Issuu

Q’S WINE BAR CREATES A UNIQUE GATHERING PLACE IN CARMEL + Banking & Financial Services Special Section

A TASTE OF FRANCE

PROGR AMS

ADULT ARTIST SERIES: ACRYLIC PAINTING

Ages 18+ | July 15-29 | $105

Unleash your inner artist in our classes designed to support your unique creative journey. Professional artist Zach Lowe lets you choose your project and skill level, tailoring his instruction to you. Set your own pace and work on art that inspires you. All materials are provided.

NATURE KEEPERS

Ages 5-7 & Ages 8-12 | Various dates in July & August | $160

Get ready for a summer of outdoor exploration with Nature Keepers! Led by our Parks & Natural Resources naturalists, this half-day program gets kids outside to learn and engage with nature. Campers will enjoy fun activities like creek stomping, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

FLOW LESSONS

Ages 6+ | Various dates in July | $65

Master the wave! Avoid the lines and get one-on-one instruction and tips from our experienced staff. Designed for participants starting out on the FlowRider®, or for those who want to learn advanced moves on the bodyboard. Learn the basics, practice tricks or simply enjoy the ride! Participants must be at least 48" tall.

FOREST BATHING

Ages 18+ | July 11 & Aug. 8 | $35

Forest Bathing is a sensory nature-immersion practice. After a brief introduction, we’ll move through gentle prompts to shift from thinking to sensing, with time to walk, sit, wander, and share. We’ll finish with tea and snacks.

ADULT AND PEDIATRIC FIRST AID/CPR/AED

Ages 15+ | July 14 | $90

Learn essential skills to respond in emergencies. This Red Cross course teaches you to recognize and care for serious respiratory and cardiac issues in adults, children, and infants. You'll learn to provide care until help arrives, and successful participants earn First Aid, CPR, and AED certification.

SUMMER FUN RUN

Join us for a fun and scenic summer adventure through Carmel’s parks. Each week we explore a different park and trail, perfect for runners, walkers, or anyone who enjoys a good stroll. Discover new spots, enjoy the outdoors, and support your local parks at your own pace.

OWNER/PUBLISHER

BRANDON BALTZ brandon@townepost.com (463) 223-8442 KEY CONTRIBUTORS

BRANDON BALTZ ASHLEY DYKTON CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING NANCY HAMMERSTROM DYLAN SENKUS ABBIE WILLANS AMANDA WILSON

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

EDITOR JOSH BROWN

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT SKYLAR ANDERTON

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

LETTER FROM THE NEW OWNER & PUBLISHER

Dear Carmel residents, business owners and community leaders,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I introduce myself as the new owner and publisher of Carmel Magazine. As part of the Towne Post Network, I also own Noblesville, Westfield, Zionsville and Boone County Magazines and provide local digital marketing solutions through Towne Post Digital.

For many years, I have had the privilege of serving local communities through publications that celebrate the people, businesses, organizations and stories that make our cities special. As the owner and publisher of several successful community magazines throughout central Indiana, I have always believed that strong local journalism and community storytelling play an important role in connecting neighbors and strengthening the places we call home.

Carmel is a city that stands out for its excellence, innovation and sense of community. From its thriving business environment and outstanding schools to its vibrant arts scene and beautiful neighborhoods, Carmel continues to be recognized as one of the best places to live in America. I am honored to have the opportunity to help tell the stories that make this city so exceptional.

As we begin this new chapter, our commitment is simple: Carmel Magazine will continue to be a trusted source for positive local news, inspiring stories, community events and meaningful

BRANDON BALTZ

connections. We will highlight the entrepreneurs, educators, nonprofit leaders, first responders, artists, athletes and everyday residents who contribute to the success and character of our community. We distribute Carmel Magazine to more than 25,000 households throughout Carmel, as well as to local businesses.

We also remain dedicated to supporting local businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of every thriving community, and Carmel Magazine will continue to provide a platform that helps local companies connect with residents in a meaningful and authentic way.

Most importantly, this magazine belongs to the community. We want to hear your stories, celebrate your accomplishments and share the moments that bring our city together. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to Carmel, we invite you to become part of the conversation.

Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible community. I look forward to meeting many of you in the months ahead and working together to make Carmel Magazine a publication that reflects the very best of Carmel.

Sincerely,

Brandon Baltz Owner & Publisher Carmel Magazine

A TASTE OF FRANCE

Q’S WINE BAR CREATES A UNIQUE GATHERING PLACE IN CARMEL

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

Photographer / Dylan Senkus

When Quynh Nguyen boarded a plane to France in April 2023, she thought she was simply celebrating the end of her MBA program at the Kelley School of Business. What she didn’t realize was that the 10-day road trip — from the sun-washed streets of Nice to the bustling cafés of Paris — would quietly plant the seed for her next chapter.

“I had just finished my degree and was trying to figure out what was next,” Nguyen says.

She didn’t know it yet, but that trip was about to change everything. It wasn’t the Eiffel Tower or the lavender fields that captured her imagination. It was the wine bars — tiny, charming, unhurried spaces where people lingered for hours, sipping, savoring, talking and tasting. The technology especially intrigued her.

“So many places had wine dispenser machines,” she recalls. “You’d load a card, choose a 2-, 4- or 6-ounce pour, and try all these different wines without committing to a full glass.”

For someone who loves exploring new varieties, it was a revelation. “I kept thinking, ‘Why don’t we have this in Indiana?’” Nguyen says. Back home, she began researching and found that while Indiana had wineries, tasting rooms and restaurants with solid wine lists, there weren’t many true wine bars. And certainly none with the self-pour technology she had grown to love in France.

She reached out to the owner of one of the only wine bars in downtown Indianapolis, located near the Conrad. He told her he was retiring and closing the business at the end of 2024. He was kind enough to share with Nguyen what had worked for him and what he would do differently going forward.

“If I were younger,” he confided, “I’d open in the suburbs — Carmel, Hamilton County. That’s where the people are now.”

Remote work had reshaped the city. Foot traffic downtown had slowed, but suburban neighborhoods were buzzing with life. Nguyen started scouting spaces, and when a spot opened in the Village of WestClay, she felt an immediate pull.

“It was small to medium in size, super walkable, right in the heart of the community,” she says.

From idea to opening day in November 2025, the journey took a year and a half to come to fruition. The moment the doors opened, the community embraced it, partly because of its cozy, quaint atmosphere with zero television screens.

“People love that,” Nguyen says. “It’s calm. It’s not a sports bar. You can actually talk.”

The seating is intentionally lounge-like, with velvet chairs, soft couches and cozy corners. There are no stiff dining chairs and no pressure to turn tables.

“I wanted a place where people could unwind,” she says. “In France, meals last two hours. No one rushes. That really influenced me.”

The menu reflects that same philosophy. Instead of heavy entrées, Nguyen offers shareable bites — charcuterie boards, flatbreads and seasonal small plates designed to complement the wine rather than overshadow it.

“It’s about enjoying the moment,” she says. “Not rushing through it.”

Q’s Wine Bar features 28 wines on tap, all chosen with purpose. “I wanted minimal overlap with other restaurants and retailers in Hamilton County,” she explains. “I want people to try something new — something they can’t get everywhere else.”

She works closely with distributors and wine representatives, tasting regularly and rotating selections every four to six weeks. There are always a few staples — like a pinot grigio and a cabernet — but she loves introducing guests to unexpected finds.

“I had a Greek wine recently, and so many people said, ‘I’ve never had a Greek wine before,’” Nguyen says. “That’s the fun part.”

While Q’s welcomes everyone, the crowd has naturally found its rhythm.

“About 80% of our guests are women,” Nguyen says. “Girls’ nights, book clubs, friends catching up. We get date nights too, but not really groups of guys.”

For Nguyen, the woman who has spent years managing engineering projects for Boston Scientific from behind a screen, human connection isn’t a luxury — it’s oxygen.

“I missed interacting face to face. It’s not the same talking to people over Teams,” she says. “This is my outlet. This is who I am.”

Her journey has zigzagged across Indiana — an engineering degree from Purdue, a manufacturing job in Spencer, time in Bloomington, then a move to Indianapolis during COVID-19. Working remotely gave her flexibility, but it also left a void. That longing for real, inthe-room energy is what pushed her to build a place where people could gather again.

“Being remote took a toll,” she says. “Q’s is my way of reconnecting with people.”

While she still thrives in her corporate career, she has felt energized by the chance to build something all on her own.

“I had to give this dream a try,” she says.

While it can be challenging to hire, train and manage people in a high-turnover industry, as well as find people who genuinely enjoy wine and align with the vision, the reward outweighs the stress.

“Knowing I own a wine bar — that this is my place — there’s nothing like it,” she says. “I don’t report to anyone here. I get to create the experience.”

Nguyen sees Q’s Wine Bar becoming even more of a community hub in the coming years. She’s exploring ideas like wine clubs, themed tastings, expanded food offerings and more private events. The space already hosts gatherings — from small birthday parties to 20-person celebrations — and can be rented fully or partially for private use. Inside, the bar seats 45; the patio adds another 30.

“I want to keep listening to what people want,” she says. “This place is for them.”

The Carmel community is certainly happy she decided to take a leap of faith and open such a unique place. In a neighborhood filled with breweries, sports bars and family restaurants, Q’s Wine Bar has carved out something different: a warm, unhurried, intimate space where conversation is the main event and every pour — whether 2 ounces or 6 — comes with a story.

Q’s Wine Bar is located at 2139 Glebe St., Ste. 100, Carmel, IN 46032. For more information, visit qswinebar.com.

Self-serve wine. Curated experience. Explore wines by the pour, then pair them with our shareable plates, flatbreads, charcuterie, and desserts. Beer, ciders, and non-alcoholic options also available.

2139 Glebe St, Ste 100 Carmel, IN 46032

Open Wednesday-Sunday 3pm-10pm

QsWineBar

Writer / Ashley Dykton

Photographer / Amanda Wilson

Like the vibrant art on its walls, World Famous Hot Boys in Carmel is an eclectic space filled with exuberant flavor waiting to be experienced.

Already known in the Fountain Square community as a place for art, good food and fun, the North Indy World Famous Hot Boys location hopes to establish that same presence in the Carmel community. The restaurant is an unexpected source of artistic expression and an inclusive, welcoming place that is proud to be part of Carmel. Showcasing the Carmel “C,” the Carmel High School Greyhounds

MORE THAN HOT CHICKEN

mascot and the Palladium on its outdoor mural, the patio wall is just a small representation of what this North Indy community means to World Famous Hot Boys.

Having opened in January 2023, World Famous Hot Boys is an inclusive place for everyone, where the food — rich in flavor — is, as owner Aaron Tann says, the backbone of the restaurant.

“Yes, we have great food, but that is not our focus. Our focus is being a welcoming place for all,” says Tann.

The Carmel location is the brand’s largest, spanning 4,000 square feet and featuring a dining area, bar, indoor gaming area, patio and entertainment stage that hosts underground bands and upand-coming performers every Friday night.

There is a common misconception that the restaurant is only for adults, but families are welcomed. There is always a family-friendly movie playing on the TVs, a game room featuring retro video games and gaming tables, and kids eat free on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The artwork throughout the restaurant also features many hidden “Easter eggs” and toys embedded within the spray-foam art, allowing guests to enjoy a nostalgic scavenger hunt or “I Spy” game while they dine.

The menu features traditional items available at all World Famous Hot Boys locations, including the World Famous Sando, made with a dark meat chicken filet and voted Yelp’s No. 1 chicken sandwich. Other favorites include tenders, wings and a chicken-and-waffles meal featuring the owners’ grandmother’s waffle recipe.

The restaurant earns its name honestly when it comes to spice. Guests can choose from several heat levels, beginning with Southern, which contains no spice but delivers classic Southern fried chicken flavor. From there, the heat builds through Training Wheels, featuring a light cayenne pepper blend; Mild, which combines cayenne pepper with brown sugar for a sweet-and-spicy flavor; Mild Plus; Medium; Medium Plus; Hot; and finally Hot Hot. There is even a warning that the Hot Hot level is extremely spicy.

Regardless of the spice level, every piece of chicken is 100% halal and prepared fresh, delivering juicy flavor with every bite. The quality of the food is extremely important because, according to Tann, it is what keeps guests coming back.

The menu also includes several local specialties exclusive to the Carmel/North Indy location, including “Slabz,” the restaurant’s version of mozzarella sticks featuring thick slabs of cheese that ooze with every bite, as well as hand-battered onion rings fried to a perfect crispness. Other favorites include the World Famous Smack Bowl, featuring mac and cheese, chicken, Dirty Ranch and hot sauce; the World Famous Baked Potato, a 1-pound potato topped with chicken, mac and cheese, butter, sour cream, chives and cheddar; a Catfish Sando; and 2-ounce Angus beef sliders grilled to perfection and served on toasted buns.

The extensive bar menu features signature cocktails such as the World Famous Bloody Mary, garnished with hot chicken, a waffle and a vegetable skewer. Guests can also choose from draft beers from 3 Floyds, Sun King and a rotating Terre Haute sour, along with canned beers, red and white wines, floral mocktails and seltzers.

“The biggest reason people should visit us is because we offer a relaxed restaurant with a family atmosphere where parents can kick back and have a drink while the kids run around, play games and watch a movie on the big screen,” says Tann. “Parents can also feel confident that their kids are getting real food sourced from the best ingredients we can find for our guests.”

World Famous Hot Boys offers weekly specials and events, including buy one meal, get the second 50% off on Mondays; Kids Eat Free on Tuesdays and Thursdays; Open Mic Night on Wednesdays; Trivia Night on Thursdays; Music Bingo followed by live music on Fridays; and Sunday Funday each Sunday.

World Famous Hot Boys is located at 4335 W. 106th St. in Carmel and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

To learn more about World Famous Hot Boys or view its menu, visit www. worldfamoushotboys.com.

Apply today. Ride tomorrow.

PROTECTING YOUR LEGACY

Writer / Nancy Hammerstrom

Many adults delay estate planning for several reasons. They don’t like to think about dying, they assume they have plenty of years left to live, or they believe they don’t have enough assets to leave behind.

But what if they experience a sudden accident or serious illness that results in incapacitation, preventing them from choosing who will receive their assets or from making health care decisions about their own life?

“If they become incapacitated because of illness, age or any other occurrence that renders them incapable of managing their affairs, whether financial or health care, I would recommend that they have a durable power of attorney for their finances,” says Joanna Feltz, a board-certified Indiana trust and estate lawyer with Koehler Law LLC.

Feltz also advises signing a health care advance directive to designate a trusted person to make health care decisions on

their behalf when they are unable to do so.

“If you want to opt in to having an inhospital living will (also known as a living will), when a physician says that you have an incurable injury, disease or illness that will result in death within a short time and lifeprolonging procedures would only extend the dying process, by signing one you’re effectively saying, ‘Keep me comfortable, administer palliative care and let me die naturally,’” she adds.

Feltz also recommends a HIPAA waiver (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) that identifies those who may access the patient’s private medical information and speak with doctors on the patient’s behalf.

Unlike a living will, a will — or last will and testament — lists and describes your assets and directs how they are distributed after your death. Wills also name guardians for minor children. Wills are different from trusts, and Feltz explains the distinction.

“A trust is a contract that you execute while you’re living that can have many of the same directions that a will does, except it is a document utilized while you’re alive, upon your incapacity and upon your death, directing the trustee on how to handle your financial assets for your benefit and for whomever you designate in your trust,” she says.

If a person dies without a will or trust, the state of Indiana will determine an intestate succession plan that dictates how assets and property are distributed.

“For example, if you are single and you pass away and you have children, the state says your beneficiaries are your children,” Feltz says. “One thing in Indiana that most people don’t realize is that if you pass away while married and you have something in your individual name that does not have a beneficiary, it does not automatically go 100% to your surviving spouse.

“In fact, if you pass away first and you have children together, your surviving spouse would generally receive 50% of the estate, while the remaining portion would go to your children.”

Education is key when making decisions about assets, naming a trustee, ensuring loved ones are cared for and planning for long-term care. There are three primary options available for seniors when considering long-term care planning.

The first option is to be self-insured.

“They basically have discussed with their financial advisor their income, the assets

they have invested and what it would look like if they had to move to assisted living or needed 24-hour care, whether in-home or at a nursing home, and whether they could afford to pay for that,” says Feltz. “Once they determine they can privately pay, they’re basically self-insured.”

A second option is purchasing long-term care insurance. Long-term care insurance is designed to help cover the costs of assisted living, nursing care or other long-term care services that may be needed as a senior ages.

For more information about Koehler Law, call 317-585-1765 or visit koehlerlawin.com.

For four generations, Stout's Footwear has helped customers find the perfect fit from the world's best comfort brands including HOKA, Brooks, Birkenstock, New Balance, Dansko, Taos, Kizik and more.

Whether you're walking the neighborhood, traveling the world, working on your feet, or simply looking for everyday comfort, our expert fit specialists are here to help.

July 31–August 2 Thousands of Pairs. Special Purchases. Closeouts. Sidewalk Sales. Tent Sales. Mark your Calendar! 10am-7pm Mon-Sat 12-5pm Sun

PINNACLE LAUNCH

INNOVATIVE BENEFITS SOLUTIONS FOR EMPLOYERS

Pinnacle Risk Management Consulting (RMC), a new risk management and health employee benefits startup company headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, at 303 Congressional Drive, officially launched today with a mission to help employers strategically control benefit costs while improving employee well-being through smarter, sustainable, data-driven benefit strategies and solutions. Pinnacle’s business-to-business, innovative ecosystem plan is unique, data-packed, creative and solution-based.

The Pinnacle RMC team is committed to aligning financial stewardship with better health outcomes and empowering employers to make informed and proactive decisions that protect both their workforce and their bottom line.

Founded by industry veterans Dave Meguschar, Dan Kelley and Pat Shuler, the leadership team has substantial

combined carrier, TPA, B2B vendor and broker consultation experience. Focusing on today’s complex and challenging workplace environment, Pinnacle RMC provides integrated risk management services, including strategic planning and funding solutions, analytics and insight, pharmacy and clinical oversight, compliance and governance support, and employee engagement, education and communication. Pinnacle’s ideal clients include private businesses, hospitals, senior living facilities, hospitality organizations, schools and municipalities with 20 to 2,500-plus employees.

The company’s motto, “Shared Vision & Shared Success,” is Pinnacle’s key objective and how its team will work as strategic partners side by side with each client. In addition, Pinnacle RMC is excited to share its innovative and creative Employee Benefit Solutions & Service Ecosystem, which is designed to empower employers with strategic cost-

Dan Kelley

Dave Meguschar

Pat Shuler

“THE STRATEGY BEHIND THE PINNACLE PROMISE IS MORE THAN A ROADMAP — IT’S A COMMITMENT TO DISCIPLINED EXECUTION, INNOVATION AND LONG-TERM VALUE FOR OUR PARTNERS.”

—PAT SHULER

containment tools that address every aspect of employee benefits. The Ecosystem brings together nine integrated elements — each with its own robust set of solutions — to help organizations manage their second-largest investment with clarity and confidence.

“We’re excited about Pinnacle’s launch and helping our clients flourish,” says Dave Meguschar, Pinnacle RMC’s chief executive officer. “Our talented team offers the latest industry technology with a personal, approachable, consultative, advisory-focused touch to meet the everevolving challenges and needs of our clients. We’re in the business of helping people. That’s the Pinnacle Promise.”

“The strategy behind the Pinnacle Promise is more than a roadmap — it’s a commitment to disciplined execution, innovation and long-term value for our partners,” says Pat Shuler, chief operations officer.

“We’re proud of the team and vendor partnerships we’ve assembled,” says Dan Kelley, Pinnacle’s chief sales and marketing officer. “Our number one goal is to help companies solve, manage and build strategy for their two largest costs — benefits and payroll.”

For more information or to set up a free consultation for your business, visit Pinnacle-rmc.com.

Creating the Smiles You Design!

Behind every great smile is a lab that understands detail, consistency, and collaboration. At Hunter Dental Laboratory, we partner with local dentists to deliver high-quality restorations—crafted with care, advanced technology, and decades of hands-on expertise.

From crowns and bridges to custom esthetics, our team is committed to dependable turnaround times and results you can feel confident delivering to your patients.

Local. Experienced. Dedicated to your success.

PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE

FOR 70 YEARS, INDIANA MEMBERS CREDIT UNION HAS BUILT ITS LEGACY

BY PUTTING MEMBERS, RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMUNITIES FIRST

“With 70 years of service, Indiana Members Credit Union’s legacy has been defined by strong relationships, community commitment and a memberfirst approach. At Indiana Members Credit Union’s core, we exist to better the lives of those we serve and the communities where we live and work,” says John Newett, president and CEO of Indiana Members Credit Union.

With humble beginnings as a small, memberowned financial cooperative founded in 1956 to serve employees of the Indiana University Medical Center, Indiana Members Credit Union (IMCU) has grown into the largest credit union in central Indiana, serving more than 160,000 members through a network of 33 branches, including nine on the north side of Indianapolis.

“While the financial landscape continues to change, Indiana Members Credit Union’s commitment to simplicity, service and supporting our members through every stage of life remains constant. We strive to be a trusted resource. We want our members to know they are not navigating these challenges alone; we are here to support them every step of the way. Our members,

Writer / Ashley Dykton

affordability, managing debt and planning for the future are common concerns we hear about every day. Our role is to provide clarity and practical support during these times. We work closely with members to identify solutions that fit their financial situation, whether that involves refinancing existing loans, exploring savings strategies or evaluating options for major financial decisions,” says Newett.

With its continued purpose of “People Helping People,” Indiana Members Credit Union serves its members by offering a full range of checking, savings, retirement and certificate accounts; lending products such as auto loans, mortgages and home equity lines of credit that are both competitive and responsible; investment services and wealth management; and commercial banking, lending and deposit and treasury services for business members. Indiana Members Credit Union also recently upgraded its digital banking system, providing members with a more effective experience by giving them the opportunity to manage their finances efficiently and securely.

“Areas where we are making the greatest impact are those that provide flexibility, accessibility and long-term value for our members. We want to be the one-stop financial shop for our members and for them to know they are being served by people with their best interests at heart,” says

Knowing there is a wide variety of financial institutions offering similar services, Indiana Members Credit Union believes what differentiates it from its competitors is its approach to delivering those services to members. With a philosophy of “Keeping It Simple,” IMCU strives to create a banking experience that is clear, accessible and supportive.

“Our focus is on understanding each member’s unique goals and providing straightforward, practical guidance to help them achieve financial stability and long-term success. We really focus on the long-term relationship, not a single transaction. We also emphasize financial education, ensuring our members have access to the tools and resources needed to make informed decisions with confidence,” says Newett.

Indiana Members Credit Union is a not-forprofit financial institution that is memberowned, and its cooperative structure prioritizes members’ needs by offering competitive rates, lower fees and a level of personalized service that is ingrained in longterm relationships.

Indiana Members Credit Union is honored to be recognized for its commitment to members by receiving the Best Things Indianapolis Community’s Choice Award for Banking and Credit Unions from The Indianapolis Star and being named

for three consecutive years. The organization has also been recognized as a Top Workplace for its commitment to employees.

Not only does Indiana Members Credit Union have an ongoing dedication to its members and employees, but it also takes great pride in being part of the communities it serves.

“Community support is not an initiative at Indiana Members Credit Union; it is a fundamental part of our identity. We believe that when our communities succeed, our members succeed. That perspective continues to guide how we invest our time, resources and energy. We believe that being a good corporate citizen and making our communities better places to live and work is part of our core. It is simply part of who we are, and our members and employees all benefit from those efforts,” says Newett.

Indiana Members Credit Union invests in the communities it serves through efforts

such as the Indiana Members Foundation, partnerships with local nonprofits, participation in community events, support for community programs, volunteerism and funding initiatives that promote housing, education and financial stability through both financial and human resources.

“We’re very proud of the partnerships Indiana Members Credit Union has established with organizations and causes in the communities we serve, including the many affinity debit cards with local high

schools and causes where every time you use the card, we donate to the cause,” says Newett.

Anyone who lives or works in central or southern Indiana is eligible to join Indiana Members Credit Union. To learn more about Indiana Members Credit Union, including details about its services, financial management, retirement planning, how to open an account, apply for a loan and find branch locations, visit imcu.com.

9 convenient north side branches

THREE QUESTIONS EVERY INVESTOR SHOULD BE ASKING THEIR FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Selecting a financial advisor is a critical decision for your financial future. However, many people spend more time researching appliances or vacations than evaluating the professional managing their retirement, investments, and tax strategies. If you are unsure whether your advisor is providing the value you deserve, begin by asking these three questions.

1. WHAT AM I PAYING — AND WHAT AM I RECEIVING IN RETURN?

Financial advisory fees vary and can be commission-based, hourly, flat, or assetbased. Regardless of the model, your advisor should clearly explain how they are compensated. Beyond knowing the cost, you should also understand the value provided. Are you receiving proactive guidance? Do you understand the strategies used to manage your investments? Is your advisor helping you make informed decisions during market changes? A strong advisor not only manages your

money but also explains the reasoning behind your financial plan and how each recommendation supports your long-term goals.

2. HOW DOES TAX STRATEGY FIT INTO MY FINANCIAL PLAN?

Many investors do not realize how closely taxes and financial planning are linked until they face an unexpected tax bill. Key questions—such as when to take Social Security, whether a Roth conversion is appropriate, how much tax to withhold from retirement distributions, or how tax law changes may affect future income—are essential to address. Many advisory firms operate separately from tax professionals, which can create gaps in communication and strategy. When financial and tax planning are not coordinated, important opportunities may be missed. A comprehensive approach addresses both aspects together.

3. IS MY ADVISOR LEGALLY REQUIRED TO ACT IN MY BEST INTEREST?

Many investors assume all financial advisors follow the same standards, but this is not always true. Fiduciary advisors are legally required to put clients’ interests first and to explain the reasoning behind their recommendations. This standard means considering your entire financial situation, not just individual products or transactions. As an investor, ask whether your advisor acts as a fiduciary and whether their recommendations are designed to prioritize your goals.

THE VALUE OF COMPREHENSIVE ADVICE

As financial situations become more complex, many investors seek advisors who offer guidance beyond investments. Retirement planning, tax strategy, estate considerations, business planning, and wealth transfer are most effective when coordinated. This shift toward comprehensive planning has contributed to

the growth of firms like Storen Financial in recent years.

Based in Zionsville and serving clients in 43 states, Storen Financial has spent over 50 years guiding individuals, families, and businesses through an integrated approach that combines financial planning, tax strategy, business advisory, and financial services. The firm recently announced that Ronnie Jackson, Kiran Sharma, and Alex Kiritschenko have joined Greg Storen as equity partners, supporting leadership continuity and preparing the next generation of advisors. Storen Financial also established its own Registered Investment

Advisor entity, Storen Legacy Partners, through a strategic alliance with Dynasty Financial Partners. This partnership provides access to advanced technology, investment solutions, operational infrastructure, and enhanced compliance resources, while allowing the firm to remain independent and client-focused. The firm’s growth has led to physical expansion at its headquarters, with additional workspace being created to support new hires across advisory, tax, and operational departments. This ensures the team can continue delivering personalized service as client demand increases.

Ultimately, whether you work with a large national firm or a local independent advisor, the key question is whether your advisor provides meaningful value. If they clearly explain their fees, discuss tax implications, and demonstrate a fiduciary commitment to your best interests, you are likely on the right path. If not, consider whether a new perspective could benefit your financial future.

Securities offered through Simplicity Investments, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Storen Legacy Partners, a registered investment advisor. Tax/accounting/CPA related services offered through Storen Tax & Financial Group Inc. DBA Storen Financial. Storen Tax & Financial Group Inc. is a separate legal entity and not affiliated with Simplicity Investments. Simplicity Investments does not offer tax advice or Tax/accounting/CPA related services. Storen Legacy Partners and Storen Financial are separate entities from Simplicity Investments.

Make Every Week Special With Tenderloin Tuesdays™️

Warning: Tuesday may get saucy. It’s Tenderloin Tuesday™ in Hamilton County, Indiana every Tuesday from June 30 through July 28. Enjoy discounts and earn prizes after redeeming deals at more than 60 local restaurants — and this year, Sun King Brewing has joined the fun as the Official Beer of Tenderloin Tuesday™. Claim the free mobile passport at TenderloinTuesday.com to start redeeming deals at participating venues.

Customers must have a smartphone to redeem Tenderloin Tuesday™ offers at participating restaurants. Visit TenderloinTuesday.com and enter your name and email address and a link to the mobile passport will be texted to you. Save it to your smartphone home screen or bookmark the link for easy access. When visiting a participating restaurant, simply present your phone to a staff member to redeem the available discount.

New this year: Complete two check-ins to earn a commemorative magnet, and four check-ins to score a free t-shirt (while supplies last). Plus, vote daily at TenderloinTuesday.com to crown the Best Tenderloin in Hamilton County.

TENDERLOIN FAQS

What is a tenderloin sandwich?

When someone refers to a tenderloin anywhere in Indiana, they’re

probably talking about the pork cutlet served on a bun - but go anywhere else and clarification will be needed. Pork tenderloin is pounded thin with a mallet and then hand-breaded, fried and served in jaw-dropping proportion to a toasted bun.

What goes on a typical tenderloin?

Typical toppings include mayonnaise, ketchup and onions. Often, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles and mustard are added. As for sides, most are served with chips, onion rings or French fries.

How do you eat a tenderloin?

Devouring the tenderloin is an art all its own. While there’s no wrong way to tackle a tenderloin, you can stack it, edge it, half it or just dig in. Make sure you have extra napkins on hand, because things might get messy.

Are tenderloins always as big as my face?

Don’t be alarmed if you can’t see the plate, and if it seems the bun is far too small for the size-of-your-face tenderloin. This is normal. For those with smaller appetites, check out Dooley O’Tooles mini option.

Check out TenderloinTuesday.com for more information. Tag us in your adventures using #VisitHC and #TenderloinTuesday.

For more ideas on things to do in Hamilton County this summer, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com. Be sure to follow @VisitHamiltonCo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see what’s happening before you #VisitHC.

CARMELFEST GOES BIGGER THAN EVER

Get ready for the biggest CarmelFest in history as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday with two unforgettable days of patriotism, entertainment and family fun on July 3 and 4.

This year’s celebration features more rides, more activities and more excitement than ever before. Enjoy delicious food from vendors throughout the festival, experience live music all day on both the Carter Green Stage, presented by T-Fiber, and the Gazebo Stage, presented by Centier Bank, and test your skills on the free mechanical bull in Carter Green.

Families will love the Family Leisure Fun Zone, packed with games and interactive activities, while the KidZone, presented by Meijer, will offer more rides and kid-friendly attractions than ever before. Throughout the festival, visitors will find high-energy performances, family entertainment, community activities and plenty of opportunities to celebrate with friends and neighbors.

Don’t miss the largest Allied Solutions CarmelFest Parade ever, featuring incredible entries and patriotic tributes, followed by Indiana’s largest fireworks show lighting up the sky on the evening of July 4.

Join us as we celebrate 250 years of freedom, honor those who serve our country and come together as a community for the greatest CarmelFest ever.

For event schedules, entertainment lineups and festival information, visit CarmelFest.net.

FINDING HOPE

ANCHOR OF HOPE THERAPY AND COACHING IS TURNING LIFE CHALLENGES INTO HEALING & GROWTH

Stephen and Kristy Hord are the husbandand-wife team behind Anchor of Hope Therapy and Coaching. After living in several places across the country, they recently chose Carmel as home and are excited to bring their experience to the community.

Through individual therapy, life

coaching, parent coaching and a teambased approach to couples counseling, Stephen and Kristy help people navigate life transitions and build healthier relationships.

The Hords spent nearly two decades as members of Remnant Fellowship in Brentwood, Tennessee. Their experiences within this community were that of a high-control, cult-like environment. Overcoming that experience has ultimately shaped some of the work they do today.

“Being a therapist or life coach was not a career path that was encouraged in that community. Counseling, guidance and personal support were largely viewed as the responsibility of church leadership, and pursuing those professions outside

their direction or approval was often discouraged,” Kristy says.

After finding each other and building a new life together, they began to openly discuss concerns they had both already carried privately. Within a safe and supportive marriage, they ultimately made the difficult decision to leave the church, knowing it would cost them many longstanding relationships.

“Feeling ostracized — or effectively cut off — after leaving was painful because that world had been all we had known for much of our lives,” Kristy recalls. “We decided to move and begin a new chapter.”

In 2022, they relocated to Texas to be near Stephen’s parents. Stephen, who earned his degree in marriage and family

therapy in the 1990s, obtained his therapist license in Texas and established Anchor of Hope Therapy. Kristy later earned her life coach certification, expanding the practice into Anchor of Hope Therapy and Coaching.

“In our own healing journey, we rediscovered that helping people had always been something we both desired to do,” Kristy says.

Today, that journey informs the compassionate approach they bring to their work. Through therapy and coaching, they support individuals, parents and couples navigating life transitions, relationship challenges and personal growth.

While they each work with individual clients, Stephen and Kristy have a unique collaborative approach to couples coaching. Together, they combine Stephen’s expertise as a licensed marriage and family therapist with Kristy’s perspective as a certified life coach, offering both male and female viewpoints in a supportive environment.

“Many of our own experiences with loss, change, healing and personal growth have shaped who we are today and allow us to meet people with understanding, compassion and hope,” Kristy explains.

“Over time, we discovered a natural rhythm working together with couples, and our clients often say they feel truly seen and heard by both of us.”

“In couples counseling, people are often seeing one professional, and there can be a fear or apprehension in that,” she adds.

“We’re not taking sides — our client is

the relationship. We help couples so both partners feel seen, heard and understood.”

The couple encourages partners to seek support before challenges become overwhelming, believing that healthy relationships thrive through intentional communication, connection and ongoing care.

Anchor of Hope Therapy and Coaching serves individuals, couples and parents, with a particular emphasis on helping strengthen communication, deepen connection and proactively invest in their relationships.

The Hords also understand the challenges that can come from difficult faith experiences.

“Unfortunately, you don’t have to be in a cult to have been hurt by a church or faith community,” Kristy says. “Sometimes the people you want to talk to are connected

to that same community. Having lived through those dynamics ourselves, we understand the confusion, loss and complexity that can come with those experiences. We strive to provide a safe space where people feel seen, validated and supported as they heal and move forward with hope.”

After nearly four years in Texas, the Hords recently relocated their practice to Carmel. Originally from the Midwest, they quickly felt at home after visiting the area and were drawn to the warmth of the community.

“We feel incredibly welcome here,” Kristy says. “We’re excited to invest in this community and help individuals, couples and families heal, grow and thrive.”

Anchor of Hope Therapy and Coaching is located at 712 Adams St., Suite 131, Carmel, IN 46032. For more information, visit anchorofhopetherapy.org.

Indy Translations has been in Carmel for nearly 30 years, providing interpretation and translation services for customers nationwide. The other side of its business is the Indy Language Center, which teaches new languages to students of all ages and backgrounds.

Giancarlo Di Mizio Jr. started out as a language instructor for around five years before becoming the education director. He’s passionate about helping people build real-world communication skills.

“It’s not students staying silent in the classroom and facing front, listening to someone else talk about language; we want them in the language for at least 70% of the time, as a rule of thumb. Whether it’s group classes, private lessons or corporate training that we do, with specialized programs like accident reduction, our goal is to help people actually use the language with confidence in their daily lives,” Di Mizio Jr. says.

“To that end, it’s like going to a gym: you have to get the reps in. We try to keep that dream alive by having them sweat. By the end of the class, they’re pretty tired, but hopefully they’ve had a good time and they’ve been talking the whole time,” he continues.

There are around 20 language instructors at the moment. The Indy Language Center offers classes in Arabic, American Sign Language, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

Di Mizio Jr. says there are four or five main reasons someone would take a class with them.

“The most common reason is that they want to be able to travel to the country where they speak this language because they’re going on vacation. As I worked here longer, I realized that reason might seem superficial, but it isn’t; they might want to travel to connect with their genealogy and connect with their family on a deeper level. That brings me to the second reason, that they have family or friends at home or those they want to visit who speak a different language. They may have a significant other or spouse who speaks a different language,” he explains.

BREAKING BARRIERS INDY TRANSLATIONS IS CONNECTING PEOPLE THROUGH LANGUAGE

Writer / Abbie Willans

Another reason is that a person could be working in another country and needs to be able to communicate with co-workers, clients or other people.

“That’s true with our corporate clients who come from places where English is not their primary language. They have to get used to possibly living in a different common language on the floor where they work. They tend to split up into different cliques if they don’t, and won’t ever progress in their language because they surround themselves with people who already speak their own language. We want to try to help them widen their radius of potential friendships and relationships and help their supervisors communicate with them in a more meaningful way,” says Di Mizio Jr.

“Migrants constitute a big part of our class body. They have a much more high-stakes reason for taking these classes than anybody else does because their livelihood depends on it, as well as their identity and sense of self. They may have come from a country where they had a career and a group of friends. They may have been lawyers, doctors or engineers there, so they don’t have the same ability to connect with people on that level professionally or personally because the language puts them in a smaller bubble,” he explains. “We want to be able to get them to reestablish a sense of self-worth through the language by taking our English classes here. Building confidence and being able to know everyday things is a big part of the reason why people come into classes with us.”

The final reason people may sign up for classes is purely a passion for learning and gaining new knowledge.

“We also have people who simply love languages and just want to study. They tend to do the best because they don’t have a destination, a person or a job as a reason; they just have an internal interest. One of the most popular classes is Korean because there’s so much media coming out that has captured the imagination and fascination of students, and they want to be able to enjoy K-pop, K-dramas, books, shows and food in a different way with a deeper understanding,” he says.

The Indy Language Center offers group classes and private lessons and has significantly reduced its prices so that more people can

Photographer / Dylan Senkus

afford to enroll.

“We don’t want cost to be a reason why they don’t learn a language. We’re trying to increase the size of our classes so that they’re more dynamic and interactive. We’ve reduced the cost to try to achieve that,” says Di Mizio Jr.

Students can sign up for 30-hour courses that consist of 12 classes per course on average, each of which is two and a half hours long. The language center also offers corporate classes, in which an instructor will come to the business and tailor class material and vocabulary.

“We’ve gone and taken photos of their machinery. For example, at Clif Bar, we took pictures of their food production machinery and made them into flash cards. On the back of them, words were written in Thai, Spanish, Burmese and French. We used them to learn their standard operating procedures, and it was really successful,” he recalls.

Di Mizio Jr. states that while language-learning apps like Duolingo can be beneficial for those with the discipline to use them, they’re not always helpful for gaining real-world communication skills.

“Language is ultimately about human connection, and our students get to speak with real instructors who are native speakers. They’re specialized in teaching languages, and they get to have classmates who have similar goals as them. They’ll hopefully be making friends and study buddies from day one,” he says. “Our classes use conversations that are spontaneous and relevant to their daily lives. One time on Duolingo, a sentence I got was, ‘I’d like to reserve a table for me and my horse.’ I think that’s memorable, but I haven’t used it yet.”

Bill Zart is the co-founder of Indy Translations. He and his team offer a wide range of services to local Hoosiers as well as customers nationwide.

“We do a lot of packaging and marketing, instruction manuals that go in boxes, the boxes themselves, warranties; if they have apps, we’ll do back-end translations for the apps. We do a lot of insurance work, social service stuff, like interpretations for medical and dental offices. That’s the largest amount of interpreting that we do,” he says.

Clients can set up accounts if they want someone immediately available by phone. They call, punch in their code and, within about a minute, they can have an interpreter in around 200 languages.

“We also provide in-person interpretation, of course, because not everyone wants to do that over the phone for lots of different reasons. We do corporate interpreting. We used to specialize more in manufacturing and such, but our client type has turned into someone who’s more interested in the terminology and translation being consistent rather than just checking a box,” Zart adds.

Cultural sensitivity and knowledge are important in their industry, and their customers can tell when a job has been done by a person who understands that. The staff at Indy Translations and the Indy Language Center have made it their mission to provide accurate language services

and foster communication and connection.

Upcoming group classes for 2026 include Spanish, Korean, Japanese, American Sign Language, English and Mandarin.

Indy Translations is located at 1001 Third Ave. SW, Carmel, IN 46032. For more information, call 317-566-8200 or visit indytranslations.com. For classes at the Indy Language Center, call (844) 503-1237 or visit indylanguagecenter.com.

JULY 2 – 4

Star-Spangled Symphony with the ISO

The Music of Star Wars with the ISO JULY 1 0

Serpentine Fire: The Music of Earth, Wind & Fire with the ISO JULY 11

JULY 17

Decades: Back to the 80s with the ISO

Summer Breeze: Yacht Rock Classics with the ISO JULY 1 8

The Music of Harry Potter with the ISO JULY 2 4

2 5

Disney in Concert: A Dream is a Wish with the ISO

Always, Adele JULY 31

Get your tickets at: IndianapolisSymphony.org

As nesting season winds down and molting season begins, birds require extra energy to replace feathers and maintain healthy body condition. Our exclusive FeatherPro™ SuperBlend® is specially formulated with essential protein and fats to support feather growth and development. Shop Wild Birds Unlimited for the foods birds need during this demanding time. FeatherPro™ SuperBlend®, FeatherPro™ Hot Pepper Seed Cylinder, and FeatherPro™ Seed Cylinder

Cut the Cord. Not the Content. Only $69.99 a Month – No Contracts, No Hassles.

Stop overpaying for TV. CUE gives you access to hundreds of live channels, including nationwide local channels, toptier movie channels, sports, news, and a huge library of on-demand content, all with no contracts or hidden fees, and no hassle. Whether you’re a family, a binge-watcher, or just tired of cable, enjoy endless entertainment at a price that makes sense.

Start Streaming Today