Noblesville Magazine May 2023

EXPLORE HAMILTON COUNTY’S DOABLE AND VIEWABLE ART TOURISM SPOTLIGHT

Experience the arts in Hamilton County. View a wide variety of creative and free public art throughout the county. Immerse your inner artist in art classes, -paint shops and festivals. Plus, sing along to your favorite songs with live music - from free to famous. With three recognized state cultural districts, no matter where you go in Hamilton County, experience the arts.

Starting early May, claim the Doable and Viewable Art Pass, a digital pass to help you explore the growing arts scene in Hamilton County. After seven check ins, pass users will earn a frameable Gabriel Lehman print.

It’s no secret that Hamilton County is a

place to experience the arts, in all its forms. In fact, Carmel, Fishers and Noblesville’s downtown areas have been named statedesignated arts districts by the Indiana Arts Commission.

Throughout our communities, you can find hand-painted murals on the sides of buildings; whimsical, life-like statues; towering sculptures and more. Artists range from high school students to professionals in their craft. You can even find artwork in the middle of countless roundabouts in the county, so visitors can find artwork at every turn – literally.

With the help of local city officials and

artists, Hamilton County Tourism has compiled this information into a robust digital art pass. The maps are divided by community, so it’s easy to find your favorite piece of artwork and learn more about it.

Claim your digital passport at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Art. Challenge yourself to a scavenger hunt and see if you can locate all the murals and sculptures.

If you embark on a public art adventure, be sure to post your photos on social media and tag @VisitHamiltonCo or use #VisitHC. As the art scene continues to grow, check back to see what else there is to discover!

FOR MORE IDEAS ON THINGS TO DO IN HAMILTON COUNTY THIS SUMMER, GO TO VISITHAMILTONCOUNTY.COM. BE SURE TO FOLLOW

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BRINGING QUALITY TO THE TABLE

DON RIGO MEXICAN BAR & GRILL OPENS CARMEL LOCATION

Since Alfredo and Enrique Melendez were children in Mexico, they dreamed of operating and owning a restaurant.

Shortly after the family moved to the United States, Alfredo began his career as a cook, learning everything he could about the restaurant business as a teen. By 1993, he and his brother opened their first restaurant in Amelia, Ohio.

Six restaurants later, the family recently celebrated the grand opening of Don Rigo Mexican Bar & Grill, named after their father, on 146th Street.

The Carmel location is the second Don Rigo. The first opened in Greenfield and has had consistent rave reviews.

The family patriarch never dreamed his sons would have such success.

“Our official ribbon cutting was held on March 20 and my grandfather came here from Mexico to celebrate,” says Adrian Melendez, Alfredo’s son. “Everyone was excited to see him and was asking for a picture with him. He’s very proud.”

The Melendez family did much of the work on Don Rigo themselves - a labor of love for the new location.

Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Sarah Browning

“We wanted to start something new, set apart from the other restaurants we have,” Melendez says. “It was important to make this a family experience, and my dad, uncles, sons and cousins came in and did a lot of the work with the help of close friends for design.”

The interior of the restaurant is meant to create an authentic feel, with light colors and classic decor. The smell of fresh tortillas baking and vegetables on the grill sets the mood.

Of course, for those wishing to stop by after work or enjoy a Friday date night, drinks include the Ultimate Margarita, house margaritas, daiquiris and your choice of tequila.

They host events in the bar area, including March Madness and the Super Bowl, bringing sports fans to the table on special occasions.

Melendez says the ceviche, including raw fish marinated in lime, tomatoes, jalapeños and onions, has already proven popular, along with the homemade fajitas and burritos offered, with chicken, steak, shrimp and a variety of fresh vegetables.

Plates are so large that visitors often order several and share among themselves for a taste of all the variety Don Rigo has to offer.

Alfredo Melendez and Rigoberto Rios

In addition to the authentic cuisine offered, like the Molcajete, Carne Asada and Chile Colorado, they also have burgers, chicken tenders and fries for young guests.

Don’t forget to try one of the many desserts including Sopapillas, a fried tortilla drizzled with honey, butter and sprinkled cinnamon, or the Flan, a flat cinnamon and vanilla cake made fresh every day.

Most of all, the Melendez family hopes Don Rigo becomes a place for the community to join together and enjoy each other’s company.

“We want to be a great spot to bring families and friends, and find anything you want on the menu,” Melendez says. “We want people to have a good time with each other and just be comfortable hanging out here.”

Don Rigo is located at 7299 East 146th Street in Carmel. Visit donrigoin.com for a complete menu.

WHEEL MAN

TONY STEWART SHOWS NO SIGNS OF SLOWING DOWN

He retired from NASCAR in 2016, but Tony Stewart hasn’t slowed down.

What began with racing go-karts 44 years ago led to a record-breaking career, with 12 driving championships including four United States Auto Club wins, a win in the IndyCar Series and three wins in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Stewart is the first and only driver to win championships in stock cars, Indy cars, and open-wheel midget, sprint and Silver Crown cars. His three NASCAR Cup Series wins make him one of 16 drivers who have taken home multiple titles.

“I’m in a unique scenario compared to most

because of all the different types of cars I’ve driven,” Stewart says. “Literally, when we’re in town it doesn’t matter who I meet - if they’re talking about motorsports, I know at least a little bit about what they’re talking about.”

When asked about his shining moment, what memory sticks out the most, Stewart struggles with an answer.

“There are go-kart races that meant everything to me to this day, and I’ve ran everything in between,” Stewart says. “It’s almost easier to pick a moment in every type of car I’ve driven. When I think about it though, the trophy’s meant a lot, but the big picture is all the cool people I’ve met along the way.”

In 2000, Stewart formed Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) and moved into a stateof-the-art, 25,000-square-foot facility in Brownsburg. Since its inaugural season, TSR has won 27 owner championships. In 2004, Stewart purchased Eldora Speedway, a half-mile dirt oval, hosting 2013’s first-ever stop by the NASCAR Truck Series.

He’s hands-on every step of the way, and finds himself enjoying Brownsburg in a way many haven’t experienced.

“I’m good friends with Bill Simpson of Simpson Performance Products, and he worked with Brownsburg to get racers off of Gasoline Alley in Speedway and make the move to Brownsburg,” Stewart says. “I

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Photography Provided by SRX/Wayne Riegle, Mark Rebilas, Scott Hunter & Jason Zindroski

love it out there. On our street, we’ve got six different organizations with [National Hot Rod Association] teams. There’s sports car programs, parts builders and more on one street. A lot of times we can walk a couple of blocks and pick up parts. It’s great for your business and makes it easier to operate. Brownsburg has really embraced our community.”

In 2021, Stewart announced he would tackle the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) world with two full-time entries. The team includes Matt Hagan in Funny Car and Stewart’s wife, Leah Pruett, in Top Fuel.

While Stewart had some experience with the NHRA, it wasn’t until he began dating Pruett that he truly took notice.

“I started going to her events and I enjoyed learning about it,” he says. “I always tell people that all of the other forms of motorsports are related, but NHRA are kind of off on their own island.”

Stewart says the differences are so vast, he found it rejuvenating and exciting. “It was different than what I was used to, and a totally different atmosphere,” he says. For the man who raced the Indianapolis 500, jumped on a plane, and raced the Charlotte Coca-Cola 600 in the same day (Stewart’s 2001 attempt stands as the best combined result, finishing sixth at Indianapolis and third at Charlotte), watching NHRA drivers go home five minutes into the event was a drastic change.

“You can be the first pair of cars and drivers to go out, and in five minutes pack up your stuff and go home,” Stewart says. “In drag racing, you can be out on the first run and your weekend is over. In Daytona or Indy 500, this is going to be a three-anda-half-hour race.”

With only one NHRA season under his belt, the process has been a whirlwind, but the team is beginning to catch their stride.

“Two years ago, Leah and I got married, we spent two days on a honeymoon, and then headed to Brownsburg to live in a

motor home for 58 days at the shop,” Stewart says. “We bought the Funny Car from Don Schumacher and had enough pieces to build Leah’s car from scratch.

There were a lot of growing pains that first year, a lot of learning and growing, but we were in the playoffs till the end.”

Stewart was impressed by the commitment and dedication from his team.

“With only 58 days to prepare, there were a lot of long hours,” he says. “The team was there from 7 a.m. till after midnight most of those 58 days. The wives and girlfriends were bringing dinner to the guys and the

Matt Hagan, Tony Stewart & Leah Pruett

community just rallied.”

Ultimately, Hagan finished in third place and Pruett finished 11th in the 2022 season, and they are gearing up to do it again.

“It’s remarkable how dedicated the fans are,” Stewart says. “They are so dedicated to what we do and they’re following our race teams. There’s been a lot of crossover.

I’ve seen fans that were with me in NASCAR and are now watching NHRA races.”

You may think he’s watching from the sidelines in the NHRA, but don’t count Stewart out of the driver’s seat just yet. He’s continued to compete in the SRX series and has been running sprint cars for the past two years. In addition, Stewart made his debut driving for McPhillips Racing in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series in Las Vegas last October.

He won the first two elimination rounds in his Mobil 1 Top Alcohol Dragster, qualifying as the two seed, ultimately finishing second by two ten-thousandths of a second - just one inch short of the win.

The debut proved to be so exhilarating that Stewart announced in mid-February that he would be joining McPhillips Racing for the entire 2023 NHRA season.

He’s been a lifelong member of the motorsports family and doesn’t expect to leave any time soon.

“I’m proud to be a part of it,” he says. “I’ve been involved in motorsports since I was 8 and I think I’ll be here till the day I die. This community is a huge family and it’s great to work among your peers, with our shops next door to each other. We race hard, but in the end we all get along. I’m proud of our roots in Brownsburg and what the town has done for the motorsports industry.”

In 2003, Stewart formed the Tony Stewart Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, raising funds to support chronically ill and physically disabled children, animals that are endangered or at risk, and drivers injured in the sport of motor racing. To date, they’ve donated over $7 million to organizations serving these missions. Visit tonystewart.com to follow TSR and their entire racing schedule.

Tony with wife Leah

Discover the Captivating History of Emerald Gemstones and Their Mystical Origins

Emerald gemstones have long captivated humanity with their mesmerizing green hues and enchanting allure. There's a certain beauty to these precious stones that has been shrouded in mystery and lore from the dawn of civilization—from the ancient Egyptians to King Solomon, people have believed in the powerful properties of emeralds. The Emerald stone origin is steeped in myth and legend, with the gemstones being used to signify a world of power and prosperity. Let's explore the captivating history of emerald gemstones and how these mesmerizing stones have been revered since antiquity.

Emerald Stone Origin:

Egypt The ancient Egyptians were among the first cultures to recognize and appreciate the beauty of emeralds, as they associated them with fertility, immortality, and wealth. Queen Cleopatra was known to present them as gifts to foreign leaders and adorned her palace walls with these green gems. The emerald is more than just a beautiful gemstone. Ancient Egyptians believed that wearing an emerald would reveal the truth or falseness of a lover's oath, as well as make one an eloquent speaker. Egyptians also saw the emerald stone as a symbol of protection and eternal life, often burying them with their dead in order to ensure safe passage into the afterlife.

Emerald Gemstone History:

Rome In ancient Rome, emeralds were highly valued for their beauty and perceived healing properties. The Roman emperor Nero was said to have been particularly fond of emeralds and was known to have watched gladiator fights through a large emerald scope. He also reportedly used a special set of emerald glasses to soothe his eyes.

The belief in the healing properties of emeralds dates back to ancient times, and was particularly prevalent in cultures such as the Egyptians and Greeks. It was believed that emeralds could help cure a variety of ailments, including eye strain and headaches. During the Middle Ages, emeralds were considered a symbol of royalty and were often used in crowns and other royal regalia. The wealthy and powerful were known to flaunt emeralds and other precious stones in order to show off their wealth and power.

Emerald Gemstone:

Today, emeralds are still highly prized and sought after for their beauty and ancient symbolism. They are a popular choice for jewelry, often set in rings or pendants, and they can be used to create stunning pieces that capture the eye of any beholder. These gemstones have endured throughout time, with each era leaving its own unique imprint on the history of emeralds. Whether you admire emeralds for their beauty or believe in their power and mysticism, it's no doubt that these gemstones will continue to captivate people for many years to come.

Where to Buy Emerald

Gemstones:

The glistening green beauty of emeralds isn't just a myth; you can make it a reality and become a part of history with Emeralds that you can find in store or online. Whether it's a signet ring, pendant, or stud earrings, there are many options available to create an enduring and timeless piece of jewelry that will last a lifetime. No matter your style, size, or budget, there is something out there for everyone who wishes to own Emerald gemstones. Shop our selection in store or online to find the perfect emerald for you or a loved one today.

This splendid, vintage-inspired ring features a 7.33 ctw emerald cut emerald and 1.13 ctw of round white diamonds, all set in beautiful white gold. By Simon G

MUY BIEN

BIEN MEXICAN TAQUERIA & AGAVE CANTINA KEEPS THE FLAVOR FLOWING

The recent opening of Bien Mexicana Taqueria & Agave Cantina in Cicero proves there is a silver lining in every cloud. The business first appeared amid the COVID-19 pandemic as a food truck. Now, three years later, it has become a brick-and-mortar eatery inhabiting the space formerly occupied by a long-standing coffee shop. New and old customers are flocking to the South Peru Street site, and all are raving about the delicious and fresh food.

Angela Garcia, who initiated Bien Mexicana as a food truck, partnered with local

“I have always cooked,” Garcia says. “I started baking when I was 11 or so, and began to make Mexican food when I was a teenager, making tamales with my greatgrandmother and great-aunts. Owning a food truck or restaurant was something I had wanted to do.”

“When COVID hit, I had a recruiting business but it came to a stop,” Garcia continues. “I needed a way to bring in income, so I put up a post on my neighborhood Facebook page that I was selling tamales, chips and salsa. Right away

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Whitney Moore

NORTHERN HAMILTON COUNTY

trailer, and with the help of her brother, converted it into a food truck. After getting it approved by the health department, she rented space at the commercial kitchen of the Noblesville American Legion and later at the VFW. Four or five days a week, she was out traveling to different events and locations. Some days, between cooking and driving, the only sleep she got was a twohour nap.

“I loved the food truck but it was rough,” she says. “It truly was a mobile restaurant but there was so much loading and unloading. Owning a restaurant is still a lot of hard work but it’s nice to stay in the same place.”

The food and drinks make visitors so devoted to Bien Mexicana. Everything is made on-site from recipes Garcia developed herself. One popular dish is the Birria

makes her own masa, or corn flour dough, that surrounds the fillings.

In addition to the many other tacos, tortas (sandwiches), salads, quesadillas and nachos on the menu, Bien Mexicana has a full liquor license. Margaritas are made to order with simple syrup made by Garcia. Besides cocktails, several different varieties of beer are available. Don’t miss out on Horchata, a beverage made from rice, milk, vanilla and cinnamon.

“My biggest surprise so far is not in how busy we are, but in how happy the employees are that work here,” Garcia says. “I didn’t anticipate how much we would

have been there for us since day one of the food truck.”

Bien Mexicana Taqueria & Agave Cantina is

PANE PROS

HOMETOWN WINDOW & DOOR COMPANY IS GROWING LOCAL ROOTS

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

Photographer / Brian Brosmer

Spring is here, which means it’s officially window season. The experienced team at Hometown Window & Door Company, a small, boutique Andersen dealership servicing Indiana, is eager to tackle all of your window and door projects, both large and small.

Andersen, the oldest window manufacturer in America, invented double-pane glass, Perma-Shield products and Fibrex composite material. Plus, Andersen’s windows and doors are unsurpassed for their beauty, quality and value. As a fullline Andersen dealer, Hometown Window & Door offers more options than any other standard window company for both commercial and residential applications. There are full-frame wood and aluminum products, and also the versatility of composite windows. The Hometown team believes that Andersen makes the best products in the Midwest, and that’s backed with a quality installation.

“You can sell a wonderful product, but if you can’t put it in right, that doesn’t really mean anything,” says Andy Brown, general manager at Hometown Window. “We take a lot of pride in the fact that Hometown is a family-owned and -operated company, delivering quality products to consumers.

From the sales process to the finishing touches, we make sure clients have a perfect install.”

All four co-owners, Darren Peck, Dan Hanlin, Mitch Brown and Andy Brown, are certified professionals who bring more than three decades of experience working with Indiana homeowners. Their combined wealth of knowledge, skill, energy and commitment is unparalleled.

“True to its name, Hometown Window & Door Company is Noblesville’s neighborhood-feeling Andersen dealership,” says Scott Dorrell, sales manager for Hometown. “We are a hometown company, through and through.”

Not only have they completed more than 450 projects in the Hamilton County area in the past year, but the company is also committed to taking care of and investing in the community. That investment comes in a number of ways. For example, they are active in the local Children’s Festival, they hosted a pumpkin painting activity at the Covered Bridge Festival, they sponsored Music on Main Street, and were a headline sponsor for the Cool Creek Concert Series last year and will be again this year. Plus, they will be part of the Noblesville Farmers Market this year.

“It’s been really exciting for the ownership group to be able to work in the neighborhoods where they grew up,” Dorrell says. “We want to continue to make Noblesville an even better place to live.”

When shopping for windows and doors, customers appreciate never having to interact with a third party, as they always work directly with the Hometown team. Again, they are all about representing a national brand while providing a personal, hometown experience.

“In the residential replacement market, we’re offering people a full-service, whiteglove installation with an Andersen dealer, all of the Andersen options, and the Andersen quality with certified master

installers,” Dorrell says. “Generally you don’t have dealers doing the installation, but our craftsmen are trained and experienced in estimating and installing windows of all types. When you sign a contract with Hometown, we handle everything. That includes consultation, listening to the homeowner, design, manufacturing, installation and the service.”

One customer, Kelly Goshorn, likened the experience of working with Hometown to shopping for high-end purses and products.

“Andersen windows are like Coach purses,” she says. “We can go anywhere and get a much less expensive wallet or purse, but it’s not going to be of equal quality. The same is true of Andersen windows, and when you’re talking about your home, that’s such an important investment.”

If you’re looking to get some questions answered or simply formulate some ideas for a future project, you can set up a free consult with someone from Hometown. These consults typically take between 60

“IN THE RESIDENTIAL REPLACEMENT MARKET, WE’RE OFFERING PEOPLE A FULL-SERVICE, WHITE-GLOVE INSTALLATION WITH AN ANDERSEN DEALER, ALL OF THE ANDERSEN OPTIONS, AND THE ANDERSEN QUALITY WITH CERTIFIED MASTER INSTALLERS.”

and 90 minutes, and you don’t have to commit to starting a project just because you set up that consult. It can be a purely informational session in which you talk through the project you’re considering, have the Hometown team inspect your home, identify potential issues and discuss possible options.

“I’ve sat with a customer for more than two hours because they wanted to look at every single design option for a front entry door, and that’s completely fine,”

Dorrell says. “We are here for you, whatever you need.”

The truth is that the Hometown Window & Door team enjoys interacting with the community on every level.

“It’s been wonderful to see what Noblesville is growing into because of this hometown company,” Dorrell says. “As a show of our

appreciation for our Noblesville residents, for the month of May we are doing Buy 2 windows, get 1 free. Plus, 35% off patio doors.”

Hometown Window & Door Company is located at 1710 South 10th Street in Noblesville. Their main showroom is at 240 West Carmel Drive in Carmel. For more information, call 317-773-2100 or visit hometownwindowteam.com.

GOOD TIMES, GOOD TUNES

ROUGHOUSE BAND MEMBERS ARE IN TUNE WITH EACH OTHER AND THEIR FANS

The men and women who make up the band Roughouse aren’t new to the rock-and-roll scene, but in the last five years they may have found the perfect combination for success.

Sitting in the living room of drummer A.J. DeRose and lead vocalist Molly DeRose, the seven members of the band, including bass player Jim Corner, rhythm guitarist Randy Schumacher, lead guitarist Erik Harlow, and lead vocalists Kelly Ray Yates and Emily DeRosa, reminisce on the wild ride they’ve had over the past few years.

“We started out jamming in my basement,” A.J. says. “All of us have been in other bands or been solo performers, but once we had the core members and a few songs, we’ve enjoyed some success.”

The band has played for the Indianapolis Colts on the horseshoe stage and at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

“They have an exhibit there where you can go in and use their instruments,” Molly says. “We played a set in the morning and the guys told us to come back later, so we came

back in the afternoon and played another set, which was really fun.”

They’ve played at the Madam Carroll in Monticello, the Ale Emporium in Greenwood, and this year they will perform at the Hard Truth distillery in Nashville, Indiana.

Primarily based in Noblesville, it’s common to see the band perform at Wolfies, Federal Hill Commons, and the Noblesville Brewfest at Forest Park.

They’ve also played in their driveway for friends and family to enjoy.

“During COVID, we set up in the driveway and did a free concert for neighbors and friends,” Molly says. “They all brought out coolers and lawn chairs, socially distanced and listened in the streets.”

For Randy Schumacher, it isn’t the venue, but rather the thrill of the music.

“The bigger shows are exhilarating, but the variety we have, everything from holes in the wall to the Lucas Oil Stadium to a

riverboat, is what makes it fun,” Schumacher says. “I’m a 60-year-old guy and I work like crazy, but for a few hours on the weekend I get to pretend like I’m a rock star.”

For now Roughouse performs covers, from “Born to Be Wild” to “All Right Now” to “Chain of Fools.”

Several members of the band are writers and they are working on a few original tunes.

Most importantly, they want to remain fresh and continue to work on their own versions of the classics.

“I think our ability to pivot is stellar,” A.J. says. “As we build a following, they know what we do and we have fans in all different settings, from the country club to the bar.”

He says rock and roll isn’t as big as it was back in the 1970s and ’80s, but the members who form Roughouse all have a deep love for the blues. It suits their talents, from singing to playing various instruments.

In the days of pitch correction, pre-recorded

Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / John Bolinger

assistance and other such technology, these men and women love the exhilaration of playing live with no backing tracks or touch-ups.

“The old model of five to seven people who love to make music together is going away,” Schumacher says. “Music can be made by computer today.”

Perhaps that’s why, in addition to their talent, the band’s audience loves what they’re doing. It’s a reminder of the concerts many people attended in the past.

“When the audience is in sync with what we’re doing, you can tell,” A.J. says. “People are clapping, moving to the beat, dancing, and that’s what we strive for.”

Their appreciation for the band’s skill and variety stands out the most.

“I love when we’re playing a show, and those people who have discovered us and taken the time to find us come out,” Molly says. “I

think that’s great. When you first start a band, you’re pestering your friends to show up, but once word takes off, we have true fans coming and having a blast.”

Most of all, Roughouse has formed a family.

“I like that we’re having more opportunities but I think our relationships are what makes us successful,” Yates says. “I think there are always going to be fights or disagreements, but I’ve been in bands that are very transactional. When you disagree with your brothers and sisters, you get over it pretty quick.”

While they hope to continue to grow, no one wants to lose the fun of what they are doing.

“We’ve all known each other for a long time,” Molly says. “We all get creative say. There’s no one particular leader. When

you’re a family, everyone gets creative input.”

They aren’t sure what the future holds, but the connection they have with each other and their fans is sure to continue.

“We all have that common thread,” Schumacher says. “Everyone loves the magic when we play together.”

Follow the band on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

Writer / Dr. Leonard Buller, orthopedic surgeon at IU Health Saxony Hospital – soon to be IU Health Fishers

With the days becoming longer and warmer, everyone wants to get outside. If you have painful knees or hips, it can be hard to go for a walk or play with your kids or grandkids. Here is some information about hip and knee pain, options for managing that pain and when it might be time to consider surgery.

What to know about hip and knee pain

The source of joint pain typically falls into two categories: a sudden injury that strains the joint or degeneration that occurs gradually over time. The most common causes of lingering joint pain include arthritis, tendonitis and bursitis. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis. This disease affects the tissue covering the ends of bones called cartilage.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT HIP & KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage becomes damaged and worn out, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness and restricted movement.

Treatments options for your hip and pain  Multiple treatment options exist for the treatment of an achy joint. These range from nonsurgical possibilities, including physical therapy, activity modification, medications and injections. The surgical treatments for a painful joint include arthroscopy and joint replacement surgery. Arthroscopy is a surgery that uses a tiny camera to check for problems and repair those problems. Joint replacement is a surgery that removes the damaged surfaces of the joint and replaces them with an artificial prosthesis. Modern joint replacement surgery can be done using rapid recovery protocols and with minimally invasive techniques to restore mobility quickly.

When to consider hip or knee surgery

If you are experiencing hip or knee pain that keeps you from doing the things you enjoy, being evaluated by an orthopedic specialist is a great next step. Surgery is not for everyone, but when indicated, total joint replacement can be life-changing and help restore natural movement. Every year, more than one million Americans, including many here in Indiana, return to their lives, pain free, due to total joint replacement surgery. If you or a loved one have noticed changes in your daily life— pain with walking, a struggle to tie shoes, trouble sitting down and getting up—a total joint replacement surgery might be right for you. Even if it is not, the Orthopedic team at IU Health can help evaluate the issue and work to getting you back to the things you love to do.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit iuhealth.org/joints or call 317.944.9400.

HARD TO RESIST

If you want to add some fun to your stale fitness routine, look no further than Fling Bungee Fitness in Noblesville. Owner Karrie Lacina describes bungee fitness as a fun, low-impact, high-energy cardio workout and resistance training program choreographed to music. The bungee cords provide both assistance and resistance for a change of pace from a typical cardio workout.

“The bungee cords are attached to the ceiling,” Lacina says. “Before the scheduled class, we ask questions about height and weight to customize the bungee cords to

each individual. You’re not putting as much pressure on your joints because the bungee cords provide buoyancy. It makes you a little lighter on your feet.”

Lacina says she’s always been into fitness and has tried every workout imaginable. She says she saw a clip on Facebook about bungee fitness and thought she would like to open a studio. She started slowly by purchasing equipment to try out in her basement. She completed certification training and opened in Noblesville in June of 2022.

Clients must participate in the Beginner Intro to Bungee class to get started. The course teaches terminology, bungee movements and proper bungee fitting. Lacina says participants must learn how to control the resistance of the bungee. She says it takes some time to learn to trust the cord.

Clients may then move on to Intermediate Bungee, where they learn athletic and bungee techniques choreographed to fun music. As the method is mastered, clients may move on to classes like HIIT Me Up!, incorporating hand weights.

Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Whitney Moore

“A lot of people think the workouts are going to be easy or that they’re going to be flying through the air,” Lacina says. “They get in the studio and realize it’s a hard workout that is also so much fun. Many of our clients are women, and my goal was to create a place with a ton of energy where women can feel free of judgment and enjoy themselves while working out.”

Fling Bungee Fitness also offers a trampoline fitness class called Choreo Bounce. Clients utilize trampolines to elevate their heart rate while participating

in a low-impact workout. Lacina says trampoline classes help with balance and coordination while stimulating the lymphatic system.

Additionally, the studio offers aerial yoga, PiYo, kids classes, and one-on-one personal training to round out any workout regime. Lacina says she offers private parties for groups of six to 15 people in either aerial yoga or bungee fitness.

“We’ve had bachelorette parties, girls’ night out parties, team-building groups and

birthday parties,” Lacina says. “It’s a great way to have a fun night with friends. They learn some basic techniques while laughing and having a great time.”

Classes can be purchased individually or in discounted packages. Packages can be used for any class at Fling Bungee Fitness.

Fling Bungee Fitness is located at 14640 Herriman Boulevard in Noblesville. For more information, call 317-646-1988 or visit flingbungeefitness.com.

Uptown Carmel

2271 Pointe Parkway (116th west of Keystone)

Uptown Noblesville

809 Conner Street (On the Courthouse Square)

Uptown Indy

6404 Rucker Road (64th & Binford)

Sunrise Fishers

9767 E 116th Street (116th & Cumberland )

Uptown Market

Enjoy our house-made items at home. Purchase breads, biscuits, muffins, rolls, salads, sauces, dressings, condiments, and more online at: www.uptowncafes.com/shop.

COLLINS LEMING STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

NOBLESVILLE STUDENT RECOGNIZED BY ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Collins Leming, a seventh-grader at Noblesville West Middle School, will be recognized as the Youth Honoree for the Arthritis Foundation’s Walk to Cure Arthritis on May 12 at Conner Prairie.

Her mother, Angie Leming, says she has battled with juvenile idiopathic arthritis since the age of 4.

“Collins was a healthy four-year-old little girl with lots of energy and giggles,” Leming says. “She loved to dance and loved to perform. In the fall of 2013 she became ill. We thought she was fighting a basic cold like every kid gets while they are in day care.”

During the days that followed, she complained a lot about her hands and legs hurting.

“Collins was notorious for exaggerating the truth as the youngest of three kids,” Leming says. “One morning I was getting Collins out of her car seat, and I sat her on the ground and she crumbled. She kept crying and saying, ‘It hurts mommy.’ I immediately called the pediatrician, and then tried to identify what hurts.”

Collins’ hands were extremely swollen, and

she could not even close them to grip the mother’s finger.

“These signs came on almost immediately,” Leming says. “Collins was unable to walk much on her own. I would carry her from the car to my bed where she would spend the rest of her evening. While the kids were playing at the park at day care, Collins sat in the wagon and watched. She had to scoot up the stairs, and could not get off the floor without help because the pressure on her joints was too much to tolerate.”

Mother and daughter spent about four months at different specialists, running all kinds of tests.

“Dr. Scott A. Boschee, her pediatrician, was a wonderful partner and when something was ruled out, he immediately researched to see what else it could be,” Leming says. “In the spring of 2014, she was diagnosed and began arthritis treatments to get her swelling and joints under control. She is very fortunate that a weekly injection was able to subside her symptoms most of the time.”

Collins was able to function like a normal kid and even participate in competitive dance.

“A lot of children are not that fortunate

and require infusions, then still have flares, which makes daily function at times impossible,” Leming says. “Collins is in her second round of remission. We don’t know if this is a long-term situation, but are thankful for any week that goes by without the medicine and side effects.”

Another bright spot for Collins was being selected as the Arthritis Foundation Youth Honoree.

“This involves Collins being a voice and telling her story,” Leming says. “When we were going through the process and treatments, Collins never knew another child that fought the same battle as she has. This is hard to handle when you’re an adult, let alone a young child who can often question, ‘Why me?’”

Leming heard about the Walk to Cure Arthritis event from people at Riley Hospital for Children’s rheumatology team.

“We decided to participate last year,” Leming says. “That was the first time she got to see that other children had the same experiences, and she could relate to what she had been through at the age of 12. This year she gets to help spread the word to other families about what resources are available to them, and the army of people

that are there to support them.”

Until last year, Leming says she didn’t realize the purpose of the Arthritis Foundation.

“My understanding went as deep as the doctors and nurses we worked with to get Collins treatment,” she says. “As I asked questions, I now know they are a large resource behind the scenes for both adults and children diagnosed with arthritis.”

The Arthritis Foundation’s work varies from researching a cure to partnering with legislatures on current medications to increasing the number of health care providers across the country.

“We are very fortunate in Indiana to have amazing health care at our fingertips, like Riley rheumatology,” Leming says. “There are people in other states that travel to multiple other states and wait for months to get treatment because they don’t have access.”

The 2023 Walk to Cure Arthritis event will be held at 5:30 p.m. on May 12 at Conner Prairie.

“The walk is completely free to participate in,” Leming says. “However, there are fundraisers available. Our goal is to raise awareness across the board. There are fundraisers for those that want to financially support the foundation and what they are doing to help the individuals fighting arthritis, but it doesn’t require a financial commitment to walk.”

Leming adds that there are great activities for families to enjoy like face painting, a DJ and a hot-air balloon.

“You can walk as much or as little as you would like,” she says. “The goal is for people to come, enjoy the evening, and get educated in a battle that is much more common than we realize. Collins and some of the other honorees will also share their story.”

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LEO’S MARKET & EATERY

OWNERS:

Stephanie White-Longworth & Keith White

ADDRESS:

11090 East 146th Street

Noblesville, IN 46062

WEBSITE: yourleos.com

PHONE: 317-703-3377

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Leo’s Market & Eatery was founded by Stephanie WhiteLongworth and Keith White and is a subsidiary of Pride Investment Partners. Leo’s is named after the business partners’ late father, Richard ‘Leo’ White. Leo’s is like no other ‘convenience’ store concept in the industry today. At Leo’s, you will find the best features of a convenience store and a local grocery store combined with an always-fresh eatery. The market proudly supports local vendors and showcases fresh produce, breads, cheeses, a wide selection of beverages and fresh-ground bean-to-cup coffee. In the eatery, Leo’s Chef offers freshly prepared bakery items, including Leo’s signature kolaches – a type of pastry stuffed or topped with sweet or savory filling - as well as the eatery’s highly customizable salad, pasta and potato bowls, and popular house-made soups. Leo’s mission is to help each customer ‘conquer their day.’

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