Absolute Living

Page 1

EXPERIENCE

IS EVERYTHING

KELLY TODD

'ROUND THE TOWN

BEHIND THE BUSINESSMAN

PEAK PURSUITS Absolute Living AUGUST 2023
Indianapolis
OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS GROUP INDY CUSTOM POOLS DESIGN • BUILD • NURTURE • SWIM EST. 2007
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA Your complete guide to the area's best in food, culture, and good summer fun for the whole family. 'ROUND THE TOWN Fairway to Heaven – Your Mini-Guide to Local Golf Courses. Volume 16. Issue 07. (#185) CONTENTS 10 14 SUBSCRIPTIONS For more information go to absolutelivingmagazine.com, or call 317.509.398. 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 FOLLOW @absolutelivingmagazine P hotogra P hy B y G abrielle C heikh N oel Aug/2023 BEHIND THE BUSINESSMAN Get to know the stories behind these exceptional entrepreneurial men and the principles behind their success. PEAK PURSUITS From soaring summits to hidden gems, find your next adventure on the country's most breathtaking trails. 29 40 EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING 20 KELLY TODD

Publisher / Editor

JUSTYNA PEÑA

Marketing Director EDUARDO PEÑA

Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME Writer SUSAN SALAZ

Photography GABRIELLE CHEIKH NOEL SHELLY JOHNSON

PAOLA WILLIAMS

Art NICK PEÑA

Marketing Coordinator ISMAEL PEÑA

Circulation USPS & ABSOLUTE LIVING MAGAZINE

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Absolute living MAgAzine is published Monthly by penA group, inc copyright by penA group, inc. Absolute living MAgAzine is A registered trAdeMArk of penA group, inc Absolute Living Your Neighborhood GATHERING PLACE 101BeerKitchen.com Fishers • Carmel Seasonal Menu • Chef-Driven

Ongoing

SPARK on the Circle

Monument Circle

downtownindy.org

Visit downtown Indianapolis for a new adventure with the return of SPARK on the Circle, a temporary park featuring food, games, entertainment and community building. Big Car Collaborative, in partnership with Downtown Indy, Inc., and the city of Indianapolis, aims to provide fun and engaging experiences in this welcoming, inclusive space.

AGENDA

August 11-12

Carmel Jazz Fest

Multiple venues in Carmel carmeljazzfest.org

Honoring Indiana’s rich jazz music history and celebrating contemporary jazz, R&B and blues musicians around the world, the Carmel Jazz Fest is energizing the community through music at Carmel’s world class venues and greenspaces. This year’s lineup includes Spyro Gyra, Steve Allee Big Band and Indiana’s own Josh Kaufman.

August 19

Noblesville BrewBQ

Federal Hill Commons

noblesvillerotaryclub.org

Beer and BBQ are the true tastes of summer at the 7th annual Noblesville BrewBQ. This delicious event, hosted by the Noblesville Rotary Club, gives attendees an opportunity to taste some of the best BBQ in the state with local breweries and live music, and all for a good cause.

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AbsoluteThe
August

August 21-September 3

Summerfest 2023 with Devour Indy Multiple restaurants devourindy.com

It’s more important than ever to celebrate local restaurants, and Devour Indy makes it so easy. Featuring more than 100 restaurants, guests can try out all different types of impressive eateries on any side of town with special menus and pricing during this anticipated annual event.

September 1-2

Fishers Blues Fest

Nickel Plate District Amphitheater npdamp.com

Marking an end to the summer concert series, Blues Fest returns to Fishers over Labor Day weekend, filling two nights with funky music by locally and nationally renowned blues musicians at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. This newly renovated venue is a premier outdoor concert space, welcoming touring acts throughout the season.

September 8-10

Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival Conner Prairie connerprairie.org

Take summer to all new heights at Conner Prairie’s annual hot air balloon festival. Enjoy morning competitions in the sky and evening balloon glows featuring colorful balloons from around the country lighting up the night. Live music from Stella Luna and the Satellites will make this an event to remember.

August 25-26

GreekFest

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral Indygreekfest.org

Eat, drink and dance at one of Central Indiana’s oldest and largest ethnic festivals. Celebrating 50 years, patrons are invited to tour the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral, shop the Agora, watch live cooking demonstrations of authentic Greek recipes, and dance the Tsamikos with the Cathedral’s own Hellenic Dance Troupes.

September 8-10

Artomobilia Weekend

Carmel Arts & Design District artomobilia.com

There is nothing like Artomobilia Weekend in Carmel, where recognized artists, car collectors and automobile enthusiasts gather to celebrate the art of the automobile. With an exceptional array of events, you can see a variety of classic, new and innovative cars in the heart of the Carmel Arts & Design District.

September 9

Penrod Arts Fair Newfields penrod.org

Dubbed Indiana’s Nicest Day, the annual Penrod Arts Fair is one of the largest single-day art fairs in the nation. Experience over 300 artists, five stages of entertainment, more than 50 arts-related non-profit organizations, an extensive children’s area, and local food and beverages for you and your family to enjoy, all on the beautiful grounds of Newfields.

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'Round the Town

Fairway to Heaven – Your Mini-Guide to Local Golf Courses

Whether you’re looking for a true challenge, pristine landscapes, lush greens or just a new place to putt around, Central Indiana is home to some of the finest golf destinations for seasoned golfers and newcomers alike, where both leisure and excitement are par for the course.

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PRAIRIE VIEW GOLF CLUB

7000 Longest Drive

Carmel, IN 46033 prairieviewgc.com

On the banks of the White River, Prairie View Golf Club is the only Robert Trent Jones, Jr., course in Indiana. Featuring natural wetlands, rolling prairies, mature hardwoods and five lakes, Prairie View is routinely named one of the state’s best courses by Golf Digest and is proud to be “your country club for the day.”

BRICKYARD CROSSING

4400 W. 16th Street Speedway, IN 46222 brickyardcrossing.com

Opening in 1929 and originally known as the Speedway Golf Course, Brickyard Crossing is one of the most spectacular sporting experiences. The 18-hole, par-72 course was redesigned by Pete Dye, with four holes winding inside the famous oval. It has hosted the PGA, LPGA and Champions tour events, and even the Beatles and Paul Newman.

PURGATORY GOLF CLUB

12160 E. 216th Street Noblesville, IN 46060 purgatorygolf.com

Ranked one of America’s 100 greatest public courses, Purgatory is a links-style course stretching over 218 acres. Here you can choose from six tee boxes on every hole to customize your challenge, but with more than 130 bunkers and tall grass lining the fairways, every shot is a memorable experience.

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THE FORT

6002 N. Post Road Indianapolis, IN 46216 thefortgolfcourse.com

On the historic grounds of Fort Benjamin Harrison, the rustic feel and undulating greens make this masterpiece by famed local Pete Dye one of the best in the state. The impressive layout and stunning setting, surrounded by the state park’s abundant forests, make this challenging course one you’ll return to.

ROCK HOLLOW GOLF CLUB

669 S. 250 W. Peru, IN 46970

rockhollowgolf.com

This family-owned and operated course by Tim Liddy spans more than 300 dramatic acres and has won numerous awards over the past 25 years. The secluded setting, surrounded by old-growth forests and natural cattail wetlands, is only an hour away from Carmel, and a hidden gem for golf aficionados and novices looking for a thrilling adventure.

PEBBLE BROOK GOLF CLUB

3110 Westfield Road

Noblesville, IN 46062

pebblebrookgolfclub.com

With its traditional (and walkable) South Course—classically planned with tree-lined fairways—and the more modern North Course—a unique Scottish links-style design—Pebble Brook offers an exceptional golf experience for all skill levels. It also features a driving range and the Smart Golf Academy development program, along with The Pebble Grill and event space.

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THE PETE DYE COURSE AT FRENCH LICK

11160 W. State Road 56 French Lick, IN 47432

frenchlick.com

Hilltop views that stretch for miles in every direction make this legendary Pete Dye course a magical haven. Ranking in America’s 100 greatest courses by Golf Digest and measuring more than 8,100 yards at the tips, this course is situated on the grounds of the French Lick Resort, along with notable courses designed by Donald Ross and Tom Bendelow, making the 2.5-hour drive worth the trip.

TOPGOLF (PUBLIC)

9200 E. 116th Street Fishers, IN 46037

topgolf.com

You don’t need to be a golfer to enjoy taking aim at the giant outfield targets with Topgolf’s high-tech, self-scoring balls. Featuring three levels of climate-controlled bays, music, food and a full bar, Topgolf is an energetic, inclusive setting to have fun with friends or host your next social event while practicing your swing.

BIRDIES

632 E. State Road 32 Westfield, IN 46074

birdiesindy.com

If miniature golf is your thing, Birdies is in full swing. A great escape for the entire family, here 36 holes meander under waterfalls and through tunnels. You can grab a treat or cocktail at the snack shack while you play and finish off your round with a delicious meal on the Grill House terrace.

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Kelly Todd has worked in the real estate industry for thirty years, serving as a top agent in Central Indiana since 2002 with more than $320 million in career sales. Her sophisticated knowledge of the market enables her to provide an unrivaled experience uniquely tailored to each of her clients.

is

EXPERIENCE EvErything

KELLY TODD, THE KELLY TODD GROUP

For Kelly Todd, Founding Broker for Compass Real Estate, more than 20 years in the industry has refined her skills and professionalism as a Realtor. It has also taught her that every moment matters.

(promotional content)

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On any given day, Kelly Todd can be found showing homes to discerning buyers, helping sellers prepare their homes for quick sales, navigating the complexities of the market, and counseling her clients through the highly personal business that is real estate. "You negotiate emotions," she says, "So there is a lot of talking people off the ledge, and there is a lot of rationalizing." Over the years, she has done it all, from dealing with this range of dispositions to bringing new bedding so a bedroom is staged just right before a photoshoot, or trimming bushes so a front entry welcomes visitors with grace and charm.

It is their clear and effective communication, consistent and thorough service, and meticulous attention to detail that has set the Kelly Todd Group apart. "I owe it to my clients to take my expertise and give it to them," explains Kelly, adding that her competence comes from years of hard work and commitment to her craft.

It all started behind the front desk at F.C. Tucker after school. It was 1993, and for Kelly Todd, the teenager, answering phones and scheduling appointments was the perfect parttime job to boost her bank account as she saved for college tuition. This job was a particularly good fit, though—so much so that she transferred to the Bloomington office while working through

a marketing degree at IU's Kelley School of Business. After graduation, she took a "real job," as she calls it, completing precisely two years as a headhunter for an IT firm while earning her real estate license. She started back with F.C. Tucker in 2001, first as a buyer's agent before moving out on her own.

"I'm incredibly driven," Kelly says, but explains that she grew up often being discouraged from taking risks. Instead of giving in and conceding to an "I can't" mentality, she quickly stood up and said, "Watch me," going out on her own shortly after starting her real estate career. In 20 years, she rose to the top at Tucker, exceeding her own goals, teaching and mentoring new agents, and building her acumen as a real estate professional every step of the way.

Her ambitious nature continued to call, and although she was at the height of a successful career with F.C. Tucker, Kelly knew she was ready to be challenged in a new way. She found alignment with her brand and integrity at Compass, an innovative, tech-driven firm (currently the country's largest real estate brokerage) that launched its Indianapolis division in 2021. After cautiously listening to the opportunities they offered to help her grow and succeed, and having many conversations with her family, Kelly joined Compass as a founding agent.

"I was so inspired by how Compass runs their business and how they identify their agents as their customers," Kelly

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Meet the Kelly Todd Group, including Kelly Todd—leader and founding broker with Compass Real Estate; Megan Cashman—director of operations and Kelly's right-hand person; and Angie Wilson—licensed real estate broker and interior designer. This team truly understands that real estate transactions can be both exciting and overwhelming, so they excel in providing clear and consistent communication through every step of the process, ensuring every client is well-informed and empowered to make confident decisions.

Kelly Todd Angie Wilson Megan Cashman

says, describing how this mindset is different from many firms—focusing on educating agents and shaping them as experts in the industry through networking and coaching, providing unparalleled marketing and brandawareness initiatives, and handselecting only the most seasoned, highest producing agents to join.

"Kelly is a true leader in the market. She is known for putting her clients first in everything she does and has always been generous with her time and mentorship of other agents looking to grow and learn from her success," says Fran Broude, Regional Vice President –Midwest North at Compass, adding that

Kelly and her family are devoted to making a positive impact on the lives of others and believe in giving back to their community, supporting causes they believe in. These include the Heroes Foundation, Dove Recovery House for Women, Immaculate Heart of Mary where they are parishioners, and Brebeuf Jesuit, where her children attend school.

Kelly is the definition of a professional and that Compass is grateful to support her business.

“Here, I'm surrounded by like-minded colleagues that are at my level," says

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Kelly, sharing that this support has allowed her and the Kelly Todd Group to reach new levels of success. In Kelly's eyes, though, success means more than profit.

It means continuing to offer the highest level of service within her industry. She ensures that the high standards she maintains are conveyed throughout every step of the process, starting with her team and filtering through every referral partner her clients work with, from lenders and contractors to inspectors and stagers, all coming together to demonstrate the white-glove experience she is known for.

To Kelly, success also means balance and presence in the moment. She admits that real estate is not the most flexible profession, but she can enjoy life outside her work by setting clear expectations and offering exceptional care, communication and expertise. On any given day, you might also see the mom of three walking her dogs (two adorable pomskies) through the Meridian-Kessler neighborhood (where

she lives and where many of her listings are found); spending the afternoon on the tennis court with a friend (as if it were Wimbledon); helping fundraise for one of her favorite charities (often found right in her community); or taking some time with her family to travel (one of her passions).

With an unwavering commitment to professionalism, the Kelly Todd Group is dedicated to honestly promising and over-delivering to all clients, representing buyers, sellers, investors, and those relocating. Find out more at kellytoddgroup.com and follow @kellytoddgroup on Instagram.

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Behind the Businessman

This year’s top entrepreneurs are all visionary men leading amazing teams.

Being a successful entrepreneur goes beyond financial gains, encompassing a combination of personal qualities, professional characteristics and societal contributions. Good leadership and positive company culture are powerful assets for any business, creating supportive and productive environments that attract and retain top talent, drive innovation and contribute to the overall success of the company. Entrepreneurs that recognize this and value their team often build sustainable and thriving organizations that stand out in the competitive marketplace.

Here we introduce some of these exceptional men from our own community, exploring the secrets to their success, the teams that stand behind them, and the principles that drive their organizations forward.

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Chad Bruick

Focused on creating exceptional outdoor environments intended to change the way people live, Chad Bruick is a driven and passionate entrepreneur who has seen remarkable growth since starting Outdoor Environments Group in 2007, both in size, service and scope. Comprised of nearly 130 skilled individuals (ranging from landscape architects and horticulturists to construction crews and property managers, many with a history of business ownership), the team's diverse experiences add depth and dedication to their work. Valuing each member of this talented group, Chad recognizes their contributions and the collective effort that allows OEG to remain dedicated to its mission and thrive in the complexity and scale of its projects.

Still involved in all aspects of the business, Chad says his capacity has transitioned into a supportive, mentoring role. "My job now is to continue to create and communicate the vision for the company, not only to support them and help them but to teach them and keep everyone headed in the same direction with the same vision in mind," he says.

Chad's passion for design and community impact are always intertwined, setting OEG apart as a company that not only creates beautiful spaces but also leaves a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. In 2022, OEG partnered with World Vision, a global humanitarian organization, launching the initiative Changing the Landscape of Poverty. Today, they sponsor a child from an impoverished area on behalf of every employee. "I think it's really important that we leverage the opportunities that we've been given to help others," says Chad.

Outdoor Environments Group is located at 4929 Robinson Road in Indianapolis. You can find them online at oeggroup.com or follow @outdoorenvironmentsgroup on Instagram.

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ENTREPRENEURS ISSUE
Outdoor Environments Group owner

Paul Aréchiga

At Verde Flavors of Mexico, Paul Aréchiga and his team make it their mission to embrace the heart and soul of Mexico, igniting a passion for authentic flavors and expertly blending tradition with innovation, all while extending a warm embrace of hospitality to every guest. Paul keeps everyone in line with this mindset, saying, “From the moment we walk in, we all understand we are part of a team and here to facilitate an entire experience.”

Hailing from Guadalajara, Mexico, in the state of Jalisco (the home to agave and, therefore, tequila), Paul seeks to bring an elevated version of the food and drinks he grew up with to the Indianapolis area. Since opening the first location in Fishers with a team of 15, Verde has grown to four locations and 150 employees, including Luis Aguilar, executive chef and co-owner, four general managers, head chefs, and more, many of whom have advanced within the company. “Each of these hardworking individuals supports my business by bringing their ideas and making them work together with our company visions,” says Paul. “From recipes to strategies to suggestions for improvement, they all have helped Verde reach unimaginable heights. I honestly consider each of them a member of my family.”

With two new concepts in the works, Paul says, the company is undergoing exciting changes that present Mexican food differently. Quesa Tacos, a fast-casual restaurant with drive-through service, is planned for Carmel, and Casa Santa, a restaurant steeped in colorful traditions is anticipated in Noblesville next year.

Visit verdeflavorsofmexico.com for current locations in Fishers, Carmel, Zionsville, and Ironworks in Indianapolis. Follow @verde_ flavorsofmexico on Instagram for the latest news and menu highlights.

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Verde Flavors of Mexico owner

Michael Hansen

As the partner, creative director and COO of Open Gate Design, Michael Hansen is ushering in a new era of success. With a holistic and innovative approach to entrepreneurship, he weaves together elements of teamwork, future-oriented thinking and key personal philosophies that include being open to change, understanding the “why” behind every decision and aiming toward collective growth over personal gain. Authenticity is at the core of these beliefs, he says, adding, “Authenticity is the best personal brand an entrepreneur can have.”

With a tenacious group of 10 employees and an energetic rotation of interns, Michael says the team at Open Gate is a small but mighty force in the industry. “Open Gate Design is dedicated to taking an innovative approach to design through collaboration with our vast array of brands while providing modern, unique and insightful concepts to our clients.”

Open Gate’s main location (in Perkinsville, Indiana, near Anderson) is a 20,000-squarefoot studio and warehouse that serves as a unique co-working space for design partners. It is brimming with curated vignettes, high-quality furniture, vibrant fabrics, illuminating accessories, bespoke cabinetry and an array of design resources. In addition, a newly opened showroom at the Indiana Design Center bridges the gap between the main studio and designers working in the Carmel area. “We aim to bring a taste of our vast resources closer to them, offering convenience and enhancing collaboration,” explains Michael. Recently, Open Gate introduced a major technology component into its operations, offering a quick, comprehensive view of the entire inventory and portfolio of vendors.

Visit Open Gate Design at the Indiana Design Center at 200 S. Rangeline Road in Carmel, or in Perkinsville at 2834 North 900 West. Find out more at opengatedesign.com and follow @ opengatedesign_ on Instagram for news and events.

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ENTREPRENEURS ISSUE
Open Gate Design partner/creative director

John Mirkopoulos

For John Mirkopoulos, the furrier business runs in his veins. In 1988, he brought the family business to Indianapolis, Indiana, opening Elan Furs. The company soon expanded to Chicago, with a store operating on the Magnificent Mile for many years, selling fur coats to celebrities that included Aretha Franklin and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler.

Today, John and his wife remain active owners/operators of the flagship location in Indianapolis, along with a second store in Morton Grove, Illinois, a northwest suburb of the Windy City, with a team of almost twenty loyal employees. John has trained a knowledgeable and professional staff of salespeople, designers and craftspeople that are experts in the industry. “Our mission is to uphold the legacy of our generations by running a family-owned business,” says John. “We take pride in creating timeless and elegant pieces that celebrate the beauty of fur fashion.”

The showrooms feature a variety of products, from coats and accessories to home furnishings and novelty items, with fashions from luxury designers, including Michael Kors, Pisani, Louis Féraud and more. But as a designer, John believes the ability to offer custom designs and create individually tailored pieces in-house sets Elan Furs apart.

Specializing in leather, shearling and a wide range of authentic animal furs, John and his team prioritize quality, value and customer service, and are trustworthy leaders in the fur and leather industry. As a full-service provider, they offer storage, cleaning, reconditioning, lining, repair, appraisals, shearing and dying. They can even repurpose your family heirloom furs, bringing new life to beloved items and inherited garments.

Visit Elan Furs, the city’s premier destination for authentic fur, leather and shearling apparel and accessories, at 3841 E. 82nd Street in Indianapolis, or find them online at elanfurs.com. For the latest news, follow @elanfurs on Instagram.

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ABSOLUTELIVING (promotional content)
Elan Furs owner

Stephen Moore

Stephen Moore began his career at Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling at the bottom—doing demolition, delivering cabinets and sweeping up after installations. The custom cabinetry and full-service remodeling company was founded in 2005 by his father and stepmother, Bob and Brynn Moore. "Working in a family business has been the best thing that's ever happened to me," says Stephen, who rose the ranks just as other employees, becoming Business Manager in 2015 and taking over ownership of the company in 2020 due to his father's untimely death following a swift but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

"I learned everything I know from my dad," he continues, admitting that although they often saw things from different perspectives, the combination of their views ushered in a new era, with Bob as the big-picture visionary and Stephen the detail-oriented integrator. Today, Stephen's goal is to carry out his dad's legacy by continuing to be successful and grow the company. By offering many services that other cabinet companies don't, Chateau Kitchens sets itself apart and aims to be the best provider of residential cabinetry in Hamilton County and the surrounding areas.

On this solid foundation, Stephen is scaling the business while striving to keep the essence of the company's culture at the forefront. "Without employees who are happy, you don't have a successful company," says Stephen, excited they were able to see his dad's intention of offering retirement benefits and profit sharing to actualization in 2021. "I think these have been key to our success and growth. It creates a sense of ownership for each employee."

Learn more about Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling online at chateaukitchens.com and by following @ chateaukitchens on Instagram. Visit their beautiful showroom at 301 E. Carmel Drive in Carmel, Indiana, to start your remodeling project today.

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ENTREPRENEURS ISSUE
Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling owner

Blake Fogelsong

Clancy's Hospitality has grown immensely since Indiana Restaurant Hall of Fame member Carl Fogelsong opened Clancy's Hamburgers in Noblesville in 1965—the Midwest's first fast food double-drivethrough. Today, Carl's children remain active owners, with his grandson Blake Fogelsong at the helm, steering the ship with the same core values of honesty, integrity, fairness, focus and concentration, and always keeping hospitality at the heart of every operation. "At Clancy's, we coach our staff to think of our customers as guests in our own home. That's who we are. That's who we will always be," he says.

Blake began cooking pizzas at Michaelangelo's (the family's only Italian restaurant) when he was just 15, but he officially joined the business in 2014. Since then, he has helped grow the original corporate team of three to a full dozen and opened renowned restaurants across the city, including Grindstone Public House in Noblesville, Grindstone on the Monon in Westfield, and Clancy's Hamburgers and the Fountain Room in the Bottleworks District of Indianapolis. He credits the current success to the work and dedication his father and grandfather put in before him, saying, "It took my grandfather and dad running the business the first 53 years to get us to these last five years."

Clancy's Hospitality continues to elevate its concepts and is gearing up for more growth, with a remodel planned for the flagship Grindstone Charley's on the city's westside and another new project on the horizon. But Blake says they also plan to take some time to replenish themselves. The word restaurant means to renew and restore, he explains. "Over the years, we've found it's pretty hard to restore other people if you have not restored yourself."

Visit clancyshospitality.com to learn more about their restaurants, catering and private events. Follow @clancyshospitality for the latest news.

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Clancy’s Hospitality owner/director of operations

Peak Pursuits

From soaring summits to hidden gems, find your next adventure on the country's most breathtaking trails.

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Chapel Loop: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

10.4 miles, 754' elevation gain, loop

This challenging circuit weaves the allure of Lake Superior's shoreline with the rugged Michigan wilderness, offering a blend of terrains and a symphony of colors—including turquoise hues of the lake and vibrant red-orange sandstone cliffs. Along the way, you'll find waterfalls, secluded beaches and the iconic Chapel Rock.

Angels Landing

Zion National Park, Utah

4.3 miles, 1,827' elevation gain, out & back

Ascending Angels Landing is an adrenaline-pumping adventure. To reach the summit, you'll first have to conquer Walter's Wiggles, a challenging series of switchbacks, scramble over boulders and navigate an exposed ridge, but your bravery is rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Zion's majestic canyons, sculpted cliffs and the Virgin River below.

Outcroppings Trail

Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina

.5 miles, 315' elevation gain, out & back

Named one of the best parks in the nation, Chimney Rock State Park offers several trails worth exploring. But it’s the short, challenging staircase to the top of Chimney Rock, a 535-million-year-old monolith, that will earn you bragging rights, especially if the rest of your group opts to take the elevator to the top.

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Half Dome

Yosemite National Park, California

16.5 miles, 5,305' elevation gain, out & back

A testament to the untamed beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this strenuous hike pushes even the most seasoned hiker to their limits but offers shade from towering Sequoias, lush views of the Vernal and Nevada waterfalls, and an alpine wonderland along the way. Ascend the cables to conquer the summit and take in the majestic views of Yosemite Valley.

Bass Harbor Head Light Trail

Acadia National Park, Maine

.4 miles, 62' elevation gain, out & back

This short trail, popular for birding and photography, leads you through a coastal dreamscape where salty sea air mingles with the scent of pine. Make your way to the Atlantic panorama for views of the historic, picturesque lighthouse perched atop dramatic cliffs.

The Wave Trail

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona

6.7 miles, 1,233' elevation gain, out & back

A permit is required for this surreal adventure through Navajo sandstone mazes and slickrock terrain, where visitors often liken their experience to a dream. The trail serves as a gateway to The Wave, a geological masterpiece with swirling patterns and kaleidoscopic colors painted by millennia of erosion.

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Mount Hollywood Trail Griffith Park, California

5 miles, 1292' elevation gain, loop

For a star-studded journey, the Mount Hollywood Trail in Los Angeles takes you by the original Batcave and behind the famous Hollywood sign to picture-perfect views of Tinseltown below. Popular for runners, this moderately challenging route is gradual but sure to get your heart pumping. We suggest visiting at sunset to look through the telescope at Griffith Observatory.

Trail #3 Turkey Run State Park, Indiana

1.9 miles, 354' elevation gain, loop

This rugged loop was recently named the best hike in the Midwest by Midwest Living. This legendary, moss-covered trek through Indiana's enchanting woodlands starts at the suspension bridge and follows the cliffs along Sugar Creek, through the glacial Punch Bowl, up ladders and between the steep walls of Rocky Hollow.

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THE POWER OF TRANSFORMATION

If you’ve been staring at your walls and wondering how changing the color would make a difference, perhaps we can help. Have your local painting team at CertaPro Painters ® of Indianapolis refresh the home you love and show you the power of fresh color.

We’ll provide a worry-free painting experience that fits your needs – complete with safety and cleaning guidelines to keep you and our painting teams safe. Schedule your on-site or remote estimate today to get started on your spring project!

FREE PAINT UPGRADE ON YOUR NEXT INTERIOR PAINTING PROJECT*

*Offer applies to your residential painting project of $4,000 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. Available at CertaPro Painters ® of Indianapolis. Expires 8/31/23.

317-662-3584

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Absolute Living by Eduardo Pena - Issuu