Issuu

Absolute Living

GETTING PHYSICAL DIVYA NARAYANAN

AMAZINGLY ARNI'S

Doctor of Physical Therapy

DOCTOR PROFILES

2019 HOME DECOR TRENDS

DEC 2018

COZY SKI CHALETS TO ESCAPE TO THIS WINTER WINTERIZING SKIN CARE TIPS

LET IT SNOW. LET IT SNOW. LET IT SNOW.

The All-New, 3-Row Subaru Ascent. Test drive at Tom Wood Subaru.

TomWoodSubaru.com 855.530.5631 3300 E 96th St Indianapolis, IN 46240

THE CAR YOU WANT. THE WAY YOU WANT.

2727 East 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240 â€˘ Ironworks Building Sangioveseristorante.com â€˘ 317.757.5913

CONTENTS

Photography By Jes Nijjer

Photography By Eduardo PeÃ±a

18 10

AMAZINGLY ARNI'S

2019 HOME DECOR TRENDS REMBRAND DESIGNS

Getting Physical DIVYA NARAYANAN

WINTERIZING SKIN CARE TIPS

COZY SKI CHALETS TO ESCAPE TO THIS WINTER

DOCTOR PROFILES

Dec 18

Volume 12. Issue 06. (#134)

@absolutelivingmagazine

SUBSCRIPTIONS For more information go to absolutelivingmagazine.com, call 317.509.3981, or email jpena@ absolutelivingmagazine.com. To sign up for Absolute Living's monthly newsletter, go to absolutelivingmagazine. com/newsletter. COMMENTS Contact us via social media or email us at jpena@absolutelivingmagazine.com

It gives me a great deal of satisfaction when a guest comes in and asks for me by name. The Lexus Plus program helps me maintain a personal connection with all my clients. SHANAN WILLIS ~ Service Consultant

FAIR AND TR ANSPARENT PRICING . ONE POINT- OF- CONTACT. LEXUS PLUS .

Shanan has been a part of the Tom Wood Lexus team for 15 years. When not traveling or shopping, she enjoys engaging in church ministries and TomWoodLexus.com | 317.580.6888 4610 East 96th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240

spending quality time with her friends and family â€” especially her daughter and husband.

Absolute Living

Publisher / Co-Founder JUSTYNA PEÑA

Editor-in-Chief / Co-Founder EDUARDO PEÑA

Account Executive JUSTYNA PEÑA

Senior Writer JUSTIN GUILD

Contributing Writers SARA RAMSEY

Photography JES NIJJER EDUARDO PEÑA

Art ROGER PEÑA

Marketing Director ISMAEL PEÑA

Circulation USPS & ABSOLUTE LIVING MAGAZINE

Comments & Feedback EDITORIAL@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Subscriptions SUBSCRIBE@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Absolute Living Magazine is published monthly by Pena Group, Inc. Copyright by Pena Group, Inc. Absolute Living Magazine is registered trademarks of Pena Group, Inc.

www.debrand.com • 317.669.0955 THE SHOPS AT RIVER CROSSING

THE ONE GIFT

you know they’ll love! Mention Absolute Living Magazine to receive a

FREE SAMPLE!

Winterizing Skin Care Tips

You winterize your home, your car and even your wardrobe...what about your skin? Protecting your skin from the harshness of the cold weather is vital and easier than you think.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

he winter months pose unique challenges to maintaining healthy skin. Constantly switching between indoor air and the harsh and cold winds of outdoor air removes moisture from the skin. While lotions and creams replace some of that moisture, it's better to prevent the moisture loss in the first place. Skin that's dry, cracked, or irritated is vulnerable to infection, and that's why it's important to change your skin care regimen along with the seasons in order to boost your body's natural defenses. What works in the warm, humid months of summer may leave your skin dry and chapped during the cold, dry months of winter. In humid conditions, the skin soaks up water from the air, but when the humidity falls, the skin loses a natural moisture source. Here are a few tips how to winterize your skin: 1. Use a humidifier in the bedroom or living room once the relative humidity inside drops below 60 percent. 2. Hot showers are a no-no: The cold temperatures may

make a long, hot bath or shower sound like heaven, but hot water can wreak havoc on your skin. Instead take lukewarm showers, patting gently afterward with a towel and applying a moisturizer within three minutes of stepping out of the shower to lock in moisture. 3. Exfoliate: Our skin is constantly renewing itself, and therefore exfoliation is a key factor in keeping skin looking and feeling fresh. Exfoliation refines and stimulates skin, accelerates cell regeneration, and facilitates skin respiration, all while optimizing the overall appearance and health of the skin. 4. Add a hydrating mask to your routine. A simple way to replenish lipids (skin oils that seal in moisture) is with hydrating masks. They contain humectants like urea and lactic acid that attract moisture as well as occlusive ingredients that seal in moisture, so skin stays dewy longer. Twice a week after cleansing, apply a mask to damp skin and leave on for 10 minutes. 5. Moisturize to fit the season: You may not need to change your daily moisturizer but simply add to it. Select a

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

pre-moisturizer serum that increases hydration and that will allow your moisturizer to last longer. Consider adding a night cream to your regime, and allow your skin to hydrate as you sleep. It is important to select a product that suits your skin type. 6. Stay well hydrated. This may be easier to remember during the summer months, but drinking lots of water keeps the skin moisturized and flushes the toxins out of your body. 7. Use lip balms and lipsticks with moisturizers. 8. Use sun block. Although the skin is less exposed in the winter, ultraviolet rays can be particularly intense on a clear winter day. Even when cloudy, UV rays still penetrate. If you go skiing UV exposure is even greater, so use a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation.

"Your skin is your best accessory. Take good care of it."

Cozy Ski Chalets To Escape To This Winter With winter just around the corner and the ski season looming large, it’s time to start thinking about where to hit the snow this coming season. Of course it’s not just about the snow conditions. The best ski trips mean the best après ski and the best places to stay where you can rest weary muscles in luxury and style. Here are our picks of the most impressive winter destinations around the world. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Ranch View Lodge

Jackson Hole is one of the greatest western ski towns in the United States. Perched on the side of the East Gros Ventre Butte in the heart of Wyoming ski territory, the expansive Ranch View Lodge enjoys magnificent views overlooking Snow King and the Tetons. A home away from home inside, the rich redwood walls and fittings create a warm, cozy yet stylish atmosphere complemented by modern touches and lots of space to stretch out in, plus of course an outdoor hot tub. And if the snow isn’t cooperating, don’t worry – you’re within driving distance of Yellowstone National Park and its dramatic canyons, winding rivers, green forests, hot springs and steaming geysers!

Ski chalets are generally rented to entire groups of friends or family that are looking for a fun filled activity vacation. They differ hugely in interior design, style and price.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Nothing can beat a luxury ski chalet vacation: breathtaking mountain views, fresh alpine air, powder-soft snow and days spent gliding down the slopes, as well as evenings spent enjoying the exclusive aprĂ¨s-ski options. Park city, Utah

White Pine Retreat North This superbly designed, contemporary home is located within the exclusive and gated community of The Colony, found near Canyons Village at Park City, offering an ideal ski in location with access to blue runs. Park City's main street is easily accessible via the complimentary shuttle service and just around a 5-minute drive. With six bedrooms, six bathrooms and plenty of space, this home is perfect for families and friends looking for something extra special and luxurious. Designed with incredible attention to detail, beautiful floor to ceiling windows that let the light in, and numerous facilities. As a guest here there is plenty to enjoy after a day on the slopes, whether it be watching a film in the theatre room, having a game of pool or Foosball, or relaxing in the outdoor hot tub next to the fire pit.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Zermatt, Switzerland

Heinz Julen Mountain Explore Loft One of the most spectacular properties in the entire Alps, the Heinz Julen is a modern day loft chalet set in the heart of ancient mountains. Inside, a vast open plan multi-story space is walled entirely by glass, steel and textured concrete. The open fireplace softens the mood while secluded alcoves give things a cozy edge, and feel free to add a soundtrack on the baby grand piano. Topping things off is the huge outdoor terrace that offers awesome 180-degree views of the surrounding Swiss Alps. Visit Zermatt and enjoy Swiss hospitality coupled with Italian lifestyle. Skiing and snowboarding 365 days a year â€“ something this unique destination, straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, pulls off with international flair.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Telluride, Colorado Petra Domus

Petra Domus is a light, bright, one of a kind retreat for an extended family or couples. Imagine a huge, natural stone chalet warmed by roaring fires awaiting you after a long day on the slopes. Perfect for a weekend getaway, Petra Domus makes the most of its surroundings with gorgeous views over the San Sophia Mountains and is close enough to them that you can walk to the slopes. There’s a bunk and media room with Foosball, wet bar, wine closet and access to that winter getaway essential, the outdoor hot tub. The stunning terrace boasts great views and a fireplace to keep things toasty.

Val d'lsere, France Chalet Marco Polo

When you dream of an Alpine winter retreat, it’s likely the Chalet Marco Polo ticks most of your imaginary boxes. Built of stone and wood, it’s as solid as it is stunning, and just happens to be nestled in one of Europe’s premier ski destinations. This is next level luxury – a private chauffeur is at your disposal as is a professional chef, you’ll have an indoor pool and Jacuzzi, massage and game rooms, fitness center, wine cellar and even your own fromagerie. Could it get any more French?

Chalet Marco Polo brings the Alpine winter wonderland indoors. ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Getting Physical Divya Narayanan Doctor of Physical Therapy

By Justin Guild | Photography By Eduardo PeĂąa | Artwork By Ismael PeĂąa

n the hustle and bustle of today's overworked, stressed out world, sometimes it's hard to remember to focus on the important things: your health. And when we do make the time in the form of diet, exercise and sports, we can sometimes overextend ourselves. Here to the rescue is Dr. Divya Narayanan of One2One Physical Therapy. Divya has been a practicing physical therapist for 20 years and operates under the philosophy of "one room, one patient at a time." "My specific focus is one on one quality time with clients to help them regain function in an accelerated manner," Divya says." It's a very direct approach to treatment of their problem areas, focusing on a return to function or to a sport. I try to create a special relationship with each patient. They only see me for the full treatment time. That's what is different about my practice."

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

â€œ It's a philosophy

that focuses on making people independent, not dependent on you. To do something different, that hasn't been done before locally, to uncover the root of the problem.

â€œ

â€œ My specific focus is one on one quality time with clients to help

them regain function in an accelerated manner," Divya says. "It's a

very direct approach to treatment of their problem areas, focusing on a return to function or to a sport. I try to create a special relationship with each patient. They only see me for the full

At her practice, located at 755 W. Carmel Dr., Suite 150 in Carmel, Divya specializes in deep tissue laser therapy and trigger point dry needling, in addition to more conventional therapy treatments. Deep tissue laser therapy is a newer technique focusing on healing from within the tissue itself using photobyomodulation, or in other words," it's biology based," Divya says. In this therapy, injuries and ailments can be healed at the cellular level. This cellular healing has been shown and documented to help with pain, mobility, swelling, and circulation problems often associated with conditions like strains and sprains (hamstring, ankle, shoulder), arthritis, and many musculoskeletal injuries. This process reduces pain and inflammation to accelerate the metabolism to assist in the healing process, Divya says. "Laser therapy has changed the practice a lot," Divya says. "It helps patients with joint and muscle dysfunction. We couldn't do it at this level before."

Another treatment is dry needling. While not new, it has also proven effective for Divya as she has used it on patients for ten years, before most people became familiar with it. Also known as intramuscular manual therapy, this approach is used to treat myofascial pain and also speeds up the healing process by eliminating neuromuscular dysfunction which leads to pain and loss of function. With any treatment, Divya says what's great is how her patients respond, both in terms of attitude and physically. "My patients are very self-directed and driven," she says. "They don't have to be told all the time what to do to heal. They enjoy active lifestyles and span all age ranges." Her patients include athletes who enjoy track and running as well as older patients that want to regain function to walk again, according to Divya. In addition to her specialized and direct approach, Divya also

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

â€œ

treatment time. That's what is different about my practice.

stresses the significance of treating patients without the use of drugs. This means no steroids, pills or anything that can create a dependence or an addiction. "In general, my goal is say, 'Let me educate you on home exercises so you don't need to come back,'" she says. "It's a philosophy that focuses on making people independent, not dependent on you. To do something different, that hasn't been done before, to uncover the root of the problem." When asked the biggest change in practicing physical therapy during the last 20 years, Divya is quick to note how accessible the field has become for patient care. "The biggest change has been in direct access to physical therapists," she says. "Patients no longer need a referral from their physician

to see me. This means we can hone in on dysfunction faster. A faster diagnosis means faster treatment and pain free living." Divya first became interested in physical therapy as a teenager after watching her father recover from a "frozen shoulder," that is a locked shoulder unable to move. "Watching him able to recover without medication fascinated me," she says. "It made me understand the power of manual therapy and exercise." Originally from Chicago, Divya went on to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Findlay in Ohio and then a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in Florida. She moved to Indianapolis for her husband, Dr. Shekar Narayanan, who practices Colon And Rectal

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

â€œ I want people to know how beneficial these treatments can work for them," she says. "There are treatments

â€œ

available with a faster recovery, thanks to a more direct approach and utilization of newer techniques.

Surgery in Indianapolis for Community Health Network. While she could practice with only a bachelor's, Divya found herself yearning for more. "I knew I wanted to go into private practice and specialize in trigger point therapy which required more education," she says. "I could control my schedule, make time for family, and provide one on one care for patients." As a mother of three, all her children are active in sports. As a physical therapist, she has helped see one of them through injuries. Her oldest Arya, had to have two ACL repairs by age 17, and Divya was there for her after surgery to help her through the recovery process. The two younger children, Ria

and Neal, are the subjects of constant reminders from mom to practice good posture and implement good stretching techniques to prevent injuries in the future. In her doctoral training, Divya delved more into evidence based research in radiology and pharmacology. She also did rotations in pediatrics, oncology, orthopedics and sports medicine, working with patients with a broad range of physical conditions and needs. It's all added up to make her a better clinician for her patients. "I want people to know how beneficial these treatments can work for them," she says. "There are treatments available with a faster recovery, thanks to a more direct approach and utilization of newer techniques."

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Doctor Profiles Whether you are maintaining health or fighting challenges, there is nothing more important than finding and securing the services of the right doctor or medical practitioner. But as most of us know in todayâ€™s health marketplace the path to great care is increasingly complex. Here, in this special profile section you will meet some of the most accomplished doctors, dentists and other health care professionals in the area. Dedicated. Professional. Passionate. From alleviating pain to improving smiles to erasing wrinkles, these caregivers will put you and your family squarely on the road to good health.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Doctor Profiles

FranciscanDocs.org

(317) 781 - 1133 12188-B N. Meridian Street. Ste 260 Carmel, IN 46032

dealing with pain for a long time. I like to figure out why and get them back into great form. Some people want to get back to walking comfortably. Others want to be able to do a marathon. Everyone wants to be able to function without pain.

Catherine Reese, MD Specialty: Primary Care Sports Medicine 1. Why did you pick this specialty? I’ve always been active myself and played Division 1 field hockey in college. Along the way, I had a few injuries of my own. It is very rewarding to help my patients get back on the field, the court or just back to normal activities again. There is nothing more satisfying than to know

that you were able to help someone return to doing the things they most want to do. 2. What type of patient case is most gratifying? It’s most gratifying when I am able to get to the root cause of an injury and solve it. Many athletes who come into the office have been

3. Any other aspects of your practice that you want people to know about? In addition to taking care of sports injuries, I also do nonsurgical management of arthritis. As a primary care sports medicine physician, I actually care for all parts of the musculoskeletal system but without using surgery. Many people today suffer from nagging overuse injuries, and I can address many of those in my practice. 4. Can you recall a particularly gratifying or challenging patient case? My most gratifying patient case

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

was a patient who had been misdiagnosed by multiple physicians. She went through a surgery as well as multiple injections. We figured out the cause of her pain and she is now living pain free! I try to determine what my patient’s goals are and then we work together to achieve them. 5. What hobbies or after-hours causes do you have? I love to spend time with my husband, two kids and our dog. You might often see me out running with the dog or exercising with my husband while pushing a stroller. As a family, we like visit the children’s museum, hike, camp and be outdoors. I also have six chickens and like to read, knit and bake.

Doctor Profiles

DeldarDental.com

(317) 208 - 0000 14753 Hazel Dell Crossing, Ste 700. Noblesville, IN 46062

Mike Deldar, DDS., FICCMO Specialty: Physiologic Neuromuscular Dentistry / Trained on Treatment of TMJ and Facial Pain

1. Why did you pick up this specialty? Knowing how many people suffer from TMD issues. TMD is considered as a "great imposter" for a good reason. This condition manifests itself in so many different ways. The treating doctor can be easily chasing phantom pain. People who suffer from it, are hopping from doctor to doctor seeking solutions. So much misdiagnosis and unnecessary pain medication. 2. What type of patient case is most gratifying? Headache and migraine patients who are dealing with long term chronic pain and thought nothing can help them except medications, or getting Botox injections.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

3. Any other aspects of your practice that you want people to know about you? Helping patients who have mild and moderate obstructive sleep apnea or who cannot tolerate or have difficulty wearing a CPAP mask. 4. What hobbies or after- hours causes do you have? Serving at the Grace Church Care Center every Tuesday evening. 5. The proudest moment of your career? Being able to give someoneâ€™s life back after their long term suffering from headaches and migraines. Or to see someone who no longer has dizziness and vertigo, smile after their treatment.

Doctor Profiles

MomiWeightLoss.com

(317) 564 - 4464 2000 E. 116th Street #102, Carmel, IN 46032

1. Why did you pick this specialty? I chose to become a bariatric physician after being an anesthesiologist for many years. I had struggled with my weight off and on my entire life so I did training in bariatric medicine to enable me to help others.

Jennifer Whirley - Diaz, MD Specialty: Bariatric Medicine

2. What type of patient case is most gratifying? You might think the patients that have lost 100 pounds or more would be the most gratifying. Those are always huge success stories. Helping someone lose 10-15 stubborn pounds is very rewarding too. When a patient says they have tried every weight loss plan for years and find success with me, I couldn’t be any happier. 3. Can you recall a particularly gratifying or challenging patient case? The most satisfying patients are

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

those who make a lifestyle change and improve or resolve health issues related to their weight. When I can take someone off of diabetes or high blood pressure medication, it is a happy day for everyone. 4. The proudest moment of your career? My proudest moments are when I’ve worked with a patient and s/he tells me I’ve changed their life. Losing weight and changing old habits are not an easy thing to do. I am so glad to help in this process. 5.What hobbies or after-hours causes do you have? I guess it’s not surprising that I like to cook! Finding new, healthy recipes and sharing them with my patients is fun. Many bad habits you can just give up, but we all have to eat.

Doctor Profiles

HamiltonSurgicalArts.com

(317) 773 - 6677 9660 E 146th St., Ste 100. Noblesville, IN 46060

2. What type of patient case is most gratifying? The most gratifying cases are those where we effect a change that makes the patient feel better about them selves. If we can enhance self-esteem we have been successful.

Robert Jackson, MD Specialty: Board Certified General Surgeon,

Board Certified General Body Cosmetic Surgeon

1. Why did you choose this specialty? My personality drives me to surgery because there are immediate results. I can affect a definite change. The reason I chose to specialize in Cosmetic Surgery is two fold. One, it helps me

satisfy my artistic desire. Secondly, with the changes in health care delivery this specialty is the last bastion of the doctor/patient relationship. The patient and I make decision without interference of third parties.

3. Any aspect of your practice that you want people to know about? The goal of our practice is to offer excellent Cosmetic Surgery in a caring compassionate environment. Our staff are committed to making our patients comfortable and cared for. To remain excellent we try to stay on the cutting edge of technology and proven new therapy modalities. In that light we have recently added high definition body contouring using Renuvion and Vaser. These modalities allow greater skin tightening and better body sculpting.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

4. What are the most challenging cases? Some of the most challenging cases are also some of the most gratifying. The post massive weight loss patients present significant surgical challenges and sometimes require multiple procedures to accomplish their goals. They are extremely grateful. 5. Hobbies and after hours causes? I enjoy spending time with my family and watching grandchildren in their sports, musical theater and dance. I have recently begun sculpturing and find it a real asset to my ability to view the results I am attempting to accomplish with my patients. IU basketball is high on the list. I really enjoy my time at my cottage with my wife and my dog.

Doctor Profiles

HamiltonSurgicalArts.com

(317) 773 - 6677 9660 E 146th St., Ste 100. Noblesville, IN 46060

procedures appealing and great fit for my natural talents. 2. What type of patient case is most gratifying? When the outcome is successful, all cases are very gratifying. I enjoy operating; there really isnâ€™t a cosmetic case I donâ€™t appreciate. However, I find satisfied patient to be one of the most gratifying experiences I can have. It is what motivates me to get up in the morning.

Chris Lowery, D.O., FAACS, FACOS Specialty: Board Certified Cosmetic and General Surgeon

1. Why did you choose this specialty? I enjoyed the complexity of the specialty and seem to have some talent for it. It offers fairly rapid results. I was drawn to cosmetic surgery as a

general surgery resident. Working with a plastic and reconstructive surgeon I had extensive exposure to breast reduction surgery. I found the complexity of cosmetic surgery

3. If you could change one thing in health care what would it be? That we could remove some of the bureaucracy, and make the system more accessible for all patients. I find the burden of bureaucracy to be the most frustrating aspect of healthcare in the United States. I would like to remove many of the administrative obstacles that limit access to care.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

4. Your most challenging case? Many of the wound care cases can be very challenging but also very rewarding. Although, wound care might be considered the least glamorous aspect of my role as a surgeon I enjoy the challenge presented by these cases. The reward comes when I am able to help patient heal a wound that has been open for years. 5. The proudest moment of your career? The days when my students finish their residencies or fellowships. I am proud to train future general and cosmetic surgeons. I revel in their success as they mature as surgeons and grow in their own practices. I am grateful for my teachers and mentors and hope I am able to share with my students all that I have learned.

Doctor Profiles

HamiltonSurgicalArts.com

(317) 773 - 6677 9660 E 146th St., Ste 100. Noblesville, IN 46060

(765) 662 - 8303 801 W. Gardner Dr., Marion, IN 46952

1. What would you have been if not a doctor? My love for sports has always been consistent in my life, if I was not a Surgeon I would have pursued a coaching career in football, basketball or baseball. I have a passion for working with a team to achieve an overall goal.

Steven Porto, DO Specialty: Board Certified General Surgeon,

Board Certified General Body Cosmetic Surgeon, Board Certified Facial Cosmetic Surgeon

2. What type of patient case is most gratifying? Breast reconstruction following breast cancer surgery, having the ability to help our female patients regain their self-confidence following the diagnosis of breast cancer provides me much gratification. 3. Your most challenging case? In my opinion, the most challenging case is a breast lift with placement of implants. Over time for most femalesâ€™ breast tissue generally drops and

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

to lift the tissue and place an implant can pose more advanced surgical skill. The selection of the right implant and movement of correct amount of tissue can give the results desired. 4. The proudest moment of your career? Becoming a triple board certified surgeon, bringing an end to all the sacrifice of education and training for 10 years. It was worth every minute and I have no regrets! 5. What hobbies or after-hours causes do you have? Spending time with my one-year-old daughter, living an active lifestyle, expanding my culinary expertise, world travel, and lowering my handicap in golf. Having fun everyday and enjoying life to its fullest!

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

AMAZINGLY

ARNI'S By Justin Guild | Photography By Jes Nijjer | Artwork By Eduardo Peña

t’s not often you come across a local pizza empire with a legacy spanning half a century and multiple generations. But when you do, you want to not only learn about what makes them last, but also what makes them delicious. Welcome to Arni’s Restaurants.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

To get to the former, you need to begin with Arnold “Arni” Cohen. Arni started his career as pizza extraordinaire by opening his restaurant in 1965 in Lafayette, Ind. Having worked in his uncle’s fine dining restaurant since age 14, Arni was no stranger to the industry. “My dad wanted to break out and do something on his own,” says Kurt Cohen, Arni’s oldest son and current co-owner with his younger brother Brad. “What made Arni’s so successful was not just the pizza, but dad’s infectious personality,” says Kurt. “He was an everyman’s guy. He didn’t know a stranger. If you talked to him for a

minute, you felt like you were friends and customers loved him.” Part of Arni’s long lasting success and endurance has to do with its people. “Everybody wants to put the customer first. We feel it is just as important to put your employees first as well,” Kurt says. “They are as important as our customers. At every level we work as a team. We have offered full insurance and retirement benefits long before it became common place in our industry. Our turnover is one of the lowest in the industry. Some of our employees have been with us for over 40 years.” “Arni’s took an old school approach to business. He always believed if you served ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

good food at a reasonable price, kept your employees happy and motivated, and remained active in the community, business would take care of itself,” says Kurt’s brother and co-owner, Brad. Meet You at Arni’s is the well-known slogan that Arni’s has used for more than 50 years. It represents the company’s culture and way of life in the community. This community involvement includes sponsoring local sports leagues, school fundraisers and a charity golf outing that has raised more than $700,000 over the last 16 years for scholarships and local and Indiana based charities. Arni’s is also the official pizza of Purdue University at Ross Ade

Everybody wants to put the customer first. We feel it is just as important to put your employees first as well,” Kurt says. “They are as important as our customers. At every level we work as a team. We have offered full insurance and retirement benefits long before it became common place in our industry. Our turnover is one of the lowest in the industry. Some of our employees have been with us for over 40 years.

“

Many generations of families have been our clients,” Kurt says. “We want to deliver what they expect—great food and great service—every time. We know who we are and we don’t chase trends.

“

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Stadium and Mackey Arena and Victory Field in Indianapolis. Kurt started working for his dad when he was 14. It was during this time he learned to “work the boards,” cutting the pizza, and serving them to customers. His starting salary was minimum wage. “I thought I deserved more than 2 bucks an hour. Dad didn’t think so,” Kurt laughs. Kurt and Brad struck out on their own after college, but soon found themselves back at the family business to follow in their father’s footsteps: Kurt in 1988, and Brad four years later. With the boys in the fold Arni’s soon expanded beyond Lafayette and now encompasses 18 locations throughout Indiana. Arni Cohen has been inducted into the Indiana Restaurant Association Hall of Fame and the company has been named to the

Pizza Hall of Fame, one of only three restaurants from Indiana to be included. “I didn’t even know there was a Pizza Hall of Fame,” Kurt joked. Pizza put Arni’s on the map but their version of the classic chef salad, the Arni’s Junior Salad, is almost as famous. Additionally, the menu features thick half pound burgers, sandwiches, wings, and a variety of pastas. “It is important to focus on what you do best, but we try to have something for everyone,” said Kurt. As for the pizza, customers know it for its thin crust, high quality ingredients and edge to edge toppings. Kurt says the spicy ground pepperoni is the top selling topping, and specialty pizzas, like the Deluxe, BBQ Chicken and Big Daddy all meat pizzas are very popular. With a long and experienced roster of managers, Kurt and ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Brad focus keeping systems and operations tight and up to date as well as marketing the brand across the state. They are currently updating the website and look for ways to expand online ordering and third party delivery programs. Although Arni died in 2002, his legacy lives on through his sons and their children. All of Arni’s grandkids have worked in the stores and all have menu items named for them. Kurt is proud that the kids enjoy helping out, though none have expressed interest yet in a restaurant career. He is also extremely proud of the 53 years of thriving in the hospitality business. “Many generations of families have been our clients,” Kurt says. “We want to deliver what they expect— great food and great service— every time. We know who we are and we don’t chase trends.”

4705 East 96th Strrt | 317.571.0077

GRRNWWD

1691 West Cuuy Road | 317.881.0500

"Have nothing in your home that you don't know to be useful or believe to be beautiful." â€”William Morris Photography By Kendall McQuay

Hwest oliday elm Table Decor With

By Sara Ramsey, Primary Designer at Rembrand Designs

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

2019

HOME DECOR TRENDS

rembranddesigns.com

here are many trends going on right now that will be staying with us in 2019. While some are way outside the average personâ€™s comfort zone (like statement ceilings in colorful patterns), Iâ€™m going to focus on the more practical ones that can easily be incorporated into any home. Letâ€™s start with kitchens for those thinking about remodeling. Kitchens have been trending away from crisp white to dark and moody. Color and texture is also being incorporated with interesting tiles, rugs, decor, cabinetry, and even appliances. Upper and lower cabinets no longer need to match but can be completely different. White uppers with a contrasting color on the lowers (such as navy, gray, or wood grains) is a popular combination. Many people are also opting out of upper cabinets completely for open shelving, windows, or even a place to showcase some interesting artwork. Natural colored wood floors are also replacing dark flooring, which brightens up a home and shows less dust. Lighter floors also allows for the darker wall colors

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

that have been trending. Navy, black and gold have been popular colors in the kitchen this year and are going to continue to be on the rise in 2019. Metal mixing is continuing and is a great way to add interest to any space in a home. But it is important to remember that it isnâ€™t about the mix so much as the match. My rule of thumb is to choose two finishes and stick with just those two. My favorite combination is mixing black and gold. Being able to coordinate two finishes automatically takes a room to the next-level. Anyone can match silver plumbing fixtures with silver lighting with silver appliances and silver cabinet

pulls. It takes a little more skill to coordinate black appliances with a black faucet, gold light fixture, and gold cabinet pulls. The bohemian style that has been taking over and will continue to be huge this coming year. It has a warm and cozy feel that gives a space a sense of casualty that is very welcoming. This eclectic vibe also offers the chance to include some interesting textures and patterns in a space. What is neat about this style is that you can incorporate a few elements of it into a room without committing to it completely. You can still be a modern minimalist while also including some boho elements.

ABS O LUT E L IV IN GM AGAZ IN E .COM

Some other trends that are sticking around are matte finishes, velvet upholstery, and floral patterns. The back to nature design trend is still on the rise, whether it be ceramic tile in the bathroom, a stone coffee table in the living room, or a carved wood wall hanging in the office. And finally, the color black. Black has made a huge comeback and is seen in everything from lighting to plumbing fixtures to accent furniture. Trends are just that, trends. Just remember that it is YOUR home and it does not need to follow the latest trend unless YOU like the latest trend.

a t r ad i t i o n o f

cr e at i n g l as t i n g

Holiday memories 317.849.4490 allisonvillegarden.com 11405 Allisonville Rd Fishers, IN 46038

Create a home with Rug and Room

RUGS

ACCENT FURNITURE

CANDLES

ACCESSORIES

FINAL MARKDOWNS

LOCAL ART

Over 100 rugs in stock! BUY ANY REGULAR PRICE RUG,

GET 2ND RUG

OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE

50% OFF

RECEIVE A

STARBUCKS GIFT CARD

FOR EVERY $25 SPENT ON AN ACCESSORIES OR ART PURCHASE

2345 Conner St, Noblesville (317) 773-7800 facebook.com/rugandroom Monday-Friday 10am-7pm | Saturday 10am-5pm | Sunday 12-4pm

A MODERN HOME STAPLE SERVING INDIANAPOLIS FOR OVER 30 YEARS H O U S E W O R K S . T H E W AY Y O U L I V E .

Timeless Innovative

HW HW Modern

Entertaining

t h i r t y + ye t ha i rrtsy + ye a r s

HOUSEWORKS HOUSEWORKS

t h e w a y y o u l i v et h. e w a y y o u l i v e . NEW ADDRESS 4905 E. 82nd Street Indianapolis, IN 46250 317.578.7000 Mon. to Fri.10 - 7 Sat. 10-6 Sun. 12-5 houseworks.biz