COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK OPENS NEW CANCER CENTER
Discover The HamCo Hubway: Where Everything Connects
The HamCo Hubway is more than a trail — it’s a central line for life in motion. Like a bike hub, it brings together towns, people, parks, and paths into one seamless ride. Whether you’re cruising for coffee or commuting across cities, this is the pulse point of connection.
The HamCo Hubway is Hamilton County’s integrated trail system of paved, easyto-navigate paths connecting Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, and Fishers. It consists of four primary trails (Monon Trail, Midland Trace Trail, Nickel Plate Trail and The 106 Trail) and numerous connector paths, making it easy for users to bike or walk between cities and offers access to a range of local destinations along the way. Whether for leisure, wellness, or exploration, The HamCo Hubway offers a safe and enjoyable experience for people of all ages.
THE FEATURED TRAILS OF THE HAMCO HUBWAY INCLUDE:
MONON TRAIL
A paved, rails-to-trails path that stretches over 20 miles from Carmel to downtown Indianapolis. It’s part of the USBR 35 bike route and connects to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
MIDLAND TRACE TRAIL
Running along the former Midland Railway corridor, this paved trail spans nearly 4 miles
in Westfield and over 3 miles in Noblesville. Trailheads offer amenities like restrooms, water fountains, benches, and even bike repair stations.
NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
These trails offer easy access to shopping, dining, and parks, making them ideal for leisurely outings.
THE 106
Hamilton County’s trail system is more than just a way to get from point A to B— it’s a gateway to nature, community, and recreation. With printable maps, difficulty ratings, and trail guides available online, planning your next outdoor adventure is easy. Whether you’re biking through the heart of Carmel or hiking along the White River, the HamCo Hubway invites you to explore the best of Indiana’s outdoors.
Plan your trail adventure with the trails map and itineraries at HamCoHubway.com
PUBLISHER DYLAN LEWANDOWSKI dylan@townepost.com 317-552-8605
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
STEPHANIE DUNCAN CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING ROBERT JONES
KELSEY MUSICK
NATALIE PLATT
ABBIE WILLANS A.J. WRIGHT
Blair Clark’s Carmel School Helps Singers Sharpen Skills & Shine on Stage
Crafters Pizza & Drafthouse Team Selects Signature Bourbon, One Taste at a Time
& Stout’s
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.
FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK
CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS
EDITOR
JOSH BROWN
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?
Community Center
ADULT ARTISTS SERIES: ABSTRACT ART
Wednesdays, Sept.3-24 | Ages 16+
Monon Community Center | $140
Unleash your inner artist and develop your skills in our art classes designed to support each artist’s unique creative journey. Professional artist Zach Lowe allows you to choose your own project and skill level, tailoring his instruction to meet your needs! Set your own pace and create art that inspires you. All necessary materials provided.
ADAPTIVE CURRENT EVENTS
INDIANA MASTER NATURALIST
Thursdays, Sept. 4-Nov. 13 | Ages 18+
Perelman Pavilion at West Park | $125
The Indiana Master Naturalist (IMN) program offers hands-on opportunities to learn about our natural resources. Its mission is to connect natural resource specialists with adult learners to foster a deeper understanding of Indiana's plants, water, soils and wildlife, while promoting volunteer service in local communities. To complete the IMN program, participants must attend at least eight of the ten classes and complete 24 volunteer hours within one year of taking the class. Upon completion of the course, you will receive an official IMN certificate and pin. No class 10/9.
YOUTH ARCHERY
Wednesdays, Sept. 3-24 | Ages 15+
Monon Community Center | $38
What's happening in your city? Our instructors will lead discussions about events happening in the area, state and the world. Only facts,
PARENT CHILD YOGA
Wednesdays, Sept. 3-Oct. 1 | Ages 1-5
Monon Community Center | $65
Wednesdays, Sept. 3-24 | Ages 9-14
Parent-child yoga is a practice designed to enhance the bond between parents and their children through yoga exercises. In these sessions, parents and children engage in playful and interactive poses that promote physical flexibility, balance, and strength while encouraging teamwork and communication. The practice often includes fun activities like partner poses, breathing exercises, and mindfulness games. It's a great way for families to connect, reduce stress, and enjoy quality time together while fostering a positive attitude towards physical fitness and well-being. One registration per family.
Monon Community Center
1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel, IN 46032 carmelclayparks.com/program-offerings/ 317.848.7275
Perelman Pavilion at West Park | $60
Take the first step in hitting the bullseye in our Beginning Archery class! You will get hands-on experience with a bow and arrow alongside our
SENIOR SOCIAL CIRCLE
Friday, Sept. 5 | Ages 18+
Monon Community Center | $5
The Senior Social Circle meets the first Friday of every month and offers fun, engaging activities in and around Carmel. This welcoming group is a great place to learn about upcoming events, play light games and connect with others in the community! Whether you are looking to just stay informed or enjoy the company, the Senior Social Circle is the perfect place.
FINDING YOUR VOICE
BLAIR CLARK’S CARMEL SCHOOL HELPS SINGERS
SHARPEN SKILLS & SHINE ON STAGE
Writer & Photographer / Abbie Willans
Blair Clark has worn many hats throughout his career: singer, songwriter, producer, coach and business owner. He’s toured in Europe, worked in Los Angeles, Chicago and Indianapolis, and now serves as president and owner of the Voice and Performance School in Carmel.
Clark has had a lifelong passion for music and teaching, having been a vocal coach for more than 25 years. He is also the founder and artistic director of the Carmel Jazz Fest, a 501(c)(3) committed to spotlighting and educating emerging and upcoming artists.
He started his own business, Coach Blair’s Voice and Performance Studio, and later transitioned to the Voice and Performance School. He chose Carmel because he wanted a strong education system in which to raise his children. Clark enjoys having his home in the Midwest while flying to Los Angeles or Nashville for producing and performing — or helping his students make networking connections and record their first albums.
“When I’m not coaching, I’m producing.
When I’m not producing, I’m performing,” he says. “And when I’m not performing, I’m trying to sleep.
“Carmel has grown and grown. This was a good place to grow my business. There was a musical energy here that was very conducive to starting a school.”
The school currently has four teachers, but it has the capacity for five. Each teacher focuses on different student levels.
“All of our instructors are professional musicians who perform as well as teach,” Clark says. “We screen everyone who comes in as an instructor. They’ve been out there on the road before, they’re performing currently. It’s hard to teach something you’re not doing.”
The school offers trial lessons for potential students to see if the program fits their needs, and for teachers to determine where to place them.
“We want to put them somewhere they can thrive, and they can move from level to level,” Clark adds. “They might have a good
voice but they can’t hear a pitch, or their pitch is good but their breath control isn’t.”
Clark teaches the more advanced students and those aiming to perform professionally.
“What sets us apart from School of Rock, Bach to Rock or the other organizations is that we are a one-stop shop,” he says. “Our primary opportunity is vocal performance: show choir, musical theater, professional vocalists and those who want to learn how to accompany themselves with instruments.”
The school also teaches bass, guitar and piano, and it has a recording studio and practice rooms for rent. Students can bring their whole bands to rehearse, or record their music.
“We focus our attention on providing everything a vocalist needs, from beginner or intermediate to professional,” Clark says. “It’s very competitive. No matter how well you sing or how good your God-given gift is, it’s important to learn the techniques of voice placement and all the mechanics that go into not only getting you where you want to go but keeping you sharp so you don’t
storyteller in the vocalist. Every story has an ebb and a flow. Range, placement and articulation are important. All of those things come together to make the body the instrument.
“We can take anybody and take them to another level,” Clark adds. “If they just can’t hear a pitch, we can make some improvements, but it’s kind of like Michael Jordan. If God’s already blessed them with a gift, you can sharpen that gift and make it better. They’re going from a 10 to a 15, instead of a 5 to a 6. We’re the difference between McDonald’s and Prime 47. I want to prepare you for your next step in your musical journey.”
As the artistic director and founder of the Carmel Jazz Fest, Clark gives students opportunities to perform live in a series of pop-up concerts and other community events.
“The idea is we can take them, find out what they need, and help them fulfill their goals,” he says. “However long that takes, that’s how long we commit to that. Then they go off and conquer the world.”
The Voice Performance School is located at 154 Medical Drive, Suite 170 in Carmel. More information can be found at voiceandperformanceschool.com or by calling 317-447-9872. Find more about the Carmel Jazz Fest at carmeljazzfest.org.
CELEBRATION LUNCHEON& De ert Dash
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. 502 EAST EVENT CENTRE 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032
Celebration Luncheon and Dessert Dash is Dove House’s annual fundraising event. Celebrate Dove House, dash for desserts, and help transform the lives of women in recovery from substance use disorder. If you have questions or would like to become a sponsor or in-kind donor, please contact Director of Development Amy Magan at amagan@doverecoveryhouse.org.
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B U I L D I N G L O N G T E R M
RELATIONSHIPS
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
HOMETOWN WINDOW & DOOR COMPANY
years — their children grew up together — and admired his reputation for honesty and dependability.
“I love it out there,” Carol says. “We can enjoy it in the winter and still feel like we’re outside.”
When Carol Ryan moved to Noblesville in 1976, the town was quieter but full of the charm that still makes it special today. She and her husband, Tom, quickly became well-known business owners. Tom launched The Ryan Company, building several commercial structures in the area, while Carol opened The Linden Tree, a gift shop on the Square that became a local favorite for nearly 25 years.
“We loved being part of the community,” Carol says. “But eventually, Tom — being a golfer — wanted to spend more time in Florida. And you can’t do that during Christmas when you’re in retail.”
After nearly eight years living full-time in Florida, the couple decided to return home to Noblesville, settling near Harbour Trees Golf Club. Once back, they began updating their home to suit their needs, starting with a favorite spot—the screened-in porch.
“We’ve always enjoyed sitting outside,” she says. “But as we got older, we wanted to use that space year-round. So we decided to enclose it and make it a four-season room.”
For the project, they turned to Hometown Window & Door Company of Noblesville. They had known owner Darren Peck for
“Darren came out first to look at the porch and talk through what we had in mind,” Carol says. “We’d priced other places, but Hometown’s quote was fair, and they offered a better quality product with Andersen windows.”
Hometown is a full-service Andersen dealership, guiding homeowners through product selection and providing direct access to their design consultant. After Darren’s visit, a project specialist measured the space and discussed details — including adding a pet door for the Ryans’ elderly dog.
“They listened to what we wanted, made helpful suggestions, and made sure we were comfortable with the plan,” Carol says.
Work began in June and finished in just four to five weeks.
“It didn’t take long at all,” she says. “The crew was professional, stayed on schedule, kept us informed and did excellent work. It was first-class.”
The transformation turned their screened porch into a bright, cozy four-season room perfect for enjoying the outdoors — rain, snow or sunshine.
The Ryans were so pleased that they recommended Hometown to friends and neighbors. Carol’s son also used them for a window replacement project and was equally happy with the results.
For the Noblesville couple, the project was more than an upgrade — it was part of making their home complete as they settled back into the community they once again call home.
With their craftsmanship and hometown service, you can’t go wrong when hiring Hometown Window and Door Company. If you’re looking for window and door replacements from a local company in the Indianapolis area, request a free quote now or contact them at 317-659-6293. Providing the best in window and door replacements, Hometown serves customers in the Indianapolis area, including Avon, Zionsville, Westfield, Fishers and Carmel.
CONNECT
Writer / Natalie Platt
Photographer / Robert Jones
BLUE SCHOOL LEGACY
HISTORIC CARMEL SCHOOLHOUSE RECALLS
A CENTURY OF COMMUNITY LIFE
Writer / A.J. Wright
If you have ever driven along 106th Street east of Haverstick Road, you might have noticed the old schoolhouse nestled in a wooded lot. It looks out of place and time in front of the sprawling lawn of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, but it was once the heart of a thriving farm community on Carmel’s southeast side.
The story of the school starts in December 1837, when James Farley donated the southwest corner of 106th Street and what is now LaSalle Road for a log schoolhouse. The log school was also used by Methodists, who alternated their meetings between this schoolhouse and another closer to 116th Street. In 1838, Farley established a public cemetery, now known as Farley Cemetery, and he fenced in a portion of his land for
a deer park. In the decades that followed, a vibrant neighborhood composed of some of Carmel’s finest founding families — including the Farleys, Williamsons, Applegates, Harolds and Moffitts — developed around the school.
In 1852, Indiana enacted the Free School Law, which called for the establishment of public school districts in each township. One by one, the old log schools were replaced by one-room frame schoolhouses. The log school on Farley’s property was replaced in 1857. The new school was officially named Delaware Township School No. 6. However, the builder painted the exterior of the school blue, and it was more commonly called the Blue School. The distinctive building became a landmark, and
the road leading to the school — now called 106th Street — was then known as Blue School Road. The neighborhood also took its name from the school and came to be called Blue Woods.
Around the turn of the 20th century, the county superintendent worked with township trustees to consolidate rural school districts and replace the aging oneroom schools. Delaware Township Trustee Richard Moffitt consolidated the districts in White Chapel (116th Street and Gray Road) and Hazel Valley (Main Street and Cherry Tree Road) with Blue Woods and replaced the Blue School with a two-room brick building in 1904. Though the brick school was never painted blue, it carried on the name Blue School. The second Blue
School remained in operation until a new graded school opened in Carmel in 1922.
The Blue School had been a community center for nearly a century, and for many older residents, it was the only school they ever attended. Though the school had closed, former students gathered every summer from 1929 to at least 1971 for a reunion. Viola Williamson attended the Blue School as a child and taught there for two years as an adult. She shared the following memories at the neighborhood’s reunion in 1931:
“We all remember the jolly times we had coasting down the hill in winter and tramping in the woods and playing games in the springtime … Perhaps the most popular game with most of us was ‘town ball,’ which was entirely out of date long ago. It was played and enjoyed by both boys and girls, and I recall some of the girls who could run as fast and catch a ball as well as any of the boys. The big woods across the road [was] always a delight to all of us. We made swings by tying the branches of the trees together [and] found the most beautiful moss and flowers in all the world. Sometimes we wandered so far we lost our way, but some more levelheaded than others led the way back to the old schoolhouse.
Uncle Frank Williamson, who attended the first school, tells me that Sammy Bales, who was the director, managed the building of the house and was also responsible for it being painted blue, which was considered rather a freak then, but I was always glad
it was painted blue because it gave to it a distinction which it never could have had, should it have been the little red or white schoolhouse.”
building was purchased by St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church in 2024, and its future use is uncertain, but there is hope that it will continue to stand along 106th Street
COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK OPENS NEW CANCER CENTER
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Robert Jones
According to the American Cancer Society, as of January 2025, there were roughly 18.6 million people in the United States with a history of cancer, which equates to 1 in 18 Americans. That number is projected to exceed 22 million by 2035. For those living in Carmel who face a cancer diagnosis, they have a tremendous resource in Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center, a space that was recently transformed from a primary care pavilion.
“We were wanting to repurpose that space and thought, ‘Why not put oncology care there?’” says Marci Jones, Chief Nurse Executive at Community MD Anderson.
In 2022, a partnership formed between Community Health
Network and Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center, one of the world’s largest and most respected cancer centers.
“We saw this partnership as an opportunity to elevate oncology care,” Jones says. “Connecting with MD Anderson gives us access right here in the Midwest to state-of-the-art treatment options.”
Having more access to some of the most advanced cancer treatments is a game changer for Hoosiers.
This partnership represents a full clinical and operational integration of Community’s cancer services with MD Anderson across all five of Community’s sites of cancer care — one on the east side, the north
side, the south side, and two satellite cancer centers in Kokomo and Anderson. Community MD Anderson – Carmel provides an opportunity to bring innovative oncology care to the patients within the Carmel community.
Officially opening in April 2025, the new Carmel site includes 17 infusion chairs, 8 clinic rooms and a VAD room for injections, port flushes, lab draws, and central line dressing changes. The location also has a large procedure room, on-site lab services and an oncology-specific pharmacy for medication needs.
“By making things as efficient, convenient and available as possible, we simplify delivery of oncology care for patients, making it a one-stop shop,” Jones says. “Patients don’t want to wait. They want to get in and get out. This facility allows them to do that.”
Speaking of waiting, at Community MD Anderson, they guarantee getting new patients in to see a provider within 48 hours of referral.
“If you’ve been referred to oncology because there is a suspicion of cancer, you want answers quickly,” Jones says. “You don’t want to hear that they’ll get you on the schedule in six weeks.”
This location also has multidisciplinary clinic space in which all members of a team consult with the patient simultaneously.
“You see your surgeon, radiation, and
medical oncologist together,” says Dr. Sumeet Bhatia, Medical Director for Community MD Anderson. “This means they have better collaboration because they communicate in real time.”
“We’re coming at you with a lot of information,” Jones says. “We want you to be able to ask questions and make an informed decision about how you want to proceed with your treatment plan.”
These doctors may participate in person or virtually. This multidisciplinary approach means a patient who may need surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy won’t have to endure multiple visits to have the same conversations.
“Bringing everyone in at the same time helps the patient better understand the treatment plan, allows them to ask questions, and ensures everybody hears the same thing,” Jones says.
Patients referred for other health services may take advantage of on-site imaging, physical therapy, and rehab facilities. Specially trained therapists work with patients dealing with common side effects such as lymphedema or pelvic floor issues. The facility also offers DXA scans to help patients manage any bone loss during chemotherapy.
Navigation services are another hallmark of their cancer program.
“The cancer journey can be incredibly difficult to understand. Our team of caretakers are walking along that journey with a patient from start to finish. We can help you navigate that journey to
achieve optimal results,” says Jones, noting that other available support services include dietitians, social workers, and financial counselors.
It’s important to note that all care at Community MD Anderson is delivered by subspecialties. “Essentially, this means that you see a physician who specializes in your disease,” Bhatia says.
“If I was diagnosed with cancer, I’d want to know that my medical oncologist has the knowledge and experience dealing with patients who are facing the exact same condition,” Jones says.
The care they provide is not one-size-fits-all, in which every patient is treated in the same way. Rather, they personalize the cancer journey by following an evidence-based approach to treatment that gets patients closer to a cure.
“I think that’s what everybody is looking for on their cancer journey,” Jones says. “If we can’t get them cured, we try to get them to an optimum level of living so they can continue living productive, meaningful lives. We want them to thrive despite their cancer diagnosis.”
We never know when or if cancer will affect us.
“It may not be your reality today, but it could be tomorrow,” Jones says. “If you’re diagnosed, we have some of the best physicians, nurses, and caregivers.”
Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center –Carmel is located at 11911 North Meridian Street, Suite 170, Carmel, IN 46032. For more information, call 317-621-0790 or visit eCommunity.com/CarmelCancerCare.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
1. To the point
5. Expired
7. Large tooth
8. Questioner
1. Sweepstake
2. Enthusiastic
3. In front
4. Roofing grass
5. Floats on current
6. Ridicule
9. Ogled, … at
12. Referee’s device
15. Line of hereditary rulers
19. Burglaries
10. Uniform 11. Grain tips 12. Route
13. Skin irritation
14. Slight quarrel 15. Gloomy
21. Financial
22. Stupor
23. Decoy
24. Makes stable
16. For each one
17. Sums
18. Evaluate
19. Cooking herb
20. Terminated
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BARREL TO BOTTLE
CRAFTERS PIZZA & DRAFTHOUSE TEAM SELECTS SIGNATURE BOURBON, ONE TASTE AT A TIME Writer & Photographer / Stephanie Duncan
wners of Crafters Pizza and Drafthouse in Carmel, Brian and Alexis Hall, routinely select unique single-bourbon barrels and have them bottled for their patrons to purchase. But they don’t do it
This year, they assembled a team to travel to the Angel’s Envy campus in Louisville, Kentucky, to pick out the next barrel for their signature bourbon. Some distilleries offer to ship single bourbon samples for customers to choose from rather than tasting on site, but Brian prefers to be more hands-on.
“I really prefer to be here in person,” he says. “Then we can show our guests the process. Some people think you’re just putting a sticker on a bottle.”
Angel’s Envy is the first full-production whiskey distillery along Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville since Prohibition. Its bourbon is known for fruity notes, with hints of vanilla and caramel, thanks to aging in port wine barrels.
The tasting team included two experienced bartenders, Javier Colon and Sebastian Simmons, as well as a loyal customer, Matt Miller. Together, they brought their collective expertise to the table to help the Crafters team select
their next single barrel of Angel’s Envy.
Before the tasting, the group went on an in-depth tour of the distillery. Angel’s Envy tour guide Charlie Neal showcased each step of the distilling process and the unique history of the building.
Upon entering the fermentation section, the group noted the distinct smell of fresh bread and whiskey. They got a closer look at the giant fermentation tubs, the machinery that cooks the grain and water that make up the bourbon, and the grain selection room, where each batch is tested for moisture content, starch levels, and potential contaminants such as pesticides—all factors that affect the final taste.
Next, Neal led the group into a room filled with bourbon barrels stacked high on pallets. More than 2,000 barrels are curated explicitly for Angel’s Envy’s Single Barrel Program. The distillery sources its port wine barrels from the Douro region of Portugal, and every barrel holds a nuanced flavor profile.
Neal hand-selected three barrels for the team. Each person used a special tool called a whiskey thief to extract a small sample from the barrels.
The group was then led to a private tasting room, where they sampled three distinct barrels. The host guided the team through the tasting process, and the team highlighted specific flavor notes, aromas, and nuances in each sample.
Between the three, the team noticed how different each barrel tasted. Sample 1 had an earthy flavor with notes of spearmint. Sample 2, a front-runner, featured a sweet berry taste thanks to strong contact with the port wine barrel. Sample 3 was also popular, with an approachable butterscotch flavor. After testing the picks at different proofs, they settled on 110 proof. Sample 3 won out based on its versatility.
“When we do a single barrel, we like it to taste great neat or on the rocks, but also so we can make a cocktail from it,” Alexis says.
This visit marked her third barrel pick at Angel’s Envy and her 13th barrel pick overall.
Crafters memorializes each selection with a framed certificate on the wall and keeps one bottle from each barrel pick.
Knowing what customers like plays a significant role in the selection process.
“The tasting is definitely easier the more I do it, but you also have to have a good palate and know what you’re looking for,” Alexis says.
That’s also why they included bartenders Colon and Simmons in the process. Their experience with guest preferences adds a valuable perspective.
“You have to pick somebody you trust,” Brian says. “Sebastian and Javi have been allowed to pick because I trust their palate.”
This was Colon’s third barrel pick, and he says knowing your customer is key.
“We didn’t even pick out our favorite,” Colon says. “When you pick your single barrel, you’re picking for the customers and what they like.”
The Halls also invited Matt Brown, a regular at Crafters, to participate in the selection. They want guests to know how much care goes into choosing the signature bourbon. Brown appreciated being included.
“It puts a little pressure to pick the right
one,” he says.
It takes about six weeks for Crafters to receive their bourbon, but the owners and staff are eagerly awaiting the finished product.
One perk after the bourbon is bottled: the owners get to keep the barrel. Sometimes they ship it to a brewery to create a limitededition barrel-aged stout. Some lucky
Crafters customers can even win a barrel once it has been retired from brewing and distilling.
Crafters Pizza and Drafthouse is located at 2430 E. 146th St. in Carmel and offers tavern-style pizzas with globally inspired toppings, along with sandwiches, salads and popular sports bar appetizers. For more information, call 317-798-2056 or visit craftersdrafthouse.com.
A REAL SOCIAL SPORTS BAR
BUSINESS
DANSKO & STOUT’S FOOTWEAR COMFORT
WITH PURPOSE
Back in 1990, on a trip to Denmark to buy a horse, an entrepreneurial-spirited woman by the name of Mandy Cabot discovered the world’s most comfortable shoe. The “perfect barn shoe” – a clog – kept her comfortable through long hours of barn chores and errands. Inspired, she made plans to bring that shoe to America, sharing its comfort, confidence and opportunity with women pursuing meaningful work.
From that signature clog, a brand was born. Today, every product Dansko creates incorporates the core comfort attributes that made its original clog so iconic. Whether it’s a slip-on, a boot, or a lifestyle sneaker, each pair builds on that legacy of comfort.
It’s a philosophy that resonates with Stout’s Footwear, which has been serving customers since 1886 in Carmel and the greater Indianapolis area. For generations, the Stout family has built a business around service, care and iconic footwear. Stephanie and Brad Stout, now at the helm, continue that tradition with a team who knows their customers by name and takes pride in
finding the right fit for every foot.
The connection between Dansko and Stout’s is more than a business partnership — it’s a shared belief in quality, community and making a difference. Today, women wear Dansko shoes as a badge of their individual values and a nod to the work they’re doing in their communities — work that brings something positive to the world in bold but everyday steps. From Dansko’s heritage collection to its newest designs, the slip-on-and-go, easy-to-adjust styles give people a few moments back in their busy days.
Dansko’s own story took another remarkable turn in 2012, when it became 100% employee-owned through an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). In a move rare in business, Mandy Cabot sold the company to the very people who helped her build it — her employees. Today, Dansko remains woman-founded, womenled and always women-celebrated.
For more than 20 years, Dansko has proudly
partnered with Stout’s Footwear to bring its shoes to central Indiana. Each style — from the classic clog to on-trend looks, tailored interpretations and versatile lifestyle sneakers — features Dansko Natural Arch Technology® — anatomical contours designed to evenly distribute pressure across the foot. Many styles also carry the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health.
This September 18-21, Stout’s Footwear will host its Dansko Event — an opportunity to explore the collection, meet Dansko Sales Representative Jane Walters, get expert fitting advice and discover your perfect pair. The team is ready to welcome you, share their knowledge and help you step into comfort with purpose.
Dansko Days at Stout’s
Sept 18-21, 2025
We invite you to visit your favorite location to see the exciting new Dansko fall styles!
Greenwood, 9/18, 11 am - 6 pm
1551 E Stop 12 Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46227
Carmel, 9/19, 11 am - 6 pm
1008 W. Main St, Carmel, IN 46032
Brownsburg, 9/20, 11 am - 6 pm
1430 N. Green St, Brownsburg, IN 46112
Mass Ave, 9/21, 11 am - 4 pm
318 Masssachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Gift with Purchase (while supplies last)
New FREE COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Post your local events to our online community calendar - featuring events from over 200 local websites!
1
BIKERS / CAR SHOW & FASHION
SHOW (( SIP AND PAINT ))
MXP Shop (Ms. Franklin Candle Co. & Phiri), 7826 North Michigan Road.
7:30-11 p.m.
STORYTIME AT COOL CREEK PARK
Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st Street. 10:30-11:30 a.m. hamiltoncounty.in.gov
4
HARVEST & VINE
Ritz Charles, 12156 N. Meridian Street. 6-9 p.m.
Ritz Charles invites you to Harvest & Vine, a five-course garden-to-table dinner with curated wine pairings.
THE NATURE ACADEMY
Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st Street.
6:30-8:30 p.m. hamiltoncounty.in.gov
5-7, 10-14, 17-21
BEEHIVE
Actors Theatre of Indiana. 7:30 p.m. thecenterpresents.org
5-6
CITY OF CARMEL - CARMEL ON CANVAS 2025
Carmel Fire Department Headquarters, 210 Veterans Way. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
The Carmel on Canvas plein air event hosts more than 60 highly-acclaimed artists from states around the Midwest. eventbrite.com
Every Friday
FINAL FRIDAYS IN CARMEL: DINNER WITH STRANGERS
Restaurant of the Day, Carmel, IN 46032. 8-10 p.m.
Join us for a fun night out with new friends in Carmel. Build your community in the city through our socials and make connections!
Every Friday
KEYSTONE FRIDAY NIGHTS
Northside, 3720 East 82nd Street. 9 p.m.
Get here for our KEYSTONE FRIDAY NIGHTS series! Every Friday from 9:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. we’ve got DJ Lanky live in the house! thedistricttap.com
Every Friday
LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY
Urban Apples Cidery, 18326 Spring Mill Rd.
Join us every Friday for a night of live music, delicious cider, and good vibes! Whether you’re sipping on your favorite drink or discovering new... visithamiltoncounty.com
5, 19
PLAYTIME MEET UP
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. 9-10 a.m.
Join us for an exclusive time of play and discovery especially for our youngest guests ages 6 years and younger an hour before Conner Prairie opens to the public. connerprairie.org
6, 13, 20
FALL MIGRATION BIRD HIKES
Cool Creek Park, 2000 E 151st Street. 8-9:30 a.m.
hamiltoncounty.in.gov
7, 14, 21, 28
CONCERTS IN THE CENTERPIECE
Coxhall Gardens
5-7 p.m.
hamiltoncounty.in.gov
9, 23
13
LADIES NIGHT!
111 Medical Dr, Carmel, IN. 7-10 p.m.
Foxtrot lesson from 7-8 p.m. by Instructor Zhivko Yankov. Social Dance from 8-10 p.m. Members $10, Non-members $15, Students: $6. For more information call 317-759-0171.
14
CARMEL E.A.T.S. Carter Green. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
SUMMER CONCERT: MY YELLOW RICKSHAW
University Green. vwcownersassn.com
PALLADIUM PUBLIC TOURS
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green 10:30 a.m.
thecenterpresents.org
10, 14, 17, 24, 28
BEGINNING BIRD HIKE
Cool Creek Park, 2000 E 151st Street. 8:30-9:30 a.m.
hamiltoncounty.in.gov
20
EXPLORE THE COSMOS
Cool Creek Park
Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st Street. 7-9 p.m. hamiltoncounty.in.gov
HALFWAY TO ST. PAT’S DAY PARTY
The Brockway Public House, 12525 Old Meridian St, Ste 150. 5-10 p.m.
Join us for the annual Halfway to St. Pat’s Day party! Grab a pint and listen to live music. M Squared will be playing from 5-8 p.m. and the Guinness folks will stop in from 8-10 p.m.
S’MORE NIGHT
Deerstyne Firepit. (No time listed) vwcownersassn.com
27 HOE-DOWN
27
PEANUT BUTTER & JAM: MARS THE MELODY MAKER
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green. 10:30 a.m.
thecenterpresents.org
30
WHEEL THROWN POTTERY
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. 6-7:30 p.m.
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. connerprairie.org
The Children’s TherAplay Foundation, Inc., 9919 Towne Rd.
6-10:30 p.m.
The Children’s TherAplay Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year, Hoe-Down, is the place to be this fall! Join us Saturday, September 27th at Children’s TherAplay for a boot-stompin’ good time.
secure.qgiv.com
JAY LENO
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green. 8 p.m. thecenterpresents.org
PERGOLA PERFECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS ELEVATES HOMES WITH CUSTOM PERGOLAS & HIGH-END REMODELS
Writer / Kelsey Musick
Family Premier Pergolas is a familyowned and -operated business founded by married couple Jay and Jackie Bates. The Bates are driven by their passion to help Hoosiers elevate their indoor and outdoor living through custom pergolas and high-end home remodels.
Jay grew up in the building industry, with his father a custom builder from Southern
Indiana. Bates went on to study building construction technology at Purdue University, and after graduation, he followed in his father’s footsteps and started his own business.
“My husband started his first construction business in 1990, Jackie says. “He grew it to 135 employees and completed projects in 29 states.”
The Bates family sold that company and transitioned into the pergola business, which has been their main focus since 2021. “In 2021, we had the opportunity to sell Jay’s first company, so now we are able to spend more time at home with our family and slow our pace,” Jackie says.
But then an opportunity came along, and it was one that neither of the Bates was willing to pass up.
“We saw an opportunity to leverage his years of industry knowledge and strong reputation to deliver high-quality service and superior products,” Jackie adds. “That expertise not only inspired the creation of the Family Premier Pergola, but also positioned us to offer high-end finishes in spaces like basements, kitchens, baths and outdoor living areas.”
Jackie credits Jay’s hard work and strong reputation in the construction industry as the main reason why Family Premier
Pergolas has excellent relationships with top local tradesmen who share the Bates’ commitment to providing clients with the highest-quality service and products.
“Transitioning from a large company to a small family business allows us the time to find out what our clients want and need,” Jay says. “We are able to be more flexible and help people understand their spaces better. Some people have a hard time envisioning a completed project from drawings on paper, so we’re there to help with that.”
According to Jackie, completing a project the right way is more important than profit.
“When you do things the right way, it will help build your reputation, and reputation is everything in this industry,” she says.
Jackie adds that the pergolas they build are made of a high-quality aluminum material.
“They’re easy to install, and the process
only takes us a day or two,” she says. “But it also takes a lot of skill, especially if you’re attaching it to someone’s house or foundation. I’ve helped on and off throughout the years on the business end of things. I’m always impressed with Jay and his expertise in the field. I like that he’s picked a quality product.”
Family Premier Pergolas serves Boone, Clark, Hamilton, Hancock, and Madison counties. For more information, contact Jay or Jackie Bates at 317-552-9568 or info@ familypremierpergolas.com.
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