Geist Magazine May 2021

MAY 2021

MAGAZINE

ON THE BALL LAWRENCE NORTH’S JAYLA SMITH IS THE 2021 INDIANA MISS BASKETBALL

NEW CHIEF IN TOWN

Patrick Bratton Steps Into Role as Fortville Police Chief

THE DRIVE TO SUCCEED

Ayrton Houk is Pursuing His Racing Dreams

TownePost.com

The Only Name You Need To Know

All within 1/2 Hour Or Less from Geist!

Proud supporter of Lawrence Township and Hamilton Southeastern Schools

Cars & Truccks 24/7 at

NEED YOUR HOME SOLD FAST?? WE’LL BUY IT OR LIST IT! YOUR CHOICE!

PENDING 395 BREAKWATER DRIVE • GEIST

$1,895,000 or Trade!

Geist Waterfront | HSE Schools 6 Bedrooms | Open Floorplan Killer Lower Level | 1.6 Acre Lot

PENDING 7625 NESTUCCA TRAIL • NOBLESVILLE Pended in 3 Days!

Call Us Today to Find Homes BEFORE They Hit the Market!

9053 BAY BREEZE • GEIST

$630,000 or Trade!

Pended in 2 Days!

Call Us Today to Find Homes BEFORE They Hit the Market!

13021 BIRD KEY BLVD • FISHERS

SOLD!

Pended in 3 Days!

Call Us Today to Find Homes BEFORE They Hit the Market!

$2,400 per Month Lease

Main Floor Master | Finished Basement 2 Story Great Room!

Under Renovation!

E UR H O M WANT YO ?

HERE TODAY! C A L L ME 10358 COURAGEOUS DR • GEIST

13664 ALLAYNA PLACE • FISHERS

Coming Soon!

Great 4 Bedroom Home Screened In Porch | Fenced Backyard Finished Basement | Quartz Counters

PENDING

PENDING

10503 BRIXTON LANE• FISHERS $379,900 OR TRADE

5756 SPRUCE KNOLL COURT • INDY $235,000 OR TRADE Pended in 4 Days!

Call Us Today to Find Homes BEFORE They Hit the Market!

Pended in 3 Days!

Call Us Today to Find Homes BEFORE They Hit the Market!

RE/MAX REALTY SERVICES* • SCHULHOF TEAM WANT YOUR HOME LISTED HERE? GIVE US A CALL @ 317-842-4747

11216 Fall Creek Road; Suite 100; Indianapolis, IN 46256

CHRIS SCHULHOF

MARTIN RUSSEL

JOY HARRIS

Broker/Owner

Associate Broker

Associate Broker

E UR H O M WANT YO ST? SOLD FA AY! TOD C A L L ME

LE ASED! 11206 FALL CREEK RD • GEIST

4.5 PRIME ACRES - INDY FANTASTIC LOCATION $395,000

Keep an Eye Out For The Occupant’s Grand Opening!

Ideal for Self Storage / Retail Zoned C 3

WALGREENS

SOLD!

Outstanding Investment Opportunity!

7.7 Plus CAP Rate Call for Details!

Your Home

ANDREA MARTIN

TODD BYCZEK

Listing/Closing Coordinator Associate Broker

PENDING 16671 LAKEVILLE XING • WESTFIELD $409,000 OR TRADE Pended in 2 Days!

Call Us Today to Find Homes BEFORE They Hit the Market!

in 90 Days OR SOONER

GUARANTEED or I’ll Buy it Myself!

Call 317-842-4747 virtual tours & more

IndyPlace.com Equal Housing Opportunity.

*Each office independantly owned and operated. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Must be prequalified for boat tour.

Building today.

Ensuring the future.

LAWRE

NCE N

FOREST GLEN

AMY BEVER

OR TH

HIGH S

LAND ELEM

CHOO

ENTARY

L

CE CEN LAWREN

MARY C

ASTLE E

ELEMENTARY

TRAL HIG

H SCHOO

LEMENT ARY

Lawrence Township Schools

STRONG SCHOOLS. STRONG COMMUNITY.

To learn more, please visit LTschools.org or contact the Welcome Center at 317-423-8200.

L

A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

For advertising information, contact:

I N THI S I SS UE

F O U N D E R /C EO

TOM BRITT

TOM@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.496.3599

ASS O C I ATE P U B LISHE R

ROBE RT TU R K

ROB@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.810.0011 TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. PRESIDENT

JE A N N E BR I TT

JEANNE@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.810.0011 D I R EC TO R O F D I G I TA L E N G AGE ME N T

JOSH BROWN C R E ATI V E /S O C IAL T EAM

TON I E A DS VAL HACKER

8 10 14 18 22 26 30 34 37

M AY 2021

Lasting Legacy: Arts for Lawrence Brick Fundraiser to Benefit Fort Ben Cultural Campus New Chief in Town: Patrick Bratton Steps Into Role as Fortville Police Chief Shop ’Til You Drop: The Indy Mommy Market Offers Something for Everyone For the Pets: The Humane Society for Hamilton County Moves to a New, Bigger Facility Looking SHarp: SHarper Surgery, Spa & Salt Lounge Helps Patients Look and Feel Their Best Fishers Cares: City-Wide Initiative Seeks to Eliminate Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness On the Ball: Lawrence North’s Jayla Smith Is the 2021 Indiana Miss Basketball The Drive to Succeed: Ayrton Houk is Pursuing His Racing Dreams

Memorable Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day

CO PY E D I TO R

JON S HOULD ER S REAL-TIME ANALYTICS K E Y CO N TRI BU TO RS ABIGAIL HAKE / AMY PAYNE / BELINDA RUSSELL / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING ELI BEAVERSON / JANELLE DEWOLF, STUDIO 116 / JON SHOULDERS JULIE YATES / LYNDA HEDBERG THIES / RENEE LARR / ROBBY BERRY

Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

# S POTL I GH TI NGLOCAL

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 | Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

SCAN TO VIEW LISTING

317.849.0925

eddysnbg.com | 11693 Fall Creek Road Empowering clients to communicate confidently

SMALL GROUP PERSONAL TRAINING

GET IN SHAPE P ER S ONAL TRA IN IN G & N UTRITIO N P R OGRA M FOR WOME N

BUY 2 SESSIONS GET 3 FREE, NOW $59!

317-445-5887 / stutteringandspeechtherapy.com

NEW!

You can now purchase advertising in this magazine online! Visit our virtual media kit and purchase any of our print, digital, and social media ad packages.

TOWNEPOST.DIRECT

new business 317-348-8600 | WWW.THEFITCHICKSSTUDIO.COM

1 1 720 O LI O RD & 116 TH ST, F IS HE R S | INS IDE K R O G E R ’ S PAR K ING LOT

6 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

BOOST

The Dick Richwine Group GEIST/FISHERS AREA SPECIALISTS FOR ALL OF YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS $2 BILLION IN CAREER REAL ESTATE SALES Now is a Great Time to List Your Home We Work with Buyers and Sellers Contact Dick or Joel for Details Let us Make You #1 in 2021

Dick Richwine

Joel Woelfle

Dick Richwine Joel Woelfle 317.558.6800 317.590.8200 drichwine@bhhsin.com joel@bhhsin.com

LD SO

N

EW

The #1 Team in Indiana with more than a Half BILLION DOLLARS in CLOSED Sales during the past 5 years

11670 Diamond Pointe | $825,000

1.4 Acre Estate Property in Private Gated Community. Geist Lake Access w/Boat Dock. 4 Bdrm. 3 Full + 2 Half Baths. 3 Car Garage.

10,111 Sq Ft

Geist Lakefront Home w/Main Body Views, Extensive Updating. Outstanding Maintenance.

Gunite Pool. 4 Bdrms 4 Full & 2 Half Baths.

3 Car Garage. 7417 Sq Ft

Geist Lakefront Home in Private Gated Community.

Main Level Master, Extensive Hardwoods. 4 BR 3 Full + 2 Half Baths. 3 Car Garage 5176 Sq Ft

N

N

EW

9426 Promontory Circle | $1,385,000

EW

410 Breakwater Driver | $1,448,500

7014 Andre Drive | $895,000

10561 Tremont Drive | $525,000

9176 Pointe Court | $335,000

5.6 Acre Krannert Estate has New Life w/Major Renovations. Built in 1930 Original Beauty has up to Date Features. 5 BR 5.5 Baths.

3-Car Garage 5203 Sq Ft

Updated Custom 2-Story w/Full Walk-Out Basement. Wooded Lot. Great Rm & Living Rm plus Den. 4 or 5 Bedrooms 4.5 Baths. 3 Car Side Entry Garage. 5231 Sq Ft

Custom Home w/Living Rm & Family Rm plus Office, Quality Wood trim Package. Nicely Updated. Great Yard. 4 Bedrooms 2.5 Baths.

3 Car Garage. 2601 Sq FT

www.TheRichwineGroup.com

“In 2018, when we found out about Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Strengthening Indianapolis Through Arts and Cultural Innovation initiative, we reached out to the city and let them know what we were thinking. Together we wrote and submitted the grant, stating our concept of a cultural campus. Lilly gave us an invitation to apply for the final round and we received the grant at the end of the year.”

LASTING LEGACY ARTS FOR LAWRENCE BRICK FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT FORT BEN CULTURAL CAMPUS Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

Arts for Lawrence is hosting a unique fundraiser that not only serves to beautify their new Fort Ben Cultural Campus, but also provides donor recognition.

Inscribed bricks will gradually replace plain, unadorned ones in the new Donor Patio, which is part of a major renovation and expansion slated for completion later this spring. Plans are in the works for a grand opening festival set for May 22.

can also be purchased as gifts, and the recipient can choose the text. Participants will receive a mini replica keepsake brick.

Anchored by the historic Theater at the Fort, the Fort Ben Cultural Campus features art amenities for the community. It is a result of a collaboration between Lawrence Arts and the City of Lawrence, and was made possible by a $5.8 million grant received from the Lilly Endowment. Funds received made it possible for Lawrence Arts to fulfill a vision of providing an arts destination for the community.

Bricks can be purchased from the organization’s website. Each $100 brick “We had been dreaming this for many can be inscribed with three lines of text years,” says Judy Byron, executive director. including either a name or sentiment. Bricks 8 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

The money received has allowed Lawrence Arts to pursue five phases of expansion.

Stage one and two involved renovations and an addition to back of the existing theater. The facility was shut down in August of 2019 to allow for construction, and reopening was originally scheduled for March of 2020.

“Unfortunately, because of COVID we couldn’t reopen,” Byron says. “However, construction is considered an essential industry so we never slowed down with our plans for the campus. We had some delays in getting supplies and workers had to quarantine, but we are on target for our May 22 opening festival.”

The remaining three phases will enhance what Lawrence Arts already offers to the community. The historic communications building was moved from its former location to become the new Visual Arts Center. It will feature an additional art classroom and gallery. Additionally, a parking lot is being turned into a plaza that includes an outdoor amphitheater that will be the new home for the popular Fridays at the Fort, a free concert series. The plaza will also offer the interactive experience of musical swings.

P R I VAT E B A N K I N G

— Elyssa, Bank Client

When you become a Private Banking client at The National Bank of Indianapolis, you’ll receive personal service and guidance from our experts.

Our Private Bankers draw on their extensive financial experience to make custom recommendations to ensure your individual success.

Experience the service and dedication you deserve.

Client/Filename:

The Fort Ben Cultural Campus is located at 8920 Otis Avenue in Indianapolis. For more info on Arts for Lawrence and the current fundraiser, call 317-875-1900 or visit ArtsForLawrence.com.

9942-05PBLocalAd_SherrryHyska_4.72x7.37

“We are so grateful for the grant and to our donors,” Byron says. “We are eagerly anticipating our grand opening festival on May 22. It will launch our outdoor programming for summer and we plan to be back indoors in the fall.”

NBI

The final stage highlights public art and placemaking elements, including limestone benches hand-carved by a local artist, a sidewalk with the sounds of marching boots, and an augmented reality experience that can be accessed by a cell phone application.

“Our Bank has been such a partner. It gives me a sense of calm during tremendous uncertainty.”

Sherry P. Hyska

Vice President, Private Banking

317-261-9736 NMLS #473850

©2021 The National Bank of Indianapolis

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 9

www.nbofi.com

Member FDIC

Patrick Bratton, Fortville Police Chief

10 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

NEW CHIEF IN TOWN PATRICK BRATTON STEPS INTO ROLE AS FORTVILLE POLICE CHIEF Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Belinda Russell

Patrick Bratton, Fortville’s new police chief, is well prepared for the job. He has two decades of law enforcement experience, including 15 years with the Fortville Police Department. His enthusiasm for the job is bolstered by his knowledge of the community and his dedication to service.

“I grew up in a little Indiana town, Fountain City, which is north of Richmond,” he says.

“I was in the Boy Scouts and went to a high school that included grades 7 through 12. It was a community like Fortville.”

As a young adult, Bratton left his hometown and experienced different localities and cultures. Five years after graduating from high school, Bratton joined the Army.

Overseas travel during military service broadened his view of the world. Upon leaving the Army, he settled in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he worked as a counselor in a boys youth-group home.

“When I moved back home after living in Chattanooga, I had the opportunity to get into law enforcement,” Bratton says. “My sister’s mother-in-law was on one of the Indianapolis mayor’s boards and she told me about the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) Police Department.”

Bratton spent five years with the IPS Police Department. Initially he was assigned to work within a school, and later was promoted to detective.

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 11

“I got to know Indianapolis really well,” he says. “The department handled situations that ranged from bus fights to stabbings and shootings outside of school hours. As detective I investigated thefts and child sex crimes. Being in an inner-city environment was a good enlightenment. I enjoyed helping the youth, school staff and citizens.”

In 2006 he left the IPS Police Department

Looking for a New Dentist?

200+ REVIEWS

Dr. Matthew Vogt and family

GATEWAY DENTISTRY NEW PATIENT OFFERS

$349 ANNUAL SAVERS PLAN*

FREE TAKE-HOME WHITENING**

*Includes two exams, two routine cleanings, all necessary x-rays, and 15% off all dental treatment annually. $199-299/yr for additional family members.

Additional benefits included, call for details. **Reg. value $49. Call our office for details.

(317) 643-9434 Click: thedentistsatgc.com Call today:

6621 W Broadway, Ste 600, McCordsville, IN 46055

12 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

and was hired by the Fortville Police Department, working the night shift from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. In 2012 he began working during the day. One year later he was promoted to lieutenant, and in 2016 he became major and assistant chief in charge of operations.

“I am so thankful for my wife April,” Bratton says. “She has had to rearrange family celebrations when work conflicted. She has always known me as a police officer and been supportive of my career.”

In 2017 he was selected to attend the FBI National Academy, a professional leadership course for select leaders in law enforcement. Attendees go through an extreme vetting process, and represent every state and 26 countries. It is held each year in Quantico, Virginia, and participants take courses in contemporary issues facing police such as officer wellness, both physical and mental.

“When Chief Bill Knauer announced his retirement, he told me I was ready to step up to the chief position,” Bratton says. “After being approved by the Town Council this January, I was shocked by the supportive texts, phone calls and Facebook messages I received. I don’t plan to make a whole lot of administrative changes but we are looking into installing a license plate reader. It’s a pole-mounted device that reads license plates, not people. Officers get notified if the plate is identified as belonging to a registered sex offender.”

Bratton wants residents to know they can reach out to him at any time.

“If people don’t get their voices heard, that’s where problems start,” he says. “I want everyone to feel safe and welcome in Fortville’s restaurants and shops, and for the department to support the growth of the town and its citizens.”

The Fortville Police Department is located at 714 East Broadway Street, and can be reached at 317-485-4044.

EXQUISITE HOMES. EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE. Allen offers 27 years experience, award winning customer service, and specializes in Fishers/Geist real estate.

1 3 0 0 3 WAT E R R I DGE DRIV E

12 2 98 GOLDEN BEA R WAY

$1,295,000 | Fishers | 4 Bedrooms | 5 Baths

$870,000 | Noblesville | 6 Bedrooms | 5 Baths | Pool

9 81 7 SPR I NGS TON E ROAD

11994 VOLC A NI C ROC K DRI VE

$569,900 | Fishers | 5 Bedrooms | 5 Baths

$469,900 | Fishers | 5 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | Pool

6 1 0 4 N . OXF O R D STRE E T

13312 E. LI EDER WAY

$340,000 | Indianapolis | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Baths

$399,000 | Fishers | 3 Bedrooms | 4 Baths

1 26 5 W E S T L I ME STO N E WAY

11470 HA NBURY M A NOR BLVD

$240,000 | Fortville | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths

$1,225,000 | Noblesville | 6 Bedrooms | 7 Baths

HOM E S I T E WI TH BOAT DO CK

1 4476 FAU C E T L AN E | CAN AL PLACE $279,900 | 1.34 Acres

ALLEN WILLIAMS, BROKER | 317.339.2256 FISHERSLUXURYHOMES.COM | GEISTLUXURYHOMES.COM All information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Data from MIBOR BLC from 1/1/2019 through 12/31/2019 for Allen Williams and members of the Allen Williams Realty Group. % MAY 2021 of list price rounded to nearest whole number. ©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

the market. Last spring, COVID-19 forced them to cancel, but they are looking forward to holding a socially distanced market on May 22 in the parking lot and large grassy area at Pennington Park Church in Fishers.

“Even though the crowds are bigger, it doesn’t feel like it because there’s so much room to spread out,” Fleetwood says.

Ironically, the pandemic has made their vendor list grow instead of shrink. While in the past they have averaged roughly 50 vendors, this year Fleetwood invited 75 stores to join.

“So many local businesses have suffered this year due to COVID-19, so I wanted to give these shops an opportunity to sell their merchandise,” Fleetwood says.

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP

THE INDY MOMMY MARKET OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Therefore, this year the Indy Mommy Market will feature both their typical fare, which includes children’s clothing, decor, toys and sign makers, as well as women’s boutiques, jewelry, candles and more. In addition, they will have sweet and savory food trucks and coffee vendors on hand.

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

When she began accepting vendor applications, more than 100 people applied.

“We’ll have custom cookies, kettle corn and other goodies,” Fleetwood says.

When Rebekah Fleetwood’s oldest daughter was a baby, she felt inspired to start her own Etsy shop. She sold her creations at local craft fairs and markets where she befriended lots of different shop owners.

“I was blown away,” she says.

In addition, they always partner with three local photographers in order to showcase their work and sign new clients.

“We created this little community, and one day I got this idea in my head to start my own craft fair, but I wanted it to be geared towards kid and baby stuff,” says Fleetwood, a Westfield native who knows how much residents like to shop local.

In the spring of 2016, a month after giving birth to baby number two, Fleetwood put on her first Indy Mommy Market.

“I figured I’d start small and just include 10 or 15 shops,” Fleetwood says.

Ultimately, she whittled it down to 30 trendy shops and held the event in a church gymnasium. Once again, she underestimated the popularity of her idea when she anticipated 100 to 200 shoppers, and 600 showed. Community interest was evident, so she decided to do it again the following year.

“I wanted it to get bigger and better,” says Fleetwood, who asked her sister-in-law, Katie, and good friend, Brin, to work with her.

Now the three women put on the market twice a year, in the fall and spring. One September when all three ladies were due to give birth, they thought it best not to hold MAY 2021

“That’s a big hit since family photography is so big right now,” says Fleetwood, who has three children with her husband Jon - Lilia, 6, Graham, 4, and Hazel, 2.

What makes the market so special is the driving motivation to serve local shops. This is why they have so many repeat vendors and shoppers.

“Our main goal is not to bring in as many shoppers as we can, but rather to create a place for these shops to set up and let their items be seen,” Fleetwood says. “I want my shoppers and my shops to be happy.”

Fleetwood knows firsthand just how supportive Hamilton County moms are when it comes to shopping.

“They leave with bags and bags full of merchandise,” Fleetwood says. “They can’t carry anymore in their hands. It makes me so happy to know they are supporting local shops.”

In fact, she’s been told numerous times by shoppers that they’ve been contacted by their credit card companies after making a flurry of purchases at the market.

Fleetwood always receives rave reviews about how organized and well-run the market is. Fleetwood, a former kindergarten teacher, feels her former profession has served her well in preparing for this job.

“You really have to be organized with a bunch of crazy 5-year-olds running around,” she says with a chuckle. “I like to have all my ducks in a row.”

After the difficult year we have all endured, community members are thrilled to once again come spend their dollars at the Indy Mommy Market.

“People are telling us that they are so happy to finally have something to put on the calendar,” Fleetwood says.

Though this expanded version of the Indy Mommy Market arose out of a desire to help local vendors recover from a challenging year, Fleetwood is not opposed to keeping it this way if the response is positive.

“In the past, people have told me that

MAY 2021

they felt like they couldn’t come because they didn’t have kids,” says Fleetwood, who encourages everyone to bring their grandkids, aunts, friends and neighbors.

“Now they have a reason to come since we’ll be selling all these other items. Our motto has always been, ‘This is a market for your littles.’ Now it’s a market for the littles of all ages - from newborn to 100.”

The Indy Mommy Market will take place on May 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pennington Park Church, located at 13222 East 126th Street in Fishers. For more information, visit indymommymarket.com.

Overcoming learning gaps today, giving hope and success Overcoming gaps today, forlearning tomorrow School has started and your child’s learning giving hope and success Overcoming learning gaps today, giving hope and success for tomorrow gaps from last year are now more apparent for tomorrow

School has started and your child’s learning than ever. is starting behind and School has Your startedChild and your child’s learning gaps gaps from last year are now more apparent will struggle newapparent material, from last yearto arelearn now more thangetting ever.

Your Child is starting behind and will struggle toand than behind ever. Your Childschool is starting further as the yearbehind progresses. learn new material, gettingnew further behind as the will struggle to learn material, getting It is now more important than ever to school year progresses.

It is now more important further behind asyour the school progresses. than ever to address child’s difficulty in address your child’s difficulty inyear learning.

It is now more important than ever to a big learning. Closing those learning gaps now makes Closing those learning gaps now makes aaddress big difference your child’s futureinsuccess. yourinchild’s difficulty learning. difference in your child’s future success.

Tutoring alone will not address the root cause Closing those learning gaps now makes a big of learning struggles.

LearningRx brain training Tutoring alone will not address the root difference in yourcause child’s future success. treats the underlying of learning struggles cause of learning struggles.

LearningRx by addressing weaknesses the brain’s ability Tutoring alone will notinaddress the rootto brain training treats the underlying cause oflearn, learning struggles byand addressing weaknesses in the brain’s ability to learn, pay pay read, process information. cause ofattention, learning struggles.

LearningRx brain training treats the underlying cause When tutoring hasn’t helped, LearningRx does. When tutoring hasn’t helped, LearningRx attention, read, and process information. of learning struggles addressing weaknesses in the brain’s ability to learn, pay Brain Training changes theby brains learning ability. does.

Brain Training changes the brains learning ability. Brain life changing! attention, and process information.

When tutoring hasn’ttraining helped, is LearningRx Brain trainingread, is life changing!

Calldoes. now Brain and get $50 of an initial and take the first step to unlocking your Training changes the assessment brains learning ability.

Brain training is life changing!

Call and getpotential. $50$50 of an assessment child’s learning Callnow now and get of initial an initial assessment and take the first step to unlocking your and take the first step to unlocking your child’s child’s learning potential. learning potential.

317-845-1999

Now with virtual one on one training options available

317-845-1999 learningrx.com 317-845-1999 learningrx.com Now with virtual one on one training options available learningrx.com

Now with virtual one on one training options available MAY 2021

Helping Mom’s have beautiful Smiles since 1994

(317) 594-0888 • sadlerorthodontics.com 11921 Lakeside Dr. Fishers, IN 46038

Legacy at Hunter’s Run in Fishers | All Ranch Home Community Pine Vail Estates in McCordsville | Pre-Selling Single-Family Homes Call 317-532-5313 or email salesindy@mihomes.com mihomes.com/indy MAY 2021

FOR THE PETS THE HUMANE SOCIETY FOR HAMILTON COUNTY MOVES TO A NEW, BIGGER FACILITY

The Humane Society for Hamilton County takes in more than 3,100 animals each year.

Through their Survivor Program, they were able to provide second chances to 1,440 animals, 574 of whom were rescued from other Indiana shelters and non-Hamilton County residents.

year, thanks to lead gifts from the Steven J. Cage Foundation, Samerian Foundation, the Hamilton County Commissioners & Council, and Dr. Mark and Vanessa Roth.

The facility, which was designed by Curran Architecture with the construction managed

by Meyer Najem, will bear the name of both the Humane Society for Hamilton County and The Steven J. Cage Foundation Animal Wellness Center.

“We accept animals, strays and owner surrenders 365 days a year as an openadmission shelter,” says Megan Davis, marketing communications manager with the Humane Society for Hamilton County.

In the new facility, they will expand from one cattery to four free-roaming cat rooms.

Each of those rooms attach to two patios, so workers will be able to open a door to give felines fresh air and sunshine.

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Amy Payne

In the past, the organization operated out of an 8,000-square-foot space that they shared with the Low Cost Spay Neuter Clinic.

But on April 8, they officially moved into a massive new 40,000-square-foot facility in Fishers.

quiet, stress-free space.

“I have a soft spot in my heart for senior dogs,” Davis says. “They need extra love and space.”

All kennels and catteries are set up with individual, segmented HVAC systems, so if a kitty in one of the catteries gets an upper respiratory infection, staff can shut that cattery down, nurse them back to health, and keep the air from circulating through the other catteries.

“It’ll make our jobs easier when it comes to containment and treatment, but also keep the animals safer, and that’s our biggest goal,” Davis says.

“That’s a huge enrichment piece for the cats An entire half of the building is dedicated to keep them in a good head space, while they wait for their forever home,” Davis says. to intake processes, medical attention, and isolation. The new location will also separate the admission center from the adoption On the canine side, the outdoor space will center. increase significantly. Besides the outdoor runs, they will have an indoor exercise The Humane Society for Hamilton County area, five indoor meet-and-greet areas, and “In our (former) building, there were times launched its Building a Brighter Future when someone is surrendering a pet and 50 kennels (up from 15). Windows in all for Hamilton County & Hoosier Animals they have to be right next to someone who kennels will have a front and a back side, Capital Campaign in November 2018 is going through an adoption,” Davis says. so if an animal has an accident, they don’t raising the $12M needed to build the 40,000 have to sit in it. They will also have three “Having that happy feeling next to that sad, square-foot facility in Fishers within one “gray muzzle” kennels, offering senior dogs a upset feeling is a weird position to be in.

MAY 2021

We’ve separated the two aspects of what happens at our front desk to make that experience as painless as possible on the admissions side, and as happy as possible on the adoption side.”

The Humane Society is also expanding many of their community outreach initiatives by adding an education center that is set up with a projector, a white board, tables and chairs. Post-pandemic, they’ll be able to host birthday parties, scouting groups and school field trips.

Davis says it’s not uncommon for adoptions to rise after an educational experience.

“We’ve taken an animal into a classroom and had kids go home and tell their parents that they met a puppy, and that they’d like to get one,” Davis says. “The next day, the parents are here.”

But it’s not just about adoptions. The outreach component is centered around teaching children about bite prevention, responsible pet ownership, and proper MAY 2021

ways to treat an animal.

“It’s also about teaching them about serving their community, and when they’re old enough, they can volunteer, foster and donate,” says Davis, noting that she’s often seen children fundraise for animals or donate their birthday money to the Humane Society.

Pets Healing Vets is a program that pairs Hoosier veterans suffering from PTSD or traumatic brain injury with shelter animals.

“We truly believe in the healing power of pets,” Davis says.

Unfortunately, cost is often a large barrier to veterans adopting a dog or cat.

family member, so we pay for all of the pet’s care for the life of the pet,” Davis says.

It’s rough when an animal comes into the Humane Society either injured, malnourished, mistreated or ill. Watching them persevere and work with staff to get better, and eventually adopted into a perfect home, is what makes Davis and her team cry happy tears. Thankfully, there are many success stories. Take Taylor, a pocket pit bull who came to the Humane Society as a puppy with a chronic cold. She kept coming down with pneumonia and getting hospitalized, but after seeing a specialist, they learned she had a severe case of doggie asthma and needed to be treated with a nebulizer twice per day.

“We wanted to be able to give those veterans “No one wanted to adopt her because of a chance to heal with an animal that can her condition, so she sat here for more become an emotional support as well as a

than a year, but then it happened - the thing I’ve seen happen many times,” Davis says.

“Someone walked in the door, pointed to Taylor and said, ‘That’s my dog. She’s the one I want.’ ” Taylor’s now living her best life and enjoying what it feels like to live in a home with a loving family.

“That is what it’s all about,” Davis says.

The new address for the Humane Society for Hamilton County will be 10501 Hague Road in Fishers. For more information, visit hamiltonhumane.com. To make a donation, visit Brighterfuturewishlist.com.

ALL INGREDIENTS MADE WITH PURE INGREDIENTS FROM LOCAL FARMS! • Customizable Dog Bandannas • Organic Grain Free Treats • Wellness Products

We ship to you! *All treats tested by the FDA

Family owned Dog Bakery MAY 2021

765-469-5691 WESSONSCANINEBAKERY.COM

Elegant assisted living at an affordable price.

Be close to the city and close to the grandkids.

Lake Meadows SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE AMENITIES AND SERVICES OF OUR COMMUNITY WHILE ENJOYING YOUR RETIREMENT YEARS. • 3 meals a day, restaurant-style • Keep your independence but have assisted living support & care when needed • Pet-friendly

• Exciting and fulfilling life enrichment activities and outings • Beautifully landscaped fishing pond & walking trail

• Accepting Aged & Disabled Medicaid Waiver • Visiting and telehealth physicians • On-site therapy - physical, occupational, and speech

Call Today to Schedule a Personal Tour: (317) 759-0166 | lakemeadowsal.com | 11570 E 126th Street, Fishers, IN MAY 2021

LOOKING SHARP SHarper Surgery, Spa & Salt Lounge Helps Patients Look and Feel Their Best

MAY 2021

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographers / Janelle DeWolf/Studio 116

The pandemic has offered us ample time for self-reflection, and many of our “normal” behaviors have changed. We now routinely wear masks, social distance, and spend countless hours staring at our faces on computer screens.

“We have heard from a ton of people saying that they didn’t love what they were seeing during their online meetings, and they wanted to do something about it,” says Dr. Jaime Harper, obesity medicine physician and Master injector at SHarper Surgery, Spa & Salt Lounge.

The practice’s team has worked together for four years at their Avon location, and in January opened a new state-of-theart facility in Fishers that offers plastic surgery options for breast, body and face, as well as a medical spa that features body contouring, injectables, skin rejuvenation and wellness. SHarper provides a wide range of noninvasive, minimally invasive, and surgical options for patients.

“Some people may be intimidated by the term ‘medical spa,’ or they’re scared of plastic surgery, but our team is made up of working moms who share the same issues and concerns as our patients,” Dr. Jaime says. “We invite you to come in, share your concerns and we’ll discuss all the options available.”

During the consultation appointment, a member of the team will go over the patient’s aesthetic goals, assess their anatomy, and have a discussion about realistic expectations regarding what can be done. They’ll also discuss cost in a completely transparent manner, without any hidden fees or charges.

depending on the patient’s needs and concerns, including Kybella, a nonsurgical injectable technique used to target fat beneath the chin. While a patient may come in seeking a face-lift, after consulting with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Stanley Harper they may find that another option makes more sense.

“We know that everyone has a beauty budget, and we’ll work with you to stay within it,” says Dr. Jaime, who also promises that the practice will strive to never make clients wait for services.

“We’re able to look at you and objectively assess what you may, or may not, need to achieve your desired results.” Dr. Jaime says.

“You can sometimes get a similar result with a noninvasive treatment that requires zero downtime.”

“I’m not going to quote you for a service and then ask you to wait for months to get it done,” Dr. Jaime says. “When you want to have something done, you want to do it right away, not six weeks down the road.

We strive to accommodate Botox, filler and facial treatments within a week, if not that very same day!”

Take the jawline/double chin - an area many people are concerned with. Because SHarper is both a plastic surgery practice and a medical spa, the team can offer a variety of options.

“You can go the surgical route, or we have FaceTite and CoolSculpting, which are less invasive treatments,” Dr. Jaime says.

In fact, the team offers five different treatment plans for the same area, MAY 2021

Dr. Jaime Harper originally trained in emergency medicine before becoming board-certified in obesity medicine, and then becoming a Master injector. Her husband, Dr. Stanley Harper is a board-certified plastic surgeon - the only one in Fishers.

“While there are other ‘cosmetic surgeons’ in the area, he’s the only true American Board of Plastic Surgery certified plastic surgeon in Fishers,” Dr. Jaime says, noting that her husband specializes in tummy tucks, breast surgeries and eye surgeries.

“Patients fly in from all over the country for him to operate on them,” says Office Manager, Amanda Loyd. “We’ve had patients from Boston, California, and Texas fly to Indianapolis for his surgeries. His tummy tucks and mommy makeovers are

“ Some people may be intimidated by the term ‘medical spa,’ or they’re scared of plastic surgery, but our team is made up of working moms who share the same issues and concerns as our patients.”

—Dr. Jaime Harper

among his most popular procedures.”

The practice has been responsible for success stories of all kinds. Dr. Jaime recently helped a patient who was selfconscious about her thin lips.

“We built up her lips and when she saw them, she became very emotional because she was so excited,” Dr. Jaime says.

protocols and beforeand-after pictures are being shared throughout the country.”

In addition, the practice is one of the first in Indiana to use InMode Evoke, a noninvasive facial remodeling treatment that Dr. Jaime calls a “game changer for treating double chins and jowls on the face. It works to tighten skin and reduce fat.”

The SHarper team consists of five experienced aestheticians and laser technicians and a nurse in addition to Dr. Stanley and Dr. Jaime Harper. These providers offer microneedling, facials, body sculpting and other noninvasive options.

The staff truly works as a team, so if a patient is seeing an aesthetician and has a question “Evoke has no down time to it, which is about something medical, they can get that unbelievable when you see the results you question answered. get,” Dr. Jaime adds.

The practice utilizes state-of-the-art technology, including the Morpheus8, a device that incorporates radiofrequency microneedling to send energy deep into the skin to fractionally reshape and contour parts of the face by stimulating collagen - creating a more youthful appearance by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and tightening the skin.

“Morpheus8 is one of our most popular treatments,” Dr. Jaime says. “In fact, our

The SHarper Spa location offers the first and only salt lounge available in Fishers. In addition to the Himalayan salt blocks featured, SHarper spa’s salt is piped in through a special device called a halogenerator to help with respiratory and skin issues.

“The salt lounge is helpful if you have a cough, throat irritation or allergies,” Dr. Jaime says.

“It’s also good for your skin, and it’s a soothing experience, especially after a hectic day.”

MAY 2021

During the 45-minute treatment, the halogenerator creates “sea air,” enabling guests to almost taste the ocean.

Many clients take advantage of the various membership programs available, which include the Platinum Monthly Micropeel Facial Membership, the Diamond HydraFacial Monthly Membership, the Ultimate Muscle Toning Membership, and the Unlimited Salt Lounge Membership.

Besides monthly discounts, the company offers 10% off all services with a membership.

SHarper Surgery, Spa & Salt Lounge is located at 11591 Yard Street, Unit 510 in Fishers. For more information including membership details, call 317-537-2043 or visit sharpersurgery.com.

V ISIT OUR CO N VE N I E NT GEIS T LO C ATIO N

20% OFF

116th & Olio (by Kroger) Fishers, IN 46037

Shredding Services

(317) 578-0094

(not valid on USPS products or combined with any other offer. Expires 5/31/21)

www.Fishers-in-5100.theupsstorelocal.com

LOOKING FOR A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL?

Allowing Dana to list your home, or help you find a new one, you will experience unparalleled professionalism, tenacity and grit!

Reach out today for an immediate response to your real estate questions.

DANA HUSTON-HOLT

317.439.8825 dhuston@c21scheetz.com GoingForSold.com

SHANE WELKER

Milestone Home Lending Sr. Mortgage Loan Officer 317.496.2782 / swelker@Milestonehl.com Milestonehl.com MAY 2021

FISHERS CARES

CITY-WIDE INITIATIVE SEEKS TO ELIMINATE STIGMA SURROUNDING MENTAL ILLNESS Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Eli Beaverson

About six years ago, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness and City Council Member Todd Zimmerman had an important discussion about the stigma surrounding mental health issues. They realized that a city-wide initiative, now known as the StigmaFreeFishers campaign, directed toward combating such stigmas, would be well worth the effort on a city-wide scale.

One major component of that campaign is Fishers Cares, the city’s latest structured effort to combat mental and emotional problems, and the stigma that can surround them.

“We wanted to get faith-based groups, non-faith groups, nonprofits and other businesses in our community together

for Fishers Cares,” Zimmerman explains.

“We’re trying to cross denominations and get people of all walks of life to come together and talk about the stigma of things like mental illness, anxiety and depression.

We need to get people to somehow start talking about their experiences so they realize they’re not alone.”

During a preliminary Fishers Cares brainstorming session in 2019, Zimmerman discussed ideas on how to structure a program to directly help those in need.

Representatives from more than 40 local organizations and nonprofits showed up.

Fishers Cares was officially launched and provides anyone in the community with an opportunity to schedule an appointment on the official StigmaFreeFishers website and meet at one of several Fishers locations with a trained volunteer for 30 minutes to MAY 2021

one hour.

“You can sign up online,” Zimmerman says.

“You can just meet someone or talk online and get away from whatever your situation is - basically anything that’s not a 9-1-1 situation, or a situation where you need licensed therapy,” Zimmerman says. “It’s a first line of defense. You’ll have someone to be a listening ear and allow you to talk about what’s bothering you or stressing you out.”

Anyone interested in participating can simply provide their name and basic contact information on the Fishers Cares website, such as an email address, to schedule an appointment. No personal information is collected or filed with the city.

“This is really the first step in a broader approach of trying to get the community to

Kevin Roth

Wendy Herrberg

rally around each other and trust each other, so we don’t see as many tragedies - if we can avoid one suicide or one home situation that gets out of control from stress, that’s what this is designed for,” Zimmerman adds.

Every Fishers Cares volunteer undergoes a basic training program known as Mental Health First Aid, and Zimmerman says that while volunteers aren’t offering professional help, they can be a simple sounding board for those who need to discuss issues, problems or stressful situations.

“If someone has cancer that doesn’t generally ostracize that person, but if someone has a mental health crisis, then sometimes the tendency is to keep that person at an arm’s length,” Zimmerman says. “Every human being has some sort of anxiety, so at that ground level we should be able to have conversations without ostracizing people.”

NEW!

Todd Zimmerman

Juli Ellis

Zimmerman stresses that all local entities are welcome to participate in Fishers Cares, including faith-based and non-faith organizations alike.

Zimmerman hopes the Fishers Cares program becomes one of many local initiatives that help to strip mental illness of what he says is an unnecessary stigma.

“We’re not focused on one particular type of group to get involved, whether that be one type of faith-based group or another,” he says. “This is about meeting wherever you can - a cafe, a church, a mosque or wherever - and having a talk.”

“We really want people to sign up and be leaders by not being afraid to meet up with someone for coffee and just talk,” he says.

“There’s nothing wrong with that. The problem with successful communities is we tend to hide things behind closed doors, and that can spill over into ugly situations.”

According to Zimmerman, in 2014 there were 151 immediate police detentions in Fishers.

“An immediate detention is where an officer goes to a home and is forced to temporarily detain an individual at risk of hurting themselves or others,” he says. “Back in 2015 when we first started thinking about StigmaFreeFishers, that was one of the things we looked hard at and wanted to change.”

During the pandemic, much of the Fishers Cares program moved to online appointments. For additional details and updates on StigmaFreeFishers and the Fishers Cares program, visit stigmafreefishers.com, which includes an appointment scheduling page and you can also visit fisherscares.com. To learn more about volunteering for Fishers Cares, contact Todd Zimmerman at zimmermant@fishers.in.us.

You can now purchase advertising in this magazine online! Visit our virtual media kit and purchase any of our print, digital, and social media ad packages.

TOWNEPOST.DIRECT

new business

BOOST MAY 2021

317-576-9393 holtdentalindy.com 7862 E. 96th St. - Fishers, IN

Available exclusively at

Pippa Mann, Omologato Watches brand embassador

Faith Blackwell, photographer

8150 Bash St., Castleton MasterJewelersIndiana.com (317) 845-5004

GETTING INTO A ROUTINE ISN’T EASY. UNTIL ONE DAY, IT IS.

Multiple locations to serve you.

NO JOIN FEE MAY 1-15 INDYMCA.org/Join

MAY 2021

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 29

ON THE BALL LAWRENCE NORTH’S JAYLA SMITH IS THE 2021 INDIANA MISS BASKETBALL

30 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Amy Payne

In Indiana, basketball is a way of life. Logos of beloved sports teams adorn the sides of barns in rural parts of the state. Families stand divided in the IU-Purdue rivalry.

And each year, one deserving high school basketball player is named Miss Indiana Basketball.

Lawrence North High School senior Jayla Smith was named 2021 Indiana Miss Basketball. The shooting guard was also named to the 2021 Indiana All-Star team.

The state’s coaches vote on the award.

“Coach [Chris] Giffin has coached a bunch of amazing players, so to be recognized among other great players is a very high honor,” Smith says.

At 5’11”, Smith may not be the tallest on the team, but she is the all-time leading scorer for the Wildcats.

“For me, it wasn’t about being the all-time leading scorer,” Smith says. “I was just trying

to get the ball into the basket. It was more about my teammates and me winning games.

I feel like they all came along with me.”

Smith started playing basketball at a young age.

“I’ve been playing organized basketball since fourth grade,” she says. “I’ve always loved the game and grew up around other family members who played as well.”

Her love of the game is coupled with a love of hard work.

“You have to have a passion for it,” Smith says. “My passion for the game is all about the hard work. To be a great player you have to work hard, over and over and over. I’m very competitive, and I love to be the best.”

After graduating this year, Smith will head to Purdue University to continue her athletic and academic career. She will be the first Indiana Miss Basketball to attend Purdue since Karissa McLaughlin from Homestead High School in Fort Wayne won the award in 2017.

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 31

competitive, she combines it with humility and hard work. She’s always thinking about the team. What makes her stand out from all the other athletes I’ve had come through this program is those three things combined.”

“I chose Purdue number one because it’s a great school,” Smith says. “I also wanted to be close to home. I wanted my family and friends to be able to come to see me play. I know playing at the next level will be hard work, but I’m looking forward to being part of the team and showing how hard I can work. I’m also excited to learn under great coaches.”

see what the future holds, but it has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl.”

Giffin has coached Smith since she was a freshman at Lawrence North.

“For Jayla to be named 2021 Indiana Miss Basketball is just unbelievable,” he says. “It’s an honor first and foremost for Jayla and her family. It’s also amazing for the school and the program. To watch Jayla grow, develop Smith will study organizational leadership, and hopes to own her own business one day. and achieve so many things individually and as part of a team is very special. To see it all culminate with her being named Miss “I don’t know what kind of business I’d Indiana Basketball is extremely special.” like to own just yet,” Smith says. “My dad owns his own business, so I see how hard Giffin attributes her success to her work he works and how much goes into it. I just ethic and competitive nature. know I want to be in a leadership role.”

While she wants to own her own business in the future, she also dreams of a future in basketball after college.

“I’ve always wanted to go pro and play professional basketball,” Smith says. “We’ll

“For most athletes to be successful, they need to have competitive personalities, but Jayla has taken that competitive spirit to the next level,” he says. “She’s ultra-competitive but also a hard worker. She has an amazing passion for the game. While she is extremely 32 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

Smith is honored to be in the company of other talented female basketball players before her.

“It’s truly an honor,” she says. “I’m just happy to be in the same group as the previous winners. The honor could have gone to a lot of other people. I know that.”

Smith finished her time on the court at Lawrence North as a state champion, an All-State selection and a McDonald’s AllAmerican Game nominee.

In her free time, Smith likes spending time with friends shopping and dining out.

“Basketball is nonstop, but when I see that free time, that is what I’m doing,” Smith says.

Smith will live out her Indiana basketball dream while competing at Purdue University. It appears that the Smith family knows which side their allegiance falls on, when it comes to the IU-Purdue rivalry.

Flipped Out HAIR SALON

Flipp Hair

11862 O FISHERS 317-5

ESTHETICIAN AND MASSAGE ESTHETICIAN THERAPY NOW AVAILABLE

CUSTO

CUSTOM CUTS

CUSTOM CUTS

DIMEN CO

DIMENSIONAL COLOR

DIMENSIONAL COLOR

STRAIG

KERATIN STRAIGHTENERS

KERATIN STRAIGHTENERS

EXTEN

EXTENSION EXTENSION

MICRO

MAK APPLI

MAKE-UP APPLICATION MAKE-UP APPLICATION MANICURES AND PEDICURES MANICURES AND PEDICURES

EYE EXTEN

BOTOX AND FILLERS BOTOX AND FILLERS

MANICU PEDI

JEWELRY

JEWELRY

ESTH

EYELASH EXTENSIONS EYELASH EXTENSIONS

MAS THER

317-576-1010 | FlippedOutHair.com | 11862 Olio Road, Fishers 46037 Open Monday - Saturday: 9-5 & Sunday by Appointment Only 24 Stylists & 2 Nail Technicians in Private Studios

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 33

THE DRIVE TO SUCCEED

AYRTON HOUK IS PURSUING HIS RACING DREAMS

Writer / Lynda Hedberg Thies Photography Provided by Harpo Photos & the Houk Family

One day Ayrton Houk hopes to hear the most famous words in motorsports - “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines” - at the Indianapolis 500, which is known as the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” He is well on his way to making this dream a reality. In his first race of the season, Ayrton won the pole, won fastest lap, placed first and led every lap of the main event at the Day Transportation Mel Kenyon Midget Series Dick Jordan Classic at the Anderson Speedway in April.

Ayrton was born into a Hoosier racing family, is named after a famous driver, is entrenched in the racing community, is winning races, and has the dedication, passion and work ethic to make it happen.

34 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

While Ayrton is not an Unser, Andretti or Foyt, he was named after the famous Brazilian racing driver, the three-time winner of the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship, Ayrton Senna. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time. Senna was once quoted as saying, “Racing, competing, it’s in my blood. It’s part of me, it’s part of my life; I have been doing it all my life and it stands out above everything else.” Ayrton is living up to his namesake as racing clearly was coded into his DNA, and he appears to have Lucas Oil in his veins.

Born into a racing family, his father Kevin Houk raced off-road motorcycles and gokarts, and was the crew chief for a USAC midget team. Ayrton attended his first race at just six weeks old, and by the age of 2 was asking his parents for a motorcycle. In an effort to delay this idea, they told him it wouldn’t happen until he could ride a bicycle around the block without training wheels.

Undaunted, Ayrton simply got on a bike without training wheels and rode around the block by himself wearing only a diaper.

By the age of 5 Houk had joined the family in enduro races every weekend, and by the age of 7 he had won his first championship series trophy. That’s when he became interested in go-karting. By the time he turned 12, the family had spent more than a decade living out of an RV on many weekends, participating in family BMX and

enduro motorcycle races.

With Houk’s interest in go-kart racing, the family headed up to the New Castle Motorsports Park.

“We paid a pro to drive Ayrton around the track to see if he even liked it, if he had any talent, and to see if it was even worth it, and he would not come off the track,” says Houk’s mother Anna Lynn. “He drove so long he literally was falling asleep. The pro pulled him in and told us he can definitely do this, and gave him the checkered flag to go ahead.”

Ayrton says he fell in love with racing that day, and knew it was what he wanted to do with his life.

Five years later the family added go-kart racing to Houk’s repertoire and invested in their first go-kart. Since that time his passion for racing has grown exponentially, and he has increased the intensity of his training. He was invited to participate in the Lucas Oil School of Racing, trained with Indiana racing legend Mel Kenyon, and added midget car racing to the mix.

Because of his family’s involvement in the racing community, they have developed great friendships through the years. One of those family friends is IndyCar driver Scott Dixon and his wife Emma, who have taken an interest in Houk’s career.

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 35

“I’ve known Ayrton for many years now since he was a young boy doing BMX motocross stuff,” Dixon says. “My wife and I helped fund the first purchases of Ayrton’s go-kart to help him at New Castle Speedway, and to see his progression in race craft and just his ability to adapt even to new categories has been very good. I’ve seen that with the junior categories and Formula cars, which has honestly happened very recently.”

In the past two years, Houk’s career has been getting revved up. The family knew they needed to hire someone that could take them to the next level. Houk and Brad Hayes Racing partnered in a unique dualpath driver development program for 2021.

Houk plans to compete in a mix of F1600 and Kenyon Midget races.

“Ayrton will pilot the team’s Piper DL7 F1600 car at some of America’s greatest road courses, and drive in the Kenyon Midget series on Indiana’s short tracks,” Hayes says. “I decided to work with Ayrton because he has a great personality, he has a good head on his shoulders, and knows this is about hard work and isn’t afraid. Plus, we have watched him at his races before we put him in our cars, and it is clear he definitely has talent. He is always progressing, always looking to get better.”

Houk knows that to be competitive, he has to take care of his body. He works with Jim Leo three to four days per week

May

is member preview month

at PitFit Training. Leo is the founder of the personal training industry for race car drivers, and trains drivers like Scott Dixon, Dario Franchitti, Will Power, Kasey Kahne, Sam Hornish and James Hinchcliffe.

“Ayrton is probably one of the hardestworking young drivers we have ever had in our program,” Leo says. “He is also one of the most respectful. It’s been a privilege to be part of his growth and I see a long career in motorsports for him.”

Book a FREE tour and social experience and see the value of being a member of the club.

A typical week for the 17-year-old Cathedral High School junior includes 6 a.m. weight training classes at the school, working 15 to 20 hours per week at Cortona’s restaurant, and 20 hours per week working with Hayes. In addition to the personal training sessions with Leo, Houk maintains a 4.2 grade point average.

10501 E 21st St. Indianapolis, IN

“He’s very well-rounded with a great family and great values, and I expect to see him keep progressing,” Dixon says.

“I certainly hope that we can continue to watch him in these next few years. I’m excited to see his progression and see him racing professional one day.”

(317) 894-3343 maplecreekgc.com

Houk’s Indiana-based team is actively seeking additional partners who share their passion for developing the next generation of racing superstars, and want to be part of Houk’s road to Indy. Those interested in sponsoring partnerships can contact Brad Hayes Racing at bradhayesracing.com/ayrton-houk.

36 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

MEMORABLE GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY

sleep time, and surprise her in bed with her favorite cup of coffee, a delicious breakfast, and a magazine or paper she loves. Then leave her alone to enjoy some peace and quiet. Unless she invites you in - in which case snuggle up, but don’t spill on the bed.

SPEND THE DAY TOGETHER No matter how many moms want time away on Mother’s Day, there are still some who just want to be surrounded by their loved ones. Some mommas would give everything to have all their kids in one place for an entire day or weekend. Get with your dad and/or siblings and try to have a full day planned, during which you all just hang out with your mom and add small surprises into the day, like ordering her favorite lunch or playing a family game.

DOCUMENT THE DAY

Writer / Abigail Hake Photography Provided

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and hopefully we will all be getting back to normal soon and visiting people and places more regularly. Thank goodness. Even though there may be some restrictions still in place, there’s no reason not to spoil mom this year. Here are a few options that are sure to inspire your Mother’s Day plans for this year.

BREAKFAST IN BED While this one might be overdone, it’s still special. I mean, how often is your mom not the first one up in the house? Give her some extra

However you spend the day, document it. Photo gifts are lots of fun, but one way to change this up is to give your mom an Instax camera or pull out the old Polaroid. Have her take photos all day long, and then compile and go through them at the end of the day. Be sure to have plenty of film. Add notes to the back of the photos at that time.

Write down silly moments and heartfelt notes, so when you pull them out next time you can remember the day like it was yesterday.

SEND HER SOMEWHERE Check your local shops and spas to see if they are offering anything special for moms. Maybe surprise her with a day away or a massage.

Maybe just send her to her favorite shop at the mall with a gift card, and

TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 37

to forget all the things we take for granted that mom does day in and day out - and do we always say thanks for those gestures? Well, this is your chance to thank her for all those things that you think about often, but don’t always verbalize. Write a thank-you note by hand and then slip it in the mail. The gesture of doing it ahead of time, and making sure to mail it so it will make it to your mom by Mother’s Day, will not go unnoticed.

HAVE A MOM “YES” DAY Hear me out, because this can be lots of fun. Make sure the whole family is available ahead of time, and then pop mom in the car and go. Give her the rules (whatever you choose), like spending no more than $100 or traveling no farther than 50 miles, and let her pick four or five things you have to do with her, no matter what they are. If you don’t know what a “yes” day is, look it up. It’s usually done for kids, but with mom at the helm, who knows what you’d give her time to pick out a few things she’d like. Sending her somewhere have to do without saying no? doesn’t mean you have to put her on a flight or send her to another country (although that gesture would be amazing). Whether you send However you spoil your mom this year, don’t forget to take it all in while you do it. Even though Mother’s Day is supposed to be all her to the spa down the street or on a girls weekend with her closest about mom, something we learned from the past year is that you friends, the time away will be much appreciated. never know what’s around the corner. Make sure to enjoy all the little things about the time spent with your mother. She’ll love it WRITE A THANK-YOU LETTER This seems like a simple gesture, right? Well, it is. However, it’s easy just as much as you will.

LOCAL EXPERTISE. GLOBAL EXPOSURE. As the Geist area representative on the top producing team at Encore Sotheby’s International Realty, I take great pride in offering an inspiring level of service to all clients. If you are considering the sale or purchase of a home, please contact me. I would be honored to help!

Patt y Torr

GRI, REALTOR®

Call Your REAL-TORR!

Patty Torr

SOLD

www.pattytorr.com (317) 697-3766 Diane Muench

Tracy Wright Team | Broker Associate

317.407.2900 | diane.muench@encoresir.com www.tracywright.net

F.C Tucker Company, Inc.

to Dr. Rempel. It’s a miracle!”

– Vicki, a Geist resident

Your Family Chiropractic Wellness Center

Ask about a FREE dinner at Murphys Crafthouse

JOHN P. REMPEL, D.C.

11685Fox FoxRoad Rd.(in Marsh 11629 • (317) 823-5800 Complex) • 823-5800 www.HealthZoneChiropracticGeist.com www.HealthZoneChiropracticGeist.com 38 / GEIST MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / TownePost.com

FREE

12 MONTHS NO INTEREST FINANCING AVAILABLE.

PAINT UPGRADE WITH SELECT TIMBERLAKE CABINETRY Valid 5/1-5/31

FREE

STAINMASTER COMFORT GEL PADDING WHEN PURCHASING STAINMASTER CARPET! *MUST BE INSTALLED BY DREXEL INTERIORS TO BE VALID* Valid 5/1-5/31

The one stop shop for Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Flooring Carmel Showroom

Indianapolis Showroom

3217 Shadeland Ave 14570 River Road Indianapolis, IN 46226 Carmel, IN 46033 317-405-9073TownePost.com / MAY 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE317-545-2174 / 39

In 2021 the final section of waterfront lots in Cambridge at Geist Lake will be available.

YOUR WATERFRONT PROPERTY IS WAITING

LAKE LIFE LIVING Find it on the shores of Geist Lake or on Lake Clearwater and Lake Killbuck in Anderson.

We are excited to present the final section of waterfront lots for sale in Cambridge on Geist Lake.

Find your perfect lot while they last and build your dream home on the lake.

Contact Rob Bussell for lot availability, pricing and to discuss financing.

(317) 845-0270 ext. 104 | Rob@RobBussell.com M A R I40N/ A L IMAGAZINE M I T/ EMAYD2021 L A/ TownePost.com ND.COM GEIST