The Journey of Tania Castroverde Moskalenko

Tania Castroverde Moskalenko in the orchestra seats of the Palladium… a world away from her childhood home in Cuba.

… So it is in that spirit that I declare this afternoon to the people of Cuba that those who seek refuge here in America will find it. The dedication of America to our traditions as an asylum for the oppressed is going to be upheld. I have directed the Departments of State and Justice and Health, Education, and Welfare to immediately make all the necessary arrangements to permit those in Cuba who seek freedom to make an orderly entry into the United States of America.

The lesson of our times is sharp and clear in this movement of people from one land to another. Once again, it stamps the mark of failure on a regime when many of its citizens voluntarily choose to leave the land of their birth for a more hopeful home in America. The future holds little hope for any government where the present holds no hope for the people. And so we Americans will welcome these Cuban people. For the tides of history run strong, and in another day they can return to their homeland to find it cleansed of terror and free from fear …._
October 3, 1965 – Lyndon B. Johnson

Imagine a little girl of six playing in the warm sunshine of Cuba – innocent of the troubles surrounding her homeland. At that moment in time for this little girl, freedom was just a word, and America was an unknown world away.

Imagine her parents taking her aside to tell her that they would be leaving early the next day for a new country with a new beginning, and she needed to select just one toy to take with her on this journey. The pretty little girl with big brown eyes had many toys, so the choice was not an easy one for her to make; but in the end, she chose her favorite little dolly. The rest of that day, she watched her parents quietly pack a small amount of clothing for each of them in the limited amount of suitcases allowed. Everything else that had been part of their life must now be left behind. Because she was a child, the uncertainty of their journey would fade into the child-like excitement of going off on a trip. The sun set and then rose as the family went through the security departure area filled with soldiers, families, and other strangers.

The child watched as these soldiers opened each of their suitcases, rifling through the belongings that had been neatly packed by her parents. They were searching for anything that might have value – money, jewelry, gold, china. Anything of added value besides clothing was confiscated.

When all the suitcases had been searched, one of the soldiers looked down at the little girl. He extended his hand, motioning for the surrender of the doll that she was holding so tightly to her chest. Her parents nodded, and she surrendered the doll. In rapid motion, he tore off the doll’s head, arms, and legs. He inspected the doll’s cloth body, looking for pockets that might hold hidden treasures. Finding nothing of the sort, the soldier moved on to the next in line, and the little girl and her family moved forward on a journey that would take them from one country to another. The child’s destiny would now await her in the land of the free.

The little girl in the story is Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, President/CEO of The Center for the Performing Arts, an incredibly positive and dynamic woman who believes that life brings many opportunities – opportunities that may not be seen at first glance, but if acted upon, can change your life forever.

“Cuban history shows that it was a very difficult time for the country and its people. My parents found the courage to leave everything behind with the firm belief to find a better life for us in America. The journey was not easy and the memory of that day is still with me,” she said thoughtfully.

Sitting in her office, one can’t help but notice the pictures on her desk that show the private side of this highly-recognized executive. They are of family. Our conversation touched on many areas of her professional life but eventually led to the discussion of women and how she manages her personal life as she leads a major arts organization such as The Center for the Performing Arts.

“I am the mother of five children, 3 of which are now grown and out on their own, but I do have twins at home. I am often asked by young women and men how I balance my busy professional life with my private life,” she said. “I do believe life is not linear anymore, and I believe you can do it all; you just can’t do it all at the same time.

“I also believe individuals can reinvent themselves at different times in their lives. Oftentimes, we learn to identify ourselves with certain names such as ‘I am a dancer or I am a lawyer,’ but the reality is we always have the opportunity to reinvent ourselves. If we are not happy going in one direction, we do have the choice to make a 180 turn with our lives,” she related.

Tania went on to share that her love of music and dance found a connection at the age of 10 when she was invited by a little friend to attend her dance performance at a local dance school. Tania was mesmerized by the lighting, the music, the costumes, and the dying swan in the performance. That afternoon was magical for Tania, and she knew then she wanted to be part of that magical world as dance had indeed entered her heart. Bugging her parents, she began taking dance lessons and as the years went by, she would eventually end up performing in a production company in Miami. She decided to stay in Miami and go to college. It’s interesting to note that while she continued to dance, Tania chose to major in International Relations with an emphasis in Soviet Studies.

Changing Courses …

“Life revolves over time. Life changed for me when I got married and we decided to start a family. I was lucky to be able to stay at home – to be a mother. This was a new course in life for me. I, in essence, decided to stop pursuing any kind of career or vocation by choice. I guess you could say this was perhaps the first of my 180 turns in life. Several years later at the age of 29, when my youngest child was 4, I decided to re-engage my passion by going back to college to renew my connection with dance,” Tania said with reflection. “Times had changed – times that had limited the possibilities for women in so many ways. But then, the opportunity to be a mother and a student was present. I have always loved the quote,Leap and the net will appear. And so I leaped!” Indeed Tania did leap, and the net was there sending her feet first toward an opportunity that would forever change her life.

Pushing Forward With Courage…

Castroverde Moskalenko in the balcony of the Palladium.

Picture Tania as the mature student in one of the most creative times in her life. She shows up for a scheduled class only to have the teacher inform her that the class was canceled for that day. Frustration and a range of disappointed emotions began to whirl in the mind of a very focused student who needed the class.

These thoughts were interrupted by the teacher as she added the message that she would be teaching an audition class by invitation only next Saturday. An invitation to attend this class was extended. Without thought, the invitation was accepted and Tania, the student, went home to the task of rearranging her babysitting schedule for that next Saturday – not an easy thing to do as babysitters were difficult to schedule. “I took a leap without thinking of all the things I would have to do to make it to this unschedule date. It was now my job to make it all work out. That’s the way it always is in life,” Tania said.

Tania, the student, wasn’t thinking about the scholarship aspect that had been mentioned by the teacher as she settled into her seat that next Saturday. She was just happy to have been able to register for the class, be accepted, and find a seat in the crowded classroom. She was given papers to fill out as the class went along. At the end of the two-hour course, she felt that all the juggling to attend had been worth the opportunity to sit in on this class. She handed in her papers and went home to her family.

One week later, her husband called her as she was visiting her parents and told her to call the University right away. She did, and the rest is history. The class with a four-year scholarship degree in Theater and Dance at the University of Memphis had her name on it. She accepted it and made the move to Memphis with her family. It was all because of taking an unexpected leap on an unplanned Saturday class. It was the turning point in her life.

Another transition came years later after an amicable divorce. Her job and her three daughters kept her busy and involved. Her path crossed that of Alexei Moskalenko, an incredible Russian dancer who, like her, had also defected from his native country to seek a better life in America. Their common interests as artists drew them together and, in time, they married. Today, they have added twins – a boy and a girl – to their loving family (Sasha, Mishi, Amanda, Tatiana and Nikolas).

“Alexei had a flourishing dance studio in Memphis when I was at the Germantown Performing Arts Center. When I was offered the position at The Center for Performing Arts, multiple factors had to be considered that were important to us as a couple and a family,” Tania stated. In the end, Alexei told Tania that it was her time and that together they would make this transition. Alexei is, indeed, a much-sought-after dance coach and choregrapher. He has a busy travel schedule which is balanced and works in tandem with Tania’s schedule. Busy couples make it work.

“When my family left Cuba, there were two things the authorities could not take away from my parents: their integrity and their character,” Tania recalled with pride.

The risk Tania’s parents took set the stage in giving their daughter a new life in a country built by courageous and inspiring individuals. They, too, took a “leap” to a new country for the chance of a better life based on opportunity.

It is easy to say that Tania Castroverde Moskalenko is a woman who inspires by leaps and limitless bounds.

Tania’s Vision

New President looks ahead to the future of the Center for the Performing Arts

By J. Andy Murphy

Tania Castrovede Moskalenko inside the Palladium.

Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, President/CEO of Carmel’s magnificent Performing Arts Center, early in life didn’t think she would change careers from a ballet dancer, front and center on the stage, to that of an arts administrator, working behind the scenes with budgets, artistic programming, developing adult and children’s educational music enrichment programs, and a mirage of other team management responsibilities. So what was behind her decision to step into a different pair of shoes and pursue another life path?

“I grew up in a rich atmosphere of dance and music. My family came to America from Cuba, settling in Miami when I was just six years old. My mother is a pianist and she and my father enriched our lives with a deep love of music, so it seemed only natural for me to fall in love with the arts, which led to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theater and Dance from the University of Memphis. I found myself taking on leadership roles in the arts community. I discovered that arts administration was a solid fit with my music and dance experience and my passion for the arts,” Tania said with a warm smile that reflected the moment of recollection as to how it all began.

This career change became official when she joined the Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center in 1998 (to 2005) where she established a highly-respected performing arts series focused on world music and contemporary dance. She also found the time (2000 to 2002) to serve as a commissioner for the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (appointed by the Governor of Tennessee) and served on the board of Latino Memphis.

In 2005, Tania took the reins of the Germantown Performing Arts Centre. There, she further established herself as a dynamic leader who thoroughly understood the daily challenges of presenting world-class performing arts programs and working tirelessly to expand the support of the corporate environment in the arts community.

Meeting with this unassuming woman who speaks quietly with such personal dedication and conviction for the arts immediately grabs your attention. When asked what programs might be forthcoming, she said, “This Performing Arts Center has done an amazing job of establishing a bar of excellence. I love all kinds of music – especially classical music – and I know there are artists from all over the world who would love to perform in this amazing facility. Right now, we are in the planning mode, but I can share that there are thoughts of doing more world music and dance; perhaps developing a coffeehouse music series; and definitely exploring more community engagement while creating more programs for life-long learning. We have a campus of wonderful theater locations with the Palladium, Tarkington, and The Studio Theater. It’s my responsibility to curate the best artistic seasons possible in order to create meaningful experiences for our diverse audiences.”

Tania Castroverde Moskalenko discusses the year ahead for the Center for the Performing Arts.

One such future program might include an exciting nationally-recognized storyteller who has designed a one-of-a-kind, multi-visual arts music appreciation show that uniquely demonstrates how storytelling and music presentation work together. This performer appeals not just to kids, but to adults as well. Just listening to her explain all the unique elements that this artist brings to the stage demonstrated her wonderful ability to think outside the box. I can honestly tell you that I wanted to purchase a ticket right then and there as she has that rare ability to help a person visualize what might be, even though they have no previous knowledge of the subject.

The serious side of Tania Moskalenko comes to light when discussing the phasing out of so many arts programs for our children. “Today, the support for the Arts nationwide is not what it should be,” she said. “Children need to be able to experience and be involved with the arts. Learning to dance, sing, or play an instrument can make a huge difference in their lives. It’s an opportunity that our children are losing as more and more funding for school programs is being cut,” she added. “At some point, we separated the arts from our culture,” she stated with obvious concern. “History will show this to be a mistake, so we must find a way to fund and provide these programs. We will definitely be working with our wonderful corporate community to build exciting enrichment programs that immerse our children in the arts.”

Tania has certainly accomplished this before, creating a children’s orchestra that went from just 35 to 110 students in a 2-year period. In 2011, she took 52 students, teachers, and parents on a 17-day music cultural and educational tour in China. “It was, indeed, a magical journey for the students,” she said. “They learned so much from this experience and will carry this memory with them for the rest of their lives.”

Webster’s Dictionary, in part, defines music as the art of multiple compositions and harmony working together in many different forms. We think this comes very close to describing Tania Castroverde Moskalenko’s professional side. Stay tuned for the rest of her story.

The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts
Seating: 1,600
Size: 151,000 square feet of
state-of-the-art concert hall located in Carmel, Indiana.

Box Office Hours: Mon-Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: NOON to 4:00 p.m.
Closed on Sunday
Phone: (317) 843-3800
Address: 1 Center Green, Carmel, IN 46032
Website: www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org

The Feinstein Initiative
The Great American Songbook
info@feinsteininitiative.org
Archive & Gallery Hours
Monday-Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Located on the Gallery level of the Palladium
SOMETHING NEW: A new exhibit with a theme change will open in the Feinstein Gallery in the next few weeks: “Blast from the Past: Roaring Hot 20’s Jazz.” It is quite a transformation. Look for the Grand Opening in the near future.

Exploring the World of Alternative Health and Wellness!

Local health and wellness professionals (left to right) Melissa Webb, Genie Goykhberg and Diane Meils.

Let’s explore another approach to health and fitness: Alternative Wellness. Traditional physician health care is ever expanding and is shifting a bit to include identified methods of Alternative Wellness. One could define Alternative Wellness as a proactive process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a more healthful being.

There are many areas in our lifestyle that we know need our attention: Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in daily exercise, reducing stress, getting enough rest, and regular doctor check-ups.

So what can you do to be more proactive and take more responsibility in your overall state of health? Here’s an example of someone who decided to make a healthy lifestyle change toward wellness.

Jeanne Britt is a busy woman who decided with her doctor to take a medical and alternative wellness partnership approach to managing her healthcare. She realized that her family health history, along with lifestyle, made it necessary to seek out ways to stay healthy. “I would rather adopt lifestyle changes in an effort to ward off illness than go to the doctor for treatment after an illness has attacked. I also wanted to set an example for my family that encouraged them to look at their own lifestyles and form healthy habits early. Being proactive and not reactive can make all the difference in the world,” she said.

We have identified four Geist area certified professionals who provide Alternative Wellness care in the fields of Yoga, Digestive/Natural Health, Foot Reflexology and Thermography.

The Practice of Yoga

Melissa Webb with Breath, Life Yoga.

The classical techniques of Yoga date back more than 5,000 years. This practice of physical and mental exercise brings the body and mind together into one harmonious experience. The practice is built on three main structures: Exercise, breathing, and meditation. The exercises are designed to put pressure on the glandular systems of the body, thereby increasing its efficiency and total health. Breathing techniques are based on the concept that breath is the source of life in the body; breath control will improve the health and function of both body and mind. These two practices prepare the body and mind for meditation, an easy approach to a quiet mind that allows silence and healing from everyday stress. Regular daily practice of all three parts produces a clear, bright mind and a strong, capable body.

Melissa Webb received her teaching certification in 2003 from the Himalayan Institute Teachers Association in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. She teaches Hatha Yoga to both beginning and advanced students as well as classes in restorative Yoga, Yoga for kids, and partner Yoga. Asana, relaxation, breathing, and meditation are all part of her fun and instructional classes.

“Movement is a simple way to improve the body, mind, and spirit. I believe Yoga has a very therapeutic side and so, in the years since my certification, I’ve completed a detailed study of Yoga as therapy. I’ve had the opportunity to work with people recovering from illness or injury. I’ve seen first hand the improvements that can be made with a few simple Yoga poses,” Melissa said, adding, “I personalize my classes as much as possible. I get to know my students’ bodies, injuries, and limitations. It is my goal to help everyone feel better as they walk out of class than they did when they arrived.”

In Melissa’s class, the emphasis is on health. It’s not just a fitness routine, as Yoga draws you into your inner self. Once your body learns to relax, your mind relaxes as well. It is a balance that is so necessary to your overall health on all levels.

For more information on Breath of Life Yoga please call: 317.502.5630. Visit her website at www.breathlifeyoga.com or email her at Melissa@breathlifeyoga.com

Let’s talk about Nutrition and the Digestive System.

Genie Goykhberg

The digestive system is very extensive. Eating properly is key; our organs need proper nutrients to function properly. Too little healthy food and too much unhealthy food can interfere with normal processes of your digestive system. It is important to keep in mind that our organs need adequate nutrients. Without proper nutrients, the cells can die or fail to function properly. Your body also needs fiber and antioxidants – substances commonly found in fruits and vegetables – to neutralize free radicals that can harm your cells. When free radicals attack the cells and impair them, they lose their ability to produce functioning enzymes – specialized proteins needed in every facet of biological activity, including digestion and metabolic processes. It is important to digest enough fiber in your diet and consume plenty of fluid daily. Exercise can also help your digestion.

Genie Goykhberg arrived in the United States from the former Soviet Union in 1990. She left her career in mechanical engineering to devote her time and efforts to educating others on how to live long and healthy lives as a Certified Digestive Health Specialist and Certified Natural Health Professional. Her mantra is: By improving digestion, our body forgives us many other sins. Genie’s extensive health and wellness services include: Nutrition, Health and Life Coach, Thai Message, Kundalini Reiki, Spinal Touch Treatment, Kinesiology (Muscle Response Test), and Tuning Forks (Sound and Vibration Acupressure) among many others.

Her diverse wellness approach is unique and comprehensive to the body’s core systems that help her clients rebalance their busy lives. “One of the most important aspects in achieving a long, healthy, and happy life is to establish who is really in charge of his/her own body. Who is going to monitor the results, and who will daily give the signals that command attention within his/her body?” Genie said. “At Energy Within Us, we help clients hold themselves accountable for their own well being, understanding that each person is truly the driving force in their own bodies. I have developed a powerful and positive command protocol that delivers an outcome of control which helps the body react with improved physical, mental and emotional health,” she adds. Genie has a unique talent, creating a memorable healing experience.

For more information on Energy Within Us, call Genie at 317.580.0088. Office is located at 2935 E. 96th Street, Suite 204.

Re-energize Your Body with Foot Reflexology

Diane Meils

Foot Reflexolgoy it is beyond massage! Every organ in the body is reflected within specific areas of your feet. Nerve endings in the feet are inter-connected through the spinal cord and brain with all parts of your body. Each of us has more than 7,000 nerve endings in each foot. Reflexology is the application of pressure onto particular areas of the soles of the feet. A reflex action in another part of the body is stimulated by the manipulation of each specific area. It is important to know that Reflexology is different from ordinary massage, and the public should be aware of the separating factors involved.

What are the benefits of Reflexology Therapy? It can relieve pain and stiffness. Working within the nerve system, foot reflexology can relieve problems with migraine headaches, stress, asthma, constipation, sinusitis, and leg neuropathy as well as other areas of the body under stress. It benefits improved circulation leading to the reduction of stress and disease, and the body’s function will be naturally turned into its homeostasis (the balancing of overall body system functions).

Diane Meils is a Certified Reflexologist from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and is a nationally Board Certified Reflexologist through the ARCB. As a professional Reflexologist, she is dedicated to a single purpose … helping to improve the health of individuals in a natural, noninvasive way. It is also noteworthy to share with you that Diane is a former professional ballet dancer with the Cincinnati Ballet and Charleston Ballet in South Carolina. She has BFA from the University of Cincinnati. This professional caregiver is engaging, with a warm energy that crosses over into her patient-care therapy. Diane advises anyone interested in Reflexology to make sure they find a certified Reflexologist, as they are certified to protect the public. The client also needs to know that the practitioner follows safe universal protocols.

“In an EEG (electroencephalogram), theta waves are measured. Reflexology goes to a theta state, whereas massage is measured at a beta state. It is during the theta state where it is believed that healing really occurs,” Diane said. After learning more about the benefits of treatment through Reflexology, one quickly realizes how important our feet are in the connective path to wellness therapy. Reflexology is not age related, as it can be used to treat infants, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting symptoms,” says Diane. Reflexology is, indeed, a wonderful alternative wellness option that generates results in a relaxed and peaceful manner.

For more information about Foot Reflexology, please call Diane at 317.385.2350 or visit her website at dianemeils.abmp.com.

Understanding the Benefits of Thermography

Abby Appelt

Thermography is used by doctors as an aid for diagnosis and prognosis as well as monitoring therapy progress for an array of conditions and injuries. Although it might seem new to us, Hippocrates, the Greek physician, wrote, “In whatever part of the body excess of heat or cold is felt, the disease is there to be discovered.” The history of Thermography is fascinating and now documented. In 1982, the FDA approved Thermography as an adjunctive tool in breast cancer screening. It is also used in back injuries, arthritis, headache, nerve damage, unexplained pain, Fibromyalgia, RSP (CRPS), dental and TMJ, artery inflammation, vascular disease, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, disc disease, inflammatory pain, skin cancer, referred pain syndrome, sprain/strain, whiplash, and digestive disorders. The digital infrared thermal imaging is a brief, non-invasive, radiation-free, pain free, clinical imaging process. It is quick and easy on the patient. Thermography is cost effective (covered under some insurance plans) and can be done in various regions of the body. As the world of medicine continues to expand, the wonders of specialized imagery is moving toward what might be the difference in discovering a disease well before it has advanced to a life-threatening situation.

Abby Appelt went back to school to achieve her certification in Thermography (CNHP-CCT). She was a woman diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue/Fibromyalgia Syndromes. She went from doctor to doctor, undergoing multiple examinations, tests, blood draws, and consultations. With no improved results, she decided she had to go beyond traditional methods and seek out alternative pathways. “Thermography saved my life and changed my life,” she said, recalling her personal journey to wellness. Today, she is the founder of Thermography of Indianapolis, works with many doctors, and receives referrals from other medical specialists who are also invested in providing alternative methods of early detection. Thermography adds an additional level of care that is vital in preventive measures. It is an important element to consider when looking at your own health and wellness program.

For more information about Thermography of Indianapolis, please call 317.370-5111 – Office is located at: 450 East 96th Street, Suite 500 (Between College and Meridian on 96th Street) or visit their website thermography-of-indy.com.

It seems very clear that shifting the focus away from “being ill” to “being well,” thereby adopting lifestyle changes that your body needs to be balanced in its core and at peace from stress, is playing a larger role in personal health care, opening up many avenues of Alternative Wellness exploration. Talk to your doctor and explore together option plans that combine the best of both worlds!

Jeff Sheats: A Whirlwind of Creative Interior Design Genius!

Jeff Sheats has over 19 years experience as an interior designer.

If you’ve met Jeff Sheats, you will understand when I describe him as a whirlwind of unlimited interior design creativity. His work is a prime example of someone who takes “getting to know his clients” to a whole other level.

“It’s my job to find out exactly what my clients want and how they ‘see’ the final outcome of what I need to accomplish for them. It’s not about me and what I want. It’s about them. To accomplish this takes a lot of interacting and a well-thought-out discovery plan,” he said.

Jeff accomplishes this by going on a personal “mind trip” with each customer. He calls it the “It’s You Survey.” The questions are unique in an industry where designers usually have a certain style, look and pallette for which they are known. With Jeff, you simply can’t put him in a box like that. He gets the big picture, and he’s a master at honing in on even the smallest details such as if the client is right or left handed; selecting a doorknob that brings out the personality of a client and door; or mixing patterns and colors that, when combined, create a cultural outcome not thought of before. I could go on. It is a fascinating process that he has developed so successfully that in the end, his finished interiors reflect the clients’ personalities to a tee.

“I think of it as satisfying the visual sensibilities of individual living habits. Once you have this insight, everything falls into place. I work with a lot of clients and their builders in new construction, as well as working with homeowners who want to stay where they are, but remodel their interiors and/or exteriors,” he adds. “My forte is building or remodeling spaces then furnishing them to meet the client’s lifestyle, comfort, and aesthetic desires.”

Jeff started this business nearly 19 years ago as a freelancer when his friends started asking him to help them design and decorate their homes. “I grew up in Carmel but moved to the Irvington area, bought a house, and remodeled it. I was involved in my family’s business at the time and hadn’t ventured out on my own until one friend’s project turned into another and, through word of mouth, it led to getting the opportunity to be mentored by two wonderful designers. This really gave me the foundation to open the doors for my own shop,” he said with thoughtful reflection. It’s obvious Jeff loves working with people and being part of the fabric of their lives. To spend a few moments with this creative interior designer is not enough to convey the knowledge that he has stored from his business and design degrees (Indiana and Purdue Universities) and the extensive first-person experience in doing what he obviously was born to do all over the world!

As I said earlier, he’s a whirlwind of unlimited design creativity. So if you are considering building or remodeling a home, or just need professional interior design assistance with furnishing your spaces, give Jeff a call. Even if it’s to be done one room at a time, there is no job too small or too large for Jeff and his talented associates.

For a detailed list of services and visual picture projects from A to Z, we encourage you to see for yourself the comprehensive world of Jeff Sheats Designs at www.jeffsheatsdesigns.com or email him direct at jsheats@jeffsheatsdesigns.com. Call for a consult (317) 357-0155.

Jeff Sheats Designs, Inc.
Jeff Sheats, Allied ASID RID
Indiana Registered Interior Designer No. 00052
Direct email address: jsheats@jeffsheatsdesigns.com
Website: www. jeffsheatsdesigns.com
Studio Phone: 317-357-0155

At Morning Side of College Park, The Best is Yet to Come!

Morning Side near the Pyramids at 96th and Michigan Road.

Nestled in the shadow of the Pyramids of College Park, sits an elegant independent and assisted living apartment home complex, which was designed for both style and convenience The very private and beautifully kept grounds are surrounded with the luxuries of a fine resort.

The first thing I noticed when entering the front lobby of Morning Side of College Park was the laughter where residents and guests were gathered around a beautiful grand piano. The companionship of neighbors enjoying life was clearly present.

A tour of the large complex shows the diversity this senior community offers including impressive multiple floor plans that are based on particular lifestyle needs. Multiple levels of care are available as well for assisted living services, and therapy such as speech, physical and occupational can be arranged to make it convenient for residents to receive any additional care that might be needed in this community living environment.

Morning Side activity room.

A wide variety of daily scheduled activity opportunities for socialization, lifelong learning, inspiration and spirituality, hobbies and cultural arts are always in motion, and a lower level game room, theater, billiards room and full service beauty and barber shop compliment the wonderful physical fitness studio where keeping fit is easy to do.
Susan Albers is clearly at home in her position as Executive Director of Morning Side as the passion she feels for seniors resonates in her face as she speaks to finding her dream job some 6 years ago when she was looking for a new calling after a distinguished career in business development, fundraising and association management.

“I have often thought that we don’t revere our seniors as much as we should. To me, they are our past and within them exists a world of knowledge and a lifetime of experiences that speak to the core values of generations. It’s a rare privilege to share time and space with people who are unique within their lives joining together concentration camp survivors; World War II soldiers and pilots, a Pearl Harbor sailor survivor, retired presidents of companies and other special human beings all in one location. They are a wealth of folks ranging in age from 60 to 102 who bring rich, first-hand experiences to our family of residents. They teach us all so much. I can’t imagine my life now being centered anywhere else,” Albers said.

Susan Albers, Executive Director of Morning Side.

When asked what the most enjoyable part of her job was she answered,”Interacting daily with our residents and helping them with their independent and assisted living experience. In addition, getting to know and work with their families is a wonderful extension of our team of professionals. Our team goes way beyond what is expected. This is what real families do for each other.”

Morning Side is indeed host to a rich cultural exchange of residents with a sampling that includes a blend of Jewish, Irish, Polish, Greek, English, Russian and American heritage. Wonderful gatherings celebrating country traditions and tales of life experiences make for special times of joyful celebration, which are enhanced by Morning Side’s own executive chef, Gozo Schatz who is known for whipping up spectacular menu creations every day.

Yes, at Morning Side of College Park, you will hear a lot of laughter as the staff and the residents love to make each other smile. They share a common belief that laughter is a wonderful vitamin for life. It’s easy to see why this lovely senior complex is often referred to as a living, one-on-one caring community where the best is yet to come!

Morning Side of College Park, an Independent and Assisted Living Community is located at 8810 Colby Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46268. For more information call Susan at: (317) 872-4567 or visit their website at: www.morningsideofcollegepark.com

Titus Dentistry: All in the Family

Alex Titus, D.D.S.

Alex Titus knew from an early age exactly where his footprints would lead him in life. He wanted to be a dentist.  His uncle was a dentist and this family relationship would evolve into a direct personal desire to helping people with their dental needs.
“I saw my uncle solve problems that had to do with people who had toothaches or were embarrassed by their own smile.  His skills and care made a deep impression on me as a kid. I loved going to the dentist and always felt better after a visit to have my teeth cleaned or a cavity fixed,” he said with a beautiful smile of his own.

When he graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry there was never a question as to where he would set up his family dental practice office.

“I come from a big family. I grew up in Carmel and loved the area. I was fortunate to be able to take over the practice of a retiring dentist and the location on Medical Drive. Owning my own business allows me to be able to control my life and my involvement in the community, which is very  important to me,” he added.

This engaging young dentist balances his career with on-going advanced training to make sure that his patients benefit from his “one-stop” approach of care from cosmetic veneer enhancements to difficult bridge construction.

“It is important to me and my team to keep my practice based in the cutting edge of a high quality standard of care,” he reflected adding, “I don’t advertise a lot and am expanding my patient base mostly by referrals. To me, these personal referrals are important as it tells me I am  giving the best care available to my patients, and that they benefit from my skills and years of training. A healthy mouth and a beautiful smile are so very important.”

Giving Back
Dr. Titus  volunteers his time at the Trinity Free Clinic located on the north side of Carmel, which is a free dental and medical clinic.

Sam Titus (left), office manager and younger brother of Alex Titus, D.D.S (middle) with dental assistant Tammy Oyler. Sam has applied to IU School of Dentistry to follow in the family footsteps.

“What I see during my time at the Trinity Free Clinic are individuals who can’t afford or have no access to proper dental care. Helping them truly inspires me. It’s the least I can do and at the end of the day it is so very rewarding.  To me, it demonstrates a lack of care available in our society for so many people, and shows how the insurance industry has changed the landscape  of dental care. This worries me a great deal as dental care is so important in the overall wellness of an individual. Your mouth can reflect disease far beyond cavities. I believe that dental care is undervalued in today’s world. One day, hopefully this will change. Until that time comes, I will be engaged as a volunteer of dental care,” he says with conviction. Just for the record, he also works at Healthwise Dental located in Tipton for Medicaid patients. It’s clear this young dentist actively gives back to his community.

It is interesting to note that Alex Titus is not the only Titus in the dental field. His brother Jonathan is also a practicing dentist who sees patients with Alex. Sam, his younger brother currently working as the office manager, has recently applied to the IU School of Dentistry. There is also one more brother who is seriously considering following in the Titus tradition of producing fine dentists who really do love this professional field of dental care.  When you visit, you will also be introduced to Tammy Oyler, a dental assistant who makes you feel right at home within the Titus dental empire!

For additional information on Titus Dentistry, visit their website at www.titusdentistry.com or call for an appointment at (317) 844-8292.

Theracare Outpatient Therapy Services: Helping Children at Risk from Falling Through the Cracks

Ann Marie Noll, MS, CCC-SLP, Director of Outpatient Therapy Services and Occupational Therapist Amy Morton

Being a parent is an awesome responsibility. It would be wonderful if there was one book that contained all the answers to countless questions that arise on a multitude of issues relating to a child’s physical, oral communication, and social development. Unfortunately, there isn’t such a book, which makes the role of parents even more difficult as children come into the world unique in their own being.

As they grow, a child’s ability to learn and function cannot always be charted under one personal growth umbrella. It’s fair to say that some children are indeed at risk of falling between the cracks, especially when it comes to uncovering issues and behavioral patterns that speak to underlying problems of development not being addressed.

Many times parents, the first line of observation, can suspect that something is wrong but don’t know how to work through this nagging and, at times, unspoken concern. Small signals can indeed be sending out larger calls for help. Maybe it starts with a child being a really picky eater or a kid that even at the earliest age fights you to do simple tasks. Maybe it’s the way they don’t handle social settings. Maybe it’s the attitude of not wanting to go to school or participate in verbal communication. It’s usually not just one concern, but a range of presenting issues. As we said before, each child is different.

Searching all the crossroads for what’s really going on with your child can be overwhelming like a giant puzzle that needs to have all the pieces sorted before it makes sense. This is where I would like to introduce you to Ann Marie Noll, MS, CCC-SLP, Director of Outpatient Therapy Services with Theracare (TOTS) located at 9957 Allisonville Road in Fishers.

Professionally, Noll is a licensed pediatric Speech Language Pathologist with over 12 years of experience with developmental teams including speech, occupational and physical therapy. The work that she and her team provide is clearly driven beyond the boundaries of standard care for those children who are at risk. Noll deeply cares about her “kiddos” as she affectionately calls the children she treats as a speech therapist.

“As a mother of two children, I know personally that parents who find us are looking for help in seeing what they perhaps can’t quite put their finger on in their child’s behavior. Development issues are not always blatantly obvious. When we consult with parents, we pay attention to their concerns, as well as observing the broader area of small signals the child might be sending in behavior patterns,” Noll said thoughtfully. “I believe that a mother’s instinct is a powerful resource that should never be taken lightly,” she adds.

Theracare Outpatient Therapy Services (TOTS) has 3 main areas of pediatric therapy services: Speech, physical and occupational therapy.

• Children with (speech) language delays that are not addressed early on have more difficulties with reading and academics, as well as social, peer-to-peer interactions. This delay can affect their overall behavior and, just as important, their personal confidence to communicate effectively. Speech therapy will assess a child’s speech and language skills; their oral motor strength coupled with coordination and swallowing concerns.
• Occupational therapy works on fine motor and sensory issues. Often times, children can struggle with handwriting skills because there are underlying tone and strength issues. Hand and eye movements are not in sync and make ordinary skills difficult to manage and control. This can cause behavioral problems as they struggle to focus on learning tasks. Theracare’s occupational therapists utilize sensory integration techniques to address a child’s performance in play, school and activities of daily living including tasks such as bathing, dressing and feeding issues.
• Physical therapy helps children that come across as clumsy and uncoordinated, which may be contributing to underlying strength, agility and coordination issues. It’s important to look at range of movement through a variety of child friendly and fun activities. A physical therapist is involved in helping a child improve their overall muscle strength, balance and flexibility.

“Each child we treat is unique and one-on-one care is essential. We created a different approach to developing a pediatric therapy program that combines treatment with fun – children respond best when they are helped in this kind of an environment. We put together a custom tailored treatment plan designed to reach individual desired goals. It’s a kid friendly environment,” Noll said. “All too often our society attaches a stigma when it comes to perception of a child’s normal development. Fear can also plant a seed. To me, each child is a masterpiece. Sometimes it just a few more brush strokes to help a child’s whole being come to life,” she said with one of her big smiles that fits her joyful outlook on life.

If you are a parent with concerns, don’t hesitate to call Theracare as complimentary developmental consultations are available. It could make all the difference in the world to a struggling child.

For more information call Ann Marie Noll at (317) 903-9675 or visit their website at www.totsindy.com for a complete list of services.

Butterfly Consignment: A Unique Shopping Experience

Niquelle Allen, owner of Butterfly Consignment, is an attorney, mediator, entrepreneur and self-ascribed closet consultant.

Butterflies attract our attention because they represent an array of colors and eye-catching wing designs. They are gentle in nature and evolved through a process of shedding from their original form of a moth.

Discovering the Butterfly Consignment upscale ladies’ boutique, located just a few blocks east of Castleton Square with their advertised theme of “Where Fashion Has Evolved,” really connects to this observation. In the “word-of-mouth” trail, shoppers have discovered a place where fashionistas gather.

Butterfly Consignment has a spectacular selection of designer quality apparel, handbags, shoes, jewelry, perfumes and accessories in a variety of styles (casual to formal) and sizes (juniors, misses and plus sizes). An almost daily restocking of new items has garnered the attention of store regulars who love the opportunity to buy expensive finds, but pay much less for Butterfly’s too-good-to-be-true merchandise.

Niquelle Allen is a butterfly in her own rite. Allen has evolved academically, professionally and creatively over the past 15 years, and her wings are in full span. As an attorney, mediator, entrepreneur and self-ascribed closet consultant, her passions flutter together in harmony. She owns Butterfly Consignment and is a practicing attorney.

So what is a bit different about Butterfly Consignment?

“Butterfly Consignment is a business where a person can Save money with affordable pre-loved fashions. Make money as a consignor. Recycle their wardrobe for the good of the environment, as well as Give money to support a favorite charity, cause or local organization,” Allen states.

“I also believe that because we offer three types of quality merchandise: Pre-loved (gently used), N Love (unsold new inventory from local boutiques) and, Made with Love, which includes handmade jewelry, handbags, headbands, soaps, body butter, knit creations and greeting cards, we provide an inviting, fun and, unique shopping experience atmosphere for our customers. There’s nothing fun about merchandise that is messy or aisles that are hard to navigate. Our customers are savvy shoppers who love the variety of our merchandise. Over and over, they have shared with me that they love coming to a store that sets the tone for their own unique shopping experience,” she adds.

So if you’re looking for a new stop to add to your shopping adventures, Butterfly Consignment is sure to please and worth the short drive away from the big box stores with expensive prices. P.S. Check out the beautiful butterfly blouse that Niquelle Allen is wearing in the photo to the right. If you ask, she may be able to help you find something just as special. Then you, too, will be able to soar like a butterfly!

For more information email info@shopbfly.com or visit www.shopbfly.com.

Store hours are: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Sunday NOON to 5 p.m.

Consignors can check their account status online 24 hours a day.

Harden Jackson, LLC – Compassionate Attorneys

Founding partners Lanae M. Harden and Michele L. Jackson specialize in family law. adoption and surrogacy matters.

Lanae Harden and Michele Jackson have invested years in the practice of law. Their reputations as experienced lawyers are soundly respected locally, nationally and internationally. To have achieved such a status takes extensive knowledge of the court system and the huge body of laws that apply in their respective areas of representation. When you read stories on attorneys, you don’t often think of them as compassionate and empathetic, however, Lanae and Michele will change your mind.

“Families depend on us to provide a professional, yet personal level of service during a difficult and emotionally draining period in their lives. It is our role to support them with compassionate insight and sound legal advice based on our experience to deliver successful resolutions for their situation.” says Harden.

Jackson adds, “No two client circumstances are alike when it comes to the cases we handle. We know that we must deliver positive solutions for their life transitions. We employ an empathetic approach to our clients’ cases. This is the passion that drives our practice.”

Needless to say, the founding partners of Harden Jackson, LLC have more than earned their national and international reputations as two of Indiana’s top attorneys, as well as being influential advocates for families and those who can’t speak for themselves. You will find their deep footprints of accomplishments documented in a wide array of awards and publications.

To say they are active in the community would be an understatement. Together their legal interests are diverse, and yet, they mesh seamlessly in their very successful legal practice. The firm’s practice areas include: divorce, custody and other areas of family law (including collaborative law and mediation), adoption, reproductive law, and appeals.

About the Founding Partners

Lanae M. Harden chairs the firm’s Family Law Practice Group. She is known nationally as a skilled family law litigator with extensive trial experience who has successfully represented a diverse clientele from stay-at-home mothers to professional athletes. Harden’s professional career includes 9 years at one of Indianapolis’ larger law firms where she was the only attorney who practiced exclusively in the area of family law. Harden is a member of the Indianapolis Bar Association, the Indiana State Bar Association, and the Hamilton County Bar Association. She has also been selected a Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers Magazine two years in a row (2010-2011), an honor that results from nominations by her peers.

Michele L. Jackson concentrates her law practice in Adoption and Surrogacy matters, serving as chair of the firm’s Adoption and Reproductive Law Practice Group. Ms. Jackson is regarded as one of the foremost legal authorities in Indiana on international adoptions and international family law issues. She is a member of the Indianapolis Bar Association and the American Bar Association. In 2010 and 2011, Michele was also named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine, an honor recognizing outstanding young attorneys under 40.

The obvious question would be to ask these two amazing and passionate women if they knew they would one day end in the in the practice of law? Harden laughs as she reflects on the question. “The answer is no. I was good at tennis and extremely competitive (she was a member of the University of Texas at Austin tennis team and a four-time Indiana State Tennis Champion), but I finally came to terms with the fact that tennis wasn’t in my professional future. I thought about studying medicine, but didn’t like blood. Law and my competitive nature seemed to be the right choice for me,” she added. The right choice indeed as Harden received her Juris Doctor magna cum laude from Indiana University School of Law, finishing in the top 5% of her class.

Jackson responded, “I always knew I would be involved in a career that somehow focused on children, especially those without parents. Doing the work I do today evolved from my love of kids.” Today, she represents clients interested in domestic or international adoption or those who are seeking alternative reproductive options for building their families (including gestational surrogacy). Jackson has indeed dedicated herself to the care and adoption of orphans worldwide, while assisting couples and individuals to realize their dreams of becoming parents. She is also the founder and director of MLJ Adoptions, a licensed child placing agency in Indiana, which is also Hague-approved.

This firm has recruited two other seasoned attorneys, Clarissa A. Finnell and Laura M. Taylor and is supported by a knowledgeable team of paralegals and administrative staff, who are integral to the firm’s mission to provide clients with responsive, personal attention.

If you have questions concerning family law, divorce, custody, mediation, appeals, adoption (domestic or international based), reproductive laws and surrogacy issues or collaborative law, this is the firm you need to be on your side.

The law practice of Harden Jackson,LLC is located in Carmel. For more information on this Super Team of nationally recognized attorneys, please call (317) 569-0770 or visit their interactive website www.hardenjacksonlaw.com for an in-depth explanation of areas of practice.

David McIntosh: A Candidate for the Republican 5th District

During the Reagan Administration, McIntosh served as Special Assistant to the Attorney General and as Special Assistant to the President for Domestic Affairs.

With the November elections just around the corner, I started thinking about who most of us would choose as their favorite president? In my journey on this subject, I found that a lot of people had trouble answering my question. That is, until I presented the question to David McIntosh, who is among the Republican candidates challenging Dan Burton, who has held the 5th District Congressional seat for the last 28 years. Who will actually be elected in the primary and placed on the November ballot is yet unknown.

So who is David McIntosh’s favorite president? George Washington. This surprised me as McIntosh worked for another president, Ronald Reagan. He explained his choice.

“America has had many wonderful presidents, but George Washington to me was most of all a very strong leader. He was a moral man who dedicated himself to doing the right thing for his country and the people he served in the most turbulent of times. I’m a history buff, but history tends to focus most on the battles Washington fought and indeed his honesty. But if you really get into the character of George Washington, you’ll find a humble man who helped shape the foundation of our country that still exists today.” He added, “Did you know Washington turned down the opportunity to hold the title of King, which was presented to him by Alexander Hamilton. Washington also initiated the actions that would limit a president to only serve two consecutive terms.” His eyes sparkled with admiration as he added, “George Washington is someone whose principles I’ve always admired.”

The McIntosh family (left to right) Ellie, David, Davey and Ruthie.

David McIntosh is no stranger to American history, as you will find his name listed as a former Indiana congressman (representing the former 2nd District), who served 6 years in Washington. He chose not to run again and returned to Indiana as a private citizen. His decision was based on a campaign promise of believing in term limits. He kept his word of serving for 3 terms even though he was a very popular and well-respected congressman who had the ability to find common ground that brought people together to form solutions for difficult government issues. He also earned a national reputation as the leader of the regulatory reform movement.

So what’s behind his decision to toss his hat into the political scene again?

“Fear. I was talking to my children one day about how I felt America was really in serious, serious trouble. Looking at them as a parent and someone who has served in Congress and understands the system and how it should work, I couldn’t tell them that things would all work out,” he said. “It was a difficult moment for me,” he stated. “It was at this point in the conversation that I realized I needed to step up to the plate and get involved if at all possible. When the boundaries for the 5th District were changed and our home zip code was included, the phone started to ring with people asking me to consider returning to politics. I knew I had the experience to present positive options that speak to what needs to be done. America has to be returned to a pro-growth country; we need to lower taxes and reduce regulations that keep small businesses from competing. We must address the issues of health care and repeal Obama care as there is no way to manage it successfully. Our national budget can be balanced, but not on the backs of the poor and the middle class, but in a sensible fiscal manner that makes economic sense for the welfare of the American people at all income levels. It’s all doable. There’s so much more that should be on the table,” he said with obvious concern in his voice.

As the conversation continued, I noticed other people nearby listening as he spoke. All ages, sitting in Starbucks reading the paper, working on their computers, enjoying an early morning cup of coffee. McIntosh had clearly captured their attention even though he had no idea that others were listening. His ideas were fresh and his words carried the energy and clarity that is so absent in today’s political world. This is not a man who grandstands for attention. It is a man who understands the common fears that most Americans carry with them today. McIntosh is clearly running toward his fears – not away from them. That’s what real leaders do.

In America, we have been given the right to cast our vote for individuals who we hope will act on our behalf. George Washington was one such elected official and, if given the chance to serve in Washington’s political shadow, David McIntosh would very much like to be the person chosen to represent the 5th Congressional District in Indiana.

If he is elected, another positive would be his ability to hit the ground with an accumulated 6 years of seniority already attached to his ranking. Seniority is important in Washington because it enables a representative to quickly get involved with important issues and, the committees that will shape these critical decisions.

This I will especially remember about meeting David McIntosh: For a short period of time, this man gave a group of strangers in Starbucks a gift … that of hope.

For detailed information on David McIntosh, his Indiana roots, education and political qualifications, please visit him at www.davidmcintosh.org.

This advertorial is paid for an authorized by David McIntosh for Indiana.