Westfield Magazine August 2021

AUGUST 2021

MAGAZINE

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE JAN’S VILLAGE PIZZA

Westfield’s Oldest Restaurant is Still Thriving

BELONG, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE

Options Schools Opens Westfield Campus

FEATURING SPECIAL SENIOR LIVING SECTION

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IN THIS ISSUE

4

20

Westfield’s Oldest Restaurant is Still Thriving

22

JAN’S VILLAGE PIZZA

6

BELONG, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE

Options Schools Opens Westfield Campus

9

Choosing the Proper Elder Care Facility is Vital

Henry Community Health

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

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26

TRAVELING WITH MEDICARE

28

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

PERFECT FIT

Smith’s Jewelers Continues to Shine

12

30

PROPER PLANNING

Helpful Steps to Take When Arranging for Elder Care

15 REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

23

Cereset Provides Sound Brain Solutions

SAFE SURROUNDINGS

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT JOSH BROWN

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

Fall Festivals and Events in Hamilton County, Indiana

RESTORE AND REBALANCE

11

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ROBBY BERRY

NAVIGATING ANXIETY

TOURISM SPOTLIGHT

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL HACKER

AUGUST 2021

ROBERTS SETTLEMENT

Learn About the Black Pioneer Experience

33

INDIANA MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM

CARING FOR COMMUNITY

An Alternative to Nursing Homes

17

WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK What You Should Know About Breastfeeding

CrossRoads Church and Group Mission Trips Partner to Serve Hamilton County

34

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Cooper Tinsley

18

36

Working With a Legal Professional Can Help the Elder Care Planning Process

Dr. Paul Kaiser Takes on Westfield Washington Schools Superintendency

CRUCIAL CARE

SCHOOL PRIDE

#SPOTLIGHTINGLOCAL

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT franchising.townepost.com

CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING / COLLEEN WOODRUFF / JULIE YATES JAMIE HERGOTT / JUSTIN SICKING / KERCH CREATIVE / MATT KEATING MEGAN ARSZMAN / MICHAEL WILHELM / RYAN KENNEDY SETH JOHNSON / WHITNEY MOORE

JAN’S VILLAGE PIZZA

WESTFIELD’S OLDEST RESTAURANT IS STILL THRIVING better serve clients.

Writer / Megan Arszman Photographer / Kerch Creative

What started out as an experiment to learn more about the pizza business has turned into a staple in downtown Westfield, and the home of many families’ pizza nights.

Jan’s Village Pizza, located on Union Street, has been a part of the Westfield community since 2000. The original owners, Susie and Chuck Barnes, opened the original location in Whitestown as a way for Chuck, who was a pizza supply salesman, to learn how to

to run an ad introducing the pizzeria to the community, inviting residents to come in for Chuck ran the restaurant from behind the a free medium pizza of their choice. What scenes while Susie ran the kitchen and should have been a crowd pleaser ended up dining room. Each recipe used in the shop a dud, thanks to a big snowstorm that kept was the result of Susie’s trial and error, as she residents home. Nobody came to claim their worked to come up with unique recipes for free pizza. crusts and sauces. Not only were the pizzas successful, but so was Chuck in improving However, 21 years later the restaurant is still his own sales business. Susie and Chuck thriving, as the owners use original recipes were able to sell their store in Sheridan to from Susie and Chuck, and introduce the Jan and Steve Miller, thus continuing the small-town flavor to Westfield residents evolution of the restaurant. nightly.

When the Millers decided to open up in Westfield on March 5, 2000, Steve decided 4 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2021 / TownePost.com

“Those recipes have been with Village Pizza from when the Barneses started in 1984

to when Jan and Steve purchased it in 1997, and we still use them to this day in Westfield,” says Kim Kercheval, who has owned the pizzeria since 2016.

Kercheval and her husband Bryan purchased the restaurant to fulfill her dream of becoming a restaurant owner.

“It is amazing to be a part of the Westfield community,” Kercheval says. “We do a lot of volunteer work. To be able to have a business, you’re able to do a little more or help somebody out food-wise, and help teams or organizations out. We try to do as much as we can.”

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Through the past 21 years, multiple businesses and restaurants moved in next door to the eatery and around downtown, then closed up shop.

“We ended up being one of the very few places to eat in Westfield for quite some time, so we had to change our business model to adjust to that,” Kercheval says.

“Now things have evened out, and Grand Park has been an amazing addition for the economy here.”

Kercheval is proud that her establishment is the oldest restaurant in Westfield, as well as the only non-franchise pizzeria in the community.

“We love the family aspect of our restaurant, we love our crew, and we love being a part of this community,” Kercheval says.

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Visit Jan’s Village Pizza at 108 South Union Street in Westfield, call 317-896-5050, or order online at jansvillagepizza.com.

TownePost.com / AUGUST 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 5

BELONG, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE OPTIONS SCHOOLS OPENS WESTFIELD CAMPUS a second campus in 2006 in Noblesville after increasing demand. As technology advanced, it became clear that there was a need throughout the Hoosier state for the school’s services, and in 2013 Options Indiana, a distance education program that became their virtual school, was designed.

In the past couple of years, Options Schools began a partnership with the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism, with locations in Fishers and Kokomo, to work with students on the autism spectrum.

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Justin Sicking

In 2002, Options Schools began as one of the first charter schools in the state of Indiana. The school works with sixththrough 12th-grade students who are struggling in the traditional classroom setting.

“We find that a lot of people think that because we are an alternative school, we primarily serve students with behavioral challenges, but a larger percentage of our students are struggling with academic and mental health challenges,” says Michael Dunagan, principal at Options Charter School. “We are not for all students. We don’t exist to serve every single kid. We exist to serve those students who are struggling at the traditional schools.”

Originally located in Carmel, they added

“We partnered with them to provide education for those students and families who were struggling with balancing school and a child’s needs for therapy,” Dunagan says.

The organization’s leaders wanted to grow the middle school program and continue to expand the high school program, while still maintaining a small school environment, and this fall they will open another location in Westfield.

“We needed more space, yes, but more so we needed to design a building that was built around our needs as opposed to transforming a space to try and fit our needs,” says Dunagan, noting that there is a high school and middle school pod area. “This 16,000-square-foot campus is designed by us, for us, in the way that we do things.”

6 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2021 / TownePost.com

Initially they will serve around 160 students, though they have the capacity to house up to 220. In the past year the organization served more than 700 students statewide in 129 different school districts.

At Options, the staff members work with students who might be slipping through the cracks in larger schools because they can’t get the individualized attention they need. The student-teacher ratio is 15:1, as opposed to traditional schools where that ratio is often 30:1. One of the major differences between Options and other charter schools is that they are an alternative school that exists to complement the district.

“We aren’t in competition for students,” Dunagan says. “We’re here to be an additional resource for the local school districts so they can use their resources more effectively.”

Students who excel at Options are those who struggle with severe anxiety or get overwhelmed when faced with a massive workload. That’s why they do a block-style schedule with four classes per day, rather than seven or eight. As a result, anxiety diminishes.

Every student completes a senior institute course and capstone project that requires them to partner with a nonprofit organization and set up a project that

focuses on one of three areas - advocacy, fundraising or direct service. The project, which includes presentations, writing and researching, hones their organizational, communication and professional skills.

Plus, they feel a sense of accomplishment by giving back to their community.

Options partners with the J Everett Light Career Center as well as Ivy Tech Community College to provide opportunities for students to earn certifications in different career fields such as welding, automotive and culinary arts.

They also offer dual credit opportunities for students in partnership with Ivy Tech, for simultaneously high school and college credit. In addition, they partner with various organizations like ABC Construction, through which students can earn high school credit while getting on-the-job training for different career fields.

Nate is a student who decided to attend Options after seeing how well his sister

responded to it.

“I was having bad social anxiety and had bad attendance, and they helped me out a lot here,” says Nate, who is grateful for the strong teacher connections. “The teachers really care about the students here. You’re not one of thousands of kids. You’re one of 100 so the teachers know you well.”

John, a parent of an Options student, says he’s thrilled with the results he has seen in his daughter after she enrolled at Options.

“We’ve seen her grades go up and her homework get completed,” John says.

“We’ve seen her entire demeanor change.

Options is a place she feels comfortable in. She comes in and is happy. It’s the right place for her.”

Options Schools Westfield is located at 17721 Gunther Boulevard. For more information, call 317-815-2098 or visit optionsschools.org.

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Senior Living Guide

SAFE SURROUNDINGS

CHOOSING THE PROPER ELDER CARE FACILITY IS VITAL “Think of couples who have been married for 60 years,” Applegate says. “They want to be together at the end of their lives, but their needs are totally different.”

When choosing a facility, it’s important to know the costs and whether or not the facility will accept Medicaid.

“If you know that in six months or a year you’ll be short on money, you need to find a place that will accept Medicaid when the time comes, because moving an elderly person is really hard on them,” Applegate says. “It’s one thing to move from home to a facility. That becomes their new home and you don’t want to have to uproot them again.”

It’s not uncommon for Applegate to see clients in their 90s. One of the biggest common fears is running out of money Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing meals in a cafeteria, then retreat to their own before dying. She reminds clients that Photography Provided one- or two-bedroom apartments. They since they paid taxes their whole life, they can also have access to a nurse if necessary. have earned the right to use government It’s human nature to want to retain These people may need reminders for when resources. our autonomy, and when asked about meals or served, or help with washing their preferences regarding late-in-life care, clothes.

When searching for a facility, Applegate also elderly parents often resist the idea of suggests looking beyond the walls - literally moving into a care facility. Family members Skilled or custodial care is 24-hour care - as pretty painted walls and dynamite may wish their loved one could remain in from a nurse, and is for patients who are decorating don’t always equal the best their home, and yet have lingering worries bedridden or in a wheelchair. They often patient care. that they may fall or have a stroke. need help bathing, taking medications, and getting to and from therapies. Memory care “New facilities may be beautiful, but Carol Applegate, an attorney with Applegate units are for those struggling with memory sometimes it’s the older ones who have & Dillman Elder Law, understands these issues, and rehabilitation is for anyone stable staff that have been there for a feelings and concerns, which is why her who has sustained a fall or injury and long time,” says Applegate, who suggests practice helps families navigate elder care. requires intense therapy, usually following a inquiring about staff turnover, and checking According to Applegate, the first thing to hospitalization. the state board of health for complaints. do when choosing a facility is to determine “If you have an elder law attorney or staff the level of care needed. These levels vary “What’s great is to find a continuum-of-care like I have, we are intimately connected to drastically, from independent living to facility that has all these levels of care on some of the facilities and can answer these round-the-clock attention. one campus,” Applegate says. questions. We hear what the turnover is in those facilities and when it’s been sold to Independent living consists of cabins, Not only is this ideal if a patient has to another company. Those things tell you if cottages or apartments designed for those transition from one type of care to the next, there is stability there.” who are still autonomous and able to but it’s also nice for couples who are at handle daily tasks like cooking and driving. different stages of life.

Applegate also suggests choosing a location Assisted living is for those who require a bit close to the family that is going to be caring of help or supervision. These folks can enjoy AUGUST 2021 / 9

Senior Living Guide later, they all toured a nearby facility.

“When we took mom and dad to check it out, their decision was, ‘We’re not ready,’” Galyan recalls.

After some time had passed, however, her dad concluded that it was time.

for their loved one.

“If mom and dad are clear on the other side of town, your chances of going to visit decreases,” Applegate says. “I moved my mom to a place that was practically right across the street from me, and it was comforting to her knowing that if she needed something, I could be there in five minutes.”

Applegate’s primary piece of advice, however, is to explore facilities early on before you need the service. Visit different

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places, pick up information, and go on virtual tours. Starting the search process a year or two before you think your folks may need the service can help, because you’ll know what’s available in your community.

This can also give parents time to ease into the idea, and to weigh in on where they’ll feel most comfortable living.

When Sandy Galyan and her brothers sat down to talk to their mom and dad about shopping around at assisted-living facilities, they weren’t initially open to the idea. Galyan and her brothers backed off. A month or two

“Ultimately, it was their decision and we did not tell them what they had to do,” Galyan says. “We felt it was much better for them, and they did not tell people their kids made them move.”

Applegate says making sure parents are part of the decision is crucial to a smooth transition.

“They need to feel like they are still in control,” she says. “Making that choice makes them feel worthwhile.”

For more info on Applegate & Dillman Elder Law, visit dillmanlawgroup.com.

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Dr. Davisson discusses spinal stenosis with a patient.

Dr. Scott Taylor (left) and Dr. Andrew Davisson (right) have years of experience in the field of physical medicine, pain management and rehabilitation.

Interventional Spine & Pain New Castle Family & Internal Medicine Forest Ridge 2200 Forest Ridge Pkwy, Suite 310 New Castle, IN 47362

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Henry Community Health (HCH) is a medical facility and integrated health system known for its exceptional care, cutting-edge technology and experienced staff. The center serves patients from nearby areas such as Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield, and has been ranked in the top 5% nationwide for patient satisfaction for seven straight years by Healthgrades. One aspect that draws patients to HCH is its distinction as a Center of Excellence for spinal stenosis.

One of the team’s goals, Taylor says, is to treat the condition prior to surgery with the Vertiflex system.

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“This outpatient procedure optimizes function and improves the patient’s quality of life, plus it is covered by Medicare. It is a process that opens the spinal canal area by inserting a removable device that is less than an inch long. Patients can walk out of the facility on the very same day, since it is a much less invasive method than traditional surgery,” Taylor says. “A lesser level of anesthesia is required, which lowers the risk for those with underlying conditions. Patient Spinal stenosis is a degenerative process during which the spinal canal satisfaction is at 89 percent. They report they would do it again, as narrows and pressure is put on the nerves. It often goes unnoticed well as recommend it to a friend.” until the patient experiences numbness and pain. Typical treatments involve pain-reducing drugs, steroid injections and, as a last resort, HCH was the first facility in the state to use the Vertiflex system, and surgery. HCH has three physicians who are highly trained in treating continues to treat the largest number of patients in the state who the condition using the Vertiflex system. Doctors Andrew Davisson, opt for it. Afterwards, patients are advised not to lift objects over Rakesh Patel and Scott Taylor have years of experience in the field of 10 to 15 pounds, and to keep twisting and bending to a minimum. physical medicine, pain management and rehabilitation.

After a follow-up X-ray, patients are typically back to their favorite “Eighty percent of people get back pain at some time in their life,” Taylor says. “Many start to experience it when they are in their 60s - right at the point where they want to enjoy life, such as working in their yard or taking up a hobby. They have to sit down to get pain relief.”

Taylor, a graduate of the Indiana University School of Medicine, grew up with a brother who suffered from cerebral palsy. During medical school he discovered physiatry, a branch of medicine that treats and manages pain related to disabilities of the nerves, bones and muscles.

He felt that he had found his calling.

activities within six weeks. The doctors at the facility who perform this method are now trained to instruct other physicians to perform the procedure.

“Many people experience back pain right at retirement time, and it makes enjoying the things they like to do impossible,” Taylor says.

“Typical patients have already tried physical therapy, medication and injections. The Vertiflex system is a way to treat pain before resorting to surgery, which is very invasive and involves cutting bones. It’s a step between living with pain and having irreversible changes made in surgery, and it can possibly improve the quality of life.”

AUGUST 2021 / 11

Senior Living Guide

PROPER PLANNING

HELPFUL STEPS TO TAKE WHEN ARRANGING FOR ELDER CARE

Carol Applegate Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

Aging is a part of life, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy or seamless. Caring for elderly parents as you simultaneously raise your own family is especially challenging. The best gift parents can give their children is to plan for their future and have that plan in place before a major crisis occurs.

According to Carol Applegate, an attorney with Applegate & Dillman Elder Law, as parents age, families should look closely at three areas of concern. The first is the health care of the loved one. Families should ask, “What health challenges are my parents facing? What is the prognosis of their condition? Where are they living now and where might they need to live in the future?

Do they have physical disabilities or have they had an early diagnosis of memory loss or early Alzheimer’s. How will we know they are receiving good care?

“At some point, extra caregivers will most likely be needed,” Applegate says. “The home is not always the answer, because they may not be safe in that environment.”

The second concern is finances. Will they

have enough money to pay for their health care or will they “run out” of money to care for themselves.” Ask, “What are their assets? Where are they holding their assets?

Are those assets going to be enough for the remainder of their lives?” Consider implementing legal documents, such as power of attorney, to help with their financial situation, as well as their health care representative to help with decisions about their health care. These documents must be signed while a person is still competent and clearly able to express their wishes.

Also, of upmost importance are wishes regarding end-of-life treatment. A living will allows a person to express their wishes concerning life support. COVID-19 changed this area drastically. Applegate has had several clients call her saying that the parent was on the way to a hospital with a likely diagnosis of coronavirus. Each was frantic because their parent had a living will and there was a chance that a respirator would help a patient improve but they had a living will that said they did not want life support. They wanted to know if they could override their parent’s living will.

“These emotional kinds of conversations must take place prior to the crisis,” 12 / AUGUST 2021

Applegate says. On the way to the hospital is too late.”

Such documents are meant to put families at ease, because if a parent ends up in the hospital, and they have a living will and health care power of attorney, families will know their loved one’s wishes are being honored.

If the elder patient is no longer able to make decisions for themselves and are determined to be incompetent - or if they end up in quarantine due to COVID-19 those documents can’t be signed, notarized or witnessed. Court intervention may be necessary and is much more complicated and expensive.

The final area to consider involves public benefits that can be used to help pay for care. The help of a professional or an Elder Law attorney is usually needed to apply and receive those benefits.

“It’s important to start planning five or six years in advance to be eligible for those benefits,” Applegate says. “I hear all the time from clients, ‘we should have been in your office five years ago to start this process.’

Getting a plan in place does not mean it can

Senior Living Guide never be changed. Life changes quickly and adjustments to that plan must be made.”

Making decisions in the time of crisis are based on emotion and the options are limited. Planning in advance allows for sound decisions based on facts and not emotion.

“When we are making decisions in a crisis, we are making emotional decisions,” Applegate says. “When we plan ahead, however, we are making logical decisions.”

“COVID has proven to us that our lives can change overnight.” Applegate says.

“Many people were caught off-guard during those first few months of COVID, as they recognized that they should have talked about [these topics earlier] but never did.

And now it was too late.”

No doubt these are tough conversations to have. The words “nursing home” can strike fear in elderly individuals, but talking issues through makes for a smooth, less stressful

She soon learned, however, that her mother had already taken care of everything, even down to noting that she preferred not to have an obituary printed in the local newspaper.

transition.

“The greatest gift you can ever give your children is to sit down and talk to them about end of life, and what you want to have happen, even down to the funeral planning,” “That was such a relief because when you’re says Applegate, who knows firsthand how grieving, you don’t want to deal with the doing so can lift the weight of the world off nitty gritty of arranging a funeral and all the one’s shoulders. decisions that go with it,” Applegate says.

“Preplanning is truly a gift.”

“My mom died when my sister was on a cruise,” recalls Applegate, who was instantly both grief-stricken and overwhelmed by the For more on Applegate & Dillman Elder Law, visit dillmanlawgroup.com. thought of having to make all the funeral arrangements.

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Senior Living Guide

NEARLY 90% OF SENIORS WANT TO STAY AT HOME AS THEY AGE, WHICH IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS AGING IN PLACE.

by many factors including longer life, fewer children, and children with duel-income families (leaving fewer children available to care for aging parents). Even as more and more of our elderly population ages in hospitals and nursing homes, their preference for living at home remains strong. Nearly 90% of seniors want to stay at home as they age, which is often referred to as aging in place.

INDIANA MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM AN ALTERNATIVE TO NURSING HOMES Writer / Michael Wilhelm

that continues to grow in popularity.

As an elder law attorney, I am often asked by clients how they can protect assets from potentially substantial long-term care expenses in an institutional setting, such as memory care or custodial skilled nursing.

While that conversation can be complex and revolves around many factors, the following touches on an alternative to nursing homes

Throughout human history until the second half of the 20th century, most people aged and died at their home or the home of a family member. By the 1980s, only 17% of Americans died at home, as the experience of aging and death in the industrialized world shifted to hospitals and nursing homes. This dramatic change was caused AUGUST 2021 / 15

Indiana has adopted the concept of aging in place, and has implemented certain programs and policies to reverse the trend of aging in hospitals and nursing homes.

One such program available to seniors in Indiana is the Medicaid Aged and Disabled Waiver. The program began as a response to the national trend toward providing home and community-based services (HCBS). In the past, Medicaid paid only for institutional long-term care services, such as nursing homes. The Medicaid Waiver program waives the requirement of an admission into a nursing home in order for Medicaid to pay for HCBS. The overall goal of the Medicaid Waiver is to take people out of institutions, or prevent them from going there in the first place, by allowing them to live at home. Specific goals of Medicaid Waiver services are to provide the person with meaningful and necessary services and supports in the home or community, to respect the recipient’s personal beliefs and customs, and to ensure

Senior Living Guide that services are cost effective. Some of the services and supports available include bathing assistance, dressing assistance, restroom assistance, mobility assistance, homemaker services, assistance with taking medications, nutritional supplements, transportation, and case management.

These Medicaid Waiver services directly address the needs of the elderly who find it increasingly difficult to remain in their homes, and help to reverse the trend of aging in institutions.

A resident of Indiana must meet a combination of state and federal requirements in order to be eligible for a Medicaid Waiver. DeFur Voran LLP’s elder law group develops and implements plans for clients so that they meet Medicaid resource and income guidelines.

If you would like to discuss the Medicaid Waiver program with an elder law attorney, please call 317-585-8085 or visit defur.com.

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HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BREASTFEEDING

BREASTFEEDING BENEFITS YOUR BABY. Because of the many benefits of breastfeeding, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding along with introducing complementary foods. Breast milk contains all the nutrients and antioxidants your baby needs and is filled with antibodies to help keep your baby healthy. Not only does breastmilk support a stronger immune system, but it also helps naturally soothe your newborn.

BREASTFEEDING IS HEALTHIER FOR A MOTHER’S PHYSICAL HEALTH.

Writer / Martha Ollikainen, RN and lactation consultant at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health North Hospital

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated the first week of August, and is dedicated to the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding worldwide. There are many health benefits to breastfeeding for both mom and baby. If you are a new mom and haven’t found your breastfeeding rhythm yet, don’t worry. There are many resources available to help you throughout your breastfeeding journey.

BREASTFEEDING IS 100% NATURAL, BUT DOESN’T ALWAYS COME NATURALLY. Breastfeeding can be intimidating, especially for first time moms.

Taking care of a newborn means long nights and lifestyle changes.

Often it takes time for newborns to learn the ‘art of breastfeeding’.

Experienced lactation consultants are available to help you navigate this new time in your life. They can also provide insight into selecting supplies such as breast pumps and nursing garments that can support moms’ comfort and options for providing breastmilk to her baby.

Breastfeeding can help with postpartum weight loss, as extra calories are utilized to build your milk supply. Another benefit of breastfeeding is a lower risk of postpartum depression.

Breastfeeding releases hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin.

These hormones provide a peaceful and nurturing sensation and promote a strong sense of love and attachment between mom and baby. Breastfeeding has also been shown to lower the risk of Type 2 Diabetes, as well as certain types of breast and ovarian cancers in mothers.

YOUR HOSPITAL HAS BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES. Your hospital has resources to help you successfully breastfeed.

If your breastmilk supply is not adequate for your baby, donor breastmilk (DBM) may be bought from the Express Donor Milk site at IU Health North Hospital. Milk banks have supplies of breastmilk donated by mothers who have been carefully screened and produce more milk than their babies need. The donations are pasteurized, tested and then distributed to locations throughout the United States.

IU Health North Hospital offers an outpatient lactation clinic for mother-baby couplets, as well. If you need extra support after discharge from the hospital, have lactation questions or concerns please call our Lactation Consultants at 317.688.2680.

AUGUST 2021 / 17

Senior Living Guide

CRUCIAL CARE WORKING WITH A LEGAL PROFESSIONAL CAN HELP THE ELDER CARE PLANNING PROCESS Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

There is perhaps no worse feeling in the world than that of being overwhelmed.

Often when it comes to elder care planning and financial preparation, people don’t know where to begin, who to turn to for help, or what to ask.

“I build my staff with people who have that same compassion for the elderly population, and who really understand more than just the financial and the legal implications,” Applegate says. “We are that support system for them because it’s a lonely journey.”

Applegate recently worked with a family that included a wife with terminal cancer “Honestly, aging is a journey and sometimes and a husband suffering with Alzheimer’s that journey is not fun,” says Carol Applegate, disease. an attorney with Applegate & Dillman Elder Law, which offers life care planning - a service “We found him a facility to make the many firms don’t provide. transition easier for all of them, but that’s Applegate is empathetic to her clients’ plight because she knows how difficult it can be.

That’s why she and her team of professionals provide necessary information to help families make these tough decisions, and offer moral support as well.

“We are with you from when you come to the office until the end of life,” Applegate says. “We know you as a family, as a person.”

Prior to becoming an attorney, Applegate was a psychiatric nurse. Her background helps her understand both the medical elements and emotions tied to making difficult decisions.

tough,” Applegate says. “It’s one thing to adjust to leaving your home and going to a facility, but knowing your wife is back home dying of cancer - that’s so hard.”

Family dynamics can be tricky, particularly when all parties don’t see eye-to-eye on the issues at hand. Conflict and high-strung emotions can take center stage among siblings, or between parents and children.

Fear is a factor too, not only for parents but also for the grown children as they determine how to pragmatically care for their parents’ growing list of needs.

Applegate often fields calls that go like this: “Dad just had a stroke, and mom’s got 18 / AUGUST 2021

dementia and can’t stay at home by herself anymore. We need to get them into a facility, but they have no money. What are we going to do?”

Medicare and Medicaid can be extremely complicated and rule-driven, leaving folks to throw up their hands in frustration.

Applegate and her team help their clients through these processes, taking it a step at a time and prioritizing needs. Applegate asks her clients what worries them the most what keeps them up at night. She addresses that worry first.

“I’ve had people say, ‘What will I do with my cat if I go into a nursing home?’”

Applegate says. “Until that issue is resolved, they are not going to listen to anything else I have to say. These conversations provide peace of mind.”

The most common missteps Applegate sees families make involve misinformation.

“People will tell me, ‘My neighbor said I can give my house to my kids,’” Applegate says.

“Well, the neighbor may have said that, but he’s wrong.”

Rules also change over time, and the way someone handled a financial situation in the

Senior Living Guide “ WE ARE WITH YOU FROM WHEN YOU COME TO THE OFFICE UNTIL THE END OF LIFE. WE KNOW YOU AS A FAMILY, AS A PERSON.” —CAROL APPLEGATE past may no longer be relevant. Sometimes clients insist on filling out a Medicaid application themselves, but if they fill the application out incorrectly, they might lose a precious two or three months of Medicaid help.

“We can get approved faster,” says Applegate, who encourages individuals and families to take legal advice only from professionals.

Given the psychological pain that has

accompanied the pandemic for many, Applegate is bracing for a mental health crisis in the coming months, as both families and nursing home clients are struggling.

Throughout the next several months, Applegate’s team has scheduled a number of Zoom meetings that center around holidays and seasons. For instance, in December they made Christmas ornaments. In January they will cover journaling. February will involve candy recipes. In the spring they’ll focus on gardening and planting flowers, as well as a woodworking class for men that will

highlight how to make a birdhouse.

“We’re trying to offer things beyond the legal and financial, because that goes to the emotional part of this process,” Applegate says. “This is important because people need to have some contact for emotional well-being and stability.”

For additional information on Applegate & Dillman Elder Law, visit dillmanlawgroup.com.

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Senior Living Guide

NAVIGATING ANXIETY Writer / Jamie Hergott

W e all have routines and rhythms that work well for us. Maybe yours is morning coffee before the family gets up. Maybe it’s a long walk in the evenings. One of my own routines is to rest on Sunday from my workouts and runs. I try to walk, do yoga and, in general, relax and let my body recover from a week of tough workouts and parenting full time.

However, I have struggled with anxiety for many years, and in recent weeks it has been a bigger struggle than normal.

have said or done. It means constantly feeling like my chest is heavy and forcing myself to take deep breaths.

Usually I can stay on top of this anxiety, but lately it’s been tough. I sense I’m not alone in this. We could blame the oppressive summer heat or the full moon, but in reality it’s clear that heightened political awareness, a global pandemic, as well as impossible decisions like whether we should send our kids back to school, are looming and cannot be avoided. If I had a dollar for every time my husband and I wondered, “Can we just ignore everything going on?” we’d be packing for Belize.

What does that mean for me? It means my guilt over every little thing I spend time on, or don’t have time for, is in overdrive. It Recently, I spent a Sunday during which I simply could not rest. means I struggle to make simple decisions, let alone big ones. It means I stress over that thing I said or did weeks ago that I shouldn’t The jittery anxiety was at a fever pitch, and I needed to ditch it 20 / AUGUST 2021

Senior Living Guide

somewhere. Walking, yoga and relaxing were just not options, so I laced up my shoes for a run, even in the heat of the Indiana sun. It was a long, hard, sweaty six-mile run. My music was blaring, my feet were pounding, and for the first time in a while, I felt like I could leave my cares at home, even if it was just for an hour.

While the rhythm of rest works for me, so does the rhythm of movement.

When you see people post their workouts, a run they completed or a project they accomplished, remember that many of them are doing it for their mental health. Many are doing it because it’s the one thing they can control. Many are doing it because the roads or the gym are their safe place, where they can just be themselves.

Many are doing it for the release of stress and for the endorphins that keep them afloat. Many have a tough time taking a day off because it feels like skipping their anti-anxiety meds. Many are doing it for bigger reasons than you might think.

We post our workouts for the same reasons any of us post anything - we feel proud. We want to inspire others. We want to share a big moment. We want to put a stone down in the sand to remind ourselves that we can do this, one day at a time.

So can you. We are all in this together. We have tools - movement, sunshine, gratitude, community, service to others, and even a simple cup of coffee. Use them, and reach out for help if you need it.

AUGUST 2021 / 21

TOURISM SPOTLIGHT

FALL FESTIVALS & EVENTS IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA

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In-person events are back in full force this fall, and there are plenty of festivals and events you’ll want to add to your social calendar. Whether you like food, music, art or all of the above, there’s a Hamilton County festival for you to check out.

Aug. 28 / Carmel Arts & Design District Car lovers, this festival is for you. Admire hundreds of iconic automobiles lining the streets of Carmel and enjoy automotive art, too.

Sept. 25 – 26 / Carmel Arts & Design District Browse more art from more than 130 juried artists with live entertainment spotlighting dance and music.

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INDIANAPOLIS COLTS TRAINING CAMP Now through Aug. 24 / Grand Park Sports Campus, Westfield Colts fans are invited to attend this fanbased training camp and cheer on their favorite players as they prepare for the upcoming season. Admission is free, but a ticket is required to attend practices.

CARMEL INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

FISHERS BLUES FEST Sept. 3 – 4 / Nickel Plate District Amphitheater End the summer with the Fishers Blues Fest, a Labor Day tradition. The free, twonight event includes performances by renowned local and national blues artists.

CARMEL PORCHFEST Sept. 19 / Carmel Arts & Design District This free, family-friendly community event showcases a variety of music on the porches of neighborhood homes.

GREEKFEST Aug. 27 – 29 / Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Carmel Journey abroad as you enjoy authentic Greek foods, pastries, wines and local craft beers. Listen and dance to live Greek music and tour the Cathedral.

Oct. 2 / Potter’s Bridge Park, Noblesville Listen to live music, visit more than 90 arts, crafts, and food booths, watch your little ones play in the KidZone, or simply take in the natural beauty of the most scenic park on the White River Greenway trail.

HEADLESS HORSEMAN Oct. 7 – 10, 14 – 17, 21 – 24, 28 – 30 / Conner Prairie, Fishers The annual fall festival is full of activities, shows and spooktacular family fun. Take an adventure on the haunted hayride where you’ll get chased by the Headless Horseman.

ART OF WINE Oct. 23 / Carmel Arts & Design District The popular wine festival in the streets of downtown Carmel has shifted to the fall in 2021. Art of Wine features local and international wines, wine-related art, entertainment and special activities.

CONCERTS AT RUOFF MUSIC CENTER ATLANTA NEW EARTH FESTIVAL Sept. 25 – 26 / Atlanta, Indiana Hamilton County’s longest running and largest festival features more than 600 vendors selling handcrafted items, unique arts and crafts, pottery, clothing, antiques, collectibles and more.

Outdoor concerts continue well into the fall this season at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. Catch country favorites like Luke Bryan (Aug. 20), Zac Brown Band (Aug. 27), Thomas Rhett (Sept. 24) and Florida Georgia Line (Oct. 2) or rock bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd (Oct. 8).

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EVENTS IN HAMILTON COUNTY, GO TO VISITHAMILTONCOUNTY.COM AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. 22 / AUGUST 2021

Senior Living Guide

RESTORE AND REBALANCE

CERESET PROVIDES SOUND BRAIN SOLUTIONS

Brenda Hanning

Writer / Ryan Kennedy Photography Provided

Ten years ago, Brenda Hanning’s youngest son was struggling with behavior problems, depression, anxiety and insomnia.

“Despite psychiatric treatment and medicines, he was not improving and could not sleep,” she says. “Eventually I learned about a noninvasive technology that helps people reset their brain so they can achieve restorative sleep. The nearest location at that time was in Chicago. A month after his sessions, he was doing much better and was able to start working on coping skills through therapy.”

Hanning says she was so pleased with her

child’s progress that she felt compelled to bring the technology to her community.

In 2018 she became a franchise owner of Cereset.

“Cereset is the global leader in brain self-restoration with facilities across the United States,” Hanning says. “Our patented BrainEcho technology facilitates the mirroring of a client’s own brain-wave patterns back to themselves.”

She says that unlike neurofeedback, Cereset is not driven by a conscious effort to train the brain or change the brain’s response.

“The Cereset process is driven by the brain itself so it can relax and reset naturally AUGUST 2021 / 23

without using human willpower, medicine or outside influences,” Hanning says.

Hanning says people struggling with severe or prolonged stress or trauma can get stuck in the body’s fight-or-flight response. She describes it as a snowball effect.

“The more stress the brain and body accumulate, the stronger the stress reaction, and stronger stress reactions cause more stress to accumulate,” she says. “Sooner or later, this person will be stuck in a constant stress response, even when there are fewer stressors in their life. Cereset helps the brain to break that cycle of stress accumulation and helps the brain remember how to function in a state of flexibility.”

Senior Living Guide According to Hanning, Cereset’s BrianEcho technology reflects the brain’s own activity back to itself through musical tones.

“The musical tones support the brain to stabilize itself and thus relax,” she says.

“When the brain relaxes, it resets itself and imbalances are self-corrected. This is most often seen when one hemisphere is overactive, and a relaxed brain quiets the overactive hemisphere. The client is seated in a relaxing chair with lightweight, comfortable sensors placed on the scalp to read brain rhythms. Most of our clients fall asleep during the sessions. During the sessions the client relaxes with eyes closed in an antigravity chair, which further encourages deep relaxation. There are no drugs or medications ever involved in the Cereset process.”

sessions averaging 90 minutes each. She says many of her clients have said they experienced results within three weeks of starting sessions.

According to Hanning, most of her clients find the best results with the Cereset wellness package, which includes five

“Cereset offers individuals, families and the community a highly effective way to help their brain free itself, and enables them

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Senior Living Guide

TRAVELING WITH MEDICARE Since travel is beginning to open, we want to help you understand what you need to know about traveling with Medicare insurance.

Medicare’s coverage of healthcare services while traveling depends on where you travel and how you receive your Medicare benefits.

TRAVELING INSIDE THE U.S. If you have Original Medicare or Original Medicare with Medigap coverage, you will typically have the same level of coverage anywhere in the United States, (including Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and other territories of the U.S.), if services are provided by doctors and hospitals that accept Original Medicare.

care anywhere in the U.S. without additional cost sharing. You should contact your plan prior to traveling to determine what rules and costs apply when you travel within the U.S. Check the rules closely to determine if your plan offers a visitor or travel benefit.

Only certain areas or timeframes may be included, certain services may not be covered, you may have cost-sharing or potentially be responsible for the entire cost of care if you see providers that are outside the plan’s network.

TRAVELING OUTSIDE THE U.S.

Medicare usually does not cover medical care outside the U.S. However, some Medigap policies provide limited coverage for travel abroad. Medigap plans C through If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, your benefits may or may not cover services G, M, and N may cover 80% of the cost of received outside of your service area. Some emergency care abroad, (with a $250 annual plans may cover providers that are out-ofdeductible and $50,000 lifetime maximum). network or out of your service area, but may Some Medicare Advantage Plans also have have higher cost-sharing, or restrictions limited emergency coverage. Keep in mind, such as prior authorization. Some plans offer although your plan may provide travel telehealth services which would allow you to benefits, you may still be responsible for the connect with a physician via phone or video entire cost at the time of services and then chat to receive a medical assessment. All responsible to seek reimbursement upon Medicare Advantage Plans are required to your return home. Check your policy for provide coverage for emergency and urgent specific coverage rules.

26 / AUGUST 2021

TRAVELING BY CRUISE SHIP Medicare may pay for medical care you get on a cruise ship if you receive the care while the ship is in U.S. territorial waters. This means the ship is in a U.S. port or within six hours of arrival at or departure from a U.S. port. Medical care received while in a foreign port or foreign waters will likely not be covered depending on how you receive your Medicare benefits.

Travel Health Insurance is strongly encouraged, and sometimes required, when traveling out of the U.S. We recommend all Medicare beneficiaries call and discuss your health plan benefits and the options for travel insurance with your trusted Medicare insurance advisor when planning any trip outside of your service area.

Happy Traveling!

Contact the Shepherd Insurance Medicare Insurance Team at 317.343.3215 or medicare@shepherdins.com

WE ARE HERE TO HELP. Shepherd Insurance has a dedicated Medicare Insurance team that will provide you with a comprehensive consultation of Medicare Insurance options for all scenarios of life.

OUR MEDICARE INSURANCE TEAM CAN ASSIST WITH: • • • •

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Contact us today for a complimentary review.

317.343.3215 or medicare@shepherdins.com Disclaimer: Not affiliated with the U.S. government or federal Medicare program. A licensed agent may AUGUSTinsurance-related 2021 / 27 contact you regarding this information.

PERFECT FIT SMITH’S JEWELERS CONTINUES TO SHINE Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Whitney Moore

Robby Hieser, chief executive officer of Smith’s Jewelers, says the company has been in business for 75 years because of its consistent high quality.

The jewelry store has truly shined through the years. The staff has earned its reputation for excellence because they offer quality merchandise, a top-notch sales staff, thorough repair services and a custom workshop.

“Our quality comes from the experience of our craftsmen,” Hieser says.

bracelet, pendant, wedding band or other piece, the shape, carat weight and other criteria will be discussed. The staff will also help with a setting.

Hieser says the design comes next, where the staff creates a customized, computeraided design. This provides the customer with an idea of what their piece will look like. Hieser notes that the designers can incorporate just about any changes the client has in mind.

Hieser says he enjoys working at Smith’s Jewelers.

“We love to come alongside our customers, and share and celebrate life’s moments,” Hieser says.

Hieser notes that Smith’s Jewelers always delivers a piece of jewelry that is of the finest quality, and crafted with the utmost care.

The staff gets to know the customers, and many people have been lifelong customers.

The staff at Smith’s Jewelers always begins the process with a customer consultation. If Hieser believes the store has been successful diamonds are selected for a ring, necklace, 28 / AUGUST 2021

because of the staff ’s hard work and attention to detail.

“We care,” he says. “We understand that the jewelry we work on and create are not just items, but symbols - reminders and sentiments that we hold close to the heart.”

“I would say the customers’ favorites are anything from JYE International,” he says.

“They are a high-end designer that has won many awards. You can see it in their design and their quality.”

Hieser has his own favorites.

Hieser also acknowledges that Smith’s Jewelers has a reputation for outstanding customer service. The repair work begins with an initial inspection and consultation.

Every piece is worked on with care, including alterations and remounting.

“I have seen a lot of very expensive, very nice jewelry, but nothing holds a light to repurposing the ring of a loved one who has passed,” Hieser says. “That ring is to be worn with the person as a reminder of their loved one’s life.”

“We have honesty, and we treat our customers the way we would want to be treated,” Hieser says.

Hieser notes that Smith’s Jewelers consistently carries quality merchandise.

The staff at Smith’s Jewelers is also wellknown for repairs.

Hieser notes that many customers have particular favorite brands of jewelry.

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“We also carry high-end brand names like Simon G., Sylvie, Christopher Designs, and Venetti,” Hieser says.

Smith’s Jewelers is located at 98 North 9th Street in Noblesville. For more info, call 317-773-3383 or visit smithsonthesquare.com.

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ROBERTS SETTLEMENT LEARN ABOUT THE BLACK PIONEER EXPERIENCE Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

Roberts Settlement was founded in 1835 by three African American men named Hansel Roberts, Elijah Roberts and Micajah Walden, who travelled from North Carolina to escape tumultuous times. They sought an area where they could continue their farming life and ultimately purchased homesteads in northern Hamilton County, where they permanently settled with their families. They cleared out the wilderness to build log cabins. By 1840 the neighborhood included 10 families and 900 acres of land. In 1858 they built a chapel, and in 1914 they added a belfry and vestibule.

Roberts Settlement Homecoming 1949

By the second and third generations, these farms were being subdivided to heirs, often breaking down an 80-acre farm equally for 10 children, which wasn’t enough land for families to sustain themselves as commercial farmers. As a result, family members pursued other opportunities that took them away from Roberts Settlement.

“We have some very prominent descendants who have gone on to do great things in medicine, law, religion and teaching,” says LaVella Hyter, who was raised at Roberts Settlement between 1948 and 1962 and now serves as president of the board of directors.

Every July, they hold an annual homecoming that attracts between 150 and 175 people. The three-day event includes hayrides through the countryside, s’mores, fireworks, a luncheon that celebrates marriages, births, graduations and promotions, and also a worship service in the chapel. This year was the 98th consecutive homecoming - last year’s was virtual, but leaders were sure not to cancel it, so as not to break the streak.

School House #5 at Roberts Settlement 1893

Roberts Settlement Homecoming 2019

Throughout the past decade, Hyter, board member Bryan Glover, and others with Roberts Settlement have been increasingly proactive about collaborating with the community to spread the word about the history of Roberts Settlement. For instance, they have partnered with Conner Prairie and worked with Indiana playwright Celeste Williams, who wrote a play about the time Frederick Douglass came to Noblesville and how the Roberts family helped in getting him there. They schedule tours and have also shared their history at community events in Carmel, Fishers and Noblesville. They will also do off-site presentations for organizations, schools and even YouTube channels.

Today Roberts Settlement is a nonprofit organization. Every penny raised goes right back into maintaining the property. For instance, last year they put a new roof on the chapel. Their next 30 / AUGUST 2021

Roberts Church

goal is to create a legacy walk, which will be an interactive exhibit on the property that will allow visitors to scan a QR code and link to videos, photographs and documents.

“We want to collect stories from some of the descendants as to what has been most significant to them about Roberts Settlement,” Hyter says. “We don’t want to make it a museum, but we want to share our story with anybody and everybody who wants to know about perseverance, progress, and the black pioneer experience.

We don’t want it to be a secret. We want to let people know that this is what took place right in their backyard.”

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Their goal is to have the majority of the legacy walk completed in time for the 100th homecoming.

Hamilton County Tourism and Indianapolis Monthly magazine have listed Roberts Settlement as a must-see place to visit.

“We invite people to come engage with the story of the Indiana black pioneer,” Glover says. “We all know about William Conner and others who came and settled in Indiana, but people need to realize that there are others who came here whose stories have been left out of that discussion.”

Donations to Roberts Settlement can be mailed to P.O. Box 561, Noblesville, IN 46061, made payable to Roberts Chapel Church & Burial Association, or submitted online by visiting robertssettlement.org and clicking on the “Donations” tab. Roberts Settlement is also on Facebook.

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CABINETRY | COUNTERTOPS | FLOORING | REMODEL 32 / AUGUST 2021

CARING FOR COMMUNITY

CROSSROADS CHURCH AND GROUP MISSION TRIPS PARTNER TO SERVE HAMILTON COUNTY Writer / Megan Arszman Photography Provided

During a period of five days in June, 250 volunteers from eight different states provided much-needed help for 26 Westfield and northern Hamilton County families, thanks to a partnership between CrossRoads Church at Westfield and Group Mission Trips of Fort Collins, Colorado.

It was a community effort for which the volunteers, mostly high school-aged young adults and several adult supervisors, honed their hands-on skills and opened their hearts to new connections as they worked alongside homeowners, learning more about their lives and themselves. This was the first time the program came to the area, but Reverend Dr. Eric Lohe, lead pastor at CrossRoads Church at Westfield, hopes it’s the start of a relationship that can help many community members in the years to come.

“Here in Hamilton County, it’s easy to look around and see the $500,000 houses all around and think everyone is fine,” Lohe says.

“There are a lot of people who are struggling.”

The effort was funded primarily by fundraising, grants and donations. The church raised the initial $20,000 and then qualified for a $10,000 grant from the Central Indiana Community Foundation. Westfield Washington Schools provided housing for the 250 volunteers, while groups like the Rotary Club, Women of Westfield, and Culver’s provided meals and ice cream celebrations.

“It was just a great outpouring of support from this community to care for its neighbors,” Lohe says. “We’re so thankful for the community support and everything everyone did.”

About 75 residents submitted applications for assistance such as repainting, deck or ramp

construction, or minor repairs. Lohe and other volunteers visited each home to see the tasks needed. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only outdoor work could be accomplished, and the group was limited as to what could be done.

“Most of these volunteers were high schoolers, so their skill levels aren’t at the professional level,” Lohe explains.

One family received the gift of a new deck and attached ramp for their daughter. The 18-month-old was born with severe birth defects and disability, and in order for her to play outside, she scoots around on her family’s deteriorating deck. Twenty volunteers built a new deck and added a ramp to assist in her movement to the backyard, in hopes of allowing her more freedom if she is in a wheelchair later in life.

The groups added more color to mobile home neighborhoods, with fresh coats of paint for many mobile homes. Lohe says he witnessed positive changes when a bright color such as yellow was painted over gray.

“It makes a lot of difference in your mood,” Lohe says.

Lohe hopes to bring Group Mission Trips back in a couple of years, and make it a routine event every other year.

“I hope this inspires other groups to give back to the community like we did,” he says. “Because of the amount of money we must raise to offer our services free to the community, it takes a while, so this may be every other year.”

If you’re interested in learning more or donating, you can reach out to Lohe via email at forourneighborinfo@gmail.com, or visit the church at 19201 Grassy Branch Road in Westfield.

TownePost.com / AUGUST 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 33

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

SPONSORED BY:

COOPER TINSLEY

WESTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR LEADS STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Writer/ Matt Keating Photography / Provided

Cooper Tinsley, who will be a senior at Westfield High School in the fall, loves his responsibilities as editor-in-chief of “The Lantern,” the school newspaper.

“I have many responsibilities for ‘The Lantern,’” Tinsley says. “For instance, I oversee the business aspect of ‘The Lantern,’ such as dealing with sponsorships and promotions.”

Tinsley is also the point person when it comes to bringing the student voice of ‘The Lantern’ to administration if there’s ever any conflict.

“Additionally, I am in charge of all of the other department leads such as photography, writing, graphic design and videography,” he says.

“Broadly speaking, my favorite subject is biology,” he says. “However, my school offers a four-year track called (Project Lead the Way), which encompasses four classes: He enjoys reading the stories that are turned principles of biomedical sciences, human into him. body systems, medical interventions, and biomedical innovations.”

“My favorite thing about working on ‘The Lantern’ is getting to read the stories that This upcoming school year, Tinsley will be not only my staff publishes, but the students taking biomedical innovations, and he says that are not on staff as well,” he says. he is incredibly excited about it.

“Knowing that I play a larger role in helping them let their voices be heard is incredibly “I am also involved in a couple other satisfying. Not to mention, the stories are activities,” Tinsley says. “I have been on amazing, and I love reading them.” my high school’s varsity swim team since my freshman year, as well as our club team.

Tinsley is a busy student and likes his Additionally, I am heavily involved in classes. student government. I have been blessed with the opportunity to lead my class as 34 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2021 / TownePost.com

class president for the last three years, and I have been on the executive committee for the last three years as well. I was also just re-elected as class president for my senior year, and I was also elected student body president, in which I will head all of student government.”

Tinsley is looking forward to college.

“Since I have just finished my junior year, I have not yet applied to any colleges, but I have been looking since my freshman year,” he says. “The colleges I’m most interested in are Stanford University, Vanderbilt University, and Notre Dame University.

I wish to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering and cancer biology. I hope to eventually get a PhD/MD in pediatric

oncology.”

In the meantime, Tinsley is looking forward to his senior year.

“Since I was just reelected as a senior class president, I recognize that one of my roles will be giving a speech at graduation next year,” he says. “Even though I am almost a year out from giving the speech, I’ve already started thinking about what I want to talk

about. I think one of my main talking points will be about how blessed we are as students to have gone to Westfield High School. I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better education. The relationships that I’ve made with both peers and teachers is priceless, and the opportunities I’ve been given have had such a profound impact on my life as a student, athlete, and as a human being.”

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SCHOOL PRIDE

DR. PAUL KAISER TAKES ON WESTFIELD WASHINGTON SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENCY

him on to be awarded a full-ride basketball scholarship to Ball State University from 1975 to 1979. However, he credits his college coach, Al Brown, as the influence that put him on the path to becoming an administrator.

“He set the foundation of where I am today when he took me aside my junior year and talked with me about being an administrator,” Kaiser says. “He told me I needed to look into it. I ended up staying at Ball State for a fifth year and getting a master’s degree.”

Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

Only two months after retiring from a 13year tenure as superintendent of Beech Grove City Schools, Dr. Paul Kaiser was named the new superintendent of Westfield Washington Schools. With decades of leadership roles in education, and at the urging of his family, Kaiser found he couldn’t resist applying for and accepting the position. Since coming on board at the end of May, he is enthusiastic about learning what is great about the district, and what steps can be taken to make it even better.

No stranger to the district, Kaiser and his

family lived in Westfield for 12 years during the time he held the position of assistant superintendent for Noblesville Schools.

His two daughters attended Westfield Washington Schools, and participated in choirs and sports programs. Today, both have followed in Kaiser’s footsteps and are currently teachers.

An Indianapolis native, Kaiser cites several mentors who served as role models in his life. One was his high school coach, Jean Ancelet, whose encouragement spurred 36 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2021 / TownePost.com

Kaiser began his career in education in 1980. His first job was at Haworth High School, just a few years before it merged with Kokomo High School. There he taught accounting, business law, business math, and introduction to business, and he also coached freshman basketball as well as freshman and junior-varsity baseball. From there he went to Monrovia High School and Eastern High School, coaching basketball in both places and serving as assistant principle at Eastern.

After returning to Ball State to get his principal and superintendent certifications and degrees, Kaiser left teaching and coaching, and focused on leadership roles.

He spent 12 years in the Metropolitan School District of Decatur Township, including one year as assistant principal and 11 years as a principal. He spent his time at Noblesville Schools as assistant superintendent, and returned to Monrovia to lead the Monroe-Gregg School District as superintendent. From 2008 to 2021 he was superintendent of Beech Grove City Schools.

“I stepped into the superintendent job at Westfield Washington schools on May 26, with one week of the school year left,” Kaiser says. “I was able to get out to visit all nine buildings, and meet with all the principals and staff. I love the staff and the parents’ true dedication to academic excellence, and how much both groups care about kids. Westfield Washington is a great school system and I’m glad to be back. I want to meet parents face to face, to hear about the successes and what could be improved on. Any time they have a question or concern, I am glad to have them call my cell phone. Parents need to know that my staff and I are transparent and here for the kids.”

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For more info on Westfield Washington Schools, visit wws.k12.in.us. Contact Dr. Paul Kaiser at 317-385-4912, or via email at kaiserp@wws.k12.in.us.

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