MONTHLY
Michael Feinstein COLLECTIVE PUBLISHING PUBLICATION
carmelmonthlymagazine.com Carmel_2020Nov_Cover.indd 1
NOVEMBER 2020
INTRODUCING FEINSTEIN’S AT HOTEL CARMICHAEL
2020-11-24 2:29 PM
Seasons Greetings
12584 BRANDORD ST.
12530 MEETING HOUSE RD.
Refreshed Village Home 4 / 5 Bedroom / 3 Full / 1 Half Bath Master Bedroom on Main Level Finely Crafted & Refinished Space Park-like Outdoor Area 3,541 Sq. Ft. - $595,000 12880 UNiversity Crescent
Corner Lot / Great Location 4 Bedroom / 3 Full / 1 Half Bath Master Bedroom on Main Level Open Floor Plan / Nicely Updated Over 5,000 Sq. Ft. - $674,500 Lots 206 / 207
.32 Acres each 2 Bedroom / 2 Full Bath Condo 1,220 sq. ft. - $175,000
Prime Area, Water View Bring Your Custom Builder
Above area reserved for a new listing in January 2021
Joe Kempler and Scott Pollard send Best Wishes to the great community of Carmel. One of the best places to live in the country! Let us be part of your moving plans in 2021 whether coming or going. Call us today for an interview of what we can bring to the table.
Joe Kempler (317) 523-6405 Scot Pollard (317) 900-3500 www.WestClayRealtors.com Carmel_Nov2020_Encore Sothebys - Joe Kempler.indd 1
2020-11-24 2:20 PM
CARMEL
CARES
Thank You for Doing Your Part
Engage, support and shop local businesses…virtually
With recent surges in COVID-19, we recommend conducting your holiday shopping and dining with your local favorites, virtually. Reach out to your local businesses to find out about their pick-up and delivery options and be sure to follow them on social media for online events and specials throughout the holiday season.
Carmel.IN.gov
Carmel_Nov2020-City of Carmel.indd 1
Be sure to explore what Carmel’s three main districts have to offer by visiting them online at CarmelCityCenter.com CarmelArtsandDesign.com MidtownPlazaCarmel.com Let’s work together to keep our merchants and community healthy.
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Follow us on Instagram
Find us on YouTube
2020-11-23 1:53 PM
Merry Christmas! Visit Online @Tonysofindianapolis to take advantage of our gift card promotion. tonysofindianapolis.com
Best New Downtown Steakhouse - Indianapolis Monthly
Carmel_Nov019-Tony's Steakhouse & Seafood.indd 1
2019-11-04 1:39 PM
MONTHLY
13 COVER STORY
Michael Feinstein: Introducing Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael With the cover this month we, along with Michael Feinstein, introduce our readers to an exciting new arts venue opening soon in Carmel, Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. Styled after Feinstein’s/54 Below, which is located in New York City, Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael will offer patrons an opportunity to enjoy outstanding national and local artists in a remarkable cabaret atmosphere. With its immediate proximity to the Center For the Performing Arts, particularly the Palladium, Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael will become another crown jewel in the burgeoning Carmel arts scene. We want to thank Michael Feinstein for taking time from his busy schedule to sit down with Carmel Monthly and sharing his vision of Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. Cover Story Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photo // Laura Arick
CARMEL MONTHLY
10 Palladium Spotlight Virtually: Dave Koz 17 Agrozen Opens Indiana’s First Certified Hemp Testing Laboratory
PUBLISHER / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803 PUBLISHER / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418 DIRECTOR OF SALES / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418
20 The Carmel Fire Department Needs
HEAD WRITER / Janelle Morrison janelle@collectivepub.com / 317-250-7298
Your Assistance!
NOVEMBER WRITERS / Janelle Morrison Business Spotlight is sponsored content.
Stay informed on news and events in Carmel by following us on Twitter and Facebook CARMELMONTHLYMAGAZINE
CarmelMag
carmelmonthlymagazine.com
@CarmelMag
For advertisement sales call Lena Lucas 317-501-0418 or email lena@collectivepub.com COLLECTIVE PUBLISHING, LLC - PO BOX 6326 - FISHERS, IN 46037 CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_TOC.indd 1
5
Go to gooddaycarmel.com to receive its e-newsletters for events in Carmel.
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:37 PM
PAINTING. QUALITY. PEACE OF MIND. PAINTING. QUALITY. You can count on CertaPro Painters of PEACE OF MIND. ®
FREE PHOTO RENDERING OF YOURPHOTO NEXT PAINTING PROJECT* FREE RENDERING *Offer applies to a signed contract on a residential painting project of $1,500 or more. Offer must be * presented during time of estimate. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. Available at CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis. Limite time offer. *Offer applies to a signed contract on a residential painting project of $1,500 or more. Offer must be presented during time of estimate. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. Available at CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis. Limite time offer.
OF YOUR NEXT PAINTING PROJECT
317-732-0874 317-732-0874 indianapolis.certapro.com
Indianapolis—your neighborhood painting You can count on CertaPro Painters® of team with a national reputation—to stand Indianapolis—your neighborhood painting behind what we promise, starting with a FREE team with aWhether nationalyou reputation—to stand to ESTIMATE. prefer your estimate behind what we promise, starting with a to FREE take place on-site or remotely, we’re happy ESTIMATE. Whether you experience prefer your possible estimate to provide you with the best take place on-site or remotely, we’re happy to while respecting social distancing preferences provide you with the best experience possible and requirements. The price we quote is the price while pay—no respecting social distancing preferences you’ll extra costs or surprises. and requirements. The price we quote is the price you’ll pay—no extra costs or surprises.
Each CertaPro Painters business is independently owned and operated. indianapolis.certapro.com ®
Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.
R SPECIAL OFFE
EXPERIENCE TENNIS
Beginner Get 10% OFF r Programs Adult & Junio OMO CODE MENTION A PR E DEAL: TH E IV CE RE TO LAY 2P UL EF AT GR
A SPORT OF A LIFETIME
All ages & levels welcome.
• COVID-19 SAFETY PROTOCOLS • 24 INDOOR COURTS • 150+ PLAY OPPORTUNITIES • EXPERIENCED PRO STAFF • AWARD-WINNING PRO SHOP
GET IN THE GAME!
WWW.INDYRACQUET.COM | IRC@INDYRACQUET.COM IRC Dean 8249 Dean Road Indianapolis,IN 46240 (317) 849-2531
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_Stacked Ads.indd 6
6
IRC East 4901 N. Shadeland Avenue Indianapolis,IN 46226 (317) 545-2228
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:54 PM
Melanoma Surgeon
WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS IN CARMEL
Melanoma presents in many different shapes, sizes and colors - from abnormal moles to freckles and other spots. Juliana Meyer, MD, is a board-certified surgeon and provides the latest advancements in melanoma treatment options. She offers appointments in Carmel and Indianapolis. Learn more by visiting FranciscanDocs.org.
SCHEDULE TODAY (317) 781-7391 VIRTUAL VISITS AVAILABLE
watch
video profiles of our physicians
FranciscanDocs.org
12188-B North Meridian Street • Carmel, Indiana
· PERSONAL TRAINING · VIRTUAL OR IN-STUDIO SESSIONS AVAILABLE · 30 MINUTE SESSIONS
·
The Change You Need!
· DEGREED & EXPERIENCED TRAINERS · NO CONTRACTS
1 month of Personal Training
$99
Only 10 Available
Offer Expires 12/15/2020
NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY Coupon Code: 1120CM
2x per week. 30 min sessions. No additional purchase or contracts required.
317.660.1107 720 Adams St #120, Carmel, IN 46032
www.BodyOutfitters.com CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_Stacked Ads.indd 7
7
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:54 PM
Carmel_Nov2020_Friends of Hamilton County Parks Golf Outing.indd 1
2020-11-24 2:33 PM
Choose Your Experience Vodka Infusion Workshop
Mixology 101
Tour The Distillery
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE Tasting Room Hours: Wednesday....... 11am-7pm Thursday. . ........ 11am-7pm Friday.. ............. 4pm-10pm Saturday.......... 4pm-10pm Sunday............. 4pm-7pm
Carmel_Nov2020-AlchemySpiritHouse.indd 1
Distillery Tour: Sunday at 4pm
a l c h e m y m i c r o d i s t i l l e r y. c o m Follow us: @alchemyspirithouse
2020-11-24 10:07 AM
Virtua
THE PALLADIUM PRESENTS
lly
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS: THE GREATEST HITS OF CHRISTMAS 2020 Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Submitted
EDITOR’S NOTE: WE WERE HONORED THAT MR. KOZ ACCEPTED OUR INVITATION FOR A SECOND INTERVIEW WITH OUR HEAD WRITER JANELLE MORRISON. WE FEATURED KOZ IN OUR 2019 DECEMBER ISSUES AND LOOK FORWARD TO HIS RETURN TO CARMEL IN 2021! A live performance by Dave Koz & Friends has become an annual holiday tradition at the Center for Performing Arts for many local residents and fans. Although the pandemic thwarted plans for their 23rd Annual Christmas Tour, the Grammy Award nominee and multiplatinum-selling jazz icon Dave Koz is rounding up a few fellow performers for a Dec. 12 virtual concert event titled “The Greatest Hits of Christmas 2020.”
Joining him for the one-night-only livestream will be Jonathan Butler, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Peter White, David Benoit and vocalist Rebecca Jade. Fans will be able to enjoy the show on any mobile device from virtually any location, including the comfort and safety of your own home! The ticket price includes online access to the performance for one device as well as digital downloads of Koz’s latest two albums, “A New Day” and “Gifts of the Season.” A virtual VIP meet-and-greet option is available, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Starlight Children’s Foundation. A portion of the ticket sales purchased through the Center for the Performing Arts will benefit the Center as well. So, purchase your virtual tickets at thecenterpresents.org—today!
For me, personally, the our 23rd year [touring]. My buddies and I talked about it, holidays don’t officially begin PERFORMER and we obviously can’t safely until I play one of your holiday SPOTLIGHT tour around the country, so albums. Understanding that we put our heads together and it will look and feel differently came up with the next best this December, share with us thing that we can do. And Carmel is one of how you and your fellow musicians will our favorite stops on this tour, so it’s like keep the tradition going, albeit it in a we’re not seeing family when we don’t come different way. every year. This [virtual concert] is a way for We’ve all tried on new clothes this us to get the family together—in a different year—learning how to do things differently way—and still share the magic of the season because we can’t do them the same as before with some music, heartfelt memories, some [COVID-19], and this [virtual concert] is a nostalgia and a whole lot of fun! perfect example of that. This would’ve been
THE PALLADIUM
10
Carmel_2020Nov_Palladium Spotlight Dave Koz.indd 10
2020-11-24 5:06 PM
y
The pandemic has literally impacted the entire planet and every industry. How have you, personally, been coping and what are your thoughts as we start to look into 2021? Are you hopeful that we’re going to be in a better place this time next year? For me, personally, music has helped me cope during this year. It has been such a difficult year for everybody, and music has a way of soothing, healing and calming in a way that other forms of media just don’t have. So, I have hope this concert will bring a lot of healing and comfort to people during this very difficult holiday season. I do feel, intuitively, that we’re moving towards a better place and— God willing—2021 will be a better year for all of us.
THE PALLADIUM
SATURDAY DECEMBER 12 8 P.M.
Your latest album, “A New Day,” is a masterpiece. It’s like the soundtrack to our lives these past eight months. I also think it’s the perfect gift this holiday season, so my readers out there need to pick up a copy! While “The Closer We Get” is my favorite track from this album, “Summertime in NYC” has an exceptional vibe, and the video is phenomenal as well. You wrote and produced this during the pandemic— what went into creating NYC amid the quarantine? Thank you so much for the beautiful comments about the album. It really was a labor of love for me. It was a milestone because I’ve never made an album completely in quarantine before. It goes against how we normally make albums, which is everybody in a room together, feeding off of each other. We had none of that this time. I wrote “Summertime in NYC” in NYC on March 14. I will always remember that day because it was the day we all kind of realized that our lives were going to significantly change. You collaborated with a star-studded list of musicians on this song and album—including Brian McKnight on vocals for “Summertime in NYC.” We were writing this song about NYC in NYC, which was one of the first places [in the US] to get hit really hard by the pandemic, and as the world was closing down outside, and instead of going to a place of fear in the studio,
we kind of called upon our feel-good music heroes. Bill Withers [who passed on March 30, 2020], we kind of called his spirit into the studio—Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago, my
favorite bands—and we put together this feelgood song that almost passed the pandemic to a place where we were beyond it and healing. We had Brian McKnight come in, and he brought a whole level of positivity and fun to the track. We also had Earth, Wind & Fire’s Ralph Johnson come in and play on the track, giving it his blessing, which was nice.
It’s been rather quiet at the Palladium as we haven’t had our live headliners come through [due to COVID-19], so I appreciate you accepting this interview and reminding people that you care and are missing us as much as we’re missing you. We will definitely be tuning in to see you on Dec. 12. I think on some level we will be able to feel the energy coming from Carmel, Indiana, and from that area of the country [the night of the virtual concert]. The relationship that we have with the venues and audiences that we see every year is one of the things that’s so powerful about Christmas traditions. Every year, we see parents with their kids, and now those kids have kids of their own, so it’s
another generation coming to the show every year. That connection that we build with audiences all over the country gets stronger and has proven to be very special to me on a personal level. And we’re not letting the rest of this year fly by without getting a little slice of the holidays with each and every one of our fans across the country. We look forward to a much happier new year ahead, and we will see you—in person—next year if it’s the last thing I do.
THE RELATIONSHIP THAT WE HAVE WITH THE VENUES AND AUDIENCES THAT WE SEE EVERY YEAR IS ONE OF THE THINGS THAT’S SO POWERFUL ABOUT CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS. 11
Carmel_2020Nov_Palladium Spotlight Dave Koz.indd 11
2020-11-24 5:06 PM
BOOK
TODAY
FIRST DAY OF DAYCARE
$5OFF
FIRST NIGHT OF BOARDING
FREE FREE
YOUR FIRST BATH / GROOM
PETSUITES INDIANAPOLIS NORTHWEST | 4048 W 94th St.,Indianapolis, IN 46268 Call / Text: (317) 207-0400 | indynw.petsuitesofamerica.com Follow us | Hours: 6:30 am–8:00 p m Applicable only at PetSuites Indianapolis Northwest for new customers only. Not to be combined with any other offer. Must be presented at check-in. No cash value. Excludes holiday stays.
BOARDING
•
D AY C A R E
•
GROOMING
12
Carmel_2020Nov_Stacked Ads.indd 12
2020-11-24 5:54 PM
Hotel Carmichael Experience Feinstein’s at
Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Laura Arick
When the Hotel Carmichael first opened, we featured the hotel and its amenities on our cover of Carmel Monthly. We are pleased to feature its latest amenity and distinctive venue, Feinstein’s, on our cover this month. Officially opening at the end of January 2021, Feinstein’s is giving us something to look forward to after a long spell without live music and entertainment.
A
n upscale entertainment venue developed in partnership with legendary musician Michael Feinstein, this signature cabaret offers a creative and inspiring space to enjoy live music, elevated menus and a refined bar and spirits selection. Modeled after Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York City and in the spirit of the Great American Songbook, this unique cabaret promises an unforgettable experience.
Experience Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael For those who have experienced Feinstein’s/54 Below in NYC, the concept is quite similar and inspired much of the carefully curated details that have
gone into Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. The main room seats a maximum of 143 and offers a private dining option in a room partitioned off the main room that seats up to 16 people. The wall opens, allowing the private dinner party to watch and enjoy the entertainment. Audience members can order “small bites” offered through the hotel and distinctive cocktails from the nightclub’s refined bar and spirits collection while enjoying the show. I spoke with Hotel Carmichael’s General Manager Jamie Hopwood and the notable general manager at Feinstein’s/54 Below, John Iachetti, who’s also an integral part of the Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael team. We discussed what makes this club—in Carmel—so
extraordinary and how it stands apart from Michael Feinstein’s other signature clubs. Iachetti is a huge fan of Carmel’s. “When I [first] visited Michael [Feinstein] in Carmel, the city had just started building the Palladium,” Iachetti said. “It’s such a great city. The people are amazing, it feels good, it smells good—it’s all the good stuff!” When asked how Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael compares to the NYC club, Iachetti said, “When we designed this club, we took the best of all of our clubs. It’s going to be approachable and vibrant, and like Feinstein’s/54 Below, people will be able to see national artists—including friends of Michael’s that perform in NYC, San Francisco and LA—as well as artists and shows
13
Carmel_2020Nov_Feinsteins Cover story.indd 13
2020-11-24 3:52 PM
Michael Feinstein Opens Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael Opening in January 2021
Writer // Janelle Morrison Photography // Courtesy of the Center for Performing Arts
that are local to the community.” With regards to programming the entertainment and looking beyond the pandemic, Iachetti continued, “We’ve learned that there’s plenty of entertainment and a big enough audience for us to provide quality entertainment. It won’t happen right away, but we definitely have a blueprint that will begin with a couple shows a week and work our way up to five or six days a week. It’s going to be spectacular. If you close your eyes and listen to the performer—such as Michael [Feinstein] or someone like Rita Moreno or Storm Large—it will be like they are there in your living room. And people love to come out and eat and be entertained. It’s all about the experience, and it’s approachable. What could be better?”
A Purpose-Built Venue As the construction of Feinstein’s came to completion, it became glaringly obvious that the original timetable and schedule of events to commemorate the cabaret’s grand opening were going to be delayed until such time when the pandemic-related restrictions would permit. As that timetable looks to be the end of January 2021, the space is open and available for private functions. “The flexibility to use that space and utilize it for function space and private events is what makes the space one-ofa-kind and special out of all of Michael’s clubs so far,” Hopwood shared. “We’re still navigating through and looking at what’s going on in the world to kind of guide us with regards to what the grand opening will look like. A lot of things have changed in the hospitality industry and restaurant business now, and I think
we need to be creative and figure out how we can maximize the space that we have and the opportunities for the owners. We are already seeing an immense amount of interest in renting out the entire space and have already hosted private events in this space.” Iachetti added, “We have the best audiovisual—the best sound and lights— so, it’s a great room for private events, rehearsal dinners, weddings, bachelor or bachelorette parties. You name it—you’ll be able to do it here.” As we all look forward to 2021 with hopes of it being a better and healthier year, we’re also chomping at the bit to be entertained, once again, by live music and shows. In the spirit of better days ahead, Hopwood is also collaborating with the Center for the Performing Arts as it is literally a stone’s throw from the Hotel Carmichael. “We look at the Center as a partnership,” Hopwood said. “I think it’s important that we work in conjunction with each other to ensure the success of the entire performing arts campus. As we continue to evolve, develop and grow, that partnership will get stronger. And as we work though the programming, we will work together to ensure that we are giving the community the best performing arts experiences that we can.” Stay in the loop and follow Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael on Facebook and on Instagram. For more information on the Hotel Carmichael, visit hotelcarmichael.com. A new website for Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael is expected to go live in mid-December and will be the source of shows, events and ticket information. Be sure to check it out at www.feinsteinshc.com.
Though the ongoing pandemic has impacted the timeline for highly anticipated shows and select entertainment, Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael is officially opening. This upscale and unique cabaret was developed in partnership with multiplatinum-selling, two-time Emmy and five-time Grammy Award-nominated entertainer Michael Feinstein. Feinstein serves as artistic director of the Center for the Performing Arts and is founder of the Great American Songbook Foundation headquartered in Carmel. Feinstein’s is modeled after the legendary Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York. I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Feinstein, once again, and we discussed the concept of a cabaret, the genesis of opening a signature club in Carmel and his vision for the club as we continue to push through the pandemic and plan for the not-so-distant future! For more information on Feinstein’s and upcoming events/shows, please visit www.feinsteinshc.com.
As we look forward to the live music, elevated menus and a refined bar and spirits selection, what types of entertainment do you envision will be performing at Feinstein’s, as well as other purposes for the room? One of the wonderful things about a nightclub is that the potential is limitless. This room [Feinstein’s] was purpose-built as a room for entertainment. It is really a culmination of experience that I’ve had working in so many other rooms, and it has state-ofthe-art sound and lighting. The spacing of the tables, the comfort of the furniture in the room, the design, all of those elements have been very carefully curated to make it
14
Carmel_2020Nov_Feinsteins Cover story.indd 14
2020-11-24 3:52 PM
a space that will be welcoming and conducive to making a connection between the performer and the audience. As far as the entertainment—it’s going to be quite eclectic because we will indeed have nightclub shows in the sense that some people might visualize a nightclub, but we also want to have after-hours jazz [sessions] and special events in the daytime. We want to be able to use the room for all different kinds of purposes, where people can gather in an intimate space and enjoy the feeling of connection and comfort that this room will hopefully offer. Will there be any collaboration with the Center for the Performing Arts and/or the Great American Songbook Foundation as well as other local talent? I have all kinds of ideas about different types of entertainment that can be featured in the room. For example, I think it would be wonderful to have ‘Talent Night’ one night a week and create an ongoing experience for the community to participate. I have spoken with the staff at the Center for Performing Arts about creating this. We could also have a night where we feature music that is part of a collection of the Great American Songbook. We have this amazing archive of orchestration and Big Band charts. I was thinking how great it would be to have one night a week Big Band Night, and maybe have students from different music schools from local universities or other fine musicians that reside in the area as guest performers. You mentioned utilizing the room for other events and activities during the daytime. Would this space be available for private functions and meeting space as well? There is so much potential that it’s dizzying. We can have different events for charities and causes as well as for special events. And of course, we have the private dining room that has a wall that opens up to the entertainment space. So, one can have a special event where you have dinner in a private space and then the wall opens up to the nightclub room so you can see the show. How was Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael inspired by your NYC club, Feinstein’s/54 Below? One of the things that’s great about New York is that if you go to the theater or you go
ment will be determined by the community. I’ve discovered with every nightclub that I’ve been involved with that after you open, you find what people want. Every community has a preference for the kind of entertainment they want, so we’ll figure it out. You could have picked any major city in any part of the nation to open another signature club. Why Carmel? Why the Hotel Carmichael? When I became aware of the type of hotel the Carmichael was to be—an upscale design—which in my book means elegant yet comfortable, it occurred to me that this would be a marvelous place to have a club because of the proximity to so many other wonderful venues nearby.
out on the town someplace, often—later in the evening—people want to hear music or have a place where they can wind down. I thought, wouldn’t it be great to have a place where people could come after going to a show at the Center for the Performing Arts or the Tarkington? Just to have a place where people can congregate after, enjoy a jazz group or live music, and this [Feinstein’s] could be another option for people. I think it will extend the pleasure of whatever experience they had earlier. For those who have enjoyed an evening at a nightclub such as Feinstein’s/54 Below, they will automatically get the concept, but please share with us what a cabaret truly is. There are probably people who don’t know exactly what a cabaret is, and they may have some preconceived notions that are not necessarily accurate. Which reminds me, on the rare occasion that I watched “American Idol,” Simon Cowell would sometimes criticize a singer and say, “Oh, that’s so cabaret,” and I thought, is that not the most ignorant statement to make? To him [Cowell], that was an insult, but then I thought, he doesn’t know what a cabaret is. It is a physical space where any kind of music is performed, so how can you criticize someone by saying that “It’s so cabaret”? What does that even mean? That’s like saying, “That’s so Empire State Building.” A cabaret is really what people make it. There will be all different kinds of musical experiences and live acts such as comedians, so the sky is the limit. The types of entertain-
In addition to adding another layer of fun and entertainment, Feinstein’s is within walking distance to several retail shops and restaurants. Is it a goal for City Center businesses, Hotel Carmichael/Feinstein’s, and the Center for Performing Arts to cross-promote each other and make it a destination for visitors and residents of Carmel alike? Well, that’s the hope. We want to help expand what’s happening here and add to it in whatever way that we can. What can we, the community, and devoted fans of yours, do amid the pandemic to help with this endeavor so that when we can all come out and be together again, we can help make Feinstein’s an outstanding success? Generally supporting the arts is important because it is, to me, just as fundamental as the three Rs: reading, ’riting and ’rithmetic. The arts are part of a community’s identity. They create unity and harmony—no pun intended. The arts connect us on a heart level that puts aside everything else and helps us to see the common connection that we all have. For me, this has been a time of recalibration. It is a time to look inward and see what we need to change in our lives because the planet is clearly giving us a message that we have to make changes, and it starts with each individual. I’ve been spending a lot of time looking at myself and trying to be a better person and figure out what I can do to help make the world better for other people. Because this [pandemic] has dramatically demonstrated that there is no separation between any of us.
15
Carmel_2020Nov_Feinsteins Cover story.indd 15
2020-11-24 3:52 PM
SPONSORED CONTENT
SOCIAL SECURITY: UNDERSTANDING ELIGIBILITY AND ENROLLMENT One of the most common topics of discussion regarding Social Security is the program’s solvency. As of 2018, the estimated depletion date of the Social Security Trust Fund is the year 2034, based on estimates of future benefit distributions and future inflows. After that date, Social Security expects to pay out 79% of promised benefits until 2090.
DIVORCE
Even if an individual is divorced, he or she can still receive benefits on the ex-spouse’s record. To be eligible for divorced spousal benefits one must meet the following criteria: 1. The marriage must have lasted for 10 years or longer 2. The individual is unmarried (ex-spouse can be re-married)
Benefit eligibility generally requires a worker to accumulate 40 credits. Credits are obtained through the payment of FICA taxes with a maximum of four quarters (credits) per year. Sufficient earnings for 10 years or more will qualify a worker for retirement benefits. Once 40 credits are obtained and a worker becomes eligible to start receiving Social Security benefits, the benefit amount is calculated based on an average of the worker’s highest 35 years of indexed earnings. In addition, spouses of workers (divorced or still married), workers who have become disabled, workers disabled before a certain age, survivors of deceased workers, and children of deceased workers will often be eligible for benefits.
The benefit paid to an exspouse will be the maximum of 50% of the primary worker’s full retirement age benefit. This amount will be reduced if taken before full retirement age and will also be reduced by any benefit the ex-spouse is entitled to receive from their own Social Security record. If an individual remarries, he or she generally cannot collect benefits on the former spouse’s record unless the remarriage ends by death, divorce, or annulment. Finally, a divorced individual will be eligible to elect spousal benefits upon reaching age 62 if the primary worker has also already filed for benefits. One exception allows the ex-spouse to receive benefits at or after age 62 regardless of whether the former spouse has started benefits as long as the marriage ended two or more years prior.
SPOUSAL
SURVIVOR
ELIGIBILITY
If an individual has a spouse eligible to receive benefits, he or she may elect payment of benefits on the spouse’ record as early as age 62. To be eligible for payment under a spousal record, the wage-earning spouse must file for benefits first. A spousal benefit cannot be paid until the primary worker’s benefit has begun.
A widower age 60 or older may receive benefits on a deceased spouse’s record. Additionally, a surviving divorced spouse may also receive benefits under certain circumstances. Many other individuals may be eligible under the survivor rule including widow/widowers caring for deceased’s children, unmarried children under
Rick Harrison, Principal, Senior Financial Advisor
a certain age, certain individuals who have a disability or are caring for an individual with a disability, stepchildren, grandchildren, adopted children, and parents who were financially dependent on the deceased for at least half of their support.
ENROLLMENT
The simple step of setting up a My Social Security account online can help to avoid a great deal of future hassle. To set up a profile go to https://www.ssa. gov/myaccount/. When it comes time to apply for benefits, there are three ways to do so: 1. Apply online at
https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/rib
2. Call the Social Security Administration phone line at 1-800-772-1213 3. Make an appointment with your local Social Security office
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN ELECTING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS
ARE YOU STILL WORKING OR CONSIDERING WORKING?
If an individual is still working and has not yet reached full retirement age, deferring is often the best option, since Social Security benefits are reduced after age 62 based on a tiered system of income levels. Those “held back” dollars are paid to individuals who start Social Security at a later date as an increase in benefit. However, an early claimer will continue to receive the permanently-reduced retirement benefit amount, even after the held back dollars are paid back. Continuing to work also impacts your highest 35 years
of earnings; additional high-income years can replace low earnings years resulting in higher average earnings, thus increasing the benefit. IS IT BEST TO TAKE BENEFITS EARLY AT AGE 62, AT FULL RETIREMENT AGE, OR DEFER UNTIL 70?
Filing for retiree benefits earlier than an individual’s Full Retirement Age results in a permanently reduced benefit, while waiting until after Full Retirement Age grants a permanently increased benefit. As a general rule of thumb, deferring one’s benefit allows for a high guaranteed return without volatility. The individual’s cash flow, goals, assets, risk tolerance, and income must all be reviewed to properly analyze the best strategy for taking Social Security benefits. Other important factors to consider are family health history, life expectancy, and affluence, since the affluent tend to have greater access to a higher level of healthcare which often results in longer life expectancies. Your SYM advisor is well equipped to analyze these factors and guide you to a decision right for you. As Social Security evolves, your SYM team will be ready help you plan accordingly.
TO SCHEDULE A NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION, CALL 317.848.2180 OR VISIT WWW.SYMS.COM
Disclosures: There is no guarantee of future performance with any SYM Financial Corporation (“SYM”) portfolio. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and there is no guarantee that any client account will perform at a certain level of performance. This material is not financial advice or an offer to sell any product. All investing involves risk including the possible loss of principal invested. The actual characteristics with respect to any particular client account will vary based on a number of factors including but not limited to: (i) the size of the account; (ii) investment restrictions applicable to the account, if any; and (iii) market conditions at the time of investment. The opinions expressed herein are those of SYM and are subject to change without notice. SYM reserves the right to modify its current investment strategies and techniques based on changing market dynamics or client needs and there is no guarantee that their assessment of investments will be accurate. SYM is an independent investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. More information about SYM including our investment strategies, fees and objectives can be found in our ADV Part 2, which is available upon request. SYM-17-12
Carmel_2020Nov_Business Spotlight-Sym Financial Advisors_v3.indd 4
2020-11-24 6:07 PM
Agrozen Opens Indiana’s First
Certified Hemp Testing Laboratory Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of Agrozen Life Sciences
We first introduced our readers to Agrozen Life Sciences, located in Carmel, Indiana, in the summer of 2019. Founded by Carmel residents Brian Schroeder and his son, Austin, Agrozen Life Sciences focuses on hemp-derived CBD oil research, product development and consumer education. ABOUT AGROZEN LIFE SCIENCES Agrozen Life Sciences is constantly evolving its organization into a worldclass research and development cannabis company with roots tied to Indiana. It markets high-quality CBD products through premium brands, researches
hemp genetics at its R&D Cultivation Center, provides laboratory testing services through their board-certified analytical laboratory, and offers cannabis genetics services. Agrozen’s family of brands is positioned to be at the forefront of the plant-based industry and
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_Agrozen.indd 1
17
believes that education, transparency and outstanding customer service are the keys to Agrozen’s success. THE FIRST IN INDIANA Last month, after a year of submissions and reviews, Agrozen Life Sciences
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:26 PM
launched Agrozen Labs and became Indiana’s first and only hemp testing laboratory certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Office of Indiana State Chemist. Agrozen Labs also recently achieved Schedule I Cannabis Testing Certification from the DEA and is an approved hemp testing laboratory through the USDA’s Domestic Hemp Production Program. In conjunction with the USDA and DEA approvals, Agrozen Labs is the first hemp cooperative analytical testing laboratory approved through the Seed Section of the Office of Indiana State Chemist at Purdue University. The Agrozen Labs announcement follows word that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has
approved the Indiana State Hemp plan for commercially growing and processing hemp, a crop that is widely used to produce textiles, rope, carpet, paper, building materials, food and more. Currently, there are approximately 280 growers who farm nearly 9,000 acres of hemp. Hemp farmers are required to have crops tested before harvest. Agrozen is one of approximately 50 such USDA-certified labs in the U.S. “We’ve been working extremely hard trying to put all of the pieces and parts together to establish a credible business,” said Brian Schroeder, co-founder and CEO of Agrozen Life Sciences. “We have found, over the course of the last year or so, there are many products in the market that aren’t testing correctly. So, we felt it was important to push forward with Agrozen Labs to have a certified testing facility in Indiana that farmers, formulators, extractors and retailers can come to, as a reliable source, and have their products tested to make sure products and crops are compliant. We’ve come a long way in a short period of time and gained many clients that really trust us.”
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_Agrozen.indd 2
18
EXPANDING THE STRATEGIC PLAN The Schroeders are looking to leverage their expertise on the laboratory side of things, and as the hemp industry continues to expand and evolve throughout the state, Agrozen Labs is looking to be on the forefront of that growth, leading the industry with its certified state-of-the art testing capabilities. “We have intentions of expanding our R&D cultivation center in Indiana soon,” Schroeder said. “It will allow us to expand our footprint in terms of overall distribution of our Agrozen and Urban Daze brands. We want to really develop a credible business model that our dealer network, consumers and lawmakers can trust. As this whole cannabis industry moves forward, we would like to be the ‘go-to’ company people trust to answer their questions.” Research and development are ongoing at Agrozen’s cultivation center and grow operation. “We’re doing a lot of research, trying to understand growth rates and how susceptible a particular hemp genetic is to pests, molds and the environment. The research is critical to understand which hemp strains perform best in the state of Indiana.” NEW JOBS BECOME AVAILABLE IN A GROWING INDUSTRY As a growing industry, hemp farming, extracting, manufacturing and distribution is creating jobs throughout the state and nation. “Over the last year and a half, we’ve expanded our team,” Schroeder shared. “We’re expanding well beyond from when Austin and I started this business. We anticipate hiring additional people in the first half of 2021 with the launch of a couple new initiatives, and once we get a new R&D facility up and running, we will be adding another three to four individuals to run the cultivation center. We have to add key personnel with unique capabilities to keep pushing our business forward.” When asked how important consumer and distributor support has been for
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:26 PM
Start your day off right... the growth of his business amid unprecedented times, Schroeder replied, “As our brand gets more exposure, we are gaining more support from our local audience, allowing us to continue growing.” For more information about Agrozen Life Sciences, visit the company’s website at www.agrozen.com.
GOOD DAY CARMEL DAILY NEWSLETTER Delivered — FREE — Monday thru Friday All the ‘Good CARMEL News’ fit to share!
Sign up today at www.GoodDayCarmel.com
B
U
S TAR
FREE
I N - H O U S E C O N S U LT A T I O N
SIN
Mention this ad to receive the deal. Not valid with any other offers. Exp 12/31/20
S
5
To learn more about Agrozen Labs cannabis testing services, visit www.agrozen.com/laboratory, email labs@agrozen.com or call (844) 655-6935.
ES
FREE
I N STA L LAT I O N O N A N Y S I Z E Mention this ad to receive the deal. Not valid with any other offers. Exp 12/31/20
30% OFF
FABRIC WITH THE PURCHASE OF CUSTOM-MADE DRAPERIES, TO P T R E AT M E N TS O R B E D S P R E A D S
ADD WARMTH TO YOUR HOME WITH NEW WINDOW TREATMENTS
Adkins Family-owned for over 40 years
Draperies & Blinds
A L L S O F T W I N D OW T R E AT M E N TS A R E C U STO M M A D E I N O U R OW N WORKROOM WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY WORKMANSHIP
WE’LL BRING OUR SHOWROOM TO YOU! 3 1 6 2 E . S R 3 2 W E S T F I E L D 3 1 7. 8 9 6 . 3 8 3 3
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_Agrozen.indd 3
19
Mention this ad to receive the deal. Not valid with any other offers. Exp 12/31/20
25-30% OFF YOUR BLINDS PURCHASE SOME RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY Mention this ad to receive the deal. Not valid with any other offers. Exp 12/31/20
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:26 PM
T h e C a r m e l F i r e D e p a r t m e n t
Needs Your Assistance! Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of CFD
The Community Assistance Program (CAP) is a longstanding tradition presented every year by the Carmel Fire Department (CFD). While there has always been a need for the CAP program in our community, with the current pandemic, that need has grown, and food insecurity is an even greater issue. Won’t you consider helping some of Carmel’s finest this holiday season and join us in supporting CAP? WHAT IS CAP? Since 1967, CFD has delivered food and presents to families in need in Carmel. For more than five decades, CFD, along with the support from local residents and community members, has fed hundreds of at-risk families and countless smiles have appeared on the faces of our community’s children in need of some holiday cheer! Chief David Haboush, Carmel Fire Department, shared, “We live in a blessed community, and it’s easy to assume that everybody’s needs are taken care of. The
holidays can be tough for people, and this year, it’s even more difficult because we’re in the middle of a global pandemic. People are in crisis for lots of different reasons: loss of employment, food insecurities, mental illness, and so on and so forth. This program [CAP] helps bridge that gap that’s been created in our society, and from my perspective, it is so uplifting as it instills hope and humanity in our fellow citizens. CAP embodies what our community is all about and what firefighters stand and hope for.”
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_CAP Program_v2.indd 1
20
A HOLIDAY DRIVE-THRU For once, I get to report on a volunteer event that hasn’t been canceled by COVID-19. The reason why CAP can continue without issue is because it’s basically a drive-thru operation! Carmel firefighter and PIO Tim Griffin shared, “CAP is something you can do with your family during this holiday season and really give back to people in a safe manner. The firefighters will be wearing masks while they are loading up cars and trucks and will keep socially distanced. For me, to see people in their cars, while we load up food and gifts in their trunks with Christmas music blasting in the [department] bays, is what I have envisioned firefighters and community members doing since I was a child. Because of COVID-19, we are going to have more people and families that need our help.” The current CAP chair and CFD firefighter Jeremy Maners is wrapping up his last season as chair before passing the baton to a new chair next year. Maners grew up in Carmel and is part of a multigenerational lineage of firefighters. The CAP program is an annual tradition for his family as they make a day out of it. “CAP provides food baskets for families as well as gifts for anybody under the age of 18,” Maners said. “In the last few years, we’ve had a lot of community support with sponsoring families and donating money, time and gifts.” Maners shared that CFD [last year] provided around 200 families with food and gifts and approximately 175 of those were sponsored by members of the Carmel community. “The families that weren’t sponsored, CFD takes care of them through funds donated to the department, and we do the shopping for those families. For me personally, the best thing that someone can do is to sponsor a family. My family, as a whole, we all sponsor a couple of families, and we have made a day of it. We go shopping, we buy gifts for everybody and then we come back, have dinner and wrap all the presents. It’s really rewarding to be able to do
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:20 PM
WAYS YOU CAN HELP SUPPORT CAP
MAKE A DONATION Checks made payable to CFD Auxiliary. Please write “CAP” in the memo line.
• Mail to CFD, Attn: CAP, 2 Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032. Donations are tax-deductible. BE A SPONSOR Register with CFD by Dec. 1, 2020! Let them know how many children you’d like to purchase gifts for, and they will match you with children in need.
• Email CAP@carmel.in.gov to let CFD know you’d like to be a sponsor. DELIVER FOOD & GIFTS Help deliver food and gifts from CFD Headquarters to families in need on Dec. 12, 2020, 9–11 a.m.
this as a family and give back. Many [people] don’t think of Carmel as having families in need, but there are many, and there are pockets in Carmel that are in extreme need, especially now with so many people being furloughed and laid-off.”
• Email CAP@carmel.in.gov to let CFD know you’d like to be a delivery driver. For more information on CFD’s Community Assistance Program, visit, www.carmelfd.com and click on Department Activities & Events.
ALTMAN, CONGRATULATIONS POINDEXTER TOM FARRER & WYATT on being selected MAKING A DIFFERENCE Christine Crull Altman
Anne Hensley Poindexter
Scott P. Wyatt
John D. Proffitt Retired
in November by Altman, Poindexter & Wyatt for Making A Differrence in our community!
Tom Farrer and the Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County are Making a Difference. Tom Farrer is a Financial Planner (CFP®, CRPC®) with An Exceptional Life Financial, an independent financial planning firm specializing in finance for teachers. He serves as a board member at the Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County (SCHC) Tom started his involvement with the SCHC as a volunteer in the Community Caring Program and also volunteered to be an active member of the Crisis Response Task Team in response to the pandemic. In 2020, Tom has supported the Hamilton County VASIA Guardianship Program. The SCHC serves as the appointed guardian for individuals in need of a guardian without anyone able to serve, as appointed by the Hamilton County Circuit Court. Volunteer Advocates serve by building positive relationships with persons under guardianship, helping them to service providers, and monitoring their ongoing care to ensure the highest quality of life. Find more information about SCHC at Shepherscenterofhamiltoncounty.org
Family Law/Juvenile Law /Wills, Trusts & Estates/Civil Litigation
317.350.1000 APWLAWYER.COM
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_CAP Program_v2.indd 2
21
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:20 PM
Senior portraits Headshots Family photos
317.753.5542
lauraarickphotography@gmail.com
lauraarickphotography.com
F IR S T C L A S S F R E E
CARMEL MONTHLY
Carmel_2020Nov_Stacked Ads.indd 22
22
NOVEMBER 2020
2020-11-24 5:54 PM
CALL US TODAY • (317) 793-3140
2460 Glebe Street • Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 793-3140 • Stratford-Living.com INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE • SKILLED NURSING • REHAB
Carmel_Nov2020-Maxwell-Group.indd 1
2020-11-18 1:54 PM
Perfect Time To Spend Your Flex Dollars! Thoughtfully Curated Eyewear With Full Optometric Services
40% OFF
Complete Pairs Of Glasses! Bring in 10 or more non-perishable food items and SAVE! All donations will be given to The Merciful Help Center. One time offer per customer. Some restrictions apply. Expires December 31
19 E. Main St. Suite 100, Carmel, IN 46032 • 317-669-2312 • eyesonmain.carmel@gmail.com Sun/Mon: closed • T, Th, Fri: 10-6 • Wed: 12-8 • Sat: 10-4
www.eyesonmaincarmel.com
Carmel_Nov2020-EyesOnMain.indd 1
2020-11-24 6:23 PM