COMMUNITY BANKING
COMMUNITY FIRST BANK OF INDIANA CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF SERVICE TO HAMILTON COUNTY
Quality Craftsmanship With a Neighborly Touch
Writer / Ryan Gabbert
Homeownership marks an exciting new chapter, full of endless possibilities. While most people focus on the positives, homeownership also comes with ongoing maintenance that’s often overlooked. Finding a company that truly cares for its customers like neighbors is rare, but that’s exactly what Hometown Window and Door Company (HWDC) stands for.
Locally owned and operated, HWDC specializes in expert window and door replacements throughout Indianapolis and surrounding areas. Their expertise spans a wide range of window and door types, including awnings, bay windows, sliding doors and more.
The HWDC team is made up of experienced professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional results. They ensure every project meets the highest standards and that each customer is completely satisfied.
In early 2024, Udi Abdelhak became the marketing and sales director at HWDC, bringing a wealth of industry experience and in-depth knowledge of Andersen products. He is well-versed in the high standards customers expect from the Andersen brand. HWDC offers the complete Andersen product line, guaranteeing premium materials and craftsmanship throughout every project.
“We’re committed to our customers and dedicated to upholding the Andersen standard,” Abdelhak says. “Our priority is selling, ordering and installing windows correctly, ensuring we meet the wants and needs of the homeowners we serve.”
Customers are the heart of any business, and exceptional customer service requires ongoing dedication. At HWDC, that commitment begins right from the sales process.
“Replacing windows should be an exciting and engaging experience, not just a highpressure sale,” Abdelhak says. “We focus on making the process enjoyable and tailored to each homeowner’s needs. Unlike companies that push whatever product has the highest profit margin, we take the time to find the best solution that fits our customers’ budgets and preferences.”
Darren Peck is the founder and owner of HWDC. With years of industry experience and a proven track record in business, he understands what it takes to build a successful company.
As a lifelong resident of Noblesville, Peck is deeply familiar with the community and the high level of service its people expect. When he started HWDC, he set out with one goal in mind: to give customers the same level of care that one would expect from a neighbor.
“What we offer at Hometown Window and Door Company is a partner with a full line of Andersen products, quality craftsmanship and customer service, with a hometown feel,” Peck says.
Looking ahead, HWDC is expanding its roofing and siding services to offer more options for homeowners in the Noblesville area. This growth will allow HWDC to meet the increasing demand for high-quality exterior residential upgrades.
By continually improving its services, HWDC aims to offer its customers a complete home improvement solution with only the best products.
Abdelhak, Peck and the entire team at HWDC are dedicated to completing every project with the utmost care and attention to detail. The high standards established when HWDC was first founded continue to guide the business, ensuring that every customer is treated like a neighbor.
CONNECT
brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522
WATTERS
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
MANAGING EDITOR
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
As a recent graduate of Noblesville High School, Sarenity Green is preparing to embark on an exciting new chapter. Green graduated on December 20 and spent her high school years exploring her passions, weighing options and ultimately finding clarity about the future. Her decision to major in visual communications at Indiana University Indianapolis reflects a commitment to creativity, ambition, and the courage to follow her dreams despite uncertainties.
Initially, Green faced many of the same challenges other high school seniors encounter, including balancing passion with practicality. Although Green always felt drawn to art and design, concerns about financial security in a creative field made her decision about what to pursue in the future extremely difficult. However, she realized her potential to succeed in visual communications through self-reflection and research.
“I really like designing for brands and using my creativity to influence them,” Green says. “I’ve always been into marketing, so it felt like a natural fit.”
Visual communications combines creativity with strategy, focusing on designing and marketing for specific industries like fashion and film, as well as corporate branding. For Green, this specialization offers the opportunity to channel artistic talents into a purposeful career path.
“I hope to become an art director someday,”
SARENITY GREEN
Green says. “It’s about creating something meaningful while staying true to my passion.”
While IU Indy wasn’t her first choice, the university’s affordability significantly influenced the decision. With Green’s focus on balancing financial concerns and academic goals, IU Indy became the perfect fit.
Green is eager to immerse herself in the school’s programs while preparing for a future in visual communications. She plans to use the time before starting college in the fall of 2025 to gain hands-on experience. She has already identified potential internships, such as TBH Creative, a local company she wants to contact for future opportunities.
“Getting an internship in graphic design or working alongside someone in the marketing industry would be a great way to get my foot in the door and learn the behind-the-scenes aspects of this field,” Green says.
Her ultimate goal is to work in fashion marketing, ideally for an iconic publication like Vogue or a leading design house.
Her vision is clear; relocate to a fashion haven like New York or Los Angeles, build connections, and contribute to bold, innovative projects. Green envisions herself not just as a contributor, but as a leader in the industry, shaping the future of fashion marketing with her unique perspective and bold ideas.
Fashion holds a special place in Green’s heart. Inspired by her time in a fashion and textiles course, she’s developed a deep appreciation for textures, patterns and design. But her unique take on maximalism - a bold aesthetic direction celebrating abundance and richness - sets her apart.
“Fashion today feels so minimalistic,” Green says. “I want to bring maximalist ideas to the industry and create something new and exciting. I’ve always been an over-thinker, but I’m ready to challenge myself, connect with diverse people, and grow as a person and an artist.”
As she prepares to enter this new chapter, Green is excited about meeting new people and broadening her horizons. With college just months away, Green is poised to turn her creative dreams into reality, one bold design at a time.
FAMILY AFFAIR
BAR ELLIS OPENS ON CONNER STREET
In the heart of downtown Noblesville, one of the oldest buildings in the area, dating back to 1869, has been renovated and refreshed into something you won’t want to miss.
Bill and Lisa Wampler co-own Bar Ellis with Lisa’s sister, Chamron Brown. The name comes from a combination of the bar and restaurant concept, and “L.S.” as in “little sis.”
“We thought we’d open a bar together as sisters,” Lisa Wampler said. “My husband and I were co-owners of a restaurant in Cicero and then decided to open a restaurant on our own.”
It’s a perfect fit. Bill has been cooking in Hamilton County for 30 years and Chamron was a bartender at their previous restaurant. With the experience and family ties, together they’re sure to see success.
Wampler said Bill designed the menu and brought in some of the classic dishes he’s been making throughout his career. Others are brand-new entrées.
“We have a section on the menu, ‘Winter Warmers’, which includes classic comfort food like Chicken and Noodles,” Wampler said. “Bill has a Tomato and Horseradish soup served with mini grilled cheese sandwiches that’s very popular.”
He’s is also a pastry chef and offers his popular wedding cake
With Chamron’s input, they created several vegan and vegetarian options, and have received a positive response from the vegan community.
Ultimately, the goal was to create a space locals could come to socialize, enjoy an evening out, and kick back and relax together.
The first step involved the renovations to the historical building.
“When the building went up for sale, Mike and Tammy Goins decided to buy it and fix it up,” Wampler said. “They had a specific image in their mind of what they wanted the space to look like and we happened to meet them by accident. It was a match made in heaven. Their company did all the renovations and we flipped it fairly quickly. They did an awesome job.”
At Bar Ellis there is a bar and dining area on the first floor, a bar and dining area on the second floor, and a rooftop patio on the third floor.
“The rooftop is enclosed with these remote-controlled walls and heaters so we can use it year-round,” Wampler said. “It’s really cool to sit out on the patio and watch it snow outside. Of course when the weather warms we can remove those walls and it’ll be open air.”
dessert, a vanilla cake with white chocolate and raspberry mousse.
Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Robert Jones
Bar Ellis is located in the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area of Noblesville and the owners plan to take full advantage.
“We’re doing After Dark hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday,” Wampler said. “We’ll transition to open seating, switch over to a smaller appetizer menu and bring in entertainment from comedy to live music. The energy is just great. This is a small town and you know half of the people. It’s just staying open late and people hanging out and having fun.”
As the weather improves, Wampler said they envision opening the large double doors in the front of the building for guests to step in, grab something from the bar, and continue to shop and support local businesses on the square.
They’re looking forward to meeting more Noblesville residents and visitors, and have plans to participate in community events coming this year.
“The community will tell us what they want,” Wampler said. “We know we want to get involved and we’ll participate in First Fridays, the Peony Festival and things like that. We are good at adapting, and once we see what we’re missing and what the community wants, we want to provide that for them.”
Go to bebarellis.com for more info.
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TOURISM SPOTLIGHT
Fishers Event Center
A Premier Destination for Entertainment and Sports
The Fishers Event Center, located in the heart of Fishers, Indiana, has quickly become a premier destination for both entertainment and professional sports. This state-of-the-art 7,500-seat venue offers a diverse array of events, from high-energy sports games to captivating concerts and family shows. With its modern amenities and vibrant atmosphere, the Fishers Event Center is a must-visit for residents and visitors alike.
The Indy Fuel, a professional ice hockey team in the ECHL and an affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks, brings the excitement of hockey to the Fishers Event Center. The team’s season runs through April 11, offering fans plenty of opportunities to catch thrilling matches and enjoy family-friendly promotions. The Indy Fuel’s games are a perfect way to experience the fast-paced action and skill of professional hockey.
Indy Ignite, part of the Pro Volleyball
Federation, is Indiana’s first professional women’s volleyball team. Their inaugural season in 2025 has already seen impressive performances, with the season running through May 1. The team aims to inspire and pave the way for women’s sports in Indiana, providing fans with high-level volleyball and an exciting game-day experience.
The Fishers Freight, a new addition to the Indoor Football League, brings the fast-paced action of indoor football to the Fishers Event Center. The team’s season home opener is on April 4, and they promise to deliver highenergy games and a unique fan experience. As the newest professional sports team in the area, the Fishers Freight are set to become a local favorite.
Beyond sports, the Fishers Event Center hosts a variety of concerts and cultural events. From chart-topping artists to local bands, the venue’s concert lineup caters to diverse musical
tastes. Family shows and private events also add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a go-to destination for entertainment in the Indianapolis metro area.
The Fishers Event Center is more than just a venue; it’s a hub of excitement and community engagement. Whether you’re cheering for the Indy Fuel, Indy Ignite, or Fishers Freight, or enjoying a concert or family show, the Fishers Event Center offers something for everyone. Its diverse programming and state-of-the-art facilities ensure that every visit is a memorable experience. Learn more at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/fishers-eventcenter.
RIVERVIEW HEALTH BREAKS GROUND ON NEW ENDOSCOPY UNIT
Writer / Ashley Watters
Photographer / Robert Jones
It can sometimes feel overwhelming, navigating your health care journey when faced with illness, appointment backlogs and other difficult circumstances. It’s a struggle many Americans know well, and an unfortunate situation many often face when choosing a health care provider. Riverview Health has been on a journey of its own, working to expand health care options so that patients can make informed and confident decisions.
To help support these goals and expand gastroenterology and digestive surgical services, Riverview Health has broken ground on their new Westfield Endoscopy Center.
Dr. Timothy Imler MD, FACG, will be among the four experienced medical practitioners set to make the Westfield Endoscopy Center their new home. Joined by gastroenterologists Dr. Bohm and Dr. Sagi, and colorectal surgeon Dr. Kawak, Dr. Imler brings a wealth of knowledge and believes the new facility will help provide more timely procedures to an area in great need.
“Access to high-quality gastroenterology consultation and endoscopic procedures has been limited in our region with wait times between three and six months,” he says. “At Riverview Health we are able to provide consultation services and endoscopic procedures within weeks, and with the addition of this surgical facility, we will provide even more timely, high-quality care convenient to where people live.”
Imler chose to practice gastroenterology to help patients get the preventative screenings needed to save lives. A highly preventable disease, colon cancer is often identified and mitigated during colonoscopy procedures. With cancer rates as high as one in 24 men and one in 24 women, he hopes Hamilton County will soon be able to boast one of the lowest rates of colon cancer in the country.
“I am a second-generation physician who dreamed of caring for patients since I was a small child observing patients with my father,” he says. “I love serving my fellow
members of the community with a passion towards helping to care for their needs. Endoscopy, and particularly colonoscopy can be a lifesaving procedure.”
The new center is currently planned for completion in early fall. This addition will repurpose the 11,500-square-foot primarycare space into an endoscopy facility where patients will have access to the latest technology and medical practitioners with a combined experience of more than 40 years. The Westfield Endoscopy Center will be conveniently located at the corners of highways 31 and 32 to serve the residents of Hamilton County and beyond.
“The endoscopy center will employ stateof-the-art technology in the endoscopy
equipment, facilities and preparation techniques,” Imler says. “The goal is to be the right size, with the right care, right here in Hamilton County.”
Patients will gain expanded access to consultation services, endoscopic procedures, and surgical intervention when necessary. Additionally, the goal is to make patients feel as comfortable as possible to eliminate fear and uncertainty commonly associated with these types of procedures.
“Riverview offers high-quality services in a manner that makes patients feel as if they are being treated like family,” Imler says. “‘Compassionate care. For life.’ encapsulates what we are able to provide and offer to the Hamilton County community.”
Even though the Westfield Endoscopy Center won’t be completed until fall of this year, Imler reminds local residents that Riverview already offers reasonable wait times for colonoscopy and endoscopy services, serving patients in as few as seven days, compared to other central Indiana health systems that currently can have wait times of several months.
“We know how stressful waiting can be for patients,” Imler says. “That’s why Riverview has added staff and procedure slots to ensure we offer patients shorter wait times and faster results.”
Imler chose to join the Riverview Health team because of their smaller size, adoption of cutting-edge technology and compassionate approach, all of which help to better prepare patients for a painless and comfortable process.
The new facility will be located on the sixth floor of the Westfield hospital, located at 17600 Shamrock Boulevard.
“Look for many new and beneficial offerings in the future as we continue to grow our services for the region and our fellow Hoosiers,” says Imler.
To learn more about Riverview Health’s gastroenterology services, visit riverview. org/services/gastroenterology. riverview.org
CONNECT
IMMERSE YOURSELF WITH INDY DESIGN WEEK 2025
If you feel like you could use a little color and creativity in your life, you need to check out Indy Design Week [IDW]. Indy Design Week is a city-wide festival celebrating and elevating the Indianapolis design community. The event is creating an inclusive space for designers, creators, and enthusiasts to come together, share ideas, and explore new perspectives to create a lasting impact in Indy.
Indy Design Week is a celebration of all facets of design. This year’s event returns with a bold and thought-provoking
theme: Hues. Beyond highlighting color’s impact on design, IDW is celebrating the importance of diversity & inclusion in design, business, and society by showcasing unique perspectives & amplifying diverse stories in the community.
“For Indy Design Week 2025, we’re inviting the community to reimagine how color connects us,” says Tori Witter, Executive Director of Indy Design Week. “From its emotional resonance to its role in branding and storytelling, the power of color is universal, yet deeply personal. We’re excited
to see the speakers, workshops, and exhibits amplify this theme and help bring it to life.”
The seventh annual event is happening from April 21st through April 26th and will take place all over the city of Indianapolis to increase accessibility for attendees and showcase the incredible venues the city has to offer. Attendees can expect events varying from coffee meetups and hands-on workshops to creative talks and inspiring panels, and even an exclusive VIP kickoff party for sponsors, partners, and VIP ticketholders.
“We see Indy Design Week as the intersection for all the different areas of design,” says Witter. “We want inspire collaboration.”
With an extensive schedule of speakers, attendees will get inspired by presentations from creative leaders, such as Patrick Armstrong, host of the award-winning podcasts Conversation Piece and The Janchi (pronounced: JohnChee) Show, who will be leading a special IDW edition of AIGA Indy’s “Creatives in Color” series and 2025 keynote speaker Daniel Swartz, letterpress designer and printer and Founder of Hoosier Type Company, delivering his keynote address ‘Done is Better Than Perfect’.
“Every single person you’ll hear from is a local designer and innovative leader in their industry. Indy Design Week continuously wants to highlight the amazing stories of local creators and the work being done in Indy,” says Witter.
Hands-on workshops that demonstrate diverse design principles and encourage the learnings of new design skills have become paramount to this event. Workshop Night is expanding into Workshop Day—a full day of hands-on, interactive workshops at The Stutz, thanks to sponsor Griffy’s Art Supply. After being a standout event in 2024, this crowd favorite returns bigger and better on Saturday, April 26, closing out IDW with a bang. Alongside signature design workshops, we’re adding activities for all ages, from elementary to high school students. Workshop Day tickets drop next month—stay tuned!
Partnerships are essential for this organization. Indy Design Week focuses on giving back to the community, and the
group has been very fortunate on how much the community wants to give back. Local designer, illustrator and graffiti artist, Ess McKee, is donating a piece of original artwork which will serve as the official poster for Indy Design Week. The Buckingham Foundation rewarded IDW with a grant to support the new event software launching for the 2025 event. Indy Design Week will also be working with Second Helpings to limit food waste during the event and ensure leftover, unused food will be donated back to local neighbors in need.
At the end of the day, Indy Design Week wants to elevate the incredible design community that we have here in Indianapolis “With our 2025 theme Hues,
we really want to promote conversations about the role of cultural storytelling and how we can become better creatives through the power of community.”
Early-bird tickets are on sale right now for Indy Design Week. $100 for a VIP AllAccess ticket, which includes the VIP KickOff Party on Monday, April 21, and $80 for an All-Access ticket that gets attendees access to every event happening throughout the week. Students receive 75% off allaccess tickets with a valid student ID and email. Ticket prices will increase as April approaches, so grab a ticket and mark your calendars Indy Design Week 2025.
To learn more information about Indy Design Week, see the full 2025 schedule, and purchase tickets, visit indydesignweek.com/2025.
TOWNE POST NETWORK AND BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU® SERVING CENTRAL INDIANA FORM
NEW DYNAMIC PARTNERSHIP
The collaboration will create more digital and print advertising options for local BBB Accredited Businesses.
Towne Post Network and the Better Business Bureau® Serving Central Indiana (BBB) have entered a new partnership to offer print and digital marketing services for more than 4,200 BBB Accredited Businesses across 42 counties in Indiana.
Towne Post will kick off the partnership by offering a “Basic Digital Display” package to BBB Accredited Businesses with the goal of targeting customers by zip code searching for local services across the web and apps. Other services include print advertising in any of the 14 central Indiana Towne Post monthly magazines, digital display advertising, streaming TV ads, local SEO services, Google ad management, and basic website design packages.
“This collaboration is a perfect fit,” says Towne Post Network Founder and CEO Tom Britt. “As an organization, Towne Post’s core values of serving the community with transparency and honesty are in lockstep with BBB Accreditation Standards when it comes to truth in advertising.”
The standards outline the criteria businesses
must meet to maintain trust, including upholding legal and ethical advertising practices, transparency in the marketplace, safeguarding customer privacy and honoring commitments.
Britt says Towne Post will encourage its advertisers to seek BBB Accreditation to show their commitment to building trust in their respective communities.
“This partnership brings together two organizations with an aligned purpose,” says BBB Serving Central Indiana President and CEO Cathy Armour. “With more than two decades of local expertise and community support, the Towne Post Network’s dedication to showcasing positive stories and small businesses will help strengthen the resources we offer BBB Accredited Businesses.”
For more information on BBB Accreditation, visit bbb.org/get-accredited.
About Towne Post Network, Inc.
Founded in 2004 with a mission to create engaging and relevant community publications, Towne Post Network is redefining the magazine industry. With a focus on hyper-local content and an integrated print and digital marketing
approach, their magazines connect businesses and residents in communities like never before. Towne Post Network’s cloudbased platform offers franchisees flexibility and freedom, allowing them to work from home while benefiting from comprehensive support and group-vendor pricing. With an expanding network of hyper-local publishers, Towne Post Network is actively seeking passionate individuals to bring their community-focused magazines to towns across the country. For more information, visit franchising.townepost.com.
About BBB Serving Central Indiana
The Better Business Bureau has empowered people to find businesses, brands and charities they can trust for more than 110 years. In 2023, people turned to BBB more than 218 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million businesses, and 80,000 times for BBB charity reports on about 12,000 charities, for free at bbb. org. Regional, independent BBBs can be found across the United States and Canada, including BBB Serving Central Indiana, which was founded in 1916 and serves 42 counties in Indiana. For more information, visit bbb.org.
FLAIR FOR FINANCE
INNOVATIVE FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS BRINGS SENSIBLE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES TO THE TABLE
Writer / Renée Larr
For many individuals and families, planning for the future can feel overwhelming. From managing investments to preparing for retirement, the financial landscape is full of complexities. That’s where experienced financial advisors like Steve Meier at Innovative Financial Solutions can step in, guiding clients through the ever-changing world of financial planning.
With over two decades in the industry, Meier has built a reputation for helping clients achieve long-term financial security. Partnering with Commonwealth Financial Network, his firm manages over $1 billion in assets across four offices in Indiana and Florida. Recently recognized by Forbes as one of Indiana’s top wealth management firms, his team is dedicated to helping families and businesses make informed financial decisions.
“This is easily the best company I’ve ever worked with,” Meier says. “They are really good at what they do, and the level of support they provide to our team and clients is unmatched.”
What sets his firm apart is its multigenerational approach. Many clients first come in as they near retirement, seeking guidance on whether their savings will sustain their lifestyle. However, the relationships evolve over time, often
extending to their elderly parents and adult children.
“I’ve been in the business long enough now that we’re working with third, and even fourth, generations in some families,” Meier says. “We start with retirement planning, but soon we’re advising their parents on estate planning and helping their children with wealth accumulation.”
Financial planning looks different for every client, but the firm’s process remains the same: assess needs, set goals and create a strategy. For elderly clients in their 70s and 80s, the primary focus is preserving assets, covering medical costs and ensuring longterm care needs are met. Many are unaware of benefits they may be entitled to, such as military veteran support or Medicare strategies that can ease financial burdens.
For professionals in their 40s and 50s, the strategy shifts to wealth accumulation, tax-efficient investing and estate planning. The firm ensures clients not only grow their assets, but also protect them for future generations.
“When someone passes without proper estate planning, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars and take years to resolve,” Meier says. “Having the right documents in place is crucial to avoid unnecessary legal battles.”
Beyond working with families, the firm also assists small-business owners in structuring retirement plans for themselves and their employees. Many entrepreneurs underestimate the tax benefits and savings potential of the right retirement plan, and Meier’s team helps them maximize their contributions while staying compliant with regulations.
“We don’t actively seek business clients, but many come to us through referrals,” Meier says. “A well-structured retirement plan benefits both the business owner and their employees.”
In the age of online investing and doit-yourself financial planning, many individuals believe they can manage their finances alone. But as Meier says, most people don’t know what they don’t know.
“You might think you’re addressing all your financial needs, but without expert guidance, you could be missing key tax strategies, investment opportunities or ways to protect your assets,” Meier says. “A good financial advisor helps uncover risks and ensures your wealth works for you - not against you.”
Whether you’re nearing retirement, managing a business or simply want to ensure your financial future is secure, working with a trusted advisor can make all the difference.
“Anyone considering working with a financial planner should at least schedule a visit,” Meier says. “It’s worth seeing if expert guidance can improve your financial strategy.”
Visit ioms.com/team/steven-meier to learn more about Innovative Financial Solutions and how they can help you navigate your financial future.
DOLLARS AND SENSE
THE CASE FOR ADDING FINANCIAL LITERACY COURSES IN SCHOOLS
Writer / Kimber Hercest
Do you know how a 401(k) or a money market account works? If not, you’re not alone. Research from the International Federation of Accountants reveals a lack of financial literacy among adults costs the United States nearly half a billion dollars annually. Meanwhile, teens are navigating the education system without this crucial knowledge. The research shows only 23% of American teens know how to make a budget, 45% don’t understand 401(k) accounts or retirement savings, and 28% don’t understand taxes. These gaps highlight the need for financial literacy education in schools.
Junior Achievement of Central Indiana recently shared data underscoring that teens genuinely want to learn about these concepts before entering adulthood. In collaboration with research firm Big Village, a survey of over 1,000 teens aged 13 to 17 revealed that 68% would “likely” take a financial literacy class if offered. However, only 31% currently have the
option at their schools. Additionally, 60% of teens expressed interest in courses on career readiness and entrepreneurship.
“When you ask adults what they wish they learned in school but didn’t, it usually involves topics like understanding how money works,” said Jennifer Burk, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Central Indiana.
“These findings show that most teens today would like access to this information, but many may not be getting it.”
Junior Achievement offers educational experiences to students from kindergarten through grade 12, as well as young adults, with a focus on financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship. These programs, often available at little or no cost to schools, reach more than 4.4 million students annually across the United States.
Through initiatives like these, Junior Achievement is working to bridge the financial literacy gap and empower the next generation to navigate their futures with confidence.
68% of Teens would be likely to take classes in Financial Literacy, if offered.
*Only 31% of teens say their schools offer these courses.
Source: Junior Achievement/Big Village
60% of Teens would be likely to take classes on work and career readiness if offered.
Source: Junior Achievement/Big Village
39% of Teens say their schools offer these courses.
Source: Junior Achievement/Big Village
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Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer /
When Community First Bank of Indiana (CFB) was founded in Kokomo in 2003, it was in response to the efforts of a small group of local bankers and businesspeople with a clear vision; Howard County needed a local bank that understood its responsibility to help the community thrive. This same vision would soon grow to resonate in Hamilton County as well.
Most people know someone who has experienced a frustrating interaction at a big-box bank, at times finding they can be impersonal and even disappointing. However, at CFB, they make it a point to create an environment that feels like home, with helpful staff, solutions to financial challenges and an overall love for their community.
“Our definition of a community bank is one that is predominantly locally owned, led by a management team and board of directors
who deeply understand and care about the community, and operated by employees who have a vested interest in its well-being,” said Robb Blume, president and CEO.
In 2015 they brought the same concept to Hamilton County when they opened a loan production office in Noblesville. As CFB celebrates its 10th anniversary serving Hamilton County and the five local branches it has opened since then, the staff is grateful for their partnerships, support, and the relationships formed as members of the community.
One defining moment of CFB’s communityfirst approach was during the 2020 pandemic. When the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was introduced to support small businesses facing financial challenges, primarily helping them to keep workers employed, CFB extended its services to both existing customers and new relationships. Blume himself set up a cubicle
alongside the commercial lending team, personally processing PPP loans around the clock with the team.
“I vividly recall a conversation with a customer who was stunned to receive an email about his PPP loan approval at 3:30 a.m. from someone named Robb,” said Scott Hammersley, commercial loan group manager. “When I told him Robb was the bank president, his reaction was a mix of shock and gratitude. It was a moment that underscored Robb’s dedication and left a lasting impression.”
CFB also took its commitment a step further by donating over $96,000equivalent to the fees earned from processing PPP loans - to every Hoosier nonprofit organization that worked with CFB, rounding up each contribution to
the nearest $25.
In addition to supporting the community when faced with unprecedented impact, locally and across the globe, CFB offers personal and business accounts, personal loans, student loans and more. They take pride in fostering a warm, people-first atmosphere.
For Bonnie Riley, executive banker, joining CFB, originally as a branch manager in 2019, felt like a homecoming.
“The culture reminded me of where my banking career began and I wanted to return to that culture of true community banking,” Riley said. “Our roles are richer because of the ways we’re encouraged to serve, both in the office and out in the community. At CFB we genuinely believe in those around us: in their businesses, in their comeback stories and in the bright future of our community.”
Not only are they making a trip to the bank positive for customers, but it’s also likely that residents will run into a CFB staff member in the grocery store, at the movies, or hosting a booth at the next community event.
CFB participates in more than 100 local events each year and supports more than 100 local nonprofit organizations.
Employees get paid for time serving on various boards and hosting branch events for the community, such as Community Shred Days in Noblesville and Westfield,
They also support community initiatives and projects meant to enrich the lives of residents. For example, CFB has been a major donor to the new Westfield library and the new Westfield YMCA. The company stays responsive to local needs, like funding necessary renovations for the splash pad at Forest Park Aquatic Center in Noblesville. In 2024, CFB donated a total of $159,000 to its communities.
Being a relationship-centric bank and working within the community are important to the entire staff, and Blume has supported this culture of servant leadership from day one.
“When we put others first and support them to do their best, we create a place where everyone can thrive,” said Blume. “This way, we work together, innovate and build a strong sense of community, which leads to our shared success.”
Janelle Campbell, director of consumer banking, was one of the first leaders to work in the Noblesville office. Her grandmother was the first client of the bank in Howard County in 2003, and she recalls bringing in her own card table and chairs to set up shop while the team prepared for opening day at their new location in 2015.
“We’ve certainly come a long way in 10 years, but our core values remain unchanged,” Campbell said. “I’m grateful that employees are encouraged to serve and to develop relationships.”
Adrienne Riddle, treasury management manager, echoed that sentiment. “Unless you experience it, it’s hard to understand just how special it is,” Riddle said of the bank experience.
They don’t plan to stop any time soon.
CFB was named New Business of the Year by the Westfield Chamber in 2019. Since then, they’ve also received the Indiana Bankers Association’s Commitment to Community Award (2021), Large Business of the Year Award (2023), and Community Volunteer Award of Distinction (2025).
They actively collaborate with organizations such as Noblesville, Westfield, and OneZone chambers, local education foundations, and the Hamilton County nonprofit Executive Directors group. The bank extends its gratitude to Dr. Stacy Atkinson, Monica Peck, Pete Smith and Matt Murphy, who have provided valuable local guidance as members of the board of directors.
While every new customer receives a gift when opening a checking account, this spring they have something extra special up their sleeve. In April and May they’ll celebrate Community Banking Month by giving customers the option to either receive a gift card from a local business or have the bank donate to a local nonprofit on their behalf.*
Member FDIC. *Free gift may be reported on a 1099-INT or 1099-MISC. Free gift provided at the time of account opening.
Stuff the Bus, and Trunk or Treat.
SISTER ACT
PEONY & POPPY OWNERS LOOK FORWARD TO THE FUTURE WITH ONE-YEAR STORE ANNIVERSARY
Writer / Natalie Platt
Nestled in the heart of downtown Noblesville, Peony & Poppy’s display window adds charm to the always-quaint yet bustling Connor Street. Open since March of 2024, Peony & Poppy is owned by sisters Klaudia Kirk and Kylee Leiendecker, and has quickly become a go-to shopping destination that offers a curated selection of gifts and home decor - from art pieces to textiles to kitchen and hosting essentials to candles and baby products.
The sisters come from a background in
retail. Their mom, Kari Clouse, has owned Karisma Boutique in downtown Noblesville for almost 20 years, and their dad’s side of the family has owned John Kirk Furniture for nearly 60 years.
“To have a business in Noblesville means the world to us,” Kirk says. “Kylee made the move back to Indiana a couple years ago after moving around a little, so if you asked us five years ago if we would own a business together we would have said, ‘No way, that’s not possible.’ It’s just awesome because neither of us could have imagined having this store at the location we have. It’s really full-circle for us.”
The sisters always had a pipe dream of
owning a store and being creative together, but thought it was something that would happen after raising kids - more of a longterm goal than something just over the horizon. However, Clouse approached the sisters in December of 2023 and let them know the storefront next to her boutique was available - and if they wanted it, now was the time.
The sisters couldn’t say no to owning a store next to their mom. So, they signed a lease in February of 2024 and opened in March of 2024 - an extremely quick turnaround for a dream that was supposed to be years away.
“Our mom has played every role possible for us: a mentor, best friend, therapist, an employee at times,” Kirk says. “We wouldn’t
Photographer / Robert Jones
be here without her knowledge, love, and her constant cheering for us.”
The sisters love to support local vendors, carrying pieces of furniture from their family business, and the popular candle brand Linnea, which is made in Carmel. The candle brand is so popular, in fact, that the sisters took the brand from Karisma and now carry it next door in their own store - something only daughters can get away with.
“We have been so welcomed by the Noblesville community and are grateful for that, especially as we are coming up on our one-year anniversary,” Kirk says. “The first year is often the hardest and we’ve had some hills to climb already, but we aren’t afraid of challenges and are so excited to continue doing what we love.”
You can visit Peony & Poppy at 863 Connor Street in Noblesville, or shop online at peonyandpoppyhome.com. For questions, call 317-517-2187.
FAR FROM JUST FLUFF
FLUFF BAKE SHOP OPENS ON CUMBERLAND ROAD
If you want a feel-good story, look no further than Fluff Bake Shop.
And if you need evidence that this world is still filled with good people, you should meet the shop’s owners, Neal and Angie Fine.
couple, who first started in the food service industry in their respective teen years, working in various restaurants. They opened their doors on January 2 in the location previously occupied by Rebellion Doughnuts, at 17677 Cumberland Road in Noblesville.
“The owners of Rebellion are friends of ours,” Angie Fine said. “When they approached us with the opportunity to fill what they would be vacating, we decided it was a space we could not pass up.”
The shop itself is the love child of the
The gesture was the catalyst for what would become a whirlwind of plans and preparations over the next several months.
In the fall Angie lost her father, known well within their circle as Pappy. During this time, the Fines’ employees grabbed the proverbial oars and
started rowing.
“I give credit where credit is due,” Fine said. “My husband and the team just did it all. It was a very humbling. They all knew my dad from him coming in. Everyone was just like, ‘You go do what you have to do.’ I never ever had to worry, that entire time.”
She said the team “took a crash course in doughnut making” During this time.
“I did underestimate the beast which the doughnut-making business is,” Fine said. “But my husband is making unbelievable doughnuts now.”
During the time of renovation, the couple continued to operate Wheeler’s Cafe, also in Noblesville.
“We were still running the cafe when [Neal] was working on this place and learning the art of making doughnuts,” Fine said.
“Neal loves food and he loves to be creative. Doughnuts are just another artistic medium for him.”
Writer / L S Miller Photographer / Brian Brosmer
To date, standout flavors include mascarpone fluff, sugar creme pie and peanut butter fluff buckeye doughnuts.
“We are still working on recipes,” Fine said. “We want to be accessible, and we want to also have amazing yeast doughnuts at a good price.”
Fluff Bake Shop boasts more than just doughnuts. They are well-known for their homemade chicken salad and tomato soup. The team that the owners have put together works “very quick and very efficiently,” according to Fine.
“I could not be more proud of the people who work with us,” she added. “Some of us have worked together for six years and some of us have known each other for 20 years.
None of this right now would be possible without every single person on our team.”
The Fines’ team is comprised mainly of their employees from Wheeler’s.
“It’s very important to me that our employees understand how important they are,” Fine said. “I tear up thinking about the turnaround time for this whole adventure - the six or so months that was the timeline between us making the decision to move to this location. Two of those months I could not be here because I was taking care of my parents. I lost my dad. This staff stepped up and made it happen. I’m forever grateful for this team. That’s why we are here.”
That sentiment of loyalty is mirrored in every facet of the couple’s style of doing business, as well as their devoted customer base, most of whom Fine said followed them to their new location.
“We absolutely love the new space and
we have a lot of loyal customers who know the quality of the food that they are getting, and they are big fans,” she said. “The customers know my team. They know everyone who works here. They come in for great food and also camaraderie. We are a community of friends and we know about each other’s kids and grandkids, so it’s not a chain. It’s a mom and pop; we just moved it to the city. That part of it is exciting.”
2025 DIRECTORY & RELOCATION GUIDE
INCLUDE MY BUSINESS!
TARGET YOUR MOST SOUGHT-AFTER LOCAL CONSUMERS
EXISTING AND NEW MOVERS TO YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
Back by popular demand, our Annual Directory & Relocation Guide for will feature all sorts of local extras to make it a keepsake reference for the entire year. In addition to our regular distribution in April, we will be mailing copies throughout the year to the following people:
New movers: We purchase a list of all new movers each month and mail them a complimentary copy via First Class USPS.
Relocation requests: Through TownePost.com, people looking to relocate can request a FREE copy.
TARGETED DISTRIBUTION
• Direct mailed to all local residents in April
• Online requests from new movers
• Mailed out to new movers monthly
• Realtors, relocation companies, and real estate developers
• Home builders and new home communities DEADLINE: MARCH 14, 2025
IF YOU ADVERTISE JUST ONE TIME PER YEAR, THIS IS YOUR ISSUE!
PLAN AHEAD FOR THE NEW YEAR 2025
1
THE BELFRY THEATRE PRESENTS “LITTLE WOMEN,” A DRAMA
Noblesville First United Methodist Church Celebration Hall, 2051 Monument St. 2 - 4 PM
The Belfry Theatre, operated by the Hamilton County Theatre Guild, presents “Little Women”, a play in three acts and a drama by John D. Ravold from the novel by Louisa M. Alcott. thebelfrytheatre.com
CREATURE FEATURE
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. 1 - 2 PM
Meet some of the rare-breed animals who call Conner Prairie home. connerprairie. org
WINTER ON THE PRAIRIE
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. 10 AM - 3 PM
Join us for special programming highlighting the beauty of winter! Winter on the Prairie is a one-of-a-kind way to experience everything Conner Prairie has to offer. connerprairie.org
2
SPEAKEASY 1920S MURDER MYSTERY DINNER
Nickel Plate Express
5
WOODWORKING: SHAKER SIDE TABLE
Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. 6 - 9PM
Shaker furniture is an American phenomenon, born from a unique set of religious ideals. connerprairie.org
8 & 9
WHISKEY AND WINE EXPRESS
Nickel Plate Express
13
COFFEE & CONNECT WITH WOMEN IN NOBLESVILLE (WIN) NETWORK
Sagamore Club, 10900 Golden Bear Way 8 - 9:30 AM
Join the Noblesville Chamber’s (Women In Noblesville (WIN) Network for our 2025 Coffee & Connect series! Network with us on the second Thursday each month from 8 AM to 9:30 AM. business. noblesvillechamber.com
25
CURIOUS CONVERSATIONS AT CONNER PRAIRIE
7 - 8 PM
Bryan Glover, Roberts Settlement descendant, will discuss the history of the Roberts Settlement, an African American community that began in the 1830s.
29 & 30
TRAILER PARK TRAGEDY
Nickel Plate Express
View All Local Events or Submit Your Own
CONTACT: BRANDON BALTZ
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a highly skilled orthopedics team of pre-surgery coordinators
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physical therapists and rehab specialists
WORKING TOGETHER TO GET YOU BACK TO FEELING YOUR BEST.