WE’RE BACK, CARMEL… AND WE MISSED YOU AN OPEN LETTER FROM THE STOUT’S FOOTWEAR FAMILY
Discover the Adventurer in You
From railbikes and aerial treetops adventures to fantastic floats and epic drives – discover the adventurer in you and connect with the great outdoors. Learn more at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/ discover.
EXPLORE MORE THAN 600 MILES OF TRAILS IN HAMILTON COUNTY
There are many levels of trails and loops for families, beginners, advanced cyclists and experts. Get your bikes out of the garage or rent from the Carmel Bike Share and pedal along the Monon Trail, connecting through Sheridan, Westfield, Carmel and south to Indianapolis. Be sure to include the other premier trails like the Midland Trace
Trail connecting Noblesville and Westfield, Nickel Plate Trail in Fishers and White River Greenway in Noblesville in your biking excursions. These well-marked, paved trails will lead you to shopping, dining, sightseeing and family fun.
NICKEL PLATE RAIL BIKES
Prepare for an adventure unlike any other as Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad introduces Nickel Plate Railbikes, the only of its kind in the state! Launching in late May, these quad bicycles offer a novel way to traverse the historic Nickel Plate Road directly on the rails.
Pedal-powered and following existing rail lines, tours range from 45 minutes
to two hours. Glide north to the Devin Wye or south to downtown Noblesville, experiencing the beauty of the Nickel Plate Road in a whole new way!
Adults up to 6’4” and children of all ages may railbike. All children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All riders must be secured safely in a seat of their own. Infants under the age of two may ride strapped security to an adult in an infant carrier. Excursions are accompanied by trained staff members. The railroad does not operate on the line during railbike periods.
Rail bike rides will depart on select days during scheduled excursions. Space and times are limited so reservations are highly recommended.
PUBLISHER
LYNDSEY BROWN lyndsey@townepost.com (317) 402-0569
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
LYNDSEY BROWN SARAH BROWNING
MELISSA GIBSON
CHRISTY-HEITGER EWING
DAVID RYAN
ASHLEY WATTERS JEFF WORRELL
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
MANAGING EDITOR DEVON DEAN
COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?
ADULT ARTIST SERIES: OIL PAINTING
1-11
9 TO 5
Actors Theatre of Indiana, thecenterpresents.org
3, 10 & 24
SPRING MIGRATION BIRD HIKES
8:30 – 9:30 AM
Cool Creek Park
Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st St. hamiltoncounty.in.gov
6
UNLOCKING CREATIVITY: AN INTUITIVE ART WORKSHOP FOR BUSINESS WOMEN
5:30 – 7:30 PM 5790 East Main St., Suite 150 eventbrite.com
9
ROSÉ AND ROSES
6 – 9 PM
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd.
Join us for Rosé and Roses, a Mother’s Day Ladies Night Out! This 21+ event includes a wine tasting with Oliver Winery. Enjoy a fun selection of desserts throughout the evening. connerprairie.org
11, 14, 21, 25 & 28
BEGINNING BIRD HIKE
8:30 – 9:30AM
Cool Creek Park
Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st St. hamiltoncounty.in.gov
14 & 28
WEEKDAY WANDERS
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd.
Find a deeper connection with nature as you explore the Trails at Conner Prairie on a guided stroll. connerprairie.org
15
COXHALL CHILDREN’S GARDEN TOUR
11 AM – 12 PM Coxhall Gardens, 11677 Towne Rd. hamiltoncounty.in.gov
INDIANAPOLIS CAREER FAIR
11 AM – 2 PM
Holiday Inn Indianapolis/Carmel, 251 Pennsylvania Parkway
You’ll meet face-to-face with hiring decisionmakers from some of the areas top employers. Dress professionally and bring plenty of resumes. eventbrite.com
17
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
2 PM & 7:30 PM
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble brings to life the timeless tale of love and transformation — don’t miss this spellbinding performance that showcases the power of inner beauty and true love. cidedance.org
DUELING PIANOS PRESENTED BY BRITTANY BRUMFIELD & BABY GRAND ENTERTAINMENT
7:30 PM
Feinstein’s At Hotel Carmichael, 1 Carmichael Square
DOORS OPEN at 5:30 PM and SHOW STARTS at 7:30 PM $25 Food & Beverage Minimum per guest
Cabaret Seating - All seats at the table are for sale. Buying one seat does NOT secure the table. eventbrite.com
18
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
1 PM & 4 PM
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green
23 & 24
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green thecenterpresents.org
Joining Forces to Deliver a Good Day in Carmel
On May 4, during Carmel’s inaugural Cherry Blossom Festival, a moment of reflection and celebration will intertwine as the Myers family gathers to honor their beloved patriarch, Jerry Richard Myers, on what would have been his 87th birthday. Jerry’s passing earlier this year marked the end of an era, yet his legacy as a fifth-generation Carmel resident and steadfast community leader lives on.
For the Myers family, the roots run deep - five generations deep to be exact. The family’s connection to Carmel began in 1832, when the Myers name first appeared among the nine pioneer families of Delaware Township. As history would reveal, these families not only worked hand in hand to establish the community, but also became interwoven
through ties of marriage and shared dedication. The Flowing Well monument, erected in 1926, serves as a lasting tribute to the contributions of those pioneering families, including the Myers family, whose descendants continue to leave their mark on Carmel.
Dr. Jerry Myers, a local ophthalmologist, embodied the spirit of Carmel’s heritage. Together with his wife, Kay, Jerry played an instrumental role in founding the Carmel Sister City organization, fostering cultural exchange and global relationships that enriched the city. Perhaps most notably, the couple collaborated with local leaders, including members of the Japan-America Society of Indiana, to ensure Carmel’s Japanese garden remained a true reflection of
Scan this QR code to view the first of many videos with Good Day Carmel’s Jeff Worrell and Carmel Magazine’s Lyndsey Brown.
Writer / Jeff Worrell
Japanese culture, even as proposals to introduce a Chinese garden were being considered. Their advocacy shaped the serene space we enjoy today.
The Myers family’s connection to Carmel transcended civic contributions; they were caretakers of the land itself. Farming operations on the east side of Carmel, now home to neighborhoods like Delaware Trace and Cherry Creek Estates, were once bustling hubs of Myers family activity. The last chapter of their agricultural legacy concluded in 1995, when farming operations ceased.
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As the Myers family stands proudly during the Cherry Blossom Festival, remembering Jerry’s passion for community, cultural exchange and history, his enduring impact becomes clear. The legacy he leaves behind is not just etched in monuments or city projects, but in the spirit of Carmel, woven into the fabric of its past, present and future. Jerry Myers was more than a resident; he was a bridge between generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who call Carmel home.
US FLEX
Jerry Myers
1975 RR6 Box 175 Myers Farm
Land grant signed by Andrew Jackson in 1834
Land grant signed
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Photographer / David Ryan
DEAR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS,
There’s no better way to say it - we’ve missed you!
After what feels like far too long, we’re overjoyed to welcome you back to our Stout’s Footwear home on Main Street. The doors are open, the shelves are stocked and our hearts are full, as we see familiar faces walking through once again.
When our original Carmel location was torn down three years ago, it wasn’t goodbye; it was more of a “see you soon.” We always knew we’d return to this wonderful community. Now, after a complete rebuild, we’re proud to bring you a beautiful, refreshed space that feels both brand new and comfortingly familiar. It’s a space that honors our past while stepping boldly into the future.
We designed this store with you in mind - a warm, inviting place where shopping feels personal and easy. From the layout to the lighting, every detail was chosen to make you feel at home. We want every visit to be enjoyable, whether you’re popping in for a quick stop or spending time exploring new favorites.
For generations, Stout’s Footwear has been about more than just shoes. It’s about life’s milestones: first steps, new jobs, big adventures and everyday comforts. We’ve had the privilege of watching families grow, seeing children pick out their first pair of shoes and then returning years later as adults with children of their own. It’s those personal connections and shared stories that make what we do so special. Coming back feels like picking up right where we left off, but with a renewed energy for what lies ahead.
Our mission remains unchanged: to help you find shoes that fit your feet and your life. Whether you’re a teacher on your feet all day, a health care hero working long shifts, a busy parent chasing little ones or an explorer with new paths to travel, we’re here to listen and guide you to the perfect fit. We want every step you take to feel as good as it looks.
We are constantly working to improve your experience, from the moment you step through our doors to the moment you walk out feeling confident and comfortable. Our team travels the world to curate a thoughtful collection of everyday essentials and unique discoveries. We seek out shoes that balance craftsmanship, style and comfort, so you can look great and feel fantastic, no matter where life takes you.
Our selection includes standout brands from across the globe - Australia, Austria, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Brazil - along with trusted favorites like Hoka, Birkenstock, New Balance, Dansko, Brooks and Pikolinos. We’re especially proud to carry Stride Rite, a brand many remember from childhood, now harder to find since their standalone stores have closed. These are brands you can trust, whether you need reliable support, trendforward style or both.
While our store looks new, our full-service, personal approach has not changed. We still measure feet the old-fashioned way, taking the time to understand your individual needs. We ask about your daily routine, your work demands and even your vacation plans, because all of these details help us recommend the best shoe for you. We
believe that shopping for shoes should feel like catching up with an old friend - never rushed, always thoughtful.
Our sit-and-fit service remains at the heart of what we do. Many people don’t realize that feet can grow up to two sizes after adolescence, or that your left foot is often larger than your right. And with the number of people needing wide-width shoes doubling over the last 20 years, finding the right fit is more important than ever. The right size solves 99% of foot problems, because when your feet hurt, everything hurts. That’s why we take the time to get it right.
Customers often discover new favorites they never expected, thanks to our team’s expertise. For example, if you suffer from plantar fasciitis or use custom orthotics, we’ll guide you toward styles that provide the right support. It’s all part of our goal to ensure you leave with shoes that truly enhance your day-to-day life.
There’s a reason people keep coming back to us year after year: quality, dependability, and care you can feel in every interaction. We’ve
also seen a welcome resurgence in heritageinspired sneakers and versatile, everyday shoes that perfectly suit Carmel’s active, on-the-go lifestyle. It’s a blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern sensibility that feels right at home here.
Beyond the store, we remain deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported us for over a century. We proudly partner with local organizations close to our hearts, including Back on My Feet, which helps individuals experiencing homelessness through running and community support; Riley Children’s Foundation, advancing children’s health and wellness; and the Humane Society, supporting the care and adoption of pets in need of loving homes.
We’re also thinking globally, through our partnership with Sneaker Impact. Stout’s now accepts shoe donations in any condition at all four of our locations - Carmel, downtown Indy, Greenwood and Brownsburg - helping to keep worn-out shoes out of landfills. Whether it’s gently used or well-loved pairs that have seen better days, you can drop them off knowing they’ll be repurposed
responsibly. It’s just one more way we’re working to create a better future for our community and our planet.
For us, community engagement isn’t just about events; it’s about walking alongside our neighbors, supporting meaningful causes, and doing our part to care for both people and the planet.
Whether you’re rediscovering Stout’s or visiting us for the first time, we can’t wait to see you. Stop by, say hello, and let’s celebrate this exciting new chapter together. You’ll find us at 1008 West Main Street in Carmel, and you’ll experience the same warmth and care at all four of our central Indiana locations.
Thank you for welcoming us back into your lives. Here’s to many more years of comfort, community and great footwear!
Visit us any time at stoutsfootwear.com to explore our latest arrivals and learn more about our locations.
Warmly, Brad & Stephanie Stout
THE BRA WHISPERER
HOW A CARMEL SHOP IS CHANGING THE UNDERGARMENT GAME
For years, Carla Mackie unknowingly wore bras in the wrong size.
“Low-hanging fruit, that’s all I can say,” says Mackie, whose friend told her about a new intimate apparel store that had just opened. She suggested they go for a fitting, and the experience changed her life.
“I felt like a new woman,” says Mackie, who went on to manage that store in Virginia. “I love helping other women feel good about themselves.”
When she moved to Indiana in 2017, she opened her own shop called Uplift Intimate Apparel. Mackie, Industry Certified Master Bra Fitter, understands that no two bras fit the same. They vary based on brand, cut and style.
“With bra styles you have a full cup, a demi, a low plunge, front closure, all kinds of variables,” Mackie says.
She carries European lingerie, which she says provides a better cupband ratio, resulting in a better fit. Bra cup sizes at Uplift go from A to J (with a few Ks), and bands from 28 to 48. Box stores carry roughly 40 sizes while Uplift Intimate Apparel carries more than 120 sizes, with a selection at every price point. They also sell bridal lingerie, sports bras, strapless bras, special-occasion bras, bralettes, panties, sleepwear and shapewear.
Customer Alli Missler is impressed by the selection of lingerie.
“Every piece is thoughtfully chosen, with fabrics that are sumptuously soft, delicately detailed and undeniably stunning,” says Missler. “Whether you’re looking for something timeless and romantic or bold and fashion-forward, Uplift’s collection strikes the perfect balance between sensuality and style.”
Some first-timers are apprehensive if they’ve had a bad brashopping experience in the past. Mackie and her team welcome every customer with open arms into a warm, inviting, judgementfree zone.
“Some women claim they would rather go to the gynecologist than get fitted for a bra, and it’s usually because they’re self-conscious about their bodies,” says Mackie. “We want them to leave here feeling uplifted - not just their boobs, also their spirits!”
Missler appreciates Mackie’s gracious, attentive personality, and genuine passion for helping women feel beautiful and confident.
“Her eye for fit and style is impeccable, and she offers thoughtful, intuitive guidance without being pushy,” Missler says. “You leave feeling not only seen and heard, but celebrated.”
Mackie stands by the store’s core values to serve, educate and empower (S.E.E.) women as they connect with ladies emotionally, spiritually and physically (through bras and intimates). All women can find comfort here, even those with sensory issues.
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Sarah Browning
“We call all of our clients on their birthdays and send handwritten notes,” says Mackie, who has even enjoyed serving families through generations.
During a complimentary bra fitting, the first thing Mackie checks is how the band feels. “The band does 90% of the support,” she says. “The straps do nothing but hold the cup up against the breast. They aren’t doing the heavy lifting because that can also cause back pain, headaches and shoulder pain. If you’re large-busted, too much pressure from the straps can create little tears in your shoulders over time.”
Once she determines size, she brings in bras with different fabrics and styles to see if the customer prefers lace, smooth or some of both. After getting a sense of their favorite styles, she offers specific selections. Don’t be surprised if you don’t see many bras displayed on the floor. The majority are in the back.
Uplift also offers after-hours private gatherings at the store from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“We’ve held bridal showers, birthday parties and girls’ night out,” says Mackie. “It’s fun to be fitted and shop with your besties, knowing the store is fully yours.”
Mackie and her team are committed to giving back to the community, by serving women who utilize Prevail services, supporting victims of crime and abuse, as well as Dove Recovery House, a residential addiction recovery house in Indianapolis. They also work with the O’Connor House in Carmel, which helps single, pregnant, homeless women. Several times a year these groups come into the store where Mackie and her team serve them a light dinner, fit them, and give them three to five bras as their own.
“One thing women want is intimate apparel,” Mackie says, who remembers a story from years ago when she was part of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary. There had been a hurricane in Texas, and a lady in a dirty fur coat came in not for food and water, but underwear.
“It’s the basic needs we want, and when they fit well, we feel better about ourselves,” Mackie says.
Over her 20-year career, Mackie has helped tens of thousands of women feel comfortable in their skin through a properly fitted bra.
“This isn’t just a store; it’s an experience,” Missler says. “A trip to Uplift makes you feel elevated, embraced and fabulous.”
Uplift Intimate Apparel is located in Carmel City Center at 711 Veterans Way, Suite 136 in Carmel, just steps from the Hotel Carmichael. Call 317-853-6007 or go online to schedule your appointment for a complimentary bra fitting at upliftintimateapparel.com.
STRICTLY BALLROOM
THE DANCE JOURNEY OF DOUG AND DEBBY
PILERI
Writer / Lyndsey Brown
When Doug and Debby Pileri’s eldest daughter got married, she had one simple request: a choreographed father-daughter dance.
Doug had never danced a day in his life. So, like any devoted dad, he signed up for lessons. Six months of them for a two-minute routine. And to rehearse, he needed a stand-in partner. That’s where Debby stepped in.
They laughed through the awkward steps. They stumbled. They twirled. And somehow…they had fun. Enough fun to keep going.
Neither of them had a dance background (well, Debby had a photo of herself in a tutu at age 6, but Doug argues that doesn’t count). “I’ve never worn a tutu,” he joked. “So clearly, she has more experience than me.”
What started as a sentimental gesture turned into something far greater.
Two years ago they entered their first competition in Indianapolis. Their goal was modest: just make it around the dance floor once. Nerves got the best of them. They didn’t win. But something even better happened. They were hooked.
They practiced. They trained. They traveled.
They danced through Ohio, Georgia and Pennsylvania. Just a few weeks ago they returned to the city where it all began. But this time they weren’t trying to make it around the floor. They were making history.
Doug and Debby Pileri are now ranked among the top senior amateur ballroom dance couples in the country.
They recently became national champions at the USA Dance National Ballroom DanceSport Championships. They took home:
• First place at the Open Pre-Championship level
• Second place for American 9 Dance
• Second place in Rhythm (Cha-Cha, Rumba, Swing, Bolero, Mambo)
• Sixth in Smooth (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz)
Behind every polished performance is a coach - or in this case, two. Doug and Debby credit much of their progress to their dedicated instructors, Scott and Yulia Shook.
After a long competition weekend, Scott and Yulia spent two hours on the phone with Doug and Debby during their drive home, reviewing performances, dissecting moments and encouraging growth. More than coaches, they’re mentors and cheerleaders, and an irreplaceable part of this journey. The Pileris are quick to credit them for the confidence, skill and joy they bring to every routine.
While Doug analyzes routines and footwork, Debby adds the artistry. She redesigns and reimagines each of her gowns by hand, breathing new life into pre-loved ballroom dresses and transforming them into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Sparkle, feathers, beadworkher creativity shines with every twirl.
After carefully designing her own intricate hair and makeup, and with the assistance of the stylist at each dance competition, she steps into sky-high heels and does everything Doug does - in reverse, with grace, precision and a picture-perfect smile that says she’s exactly where she wants to be.
But their journey isn’t just about the medals.
Doug and Debby also use dance to make a difference in their community. They’ve performed in local charity events like Dancing with Our Stars of Hamilton County, a fundraiser that benefits Meals on Wheels, an organization delivering nourishment and care to homebound seniors. Whether dazzling in sequins or spotlighting a cause, Doug and Debby bring not only grace and rhythm to the stage, but also heart. Their time on the dance floor helps to raise awareness and critical funds for neighbors in need.
Beyond the glamor and competition, there’s a deeper joy in their dancing. It’s found in the quiet teamwork, the mutual trust, the silent signals and the music. They call it “teamwork set to music.” It’s communication. It’s partnership. It’s love, on full display.
If you ask them why they do it, they’ll tell you it’s for the fun. The friends. The family. The joy.
After all, Doug didn’t just learn to dance for his daughter’s wedding. He discovered a whole new way to fall in love - with the music, with the movement…and with Debby.
GRINS FOR DAYS
SMILE N’ STYLE OFFERS COMPREHENSIVE CARE
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Sarah Browning
As people age, their smiles may lose some of their brightness, and for many who never had orthodontic care as teens, issues like crooked teeth still persist. Fortunately, help is available.
Offering a wide range of cosmetic solutions, family care, and restorative treatments, Smile N’ Style in Carmel provides the very best in dental care by utilizing an array of specialized skills.
Dr. Gagandeep Bath is a TMJ and oral facial pain specialist who also has certifications in dental implants, facial esthetics, soft-tissue surgeries, and dental sleep medicine. This means that she can use oral appliance therapy to treat sleep-disordered breathing such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.
“A lot of patients assume that using a CPAP machine is the only option they have to treat such problems, but some patients find the CPAP machines too cumbersome, making a sleep appliance the better option,” Bath says.
CUTTING-EDGE AND PAIN-FREE
Many shy away from the dentist, including for preventative care, out of a fear of the pain associated with the trip. Smile N’ Style is among the first clinics in Indiana to offer advanced equipment and
technologies, like laser machines, so patients can enjoy pain-free dentistry options.
Bath began using laser treatments a year and a half ago at her other clinic, Global Smiles Dental, located on Indy’s south side. She says many dentists haven’t embraced laser treatments as of yet due to a lack of training, but she has stayed ahead through continuing education.
Bath is so passionate about dentistry that she works seven days a week. She is especially empathetic to the patient who is grappling with mouth pain and unable to find relief because they can’t get in to see a dentist.
“This is a gap that I wanted to bridge,” she says. “I want to be the dentist who is available when patients need me.” During the COVID pandemic lockdowns, Bath continued to work so her patients wouldn’t suffer. She wore multiple gowns, masks, and gloves, and showed up to treat her patients.
Seeing a dentist who specializes in TMJ and oral facial pain is not only helpful for identifying potential issues and education about such problems but is also beneficial to a patient who experiencing
chronic oral pain.
Bath had a patient who complained he had been dealing with pain in his jaw, neck, shoulder, and head for months. He had seen a chiropractor, physicians, and even a psychiatrist who prescribed antidepressants. One doctor told him to have his heart checked. Another suggested that the weather was causing his issues.
The truth was he had TMJ issues and oral facial pain problems.
“It was such a simple diagnosis, but these other doctors made it so complicated,” says Bath, who works with a licensed, certified, highly qualified team who has been by her side for years.
In addition to comprehensive dental care, Smile N’ Style offers elective facial filler treatments through their aesthetic clinic. Using FDA-approved dermal fillers composed of hyaluronic acid and other safe substances, the Smile N’ Style staff offers personalized treatment plans to help smooth fine lines and rejuvenate appearances.
Bath and her husband also own Global Smiles Dental, a clinic Bath helped grow substantially. Through the years, she has built a name for herself in the Indy area, especially among the Indian community.
At Smile N’ Style, they see patients from one month to 100-plus years old. Smile N’ Style Dental Care of Carmel is located at 11591 Westfield Boulevard, Suite 200 in Carmel. For more information, call 317-836-5211 or visit smilenstyledentalcarmel.com.
Your
At Smile N Style, we’re dedicated to delivering top-tier dental care within a personalized office setting. Our team comprises skilled, sincere, empathetic, and dedicated professionals striving tirelessly to enhance patients’ health, aesthetics, self-assurance, and overall well-being.
Dr. Bath and associates uphold a daily commitment to offering unparalleled care quality to our valued patients.
PROFITS WITH PURPOSE
TURNING BLIGHTED PROPERTIES INTO GOLD
Writer/ Christy-Heitger Ewing
/ Sarah Browning
What if your next investment could not only outperform the stock market but also help transform struggling neighborhoods into safe, thriving communities? A local real estate investment group in Carmel is doing just that - delivering impressive double-digit returns while revitalizing distressed homes into high-quality, affordable housing for families in need.
FROM TAX LIENS TO TURNKEY RENTALS
Each year, thousands of abandoned properties in Indiana in need of full restoration fall into tax delinquency, creating an opportunity for investors to acquire tax liens and, possibly, the properties at deep discounts. Jim Tannehill, President of JHT Real Estate Organization LLC and a Carmel resident, explains, “We’ve developed a system to acquire taxlien properties, fully renovate them, and lease them out through the federal housing program known as Section 8.”
Investors are experiencing an average of 14.47% cash-on-cash returns, far exceeding most traditional real estate syndications. But the returns are just part of the story. By focusing on long-term affordable housing in their markets, JHT Real Estate Organization
is helping families, many of whom are single mothers, access safe and dignified living environments.
The Tannehills - Jim, Gina, John (7), and Grace (3) - reside in east Carmel and are
Photographer
“A PLATFORM THAT ACQUIRES ASSETS AT THESE PRICES AND HAS A SPECIALIZED TEAM TO MANAGE THEM LONG-TERM IS HOW WE ADD VALUE TO OUR PARTNERS, RESIDENTS, AND HOMES.”
—JIM TANNEHILL
actively involved in the community. Jim is a member of the Carmel Rotary Club, and Gina participates in East Carmel Mamas. Jim holds a master’s in health administration, and Gina has a background in medical sales before making a career change in 2014 (Jim) and 2017 (Gina).
“A platform that acquires assets at these prices and has a specialized team to manage them long-term is how we add value to our partners, residents, and homes. It is the post-acquisition management that sustains the value and residual income,” says Jim.
Carmel residents with savings seeking investment opportunities beyond the stock market, index funds, or money market can benefit from JHT’s offerings. While such opportunities typically target large institutions or investors, JHT provides an attractive opportunity for individuals with $50,000, $100,000, or $200,000to invest. The ability to invest $75,000 with the company
and achieve close to a 15% cash-on-cash return is rare. Gina adds, “We have partners who utilize tax-deferred vehicles such as Roth IRAs or 529 plans. We also welcome aggressive partners seeking additional sources of income to aid in retirement planning.”
Preferred return is a highlight for JHT partners, akin to preferred stock versus common stock, where preferred shareholders receive payments first. The company offers a preferred return of 10% to investors monthly, a condition to be met each month for JHT to be eligible for any profits. Investors are required to qualify
as accredited and allocate a minimum of $50,000 towards a long-term, high-yield vehicle.
For further exploration of this investment opportunity, contact Jim Tannehill at jim@jhtrealestate.com or 918-809-8372, and visit jhtrealestate.com.
CONNECT
jim@jhtrealestate.com
918-809-8372
www.jhtrealestate.com
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CARMELFEST RETURNS
BIGGER THAN EVER FOR 2025
Writer / David Ryan
CarmelFest 2025 is scheduled for July 3 and 4 around Carmel City Hall, with festivities expanding to Carter Green. This year’s celebration is anticipated to be the largest 4th of July event in Hamilton County, bringing back beloved traditions while infusing additional excitement.
A unique feature this year is the debut of the CarmelFest online shop, where individuals can explore and purchase official CarmelFest merchandise for the first time. The online platform boasts a stunning array of patriotic and Carmel-themed apparel and accessories, exclusively crafted by local artists. To view the selection and show support for the event, visit CarmelFest.net/shop.
The KidsZone will make a return as a fan favorite, offering an array of activities such as rides, a petting farm, inflatable obstacle courses, and new carnival-style games to entertain young attendees.
Attendees seeking live entertainment can look forward to top-notch performers at both the Gazebo Stage and Carter Green throughout the celebration. For a complete lineup of entertainers and to plan the ultimate concert experience, visit the festival’s website.
A notable highlight of the festivities is the Allied Solutions
CarmelFest Parade, Indiana’s largest 4th of July Parade, which will draw tens of thousands of spectators along the parade route from Carmel Drive to Carmel High School. It will be accessible for viewing along the route, via a live broadcast on the Midtown screen, or through streaming on the CBS4 Indy Facebook Page.
The event will also feature food vendors and local artisans offering a diverse selection of culinary delights and handmade goods to cater to every taste. CarmelFest is designed to provide an opportunity for families to come together for two days of communal celebration, creating unforgettable memories in the process.
The festivities will culminate in a Fireworks Grand Finale, featuring an epic display synchronized to music for a truly magical end to the 4th of July celebration.
Volunteers are encouraged to consider joining the excitement by signing up for various roles and schedules at carmelfest.net/ volunteer, accommodating those with varying levels of availability.
Those eager to stay informed about CarmelFest can sign up for the CarmelFest Newsletter at CarmelFest.net to receive the latest updates directly to their inbox or follow along on Facebook.
CARMELFEST MERCHANDISE
As CarmelFest continues to grow, the financial demands continue to increase, prompting the introduction of a unique fundraising solution for 2025: an online shop.
By purchasing exclusive merchandise designed by local artists, you are helping to support CarmelFest and contributing to its sustainability for generations to come.
These specially crafted items, ranging from shirts, tote bags and hats to travel mugs, embody the spirit of the event and enable you to show off your town pride at CarmelFest.
Join us in ensuring the longevity of this beloved tradition while showcasing your support for our community.
CAPTURING HOOSIER HISTORY
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH IMS LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER CHRIS OWENS
Writer / Ashley Watters
If you’re born and bred in the Hoosier state, May always brings a sense of excitement. It’s race season, and nowhere in the world is that more exciting than in Indianapolis, the home of the largest spectator sport in the world, the Indy 500. While racing season always sets a thrill to the air in Indianapolis, for Chris Owens, racing season takes on a whole new meaning.
Owens has the lucky job of overseeing all photography related to racing season. As the manager of photo operations for Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IndyCar Series, he manages all photography on race day, promotional events, driver photos, hospitality gatherings, you name it. If it leads up to race day, he and his camera aren’t far away.
As a young kid growing up in the small town of Bluffton, Indiana, Owens found a single-lens reflex camera amongst the toys in
his toy box. He fondly remembers toting it around pretending to capture the moments around him. His love of photography further grew as he collected sports cards and then took high school photography courses, leading to collegiate study at both the University of Vincennes and the Art Institute of Indianapolis, the latter chosen to help further his skills while getting him closer to the track.
“I always knew I wanted to photograph the race,” he says. “I really pushed the envelope to try and get on the team. I had to keep after it for years. Finally, in 2010 I got the chance to meet the manager of photography and joined the team as a volunteer. As people came and went, I landed the role of manager.”
While acting as the lead photographer of the Indy 500 is exhilarating and certainly qualifies as a dream job, Owens
“IT’S SURREAL TO KNOW YOU’RE DOCUMENTING HISTORY AND YOU KNOW IT’S IMPORTANT TO SO MANY PEOPLE.”
- CHRIS OWENS
recognizes that it is a highly demanding role. Race day itself requires a huge amount of preparation and versatile skill sets to coordinate and capture all of the memorable moments that occur annually on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.
“The whole season is really adrenaline fueled,” he says. “There’s practicing for weeks and the Grand Prix before the actual race. But race day is a totally different beast. You have 350,000 people and all of their energy is wearing off onto you. There’s this buildup year-round to this event, but the race only lasts two to three hours and then it’s over. You really have to know what you want to accomplish that day.”
Outside of the creative needs placed on the photography team, Owens spends a great amouna of time planning where the team will need to be, to ensure no relevant moments slip by. There are so many events that have to be captured, from the EDM festival at the start and race highlights, all the way through to the drinking of the milk at Victory Circle. Additionally, every photographer needs to be equipped with fresh, full batteries and clean memory cards. Each moment has to be documented to the fullest extent.
Despite the whirlwind that is race day, Owens always heads to Victory Circle as the race nears the end. He likes to join spectators to feel that same excitement of the roaring crowds as the finishers cross the line into Victory Circle. “It’s surreal to know you’re documenting history and you know it’s important to so many people,” he says.
He does like to remind people that, as with any job, it’s not all glitz and glamour. There is a fair amount of the mundane that must be done as well. Owens manages an archive of more than four million historical images. With the exception of about 90 days out of the year, he is traveling to take part in public relations events and promotional experiences, all a part of the fanfare that connects one race season to the next. And he frequently finds himself faced with creative requests that vary from best-of-year galleries to driver headshots.
Despite any amount of ordinary tasks that go along with his job, and sometimes because of them, Owens always remembers that he is
living his dream job.
“My favorite part is being able to connect my two passions, which are Indy car racing and photography,” he says. “I’m the one with the responsibility who gets to share what I love with so many other people that love it. I get to be their eyes - get to share some of those behind-the-scenes moments. A lot of time there are things that happen in garages, or even going on PR stunt trips and getting to go to dinner with the crew and drivers. That’s what I do it for.”
For those of you gearing up for race season this year, he has a few bits of advice to share.
“You can get great photos from a lot of places at the track,” he says. “You don’t need to be trackside to get great images. I often go into the fan areas to get great images.”
Even as he looks ahead to the coming season and the logistical stresses it may bring, there is no other job he’d rather do.
From the Community, For the Community.
State Bank proudly welcomes Matt Price as our new President and CEO.
A lifelong Hoosier and longtime customer, Matt brings a deep understanding of what makes local banking matter — personal relationships, authentic service, and a commitment to the people who live and work here.
With strong ties to Central Indiana and years of experience on our board, Matt embodies the values that set State Bank apart: trust, integrity, and true investment in our communities.
His leadership marks a new chapter in our mission to grow stronger — for our customers, our employees, our shareholders, and the communities we proudly serve.
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THE NEW FRONTIER
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS DRIVE GIRLS’ FLAG FOOTBALL GROWTH
Writer / Melissa Gibson
young athletes to NFL FLAG-sanctioned programs.
There are 43 Indiana high schools, including Beech Grove, Warren Central, Pike and beyond, that have committed to offering a girl’s flag football program, with more signing up every day.
When a new team is launched, the Colts help offset costs with funds for equipment, uniforms, training and coaching.
“We want to drive participation to the game and continue to support and amplify the game,” said Andy Matis, senior manager of football development at the Indianapolis Colts. “As we grow, we’re able to incorporate more audience, which is a key focus.”
Unlike tackle football, play consists of two 24-minute halves. It’s a five-on-five format and players rotate positions throughout the game. The field is smaller than a standard tackle football field, 40 yards in width and 100 yards in length. Of course, instead of tackling the opponent, the goal is to pull a flag from their waistband. Point scoring is similar, with six points for a touchdown.
It’s safe to say that in the past, young women have not had the same elite-level options in football as young men have had, but when the Colts opened up the opportunity for a women’s league, they were met with plenty of interest.
In fact, 50% of the girls coming out for flag football tryouts have signed up for their first high school sports program ever.
“Even in youth leagues they’ve consistently offered coed options, but there’s two girls in the midst of all the boys coming out for these,” Matis said. “They might not feel inclined even though they’re interested. Now, having your own space in sports, you don’t have to ask if you love the game enough to try tackle. You have your space in the sport.”
Young women from the original eight teams have enjoyed the nature of the game and the relationships formed through the process, just like many other tight-knit sports teams. It’s a memory they’ll never forget.
Players from the Colts team have been supportive as well, happy to see the sport continue to grow in unique and inclusive ways.
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin has recently been named Global Flag Ambassador for the NFL’s commitment to growing flag football across the nation. Franklin has been working with the league over the past few years, and wants to help drive support and make the program fun.
“This is just a great opportunity,” Franklin said. “Everyone loves the game and football has taught me so much about life. This program gives young women the opportunity to learn those lessons and build those bonds.”
He’ll be hosting a clinic for flag football teams in the state soon and hopes to invite a few individuals from the U.S. team to get involved.
“Last year I had the chance to help coach girls flag football players at Lucas Oil Stadium and I was so impressed by the skill, tenacity and passion of these young ladies,” Franklin said. “I look forward to helping grow flag football in Indiana and around the world, and providing more opportunities for girls and boys alike to learn, play and connect through this awesome sport.”
Like most team sports, flag football offers physical and mental health benefits, hones teamwork skills, and teaches discipline and resilience.
Just in the past few years, reports from high school athletic directors across the state have been positive. Young women who were having a tough time in school are now getting better grades. Attendance is up and the empowerment they feel is evident.
“We’re building the next generation of strong adults,” Matis said. “The appetite is there. The interest is there. To see these girls come out and bring their competitive fire to this sport has been really inspiring.”
School representatives interested in participating can find more information at colts.com/football development/flag/ high-school-girls-flag.
New Event Calendar
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CONTACT:
LYNDSEY BROWN
lyndsey@townepost.com (317) 402-0569
In partnership with the CheckIt4Andretti Foundation and in honor of its founder, John Andretti, join us for Riverview Health’s Drive2Detect! A night of exotic cars, local cuisine and great race-themed experiences, all in a unique atmosphere. Help us in our mission to increase colon cancer awareness and raise funds to provide no-cost colonoscopies and post-diagnosis support to those who cannot otherwise afford it.
May 17, 2025
7:00 to 11:00 P.M.
VIP Early Access @ 6:00 P.M.
Motor District Garage Condos Westfield, IN
Tickets are now available! Simply scan the QR code or visit drive2detect.com to reserve your place. A limited number of VIP Access tickets to meet Jarett Andretti are available only while they last!
