Absolute Living

'ROUND THE TOWN

STEPHEN MOORE SPRING FLING

Take music from room to room. Enjoy lighted paths, automated shades and lights that adjust on schedule as the days grow longer. As night weather changes, your climate adjusts automatically. Take your entertainment experience outdoors—and to new heights. We’re the experts at whole house integration, and we can show you how to take control of your home in every way, every day. Take it inside, outside—and wherever you are.

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THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA

Spring is dawning upon central Indiana, and this issue's Agenda "eclipses" the dark winter days at long last.

Q & A

We sat down with Tara Emerick of Emerick Orthodontics to learn about the latest treatments, technology and fast-acting techniques.

CUSTOM BUILT LEGACY

Stephen Moore of Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling has found enduring strength to grow the family business while honoring those who have come before.

SPRING FLING

We visited some of the city's most stylish boutiques for an exclusive look at this season's emerging trends and must-have fashions.

FOR THE LOVE OF PASTA

In this segment, we highlight and celebrate three local Italian eateries. With so many rich and flavorful pasta dishes close at hand there's never been a better time to indulge.

'ROUND THE TOWN

Whether you're a serious runner or just looking for a seriously fun opportunity to get active outdoors, we bring you the best of the area's upcoming races and fun runs.

Editor-in-Chief

EDUARDO PEÑA

Managing Editor

JUSTYNA PEÑA

Assistant Editor

MATTHEW HUME

Writer

SUSAN SALAZ

Photography

GABRIELLE CHEIKH NOEL BRANDY CUNNINGHAM JES NIJJER

Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA

Social Media Specialist

CHRISTIAN PEÑA

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AGENDA

By SuSaN Salaz

March

March 9 – 17

Indiana Flower + Patio Show

Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center Indianaflowerandpatioshow.com

This annual indoor showcase displays the latest in outdoor living ideas and trends, featuring over 300 exhibitors and acres of gardens. See author and gardener Linda Vater of the Elegant & Edible Garden on stage March 16 and 17, among other celebrity speakers and expert appearances throughout the event.

March 15

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Tent Party

Downtown Indianapolis indystpats.com

Presented by the Hoosier Lottery, join The Athletic Club Foundation for the city’s best party yet. Festivities for this annual event begin at 9:30 AM and last throughout the day, with the familyfriendly parade featuring Irish floats, bagpipers, Irish dancers, and more set to march at 11:30 AM.

March 16

Charlie Parker’s Yardbird Madam Walker Theater indyopera.org

Alto sax legend and inventor of bebop Charlie Parker’s final delirious hours are dramatized in this Indianapolis Opera production starring Martin Bakari, with Indianapolis-native and opera superstar Angela Brown reprising the role of Charlie’s mother on the historic stage of the Madam Walker Theater.

March 17 – 18

Maddie Poppe

Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael feinsteinshc.com

The soulful songstress and American Idol winner Maddie Poppe is back on the road this spring and starting off strong with a two-night stop in the legendary setting of Feinstein’s Cabaret at Hotel Carmichael. Don’t let this show be the “One That Got Away.”

March 21 – April 7

xZOOberance

Indianapolis Zoo Indianapoliszoo.com

It’s been a long Indiana winter, so ring in the spring at the Indianapolis Zoo’s Spring Festival. Featuring intricate topiaries of all your favorite animals, your herd will have a wildly good time here. Don’t miss the Blooming Cottage, animal-inspired yoga, live music and spring-centric activities during this 16-day event.

March 22 & 24

NCAA Men’s Basketball March Madness®

Gainbridge Fieldhouse ncaa.com

Experience March Madness® in person at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 22 and 24 for the first and second rounds of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, hosted by IUPUI and the Horizon League and setting the stage for the Final Four games in Phoenix, Arizona, April 6–8.

March 30

Snow White

The Toby at Newfields indyballet.org

In its seventh season, the Indianapolis Ballet has relaunched artistry in the city as the first professional resident ballet company based here in over a decade. This spring, as part of their Family Series, they perform the classic fairy tale Snow White as you’ve never seen before.

April 5

Five for Fighting with String Quartet Hendricks Live hendrickslive.org

Hendricks County has a new venue for world-class music opening in March. Featuring an art gallery, event space and a 600-seat performance hall, it’s ready to be your new home for arts and entertainment. In one of its debut shows, Five for Fighting will grace the stage with a string quartet.

April 8

Solar Eclipse

Various Locations visitindy.com

Grab your eclipse glasses, because at 3:06 PM Indianapolis is in the Path of Totality, experiencing its first total solar eclipse in over 800 years! There are plenty of events to mark the nearly 4 minutes of darkness, from Lunacy! at White River State Park to Total Eclipse of the Art at Newfields—and many more!

”C

doesn' t get any

than this

Q&A

on Orthodontic Solutions for Smiles of All Ages

Picture-perfect teeth are highly desired by adults and children alike, so we sat down with leading local orthodontist Tara Emerick of Emerick Orthodontics to learn about the latest treatments, technology and fast-acting techniques.

Q: What are some signs that I might need orthodontic treatment?

A: Some of the more obvious indications for orthodontic treatment are crooked or crowded teeth, spacing and difficulty biting or chewing. Orthodontic treatment may also be necessary to prepare for restorative dental work (such as making space for a dental implant), cosmetic dental work (such as veneers), to relieve TMJ symptoms, or to correct a functional issue that is causing damage to the teeth or periodontal tissues.

Q: Is it too late for adults to consider orthodontic treatment?

A: It’s never too late to make your smile beautiful! Advancements in orthodontic techniques and discreet options like clear aligners or lingual braces (braces on the inside of your teeth) have made it easier than ever for adults to achieve a straighter smile. At Emerick Orthodontics, we see patients of all ages and love being able to give our adult patients the smile they always wished they had!

Q: What orthodontic treatments do you specialize in?

A: We specialize in digital orthodontic treatment! Our Phase 1 treatment for younger children typically involves a 3D scan and fabrication of a 3D-printed expander. Once expansion is complete, we bond metal brackets to the front teeth. For adolescents and adults, we offer completely digital treatment options: clear aligners, InBrace, or LightForce braces.

Q: What is InBrace and who is it best for?

A: InBrace is a revolutionary lingual braces system with custom SmartwireTM technology. Digitally positioned brackets are bonded on the inside of the teeth. I design a prescription—specific to each patient—that is programmed into the Smartwire, which is then inserted into the brackets and clicked into place. From there, it immediately begins expressing the prescription and correcting the patient’s bite and alignment. Straightening is put on

auto-pilot so the patient can continue to enjoy their lifestyle without interruptions. InBrace is a great option for patients who like to enjoy snacking, drinking coffee and wine, or want their treatment to be completely invisible. I am an experienced InBrace provider and have spoken for the company to other orthodontists at a national orthodontic meeting.

Q: What is LightForce?

A: LightForce is our fastest treatment option, with recent studies showing its potential to treat patients up to 40% faster than traditional metal braces. LightForce braces are 3D-printed clear braces with a completely customized prescription built into each bracket. The brackets are placed in the ideal location due to digitally planned indirect bonding, and each bracket has the ideal prescription incorporated into its

slot—different from traditional metal braces, which are built with a standard prescription that is the average of all teeth. As we all know, everyone is different and customizations are necessary to achieve our most ideal result. I love how precise, comfortable and efficient LightForce is for my patients!

Q: What are some of your favorite new high-tech offerings in orthodontics?

A: Besides a 3D scanner, 3D printed appliances, clear aligners, InBrace and LightForce, we also have a 3D printer in our office to make retainers. This saves us valuable time—with no need to ship anything out to a lab, we can have retainers ready the same day. DentalMonitoring is a remote monitoring system that allows us to check in on a patient’s treatment progress from anywhere using their smartphone, which is perfect for our patients who are always on the go, traveling or away at college. One of the coolest technologies that we’ve added to our office this year is the Synapse Dental Pain Eraser. It applies gentle electrical impulses to a patient’s tooth or soft tissue that block the pain receptors for up to 48 hours without any shots or numbing. Patients do not feel a thing and often ask if it’s even on. I love being able to make sure my patient is completely comfortable and pain-free—it makes my job even more enjoyable!

Emerick Orthodontics is at 12863 Broad Street in the Village of West Clay, in Carmel, Indiana. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, visit emerickortho.com and follow @emerickortho on Instagram.

CUSTOM BUILT LEGACY

Stephen Moore of Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling

By SuSaN Salaz | PhotograPhy By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel | artwork By eduardo Peña

Facing the profound loss of both his father and fiancée, Stephen Moore, owner of Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling, has found enduring strength to grow the family business while championing inspiring charity efforts in their honor.

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Stephen Moore began his career at Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling in a most humble and ordinary way— doing demolition, delivering cabinets and cleaning up jobsites. The custom cabinetry and full-service remodeling company was founded in 2005 by his father Bob Moore and stepmother Brynn Moore, with Stephen rising through the ranks just as any other employee. In 2015, he became the business manager, and just a few years later, he was swept into the role of owner following his father's untimely death from a swift but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

“My dad was the big picture thinker, and I was the detail guy—which made us a great team,” says Stephen, who sees himself continuing that successful dynamic as owner. He explains that the plan had been for him to take over when his dad was ready to retire. Unfortunately, that plan abruptly changed with Bob’s passing. And then, just three years later, Stephen suffered another painful defeat with the loss of his supportive and insightful fiancée, Mallorie, to leukemia. “She was always there for me—pushing me to work harder, to work smarter,” Stephen recalls, adding that the memories of Mallorie and his dad keep him going— moving forward and working hard to continue growing Chateau Kitchens and steering it to success.

That work ethic and vision are already paying dividends. In the past three

years, Moore has led Chateau Kitchens through as many record-breaking years while still preserving his father’s core values, including the close-knit company culture and the ideal that a client’s happiness always comes first, even above the bottom line. With 28 full-time employees and more than 400 years of collective experience in the industry, Stephen is proud to say that the foundation Bob built by providing excellent service while establishing a fantastic reputation is not only still intact today but growing stronger. Chateau Kitchens is the premier provider of residential cabinetry and full-service remodeling in the Indianapolis area, transforming homes with keen design, beautiful custom cabinetry and skillful installation. And as painful as his losses have been, Moore sees carrying on Bob’s and Mallorie’s legacies as the light guiding him through his darkest days. “They wanted me to succeed,” says Stephen.

According to his team, Moore has handled this rapid ascent to leadership with grace, energy and innovation. According to lead designer Megan Meacham, who began with the company as an intern in 2019, watching Stephen grow into his leadership role has been uniquely rewarding. “There has been so much change in such little time, and through it all, he's still been there for all of us…which just says a lot about him as a person,” says Megan, grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this respectful and endearing, family-like organization.

For Stephen Moore, supporting the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) annual PurpleStride walk is personal. His father and the founder of Chateau Kitchens, Bob Moore, passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2020 after an eight-month battle. PanCAN aims to improve the lives of everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer by advancing scientific research, building community, sharing knowledge and advocating for patients. “Raising funds and awareness for this terrible disease has been incredible for our team,” says Stephen, who is the Sponsorship Chair for this year's event, adding that in 2023, Chateau Kitchens (a premier sponsor for two years in a row) had 75 employees, family and friends show up to walk in support. Readers can join Moore’s inspirational effort by registering for the 5K walk at White River State Park or donating to support PanCAN’s efforts to end pancreatic cancer. Simply scan the QR code here to visit PurpleStride Indianapolis online.

Along with home remodeling, Chateau Kitchens has carved out a strong niche providing premier cabinetry for discerning custom builders in Central Indiana. Their team handles everything from demo and design conceptualization to professional installation and final cleaning.

With this support, Stephen finds the strength to grieve his losses while emerging as a bold new leader—one determined to lift others up along the way. From sponsoring local organizations like the Carmel Dads Club and the Carmel High School Dance Marathon for Riley Children’s Hospital, to his rolling out generous employee benefits, community impact matters to Stephen. But his passion for philanthropic work really shines in how he honors his dad and Mallorie by helping to raise funds and awareness of the diseases that took them—celebrating their lives by helping others. He was recently nominated for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Visionaries of the Year campaign and his LLS fundraising team, Mal’s Pals, currently has the most members of any team in the Indianapolis area. He also serves as the sponsorship chair for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Indianapolis PurpleStride walk, and in 2023, Chateau Kitchens (a premier sponsor for two years in a row) had 75 employees, family and friends walk in support.

With Moore at the helm, Chateau Kitchens’ future remains

Help Stephen and the Chateau Kitchens family reach their fundraising goals by supporting the LLS Mal’s Pals Visionary of the Year Fundraiser, where if they raise $50,000, a research portfolio will be named after Mallorie.

bright as it stays true to the family roots his father planted so firmly two decades ago. It’s a legacy borne of both prosperity and pain but one that Moore now carries with pride.

To learn more about Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling, visit their beautiful showroom at 301 E. Carmel Drive in Carmel, Indiana, or find them online at chateaukitchens.com and @ chateaukitchens on Instagram and Facebook.

Stephen Moore’s leadership style has been shaped by grief since losing both his father and his fiancée to cancer. Today, he carries on their legacies through the impactful and uplifting company culture at Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling, along with record growth in the business, generous philanthropy in the community, and a steadfast mission to support other families facing tragic diagnoses.

Spring Fling

By SuSaN Salaz

With winter’s chill fading and warmer days ahead, spring instills a sense of energy and optimism—the perfect time for a fashion refresh. Our spring boutique hop took us to some of the city’s most stylish shops for an exclusive look at emerging trends and must-haves this season. We uncovered versatile styles for all ages, from playful prints for the youngest explorers at Lunch Money Boutique and dapper looks for dashing gents at Heritage Clothier & Home. Karisma Boutique, 8Fifteen and The Secret Ingredient offer specialized aesthetics to meet every woman’s sartorial needs, whether hunting up-and-coming trends, of-the-moment items or timeless classics. This insider’s guide reveals the spring styles destined to revive your fashion game, handpicked by the local tastemakers who know best.

Fashion

Boutiques

For the Chic Seeker 8Fifteen

Trendsetting style boutique 8Fifteen continues to represent exclusive designer collections that Indy fashionistas won’t find anywhere else. Owner Elizabeth Lechleiter’s keen styling eye focuses on versatile pieces that seamlessly transition from day to night—think coordinating prints that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, lightweight layering staples and elegant separates that encourage creative mixing and matching. This spring, look for resort-ready looks, including swimsuits, sandals and sneakers perfect for spring break treks and tropical getaways. Accessories dazzle with hats, handbags and jewelry, including a vibrant new line by Monoki, perfect for gifting or self-treating.

Elizabeth herself represents the boutique's versatile styling, alternating between polished professional and bohemian glam from day to day, staying attuned to the latest trends by building direct relationships with their roster of labels, as well as their clientele, heeding feedback to keep the selection fresh and relevant. “I’m always listening to what people are looking for,” she says. Through her passionate approach, she aims to not just outfit clients, but encourage them to have fun playing with fashion.

Visit 8Fifteen at 815 E. 65th Street in Broad Ripple or find them online at 8Fifteen. com and @indy8Fifteen on Instagram. For personal shopping, styling sessions or private events, email clairel@8fifteen.com.

Fashion

Boutiques

For Childhood Charm

Lunch Money Boutique

Embrace the spirit of playfulness at Lunch Money Boutique with curated collections of contemporary kids’ clothing perfect for spring. From vibrant prints to soft organic fabrics, the stylish and practical pieces encourage children to run, climb and roam with confidence and comfort. This season spotlights two new exclusive brands, the Spanish Bobo Choses and, from Sweden, Mini Rodini. As rare offerings in the Midwest, these environmentally friendly European brands make Lunch Money an essential destination for discerning children’s style.

For special occasions, coordinated dress sets allow little ones to look sharp while still playing freely. “Easter dressing is no longer as formal as when we were children,” says store manager and buyer Annie Stultz, who recommends shorts with button shirts for boys and breezy dresses for girls to keep the focus on fun. Beyond the racks, spring shoppers can also browse a variety of gift items, accessories, bath sets and more— perfect for Easter baskets and spring break play.

Visit Lunch Money Boutique at 5617 N. Illinois Street in Indianapolis. For more information, find them online at lunchmoneyboutique.com online and @ lunchmoneyboutique on Instagram. For personal shopping and private events, email annie@lunchmoneyboutique.com or shallan@lunchmoneyboutique.com.

Fashion

Boutiques

For the Modern Man

Heritage Clothier & Home

When owners Stan Wellman and Kent Henry opened Heritage Clothier & Home in 2017, they brought over 40 years of retail experience from shops up and down the East Coast to create a one-of-a-kind boutique in Broad Ripple. Blending fashion and home décor, Heritage celebrates quality craftsmanship and enduring men’s style.

This spring, the shop offers a fresh selection of contemporary yet classic menswear essentials perfect for the modern gentleman. Well-tailored dress shirts from Mizzen + Main, casual performance wear from Vuori, and trendy yet classic pieces from Scotch & Soda—the variety ensures versatility for work or weekend. “Each garment is carefully chosen for its quality, design and craftsmanship, ensuring that every item in the collection is a true investment piece that will remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come,” says Kent, adding that they offer a true head-to-toe selection of men’s fashion. He and Stan thoughtfully curate the store to provide a refined edit with versatile pieces for work or weekend, where discerning men can discover new favorites and loyal styles alike this spring and every season.

Find Heritage Clothier & Home at 1134 East 54th Street in Indianapolis. For more information or to shop online, visit heritageclothierandhome.com and follow @heritageclothierindy on Instagram.

For Sophisticated Styles

The Secret Ingredient

A bellwether of the local fashion scene, The Secret Ingredient has been an enduring destination for discerning women for more than 40 years. Owner Pamela Ellis continues to pioneer exciting new arrivals each season, showcasing a selection of in-the-moment statement pieces along with timeless, investment-worthy staples.

The shop gleams with gentle textures and feminine shades of white, lavender, brown and black, with denim always in demand. Look for the latest trends like power suits, blazers and lots of color. Spring classics include flowy dresses and lightweight sweaters ideal for graduations, bridal showers and sunny vacation destinations. The variety ensures shoppers always encounter fresh and inspiring looks suited for everything from office-chic to dressedup evenings out. “I love making women feel good,” says Pam, who believes fashion is a form of expression. With an impeccable list of designer labels, an extensive selection of jewelry and accessories, and tailored customer service that makes every client look and feel spectacular, the experience here is exceptional.

The Secret Ingredient is located in the Shoppes at 56th and Illinois at 5631 N. Illinois Street in Indianapolis. For more information and to shop online, visit thesecretingredient.us and follow @ secretingredientstore on Instagram.

Boutiques

For Free-Spirited Fashion

Karisma Boutique

Inspired by her four daughters’ unfettered taste in clothing, Kari Clouse opened Karisma Boutique in historic downtown Noblesville nearly two decades ago. “My oldest was a teenager, and she was always looking for unique things other than what everybody else was wearing,” she explains. What started as a passion project has grown a massive following, celebrating fashion for those who want to stand out from the crowd.

Kari personally curates new arrivals daily, with brightly colored jumpsuits, comfy rompers and flowy, floral kimonos currently making a statement and marking the arrival of spring. “If you are coming in twice a week or twice a month—you’re always going to see something new,” says Kari, who believes the diverse selection allows her regulars to discover fresh styles and stay ahead of the trends. In addition to clothing, she also offers accessories including hats, handbags and jewelry, local Ambre Blends scents and an array of unique gift items.

Visit Karisma Boutique at 859 Conner Street on Courthouse Square in Noblesville. The quaint shop is open daily and later into the evenings for Noblesville Main Street’s First Friday events. Shop online at karismaboutiqueshop.com and follow @ karismaboutique on Instagram for Kari’s latest looks.

Fresh Fish Market

Salaz

of

Italian

Vibes

Ristorante Roma

Among the fresh pasta purveyors in town, Ristorante Roma stands out for its authentic Roman cuisine and exceptional noodles—handmade daily with “a good chunk of patience mixed with passion,” according to Chef Raffaele D’Eusebio. He grew up cooking with his family in Rome and now delights in bringing Carmel diners a true taste of Italy's capital city.

While Chef Raffaele’s choice dish is carbonara, he has retired it from the menu, for now at least, to make space for some lesser-known but equally delicious fare. Try the vongole al pistacchio e pancetta—featuring pan-seared pancetta and tender clams in a pistachio cream sauce, and served over fettuccini with Roma’s house-infused basil parmesan. There’s the amatriciana—which pairs gnocchi with thick-cut pancetta and a house-made red wine-infused tomato sauce. And of course, the chef’s signature dish, gamberi e pomodori secchi—another fettuccini option showcasing plump shrimp in a sundried tomato cream sauce. “Pasta is by far my favorite food,” says Chef Raffaele, sharing that he wouldn’t be able to enjoy a meal with his family to the fullest extent without a traditional, home-cooked pasta dish to complete the experience.

No pasta meal is complete without a good glass of vino, and Roma boasts an extensive wine list focused on small Italian producers. With a dining room bathed in natural light and a warm, welcoming staff, Roma transports guests straight to the Eternal City without ever having to leave home. As Raffaele says, "You don’t have to go to Rome to enjoy that experience. Our guests can have its handcrafted food from scratch right here in Carmel."

For fresh pasta and authentic Italian flavors, visit Ristorante Roma at 89 Veterans Way in the heart of the Carmel Arts & Design District. For more information, visit ristoranteromaindy. com and follow @ristorante.roma.indy on Instagram.

Italian

Vibes

Angelo’s Italian Market

For real-deal, handmade pasta, Angelo’s Italian Market in Fishers hits the spot. Mike Marra and his son Chris opened the shop in March 2023 to bring their traditional family recipes to a wider audience. Named for Mike’s father, Angelo—whose parents emigrated from Italy and passed down treasured pasta techniques—this new market in the heart of the Nickel Plate District offers a range of fresh pasta options, from bucatini to cavatelli, pappardelle and more. Here, it’s made with whole grain, organic durum wheat stonemilled into semolina flour, never any egg, and a whole lot of love.

According to Chris, fresh pasta is always better, citing amplified flavor, tender texture and speedy cook times as a few benefits over boxed options. The father-son duo’s aim at Angelo’s is not only to make hand-crafted pasta more accessible but to make family meals at home easier. In addition to a daily hot lunch option, they also offer a wide selection of long and

short pasta along with several different house-made sauces, meatballs, bread and salads, so you have everything you need for the perfect pasta dinner. “The rigatoni with ‘Sunday red sauce’ and meatballs is definitely a Marra family favorite,” says Chris, sharing that growing up, Sundays were always about family and food. He suggests coming early, though, because everything is prepared fresh daily—once the pasta and sauces are gone, you’ll have to wait until the next day for more. Online, you can pre-order lasagnas, pasta bakes and stuffed pastas that just need a quick bake in your own oven for easy enjoyment. They even offer pasta making classes and catering.

Find Angelo’s Italian Market in downtown Fishers at 11649 Maple Street, Suite 95. For more information or to place an order, visit eatangelospasta.com and follow @eatangelospasta on Instagram.

Vibes

Italian Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano

Authenticity reigns at Matteo’s, an Italian eatery in historic downtown Noblesville specializing in the lighter, Mediterraneaninspired fare of Southern Italy, including many Italian seafood dishes not found elsewhere in the area. Co-owned by Adson Franco, who draws upon his Italian heritage, the restaurant has served genuine regional cuisine since 2003, garnering a loyal following for its Italian ambiance, fine cuisine, and impeccable service.

Here, many of Matteo’s signature dishes showcase the talented team’s handcrafted pasta skills, including the namesake Tortellini Matteo’s, featuring cheese-stuffed pasta served with ham and mushrooms in

a delicate cream sauce, and the Gnocchi Sorrentina, where house-made potatopasta dumplings are cooked in a classic Pomodoro sauce. “You know a restaurant is authentic if they offer homemade gnocchi,” says Adson. This spring, they are also offering Penne Pistacchio—inspired by a recent trip to Tuscany. This lively new addition includes penne pasta with a pistachio cream sauce, served with the option of chicken or shrimp.

The inviting patio will open soon for al fresco occasions—it’s the perfect spot for a glass of wine, appetizers with friends, or a traditional dinner. For group events, Matteo’s also offers a spacious private dining space where guests can host everything from business meetings to birthday parties yearround. Carry-out meals and convenient catering is available for off-site parties, with options including the popular pasta bar, where guests can customize their plates with a variety of choices, including penne pasta, spaghetti, Alfredo, marinara and meat sauce, grilled chicken and Italian sausage, along with house-made bread, salad and dessert.

Visit Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano at 40 North 9th Street on Courthouse Square in Noblesville. For more information or to make a reservation, visit matteosindy.com and follow @matteosnoblesville on Instagram. Readers can bring in this issue of Absolute Living Magazine for an exclusive $15 discount during their next visit.

By SuSaN Salaz

’Round the Town

Step to It – Your Mini-Guide to Spring Running Events

Springtime brings warmer weather and the urge to get moving after a long winter. Whether you’re a serious runner or just looking for extra incentive to get active outdoors, there are numerous upcoming races and fun runs to choose from.

Shamrock Run

March 16

Bottleworks District indystpats.com

Debuting an all-new course beginning at the Indianapolis Fire Department Union Hall on Massachusetts Avenue and continuing through the scenic near Northside neighborhoods of downtown Indianapolis before the big finish line at the Bottleworks District, featuring food, drinks and entertainment, this year’s Shamrock Run and Walk will knock your socks off.

Indy 5K Beer Run

March 23

Sun King Brewery – Downtown Indianapolis sunkingbrewing.com

Walk, jog or race through downtown Indy and its nearby neighborhoods before enjoying a post-race pint of craft beer from Sun King Brewery. Part of the 2024 Indiana Brewery Running Series Season, the mission is to be active, have fun and give back, with more than $500K raised for local nonprofits to date.

Total Eclipse Trail Race

April 8

Southwestway Park dinoseries.com

Watch the total solar eclipse darken the sky before the starting horn blows at 3:10 PM, just as the sun begins shining again. But don’t worry—the race is chip-timed, so you can soak in this once-in-a-lifetime event before beginning your 5- or 10-mile trail race. Your entry includes eclipse glasses and an original finisher’s medal.

Easter Egg 5K

March 30

Indiana State Museum Lawn whiteriverstatepark.org

Hop on over to the Indiana State Museum for the 10th anniversary of this springtime fun run—with a 5K course along the canal and a kid's 80-yard dash—that ends in an epic egg hunt and Easter party for the entire family.

Carmel Marathon

April 13

Carter Green carmelmarathon.com

Challenge yourself with the full 26.2-mile distance or shorter events, including relay legs, winding through Carmel’s spectacular neighborhoods. This fast and flat course, known for ideal conditions, is one of the top Boston Marathon qualifying events, with a weekend full of events for elite athletes, novices and spectators.

Hoosier Half Marathon

April 13

Bloomington, Indiana hoosierhalf.com

Before you jump on your bike next weekend for Little 500, lace up your running shoes and blitz through Bloomington on foot—all the way to Ellettsville and back on the new Karst Park Trail for an exciting 13.1-mile loop.

PanCAN Purple Stride

April 27

White River State Park pancan.org

Join Stephen Moore and the Chateau Kitchens family, premier sponsors of the Indianapolis event, and support pancreatic cancer research, awareness and community impact in this inspiring run filled with hope for the future. Read more about PanCAN, Purple Stride and the Moore family in this month’s cover story, where you can also register for the event.

500 Festival Mini Marathon

May 4

Downtown Indianapolis indymini.com

Voted “America’s Best Half Marathon,” the 500 Festival Mini Marathon is an iconic race, drawing more than 20,000 participants from around the world each year. The course begins and ends downtown, winding through White River State Park and west to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where runners have the opportunity to run around the 2.5-mile track and even kiss the bricks.

Dances With Dirt Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K

May 18

Nashville, Indiana dwdgnawbone.com

Accomplished trail runners take on the rolling woodland hills with the spectacular backdrop of Brown County in a series of runs that are challenging, to say the least, often doubling your road time and tripling your effort. But it’s all in good fun and always ends in a post-race barbeque bash.

Indy Pride Rainbow Run

May 18

Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis indypride.org

Sport your most colorful running gear for this family-friendly run celebration to kick off pride season and support the local LGBTQ+ community. Beginning at the Fowling Warehouse (think football + bowling), the course winds through Brookside Park before taking you back for post-race fun.