Noblesville Magazine November 2022

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Abby Pittman

FIVE TIPS FOR A FUN

WEEKEND

WELLNESS IGNITED Ignite Center 4 Community Brings Mental, Physical and Spiritual Programs to Locals

IU HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

Cancer Awareness Month

PETAL TO THE METAL

Karly Elbrecht Gets Back to Her Roots With Mobile Flower Shop

SIBLING SENSATION

Made-From-Scratch Baked Goods Are a Family Legacy at Debbie’s Daughters

THE VOICE OF THE HOOSIERS

Don Fischer Embarks on 50th Year as Radio Voice of IU

IN THE FAMILY

The Medicare Family Guides Clients Every Step of the Way

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KEY CONTRIBUTORS

AIMEE MACARTHUR / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING COLLEEN WOODRUFF PHOTOGRAPHY / DANIEL WOODY DAREN SHORT / DR. THOMAS BIRDAS / GOLDEN CARDINAL MEDIA JOE & SHELLY SCHWARZ / JULIE YATES / LORI KOPPOLD MATT KEATING / MELISSA GIBSON / MICHAEL DURR / RYAN KENNEDY

A

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Abby Pittman, a senior at Noblesville High School (NHS), believes serving as the school’s student body president has helped her learn leadership qualities that will help her for a lifetime.

“I am honored to be able to represent my school, and I enjoy planning events for students and staff, as well as gaining a better understanding of school events and operations,” Pittman says. “I enjoy working to better my school with a great team.”

Pittman has been actively involved in school government leadership throughout her high school career.

“I have been in student government during all four years of high school,” Pittman says. “I was the freshman, sophomore and junior class president, and this year I serve as student body president. I have been a very active member and have held positions such as head of numerous committees for

ABBY PITTMAN STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

homecoming.”

Pittman was also head of prom planning last year, and homecoming planning this year.

“I also worked as project leader on the opening of the courtyard at NHS,” Pittman says.

Pittman is also involved in many of the school’s numerous clubs and organizations.

“I am a member of student government, the principal’s advisory council, Peer Cell, and Miller mentors,” Pittman says. “Peer Cell stands for caring through empathy,

listening and linking. It is an organization of nominated students that received training in mental health support and strategies to aid and assist fellow students. It was about six weeks of training modules about different topics and how to help students in our school. The group also aimed to reduce the stigma around mental health.”

Pittman also enjoyed being a part of the school’s Young Life program.

“Young Life is a Christian ministry that works to support and lead students around the world,” she says. “I have been an active member of Young Life for the last six

years, and I am now one of the Young Life interns through the internship program at Noblesville High School. Young Life works to provide a space of safety and fun for students. Young Life also has summer camps and a large network of locations internationally. Over the summer I attend camp as a camper and as a WyldLife counselor. I spent two weeks as a member of the volunteer work crew as well.”

“Wyldlife is the middle-school branch of Young Life that works to accomplish the same mission as Young Life, but aimed at middle schoolers rather than high schoolers,” she continues. “This school year is my second year as a volunteer WyldLife leader in Noblesville, but I was also a student at WyldLife during middle school.”

Pittman also participates in NHS Unified Track, Unified Flag Football and Conservation Club.

In addition to school activities, Pittman

also finds a lot of time to get involved with various organizations in the community.

“I’m involved with the Noblesville Mayor’s Youth Council, and Stone Soup Children’s Theater, where I’m an assistant director,” she says.

Pittman is excited about her educational future. “I am hoping to major in environmental sciences or urban planning, and I am still undecided on my school choice,” Pittman says.

Pittman would like to continue helping people in whatever future path she decides to follow.

“I am very grateful to have been a member of the student government over the last four years, and I have enjoyed my experience immensely,” Pittman says.” I hope to be able to continue my passion for community service in the future. Go Millers!”

WELLNESS IGNITED

IGNITE CENTER 4 COMMUNITY BRINGS MENTAL, PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL PROGRAMS TO LOCALS

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Mary Beth Woehrle, founder and CEO of Ignite Center 4 Community (C4C), believes her mental-health program has helped numerous women find hope and improve their well-being.

She has been inspired by seeing many of them go on to lead healthy and productive lives.

“Ignite Center 4 Community is ‘Your Wellness Home,’ extending hope through acceptance, connection and community,” Woehrle says. “We have been blessed to serve women in our community by offering mental, physical and spiritual wellness through the IGNITE.TRANSFORM program. What we have seen over and over again, and learned through our work in IGNITE.TRANSFORM, is that the need extends beyond those in the program to

those in our community.”

Woehrle is excited about the future.

“We are blowing the doors wide open and extending hope by offering community mental-health talks and support groups,” she says. “We also have nutrition topics, seminars, physical wellness classes and spiritual development opportunities.”

Woehrle notes that the Ignite C4C team is taking a leap of faith to cast a wider net, and broaden their impact by offering all classes and events on the Ignite C4C schedule through donations. All donations for Ignite C4C support IGNITE.TRANSFORM, a nonprofit that utilizes mental-health counseling, fitness, and the love of God to transform the lives of the women participants.

“We are also partnering with other nonprofits and small businesses to create personalized wellness packages to their staff

and leaders,” she says. “We are empowering them to keep themselves well, so they can serve others well. In transforming this building into a Center 4 Community, our hope is that people feel welcome to come and take what they need, regardless of finances, whether that is attending a mentalhealth talk or Bible study, taking a physical wellness class, renting out the Connection Cafe for your event, or grabbing something from the New 2 You Fitness Boutique.”

Woehrle adds that every community needs a place where everyone can get mentally, physically and spiritually well.

“Ignite Center 4 Community’s impact has been felt by the number of people who have walked through our doors to start or continue on their path to wellness,” she says.

So far, 1,621 people have participated in a physical wellness class.

“We have also had 140 people who have participated in a Mental Health Matters seminar, and 128 people who attended a Spiritual Growth class,” Woehrle says. “We had 35 people attend a Purposeful Wellness event, and 25 people attend a Suicide Prevention course.”

By partnering with Recovery Community and other local nonprofits, they have been providing physical wellness classes for recovery and relapse prevention for LIFEhouse and Transformations Center for Healing.

“We provide personalized nonprofit and

seeking support for their mental health.

“Some of the comments I have heard from people include things like, ‘I love the community Ignite builds. You get amazing support, motivation and coaching. The hardest part is stepping through the door for the first time, but once you do, you find a place of community,’” Woehrle says. “I absolutely love that we invite people into their wellness journey right where they are, with no financial obstacles that could keep them from being able to improve their wellness physically, mentally and spiritually. All that we offer is like an à la carte menu. You can pick what you want to attend, from

Woehrle is always looking for new members.

“Join us for a physical wellness class,” she says. “You can also join us for a Mental Health Matters talk or a Spiritual Growth class.”

Donations for Ignite C4C can be made online at ignitetransform.org.

“You can also become a monthly donor, and remove the financial barrier so everyone in our community can receive services,” Woehrle says. “We want people to become an active member of the Ignite C4C wellness community.”

PETAL TO THE METAL

Writer / Julie Yates

Photography Provided by Colleen Woodruff Photography, Golden Cardinal Media, & Daren Short

W

hen Karly Elbrecht was growing up in the small Hamilton County town of Arcadia, her grandfather, Pappy, was one of her neighbors. At the time, his 1984 Chevrolet El Camino was no big deal to her, and occasionally she drove herself to school in it. Her friends always loved it though, and she would joke that one day she’d sell flowers out of the back of it.

Fast-forward to October of 2021. As a sales trainer for a software company that facilitates medical communication, and a busy mom to a toddler, Elbrecht was craving a creative outlet. In the past she and Pappy did some woodworking projects together, but she always had a fondness for flowers. She signed up for a flowerarranging workshop with Louloudi Fields in Noblesville.

“As a result of that workshop and making a connection with the owner of Louloudi Fields, Monica Pappas, the idea of Camino & Company was formed,” Elbrecht says. “Monica became the first flower farmer to come on board. My kidding around about using Pappy’s truck for a mobile flower shop ultimately came true.”

Pappy, who still lives near Elbrecht’s dad,

is happy to lend his vehicle each time Camino & Company holds a pop-up event, or partners with another small business by participating in their promotion. The vehicle is a hybrid truck model that was produced by Chevrolet from 1959 to 1960, and again from 1964 to 1987. It’s a fun, vintage venue from which to sell flowers and other products.

The “& Company” part of the business name is a nod to plans for the future. Elbrecht currently sells crocheted flower pillows in addition to flowers. She is looking for other small businesses and local makers to partner with, and either sell their products or collaborate for events.

“All the flowers I sell come from local growers,” she says. “Several such as Coppertop Flower Farm, The Howe Homestead and Local Sunnies are based in Noblesville. Since flower season ended with the frost, I’m doing seasonal events.”

Elbrecht is planning to hold winter wreath workshops and miscellaneous pop-ups. She has plans to collaborate with Wild Kard Vintage in McCordsville and SoChatti, a chocolate company in Indianapolis. In addition, she has provided flowers for a few weddings.

Elbrecht has a special place in her heart for small businesses. Her father owns a sign company in Arcadia, and at one time her mother owned a business. Now that she is a business owner herself, she has developed even more respect for what it takes to keep a business going.

“The world is so small,” she says. “Now, as a business owner, I am seeing firsthand how connected everyone is. It’s great to be part of a community where people want to see you succeed. Camino & Company has turned out better than I could have hoped for. I have learned so much since I started. It has brought me so much happiness. Pappy is one of the biggest supporters in my life, and I couldn’t chase this dream without him. I am so thankful for the opportunity.”

For more information on Camino & Company, go to caminoandcompany.com.

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THE VOICE OF THE HOOSIERS

DON FISCHER EMBARKS ON 50TH YEAR AS RADIO VOICE OF IU

Writer / Ryan Kennedy Photography Provided

Legendary radio broadcaster Don Fischer begins his 50th year as the radio voice of Indiana University football and basketball this season, but he almost didn’t make it through his first game.

“To tell you how much of a fool I was the first game that I did for IU, because I was from Illinois and I’d always heard ‘the University of Illinois’ - I wasn’t even thinking about Indiana University, and that would be the only thing you could call it because obviously that’s what Indiana University is,” Fischer says. “They don’t want to be called University of Indiana three times in the first half of the first game that I did for IU. I called them the University of Indiana, and the phones at our radio station lit up like a Christmas tree. It was that bad. I thought, ‘There’s a chance I might get fired

after my first gig here.’”

A native of Rochelle, Illinois, Fischer, by his own admission, wasn’t a great student. It’s not that he wasn’t smart - he just didn’t like school. College was out of the question. After he graduated from high school, Fischer wasn’t sure what he wanted to do with his life. He had several jobs. In the eight months after graduation, Fischer says he worked five different jobs. Finally, he got a job as a ticket clerk for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad in Mendota, Illinois. He worked the night shift.

One night, about seven months into working for the railroad, Fischer was flipping through a Sport magazine during a break at the depot when he saw a full-page ad for a home correspondence course from a broadcast school out of Wisconsin. “I looked at that and I went, ‘You know what?

I may not have been a great athlete, but I got to play a lot of sports from the time I was about 8 years old on up, and I think I can become a sportscaster,’” Fischer says. He signed up. Records of the lessons, a workbook and a tape recorder arrived in the mail, and Fischer’s journey to becoming a legendary play-by-play announcer began.

Fischer got his first job in radio at a small station in Butte, Montana. Fischer heard from a friend who’d already gone out there that the station was hiring. Despite being only halfway through his correspondence course, Fischer sent the station one of his tapes. The station called him a week later. “They said, ‘If you can get to Butte, Montana, for an interview, there’s a good chance we can hire you,’” Fischer says. He took a 48-hour train ride to interview for the position. A week later they hired him.

In Butte, Fischer worked the night shift as both a radio DJ and the station’s janitor. He worked there for about 15 months. Fischer returned to his home state, where he got his first shot at doing play-by-play, calling games for local high schools in Ottawa, Illinois. From there, he got a job at a radio station in Terre Haute, Indiana. Fischer says he called 175 games per year at every level of sport. “We did football, basketball, baseball, Babe Ruth baseball,” he says. “We did softball games. I was doing play-byplay almost every night of the week.” He was even calling junior football games out of the back of a pickup truck, with a blind color analyst. “It got me rolling as far as my play-by-play career was concerned, and I just had a great time with it,” he says.

When Indiana University granted exclusive broadcast rights to WIRE radio station in Indianapolis, Fischer got a call from a friend telling him that the station was looking for someone to call play-by-play for IU football and basketball games. Fischer, along with 270 other hopefuls, sent the station a tape and a resume. A few weeks later he got a call to interview for the job. Soon after, he was named the first official voice of Indiana University football and basketball, a title he still holds five decades later.

Fischer has broadcast more than 2,100 Indiana University games. Included in that number are 12 bowl games, five NCAA basketball Final Fours, four NCAA championship games and two NIT championship games. He’s won Indiana Sportscaster of the Year 27 times by the National Sports Media Association, and four times by the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association. He was inducted into the Indiana Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame in 2010. Indiana University awarded him the J.W. Bill Orwig Medal, an award given to non-alumni for distinguished service to the university.

When Fischer started calling IU games, they were broadcast over a telephone line. Now, everything sounds like it’s recorded in a studio. “It’s just a totally different business than when I started out, but the truth of the matter is, the games haven’t changed that much,” he says. “Style plays and things like that change a lot over the years, but the game itself is still football. The game itself is still basketball, and from that perspective, that much has not changed. That’s why I love doing what I do, because I’ve been able to do my style of football and basketball broadcasts for the last 50 years.”

Fischer says he developed his style listening to the likes of the Chicago Cubs’ Harry Caray and the St. Louis Blues’ Dan Kelly. Much like an athlete watching tape of a previous game, Fischer listens to his broadcasts, noting what he did well and what needs improving. He pays special attention to make sure he’s not repeating himself. Play-by-play is spontaneous. Fischer doesn’t think about what he’s saying while he’s saying it, but he takes care to avoid using the same terminology for certain types of plays.

Preparation is key. Fischer reads everything he can get his hands on leading up to a game. He learns about storylines and stats,

as well as stars for opposing teams and how they’re playing. He talks to sports information directors to get the correct pronunciations of players’ names. All of this is in the service of providing the audience with an objective, informative and entertaining listening experience. “It boils down to just knowing your product, being prepared to utilize the experience that you have, and you get into a groove with it,” he says. “Once you get into it, it’s not that difficult at all, but it takes a while.”

Fischer’s voice is the soundtrack to some major moments, not just in Indiana University history, but also in the history of college sports. Fischer says he doesn’t have a favorite call, but the 1976 national championship basketball game, when Indiana University won the title to finish the season undefeated, holds a special place in his heart. “It was emotional for me,” he says. “I was 29 years old at the time, getting the job when I was 26 here. I had tears running down my cheeks. It was so emotional in that sense. I don’t think you could tell that I was bubbling up with tears on the radio, but it was just a fun thing to be a part of. It’s always been a vivid memory for me.”

Fischer claims his memory isn’t as good as it used to be, as he breaks down Keith Smart’s famous game-winning jump shot with six seconds to go in the 1987 NCAA national title basketball game, and recalls the wind changing directions in the third quarter of IU football’s win over the University of Michigan that same year. “I’ve had so many opportunities to call some broadcasts that turned out to be kind of historical performances, so I can’t pick out just one,” he says.

Even after 2,100 games, Fischer says he still gets nervous before the season starts. He compares it to the butterflies athletes get before they play in a game. He says he goes into every season optimistic, even if a team is coming off a disappointing year. “That’s certainly the way I feel this year too,” he says. “So my 50th year doesn’t feel a great deal different than it did back in 1973 when I started in Indiana.”

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TOURISM SPOTLIGHT

HOLIDAY IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA

Start planning your holiday experiences at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/holiday.

fourth year, experience a unique holiday event and make new family traditions. Take a winter wonderland stroll from 1836 Prairietown to 1863 Civil War Journey and be dazzled with a new set of holiday lights.

MAGIC OF LIGHTS

CARMEL CHRISTKINDLMARKT

After a year hiatus, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt returns. Do some holiday shopping and check out the authentic products imported from Germany, like wooden toys, nutcrackers, music boxes and ornaments. Don’t miss the collectible items like the boot mug and Bierkrüge for adult beverages.

While you’re shopping, sip a hot mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot cocoa. Come hungry to enjoy a German pretzel, Bratwurst, Lebkuchen (German cookie), Raclette (melted cheese served on bread) and Stollen (dried fruit bread).

Along with vendors to shop, the market will include the Ice at Carter Green skating rink. A Merry Prairie Holiday

Celebrate the season with A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie! Back for its

Don’t forget to take a ride on Kringle’s Carousel or get a rush zooming down the 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill. See the Conner House transformed into a magical 3D projection capturing the nostalgia of the holidays

Ruoff Music Center will celebrate the holiday season with the return of the popular holiday lights event. “Magic of Lights” is a family-friendly drive-through holiday lights display. This is an experience designed for you to enjoy the lights and displays from the safety and comfort of your car. Nearly a million lights sparkle along the route.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Make your list, check it twice and shop local! Mark your calendar for Small Business Saturday Nov. 26. Popular one-stop shopping destinations include Clay Terrace, Carmel City Center, Hamilton Town Center, the Nickel Plate District, Fishers District and the Historic Noblesville Square. Each has free parking nearby and local restaurants to take a break from your shopping adventure.

REINDEER EXPRESS

All aboard the Nickel Plate Express for a fun-filled train excursion! Celebrate the season and help Santa deliver all the presents on time during this festive ride. Sing carols, enjoy a cookie and cocoa, and see Santa himself!

The train is festively decked out in Christmas lights. Adult beverages will be available for purchase on board. Your ticket includes the ride, time with Santa, and a cookie and gift from Santa.

HOLIDAY SHOWS

Live music is back, and there are plenty of toe-tapping shows on the calendar this holiday season. Get your tickets for performances of “A Christmas Story” at Civic Theatre, or concerts like “Festival of Carols” at the Palladium at The Center for the Performing Arts.

For a full list of holiday events and festivities, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com/holiday and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Five Tips for aFun Thanksgiving Weekend

Writer / Aimee MacArthur Photography Provided

It’s time for turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, and a big slice of pumpkin pie with a dollop of whipped cream. I’m hungry just thinking about all the delicious sides I’m going to put on my plate. Thanksgiving isn’t just about food, however. It is a time to celebrate with friends and family. While it can be a stressful weekend, I am here to help alleviate some of the stress with a few pro tips I’ve learned through the years.

I’ve experienced every kind of Thanksgiving weekend - traveling and visiting more than one Thanksgiving celebration, going out to a restaurant instead of cooking, hosting a large group, and being a guest. Between us, some weekends were more stressful than others. It doesn’t have to be. I learned that I need to squeeze in some fun for myself and family. The weekend should be fun for you. It’s a time to be grateful, but also to take care of yourself. Let’s have the best Thanksgiving weekend ever. Whether you are a host or guest, here are five tips for a fun Thanksgiving weekend.

ESCAPE BRUNCH AND SHOP

It may seem silly to go out to eat when you already have a lot of leftovers and a stocked fridge. My dad says going out to breakfast or brunch reminds him of being on vacation. I agree. It’s relaxing, and you get an early start and have the whole day ahead to do whatever you want. The best part of going out to brunch? That’s easy - no dishes. It is a win for everyone.

After my family goes to brunch on Thanksgiving weekend, we always like to do a little shopping. We make it a point to try and shop at local stores, and use the weekend to support small businesses. Bring a holiday list and use it as a time to grab a few gifts. I find that some small businesses will wrap presents or put them in a fancy bag with tissue paper. I always appreciate the personalized service small businesses provide.

STEP TO IT PARTICIPATE IN A 5K WALK OR RACE

After an entire day of delicious meals and desserts, it’s a good time to work off those calories. Even better, why not participate in a walking or running event during the holiday weekend? There are usually a handful of events happening on Thanksgiving weekend. Recruit your friends and family to participate or to be part of the cheering section along the race course. Many of these events have a small fee to participate, and often money goes to a charity or other worthwhile cause.

If there is no event in your area, visit a local park with friends and family and do some walking. Make it a goal to reach a certain number of steps during your walk.

EXPLORE YOUR HOMETOWN

PLAY TOURIST IN YOUR CITY

Take a break from shopping and play tourist where you live. I have the most fun when I am exploring my city. I love to visit my favorite places and also find new places to try. My family’s tradition is to go to the movies after Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a fun tradition, and a way to relax and be entertained.

If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition, try a few games of bowling, pool, or even a trivia night at a local sports bar.

If you’re looking for something a little calmer, my family enjoys visiting our local art museum. We can spend a few hours looking at the gorgeous works of art and chatting about which is our favorite. We also like to take a few family photos in front of the museum.

Don’t forget the kids. We like to include a kid-friendly outing during Thanksgiving weekend and our go-to place is the local zoo. My nephew loves riding the train and seeing the animals. We like to try to stump each other with trivia about the animals. The zoo is also a good place to take a family holiday photo.

RECHARGE

PAMPER YOURSELF

It is a busy weekend, but don’t forget about yourself. There is no greater priority than you. It’s all about self-care. Do something you really enjoy and find relaxing. Take time to schedule a haircut, manicure-pedicure, massage or other spa treatment. I already scheduled a chair massage and a haircut. I’ve always wanted to try yoga, so I might book a class with a friend.

If you enjoy reading, take some time to sit down and enjoy the latest page-turner. I enjoy a good biography and plan to read one during the holiday weekend. I’m also a fan of listening to podcasts and music. Find the self-care activity that makes you feel renewed and recharged.

DO GOOD

DONATE YOUR TIME

I feel good when I donate my time to my church or other local organization. Ask family and friends if they would like to spend an hour or two at a church or other place of worship, food pantry, or other charitable organization and provide help where it is needed. I’ve spent holidays boxing up food donations, planting trees and tutoring students. I have some family members who volunteer at a shelter every year and help serve Thanksgiving meals. I know other friends who volunteer at a local animal shelter. There are many organizations that need a little extra help this holiday season.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.

HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

LUNG CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

UNDERSTANDING THE ILLNESS

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Association for Cancer Research, lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in the United States and worldwide. It develops in tissues of the lungs. Treatments for lung cancer may include surgery, radiation, and different types of chemotherapy. The best treatment depends on the specific type of lung cancer, the cancer stage, and the patient’s general medical condition.

WHAT CAUSES LUNG CANCER?

Cells lining the airways of your lungs constantly grow and divide. Throughout your lifetime, they replace cells that are lost. This maintains the right number of living cells in your lungs. Cancer develops when

cells grow without proper regulation and too many cells build up to form a mass or tumor. The most common risk factor for lung cancer is cigarette smoking. Other lung cancer risk factors include secondhand smoke and exposure to radon and asbestos. Not everyone who develops lung cancer has smoked. In fact, about one in 10 lung cancer patients have no smoking history. Some patients with lung cancer do not have any particular risk factor that can be identified.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Many patients with lung cancer do not have any symptoms. Others may have symptoms that are non-specific and develop slowly. These include fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Some symptoms such as cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, and shortness of breath may also be caused by lung cancer but are experienced less frequently.

SHOULD YOU BE SCREENED FOR LUNG CANCER?

Lung cancer often does not cause any symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. This can make it more difficult to treat. For this reason, lung cancer screening is recommended for individuals who are at an increased risk. Screening is recommended for individuals between the ages of 50 and 80 who are currently smoking or who quit smoking within the last 15 years and have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history (one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years, etc.). Lung cancer screening saves lives, but the decision for screening is an individual’s choice. If you would like to discuss lung cancer screening, schedule an appointment to discuss your options.

To learn more about lung cancer, screening, and treatment options, visit iuhealth.org and search “lung cancer.”

Writer / Dr. Thomas Birdas, thoracic surgeon at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel

Dr. Thomas Birdas

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Writer / Melissa Gibson Photography Provided

Jessica Walls grew up with 11 siblings - five girls and seven boys total.

Under the late matriarch, Deborah “Debbie” Downs, the family baked quite a bit as the kids grew up, in preparation of large family meals and holiday get-togethers, prompting the young chefs to try their own recipes and learn how to make items from scratch.

Several members of the family continued to bake, becoming known for their madefrom-scratch baked goods. For Jessica it was a dream to own and bake in a small, neighborhood cafe, but she didn’t know the opportunity was just around the corner.

In 2018 Jessica and her husband Rocky purchased a 140-year-old building near a

residential area in Noblesville, with plans to eventually open their own business.

When the pandemic hit the U.S., things began falling into place for the couple.

“I had been baking for a long time, but there was a spike in people reaching out to me,”

Jessica says. “They couldn’t find certain things at the store like bread and specialty items, and were asking if I could make it. That prompted us to create a website and have an online presence.”

In addition, it gave the couple nearly two years to focus on renovating and designing the perfect space.

“The pandemic sort of brought a ‘someday’ plan to launching our creativity and things began moving a lot faster,” Rocky says.

Happy Customers

Caiti Patterson

They renovated the first floor with a brandnew commercial kitchen and casual dining area, creating a home-like atmosphere with natural lighting. Along with three of Jessica’s sisters, a brother, a brother-in-law, a sister-in-law and a niece, the family cafe and bakery finally came to fruition with a grand opening in June of this year.

At Debbie’s Daughters Bakery & Cafe, guests can enjoy a breakfast and lunch menu of soups, sandwiches, frittatas and seasonal treats. For instance, this fall customers will find a Turkey Apple Cheddar Panini, a Sweet Potato, Kale, Sage and Goat Cheese Frittata, and Butternut Squash Soup on the menu, to name a few.

Specialty drinks include the Apple Pie Chai Latte, Shagbark Hickory Latte and Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Their focus is on freshness.

“We use meat from a local butcher and get our vegetables from local farmers, and I think it really makes a difference,” Jessica says. “It makes the food so much better.”

They have continued to make everything from scratch including sauces, syrups, breads and more. While customers are enjoying the breakfast and lunch menu, the sisters are in the back, creating delicious baked goods.

“We often are inspired by the season and the fresh ingredients,” Jessica says. “There are typically cookies, cinnamon rolls, butter bars and seasonal items.”

Though the sisters are equally talented, each have their specialty.

Jessica makes a country loaf bread that Rocky calls “life-changing.” Her niece, Caiti Patterson, is an expert at the Pumpkin Spice

Latte and typically runs the front of the cafe.

Jessica’s sister, Allison Johnson, specializes in muffins, specifically blueberry crumble, and her other sister, Michelle Blanton, loves to make scones.

Jessica’s sister-in-law, Brittany Downs, loves to make syrups from scratch, and her brown-butter bars are a favorite among visitors.

“Mom passed away in 2013 but she always wanted us to work together,” Jessica says. “We named the cafe in honor of her and as our inspiration. We have been able to get closer through this process and I love coming in every day. We’re very fortunate to be able to work alongside one another.”

Preorders are available as well, for those who enjoy meal planning. Customers can order loaves of bread or packaged cookies

for a family meal or event. Each week, preorder selections are posted online, including a variety of pickup times at the cafe or local farmers market.

Not only do they get to work alongside one another, but they’ve also been welcomed into the Noblesville community with open arms.

“The Noblesville Main Street Farmers Market has been incredibly supportive,” Rocky says. “We started there in 2021 with

freshly baked bread and it’s been really key to getting to know the community. Noblesville is a walkable community and we now know people by name, and they’ve been so welcoming.”

The owners recently held a pop-up pizza night, inviting the community over for a special meal. Rocky says they made as many pizzas as they could and still ran out.

They also plan to offer a smoked turkey sandwich as the calendar edges toward

Thanksgiving, and anticipate that the farmfresh specialty won’t last long, but not to worry, as there are more creative and community-building events to come.

“It’s a dream come true,” Jessica says. “We belong here.”

Debbie’s Daughters Bakery & Cafe is located at 1236 Conner Street, Suite 100 in Noblesville. For more info, call 317-6201277 or visit debbiesdaughters.com.

IN THE FAMILY

THE MEDICARE FAMILY GUIDES CLIENTS EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

Photography Provided by Lori Koppold of 10th Street Photography

Each day approximately 12,000 people turn 65 in the U.S., and one thing many have in common is feeling vulnerable when it comes to choosing the best Medicare plan.

“I’ve had university presidents, cardiac surgeons, and every other profession tell me that they’re embarrassed because they don’t know where to start,” says Sylvia Gordon, whose family has worked in the Medicare field for years. “You don’t need to know Medicare until you’re 65, so you shouldn’t feel bad.”

The good news is that you need not navigate these waters alone. The Medicare Family is a national company licensed in all 50 states, but this local Medicare Family, based in Noblesville, is a third-generation family business that lives and breathes Medicare

knowledge.

Sylvia’s mother, Margaret Gordon, started selling Medicare in the 1980s. Sylvia has now done the same for 25 years. Her son, Elliot Sharples-Gordon, is the president of The Medicare Family. In addition, Sylvia’s former husband, Keith Sharples, and his new wife, Leslie Sharples, are part of the team.

“It truly is The Medicare Family because all this family talks about is Medicare,” Sylvia says with a chuckle. “While we work all over the nation, we love to help our neighbors, first and foremost.”

Each customer appreciates working with a local company, where they are seen as a person and not just an 18-digit policy number.

The Medicare Family team knows that Medicare is complex, and trying to understand it can be overwhelming. Comprehending all the ins and outs of the business is not what’s important, however.

“When I go to the mechanic and they try to explain my alternator to me, I listen politely, but I don’t really want to know how a car works,” Sylvia says. “I just want to trust my mechanic. We can explain to you everything you need to know about Medicare, but I’d prefer to impress upon you that you’re making the right choice to work with us because we’re going to be here for the rest of your life.”

Eager to shortcut the process, clients often ask, “What’s the best plan?” Or they may say, “My neighbor likes plan X so I’ll go with that one too.”

However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation when it comes to these plans. It all hinges on your prescriptions, doctors, health care, and expectation of future health. Husbands and wives may also end up with different plans. Such is the case for Sylvia’s parents, who are on diametrically opposed plans.

“They both feel they have the best one, and if you look at their health conditions and how much they use their insurance, they are both on the best plan for them,” Sylvia says.

It makes sense, given that nobody has the same health conditions as their spouse, nor do they always see the same doctors.

Additionally, once you select a plan, you’re not done forever.

“It’s like getting an annual physical every year, whether you want to or not,” Sylvia says.

If you have a Medicare drug plan or a private Medicare Advantage plan, regardless of health or where you live, you can change your plan every year during a special window, from October 15 through December 7.

Each year, clients call Elliot and his team to let them know if anything has changed in

Sylvia Gordon, Dick Gordon, Margaret Gordon, Elliot Sharples-Gordon

terms of their medications, marital status or other factors. Then Elliot lets them know of changes, because the government changes Medicare details every year. In addition, prices go up every year, so if you’re not checking, you could be paying a lot more than you should.

“Unless you’re rich and don’t care about money, you need to check every year to see if you can improve your position in terms of better benefits or a lower rate,” Elliot says.

Often, he may advise clients to do nothing and just stay where they are for another year, but you don’t know unless you check.

This year, in addition to health benefits, companies are offering money for groceries, utilities, cellular phones and rent.

“They’re going deeper into social benefits, one of which is transportation since a lot of people don’t like to drive,” Sylvia says. “Unfortunately, people often get lured in and end up with an inferior health plan that might not be in their best interest.”

Sometimes people think it’s better to call an insurance company directly and sign up themselves. They assume that by cutting out a middleman they are saving money, when, in actuality, all they’re doing is cutting out an expert who essentially works for them for free.

“We take something that’s super confusing and make it simple for people, and we do it without charging you a dime,” Elliot says. “That’s a win-win.”

Sylvia, who trains insurance agents nationally, is also a content creator on social mediaspecifically, the Medicare Mama on TikTok, with 270,000 followers. She does free live training events that each get between 5,000 and 10,000 views. The original intent was to cover Medicare only, but there has been a huge amount of interest in Social Security content, and since no one was fulfilling that need, she now covers that too.

“People ask us about veterans benefits and federal employee benefits - anything retirement related,” she says. “They want to know if they’re going to pay more for

Medicare based on their taxes. Then there are the tax brackets and Social Security tax, and if you take your pension early, is that going to make your Medicare more? It all dovetails.”

Sylvia, who enlists the help of her 87-yearold father, Dick, and 81-year-old mother, Margaret, to star in the informational videos, makes the content fun.

“People like watching these TikTok videos because it’s not like a class,” Sylvia says. “They learn something while being entertained.”

For more info, call 800-970-1964, email hello@themedicarefamily.com, or visit themedicarefamily.com.

“UNLESS YOU’RE RICH AND DON’T CARE ABOUT MONEY, YOU NEED TO CHECK EVERY YEAR TO SEE IF YOU CAN IMPROVE YOUR POSITION IN TERMS OF BETTER BENEFITS OR A LOWER RATE.”

—ELLIOT SHARPLES-GORDON

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

LIFE IN INDY

INDIANA MEMORIAL SITES

Writer / Michael Durr Photographer / Daniel Woody

November 11 is Veterans Day in America, and we want to take this opportunity to encourage you and your family to take a pause, not only on the holiday, but also at other points throughout the year, to remember the sacrifices that many service members have made for our country.

Indianapolis is truly a unique place of remembrance. According to indianawarmemorials.org, we have 25 acres filled with one museum, three parks, and various monuments and memorials.

Indianapolis ranks first in the nation in the number of acres dedicated to honoring our veterans, and second only to Washington, D.C., in the number of monuments.

“When you are deployed, you miss out on a lot of the day-to-day life that many might take for granted,” says Blaine Zimmerman, president and CEO of INvets. “I like to think at least for a day that people pause and reflect back on the sacrifices that have been made.”

INvets is a nonprofit organization founded by veterans that helps former service members transition to civilian life, by connecting them with Indiana employers and providing career-building resources. Zimmerman is a veteran himself and works hard to cultivate talent throughout our state. He and his team attend seminars at 25 active-duty bases around the country, in all four

branches of the military. Zimmerman’s team represents about 450 companies throughout Indiana, and informs transitioning service members why Indiana is a great place for veterans to start the next chapters of their careers.

We encourage all of you to pause this month and visit some of our city’s incredible memorial sites, educate yourself on the history and sacrifices that were made, and share your experiences with others in our community.

Here is some information on some of our most impressive sites.

The crown jewel of the War Memorial Plaza is the prominent Indiana War Memorial, which was built to honor Hoosier veterans of World War I. What many people might not realize is that the monument is also a museum that is free to the public from Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you are unable to get to the museum in person, you can also take a virtual tour by scanning the QR code in this article.

Another impressive location is the Medal of Honor Memorial, located in White River State Park along the canal behind the Indiana State Museum. It is the nation’s only memorial honoring Medal of Honor recipients - the country’s highest award for military valor. This incredible memorial pays tribute to Medal of Honor recipients representing 15 different conflicts. It consists of a series of 27 curved glass walls that are etched with the

Blaine Zimmerman President & CEO | INvets Image Provided

names of all recipients, their branch of service and the locations of their heroic actions. Every day at dusk, the Medal of Honor Memorial plays recorded stories of medal recipients or of the conflicts in which they fought.

Of course, one of the most recognizable locations is the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, which stands as a prominent icon of our city. Recognized as one of the world’s outstanding monuments, the structure has come to symbolize both Indianapolis and Indiana. Located in the heart of downtown in Monument Circle, it was originally designed to honor Indiana’s Civil War veterans. It now commemorates the valor of Hoosier veterans who served in all wars prior to World War I, including the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the MexicanAmerican War, the Civil War, the Frontier Wars, and the Spanish-American War. One of the most popular parts of the monument is the observation deck, with a 360-degree view of the city skyline from 275’ up.

For more information, you can visit indianawarmemorials.org, and be sure to learn more about the incredible work that INvets is doing for veterans throughout Indiana and beyond.

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