Greenwood, IN February 2025 by City Lifestyle

Thank You, Greenwood

As I sit to write about this inaugural edition of Greenwood City Lifestyle, I find myself reflecting over the past year. As you might imagine, the launching of this magazine was no small feat. In July of 2023, The decision was made to jump out on a limb and see if something could evolve out of nothing. I sat down and really thought about what I wanted this publication to be, what was the purpose of doing this. I didn't want to be just another magazine, and while every local publication has its place, I wanted to be different. To make a difference.

I read the other local magazines, partly because I enjoy them, but also because it's my job. I typically look through them, peruse the articles and scan the ads, but then discard them pretty quickly. This was where my purpose was found. I wanted the magazine to have staying power. I wanted it to provide information that would be beneficial to our readers and have a look and feel that would keep it on the coffee table until the next edition drops. I didn't want to write about the high school quarterback or feature a family, someone already has that covered. I wanted to have businesses assist with content that will help make our readers' lives better. I wanted to learn about these businesses and find the best ones with which to partner.

So it began. I made a list of who was considered to be the best-in-class businesses in Greenwood, Center Grove and Bargersville. I set out to meet those business owners and confirm what I thought. Along the way, I met many amazing people and learned so much about what they do, and in many cases, why they do it. Many of the business owners understood my vision and several even jumped on board in a big way by introducing me to other incredible businesses. I truly consider these businesses my partners, and without them I would have failed miserably. Without them, I would never have understood what local business is really all about.

So here we are, beginning our second year of print, consistently growing and hopefully putting out content our readers enjoy. I just want to say thank you to all the local businesses that have been here for us, and taught us to truly Love Local.

SCOTT GILCREST, PUBLISHER @GREENWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Scott Gilcrest | scott.gilcrest@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Amber Gilcrest | amber.gilcrest@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Amanda Buck

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Amber Gilcrest

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

This Valentine’s Day, indulge in a luxurious experience at Bayberry Spa, where relaxation and connection come together. Whether you’re celebrating love with your partner or treating yourself to well-deserved self-care, we have the perfect offerings: Couples’ Massage Sessions: Connect and relax side by side in our luxurious treatment rooms. Gift Cards for Every Heart: Surprise your loved one with a gift card for ultimate relaxation

Treat Yourself: Prioritize wellness with one of our signature facials or therapeutic massage sessions designed to relax and restore.

A Dental Office Designed Around You

Dr. Whitney Marsh & Dr. Aaron Sauer

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Carolers sing at the Bargersville Santa Train and Holiday Market sponsored by Duke Homes. 2: Tony Scellato speaks at The Covenant House Christmas Fundraiser held at the Barn at Aberdeen. 3: Children love Santa Claus at the Bargersville Santa Train and Holiday Market. 4: Northeast Elementary educator Ryan Macy is 2024 Greenwood Community School Corporation Teacher of the Year. 5: Aspire Johnson County members held ribbon-cutting ceremony for Aspen Creek Grill, 1287 N. Emerson Ave. 6: James Cooper III is assistant chief of the Center Grove Police Department. 7: Bargersville firefighters distributed Johnson County Good Cheer baskets, carrying on a 104-year tradition.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

COURTESY OF ASPEN CREEK GRILL

COURTESY

AMBER GILCREST

ROUNDUP OF

Center Grove State Championship Coach Abby Barkdull Provides Lacrosse Training

Abby Barkdull, assistant coach for 2024 Center Grove State Champion lacrosse team, now offers lessons to young women to learn lacrosse or develop skills. Abby began lacrosse at CGMS Central, played at CGHS and Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, then Indiana Tech, earning Offensive Player of Year, two-time 1st team All-Conference, two-time WHAC All-Academic Team and NAIA Scholar Athlete. Coach Barkdull says strong athletic foundations provide necessary tools for successful lives Contact: abbybarkdull@gmail.com or 317.690.5732.

JCCF Grants Committee members awarded $161,146 to 18 organizations: American Red Cross, Autism Community Connection, Bridges Alliance of JC, Central Nine Career Center School Adult Education, Discover Downtown Franklin, Gateway Services, Gleaners Food Bank, Great Harvest Food Pantry, HeavenEarth Spaces, I Support Girls, JC Public Library Foundation, JC Senior Services, Joshua Center, Pack Away Hunger, Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse/Suicide, Salvation Army Red Shield Center, Trafalgar Volunteer Firemen, Turning Point Domestic Violence Services.

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JCCF Announces 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Recipients

JohnsonCountyCommunityFoundation representatives revealed recipients of the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship: Anna Brumley, Franklin Community High School; Haroon Mardanzai, Whiteland Community High School; and Kalli Cadwell, Franklin Community High School. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. This is the 28th year that JCCF representatives have administered the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship locally. Recipients receive full tuition, fees and funds for books and equipment.

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LOCAL EXPERTISE FOR MANAGING, PLANNING life's potential risks

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCY MERRITT HALL DOES IT ALL

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Home, auto and commercial business safeguarding: Merritt Hall Insurance President Danny Crum, PWCA, assures the company's coverage is ideal for those who want "reliable and unrivaled protection."

Danny says the Merritt Hall team provides clients with a hands-on approach to risk management. "We're a one-stop shop for all insurance needs. As we come alongside our clients and discuss their goals and objectives, we help them reach those goals with comprehensive insurance plans to protect what matters most to them."

Merritt Hall Insurance offers services in a variety of categories: Auto, Home, Agribusiness, Business, Cyber Liability, Workers Compensation, Recreational Vehicles and Umbrella packages. Jim Hall co-founded Merritt Hall in 1987, with James Lewis serving as the current CEO.

"Several key elements that are helpful with our client relationships are empathy and trust, along with asking the right questions," explains Danny. "We put ourselves in our clients’ shoes and look at things from their perspectives. Then earn their trust that we're going to do what's best for them, their family and their business."

Danny graduated from Indiana State University, and spent five years with a small corporation before moving to Merritt Hall to make insurance his career. He says he works in all departments with a focus on commercial property and casualty, with a specialty in several niche markets. To maintain an insurance license, he and his team are required to do 24 hours of continuing education over a 2-year period; 3 of those hours must be in ethics.

He says working with a local, independent insurance agent, such as Merritt Hall, offers several benefits:

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1. Personalization: Independent agents can provide personalized service and tailor coverage to specific needs, ensuring clients are not over- or under-insured.

2. Choice: With access to multiple insurance carriers, clients have a variety of options and competitive rates from which to choose.

3. Local Expertise : Local agents understand unique risks and the area's regulations, which can be invaluable when selecting the right coverage.

4. Advocacy: In the event of a claim, an independent agent can advocate on a client's behalf, helping them navigate the process and ensure they receive fair treatment.

5. Relationship :

Building a long-term relationship with an agent means they get to know clients' evolving needs, making future insurance decisions easier and more efficient.

never boring. I'm always solving problems, working on new ventures, or helping protect a family's legacy business. It makes it exciting to get up and go to work every day, and I truly enjoy what I do."

One of the newer, intriguing areas is cyber liability insurance. Danny says it protects businesses from financial consequences of cyberattacks and data breaches, typically covering expenses related to data recovery, legal fees, customer notifications, crisis management and ransom payments

“They have strong ties with the community, and it shows. It’s nice to do business with people who really care.”

"We act as your personal adviser, helping you make sense of the often-complex world of insurance," Danny adds.

He says he loves to meet people and build relationships. "A lot of clients have become friends, and it's allowed me to watch their business and families grow."

The second aspect he says he likes is the variety of needs. "No two clients are the same, everyone’s risk is different, every family is different, so my days are

"As technology evolves, so do threats; cyber liability insurance has had to adapt. Initially, policies focused on unauthorized access and data loss. Now, they cover a broader range of incidents, including ransomware, social engineering attacks and business interruption due to cyber events," Danny explains.

"Insurers are also offering pre- and postbreach services, such as risk assessments and cybersecurity training, to help businesses mitigate risks."

For 2025, Danny says they anticipate a flattening of property insurance rates, probably by mid-year, after several years of increased rates. "Weather caused big losses and insurance carriers had to raise rates to adjust for this. We're hoping for some relief this year from the increase in rates over the last several years."

800.677.9180

MerrittHallIns.com

Leading the way in Patient Safety

Johnson Memorial Health has earned the nation’s top distinction for patient safety with an “A” from the Leapfrog Group. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is an elite designation from a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the U.S. This honor belongs to every one of the providers and associates at JMH who work each day to provide exceptional health care for our patients.

Great care starts here.

secure clear, safe local views

All-N-1

Auto Detail And Reconditioning

Shares Tips About Replacing Headlights

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

For best local driving visibility, Robin Barkdull, All-N-1 Detail and Reconditioning owner, suggests routinely checking vehicular headlights to ensure they're working to maximize both enjoyment and safety. Proper headlights help identify potential hazards, reduce accident risks, and are especially crucial for night driving or treacherous weather conditions. Robin provides tips to Greenwood City Lifestyle readers, based on his experience servicing all types of cars and trucks at his Greenwood auto detailing shop.

DO ALL HEADLIGHTS GET WEAKER OVER TIME?

"Yes, they do. Lenses become oxidized and cloudy. Bulbs start losing brightness."

WHAT SIGNS INDICATE HEADLIGHTS SHOULD BE RECONDITIONED/REPLACED?

"If headlights are visibly yellowing, dimmed light output, flickering or one bulb's burning out. We can replace headlight assemblies if they cannot be restored, but it's cost-saving to restore versus replace."

HOW OFTEN ARE HEADLIGHTS RESTORED?

"Vehicles vary, depending how much time they sit in the sun and how often they're going through automatic carwashes. Car headlight lenses should be restored at least once annually to maintain optimal visibility."

SHOULD ALL HEADLIGHTS BE CHANGED AT SAME TIME?

"Standard halogen headlight bulbs should be replaced every 1-2 years, as their lifespan's between 500-1,000 hours, while LED bulbs can last approximately 30,000 hours."

Robin Barkdull / Photo by Amber Gilcrest

MAKING memories that LAST

With founder Steve Huth Sr., son Steve Jr. and even third-generation granddaughter working at Steve’s Flowers and Gifts, the shop is a local, family owned and operated florist company in the business of creating memories that last.

“When most people think about celebrations or showing love, they automatically think of flowers,” explains Steve Jr. “but people come in and realize we have so many other options they often say ‘I had no idea!’”

One step inside the shop reveals myriad possibilities and choices in addition to flowers.

“We're not as streamlined as a lot of other shops,” emphasizes Steve Jr. “We love to combine our gifts with a custom floral design. That way when the flowers pass away, the gift remains forever.”

The shop team recently partnered with a local candle company to create a custom candle, floral scented, of course, with a bouquet that fits neatly in the lid. "Drop by, you might be surprised what you can create for your loved ones," says Steve Jr. 317.787.3431 StevesFlowers.com

Show Love With More Than Just Flowers From Steve's Flowers and Gifts

ARTICLE BY AMANDA BUCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE’S FLOWERS AND GIFTS

nurturing community early childhood development

Primrose School Of Greenwood Lays Groundwork For Advanced Literacy Skills

Exceptional early learning experiences for young children derive from immersing them in varied cultures, community aspects, character values and local educational opportunities, especially when provided by caring, robust early childhood educators.

"We believe that the Primrose Schools balanced approach allows our students to learn, grow and strengthen their developmental skills from getting exposure to the best that the Greenwood community has to offer," attests Jessica Schmollinger, Primrose School of Greenwood franchise owner.

"Who children become is as important as what they know," she adds.

Early childhood education plays a vital, long-term role in that it provides a strong foundation for later academic, social and emotional growth. Providing children with stimulating environments and projects to enhance their cognitive abilities during their preschool years is extremely beneficial, Jessica states.

Key benefits of solid early childhood education programs are preparation for entering kindergarten while teaching children to reason by incorporating problem-solving tasks and to develop critical thinking skills. Effective childhood education also encourages children to explore their surroundings, which fosters curiosity. Imaginative play, such as pretending to be in a specific career, allows a child to exercise creativity and develop imagination.

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF GREENWOOD

Jessica says young students often learn best when they're involved in different forms of play, including hands-on activities involving sensory components, art projects and science experiments; storytelling, reading, music and dance to develop motor skills, rhythm and self-expression; group projects and collaborative activities to develop cooperation and teamwork; and exploring new cultures and languages to introduce different customs and perspectives to broaden their understanding of the world.

Primrose students and their parents often share that the teachers there make them feel they belong.

"We truly have a Primrose family of staff and families. Sharing the phrase 'Welcome to the Primrose Family!' is something I don't take lightly when I welcome new staff and enrolled families," Jessica assures.

"Teachers are here for the entire Primrose experience, from our balanced learning curriculum, to our community service projects, our family dinners at staff meetings and our high expectations for health and safety. They truly want to embody the Primrose model of early learning. High expectations and a family culture help cultivate what we want to provide at Primrose Greenwood."

Regarding community projects, the school's staff and families lend direct support to some local families during holiday seasons. This past December, they also collected food and diapers to donate to New Whiteland-based Great Harvest Food Pantry, whose supporters use the items to stock their shelves as well as diapers and wipes for Indiana Diaper Source and Baby Boutique.

"A huge thank you to Primrose School of Greenwood for holding a very successful food and diaper drive for the pantry and IDS. What a blessing this is to the families we serve," says Melissa Rojas, director of operations and co-founder of the Great Harvest Food Pantry. "We cannot do what we do without the support of our community partners such as Primrose."

The Primrose group also plans to conduct a book drive for a local organization during February for the “love of reading” initiative.

"We'll do a Spring Fling from which all proceeds will go to a local organization of our choice. In 2023, we raised money for Blessings in a Backpack, and in 2024 we did Wheeler Mission Women’s and Children’s," Jessica adds.

Primrose Schools is a national system of accredited private preschools, which was recognized in Newsweek’s 'America’s Best of the Best 2024 Ranking' list as the top brand in the Child Care Services category. 317.883.7181

PrimroseSchools.com/schools/Greenwood

Jessica Schmollinger (left) and Melissa Rojas

Super Fond Of Local Dogs

Top Tier K9 of Greenwood certified dog trainers, Ken Weadick and Jen Mutz, assure they're prepared to meet the spectrum of local dog training needs. Their team offers boarding and training programs, as well as day-training options. Dog owners and dogs are mutually guided and trained in shared communication and basic obedience.

Jen says, "Most challenges a dog presents to integrating into our lives can be solved by them reliably following five basic commands: Sit, Down, Come, Climb or Place and Heel. We teach dog owners how to strengthen and maintain these behaviors in their own environment and lives."

"We use a science-based balanced approach to training. Timing, motivation and consistency are the most important elements to effective training. We teach how to train dogs while we're training dogs. Each week's training is an opportunity to see the progress being made," Ken explains.

Call or text 317.447.0853 for a consultation.

Top Tier K9 Of Greenwood Provides Gold-Standard Dog Training Techniques For Copasetic Living

LOVE YOUR extraordinary LIFE

Healthcare that understands the value of a life well lived is more than medicine. It’s a partnership, a promise, that each day will be met with compassion and each challenge with dignity.

In every routine checkup, every hospital stay and every interaction – we see the extraordinary in you.

FranciscanHealth.org

HAPPY FIRST ANNIVERSARY!

Greenwood City Lifestyle Celebrates Milestone; Thanks To Community, Partnering Advertisers, Readers

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Upon reading this edition, you may notice something a bit special, in that it marks the magazine's first full year publishing! This provides a great time for a milestone commemoration. So, in honor of its first birthday, we hope you'll enjoy 'thinking down' memory lane with us, and that you'll look forward to tackling additional, interesting topics with us in the future.

We've used care and consistency as stepping stones toward the goal of providing readers in the Greenwood, Bargersville, Center Grove and Franklin region with engaging content that informs, entertains, celebrates and reveres the uniqueness of our community. Our hope is that this reliability fosters trust and loyalty so you return to our pages each month, knowing you'll find the same level of quality and visual appeal.

It's been a pleasure to provide new tips and tricks for health, wellness and personal development. It's also been amazing to

share inspiring residents, to support community leaders and to provide expert advice, motivational stories, helpful resources, business updates and ways to stay aware of local happenings.

With Greenwood's nickname being "City of Pride and Progress," we can attest the magazine-related people with whom we work definitely live up to that premise.

In this fast-paced world, Greenwood City Lifestyle provides a bit of time and space for us all to still connect with each other in a meaningful manner. Thank you so very much for reading and supporting the businesses who help the magazine to exist and to be delivered to your mailboxes!

For those interested in revisiting any of this past year's editions, the digital versions can be found at: CityLifestyle.com/ Greenwood/Issues

FEBRUARY 3RD, 10TH, 17TH, 24TH

Annie’s Project Cut Flower Growers

The Sycamore at Mallow Run | 6:00 PM

This workshop provides production and business management skills to new and aspiring women farmers who face unique challenges in the cut flower business. These are discussion-based workshops bringing women together to learn from experts in production, financial management, human resources, marketing and the legal field. Time is set-aside for connecting with presenters and fellow participants. For registration questions, email edustore@purdue.edu.

FEBRUARY 9TH

Community Day At Studio YOU Yoga

Studio You Yoga | 9:00 AM

There will be a $10 drop-in fee for all classes from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., so bring a friend and try yoga with guidance from the friendly and knowledgeable instructors of Studio YOU. Also included is the Buti Yoga popup at 4:30 p.m. Register at StudioYouYoga.com or contact the studio for details.

FEBRUARY 15TH

Greenwood Polar Plunge

Dye’s Walk Country Club | 9:00 AM

Join the fun of annual Polar Plunging to 'Be Bold, Get Cold' while supporting Special Olympics Indiana athletes. Registration is from 9-10:30 a.m. at the country club. Plunges will start at 11 a.m. An After Splash Bash will continue through noon. Email sfurnish@soindiana.org. All funds raised by the event directly benefit more than 19,000 Special Olympics athletes throughout the state

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FEBRUARY 15TH

ALL IN For Foster Youth Special Event Night

The Sycamore At Mallow Run | 6:00 PM

Resources of Hope Inc. will sponsor the 'ALL IN For Foster Youth' Games Fundraiser Night from 6-11 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Join a night of fun for adults, including silent auction options and prizes, and the opportunity to learn about Resources of Hope initiatives. Cocktail attire is preferred, and tickets are available at ResourcesOfHope.org through Feb. 3.

FEBRUARY 21ST

Center Grove Education Foundation Trivia Night

Barn At Bay Horse Inn | 6:00 PM

Trivia begins at 7 p.m. Form a team with up to eight, or group with other players. Tickets are $50/person and include dinner from Bonefish Grill. Beverages available for purchase from the Barn's Saloon. Get creative and decorate a table or dress up in the theme of choice. Best themed team wins small prize and bragging rights! Participation is optional.

FEBRUARY 21ST

Blacklite District's The Red Carpet Tour: Indianapolis Metro

American Legion Post 252, Greenwood | 6:00 PM

Blacklite District is bringing The Red Carpet Tour with an immersive VIP concert experience. Out supporting their new album, 'You Can Do Better,' Blacklite District will be playing hits, including "Cold As Ice," "The Struggle," "Living in a Nightmare." "Goodbye," and new songs from the album. Full meet and greet and red carpet experience comes with all $50 each tickets.

R E D I S C O V E R R A D I A N C E

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Unleash Joy

Join us as we celebrate the extraordinary bond with our four-legged friends, exploring training tips, behavior insights, and the lighter side of life with dogs. From decoding body language to mastering obedience, each edition offers expert advice and entertaining anecdotes for both novice and seasoned dog owners.

From training tips to entertaining insights, join us as we explore the joys and challenges of sharing our lives with our furry friends. Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or a first-time dog owner, our column is designed to celebrate the unique bond we share with our dogs and provide insights into their behavior, training methods, and overall well-being.

Have a specific topic in mind? Contact us.

ken.weadick@toptierk9.com 317-447-0607

This Month’s Tip

You can’t apologize to a dog. If you’re unfair to your dog it will take time to rebuild trust. If you have a solid history of reinforcement trust will be restored faster. Be slow to anger and quick to forgive and your dog will be as well. Our primary focus in training is all about building a solid communication system.