🏀🏆 Drew Tower to Receive Prestigious IBCA Award, B’burg to Honor Racing Legend Dick Jordan with Memorial

 In This Issue of the Buzz 😀 

  🌞 Local Weather

⭐ Shop Local/Buy Local - Business

🏎🏁 B’burg to Honor Racing Legend Dick Jordan with Memorial

🏀🏆 Drew Tower to Receive Prestigious IBCA Award

🚔 Key Takeaways from the Brownsburg Police Commission Meeting

 🔔 School News - BHS Graduation, BHS Registering

📖📗 “The Village of Brownsburg” Book Signing

 📆 Upcoming Local Events

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Brownsburg to Honor Racing Legend Dick Jordan with Memorial Unveiling

Motorsport enthusiasts and admirers of Dick Jordan have an exciting event to anticipate, as the Town of Brownsburg collaborates with the Indiana Racing Memorial Association (IRMA) to dedicate a memorial in Brownsburg to the racing icon.

Gifted by Tony Stewart, the tribute will be revealed at a public ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, at 2 p.m. at Arbuckle Commons, located at 7198 Arbuckle Commons. This event welcomes the attendance of the community and racing aficionados alike.

This memorial stands as a testament to Dick Jordan's extensive contributions to motorsports over his sixty-year career, primarily through his dedication at the United States Auto Club, where he was a fervent advocate for racing. Moreover, it underscores the critical role of preserving Indiana's affluent racing history and legacy.

◼◼◼◼◼ Born on December 2, 1944, in Indianapolis, Dick Jordan grew into a figure synonymous with the pulse and passion of American auto racing. From the early days of accompanying his parents to racetracks in the 1950s, Jordan's fascination with the sport deepened, culminating in his first Indianapolis 500 experience in 1956. This exposure sowed the seeds of a lifelong dedication to the racing world, which would eventually see him becoming a pivotal member of the United States Auto Club (USAC) from December 1968.

Jordan's commitment to USAC spanned an impressive five decades, during which he became instrumental in shaping the public relations landscape of the organization. His role evolved to encompass a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including promoting drivers, series, and events, forging strong ties with media professionals across the nation, compiling comprehensive statistics, crafting detailed race reports, and guiding young drivers on navigating media relations. His efforts and dedication were recognized in 2000 when he ascended to the role of Vice President of Communications for USAC.

Notably, Jordan's calendar was marked by attendance at over 100 racing events annually, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport. His extensive presence at USAC events is unparalleled, earning him the reputation as one of the organization's most fervent advocates. In 2018, his contributions were further acknowledged when he received the prestigious Jim Chapman Award for excellence in motorsports public relations, complementing his earlier induction into the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in 2008 and his membership in the National Midget Racing Hall of Fame.

Dick Jordan's legacy is one of tireless dedication and profound impact on the world of auto racing, leaving an indelible mark that continued until his passing in 2019. His life's work not only celebrated the sport he loved but also paved the way for its future, making him a revered figure in the annals of American motorsports history. ◼◼◼◼◼

Brownsburg Town Council President Travis Tschaenn expressed pride in participating in this homage to a motorsport legend, emphasizing the importance of commemorating Dick Jordan's influential legacy within the sport.

IRMA has played a pivotal role in commemorating Indiana's racing history, earnestly dedicating efforts to establish memorials that celebrate notable figures in the sport, including drivers, mechanics, and other significant contributors.

IRMA President Mark L. Eutsler shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration with Tony Stewart and the Town of Brownsburg to celebrate Dick Jordan's enduring legacy. He mentioned that the memorial honored not only Dick Jordan and his contributions to motorsports but also signified the commitment to preserving the rich racing heritage of Indiana.

In 2023, the Town of Brownsburg and IRMA initiated the Brownsburg Racing Memorial Trail, marking Indiana's first endeavor of this kind to highlight the state's motorsports history. The trail, extending slightly over 2.1 miles, now features memorials to five motorsport legends, weaving through Williams Park, Town Hall Green, Arbuckle Commons, and White Lick Creek Greenway, celebrating the legacy of racing in the area.

Drew Tower to Receive Prestigious IBCA Awards for Athletic Administration Excellence

Congratulations Mr. Tower! A Well Deserved Recognition

The Indiana Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) is set to honor three distinguished school administrators with accolades in 2024, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to basketball programs. The recipients include John Steinhilber from River Forest, Drew Tower of Brownsburg, and Doug Louden, a retired administrator from Forest Park. Their roles have significantly supported basketball initiatives within their respective schools and districts.

John Steinhilber serves as the athletic director at River Forest Community School Corporation, while Drew Tower also serves as the Corporation Athletic Director at Brownsburg High School. Doug Louden has previously fulfilled the role of athletic director at Forest Park. These leaders are being recognized for their unwavering support and development of basketball programs in their communities. The IBCA has designated an Administrator of the Year for each of the three IHSAA districts, with Steinhilber representing District 1, Tower from District 2, and Louden being honored from District 3.

Marking the 16th occasion in the last 17 years, the IBCA continues its tradition of celebrating administrators who have made significant contributions to high school basketball. This tradition, established in 2008, took a brief hiatus in 2021 due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, resuming with the presentation of awards in the following year. A comprehensive record of past recipients is available for public viewing.

The award ceremony is scheduled to take place during the 2024 IBCA Clinic, set for April 25-26 at Mt. Vernon High School in Fortville. Further details regarding the association and its initiatives can be found on the IBCA website.

2024 IBCA Administrator of the Year

District 2

Drew Tower, Athletic Director, Brownsburg

Drew Tower has been at the helm of Brownsburg High School's athletic department for six years, where his organized and passionate leadership shines daily. He manages a comprehensive athletics program encompassing 22 sports, which has achieved significant success including three team state titles (2022 unified flag football, 2023 boys track & field, and 2024 wrestling) and 18 individual or relay state championships in track or wrestling during his tenure.

Prior to his current role, Tower served as an assistant coach for Taylor University's men's basketball team from 2011 to 2013 and then as an assistant coach for the Brownsburg boys’ basketball team from 2013 to 2016.

Tower, a 2007 New Castle High School alumnus, was a multi-sport athlete in basketball, cross country, and track for the Trojans. His junior year saw him contribute to New Castle's 2006 Class 3A basketball state championship win, and as a senior, he broke school records in track & field.

Continuing his education and athletic career, Tower attended Taylor University, playing basketball under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Paul Patterson and graduating in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in biology. He furthered his education with a master's in educational leadership from Ball State University in 2018.

Tower began his coaching career at his alma mater before transitioning to Brownsburg in 2013, where he significantly impacted as an academic coach, achieving a 99 percent graduation rate for the 2016 cohort, before taking on the role of athletic director in the 2018-19 academic year.

In his role, Tower focuses on enhancing the performance, character, and leadership skills of both coaches and student-athletes. Under his direction, Brownsburg High School earned the esteemed IHSAA Sportsmanship Award, marking a first for the institution.

Drew Tower, along with his wife Abby, is raising two sons, Hank and Beau, aged 5 and 3, respectively.

From Officer Recruitment to Crisis Management: Key Takeaways from the Brownsburg Police Commission Meeting

(Mar 12, 2024 Police Commission - Regular Meeting)

The Brownsburg Police Commission meeting held on March 12, 2024, encompassed several key points and discussions regarding the operations, initiatives, and community involvement of the Brownsburg Police Department. Here is a summarized account of the meeting activities and topics discussed, structured in bullet points for clarity:

• The meeting commenced with an invocation led by Pastor Chris Truson from Christ Lutheran Church, focusing on the importance of rescue and salvation, both in physical and spiritual terms, drawing parallels between the work of first responders and spiritual salvation.

• Approval of the agenda was sought, with a minor modification made to replace the reserve officer termination request with a list of resignation, approved by the commission.

• The minutes from the February 13, 2024 meeting were considered and approved without objections.

• In the absence of the Chief, discussions on various operational aspects were led by Major Watts, covering topics such as budget management, recruitment efforts for investigative and digital forensic analysts positions, and updates on the sworn officer recruitment process.

• The meeting highlighted the success of the physical agility and written tests conducted for officer recruitment, despite lower than expected participation rates, and outlined plans for upcoming interviews to fill positions.

• Updates were provided on various department initiatives, including the Citizens Academy's progress, the car seat fitting station certifications, and community outreach efforts, emphasizing the department's commitment to community engagement and safety.

• Training and development were discussed, with a focus on crisis negotiation training for officers and updates on the armed suicidal incident response, showcasing the department's efforts in handling mental health and critical incidents.

• A case of attempted homicide was briefed, underlining the challenges faced by officers and the importance of swift and effective law enforcement response.

• The Police and Fire Youth Camp and preparations for the upcoming solar eclipse event were discussed, highlighting community engagement and public safety measures.

• The meeting covered the development of the 2025 budget, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and resource allocation for the department's future needs.

• Community support and appreciation were acknowledged, with mentions of donations and supportive gestures from local businesses and residents, reflecting the strong community-police relationship.

• Discussions on impaired driving enforcement and the upcoming recruitment interview board were presented, stressing the department's proactive approach to public safety and staffing.

• Lastly, the need for capital projects, specifically for the relocation and development of the training facility for better resource and evidence storage, was brought to attention, indicating long-term infrastructure planning.

The meeting adjourned with a note of gratitude from Pastor Truson, thanking the police force for their service to the community, especially in critical and life-saving situations.

To watch the video replay, go to Town of Brownsburg.com

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(Excerpted from the BHS Team 2024 Newsletter)

Registration for Returning Students for 2024-2025 Begins Monday, March 11

Look for the link for online registration for next school year in your email on Monday, March 11. This registration is required annually for all returning students. (This is different from course registration at BHS in January/February.) Please complete the registration forms before Spring Break begins. The deadline is March 22, 2024.

Brownsburg High School Graduation

Brownsburg High School Graduation will be at 10am on Saturday, June 8th, 2024. If there is rain the following plans will fall into place

Rain Plan B: Saturday, June 8th at 2pm

Rain Plan C: Saturday, June 8th at 6pm

Rain Plan D: Sunday, June 9th at 2pm

Graduation Practice will be on Friday, June 7th at 10am. Students who plan to walk at graduation must be present for practice.

“The Village of Brownsburg” Book Signing

Upcoming Local Events

March 2024

• VITA Free Tax Prep

  • Date: (Ongoing through various dates)

  • Description: Free tax preparation for individuals and families with a combined household income of $66,000 or less in 2023, by IRS-certified volunteers.

  • More Information: Brownsburg Public Library website​​.

• Park Authority Meeting

  • Date: March 14, 2024

  • Description: A public meeting held by the Park Authority.

  • More Information: Brownsburg Parks​​.

• Teen Glow Egg Hunt

  • Date: March 15, 2024

  • Description: A nighttime glow-in-the-dark egg hunt for teens aged 12-16, featuring a color blast battle, sword fights, and a glow dance party.

  • More Information: Brownsburg Parks​​.

• Morning Bird Hike

  • Date: March 16, 2024

  • Description: A morning birdwatching hike led by a naturalist, encouraging all birders to join.

  • More Information: Brownsburg Parks​​.

• GRP Cars & Coffee

  • Date: March 16, 2024

  • Description: Hosted by Graham Rahal Performance, this event features free admission, free donuts and coffee, a bounce house, and a lineup of GRP’s latest inventory. A family-friendly event encouraging guests to bring their cars or motorcycles.

  • More Information: AllEvents.in - GRP Cars & Coffee​​.

• Flea Market

  • Date: March 16, 2024

  • Description: Shop home goods, clothing, props, costumes, new shoes, Disney collectibles, Loungefly bags, and much more at the Flea Market. Multiple families & vendors will be present, with space available for vendors to rent.

  • More Information: AllEvents.in - Flea Market​​.

• Lock-In

  • Date: March 22, 2024, from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

  • Description: An overnight event filled with various activities for attendees.

  • Location: The Flow Space, 8131 Kingston Street; Suite 500, Avon, IN 46123

  • More Information: Greater Indiana Florida College Booster Club

• Experience FC

  • Date: March 29, 2024

  • Description: An opportunity for individuals to experience what Florida College has to offer through various presentations and activities.

  • More Information: Greater Indiana Florida College Booster Club

CR 400 Road Improvements Project

(Road Closed)

REMINDER: E. CR 400 N., from Ronald Reagan Parkway to 950 E., is now closed for road reconstruction and bridge replacement. The road will remain closed through the end of June. During this time, the detour route will use E. CR 300 N.

To get more information about this project, visit https://www.brownsburg.org/703/CR-400-Road-Improvements.