Boone County Magazine March 2026 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

GOLDEN YEARS

HOOSIER VILLAGE IS REDEFINING SENIOR LIVING

—Dr. Horn

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6 AT THE TABLE Aspen Creek Grill Opens in Whitestown

10 A FAMILIAR NAME Why Cowan Drugs Continues to Matter In Modern Health Care

15 GOLDEN YEARS Hoosier Village is Redefining Senior Living

PUBLISHER

BRANDON BALTZ brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522

KELSEY MUSICK

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LARR

18 AGING WELL Boone County Senior Services Inc. Offers Programs, Connection & Support 20 ELEVATED LIVING Holliday Farms Senior Living Opening in Zionsville 22 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPOTLIGHT Boone EDC

26 TOURISM SPOTLIGHT Discover Boone County

28 HOT FLASHES & BELLY LAUGHS

Local Author Proves Laughter is Great Hormone Therapy by Writing a Humor Book About Perimenopause

31 BUSINESS DIRECTORY 15

ABBIE WILLANS JULIE YATES

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AT THE TABLE

ASPEN CREEK GRILL OPENS IN WHITESTOWN

Writer / Kelsey Musick

Photographer / Robert Jones

Aspen Creek Grill — a full-service, casual dining restaurant that prides itself on “comfort fresh food” — has officially come to Whitestown.

Originally the brainchild of Texas Roadhouse founder Wayne Kent Taylor, Aspen Creek Grill was inspired by the ski resorts of Colorado and Utah. The first Aspen Creek Grill opened in 2009.

Matt Vest, managing partner of Aspen Creek Grill, was a regular at the Noblesville location for nearly a decade before transitioning into his current role.

“I loved the consistent, made-from-scratch food,” Vest says. “I built a relationship with the manager there, and I spread the word [about Aspen Creek Grill] to anyone who would listen.”

Aspen Creek Grill locations can be found in Greenwood, Noblesville and Whitestown, as well as in Kentucky and Texas.

“Opening an Aspen Creek Grill means a lot to me,” Vest says. “We pride ourselves on our hospitality, and we want to bring that to the Whitestown community.”

Vest predicts Whitestown will see significant growth over the next 10 years.

“When we were scouting possible locations, we saw Whitestown as a place of opportunity,” Vest says. “The timing was just right to be on the ground floor with something.”

Vest’s hope for Whitestown’s new Aspen Creek Grill is that it will become the “crown jewel” of northwest Indianapolis.

“As the third location in the Indianapolis market, the position allows us to have a little more market share and brand recognition,” Vest says.

According to Vest, the Whitestown market was underserved before Aspen Creek Grill’s grand opening on Jan. 12.

“There are only about four other restaurants [in Whitestown] that offer sit-down service, so we take a lot of pride in providing another sit-down option for the community,” Vest says.

When guests walk into Aspen Creek Grill in Whitestown, they can expect a warm welcome, a cozy environment and

comforting food, according to Vest.

“It’s the go-to place to eat, think, relax and be with friends,” Vest says. “We have awesome hand-cut steaks, seasoned, seared and charred to perfection. One of my personal favorites is the honey lime salmon. I am partial, but we have a lot of variety for folks.”

Vest hopes to establish partnerships within the community and donate to charities and organizations that help benefit and grow Whitestown.

“We are happy to be part of the Whitestown community now, and we are looking forward to many years of partnership within the community,” Vest says.

Aspen Creek Grill in Whitestown is located at 6031 Perry Worth Road.

treats trail

A FAMILIAR NAME

For more than a century, Cowan Drugs has been woven into the daily life of downtown Lebanon — a place where prescriptions are filled, neighbors are greeted by name, and help is offered long after the doors officially close. Today, that legacy is carried forward by owner and pharmacist John Cowan, whose family has operated the independent pharmacy for generations.

The business itself dates back to 1888, when it first opened on Lebanon’s courthouse square. John Cowan’s father arrived in town in 1956 and purchased part of the pharmacy

WHY COWAN DRUGS CONTINUES TO MATTER IN MODERN HEALTH CARE

Writer / Renée Larr Photographer / Robert Jones

from a previous owner, later acquiring full ownership in 1968.

“It’s been in my family since then,” Cowan says. “My dad owned the downtown store when I was born, so I literally grew up in that pharmacy.”

By age 6, Cowan was already working there in small ways. It served as an early introduction to a profession that would eventually become his life’s work.

After graduating from Purdue University in 1987, Cowan briefly worked for a chain pharmacy before returning home in late 1988. He became a co-owner alongside his sister in 1993 and assumed full ownership in late 2025. While the tools of the trade have changed dramatically since those early days, the mission has stayed the same — personal care, delivered locally.

Technology and modernization have reshaped pharmacy practice over the decades, from electronic records to sophisticated safety checks. Two years ago, Cowan Drugs installed a state-of-the-art

pharmacy computer system that allows for text messaging, multiple verification steps and near-zero error rates. At the same time, Cowan has expanded services to meet evolving community needs. The pharmacy offers vaccinations, including flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumonia. The staff administered thousands of shots during the height of the pandemic, often with lines stretching outside the door.

Yet what truly sets Cowan Drugs apart is its commitment to individualized service. The pharmacy provides compliance packaging, including presorted bubble packs labeled by day and time, to help patients manage complex medication schedules and remain living safely at home. “A lot of people can stay out of assisted living facilities because they’re able to take their meds correctly,” Cowan says. Delivery service extends throughout Lebanon and to nearby communities, with extra flexibility for emergencies.

That trust has helped Cowan Drugs endure as other independents have disappeared. When Cowan began his career, three

independent pharmacies operated on Lebanon’s square alone. Today, Cowan Drugs is the only true independent pharmacy left in the county, a reality shaped in part by the pressures of pharmacy benefit managers and shrinking reimbursements. Still, Cowan remains committed.

“I care about my customers,” he says. “I still love my job, and I’ll do it as long as I enjoy it.”

The business has grown thoughtfully, including the opening of a second location, Parkside Pharmacy, by Cowan’s father in 1976 to offer easier access and parking. The downtown store also features a longstanding Hallmark shop, originally opened as a separate Gift Barn in the 1970s and later brought under the same roof, along with a restaurant space that has operated in the back of the pharmacy since 1969.

Cowan is quick to credit his team for the pharmacy’s success. Several employees have been with the business for decades, including a pharmacist with more than 25 years, a front-of-store and Hallmark associate with nearly 40 years, and a technician approaching 30 years.

“We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without our wonderful employees,” he says.

A lifelong Lebanon resident, Cowan has also served his community beyond the counter, including on the chamber board, the county health department board and for nearly 40 years as a high school basketball referee. Those roles reflect the same philosophy that guides his pharmacy: show up, know your neighbors, and do things the right way. In a rapidly changing health care landscape, Cowan Drugs remains a steady, familiar presence — and proof that independent, family-owned businesses still matter.

For more information, visit mygnp.com/ pharmacies/cowan-drugs-lebanonin-46052/.

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TRANSITIONING TO SENIOR LIVING?

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.

Our life paths are lined with many milestones — from saying our first words to being called “Grandma” and “Grandpa.” While some life changes are exciting, they can also be hard. Moving into senior living can be particularly daunting to older loved ones, as it can bring up a myriad of emotions.

The smoothness of this transition often lies in the initial approach to it. Here are some tips on how to broach the sensitive subject of senior living.

Start the conversation early: Of course, it’s helpful to stay mindful of age-related changes, such as home isolation, memory issues, injuries, etc. Ideally, though, moving into a senior living community should be an act of prevention rather than an emergency response. So, talk to your loved ones sooner rather than later — preferably in person for a more comforting discussion than digital communication can provide.

Bring up the topic organically: Gently plant seeds so the idea of senior living grows positively in their mind. If they’re cooking dinner, for example, mention the dining room and socialization they could enjoy at the nearby senior living community. Talking over time will make the conversation feel less like an intervention and more like a natural, supportive dialogue.

Lead with empathy: If we’re not careful, talking to loved ones about moving may make them feel like we’re judging their current lifestyle. Remind them that you understand their needs and concerns. While moving can be overwhelming, you can help them realize the worries they’ll be able to let go of in the process.

Listen in a loving manner: This helps your loved one feel like they’re not just following you but walking hand in hand with you toward a new way of life. You’re a team.

Reframe senior living as alternative independence: It’s important to emphasize that this move isn’t a matter of closing one door but rather opening another one. For instance, instead of doing household chores, your loved one could devote more time to a hobby. Instead of driving across town for a hair appointment, they could find a salon just down the hall. Remind them how their choices are expanding and their level of independence is increasing.

For more information, check out the CarDon Senior Resource Hub at www.CarDon.us or scan the QR code, where you will find in-depth video discussions featuring industry experts speaking on a variety of age-related topics, including senior living options, financial aid, memory care and more.

GOLDEN YEARS

HOOSIER VILLAGE IS REDEFINING SENIOR LIVING

Writer / Abbie Willans

On a beautiful 300-acre campus near Zionsville, Hoosier Village offers independent living, in-home care, assisted living, memory care, health care and rehabilitation. It’s part of BHI Senior Living, an organization that began in Boone County in 1904.

Beyond the homes themselves, Hoosier Village offers a place to build community with other seniors. There are a variety of events and activities at Hoosier Village, ensuring any resident will find something that suits their tastes.

“When people move to a community like ours, they’re moving to us because they’re not selecting a brick-and-mortar building — they’re looking for a lifestyle, and that’s what Hoosier Village can provide them with,” says Megan Ulrich, vice president of marketing and public relations at BHI. “We have a full life enrichment team who put on programming for all educational, wellness, social and recreational needs.”

“Last year we rolled out a ‘Living on Purpose’ program, where we encourage our life enrichment team to make sure they’re having programming available to fit every individual, living within our communities, including travel opportunities,” she adds.

One of these travel opportunities in 2026 will include a trip to New Orleans for residents to visit the WWII Museum. BHI

Senior Living recently partnered with the Museum and WWII Veterans from Hoosier Village and other BHI Senior Living communities. These residents were interviewed to share their stories and to be featured in the Museum.

“We encourage residents to get involved in the community. Zionsville is a great place for them to do that, as there are a lot of volunteer opportunities and events with families. We have transportation on and off campus for those who don’t drive. HV residents like to keep busy,”says Anna Wellman, coordinator of marketing and sales at Hoosier Village.

She added that HV residents regularly participate in a variety of off-campus experiences, including attending the Classicals and Pops series presented by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

The team at Hoosier Village knows that staying in shape is important for longevity and well-being, so they offer a wealth of options for residents to choose from to stay active.

“We added four pickleball courts a couple of years ago, and this year we’re in the midst of expanding our outdoor activities. This will include a putting green and an outdoor pavilion, shuffleboard, cornhole and an area to do a lot of outdoor events,” says Executive Director Mindy Kantz.

“They have several trainers; I have one that really works well with me. I love her. I work with her twice a week,” says resident Connie Latas in an interview with Indy Now. “They’ve got all the equipment you’d need, and she teaches me how to use it.

“It’s a well-run place, right from the top down — the maintenance, the groundskeeping, the housekeeping, everything — and then there are so many activities to do, it’s unbelievable,” she adds. “They’re not just for older people; they are for everybody. There’s skydiving, symphonies, opera — you can go on and on.”

Latas enjoys the different dining areas as well. They have a cafe called the Dash Bistro and more elegant dining options at Heartwood. Hoosier Village even has its own Starbucks lounge.

“It’s like a college campus for seniors,” Wellman says. “We have a lot of outdoor spaces, walking trails, we do concerts in the park and have parties out there. We have a great dining staff who also does catering.”

Other amenities include an indoor pool, three community gardens, three dog parks and a game room with billiards and ping pong. Hoosier Village hosts trivia nights, book clubs, creative workshops and spiritual services.

“There’s so much that they do on campus. Options are endless,” Wellman says. “They do outings, they go on trips together, play pickleball and start clubs.”

Last year, a group of residents went skydiving. Among them was Joanne Dolan, who also spoke with Indy Now.

“There were a whole bunch of us who went, and we had a grand time. It was fun,” Dolan says.

Her husband, Dennis, participates in a group who call themselves the “grumpy old men,” a social club that meets every Saturday and Tuesday morning to “shoot the bull.”

“The ladies come on Saturday morning in another room; we don’t dare call them the grumpy old ladies — they are the lovely ladies. We even have picnics together. I’ve probably had more friends than I’ve had anywhere we lived,” he says.

He believes that “you don’t grow old when

you quit having fun. If you quit having fun, you grow old.”

“It’s as important when you get old to have a social life as it is to take care of your physical health,” Joanne says.

There are multiple options for independent living, with five different neighborhoods and home designs to choose from. The newest neighborhood is Magnolia Trace, with three-story townhomes that feature an elevator, two bedrooms, a den, a two-car garage, outdoor patios and an open floor plan.

There are also single-family homes, duplex homes and apartments. No matter which style of home they choose, residents can rest easy knowing that outdoor maintenance is handled by the dedicated staff at Hoosier Village.

“It’s a nice perk of living on campus, not having to worry about shoveling the driveway or walkways being frozen,” Wellman says. “There are a lot of benefits to maintenance-free living.”

After the big snowstorm in January, she remembers driving to work and noticing the difference between the highways and the roads within Hoosier Village.

“Our dedicated maintenance team worked around the clock to ensure the safety of our residents throughout the snowstorm,” she says.

Kantz says there has been a lot of demand

for homes like these, but the team at Hoosier Village is mindful of keeping plenty of green space on campus when considering additional living residences. She added that many people get on the waiting list for Hoosier Village well before they are ready to move. Hoosier Village is a “62 or better” community.

“People often think we’re a typical retirement community, but we’re so much more than that,” Kantz says. “Living here, residents have the freedom to do what they love and be as active and involved as they choose.”

“So many people move in and say they should’ve done this years ago,” Ulrich adds. “You see longevity in communities like ours because we provide continuing education opportunities — social and recreational — and that’s so important for living longer and staying healthy. Today, more individuals are recognizing that communities like HV are a lifestyle choice that enhances everyday living.”

Hoosier Village not only provides peace of mind for seniors, but also for their loved ones.

“Having parents who have planned for their future and made the choice to be here is comforting,” Wellman says. “The kids know mom and dad are in a safe place, everyone knows what’s expected, and it takes a lot of pressure off families.”

Hoosier Village is located at 9891 Purple Plum Lane, in Indianapolis For more information or to schedule a tour, visit hoosiervillage.com or call 317-873-3349.

The mission of nonprofit Boone County Senior Services Inc. (BCSSI) is to provide events and activities for older adults, as well as resources and programs that allow them to age well.

Located at 515 CrownPointe Drive in Lebanon, with a satellite office at Zionsville Town Hall, BCSSI is open to every senior in Boone County, not just those with a low income. In addition, BCSSI oversees the Boone Area Transport System (BATS), providing transportation to appointments and activities for people of all ages.

“Our founder was Margot Corson. She was a visionary and identified needs that continue to be critical components as people age,” says Anita Bowen, executive director. “Currently, we have a strategic plan, and we ask people what they want. We create new activities to make sure there are opportunities to gain new friends. Our Personal Services program helps seniors live independently. We don’t do anything medically, but we compile a list of organizations and can point people in the right direction.”

The Personal Services program supports seniors who wish to age in place by assisting them in their own homes. Light housekeeping and laundry are offered, along with grocery shopping, meal preparation and errand running. Staff members are highly trained and can also help with

AGING WELL

BOONE COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES INC. OFFERS PROGRAMS, CONNECTION & SUPPORT

Writer / Julie Yates

personal grooming, such as bathing.

“The program provides caregivers with a break; caring for someone can be overwhelming,” Bowen says. “The staff can watch TV with them, do a puzzle, talk or listen to music. A care plan is developed for each individual, and fees are based on income.”

Both BCSSI locations offer a variety of activities and workshops, with some events including day trips to points of interest outside the county. Educational classes cover topics such as navigating technology, insurance and legal issues. Exercise opportunities include chair yoga and line dancing. Those who enjoy handson activities can participate in a variety of crafts, and art classes are available for $10 per class. Meals are free for individuals who register for monthly Brunch and Learn and Lunch and Learn gatherings. If needed, seniors can use BATS for transportation to activities.

“BATS is the public transportation for this county. Without transportation, people feel stuck. We don’t want a lack of transportation to be a barrier,” Bowen says. “We are highly scrutinized by the Indiana Department of Transportation; all our drivers are vetted, trained and kept up to date.”

Some riders use BATS regularly after giving

up driving due to age or health concerns, while others use the service when their vehicle is in the shop. Parents who cannot leave work may also rely on BATS to transport their teens to activities.

Reservations must be made in advance to use BATS. For anyone over 60, donations are accepted. Riders under 60 pay $4 each way within their area, while students pay $2 each way.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, BCSSI is funded by the United Way of Central Indiana, grants, support from area business partners and individual donations. The Boone County Senior Services Foundation was established to build a fund to ensure services for older adults continue in the future. In addition, three major fundraisers are held each year.

Information about events can be found on the BCSSI website and on Facebook, Instagram and X. The 11th annual BCSSI Olympics will be held Aug. 24–27 and will feature euchre, bocce ball, cornhole, track and field, water aerobics, basketball shoot, nature and fitness walks, line dancing, golf, bowling, pickleball and table tennis. The 18th annual Boone County Senior Health and Wellness Expo is scheduled for Oct. 3. This year’s Holiday Silent Auction will take place Nov. 13–19.

“Volunteers are needed for special events,

but our drivers and in-home service providers are on staff and paid team members,” Bowen says. “As people live longer, we are getting more calls. People are on a waiting list, and we are hiring more staff. It’s hands-on work, so we need workers who are comfortable with that.”

Bowen adds that many staff members are retirees who work part time at least two days a week, allowing them to give back while staying active themselves.

“Our BATS riders get to know their drivers, and it becomes like a family,” Bowen says. “The atmosphere is great; every team member wants to be here.”

“We want people to continue to feel that they are living full, meaningful lives,” Bowen says. “Helping older adults stay happy leads to healthy individuals. If you feel isolated, we are the place.”

For more information about hiring, volunteering, donating or registering for events, visit booneseniors.org or follow Boone County Senior Services on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Carmel | Greenwood | Ironworks | Zionsville | Fishers

ELEVATED LIVING

HOLLIDAY FARMS SENIOR LIVING OPENING IN ZIONSVILLE

Writer / Ashley Dykton Photographer / Robert Jones

Anticipation is building for the opening of Holliday Farms Senior Living, a premier, state-of-the-art community created for older adults and set amid the exclusive Holliday Farms community, conveniently located near the quaint downtown Zionsville area.

Holliday Farms Senior Living is scheduled to open in April 2026, beginning in stages, with independent living opening first, followed by assisted living and then memory care.

“Holliday Farms Senior Living will distinguish itself from other senior living options in Zionsville and the surrounding area by offering high-end amenities paired with exceptional, person-centered service,” says CJ Boswell, executive director of Holliday Farms Senior Living. “We offer a classic, sophisticated design and an elevated lifestyle that supports both independence and connection. Our goal is to create an environment that feels refined, welcoming

and thoughtfully tailored to active seniors.”

Holliday Farms Senior Living has been intentionally designed with attention to every detail to ensure a fulfilling environment of carefree living, where residents do not have to stress about home maintenance and instead can relax and enjoy a worry-free lifestyle.

“Families can expect a carefree lifestyle in a classic, sophisticated setting designed to meet the needs and preferences of active seniors,” Boswell says. “Residents will experience worry-free days filled with engaging events, delightful meals and a strong sense of belonging.”

Specializing in independent living, assisted living and memory care options, Holliday Farms Senior Living will feature a highly trained staff focused on supporting residents through an enhanced level of personalized care. Loved ones can have peace of mind

knowing their senior family members are living in a community centered on wellbeing, independence and individualized support.

“We believe independence looks different for every resident,” Boswell says. “We involve residents directly in conversations about their preferences and provide the level of support they want and need. We meet residents where they are, allowing them to maintain autonomy while ensuring support is available as needs evolve.”

For active seniors, Holliday Farms Senior Living will offer independent living options including studio, one-bedroom and twobedroom apartments. Residences feature full kitchens with islands, in-unit laundry, high-quality finishes and elevated design elements.

“This level of living was designed for those who want to maintain independence while

enjoying a carefree, community-focused lifestyle,” Boswell says.

Additional lifestyle features include three chef-prepared meals per day in an on-site, restaurant-style dining venue, weekly housekeeping, scheduled transportation, and all utilities included in the monthly rent.

Assisted living spaces include comfortable studio and one-bedroom options with features such as wide doorways and walkin showers. Residents also have access to laundry services and an on-site salon.

The Holliday Farms Senior Living memory care neighborhood will be staffed by highly

skilled and trained professionals dedicated to knowing, empowering and caring for memory care residents.

Holliday Farms Senior Living will offer a variety of amenities designed to support an active lifestyle while fostering social engagement and connection among residents.

“Amenities will support wellness and connection,” Boswell says. “Residents will enjoy an on-site indoor pool, exercise room, greenhouse — which will also be incorporated into our culinary program — and a club room for social gatherings and events. We will offer engaging events, wellness opportunities and meaningful

connections both within the community and beyond, including outings such as attending Colts games and participating in local events. Our resident-centered activities will be shaped by the interests of those who live here, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.”

Holliday Farms Senior Living will open in April and is currently reserving apartments. Families and seniors interested in learning more or becoming residents are encouraged to call 317-593-8140, visit the temporary information center located at 11143 Ambrose Lane in Zionsville, or visit hollidayfarmsseniorliving.com. Availability is limited, and apartments are now being reserved.

Building What’s Next: Boone County’s Path Forward

Boone County is experiencing remarkable growth, but what defines this moment is the intention guiding it. As new businesses invest, families settle in, and communities continue to evolve. The Boone County Economic Development Corporation (Boone EDC) is focused on shaping growth that is built for longterm success.

A key part of this work centers on housing. As Boone County continues to attract employers and talent, the need for attainable and diverse housing options has become increasingly important. The Boone EDC is deepening its engagement in housing development, with a particular emphasis on expanding “missing middle” housing—options that bridge the gap between single-family homes and large apartment developments. These housing types support the local workforce, help employers attract and retain talent, and ensure Boone County remains a welcoming place for residents at all stages of life.

Equally important is access to high-quality, affordable childcare. For many working families and employers, childcare remains one of the most significant barriers to workforce participation. Building on strong momentum, the Boone EDC continues to advance initiatives that expand early learning opportunities and strengthen the childcare ecosystem countywide.

This people-first approach is reflected in Boone County’s economic performance. In 2025, the county experienced strong business expansions and new company attractions, resulting in hundreds of new jobs, significant capital investment, and meaningful payroll growth. These outcomes represent a shared belief in Boone County’s future.

Guided by values of advocacy, responsiveness, commitment, innovation, and connection, the Boone EDC serves every community in the county. By fostering partnerships among employers, educators, developers, and community leaders, the Boone EDC helps turn challenges into opportunities and supports a resilient local economy.

The vision is clear: a Boone County where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and prosperity is shared across all communities. This future is built through collaboration, investment, and engagement.

If you are a business owner, developer, community partner, or resident interested in shaping Boone County’s future, we invite you to connect with the Boone County Economic Development Corporation. Together, we can continue building a county defined not just by growth, but by opportunity for all.

2026 DIRECTORY & RELOCATION GUIDE

INCLUDE MY BUSINESS!

TARGET YOUR MOST SOUGHT-AFTER LOCAL CONSUMERS

EXISTING AND NEW MOVERS TO YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

Back by popular demand, our Annual Directory & Relocation Guide for will feature all sorts of local extras to make it a keepsake reference for the entire year. In addition to our regular distribution in April, we will be mailing copies throughout the year to the following people:

 New movers: We purchase a list of new homeowners each month and mail them a complimentary copy via First Class USPS.

 Relocation requests: Through TownePost.com, people looking to relocate can request a FREE copy.

TARGETED DISTRIBUTION

• Direct mailed to all local residents in April

• Online requests from new movers

• Mailed out to new movers monthly

• Realtors, relocation companies, and real estate developers

• Home builders and new home communities

IF YOU ADVERTISE JUST ONE TIME PER YEAR, THIS IS YOUR ISSUE!

DEADLINE: MARCH 13, 2026

Grand Vicrorian of Zionsville offers a variety of living options to suit your needs, including private studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments for Assisted Living, and specialized private studios for Memory Care.

Residents enjoy:

• Ongoing health assessments

• Assistance with activities of daily living

• Medication administration

• Three restaurant-style meals

• Weekly housekeeping & laundry

• 24-hour staffing

• Programs and events

Additional Memory Care Services:

• Secured environment

• Programs tailored to the individual

• Specially trained memory care staff

Boone County Invites You to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, Boone County, Indiana is becoming the destination for celebration. This year, Boone County is transforming into “BOOM! County,” filled with community experiences, fireworks displays, and patriotic celebrations that will celebrate and honor the founding of our nation all year long.

HONORING BOONE COUNTY, IN: REVOLUTIONARY WAR PATRIOTS

Honoring Boone County, IN, a series of wreath-laying ceremonies recognizing 19 Revolutionary War patriots buried in cemeteries across the county. Discover

Boone County is partnering with the Daughters of the American Revolution James Hill Chapter, the Boone County Homemakers Club, and the Thorntown Historical Society to host these tributes.

Each ceremony will feature Colonial Fife & Drum music provided by ISFA 1, the promotional vehicle of the Indiana State Festivals Association. Doug Weisheit, dressed in Colonial regimental uniform, will serve as herald, offering a formal proclamation and introducing the patriots being honored. Members of the DAR will lead the American Creed and Pledge of Allegiance, place a wreath at the headstone, and share a brief biography.

Events will take place at noon on March 11, April 14, May 6, June 4, and a special final wreath laying memorial on the Lebanon Courthouse lawn on June 24, 2026. These ceremonies connect Boone County’s local history to the national America 250 initiative, honoring the sacrifices that secured our freedoms.

CELEBRATING ACROSS BOONE COUNTY

While these ceremonies provide moments of reflection, Boone County’s communities will also come together for festive Independence Day celebrations and events throughout the year. From major fireworks displays in Whitestown, Zionsville, and Lebanon, to more community focused events at places like the Hussey Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Thorntown Public Library, and more, there are great ways to celebrate and engage with history.

To see a growing calendar of events and ceremony details, visit discoverboonecounty. com and visit our “America’s 250th Events” page to join Boone County as it honors its past and celebrates its future.

Plan your trip today at www.discoverboonecounty.com

HOT FLASHES & BELLY LAUGHS

LOCAL AUTHOR PROVES LAUGHTER IS GREAT HORMONE THERAPY

BY WRITING A HUMOR BOOK ABOUT PERIMENOPAUSE

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

When women reach a certain age (usually 40s), we start having conversations with other females that often begin like this: “So, I’ve been dealing with this weird thing lately…”

That “weird thing” could be anything from itchy ears and dry eyes to a racing mind and unquenchable thirst. It could be vertigo, heart palpitations, phantom smells, twitchy

legs, excessive clumsiness, inability to focus, sudden fear of driving, or an impending sense of doom.

If you find yourself questioning the cause of these symptoms, I’ll save you some time by letting you know that all this nonsense is due to perimenopause, which is that stretch of time prior to menopause when your body produces less estrogen. I’m sorry to be the one to break it to you, but this transition can last up to ten years. If you’re between the ages of 40 and 55 (perhaps even younger) and are experiencing annoying, odd, or surprising physical or mental symptoms, it’s likely perimenopause.

For five years, I grappled with terrible insomnia, thinning hair, intense anxiety, regular headaches, restless legs, dry mouth, painful hip, achy shoulder, throbbing joints, and brutally heavy periods. In addition to being hot, itchy, anxious, and overwhelmed, I felt like I was losing my mind as I struggled to recall certain words. Plus, I’d forget passcodes and people’s names. I’d space where I’d placed my keys, shoes, purse, or phone. I’d leave to run errands, get to the front of the neighborhood, and have to stop and think about where I was going so I knew whether to turn left or right out of the subdivision.

As if all of this wasn’t bad enough, stray hairs began sprouting above my upper lip, and pimples began forming on my chin. WTF? I looked like a cross between my husband and my teenager with facial hair and zits. And every day, regardless of how much rest I got the night before, I was dog tired. I finally figured out that I was in perimenopause, and it was kicking my ass.

When I met with a functional wellness doctor who specialized in hormone optimization, I felt seen, heard, and validated as she listened, took notes, drew my blood, and built a plan. She was able to offer evidence-based, practical strategies to get me back to the land of the living. Woo hoo!

Did you know that during perimenopause you may suffer anywhere from 10 to 100 symptoms that range from mildly irritating to beyond aggravating? There is, however, an upside to perimenopause. If you forget what you were saying midsentence, that’s perimenopause’s fault. If you put your husband’s underwear in your kid’s drawer or your dog’s food in your cat’s dish, perimenopause is the culprit. If you drop a plate while unloading the dishwasher or trip over your own feet on the way to the bathroom, that’s the work of perimenopause.

It really is ridiculous how hormones have rewired my mind and reconstructed my body. At a certain point, I had to laugh. When I found myself Googling, “tips for tolerating people,” I knew I must write a humor book about the experience. “Why Did I Walk into This Room? Finding the Humor When Perimenopause is Kicking Your Ass” offers hope for the hopeless, clarity for the confused,

enthusiasm for the apathetic, and laughter for the lethargic. If perimenopause has commandeered your brain, wiped you of energy & motivation, and wreaked havoc on your sleep & sex drive, this book is just what the functional wellness doctor ordered!

Christy Heitger-Ewing will be speaking and signing copies of her book “Why Did I Walk into This Room?” on April 22 at Field Brewing for a women’s wellness event that combines education and humor. Also speaking will be Kate Marciniec, a Nurse Practitioner and owner of Solid Wellness and Aesthetics in Westfield, and Jackie Dikos, a private practice sports dietitian and owner of Nutrition Success. The event is from 6-8 p.m.

For more information, visit christyheitgerewing.com.

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