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View All Local Events or Submit Your Own
1, 9, 17, 25
NATURE PLAY DAYS
Cool Creek Park, 2000 E 151st Street. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
1, 9, 16, 23, 30
CARMEL FOOD TRUCK NIGHTS
TACO TUESDAYS
Ginther Green, 930 N Rangeline Rd.
Join us at Carmel Food Truck Nights as we celebrate all types of Latin cuisines every Tuesday, May 5th until October 13th from 5PM-9PM. Ginther Green.
1, 10, 17, 24
BINGO!
Northside, 3720 East 82nd Street. 7 p.m.
Every Wednesday at 7:00pm. $4 PBR and $5 New Holland Drafts.
COOL CREEK CAMPFIRES
Cool Creek Park, 2000 E 151st Street. 7-8 p.m.
SUMMER FAMILY CONCERT SERIES AT THE GAZEBO
City Hall Gazebo, 1 Civic Square. 7-9 p.m.
1, 9, 16, 23, 30
KIDS SUMMER SERIES
Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S Union St. 9:30-11 a.m.
1, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
MOVIES AT MIDTOWN
Midtown Plaza, 365 Monon Blvd.
1, 9, 16, 23, 30
TRIVIA NIGHT
Crate Escapes Dog Park + Bar, 18595 Carousel Ln.
6:30-8 p.m.
Put your knowledge to the test and join us for a night of friendly competition, cold drinks, and good vibes at the dog bar!
1, 4, 11, 18, 25
WESTFIELD FARMERS MARKET
Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S Union St. 5-8 p.m.
1, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Advent Lutheran Church, 11250 N. Michigan Road. 9-11:30 a.m.
Description Vacation Bible School at Advent Church & School is a great place for children ages 3 1/2 (and potty trained) through 4th grade to come and hear the word of God, along with participate
SENIOR WALKING CLUB
Cool Creek Park, 2000 E 151st Street. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM PUBLIC TOUR
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green. 1:30 p.m.-10:30 a.m.
4
THE NATURE ACADEMY
Cool Creek Park > Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st Street. 6-8 p.m.
NEURODIVERGENT TEEN HANGOUT
Youth Services Small Program Room, 6-7 p.m.
This program is an opportunity for neurodivergent teens to hang out, do an activity, and connect with their peers. Each month will feature a different theme and activity. hepl.libnet.info
PET SOUNDS LIVE
Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection, 1 Carmichael Square. Carmel, Indiana Thursday, June 4th, 2026 Door 5:30PM | Show 7:30PM
5, 12, 19, 26
CULTURE FRIDAYS ( AFOBEATS & CARIBBEAN MUSIC ) EVERY FRIDAY AT 86 BAR
86 Fullbar, 3661 West 86th Street.
7-10 p.m.
Get ready to vibe every Friday with the hottest Afrobeats and Caribbean tunes spinning all night long!
6, 13, 20, 27
CARMEL FARMERS MARKET
Carter Green, 10 Carter Green. 8-11:30 a.m.
Thank you for visiting our website, and we welcome you to the Carmel Farmers Market! As we begin our 27th year, we are proud of the market that our volunteers have created for our guests. events.in.gov
Simon Moon Park, 3044 E 171st Street. 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
7
SUMMER CONCERT: THE BIG ‘80S University Green
8-12
JUNIOR MASTER GARDENER: WILDLIFE GARDENER
Heritage Trail Park, 4050 S 875 E.
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
This camp is for kids ready to get their hands dirty and explore the wild side of gardening!
10, 14, 16, 17, 23, 24, 28
BEGINNING BIRD HIKE
Cool Creek Park, 2000 E 151st Street.
8:30-9:30 a.m.
11, 18, 25
AMERICANA ON MAIN250TH CELEBRATION
Main Street, 4-8 p.m.
12
ANIMAL AMBASSADOR CARE
Cool Creek Park > Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st Street. 3-4 p.m.
LAUGHING JACK
Aristocrat Pub & Restaurant, 5212 N College Ave.
7 p.m.-12 a.m.
We play on the 2nd Tuesday this month, instead of the 3rd, due to some scheduling issues
MICHAEL LINGTON & PAUL TAYLOR
The Jazz Kitchen, 5377 N College Ave.
Get ready for an electrifying double bill as contemporary jazz titans
Michael Lington and Paul Taylor share the stage. www.bandsintown.com
13
INDIANAPOLIS LOCK & KEY SINGLES PARTY AGE 27-54, INDIANAPOLIS INDIANA
Bier Brewery & Tap Room, 5133 East 65th Street.
6-8 p.m.
Woman gets locks, men get keys, unlock & meet your match! New friends, Romance, maybe the LOVE of Your Life! The ORIGINAL TRADEMARKED EVENT.
INDY ELEVEN - WOMEN’S TEAM VS. DAYTON DUTCH LIONS
Grand Park Sports Campus, 19000 Grand Park Blvd,. 7 p.m.
TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE
Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Rd.
7 p.m.
14
TREAT TROT INDIANAPOLIS
Arthur Jordan YMCA, 8400 Westfield Blvd.
7-10 a.m.
Race Day Schedule 5:30-6:45am Packet Pickup 6:55am Kids Dash (Meet at the Start Line and we will walk participants out to the starting area) 7:00am National Anthem and Race Start!
17
COXHALL MANSION TOURS
Coxhall Gardens, 11677 Towne Rd.. 4-5:30 p.m.
18
COXHALL CHILDREN’S GARDEN TOUR
Coxhall Gardens, 11677 Towne Rd.. 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
19-24
SHREK JR.
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green.
7 p.m.
23-27
SERVE WEEK
Hamilton County 4H Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant Street. 6-8 p.m., 8 a.m.-12 p.m., 12-4 p.m.
HAMILTON County’s LARGEST VOLUNTEER EVENT!
SERVE Week’s service projects create a sense of pride and ownership throughout the county for all involved.
23
TAI CHI: CALM & BALANCEA CLASS FOR ADULTS
Carmel Clay Public Library, 425 E Main St. 10-11 a.m.
A gentle, feel-good Tai Chi session focused on relaxation, balance, and easy breathing. Perfect for all skill levels and abilities. Presented with Mindful Taichi Co. Registration is required.
25
BOOT SCOOTIN’ SUMMER CAMP
uPaint Pottery Studio, 643 E State Road 32.
1-2:30 p.m.
Date – June 25, 2026
Time – 1pm-2:30pm
Saddle-up for a fabulous day of summer camp.
26
TIME TRAVELERS HISTORY BALL
7-10 p.m.
You are invited to a History Ball! Help us celebrate our country’s 250th birthday AND the 50th anniversary of the Coxhall Mansion with one patriotic celebration!
PROGR AMS
ADULT ARTIST WORKSHOP
Saturday, June 27 | Ages 16+ | Central Park trails | $90
Develop drawing and painting skills in a supportive class for all experience levels. Explore techniques, experiment creatively and leave with a collection of original artwork. All materials provided.
DAWN BIRDING HIKE
Tuesday, June 23 | Ages 18+ | Flowing Well Park | $2
Start your morning with the sounds of summer birds. Join a naturalist for a peaceful early-morning hike as you learn to identify local species by sight and song. Each hike meets at a different park, highlighting a variety of bird habitats.
STROKE CLINICS: ALL 4 STROKES
Saturdays, June 6-27 | Ages 15+ | Monon Community Center | $60
Perfect your swim stroke. In these classes, participants will learn advanced techniques to improve freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke or butterfly. Sign up for an individual stroke or all four.
INFANT HARMONY
Mondays, June 1-22 | Ages less than 2 yrs | Monon Community Center | $120
A calm, sensory-rich music class for infants and their caregivers. Enjoy gentle songs, rocking, fingerplays and soft instrument exploration that support early communication and bonding. Led by a board-certified music therapist.
KIDS ZUMBA®
Thursdays, June 4-July 9 | Ages 4-11| Monon Community Center | $80
Get moving with this fun, high-energy dance class designed just for kids! Instructors break down dance steps and incorporate games and activities to keep kids active and engaged.
SUMMER FUN RUN
TEENS FOR BOLD
CARMEL TEENS RALLY AROUND INCLUSIVE BALLROOM PROGRAM
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
The first thing you notice at a BOLD dance session isn’t the music or the choreography. It’s the bright, unfiltered, contagious happiness that fills the room like sunlight.
It’s what hooked Carmel High School sophomore Remy Hollingsworth when, this past spring, he stepped into a BOLD class and watched his childhood friend Cody, who has Down syndrome, light up on the dance floor.
“When I saw the dance class, I saw pure joy,” Hollingsworth says.
That moment didn’t just move him. It mobilized him to create Teens for BOLD, a student-led initiative dedicated to supporting BOLD (Benefits of Learning Dance).
BOLD is a nonprofit founded in 2022 by professional ballroom dancer Sean Gehlhausen to bring ballroom dance instruction, community and confidence to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Gehlhausen, who has more than 30 years of professional ballroom experience, teaches people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds
because he believes deeply in the potential of the IDD community.
BOLD hosts classes twice a week, monthly events and an annual gala that showcases 15 solos and three group performances at the Indiana Roof Ballroom, located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis.
Hollingsworth, president and founder of Teens for BOLD, gathered a group of high-achieving, service-minded peers — all sophomores — who also had personal ties to the IDD community and/or a passion for helping others. They include HC Wang (vice president), Leo Berry (director of community outreach), Ethan Morgel (director of operations), Knox Leimer (director of finances) and Benny Winger (director of outreach).
Wang was eager to get involved because his brother used to suffer from tics, so seeing people with disabilities dancing was heartwarming.
The BOLD dance classes are full of enthusiastic students who put their all into each performance.
“These choreographed dances are complex,” Hollingsworth says. “It’s impressive what Sean teaches students to do!”
As the name states — Benefits of Learning Dance — BOLD is transformative to each person who participates.
Research shows that dance improves cognitive skills (focus, attention, memory, problem-solving), physical abilities (mobility, posture, balance, coordination, spatial awareness, strength), emotional wellbeing (mood, self-expression, self-esteem) and social development (communication, teamwork, interpersonal skills, boundary awareness).
BOLD amplifies these benefits through multisensory learning as students say it, see it, hear it, read it, write it, do it and repeat it.
In Monday and Thursday classes, students learn eight ballroom styles — Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Rumba, Cha-Cha, Swing, Hustle and Salsa — and at least three patterns within each style. They also learn both lead and follow roles, which teaches empathy, cooperation and perspective-taking.
For individuals with IDD — many of whom don’t get enough physical activity, mental stimulation or social interaction — dance can be life-changing. Without these supports, risks increase for depression, cognitive decline, cardiovascular issues, pain and decreased mobility.
In addition to hosting ballroom showcases and community events, the organization hosts special outings. For instance, students recently performed at an Indiana Fever game.
Teens for BOLD has set an ambitious goal of raising $10,000 by the end of the summer so they can purchase a table at the Nov. 6 BOLD Gala and fill it with Carmel High School students. The students want to signal that local teens are eager to step up and champion the IDD community.
“These IDD communities are no different from us,” Hollingsworth says. “Everyone deserves to have a passion and pursue something they love.”
The BOLD community is extremely supportive of one another. Students sing “Happy Birthday” to one another and regularly distribute hugs for accomplishments and encouragement.
“It really is like one big family,” Hollingsworth says.
Wang was blown away by the inclusive atmosphere.
“From the moment I stepped inside the classroom, everyone welcomed me,” he says. “I felt so at home.”
Wang hopes Teens for BOLD’s work inspires his peers to realize how accessible serving others can be.
“I want to show other high schoolers that we can make a difference,” he says, noting that in the first two weeks, their group raised $2,000.
As a result of their early success, their mindset — and goals — have shifted.
“Initially, there was a hesitation about what
we could do,” Wang says. “But once we started, we realized we’re capable of more than we thought. At first, $10,000 seemed like a huge amount of money. Now we’re thinking maybe we can raise $15,000 or $20,000.”
Right now, the teens are leaning heavily on personal connections — family, friends, teachers, mentors and community members who believe in their mission. They have other fundraising plans in place, however. For instance, they are organizing a summer 5K fundraiser and are reaching out to local businesses for corporate sponsorships. The team also plans to engage with the community by attending local events to share BOLD’s mission and invite others to get involved.
For teenagers juggling school, sports and social lives, launching a nonprofit initiative could feel overwhelming. These teens, however, have felt nothing but energized.
“I’ve learned how much I can do,” Wang says. “Reaching out to news outlets was easier than I expected. And I’ve learned so much about our team. We work really well together.”
He also rediscovered something more personal.
“Being in the ballroom made me feel free — like I was 7 again,” he says. “There’s so much
pressure in society to be perfect. At BOLD, I can laugh, learn and not be embarrassed if I mess up a step.”
Hollingsworth echoes that sentiment.
“I thought helping the community would be super hard,” he says. “It isn’t. Sean showed me that. Helping people brings me up and makes me feel better.”
They also learned something about authenticity.
“When you ask for donations, adults can tell in three seconds whether you actually care,” Hollingsworth says. “The more you care, the more likely you are to make a difference.”
The Nov. 6 BOLD Gala is more than a fundraiser. It’s a celebration of talent, courage and community. For the Carmel teens, it’s also a chance to show up — not just as donors, but as allies.
“We want Carmel High School to be represented,” Hollingsworth says. “We want people to see that teens care and can make a difference.”
For more information about BOLD, visit bolddance.org. Check out Teens for BOLD on Instagram @teensforbold.
The donation link and QR code: zeffy.com/ en-US/donation-form/teens-for-bold.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
CLEAR DIFFERENCE
HOMETOWN WINDOW AND DOOR COMPANY DELIVERS COMFORT AND QUALITY
Writer / Abbie Willans
Hometown Window and Door Company is a locally owned business that provides customers with excellent service along with the trusted name brand of Andersen windows. The company can help with any exterior household needs, from windows and doors to 3 and 4 season sunroom additions.
Carmel resident James Losee and his family had been noticing cold air coming in around their windows and doors for a while when they encountered Hometown Window and Door Company at a remodeling show in Westfield about a year ago. They met Udi Abdelhak, the sales manager, and had a great first impression.
A few months later, Losee asked for a quote and decided it was time to update his home. His house was built in 2001, with all of the original windows and doors still in place, and he could tell it was time to replace them.
“They took measurements, then ordered the windows we requested, and that took 6 to 8 weeks,” Losee says. “But once the parts were in, they took secondary measurements to make sure everything was correct, then scheduled the installation and were done in just a few days.”
The team started by replacing the front
door and the sliding glass back door. Because of the frigid temperatures outside, the installation crew made sure to work as quickly as possible to avoid bringing in the winter chill.
“I was impressed with how fast and efficient they were,” Losee says. “They replaced one door at a time so the house wouldn’t get too cold. Not only that, but they went out of their way to fix the door frame. Whoever installed it when it was new really made a mess of it, and you could feel the air leaking in. The hinges weren’t staying in place. They got the right materials to fix it and make it weathertight, and really went above and beyond for us.”
Next, they replaced the windows. Losee appreciated the crew’s speed and attention to detail.
“After they were done, one of the guys came back and touched up the trim because it wasn’t quite up to his standards,” he recalls. “He wanted to make sure it was perfect. They were always cordial, polite and really respectful of our time.”
The Losee family has already been able to feel the difference, with the new windows keeping cold air out in the winter and cool air inside during the warmer months. They’ve only completed the first floor so far, but
plan to have the second-floor and basement windows replaced soon as well. Losee expects that once it’s all finished, he’ll also be able to tell the difference in his electric bill.
Hometown Window and Door Company prides itself on being able to match most existing windows, so customers never need to feel rushed into installing new windows all at once.
“I would definitely recommend them to anyone who’s looking to get new windows and doors,” Losee says. “They’ve been great to work with and communicated well throughout the whole process.”
In addition to various home builder shows, the company regularly has representatives at the Flower and Patio Show in Indianapolis, as well as the Indiana Peony Festival in Noblesville, to answer questions.
Hometown Window and Door Company is currently running a promotion for 15 months of 0% financing, as well asa promotion for buying 4 windows and getting 2 free.
For more information, visit hometownwindowteam.com or call 317-659-6293. The office is located at 1754 S. 10th St. in Noblesville and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
CONNECT
hometownwindowteam.com 317-659-6293
1754 S. 10th St., Noblesville
“For the first time, I feel like I have a real team behind my marketing.”
Tammy Osselaer, Owner, Little Petal Farm
FROM INVISIBLE TO BOOKED: THE LITTLE PETAL FARM STORY
Tammy Osselaer has been growing something special in downtown Noblesville, Indiana. Little Petal Farm is a full-service floral studio offering same-day delivery, wedding design, private workshops, and seasonal arrangements - all with the warmth of a boutique that genuinely cares about every stem it touches.
The business was thriving in person. Online? That was a different story.
Tammy was running Little Petal Farm largely on her own, and keeping up with a clunky Squarespace website happened late at night, after everything else was done. A deep-dive audit revealed the uncomfortable truth: Little Petal Farm was virtually invisible on Google. Local listings were fragmented, dozens of citation opportunities were either incomplete or missing entirely, and when customers searched “florist near me” or “flower delivery Noblesville Indiana” - Little Petal Farm wasn't showing up.
She didn't need another vendor. She needed a partner.
THE FIX: A COMPLETE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Towne Post Digital went to work on three fronts. First came local SEO. Towne Post Digital built out a fully optimized Google Business Profile and claimed over 70 citations across search directories, map apps, and industry platforms — the unglamorous foundational work that most businesses never do but that search engines reward every single day.
Next was a targeted digital display ad campaign that allowed Tammy to put ads on thousands of Hamilton County devices for locals searching for a “florist”, visiting her website, and behavioral lists for people “recently engaged”.
As web traffic and foot traffic began to increase, she then addressed the website — migrating Little Petal Farm from Squarespace to a Shopify site with streamlined navigation, a mobile-optimized shopping experience, and a backend Tammy could actually manage. The full platform migration was completed in just three weeks, with the new site going live January 8, 2026.
Finally, with a strong organic foundation in place and a new website, Tammy launched a Google Ads campaign targeting her highest-value service: wedding florals.
THE RESULTS THE NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.
During this last Mother’s Day, arguably Little Petal Farm’s busiest retail week, Tammy saw a year over year 142% increase in flower sales. Google Business Profile impressions grew 54.2% year over year, direction requests were up 54.9%, and phone call clicks climbed 12.8%. Even foot traffic to her downtown Noblesville shop increased by an estimated 150%.
Little Petal Farm was never the problem. Tammy had the craft, the passion, and the community trust. The gap was digital - and closing it changed everything.
THE ART BEHIND THE SMILE
HUNTER DENTAL LABORATORY COMBINES TECHNOLOGY, PRECISION & FAMILY VALUES
Writer / Renée Larr
Photographer / Dylan Senkus
Steve Hunter and his wife, Kim, launched Hunter Dental Laboratory on Valentine’s Day 2000, turning a dream rooted in craftsmanship, integrity and family into reality.
At the time, Steve had already spent 26 years in the dental laboratory industry and was a part-owner of another lab in Indianapolis. A perfectionist, artist and skilled technician, he loved the work. But Kim says they were ready to create something of their own — a place where employees were valued just as much as the dentists they served.
“We wanted to open a business where our employees were treated as special as our accounts were,” Kim says. “We dreamed of a lab family.”
Twenty-six years later, that dream has become the foundation of Hunter Dental Laboratory, a locally owned Carmel business known for high-quality work, consistency and lasting relationships with
dentists throughout the area.
Though many patients may never hear the name Hunter Dental Laboratory, its work plays an important role in their lives. When a patient visits a dentist for a crown, bridge, veneer or implant restoration, the dental office often sends either a digital scan or a physical impression to a lab like Hunter. From there, the team designs and fabricates the final restoration that will ultimately be placed in the patient’s mouth.
trays and a significant amount of implant work.
“I didn’t know what a dental laboratory was before I walked in the doors here 25 years ago,” says Brett Hansen, implant coordinator at Hunter Dental Laboratory. “I thought the dentist made the teeth.”
Hunter Dental Laboratory is a fixed lab, meaning it focuses on crowns, bridges, implant restorations and similar products rather than removable dentures or partials. The lab also creates night guards, aligner
The materials and methods have changed dramatically since the lab opened. Early in Hansen’s career, much of the work was done by hand. He remembers sitting at his desk using wax to shape a crown on a model, carving it to match the patient’s mouth before it was cast or pressed.
Today, technology has transformed nearly every part of the process. Using CAD/CAM software, such as 3Shape, technicians can design restorations digitally with remarkable precision.
“The technology is everything,” Hansen says. “It allows you to diagnose issues so
much faster.”
Digital dentistry has also changed communication between the lab and dentists. In the past, if a physical impression came in distorted or there was a concern about a case, a lab team member would call the dental office, wait for the doctor and try to explain the issue verbally.
Now, the lab can send quick videos or images directly from the software, providing dentists with detailed feedback instantly.
“I can shoot off a one-minute video and say, ‘Here’s the issue I’m seeing,’” Hansen says. “It’s a more efficient, easier way to communicate.”
In some cases, the lab can even export a digital link that allows the dentist to open the model in a web browser, rotate it, examine it and view the case in detail. For Hunter Dental Laboratory, that communication is one of the things that sets the business apart.
That willingness to communicate has helped the lab build strong relationships with dentists, many of whom rely on Hunter not only for restorations but also as a trusted resource. As materials, implants and fabrication methods continue to evolve, dentists often turn to the lab for guidance.
“There are hundreds of different implants out there,” Hansen says. “A dentist might see one or two implant cases a week or maybe a month, and I’m seeing five a day. It’s good to have that resource close by.”
Being local is another important part of the company’s identity. Steve and Kim have lived in Carmel for 34 years, and they have appreciated building their business in the community they call home. For dentists, having a local lab means being able to call, ask questions or even stop by when needed. It also allows patients to come in for custom shading when a crown — especially on a front tooth — needs to match the surrounding teeth as closely as possible.
The lab provides pickup and delivery service for dental offices. If a case is not digital, Hunter’s team picks up the physical
impression from the dentist and later delivers the finished restoration.
Unlike some labs, Hunter Dental Laboratory distinguishes itself by not outsourcing any work.
“All of our crown and bridge restorations are made by our team,” Kim says.
That standard has remained especially meaningful as the dental laboratory industry has changed. Kim and Steve have seen many small and mid-sized labs purchased by larger corporations in recent years, with some cases being shipped overseas. Hunter Dental Laboratory has been approached multiple times about similar opportunities, but the answer has remained the same.
That family atmosphere extends inside the lab as well. Today, Hunter Dental Laboratory has 14 staff members, and several family members have worked in the business over the years. Hansen joined about a year after the lab opened and has witnessed the culture firsthand.
During COVID-19, when many labs lost employees, Hunter Dental Laboratory did not lose a single staff member.
“From my point of view, that’s a testament to how Steve and Kim treat their employees,” Hansen says. “They go out of their way to make sure we’re taken care of.”
Quality has always been central to the business. Hansen remembers Steve’s philosophy early on was that while perfection may not be possible every single day, consistency must be.
“Steve would say, ‘You may not be able to produce an A plus crown every time, but you will always achieve an A crown if you strive for that A plus,’” Hansen says. “That way, the doctor always knows what they’re going to get.”
That commitment comes from the top. Kim says Steve’s dream of owning a lab has always been deeply personal.
“The fact that Hunter is on the lab means absolutely everything to him,” she says.
“There is not a crown that goes out of this lab that doesn’t have his stamp of approval on it.”
The lab continues to invest in modern equipment, including two state-of-theart mills and two 3D printers. Looking ahead, Hansen says one area of growth is full-mouth reconstruction and implantsupported prosthetics, which bridge the gap between traditional fixed and removable dentistry. These solutions can allow patients who have lost teeth to receive a fixed prosthesis supported by implants, improving comfort, chewing and speech.
For Kim, the future is also about staying true to who they are.
“We want to stay right where we are, providing our dentists with the highestquality work and the best customer service,” she says.
The work may happen behind the scenes, but its impact is often deeply personal. Over the years, dentists have shared stories — and sometimes photos — of patients whose lives were changed by their restorations. Many had spent years hiding their smiles. Others had lived with pain or difficulty chewing.
“We’ve seen lots of happy tears,” Kim says. “It is truly life-changing and makes our work very rewarding.”
Hunter Dental Laboratory also participates in Dental Lifeline Network’s donated dental program, providing crowns at no cost for patients in need, alongside dentists who donate their services.
For a business that has grown almost entirely through word of mouth, the reputation it has earned has been built one case, one relationship and one smile at a time.
“We all have the same philosophy in mind,” Kim says. “Each team member of Hunter Dental Laboratory is working toward the same common goal, which is to meet the dentist’s and patient’s expectations.”
For more information, visit hunterdentallaboratory.com.
Creating the Smiles You Design!
A GRASSROOTS FRIENDSHIP NETWORK TAKES HOLD — AND TAKES OFF
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
Several years ago, FrancesMary Loughead experienced a lot of change all at once. She graduated college, got her driver’s license and exchanged wedding vows with her husband, all within a three-week span. Two months later, the newlyweds relocated to Indianapolis. Though she loved the city, Loughead felt a definitive void.
“My husband traveled a lot, and I worked remotely, so I found myself spending long, quiet weekends alone in our apartment wondering how I could make friends,” says Loughead. “I knew that no one was going to knock on my door and ask, ‘Wanna be friends?’ I had to do something.”
She tried friendship apps and scoured local event listings in hopes of finding connection, but nothing worked.
“Coming from Chicago, I was used to endless things to do. Here, it took more effort to find community,” says Loughead, who found there wasn’t an outlet specifically for women to make friends in the Indianapolis area. So she created one — a free one, no less.
What began as a simple Bachelor/ Bachelorette watch party — born from a Facebook group called Bachelor Fans of Indianapolis — quietly planted the seed for something much bigger. In January 2024, she officially launched BFF Indy, a women’s community and events group designed to help women connect, build friendships and explore the city together.
Two years later, BFF Indy has exploded, with more than 60,000 women across its platforms. The Facebook group alone boasts 20,000 members. Instagram adds another 33,000. The email list is 10,000 strong. And the growth shows no signs of slowing.
One of the most surprising things for Loughead — who is 27 — is the sheer diversity of the women who show up. BFF Indy members range from 18 to 80 years old and beyond.
“There are so many women who feel like they’re the only ones struggling to make friends,” she says. “I want them to know they’re not alone. Everyone wants a new friend. And it’s never too late to make new friends.”
At their weekly walks, women from different backgrounds, experiences and beliefs stride side by side, talking openly and eagerly along the way. The walks, which run from April through October, have become the heartbeat of BFF Indy, spanning nine locations — including Bloomington, Lafayette, Avon and Noblesville — and drawing more than 1,000 women each week. One of the most popular walks takes place in Carmel, meeting on the Monon Trail in Midtown across from Sun King Brewery.
“We started in Carmel because that’s where I lived at the time,” she says. “Then word spread, and we expanded.”
Every Monday at 6:30 p.m., women gather, walk north for 30 minutes, turn around and head back. No pressure. No prerequisites. No awkward icebreakers. Just showing up and making friends while logging miles.
“It’s hard to step outside your comfort zone,” Loughead says. “But when you do, the impact is incredible.”
Beyond the walks, BFF Indy hosts fitness classes, a monthly book club, a Bible study
and an annual birthday party in January that celebrates BFF Indy and the connections that have been forged. This event has quickly become a fan favorite. The first year it was held at Laurel Hall, a popular wedding venue. Last year, the celebration moved downtown to Tinker House Events.
“It’s a bunch of women coming together to celebrate friendship,” she says. “It’s so fun to see the community show up for one another.”
Running a community of tens of thousands of women can be challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining a welcoming, inclusive environment.
“We are truly an organization for everybody,” she says. “People ask if we’re political or religious. We’re not. We’re a community. Period.”
With women from so many backgrounds, Loughead works hard to keep the space respectful and balanced so that everyone, regardless of their background, beliefs, age or stage of life, feels welcomed and valued.
Leading BFF Indy has also strengthened Loughead’s empathy.
“I’ve learned what women in our community are experiencing — whether it’s loneliness, housing struggles or food insecurity,” she says. “It’s made me more
aware of how we can use our connections to help.”
The group has also launched merchandise — quarter-zips with the BFF Indy logo and weekly walk hats — all produced through local vendors to support small businesses.
Leading a massive women’s community has been both surprising and deeply rewarding.
“I was shocked to learn how many women were also struggling to make friends,” she says.
But the stories she hears — often shared in the Facebook group — remind her why she started BFF Indy in the first place. Women post photos from coffee dates with new friends. They share updates about friendships formed at walks. They write messages like, “Thanks to BFF Indy, we hit it off and now we’re best friends.”
“Seeing the progression of these friendships is so rewarding,” Loughead says. “A lot of my work is online, so sometimes it’s easy to wonder if it’s making an impact. But then I see these stories, and it means everything.”
When she’s not planning events or managing the ever-growing community, Loughead recharges by traveling with her husband and spending time at the racetrack since her husband races in an amateur league.
“He also works for a race team in Indianapolis,” Loughead says. “Racing is how we unwind.”
Loughead’s initial goal — to make a friend — has been met and exponentially exceeded, as her closest friendships have come from the group. Plus, the group reminds women daily of something they often forget: You don’t have to do life alone.
“I was that girl — still am that girl — who needed community,” she says. “Going forward, I hope for more opportunities to connect so that more women can find their people.”
For more information, visit BFF Indy or find them on Instagram at @bff.indy.
TOURISM SPOTLIGHT
10 Things to Do This Summer in Hamilton County, Indiana
Summertime is a season when school’s out, pools are open and it’s easy to lose track of the day of the week. Start making your summer bucket list – after all, there’s plenty to discover in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and beyond. We’re giving you a head start on planning your vacation in Indiana with these 10 ideas.
SKYLAKE ADVENTURES
SKYLAKE Adventures is a year-round destination offering a personalized, selfpaced experience where guests choose their immersive journey: a relaxing lake escape or a day of adventure with thrilling water and land attractions, all within a stunning outdoor environment. SKYLAKE Adventures will open in Summer 2026 in Sheridan, Indiana.
WHITE RIVER
The White River spans more than 25 miles in Hamilton County, stretching from Noblesville to Carmel and Fishers, and then to Indianapolis. Canoe, kayak or tube the river with a rental from White River Canoe Company. There are multiple river access points allowing for varied trip lengths. Walk scenic trails along the river at several parks including Strawtown Koteewi Park and Potter’s Bridge Park. Stroll along the Riverwalk in downtown Noblesville, then walk to Historic Noblesville Square for a bite to eat.
NICKEL PLATE EXPRESS RAIL BIKES
Climb aboard Hamilton County’s familyfriendly attraction this summer with excursions for all. Don’t miss the new Rail Bikes. Pedal along the rail line while enjoying scenic views of Hamilton County.
MUSEUM EXPERIENCE CENTER AT CONNER PRAIRIE
Conner Prairie is a nationally acclaimed history museum and Indiana’s first Smithsonian affiliate. The Museum Experience Center features six indoor immersive areas where guests explore, discover and play as they enter a new way of experiencing Prairietown. Areas include “Power of Place,” tracing 15,000 years of community development along the White River; “Wellspring,” which recognizes Wes Bruce and The Curious Life; and “Torn: A Family Portrait,” which explores the deeper story of Conner Prairie’s founding family.
MILES AND MILES OF TRAILS
Set out for a trail adventure. Explore premier trails like the Monon Trail, Midland Trace Trail, Nickel Plate Trail and White River Greenway Trail for some family fun. These well-marked, paved trails will lead you to shopping, dining, sightseeing and family fun.
TENDERLOIN TUESDAYS™
Born and Breaded in Hamilton County, the Tenderloin Trail™, is celebrating 17 years of deals and delicious food. Claim your pass for tenderloin deals every Tuesday from June 30 - July 28.
SUMMER CONCERTS
From free to famous, this summer’s lineup is going to be music to your ears. National artists like Dave Matthews Band, Phish, John Mellencamp and so many more are headlining the stage at Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center. At Kroger Symphony on the Prairie enjoy shows like Star-Spangled Symphony and Disney
in Concert. And don’t forget about the countless community concerts in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield.
AMERICA250 CELEBRATIONS
Summer is synonymous with festivals and Hamilton County has plenty to choose. Mark your calendars for local favorites like: Spark!Fishers - June 26-27
Lights Over Morse - July 1-4
America 250 in Westfield - July 3
Carmelfest - July 3-4
Glorious Fourth at Conner Prairie - July 3-5
Noblesville Fireworks Festival – July 4
For a complete look go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com/250
OUTDOOR DINING
Warmer temperatures can only mean one thing: patio weather. There’s nothing like the opportunity to enjoy a meal outside – drink in hand, of course – and soak up the sunshine. There are great options throughout the county including 3UP Rooftop Bar, 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo, Boathouse Kitchen & Swan Dive, Wolfies Grill (Noblesville), Juniper on Main, Sun King Brewery, Chiba, Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream, Field Brewing, Four Day Ray Brewing and Juniper on Main
EPIC SPORTING EVENTS
Get up close with the NFL FLAG Championships and Indianapolis Colts at Training Camp at Grand Parks Sports Campus and LIV Golf. Fans will flock to Westfield to experience the action and cheer for their team. Learn more about professional sports in Hamilton County at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Pro-Teams.
