Carmel Magazine July 2024

DIRECT. CARE. DERMATOLOGY.

MK DERMATOLOGY OPENS IN CARMEL

CarmelFest Promises Good Times for All Ages

Tenderloin Tuesdays™ are Back This Summer

Hamilton County celebrates the 15th anniversary of the iconic breaded pork tenderloin sandwich during Tenderloin Tuesdays™. Back by popular demand, restaurants along the Original Tenderloin Trail™ are offering discounts each Tuesday, June 25 – July 30.

Sign up for the Tenderloin Trail™ Pass, a mobile-exclusive passport program. Customers must have a smartphone in order to redeem the offers at participating restaurants. Enter your name and email address and a link to the mobile passport will be texted to you. Save it to your smartphone home screen or bookmark the link for easy access. When you visit a participating restaurant, simply present your phone to a staff member to redeem the available discount.

Participants will be automatically eligible to receive a Tenderloin Tuesday™ t-shirt after they redeem deals at four participating locations, while supplies last.

TENDERLOIN FAQS

What is a tenderloin sandwich?

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

What goes on a typical tenderloin?

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

How do you eat a tenderloin?

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

Are tenderloins always as big as my face?

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

Why is Indiana so famous for tenderloins?

As legend has it, Nick Freienstein added a pork tenderloin sandwich to the menu at Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington, Indiana in 1908 and started it all. Breaded in cracker crumbs and soaked in buttermilk, his recipe is still popular today. Restaurants all over Indiana have their own varieties of the famous sandwich, including more than 50 eateries right here along the famed Tenderloin Trail™ in Hamilton County, Indiana.

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

This year, the annual celebration of the Hoosier favorite pork tenderloin will give back by supporting those in the community facing food insecurity. Hamilton County Tourism has partnered with the Hamilton County Community Foundation to sponsor a matching donation to the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, which assists people in need through local food pantry distribution.

PUBLISHER

LYNDSEY BROWN lyndsey@townepost.com (317) 402-0569

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

Local Resident’s Rehab Process Evolves Into Career Opportunity

SARAH BROWNING CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING RENEE LARR AMY PAYNE JEFF WORRELL

A Pup’s Paradise in the Heart of the Community

Brings Humans and Canines Together to Unleash Independence

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

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL SERVICES DEVON DEAN

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

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?

DIRECT. CARE. DERMATOLOGY.

MK DERMATOLOGY OPENS IN CARMEL

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Sarah Browning

Dermatology is not just a job for Dr. Melanie Kingsley.

For as long as she can remember, Dr. Kingsley knew she wanted to be a doctor, inspired by her artistic side, love of procedures and an unyielding passion for helping others. After attending Indiana University School of Medicine for medical school and dermatology residency, Dr. Kingsley moved to Boston for a prestigious fellowship in Cosmetic Dermatology, Lasers and Surgery. Her fellowship provided additional training which led Dr. Kingsley to become an expert in the field of lasers and cosmetic dermatology. During her time as a fellow in Boston, Dr. Kingsley also participated in clinical trials for a variety of dermatology products and procedures, such as Xeomin, Kybella, MiraDry, CoolSculpting, Pico lasers, hyaluronic acid fillers and more.

Returning to Indiana in 2010, she was invited onto faculty at Indiana University School of Medicine with the goal of starting their cosmetic program. It was there where she founded the Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Center at IU Health Physicians (IUHP) and was named the Director of Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Surgery. She also held a role as Assistant Professor of Dermatology- continuing with this role she still holds today - educating medical students and future dermatologists.

For over 13 years, Dr. Kingsley dedicated her time and talents to academia but always had a burning desire to open her own practice. “My time at IUHP was a huge part of my growth and development, and I cherish the many relationships I made that will continue on,” said Dr.

Kingsley. “However, if I was going to act on my lifelong dream of starting my own dermatology practice, I knew it was time.”

MK Dermatology became a reality in May 2023, opening a temporary office space in Noblesville while designing and planning was underway for a more permanent space. Originally opened with an experienced team of four, the team has continued to grow with the addition of a Physician Assistant, a nurse, two medical aestheticians and a second patient registration specialist. Just one year later, Dr. Kingsley officially opened her brand new, state-of-the-art facility in Carmel in May 2024.

Walking into this modern, beautifully designed office feels like a luxury. From the warm and inviting lobby and the skincare products lining the walls, to the artwork, design and care put into each of the private rooms, MK Dermatology is completely differentiated from a traditional doctor’s office in looks, feel and vision. “We built this new office to be more of a destination for our patients, a place they look forward to visiting, receiving treatment and relaxing all while receiving the quality care and expert treatment they deserve,” said Dr. Kingsley. “It’s crucial that they feel confident in who they see, not only for dermatology, but also for cosmetics.”

MK Dermatology specializes in dermatologic and cosmetic treatments

such as laser therapy for cosmetic and medical skin concerns, injectable treatments (including filler, neurotoxin, and plateletrich plasma), skin resurfacing, skin tightening, as well as treatments for acne, rosacea and scarring. The practice also performs surgeries and treats dermatologic diseases and skin cancers through pioneering technology. “We pride ourselves in treating any and all skin concerns and many times this includes both a medical and cosmetic focus. Our patients very much appreciate all of our treatment offerings and flexibility,” Dr. Kingsley said. “In addition, we offer medical aesthetic and facial treatments by certified providers who have years of expertise in the field.”

As she constantly stays up to date with the latest technological advancements and provides the best treatments and resources in the field, Dr. Kingsley and her team always put their patients first. By improving the overall appearance and health of their skin, patients leave feeling confident and better about themselves.

What also makes MK Dermatology unique is that it is the only Direct Care dermatology practice in the state of Indiana. With a patient-centric approach to healthcare, this model means insurance companies have zero influence as to how they treat patients. By eliminating the red tape, patients are provided with the best possible treatments and solutions, without the fear of surprise bills, copays or the constraints of reimbursement concerns.

Direct Care also means that pricing is

transparent, as patients know exactly what they will pay, and are provided with everything they need to easily self-submit their invoice to their insurance company. Overall, costs are reasonable and - in some cases - less than what the cost might be after an arduous process through an insurance company.

But the biggest benefit, Dr. Kingsley noted, is how the model places the focus on patient care. “With Direct Care, we have more time to spend focused on our patients’ care and

well-being,” Dr. Kingsley said. “There’s no influence of insurance or corporations; it’s just us as providers and our patients. The Direct Care model provides us the freedom to customize care, allowing us to emphasize the time we have with our patients to address their needs and tailor a treatment plan that is right for their care, not what the insurance companies dictate.”

Additionally, Dr. Kingsley’s patient-centered dedication to her craft led her to launch her own skincare company, Skin Therapy MD. After years of research and working one-on-one with a chemist, Dr. Kingsley came to market with her two product lines:

while giving beautiful results,” Dr. Kingsley said.

After decades in the field and thousands of patients served, it is clear dermatology is not just a job for Dr. Kingsley. It’s a passion.

“I love what I do, and I love my patients; I only want the best for them,” Dr. Kingsley said. “MK Dermatology is a destination, a place you want to come for treatment, relaxation, beautification and to see familiar faces. It is incredibly important to me to maintain a strong, healthy, happy culture for

my patients and the MK Dermatology team.”

She concludes, “I believe our patients feel this the minute they step in the door.”

The new MK Dermatology is located at 12174 North Meridian Street, Suite 210 in Carmel. For more information, call 317-620-0024 or visit mkderm.com and follow @melaniekingsleymd and @MK_Dermatology on Instagram. For more information about Dr. Kingsley’s skincare line, visit skintherapymd.com.

RESEARCH STUDY SEEKING

Men 65 or Older or Women 50 or Older

is seeking healthy volunteers who are at least 65 years old (men) or 50 years old (women) to participate in a study to determine if a hormone called testosterone or progesterone can reduce the risk of a heart rhythm abnormality.

If you qualify for the study:

You will complete one 2-hour visit and two 10- hour visits at the Indiana Clinical Research Center (ICRC) located on the IUPUI campus in downtown Indianapolis

Prior to the 2nd and 3rd visit, you will apply testosterone or a placebo for 3 days and during the 2nd and 3rd visits, you will receive a medication called Ibutilide (Covert) by IV, have your blood taken and ECGs performed throughout the day.

You will receive up to $500 after completing all study visits. Parking and meals during the study are included.

If you are interested in participating, please call or text 317-847-2094 or email: hwroblew@iu.edu

Purdue University, College of Pharmacy

GOOD DAY CARMEL

Writer / Jeff Worrell

“There is always someone worse off than you,” Doug Dolen is fond of saying.

Perhaps you recognize Doug and have enjoyed his beaming smile and positive attitude. If not, catch him at the Carmel Farmers Market where he has been a volunteer for the last 24 years. Most recently, I found him in a large, decorated wooden chair, carefully counting eager shoppers. He clicks for each person as they enter Carter Green looking for the perfect strawberry-rhubarb pie or fresh arugula.

“One of my favorite things about arriving at the market each Saturday morning is Doug’s smiling face, greeting me at the entrance to the Tarkington garage with a joyful ‘Good Morning!’” said Leah York, board Member for the Carmel Farmers Market. “He is the type of volunteer nonprofit organizations dream of - consistent and dependable with contagious enthusiasm.”

Dolen is legendary for his love of Carmel. He credits his parents with getting him involved in the Carmel Fire Department as a volunteer. While his dad would be out fighting fires as a Carmel volunteer firefighter, his mom, as a member of the ladies auxiliary, would deliver water and snacks to the hot and tired firemen.

Even though he must constantly struggle and tolerate the heavy metal brace that helps him stand due to his severe scoliosis, Dolen was the custodian at Carmel Clay Schools for 20 years, retiring in 1999. He told me he enjoyed the teachers and staff, and loved helping the children and talking to them every day. Now he runs into those same kids as adults around Carmel and they recognize him, which brings him great joy.

Following in his parent’s footsteps, Dolen is a longtime and proud volunteer for the Carmel Fire Department. Currently he works with Public Education Officer Renee Butts. “Doug is a big deal around here,” she said. “He even has a chief’s badge. He is an inspiration to the men and women of CFD.”

Dolen works with children, teaching them about fire safety. He preaches the practice of “Get out, stay out,” and not to go back in the house for anything, including pets.

While he has been publicly applauded many times for his dedication to the fire service as a volunteer, I am encouraging you to say thanks to him when he greets you at the Farmers Market. You will get a huge smile in return.

INDIANA BALLET CONSERVATORY COLLABORATING WITH THE CARMEL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TO PRESENT “THE NUTCRACKER”

“The Nutcracker” is a heartwarming holiday tradition, and Indiana Ballet Conservatory (IBC) prides itself in being Carmel’s very own unique version that is the perfect fit for such a special community.

For years, IBC staged sold-out performances of “The Nutcracker” at Indiana theaters. It was clear this production needed a larger venue to accommodate the growing audience, so a few years ago this world-renowned (ranked number-three in the United States) pre-professional ballet school brought this fan favorite to The Palladium in Carmel.

There is a big treat in store for 2024 audiences! This holiday season, the Carmel Symphony Orchestra (CSO) will be dazzling attendees with the beautiful melodies by the iconic composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky for “The Nutcracker”! This monumental inaugural occasion has been a dream of IBC’s Founder and Artistic Director Alyona Yakovleva for years, as bringing live music alongside quality ballet is truly the way ballet is meant to be seen and enjoyed. This collaboration, born out of genuine friendship and respect with the CSO and Executive Director Anne Marie Chastain, helps both organizations’ desire to elevate the arts in Indiana and beyond.

Another exciting announcement? A former beloved IBC student will be returning home to debut in the role of the Nutcracker Prince. Timoor Afshar began his training with the world-renowned faculty of IBC, and eventually went on to further his career as an apprentice with the Stuttgart Ballet in 2017. In 2023 he joined the Vienna State Ballet as a soloist. With family and friends still living in Fishers, Afshar is looking forward to coming back “home” to IBC and

the tradition of the very first “Nutcracker” that started his ballet journey.

Under the Directorship of Yakovleva, IBC’s “The Nutcracker” sets itself apart by offering unique experiences for Hoosier audiences. For example, this particular staging is closest to that of the original version of “The Nutcracker” that premiered in Russia in 1892. The story of “The Nutcracker” was born out of the E.T.A. Hoffmann book “The Nutcracker and the

Mouse King”. One thing that isn’t traditional though - you will find a furry friend on stage in IBC’s production. The conservatory has a passion for pets, and that carries over to the stage. We can’t think of a better way to take a time-honored tradition and give it a twist that makes it even better!

Show dates/times for 2024 will be Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1. Tickets and detailed information may be found at indianaballetconservatory.org.

Timoor Afshar, IBC Alum and Soloist with Vienna State Opera Ballet, returns to Carmel to dance the role of the Prince.

THIRD TIME’S A CHARM

RESTAURATEUR CHRIS EVANS OPENS TRE ON MAIN IN CARMEL

Writer / Renee Larr

Photographer / Amy Payne

Restaurateur Chris Evans is no stranger to opening new restaurants. He is the chief executive officer and creative force behind Sangiovese restaurants. Evans purchased the restaurant in 2007. Since then, the wildly popular restaurant moved from its original location to Ironworks, and a second location opened in The Yard at Fishers District. He recently opened his third and final restaurant, Tre on Main, in Carmel. The Italian fine-dining concept for Tre on Main is a little different than Evans’ previous restaurants. The menu is smaller than Sangiovese’s, offering more upscale items.

“The menu is a little smaller, which allowed

us to get a little more creative with what we’re offering,” Evans says. “I get frustrated when I go to a restaurant where the menu is a huge book. It’s overwhelming, and I wanted to do something a little simpler.”

Evans chose downtown Carmel as the anchor spot for Tre on Main because he lives in the city and knows it can support higher-end dining and design. He says he loves what is happening in downtown Carmel and thinks it’s one of the best, if not the best, suburbs in Indiana. Italy native Francesco Settanni serves as the director of operations at Tre on Main.

“The space became available around two and a half or three years ago,” Evans says. “When my broker brought me to see the

space, I knew I had to make something work there. It’s such a vibrant location, and that corner is probably the best area available for a restaurant. That building is timeless.”

While contemplating names for the new concept, Evans initially set his sights on Brunello. The name is a play on the Italian wine Brunello, made from the Sangiovese grape. He says he liked the way it related to his other restaurants, but he wasn’t sure everyone would pick up on the nuance. He settled on Tre on Main, give that it’s his third restaurant and is on Main Street.

The thoughtfully designed space is 4,800 square feet, and has seating for 112 inside, 15 bar seats and 50 seats on the patio. Evans was highly involved with the design of the

restaurant’s interior and exterior. He says he loves to take inspiration from his travels to other cities.

“I wanted something design-wise that was very high and sophisticated,” Evans says. “So I worked with Kaitlyn Deter with Parallel Design Group. She’s awesome. I worked with her on the design for the Fishers Sangiovese location and my home remodeling. We went with a color scheme of creams and rich, almost chocolate browns.”

Evans wants customers to feel like they’re walking into an art gallery when they step inside the restaurant. As guests approach the restaurant, they’re greeted by a large statue in front of giant, blue double doors.

Artist Jason Myers created a high-end art package to adorn the restaurant’s walls.

“I want our guests to be enamored by all the senses, from the lighting to the design to music to the artwork, when they come to Tre on Main,” Evans says. “They may not recognize the artist, but the intent is to make the customer feel a certain way. When they sit down at the restaurant with a glass of wine and food, we want people to have a two-hour vacation from the stresses of their daily lives.”

The menu is distinctly Italian with a flare of sophistication. Executive Chef Oscar Perez created menu items such as Osso Buco, a braised veal shank in a hearty wine and rootvegetable-based sauce served with creamy polenta. The Gold Risotto Carbonara will delight even the most discerning taste buds with its saffron risotto, pecorino, egg yolk and 24-karat edible gold leaf. Tre on Main even offers an 18-ounce, dry-aged Prime

More traditional pasta dishes with a creative twist include Pappardelle Sunday Sauce, including fresh pappardelle, short-rib ragù and tomato sauce; Fettuccine al Tartufo, which comes with fresh fettuccine, truffle butter and fresh seasonal truffle shaved table-side; and Penne Tre Viso, including penne pasta tossed in radicchio, pancetta, and creamy tomato sauce topped with smoked mozzarella.

“We only brought two things over from the Sangiovese food menu, and that includes the marinara sauce, which is the base for many of our menu items, and the tiramisu recipe,” Evans says. “Other than that, everything is still Italian but completely different.”

Evans worked with his head bartender at Tre on Main to create an intriguing cocktail menu. The award-winning Live and Let

Rib-Eye Steak.

Die cocktail was also brought over from Sangiovese. The recipe, which includes pineapple-infused Woodford Reserve, Campari, fresh lime juice and pineapple syrup, was too good not to share with Carmel residents.

Martini lovers rejoice - the Miseria e Nobilta includes Monkey 47 gin, dry vermouth and pasta water, with caviar-stuffed olives upon request.

“All of our cocktails are easy to drink and visually stimulating,” Evans says. “With the Miseria e Nobilta, the caviar-stuffed olives just take it over the top. Hunter Hawkins has created such a fun and well-balanced cocktail menu.”

Tre on Main is located at 10 East Main Street in Carmel. The adjacent parking garage has ample parking. For more

MAKE YOUR MER

July 3‒5

July 12 ‒13

July 19‒20 Best of

July 26

July

Star-Spangled Symphony with Conductor Alfred Savia

Disco Fever with Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez

John Williams

She’s Got Soul with Capathia Jenkins

27 Cody Fry with the ISO featuring Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly

Kelly Lyons has Down syndrome and a love of animals.

Unfortunately, her legs were twisted at birth and became weak from cancer treatment when she was young. It was painful to walk, and by the time she went to high school, she was often sitting and needed a wheelchair.

Her parents felt that if Lyons was to have the best quality of life, she needed to get up on her feet again. She missed playing basketball, cheerleading and dancing. So they started getting surgical opinions.

Lyons endured three major leg surgeries to fix her legs. She was not able to walk until her high school graduation. She gained substantial weight from all of the time off her feet. She needed to lose it to make it less painful to walk. She needed an activity that would keep her moving and slowly build up her tolerance for walking. Her parents decided to get her a rescue dog. She was so captivated by the dog, Luke, that she started to spend more time on her feet.

After graduation, Lyons also needed to get a job. Many of the jobs she looked at were either too sedentary or would mean too much time on her feet. She decided that she would start her own business walking dogs. She started slowly, but as her legs got stronger, her business grew.

Two years into her business, Kelly’s Kritters, she now has 20 doggy clients and several cats, guinea pigs and fish. Lyons now walks for hours each day. She says the best part is the doggy kisses and petting cats. She is not as fond of picking up after the animals, but knows it is part of the job. She feels lucky that she found a way to rehab and make pets happy.

Lyons does not have a website yet, but uses 1-252-443-8690 for bookings. Clients must be in the Carmel area.

Many people use rover.com/search to hire walkers and sitters. Visits only - no overnights.

CLAY TERRACE DOG PARK

A PUP’S PARADISE IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Clay Terrace is excited to unveil the new location and enhancements to its popular dog park. A staple at the shopping center since 2013, the dog park has been relocated across from Old Navy to accommodate upcoming redevelopment plans and construction of a new hotel.

Open from dawn until dusk, the Clay Terrace Dog Park offers a free playground for well-behaved pups and their attentive parents. No application process or restrictions apply, making it a welcoming space for all canine companions. However, rules are posted at the entrance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Enhancing the park’s offerings, element sponsor Gym for Dogs has provided exciting equipment to keep four-legged friends active and engaged. The Dog Park also hosts the popular Pups & Pints event series on Friday evenings in May and

June. This “yappy hour” invites dogs and their owners to socialize while enjoying refreshing brews.

“We’re thrilled to provide this amenity for our dog-loving customers and community,” said Jennifer Hillman, general manager of Clay Terrace. “The new dog park location offers even more features for pets to play before or after their owners enjoy shopping and dining at our puppy-friendly property.”

Pups & Pints will return for a festive Holiday Edition in December, featuring photo opportunities with Santa for fourlegged family members.

Clay Terrace is a pet-friendly property, and visitors are encouraged to explore the various pet-friendly retailers available. For more information and a complete list of pet-friendly establishments, please visit clayterrace.com.

CAN-DO ATTITUDE

The Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) is a remarkable nonprofit organization based in Indiana that has been on a mission to bring hope to children, adults and veterans living with disabilities, through partnerships with service dogs.

Since its establishment in 2002, ICAN has successfully placed over 250 service dogs with Hoosiers needing assistance.

Its training program offers three types of service dogs to qualified applicants, including:

MOBILITY ASSISTANCE DOGS

Service dogs trained to help individuals who use wheelchairs or have mobility limitations, enabling them to move around safely and independently.

FACILITY ASSISTANCE DOGS

Service dogs trained to work with professionals in settings such as schools, courtrooms, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities to provide support to clients, patients or students.

PSYCHIATRIC SERVICE DOGS

Service dogs trained specifically to aid military veterans in overcoming servicerelated challenges and trauma.

What’s truly remarkable is that each ICAN canine undergoes a rigorous two-year training program, with a significant portion of the training conducted by incarcerated individuals at the Indiana Women’s Prison, Pendleton Correctional Facility, and Correctional Industrial Facility.

This not only allows the dogs to receive specialized training, but also allows the incarcerated individuals to learn new skills, find purpose and gain hope for their future reintegration into the community.

It is important to note that training one service dog costs ICAN nearly $30,000. This cost includes training, nutrition, veterinary care, and lifetime support for the dog-client partnership. The organization relies entirely on private donations, charitable foundations and fundraising initiatives to cover these expenses.

Despite this, ICAN requires clients to pay only $2,500 for their canine partner. For qualifying veteran clients, the dogs are free.

“We are committed to making this resource available and affordable to all who need it in Indiana, which is a value we hold dear,” says ICAN President Jillian Ashton, CFRM.

ICAN has made it possible for individuals to support its mission by establishing offices in both Zionsville, Indiana, and Fort Wayne, Indiana.

For those interested in learning more about ICAN and supporting its cause, please visit icandog.org.

ABOUT ICAN

ICAN’s mission changes lives on both ends of the leash. Our service dogs provide independence and confidence for children, adults and veterans with disabilities, while offering purpose and a second chance for inmate handlers.

PRIVATE BANKING

PROTECT WHAT YOU’VE BUILT WITH PRIVATE BANKING

Our Private Banking clients receive exceptional personal service and advice from our experts. Private Bankers work with you, and our extended team of Wealth Management specialists, to provide comprehensive lending, investment management and trust services that meet your goals.

Cathy L. Gregory Vice President Private Banking

Darren T. Nyce Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager

Melanie D. Newkirk Vice President and Trust Officer

CARMELFEST PROMISES GOOD TIMES FOR ALL AGES

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

CarmelFest, a two-day Independence Day celebration, promises good old-fashioned family fun. The event is a bit like an upscale, sophisticated ice cream social with lots of extras. Through the years the festival has grown exponentially. When it first started, it was primarily contained in Civic Square, the green space next to Carmel City Hall. This location has a large gazebo stage where entertainers perform.

“It’s large enough that the Carmel Symphony Orchestra plays on the Fourth, which is a tradition that goes back forever,” says Steve Krusie, a member of the Carmel Rotary Club leadership team. “They play right before the fireworks go off.”

Although CarmelFest has traditionally been located in this spot, in 2021, in an effort to spread people out following the COVID pandemic, they added a second location in Carter Green, located a couple hundred yards north of Civic Square.

“People loved that the festival felt more spacious,” Krusie says. Adding Carter Green to the mix not only doubled the space for CarmelFest, but also enabled them to add two stages of professional entertainment, strategically segmenting the types of performances at each location. The gazebo stage has taken on an Americana/ folksy/country vibe, while the stage at Carter Green offers a more contemporary blend of performers.

Each year the Rotary Club has added more to the event, including rides and an increased number of marketplace and food vendors.

Now CarmelFest has more robust and diversified food choices, offering both traditional Indiana State Fair food as well as international and vegetarian cuisine. This year the Rotary Club is placing a Ferris wheel at Carter Green.

“It’s an expensive proposition, but we’re hopeful this helps attract a broadly diversified crowd, including older teens and grandparents,” Krusie says. “We envision a multigenerational appeal.”

CarmelFest is the primary fundraiser for the Rotary Club of

Carmel, as all proceeds are reinvested in the local community for local and regional service projects.

“This fundraiser makes it feasible for us to fund different philanthropic organizations in our community,” Krusie says.

Some of the local organizations they have supported through one-time community grants include Carmel Community Players, Carmel Education Foundation, and Children’s TheraPlay Foundation. They have provided financial support to Carmel Rotary Circle of Kindness, Merciful Help Food Pantry, as well as the Carmel Police Department and Fire Department, among others. Plus, they provide consistent volunteer hours to Crooked Creek Food Pantry, Carmel Youth Assistance Program and Meals on Wheels, to name a few. This list is far from comprehensive.

CarmelFest’s parade is the second-largest in the state, behind the Indy 500 parade. It’s live-streamed on CBS 4 and INDY Facebook page beginning at 10 a.m., with interviews with the mayor and Grand Marshal Butch Patrick, who played Eddie Munster on the 1960s television show “The Munsters.” It’s the 60th anniversary of “The Munsters”, and Patrick will ride in the parade in the show’s iconic Dragula car.

Bec Hunter, parade/media/public relations director for the CarmelFest parade, has been involved with parade planning since 2007. Each year she has added new components, bringing in local television and radio personalities, mascots, and military tributes. Dave Dugan and Paul Mendenhall, both Carmel High School grads, will act as parade announcers. Dave Ryan, another Carmel High School alum, is handling the live stream through his company, Indy Business Promotions. The parade concludes with a military tribute

grand finale, when all past, present and newly enlisted military personnel are welcome to participate.

“We’ve had people fly in from overseas to be included in the finale,” says Hunter. “In their honor, there is a military flyover by the Fort Wayne Air National Guard, in which they send two A-10 Warthog jets our way.”

The parade, which is estimated to attract 30,000-plus spectators, kicks off at 10:30 a.m., after the Carmel High School choir sings “The Star Spangled Banner”. This year they’ll have an expanded parade with marching bands from Carmel, Sheridan and Noblesville high schools. Also new this year will be drone shots of the parade.

The Rotary Club of Carmel partners with several community

organizations who have generously provided financial and volunteer support. Merchants Bank of Indiana, Allied Solutions, Napleton Auto Group, and Everwise Credit Union have been extremely generous, as have Community Health Network, Old Town Design Group, and Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity.

“These businesses have stepped up in huge ways to make CarmelFest the success that it is,” Krusie says. “We’re so lucky to live in this city with such a family-friendly environment that includes people of all ages and backgrounds. That’s what the Fourth of July is meant to celebrate!”

CarmelFest takes place July 3 from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., and July 4 from noon to 10 p.m. For more information, visit carmelfest.net.

JULY PROGRAMS

FLOWBOARDING

Mon.-Thu., Jul. 8-Aug. 1 | Ages 6+ | The Waterpark | $55

Learn how to master the FlowRider® surf simulator. Riding the FlowRider® can be challenging, but our skilled instructors are here to help you learn proper techniques and strategies to conquer the wave.

NATURE KEEPERS: HALF-DAY CAMP

Mon-Fri., Jul. 8-Aug. 2, 9-11:30 a.m. OR 12:30-3:00 p.m. | Ages 5-11 Monon Community Center | $135/Week

Each week is a different nature-related theme that will take kids from crafts and activities inside the classroom to an exploration of the outdoors. Field trip Fridays will bring us to a new destination at a different CCPR park where we will creek stomp, fish, or look for wildlife.

YOUTH PICKLEBALL

Thursdays, Jul. 11-Aug. 29 | Ages 9-14 | Monon Community Center

$40

Pickleball: the game so fun, you don't even realize you're getting exercise. Kids will learn how to play the popular sport by improving their hand-eye-coordination, building confidence, and having fun being active! Loaner paddles and pickleballs are provided.

SKATEBOARDING I

Saturdays, Aug. 3-31 | Ages 6-12 | The Skatepark at Central Park

$60

Learn basic skateboarding techniques and skills in these group lessons. Skaters will practice balance, pushing, carving and even some tricks! Skaters must provide their own skateboard and safety equipment. Helmets required; pads recommended.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

Wednesdays, Jul. 10-Aug. 28 | Ages 18+ | Monon Community Center

$105

Share your passion for photography and collaborate with others in Photography Club. This beginner-friendly program focuses on teaching participants the fundamentals, concepts, and practices that make great photos. Grow as a photographer as you engage in real-world exercises and friendly classroom critiques.

LITTLE ARTISTS SERIES

Mondays, Jul. 8-Aug. 26 | Ages 3-5 | Monon Community Center

$140

In our Little Artists Series, your kiddo will explore their creative side with professional artist Zach Lowe. Each session focuses on a different medium: Drawing & Sketching, Painting, and Clay & Collage.

TESTIMONIALS

Inara M. is an Monon Community Center (MCC) lifeguard. She’s incredibly proud of everything she’s learned, from people skills to lifesaving skills! Inara appreciates the flexibility of her role as a high school student who has to balance work and studying. Becoming an MCC lifeguard is a great way to meet new people, learn new things, and grow professionally and personally!

“I love the environment here. I’ve made so many new friends during my time as a CCPR lifeguard, especially during The Waterpark season. It’s just a great community!”

Rose P. loves how easy it is to get in a workout at the Monon Community Center (MCC)! She’s tried a variety of different group fitness classes at different times. The MCC is the perfect place to prioritize your health – even with a busy schedule!

“Being able to use the MCC has allowed me to add to and enhance my fitness and wellness journey. Because of the variety of times and classes, I can generally work something into my schedule easily. Some weeks I may come four days, and others only two, but I can get all my classes in. The mix of cardio, strength, and stretching in different ways is challenging and never boring. I feel strong and healthy.”

Inara M., Monon Community Center Lifeguard

Rose P., Monon Community Center Member