Editor’s Note: This is the ninth installment in a series of articles that highlight each of the couples who have agreed to participate in the 11th annual Dancing with the Montgomery County Stars. The event, slated for Saturday , May 9, 2026, at Knowling Fieldhouse, is a fundraiser for the Montgomery County Youth Service Bureau. Doors open at 5 p.m. and event begins at 6 p.m. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit online at https://mcysb47933.wixsite.com/mcysb/dwts/.
MAKENZIE MILES
I am the executive director at Ben Hur Health and Rehab. I have lived in Montgomery County for 12 years. In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband and our three kids, Emerson, Mac and Jett.
I’m a big fan of live music and anything that involves good food. The song that makes me get up and dance or sing along is any song my dad sings and plays on his guitar.
I was surprised and honored to be asked to be a Star. I don’t necessarily see myself as a “star,” but I do see myself as someone who believes in this community.
Once I realized this was about supporting local youth, I knew I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. Between my professional role and my family life, I truly get to experience both ends of life — the wisdom of our elders and the potential of our youth. That’s why participating in Dancing with the Montgomery County Stars felt so meaningful to me. Strong communities take care of people at every stage, and the Youth Service Bureau plays a critical role in making sure young people in Montgomery County feel supported, empowered and seen. If stepping outside my comfort zone to dance helps strengthen that support system for local youth, then it’s absolutely worth it.
The public should come support us because we’re bringing the “swing.” There will be fast feet and big smiles, but truly this event is about coming together as a community to support the Youth Service Bureau. If you want to see passion, purpose, and maybe a little controlled chaos we are your team.
MATT ALLEN
I am the Ripco location manager. I have lived in Montgomery County for 11 years. In my spare time, I am a radio on air personality for the Crawfordsville Radio Stations.
I learned how to dance 25 years ago in a bar where they offered a half-hour group swing dance lesson for free every Monday night. I love to swing dance, so my favorite music is anything I can swing to from big band to country.
I chose to participate in the YSB fundraiser because I believe it’s important to give back to the community. This fundraiser gives him a chance to have fun while doing that.
Everyone should come out and support Makenzie and me as well as the rest of the dancers. This is a huge time commitment for all involved and we are doing it for the sole purpose of supporting young people in Montgomery County. They are the future. Give back to the community by coming out as we compete against some stiff competition in the fundraising event of the year.
