July 28, 2026 — Current in Fishers & Geist

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 youarecurrent.com

City considering two DORA zones Page 2

Athletic field improvements underway Page 3

August events calendar Page 5

Development serves industrial needs Page 6

HANDS-ON HEALTH CARE Local students participate in Ascension St. Vincent Fishers’ second HCAMP Page 11

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CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST 07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Current in Fishers

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116th & I-69, Geist Marina or 79th & Sunnyside

Fishers considering two DORA zones

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Fishers may soon join other Hamilton County communities with Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas — defined zones where adults 21 and older can purchase alcoholic beverages from approved vendors and carry them outside to be consumed within the DORA boundaries.

The Fisher City Council had a first reading July 20 of an ordinance to establish two DORAs, one within the Nickel Plate District and the other within Fishers District.

The borders of the proposed Nickel Plate District DORA would be 116th Street from Commercial Drive to Fishers Center Drive, then north on Fishers Center Drive to Municipal Drive, just north of the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. The DORA would head east on Municipal Drive to Commercial Drive and then south along Commercial Drive back to 116th Street.

Proposed hours of operation for that DORA are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. May through October; and noon to 11 p.m. October through April.

The borders of the Fishers District DORA start just south of 116th Street and east of IKEA Way, at The Yard at Fishers District. The proposed DORA map incorporates The Villas, Forum Credit Union, The Crossing development and the Fishers Event Center.

Hours of operation would be noon to 11 p.m. daily.

Some businesses already have submitted applications to participate in the DORA permitting process. Designated permittees within the Nickel Plate District DORA would be Parks Place Pub, Four Day Ray Brewing Co., Cafe Patachou and Another Broken Egg Cafe.

Fishers District applicants are Sun King Fishers and Sangiovese Ristorante. Additional businesses could apply.

Assistant Economic Development Director Reid Pittard told the council that signs would be placed at entrance and

The proposed Nickel Plate District DORA incorporates the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater.

(Image courtesy of the City of Fishers)

exit points of each DORA, letting people know the boundaries. He said the city would provide stickers for approved beverage distributors to place on their own plastic to-go cups.

“We have some sanitation and safety plans that have been created alongside (the Department of Public Works) and the police department,” he said. “We’re not expecting anything outrageous, but we want to make sure folks know and that our departments know that this is going on, and that we have some additional sanitation and safety measures.”

He added that the city will establish a web page for the public to easily access information about the proposed DORAs. Councilor Cecilia Coble asked how the city would monitor potential underage drinking. Pittard said restaurants are responsible for checking IDs before selling, but Coble pointed out that people can easily share a drink.

Councilor Bill Stuart questioned the planned hours of each DORA, noting that 11 p.m. on a weeknight is pretty late, especially for parts of the DORAs next to residential neighborhoods.

Mayor Scott Fadness said the ordinance can be adjusted before it comes back to the council for a vote.

“That’s why this is a first reading — for you guys to really give us some of your feedback,” he said. “If there are recommendations for adjustments, we can talk between now and the next meeting.”

Councilor Tiffanie Ditlevson encouraged Fishers residents to email their council members with suggestions and concerns as soon as possible.

A second reading and option for adopting the proposed DORAs is planned for the council’s Aug. 17 meeting, with implementation set for Sept.

1, pending review by the state Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.

Indiana started allowing DORAs in 2023. Since then, many Indiana communities have established the outdoor areas where alcohol can be carried and consumed, including Carmel, Noblesville and Westfield. Westfield has two DORAs, one in downtown and a second in the Grand Park District. Nearby in Boone County, Zionsville also has a DORA.

COMMUNITY

07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

Board OKs utilities for athletic field

DISPATCHES

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Preparations are underway for new restrooms at Fishers athletic fields, part of the City of Fishers’ ongoing plans to improve athletic facilities throughout the community.

The Fishers Board of Public Works and Safety approved two contracts July 14 for Fredericks, Inc., to install sewer, water and electrical utilities at the Fishers Sports Complex at Fishers High School and The Plateau fields at Hamilton Southeastern High School.

The Fishers Sports Complex contract will cost $247,095, according to information in the meeting packet. The Plateau work will cost $182,985.

In March, the city announced plans to invest $3.6 million to expand and improve athletic fields and youth sports opportunities in Fishers through a partnership with Hamilton Southeastern Schools. In addition to the new restrooms, the city is installing new turf fields with lighting at both schools, upgrading existing fields and building a new crosswalk from Sand Creek Ele-

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CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST

Fishers and Hamilton Southeastern high schools’ fields will get new restrooms.

(File photo)

mentary School to Fishers High School.

In other matters, the board approved a grant agreement, securing $353,750 from the Indiana Finance Authority to help fund the development and installation of a sewer system for Lynnwood Hills subdivision.

The project is set to start this summer, with the city’s annexation of that neighborhood due for completion in 2027. The city will install the main sewer lines and property owners will have to pay to tap into them — an estimated $10,000 per home.

The Board of Works also approved four Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant Program recipients, totaling $67,722. The

grants are the last of 23 grants approved this budget cycle by the program’s advisory committee.

The four recipients are Northfield Estates HOA, which received $6,780 to replace its entrance sign; Cumberland Place Village HOA, which received $25,000 to replace its 26-year-old cedar fence; Intercoastal at Geist, which received $12,210 for landscaping updates at its east entrance and electric repairs at its north entrance; and Tremont, which received $23,732 to refresh landscaping at its front entrance.

The next Fishers Board of Public Works and Safety meeting is set for 9 a.m. July 28 at Fishers Municipal Center.

 Before the Bell set — Hamilton Southeastern Schools Corp. will host its annual Before the Bell back-toschool celebration from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 30 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, 6 Municipal Dr. Students in preschool to grade 12 can participate in free activities, student performances and more. Schools also will have booths for students and parents to meet principals and learn about the different activities and offerings during the school year.  World Food Championships tickets on sale — The world’s largest live cooking competition will take place Oct. 15 to 18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. Three hundred international chefs, home cooks, pitmasters and culinary teams will compete live across 10 championship categories. The Indianapolis Pizza Festival will take place Oct. 17 in concurrence with the event. A special combo ticket will grant visitors access to both events. For more, visit worldfoodchampionships.com.

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el Clay Schools.

She earned a bachelor’s degree from Emily Supergan has been hired as the the University of Mississippi and a new principal of Fishers Elementary master’s degree from Butler University.

School, following a July 16 vote Supergan also is completing her by the Hamilton Southeastern doctoral degree from Indiana Board of School Trustees.

University this summer.

“This is a full-circle moment “One of the greatest measures for me, and I’m thrilled to reof a school district is when its turn to the district that shaped graduates choose to return and me as a student,” stated Superserve the next generation,” statgan, a Hamilton Southeastern ed Danielle Fetters-Thompson, Supergan High School alumna. “Building assistant superintendent for relationships has always been at the foundational learning. “Emily embodies heart of my leadership and I can’t wait the values of HSE Schools and brings the to serve the students, staff and families passion, energy and relationship-cenof Fishers Elementary.” tered leadership that will help the FishSupergan has worked as an adminers Elementary community continue to istrator in Carmel Clay Schools since thrive.”

2021, according to a news release. BeThe HSE School Board vote took place fore moving into a leadership role, she during a special meeting. The next regwas an elementary teacher and high ular board meeting is set for 6 p.m. Aug. school cross-country coach in both 12 at the district’s central office, 13485 MSD Washington Township and CarmCumberland Rd. news@currentinfishers.com

Fishers police charge man with sexual assault

A search of the Indiana court system does not show a case for Cerequez-Perez, which can mean that court files have not yet been unsealed.

An Indianapolis resident who the In a social media post, FBI IndianapFBI has identified as an undocumented olis announced that its Violent immigrant has been charged in Crimes Task Force, Department Hamilton County with multiple of Homeland Security, Immifelony counts of sexual assault gration and Customs Enforcefrom 2024. ment and Enforcement and According to Hamilton CounRemoval Operations assisted in ty Jail online records, Javier arresting Cereque-Perez.

Cerequez-Perez was arrested “Cereque-Perez is an illegal July 6 by Fishers Police DepartCerequez-Perez alien unlawfully present in the ment officers and remains in United States,” the post stated. custody on $50,000 bail. He has been According to online jail records, charged with sexual battery, sexual Cereque-Perez’s next hearing in Hammisconduct with a minor of 14 or 15 and ilton County Superior Court 5 is 9 a.m. two counts of rape, all stemming from Aug. 19. an Aug. 15, 2024 incident.

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

DISPATCH  Beekeepers club — North Central Beekeepers Club meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Cool Creek Nature Center in Westfield, 2000 E. 151st St. Meetings are free for all levels of beekeepers north of Indianapolis. Those interested in becoming beekeepers are welcome. Learn more at facebook.com/groups/ncbclub.

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CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST

07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

FISHERS AUGUST EVENTS GALLERY HOP The Fishers Arts Council will host a Second Friday Gallery Hop from 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 14, featuring exhibits at multiple galleries. The exhibits are at the Meyer Najem 2nd Floor Gallery, Ignite Studio at Hamilton East Public Library Fishers Branch, Art Gallery at City Hall, Citizens Bank Gallery, Ball State Gallery, Fishers Art Center and Build BW Gallery. Sponsor Four Day Ray has a special offer for participants who visit all seven exhibits.

For more, visit fishersartscouncil.org/event-info/ galleryhop-aug2026 PARK AFTER DARK Fishers Parks will host two evening 21-and-older hangouts at Geist Waterfront Park, set for 8 to 11 p.m. Aug. 14 and Sept. 4. MashCraft Brewing will be on-site with adult beverages for sale and there will be a fire pit and music. Participants are encouraged to bring their own seating to the free event. No registration is required.

GOLF FUNDRAISER The second LifeWise HSE Golf Outing is set for Aug. 25 at Ironwood Golf Course, 10955 Fall Rd. Fishers.

The event will raise money for LifeWise Academy, a program that transports Hamilton Southeastern Schools public school students during school hours

to local churches for Bible and character education.

For more, visit birdease.com/lifewisehse.

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS The following Fishers government meetings are scheduled: • Plat Committee — 4 p.m. Aug. 5 Fishers Municipal Center • Planned Unit Development — 5 p.m. Aug. 5, Fishers Municipal Center • Plan Commission - 6 p.m. Aug. 5, Fishers Municipal Center • Town Hall Building Corporation — 4 p.m. Aug. 10, Fishers Municipal Center • Board of Public Works & Safety — 9 a.m. Aug. 11 and 25, Fishers Municipal Center • Armed Services Committee — 4 p.m. Aug. 11, Fishers Municipal Center • Finance Committee — 5 p.m. Aug. 12, Fishers Municipal Center • City Council — 7 p.m. Aug. 17, Fishers Municipal Center • Fishers Board of Zoning Appeals — 6 p.m. Aug. 26, Fishers Municipal Center • Fall Creek Board of Zoning Appeals — 6 p.m.

Aug. 27, Fishers Municipal Center • Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees — 6 p.m. Aug. 12, 13485 Cumberland Rd.

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DISPATCHES  Free concerts — Fishers Parks’ final Free Tuesdays at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater will feature Stella Luna & The Satellites July 28. The concert begins at 7 p.m.

For more, visit fishersparks.com/summer-activities-events/ free-tuesday-concerts.  Spark!Fishers concert, drone show rescheduled — Because of inclement weather, the June 26 free concert featuring P!NK’D and the drone show were postponed to July 31 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. The concert will start at 8 p.m. and the drone show will follow at 10 p.m.  American Senior Communities earn high rating — American Village Assisted Living, a member of American Senior Communities, has earned a deficiency-free annual state inspection from the Indiana State Department of Health for its assisted living services. A deficiency-free survey is the highest rating a senior care community can earn. American Senior Communities has facilities throughout central Indiana. For more, visit ASCCare.com/AVAL.  Ascension St. Vincent named top hospital — Ascension St. Vincent in Fishers and Carmel were named to Forbes’ inaugural Top Hospitals by State list. Clinical outcomes, adherence to best practices, value of care and patient experience were all considered. The Ascension St. Vincent hospitals were two of 253 facilities nationwide that earned five stars. Thousands were evaluated.

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CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST 07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

Park 69 development banking on continued growth

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Owners of a new development off I-69 in Ingalls, near Fishers and Noblesville, are banking on the need for industrial commercial space for an area that’s continuing to expand.

Park 69 is a Podell Partners project that’s been in the works for a couple of years, and already has one tenant — B&B Group — that moved into a spec building in fall 2025 while Podell constructed the company’s new custom building.

Wes Podell, president of Carmel-based Podell Partners, said Ingalls was a great location for Park 69. The area already has grown in the short time since the company purchased the property, he said, and related road improvements mean better access to the area for future tenants.

“We were kind of one of the first to plant our flag out there,” he said. “So, the market would need to come to us and we feel like it’s doing that. We’re excited about that part.”

In late 2025, B&B Group, a commer-

cial snow and ice management company, moved into a spec building Podell Partners built on the Park 69 site and this fall will move into its larger, custom-built headquarters. Andy Barker, president of B&B Group, Real Time Detention and Real Time Furniture, said Podell Partners was the right fit for his company.

“They brought together and offered features, including a great location with the right amount of available acreage, zoning that was needed, interstate access, welcoming and business friendly municipalities,” he said in an email to Current. “We also see ongoing business opportunities as the Indianapolis market continues to grow in that direction.”

Barker said Park 69 has easy access to I-69 and other local businesses, as well as easier commutes for many employees. The spec building has been a good transition space, he said, and he’s excited to see the new permanent building nearing completion.

“The business park that Podell is developing is a great opportunity in a current and future high growth area on the northeast side of Indy,” he said, adding

Park 69 in Ingalls has industrial commercial space for a growing part of central Indiana.

(Photo courtesy of Wes Podell)

that the town of Ingalls, city of Pendleton and Madison County have been great to work with. “They have shown that they are very business friendly and wanting to invest in their future.”

Ingalls Town Manager Neil Stevenson said Podell Partners has been a good partner.

“We have worked with their team to proactively coordinate infrastructure improvements, development standards and site planning efforts to ensure the project not only serves future tenants but also complements the community’s broader goals,” he said in an email, noting that Park 69 is a cornerstone project

for the Ingalls Innovation District, a growth area around I-69 and Exit 214.

“The town has made significant public investments in infrastructure, roadway improvements, utilities and planning efforts to position this area for longterm economic growth.”

Podell said when B&B moves into its new custom space, the spec building will be available for new tenants — and several groups have shown interest.

“Many of the companies that we’re talking to, they’re not even looking for traditional kind of warehouse space,” he said.”Many of these folks are utility contractors — infrastructure companies, equipment dealers. And then, we’ve had folks similar to B&B that are more in the landscaping and services kind of space. These are the kinds of companies that build and kind of maintain and support growing communities like Ingalls and Fishers and Noblesville.”

Podell said additional buildings are planned at the site to accommodate the industrial needs of a rapidly growing part of central Indiana.

For more, visit podellpartners.com.

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CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST

07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Firefighters extinguish a fire at Fifth Third Bank on Commercial Drive.

(Photo courtesy of Fishers Fire Department)

Fishers bank catches fire after lightning strike news@currentinfishers.com Lightning hit the Fifth Third Bank in Fishers during a July 17 storm, resulting in a fire.

Employees evacuated the building before Fishers Fire Department responded to the bank’s Commercial Drive branch, according to a social media post from the FFD.

Firefighters contained the fire and prevented it from spreading further through the building.

According to the Fishers Police Department, the incident was reported at around 4 p.m. Traffic at Commercial Drive and North Street was diverted until about 5 p.m., when Commercial Drive opened. North Street remained closed until about 6 p.m.

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CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST 07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

CDBG priorities reviewed

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com The Hamilton County Commissioners reviewed priorities for the county’s Community Development Block Grant program at their July 13 meeting.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the CDBG program provides resources to local governments to expand economic opportunities, build public facilities and develop affordable housing.

The total funding available for 2026 is just more than $2.54 million, combining a new 2026 allocation of $1,179,216 with remaining funds from previous years.

In Year 3 of Hamilton County’s CDBG five-year consolidated plan, Michelle Westermeier, community development program manager, said priorities are expanding and sustaining affordable housing development across the region.

A key element includes partnering with a local continuum of care agency to offer immediate and longterm supportive housing for vulnerable populations, including domestic violence survivors, at-risk veterans and individuals facing mental health challenges.

During the public comment period, Fishers resident Andrea Davis, executive director of Hamilton

County Area Neighborhood Development, stressed the importance of support for the development of affordable housing in the county and raised concerns about continuum of care.

“I just wanted to make sure you are aware that the continuum of care that serves Hamilton County is not specific to Hamilton County,” Davis said. “So, when you’re talking about these folks in need of housing, I just wanted to make sure you understand that it’s very possible, if not probable, that as housing needs are prioritized, the folks who are chosen to live in whatever housing gets created here will not necessarily be residents of Hamilton County.”

The plan is to continue the county’s owner-occupied home repair program to preserve existing housing through emergency repairs, accessibility modifications and aging-in-place updates. The initiative also funds new utility connections for residents in the northern portion of the county.

Westermeier said the county’s four participating cities — Carmel, Westfield, Fishers and Noblesville — will focus on infrastructure improvements that directly benefit low-income areas.

The next commissioners meeting is at 1 p.m. July 27 at the Hamilton County Judicial Center in Noblesville. There will be a final presentation regarding CDBG funding at the meeting.

OBITUARY Edward “Ed” Roy LeBlanc, 79, of Fishers, Indiana, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, July 12, 2026, after courageously living for ten years beyond a colon cancer diagnosis, followed by a journey with frontotemporal dementia. Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, on Friday, September 13, 1946, Ed often joked that while he was born in Tennessee, he had an Abbeville, Louisiana soul.

He attended North Central High School, Kentucky Military Institute (‘65), played football at Indiana State University (‘69), and proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. Ed built a career in human resources with Mobile Oil, Sears Roebuck & Co., AutoSource, US Airways Express/Chautauqua Airlines, and ultimately the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he found what many considered his dream job. He married Karol Annette Klink in 1973, and together they shared nearly 53 years of marriage while raising three children and eventually making Fishers their home. Ed’s greatest joy wasn’t found in his résumé but in the friendships he cultivated over a lifetime.

He loved Sarasota and Siesta Key, annual trips to a remote Canadian island, and his beloved Ludington fishing trip with lifelong friends—a tradition that spanned five decades. He loved

Corvettes, classic cars, boats, skiing, dancing, and tinkering in the garage. Friends knew him as Big Ed, Fast Eddie, Fashion Eddie, or simply Dad, but everyone knew the same generous spirit beneath the jokes. He believed there were no strangers—only friends he hadn’t met yet—and chances are, if you met him, he welcomed you with a smile and his trademark greeting: “How you doin’?” Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Frances LeBlanc, and his sister, Nanette “Nan” Elizabeth LeBlanc McDermott. He is survived by his devoted wife, Karol; his children, Joseph “Joe” (Elizabeth), Alyssa Tolman (Dainen), and John “Johnny” (Kelly); seven grandchildren; his lifelong best man, Bob Runo; and countless extended family members and dear friends.

A Celebration of Ed’s Life will be held on Friday, September 18, from 5:30–10:00 p.m. at Sullivan’s Hardware & Garden (Keystone location), 6955 N. Keystone Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana. The family will hold a private burial at Highlands Cemetery in Fishers. A complete obituary honoring Ed’s life, stories, and legacy is available online. https://www.indianafuneralcare.com/ obituaries/edward-leblanc

DISPATCHES  Correction — Regarding the July 21 article about Hamilton East Public Library’s new branch, Veridus Group is the company that worked with HEPL on planning the project.  Special Olympics plane pull set for Aug. 8 — Special Olympics Indiana will have its 25th annual Plane Pull Challenge Aug. 8 at the Fedex Express World Hub at Indianapolis Airport. The fundraiser for Special Olympics has teams of up to 15 people move an 82ton Boeing 575. The event is the largest single-day fundraiser for Special Olympics with proceeds benefitting children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The family-friendly event also has music, food, games and other activities throughout the day. The Kids Pull at noon features children ages 12 and younger who try to pull the airplane along the 12-foot runway.  Trivia night to benefit kids — The Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse and Suicide will have a college football-themed trivia night from 6 to 9 p.m.

Sept. 17 at BASH in Carmel. Tickets are $75 and proceeds will support the organization’s prevention education programs with parents, children and youth-organizations and schools. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite college team apparel. For tickets, sponsorship information, or to learn more about the center, visit indianaprevention.org.

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST

07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

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MONSOON MADNESS BEATS THE HEAT

big tRees

now!

The City of Fishers Parks Department hosts its annual Monsoon Madness July 18 at Holland Park. The pop-up water park features giant water slides, a bubble bath pool, rides, music and more. (Photos by Evelyn Rose)

The bubble bath pool is a popular attraction in the water section for Monsoon Madness, available for ages 4 and up.

Kids try to make the biggest soap bubble.

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COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST 07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES FAMILY DENTISTRY FORALL ALL AGES FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR AGES Personalized Care With Gentle Touch Personalized CareDENTISTRY With AA Touch Personalized Care With AGentle Gentle Touch FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY FOR ALL AGES FOR ALL AGES Personalized Care Personalized With A Gentle Care Touch With A Gentle Touch

Embattled Life Church pastor returns to pulpit

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Life Church Lead Pastor Nathan Peternel returned to public ministry July 5, more than four months after Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Kevin D. Molly Ward, E. Dwenger, D.D.S. D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. announcing he would temporarily step 11959 Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959Lakeside Lakeside Drive 11959 Lakeside Drive| |Fishers, Fishers, Indiana 11959Indiana Lakeside 46038 Drive46038 | Fishers, Indiana 46038 away to undergo a “structured restorEmail: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com info@fishersdentalcare.com Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com info@fishersdentalcare.com info@fishersdentalcare.com Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com info@fishersdentalcare.com Kevin D. D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. Kevin Ward, D.D.S. 317.577.1911 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070 Kevin D. Ward, Ward, D.D.S. Molly E.D. Dwenger, D.D.S. www.fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com 11959 Lakeside Drive |317.576.8070 Fishers, Indiana 46038 ative process” guided by the Assemblies |||Fax Fax 317.576.8070 Fax 317.576.8070 www.fishersdentalcare.com Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com info@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070 of God Indiana District leadership. www.fishersdentalcare.com Kevin Kevin D. D. Ward, Ward, D.D.S. D.D.S. The pastor’s leave occurred after multiple videos of him and his wife SPECIALIZED LIGHTED CRAWFORD engaged in sexual acts were found in CEILING/STONE FIREPLACE his son’s possession during a police investigation.

Peternel’s son, Jonathan Peternel, is in prison after pleading guilty in FebruREMODELERS ary to possession of child sexual abuse material. Police discovered the videos SINCE 1993 of the elder Peternels while investigatQUALITY PRODUCTS, REMODELERS EXPERT INSTALLATION ing Jonathan Peternel’s case.

SINCE 1993 GUARANTEED! Life Church, which has campuses in QUALITY PRODUCTS, Fishers, Noblesville, Pendleton and InEXPERT INSTALLATION dianapolis, is part of the Assemblies of GUARANTEED! God denomination. It is also a member www.centenialremodelers.com of the Association of Related Churches. www.centennialremodelers.com In a Feb. 20 letter to congregants announcing his upcoming leave, Peternel stated that the Assemblies of God Indiana District Executive Presbytery “concluded that certain personal behaviors related to my use and retention of private digital content involving my spouse fell short of the standards expected of a credentialed minister and were determined to be unbecoming of ministerial leadership.”

Before giving a July 5 sermon, Nathan AUGUST 13, 2026 AT 1:00pm Peternel described the situation as the “hardest season” he and his wife have ever experienced.

“The enemy has attacked us,” he said.

“While we’re wrestling not against brothers and sisters, we also know that the enemy can sometimes use the people that we love and their voices and the words and all of that, and it hurts.”

Nathan Peternel also thanked congregants for their support and encouragement during the last several months.

Join Ambassadair to learn more about these exciting new He did not directly mention his son’s adventures coming in 2027! arrest or the reason for his leave, but he Alaskan Adventure | June 9 - 18, 2027 said the experience transformed him.

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Life Church Lead Pastor Nathan Peternel returns to the pulpit July 5 after stepping away for more than four months following a police investigation involving his family. (Screen capture via YouTube/Life Church)

The service fell on the same weekend the U.S. celebrated 250 years of independence. In his sermon, Nathan Peternel compared U.S. President George Washington’s farewell address to speeches given by biblical figures during leadership transitions.

Current contacted Life Church to request comment from Nathan Peternel or other church leaders and did not receive a response. The church posted a statement regarding his return on its website.

“After a season of rest and renewal, Pastor Nathan and Christina are preparing to return to ministry, and we’re looking toward the first week of July as that time draws near,” the statement reads. “We’re grateful for this restorative season and for the ways the Lord has been strengthening them physically, spiritually, and emotionally. As they step back into the life of our church, we invite you to do two things: keep them in prayer during this time of transition, and reach out with words of love and encouragement. A note, a card, or a kind word means more than you know.”

The Assemblies of God Indiana District Leadership did not respond to a request for comment.

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST

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11

HANDS-ON HEALTH CARE Local students participate in Ascension St. Vincent Fishers’ second HCAMP

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Local high school students with an interest in health care had some hands-on experience during a weeklong Healthcare Academy for Medical Professionals — or HCAMP — July 13-17 at Ascension St. Vincent Fishers.

This year marks the second HCAMP at the Fishers hospital, and it was popular enough last year that it expanded, with 20 spots available for Fishers, Hamilton Southeastern and Noblesville high school students. The kids kicked off the week with a mock code — a medical emergency — and later that day learned how to stop a life-threatening bleed, complete with a hands-on exercise involving silicone body parts and fake blood.

Rebecca Cook, a workforce development manager with Ascension Center for Career Advancement, said the health camp concept started in Indiana at Ascension’s Evansville medical center before expanding to Fishers. Its success in both those communities has been noticed.

“We have workforce development managers in all of our Ascension markets, and this is something that we’re expanding to all of those markets based on the success that we’ve had … in Indiana,” she said.

Students in the program had to apply and go through an interview process.

Robyn Wargel, manager of medical imaging, said the response speaks to the popularity of the program.

“It’s really unique for high school students to be willing to give up a whole week of their summer to come to a hospital and get hands-on experience and learn about the many different roles that work in a health care setting, in both clinical and non-clinical areas,” she said. “It is designed to provide immersive experiences to the students, including job shadows and case studies and simulations.”

Wargel said there’s a shortage of health care workers throughout the industry and the camp is designed to give students as much experience as possible to learn about different roles within a

Instructor Austin Thomas teaches students about emergency wound care during the Ascension St. Vincent Fishers health camp. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

medical facility.

Melanie Oliver, registered nurse and nursing supervisor said those roles aren’t limited to nurses and doctors.

“It’s the whole system — looking at opportunities that they might not have thought about,” she said, adding that the students toured the entire hospital that morning. “One of the students even said, ‘This is so interesting for me to see, like, the whole hospital versus just thinking it from a patient perspective.’”

Ascension St. Vincent President Aleks Overbey said the free weeklong camp allows Ascension to get in front of students who are still trying to decide their career path — including the many health-related jobs people don’t usually think about.

“You have supply chain, finance,

biomedical engineering, bioclinical engineering. You have food and nutrition services, environmental services and all these back-end support functions, like myself — administration — that support our clinical teams to provide patient care, security, emergency preparedness and response, disaster preparedness,” he said. “These are all things that people make a career out of in something that you wouldn’t know about unless you worked in a hospital or got exposed to it.”

During the week, students explored clinical careers along with those other critical jobs. He added that Ascension offers semester-long internships that count toward the new state diploma requirements for workforce experience.

After practicing her new “stop the

HANDS-ON HEALTH CARE The weeklong Healthcare Academy for Medical Professionals included a “Stop the Bleed” hands-on practice session on the first day. Additional hands-on activities for the 20 high school students included: • Ambulance and StatFlight tour: Students explored emergency transport vehicles and interfaced with flight medics • Surgery day: Students practiced with

orthopedic surgery tools and robotic surgery simulators • Mass casualty simulation: Students worked together to triage and treat multiple “patients” in a fast-paced, simulated disaster • Trauma simulation: Students managed a critical trauma case in the emergency department from arrival to stabilization

Hamilton Southeastern High School student Jaeda Kabutey practices emergency wound care during the Ascension St. Vincent Fishers health camp while instructor Austin Thomas watches.

bleed” skills on a prosthetic arm, incoming junior at Hamilton Southeastern High School Jaeda Kabutey said she signed up for the camp to find out how a hospital functions.

“I just really wanted to learn more about how things work in the hospital and get more hospital experience and get exposed to more clinical exposure and tools that people use in the hospital,” she said, adding that she’s interested in health care as a career. “Especially neurology and cardiology.”

Maddie Mason is an incoming senior at Fishers High School.

“I want to major in biology and I’m interested in research, and then also pre-med,” she said, adding that she would love to be a pediatrician. “I knew they had a pediatric center here and (job) shadowing opportunities, so it would be a great opportunity for me to shadow here, and then also just to see different fields, such as surgery or trauma or OB/GYN.” For more about Ascension, visit healthcare.ascension.org.

ON THE COVER: Fishers High School student Maddie Mason practices packing a bleeding wound on a fake arm during the Ascension St. Vincent Fishers health camp.

(Photo by Leila Kheiry)

12

HEALTH

CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST 07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

West Nile found in county news@currentnoblesville.com The Hamilton County Health Department Vector Control Program has confirmed one mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile Virus from Founder’s Park in Carmel.

According to the health department, the detection of WNV activity is evidence the disease, a mosquito-borne illness that spreads to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, is present in Hamilton County.

Although most infected people remain asymptomatic, it can cause flu-like symptoms or, in severe cases, life-threatening neurological diseases like encephalitis or meningitis. For optimum protection, the health department recommends individuals: • Wear long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes when outdoors.

• Apply U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to any exposed skin.

• Keep mosquitoes outside by keeping doors and windows closed or

making sure screens are in good repair.

• Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active.

In addition, all Hamilton County residents are asked to eliminate mosquito breeding sites around their home by: • Removing containers that hold water like tires, cans, bottles, buckets, jars, drums and trash.

• Dumping and inverting wheelbarrows and kiddie/toddler pools when not in use.

• Changing water in birdbaths and pet bowls weekly.

• Inspecting water in flowerpots and plant containers weekly.

• Cleaning rain gutters.

• Draining and filling tire ruts, stagnant pools and puddles.

• Placing tight covers over cisterns, cesspools, septic tanks, tubs and rain barrels where water is stored.

• Keeping the margins of ponds clear of vegetation and stock ornamental ponds with top-feeding minnows.

For more, visit hamiltoncounty. in.gov/323/Mosquito-Control.

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13

Styx joins Chicago on co-headlining tour

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com To Styx vocalist-keyboard player Lawrence Gowan, the band’s “Windy Cities Tour” has been a long time coming.

Styx and Chicago, which both started in the City of Chicago, will perform at 7 p.m. Aug. 2 at Noblesville’s Ruoff Music Center. Gowan answered the following questions for Current.

Discuss having the first co-headlining tour with Chicago?

“I’ve been hoping for this to happen for years, quite honestly, because I’m a huge Chicago fan. I’m listening to them every night and I’m just loving it because I saw them way back in the early ‘70s. I saw them three times in the ‘70s, and those are huge concert experiences that I had growing up that I still really love. To me it’s very understandable why their music has lasted so long. It’s just it’s so well put together, and the idea of having two bands that emanated from Chicago, that are such preeminent groups as Styx and Chicago, it seemed like inevitably it was going to happen, but I was just beginning to wonder when. So now that it’s underway, audiences are just eating it up.”

Are you alternating who opens and who plays second?

“Yes, we are, but it seems a little bit easier when they close because there’s so many guys in their band. I think there’s 10 or 11 guys. I keep losing count. So, just the way the stage setup goes, it’s a little bit easier, I think, for the crew to have them close the show.

But at the same time, you know, I know we have to close, for example, in Toronto. That’s my hometown. I think we’ll close about a third of them. It doesn’t make any difference at all. It’s just a double-billed concert, and both bands play the same length of time.

Personally, I like going on first because we go on in daylight and we go into the darkness. So, I’m really digging that.”

Looks like you play “Build and Destroy” from the 2025 album and “Our Wonder-

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’ “The Play That Goes Wrong” runs through Aug. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET Tim Wright and Steel Petals is set for July 30, followed by “The Magic of David Ranalli’ July 31 and “All the Way Frank: A Sinatra Tribute” with Don Farrell Aug. 1 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

From left, Styx members Todd Sucherman (drums, percussion), Lawrence Gowan (lead vocals, keyboards), Chuck Panozzo (bass, vocals), James “JY” Young (lead vocals, guitars), Tommy Shaw (lead vocals, guitars), Terry Gowan (bass, vocals) and Will Evankovich (mandolin, guitars). (Photo courtesy of Jason Powell)

ful Lives” from the 2021 album, “Crash of the Crown” in 2021. You also put out an album in 2017, so is it important to include the newer songs?

“The previous record ‘Crash of the Crown’ got to No. 1 on the Billboard’s Rock album chart, so we realized there’s a lot of people out there that want to hear new Styx music, and particularly the people — I’ll pick an arbitrary number — like people that are under 40 and weren’t even born when the classic rock era was putting out the biggest records at that time.

But they’ve embraced classic rock as being basically the central music in their lives. It’s nice for them to get something that’s concurrent with the lineup that we’ve had for the last 27 years that I’ve been in the band now.

They (younger fans) seem to really embrace it really quickly, and they want to hear at least something represented from those records. It’s a tough setlist to crack because there’s so many, as JY (James Young) will say it’s an ‘embarrassment of riches’ when it comes to really great Styx songs to play in a concert.”

It looks like (bassist and founding

member) Chuck Panozzo has been healthy enough to join you for the last three songs each night on this tour. Is it great for the band to have his presence?

“Is it ever. It’s great. He’s done all the shows so far on the tour, and if his health keeps up the way it is at the moment, and he seems to be in full vigor, then you know he’ll play as many shows on the tour as he possibly can.”

You’re one of the younger members of the band at 69, but the band does so many dates every year. Have you ever thought about cutting back that number?

“Whenever the gods of rock say it’s time to bring the curtain down, that’s when we’ll stop. Until that happens, we have no intention of slowing down.

We love doing this and we want to keep doing it. Look when you get to end your day with thousands of people on their feet, arms in the air, big smiles on their faces, it’s like such an overwhelmingly joyous feeling. Why would you want to move away from that? I want to have music in my life every single day and playing in front of audiences the way we do is just a fabulous way to live. Quite honestly, I recommend it for anyone.”

‘ANASTASIA’ Hendricks Civic Theatre will present “Anastasia” from July 31 to Aug. 9 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

CARMEL COMEDY CLUB Carmel Comedy Club will feature comedians Andrew Irving, John Fangman and Duncan Kissinger at 7 p.m. July 31, followed by Dave Dugan and Jeff Jena at 7 p.m. Aug. 1 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

‘HAVE I SAID TOO MUCH’ Stewart Copeland, former drummer for The Police, will share stories on his “Have I Said Too Much” tour at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 2 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

BRIAN SIMPSON Brian Simpson, Jackiem Joyner and Jessy Jay perform at 8 p.m. July 31 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more,, visit thecenterpresents.org.

JESSE WELLES Jesse Welles with special guest Steph Strings will perform at 7 p.m. Aug. 4 at Rock the Ruins at Holliday Park In Indianapolis. For more, visit rocktheruins.com.

14

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From left, Brian Simpson, Jessy J and Jackiem Joyner will perform at 8 p.m. July 31 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

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Brian Simpson has built his career on strong collaborations.

The contemporary jazz pianist will be joined by saxophonists Jessy J and Jackiem Joyner in an 8 p.m. concert July 31 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“We work together quite a bit and we’re all old friends,” Simpson said.

“It’s always special to do a package show like this. Most of my shows are on my own but it’s always fun to play other people’s music and we play on each other’s songs. It’s really a collaboration.”

Even during shows with his band, Simpson said he always has a featured saxophone player.

“But what’s fun about having Jessy and Jackiem both is I’ll have doubling on a lot of my melodies,” he said. “So, it’s kind of like having a horn section, which is a luxury.”

Simpson, who grew up in northern Illinois, said being back in the Midwest is always fun.

Simpson will feature songs from his most recent album, “Midnight Groove.”

“We’ll mix it up,” he said. “You get that recognition as soon as they hear a song they know. You want to do the ones they know and then, hopefully, they like the new ones. My biggest hit off radio was ‘It’s All Good,’ and there is ‘Saturday Cool,” (which was) probably my second-biggest hit. Then I do a medley from some older albums. It’s a nice mix of old and new from all of us, but they’ll definitely get the hits.”

Simpson said he performs more than 40 shows on his own each year.

“It’s almost more than I want,” he said.

Simpson is based in Los Angeles but is getting another place near Chicago.

“Just another secondary outpost. It’s a little easier to work out in the East Coast when I’m staying in the Chicago area,” he said. “Going coast-to-coast on a weekly basis is pretty tough. That gets old fast.”

Simpson said Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Chicago are cities where he frequently performs smooth jazz.

“I find myself working with all kinds of interesting configurations, and it’s kind of been my specialty to make it work,” he said. “At first, I was under the tutelage of the late great George Duke, and I watched him put together these shows with diverse artists. I had a front-row seat to watching him work in that capacity, which I think prepared me well when I became music director for the Smooth Jazz Cruise back in 2005 or so. That was an amazing opportunity to work with 16 different artists on every cruise from David Sanborn to Marcus Miller to just about anyone you can name. The other part is knowing the side men because part of the work is putting the artist with the band that I would put together. These guys are my friends. At one time, I was one of them touring in support of another artist.”

Simpson said he tells people he has no patience for mediocre singers because he’s worked with Anita Baker, Patti Austin, Jeffrey Osborne and the late James Ingram.

Simpson has been the Rehoboth Beach (Del.) Jazz Festival music director for the last 15 years.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and bsimpsonmusic.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST

07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

SONGBOOK ACADEMY FEATURES AREA VOCALISTS The Songbook Academy, a weeklong summer intensive vocal program, concluded July 18 with a concert at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The 40 national finalists included seven from Carmel High School and one each from Westfield High School, Zionsville Community High School and Noblesville High School. (Photos courtesy of Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts)

Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts Artistic Director Michael Feinstein works with incoming Westfield High School senior Jacob Cintron during a Songbook performance.

Sadie Cohen, who will be a senior at Carmel High School, performs during a Songbook concert at the Payne & Mencias Palladium.

Grady Griffin, a 2026 Carmel High School graduate, performs during a Songbook concert.

15

16

VIEWS

CURRENT IN FISHERS & GEIST 07.28.26 • youarecurrent.com

COMMU N IT Y VOICE S

Fall Creek nature area Editor, In her July 14 letter to the editor, Lilianna Kennedy supported creating more native prairies in the Fishers area, specifically planting milkweed to benefit monarch butterflies and other species.

In fact, as trustee of Fall Creek Township and developer and caretaker of our 80-acre Fall Creek Woods Natural Area — of which 12 acres are prairie — milkweed was purposely planted in our large prairie plot, along with many other native grass and perennial flowering plants, in order to attract all species of beneficial pollinators, insects and wildlife.

We’ve also had Scout troops that have donated projects useful to the park. I would invite you and the public to visit, if you haven’t done so. We have walking trails with switchbacks along Fall Creek, as well as a kayak and canoe launch area, and are in the process of expanding our acreage to

“Fall Creek Woods Natural Area — of which 12 acres are prairie — milkweed was purposely planted in our large prairie plot, along with many other native grass and perennial flowering plants, in order to attract all species of beneficial pollinators, insects and wildlife.”

– DOUG ALLMAN

create more trails and prairie. We are located at 18399 Southeastern Pkwy., Fishers.

Doug Allman, Fishers, Fall Creek Township trustee

COLUMNISTS ON THE WEB This week’s commentaries by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker and humorist Dick Wolfsie may be read at youarecurrent.com.

Silence is not leadership Editor, I have lived in Fishers for 25 years and am a recently retired multifamily housing executive who worked with prominent business and community leaders on projects that helped shape our growing city. Those experiences strengthened my belief that Fishers is at its best when it welcomes everyone and rejects division.

That is why I was troubled to learn that a local group invited (former Department of Homeland Security chief) Greg Bovino to speak at an anti-immigration rally. I was equally disappointed by the silence of many elected officials.

I recently filed a complaint with the Fishers Police Department after an incident while I was peacefully protesting with Fishers Resist. Rather than criticizing the department publicly, I met with its leadership. Chief Ed Gebhart and Sgt. Angela Ellison listened to my concerns, apologized for what occurred and explained steps the department plans to take to improve. I appreciated their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

That experience reinforced my belief that honest conversations matter. It also underscored the importance of leaders speaking clearly when our community is confronted with hate.

This is not a Republican or Democratic issue — it is a moral one. Condemning Nazi ideology, white supremacy, antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, racism and anti-LGBTQ+ bigotry should never depend on political calculations. Every resident deserves to know they belong in Fishers and that those who promote hatred don’t represent our values.

As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” Silence does not confront extremism — it creates space for it.

I hope our elected leaders will say, without hesitation, that hatred and those who promote it have no place in Fishers. Leadership is measured not only by managing a city, but by having the courage to speak when neighbors need reassurance that they are seen, valued and welcome.

Therese Cochran, Fishers

L E TTE R TO T HE EDITOR POLICIES Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

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the Boilermakers’ foe 17. Took notice 18. Carmel mayor 20. Not family-friendly, moviewise 21. Had scallops at 9th

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someone 31. Corn core 32. High card 33. “The Song of Hiawatha” tribe 36. Bygone airline 37. “___ Fly Now” (“Rocky” theme) 40. Receding 41. Fishers mayor 44. Miniature racer 46. Tibet’s capital 47. Ind. National Guard rank 50. Subdue by dazzling 52. ___ Perignon champagne 53. Mongrel 54. Hoosier Park feedbag morsel 55. “The ___ Cometh” 58. “Goodness gracious!”

59. Ant group 61. Indy Zoo beast 62. Necessitate 65. Zionsville mayor 70. Aquafina alternative 71. Starts the bidding 72. Took a seat 73. Flubs a golf shot 74. Saudi Arabia neighbor 75. Lamb’s mom DOWN 1. Oz. and lb.

2. ___ de cologne 3. The Midwest, agriculturally speaking 4. Off-Broadway award 4 Circus Performers

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13. Ironwood Golf Course peg 14. Not even 19. Consumer protection org.

23. Bout ender, for short 24. Perform in a play at The Switch Theatre 25. Indiana State Fair Dairy Cattle Show critter 26. Westfield mayor 27. Superman’s alter ego 28. Sandwich’s ham partner with holes 29. Pale 30. Flavor enhancer letters 32. Greek marketplace 34. Letter-shaped con-

struction piece 35. Air rifle ammo 38. Colts’ org.

39. Ooh and ___ 42. Indy 500 entrant 43. Arp art 44. Thick, messy gunk 45. Lab eggs 48. Wrigley product 49. Attempt 51. Green prefix 56. “Have fun!”

57. Nearsighted one 58. Choose 59. James of “The Godfather” 60. Pig sound 61. Part of NBA (Abbr.)

62. Current staffers, briefly 63. Slangy negative 64. IND screening org.

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AND BETTER

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

An Expansion Designed to Highlight What You Love Joe Green, The Stratford’s director of dining, dresses up as a knight for A Royals of the Realm Signature Experience. (Photo courtesy of Ashely Bohlin)

Living like royalty at The Stratford Commentary by Ashely Bohlin

A

t The Stratford in Carmel, every Signature Experience is designed to spark curiosity, create meaningful connections, and bring a sense of adventure to everyday life. In July, our members stepped into a storybook as we celebrated our Royals of the Realm Signature Experience. It was a day filled with medieval fun, fascinating discoveries and a feast fit for kings and queens.

Our royal adventure began with a visit to the Indy Fencing Club, where members learned about the rich history of fencing and how it evolved into the Olympic sport we know today.

Watching demonstrations, discovering the techniques behind the sport, and hearing stories about its centuries-old origins made for an engaging and educational experience.

The excitement continued with a visit from marine biologists Cynde McInnis and Bailey Ulrich and their famous Whalemobile, a life-size inflatable humpback whale. Members enjoyed an interactive presentation featuring real whale artifacts before stepping inside the whale itself to explore its skeleton, muscles and internal organs. Guided by expert marine educators, everyone left with a deeper appreciation for these majestic creatures.

After a day of adventure and discovery, members gathered for a medieval-inspired feast featuring warm soup served in bread bowls, hearty giant turkey legs and Chef Laura’s famous bread pudding. Crowns, laughter and great company made this royal celebration one to remember.

For more, visit stratford-living.com.

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

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M e r i d i a n A u d i o l o g y : M a k i n g a D i ff e r e n c e i n t h e L i ve s o f t h o s e s t r u g g l i n g w i t h h e a r i n g

Realtor helps seniors along downsizing journey

It’s our 5th birthday - and we’re giving you the gift…

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Meridian Audiology LLC is a private Audiology practice, founded

by Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S. in 2001 after working together as Audiologists in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders Happy Birthday to Meridian as well as those who want to Audiology! For August and protect their hearing from damage.

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

L

ee Ann Balta’s specialty is assisting seniors during their downsizing journey.

Balta is a certified senior housing professional for Century 21 Scheetz.

She partners with Betzy Bautista to lead the team. Balta has worked with Bautista since 2010. Bautista was Balta’s administrative assistant until two years ago, when Bautista obtained a real estate license and they became partners.

“We are better together, for sure,” said Balta, who works out of the Century 21 Scheetz office in Zionsville.

Balta presents free Silver Journey Senior Living Series seminars at 2 p.m. on the second Monday each month at Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library in Zionsville. The Adult Children Series is held at 4:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month at HusseyMayfield. They are 90-minute sessions and aren’t used as marketing tools.

“We’re not there to sell them anything,” she said.

Balta said approximately 70 percent of the population wants to age in place and live independently.

“Some people look at a 55-and-over community as kind of a resort with activities and amenities,” she said.

She said her clients are not always buying a smaller house or condominium; they are often moving into senior living communities.

“I’m 59, so most of my clients are around my age,” she said. “Everybody knows five or six Realtors. You end up using the one you know, like and trust or the one you feel will advocate for you the most or the one you feel safe with.”

Balta said there is a longer process of building a relationship with those in the process of downsizing.

“Just the consideration of what the next chapter looks like is just so much more than the real estate piece,” she said. “The real estate piece is just the last piece of what tends to be a bigger puzzle. It’s just a journey that I enjoy taking with people, building relationships years before they’re ready to actually make that step.”

Betzy Bautista, left, and Lee Ann Balta hold educational seminars on the process of downsizing. (Photo courtesy of Lee Ann Balta)

Balta said she helps clients process the steps and provides a support system.

“It’s talking about the market and the mental process of what’s going and what’s staying,” she said. “How do we remove all the unwanted items or wanted items that can’t necessarily go with them? A lot of people get stuck on what to do with this household of stuff.”

Balta said she often introduces clients to others who have gone through the process of downsizing or who are going through it at the same time.

“I try to have them focus on what’s next,” she said. “They’re downsizing, so what do they really want to take with them? If we can just focus on that, that starts to help them move in that direction. I often say don’t worry about the stuff that’s left behind, I’ll take care of that. That’s what my team does. It’s real estate, but it’s not real estate in the traditional sense of, ‘Call me when you’re ready to sell.’ That’s way too late in the process.”

Balta starts with a consultation to see what the clients’ support team is like as far as family members and close friends.

Continued on Page 17

Solution for toenail fungus Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf

I

f you have been struggling with stubborn toenail fungus, there is finally a revolutionary, non-invasive solution that delivers impressive results without the need for oral medications or potential burning from a laser. ToeFX, the advanced, FDA-cleared light therapy treatment, is transforming the way podiatrists address fungal infections.

ToeFX offers a sophisticated, safe and completely painless approach to restoring nail health. Unlike traditional treatments that can come with systemic side effects or require long, complicated daily regimens, ToeFX utilizes a highly effective photodisinfection process. By applying a specialized topical serum that binds to fungal organisms and activating it with precise red LED light, the treatment selectively disrupts the fungus while leaving your healthy tissue completely untouched.

The convenience of ToeFX is unmatched. Dr. David Sullivan states that patients “love that the treatment is per-

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SENIOR SEMINARS

formed in-clinic, with each session lasting less than 20 minutes.” The protocol is simple and efficient, typically involving a series of visits every two weeks.

This streamlined approach makes it easy to integrate into your busy schedule, and because it is non-invasive, there is absolutely no downtime following your appointment.

The clinical results are truly encouraging. Many patients report visible improvement in the appearance of their nails after just a few sessions, with continued progress as the new, healthy nail grows out. Studies reveal success rates of 73 percent, 81 percent in clinical observations. Dr. Kenneth Stumpf said it is “a preferred choice for those seeking a reliable, modern, and drug-free alternative to clear their nails effectively.”

Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are boardcertified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.

YOUR f SILVER A JOURNEY�

G

STRAIGHT TALK. REAL ANSWERS. NO SALES PITCH � �

Join Us Monthly at The Hussey-Mayfield Library, Zionsville Expert Panels, Actionable Advice, Supportive Community

SENIOR LIVING SERIES: Medicare Decoded: What It Covers, What It Doesn't, and What It Costs You AUGUST 10 I 2 PM

g Scams, Schemes & Senior Safety: How to Protect What You've Earned SEPTEMBER 14 I 2 PM g Legal Documents Every Senior Should Understand (Before It's Urgent) OCTOBER 12 12 PM

ADULT CHILDREN OF AGING PARENTS SERIES:

g The Driving Conversation No One Wants to Have g

AUGUST 18 I 4:30 PM

How to Have the Hard Conversations Without Becoming the Bad Guy SEPTEMBER 15 I 4:30 PM Caregiving Without Collapse: Roles, Boundaries, and Burnout OCTOBER 2014:30 PM

Brought to you by Lee Ann Balta, Certified Senior Housing Professional & Downsizing Coach

55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

5

Volunteers set for final Colts camp at Grand Park

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

L

ois Craig knows she is going to miss volunteering at Indianapolis Colts training camp.

Craig is the volunteer coordinator for transportation for Colts players and families to and from the field at Grand Park. The 73-year-old Westfield resident has been in the role since the first Craig Colts camp in Westfield in 2018. The Colts have announced this year’s training camp, which begins July 29, will be the final one at Grand Park.

“I thoroughly enjoy it,” said Craig, a retired City of Carmel employee.

“They’ve been a great group of guys.

Our Colts are awesome. They are thankful and respectful. They ask us our name. They want to know about us when we’re driving them to and from the field. That’s the majority of them. There are few you know to leave

Sandy and Bill Kirsch, assist in transporting players to the field.

(Photo courtesy of Bill Kirsch)

alone because they don’t want to be bothered. The families are friendly. They want to know about you, too. They’ve been great and we’re all going to miss them. We were all sad they weren’t coming back.”

Craig’s husband, Mark, also volunteers.

Westfield resident Bill Kirsch, 76, and his wife, Sandy, are volunteers in ride assistance for the players. There

was no camp in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, there was no contact with the players at camp, so Kirsch took tickets and took fans back and forth from the parking lot that year.

“I’ve enjoyed pretty much everything, except the heat,” Kirsch said. “You don’t realize how big these guys are until they sit down next to you. Most of them are pretty talkative, pretty good guys.”

His most memorable experience was when his wife drove a full load of offensive linemen to the field.

“I was in the cart behind her,” Kirsch said. “She didn’t get far before you saw the tire going down in the back. She did a good job driving it on three wheels.

But by the time she got there, the tire was almost on fire and it was smoking.

The guys in my cart started laughing, pointing to the cart.”

Kirsch said they learned later after a new tire was put on that there was a weight limit of 1,000 pounds.

“The five guys on the cart were over 300 pounds,” he said.

Kirsch said they are supposed to get special new volunteer shirts this year.

“It’s like the final frontier,” he said Metzig Ron Metzig, a 79-year-old Westfield resident, will volunteer for the third time. He helps Continued on Page 8

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Continued from Page 6

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

seat fans in the grandstand.

“The best parts of volunteering at Colts Camp have been helping fans find the best spot to sit for each practice for the best fan experience, showing the kids where to stand for the best autographs after practice and guiding the handicap fans to our special seating areas,” Metzig said. “I think that the best memories come from helping the kids get their footballs, jerseys or football memorabilia autographed after each practice and the expression on their faces when they are right up front on the rail along the field.”

Metzig said he will miss the fan contact experience and making each person feel welcome.

“We get the chance to meet people from all over the area as you strive to find them the best seat in the house each day, even engaging in a quick conversation with them and the huge fan support here at Grand Park,” he said.

Mark Samuels has volunteered every year since 2018. Samuels, who lived in Fishers before a recent move to Evansville to be closer to his wife’s aging parents, plans to Samuels do four volunteer shifts in August.

“I started doing ride assistance for fans and then after a couple of years I met the Colts Player and Family and Friends golf cart drivers and I switched to working with them for the last several years,” Samuels said. “I enjoy helping the families out, and this position allows you to see a lot of the behind-thescenes parts of camp.”

Samuels, 66, said he’ll miss the routine of getting to camp each day, working behind the scenes, and camaraderie he built with the other long-term drivers.

Samuels retired in October 2023 after more than 30 years at Lilly as an IT project manager.

“I tried working as a dog walker and new car delivery driver but was kind of bored, so I went back to work full time as an IT project manager as a contractor for Lilly,” Samuels said. “I like to be busy and work with people so I also worked at the Fishers Event Center when it opened up until moving down to Evansville.”

Balance: More than standing on one foot Commentary by Dan Scripter

W

hen I ask people how they feel about their balance, the first thing they tell me is that they can stand on one foot for a length of time. While standing on one foot is a tool — and one I use regularly to assess a person’s balance — it is a small piece of the overall picture of balance.

Balance affects each of us as we stand, move, and perform activities of daily living (ADL).

Understanding balance, and how it changes as we age, is important to prevent accidents and injuries. There are two types of balance: static and dynamic.

Static balance (maintaining position) is the ability to keep your center of gravity within the base of support (BOS). An individual’s center of gravity is typically a few inches below the navel, and it shifts with gender, body shape, body size, muscle distribution, and age.

Imagine for a moment, standing on a two-foot square. When you are balanced, your feet are in a relaxed stance, directly under you or slightly wider even if the square starts to shrink in size.

Dynamic balance is the ability to move beyond the BOS while maintaining postural control. An example would be leaning forward to place a plate on a table without stepping forward. This skill often declines in older adults due to age-related changes, cognitive decline, reduced lower leg strength and endurance, limited range of motion, and neurological issues such as numbness in the feet or legs.

There are a few things that you can do at home to help prolong your ability to maintain your balance. We use the movements below, along with others, with our clients at Motion 4 Life Fitness.

They focus on ankle range of motion (ROM), core strength, and training for the feet.

Ankle ROM and lower leg strength: • Toe Raises: Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Keep your heels planted while lifting your toes toward your shins, then lower them back down. Perform the movement with one foot or both. Begin with two sets of eight reps, resting 30 seconds between sets, and prog-

Motion 4 Life Fitness member Leon Walker works on his balance.

(Photo courtesy of Motion 4 Life Fitness)

ress over the next few weeks to three sets of 15 reps.

• Heel Raises: Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Press through your toes to lift your heels until you’re on your tiptoes, then lower your heels back to the floor.

Perform the exercise with one foot or both. Start with 2 sets of 8 reps, resting 30 seconds between sets, and progress over the next few weeks to 3 sets of 15 reps.

• Standing Heel to Toe Rocks: Stand upright, tummy pulled toward your spine, with a hand on an object for balance, such as a counter or table.

Put your right foot forward and left leg behind about hip-width apart.

Raise the toes of the front foot with the back foot on the floor. Rock forward until the front foot is fully on the ground, pushing through the front big toe for balance, and the back heel is off the ground. Rock backward until you return to the starting position. Do two sets of 12 repetitions then switch sides, rest 30 seconds between sets.

If you feel any dizziness, or notice anything that feels wrong, see your doctor immediately. If you want to work more on your balance, see your doctor for a program near you, or find a gym and work with a certified personal trainer who specializes in working with older adults.

Dan Scripter is a certified personal trainer at Motion 4 Life Fitness in Carmel.

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ADVERTORIAL

JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY: IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

By Dr. Kevin Sonn, orthopedic surgeon at IU Health Fishers

F

or many adults over 55, joint pain can slowly take away the activities they love, whether it’s walking Dr. Kevin Sonn the neighborhood, gardening or keeping up with grandchildren. When pain becomes chronic and begins to affect quality of life, joint replacement surgery may become part of the conversation. But how do you know if it’s the right choice for you?

UNDERSTANDING JOINT REPLACEMENT Joint replacement surgery is a common and effective procedure used to treat damaged joints, most often the hip, knee or shoulder. The surgery involves replacing worn or damaged parts of the joint with artificial components to reduce pain and restore movement.

At IU Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Fishers, specialists offer a full range of joint replacement options, including hip, knee and shoulder procedures, depending on your needs.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE? Joint replacement is not the first step in treatment. Most patients are initially treated with non-surgical approaches such as medication, physical therapy or lifestyle changes.

You may be a good candidate for joint replacement if: • You have persistent joint pain that limits your daily activities • You experience reduced mobility or difficulty walking or climbing stairs • Your symptoms have not improved with nonsurgical treatments • Joint damage is impacting your overall quality of life At IU Health, care teams evaluate each patient individually, considering the severity of symptoms, overall health and personal goals before recommending surgery.

CONSIDERING NEXT STEPS If you’re experiencing joint pain but aren’t sure if you’re ready to consider surgery, there are helpful ways to learn more. Your first step is typically a

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consultation with an orthopedic specialist. During this visit, your care team will review your diagnosis and explain treatment options so you can make an informed decision.

IU Health also offers joint replacement seminars designed to help patients better understand their condition, available treatments and what to expect throughout the process. These sessions can be especially valuable if you’re weighing your options and want to feel more confident in your next step.

two hours and is performed under anesthesia. After surgery, your care team will guide you through recovery, focusing on pain management and helping you begin moving safely.

Patients begin walking with assistance the same day of surgery. Recovery is supported by a multidisciplinary team that may include physical therapists, occupational therapists and care coordinators, all working together to help you regain strength and mobility.

WHEN IT’S TIME FOR SURGERY If non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, your care team may recommend joint replacement as the best option to relieve pain and improve function.

Preparation begins well before surgery. Patients undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough for the procedure. This may include reviewing medications, completing lab tests and assessing heart and lung health. You’ll also receive guidance on how to prepare your home for recovery, such as arranging help with daily tasks and minimizing fall risks.

Joint replacement surgery typically takes one to

MOVING FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE Choosing joint replacement surgery is a personal decision, but you don’t have to make it alone. With expert evaluation, personalized care plans and educational resources, IU Health helps patients understand their options and feel confident in their next step.

If joint pain is keeping you from living life to the fullest, it may be time to explore your options.

Learning more can help you determine whether joint replacement is the right path toward moving more comfortably and staying active in the years ahead. For more information, visit iuhealth.org/ joints.

55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

11

Carmel resident finds niche as investment banker

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

B

ob Zoccola found another niche in his second career.

After 26 years as a trial attorney, Zoccola decided to make the move into investment banking after learning more about the work.

“One of my clients was in international business, and she gave me the opportunity to get into international business, which I jumped at,” he said.

“When I learned what (investment bankers) did, I thought I could do this, and this would be fun.”

It’s so much fun that the 83-year-old is still doing it nearly 30 years later.

That client who gave him the opportunity was the late Christel DeHaan, who owned Resorts Condominiums International before selling it.

At the time he shifted careers, Zoccola was based in London working with partners in a firm.

“They were investment bankers, and that’s who taught me that career move,” he said. “I’ve been blessed with a wonderful, loving and supporting family.

I’ve been blessed with opportunities to meet interesting, successful people that showed me ideas and exposed me to ventures that I never would have seen without their help.”

After the firm was sold, he had another client who owned and operated a family office in Jackson Hole, Wyo. He joined the team, where wealthy people would make funds available.

“We used their funds to do other ventures,” he said.

Now, Zoccola has his own company.

“I partner with other people who are either in the space or they recommend something to me,” he said. “Most of what comes our way now is word of mouth because they know what we do and they refer people to us.”

Zoccola moved to Carmel in 1972.

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Bob Zoccola, middle, with his sons Jim, left, and Boyd, on right. (Photo courtesy of Bob Zoccola)

When he was with the firm, he conducted business in 152 nations.

Zoccola said he developed new skills when he became an investment banker.

“But a lot of the skills I developed as a trial lawyer and a licensed mediator (was) because a mediator is basically an arbitrator or a judge who makes a decision,” he said. “A mediator just gets the parties to talk and see if they can’t identify common ground.”

He now owns a company, Zolutions, LLC. “It’s part time, although there are moments when you know you got the deal inside the 1-yard line where you have to be ready to close the deal and make that a priority,” he said. “I try not to have too many things on my plate at one time, so that I’m able to give the right attention to any customer that I’m working with.”

Zoccola moved to Indianapolis in 1960 to attend Butler University. He majored in mathematics and then attended the University of Minnesota’s law school.

“I met the love of my life at Butler, and after law school, she brought me back here because she was a Hoosier and didn’t want to live in Minnesota,” he said.

His wife, Ann, died in 2019. He has 59-year-old twin sons, Boyd and Jim, and five grandchildren.

His sons and grandchildren all graduated from Carmel High School.

STAYING ACTIVE Bob Zoccola moved to The Stratford in October 2024.

“I’m the chair of Lifelong Learning, where I find speakers that I think would be interesting for our residents to hear about and learn from,” he said. “I ask

the residents to give topics that they would like to hear about and then I go find the speaker. Once a week, I lead a group that meditates here.”

Zoccola has kept a gratitude journal for more than 25 years.

“I write things that I’m grateful for that day, and what I found is the more you do it, the more things you’ll notice in the world to be grateful for,” he said.

“To me, it transforms the way you see the world.”

Zoccola said it’s an activity that he encourages everyone to try.

He said he gets involved in as many activities as he can at The Stratford.

“There are so many interesting people here,” he said. “When you hear their stories, you just go, ‘Wow.’ I mean intelligent, interesting people, and to hear their stories is special.”

Real estate agent helps seniors downsize

J

Join Downsize Indy for a FREE live event designed to simplify your move and connect you with trusted local resources.

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

ustin Steill and his team have developed a forte in helping older adults downsize their homes.

“Downsizing has always been a service we offer but it has become increasingly a larger part of our business over the past five years,” Steill said. “We Steill help a lot of people downsize into smaller homes. Then the next step is senior living communities.”

Steill is the owner and team leader of Homes With Steill Real Estate Group with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Indiana Realty. The office is in Carmel and Steill lives in Westfield.

“We serve a lot of clients in the Hamilton County area but also work in Indy Metro from Greenwood to Avon,” Steill said.

Steill holds open houses on weekends, usually Sunday afternoons.

Steill has a 12-person team. The team was established in 2013 and has been a part of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices since 2019.

Steill has helped lead a team that has served more than 1,000 families and closed more than $600 million in real estate. It is among the 20 largest teams in the Berkshire Hathaway network nationwide.

“I am passionate about building relationships, fostering connections and serving as a trusted resource for all your real estate needs,” Steill said. “Whether buying, selling or investing, our proven process ensures exceptional results. We are committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for our clients.”

For more, visit justinsteill.bhhsindianarealty.com.

“I am passionate about building relationships, fostering connections and serving as a trusted resource for all your real estate needs.”

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13

Aging in Place: What you need to know before a crisis happens Commentary by Christine Stolle

F

or many older adults, there’s no place they’d rather be than home.

Aging in place offers familiarity, independence and comfort. But remaining safely at home isn’t simply a matter of wanting to stay there. It requires thoughtful legal, financial, and practical planning long before a health crisis occurs.

Here’s what every family should know.

Start with the legal foundation One of the most important steps in aging in place has nothing to do with your house. It starts with your legal documents.

Every adult should have a health care power of attorney, durable power of attorney, living will and medical release of information (HIPAA). These documents allow you to choose the people who can make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to do so yourself.

Without them, your loved ones may have to petition the court for guardianship, a process that can be expensive, time consuming, public and emotionally draining. More important, it means someone else may end up making decisions that you would have preferred to make yourself.

It’s also important to review how your home is titled and ensure you have an up-to-date will or trust. Proper planning can help avoid probate while also preserving future long-term care planning options.

A paid-off house still has expenses Owning your home outright doesn’t mean living there is free.

Property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, utilities, repairs and ongoing maintenance continue regardless of whether you have a mortgage. Many families underestimate these recurring expenses when planning for retirement.

In addition, staying in your home safely may require modifications such as: • Installing grab bars • Building wheelchair ramps • Replacing tubs with walk-in showers • Widening doorways • Improving lighting and accessibility These upgrades can become costly, especially if they’re made during an emergency rather than planned in

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advance.

Before making major financial decisions, explore available funding options such as home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), reverse mortgages, VA benefits or Medicaid programs that may help offset costs. And be cautious about gifting money or property, as doing so could affect Medicaid eligibility because of the program’s five-year look-back period.

Know when more help is needed One of the most difficult conversations families face is recognizing when living independently is no longer realistic.

Conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease or recovery from a stroke often require more than occasional assistance. They may require skilled care that goes beyond what a spouse or adult child can safely provide.

Families should openly and honestly discuss activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring and mobility. Understanding when additional support is needed before burnout occurs can make all the difference for both the individual needing care and the family members providing it.

Aging in place doesn’t mean staying in the same house forever Many people assume the only choices are remaining in their current home or moving directly into assisted living.

Fortunately, there are many options in between.

Communities designed for older adults, such as 55-plus neighborhoods, maintenance-free villas, condominiums and independent living communities, can significantly reduce the burden of home maintenance while allowing individuals to maintain their independence and active lifestyles.

Sometimes aging in place simply means finding a home that’s better suited for the next stage of life.

Understanding the cost of long-term care Long-term care is one of the largest financial challenges many families will ever face.

Although Medicare plays an important role, it generally covers only shortContinued on Page 15

Continued from Page 14 term skilled care following a hospitalization. It does not pay for ongoing custodial care, which is the type of assistance many older adults eventually need.

Depending on your circumstances, long-term care may be funded through: • Personal savings • Home equity • Long-term care insurance • Veterans benefits • Medicaid Planning ahead is critical. Estate planning tools such as Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts and Veteran Asset Protection Trusts can help protect assets while preserving eligibility for benefits, but they must be established well before care is needed. Waiting until a crisis occurs often eliminates many of the available planning opportunities.

Even the most devoted caregivers can experience burnout, lost income, declining health, and strained relationships.

Building a successful aging-in-place plan means recognizing that family support has limits. Adult day programs, respite care, in-home caregivers, and formal family caregiver agreements can provide valuable support while helping loved ones maintain healthy boundaries.

Plan for life after the loss of a spouse The death of a spouse can dramatically change someone’s ability to remain at home.

A surviving spouse may suddenly face reduced household income, the loss of a primary caregiver or unexpected ownership and title issues involving the home.

Planning ahead can help ensure that a surviving spouse has both the legal authority and financial resources needed to continue living safely and comfortably.

Aging in place is absolutely achievable for many families, but successful aging in place rarely happens by accident.

It requires thoughtful legal planning, realistic financial preparation, honest family conversations and a willingness to plan before a crisis forces difficult decisions.

The earlier you begin, the more options you’ll have.

Christine Stolle is an attorney at Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law. For more, visit dillman-owen.com.

55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

15

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

For some individuals, long-term care planning is less about whether you can afford care and more about how you want to pay for it, in addition to what opportunity costs you are willing to accept. Long-term care includes services like in-home assistance, assisted living, or skilled nursing care. In the state of Indiana, the costs of these services can vary significantly depending on the location and level of care. The expenses can sometimes go on for years and create meaningful financial and emotional stress if not planned for in advance.

The goal of planning ahead isn’t just to cover the costs, it’s to do so efficiently, without disrupting your broader financial and legacy plan.

The core decision often comes down to two approaches: purchasing insurance or self-funding care using your own assets. The time to make this decision is typically between the ages of 55 and 65.

The self-funding method means setting aside a portion of your own portfolio specifically for future care needs. For those that have the ability to pursue this method, it provides full control and flexibility related to the money. Assets can be invested how you choose and used for any other purpose (including inheritance) if not needed for care.

In addition, this method provides simplicity because there is no underwriting, no policy terms to be concerned with and no claims process to manage. On the other hand, self-funding means taking on all of the risk related to an unknown prolonged care situation, which can erode even a substantial portfolio.

The money earmarked for care also takes on the opportunity cost of not being used for other expenses in retirement and significant care expenses could reduce what you pass on to heirs or charitable organizations.

Some clients choose this approach if they have sufficient liquidity and are comfortable absorbing a potential high-cost scenario without affecting their lifestyle or other longterm goals.

Another option to pay for longterm care is an insurance policy. In most cases, these policies are issued using a hybrid product where life insurance or an annuity is combined with long-term care coverage. If care is needed, the policy provides benefits. If not, there is typically a death benefit paid to beneficiaries. Unlike a traditional long-term care insurance policy, which is a “use it or lose it” benefit, there is typically value in a hybrid policy even if care is never needed.

In addition, if started early enough, a lump sum or series of premiums can be turned into a larger pool of future benefits. Many of these hybrid policies offer fixed premiums, reducing uncertainty and they can help preserve other assets intended for your heirs.

However, long-term care insurance policies do often have upfront costs, can be complex with various benefit triggers or riders and lower flexibility since the funds are less accessible. Hybrid policies can be appealing for individuals who want to transfer some of the financial risk related to long-term care while still maintaining a predictable outcome for their estate.

Further, some clients will choose a middle ground approach where a dedicated portion of their investment portfolio is earmarked specifically for long-term care and balance some of the risk with a smaller insurance policy for catastrophic scenarios.

Some of the key questions to ask as you navigate this decision include: How important is protecting your estate? Are you comfortable with the uncertainty of potential care costs?

Would large healthcare expenses change your lifestyle plans? Do you prefer control or risk transfer? How is your health and would you qualify for coverage?

The bottom line is, there is no one-size fits all solution. Instead, the decision comes down to aligning your financial capacity with your personal preferences. Self-funding emphasizes flexibility and control.

Long-term care insurance offers leverage and protection. The key is to make the decision proactively, while you have the most options available.

Sycamore resident enjoys new home

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

I

t’s never easy leaving your home state or your home, but it’s something that Mary Buchanan did — and she’s thriving.

Buchanan, who turns 82 next month, is a new resident of the Sycamore Reserve Senior Living in Indianapolis. She moved there in May and has enjoyed Sycamore immensely since her daughter Shelly did a search on where Buchanan could live. “(My daughter) took care of everything for me,” Buchanan said. “That was a big help.”

Buchanan described the search experience as a major reason for wanting to live there and she has not had any regrets.

“In my time here, I’ve liked it so much,” Buchanan said. “I can be myself with all my friends I’ve accumulated.

They have been great and wonderful and it’s been that (Sycamore).”

Buchanan, who lived in Indianapolis with her daughter prior to her move, is a native of Charles City, Iowa. She also lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Buchanan, who attended business school in Minnesota, worked for many years with the LeFebure Co. of Cedar Rapids, a major manufacturer of bank security equipment, safes and vault doors.

A widow, Buchanan has two daughters, Shelly and Tracy. Tracy lives in Iowa City, Iowa.

Buchanan is a big fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes football team and of fellow

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Mary Buchanan resides at the Sycamore Reserve Senior Living community. (Photo courtesy of Sycamore Reseve)

Hawkeye and Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, She said she also enjoys working with her hands and lists quilting, knitting and crocheting as her hobbies.

“Idle hands are the devil’s work,” Buchanan said, laughing. “I miss my daughter in Iowa and I miss Iowa, but I’ve been loving my life here and it’s been more than fun.”

“PrimeLife is such an asset to Carmel and Hamilton County! Everything they do makes our lives easier.”

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Continued from Page 4 “These are all tasks that need to be done, and we’re starting to build a plan to delegate those tasks,” Balta said. “If they’re rich with people and a support system, then there may not be costs associated with the move, except for maybe at the very end when we’re selling the real estate. If they don’t have people, then we may need to hire a packer and a mover. I’m looking for those movers and packers that specialize in serving seniors because they know to be gentle, caring and respectful.”

Online auctions can help with items not being moved.

“I’m a huge trash-to-treasure girl, so I love online auctions because people aren’t traipsing through the house,” she said.

At Balta’s most recent auction from a 3,500-square-foot home, the auctioneer sold all but three items. The funds made from the auction could help with moving costs.

“We help people find joy in this and in going through the next process,” she said. “Every person’s journey is different and it’s so customized.”

For more, visit yoursilverjourney.com.

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

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[

Fishers resident passionate about senior care

By Hannah Vandlandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com

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A

fter working for several years in the corporate world, Stacey Williams has made a significant career shift. As she looked to transition into a more specialized and local position, she came across Seniors Helping Seniors and took the opportunity to open a location of her own.

“As I started thinking about leaving corporate and doing something more local, I wanted to focus on seniors or kids,” Williams said. “Seniors Helping Seniors was an opportunity that I saw, and it just speaks to my heart.”

Seniors Helping Seniors is an in-home care service designed to connect seniors with caregivers their own age. The similarity in age aims to promote understanding, connection and relatability between seniors and their caregivers.

Williams said she is passionate about fostering connections between seniors and caregivers because of her personal experience with her grandmother and her caretaker.

“My grandmother had suffered a stroke and lived for about 10 years after that, but had really significant health challenges. My family was very, very fortunate that we had an amazing caregiver, but it was so hard,” said Williams, a Fishers resident. “Everybody needs care, and they need people to give them care who are going to be caring and loving. There’s also an element of dignity and respect for the people who just want to age in place versus trying to go into a facility, which I think is ultimately better for people.”

Williams wants to put focus on quality care, which, for her, means hiring high-quality caregivers.

“If you look at the senior care industry in general, people can get into the industry without a lot of training,” she said. “They’re going to get training through their employer, but you don’t have to have those skills necessarily to get hired as a caregiver. We are very specific in trying to hire seniors to care for other seniors – people who have similar life experience, people who might have similar interests, so it’s about building that genuine relationship.”

Another focus is the comfort of those

Stacey Williams has opened a Seniors Helping Seniors center in Hamilton County. (Photo courtesy of Stacey Williams)

seeking care.

“The majority of older people want to age in place in their homes, because that’s what they know, and that’s where they’re comfortable,” Williams said. “(For us) it’s about creating the environment where they can do that safely (while) getting the help that they need.”

Williams finds hiring caregivers to be especially rewarding, enjoying the conversations with those who are passionate about the job.

“When you get somebody who’s in it for the right reasons; (when) you get a caregiver who comes in and they’re telling you stories about who they’ve given care to, and they get really emotional… that just warms my heart,” she said.

Williams’ Seniors Helping Seniors coverage areas are Hamilton and Hancock counties and eastern Marion County.

“I really want to be the local resource that people think of when they think of needing care,” Williams said. “I’m hoping Seniors Helping Seniors creates that brand awareness that people know automatically the high quality of care that we provide, and that we will be the go-to resource. I just want us to be that community resource in my territory… but I’m certainly starting here in Hamilton County.”

For more, visit seniorshelpingseniors. com.

Marquette retirement community plans major expansion

M

arquette, a nonprofit continuing care retirement community senior living destination in Indianapolis known for its exceptional lifestyle offerings and personalized care, broke ground on Part I of a significant expansion featuring the highly anticipated Terraces II development, a new residential option called The Flats.

Construction began June 16 on the first phase, which includes The Commons, an amenities enhancement featuring indoor multiuse sports court and waterfront lounge spaces. The ambitious multiphase project, a $102 million investment, will add 69 luxury apartment homes, 25 innovative stacked flats and a major expansion of the community’s central gathering space, representing the second most comprehensive development in the community’s history.

Anticipated opening in 2029, Terraces II will feature the same striking façade with glass wall corner units and sophisticated architectural design mirroring the popular Terraces I building, comple-

mented by a welcoming dining venue and convenient underground parking facilities. The development also introduces an innovative housing concept with 25 hybrid homes they are calling The Flats – a unique residential option that combines the privacy of independent homes with thoughtfully designed, single level flats, spacious layouts and generous outdoor enjoyment.

“This expansion represents our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of today’s discerning seniors who seek both luxury and an active, engaging lifestyle,” stated Jake Cox, executive director of Marquette. “The Terraces II, The Flats and amenities development will set a new standard for senior living, combining our residents’ love for recreational activities like pickleball with sophisticated dining and living spaces that foster community connection.”

Key Features of the development: Luxury apartment homes (69 units) • Spacious, well-appointed residences full of natural light and premium finishes • Multiple floor plan options to suit

diverse lifestyle preferences • Exceptional comforts such as fireplaces, modern amenities and accessibility features innovative stacked flats (25 units) • Unique living concept combining privacy, convenience and connectivity.

• Thoughtfully designed for optimal comfort and functionality • Covered parking and private outdoor spaces

• Premium Amenities • Exclusive on-site dining venues featuring chef-prepared cuisine • Secure underground or at grade covered parking with direct building access • Seamless integration with existing community amenities and services: The Marquette Athletic Club, natatorium, resident garden, chapel, Township Tavern and creative arts spaces.

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55 AND BETTER Summer 2026

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