IN OUR OWN BACKYARDS
STEPPING BACK IN TIME
State-of-the-art robotic-assisted surgery
Available at Ascension St. Vincent Carmel
If surgery is part of your treatment plan, take time for your health and talk with a surgical specialist at Ascension St. Vincent Carmel about options that are best for you. As a robotics leader in central Indiana, our advanced technology shortens recovery time so you can get back to the activities you enjoy.
Scan the QR code to schedule a consultation and learn more about robotic-assisted surgical treatments at Ascension St. Vincent Carmel or get a second opinion.
Christine E. Gupta, MD General Surgery
The Explore Edition
Summer is the perfect season to explore — whether that means venturing to new destinations or rediscovering old favorites. It can involve seeking out new services or simply stepping outside and slowing down to notice the beauty all around us.
Recently, I came across a poem by Mary Oliver that includes one of my favorite quotes. I’d always loved the final line,“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” However, I had never read the full piece. The poem, The Summer Day, is a beautiful meditation on nature, slowing down and being truly present. That final line, often used to inspire grand life changes, struck me in a new way. It’s not just about big leaps. It’s about noticing small moments around us. That message felt like the perfect theme for summer and this edition.
This year, my family was fortunate to visit Oklahoma, where we lived before moving to Carmel. It was a meaningful trip, filled with visits to dear friends, family and favorite places rich with memories. I also had the chance to explore Sedona, Arizona — a place full of stunning landscapes, hidden trails, charming shops and incredible food. While we loved the chance to travel, there also have been quiet discoveries closer to home — local parks, neighborhood walks and the beauty of nature right here in Carmel.
During one of our recent hikes at Flowing Well Park, we met Indiana nature photographer Ken Williams. He graciously offered to share some of his photos, and when I saw them, I was stunned. His images so vividly capture the natural beauty of our community! They could grace the cover of any nature magazine. We’re honored to feature his work in this edition.
This magazine also offers you the opportunity to step back into Carmel’s rich past at the Carmel Clay History Museum. Not only that, but we explore unique services offered in our area. Kristen Blume, M.D., guides us through the journey of hair restoration, and The Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County shares how the nonprofit walks beside seniors to keep them connected to their community.
So let us encourage you as you travel, slow down, appreciate our beautiful surroundings and explore all our area has to offer. That’s the heart of this edition — finding wonder in every corner, even in our own backyards.
ANDREA KULSRUD, PUBLISHER @CARMEL.CITY.LIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Amy Adams | amy.adams@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Melvie Gonzales | melvie.gonzales@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amy Adams, Andrea Kulsrud, Ally Straczek
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ken Williams, Brianna Richardson Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
inside the issue
Carmel
Carmel
The
Empowering Your Dreams
For over 50 years, we have dedicated ourselves to helping individuals and institutions achieve their financial goals through comprehensive wealth management services. Trust us to help support and protect your investments so you can focus on living your best life.
Optimize Your Pelvic Health!
the
of
1: (From left): Ashley Hurley, Jamie Gauker and Diana Daniely joined Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build. 2: Mayor Sue Finkam (center) kicked off Move with the Mayor at Coffee on the Monon. 3: Gemi Ozdemir, of Ozwell Fitness (center), joined Matt Carroll (left) and Matt Hadley for a podcast. 4: Carmel Runners Club members didn’t let weather cancellation keep them from completing their marathon miles. 5: Nurses at the Ascension St. Vincent Carmel Emergency Department provide an expert level of care. 6: Team members from Hallmark Orthodontics recently attended the American Association of Orthodontists meeting in Philadelphia. 7: Pooja Garg met speaker Judy Singleton at the Carmel Clay Historical Society Spring Tea.
Board certified in family medicine and psychiatry, nurse practitioner Kayla Beier opened Endurance Mental Health & Wellness to address major gaps in corporate psychiatric care. Offering treatment in psychiatry and medical weight loss, the practice now accepts insurance plans, including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare. While this does not include government plans, the practice will still offer the self-pay option to current and new patients. Learn more at EnduranceMentalHealth.com
Lock In Current Rates at Ozwell
At Ozwell, fitness meets luxury in a space designed to energize, recover and connect. If you've been curious about joining, now is the time — new memberships and pack prices will be increasing on July 15. Become a part of the Ozwell community and lock in the current rates before these changes go into effect. Visit OzwellFitness.com to learn more.
Scan to read more
14th Collection Now Open in Clay Terrace
A curated boutique of women’s and men’s apparel showcasing the finest selections from Asia’s most visionary independent designers, 14th Collection blends contemporary aesthetics with timeless craftsmanship. Believing that true luxury lies in the details, experts hand-pick pieces that feature impeccable tailoring and premium fabrics. Next to Sleep Number, 14th Collection caters to those who seek quality and individuality with a story behind what they wear. Open Tuesdays to Sundays 11 a.m.-7 p.m..
With more than 20 years of experience, Matt Sower, DPT, specializes in orthopedic rehab, integrating a fitness mindset with a focus on long-term wellness and personal training. At Physio Indy, customized, one-on-one treatment options range from early stage physical therapy to competitive athlete injury prevention and performance for patients of all ages, to include hands-on treatments, pain relieving therapies and more. Find Physio Indy at 580 E. Carmel Drive, Ste. 209. Learn more at PhysioIndy.com.
Nature All Around Us
CARMEL OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE WITHOUT LEAVING HOME
ARTICLE BY ANDREA KULSRUD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEN WILLIAMS
Male Bluebird
Monarch Butterfly
Whitetail Deer Fawn
Travel is not required to embrace the spirit of exploration. Sometimes, all it takes is a slower pace and a deeper appreciation for the world right outside one's door. Whether you're surrounded by city streets or tucked away in the countryside, nature is always close by — waiting to be noticed. Tune into the songs of birds, feel the breeze on your skin and take in the ever-changing canvas above us, the sky.
Here in Carmel, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by parks and green spaces that make it easy to enjoy nature close to home. Two local favorites, Flowing Well Park and Cool Creek Park and Nature Center, offer stunning scenery and wildlife encounters, especially for bird enthusiasts.
To capture these natural moments, we connected with local nature photographer Ken Williams, whose beautiful images have been taken at both parks. You can enjoy his work on these pages and also online at FineArtAmerica.com/profiles/6-Ken-Williams.
FLOWING WELL PARK
5100 E. 116th Street, Carmel
Tucked away off 116th Street, Flowing Well Park features a natural artesian well with a continuous stream of cool, fresh
water. Visitors often arrive with jugs to fill or stop by to refresh with a quick sip.
A milelong nature trail winds through lush trees and crosses a scenic bridge over Cool Creek. It’s a peaceful, forested escape that still feels close to home.
Kids love skipping stones and spotting colorful river rocks along the creek. Visitors are asked not to move the stones, as they create habitats for wildlife.
More info: CarmelClayParks.com/parks/Flowing-Well-Park.
COOL CREEK PARK & NATURE CENTER
2000 E. 151st Street, Carmel
Encompassing more than 90 acres, Cool Creek Park offers a bit of everything — mature woods, meadows, trails, a playground and even soccer fields.
With four miles of trails, this is a prime destination for birdwatching, hiking and forest bathing. Cool Creek Nature Center provides interactive displays for kids and adults alike to explore the science of the Indiana woodlands, from the local ecosystems to conservation efforts. The Nature Center is open CONTINUED >
Female Mallard
Mondays through Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays 1-5 p.m.
There’s also a dedicated Nature Play Area in a shady spot meant to inspire a child's imagination and encourage an enhanced appreciation for the outdoors. Seasonal programs and family-friendly events round out the experience.
More info: HamiltonCounty.In.Gov/1905/ Cool-Creek-Park-and-Nature-Center .
Whether it’s a solo walk through the woods, a day with the kids by the creek or an afternoon of birdwatching, these local parks offer a rich and refreshing escape — no travel required.
U.S. Air Force veteran Ken Williams has 40 years of experience in the medical electronics field. He’s been involved with photography all his life, but his interest grew when digital cameras came to the forefront. He’s written several articles for photography magazines in recent years, and he loves exploring nature with his camera, his wife, his two wonderful kids and fellow nature photographers.
“Nature photography is an opportunity to bring forth beautiful images of a world largely unknown to many,” Williams says. “I feel these endeavors can inspire and educate viewers, thereby helping protect the wild outdoors for future generations.”
Ken Williams
Barred Owl
Red Headed Woodpecker
Yellow Warbler
White Swan
Male Mallard
STEPPING BACK IN CARMEL’S HISTORY
Carmel Clay History Museum
CARMEL CLAY HISTORY MUSEUM HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
When thinking of the Monon Greenway today, we think of people walking and biking in the great outdoors, but there was a period of nearly 100 years when the Monon Railroad was bustling with business in Carmel and throughout Indiana. That time in history, as well as the days before and after, comes alive once stepping inside the Carmel Clay History Museum at 211 1st St. SW.
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CARMEL CLAY HISTORY MUSEUM
With the support of Clay Township and the City of Carmel, the museum opened in November 2024 and celebrated the grand reopening of the Monon Depot in April 2025. However, the museum had been growing for decades in the hearts of the Carmel Clay Historical Society members who purchased a quarter acre all the way back in 1975.
Tracing the history of Carmel, which was first founded as Bethlehem in 1837 by four Quaker families from North Carolina, the museum chronicles all the growth and change in the area.
One of the biggest draws of the museum, according to Executive Director Debbie Gangstad, has been
“EVEN IF YOU’VE LIVED HERE YOUR WHOLE LIFE
YOU’RE GOING TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW.”
the children’s area on the third floor where parents and grandparents can bring kids to explore three playhouses: a cabin, a bank and a Dairy Queen.
And while the kids are learning, the adults with them are, too, as they stroll through the exhibits on everything from farming to schools.
“Inevitably parents say, ‘I didn’t know that,’” Gangstad says. “Even if you’ve lived here your whole life you’re going to learn something new.”
In less than a year, the museum has already welcomed more than 10,000 guests of all ages, from those who have grown up in Carmel to those who are just visiting.
This summer, guests can explore for free, as museum admission is waived to the public for the first year of operation. There is a $1 per child cost for accessing the play area to help with toy maintenance and upkeep.
Memberships are available for $50 for an individual and $125 for a family and include discounts in the museum gift shop, as well as a newsletter with details about the many museum events.
“It’s a donation in contribution to improve our museum and to make it the kind of museum that Carmel expects and depends on,” Gangstad says.
The museum provides ongoing programming.
“Whether it’s a new exhibit or community events,” says Director of Operations Meg Fuertges, “the best way to stay in the loop is to follow us on social media @carmelclayhistory or join our newsletter.”
Carmel Clay History Museum is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays noon-5 p.m. Learn more at CarmelClayHistory.org
INDEPENDENCE FOR SENIORS
THE SHEPHERD’S CENTER HELPS SENIORS AGE WITH DIGNITY AND RESPECT
ARTICLE BY ALLY STRACZEK
Did you know that Hamilton County's fastest-growing population is the seniors? By 2030, this segment is predicted to represent 35 to 40 percent of the county's residents.
The Shepherd's Center of Hamilton County was founded in 1985 when a group of Hamilton County residents identified a need in the community to make resources available for seniors 55 and older. Unwavering in their commitment to seniors, the staff and volunteers work tirelessly to provide residents with access to assistance.
Lauren Guynn, executive director, explains the organization's mission is to help as many seniors as possible to live independently by providing the services they need to age gracefully.
"Everyone should have the opportunity to age in a community where they grew up or chose to live,” she says.
Seniors and caregivers look to the organization for five essential services. Community Caring helps older adults age safely through volunteer support. Counseling programs provide free services with licensed therapists. Guardianship promotes the dignity of incapacitated adults through legal advocacy. Reaching Resources connects seniors with aging resources in Hamilton County. Together Today aims to prevent isolation and create a community of adults aged 55-plus.
Guynn says the Shepherd’s Center is able to expand on benefits by partnering with other agencies, such as Meals on Wheels and Good Samaritan.
"On average, we assisted each senior 30 times with social interaction, meals and counseling," explains Lisa Albano, director of programs and operations. "That's 22,955 interactive touch points with our senior Hamilton County residents."
The dedicated staff and volunteers are passionately leading the organization to expand its services by reaching out and supporting caregivers. Known as the "sandwich generation," caregivers frequently have responsibilities for caring for younger kids and families while assisting aging parents and family members. The burden of caring for two generations can lead to isolation, stress, depression and anxiety.
“Our mission is to help seniors age in place and support caregivers with self-care.”
"More than 60 percent of caregivers experience depression at a higher rate than the people they are supporting," Guynn explains. "The Shepherd's Center is committed to being a place for caregivers to find support."
For anyone facing the challenges of aging or caregiving, they can reach out to The Shepherd's Center at ShepherdsCenterOfHamiltonCounty.org or by phone at 317.674.8777. As a smaller organization, the nonprofit is always seeking new volunteers, even if for just one hour a month.
Help With Hair Loss
KRISTEN BLUME, M.D., EXPLORES
OPTIONS FOR HAIR RESTORATION
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CAUSES OF HAIR LOSS YOU SEE IN YOUR PRACTICE?
"Hair loss is a common concern for both men and women, and the causes can vary widely. The most frequently seen types in my clinical practice are male and female pattern hair loss, which are largely genetic and tend to progress gradually over time. However, hair loss can also be triggered or worsened by other factors, including stress or illness, hormonal changes, scalp and nutritional health, medical conditions and hair styling practices."
HOW DOES HAIR LOSS AFFECT YOUR PATIENTS’ LIVES?
"Hair loss is often viewed as a cosmetic issue, but its effects go far deeper than appearance alone. For many patients, losing hair can significantly affect emotional well-being, leading to social withdrawal, avoidance of certain activities or reluctance to appear in photos or public settings."
WHAT HAIR RESTORATION PROCESS DO YOU RECOMMEND?
"One of the treatments I often recommend is Alma TED, which stands for TransEpidermal Delivery. This innovative method is non-invasive, pain-free and requires no needles or downtime. In addition to Alma TED, I often combine treatments with De|Rive, a plant-based exosome serum that supports scalp health and hair growth, as well as topical and oral medications like minoxidil and finasteride. Nutritional supplements and red light therapy are also commonly incorporated to enhance results."
WHAT RESULTS DO YOU SEE FOR YOUR PATIENTS?
"Many patients begin to notice visible improvements in hair quality and density within a few weeks of starting Alma TED treatments. Typical results include reduced shedding,
improved hair texture (less breakage and dryness), increased hair density (thickness) and new growth in areas where hair had been thinning."
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR HAIR RESTORATION?
"Alma TED is a great option for anyone experiencing early to moderate hair thinning or shedding and wanting a non-invasive solution to improve hair growth. It’s especially helpful for people noticing a widening part, thinning around the temples or crown or more hair in the shower or on their brush than usual. Alma TED is also ideal for individuals who want to strengthen existing hair, improve scalp health and prevent further hair loss."
WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?
"I offer a wide range of non-surgical treatments designed to enhance and rejuvenate the skin. These include Botox, dermal fillers and biostimulators to smooth lines and restore natural volume, as well as advanced options like skin resurfacing, skin tightening and non-surgical eyelid tightening. I also provide salmon DNA mesoneedling — a regenerative therapy that promotes radiant, healthy skin — and medical grade chemical peels. As a certified acne specialist, I’m dedicated to helping patients of all ages achieve clear, healthy skin through personalized and results-driven care."
WHAT IS YOUR MEDICAL BACKGROUND?
"After practicing family medicine for more than 10 years, I decided to further specialize by pursuing advanced training in aesthetic medicine. This additional education has allowed me to combine my comprehensive medical knowledge with cutting-edge cosmetic techniques to provide safe, effective and personalized treatments that help patients look and feel their best."
“When it comes to treating hair loss, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. I tailor each treatment plan based on underlying cause, extent of hair loss and my patients’ individual goals.”
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 2ND
Americana On Main
Anthony's Plaza, Carmel Arts & Design District | 4:00 PM
Celebrate the finale of Americana on Main from 4-8 p.m. near Anthony's Chophouse. Enjoy live music and a variety of family-friendly activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Participate in a scavenger hunt and a pie-eating contest, meet roaming street characters and take advantage of patriotic photo opportunities.
JULY 3RD & 4TH
CarmelFest
Civic Square and Carter Green | 1:00 PM
The largest Independence Day celebration in the Indianapolis area is back, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Carmel, Allied Solutions and Goelzer Investment Management. Enjoy live entertainment and fill up on festival food both days. Don't miss the parade Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Purchase Kids Zone tickets and find details at CarmelFest.net.
JULY 11TH & 18TH
Cook Creek Concert Series
Cool Creek Park | 7:00 PM
Spread a blanket, enjoy the picturesque park and take in the tunes of Mike & Joe on July 11 and Uptown Funk on July 18. Tickets are just $5 for adults, with free entry for children 12 and under. Bring your own food and drinks or try out available food trucks and beverage vendors. Gates open at 6 p.m.
JULY 19TH
Late Night On Main
Carmel Arts & Design District | 6:00 PM
Bring chairs and enjoy the music of Jai Baker. Presented by Carmel PorchFest, this street party includes food and beverage vendors. For an elevated experience, Feinstein's VIP Lounge opens at 7 p.m. with a limited supply of advance tickets with proceeds going to support the Carmel PorchFest Grant Program. Visit CarmelPorchFest.org for more.
JULY 19TH
Strength + Stretch Summer Series
Midtown Plaza | 8:30 AM
Grab a mat! This free summer series continues on the green outside Sun King with a pop-up class from Pure Barre this month. Penn & Beech Candle Co. will host a candle making event following the class, and you can enter to win a month of unlimited Pure Barre classes. Check out PureBarre.com/location/Carmel-IN
JULY 22ND-24TH
Kids Yoga Camp
Fire & Flow Yoga | 1:00 PM
Fire & Flow is hosting a yoga camp for kids in kindergarten through fifth grades. From 1-3 p.m. each day, kids will experience physical and social activity while expressing their creativity through yoga, mindfulness, crafts and games. The cost is $90 for all three days, with snacks included. Reserve your child’s spot at FireandFlowCarmel.com/KidsYoga
MON-FRI 9AM-5PM, SAT 9AM-NOON
HAND - SELECTED, ONE - OF - A - KIND STONES
INDIANA’S ONLY LOCALLY OWNED LUXURY STONE IMPORTER AND DISTRIBUTOR
Specializing in marble, granite, and quartzite. We travel to the world’s best locations where natural stone is sourced and personally selected for our expansive inventory of exotic natural stones. Open to the public, our team welcomes you in to experience our showroom and warehouse.
| 317-734-3862
