Geist Magazine December 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

CAPTURING COMMUNITY

rileychildrens.org/NowInFishers

SENIOR STUDENT-ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Jonah Canada, Fishers High School

RELOCATION STRATEGIES CEO RECOGNIZED AMONG PURDUE’S MOST INFLUENTIAL ALUMNI

14 FARM Nourishing the Fortville Community with Hope, Support & Compassion

16 CAPTURING COMMUNITY

The Creative Lens of Local Photographer Jake Rytlewski

Experience Lawrence Township Schools

HOLIDAY PERFORMING ARTS

This December at Lawrence Central and Lawrence North

TICKETS

Lawrence Central Holiday Spectacular

December 11 & 12 • 7:00PM

7300 East 56th Street

Lawrence North Winterfest

December 12 & 13 • 7:00PM

7802 Hague Road

TICKETS

Writer / Amie Drudge

Jonah Canada has rightly earned himself the nickname “Mayor of Fishers,” and it’s a title he wears with pride. Whether he’s cheering on a classmate, leading the student section, or competing in a Unified sports event, Jonah’s energy radiates across the entire school. At Fishers High School, everyone knows Jonah — and even more, everyone feels known by him.

Jonah is a proud Tiger and a natural leader. He currently serves as the vice president of Champions Together, a statewide student leadership program that promotes inclusion and builds community between students

Jonah Canada

FISHERS HIGH SCHOOL

with and without intellectual disabilities. In this role, Jonah leads by example, showing what happens when kindness, determination and joy take center stage.

He’s also the spirited leader of the Tiger Cage — the loud, proud and totally devoted hype squad for Fishers sports teams. At football and basketball games, Jonah’s voice is the one rallying the crowd, sparking excitement and making sure every athlete feels supported as soon as they step onto the field or court. If there’s a big play brewing, you can bet Jonah is the first to get everyone on their feet.

But Jonah’s leadership doesn’t stop in the stands — he shines on the field too. He is a three-time varsity letter earner in Unified flag football and a three-time varsity letter earner in Unified track and field, with every expectation of earning his fourth this spring.

That’s in addition to his participation in Unified bocce ball, Unified basketball and Unified bowling — a true multi-sport athlete.

His dedication has not gone unnoticed. Jonah has been recognized as Academic All-State multiple times throughout his high school career — proving that he excels not only in athletics and leadership, but also in the classroom.

Jonah has Williams syndrome, a genetic condition often associated with challenges including cardiovascular concerns and learning differences. However, Jonah has

never let that define him — and the Fishers community hasn’t either. Instead, his peers see him for exactly who he is: a leader, a friend and a symbol of school spirit.

His parents, David and Sarah, say their hearts are full of gratitude for the culture of inclusion at Fishers High School.

“We are so grateful for the administration, athletic directors and coaches who have given of their time and talents to create such successful Unified programs at FHS,” they share. “The Champions Together club and Unified sports have dramatically enhanced Jonah’s high school experience and left such

a positive imprint on his years here. It’s impossible to express the impact they’ve had.” From classmates to teachers to coaches, there’s a long line of people who would say they’re better simply because they know Jonah. His humor brings joy. His kindness makes others feel seen. And his encouragement turns ordinary moments into celebrations.

As he approaches graduation, one thing is clear: Jonah Canada has left a legacy that will ripple through the halls of Fishers High School long after he moves that tassel. Tigers are taught to lead with heart — and Jonah has shown exactly what that looks like.

RELOCATION STRATEGIES CEO RECOGNIZED AMONG PURDUE’S MOST INFLUENTIAL ALUMNI

Melissa St. John, CEO and owner of Relocation Strategies, has been named one of Purdue University’s Fraternity, Sorority, and Cooperative Life (FSCL) 150 Most Influential Alumni for 2025. She is one of only 16 women to receive this prestigious recognition, highlighting her exceptional leadership and business acumen.

Purdue’s FSCL 150 Most Influential Alumni program celebrates alumni who have made extraordinary contributions to their professions and exemplify leadership, integrity, and lifelong commitment. The recognition is part of Purdue’s 150-year celebration of Fraternity, Sorority, and Cooperative Life, honoring individuals whose achievements continue to reflect the university’s legacy of excellence. During her time at Purdue, St. John was a founding member of the Xi Omega Chapter of Delta Zeta.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by Purdue,” St. John says. “Being one of only 16 women makes this especially meaningful, and I am proud to represent women who are shaping the future of leadership.”

Known for her passion, vision and community involvement, St. John has long championed women’s entrepreneurship and leadership development in Indianapolis. Her achievements reflect both her commitment to business excellence and her belief in creating environments where people and organizations thrive.

As CEO of Relocation Strategies, an Indianapolis-based workplace solutions firm, St. John has acted as advocate, serving as an owner’s representative for furniture, fixtures and equipment (FFE) and move management.

For more information about the FSCL 150 Most Influential Alumni recognition, visit purdue.edu/fscl/ about/150-alumni.php.

Relocation Strategies serves as a full-service owner’s representative for furniture and move management for workplace solutions. To learn more, visit relocationstrategies.com.

Christmas in Hancock County

Christmas Light Parade; Winterfest in New Palestine and Fortville; Cumberland Weinachtsmarkt; Shirley Christmas Walk and more!

FARM

In the heart of Fortville sits a nonprofit organization making a profound and lasting impact on the lives of families throughout the community. The Fortville Area Resource Mission (FARM) is more than a food pantry, more than a support center and more than a gathering place. It is a deeply rooted mission dedicated to providing relief, connection and compassion to anyone who walks through its doors.

Grounded in its core purpose, FARM exists “to serve our community by providing food relief, mental health support groups, social interactions and connections to muchneeded resources while showing the love

and grace of Christ to all who come into contact with this mission.”

What began as a simple act of service has grown into a powerful hub of support for individuals and families facing hardship.

FARM’s food relief program remains one of its most recognized services, offering consistent access to nourishing food at a time when many households experience uncertainty. Through partnerships with local businesses, churches and generous donors, FARM is able to distribute groceries, fresh produce and essential items that help bridge difficult financial gaps. For

many families in the Fortville, McCordsville and surrounding areas, FARM has become a reliable anchor — offering not just food, but dignity and a reminder that no one in the community stands alone.

But FARM’s reach extends well beyond meeting physical needs. Recognizing the growing demand for emotional and mental health support, FARM provides mental health support groups designed to offer encouragement, guidance and a safe space for conversation. These groups bring people together to share their struggles, listen and build resilience in an environment centered on understanding and compassion.

The organization’s approach emphasizes not only healing but also belonging — reminding participants that their stories matter and that help is within reach.

Social interaction and community connection are also vital components of FARM’s mission. Isolation — especially among seniors, single parents and those experiencing tough times — can be one of the greatest barriers to well-being. FARM counters this by creating opportunities for social engagement through events, gatherings and volunteer activities. Whether it’s a community meal, a seasonal celebration or an afternoon conversation among neighbors, FARM provides meaningful moments of fellowship that help strengthen the bonds of the community.

One of FARM’s most impactful roles is its ability to connect individuals to broader resources they may not otherwise find. This includes assistance with housing, employment, counseling, transportation and more. FARM collaborates with local agencies, ministries and support networks to help families navigate challenges and access the tools they need to regain stability.

At its core, everything FARM does is guided by a commitment to reflect the love and grace of Christ. This guiding principle is visible in the kindness of its volunteers, the humility of its leadership and the warmth felt by those who seek help. FARM serves without judgment, without barriers and with an open-hearted dedication to uplifting the community one person at a time.

As Fortville continues to grow, FARM remains a beacon of hope — a reminder that compassion, faith and community can transform lives. Through food relief, emotional support, connection and unwavering love, FARM is planting seeds of hope that will continue to flourish for years to come.

CAPTURING COMMUNITY

THE CREATIVE LENS OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER JAKE RYTLEWSKI

In every community, there are people whose work helps shape how we experience the world around us. For central Indiana, one of those people is local photographer Jake Rytlewski, a creative whose images capture not just moments, but emotion, energy and connection.

Whether he’s standing on the sidelines of a packed stadium, weaving through festival crowds or documenting meaningful community initiatives, Jake’s photography reflects a deep appreciation for people and the stories unfolding around them.

Jake’s career has taken him into a wide range of settings — sports, music, community events, nonprofit work and more. His ability to adapt to different environments, while still maintaining his signature vibrant and heartfelt style, has earned him a reputation as one of the area’s most versatile photographers.

One of his earliest standout opportunities came when he stepped in to photograph for the Indianapolis Indians, one of the city’s most beloved sports organizations. Being able to capture the action of professional baseball gave Jake valuable experience in shooting high-movement sports and reading the

rhythm of a game — skills that would become foundational in his later work.

He then expanded into college athletics, covering Purdue football for Nuvo. Photographing Division I athletics brought a new level of speed, intensity and scale. For Jake, it wasn’t just about getting the perfect action shot, it was about documenting the atmosphere — the traditions, the students, the pride and the emotion that define college football in Indiana.

Jake’s work also extends far beyond sports. Over the years, he has been heavily involved with the Festive 500, covering a wide variety of their events. From pop-up gatherings to full-scale community celebrations, he’s become known for capturing the joy, creativity and neighborhood spirit that these events bring to life. His work with Monumental Indy has added another layer to his portfolio. Monumental Indy organizes several major races and public events, including the well-known Monumental Marathon.

Photographing thousands of runners winding through the heart of downtown Indianapolis is no small task, but Jake approaches

it with enthusiasm — showcasing determination, personal triumph and the unique energy that comes with one of the city’s biggest annual traditions.

In addition to sports and festivals, Jake has also photographed concerts and a variety of unique, one-off events. These opportunities allow him to push his creativity, experiment with lighting and motion, and capture performances that blend music, art and crowd interaction.

Perhaps some of his most meaningful work has come through photographing community-focused initiatives.

One project that stands out is his coverage of “The Court Is Hers,” a powerful partnership between the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis and Eli Lilly. The initiative was created to give more girls access to basketball by removing the financial barrier of registration fees. This program officially launched in August and quickly became an inspiring movement supporting young female athletes.

At the Irsay Family YMCA, Jake photographed an event led by Indiana Fever star Aliyah Boston, who hosted a clinic for a group of young girls. His images from that day captured not only the excitement of learning from a WNBA standout, but also the confidence, encouragement and empowerment radiating across the gym. For Jake, moments like these remind him why he loves what he does — the chance to preserve moments that matter and highlight efforts that uplift the community.

With every assignment, Jake brings passion, professionalism and a thoughtful eye for detail. Whether he’s on the sidelines, backstage or in the heart of a neighborhood event, he focuses on authenticity — capturing people as they are, in moments they’ll want to remember.

As Jake continues to grow his portfolio and expand his impact, one thing remains clear: he isn’t just taking photos. He’s telling stories. And through his lens, the Indianapolis community continues to shine.

BE HEARD MENOPAUSE JOURNEY.

Menopause isn’t the same for every woman. That’s why Community Health Network offers personalized care from a team of dedicated experts. Whether you need perimenopause or menopause care options — for hot flashes, mood shifts, sleep changes and more — Community’s comprehensive care team ensures you get the care you need. Because your concerns, thoughts and feelings deserve to be heard during every step of your journey.

Find a provider who listens at eCommunity.com/menopause

A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS COMES TO LARK RANCH

Fall may be winding down across central Indiana, but the holiday magic is just beginning at Lark Ranch in Greenfield, where owner Adam Lark is introducing something brand-new for 2025: A Country Christmas at Lark Ranch.

Known for its beloved fall festival, familyfriendly attractions and warm rural charm, Lark Ranch is now extending the season

with a holiday celebration designed to bring joy, wonder and small-town Christmas spirit to families across the region.

This marks the first-ever Country Christmas experience at the Greenfield location, and the team has gone all in to transform the ranch into a glowing winter wonderland. Visitors can expect a full lineup of holiday activities — traditional, whimsical and

thoughtfully curated to spark nostalgia and create new memories.

The highlight of the event is the Christmas Train Ride, an enchanting ride featuring more than a mile of dazzling light displays. Families can hop aboard and glide through a sparkling landscape of colorful lights, glowing tunnels, festive characters and charming holiday scenes. The train, already

a guest favorite during the fall season, takes on an entirely new personality during Christmas, offering riders a slow, scenic journey through the magic of the holidays.

Another centerpiece of the experience is the Nativity scene, brought to life with real animals. This peaceful, heartwarming display captures the spirit of the season and offers a quiet moment for families to reflect on the story at the heart of Christmas. Children and adults alike will feel the authenticity and warmth that only a live nativity can provide.

Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the big man in red. Kids can send off their holiday wishes through Letters to Santa or pose for pictures with Santa in a cozy, festive setting perfect for holiday cards and keepsakes. Santa’s visits at Lark Ranch have always been special, but with the expanded Christmas offerings, the experience is more magical than ever.

New this year is the Teddy Bear Factory Workshop, an interactive activity where children can create and bring home their

very own plush friend. This handson workshop adds a meaningful touch to the celebration, letting kids craft a sentimental holiday keepsake they’ll treasure long after the season ends.

And that’s only the beginning. Guests can expect plenty more holiday fun throughout the farm, from warm food and sweet treats to gift shopping, games, photo ops and cozy spaces perfect for sipping hot cocoa with family and friends. Lark Ranch has curated an experience that blends country charm with festive sparkle, creating an atmosphere that feels joyful, inviting and unmistakably seasonal.

Tickets for A Country Christmas are on sale now, and families who visited the ranch earlier this fall will receive a special discount code via email. It’s a gesture from Adam Lark and his team thanking their loyal guests and encouraging them to return for this exciting new chapter at the ranch.

Lark Ranch has always been a place where families can slow down, enjoy the outdoors

and make lasting memories. With A Country Christmas, the tradition continues — wrapped in lights, filled with heart and ready to welcome guests from across the Geist, Fishers, Lawrence, Greenfield and McCordsville communities.

This winter, gather your loved ones, bundle up and head to Lark Ranch for The Ultimate Country Christmas — a new holiday tradition built on joy, family and the magic of the season.

PLASTERED PENGUINS

LOCAL HOCKEY CLUB TURNS LOVE OF HOCKEY INTO A MISSION THAT GIVES BACK

Writer & Photographer / Stephanie Duncan

Hockey is alive and well in the Indianapolis area, and the Plastered Penguins Hockey Club is a big reason why.

What started as a casual Sunday league has grown into a thriving community of players who created the Plastered Penguins Hockey League to bring like-minded athletes together — fostering a fun atmosphere for playing hockey and offering players a chance to compete in local tournaments.

“A lot of our members wanted to play more hockey together,” Chris Harter says. “We all have very good chemistry. If you’re having a bad day, your buddy is going to keep you in check and support you when you’re going through a hard time.”

Ten years later, the hockey beer league has more than 80 members — enough for three competitive teams — and they are celebrating their recent designation as an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Teammate and treasurer Reed Kaczmarek started playing for the Plastered Penguins in 2017 and attributes the team’s growth to its community focus.

“I played hockey my entire life. I played collegiately and then met some of the guys [that play for the Penguins] through local leagues,” Kaczmarek says. “This group is very special because of the likemindedness and the goals we have to help the community.”

A hockey beer league is an amateur adult

hockey league featuring players of varying abilities and competitiveness — and sometimes, a postgame celebration with a drink. This camaraderie and love for hockey expanded beyond a traditional beer league, with many founding members wanting to give back to the community.

Outside of competitive tournaments, the team hosts events to raise money for various charities. They recently volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and host two charity tournaments each year that benefit the Chase Foundation.

Last year, after becoming an established nonprofit, they created a scholarship in memory of a former Penguins teammate, Jack Meachum.

The Jack Meachum Scholarship raises money to provide hockey equipment for the Coliseum Youth Hockey Association at the Pop Weaver Youth Pavilion at the State Fairgrounds. The Coliseum Youth Hockey programs introduce young aspiring players between the ages of 4 and 12 to the thrill of ice hockey.

Inspiring young athletes was a big passion for Meachum, and it’s something his teammates want to honor in his memory. Meachum was the varsity lacrosse coach at Carmel High School for six years before his tragic accident and is remembered for his dedication to his players.

at varying skill levels, also participate in tournaments each year to provide as many chances as possible for players who wish to compete.

One of the founding members, Adam Russ, hosts the Thursday night league and is pleasantly surprised by the club’s recent growth.

“We originally started as a pickup game,” Russ says. “A lot of players wanted to play in certain tournaments, but there were limited spots.”

“It’s a community with various groups and interests,” Harter says. “We are not exclusive. You can be as involved or as little involved as you want.”

Inclusivity and accessibility are a common thread that unites the Penguins. Both men and women make up the team, and the group strives to lower barriers to make hockey more accessible.

The team established a Penguin Assistance Fund, where players can donate money to help new players acquire the necessary equipment to play.

“A lot of what we try to do now is in memory of Jack, and to have a bigger impact on the community,” Kaczmarek says.

“He was very involved in lacrosse in Indiana, and he was very involved in coaching and giving his time to his players,” Harter adds. “Our goal with this scholarship was to make sure that his impact is still benefiting the youth and hockey community.”

The Penguins host Thursday night and Sunday leagues, giving players multiple opportunities to play. The three teams,

The Plastered Penguins organized players from around the area to give them more opportunities to play competitively.

“We’re still striving to be that close-knit community and ensuring that people have a place to play,” Russ says.

With its growing membership, the league is now one of Indiana’s largest beer league organizations. This league of players with diverse skill levels offers an opportunity for people to play hockey casually or competitively, and the coed league welcomes players of all abilities.

“We have so many different people with different backgrounds, social backgrounds,” Harter says. “If you need something, there’s someone who can help you.”

Want to get involved? The Penguins have a draft league that plays at the Carmel Ice Skadium every Thursday and host games on Sundays at the Indy Fuel Tank.

Find out about upcoming games and how to join by following the Plastered Penguins on Instagram at instagram.com/ plasteredhockey.

MURPHY’S PUBHOUSE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DECEMBER

View All Local Events or Submit Your Own

MEET A REINDEER

Indianapolis Public Library Lawrence Branch, 7898 Hague Rd. 5-6 p.m.

Meet a reindeer and other animals at these drop-in sessions. Ask your questions and take a picture with the critters. All ages and families are welcome.

AEW PRESENTS DYNAMITE

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale Street.

7:30 p.m.

A night at an All Elite Wrestling show is packed with action.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORKDECEMBER 2025 COFFEE ROASTER

CoHatch Noblesville, 13110 Harrell Pkwy. 8-9 a.m.

Join us for Coffee Roasters, a series for Young Professionals looking to expand their personal & professional development. Learn new skills, connect with new friends, and expand your network.

4, 11, 18

YARD AT FISHERS DISTRICT PHOTOS WITH SANTA 9713 District North Drive. 6-8 p.m.

Come take photos with Santa!

AMY GRANT: CHRISTMAS TOGETHER TOUR

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale Street.

7:30 p.m.

Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and CeCe Winans are bringing the Christmas Together Tour to town! Don’t miss this magical holiday experience.

5-7

ANNIE THE MUSICAL

Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave.

3-5 p.m.

Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie has become a worldwide phenomenon and was the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

5 FORT BEN WINTER MARKET

Lawrence Community Park - Community Center, 5301 North Franklin Road.

4-7 p.m.

Don’t miss out on unique gifts, local vendors, and everything you need for your holiday shopping. See you there!

5-7, 12-14, 19-23

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS AT LARK RANCH

Central Library - Greenfield, 900 W McKenzie Road. 4:30-9 p.m.

Lark Ranch Greenfield is hosting the Ultimate Country Christmas. Enjoy a Christmas train ride through a Mile of Lights! Visit our very own North Pole workshop, highland cow nativity scene and more!

5, 6, 13

CINCINNATI CYCLONES AT INDY FUEL Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St. 7 p.m.

6-7, 13-14, 20-21

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd,.

8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Breakfast With Santa is our annual holiday tradition. Gather as a family for a memorable experience and enjoy a special breakfast with an opportunity to visit with Santa.

WEIHNACHTSMARKT! FESTIVAL

Cumberland Farmers Market, 11501 Washington St.

3 p.m.

Hot Horns will be part of this awesome festival in Cumberland, Indiana. Music to be performed will include Christmas Favorites and German Polka Music.

NOBLESVILLE BOOM VS. WISCONSIN HERD

The Arena at Innovation Mile, 14157 CJ Way.

7 p.m.

13 DUDE!

The Free Spirit, 6155 E 86th St.

9 p.m.

DUDE! Live in concert!

13-14

NOBLESVILLE BOOM VS. WINDY CITY BULLS

The Arena at Innovation Mile, 14157 CJ Way. 7 p.m., 5 p.m.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS’ NOBLE SOCIAL DECEMBER 2025

The Picklr Noblesville, 9847 Cumberland Pointe Blvd. 4-6 p.m.

Join us for a high-energy evening of networking, friendly competition, and celebration as we wrap up the year in style!

HOLIDAY LIGHTS @ THE RAILS 5K & KIDS DASH

Central Library - Greenfield, 900 W McKenzie Rd.

6 p.m.

Join us on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. for an all-new exciting winter themed event that features the scenic Holiday Lights views of Greenfield Parks!

MUDSOCK BASKETBALL

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St.

6 p.m.

Ticket is valid for both the Girls and Boys games. Girls game starts at 6 p.m. and Boys game starts at 8 p.m. Children 5 years and under are free with an accompanying adult but must sit on a lap.