Noblesville Magazine December 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

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Health Summit

Hear Lindy Thackston, Fox 59 anchor, share her inspiring journey through cancer and healing. Gain expert insights on menopause, lifestyle medicine, mental health and more from Riverview Health’s all-women physician panel of experts.

You won’t want to miss it! Register: riverview.org/women4women Cost: $10*

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February 5, 2026 | 5:30–8:30 p.m. The Bridgewater Club

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NOBLE WINE & SPIRITS

GOOD SELECTION, GREAT TASTE

NOBLE WINE & SPIRITS OPENS IN NOBLESVILLE

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Robert Jones

The taste of the weekend, celebration, good times, great memories, holiday gatherings, and laughter with family and friends. That’s often what people seek when they enter a liquor store to make a purchase.

Indiana Liquor Group (ILG), was formed in 2018, by three local Hoosier investors. Over the course of seven years, ILG and their team has continued to grow through acquisitions, strategic relocations and the acquiring of new licenses. To date, they operate 65 stores, the newest of which is Noble Wine & Spirits in Noblesville, which opened in early November.

Many of the stores acquired have been staples in the community for years, and they typically choose to keep the same name to pay homage to that legacy.

Most people of Noblesville may remember Mr. G’s Liquors, a previous store that had been serving the community since 1977. When ILG acquired it, they elected to change the name and introduce a higherend brand of stores. This not only meant a better selection of premium liquor, fine wine, and craft beer but also a larger store to accommodate an overall better shopping experience.

“Noble Wine & Spirits was a bit different because it was our own brand that we created,” says Curtis Painter.

curated selections in the area featuring new, hard-to-find whiskies and even ILG exclusive single barrel selections.

“ILG selected single barrel expressions are very important to us. A group from ILG will visit various distilleries and sample through several barrels of whiskey,” Painter says. “Once we select the best, that whole barrel is then bottled and shipped to us. These are unique items as it is literally the only barrel of its kind. Every barrel has a unique flavor profile, so when we receive our 100-200 bottles from that hand-picked barrel, they will be the only ones ever bottled. Having a wide selection of single barrels to choose from just adds to our exceptional selection.”

Another factor that enhances the store’s

comfortable, enjoyable environment to shop in.”

Noble Wine & Spirits serves as the flagship brand for ILG and has continued to expand and introduce stores to other markets. Currently, they have nine under the brand, with their newest being on the west side of Noblesville, at the intersection of Hazel Dell/Little Chicago and SR-32, near the new Wawa’s Gas Station.

“We’re still very much a convenience-based place to shop,” Painter adds. “Customers shopping with us appreciate not having to walk through a busy supermarket or fight traffic to shop here.”

ILG operates 65 retail package liquor stores across Indiana, making them the secondlargest retailer in the state. Although they don’t have many stores in the Indianapolis area currently, they operate two in Noblesville, two on the south side, and recently acquired a store in Carmel. Most of their stores are located in northeast Indiana in places like Muncie, Anderson, Marion, Richmond, and small towns in between.

“We are spread out, but we’re excited to be expanding our footprint around the Greater Indianapolis area,” Painter says.

The team is passionate about giving back to the communities in which they serve. Not long after they formed, they created

their own charity called Spirits for Smiles, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Indiana. Spearheaded by late owner David Hartley, the nonprofit serves as an avenue for people seeking financial aid for dental services, which can range from routine teeth cleaning to full tooth extractions and dentures.

ILG and Spirits for Smiles recognized the difference they could make in people’s lives with this nonprofit, as it’s a great opportunity to help those who might struggle to find the necessary funds for extraordinary dental procedures.

“So many things revolve around oral hygiene, whether that’s your health in general or simply having the self-confidence to smile while out in public,” says Painter, noting that there could be a variety of circumstances in which an individual is uncomfortable showing their teeth. Perhaps he or she is a server or a hostess, whose job it is to warmly greet people, who might feel embarrassed doing so because they are selfconscious about their teeth. Or someone may be reluctant to go on a job interview if they are embarrassed for similar reasons.

“That was our biggest driver—the wish to give people confidence in their appearance and improve their overall health,” Painter says. “We felt this was a win all around.”

To be considered for the Spirits for Smiles program, visit spiritsforsmiles.com to fill out an application. Applicants must be 18-plus years of age and be located in Indiana. The board reviews applications and approves

accordingly. Once approved, the scope or work is determined and procedures completed. To date, they have paid for 100% of all approved procedures.

To raise money for their nonprofit, ILG hosts multiple fundraising events throughout the year, including WhiskeyFest, which is typically held in the fall. Every year, they are allocated certain rare and hard-to-find bottles of whiskey. A select number of these bottles are held back to auction off at WhiskeyFest.

“WhiskeyFest is our main fundraiser for Spirits for Smiles and is a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for a great cause and get some awesome products into our customers’ hands,” Painter says.

Indiana Liquor Group is owned by Nathan Feltman, Kyle Hupfer, Gina Hartley, Chris Lamb and Curtis Painter.

Noble Wine & Spirits is located at 5950 Midland Pointe Boulevard in Noblesville. Stop by and take advantage of great savings going into the holiday season!

THE SINGING FIREFIGHTER

RETIRED NOBLESVILLE FIREFIGHTER STRIKES A CHORD WITH CLASSIC ROCK & COUNTRY PERFORMANCES

A local musician is setting the stage on fire with just a microphone, an acoustic guitar and a smoldering voice belting out classic rock and country hits from artists like Jimmy Buffett, James Taylor, Johnny Cash and Travis Tritt.

Writer / Nancy Hammerstrom

Steve Honeycutt, a recently retired Noblesville firefighter, has grown a following of loyal fans by the thousands since his debut via Facebook videos 10 years ago.

During his time as a rookie fireman, Honeycutt heard his fire captain, Craig Edwards, strumming guitar and crooning upstairs at the firehouse.

“And I’m like, ‘My God, this guy is incredible,’” Honeycutt says. “So I go up there, and he’s playing some really old country music. And he says, ‘Honeycutt, I heard you love music,’ and I said, ‘I do.’ And he goes, ‘Grab a guitar, and let’s play some Willie Nelson.’ And I go, ‘I don’t play guitar, I play drums,’ and he goes, ‘We don’t have any drums, grab me a guitar and let me show you,’ and I learned my first Willie

song on guitar.”

After that moment, Honeycutt began a fiery new passion. He practiced his favorite rock and country songs and started releasing videos on Facebook while at the fire station, which gained traction quickly.

“Before you know it, I was playing open mics with these professional musicians around the area,” he says.

He’d also sometimes jam with a few other coworkers. After performing “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” by Guns N’ Roses, “3,000 views later, people are like, ‘Hey, put another video out,’” Honeycutt says. “All those videos, releasing one every couple of months, turned into my first gig.”

Honeycutt’s introductory live performance

Nelson

at Ocean Prime at Keystone at the Crossing a year and a half ago turned into an offer for regular gigs at the seafood and steakhouse restaurant, followed by requests to play at the Boathouse Kitchen & Swan Dive in Cicero and several other restaurants throughout Hamilton County and the greater Indianapolis area. He’s been booked for more than 100 gigs since then.

A catchy nickname bestowed by friends has now become part of his identity. “When I book places, people will say, ‘Is this the singing firefighter?’ and I go, ‘Yeah,’” Honeycutt says with a chuckle.

Honeycutt says private parties have become popular to book, as well as birthday, graduation and lake house parties on Morse Reservoir. He counts nursing home facilities among his favorite places to play and especially enjoys performing for veterans.

“They love it when I play Elvis or the Beatles,” he says, along with gospel

music and “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals. He performs regularly at Promenade Trails, an assisted living facility in Noblesville.

Wherever Honeycutt plays, people appreciate the versatility of music he shares with his audience and love to reminisce, according to his wife, Mandy.

“I’ve had grown men come up to me and go, ‘I don’t want your husband to see me crying, but that song brought me to tears,’ because it reminds them of something,” she says. “Music moves the soul. That’s why I want him to share it, because it makes people happy.”

For more information about Honeycutt’s upcoming performances or to contact him, email shoneycutt71@gmail.com, visit him on Facebook (his photo includes a guitar with an American flag in the background), or on Instagram at @honeycutt_steve.

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

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Join us for an extraordinary evening at our gala featuring esteemed award-winning and recently retired news broadcaster Debby Knox as our emcee. She will guide us through an unforgettable night of celebration and inspiration. Enjoy networking with friends old and new, dinner, and an opportunity to support the launch of our newly created Women In Noblesville Business Fund. Cap off the evening with a tribute to WIN and the presentation of the annual Woman of Impact Award.

Join us for an extraordinary evening at our gala featuring esteemed award-winning and recently retired news broadcaster Debby Knox as our emcee She will guide us through an unforgettable night of celebration and inspiration. E j ki i h f i d ld d di d vancing , able!

-Your Noblesville Chamber of Commerce

During this event we’ll announce the recipient of the 2024 Woman of Impact Award and hear from distinguished women leaders. The event will be held at Mustard Seed Gardens providing the perfect backdrop to celebrate women in business in the Noblesville area.

A very special thanks to our Noblesville Chamber Board of Directors & the Advancing Noblesville Chamber Foundation for their support & guidance throughout 2025!

During this event we'll announce the recipient of the 2024 Woman of Impact Award and hear from distinguished women leaders. The event will be held at Mustard Seed Gardens providing the perfect backdrop to celebrate women in business in the Noblesville area.

Birdies & Brews has been a catalyst for local businesses for 9 years. Building relationships, conducting business, and connecting with partners is best done with a 7 iron in one hand and a cold beverage in the other. In addition, this is the Noblesville Chamber's largest fundraising event of the year to support small business.

Birdies & Brews has been a catalyst for local businesses for 9 years. Building relationships, conducting business, and connecting with partners is best done with a 7 iron in one hand and a cold beverage in the other. In addition, this is the Noblesville Chamber’s largest fundraising event of the year to support small business.

Fea usin t ev box n ac and ys, eve ole add bre & di off stin and s! B the se give em end faces - there's a reason Birdies & Brews is the most anticipated golf outing on the year. Join us for another round at one of Indiana’s premier courses!

Featuring businesses at every tee box with fun activities and giveaways. Every 3rd hole has the addition of breweries & distilleries offering tastings and samples! Between the on course games, give away items, and friendly faces - there’s a reason Birdies & Brews is the most anticipated golf outing on the year. Join us for another round at one of Indiana’s premier courses!

Sponsorships range from $100 - $7500 event will sell out - Don’t wait to register!

Stay up to date on what’s happening at the Noblesville Chamber! Visit our homepage and check out our upcoming events tab for more great ways to engage & connect in Noblesville. The luncheons are open to the public and registration is available at www.noblesvillechamber.com Thank you to all of our Members, Partners, and friends for a wonderful year. Enjoy a safe and happy Holiday Season!

Birdie Sponsorships Available Now! (Includes Foursome & On Course Display)

Stay up to date on what’s happening at the Noblesville Chamber! Visit our homepage and check out our upcoming events tab for more great ways to engage & connect in Noblesville.

Marnie Cooke Noblesville Schools

Thorpe Miller Indiana Members Credit Union Bryan Glover Noblesville Diversity Coalition

Ryan Hiatt Edward Jones

Mike Grubb Cripe

Chuck Haberman City of Noblesville

Kathy Young First Merchants Bank

Dave Hyatt Board Chair

Patrick Propst SERVE Village

Thorpe Miller Indiana Members Credit Union

Christi Crosser Noblesville School Board

Dr. Christina Collins Ivy Tech Aaron Smith MTCHBX.CO

Esther Lakes Spotlight on the Arts

Chris Oukada REAL Broker

Bob DuBois Noblesville Chamber of Commerce

BE HEARD MENOPAUSE JOURNEY.

Menopause isn’t the same for every woman. That’s why Community Health Network offers personalized care from a team of dedicated experts. Whether you need perimenopause or menopause care options — for hot flashes, mood shifts, sleep changes and more — Community’s comprehensive care team ensures you get the care you need. Because your concerns, thoughts and feelings deserve to be heard during every step of your journey.

Find a provider who listens at eCommunity.com/menopause

FIGHTING FOR LIFE

LOCAL COLLEGE STUDENT IN NEED OF KIDNEY DONATION

Last March, Mason Ulrich was just a typical 20-year-old college student at Purdue University Indianapolis majoring in mechanical engineering. He enjoyed hanging out with his close group of friends from high school, working his longtime job at Kroger on Logan Street, and spending his free time playing video games, bass guitar, and even teaching himself how to speak and write in Mandarin.

But everything changed when Ulrich received life-altering news: he had been diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure after experiencing no warning signs or symptoms. Now, he is in the fight of his life, desperately needing a kidney donation to survive.

In March 2025, Mason began experiencing headaches, which he initially attributed to a dental issue. After a root canal failed to resolve the problem — and noticing a change in his vision — he visited MyEyeDr in Noblesville. There, Dr. Connor Young discovered bilateral retinal bleeding behind both eyes. When Young took Ulrich’s blood pressure, it was so high he sent him directly to the ER at Riverview Health.

It was there that an ER doctor delivered the earth-shattering news: Mason had end-stage kidney failure and a prognosis of just 12 months to live. Mason spent a week in the ICU to manage his dangerously high blood pressure and another week in the hospital

Writer & Photographer / Ashley Callan

beginning dialysis treatment.

End-stage kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease, is the most advanced form of kidney disease, when the kidneys can no longer function effectively. Dialysis becomes essential to remove waste and excess fluids from the body.

Since his diagnosis, Mason has endured daily dialysis at home — a grueling eight- to 10-hour process he undergoes every night. Due to the disease’s advancement, he must also receive blood and iron transfusions, weekly labs, multiple medications and injections, and ongoing monitoring of his organs. He has lost more than 70 pounds, is losing his hair, and some days has little energy.

Yet Mason remains remarkably resilient — he has stayed committed to finishing his degree, missing only one day of school throughout the ordeal. Even his two-week hospital stay happened to fall over his school’s spring break.

Mason’s family refuses to give up hope.

“It’s important that Mason knows he’s not doing this alone, that we’re with him every step of the way — even eating the same food as him,” his mom, Shannon Ulrich, says.

Because Mason is also autistic, Shannon quit her job to accompany him to appointments and help advocate for his care.

“Mason doesn’t fully comprehend the severity of his disease, so I need to be his voice,” she says.

Working tirelessly to share her son’s story, Shannon is leaving no stone unturned in the search for a donor. She has taken to social

media and every available platform to raise awareness about kidney donation and find a compatible match for Mason.

Because cadaver kidneys typically involve a three-year wait list, Mason doesn’t have that kind of time — he needs a living donor to survive. Since his immediate family members aren’t a match, Shannon is exploring other options through the National Kidney Registry’s voucher system.

“It’s like a chain reaction,” she says. “Even though I’m not a match for Mason, I could be a match for someone else — and that person might have someone who’s a match for Mason. Or, in return for my donation, a voucher gives Mason priority when a kidney becomes available.”

The Ulrichs are offering donor incentives to help ease the burden for Mason’s potential donor. These include $2,000 per week for lost wages, travel expenses (including food and lodging for the donor and a caregiver), a three-year post-procedure insurance policy, and in-home testing and lab work.

All of these incentives are established through the National Kidney Registry.

While the family is not currently using crowdfunding websites like GoFundMe, they say the best way to support Mason is by sharing his National Kidney Registry profile and spreading the word.

Updates on Mason’s journey are shared by his mother, Shannon Ulrich, on Facebook at facebook.com/shannon.ulrich.3 and on Instagram at @masonskidneyjourney.

MASON IS REGISTERED THROUGH THE NATIONAL KIDNEY REGISTRY. HIS PROFILE CAN BE FOUND AT HTTPS://NKR.ORG/KND599, WHERE POTENTIAL DONORS CAN SIGN UP TO SEE IF THEY ARE A MATCH.

GLOBAL COMPASSION

FAITH-BASED RELIEF ORGANIZATION, IDES, EXPANDS ITS REACH

International Disaster Emergency Service (IDES) is a non-profit organization that, since 1973, has responded to national and international emergencies through relief, rebuilding and restoration efforts rooted in the name of Jesus Christ. Being a shining light to those experiencing a natural or human disaster, IDES has provided aid and comfort to 130 countries and now, to broaden their relief efforts, has expanded and added a new facility, a Global Impact Center, which will increase its ability to respond to future tragedies and provide a greater relief impact.

Whether it is the U.S. or internationally, IDES is working on the front lines alongside churches, mission partners and international field workers delivering crisis and disaster relief. Through their faith-driven work they are rebuilding communities and bringing compassion and hope through outreach efforts to those affected by the aftermath of human and natural disasters including tornadoes,

hurricanes, droughts, fires, floods, famine and war.

IDES’ Disaster Response Team works alongside volunteers to support churches and community members in disaster assistance relief efforts. This includes removing debris and fallen trees, repairing roofs, preparing and serving meals, and building storage sheds. By partnering with church leaders, together they collaborate with recovery and rebuilding efforts, including building and home repair and restoration.

Currently, the IDES response team and volunteers are helping rebuild homes in Tennessee and North Carolina that were destroyed by Hurricane Helene, providing flood relief in regions of Eastern Kentucky, West Virginia and Texas, and aiding churches in relief efforts in London, Kentucky, where in May a tornado devastated many homes in the area.

“IDES’s growth over the past decade has been a blessing, yet it has also presented challenges we need to address,” says Sarah Cassel, IDES’ advancement assistant. “Due to our current facility size, IDES staff and volunteers are maxed out in our ability to prepare materials and equipment for our U.S. response. Similarly, our GAP staging area has overwhelmed our existing space. We simply need more space. An expansion of our facilities will allow us to purchase bulk supplies at a discount, save money and ultimately serve more people in need.”

For years, the Disaster Response and GAP (God Always Provides) food-packing program that sends food assistance to those who are suffering from hunger and malnutrition around the world have shared the warehouse space at the IDES headquarters, and to meet the increasing demand of the services that IDES provides, they had to create more space to operate efficiently. In 2024, 15 shipments of

Writer & Photographer / Ashley Callan

food were distributed to nine different countries, and now with the additional space and resources of the Global Impact Center, GAP can make a larger impact. And already IDES collaborated with the International Conference on Missions (ICOM) in November to send a care package of relief supplies, including jackets, blankets, medicine, toiletries and more to Ukraine.

The Global Impact Center will also feature an additional 14,000 square feet of office space.

“We are hoping to expand the staff in all of our departments in order to triple our current impact,” Cassel adds. “Our goal is to help two million people a year, and currently we are at 700,000. We just had our Global Impact Center Building Dedication to celebrate the finishing of construction. We are still raising funds to start construction for our new office space.”

To learn more about International Disaster Emergency Service visit them online at ides.org. There you can donate to help finance the Global Impact Center to help fund emergency relief, and also learn how you can volunteer and help serve IDES.

HEALTH CARE TRANSFORMED

IU HEALTH FISHERS OPENS NEW MEDICAL TOWER

When Indiana University Health Saxony Hospital became IU Health Fishers earlier this year, the new name meant more than a rebrand. It marked a bold investment in one of the state’s fastest-growing regions and a renewed commitment to providing advanced medical services and convenient access to world-class health care close to home. Now, with the opening of the hospital’s new medical tower mere minutes from the Noblesville city limits, patients across Noblesville, Fishers and the northeast suburbs of Indianapolis are able to experience that promise first-hand.

The opening marks the completion of IU Health’s Fishers Community Impact Project, which aimed to enhance health care access and services in what has become one of the fastest growing areas in the state — Fishers and the northeast suburbs of Indianapolis. The project nearly doubles the size of the IU Health Fishers campus and workforce, adds dozens of beds, expands the hospital’s existing specialty care services and brings new specialties to the hospital, like maternity care. For Dr. Larry Stevens, Chief Medical Officer at IU Health Fishers, the transformation marks a defining moment for both the hospital and the community.

“While our name and campus is changing, our mission hasn’t,” Dr. Stevens says.

“We’ve always been focused on delivering exceptional, compassionate care. What’s changing is the scale and reach of what we can offer to families right here in Fishers.”

IU Health’s Fishers Community Impact Project began in response to the area’s rapid growth. As Indiana’s fourth-largest city, Fishers continues to attract families, professionals, and businesses. Recognizing this momentum, IU Health created a comprehensive plan to better serve community needs by expanding services both at the hospital and throughout the

Writer / Renée Larr Photographer / Wade Carignan

surrounding communities.

The new medical tower marks the completion of a multi-year expansion project. The tower houses a range of vital services, including mammography, breast surgery, endocrine surgical services, an outpatient OB-GYN suite, a labor and delivery unit, a special care nursery and a medical-surgical inpatient unit.

The new tower adds 50 new inpatient beds. The project also includes the addition of Riley Children’s Health emergency medicine services, featuring a dedicated

pediatric emergency unit adjacent to the existing emergency department. For Dr. Stevens, these changes extend beyond square footage and staffing. They’re about rethinking how health care is integrated into daily life.

“Health care is personal,” he says. “People want to know their providers, they want their children and parents cared for by familiar faces, and they want that care to be close to home. The new facilities and expanded services make that possible on a much greater scale.”

Alongside the hospital expansion, IU Health has added offsite, outpatient access to primary care and specialists in McCordsville and Fishers, reflecting and supporting IU Health’s broader strategy to meet patients where they are, and reduce barriers to care.

Soula Banich, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer supporting IU Health Fishers, says that population growth was a major driver behind the decision to expand and rebrand.

“Our team is proud to open this new medical tower, a centerpiece of our hospital expansion and a reflection of our commitment to the Fishers community,” Banich said in a press release. “This milestone represents years of planning, collaboration and growth. We’ve welcomed exceptional new talent to our team, expanded our capabilities and remained focused on delivering outstanding care.”

The result is a hospital ready for the future, able to handle complex specialty and routine care while emphasizing innovation and empathy.

IU Health Fishers’ new programs reach nearly every area of medicine. Building on growth in cardiovascular, gastroenterology, general surgery, orthopedics, primary care and urology, the expansion further introduces services in ear, nose & throat, neurology, pulmonology and nephrology.

For Dr. Stevens, this breadth is intentional.

“Patients shouldn’t have to drive downtown or to another city to see a specialist or to deliver a baby,” he says. “Our goal is to provide comprehensive, integrated care that serves everyone, from newborns to seniors, right here in the community.”

That community focus is further underscored by Riley Children’s Health, whose pediatric emergency medicine presence ensures the youngest patients receive care from pediatric experts in a family-centered environment.

“Any parent knows that when a child is hurt or sick, every minute counts,” Dr. Stevens says. “Having dedicated pediatric emergency services right here in Fishers brings an incredible level of comfort and reassurance to families.”

As Indiana’s only academic health system, IU Health Fishers benefits from its partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine. Through this partnership, patients gain access to the latest research, technology and clinical trials. At the same time, learning and care continuously shape each other within this

environment.

Dr. Stevens says this partnership is one of the system’s greatest strengths.

“The academic connection means our physicians and care teams are constantly learning and improving,” he says. “It also means we can bring leading-edge therapies and evidence-based treatments to patients in Fishers without them having to leave their community.”

This model, he says, ensures that IU Health Fishers not only keeps up with advances in medicine but helps shape them.

The project benefits patients and boosts the local economy. It doubles the hospital’s workforce, creating jobs in clinical, administrative and support roles.

“Health care is one of the largest employers in Hamilton County, and IU Health’s investment in Fishers is a long-term investment in people,” Dr. Stevens says. “We’re hiring not only doctors and nurses but also technicians, therapists, and support staff, all of whom play vital roles in patient care.”

IU Health has ensured the expansion enhances workplace culture and capacity. New support spaces accommodate more staff, foster collaboration, and improve efficiency as patient volume grows.

Even with the opening of the medical tower, Dr. Stevens and the IU Health team look beyond the physical facility.

“This isn’t just about adding buildings,” he says. “It’s about building relationships. We’re creating a health-care hub that will

evolve with the needs of Fishers and the surrounding communities.”

That commitment is evident in the hospital’s involvement with local schools, wellness programs and community events. Building on this commitment, IU Health Fishers regularly partners with local organizations to host health screenings, educational seminars, and family-friendly events that promote active, healthy lifestyles.

“We’re proud to be part of a community that values wellness,” Dr. Stevens says. “As Fishers grows, we want to grow with it, not just as a healthcare provider, but as a trusted partner in building a healthier future.”

With its expanded services, new facilities, and strengthened community ties, IU Health Fishers is poised to redefine what local health care can look like. A ribboncutting ceremony was held Oct. 29, followed by the official opening on Oct. 30, marking not just the completion of a construction project but the beginning of a new era for health care in Hamilton County.

“It’s an exciting time to be part of IU Health Fishers,” Dr. Stevens says. “Our team feels an incredible sense of purpose as we expand to meet the needs of our growing community. The best part is knowing that the care we provide, now and in the future, will continue to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”

With the doors to the new IU Health Fishers medical tower now open, one message is clear: health care in Fishers has a powerful new vision for the future. For more information, visit iuhealth.org/findlocations/iu-health-fishers.

In the heart of downtown Noblesville is a shopping destination that’s anything but your average mall. Logan Village Mall, owned and operated by husband-and-wife team James and Erren West, has emerged as a vibrant, community-centric vendor mall where local entrepreneurs, makers, and boutiques thrive under one beautifully renovated roof.

As the holiday season approaches, the Wests are gearing up to transform the space into a festive wonderland with décor, events, and curated gifting experiences through the end of the year.

In the 1970s, the building served as a newspaper shop up front and an old mortuary in the back. The renovation team preserved the original structure as authentically as possible to maintain its history while creating a colorfully inviting modern shopping space.

HOLIDAY CHARM REVIVED

LOGAN VILLAGE MALL BLENDS HISTORY, LOCAL SHOPPING & FESTIVE FUN IN DOWNTOWN NOBLESVILLE

When the Wests purchased Logan Village Mall in 2019, their aim was more than simply acquiring a brick-and-mortar space — it was to reimagine what a vendor mall could be. The couple moved their own business, 3 Rusty Nails Shoppe, into the building and then set about a major renovation.

“The original owners wanted it to look like a mall but also wanted it to look like a village,” James says.

They leaned into that concept by painting bright colors, creating cobblestone-style floor treatments, and adding façade work to evoke a European village feel.

Today, the venue boasts more than 40 vendor booths and mini-shops, offering a diverse range of items, from repurposed furniture and locally crafted pottery to children’s toys and boutique women’s fashions. The Wests’ mission is

straightforward.

“We try to cater to everyone. We offer something for all age groups and genders,” James says.

The Wests say they view Logan Village Mall as a place where small business owners can grow together. That mantra has helped the mall carve out a distinct identity in Noblesville’s downtown retail scene.

With the holiday season approaching, the Wests and their vendor partners are preparing to make Logan Village Mall a must-visit destination for shoppers seeking curated gifts, photo-worthy décor, and a cheerful environment perfect for families and their dogs. After completing their remodel in January 2024, the mall now features vibrant façades, cobblestone-style flooring, and neon signage.

The vendor mix, offering antiques,

Writer / Renée Larr Photographer / Heather Haas

Erren West

repurposed furniture, handcrafted jewelry, children’s toys, and boutique apparel, ensures shoppers find gifts unlike anywhere else.

What makes Logan Village Mall stand out for the holidays isn’t just its décor or vendor count — it’s the unique shopping experience. Visitors can expect to discover a varied selection of artisans, vintage finds, and boutiques, all under one roof, offering a shopping experience far from a sea of identical chain stores. The downtown Noblesville location at 977 Logan St. adds to the appeal, with historic downtown Noblesville just steps away.

Shoppers seeking thoughtful gifts, one-of-akind décor, or a festive outing will find this place well-suited to their needs. The pair recently hosted their annual holiday open house.

“It was the largest turnout we’ve had yet,” James says.

As James and Erren approach their second full holiday season after the remodel, the focus is on building momentum. They plan to participate in the beloved local tradition of Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29, along with other area businesses.

They’ll also take part in Midnight Madness on Dec. 5 and 6.

With the vendor roster full and the space fully refreshed, the Wests are confident they’ve created more than just a shopping spot — they’ve built a gathering place where local makers and shoppers alike can connect in a festive, memorable setting.

Logan Village Mall promises to deliver small-town charm alongside handmade, one-of-a-kind items. Go browse the booths, soak in the sights, and support local artisans and entrepreneurs who call this “happy place” home.

For more information on upcoming events, follow Logan Village Mall on Facebook and Instagram or visit loganvillagemall.net.

A SECOND HOME

FINDING COMMUNITY IN AN UNEXPECTED PLACE

Writer & Photographer / Abbie Willans

For some people, McAlister’s is just another restaurant near Hamilton Town Center, but for others, it’s a family- and budget-friendly place to eat. No one loves it as much as Erik Longenecker and his family. For them, it has become almost a second home — a place to make friends, connect with their community and give back.

Longenecker and his wife, Ashley, have been coming to McAlister’s since 2013, before their children were born. They could walk to McAlister’s from their home, and Longenecker spent many late nights there working on his master’s thesis or grading papers. The couple would have board game nights at the restaurant before his wife had to go to work as a night shift nurse. They’d split a meal or an iced tea, and it was something that could fit into their budget with student loans.

“My wife and I backpacked over Europe, and we always liked the café style there,

especially in Paris,” he says. “Late evening on Sunday, they’re not getting ready for the workweek like Americans do — they’re up til 11 at night socializing. We always loved that, and we missed that in the U.S.”

McAlister’s gives that to them, with a space outside of home or work to meet new people and make real connections.

“If you come here long enough, they get to know you and you become a regular,” he says.

They met other regulars at the restaurant — an older couple named Kenny and Sandy — who would become like second grandparents to the Longeneckers’ children. They connected over board games, and in time, Kenny introduced Erik to volunteering at the food pantry at Third Phase, Inc.

Service and helping others has always been an important part of community

building for Longenecker. As a teacher, he and his students wrote letters to a former McAlister’s employee who was going through basic training. Once he became an assistant principal, he wrote letters of recommendation for McAlister’s employees who were applying for college. He started career technical education programs at his school to help non-college-bound students obtain work experience.

One of the companies that helped train those students was Armor Air, a local Noblesville HVAC business that shared his vision. The partnership eventually turned into a career change for Longenecker.

“I fell in love with what Armor Air was doing for my kids who needed it the most,” he says. “They offered me a job to work there and build up the class program at other schools, as well as marketing and sales.”

When McAlister’s air conditioning went out, Longenecker’s connection with Armor Air was able to quickly resolve the issue, and he hopes to continue growing the relationship between the two companies.

Despite being a national chain, McAlister’s in Noblesville has been an example of how community can come from anywhere — not necessarily because of the brand, but because of the individual people who go above and beyond to help each other.

“Ask yourself where you live and where you consistently go as touchpoints to find a second place outside your house and develop a community around that,” Longenecker says. “Don’t be afraid to go to new places and have conversations with people, and get to know them.”

McAlister’s is located at 14191 Town Center Blvd., Suite 150, Noblesville. Armor Air is located at 2461 Directors Row, Suite B, Indianapolis.

Noblesville residents no longer have to travel to Paris to try traditional French cuisine. Blé French Bistro opened in October and serves everything from escargot to steak au poivre to specialty cocktails.

Co-owners Gabriel Di Egidio, Frank

A Bit of Paris

BLÉ FRENCH BISTRO BRINGS

CLASSIC FRENCH CUISINE TO NOBLESVILLE

Writer & Photographer / Abbie Willans

Martinez, Rogelio Mancillas and Gabriella Di Pietro shared a dream of opening a restaurant together, and they saw an opportunity to introduce Noblesville to the classic flavors of French cooking. The building used to be a Mexican restaurant, but they’ve fully transformed it into something new and refreshing.

Artist Ligia Zambrano provided the paintings in the restaurant. The owners at Blé had the idea to have a gallery space in the back, to add to the French atmosphere

and support local artists. They have live painting sessions on the weekends, so that patrons can see the artists at work. The murals in the main dining room were painted by a Lafayette native.

“We wanted to bring Paris to Noblesville and give the city something different,” Di Egidio says. “We saw the bistros in Paris and adapted them to a more American style.” He is originally from Venezuela, but wanted to honor his late father-in-law, who was from Lyon, France. The name “Blé” means “wheat” in French. They wanted something

that was simple and minimalist, but had a deeper meaning.

“Wheat is the base of so many dishes, it can be transformed into so many things,” he says.

A friend of Di Egidio created the menu. It features dishes like mussels, steak frites, chicken paillard, salmon royale, croque monsieur and of course the French onion soup, which is one of their most popular

items. Blé Bistro specializes in French wine and craft cocktails.

Di Egidio says the owners plan on having a rotating menu that changes with the seasons, trying out different cocktails and flavor combinations. They currently have a series of cocktails based on the “Seven Deadly Sins.” They also plan to start opening for lunch in December and have offerings for brunch.

He says this is his first restaurant, and he’s excited to bring his passion for French food to Noblesville. He wants to invite people to “try a little bit of Paris.”

Blé French Bistro is located at 16771 Clover Rd., Noblesville. More information can be found by visiting blebistro.com, emailing info@blebistro.com or calling 317-764-2219 to make a reservation.

Discover the Magic of Hamilton County with the Holiday Adventure Pass

As the holiday season approaches, Hamilton County, Indiana, transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive activities and enchanting experiences. The Holiday Adventure Pass is your ticket to exploring the best of what the county has to offer. Visit pass locations to earn exclusive holiday prizes. Here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss:

CARMEL

CHRISTKINDLMARKT

Step into a traditional German Christmas market at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. Located on Carter Green next to The Palladium, this market features charming wooden huts offering unique gifts, handmade ornaments, and delicious German treats. Enjoy ice skating on the outdoor rink, sip on hot cocoa or mulled wine and soak in the festive atmosphere with live music and entertainment.

CIVIC THEATRE

Experience the magic of live theater with Civic Theatre’s holiday performances. This season, the theater presents a lineup of heartwarming and entertaining shows that are perfect for the whole family. From classic holiday tales to modern favorites, the Civic Theatre brings the spirit of the season to life on stage.

CONNER PRAIRIE: MERRY PRAIRIE HOLIDAY

Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Conner Prairie during the Merry Prairie Holiday event. This interactive history park offers a unique holiday experience with candlelit paths, historical reenactments, and festive activities. Meet Santa Claus, take a ride on the Kringle’s Carousel and enjoy the beautiful light displays that illuminate the prairie.

NICKEL PLATE EXPRESS: HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDES

All aboard the Nickel Plate Express for a magical holiday train ride! These themed excursions offer a nostalgic journey through the scenic landscapes of Hamilton County. With festive decorations, holiday music, and a visit from Santa himself, the Holiday Train Rides are a delightful experience for passengers of all ages.

THE PALLADIUM

The Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of holiday concerts and performances that are sure to get you in the festive spirit. From symphony orchestras to popular music acts, the Palladium’s stunning architecture and acoustics provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday show.

ICE SKATING

Glide into the season at three festive outdoor ice skating rinks, each offering its own unique winter atmosphere—from the Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza in Westfield to the charming rink at Carter Green alongside Carmel’s authentic Christkindlmarkt or the community favorite at Noblesville Ice Plaza at The Commons.

With the Holiday Adventure Pass, you can enjoy all these wonderful events, make magical memories and earn prizes. Make the most of your holiday season by exploring the best of Hamilton County’s festive offerings. Claim your free Holiday Adventure Pass at VisitHamiltonCounty. com/holidays/holiday-pass/.

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

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DECEMBER

November 22–

January 6

HOLIDAYS AT THE HILL

November 27

THE MICHAEL TREINEN FOUNDATION’S 18TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT

November 29

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

November 29

HAMILTON COUNTY

LIGHTING OF THE SQUARE

November 28–December 27

NOBLESVILLE CREATES’ “GIFTED HANDMADE WONDERS”

November 29–December 24

VISIT SANTA

• Santa’s Village at Hamilton Town Center

• The Santa House on the Square

November 29–30

CHRISTMAS AT THE MILL TOP

December 6–7, 13–14, 20–21

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd.

8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Breakfast With Santa is our annual holiday tradition. Gather as a family for a memorable experience and enjoy a special breakfast with an opportunity to visit with Santa.

December 5

FIRST FRIDAYDECK THE DOWNTOWN

• Lights Over Seminary & Noblesville Flower Market

• Stuff Your Stocking

• Mayor’s Youth Council Art Exhibit

• “Gifted” Exhibit

• Downtown Shops Open Later

WIZARDS OF WINTER CONCERT

December 6

HOLIDAY MARKET, FEDERAL HILL COMMONS

COOKIE CRAWL

HANDMADE VINTAGE MARKET, HAMILTON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

HOLIDAY IN LIGHTS PARADE

HVM CHRISTMAS MARKET 2025

2003 Pleasant St.

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Let’s celebrate the Christmas season together!

Join us in the Main Expo building on December 6th from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. for a festive shopping experience!

NOBLESVILLE MAIN STREET’S HOLIDAY MARKET

Federal Hill Commons, 175 Logan St.

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Are you interested in being a vendor at Noblesville Main Street’s Holiday Market?

RADIO JUNKIES DUO LIVE @ THE PIPER W/ JACOB HUFF

The Piper, 22 Harbour Town Ctr. 8:30 - 11:30 p.m.

December

NOBLESVILLE MAIN

STREET HOLIDAY GALA

COFFEE & CONNECT W/ WOMEN IN NOBLESVILLE (WIN) NETWORK

Sagamore Club, 10900 Golden Bear Way 8 - 9:30 a.m.

Join the Noblesville Chamber’s WIN Network (Women In Noblesville) for our 2025 Coffee & Connect Series! Network with us on the 2nd Thursday each month from 8 am to 9:30 am.

December

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR, DOWNTOWN NOBLESVILLE

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

4 HR GHOST HUNT NOBLESVILLE OLD JAIL

Hamilton County Historical Society Old Sheriff’s Residence and Jail, Hamilton County Historical Society, 810 Conner St.

8:30 p.m.

Paranormal Investigation of the Hamilton County Sheriffs Residence and Old Jail in Noblesville, Indiana. This is a fundraiser for the Hamilton County Historical Society that operates this building.

December 17

MURDER AT THE UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER PARTY

Nickel Plate Express, 825 Forest Park Dr. 6:30 p.m.

All aboard for a holiday murder mystery on the historic Nickel Plate Express!

Board the historic Nickel Plate Express for a festive evening of murder, train rides and dinner. View All Local Events or Submit Your Own

Come join in on the F U N for some LIVE music, food, drinks, & great company. We’ll be sure to play a few of your favorites from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, & today!!