A powerful story of human resilience has emerged from Newton County, Indiana, where a woman survived six harrowing days trapped in her crashed vehicle. Brieonna Cassell’s incredible determination to live is an inspiration to us all.  

On Tuesday, March 11th, Cassell was discovered by a passing equipment operator, Johnny Martinez, in a ditch off the roadway in Newton County, about an hour and a half south of Chicago. Martinez alerted his supervisor, the local fire chief, and together they found Cassell, the sole occupant of the vehicle, conscious and able to communicate.  

According to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Cassell had suffered severe injuries to her legs, ribs, and wrist. She was swiftly airlifted to a hospital near Chicago for urgent medical treatment.  

The ordeal began on Wednesday, March 6th, when Cassell left her mother’s home and was on her way to visit a friend in Brook, Indiana. Tragically, she fell asleep at the wheel, causing her vehicle to veer off the road and into a deep, hidden ditch. “She had fell asleep and veered off the road and went into a very big, deep ditch. It couldn’t be seen from the road,” explained her father, Delmar Caldwell, to local news outlets.  

For six long days, Cassell was trapped, facing extreme conditions with limited resources. Her cellphone had lost power, leaving her unable to call for help. However, a nearby creek proved to be her lifeline.  

In an incredible display of resourcefulness, Cassell devised a method to obtain water. “She would take her hoodie and toss it, like she’s fishing,” her father recounted. “And bring it back and suck on it to have water.” This simple yet ingenious technique allowed her to stay hydrated and survive until help arrived.

This story is a testament to Brieonna Cassell’s unwavering resilience and determination. Her ability to find a way to survive against all odds is truly inspiring. We send our thoughts and well wishes to Brieonna and her family for a speedy and full recovery.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance while driving, especially when fatigued. We hope that Brieonna’s story encourages everyone to prioritize safety on the road and to appreciate the strength within us all.

Lapel residents know the joy of supporting local businesses, and now, we have a unique opportunity to enjoy farm-fresh goodness right in our own town thanks to Simply From Scratch’s innovative mobile market! This Noblesville-based business brings its curated selection of locally sourced produce and handmade goods to Lapel every other weekend (Look out for them on Pendleton Ave. this weekend).

A Market on Wheels: Simply From Scratch’s Unique Approach

Simply From Scratch has transformed a bus into a charming, mobile grocery store, bringing the best of Indiana’s farms directly to our community. This past Saturday, Lapel was fortunate enough to experience their fantastic offerings firsthand. This inventive approach allows them to reach more communities and share their passion for fresh, local products.

What’s on Board? A Bounty of Local Delights

When Simply From Scratch parks their mobile market in Lapel, residents can expect a delightful array of products, including:

• Fresh Produce: Grown in their own gardens and sourced from Indiana Grown farms, their fruits and vegetables are bursting with flavor.
• Handmade Breads: The aroma alone is enough to draw you in! Their breads, from classic sourdough to sweet treats like Maple Cream Cinnamon Rolls, are crafted with care and locally sourced ingredients.
• Pantry Staples: Discover a variety of local dairy, maple syrup, and other pantry items, including their popular Maple Cinnamon Butter.
• Unique Finds: Like their Dundee Molasses Bread, there are always unique and delicious items to discover.

Supporting Local, On the Go

Simply From Scratch’s mobile market is more than just a convenient shopping experience; it’s a way to support local farmers and artisans. By choosing to shop with them, you’re contributing to the vibrancy of our region and enjoying the freshest products possible.

Catch Them in Lapel!

Mark your calendars! Simply From Scratch visits Lapel every other weekend, bringing their mobile market to our town. Keep an eye on their social media pages and website for exact dates and times.

Stay Connected:

• Visit their website: Simply From Scratch
• Follow them on social media (Facebook and Instagram) for updates on their location and product offerings.

The Lapel Bulldogs Boys Basketball team is making waves in the local sports scene with an outstanding display of skill and teamwork. As of February 25th, 2025, the Bulldogs have secured an incredible 10 consecutive victories, leaving fans and opponents alike in awe of their performance.

The team’s latest triumph came against the Winchester Community High School with a final score of 73-62. This victory not only extends their winning streak but also highlights the team’s consistent ability to overcome challenges and secure wins.

Key players like B. Judge, with his impressive points per game average and rebounding skills, and Q. Wilkins, who leads the team in assists and steals, have been instrumental in the team’s success. However, the Bulldogs’ winning streak is a testament to the collective effort of every player, showcasing their dedication and hard work on the court.

The Bulldogs’ streak has garnered attention from local sports enthusiasts and media outlets, with many highlighting the team’s exceptional chemistry and coaching. As the season progresses, the community eagerly anticipates whether the Bulldogs can maintain their momentum and continue their dominant run.

This remarkable winning streak is a source of pride for Lapel and a testament to the talent and dedication of the young athletes representing the community. The Bulldogs’ performance serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a reminder of the power of teamwork and perseverance.

As the season continues, all eyes will be on the Lapel Bulldogs Boys Basketball team, with the community cheering them on as they strive for continued success.