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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.

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is planning significant improvements at the intersection of State Road (SR) 32 and County Road (CR) 925 W (Main Street) in Lapel, Indiana. A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Lapel High School, located at 1850 S 900 W, Lapel, IN 46051. The event will begin with an open house at 5:30 pm, followed by a formal presentation at 6:00 pm.

Project Overview

The primary goal of this project is to enhance safety at the SR 32 and CR 925 W intersection, which has experienced a higher-than-average rate of right-angle and rear-end collisions. To address these concerns, INDOT proposes replacing the current two-way stop-controlled intersection with a single-lane roundabout. This design aims to reduce conflict points and improve traffic flow.

Key Features of the Proposed Roundabout

• Design Elements: The roundabout will feature 12-foot travel lanes with a combination of open and curbed shoulders. A central island and truck apron will accommodate larger vehicles, and exterior truck aprons will facilitate turning movements.
• Drainage Improvements: A drainage basin is planned for the northwest quadrant of the intersection to address water runoff.
• Utility Relocations: Relocation of utility poles at the intersection corners will be necessary to accommodate the new design.
• Additional Enhancements: The project includes new lighting, pavement markings, signage, and landscaping to improve visibility and aesthetics.

Right-of-Way and Environmental Considerations

Approximately 2.05 acres of permanent right-of-way and 0.18 acres of temporary right-of-way will be required. The project will involve the removal of about 0.9 acres of trees, affecting terrestrial habitats. Due to the disturbance of more than one acre of soil, a Construction Stormwater General Permit (CSGP) will be obtained.

Construction and Traffic Management

Construction is expected to span one season, with phased work and temporary signals on SR 32 to manage traffic. Detours will be established during different phases:

• Phase I: Detour routes will include SR 13, CR 925 W, and CR W 100 S.
• Phase II: Detours will utilize Main Street and Old SR 13.

These detours may add up to 3.68 miles to commuter travel. INDOT will coordinate with emergency services, local schools, and stakeholders to minimize disruptions.

Public Participation

Residents are encouraged to attend the public hearing to review preliminary design plans and provide feedback. Project materials are available for review at the Lapel Branch Library (610 Main Street, Lapel, IN 46051) and the INDOT Greenfield District Office (32 South Broadway, Greenfield, IN 46140). Comments can be submitted at the hearing or sent by December 5, 2024, to Nicole Minton at Lochmueller Group, Inc., 6200 Vogel Road, Evansville, IN 47715, or via email at Nicole.Minton@lochgroup.com.

This project represents a significant investment in the safety and efficiency of Lapel’s transportation infrastructure. Community involvement is vital to ensure the project’s success and to address any concerns residents may have.

MADISON COUNTY, Ind. — A Lapel resident is facing serious charges after being accused of secretly filming his ex-wife, girlfriend, and a teenage girl using hidden cameras placed throughout their homes.

Nicholas H. Peterson, 31, was arrested on October 18 following the issuance of a warrant. He is now facing several charges, including two counts of voyeurism (a Level 6 felony), one count of child exploitation (a Level 5 felony), and one count of possession of child pornography (a Level 6 felony).

According to court records, Peterson is alleged to have concealed cameras in his ex-wife’s and girlfriend’s homes, capturing hours of intimate footage. These recordings show the victims in states of undress and engaging in private activities.

It was Peterson’s girlfriend who first discovered the disturbing footage after noticing a revealing image of his ex-wife while he scrolled through his phone. Suspecting something was wrong, she accessed his phone, revealing the full extent of the hidden camera scheme, and alerted both the authorities and Peterson’s ex-wife.

Upon learning of the situation, Peterson’s ex-wife conducted a search of her home and discovered seven hidden cameras. The devices were deceitfully disguised as everyday household items, including smoke detectors, a portable speaker, and a USB hub. One camera was even hidden within her bathroom’s exhaust fan.

Cameras were also discovered in the home of Peterson’s girlfriend, with one found in the bedroom of a teenage girl.

During the investigation, Peterson admitted to installing the cameras in his ex-wife’s home but claimed they were placed there before their divorce due to concerns about infidelity. However, police discovered that the cameras were purchased long after the 2021 divorce.

The investigation into Peterson’s activities, which spanned over a year, uncovered thousands of images and videos, including footage of his ex-wife with her current boyfriend, as well as explicit images and recordings of the underage girl and his girlfriend.

If convicted, Peterson faces up to six years in prison for the child exploitation charge alone.

Lapel Residents Get Ready for Early Voting: Key Dates and Locations

LAPEL — As the Nov. 5 general election draws near, residents of Lapel have several opportunities to participate through early voting at the courthouse or satellite voting locations across Madison County. Here’s what you need to know to make your vote count.

Early Voting Begins October 8

Voters can cast their ballots early at the Madison County Courthouse, located at 16 E. Ninth St., Anderson. The early voting period runs from Oct. 8 through Nov. 4, with hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday (until Nov. 1). Saturday voting is also available on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the courthouse will be open on Monday, Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. to noon for last-minute voters.

Satellite Voting Sites

From Oct. 28 through Nov. 1, residents can access seven satellite voting locations throughout Madison County. All locations will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2.

If you prefer voting closer to home, you can visit the Lapel Lions Club, located at 329 S. Main St. This site, along with other locations, offers a convenient way to avoid long lines on Election Day.

Full List of Satellite Locations

• Madison County 4-H Building – Alexandria
• Zion Baptist Church – Anderson
• Cross Roads Global Methodist Church – Anderson
• Madison Park Church – Anderson
• UAW Local 1963 – Anderson
• Elwood Municipal Building – Elwood
• Pendleton Community Public Library – Pendleton

The Cross Roads Church is also open Saturday, Oct. 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for an additional early voting day.

Voting on Election Day

On Nov. 5, Election Day, Lapel residents can vote at any of the 30 voting centers throughout Madison County. This includes the Lapel Lions Club and other nearby options such as the Pendleton Christian Church and Ingalls Town Hall. All voting centers will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Accessible Voting for All

All voting sites, including the Lapel Lions Club, meet ADA accessibility standards, ensuring that every voter can participate comfortably and safely.

Make Your Vote Count

Lapel’s involvement in the upcoming election is crucial for shaping local and regional decisions. Whether you vote early or on Election Day, your participation is a vital part of the democratic process. Make a plan to vote and encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same.

The redevelopment of the former Marsh store on Nichol Avenue in Anderson has cleared its final legal hurdle, paving the way for the opening of a Needler’s Fresh Market and Ace Hardware. KennMar Development, the company behind the project, officially closed on the property and assumed ownership, according to Greg Winkler, executive director of the Anderson Economic Development Department.

The Anderson Redevelopment Commission (ARC) received a $500,000 payment from KennMar for the purchase of the site, which has been vacant since the Marsh store closed in 2017. KennMar, which is investing $1.5 million into the project, has already spent $423,541 on interior demolition work, and the ARC has reimbursed the developer approximately $600,000 for that work.

In total, the ARC is providing $7.2 million for essential upgrades, including a new heating and air conditioning system, flooring, electronics, and plumbing. These funds will be released in phases and recaptured through tax revenues based on the increased assessed value of the property.

The new retail space, featuring a 24,500-square-foot Needler’s Fresh Market and a 15,000-square-foot Ace Hardware, is expected to become a cornerstone for further development on Anderson’s west side. The grocery store will also include a drugstore.

“This is a huge win for Anderson and the surrounding neighborhoods,” said Greg Winkler. “It will anchor future investments and redevelopment, revitalizing the area.”

Under the project development agreement, KennMar has committed to operating the grocery and hardware stores for a minimum of 10 years. Construction is targeted to begin soon, with the stores were originally set to open by July 1, 2024, or earlier. 

While this development may not fully resolve Lapel’s food desert issue, it brings the community one step closer to improving access to essential food supplies.