A FAMILY TRADITION
ANGELO’S ITALIAN MARKET CELEBRATES TWO YEARS OF REAL. FRESH. PASTA.
6 THE LATEST HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS AROUND FISHERS
8 A FAMILY TRADITION
Angelo’s Italian Market Celebrates Two Years of Real. Fresh. Pasta.
12 THIS IS FISHERS 14 NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH HAND Inc.
WTHR Anchor Offers Collection of FaithBased Reflections
PUBLISHER ALISON GATZ alison@townepost.com (317) 829-6670
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
ROBERT JONES LARRY LANNAN RENÉE LARR
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK
CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS
MANAGING EDITOR DEVON DEAN
COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?
THE LATEST HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS AROUND FISHERS
Writer / Larry Lannan
A roundabout is coming to the intersection of 116th Street and Allisonville Road, but the project has been delayed until 2026. The Fishers Board of Public Works and Safety approved a $3.1 million bid on March 26 from Rieth-Riley to construct the roundabout. The city had requested bids for both 2025 and 2026, ultimately deciding to postpone the project due to ongoing roadwork at I-69 and I-465, 146th Street and Allisonville Road, and 141st Street and State Road 37 throughout 2025. The bids were opened in late January. Mayor Scott Fadness has expressed support for fully closing the intersection during construction to expedite completion. Once surrounding road projects are finished, motorists will have more alternate routes to bypass the 116th and Allisonville intersection during construction in 2026.
With the Cadillac Formula One team set to join the F1 grid in 2026, the focus of the Andretti Global facility near the airport, just north of 96th Street, has shifted. Originally planned to house Indy cars, sports cars, a museum, a restaurant, and the headquarters for Andretti’s racing operations, the 400,000-square-foot facility will now serve a larger role in Formula One. It is expected to attract high-tech employees, international
and most popular motorsports series globally.
In May 2013, voters in the Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) school (HSE) district approved a referendum to finance building projects at both high schools, now known as College and Career Academies. The municipal bonds issued for these projects have a call date of July 15, 2024. Unlike most debt, municipal bonds can only be refinanced on a specified call date outlined in the bond issuance. HSE Chief Financial Officer Tim Brown presented a refinancing plan to the school board, stating that if interest rates remain stable, the district could save up to $1.8 million on the two bonds combined.
The Fishers Event Center is exceeding initial booking projections in its first year. General Manager Mitch List announced during a meeting of the Town Hall Building Corporation that the facility initially aimed to secure 125 event dates but has already booked 120, with expectations to surpass 140 by year’s end. Indy Fuel games are drawing strong attendance, and touring shows have nearly sold out according to List.
The Fishers Arts Council (FAC) has announced the addition of two new board members, Erica Foreman and Molly Hammer, for 2025. FAC also elected its executive officers at its January annual meeting. Chris Hayes was named president, Ross Hilleary will serve as vice president, Douglas Dusseau will continue as treasurer, and Susan Dickey was elected secretary. Returning board members include Greg Dierfeldt, Pat Grabill, Tyna Green Seall, Olivia Harris, Tom Rich, Latrica Schooley, Laura Villanyi and Amanda Wilhite. Les Reinhardt will remain the executive director in 2025.
Hamilton County’s two major political parties recently elected officers. The republican party re-elected Mario Massillamany as chairman, Raju Chinthala as treasurer, and Beth Sheller as secretary, with Stephanie Flittner elected as vice chair. All will serve four-year terms. On the democratic side, County Chair Jocelyn Vare chose not to seek re-election. Precinct officials elected Josh Lowry as chair, Meredith Fox as vice chair, Aimee Cole Rivera as secretary, and Jim Harter as treasurer, each serving four-year terms.
visitors, and media from around the world. Formula One is the largest
sandra@blumeflowercompany.com www.blumeflowercompany.com
A FAMILY TRADITION
ANGELO’S
ITALIAN MARKET CELEBRATES TWO YEARS OF REAL.
FRESH. PASTA.
Writer / Renée Larr
Located on Maple Street in downtown Fishers, Angelo’s Italian Market has become a cherished spot for Fishers residents seeking fresh, high-quality Italian food. Celebrating its second anniversary, the shop has grown into more than just a market; it symbolizes a true labor of love for owner and Fishers resident Chris Marra and his family. Specializing in house-made pasta, sauces, and other Italian delicacies, Angelo’s brings the tradition of authentic, handcrafted Italian cuisine to the community.
For the Marra family, Italian food is more than just a business—it’s a deeply rooted family tradition.
Photographer / Robert Jones
Chris, his father, Mike, and his mother, Kathy, operate the market with an unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. The store’s name, Angelo’s, is a tribute to Chris’s late grandfather, whose love for family and food inspired the shop’s creation.
“My dad grew up learning to cook from his grandmother and aunts in Cleveland,” Chris Marra says. “Every Sunday, we would make pasta, sauces and meatballs together. It was a tradition in our home and now we get to share that with our customers.”
What started as a simple idea—offering high-quality, fresh pasta—has evolved into a full-scale market where customers can find everything they need for a homemade Italian meal. From bronzedie extruded pasta to house-made sauces, meatballs and bread, Angelo’s provides a convenient way for families to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at home.
While fresh pasta remains the heart of Angelo’s, the market has evolved over the past two years to meet the diverse needs of its customers. Customers can now find a variety of take-and-bake prepared meals, perfect for busy families looking for a quick, delicious dinner. This expansion of offerings is a testament to Angelo’s commitment to its customers.
“We always want people to know that we are a fresh pasta shop first,” Marra says. “But we also offer a range of other house-made products, including lasagnas, meatballs, breads and various sauces. Everything is made fresh right here in our kitchen with highquality ingredients. There’s no bleach, synthetic vitamins or junk
- just fresh, high-quality ingredients that make a real difference in taste and texture. We take great care in selecting our ingredients, ensuring that every bite you take is a testament to our commitment to quality.”
Another differentiating feature of their pasta is the use of bronzedie extrusion, a traditional technique that creates a rough texture on the pasta, allowing sauces to cling better to the noodle. Unlike the smooth, shiny pasta sold in grocery stores, Angelo’s pasta holds onto sauce for a more palatable experience.
Although Angelo’s isn’t a restaurant, the market provides a selection of grab-and-go options that are ideal for lunch or a quick meal. Their house-made Italian sandwiches, fresh pasta salads and antipasto boxes are perfect for a convenient and delicious picnic— especially with the warmer weather and outdoor events coming up.
“For summer we always have pasta salads made with our fresh pasta, along with cold-cut sandwiches and snack boxes,” Marra says. “It’s great for a quick lunch or a day at the park.”
Angelo’s also offers catering, with a unique take on the classic boxed lunch. Their catering lunch boxes include house-made sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, pasta salads, Italian cookies and imported Italian-style chips. Perfect for office meetings, corporate luncheons or family gatherings, these catering options bring a gourmet touch to any event.
Beyond selling fresh pasta and sauces, Angelo’s is also dedicated to teaching others about the art of Italian cooking. Their pasta-making classes have become one of the market’s biggest attractions, with sessions regularly selling out.
“I’ve taught over 300 classes in the past 18 months,” Marra says. “We offer both beginner and advanced classes, and people love them. It’s a great way for families, couples or friends to learn something new and have fun together.”
The classes offer a hands-on experience, allowing participants to roll, cut and shape their own pasta while learning the traditional techniques passed down through generations of Italian cooks.
For Marra, the family connection to food is what makes Angelo’s truly special. His wife and three young children are already immersed in the world of pasta-making, and he hopes to pass down the traditions that inspired the market’s creation.
“My kids love pasta, which was a big reason we started this shop in the first place,” Marra says. “Now they love coming to Angelo’s and playing around with the pasta-making tools. Whether they end up working here or not, they’ll definitely know how to make pasta.”
On March 30, Angelo’s celebrated its second anniversary with special giveaways, including a private, six-person pasta-making class. The milestone is a testament to the market’s growing popularity and the community’s support.
Marra and his family plan to keep improving their offerings by focusing on quality and staying true to their roots. Although expansion may be an option in the future, the essence of Angelo’s will always revolve around its family-run, hands-on approach, which is what makes it unique.
“We want to keep doing what we do best—offering high-quality, fresh pasta and Italian specialties,” Marra says. “It’s been an amazing two years, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”
Angelo’s Italian Market is not just a place to buy pasta; it celebrates tradition, family and great food. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, attending a pasta-making class or stocking up on Italian pantry essentials, Angelo’s provides an authentic taste of Italy right in the heart of Fishers.
For more information, visit eatangelospasta.com.
THIS IS FISHERS HAPPENINGS FROM THE CITY OF FISHERS
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
Fishers Freight Season Underway
The newest addition to the sports lineup at Fishers Event Center Fishers Freight have kicked off their inaugural season! The Freight bring the excitement of the Indoor Football League (IFL) to Fishers, joining 16 IFL teams with regional rivalries anticipated with the Green Bay Blizzards and Quad City Steamwheelers
Get your tickets at FishersEventCenter.com.
Aging & Wellness Survey: Now Open!
The City of Fishers’ new Aging & Wellness Task Force is exploring new programming, resources, and potential infrastructure for our senior population. As part of this effort, we’re asking for community input through a short survey open now through May 6. Whether you ' re a senior, a caregiver, or simply interested in shaping the future of services for older adults in Fishers, we want to hear from you Your voice will help guide future recommendations to support healthy aging in our community Take the survey at FishersIN gov/AgingWell
NPD Amphitheater Summer Concerts
The Nickel Plate District Amphitheater (NPD AMP) and MOKB Presents announced some of the ticketed shows for this summer ' s annual concert series:
Sam Barber on Saturday, June 7
Chase Rice on Saturday, June 14
Band of Horses on Wednesday, June 18
Yo La Tengo + Built to Spill on Thursday, July 17
Michael Franti + Spearhead on Friday, July 25
Here Come the Mummies on Saturday, August 9
Tickets are available for purchase at npdamp com
Fishers Community Center Memberships Now On Sale
Become a Charter Member of the Fishers Community Center before it opens in November and unlock exclusive perks, including early access to Dog Park Memberships when they launch in early May! Dog park memberships will go fast, so don’t miss your chance to secure yours!
As a Charter Member, you'll also receive VIP access during the grand opening, have your name featured on a permanent display in the facility, and enjoy full access to the facility's amenities, including a fully equipped fitness center and group exercise classes; an aquatics center featuring a two-story waterslide, a rock-climbing wall, a NinjaCross challenge system, and on-deck sauna; sports courts; and more!
Join now and be among the first to experience everything the center has in store!
Join now at FishersCommunityCenter com
Work for the City of Fishers
The City of Fishers is hiring for over 100 seasonal positions, including camp counselors, lifeguards, and seasonal DPW laborers. Join the team by applying at FishersIN gov/Jobs
THIS IS FISHERS
UPCOMING
EVENTS
AgriPark Season Opening Day
Thursday, May 1 | 11171 Florida Road
A 33-acre urban farm, the Fishers AgriPark pays to Fishers’ agricultural roots, while inspiring futu generations of farmers, scientists, agronomists, engineers, chefs, and beyond The AgriPark feat public fields and gardens, livestock, a playgroun trail, tree nurseries, and more, all managed by F Parks Learn more at FishersAgriPark com
Fishers Farmers Market Opening Day
Saturday, May 3 | NPD Amphitheater (6 Municipa
The Fishers Farmers Market, presented by IU He Fishers, returns for its 2025 summer season at th Plate District Amphitheater in downtown Fisher Saturday, May 3! Special events that Saturday i the annual Hope for Happiness event and the P Party kickoff presented by IndyCar
Touch-a-Truck
Monday, May 19 | 4 - 7 p m | NPD Amphitheater
Geist Waterfront Beach Season Opening Day
In honor of National Public Works Week, check out Fishers’ fleet of big rigs, including a firetruck, snowplow, police car, and more at this family-friendly event around the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. Learn more at FishersIN gov/TouchaTruck
VOLUNTEER FISHERS: ADOPT-A-DRAIN
Join the Fishers Adopt-a-Storm Drain program and make a meaningful impact in your community By volunteering to keep storm drains clear, you’ll help improve the water quality of our streams, reduce the risk of flooding, and contribute to a healthier, f f
Saturday, May 24 | Noon - 8 p.m. | 10811 Olio Road
The 70-acre waterfront park in east Fishers features beach and water access to Geist Reservoir, non-motorized boat launch and dock access for kayaks and canoes, walking trails, playground, and public gathering amenities Beach access is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend. Learn more at FishersParks com
Save the Date: Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 26 | 10 a m | NPD Amphitheater
Join the City of Fishers to honor the service men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom at this special ceremony. After the ceremony, take a walk around the Central Green and Nickel Plate District Amphitheater to view the light pole banners honoring local veterans and active duty servicemembers in the Fishers community
You can also honor a hero by purchasing an Engraved Brick Paver, which will become a permanent addition to the Liberty Plaza walkway Learn more at FishersIN.gov/FishersHonors.
Stay up to date on the latest news from the Mayor’s Office, Fishers Parks, Police and Fire Departments, Fishers Health Department, and more Sign up at FishersIN gov/Subscribe
HAND INC.
As housing costs continue to rise, HAND Inc. (Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development) is working harder than ever to bridge the affordability gap. Executive Director Andrea Davis is sharing insight into the nonprofit’s mission, upcoming projects, and how the community can get involved.
Founded in 2003, HAND Inc. was established to address the growing need for affordable housing in Hamilton County. This was a community-driven initiative, a response to the rapid population growth in the late 1990s and the gap in available, affordable housing identified by the Noblesville Housing Authority. The community’s active involvement and support led to the formation of HAND, which has since evolved into a certified Community Housing Development Organization.
“The founders were visionary,” Davis says. “They saw that housing costs were increasing much faster than household income, and that’s even more true today.”
While many perceive Indiana as affordable compared to coastal states, Davis says that affordability is relative.
“If you’ve lived here your whole life and your income hasn’t risen at the same rate as housing costs, homeownership, or even rental housing, can be out of reach,” she says.
HAND has significantly impacted the community by providing 157 affordable housing units in Hamilton, Boone and Tipton counties. These homes have not only offered shelter for families, but have also contributed to the overall well-being of the communities. Initially the organization focused on home rehabilitation, but shifted its emphasis to affordable rental housing in 2007.
One of HAND’s most notable projects is Cumberland Cottages, an 11-unit community in Fishers designed with families in mind. The distinctive design, featuring duplexes and detached cottages arranged around a courtyard, encourages a genuine sense of community.
HAND also completed the renovation of three historic homes in Noblesville, transforming them into affordable rental units while preserving the neighborhood’s charm and character.
This year HAND is embarking on two major projects that will bring 12 new units of affordable family housing to
• Noblesville Project: Six threebedroom duplexes near Stony Creek Elementary, expected to break ground in June.
• Carmel Project (Home Place Area): Another six three-bedroom duplexes, with construction likely beginning in May. This project specifically aims to assist families who have experienced housing insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite its numerous achievements, HAND continues to face challenges. These include securing funding and overcoming public resistance. Davis says the people they serve are already part of the community, including teachers, service workers and caregivers, who simply need a more affordable place to live. Overcoming these challenges requires the support and understanding of the community.
Federal funding uncertainties also pose a concern. HAND relies heavily on government programs like HOME, a federal housing fund, but fluctuating budgets mean funding for future projects is never guaranteed.
Those interested in making a difference
Writer / Renée Larr
Hamilton County:
can support HAND by participating in their upcoming Volunteer Day on May 15. Volunteers will help with landscaping and maintenance at Home Place Gardens (Carmel), Plum Tree Gardens (Noblesville) and Pebble Brook Gardens (Noblesville).
Davis actively encourages community members to get involved. “We often receive requests from groups looking to help, which is a fantastic way to support our residents and keep our properties looking great,” she says.
HAND’s continued efforts to secure funding, form partnerships and engage the community aim to expand affordable housing opportunities in Hamilton County. Ongoing community support and involvement are crucial to HAND’s mission. Davis remains optimistic about HAND’s ability to make a lasting impact on the local community.
For more information or to get involved, visit handincorporated.org.
SPONSORED BY
INVISALIGN BOTOX IMPLANTS
Honoring the Past, Building the Future: Fishers Elementary Expansion
Underway
In the heart of downtown Fishers, a transformation is taking place – one that blends nearly 70 years of history with the needs of today’s learners. Fishers Elementary School (FES), originally built in 1958 and once home to the original Fishers High School, is currently undergoing a $45 million renovation and expansion that will double its capacity and modernize its facilities.
Hamilton Southeastern Schools hired CSO Architects and Wurster Construction to revitalize one of the district’s oldest buildings. The multiphase project began in June 2024 and will add approximately 85,000 square feet of space,
including new classrooms, a media center, green space, and a playground. It also includes upgraded infrastructure such as HVAC, fire suppression systems, and enhanced security. The final design will accommodate 700 students, up from the current 450 – and is expected to be completed by Fall 2026.
“When we first began talking about the options for construction or renovation of Fishers Elementary, our school community felt strongly that FES needed to remain on the current site,”
said Principal Brian Behrman. The school, located near the intersection of Lantern Road and 116th Street, was last renovated 36 years ago.
“As a result, many of the modern amenities that other schools have don’t exist in our current building,” adds Behrman. “We don’t have spaces available for large groups of students to come together and collaborate.” In the new building, each grade level will have a common area just outside their classrooms, creating opportunities for cross-curricular learning and providing more space that fosters creativity and engagement.
So far, the building project has become a ‘living’ learning lab for students, says Behrman. Wurster Construction has brought real-world experiences directly into the classroom. “Our students don’t just have a front-row seat to the progress, they’re learning from it.”
While parts of the original gymnasium and cafeteria will be preserved and expanded to honor the school’s legacy, the updated design will be filled with natural light, an exciting contrast to the current, darker layout.
For the Fishers community, this is more than a renovation – it’s a renewed commitment to education and growth, right in the same place where it all began.
For more photos and construction progress, follow us on Facebook @hseschools.
JOINING FORCES FOR VETERANS
SVSC COALITION MAKING IMPACTFUL STRIDES FOR VETERAN COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Writer / Renée Larr
In recent years, the urgency of addressing the well-being of veterans has become increasingly apparent, especially as veteran suicide rates continue to climb. The Stronger Veterans, Stronger Communities (SVSC) coalition was established in Hamilton County in response to this pressing crisis.
Under the umbrella of A Healthier Hamilton County Systems of Care, and under the leadership of Kristen LudekerSeibert, the coalition is committed to creating a supportive environment that fosters healing and reintegration of veterans into their communities.
Ludeker-Seibert says in 2021, the Hamilton County Health Department recognized a disturbing trend; the suicide rate among veterans was climbing. In response, they collaborated with the Hamilton County government to form a suicide prevention
coalition specifically aimed at supporting veterans and their families.“The health department realized we needed a focused approach to address this critical issue,”
Ludeker-Seibert says. “With the right structure in place, we could begin to make a difference.”
At the heart of the coalition’s efforts are three key pillars: identification, connection, and legal and safety measures. The first pillar identifies the service members, veterans and their families in Hamilton County. This foundational step allows the coalition to understand who needs support most, ensuring no veteran falls through the cracks.
The second pillar centers on connection - connecting veterans to community resources and facilitating their engagement with the broader community. “We aim to link veterans to events such as military appreciation nights
and volunteer opportunities,” LudekerSeibert says. “This helps them find a sense of purpose, and fosters community understanding and appreciation for their service.” By giving veterans opportunities to serve again, the coalition helps alleviate feelings of isolation that can lead to anxiety and depression.
The third pillar of the coalition focuses on legal and safety measures aimed at keeping veterans safe during crises. This includes providing access to resources such as safe firearm storage for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, as well as crisis intervention hotlines.
“Safety means different things to different people, and we want to provide a comprehensive approach to ensure veterans have the support they need,” LudekerSeibert says.
SVSC invites community members to engage with its initiatives, emphasizing that membership is open to everyone, not just veterans and their families. LudekerSeibert encourages participation at various levels, whether joining monthly coalition meetings, volunteering for events or simply staying informed through email updates.
“Everyone in our community can play a role in reducing suicide and supporting veterans,” she says.
Since its inception, the coalition has made significant progress. Ludeker-Seibert says in July 2022, it became the first organization in Indiana to receive state funding for its
initiatives, highlighting the effectiveness and impact of its work. This funding has allowed the organization to strengthen its mission and broaden its outreach, fostering hope and optimism for the future.
As SVSC continues to evolve, upcoming events are scheduled to raise awareness and foster community involvement. These events include the Good Samaritan Network Resource Fair on June 6, Fishers Health and Wellness Day on August 2, AFSP Out of the Darkness Walk on September 6, Veteran Resource Fair on October 11, and International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day on November 22.
SVSC is an essential resource for veterans in Hamilton County, demonstrating that support is possible when communities come together. “We are all about connection and service,” Ludeker-Seibert
says. “Our mission is inclusive and it’s vital that we reach out to each other, because together, we can create a stronger, safer community for our veterans.”
Through its innovative approach and commitment to service, SVSC embodies the spirit of hope and resilience, ensuring that veterans receive the care and support they rightfully deserve.
For more information, visit hamiltoncountyphhc.org/stronger-
Writer / Renée Larr
In the heart of Indianapolis, Greene Thumb Landscape is more than a landscaping business. It’s a legacy nurtured under the leadership of Kirsten Davenport-Norwood and her husband, Darius Norwood, the CEO. Their unique approach blends skilled service, social impact and deep community ties, cultivating not just green lawns, but also a lasting impact.
Kirsten’s father, Desert Storm Army veteran Ron Davenport, founded Greene Thumb Landscape in 1991. After returning from military service, Ron worked for TruGreen as a chemical technician before venturing out on his own. “He was looking for ways to make a meaningful impact in the community,” Kirsten says. “Starting his own landscaping business allowed him to do just that.”
Ron successfully ran the company for over two decades until a tragic workplace accident in 2012 took his life. His wife took over the business, managing operations for 10 more years until her passing in 2022. Today Kirsten and Darius are carrying the torch, honoring the foundation Ron built while infusing new energy and vision into the company.
“We’re a legacy company,” Kirsten says. “But we’re also evolving to meet today’s needs with innovation, intention and a heart for people.”
Greene Thumb operates across three service models: landscape maintenance, enhancements and new construction, and snow and ice management. Maintenance includes routine care like mowing, trimming and fertilization. Enhancements may involve mulching, tree installation or perennial updates. Their new construction work has them partnering with parks departments on
CULTIVATING A LEGACY
GREENE THUMB LANDSCAPE’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND INNOVATION
large-scale developments like Grassy Creek and Tarkington Park. In the winter their snow plows roll out to keep IPS schools and other clients safe and accessible.
Their client base spans residential and commercial properties, but their ethos sets Greene Thumb apart. “We’re not just here to mow lawns,” Darius says. “We’re reimagining what landscaping can be.” This includes treating landscaping as a skilled trade. “People often think of landscaping as a summer job,” Kirsten says “But this work requires deep knowledge - soil chemistry, irrigation systems, seasonal cycles and compliance with state regulations, like those from the Office of the Indiana State Chemist. It’s science and art combined.”
At the core of Greene Thumb’s mission is a commitment to supporting veterans inspired by Ron’s own military service. In partnership with Helping Veterans And Families (HVAF), the company now offers paid, 10-week internships to veterans transitioning into civilian life or at risk of homelessness.
“We’re only the second company to partner with HVAF in this capacity,” Kirsten says. “It’s something of which we’re deeply proud.” The program offers veterans soft-skills training before they start their internships, with HVAF and Greene Thumb sharing the costs.
Kirsten is quick to clarify that this is not a charitable gesture; it’s a wise business decision. “Veterans bring discipline, pride and leadership,” says says. “They’re accustomed to structure and working in tough conditions. Those traits translate incredibly well in our field.” Half of Greene Thumb’s leadership team are veterans, further embedding that company culture of strength and service.
Beyond their veteran focus, Greene Thumb champions inclusion in all forms. Kirsten’s sister, who has Down syndrome, is a part owner of the company. Team members include individuals on the autism spectrum and others from underrepresented backgrounds.
“I believe I may be the only black woman leading a commercial landscape firm of this size in Indiana,” Kirsten says. “We’re intentional about building a team that reflects the diversity of our community. It strengthens us.”
That same intentionality extends to their workplace culture. “When we bring in interns or new team members, they’re not just here to do a job,” Kirsten says. “They’re part of the team, part of the outings and part of the leadership conversations.”
For Kirsten and Darius, the legacy isn’t just about their family; it’s about community investment. “When you hire Greene Thumb, you’re not just hiring a landscaping company,” Kirsten says. “You’re helping support veterans, create job opportunities for individuals with disabilities and continue a multigenerational legacy of service.”
While many may start a landscaping business, few operate with the kind of heart, heritage and purpose as Greene Thumb.
“We’re not focused on the ‘what’ - we’re focused on the ‘why,’” Kirsten says. “And our ‘why’ is deeply rooted in giving back, growing strong and leaving something better than we found it.”
For more information or to connect with Greene Thumb Landscape, visit greenethumbup.com.
SCOTT SWAN’S DAILY DEVOTIONAL
WTHR ANCHOR OFFERS COLLECTION OF FAITH-BASED REFLECTIONS
Writer / Renée Larr
WTHR anchor Scott Swan has been a trusted voice delivering news to Indiana residents for decades. But now, he’s stepping beyond the news desk to offer something deeper - hope.
His new daily devotional, The Hope You Need Today, is a passionate, 365day collection of faith-based reflections designed to inspire, uplift and encourage readers facing life’s struggles. Each day readers will find a new reflection, a relevant scripture and a prayer, providing a daily dose of hope and inspiration. The book is structured to fit seamlessly into the reader’s daily routine allowing you to start your day with a positive and hopeful mindset.
Swan’s journey into authorship was an unexpected turn. The book’s genesis can be traced back to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when Swan found himself among the few working in the WTHR newsroom while many of his colleagues operated remotely. With more downtime between newscasts, he began receiving messages from viewers struggling with fear, anxiety and grief.
“There was this overwhelming sense of hopelessness,” Swan says. “People felt isolated, fearful and uncertain about the future. I kept thinking, ‘How can I respond in a way that truly helps?’”
That question led Swan to reflect on the
strong spiritual foundation his parents provided for him as a child growing up in Southern California. He says he turned his life over to Jesus at age 12. Swan says his father, a man of steadfast faith, would reach for his Bible whenever Swan had a problem, pointing him to scripture for guidance. His mother, a longtime teacher, had created a handwritten document listing the attributes of God from A to Z - qualities that had provided her strength.
Inspired by both of his parents, Swan started sharing daily devotionals on his social media pages, offering messages of encouragement rooted in scripture. What began as a simple online practice evolved into a full year of devotionals, culminating in The Hope You Need Today.
At its core, the book serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder that no matter what struggles a person faces - grief, health battles, financial hardship or broken relationships - hope can always be found in faith. Swan leaned heavily into his faith during his own battles with severe panic attacks and a near-death health scare. “It doesn’t matter what happened yesterday or what might come tomorrow,” Swan says. “What matters is that people need hope today.”
Swan’s personal experiences and family have significantly shaped the devotional. His wife, Janae, has been his rock since
their days as high school sweethearts. Her journey of faith, particularly during her battle with breast cancer in 2021, has been a source of inspiration for Swan.
“She went through 30 rounds of radiation, surgery and everything that comes with a cancer diagnosis, and she leaned completely on her faith,” Swan says. “Seeing her strength and unwavering trust in God only reinforced my belief in the power of hope.”
His children, now adults, also play a significant role in his journey. “They remind me that this book is making an impact in people’s lives, and that’s really what keeps me going,” he says. Their support and encouragement inspire Swan to continue sharing his message of hope.
Writing The Hope You Need Today was not an overnight endeavor. In fact, it took an entire year of daily devotionals before Swan and his wife realized he had enough content for a book.
“I never set out to write a book,” Swan says. “I was just writing what was on my heart and what I felt God was leading me to share. But after a year it became clear that this was something more.”
The book is now available through major online retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
CONTACT ALISON GATZ alison@townepost.com (317) 829-6670
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INDY IGNITE VS ATLANTA VIBE
7 PM
Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St.
3
DERBY DAY ROOFTOP WATCH PARTY
3 – 8 PM
First Internet Bank Rooftop, 8701 East 116th Street.
Join us for a rooftop watch party on Derby Dayit’s gonna be a blast! eventbrite.com
FISHERS FREIGHT VS QUAD CITY STEAM WHEELERS
7 PM Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St.
11
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd.
Celebrate that special person in your life by joining us for our Mother’s Day brunch. Relax, let us do the cooking, and make the day special with a delicious variety of items to choose from. connerprairie.org
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WINES AROUND THE WORLD
6:30 – 9 PM
First Internet Bank Open Air Rooftop Patio, 8701 E 116th St.
Fishers Youth Initiative works to ensure that every young person in our community has the opportunity and support to build a positive future by connecting them with a network of compassionate qtego.us
17
PRAIRIE DASH 5K
9 AM
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd.
The 3rd Annual Prairie Dash 5k Fun Run travels through the grounds of Conner Prairie on Saturday, May 17 at 9:00am! indyrunners.org
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FHD’S TALK SAVES LIVES TRAINING
5 – 6:30 PM
Nickel Plate Pavilion, 10 Municipal Dr. Talk Saves Lives is a suicide prevention training created by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). fishersin.gov
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