What are my options? Do I really need a procedure? Witham’s cardiology team believes the best care decisions are made with you, not for you — guided by the highest standards of safety and quality, and centered entirely on your life. For more details or a second opinion, visit Witham.org/HeartStrong.
8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
GETTING TO KNOW COMPASS INVESTMENT SERVICES
For many in Boone County, State Bank is a familiar name—a trusted local institution that has supported individuals, families, and businesses for generations. What some may not realize is that State Bank also makes available a full suite of investment and financial planning services on its premises through a relationship with Compass Investment Services (CIS).
Compass Investment Services, located inside State Bank, is the bank’s dedicated
wealth management practice, working closely with clients to help them plan for the future with confidence.
“At its core, Compass Investment Services is about helping people make informed financial decisions,” says Brockton Yoder, CFP®, Financial Advisor. “We work with individuals, families, and business owners to create strategies that are designed not only to help them achieve their goals but to bring clarity and peace of mind.”
A LOCAL APPROACH TO FINANCIAL PLANNING
Compass Investment Services reflects the same commitment to community and relationships that has defined the bank for more than a century.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, CIS focuses on personalized financial guidance. Advisors take time to understand each client’s goals, whether that’s preparing for retirement, preserving assets, or
planning for the next generation.
Most of the clients they serve are individuals and families across Central Indiana—people who value having a local advisor who understands both their financial picture and their community.
That local connection matters.
“Working with a local advisor means you’re not just a number,” says Bob Haymond, CFP®, Financial Advisor. “You’re working with someone who understands your goals and can guide you through important financial decisions with context and experience.”
Compass Investment Services, aligned with State Bank’s philosophy, believes financial decisions are best made close to home, by people who understand the communities they serve.
“AT ITS CORE, COMPASS INVESTMENT SERVICES IS ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE MAKE INFORMED FINANCIAL DECISIONS.”
—BROCKTON YODER
NAVIGATING LIFE’S BIG FINANCIAL QUESTIONS
No matter where someone is in life, certain financial questions tend to come up again and again:
• When can I retire—and will I have enough?
• How do I protect what I’ve built?
• What’s the best way to care for my family financially?
• How do I measure whether I’m on track?
For those approaching retirement, these questions often become more immediate.
“One of the most important starting points is understanding your retirement budget and how your resources will support it,” Yoder explains. “From there, it’s about building a strategy that helps ensure you don’t outlive your savings.”
That includes evaluating income sources,
investment strategies, and what advisors often refer to as a “decumulation” plan— how assets are structured and withdrawn over time.
It also means making sure foundational elements are in place, such as estate documents, wills, and healthcare directives.
MAKING SENSE OF MEDICARE
Health care is another critical piece of the retirement puzzle—and one that can quickly become overwhelming.
To help address this, Compass Investment Services will host a live Medicare educational event in June, open to members of the community.
“Medicare can be complex, and there are a lot of options to consider,” Haymond says. “Many people aren’t sure where to start or how to determine what’s right for their situation.”
Because informed decisions start with clear information, Compass Investment Services also offers educational events for the community. Join us for an upcoming Medicare seminar designed to simplify your options and answer your questions in a comfortable, no-pressure setting. This seminar is free to attend and is open to the public.
Saturday, June 6, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Underground 91 South Main Street, Ste 007 Zionsville, IN 46077
The event is designed to simplify that process, offering clear, easy-to-understand information about how Medicare works, the different types of coverage available, and how to evaluate options such as traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
Because those decisions aren’t one-sizefits-all, education is key.
“Our goal is to help people feel more confident in the choices they’re making,” Yoder adds.
PLANNING FOR WHAT’S NEXT
At every stage of life, financial planning is about more than numbers—it’s about preparing for what comes next.
State Bank continues its long-standing mission of supporting the financial
well-being of the communities it serves—not just through banking, but by arranging with Compass Investment Services to provide clients with guidance, education, and long-term planning support.
For Boone County residents considering retirement, navigating Medicare, or simply seeking a clearer picture of their financial future, Compass Investment Services offers a local resource to help them move forward with confidence.
Compass Investment Services is a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. This is an informational seminar. There is no cost or obligation. Please reach out to Compass Investment Services for information. Always consult a Medicare agent regarding your specific Medicare questions and decisions.
Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation. Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results.
Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.
Ameriprise Financial and the financial institution are not affiliated.
Each spring, the spirit of Indiana comes to life through the time-honored traditions of the Indianapolis 500, and for 21-yearold Olivia Parker, those traditions are now deeply personal.
Olivia Parker, a Lebanon High School graduate and current Trine University student, is pursuing a degree in exercise science through a direct-entry doctoral program in physical therapy. This year, she also represents Boone County in the 500 Festival Princess Program.
For Parker, the journey to becoming a princess began years ago — not in a classroom or on campus, but along the parade route. Her father’s involvement as a scout leader helping set up for festival events gave her a behind-the-scenes look at the excitement surrounding the annual
celebration. Watching the princesses glide by during the parade left a lasting impression.
“I’ve known about the program for years,” Parker says. “I always loved seeing the princesses and hearing about all the things they’ve done.”
That early exposure, paired with a deep appreciation for her hometown, ultimately inspired her to apply.
“Boone County shaped me into the person I am,” she says. “I wanted the opportunity to give back, represent my community and hopefully inspire younger girls to go after their dreams.”
Parker’s commitment to service was evident before earning her sash. At Trine, she serves as president of her sorority and helps lead a major philanthropy event for the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer.
“Seeing the impact we can make in the community has been incredible,” she says. As part of her princess duties, Parker has already begun engaging in community outreach. From visiting elementary classrooms to planning a “Princess Story Time” at the Lebanon Public Library, she is bringing the excitement of the festival to young audiences, especially those who may not otherwise experience it firsthand.
One of her most meaningful upcoming visits will take her back to Harney Elementary, her alma mater, where she plans
to participate in the school’s beloved “Kindy 500” event.
“That’s been something I’ve wanted to do since I found out I was selected,” she says. “It’s such a full-circle moment.”
While the role offers plenty of excitement, it has also pushed Parker outside her comfort zone, particularly when engaging young students in a classroom setting.
“Figuring out how to make lessons fun and interactive has been a learning curve,” she says. “But it’s been really rewarding.”
Beyond the outreach, Parker says one of the most impactful aspects of the program has been the connections she’s already forming with fellow princesses.
“It’s such a diverse and accomplished group of women,” she says. “I’ve already made some incredible friendships.”
Above all, Parker is embracing the honor of being part of something larger than herself.
“It’s amazing to be part of such a longstanding tradition,” she says. “The history behind the Indianapolis 500 is incredible, and the fact that I get to be a part of it alongside 32 other women is something I’ll always be grateful for.”
As May approaches, Parker isn’t just preparing for a parade; she’s carrying forward a legacy of service, leadership and Hoosier pride.
Writer / Renée Larr
500 BIGS
MENTORSHIP CAMPAIGN AIMS TO RECRUIT 500 VOLUNTEERS BEFORE INDY 500
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI), in collaboration with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), officially announced a volunteer campaign to recruit “500 Bigs by the Indy 500.”
From March 1 through May 24, the day of the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500, BBBSCI and IMS will be working together to share the need and urgency for more mentors in the Central Indiana community. With more than 1,000 kids waiting for a mentor in Central Indiana, BBBSCI and IMS are looking for 500 community members to step up and take the first step to become a mentor, alongside more than 80 businesses invited to learn about the power of mentorship.
“IMS is excited to work with BBBSCI for another year to encourage more connection throughout our community,” says Jimmie McMillian, Penske Entertainment Senior Corporate Counsel. “Just like how we bring together more than 350,000 people for the Indy 500, we hope to bring together hundreds of kids and community members in Central Indiana through this campaign.”
“It’s clearly a busy time of year for IMS and the Indy 500, so it says a lot about their commitment to our community’s future — our amazing kids — that they collaborate with Big Brothers Big Sisters on this push to find more mentors,” says Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of BBBSCI. “Volunteering as a mentor is about showing up for a young person you may have otherwise never met because you believe it matters to be part of a community where all kids have encouragement and opportunity. And the team at Big Brothers Big
Sisters guides and supports you every step of the way.”
BBBS has been a leader in mentorship for 120 years, and BBBSCI has served this community for more than 50 years. The organization uses evidence-based mentoring experiences that show mentorship provides the opportunity to tackle challenges around mental and emotional well-being, academic achievement, economic mobility, and positive behaviors and development for young people.
MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
The Need: According to the CDC, 40% of youth report feeling persistently sad or hopeless.
The Proven Opportunity: Mentored youth saw a 16% growth in emotional regulation and a 20% reduction in depressive symptoms compared to non-mentored youth.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
The Need: Districts report that roughly 22% of students missed 10% or more of school days in the 2024-2025 school year.
The Proven Opportunity: Mentored students are proven to attend school more regularly, perform better academically, and exhibit fewer behavioral problems than their non-mentored peers.
ECONOMIC MOBILITY
The Need: More than 75% of youth are concerned about having necessary employment skills, and 74% of young adults lack access to a mentor.
The Proven Opportunity: Mentored youth earn an average of $200,000 more in lifetime earnings and are 20% more likely to enroll in college than their non-mentored peers.
POSITIVE BEHAVIORS AND DEVELOPMENT
The Need: Young people who lack positive adult guidance face a significantly higher risk of entering the justice system — a pathway with cascading consequences for their futures, their families and their communities.
The Proven Opportunity: Mentored youth are 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27% less likely to begin using alcohol, 54% less likely to be arrested, and 52% less likely to skip school than non-mentored youth.
Being a mentor, or “Big,” through BBBSCI requires a one-year commitment to be matched with a mentee, or “Little.” Bigs and Littles meet 4-6 hours per month, and together they enjoy activities provided by BBBSCI and its partners or find activities within their community.
To learn more about becoming a Big, visit bebigforkids.org/ volunteer.
To learn more about BBBSCI and how to get involved with the 500 Bigs by the Indy 500 campaign, visit bebigforkids.org/500by500.
RESEARCH STU DY SEEKING People living with Atrial Fibrillation or Atrial Flutter
Purdue University, College of Pharmacy is seeking people living with atrial fibrillation/flutter who are planning to have or recently have had a electric cardioversion or ablation to treat atrial fibrillation or flutter. In order to qualify you must be taking anticoagulation (a blood thinner such as coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto).
If you qualify for the study:
• You will be asked to take a medicine called Zofran (ondansetron) or a placebo (sugar pill) twice a day for 4 weeks
• You will be asked to wear a Ziopatch on your chest which monitors your heart beats for 4 weeks and keep a log of any symptoms that you have related to the medicine and atrial fibrillation.
• You will complete 5 visits lasting about 30 minutes (1 visit at the start of the study and then a visit each week). The visits can be completed at your home or in the clinical reearch center located on the IU Indianapolis campus
• You will receive up to $350 after completing all study visits.
If you are interested in participating, please call or text 317-847-2094 or email: hwroblew@iu.edu
boone county classic
May 16
Join the inaugural Boone County Classic in Lebanon, IN! Choose a 100K or 25-mile chip-timed ride. For racers, families, and all skill levels. boonecountyclassic.com
summer market season
Lebanon City Market
Downtown Lebanon
June-September, Every Tuesday
Jamestown Farmers Market
April 18-September 19, 1st and 3rd Saturdays each month
Whitestown Farmers Market
Main Street Park
June-August, Every Thursday
Zionsville Farmers Market
Main Street Zionsville May 16-Sept 26, Every Saturday
summer concerts
Boone County Summer Fest
Downtown Lebanon June 5-6
Music on the Plaza & Courthouse Cruise-In
Downtown Lebanon
May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11
Whitestown Summer Concert Series
Main Street Park
May 29-July 31, Every Friday (Excluding June 19& July 3rd)
Sunday Summer Concerts
Zionsville Lions Park July 5-August 2, Every Sunday
Zionsville Cultural District Concert Series
Zionsville Lions Park June-August, Every Wednesday
Blooming Legacy
MOUNT FLOWERS CELEBRATES 80 YEARS IN LEBANON
Writer / Amy Moshier Photographer / Laura Kendrick
When it comes to retail shops — or any others, for that matter — 80 years is a long time, an accomplishment that demands respect and recognition.
This is exactly what has happened for Mount Flowers in the small town of Lebanon. Started back in 1946 under different management, the full-service floral shop achieved 80 years this past April and remains as popular as when it opened.
Current manager Lana Hale has been with the shop for 40 years, since 1986.
“The store itself was bought by the Mount family 48 years ago. I bought the store with my mom, dad and husband. I am the owner,” she says.
How does she feel about the store turning 80?
“I am really, really excited,” she says. “I think it’s really neat that Boone County has supported the business all of these years. It’s an honor to still be here after so long.”
What is the most common order for flowers?
“We do a lot of pretty, fresh mixed bouquets for all kinds of occasions.”
Full-service weddings are common, she says.
As far as keys to the success of the shop, there is one topic that hits home with Hale.
“I think it’s just the fact that it’s all made possible because of people supporting local businesses. I know that if a customer wants something we don’t have, I’ll send them somewhere else in Lebanon to support local businesses. I also love the fact that people get so excited to see something that they receive. They love to see the gifts and flowers we bring. We don’t tell them what they are receiving before a delivery. We only call them and say we have a gift for them,” Hale says.
“Gifts — in addition to flowers — might include wind chimes, cement garden decorations, candles, bereavement or birthday items. Just all kinds of things,” she adds.
Other gifts might include plants and gift baskets, including fruit and food.
“Sometimes we have a delivery for someone who has lost a loved one.”
Hale says it is rewarding for she and staff members to see the reactions of customers receiving deliveries.
Driver Joe Rady comments about the fullservice wedding services Mount fulfills.
“We do a lot of the boutonnieres for the groomsmen and all the flowers for the bride and the bridesmaids,” he says.
“We’ve also done a lot of stuff as far as decorating goes,” he says. “We’ve gone to people’s houses and decorated their backyards and stuff. Just whatever somebody asks for.”
Significant prom business has come their way as well, he says.
“We do a lot of stuff for the proms — corsages and boutonnieres, if somebody wants something for their graduation party.”
Employee retention at the shop is incredible.
Hale says, “I have another employee with 46 years of experience, in addition to my own 40 years of experience, and I have someone else who has 30 years. Then we have our driver.”
“Every day there are always three employees in the store. On holidays, that goes up to maybe 12 of us in here — store clerks, designers, etc.”
Competition?
“I want the stores to all take care of each other. There is a variety of stores in Boone County. It’s important to look out for local businesses.”
Other occasions Mount Flowers does floral work for include new-baby celebrations.
Then, there are seasonal décor, holiday items and best-selling arrangements, including custom designs.
ST. JUDE DREAM HOME SHOWPLACE SUPPORTS LIFESAVING RESEARCH
Writer / Amy Moshier
March 20, 2026, was an important day for many people, especially children with cancer. This was the day the St. Jude Dream Home Showplace opened its first home in Indiana, built by Old Town Design Group, said Stephanie Dillon, area manager for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The St. Jude Dream Home Showplace is part of a unique program designed to raise money to be donated to St. Jude. In partnership with Old Town Design Group, the initiative is predicted to generate $800,000 for the hospital to help fund cancer research at St. Jude. When the house is sold, 100% of the net profits will go to St. Jude, said Katie Ingersoll, sales coordinator
Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, ensuring they can focus on the care of their child, Dillon says.
“This is an important moment for our team and our community,” says Matt Huffman, president of Old Town Design Group.
“The St. Jude Dream Home Showplace reflects years of planning and partnership. We’re proud to open the doors and invite people to see what’s possible when craftsmanship and purpose come together,” he says.
“Once we understood the impact St. Jude has on families, the decision was simple,” Huffman says. “If we have the opportunity to use what we do to help children and support their families, we’re all in.”
“The showplace actually launched in 2006. It’s grown; we have completed 23 showcase homes across the country,” Dillon says.
“The Showplace program is essentially in multiple states across the country. A builder in each of those areas will agree to build a home for St. Jude. The builder asks their vendors to donate as much as they can with their time and their efforts. Most of them are family homes in general, but the builder designs the layout and all of the floor plan,” Dillon adds.
“The hospital relies on donations in order to facilitate the research done here and also to treat our families. We need to supply housing and food,” she adds. “This home is the first house built in Indiana, but we have builders in Valparaiso and Fort Wayne that are also participating in the program.”
Many vendors contributed their time, money and craftsmanship to the first home. Some of the vendors include 84 Lumber, ADS Cabinets, Allied Drywall Services, Carter Lumber, Custom Concrete Co., D+D Mouldings & Millwork, Everything Home Design, Ferguson Home, Fritchy’s Lawn Care & Landscaping, Holland Bates Painting, ICC Floors, JMR Builders Group, Marble Uniques, McComb Window & Door Company, Phantom Screens, and Visio Security & Technology Inc.
This program differs from another one called the St. Jude Home Giveaway, which relies on the sale of raffle tickets. People
for Old Town Design Group.
“It’s
DRIVEN GROWTH
LEO CHEVROLET EXPANDS WITH COMMUNITY FOCUS
Writer & Photographer / Abbie Willans
Locally owned Leo Chevrolet, formerly known as P4 Automotive Group, has recently opened two new dealership locations in the greater Indianapolis area. One is on 96th Street near Carmel, and one is in Lebanon. Owner Leo Portaluppi started his business in Columbus, Indiana, and has expanded to other parts of the state over the last two years.
“We’re good people, and we hope folks give us an opportunity. We’re out to earn people’s business,” he says.
Originally from Argentina, Portaluppi has moved around the United States throughout his life—from New Jersey and New York to Texas, where he spent most of his life growing up.
“That’s where I first got started in the car business. My father was a technician and mechanic. Right out of high school, I got a job with him. I worked my way up from
cleaning the shop to working on cars to being in management. Right around that time, Roger Penske bought our dealership. I got used to being around him and around the Penske Group,” he says.
After that, he received an opportunity to be in a partnership at a dealership in Kentucky.
“My family and I lived there for about seven years before I was able to branch out on my own and move to Columbus. We’re not moving anymore; we’re staying in Indiana,” he continues. “I got connected with General Motors, and I applied for the position in Columbus and was selected for it. It was what they call an ‘open point,’ so there was no dealership in Columbus and they were looking for someone to come in and establish one there,” Portaluppi explains.
Adjusting to having his own dealership was a struggle at times, but he’s gained experience and knowledge from it.
“When we first opened the Chevrolet dealership in Columbus, we didn’t have anything—no employees, no product, no staplers. It was definitely a challenge to start something from nothing,” he recalls.
Since that time, he’s acquired eight other dealerships across central Indiana, including Stoops GMC in Muncie and a HarleyDavidson dealership in Edinburgh, Indiana. Across all locations, he has almost 400 employees.
“Our business practice is unique to us. We have non-commission salespeople. We believe in aligning with the customer’s interests, and sometimes commission doesn’t do that, so we pay them differently. Our thought is to make a little bit of money on a lot of people. We want to sell a lot of cars and gain a lot of customers. If that means a lower margin, that’s OK, because we’ll do better in the long run,” he says.
With the current dealerships, Portaluppi faced challenges regarding changing the name of the business and rebranding from P4 Automotive to Leo Auto Group, as well as purchasing dealerships previously owned by others.
“Stoops is a good name and has been in business for so long that people might be nervous, but then when they come in, they see it’s the same people doing the right things and taking care of them. They get over that pretty quickly. We try to keep everyone who was there before,” he says.
In addition to selling cars, Portaluppi and his employees make it a priority to invest in their community.
“We serve in the Boys & Girls Club. We encourage employees to be on different organizations’ boards. In Columbus, we’re one of the official sponsors of the school system. We do a lot of things with the Chamber of Commerce. We don’t just want to be involved with dollars; we like to show up at events. If someone needs a place to host an event, we offer for them to come and do it at our facility. We try to do an event at least once a month with the community to let them know we’re here.”
Because of a lack of inventory when he first opens a dealership, Portaluppi says they try to buy used cars from their customers and offer competitive trade-in deals and pricing on new cars.
“Customers would be surprised at what we offer them,” he says.
“I’d like people to know that we’re not this big corporation. We’re family-owned, we’re local. We’re very community-focused and we want to be part of it. People see the big Ford or Chevy sign and think it’s a big corporation in charge, but it’s not. We’re the ones supporting the baseball and soccer teams. We’re good people, and maybe dealerships in general don’t have a great reputation, but we’re not like them. I want to see people out and about, and feel good knowing that we took care of them,” he says.
Leo Chevrolet’s new locations are at 1920 N. Lebanon St., Lebanon, and 4105 W. 96th St., Indianapolis. Their websites are leochevy.com and leochevygmc.com.
Both locations are open Monday through Saturday. For more information, you can follow them on their social media channels.
FRESH START
LOCAL RESTAURATEUR BRINGS NEW FLAVOR WITH TORO Z
After years of managing multiple restaurants for a well-known chain, Israel Vázquez took a leap of faith in opening his own restaurant, Toro Z. Originally an El Toro
Bravo, Vázquez managed around 11 El Toro restaurants for about 15 years and decided to take his experience and focus on making one location the best it can be, emphasizing fresh ingredients and hospitality.
The newly named Toro Z officially opened in January, and with it came a few exciting changes for guests to look forward to on their next visit.
First, a revamped drink menu celebrating fresh ingredients.
“Everybody sells a margarita with a bunch of sugars, so I’m focusing on fresh-squeezed
margaritas with lime and guava nectar,” Vázquez says. “I’m doing fresh and natural.”
A couple of new favorites are the tripleberry margarita and the vibrant jalapeño pineapple margarita, both made with fresh ingredients. The best night to try new drinks is Ladies Night on Thursdays, when drinks are served in fun, colorful glass purses.
If you loved the food before, Vázquez stressed that you’ll still see your menu favorites. With a focus on fresh ingredients, you can expect better quality across the board. Check out the special deals on authentic Mexican tacos on Tuesday, or grab the popular chilaquiles for lunch during the week.
Vázquez and his wife have lived in Zionsville for almost 12 years, and he managed the
Writer / Stephanie Duncan
Photographers / Stephanie Duncan & Jesus Constantino
Zionsville restaurant for six years. Choosing to stay and live there was an easy decision for Israel and his wife. They immediately fell in love with the community and the schools, and they love the idea of continuing to serve Zionsville with their own business.
“I decided to give away all my other restaurants to focus on this one, and it was because of the Zionsville community,” Vázquez says.
When they announced on Facebook and Instagram that they were reopening the restaurant under a new name, the community response was significant.
With a long history in the restaurant industry, Vázquez feels confident about this next challenge. He’s worked hard to revamp the decor, expand the menu and hire a topnotch team to carry out his vision. You can expect to see him working wherever needed to keep the restaurant running.
Vázquez started as a dishwasher when he first moved to Indiana from Guadalajara in 2005. He then moved through many different roles at various restaurants, bussing tables, serving and eventually becoming a manager for El Toro Bravo.
“When I was living in Mexico, I was working in the food industry, too,” he says. “I really love what I do.”
“We got almost 45,000 views. That was really cool,” he says. “I saw a lot of comments saying, ‘I’m glad you’re back.’”
When choosing the name of their new restaurant, they wanted to keep it simple.
“I decided to name the restaurant Toro Z because I think it’s important to keep the name close to the original restaurant,” he says. “I decided on the green ‘Z’ for Zionsville.”
Paying homage to the community he lives in was important to him and his wife.
In the future, Vázquez plans to host brunch and special events, such as mezcal pairing dinners. It’s a lot of planning, but Vázquez is confident in his vision for the restaurant and his team, and he is hopeful for the future.
“I know it’s going to work,” he says.
Toro Z is located at 1576 W. Oak St. in Zionsville and is open seven days a week. A new website is launching soon. Check out their social media pages for the latest specials and upcoming events.
STRENGTHENING BOONE COUNTY FROM THE INSIDE OUT
The Boone County Economic Development Corporation’s Business Retention and Expansion Program
Economic development is a combination of celebrating new investment and strengthening the businesses already operating in a region. In Boone County, that ongoing commitment is balanced by the Boone County Economic Development Corporation (Boone EDC) through our Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) program.
The BR&E program brings together a network of partners, including local stakeholders and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. The purpose is for the Boone EDC better to understand the real-time needs of Boone County employers and ensure they have the resources, workforce, and community support required to grow and thrive.
Boone EDC staff and partners regularly visit local businesses across the county, walking on production floors and listening closely to challenges and opportunities. BR&E visits provide a ground-level view of how businesses are operating and where support can make the biggest difference.
Two recent examples illustrate the impact of our handson approach. In Jamestown, the BR&E team visited a local manufacturer. The visit provided an opportunity to better
understand the company’s workforce, operational priorities, and long-term growth plans.
Similarly, in Lebanon, the team engaged with a globally recognized manufacturer. The visit allowed Boone EDC to gain insight into the company’s operations and potential needs. These conversations help ensure that companies like this continue to see Boone County as a place where they can expand and invest.
What makes the BR&E program particularly effective is our emphasis on partnership. The Boone EDC does not act alone; we serve as a convener, connecting businesses with educational institutions, workforce training providers, local governments, and state-level resources. When a need is identified, the EDC helps bring the right people to the table to find solutions.
At its core, the Business Retention and Expansion program reflects a simple but essential philosophy: the health of Boone County’s economy depends on the success of its existing employers. In Boone County, supporting businesses is ultimately about supporting people: the jobs they hold, the families they build, and the communities they strengthen.
Saturday, June 13, 2026
9am - 2pm RAIN or SHINE
• No one under 12 years old permitted (for safety reasons)
• No carts or wagons permitted
• Product marked as overstock and NOT to be resold as new
• Payment in Cash or Credit Card (split payments not allowed)
TOURISM SPOTLIGHT
Summer in Boone County
Summer in Boone County offers a lively mix of outdoor adventure, community gatherings, and family-friendly entertainment that captures the spirit of the season. From scenic cycling events to bustling markets and live music under the stars, there is no shortage of ways to make the most of the warm months.
THE INAUGURAL BOONE COUNTY CLASSIC
The season kicks off with the Boone County Classic (May 16) in Lebanon. This inaugural ride invites cyclists of all skill levels to choose between a 100K or a 25-mile route. Whether you are a seasoned rider or simply looking for a fun family activity, the event offers a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to explore Boone County’s scenic roads. Be sure to stick around after for an incredible after party featuring live music, food, beer garden, and more! Register now at boonecountyclassic.com.
BOONE COUNTY SUMMER FEST
The excitement continues with the Boone County Summer Fest (June 5 and 6) in downtown Lebanon. This free, familyfriendly festival features live music, local food vendors, activities for children, and beverage options for adults, making it a perfect way to celebrate the start of summer.
MARKETS AND LIVE MUSIC
Local markets bring fresh flavors and handcrafted goods to communities across the county. The Lebanon City Market runs every Tuesday from June through September in downtown Lebanon, offering a weekly gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The Jamestown Farmers Market takes place on the first and third Saturdays from now through mid-September, while the Whitestown Farmers Market fills Main Street Park every Thursday from June through August. In Zionsville, the popular Zionsville Farmers Market runs every Saturday from May 16 through late September, drawing crowds with its wide selection of local produce and fresh made goods.
Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy with Boone County’s summer concerts. In downtown Lebanon, you’ll find Music on the Plaza & Courthouse Cruise-In (May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11) which combines live performances with a showcase of classic cars. The Whitestown
Summer Concert Series takes place on Friday evenings from late May through July (excluding June 19 & July 3), while Sunday Summer Concerts (July 5- August 2) at Lions Park offer a relaxing way to end the weekend. Midweek entertainment is also available through the Zionsville Cultural District Concert Series, held on Wednesdays from June through August.
BITE INTO BOONE
Bite into Boone is back again for its second year, welcoming locals and visitors to try some of the best food that Boone County has to offer all summer long. Find more information on participating locations at discoverboonecounty.com
Plan your trip today at www.discoverboonecounty.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
AUTOMOTIVE
BIG O TIRES - LEBANON (765) 388-4715 bigotires.com/location/in/lebanon
ED MARTIN edmartin.com
BANKING & FINANCIAL
HOOSIER HEARTLAND STATE BANK myhhsb.com
MARKET STREET WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISORS (317) 552-0505 mswma.com
STATE BANK LEBANON NORTH (765) 482-7771 statebank1910.bank
STATE BANK LEBANON SOUTH (765) 482-6003 statebank1910.bank
STATE BANK ZIONSVILLE/ WHITESTOWN (317) 769-7330 statebank1910.bank
BUSINESS SERVICES
INDY’S PRO GRAPHIX (317) 873-3788 indysprographix.com
VERDE FLAVORS OF MEXICO (317) 344-2030 verdeflavorsofmexico.com
For Story Ideas and Advertising
CONTACT: BRANDON BALTZ
BOONE COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES , INC.
heal thy. The Avelena Fund at the Community Foundation of Boone County was established in 1995, and is administered by Boone County Senior Services, Inc . It provides 20 seniors with a stipend of $140 a month to help with whatever they need.
One of the benef iciaries is Mary Allen. Retired f rom Witham Hospital, Mary uses her stipend to support her card ministry. During COVID Mary began the project, sending 106 “happy mails little cheerful, creative mailings that were sure to bring a smile to the recipient.” A craft area in Mary’s apartment has everything she needs to make her unique cards.
The Avelena Fund has also provided funds to help buy vans for BCSSI’s Boone Area Transit System program, and supported special programming, activ t es d ntert nm nt at BC SI. joy through this hobby. It’s just a blessing.
