Geist Magazine January 2024

Special Senior Living Section

GOING THEIR OWN WAY JOHN AND DIANE STORY DOWNSIZE TO TRAVEL NORTH AMERICA

JANUARY 2024

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Danny O’Neil

Advice for a Fulfilling Lifestyle

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

NAVIGATING SENIOR LIVING

10

PUBLISHER JUSTIN ‘JD’ BIEHL justin@townepost.com 317.294.7211 KEY CONTRIBUTORS LAILA ABDURRAQIB TRA DAVIS NATALIE GARGIULO CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING MARIA GONZALEZ-LOPEZ RENEE LARR MATT KEATING

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CREATING A WINTER WELLNESS GOING THEIR OWN WAY PLAN Hancock Wellness Center Helps Clients Take Charge of Their Health

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HELP FROM THE HEART

JANUARY 2024

24

TIP OF THE HAT

JANUARY’S GAME PAGE

Caring for Those With Dementia, and the Caregivers Too

16

SILVER SNEAKERS Promoting Health and Wellness for Senior Adults

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John and Diane Story Downsize to Travel North America

Cincinnati Bengals Center Ted Karras Nominated for Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award

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STAR STUDENT, ACCOMPLISHED ATHLETE

Lawrence Central’s Reid Hardin Named to Indianapolis Colts Indiana High School Academic All-Star Team

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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 COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 5

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

DANNY O’NEIL School: Cathedral High School Sport: Football GPA: 4.24

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

To say Danny O’Neil, a senior at Cathedral High School, had an outstanding season as quarterback and captain of the school’s football team would be an understatement.

Danny’s record speaks for itself.

Danny completed 186 out of 302 passes in 2023, for 2,068 yards.

He also scored 31 touchdowns and had 10 interceptions.

He was the city’s Offensive Player of the Year for both 2022 and 2023, and he was in the Indiana Football Coaches Association Top 50 for 2022 and 2023.

Danny’s father, Michael, says he and his wife, Tina, couldn’t be prouder.

“Our entire family feels incredible pride in all of Danny’s accomplishments,” Michael says. “It’s not just what he accomplished on the football field on Friday night that gives me such pride and joy. It is how he accomplished his goals. His mom, Tina, and I have always preached to always be humble and kind regardless of what is attained, and the accompanying notoriety. Danny has done this masterfully. There is not a hand he won’t shake, nor a kid he won’t talk to, being fully engaged.”

Michael notes that Danny worked hard the whole season.

“Danny’s grit and work ethic gave him an advantage,” Michael says.

“But being on a team, nothing is achieved alone. He had incredible teammates and coaches during his time at Cathedral that brought this season to its culmination. Although they didn’t make it as far as they would have liked - a state championship - they worked together as a team and made friendships that will last a lifetime.

Prior to the season starting, he trained five to six days a week, and he also found time to mentor and coach younger quarterbacks at 8 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

Pro X with his trainer, Anthony Morrelli. Danny helped Coach Bill Peebles prepare the game plan for the upcoming opponents on Friday nights, implemented the plan during the week at practice, and helped tweak the plays based on what he saw while watching hours and hours of film.”

Danny also achieved academic success during the school year.

He had a 4.24 grade point average, and he was an Academic AllState student. “Academics have always been the top priority in

our family,” Michael says. “My daughters, Morgan and Delaney, and now Danny, were and are blessed to attend a high school that puts that same priority on academics. We told Danny that Bs are unacceptable, so he really had no other choice but to attain As and he did. It is ingrained in his mindset to always seek excellence in every aspect of his life.”

Danny also found time to help his community. He did more than 100 hours of community service through Cathedral High School.

“He fulfilled these hours of service with an attitude of gratitude,” Michael says. “It is part of his makeup. It’s a get-to-do thing, not a have-to-do thing, all while exuding his characteristics of being humble and kind.

Christ calls us to be servant leaders. We have instilled this in all of our children. For those that have been given much, much is expected.”

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CREATING A WINTER WELLNESS PLAN

HANCOCK WELLNESS CENTER HELPS CLIENTS TAKE CHARGE OF THEIR HEALTH Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

With the onslaught of holiday parties, meals and cocktails, many people seek to create a winter wellness plan going into the new year. It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. Hancock Wellness Center in McCordsville offers support by creating a personalized exercise and nutrition plan.

Many people struggle with seasonal affective disorder or the winter blues during the winter months. Roeschlein says it’s imperative to have a plan to stay active, even when weather changes keep us inside the house more often.

plan. When clients come in, they complete a nutrition questionnaire that includes their nutrition goals, typical meals they consume, medical and weight history, and allergies.

The session is tailored to their specific needs.

“A lot of people aren’t doing the same day-to-day activities like mowing the “When a guest comes in, we offer them grass or just walking outside,” he says. “So what we call a No Sweat Intro, where we getting into the gym, even if it’s to walk on discuss their goals, determine where they’re the treadmill or lift some weights, helps at currently, and decide what would be best tremendously. Every time you work out, for the client,” says Sam Roeschlein, exercise you’re proving to yourself you can do it.” specialist. “We make a plan customized to each person. We offer group classes and A large part of a winter wellness plan at Hancock Wellness Center involves sitting personal training as well.” down with a nutritionist to discuss a food

“We discuss what their lifestyle looks like, and work together to create a plan and set goals that will help them move towards their goals,” says Michelle Graves, certified health and wellness coach, dietitian and nutritionist. “I will often have clients log their food intake using an app that connects the two of us, so we can run nutrition reports to see where their macronutrients and micronutrients land. I can then provide them with guidance and recommendations.

10 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

Also, I usually discuss the benefits of meal planning and how proactively planning meals can help you stay on track. We can bill insurance for this service, and some insurance companies may cover the cost as part of their preventative health benefits.”

Graves says the holidays can be a challenging time for some people, both mentally and physically. Creating a plan and having accountability from a professional, family or friends can be helpful during this season. She also advises her clients about incorporating fruits and vegetables into their winter diets.

“Fresh fruits and vegetables aren’t as readily available in the winter,” Graves says.

“However, it is important to continue to consume them as they are packed full of nutrition, which can provide many health benefits. I would choose frozen veggies as the next option since they are more readily available. You can cook them in different ways and use them in various recipes. Canned fruits and veggies are also an option. With these options, I would drain the liquid off the veggies to remove some sodium and choose fruits in their own juice.”

Hancock Wellness Center is located at 8505 North Clearview Drive in McCordsville.

For more information, call 317-335-6939 or visit hancockregionalhospital.org/location/ hancock-wellness-center-mccordsville.

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 11

JANUARY GAME PAGE JANUARY

Find in the grid.

When you the are done, ind the words in the the words grid. When you are done, unused letters in the theaunused in the Pick grid will spell a left to right, top rid will spell out hiddenletters message. them outout from hidden message.

Pick them out from left to right, ne to bottom line. Words can go horizontally, vertically and diagonally top line to bottom JANUARY line. Words can go horizontally, n all eight directions. vertically and diagonally in all eight directions.

Find the words in the grid. When you are done, the unused letters in the grid will spell out a hidden message. Pick them out from left to right, top W R I H I T M E T I T O N Y line to bottom line. Words can go horizontally, vertically and diagonally in all eight N directions.

Y O C I I A E U S R B O R

H E E K T B N K N A R O I A W R I H I T M E T I T O N Y T TN SY O T CY I RI EA EE URS HR A O RT U B O T EH EE V A R L R E A R E K T B N K N A R O T I AU N S TA YOR E E W E RNH YA P O TS UL A Y NT DT G T E E V A R L R E A R T U N S Y T S O R F T I A I S O J Y N D G A O E W N Y P S L A T HS EY W T ISA NI TS OD JS A T SB OER S F T C AT RH N E AE Y E WA BTE IS O T SNNUT T D S C A R N A T I O N U T E E I N T B L A N K E T L E YR T I N T B L A N K E T L E R T H EH EE A R M U F F S S B R L E A R M U F F S S B R L E TE IT B R FF Y YN N E IA I I BT TSS O O R E A R QS SMM R R O Z LZ UL U R NR RN Q O TT S SO O V B L I Z Z A R D Q W F G V B L I Z Z A R D Q W F QG Q

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HELP FROM THE HEART

CARING FOR THOSE WITH DEMENTIA, AND THE CAREGIVERS TOO Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

S

ix years ago, Jennifer Coy-Rash was busy raising her two young children when she began noticing that her mother could no longer find her way to her house or to the local library. She observed other odd behavior, too, so she had her 64-year-old mom evaluated, and she was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s.

A couple years later, Coy-Rash’s dad received the same diagnosis.

While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80% of cases, other types include dementia with Lewy bodies,

14 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

frontotemporal, and vascular.

microwave oven.”

When we think of the word “dementia,” we tend to think of memory loss, but it’s actually much more than that. According to Jessie Hillock, owner and founder of The Memory Compass, dementia is a loss of executive function.

It’s important to recognize the difference between normal aging and mild cognitive impairment. With normal aging, you may see changes in one’s ability to multitask, slowed thinking speed, occasionally struggling to find the right word, and sometimes forgetting names and appointments but remembering them later.

Also with normal aging, the individual experiencing these issues is the only one who notices them. Mild cognitive impairment, however, is when others take notice. In this instance, an individual’s

“We’re doing a disservice by thinking of dementia as memory loss,” says Hillock, a dementia care specialist. “A person may be able to name the day of the week and the president of the United States, but they can’t operate their cell phone or their

memory loss disrupts life. They experience confusion with time or place, they misplace things and are unable to retrace steps, and they may struggle with understanding visual images and spatial relationships, which can result in car accidents. Also, dementia patients lose their filter.

When communicating with someone with dementia, Hillock recommends joining the person in their reality, rather than trying to invite them into yours. For example, say your mother passed away five years ago and your father, who has dementia, asks you where his wife is. Rather than reminding him that she’s been deceased for years, it’s better to say, “I think she’s at the store right now,” or, “What would you like to tell her?”

Some people think taking their loved one to the gravesite will help them grasp reality, but that news just serves to confuse and overwhelm them.

Another common scenario with dementia patients is realizing that it’s best, for the well-being of all concerned, to take their car keys away. In this instance, what do you do if they keep asking for their keys? Rather than stating that it’s no longer safe for them to drive, it’s better to say, “I took your car to the shop,” or, “Your grandson needed to borrow your car.”

“This one is great because if they feel they are helping someone, that makes them feel useful,” says Hillock, who calls these little white lies “therapeutic fiblets.”

Karen Rogers (name changed to protect identity) says that providing her husband with a fake set of keys keeps him happy.

“Holding those keys makes him feel independent,” says Rogers.

One common complaint from families of dementia patients is their refusal to eat or drink. Asking them if they’re hungry or thirsty will likely be met with an upturned nose. If, however, you hand them a plate of food or a glass of water, they’ll often eat or drink it.

“Lead them to food and sit down with

them,” says Hillock.

if you have nothing left inside.”

Helping dementia patients find purpose is key. Hillock knows of a lady who leaves the same basketful of laundry for her mother to fold over and over because her mom wants to feel like she’s helping. You may have heard of dementia patients who are given a baby doll or a stuffed animal to “care for.”

While this works beautifully in some cases, Hillock points out that it can be anxietyprovoking for others if they are concerned that someone has abandoned their baby or their pet.

A dementia diagnosis can be a scary thing, but keep in mind that there are resources available to help you.

In 2021, 11 million Americans reported providing 16 billion hours of unpaid care for loved ones with dementia. Furthermore, the Central Indiana Council on Aging reports that one in six millennial caregivers who cares for someone living with dementia struggles with mental, physical and financial hardships because of their caregiving role. Therefore, it’s important that we acknowledge the importance of caring for the caregiver as well.

Jean Crane, a counselor at Care to Change, says this entails meeting physical, mental, emotional and social needs. This includes eating nutritious foods, engaging in proper exercise and getting adequate rest. It’s also crucial for a caregiver to cut out negative self-talk.

“Be less judgmental and more compassionate to yourself,” says Crane.

Also curtail your “what-if ” thinking, which only stirs anxiety. It’s better to focus on today, in the given moment.

It’s also wise to practice self-gratitude. “It’s impossible to be anxious and grateful at the same time,” says Crane.

Emotionally, you should identify, express and process your feelings. In other words, if you’re stressed, breathe. If you’re angry, punch a pillow. If you’re disappointed, confide in a trusted friend. Also, tend to your soul needs.

“What brings you rejuvenation?” asks Crane. “What fills your tank? You can’t give

Coy-Rash ended up connecting with a lot of great resources, many through the local senior center, which helped her navigate this new life with her parents. She now is well-versed in Medicaid waiver payments including eligibility criteria, finding providers, and the services that are covered.

“Connecting with the proper resources is so helpful,” says Coy-Rash.

Senior Citizens Organization, Inc., which serves Hamilton County and surrounding areas, gives members a safe place to meet for fellowship, and also provides information, services and referrals to local agencies and their services. Visit seniorcitizensorg.org for more information.

TIPS FOR HELPING THOSE WITH DEMENTIA • Be patient when their memory fails by letting them try again, and reminding them of what they were talking about.

• Make your conversations meaningful rather than just engaging in small talk.

When you enter into “their world,” they may have a lot to say. Let them guide the conversation, rather than asking them, “Remember when?”

• Avoid letting them read thrillers or watch crime shows before bedtime, because they may wake up thinking they are part of the scene. Stick with lighthearted books and shows in the evenings.

• If they are struggling to find the correct word, ask them to point to an object or gesture in order to communicate.

• Avoid towering over them so they don’t feel intimidated. Bend down to meet them at eye level.

• Speak slowly and clearly, and wait patiently for a response, as it may take 20 or more seconds for them to process what you said.

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 15

SILVER SNEAKERS

PROMOTING HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR SENIOR ADULTS Story & Photography Provided

As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly crucial for senior adults. The aging process brings about changes in the body, and regular exercise becomes a key factor in promoting overall well-being. In this context, Silver Sneakers emerges as a valuable program designed specifically for senior citizens, offering a gateway to fitness, social engagement and enhanced quality of life.

Silver Sneakers is a nationwide fitness program catering to individuals aged 65 and older, aiming to encourage physical activity in a supportive and enjoyable environment. The program provides eligible members with access to participating gyms, community centers and fitness classes at no additional cost, making it an accessible and inclusive initiative.

16 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

One of the primary benefits of Silver Sneakers is its focus on personalized fitness plans that cater to the unique needs and abilities of senior adults. Tailored exercise routines help to improve flexibility, strength and balance, addressing common concerns associated with aging such as joint stiffness and muscle weakness. By incorporating a variety of activities including aerobic exercises, strength training and flexibility workouts, Silver Sneakers ensures a wellrounded approach to senior fitness.

The social component of Silver Sneakers is equally significant. Loneliness and isolation can negatively impact the mental and emotional well-being of seniors. The program promotes a sense of community by fostering connections among participants.

Group fitness classes not only offer the opportunity to engage in physical

activity, but also create a supportive social environment, reducing feelings of solitude and enhancing overall mental health.

Silver Sneakers goes beyond the traditional gym setting, recognizing that diverse preferences exist among senior adults.

The program includes activities such as yoga, dance and aquatic exercise, providing options that cater to different interests and abilities. This variety not only keeps the workouts interesting, but also accommodates individuals with varying levels of physical fitness.

Regular exercise has been linked to numerous health benefits, and for senior adults, these advantages become even more significant. Engaging in physical activity through Silver Sneakers has been associated with improved cardiovascular health,

increased bone density and enhanced cognitive function. Moreover, the program helps to manage chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, contributing to an overall healthier and more active lifestyle.

The Silver Sneakers program not only benefits the individual participants, but also contributes to reducing health care costs associated with aging-related health issues.

By promoting preventive measures through regular exercise, the program plays a role in preventing falls, fractures and other health complications that can lead to hospitalization and increased medical expenses.

Silver Sneakers stands as a beacon of health and vitality for senior adults.

By combining personalized fitness plans, social engagement and a variety of activities, the program addresses the unique needs of aging individuals, fostering a holistic approach to wellbeing. As society continues to age, initiatives like Silver Sneakers play a crucial role in promoting healthier and more active lifestyles, allowing seniors to embrace their golden years with vigor and vitality.

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NAVIGATING SENIOR LIVING ADVICE FOR A FULFILLING LIFESTYLE Story and Photography Provided

Entering the realm of senior living retirement is a significant life transition, and in the digital age, a wealth of online advice awaits those seeking guidance on how to make the most of their golden years. From financial planning to social engagement to health and wellness, the internet offers a plethora of resources to empower seniors in creating a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

budgeting, investment strategies and navigating Social Security benefits. Online calculators such as those on the Social Security Administration website enable seniors to estimate their benefits and plan accordingly, ensuring financial security throughout their retirement years.

For seniors exploring various retirement living options, Retirement Living Financial planning is a critical aspect of and SeniorAdvice are invaluable a successful retirement, and numerous online platforms. These websites offer online resources cater specifically to seniors. comprehensive directories of retirement communities, assisted-living facilities and Websites like AARP and Kiplinger provide comprehensive guides on retirement independent-living options. With reviews, 18 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

pricing information and detailed amenities, seniors can make informed decisions about the living arrangements that best suit their preferences and needs.

Maintaining social connections is crucial for overall well-being during retirement, and online platforms facilitate meaningful connections. Social media networks like Facebook and Instagram allow seniors to stay in touch with family and friends, sharing life updates and photos.

Additionally, Meetup is a platform that connects individuals with similar interests, helping seniors find local groups and events

tips on using computers, smartphones and other devices. These resources help seniors overcome technological barriers, empowering them to stay connected, access information and enjoy the benefits of the digital world.

to participate in, fostering new friendships and community engagement.

To address the health and wellness aspect of senior living, A Place for Mom and Caring. com provide resources on health care services, home care, and senior-friendly exercise programs. Apps like SilverSneakers offer tailored workout routines for seniors, promoting physical activity and overall health. These resources empower seniors to proactively manage their well-being and enjoy an active lifestyle.

For those seeking intellectual stimulation

and lifelong learning, online courses and educational platforms offer a wealth of opportunities. Coursera, Udemy and Khan Academy provide a wide range of courses on diverse subjects, allowing seniors to explore new interests and expand their knowledge base. Many universities also offer free or discounted courses for older adults, enabling continuous personal and intellectual growth.

Technology assistance is readily available for seniors looking to embrace the digital age. Websites like SeniorNet and Senior’s Guide to Computers offer tutorials and

As seniors navigate the complexities of legal and estate planning, online resources such as LegalZoom and Nolo offer guidance on creating wills, trusts and other essential documents. These platforms simplify the legal process, providing seniors with the tools to ensure their affairs are in order and their wishes are clearly communicated.

By leveraging these online resources, seniors can navigate the complexities of retirement with confidence, embracing this new chapter with vitality and purpose.

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 19

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GOING THEIR OWN WAY JOHN AND DIANE STORY DOWNSIZE TO TRAVEL NORTH AMERICA Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 21

J

ohn and Diane Story have always loved to travel. When faced with the realization that their home was too big for the two of them, the couple decided to downsize. With their adult children living in South Carolina and Colorado, the pair decided to sell their five-bedroom Geistarea home, purchase a Ram ProMaster 2500 van, and travel the U.S. and Canada.

“We bought a brand-new, completely empty van and then outfitted it for our needs,” John says. “I spent the whole winter of 2022 building it out in the garage of our home. I added two layers of insulation so it stays warm. We wanted some light above the bed area, so I cut out part of the ceiling and added a boat hatch for a sailboat as a skylight of sorts.”

John also added the back seat of a golf cart to the roof as a seating area. The van has a shower, toilet, water tanks, mattress, kitchen

22 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

sink, three-burner stove, oven, interior water tanks, television with Blu-ray, and Wi-Fi. It was essential for the couple to make the van a functional home.

One major non-negotiable factor for Diane was safety, so John installed additional lighting and cameras on each side of the van.

They also added a safe to keep items such as phones, computers and passports safe while they’re out seeing the sights. Unlike traditional RVs, the van is also small enough to fit in one parking spot.

John and Diane say that while they do plan trips, they don’t necessarily plan how far they’ll drive each day, where they’re going or even where they’ll stay, until a whim hits them. They utilize Harvest Hosts, an RV membership program that allows travelers to stay overnight in unique locations like breweries, wineries, farms and golf courses across North America.

“We take a look at things like weather when we’re deciding where to go,” Diane says.

“Earlier this year we were going to head down to Florida, but the weather in the Outer Banks looked really good so we went there. We stayed in national parks and it was great.”

Of course the Storys also travel to see their children in Colorado and South Carolina, and Diane’s mother in southern Indiana, with many stops in between. Diane even convinced John to stop in Roswell, New Mexico, to visit the International UFO Museum And Research Center. She says they look at a map and choose whatever interests them.

The duo needed to downsize their belongings as well. They sold their furniture and rented a storage unit for family mementos like photos. Diane says she had

to get rid of most of her clothing because it simply didn’t fit in the van.

“We’ll go visit friends or family and it’s hard to convince them that we want to stay in our van rather than their homes,” Diane says.

“This is our home and we have everything in it. We enjoy living here.”

John says they’ve utilized the America the Beautiful National Park Pass and visited national parks like the Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, Carlsbad Caverns, the Smoky Mountains and Big Bend. He says they also like staying in state and county parks. John and Diane say they’ve made

lifelong friends along the way.

They’ve even figured out how to work out. The Storys joined Anytime Fitness and work out every day. They utilize the showers at the gym to save water in the van.

Occasionally they treat themselves to an overstay in a hotel to do laundry.

supportive and they love the idea of us seeing the county.”

So where do the Storys want to end up living after seeing all the beautiful places across the United States? They say, ironically, back home again in southern Indiana.

“We plan to do this for a few years and then think about purchasing a smaller home,” John says. “We keep an eye on the market and travel across the country in the meantime. Our kids have been very

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 23

TIP OF THE HAT

CINCINNATI BENGALS CENTER TED KARRAS NOMINATED FOR WALTER PAYTON NFL MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD Writer / Natalie Gargiulo Photography Provided

Cincinnati Bengals center Ted Karras has gone above and beyond touchdowns and tackles, earning a nomination for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award for his dedication to the Village of Merici (VOM), a local nonprofit that provides a supportive community for adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

a powerful force, generating substantial financial support to the special cause in his hometown.

At the center of Karras’ contributions is his initiative, The Cincy Hat. Launched in November 2022, the hat captured the spirit of the Bengals’ fan base and he raised over $1 million in sales within a year. More than The award, presented by Nationwide, $300,000 of the proceeds were donated to acknowledges NFL players who excel on the the VOM. field and demonstrate a passion for creating a lasting positive impact beyond the game in “We are able to dream a little bigger now their communities. because of Ted’s efforts,” says VOM Director of Development Karyl Davis. “It’s amazing Through the creation of custom hats, to realize we will be able to serve more Karras has turned a humble initiative into people in the coming years because of this.”

24 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

Karras has been a supporter of the VOM since entering the NFL in 2016. His personal commitment is shown through his $100,000 matching of donations, but most of all, his close relationship with the residents of Merici and the mission they share.

“Ted has fostered strong connections with the residents in our Lawrence community,” Davis says. “For years he’s been coming to game night, personally knowing each resident by name. He’s genuinely a friend to all. Often when Ted visits, there are no cameras. He’s totally embraced the Merici family’s mission and his impact has been truly transformative.”

Village of Merici residents have all become huge Cincinnati Bengals fans.

and innovative philanthropy can be on both the game and communities.

Matt Renie, one of Karras’s middle school friends, has been running the hat project.

“The nomination is a byproduct of how everything evolved, and Ted’s genuine dedication to the project and Merici,” he says. “The entire community of Cincinnati deserves so much of the praise as well, with over 11,000 people having bought our hats.

It’s been a cool thing to see so many people rally around something.”

The surprise nomination unfolded when Karras, unaware of the honor, visited Merici to spend time with the residents and host game night before heading off to the Super Bowl.

This sustained effort has significantly contributed to the VOM mission, allowing them to expand the number of adults they serve by 62% in the past 12 months.

“When you buy a hat or any of the gear, that’s a direct contribution to providing more living units and a variety of services and coaching at VOM,” Karras says. “You can never take being in the NFL for granted, and to be able to harness some of that attention for something good has been amazing.”

Karras’s nomination highlights how profound the impact of genuine compassion

“The residents got to be the first ones to tell Ted he was a nominee, which was really, really special,” Davis says. “It was a total secret and Ted had no idea what was coming.”

The Bengals sent a film crew to capture the news being revealed, marking a truly touching moment for Karras.

“The Village of Merici is such a family and community built on love, caring and service,” Karras says. “To be a small part of it and to get honored by helping them is one of the biggest moments of my life, and a

deep honor.”

During the week leading up to Super Bowl LVIII, the winner will be announced at the NFL Honors, a primetime awards special to air nationally on CBS February 8. Each nominee including Karras will receive up to a $55,000 donation. The winner will be granted a $250,000 donation to the charity of their choice.

Fans can cast their votes on social media platforms using #WPMOYChallenge along with the nominee’s name, or by voting directly at nfl.com/honors/man-of-the-year.

The nominee with the most collective mentions and votes will receive an additional $35,000 donation from Nationwide, demonstrating the power of community involvement.

“Ted has been our Merici Man of the Year,” Davis says. “He’s done so much for our organization and as a friend. More than anything, Ted spends time with the people we support and that means so much to everyone.”

To watch the nomination video “It takes a Village,” visit the Cincinnati Bengals Youtube channel.

Check out villageofmerici.org to learn more and vote for Ted Karras.

TownePost.com | January 2024 | 25

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STAR STUDENT, ACCOMPLISHED ATHLETE

LAWRENCE CENTRAL’S REID HARDIN NAMED TO INDIANAPOLIS COLTS INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC ALL-STAR TEAM Writers / Laila Abdurraqib and Tra Davis Photographer / Maria Gonzalez-Lopez

On November 28, Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics presented the Indianapolis Colts Indiana High School Academic AllStar Team. This year marks the 25th year of this academic and athletic honor. The team consists of senior football players who work hard on the field, but are also exceptional in the classroom.

Lawrence Central’s very own Reid Hardin 30 | January 2024 | TownePost.com

was selected as an all-star this year. Hardin is a third-year starter for the Bears football team, and one of their most prominent leaders on and off the field during the 20232024 season.

This year Hardin hit career highs in many statistics with 30 solo tackles, 23 assisted tackles and three sacks. He continues to show leadership on and off the field, playing

defensive end. He had an amazing senior season.

Hardin was not only a weapon on the field, but he was also a force in the classroom.

With an outstanding 4.5 grade point average, he is one of the top academic students at Lawrence Central.

Hardin has been playing football since he

was an adolescent. “My father played at Purdue in college, and he was always talking about it,” he says. “It really started with him and just watching football on TV.” Hardin was not always a Bear though. After his freshman year, he made the decision to transfer from Lawrence North to Lawrence Central. His coaching staff and teammates speak very highly of him.

“It’s recognition for what I’ve been working for,” Hardin says of the Academic All-Star Team. “I value academics, athletics and football the most in my life. it represents my values and what I’ve been working for. It’s been instilled in me at a young age from my parents. I guess I get it from them.”

“I VALUE ACADEMICS, ATHLETICS AND FOOTBALL THE MOST IN MY LIFE. IT REPRESENTS MY VALUES AND WHAT I’VE BEEN WORKING FOR. IT’S BEEN INSTILLED IN ME AT A YOUNG AGE FROM MY PARENTS. I GUESS I GET IT FROM THEM.” — REID HARDIN

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

“I want to go to college and I want to play football in college, and just excel like I am now, just on a larger stage,” he says.

“That’s what I’m going to do.”

“It’s a great accomplishment for Reid and his family,” says Lawrence Central Principal Franklyn Bush. “It shows that they have complete dedication on the academic side. It’s our responsibility to make sure we provide the opportunities and the access to all of our kids, and kids like Reid and others take advantage of it.

It just shows that anything is possible.”

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With the Bears season cut short by a tough sectional loss to their rival Lawrence North, the loss was a gateway for Hardin to capitalize on his success, on the field and in the classroom.

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With collegiate football in mind, Hardin is still trying to figure out what the future holds for him.

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