Westfield Magazine July 2024

BIGGER AND BETTER

COPPER TRACE’S ASSISTED-LIVING EXPANSION

PROJECT NEARS COMPLETION

+ Special Pets & Vets Section

LIKE THEM APPLES?

URBAN APPLES OPENS IN WESTFIELD

A new business doesn’t always start with a business plan, or even a building. Sometimes, it’s just about the right location and a piece of land.

And that’s how Noah Herron, along with cofounders Mike Hayner and longtime friend Marc Rupentha, the winemaker at Urban Vines, came up with Urban Apples. It will be Hamilton County’s first cidery and the 15th in Indiana. Herron is also the owner of Urban Vines Winery & Brewery, a popular destination in Westfield since 2018.

“With me, it always starts with finding the perfect property,” Herron says. “I’m always looking around the area for new properties that are for sale. Once I find the perfect location, then I work my way back towards

what would do well in that location.”

Herron came across a horse farm next to Grand Park and figured the land would be a great agritourism location in the long term. Herron purchased the 25-acre property in 2020. It was previously home to Bridle Oaks Farm, an equestrian facility with a 20,000-square-foot stable, a barn that dates to the mid-19th century, two ponds and plenty of open land. With his background in wine making and brewing, he wanted to stay with something close to home - something familiar.

“There’s breweries, there’s wineries, there’s distilleries, and very seldom do you hear about cideries,” Herron says. “Finding an opportunity that nobody’s doing around

Writer / Natalie Platt Photographer / Michaela Hoover

you, I think, is really important.”

Urban Apples opened in late May. Guests can expect a German-based food menu with delicious ciders, German beers, wine and a few mixed cocktails while they enjoy the landscape of Hamilton County.

“If we didn’t do this, a developer would have bought it and turned it into houses,” Herron says. “For us, the value was there because we were able to keep a 20,000-square-foot building and then build out from there.”

And build they will.

Herron sees the cidery as a fun place for families to grab dinner and let their kids roam free. The cidery sits on 25 acres of land with picnic tables, a 35-foot kid mountain, ponds and more. Over the next couple of

years, the grounds will be developed with more amenities like an amphitheater, fire pits, additional landscaping, an orchard and more.

Guests can look forward to special events throughout the year, like Germanfest in the fall and Lift Off, a hot-air balloon experience. Urban Apples is also offering the Cider Society, as a way to enjoy certain features of the property for members only.

“With the opening of Urban Apples, this will be my third business and now we’re over 100 employees,” Herron says. “The days are long but are always fun and challenging. It has never felt like work to me.”

Herron and his wife have lived in Westfield for 12 years, and credit their love of the

growing community for why Urban Vines and Urban Apples are operated in Westfield. It’s where he’s most comfortable, and the city’s substantial growth has influenced his success.

“We absolutely love it here,” Herron says. “The community, the people, the way of life - we have really immersed ourselves in the community and have made so many new friends. My wife and I volunteer in a lot of the kids’ sports and clubs. Spending time with family and friends is important to us, and how we balance out all the hard work we put in with the Urban brand.”

Urban Apples is located at 18326 Spring Mill Road in Westfield. For more info, go to urban-apples.com.

APPLES? Urban Apples Opens in Westfield

MEDICAL MUTTS

Local Organization Trains Shelter Dogs to Become Service Animals

BRANDON BALTZ brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522

CONTRIBUTORS

SARAH BROWNING TARA DORSETT NATALIE GARGIULO CHRISTY HEITGEREWING MICHAELA HOOVER MATT KEATING DR. KEVIN NOWAK NATALIE PLATT

RON WISE

JULIE YATES

PROUD MEMBER

Importance of Staying Hydrated in the

CEO Rebecca Stevens Has Led the Transformation of the Humane Society for Hamilton County’s Facility and Philosophy

AND BETTER Copper Trace’s AssistedLiving Expansion Project Nears Completion

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL SERVICES DEVON DEAN

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

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

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

Writer / Matt Keating

Chloe Sutake, a 2024 Westfield High School grad, was the first emergency medical services (EMS) intern in the state of Indiana.

She said it was an internship she thoroughly enjoyed, in a field she wants to work in. She has found something she can work hard at and continually improve in.

“I became EMT [emergency medical technician] certified at 16, but because of my age, I was not able to continue to go on [clinical] ride-alongs unless I was actively taking classes,” Sutake said.

That didn’t stop Sutake, who said she has enjoyed helping people for a long time.

CHLOE SUTAKE

“I knew I found my passion the first time I performed CPR, and wanted to continue volunteering, so I occasionally asked my EMT instructor if there were any opportunities for students in my position,” she said. “There weren’t at that time.”

Sutake waited and was eventually able to get the internship. It’s something she truly treasured.

“I took the firefighting class this year and spoke to my teacher, Michael Brooks, about opportunities to continue to volunteer,” Sutake said. “Mr. Brooks reached out to [business teacher] Michelle Goudy, and they worked together to create the program.”

Sutake said she loves helping people in emergency situations.

“I have a desire to help people when they need it the most,” she said.

When Sutake was doing her second ridealong, she was with a first responder who was performing CPR on an unresponsive patient. She helped relieve the first responder, continued CPR, and was able to help and revive the patient.

When Sutake wasn’t busy with schoolwork and her internship, she also found time to participate in other school activities she enjoyed.

“I played volleyball for all four years of high school,” she said. “I also managed the men’s volleyball team my freshman and sophomore years, and I participated in track last year.”

Sutake said she is ready for college. “I’m going to study nursing at Austin Peay State University and play volleyball for them,” Sutake said.

Sutake offered some advice for younger students wanting to do an EMS internship.

“I would encourage them to ask questions and get involved,” she said.

Sutake noted that the EMS internship was very important to her.

“This program/internship has also given me opportunities that weren’t available to me because of my age,” Sutake said. “I would have had to wait until I turned 18 so that I could legally work as an EMT. While on ride-alongs, I’ve performed CPR twice and discovered what I was truly passionate about.”

Born and breaded in Hamilton County, the Tenderloin Trail™, is celebrating 15 years of deals and delicious food. Claim your digital passport at TenderloinTuesday.com.

CARMEL

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BRAND NEW LUXURY LIVING

• Our homes are filled with valued luxuries, such as 1-gig high speed Internet on a dedicated platform for seamless streaming, side-by-side washer and dryer in each home, 9-foot ceilings, and oversized windows

• Loft and carriage house apartments and garages available.

• Located 3 miles from the new Eli Lilly manufacturing campuses and the LEAP Lebanon Innovation District.

• Our two-story condominium-style cottage residences feature only 8–10 quaint homes designed per building and every residence has a desirable private entry.

HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

Writer / Dr. Kevin Nowak, Emergency Department Medical Director at IU Health Saxony Hospital

The Importance of Staying Hydrated in the Summer Heat

As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s crucial to prioritize staying hydrated to maintain good health and wellbeing. With summer in full swing, our bodies face increased risks of dehydration, making it essential to understand the importance of proper hydration.

HOW WATER CAN HELP YOUR BODY

Water is essential to life and our bodies rely on it for numerous vital functions. Here’s why staying hydrated is especially crucial during the summer months:

1. REGULATING BODY TEMPERATURE

Sweating is our body’s natural mechanism to cool down when temperatures rise. However, this process can quickly deplete our water stores, leading to dehydration. By drinking enough fluids, we replenish the water lost through sweating, helping to regulate our body temperature and prevent overheating.

2. SUPPORTING PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE

Whether you’re hitting the beach, going for a hike or enjoying outdoor activities, staying hydrated is key to sustaining optimal physical performance. Dehydration can lead to decreased endurance, muscle cramps and fatigue.

3. MAINTAINING COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Dehydration doesn’t just affect our bodies; it also impacts our brains. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulties in concentration, memory and mood. By staying hydrated, you can keep your mind sharp and focused, allowing you to tackle any summer challenges with clarity.

4. PREVENTING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate hydration can result in heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. These conditions can be serious and even life-threatening if left untreated. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to prevent dehydration and reduces the risk of these heat-related ailments.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS

Recognizing the signs of heat-related illness is crucial for staying safe during the summer months. Common symptoms include excessive sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, nausea and rapid heartbeat. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it’s essential to take immediate action to prevent the condition from worsening. Move to a cooler place, rest and drink plenty of fluids. In severe cases, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke, symptoms may escalate to confusion or seizures.

When it is hot, it is easy to become dehydrated. Make it a habit to drink water regularly throughout the day. If you or someone else shows signs of severe heat-related illness, seek medical attention right away.

Dr. Kevin Nowak

Tenderloin Tuesdays™ are Back This Summer

Hamilton County celebrates the 15th anniversary of the iconic breaded pork tenderloin sandwich during Tenderloin Tuesdays™. Back by popular demand, restaurants along the Original Tenderloin Trail™ are offering discounts each Tuesday, June 25 – July 30.

Sign up for the Tenderloin Trail™ Pass, a mobile-exclusive passport program. Customers must have a smartphone in order to redeem the offers at participating restaurants. Enter your name and email address and a link to the mobile passport will be texted to you. Save it to your smartphone home screen or bookmark the link for easy access. When you visit a participating restaurant, simply present your phone to a staff member to redeem the available discount.

Participants will be automatically eligible to receive a Tenderloin Tuesday™ t-shirt after they redeem deals at four participating locations, while supplies last.

TENDERLOIN FAQS

What is a tenderloin sandwich?

When someone refers to a tenderloin anywhere in Indiana, they’re probably talking about the pork cutlet served on a bun - but go anywhere else and clarification will be needed. Pork tenderloin is pounded thin with a mallet and then hand-breaded, fried and served in jaw-dropping proportion to a toasted bun.

What goes on a typical tenderloin?

Typical toppings include mayonnaise, ketchup and onions. Often, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles and mustard are added. As for sides, most are served with chips, onion rings or French fries.

How do you eat a tenderloin?

Devouring the tenderloin is an art all its own. While there’s no wrong way to tackle a tenderloin, you can stack it, edge it, half it or just dig in. Make sure you have extra napkins on hand, because things might get messy.

Are tenderloins always as big as my face?

Don’t be alarmed if you can’t see the plate, and if it seems the bun is far too small for the size-of-your-face tenderloin. This is normal. For those with smaller appetites, check out Dooley O’Tooles mini option.

Why is Indiana so famous for tenderloins?

As legend has it, Nick Freienstein added a pork tenderloin sandwich to the menu at Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington, Indiana in 1908 and started it all. Breaded in cracker crumbs and soaked in buttermilk, his recipe is still popular today. Restaurants all over Indiana have their own varieties of the famous sandwich, including more than 50 eateries right here along the famed Tenderloin Trail™ in Hamilton County, Indiana.

Check out TenderloinTuesdays.com for more information. Tag us in your adventures using #VisitHC and #TenderloinTuesday.

This year, the annual celebration of the Hoosier favorite pork tenderloin will give back by supporting those in the community facing food insecurity. Hamilton County Tourism has partnered with the Hamilton County Community Foundation to sponsor a matching donation to the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, which assists people in need through local food pantry distribution.

PET PROJECTS

BREAKING DOWN THE DIFFERENCES AMONG SERVICE ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT PETS

Writer / Tara Dorsett

One of the most controversial topics in the world of pets today swirls around service animals, therapy pets and emotional support pets. As a trainer, I’m frequently asked how to train pets to fill the needs of their owners. Each category has its own requirements. The time it takes to train your pet depends on which job your furry friend has applied for. State and federal regulations are also different for each category.

Service animals, including psychiatric animals, are trained to perform a certain job. These jobs are as varied as the dogs themselves. Service dogs can be trained

to bring things to you, open doors, watch for traffic, alert you if a phone is ringing, or tell you if someone is at the door. Other dogs help with less noticeable illnesses like diabetes, autoimmune disorders and seizures. Psychiatric dogs help people cope with trauma. They alert someone to situations that could result in harm to that person.

Service animals require more training because their jobs are more specialized. It is also extremely important that the service animal has a strong bond with the person they will be helping. The bond between a human and an animal affects the way

the animal responds to the human. It also changes the way the human responds to the animal. The more you do with them, the more they are going to want to be with you, and the easier it will be for them to determine when something is not right. If they don’t spend as much time with you, they may sense something is off, but not alert you as quickly or as effectively as they could. State and federal regulations allow service animals to accompany their human everywhere.

Therapy pets are not service dogs or emotional support pets. They help people mentally and physically. I break this group

into two categories: mental health and physical health. The mental health therapy pet is there to brighten someone’s day. The physical health pet helps people improve their fine motor skills through petting, grooming and playing.

Therapy pets migrate toward places where people are “house bound,” like hospitals and nursing homes. There are very few restrictions regarding the type of animal, but the requirements remain the same. A therapy pet must respond to basic commands: sit, down, come and wait. They must not jump on people or pull on their leash when walking. They are required to pass a temperament test. Your pet must enjoy being around people and crowds. The pet should not get upset if they get bumped, their tail accidentally gets stepped on or their fur gets tugged. State and federal regulations limit where these pets are allowed to go.

Emotional support pets are not service animals or therapy pets. This group of pets offers support to their owners during difficult situations. They do not require any special training, and there are no restrictions on breeds or species. Emotional support pets should have some basic mannerscommands like come, sit, lay down and wait, as well as walking on a leash without pulling - and be comfortable in new environments. The number of places where you can take your pet is slowly increasing. Several restaurants now have areas designated for pets. Bookstores, craft stores, hardware stores, home improvement stores and bigbox stores are changing their views on pets. State and federal regulations don’t offer guidelines for emotional support animals. Individual business and managers usually decide if these pets are welcome in their establishments.

There are some big differences between these three categories, but the bottom line is our pets make a big difference in our lives and the lives of the people they come in contact with.

Have questions about training your pet? Send me an email at taramarie611@gmail. com and I’ll be happy to help.

MEDICAL MUTTS

LOCAL ORGANIZATION TRAINS SHELTER DOGS TO BECOME SERVICE ANIMALS

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Ron Wise

Medical Mutts not only improves the lives of people who face isolation because of physical and mental conditions, but also gives discarded dogs a second chance.

The nonprofit organization trains rescue dogs to be service dogs by using research, education and positive reinforcement training. Individuals needing assistance, and their dogs, can become contributing members of society.

“Medical Mutts trains shelter dogs to become medical alert dogs who help

those with hidden disabilities,” says Liz Boskovich, director of development. “No one can tell by looking that an individual has diabetes, seizures or psychological problems. Dogs can be trained to sense changes in physiology such as glucose levels, anxiety, or a seizure about to begin.”

The organization partners with several shelters. Facilities know Medical Mutts’ criteria, and send videos of prospective dogs aged between 1 and 2 years old. Health and temperament are assessed. Of the dogs selected, only one out of three will make the cut to be trained. The others will get adopted as pets; Medical Mutts holds adoption events every second and fourth Saturday each month.

“We look for dogs that are friendly and adaptable,” says Founder Dr. Jennifer Cattet. “When they go out in public, even though they aren’t supposed to, people will come up to the dog and want to pet them. The dog needs to be comfortable with that and

not anxious. We give treats in training, so a dog must be food-motivated as well. Ninety dogs a year come to us, but only 25 to 30 are chosen. Training dogs to perform is easy because most dogs can pick up an object. Chosen dogs must be comfortable and confident in public settings so they can always be keyed in on their human and alert them if needed.”

Individuals wishing to acquire a Medical Mutts service dog must go through a screening process. Considerations include what they are struggling with and whether they are able to care for a dog. Another factor is what kind of environment they live in, and if other animals are in the home.

Medical Mutts has two different training programs. Rescue dogs are trained at the facility, and then matched with an individual who comes on-site and gets instructed on how to interact with their dog. Alternatively, a person trains their own dog through online videos and in-person classes.

“It takes a year to a year and a half to match on the waiting list,” says Boskovich. “We are always looking for funding in the form of grants, sponsors and donors since it takes $35,000 to train one dog, due to the costs of finding, training and vet care. We meet as much of that cost as we can, and the client must pay $19,000. Clients often hold fundraisers to raise the money, but for some it’s just out of reach. We offer some scholarships, but we’d like to provide more.”

The organization is holding a fundraiser, Barks & Booze, on September 19 at Daniel’s Vineyard. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. Wine tasting, a behind-thescenes tour, live music, heavy appetizers and a silent auction are included.

“We promote inclusivity and kindness by helping dogs who are lingering in a shelter and people who are isolated due to a disability,” says Boskovich. “Not many organizations help both animals and people.”

Medical Mutts is located at 6120 Allisonville Road in Indianapolis. For more info, call 317-991-5400 or visit medicalmutts.org. Also find them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

To donate, go to secure.givelively.org/ donate/medical-mutts.

Barks & Booze tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com/e/barks-booze-tickets870489305947?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Spine Surgery Patient Safety

CANINE CATALYST

CEO REBECCA STEVENS HAS LED THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE HUMANE SOCIETY FOR HAMILTON COUNTY’S FACILITY AND PHILOSOPHY

Writer / Natalie Gargiulo

The story of Rebecca Stevens, chief executive officer at the Humane Society for Hamilton County, has unfolded as the love for a dog created a pivotal moment that reshaped her path and charted a new course for the shelter.

Her journey from the world of marketing to the forefront of animal welfare is marked by what she refers to as a “divine” moment, with the unconditional love for a fourlegged friend.

Stevens, initially hesitant due to her limited experience in nonprofits, found herself at a crossroads when the shelter approached her to lead the humane society.

“The decision to become part of the shelter was weighing heavily on my heart,” Stevens says. “While I always loved marketing and the financial rewards that came with having a successful career, I was never spiritually fulfilled. My checking account was full, but my soul was on empty.”

However, fate intervened in the form of her dog, Maggie, an American bulldog who

became the catalyst for a profound change in both her life and the shelter she would soon lead.

Maggie, tragically becoming a paraplegic, became a compelling reason for Stevens to embrace the role of executive director. Maggie’s need for constant care ignited a passion within Stevens, steering her towards a path of empathy that would redefine the shelter’s mission.

“Maggie was my whole life,” Stevens says. “The job that I was currently in was very demanding so I wouldn’t be able to be with Maggie. There was a moment after her injury that a calm came over me, a sense of absolution where I knew what I was going to do. I took the job.”

Under Stevens’ visionary leadership, the Humane Society for Hamilton County underwent a metamorphosis. The change came in the form of a purpose-built facility designed to provide each resident cat and dog with ample room and access to sunlight.

“Since being with the humane society, I’ve

had a lot of time to dream about the facility that we would design one day - a facility that would mitigate all of the things that we had struggled with throughout the years,” Stevens says. “We made sure the animals had windows and light, and a better quality of life. We finally were able to get the new facility in Fishers, and moved in in 2021.”

This created a nurturing environment that was not just about a new shelter; it was recreated with Stevens’ belief that every animal deserves a chance no matter what condition the animal is in, just like Maggie.

“I credit my dog, Maggie,” Stevens says. “She never did walk again. However, she singlehandedly influenced the philosophy that I have established for this organization for all of these years - a no-kill shelter that gives every animal a chance.”

Stevens says donations play a crucial role in

funding the care provided by the shelter. The shelter’s impact extends beyond adoptions, encompassing support through fostering, volunteering and corporate partnerships.

Stevens aims to spread the message to residents about the desperate need of the shelter.

“I implore our supporters and the citizens of Carmel to know that we are your shelter,” Stevens says. “If you love animals and want to support them, please support your local shelter. Rescuing an animal can be so impactful, like Maggie has been to my life. We have so many animals waiting for someone to come and give them a chance.”

To donate or volunteer, visit hamiltonhumane.com.

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE CHAMBER & DWA

Young Professionals Golf Outing

The second annual Showcase & Taste of Westfield is on October 3, 2024 from 4-6:30pm at Grand Park! Exhibitors at Showcase and Taste will have the opportunity to put their brand on display and connect with businesses and potential customers at one of our largest public networking events of the year!

Exhibitors include food and beverage establishments, healthcare and service providers, legal professionals, entertainment venues, apparel vendors, and more! All food service exhibitors including restaurants, caterers, wineries and breweries are invited to provide menu tastings and samples

This public expo is a one-stop shop to solving your household and business needs as all types of industries can participate in the event. We look forward to amplifying future connections!

Registration is now open for exhibitors and attendees on westfieldchamberindy.com/showcase-and-taste-of-westfield.

The Westfield Young Professionals Council is hosting their second annual golf outing on September 10 at Wood Wind Golf Club! The outing is exclusively for young professionals aged 40 and under who live and/or work in Hamilton County. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and learn more about our community!

About the Chamber

The Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Westfield Association proudly serve the businesses and community of Westfield, helping them to engage and connect with one another As a council of the Chamber, The Westfield Young Professionals are committed to serving the local professionals aged 40 & under Learn how to get more involved at our website!

BIGGER AND BETTER

COPPER TRACE’S ASSISTED-LIVING EXPANSION PROJECT NEARS COMPLETION

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Sarah Browning

It’s always wonderful when the best keeps getting bigger and better.

Such is the case at Copper Trace, a CarDon & Associates senior living community whose campus in Westfield is undergoing an $8.6 million expansion that will be completed by early fall.

The community, which has a continuum of care that includes assisted living, short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and a memory support neighborhood for those with primary needs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, opened in 2015 on 16 acres with 36 assisted-living apartments. The expansion will more than double the number of assisted-living apartments, with the 40 new apartments consisting of 27 one-bedroom, six large one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom residences.

“We realized as Westfield grows that there will be additional growth needs for seniors in our area,” says Nancy Pollock, executive director of Copper Trace. “We felt well-positioned to offer great services for those expanding needs for seniors here in Westfield.”

With the continuum of care at Copper Trace, they have a unique ability to serve couples who may have different types of physical or cognitive assistance needs.

“Oftentimes we have spouses who move in together to the assisted living because they are both in need of additional support, but we also have spouses who may be in different areas of our community but want to be on the same campus and spend individual time together,” Pollock says.

Copper Trace assisted living includes all utilities, free Wi-Fi, weekly housekeeping and linen service, and a washer and dryer in every apartment. In addition, they have a 24-hour, two-way voice communication emergency call system through which residents can easily connect with a caregiver. Plus, licensed nurses are on-site around the clock.

Copper Trace has a unique opportunity for in-house medical management in Proactive, their medical directorship. Within that service they have a nurse practitioner in-house Monday through Friday to provide medical management for folks in their residential area. This means that if a resident has a health concern, they can talk with a health care provider on-site without having to navigate transportation to an outside primary-care physician.

“Families feel a level of comfort knowing we have that heightened medical care,” says Pollock, who started working in long-term senior care in 1995. Over her nearly 30-year career, she has witnessed assisted-living communities evolve.

“I’m happy to say that we concentrate on living,” she says. “Coming to a residential campus doesn’t mean that the desire for purposefulness, social engagement and spirituality ends. Each day we do everything we can to foster those areas of life.”

Residents at Copper Trace can enjoy restaurant-style meals served in their expanded, renovated bistro. The expansion also includes an enhanced fitness area that will provide workout equipment and health classes. They plan to partner with the Westfield YMCA to have instructors lead a 12-week series of classes that are designed to improve strength, balance, flexibility and mobility.

In addition to their dedication to physical health, they have a life enrichment program that concentrates on spiritual growth, intellectual engagement, social connection and purposeful living. For instance, they have a resident who likes to garden so she prunes plants. They also have residents who help catalog their library of books.

One of the best parts of the expansion is the additional common spaces that now exist. A connector goes between the existing building and the new addition that includes a fireside cafe and lounge, featuring a grand piano as well as a coffee and wine bar. Copper Trace also has a large-screen theater room that residents and families can utilize.

“These inviting community spaces are going to help socialization and engagement for our residents,” Pollock says.

There will now be two outdoor patio areas in assisted living (one on the north side and one on the south side), which are great spots for residents and families to relax. These areas offer beautiful views and the ability to commune with nature.

Copper Trace was bestowed a Five-Star Quality Rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to indicate that their health inspections, staffing and quality measures are exemplary. It is conveniently located close to all major hospital systems in addition to many physician offices and specialty programs. Plus, they are adjacent to shopping and restaurants at Clay Terrace. That’s great for residents as the community provides van transportation to medical appointments as well as life enrichment outings. For instance, a group of residents recently spent the day at Newfields. They also take trips to farmers markets, Target, Meijer, and various restaurants for lunch.

“In the spring there was a Women of Vision luncheon in Westfield, so we took a group of ladies to that event,” Pollock says.

On June 21 the Copper Trace community participated in The Longest Day: A Walk to End Alzheimer’s, a fundraising event organized by the Alzheimer’s Association.

If you would like to schedule a tour or inquire about moving into Copper Trace, stop in today. They are currently accepting reservations.

“We encourage people to come in, visit with us and have a look around,” says Susan Bonner, director of marketing at CarDon & Associates. “While an appointment isn’t necessary, it can be helpful in order to make sure you see the activities, the dining and all of the amenities.”

Copper Trace is located at 1250 West 146th Street in Westfield. For more information, visit coppertrace.us.

Watering your lawn twice a week or less helps you reduce your use and save on your bill.

Find more WaterWise tips at CitizensEnergyGroup.com/WaterWise

Writer / Natalie Gargiulo

Learning a game by observing the minute details of professional players may not be how most people develop their passion, but this was indeed the case for Westfield Middle School’s Keagan Finn.

“When I was little I always loved watching NBA teams compete, and I became passionate about watching their moves and ball-handling skills,” Finn says. “I wanted to be just like that and got excited to learn basketball skills of my own. That’s what got me started playing basketball. Then once I started, I was hooked on playing the sport.”

Finn’s love for the sport has been cultivated at Pacers Athletic Center (PAC) as he’s become a regular at the facility, playing for the Primetime 2028 Black team. He also played for Grand Park Premier’s (GPP) 2028 White team in the spring/summer of 2023.

KEAGAN FINN

“I started playing basketball at the age of 6 and fell in love with the sport,” he says. “I have played basketball on the Primetime Black team at the PAC for six and a half years. I was in the third grade and got to have Coach Braden Heil as my first coach at the PAC.”

Finn continues on Heil, who has been his coach for six years.

“Coach Braden has been influential throughout my years playing basketball at the PAC,” he says. “He has been a trusting and supportive coach who has taught me everything from how to develop my basketball skills to how to be a team leader. I’ve pretty much grown up throughout the years with him and I’m thankful I’ve gotten to have such an awesome and motivating coach.”

Through the years with Heil as a coach, Finn has been able to reflect the moves he once viewed on a screen, which earned him five rings and six medals from championship brackets, in addition to the five medals received from the GPP championship tournaments.

“One of my proudest accomplishments at the PAC was when my GPP team was competing in the [Indiana Youth Basketball League] summer league championship game,” he says. “We were playing against a team that was a grade level up from us and after an intense, close matchup, we pulled off a win against them to close out the season.”

Finn continues with what gave him some extra motivation to keep going.

“It was pretty sweet; one of the players from the opposing team came up to me after the game and complimented me on my defense and physicality,” he says. “He said he

respected my determination. Not too often do you see players pay compliments to each other, so that is something that meant a lot to me.”

Game recognizing game is something of importance to Finn, as he loves to watch and observe the game as it unfolds, just like he did when he was first falling in love with the art of basketball.

“A memorable moment of mine while playing on Primetime was earning my very first championship ring with Primetime Black team and Coach Braden in February of 2020,” Finn says. “This moment really brought our team together as we had played some tough opponents and felt proud of what we had accomplished.”

Adopting moves from icons and competitors alike has become an innate hobby for Finn, earning him memorable core moments as a basketball player and teammate - but there is nothing like the first

thrill of setting foot on the court.

“A favorite memory of mine was how excited I was when I first found out I was invited to play on the Primetime Black team at the age of 8,” he says. “I remember our very first game as a team, and we were all so pumped up about playing together for the first time. It was an exciting game and we pulled away with a strong win of 42-2. We were setting the tone early for the season to come!”