Geist Magazine December 2021

MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2021

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year LAWRENCE WINTERFEST IS BACK FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

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Local Woman Specializes in Ornaments of All Kinds

LAWN LOVE

The Masters Lawn Care Indy Owner Celebrates 50 Years in Business

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IN THIS ISSUE

DECEMBER 2021

6

17

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

HUNG WITH CARE

Lawrence Winterfest Is Back for the Holiday Season TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT JOSH BROWN CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL HACKER GRAPHIC DESIGNER ROBBY BERRY

9

21

Donaide

10

THE GYM NURSE

Meet Local Fitness Influencer Shannon Collins

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT Youth Mentoring Initiative

24

11

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MERRY AND BRIGHT

kNot Today

14 REAL-TIME ANALYTICS Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

#SPOTLIGHTINGLOCAL FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT franchising.townepost.com

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT Village of Merici

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

27

Indy SurviveOars

16

LAWN LOVE

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT™

The Masters Lawn Care Indy Owner Celebrates 50 Years in Business

Lake Meadows Senior Assisted Living

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20

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

A Merry Prairie Holiday Continues at Conner Prairie

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

Local Woman Specializes in Ornaments of All Kinds

30

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Lawrence Township School Foundation

KEY CONTRIBUTORS AMY PAYNE / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING / ERIN FELDMEYER MATT KEATING / RENEE LARR / ROBBY BERRY

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year LAWRENCE WINTERFEST IS BACK FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided by Amy Payne & the City of Lawrence

Lawrence Winterfest is back for the second year in a row, providing families with whimsical outdoor activities starting on November 20. The season-long event brings the holiday fun with live music, vendors and ice skating at Civic Plaza, located at 5710 Lawrence Village Parkway.

“In previous years we held Lawrence Christmas,” says Cori Korn, deputy chief of staff for the City of Lawrence. “Last year, with the addition of our ice skating rink, we changed the event to more of a seasonal event.”

Cohron’s Manufactured Homes and Ed Martin Automotive Group. A parade starts at 5 p.m., followed by a variety show at 6 p.m. emceed by Brian Wilkes of FOX59 and featuring Lawrence Township students. The tree lighting brings out a special guest that evening at 7 p.m. at Civic Plaza.

On November 27 kids skate free from 2 p.m. “That evening the skating rink will stay open to 8 p.m. at Civic Plaza, thanks to sponsors until 8 p.m., but if families need to get out 6 / GEIST MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

of the cold they can go over to Theater at the Fort for a special viewing of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ at 7 p.m.,” Korn says.

Each weekend live music will serenade ice skaters and event participants. The lineup includes the Dickens Carolers, Jennifer Mlott, The 38th Infantry Division Band, and The Midtown Mad Men, among others to be determined. The Dickens Carolers perform Christmas music in authentic 19th-century costumes.

Local vendors including food trucks will be on hand with hot chocolate and snacks to keep guests warm and toasty during the winter weather.

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On December 4 children can have breakfast with Santa at the Benjamin Harrison YMCA on Lee Road. Families can enjoy a hearty breakfast and dine with the jolly old man himself. The Winter Market will also be held that day from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Theater at the Fort will host several events that weekend, including Peewinkle puppet shows.

The Letters to Santa Mailbox is open and ready for children to mail their wish lists directly to Santa at the North Pole.

New this year is the Winter Solstice Walk on December 21, celebrating the start of the winter season.

“The event will start at the Sterrett Center where participants will make a lantern, hear a story about winter solstice, and then walk to Civic Plaza and have hot chocolate at the tree,” Korn says.

Greeting Card Lane showcases holiday cheer from local businesses. Cards will be displayed along the median on 56th Street from Friday, November 19 through New Year’s Day. “This is a great way for local businesses and organizations to get involved,” Korn says. “They will each create a holiday greeting card out of a piece of plywood.”

Businesses in the area are encouraged to decorate their spaces festively, helping

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TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 7

others feel the season’s magic. From November 20 through December 31, patrons can vote for the most festive business of the season. A People’s Choice Award will recognize the business selected by the community.

The skating rink is available to rent for holiday parties, and volunteers are still needed to work the counter.

“People can rent the rink for private holiday parties or events,” Korn says.

“There is a great opportunity for nonprofits to work the rink and receive a donation for their time.”

Korn was pleased with the turnout for last year’s event, even with COVID-19 restrictions and concerns.

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“Last year exceeded our expectations,” she says. “As we look forward, we know it’s going to be even better this year.

Winterfest has something for everybody, whether that be coming out and watching others skate or skating yourself. People can come out and be part of the tree lighting. The event kicks off a great season of giving. It takes holiday traditions and takes them to the next level. We are so excited about expanding Winterfest, and continuing to watch the family-fun event grow and be a true holiday stopping point for our local families.”

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For more information and a complete list of times and performances, go to visitlawrenceindiana.com/events/ winterfest.

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

DONAIDE’S SEAMLESS DONOR ENGAGEMENT PROCESS Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

Many people look to give back to their community through donations and volunteering their time during the holidays. The process of choosing what nonprofits to assist can be overwhelming and time consuming for individuals and organizations.

(877) 788-5665

donaide.com

CONNECT CEO and founder of Donaide. com Steve Roseman with his wife Wendy, son London, and daughter Kensington.

Donaide is a platform offering a fresh, modern solution for nonprofits, individuals and businesses.

“The platform itself is a marketplace or a one-stop shop where individuals and businesses can go and support their church, their children’s school and other nonprofits all in one place,” says Steve Roseman, founder.

Nonprofits are profiled and organized in quick-link categories such as animals, civil rights, poverty, hunger and veterans.

The profile includes the organization’s community involvement, current campaigns and accomplishments.

Donaide’s algorithm matches individuals to causes, activities and events best suited to their interests. It offers an all-in-one view of giving, volunteer hours, and nonprofits an individual supports, in one place.

the community,” Roseman says. “The technology piece in the industry has never been that simple. We wanted to create a piece of technology that was simple to use but also needed in the industry.”

That simplicity is one of Donaide’s core values. Others include courage, faith, passion, community and fun. Roseman credits his faith for his personal and business successes.

Fundraising is a large part of the nonprofit world. Roseman wants to help nonprofits spend more time helping people instead of chasing the next donation.

“Traditionally, people get into the industry because they truly want to serve people but then quickly realize for most only 20% of their career is serving the mission and 80% is raising money,” Roseman says. “Donaide was designed to solve that issue.”

Roseman doesn’t just talk the nonprofit talk. He also walks the walk. He founded a nonprofit to help families struggling with multiple sclerosis in 2010 and the Donaide Foundation in August of this year to help with mental health.

“No matter what I do in my career, I always come back around to the nonprofit world,” Roseman says. “I love it. I just noticed things could be more efficient Businesses utilize Donaide’s platform and simplified by utilizing technology to identify causes and nonprofits their to our advantage. No matter how much employees care about and want to support, we want to say face-to-face interactions match donations, track employee volunteer are important, and they are, there is a big hours, and manage donation requests at portion of our community that wants to the click of a mouse. engage online. That’s really where Donaide comes in.”

“The nonprofit world is made up of caring individuals that want to help For more information, visit donaide.com.

TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

YOUTH MENTORING INITIATIVE

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

SUPPORTING & ENCOURAGING THE SUCCESS OF EACH STUDENT adult volunteers that mentor once a week, for approximately one hour, during the school day. Mentors meet one-on-one with students to provide them with a caring and consistent presence in their lives, become a reliable friend and role model, and simply become someone they can count on. Founded on the knowledge that kids need four to six nonparental adults supporting them through their developmental years, YMI knows how much mentoring can have a profound impact on a child’s life.

Brittany Rayburn, Executive Director

It is the mission of Youth Mentoring Initiative to partner with the Hamilton Southeastern School Corporation and provide specialized mentor programs for students that encourage the development of personal values.

Youth Mentoring Initiative (YMI) has been serving the Fishers community, in partnership with Hamilton Southeastern Schools, since 2008. YMI partners with Hamilton Southeastern Schools to come alongside counselors, teachers, and parents by providing another caring adult to support and encourage the success of each student. YMI mentors are

Every week, more than 200 mentoring matches meet and offer wonderful example of how Fishers residents continue to give back and invest in their local community.

YMI mentoring is offered to students in grades 5-12 at the following nine schools: Fall Creek Intermediate, Fall Creek Junior High, Fishers Junior High, Fishers High School, Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate Junior High, Hamilton Southeastern High School, Riverside Intermediate, Riverside Junior High, and Sand Creek Intermediate. Students can be recommended by counselors, teachers, parents, youth workers, or by self-referral.

Referrals are made for a variety of reasons, including stress, anxiety, emotional support, motivation, behavior or peer relationships.

YMI mentors are a vital resource to HSE Schools, parents/guardians, and individual students. Indeed, more than 95% of mentors, mentees and guardians would consider their match successful and recommend YMI mentoring to their friends, neighbors, or colleagues.

317.350.6045

ymionline.org

WISH LIST ITEMS OR NEEDS TO HELP IN OUR MISSION MENTORS YMI currently has a waitlist of students waiting to be matched with a caring mentor.

Would you join us?

MONETARY DONATIONS Can be made at ymionline.org/donate-to-ymi/

UPCOMING EVENTS MAY 13, 2022

YMI’s Wines Around the World Fundraising Event

SEPTEMBER 1, 2022

Mayor’s Breakfast to Benefit YMI TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

CONNECT

MERRY AND BRIGHT

A MERRY PRAIRIE HOLIDAY CONTINUES AT CONNER PRAIRIE Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided by Conner Prairie

TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

N

othing says Christmas like twinkling lights. Thousands of them are spread throughout the grounds of Conner Prairie for A Merry Prairie Holiday. In fact, many think of the Reynolds lights as the centerpiece of the festival.

“We’ve been adding to them every year for the last two years and switching them out with LED lights, which are good for the environment as well as being more energy efficient,” says Katie Warthan, director of marketing and brand strategy for Conner Prairie.

Most importantly, the lights serve to put guests in the holiday spirit. There are other fun activities too, including storytelling, carnival games, festive treats, and quality time with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

New this year is a 3D projection on the William Conner house, which tells the story of “The Night Before Christmas.”

“It’s the oldest, most iconic house on the property, and the 3D projection makes it look like people are actually in the house,” Warthan says. “You can see Santa coming down the chimney. It’s a neat immersive experience.”

The staff is bringing back the 150’ Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill, which was new last year. There is also Kringle’s Carousel, live music from local performers on Blitzen’s Bandstand, and holiday shopping at the Conner Prairie Store. In addition, the red barn located near the playground and balloon is transformed into the North Pole Workshop for the winter festival.

Visitors can immerse themselves in historic experiences in Prairietown, where they can learn about various Christmas Eve traditions of the 1800s as well as holiday traditions from around the world, some new and others nostalgic. Santa will be at the North Pole Village, inviting kids to snap a selfie with him and Mrs. Claus. Plus, Trinket Puddingmoon, the official list keeper of the North Pole, lets guests know if they have made the naughty or nice list.

Ice skating is a favorite winter activity for

many, but let’s face it, not everyone is as coordinated as they’d like to be, and ice can be rather unforgiving. At A Merry Prairie Holiday, however, guests can take off their shoes and burn off excess energy by going “ice” skating in the covered outdoor pavilion. If you happen to take a tumble here, you won’t walk away with a chipped tooth or broken bone.

Visitors are invited to explore the grounds and check out the covered bridge.

“We do this cool light-up to music within there, making it a favorite spot to take family photos with the twinkle lights in the background,” Warthan says.

Guests may also stop by Café on the Common to warm up with a hot chocolate or a hot adult beverage for the big kids.

A Merry Prairie Holiday runs from November 26 to December 19 on Fridays through Sundays, as well as a few days right before Christmas (December 21 and 22). Hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and tickets are $11 for members and $22 for nonmembers.

In December of 2020, Conner Prairie mandated advance ticket sales due to COVID-19. This year, though visitors are encouraged to reserve tickets online, they may also purchase tickets upon arrival.

Tickets are limited due to parking, since parking is not allowed on the grass in the winter.

Nicole Lewis, Founder of Art 2 the Extreme, says she and her family have made the event an annual tradition.

“From the magical lights and cozying up next to my littles in the hayride to seeing the pure joy as they slide down the Polar Bear Plunge, this event has such a wonderful selection of activities that is inclusive to every member of our family,” Lewis says.

“My oldest loves learning about holidays around the world, so we will be spending some extra time experiencing Prairietown at night this year. I’m most excited for the new addition of the 3D projection show on the William Conner house this year since our TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

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family comes for the lights.”

Last year approximately 19,000 people enjoyed A Merry Prairie Holiday.

“We were thrilled with that number, particularly since it was only our second year,” Warthan says. “That’s our goal again this year.”

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“So many local holiday activities are geared toward families with littles, or adults-only gatherings,” Bobenmoyer says. “We instantly fell in love with A Merry Prairie Holiday for not just filling in the gap of holiday fun with our tweens, but also providing a timeless experience that bridges across many generations.”

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Conner Prairie is located at 13400 Allisonville Road in Fishers. If you have questions about COVID-19 safety precautions at Conner Prairie or would like to purchase tickets to A Merry Prairie Holiday, visit connerprairie.org or call 317-776-6000.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

TEAM SPIRIT

INDY SURVIVEOARS IS A GROUP EFFORT Indy SurviveOars is an all-volunteer, 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization.

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Elizabeth Anderson, president of Indy SurviveOars, says she couldn’t be more proud of her fellow breast cancer survivor team mates.

Indy SurviveOars is a group of breast cancer survivors and others who have introduced dragon boat racing to Indiana.

“It’s hard to narrow what I love best, but to be honest, one of the best things about being a member of the Indy SurviveOars are my teammates,” she says. “This group of strong, positive and amazing women come together from a breast cancer diagnosis, which is already life-changing, and from day one you are a part of a group that will always be there to support and encourage each other as we continue to navigate our survivorship.”

When they meet on the water, the teammates form a bond that only strengthens with time.

They inspire each other, and share the fact that they can lead a successful and active life after a cancer diagnosis.

“We are currently 102 members strong, and will now look ahead to our 15th season,” Anderson says. “Our members are from the local community who are committed to the cause of breast cancer, and who have introduced dragon boat racing to Indiana. An emerging body of research suggests physical activity not only has a positive effect on quality of life following a diagnosis of cancer, but it may also improve survival. Our mission is as important today as when it started - to continue helping breast cancer survivors and improve overall survivability and quality of life.”

Anderson says Indy SurviveOars offers hope, inspiration and camaraderie to breast cancer survivors, focusing on health and physical activity.

“For anyone interested in joining for the 2022 season, our team welcomes all breast cancer survivors, including those who are currently in treatment,” Anderson says. “You do not need to be an athlete to participate. Practices are available two evenings a week, on Mondays and Wednesdays. We also practice Saturday mornings at Geist Reservoir. In the offseason, our team offers a variety of organized fitness workouts, and we hold social activities throughout the entire year, so all members can enjoy the camaraderie of Indy SurviveOars.”

For more information and to make a donation, email info@indysurviveoars.org or visit indysurviveoars.org.

TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Lake Meadows SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING

THE HOLIDAYS WHAT TO WATCH FOR WHEN VISITING AN ELDERLY LOVED ONE The Holidays are the time when we visit elderly friends and family that we may haven’t seen in a while. While it might not be a popular subject to discuss over Thanksgiving dinner, it is a good time to take note and make sure you loved one is safe. This article will discuss the top 4 reasons to cause concern when visiting your elderly loved one.

1. WEIGHT LOSS Significant weight loss can signal health problems that include depression, dementia, and cancer. Some seniors may feel more fatigue and place less purpose on shopping and preparing nutritious foods, especially if they are alone. Other seniors may be experiencing side effects of medicines or the mismanagement of medicines.

2. MOBILITY According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated three million people are treated at emergency departments each year for fall-related injuries like hip fractures. Watch to see if your loved one is having trouble getting around, holding onto furniture, or avoiding stairs. Ask about any visible scratches or bruising.

3. MOOD Seniors living alone are more likely to be depressed and it’s not always easy to identify.

Watch and listen for signs of depression. Signs

may include a distancing from friends and social events, less interest in hobbies, decline in cleanliness of the home, piles of mail, and trouble sleeping.

4. PERSONAL CARE A decline in hygiene is also a significant cause for concern when visiting with your elder.

The inability or lack of desire to shower, get dressed, comb hair, and/or brush teeth are signs that your loved one needs help.

While the family may be engaged in the joy of holidays, it’s important to find time to communicate the observations. Open communication with your elderly loved one and their closest friends and family will help lessen or avoid a future emergency situation if one should arise. You will want to identify the friends and family who can support the elderly loved one, as well as understand the care needed now, and create a plan for the future.

If you find that your loved one may have a need for help with any or all of the items above, you can visit Lake Meadows Senior Assisted Living. Our caregivers are one-onone with our residents everyday. We have daily events, activities and outings that give our seniors purpose. Seniors in our community continue to be social and have a place to belong. Call us today to find out more and schedule a visit to our Lake Meadows.

TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

11570 East 126th Street Fishers, IN

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HUNG WITH CARE LOCAL WOMAN SPECIALIZES IN ORNAMENTS OF ALL KINDS

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Robby Berry

DeeAnna Snider enjoys personalizing ornaments so much that she decided to pursue it as a business.

DeeAnna Snider

“My business, Personalize It Ornaments, was a business owned by a fellow friend and Fishers resident, and I bought the business from her when she felt it was time to go in a different direction in her life,” Snider says. “I bought the existing business and the existing name.”

The previous owner had created a following for the business by participating in local craft fairs, the Christmas Gift and Hobby Show in Indianapolis, and fundraisers for local hospitals.

Snider helped her for years, and was familiar with how the previous owner did her purchasing, organizing and selling of ornaments in TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

ORNAMENTS ARE SMALL THINGS, BUT FOR SOME REPRESENT A CONNECTION TO OTHERS DURING A TIME WHEN FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE FIRST AND FOREMOST IN THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.

reversing the process and taking all of the materials required for the show back home.

Her business involves hard physical work and long hours, as many of the shows run from 9 or 10 a.m. to 8 or 9 p.m. After a show is over for the day and Snider returns home, preparations continue so she is ready for the next day’s opening, which includes getting additional inventory, making food for lunches, and more.

The saving grace is that her business is like many seasonal businesses, with the demand being heavy during the winter holiday season.

“Also, the craft fairs and shows run for several days of the week, and then you have a break to regroup,” Snider says. “Each year I know I will be doing long days, from about mid-September to the middle of December with the shows, and an Etsy business. Then for the rest of the year ornaments are not on people’s minds.”

various venues.

“Creating the startup was not necessary, as I bought the business, and I also had a workable system in place from the very beginning,” Snider says. “I must credit her with the tough legwork.”

Snider bought the business approximately 11 years ago, after her mother passed away.

“The caregiver responsibilities no longer were my number-one concern, so it left me with the option of changing the direction of focus in my life,” she says. “I knew I needed to do something, and I also knew I loved working with the people and the challenges of this type of business.”

Snider says it is not an easy business, because it is full of manual labor, getting materials to shows, setting up tables, going over inventory at venues, spending long hours at a show, and then

With the onset of COVID-19 all of Snider’s shows stopped, forcing her to consider an Etsy online shop.

“The platform helped me keep connections with some of my customers, and is at least a point of contact for me,” she says. “It has been fun getting orders from about every state in the union, and watching the orders come in from different time zones.”

Snider does not make any of her ornaments, but she does purchase them from several suppliers.

Snider believes one of the greatest rewards of her business is getting responses from customers who truly love having personalized ornaments.

Snider has cried with parents and grandparents over baby ornaments she has personalized, and made special hearts and halos on an

TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

ornament for a baby who passed away.

Christmas on a cruise ship.

“I have cried with a burly security guard over a dog ornament personalized for a service dog who was killed in the line of duty,” Snider says. “I have watched a giant, elderly African American gentleman hold a small African American princess ornament in his hand, and tell me he has never had an ornament on the tree that looked like like a member of his family with their name on the ornament.”

“I have replaced an ornament for a 6-year-old girl the day after it was purchased, because she slept with it in her hand overnight, and her hand lotion smeared her name,” she says. “How can you not love this?”

Snider also shared a customer’s desire to create “The Twelve Days of Christmas” in ornaments for his partner, as they celebrated

Two ladies from Anderson, Indiana, have been at Snider’s booth at the Gift and Hobby Show for as long as she can remember. They come prepared with preprinted labels with family member information on them, ready to be attached to a selected ornament.

“I look forward to these ladies every year,” she says.

For many customers, the ornaments are just ornaments.

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“They are ornaments that they buy because they do it each year,” Snider says. “For many, however, who make this a yearly ritual, they are passionate. Ornaments are small things, but for some represent a connection to others during a time when family and friends are first and foremost in the Christmas season. I love the reactions of those that are passionate about what they pick out, and what they want on their ornaments. They make me keep coming back.”

Snider has ornaments for just about any category including sports, zip lining, pets, animals, professions and new homes.

She also covers schools and school activities such as choir and band.

“I also do ornaments for babies, weddings, engagements, travel, travel destinations, ornaments for kids, and hobbies such as fishing, camping, cooking and sewing,” she says. “I also have family ornaments for families that have members from ages 2 to 12, as well as Christmas-themed ornaments. You name it, I have it, from turtles to trains.”

317-282-0643

For more information on Personalize It Ornaments, contact Snider at dasnider12@ameritech.net.

Get in the spirit of the holiday season by getting in touch with the spirits around you!

You've seen the show. Now you can have the spirit experience too! Book a 2-hour Spirit Session with KJ & Kitsie from the popular show Paranormal Crossroad in your home!

We'll bring our specialized equipment and tools to help give a voice to spirit. You'll have a chance to see if your departed loved ones are around you and what messages they may have as well as discover other spirits who may be trying to guide you and share messages. Plus we'll teach you ways to connect to spirit yourself!

Plan a night in with your friends and let's see who else joins us in spirit!

ParanormalCrossroad.com TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

**Maximum 10 people per experience.

We can not guarantee all in attendance will receive messages or that certain spirits will come through.**

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ROMAN & LEO Shopping for a little boy in your life this holiday season?

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HOW IT STARTED My page started back in 2018 when I started recording workout videos for my friends after I had begun my own weight loss transformation. I continued to dive further into health and fitness by becoming a certified nutrition coach. Documenting my own journey on Instagram got the attention of Today.com, Shape Magazine, Daily Mail, and Myfitnesspal all of which wrote articles about me and Instagram posts that has generated new followers. A page that started with a few hundred followers now has thousands. I continue to work as a registered nurse (oncology 20 years) as well as a nutrition and fitness coach spreading the word about how to be your healthiest self.

HOW IT’S GOING I have coached thousands of women all over

the world in six continents. I recently got my certified personal trainer certificate through NASM. I quit my part-time nursing job in January of 2020 but still work per diem to keep my hand in the nursing field and better serve all my clients.

WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST FANS? My clients number one, my page wouldn’t exist without them. I have coached thousands of women around the world. I have paid partnerships with Women’s Best which is a sports nutrition and sports wear company made just for women. Herculean Meal prep company which is local to Indianapolis and makes macro-curated meals. I also work for Babe Lash a make-up, lash serum company and Like to Know it which is a company where I can link many outfits I wear, products I use, decor in my home and make commission off sales.

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4. Stress management (journal, meditation, prayer, walks) 5. Make sure your calorie intake matches your goal (calorie deficit for fat loss, maintenance to surplus calories for muscle growth) 6. Drink more water (3-4L a day) TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021

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VILLAGE OF MERICI

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION

Serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who wish to live self-directed, independent lives.

The Village of Merici provides independent, affordable housing and one-on-one support services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We create an environment that offers a solid foundation on which to grow as individuals, promoting a strong sense of self-reliance. Goals include employment and family support, growth through social opportunities, and personal involvement in the greater community.

The Village of Merici currently supports over 75 individuals within the Indianapolis area, with projections to increase over the next several years through two expansion projects.

CONNECT

WISH LIST Volunteer drivers Sound panels Multi-purpose room makeover Video equipment Workout equipment (new) Various size storage bins Storage shelves Easels Flash drives

UPCOMING EVENTS HELP US BUILD THE VILLAGE CAMPAIGN Villageofmerici.org/buildthe-village/

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ANNUAL BINGO NIGHT Friday, September 16, 2022 Northside Events & Social Club

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5707 E. Lawton Loop Indianapolis, IN 46216

(317) 292-9408

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26 / GEIST MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

LAWN LOVE

THE MASTERS LAWN CARE INDY OWNER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Robby Berry

Ralph Scott, owner and president of The Masters Lawn Care Indy, as well as owner and partner with Hoosier Lawn Care, is celebrating 50 years in business, and says he couldn’t be happier.

Scott’s five decades cutting grass in the

greater Indianapolis area has earned him a reputation as both a highly popular and extremely reliable worker.

“I have had a lot of loyal customers over the years, with both residential and commercial properties,” Scott says. “My longest customers are homebuilders. I still do lawn work for Ryan Homes, CalAtlantic and Lennar. I’ve also worked for Beazer Homes, TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 27

Davis Homes, and Hansen and Horn.”

Scott, a Marshall High School graduate, began mowing lawns to pay his way through college.

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“I started mowing when I was 20 years old as a college sophomore,” he says.

“I started with just a simple push-start, Service Merchandise lawnmower, some regular clippers and a broom. I operated out of my VW Super Beetle. I was able to fit the lawnmower in my trunk, and just drive around to all my regular customers.

I worked while I was going to college to earn a degree in education.”

As his customer base grew, Scott says he expanded his services to meet his customers’ needs and expectations. He has always tried to offer outstanding lawn care, which has earned him a lot of referrals.

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28 / GEIST MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Scott, 70, worked with former NBA star and Indiana Mr. Basketball Greg Oden when he was younger. Scott knows a thing or two about basketball. He spent many decades coaching basketball at Lawrence North High School. He also started teaching at the school in August of 1978.

“I spent two years as the head coach of the Lawrence North girls basketball team, and then I was the varsity assistant coach of the boys team, and the boys junior varsity coach,” Scott says. “I really loved coaching, and met a lot of wonderful players over the years. I also had some great tasks over the years.”

Scott says he can’t say enough good things about Lawrence Township schools.

“I was a teacher in the special education department,” Scott says. “My greatest pleasure in teaching was the supportive employment and work-study program that I developed for Lawrence Township.

I started a work program for kids with disabilities. I take pride in the success of the program. We lined up kids with places that were looking for help. Some of the kids worked with me, while others had high abilities. The program was recognized throughout Washington Township.”

enjoys what he’s doing.

“I’m down to just one employee working for me now,” he says. “I work about three and a half days a week. I play a lot of golf and do a lot of traveling with my wife Cindi. I also still really enjoy working outside. I remember everything. I remember the very first lawn I Scott had some busy days during his years with Lawrence Township cut, all the way up to my latest job. I love what I do.” schools. He would teach during the school day, coach his teams, and also keep up with his lawn care duties. His days would often last To schedule your next lawn care service, call Scott at 317-496-4224, or email rscottsr@sbcglobal.net. from 6 a.m. until 8 or 8:30 p.m.

“Working outside after a long day in the classroom and gym was always a welcome contrast,” Scott says. “I have had a lot of friendships that I have developed over the years. My biggest enjoyment has been watching the young people that have worked for me go on to start their own successful businesses.”

Scott has been a positive role model for a lot of young people.

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“I believe in leading by example,” Scott says. “I would like to think that my success as a teacher, coach and business owner is a good example of what you can accomplish with a lot of hard work.”

Scott has no immediate plans to quit The Masters Lawn Care Indy. He still mows lawns eight months out of the year, and

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TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 29

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT

The Lawrence Township School Foundation connects community and classrooms to provide the resources needed for all children to excel.

GIVING BACK

DONATIONS FUEL LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL FOUNDATION’S IMPACTFUL PROGRAMS Story & Photos Provided

6501 Sunnyside Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46236

317.423.8300

www.msdltf.org

WISH LIST EVERY contribution matters!

Please support the mission of the Lawrence Township School Foundation by donating at www.msdltf.org If you would like to explore becoming a 1983 Society member, including payment options, please call the Foundation office at 317-423-8300.

Founded in 1983, the Lawrence Township School Foundation (LTSF) is the philanthropic arm serving the students and staff in the MSD of Lawrence Township.

The LTSF partners with the school district to identify significant and impactful programs to fund. Over the past 38 years, the foundation has contributed millions of dollars to fund student achievement and student support programs. It takes the COMMUNITY, a diverse group of committed individuals, business partners and service organizations who work together toward one common goal: to create impact by connecting resources for all Lawrence Township students to excel.

“Our Foundation’s hard work allows for our school community to provide additional resources to our students that go beyond local, state, and federal funding. They support innovation for our district to be a ‘District of Destination,’” says Dr. Shawn A. Smith, Superintendent MSD of Lawrence Township.

Approximately 70% of MSDLT teachers and administrators participate in payroll

deduction because they believe in LTSF’s mission and see the impact firsthand.

Donations enable these programs, among others, and invest in the future of students and the community: • Hearing the squeals of appreciation and shedding tears of joy when teachers receive a Creative Impact Grant to fund their innovative project.

•F eeling the sense of pride and seeing the high fives as over 500 Up and Running students cross the 5K finish line and realize that hard work and determination will help them reach whatever goal they set.

• S eeing teachers walk out of EdEx with bags of school supplies and necessities for their classrooms, underscoring the need for all students to have the tools to learn.

Donors fuel the power of the LTSF programs impact, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the work the Foundation is entrusted to do. On behalf of over 16,000 students and 2,500 employees these gifts impact, THANK YOU!

UPCOMING EVENTS

CONNECT

2022 LTSF CELEBRATION The annual FUN and FUND-raising evening Crane Bay Event Center Friday, March 11, 2022 30 / GEIST MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

2022 FORE THE KIDS GOLF TOURNAMENT Old Oakland Golf Club Thursday, June, 2, 2022

4 NAEYC ACCREDITED 6 4DIPLOMAS Early Learning Centers

• Indiana Academic Honors • Indiana Technical Honors • CORE 40 • General Diploma

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ELEMENTARY MAGNET THEMES • STEM • Spanish Immersion • Communications • Environmental studies • Inquiry/Performing Arts • International Studies

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Lawrence Township Schools

The Power of Choice

STRONG SCHOOLS. STRONG COMMUNITY. Now offering on-site enrollment. To learn more, visit LTschools.org or call 317-423-8200.

TownePost.com / DECEMBER 2021 / GEIST MAGAZINE / 31

The final section of waterfront lots in Cambridge at Geist Lake is now available!

YOUR WATERFRONT PROPERTY IS WAITING

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME Find it on the shores of Geist Lake or on Lake Clearwater and Lake Killbuck in Anderson.

We are excited to present the final section of waterfront lots for sale in Cambridge on Geist Lake.

Find your perfect lot while they last and own the lake lifestyle for yourself.

Contact Rob Bussell for lot availability, pricing and to discuss financing.

(317) 845-0270 ext. 104 | Rob@RobBussell.com M A R32I/NGEIST A MAGAZINE L I M I/ TDECEMBER E D L2021 AN D.COM / TownePost.com