• Does not say single words by 16 months of age
• Does not say two-word phrases on his or her own (rather than just repeating what someone says to him or her) by 24 months of age
• Has any loss of any language or social skill at any age.

Stephanie and David Meier, Carmel parents of three, know about the struggles that families face when a child has autism. Both of their sons, Johnathan, 9, and Will, 8, were diagnosed with autism before reaching the age of two. Their daughter, Paige, 10, is a typical child.

Stephanie and David Meier enjoy a family vacation with their children Paige, Johnathan and Will. Both sons have been diagnosed with autism.

When the couple first learned that Johnathan had autism, they were numb. “We were scared and totally unprepared,” Stephanie says. “We wondered, ‘How did this happen?’, ‘What did we do wrong?’, and ‘How can we fix it?’”

Once their second son, Will, was diagnosed, Stephanie says they weren’t surprised, but they still experienced the same raw and painful emotions as before.

“Every day we have our struggles, just like any other family,” Stephanie says. “Our struggles are just different. We must always try to anticipate what is going to happen next, and be one step ahead of the children. Routines are extremely important, and transitions are always difficult.”

Although Stephanie says that dealing with autism has actually brought her family closer together, she has seen other families torn apart. With that in mind, she offers advice for families who are struggling with an autism diagnosis.

“Don’t be in denial, and get help immediately,” Stephanie says. “There are many resources out there. You just have to ask for help and don’t give up.”

“Also, take time out for yourself and try to spend time with all of your children, not just those with special needs,” Stephanie adds. “But most of all … don’t lose hope.”
You’re Not Alone
Visit these websites for additional information and resources for autism.

ASK aboutspecialkids.org
Autism Society autism-society.org
Answers for Autism aaiwalk.org
First Steps infirststeps.com
Hands In Autism handsinautism.org
Indiana Institute on Disability and Community iidc.indiana.edu
National Autism Association nationalautismassociation.org

It’s a Birthday Party, Kids!

When planning a kids' party, Heather Lapham Kuhn, events concierge at L’Evento Boutique, recommends planning ahead as much as possible to keep costs in line.

It used to be that a simple, homemade birthday cake and a few token streamers constituted a successful kid’s birthday party. Throw in a handful of friends and a donkey without a tail, and you were done.

Today? Not so much. Birthday parties for children have been elevated to an entirely different level, with hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars being spent to celebrate this annual event. What’s a parent to do?
“Plan ahead,” says Heather Lapham Kuhn, events concierge at L’Evento Boutique. “The biggest reason people overspend on any celebration is last-minute planning. By giving yourself plenty of time to make smart choices and seek out bargains, you’ll save a bunch of money.”

Here are some other no-nonsense tips to keep in mind:

Click to visit the WZPL Parent Magazine online!

Be Yourself. Don’t get sucked in to a keep-up-with-the-Joneses scenario. Stick to your guns when it comes to the budget, guest list and location. If you’re not the do-it-yourself kind of person, there are plenty of options in the Indianapolis area that will bring the party to your home, or will host your special event at an offsite location. “Having parties at home, with family and friends gathering together to celebrate, has become more popular again,” says Amanda Henson, Best Fun, Inc. “But it can also be lots of pressure. Having someone at the party to entertain the kids, and even adults, is a good idea as it takes that pressure off and allows everyone to have fun.”

Have a Back-Up Plan. If your party is going to be outdoors, make sure you have an alternative date in mind or a location available should the weather not cooperate.

Combine Celebrations. Many party vendors and businesses offer better deals for larger guest lists. Consider holding one big bash on a neutral date for two or more children at the same time.

Give Back. Fishers residents Lori and Matt Trulock started a family tradition with Camden, their son, on his very first birthday party held last month. In lieu of gifts, they asked each guest to bring items found on the Hamilton County Humane Society’s Wish List. “We actually collected a truck load full of donations, and we took Camden with us to deliver them,” Lori says. “He won’t remember it now, but he will understand it as he gets older, as we’re going to do the same thing each year.”

Be Creative. Pop culture, television shows, books and trends are always a good place to start for inspiration. Here are just a few examples of clever party ideas:

• Letterboxing – Combine this popular activity with a round of pizzas at home and a gift bag filled with stamps, pens and a notebook. Check out www.letterboxing.org for inspiration.
• Toddlers & Tiaras – One local group of tweens gathered for a slumber party and an all-out spoof on this television series. While poking fun at kid pageants, guests donned outlandish hairstyles and exaggerated make-up while competing for titles like Worst Costume and Funniest Routine.
• 39 Clues – This popular book series lends itself to scavenger hunts, endless activities and exotic locales. Carmel resident Deana Keen, who chose this theme for one of her son’s birthday parties, said it was a hit. “It was a blast watching the kids eat Ramen noodles with chopsticks, wrapping toilet paper around themselves to look like mummies, and eating Vienna sausages in ‘Austria,’” she said.
• Mall Time – Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on decorations and food, one mom simply gave her daughter and each guest $20, drove them to a popular mall for a casual lunch, and then tagged along while they figured out how to spend it all.

Planning a party for your child can be daunting, but with a little forethought and a bit of imagination, they can also be unforgettable events, with memories to last a lifetime.

North Side Residents Featured in New 9/11 Music Video

When musician Daniel Mark Baird, 40, traveled from Elkhart, Ind., to the north side of Indianapolis over this past July 4th weekend, he wasn’t just looking to celebrate a patriotic holiday. He attended a number of community events, including Carmel’s Fourth of July parade, in order to shoot video footage of typical Americans honoring their country. The results? The images were used to create a music video for Baird’s song, The Eagle Still Flies, which can now be seen in its entirety online.

The song has been in development for years. The first version was written by Daniel’s sister, Danette Baird of Muncie, Ind., shortly after the tragic events of 9/11. She then asked Daniel for help, and through a collaborative effort, the song was completed and a demo was recorded in 2002. But without any high-powered music executives behind it, the demo sat idle for years.

Last year, with the tenth anniversary of 9/11 fast approaching, the brother and sister team took action. With the assistance of veteran Nashville producer and studio musician Shane Keister, a new recording of the song was made. But in today’s world of social media, Daniel knew that a video would have to be part of the package. So over this past summer, he worked with video director Luke Renner of Fireside Films to get the job done.

“You just don’t know when you go into something like this how hard it’s going to be,” says Daniel. “It’s been an incredible amount of work, but to have something in the end that is so moving, it makes it all worth it.”

Today, with a completed song and video to boot, their hard work is paying off. Local television stations have taken notice, and the attention is spreading. Daniel is scheduled to perform the song at a number of 9/11 events, including a September 11 appearance at the 9/11 Heroes Run in Westfield, and at the Project 9/11 Indianapolis dedication downtown.

In addition, Baird has been asked to perform the song live on the Fox59 Morning News on September 9. The song and video are also being included in a documentary currently in production about the making of Project 9/11. Bryan Boyd, the local freelance producer managing the film, is hopeful that the final product will make its debut at the Heartland Film Festival in October.

A computer systems administrator by day, Daniel hopes that the launch of the video and the upcoming tenth anniversary of 9/11 will give him the opportunity to share his song with a state- and nationwide audience.

“This song is so meaningful to my sister and me, and we are thrilled that it’s finally being heard,” Daniel says. “We are so thankful to all the people that were willing to be a part of our video, as we feel it truly captures the spirit of Americans. We just hope it means as much to them as it does to us.”

The Eagle Still Flies is available on iTunes. To find out more about the song, or to view the video, visit http://eagleflies.us, or www.facebook.com/eagleflies911. You can also view the video on YouTube, entitled, The Eagle Still Flies – A 10-year Anniversary Tribute to 9/11.

Back to School Headache? Family Traditions Help Ease Pain

Carmel family Sydney, Ken, Nate, Heidi and Chase Becker look forward to a multi-phase family tradition to help them get ready for the new school year.

When you bring up the subject of back-to-school preparedness with most parents, you’ll likely get a response that involves an eye roll, a few body twitches and deep, soulful moaning. Because as much as they might be thrilled with the idea of their kids getting back in the classroom, the thought of purchasing school supplies and adjusting to new sleep schedules is a different matter altogether.

Personally, I’m a little torn. It seems that my family just got into the groove of summer, what with the lazy mornings, nonexistent agenda and inattention to daily showers. I’ve just now adjusted to the constant odor of chlorine that permeates the laundry room, and the inevitable daily searches for swimming goggles. Now we’re supposed to shift gears and actually think about calculators, clipboards and permanent markers? It’s a challenge, no matter how you look at it.

But for some parents, particularly energetic and creative ones, this dreaded back-to-school paradigm shift serves as an opportunity to actually motivate their children, to turn the annual rite into something fun and, dare I say, enjoyable.

So in the spirit of back-to-school, I contacted some of these optimistic residents who have turned school prep into a fine art. Not surprisingly, there are good things going on. Who knows? Maybe their stories will motivate you to start new traditions of your own. Or not.

A Little One-on-One.

During the weeks leading up to the first day of school, Carmel resident Heidi Becker sets in motion a series of orchestrated events for her family of five that would impress most party planners.

“Our tradition has developed into more than just one day … it’s sort of like a multi-level celebration that helps get everybody psychologically ready,” Heidi says. And it’s never a dull moment.

Step one includes hitting the mall. Heidi makes it a point to take each of her three children (second-grader Chase, fourth-grader Sydney, and high school sophomore Nate) out for special, one-on-one shopping excursions. “There’s no way I could get everybody’s needs taken care of with all three kids at once, so by splitting them up, we get more accomplished,” Heidi explains. “And it’s always interesting, to say the least. You just never know what’s going to happen.”

Last year, for example, it was a particular challenge to take her then six-year-old shopping for a fall wardrobe, given his resistance to wearing underwear. “He likes to go commando, what can I say?” says Heidi. “Last year as he jumped into the car to go shopping; I luckily remembered to ask if he had on his skivvies.”

The answer? Her son simply looked at her from the back seat and calmly replied, “Mom, underwear is so last year!” Needless to say, after a quick jaunt back into the house to solve the problem, they were on their way.

Step two for the Becker clan is a group excursion in search of school supplies, although now that her oldest is in high school, he chooses to sit this one out. And finally, on the night before school, the entire family goes out to dinner (step three) to commemorate the end of summer.

“My husband and I take the kids out to a nice meal, and we just take a moment to talk about the summer and the school year to come,” Heidi says. “Altogether, it’s a lot of time to devote to back-to-school, but my kids look forward to it, and it really helps us make the transition. But above all, I think it also makes them feel special.”

Grin and Tie-Dye It.

Fishers residents Luke, Emma and Kyle Gabbard enjoy one of their annual back-to-school tie-dye parties to reconnect with friends and neighbors.

For the fourth consecutive year, Fishers residents Jennifer and Chad Gabbard, along with their sixth-grader Emma, fourth-grader Kyle, and kindergartener Luke, will host their annual back-to-school tie-dye party, where friends and neighbors are welcomed with large buckets of dye and plenty of rubber bands.

“We started this tradition because I wanted my kids to have something to look forward to before they went back to school every fall,” Jennifer says. “Now … well, it’s a given. It provides the kids a chance to reconnect with classmates and neighbors, and it goes hand-in-hand with the supply lists and shopping trips.”

Guests, which in some years have totaled over 50, bring their own items to tie-dye, and have ranged from soccer socks and pillow cases to T-shirts and napkins. Attendees create their own masterpieces, and the yard transforms into a patchwork of dripping wet, brightly colored fabric. While the drying process takes place, popsicles are the dessert of choice, and no one goes away empty handed … or clean.

“We typically have some kiddos leave with discolored clothes and skin,” Jennifer says. “In fact, last year we had a father come alone with his three kids, and his little girl just couldn’t resist the tubs full of dye. Needless to say, she went home with a solid purple body. I’m sure his wife didn’t appreciate the whole tie-dye theme when they got home.”

But the few mishaps and stain hazards haven’t stopped the custom. “We usually have a few spills here and there, but we keep it outside and have the hoses ready for clean up,” she says.

“Like it or not, I think it’s safe to say my kids have one of the most extensive collections of tie-dyed garments in the neighborhood,” Jennifer adds. “I suppose one day they’ll get tired of it, but for now, it’s a tradition that lives on year after year.”

May I Help You?

The Wardell family of Carmel is now sending their oldest son, Jacob (second from right) off to college this fall. It will be his first time to miss their annual back-to-school breakfast. Seen here enjoying a birthday celebration are Tom, Matt, Abbey, Jacob and Wendy.

In the Wardell family of Fishers, there’s nothing like the first day of school to warrant a little TLC that only a mom can give. In fact, as Wendy Wardell will tell you, it’s the only day of the year she serves up a special made-to-order breakfast, and her kids have learned to enjoy it when they can. “I’m just not a sit-home-and-make-cookies sort of mom,” she says. “But on that first day back to school, I pull out all the stops.”

Wendy begins the day with a breakfast menu, and her kids Jacob, now a college freshman, sixth-grader Matt, and fifth-grader Abbey, get to choose between biscuits and gravy, bacon and eggs, or waffles.

Once the kids are fed and dressed, they all go outside and take turns standing in front of a special tree in their yard and pose for pictures. “They always complain and whine about it,” Wendy says, “But deep down I know they love it. It’s fun to go back and see how they’ve grown, and how it compares to how the tree has grown too!”

After the kids are off to the classroom, Wendy heads in to make warm batches of homemade cookies. “Believe me when I tell you that this is the only day of the year that I do this,” she says. “So it’s a very big deal for them … not only do they get a special breakfast, but then they know the cookies will be waiting for them too.”

And why, exactly, does Wendy go to all the trouble? “Well, to be honest, I think it puts the emphasis on the tradition itself and takes away from the anxiety of the first day,” she says. “It helps them focus on other things. And we all have fun looking back to see how they’ve grown and changed. We’ll have those pictures forever.”

Back to the Drawing Board.

Carmel resident Kate Lustig is starting a new back-to-school tradition with her daughter, Kaiya, as she heads off to kindergarten this fall.

For Carmel mom Kate Lustig, this upcoming school year will mark the beginning of traditions for her and her daughter Kaiya, who will be entering kindergarten.

“I’m so excited for her,” Kate says. “After being in daycare for so many years, she’s a bit of an old pro at starting school, so I won’t have to deal with as much of the anxiety about leaving her in a new place. But I definitely feel some butterflies about moving from a small school environment to such a large one. It’s big stuff!”

Because Kaiya is an avid artist and loves documenting her activities and interests through drawing and painting, it’s fitting that Kate wants to incorporate creative expression as part of a new school-related tradition. It’s the perfect plan to commemorate the beginning of a 13-year journey.

“Kaiya has always loved to express herself through her pictures, so I’m going to have her draw how she sees herself on the first day of school, and then write down three goals for the year.” Kate then plans to laminate the picture and make it into a placemat before serving her first-day-of-school breakfast on top of it as a surprise.

“I think Kaiya will love the tradition because she doesn’t forget anything,” Kate says. “She’ll look forward to it each year, and as she gets older, we’ll enjoy looking back at the placemats and seeing how she’s changed. Plus, any excuse to draw and she takes it.”

Back-to-school traditions are like any other … they serve to honor and commemorate an important event or social custom. Up until now, I have felt proud to actually have my children clothed, fed and at the bus stop on time for that special first day. Perhaps now is the time to start some new traditions in my house. Or not.

Coyote Attacks Keep Pet Owners on High Alert

Geist resident Mary Kay Carney's dog, Hawk-eye, has suffered three attacks by area coyotes, and is healing from extensive and most-likely permanent nerve damage.

Mary Kay Carney loves animals. In fact, she is an avid pet owner, and also provides care and shelter for rescued animals while finding them loving homes. She appreciates and respects wildlife as well, but as a Geist resident living at The Preserves, she has found that residing with both domestic animals and the area coyotes that live in the surrounding woods can cause conflict … and heartache.

“I just want other pet owners to be aware of what I’ve gone through, so they can protect their pets,” says Carney, whose one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix, Hawk-eye, has been injured three different times by coyotes, with the most recent near-death attack causing what is probably permanent nerve damage.

“Our German Shepherd, Sable, has also been stalked three different times by two coyotes during all hours of the day,” says Carney. “Luckily, she has escaped injury, just because our presence scared them away each time.”

Carney, who has lived in her current home for 11 years, is increasingly frustrated by the endless worry over possible coyote attacks. “I love it here, but I’ve also become so aggravated by what I see as an increase in the coyote population and the levels of aggression they display. It really makes it difficult,” she says.

“If the coyotes are aggressive with large breeds like my dogs, then they’ll not think twice about attacking smaller breeds,” says Carney. She also expresses concern for young children in the neighborhood, who regularly trek through the surrounding woods and build forts or play. “I just hope that pet owners and parents will realize that precautions need to be made in order to ensure that everyone’s safe.”

According to Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), coyotes were uncommon in Indiana until the early 1970s. Since then, they have increased in population and are not only present in every county, but are common in urban areas as well.

“Coyotes are highly adaptable, and they will take an easy meal when available,” says Phil Bloom, DNR’s director of communications. “Although they mainly feed on small mammals, like rodents, they will certainly feed on garbage, as well as on house cats or small dogs.”

“When any urban area grows and develops, there will be conflict between humans and wildlife,” Bloom says. “Our best advice for residents is to follow the recommendations from the DNR and be aware of your surroundings.”

DNR recommendations for keeping your pets safe from coyotes include:

• Feed pets indoors whenever possible; pick up leftovers if feeding outdoors and store pet and livestock food in inaccessible areas.
• Eliminate outdoor water bowls and other artificial water sources (if possible).
• Position bird feeders in locations that are less likely to attract small animals, or bring feeders in at night (to keep coyotes from feeding on the bird food or the other animals).
• Do not discard edible garbage where coyotes can get to it. Secure garbage containers.
• Trim and clean shrubbery near ground level to reduce hiding cover for coyotes or their prey.
• Do not allow pets to run free, and provide secure nighttime housing for them.
• If you see coyotes around your home, discourage them by shouting, making loud noises or throwing rocks, but never corner a coyote – always give the coyote a free escape route.

For more information about coyotes and other nuisance wildlife, visit the DNR’s website at www.in.gov/dnr.

Crossing a Line in the Sand: “Tweet!”

Michelle Freed

I remember the day as if it was yesterday; the sky was cloudy and on the verge of unleashing a nasty storm. I had just finished gobbling up my Cobb salad and catching up with my good friend and publisher, Tom Britt, at a local eatery over lunch. The conversation suddenly turned to business.

“Michelle, it’s time,” he said. He had been helping me set up my website, and was patiently trying to school me on the fine art of uploading pictures. This isn’t a new role for Tom to play, as he has held my hand through electronic developments and computer programs for over 15 years.

“Please Tom,” I begged. “Don’t say it. I’m not ready.” Tears were hovering in the corner of my eyes, and my lower lip started to quiver. “I just don’t think I can do it.”

He tried to reassure me as he lightly covered my hands with his and fiercely stared into my doubting eyes. “You can do it.” He gave my fingers an extra squeeze of encouragement. Then, without dropping his gaze, he reached over and pressed “Enter” on my laptop. And there it was. It was done. I had entered the world of Twitter.

I’m a late bloomer, and I understand this. I have avoided this membership for years. While my friends and associates have continually been shocked, and dare I say punitive, at my refusal to tweet, I have stood fast in my resolve.

I understand the importance of tweeting to followers from a business marketing perspective. I think. I just don’t really want to be a part of it. I have enough problems keeping up with everyday demands … like brushing my teeth, remembering to start the dishwasher and showing up at various business meetings and community events on time.

I finally (and extremely reluctantly) joined the Facebook crowd only after being publicly shamed at social gatherings for not having an account. But I always felt that becoming a part of Twitter represented a line in the sand, so to speak. And now I’ve crossed it.

“You really want to use this is an opportunity to name-drop,” Tom later explained once my first round of convulsions simmered. I wasn’t expecting such a dramatic physical response.

“Why do I need to drop names? I do not hang out with any celebrities,” I said. Do you have to be famous to tweet? I didn’t know there were requirements.

“No, I mean like places you go, people you meet or spend time with … that’s the point,” he stated.

Why would anyone care at all as to the places I go or people I see? Did I need to tweet about my oil changes, or my cost-cutting trips to the closest wholesale club? What about when I go to the dry cleaners. Did that count?

I could see Tom was getting frustrated and had reached his limit. “Just see what other people are tweeting about and follow suit,” he said. “Maybe link to interesting sites or tweet about your humorous observations during the day.”

This was even more disturbing, as I didn’t want to have to be funny in 140 characters or less. But then the bigger worry presented itself. What if no one follows me? I felt like I was in high school all over again, worried about being noticed at a big dance or getting a date for Homecoming. Would others find me worthy? Will I be able to handle rejection?

All I know is that since becoming a part of the Twitter world, I feel a little more up-to-speed with technology. The only problem is that now I have to figure out what to say. I wonder if George Clooney is available for lunch.

See what Michelle has to say on Twitter, @MichelleFreed, or read more of her blogs on www.MichelleFreed.com.

Homes of the Brave: Fishers Fire Fighters Station 92

Firefighters from three Geist area fire stations are among the first to respond to local emergency situations, as they routinely put their lives on the line to help make local residents safe. This is the first of a three-part series that will help you get to know them better.

Fire Station 92

Station 92 fire fighters gather after completing training drills last month outside a vacant area residence. Shift C members include (from left): Rob Demlow, Chad Hiner, John Shanks, James Taylor and Neil Sullivan.

It’s no accident that the local red bricked Fishers Fire Station 92, perched on the corner of 116th Street and Brooks School Road, resembles an old-fashioned schoolhouse. Not only does it serve as home away from home for its resident firefighters, but when it was built in 1992, its exterior features were specifically designed to blend in with the adjoining Fall Creek Township Offices, which are all built around a preserved one-room schoolhouse that once welcomed young students through its doors as far back as the late 1800s.

And while rich in history (there are even rumors of a resident ghost named Joe), the station is the hub for three crews of firefighters who spend their days training for and responding to emergency situations not only in the Geist area, but wherever duty calls.

Just as doctors or lawyers are known for their particular areas of expertise, so are fire stations. Station 92 is known as a water rescue house, which is vital for a community with such a large reservoir as one of its main attractions, not to mention all the retention ponds that dot the landscape.

The exterior of Fishers Fire Department Station 92, also known as "The Rock," at 116th St. and Brooks School Rd., was designed to compliment the preserved one-room school house (directly on the corner), which is part of the Fall Creek Township Offices.

Three separate shifts (A, B and C), consisting of six “spots” each, make up the dedicated and highly-trained companies that rotate in and out of the facility, each working 24-hour shifts every third day. Each shift is typically made up of a chauffeur (the driver of the fire engine), an officer and two back steps (firefighters that ride backwards in the engine). The other two spots are filled with an EMT and a paramedic. At least two on each shift are certified divers, ensuring that no matter when an emergency situation occurs, if it involves water in any way, the station is prepared to handle it.

“We pride ourselves on what we can offer the people of this area,” says Lt. Jay Manship, Shift B. “We have a diverse group of firefighters at our station with amazing talent. For example, some of our divers are also swift water instructed, which means they’re capable of river rescues, and dealing with flooding, particularly with heavy flows.”

Station 92 firefighters are equipped with scuba and dive gear that are transported in the Tactical 92 Dive/Rescue Support Truck, above. Shown here are members of Shift B, including (from left): Bobby Schlageter, Jay Manship, Patrick Keith, and 18-year-old Explorer Chris Sheridan.

Divers receive extensive training through the Fishers Fire Department, as well as through training programs like the Indiana River Rescue School in South Bend, Indiana, where they obtain additional certification and go through rigorous training from the banks of the St. Joseph River. The Geist Reservoir itself also serves as the perfect training location during the warmer months, where divers can practice techniques and hone water rescue skills.

“We probably receive about a half-dozen emergency dive calls a year,” says diver Neil Sullivan, Shift C, who is also trained as a paramedic. “In order to stay certified, we make at least eight dives per year, plus we perform regular specialty dives, like deep dives, dives to a submerged vehicle, or through ice.”

Fellow shift diver Chad Hiner has also added additional skills to his personal resume, and not only serves as a medic for the Tactical Rescue Team, but also for the Fishers Police Department SWAT team. Hiner is qualified to administer a multitude of functions, including advanced life support and medications while responding to emergency situations. And although he doesn’t respond to SWAT Team calls while on duty as a firefighter, he does participate with the specialized unit during his days off.

A vacant residence serves as prime training ground for area fire fighters. Additional drills and training exercises will eventually serve to level the current structure to the ground.

“The local police and fire departments have a great relationship in Fishers,” Hiner says. “I enjoy being a part of both departments, and I really appreciate how they both are so great with community involvement and public education.”

From a firefighter’s perspective, another defining feature of the Geist area is its residential diversity, with a significant increase over the past several years in the amount of senior living communities, as well as in townhome and apartment developments. But perhaps one of the most well known distinctions of the reservoir area is the massive homes that line its shores. This in itself presents unique challenges when it comes to fighting fires.

While an average home in another neighborhood might be a one- or two-story structure with three bedrooms, the Geist homes that directly surround the reservoir area are custom, multiple-level designs, often covering 6,000 square feet or more. This type of home calls for a different firefighting approach.

“When we get a call on such a large home, we treat it like a commercial building versus a residence,” says Manship. “With a smaller home, we can usually determine just by looking at the windows and the layout of the building where the bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas are,” he explains. But with larger homes, it’s difficult to anticipate where inhabitants might be located.

“You’re also looking at massive individual rooms, with some closet spaces measuring even larger than a standard bedroom,” Manship says. This means that when a crew is initially sent in to “do a sweep,” which means to thoroughly search rooms for victims, more firefighters and time are needed in order to make sure the rooms are clear. There are also usually more challenging areas to reach, like higher attic spaces, which can present ideal conditions for fire.

“We definitely have to approach larger homes a little differently,” says Manship. “But that’s one of the things that makes our job unique. It’s never boring.”

So what’s it like to be a firefighter at Station 92? To echo Manship’s words, it’s never boring. In fact, playing pranks on each other and ribbing fellow shift members is an everyday occurrence. Not to mention the occasional reference to Joe, the resident ghost. Although no current shift members would go on record as being “believers,” former shift members report unexplained lights being turned on and off, or doors opening and closing for no apparent reason. It all adds to the uniqueness and mystique of the station and its history.

“This station definitely represents a home away from home,” says Manship. “Sometimes it’s hard because when you’re away from your own home and immediate family for hours at a time, you miss special events and celebrations,” he says. “But when you spend so much time with the guys on your shift, you also get to know each other very well, and you learn to rely on them and trust them … it makes it easier to deal with.”

“As far as the residents in our community, I think we are definitely acknowledged here a little more than in other towns,” says Rob Demlow, Shift C diver. “We have lots of parents and family members that come to the firehouse to visit. We definitely feel respected and appreciated here.”

Demlow says that the crew members particularly enjoy the visits from families during the annual Fire Prevention Week. “Parents usually end up learning just as much as the kids do, and they definitely have a good time,” he says.

“The people in this area have been wonderful,” adds Hiner. “When kids come up to give us high-fives, or when the people that we’ve helped come up to say thank you, we love it. Our station gets so many deliveries of cookies and goodies, or cards and letters of appreciation … it feels like family here.”

If you’d like to know more about Station 92, including its engines and capabilities, visit www.fishers.in.us. Click on the Government tab, and then the Fire Department link.

Of Cupid and Chocolate Candies

Michelle Momper

Let’s face it. The best thing about Valentine’s Day is that it’s the perfect excuse to eat chocolate. You don’t even have to have a love interest … you just have to have a sweet tooth. That, by definition, makes for a perfect holiday – at least in the eyes of every woman I know. Men, on the other hand, well … not so much.

My husband despises Valentine’s Day. He made his position very clear early on in our relationship. “It’s a forced day of feelings,” he explained. “It’s too much pressure. I’d much rather send a bouquet of flowers or give romantic gifts on random days when it’s unexpected.”

This, my friends, is the oldest and most used (eye-roll here) excuse in the Testosterone Club. It wouldn’t be so bad if all of you rebellious philosophers out there actually did send random bouquets and unexpected proclamations of love out of nowhere. Alas, I’ve learned to just knowingly shake my head and go buy my own chocolates.

Truthfully, I’ve always felt that children are the true benefactors of Valentine’s Day. The thrill of making a paper heart, the excitement over a new red and white pencil – what more could there be? Until that whole romance angle rears its ugly head.

Recently, my eight-year-old son saw an advertisement on TV featuring Cupid and a young couple falling in love. I could see his confusion.

“Who’s this Cupid guy?” he asked.

“He’s a symbol for Valentine’s Day,” I said. “He goes around and shoots people with his arrow of love.” I was going for a simplistic explanation.

“I don’t get it. Wouldn’t that hurt?” he asked.

“Well, it’s not that kind of arrow … it’s supposed to pierce your heart and make you fall in love,” I said.

“Why would anyone want to fall in love, especially if it kills you and hurts your heart?” I didn’t have a logical explanation for that.

“Love is dramatic and painful,” chimed in my 10-year-old daughter.

“What makes you say that?” I asked, trying not to imagine how she drew this conclusion.

“Well, Rachel on the bus just went through a breakup, and she’s just a big mess,” she said. I then found out that Rachel is 11.

“Isn’t Rachel a bit young to be breaking up with someone?” I inquired in a somewhat panicked voice. After all, if Rachel is going through a breakup, would my daughter be next in line?

“She got dumped. Besides, Rachel has had boyfriends since she was seven,” she calmly responded.

My son, by now, was burying his face in his hands. Apparently the idea of love and breakups had affected him much more than I anticipated.

“Listen, the both of you,” I said. “Your Valentine’s Day will be fabulous. You’ll get to exchange cards with classmates, and we’ll do something fun at home to celebrate.”

“Can I get a new Nintendo DS game?” my son asked.

“Can I get new clothes?” my daughter added.

Sigh. Somehow the meaning has been lost on my family. Where is the sentiment? What’s the point, and where did I go wrong?

I’m sure that somehow, when push comes to shove, expressions of love and appreciation will find their way into my household on the Big Day. In the meantime, I’m leaving right now to go find someone who appreciates the true meaning of Valentine’s Day – his name is Hershey.

Dear Santa: Please Take Me Away!

Michelle Momper

Three months ago, just about the time the local swimming pools closed their doors, my son started a Christmas list. It now consists of four pieces of copy paper taped together into one long scroll of detailed items. He has even included the prices, and where to find the merchandise. If I bought him everything on the list, I would need a second mortgage on my house.

Included at the top of the list is a heartfelt note to the big guy. I think he wanted to cover all the bases. It says: Dear Santa, I have been a really, really, really good boy this year. I hope you can come to my house. P.S. I really, really, really want the Death Star.

Although I’m not exactly sure what Death Star he’s referring to, I think it’s expensive. He then went on to have about five more P.S.’s, filled with contingency plans should the first four gift requests not work out. I think he’s on to something.

So I thought I’d give it a go, even though I rarely write a list for myself. Oh, I have a running Christmas list for my children, my husband (which primarily consists of lawn equipment), and every immediate and distant relative living in the United States. I usually just tell someone at the last minute that I’m out of socks. So this year I’m being daring. I’m writing it down and going public:

Dear Santa,

I have been really, really, really good this year. I have continued to perfect my multi-tasking skills, simultaneously keeping a semi-clean household, sending my children to school, and creating somewhat respectable meals in the crockpot … on occasion.

I don’t want a big car or a fancy coat. I don’t really even care about appliances. What I do want is an all-expenses paid trip. Not with my family, as much as I love them. Not with clients or colleagues or relatives. I want to fly far, far away (and can I just see what it’s like in first-class?) to a warm island with sandy beaches. I want a man-servant at my beck and call, and I want five of my closest girlfriends there too.

We need therapy. We need to relax. We need to know that the world continues to revolve without us, regardless of homework emergencies or lost shoes. I want to have a conversation that does not involve bills, work, deadlines, home repairs or schedules.

I want to dance to 80s music without shame, drink flamboyant and powerful cocktails, and not have to wake up early the next day to fix breakfast. I want a really good book that has no literary significance whatsoever, and I want an unlimited credit card so I can take all my friends shopping. I really, really, really hope you can help.

Your friend, Michelle.

P.S. I wouldn’t mind a manicure. P.P.S. Oh, and a pedicure. P.P.P.S., and maybe a facial. Happy Holidays!

September 11 Means Quiet Reflection for Geist Resident

On September 11, when the nation pauses to remember the lives lost nine years ago in New York City, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania as a result of terrorist attacks, Joe Damush will not be at work. Although his fitness and wellness club, Geist Fitness, will be open for business as usual, Damush and his wife and co-owner, Teresa, will spend the day in reflection. They will quietly honor the memory of his sister, Pamela Gaff, who perished in the South Tower of the World Trade Center on that fateful day.

Damush and his wife were scheduled to travel up to Chicago that day in 2001 to meet up with Gaff, and to help celebrate her birthday, which was Sept. 10. It was also Gaff’s 30th wedding anniversary. But Gaff, who was a Senior Vice President for Aon Corporation, couldn’t make the trip. A dedicated professional, she had paperwork to attend to in the Aon offices, located in the South Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.

“When the first plane hit the North Tower on that day, I immediately tried to call Pam,” says Damush. But he couldn’t get through. He would later find out that Gaff, who had helped evacuate her staff and was attending to final responsibilities before leaving the building, was talking to their father when she saw the second plane coming straight toward the South Tower.

“My father was on the phone with her at the time the plane hit,” Damush recalls. Gaff was on the 102nd floor, and the plane made impact within the ten floors below. “My dad is an Army veteran, and was in the Special Forces, so he’s a pretty tough character. But he heard her voice as the plane approached and then hit the building … that experience stays with him today,” he says.

Flights were immediately grounded across the country, so Damush and his wife jumped in their car and drove to New Jersey, where a brother and extended family resides. Pam was the oldest of five children in the Damush family, and also lived in Princeton, New Jersey, along with her husband.

Once arriving in New Jersey, Damush and his family waited for word of any survivors. “We basically waited for direction from the Red Cross to see what we could do or what we could find out,” explains Damush. “After a few days, two of us were asked to go to Ground Zero to give DNA for identification purposes. Since I was the oldest after Pam, I went in with my mom to give samples,” he says.

While the reality of the situation continued to stun the nation, Damush and his family remained in a state of shock. “We were a strong family unit before the tragedy, so we were there for each other as best we could be,” Damush says.

As the clean up efforts began throughout the upcoming days, the siblings and spouses returned to their respective homes, and hoped that they would at least hear news of Pam’s remains being found. But as the world would soon learn, there was very little to be identified.

“I think that was one of the hardest things about it,” says Damush, referring to the fruitless recovery efforts taking place. “We waited for months to see if any workers found anything, but there just wasn’t anything to be found,” he says.

The Damush family purchased a headstone and a plaque for Gaff that is now located in Princeton, and they all make an annual pilgrimage to the site to honor her memory and remember the good things about their sister, daughter and friend.

“We were raised in a strong Catholic family,” says Damush. “And faith has a lot to do with how you deal with things.

“There were a lot of people that didn’t understand why we weren’t really angry,” Damush says. “But there are bad people everywhere and there are great people everywhere. Countries all over the world lost people in both towers … it wasn’t just Americans that were affected. There is a myriad of cultures and people who suffered. You can’t put the blame on a group, and it’s important for my family to keep that in perspective. And we do,” he says.

Damush has also dedicated a wall within the Geist Fitness building, which serves to honor her life through a mural. “At first, when people would come into the club and ask me about the wall and about Pam, it was a little tough,” says Damush. “But now it helps me to talk about it a little, and to positively remember her even more,” he says.

Damush also takes comfort in the continued strength of his family and the outpouring of support from strangers. One incident, in particular, made a big impact on his family.

“About a year after the attacks, my mother was contacted by a woman in Australia that she had never met,” says Damush. “She had somehow gotten our name, and wanted to find out personal things about Pam,” he says. The reason? A massive quilt was being created, made up of individual squares that represented each person lost on 9/11. The final quilt was sent to the United States and was in a traveling display throughout the country.

“I also really appreciate and empathize with the police officers and other officials who had to clean up and see Ground Zero day after day,” Damush says. “We need to recognize how special those people really are. The event affected so many layers of people, and as time goes by we need to continue to recognize how many people the event touched … hopefully everyone will remember the tragedy it was and still is,” he says.

So after nine years, are there any lessons learned for the Damush family, who has dealt with so much heartache and felt such great loss?

“We recognize that we are all on this earth a very short time, and it can be cut shorter,” says Damush. “Don’t live angry, don’t live with grudges, and try to be the best person you can be,” he says.

As for his lost sister, Pamela Graff, his family continues to honor her every year. “We all vow to do what we need to do to remember my sister, to honor the relationship we all had with her, and to share it so she’s not forgotten” he says.