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What a Gift!
Dear Reader,
The familiar smell of hot apple cider always reminds me that the holiday season is upon us. We love to enjoy it heated on the stove with warm herbs just like my family has done for generations.
So much of the holidays is centered around family, tradition and culture. Each family approaches the holidays differently, but the common ground is years of traditions that bring meaning to every celebration. In this issue, we shine a light on just a few of the many international communities that blend together to create the rich culture of Carmel.
Another aspect of the holidays that brings people together, despite their backgrounds, is the idea of giving. Kits & Kaboodle owner Teneen Dobbs will help you fill out your gift list with recommendations of award-winning toys for kids of all ages. You’ll also appreciate the gift wrapping tips from local expert wrapper Amber Blakley, who appeared on the QVC Ultimate Gift Wrapping Challenge.
However, we recognize that, more than exchanging gifts with family and friends, it is giving to those in need that truly makes a difference in our world. We highlight the Giving Machine's return to Clay Terrace, which makes it easy to help those in our own community and across the globe.
In addition, we share how City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, helps people who may be struggling quietly. To do this, we need your help. Read about those we have helped in the past and use the QR code to nominate someone you know who could use an extra blessing.
We hope that this holiday season you are able to both give and receive the gift of quality time with those you love, and we wish you the perfect balance between enjoying the warmth of home and getting out to take part in the celebrations of the season.
Happy Holidays!
ANDREA KULSRUD, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Amy Adams | amy.adams@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brianna Richardson Photography, Pooja Garg, Mike Lee Productions, Renzulli Photography, Mindy Wester
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
DECEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The “Mean One” will be visiting Kits & Kaboodle again this year on December 7. 2: Mayor Finkam welcomes dancers from Latvia to the Carmel International Arts Festival. 3: The Santa Soiree at Clay Terrace on December 7 offers photos with Santa. 4: Even pups enjoy listening to ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas at Camp Bow Wow Carmel. 5: Some crafty elves stitched Taylor Swift-themed cats at A Sewing Studio. 6: These ladies created their own unique sea glass trees at LiveLovePaint Studio. 7: Dancers from Indiana Ballet Conservatory perform as Toy Soldiers in The Nutcracker at The Palladium. @ASEWINGSTUDIO @KITSANDKABOODLE
business monthly
Goelzer Investment Management Is Now In Carmel
Goelzer Investment Management is an investment advisory firm that leverages its proprietary investment and financial planning strategies to help successful families and institutions "Dream, Invest and Live." Goelzer is one of Indiana’s largest registered investment advisory firms, advising more than 600 institutional and private clients across America. Goelzer is now headquartered in the Carmel Arts & Design District at 1st on Main at the intersection of Main Street and Rangeline Road.
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Ozwell Fitness Building Wins Excellence in Construction Award of Merit
Recently, the Associated Builders and Contractors of Indiana and Kentucky awarded the 2024 Excellence in Construction Award of Merit to Ozwell Fitness, in collaboration with Kort Builders, Inc. Kort, as well as DynaDome Retractable Structures and Studio M Architecture & Planning, helped bring owner Gemi Ozdemir's vision to life. Ozwell is a premier gym right off the Monon Trail offering fitness classes, personal training, recovery services and community.
Schulke Chiropractic & Wellness Solutions Is Going Places
The Schulke team has moved into a newly renovated space. Still in the same complex, the office is now just a few doors down at 75 Executive Drive, Suite E, Carmel. In addition, Drs. Matt and Rebecca recently received the Excellence as a Standard Award at the Blueprint XPA conference in Las Vegas, reflecting their commitment to excellence in every aspect of business. The practice looks forward to advancing services to elevate the patient experience.
Circle Real Estate Welcomes Jennifer Rumbaoa
Since becoming a real estate broker in 2016, Jennifer Rumbaoa quickly earned top producer status and the trust of her clients, demonstrating her commitment to helping them achieve their goals. Her extensive knowledge of central Indiana’s real estate market, paired with her personable and strategic approach, makes the buying or selling process seamless and enjoyable. Rumbaoa's ongoing volunteer work reflects her dedication to community, and Circle is proud to have her on board.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
S H I NING A LIG H T
When I was a kid, there was a Coca-Cola ad this time of year where people from all walks of life joined hands and harmonized, “I’d like to teach the world to sing.”
Though I am no longer under the assumption that a drink or a song can bring world peace, the sentiment has stayed with me. I see it alive and well right here in Carmel.
CARMEL CELEBRATES ITS MANY VIBRANT CULTURES
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
Carmel residents celebrate Diwali.
Photo by Pooja Garg
For many locals, the holidays are synonymous with Christkindlmarkt, which celebrates the German heritage in the area and chronicles the history of Christmas traditions. However, this month, Carmel residents also will be celebrating Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, both holidays commemorated by the lighting of candles.
The City of Carmel aims to embrace and honor the wide variety of international cultures present in the city.
“It is essential for our city events to reflect the diversity of our community,” Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam says. “This not only promotes a welcoming atmosphere but also provides opportunities for all of us to learn about different cultures.”
According to Carmel Director of Marketing and Community Relations Kelly Douglas, roughly 15 percent of the residents of Carmel consider themselves part of an international culture.
Chair of the Mayor’s Sister Cities Advisory Board Andris Berzins says that, just within the Carmel Clay Schools, there are students from 90 different countries who speak 110 different languages.
“We’re just trying to celebrate the residents that are here because it reflects our community,” Douglas says.
Berzins, for one, loves the multicultural aspect of Carmel.
“We have a lot of different nationalities and a lot of different religions,” he says. “People don’t really realize that, but they’re our neighbors.”
Born in the U.S., the son of Latvian immigrants, Berzins knows first hand what it’s like to grow up in an international community.
“These communities have a tendency to stay together because the language is the same, the culture is the same,” he says. “The key is to have them feel comfortable in our community in Carmel, not just living in the community, but engaged in the community.”
In the past several months, the city has hosted the Carmel International Arts Festival, which welcomed dancers from Latvia, as well as local ensembles sharing Mexican and Greek folk dance. Carmel also celebrated the Chinese Mooncake Festival and Diwali, a festival of lights.
“Carmel is an amazing city with a vibrant array of cultures and ethnicities,” says Dr. Anita Joshi, Carmel City Council member and chair of the Diwali Committee. "The celebration of Diwali is just one way Carmel showcases its beautiful diversity and highlights our city’s welcoming spirit.”
Already, the city is looking ahead at ways to celebrate other cultures in 2025, such as breaking the fast of Ramadan in the spring and reopening the Japanese gardens just south of City Hall in conjunction with the Cherry Blossom Festival.
“We are delighted to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the residents of Carmel through events that showcase their heritage,” Finkam says.
While Berzins admits that the city can’t hold an event for every international holiday, he says such opportunities offer a chance for education.
In addition to recognizing the multitude of cultures in and around Carmel, the city also works to maintain robust relationships with its six sister cities in Japan, Latvia, Italy, Germany, India and France, facilitating exchanges of students, doctors, police and more.
“There is so much to learn from each other,” Berzins says. “These cultures are also part of the American community and the Carmel community. We can all participate and enjoy the celebrations.”
(Photos provided by The City of Carmel)
Making A List, CHECKING IT TWICE
KITS & KABOODLE SHARES AWARD-WINNING TOYS THAT WILL BE IN SANTA’S SACK THIS YEAR
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Each year, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association selects finalists for the ASTRA Star Toy Awards, and winners are voted on by neighborhood toy stores, including Carmel’s Kits & Kaboodle. Here, owner Teneen Dobbs’ recommends award-winning toys for babies all the way up to “kidults.”
1. Air Toobz from Fat Brain Toys—This STEM toy uses a kid-safe turbine to send foam balls flying through a network of modular tubes, encouraging creativity and problem-solving for kids ages 3 and older.
2. 800 Pound Gorilla from Dolphin Hat Games —“This is my new go-to game
when family arrives,” Dobbs says. From the makers of the much-loved Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, 800 Pound Gorilla is easy to learn and takes only 15 minutes to play, making it great for family game nights or sleepovers.
3. Baby’s First Book of 44 Sounds from SmartNoggi n—An Indiana native developed this research-based board book that includes all the sounds of American English to start babies on their language and literacy journey. The book also includes SmartNoggin’s Oral Motor Teether made of food grade silicone to help oral motor strengthening.
4. IQ Gears from SmartGames—Our 10-year-old reviewers say, “This is a great brain
challenge!” For ages 7 and up, IQ Gears puts kids’ brains in high gear with 120 brain teasers, ranging from beginner to expert. “I also love that this item is great for travel,” Dobbs says.
5. The Original Big Wheel 16” Big Spin Deluxe —The classic three-wheeled riding toy for children ages 3 through 8, up to 70 pounds, offers riders the same experience you remember as a kid—the security of low, steady wheels and the excitement of fast-action pedal power.
6. LEGO —The name stands alone! LEGO is always a winner. “New holiday LEGO sets are perfect for all family members to add decoration to any home,” Dobbs says. She also recommends the Mona Lisa set for “kidults” of any age.
THE GIVING MACHINE
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
Like Santa’s Sleigh, It’s Shiny, Red and Full of Gifts
The red vending machine is back at Clay Terrace this holiday season, but it doesn't offer drinks, snacks or stocking stuffers. Instead, the Giving Machine provides a convenient way to give to those who need it most.
Sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Giving Machines in 106 locations across the world allow people to purchase and donate items ranging from $5 to $250 and from baby items to baby goats. One hundred percent of all contributions go to participating charities.
Last year alone, the first year Giving Machines were available in Indiana, nearly 16,000 Hoosiers donated more than a quarter of a million dollars to help people around the block and around the globe.
This year, local donations will benefit Horizon House, Second Helpings, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana, Ronald McDonald House of Central Indiana and HVAF (Helping Veterans and Families) of Indiana.
You can support them directly at Clay Terrace by choosing items like meals, bus passes or essential winter clothing,” says Abbey Niebel, social media coordinator for Giving Machine Indy. “It’s an easy way to spread holiday cheer.”
The Giving Machine is open 24 hours a day and will be on site near Pies and Pints through Jan. 5, 2025. Donations can also be made at GivingMachine.org .
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
2 3 4 5
Shows SEE 5
1. IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS Civic Theatre 11/29 to 12/24, The Tarkington
2. ENJOY THE HOLLY DAYS Indianapolis Wind Symphony 12/8, 4 PM, The Palladium
3. A VIENNESE CHRISTMAS AND A HOLIDAY IN VIENNA Carmel Symphony Orchestra 12/15, 2 PM & 7 PM, The Palladium
4. HANDEL’S MESSIAH Indianapolis Symphonic Choir and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra 12/19, 7:30 PM, The Palladium
5. FESTIVAL OF CAROL S Indianapolis Symphonic Choir 12/20 to 12/22, The Palladium
For tickets, visit TheCenterPresents.org/tickets-events.
Photo from Civic Theatre
Photo from Indiana Wind Symphony
Photo from Carmel Symphony Orchestra
Photo from Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
Photo by Renzulli Photography
answer your questions.
gather information, educate you on the scope of the repairs or installation,
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON PHOTOGRAPHY
gift giving:
Ribbons and bows. Tags and tape. So much goes into wrapping the perfect present.
Amber Blakley should know. She’s been doing it since she was 10.
Growing up in Carmel, Blakley started learning how to wrap gifts as a fifth grader through Hamilton County 4-H.
“Never in that time did I think I’d be doing this as a career,” Blakley says.
However, when she found herself without a job during the pandemic, Blakley began to look around at what she was good at doing and what she enjoyed. The answer to that question came in the form of a perfectly wrapped package that would become a fulltime gift-wrapping business for Blakley as the Westfield Wrapper. Her first holiday season was a success. Just by word of mouth, her clients multiplied threefold within the first year.
Last year, someone messaged her on Instagram about auditioning for a new gift-wrapping competition show. Blakley thought it was a scam. However, she was soon chosen as a contestant for QVC’s first Ultimate Gift Wrapping Challenge.
“I wanted to show my daughters that it’s OK to try things even if you’re scared and even if you don’t succeed,” she says. “I was not in the finale, but I was not the first one out either. I learned so much about myself. It was crazy—something I never thought I’d do.”
Blakley says she left feeling inspired to come back home and do what she does best—wrapping personal and corporate gifts, creating custom decorative displays and offering special events and parties.
CONTINUED >
It’s The Thought That Counts
Blakley puts a lot of consideration into her wrapping.
“I love to embellish,” she says. “I get excited and inspired to try to match baby shower themes or wedding invitations. That’s where I really make it personal.”
She recently created an entire Christmas wrap theme for a newlywed whose wife’s favorite color is pink.
If Blakley’s craft has you wanting to dress up your gift-giving, check out these tips.
1. Use double-sided tape. For beginners who want to get that professional look, this is the easiest trick to create a nice, neat package with no tape showing on the outside.
2. Don’t skimp on paper. “The weight of the paper is important,” Blakley says. If it’s too thin, it will rip; and if it’s too thick, it won’t fold well. She really likes paper with grid-lines on the back because it makes cutting and measuring so easy.
3. Wrap from your heart. “In the end, the recipients don’t care if you’ve decorated it to the nines,” Blakley says. “They care that you’ve shown them they are special.”
For more inspiration and expert help, find Blakley on Instagram @Westfield.Wrapper.
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DECEMBER 2024
DECEMBER 7TH
The “Mean One” Character Meet and Greet
Kits & Kaboodle, 723 Hanover Place, City Center, Carmel | 1:30 PM
Mayhem is always afoot when the Green Guy visits Kits & Kaboodle! Dec. 7 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., you can shop for special Grinch merchandise for good little girls and boys. Plus, enjoy character signing with Grinch book purchases, photo opportunities and special character sing-a-longs. The first 25 kiddos will receive a special “Mean One” gift bag starting at 1:30 p.m.
DECEMBER 7TH
Holiday PorchFest
Midtown Plaza, 365 Monon Blvd., Carmel | 2:00 PM
Hear your favorite Carmel PorchFest performers sing beloved holiday songs from 2 to 4 p.m. at Midtown Plaza. Vendors will be onsite offering warm beverages and snacks. Don’t miss this free family event that will include a special visit from a surprise guest.
DECEMBER 7TH
Santa Soiree and Tree Lighting
Village Green (in front of Dick’s Sporting Goods), Clay Terrace, Carmel | 4:00 PM
From 4 to 7 p.m., guests can enjoy live music, take carriage rides, find fun photo opportunities and create cherished memories with Santa and his friends. A festive bar will offer delicious sips, like hot cocoa and mulled wine (21+). Finally, as the sun sets, the breathtaking tree lighting ceremony will kick off the holiday season. Visit ClayTerrace.com/experience for details.
DECEMBER 9TH AND 16TH
Pups & Pints
Holiday Edition
Village Green (in front of Dick’s Sporting Goods), Clay Terrace, Carmel | 5:30 PM
Get ready for some paw-sitive holiday fun. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 and Dec. 16, you can bring your fourlegged friends to visit Santa and get a free caricature drawing, all while enjoying tasty holiday drinks from the bar. You can even smooch your pooch under the mistletoe. Donations will be accepted for the Hamilton County Humane Society.
DECEMBER 12TH
Elemental “Healthy-ish”
Dessert Exchange
Elemental Fitness and Lifestyle Practice, 510 W. Carmel Drive, Carmel | 6:00 PM
Elemental aims to keep you fit while still enjoying the holiday season. Bring three dozen of your favorite “healthyish” holiday treats and swap them for a fresh assortment of new treats to try. Email train@elementalx.co to participate and drop off treats with ingredient cards by Dec.11. Also, don’t miss the sale on small group Pilates, 5 for $55. Visit ElementalX.co.
DECEMBER 14TH
Glühwein Gallop 5K Run/Walk
Carmel Christkindlmarkt, 10 Carter Green, Carmel | 9:00 AM
Get ready for a galloping good time with the 4th annual race that begins and ends at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. Runners can warm up after the race with a complimentary hot chocolate, beer (21+) or Glühwein (21+). Awards will be offered for overall winner, age groups and costumes. Register at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com by clicking “Get Involved.”
Detachable shower wand
Customizable grab bars and handrails
Slip-resistant floor surface
Ultra-low entry (Zero entry also available)
Easy-access shelving
Stylish seating options
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
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