Includes CITY SNAPSHOTS DISCOVER YOUR NEW HOME
GIVE BACK & GIVE THANKS GET INVOLVED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
HALLMARK HOLIDAYS MAKE YOUR SPIRITS BRIGHT
Q&A WITH INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY TOP DOC AND SO MUCH MORE!




![]()
Includes CITY SNAPSHOTS DISCOVER YOUR NEW HOME
GIVE BACK & GIVE THANKS GET INVOLVED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
HALLMARK HOLIDAYS MAKE YOUR SPIRITS BRIGHT
Q&A WITH INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY TOP DOC AND SO MUCH MORE!




PRESIDENT & CEO, HANCOCK HEALTH
There’s no better feeling than welcoming new residents to the place my family has called home for more than 11 years because to me, there’s no better place!
As one of Indiana’s fastest-growing counties and one of the healthiest in the country, Hancock County is an ideal place to grow your roots, get involved in your community and discover endless possibilities – whether you’re an avid music-lover, consider yourself a foodie, seek outdoor adventures, love classic cars, or anything in between. Hancock County is a pocket of the state that is as unique as you are.
In case you’re wondering, no, I’m not the spokesman for our communities. I’m the proud CEO of Hancock Health, the independent, regional health system that is honored to be your partner in health.
At Hancock Health, we are rooted in the motto “Making Your Best Health Possible,” but I’d venture to say we in Hancock County are committed to “Making Your Best Life Possible.” Let’s start with our high quality of living. From trails and parks to nationally recognized school systems, from an easily accessible health system, including wellness centers, to year-round family fun and entertainment, Hancock County is the total package. Needless to say, you made the right choice.
Your health and well-being is just one part of what makes you uniquely you, and our team at Hancock Health is dedicated to providing services for the whole person, designing healthcare around your unique needs and lifestyle, from diagnostic-specific services such as mammograms to annual well visits for the entire family to specialized medical and surgical services. We see you and we’re here for you.
Enjoy this special holiday issue of Live Local, your destination for all things Hancock County! Discover ways to give back this season, make your spirits bright at a variety of community events, and explore all your new home has to offer – even in these cold weather months. And remember, we’re right down the road, wherever you are in the county, and we’re ready to make YOUR best health possible.
Enjoy your new home - we’re glad you’re here.
Hancock County sits just east of Indianapolis, giving residents the opportunity to experience small-town living with all of the amenities of living in close proximity to the state’s Capital city. Named one of the top 4% healthiest counties in the country, residents thrive from both access to a healthy lifestyle and the quiet of rural small-town living.
As Hancock County’s largest city, Greenfield boasts a vibrant community that draws people from all over East Central Indiana. From restaurants and shopping, to events for adults and kids alike, this bustling Indianapolis suburb is experiencing tremendous growth with no signs of stopping. Named one of the healthiest communities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, residents benefit from access to outdoor amenities, nationally recognized healthcare facilities, and more.
Local favorites include Greenfield’s Main Street shopping and dining district, Tuttle Orchards, Pennsy Trail, Hometown Holidays in December and Riley Festival in the fall.
This quaint suburb calls itself the “quintessential Midwestern town,” and for good reason. Known for its front porches, small shops and welcoming people, it is quickly attracting families from all over Indianapolis’ metro area. Even as the population grows, Fortville is intent on keeping its small-town charm and appeal. It is considered part of the “Health and Heritage Region,” alongside Greenfield, and has been named one of Indiana’s stellar communities.
Fortville favorites include Piney Acres Farms, Flat Fork Creek Park, and Libby’s Ice Cream & Gifts.

The second largest municipality in Hancock County, and located just south of Geist Reservoir, McCordsville has a mission to expand its horizons while maintaining a close-knit community. This beautiful town is currently experiencing significant new development, particularly around its emerging downtown and residential growth.
Local favorites include Daniel’s Vineyard, adorable shops, and plenty of activities for the whole family.
This Hancock County city prides itself on having a safe and smalltown character and unmatched quality of life for residents. With a new comprehensive plan that focuses on maintaining historic charm while also encouraging growth to welcome new residents, New Palestine has a sustainable and well-intentioned vision for the future, while also honoring its past.
Local residents love the big feel of small-town events like New Palestine’s Fall Festival, Friday night football games and local parades.
The epitome of small-town, next door neighbor charm still exists in places like Shirley and Wilkinson, both with populations well under 1,000 people. With proximity to Indianapolis, Greenfield, and all the benefits of being situated in Hancock County, these two small towns, no matter their size, boast many amenities.
Local residents of Hancock County flock to this area to see Shirley’s Octagon House and visit the strawberry festival every summer.







Supporting our neighbors is an integral part of living in Hancock County. As we enter the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s important to reflect, give thanks, and share generously with those around us. Here are a few opportunities right here to uplift our communities:

Lace up your running shoes and “wobble ‘til you gobble” with your family (kids and dogs included!) and friends at the Greenfield Turkey Day 5k on Thanksgiving! Choose from a 5k or 1-mile race, both of which start at 23 N East Main St (Greenfield Christian Church). Learn more and register at greenfieldturkeyday5k.com.
Bonus: register for the NEW Holiday Lights at the Rails 5K & Kids Dash too and get a discount! Select Holiday Bundle at registration.
A Community Foundation of Hancock County initiative, Hello Hancock serves as a hub for community members to view upcoming nonprofit events and to learn about volunteer opportunities. Learn more and find opportunities that suit your schedule and skillset at celebratehancock.org!
This Thanksgiving Day celebration provides meal delivery and carryout for the community – but it isn’t possible without your help!
Two locations, the Hancock County 4H Fairground and the Rushville Elks Club, rely on volunteers to assemble and deliver meals, as well as organizing boxes to prepare for delivery.
Join Hancock Health in donating bags of groceries to Feast of Plenty! To learn more about grocery donations, visit feastofplentyoutreach.com/grocery-donations .
For a $50 donation, you can ensure a family enjoys a Thanksgiving turkey.
Any donation to Feast of Plenty helps feed community members on Thanksgiving Day and throughout the year. Learn more at feastofplentyoutreach.com

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 ½ lbs)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim/ low-fat milk)
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
• ¼ cup coconut sugar or light brown sugar
DIRECTIONS
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 pre-made wholewheat pie crust (or homemade if you like)
Prepare the sweet potatoes:
Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil until tender (about 15–20 minutes), then drain and mash until smooth. You’ll need about 2 cups of mashed sweet potato.
Make the filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, coconut sugar, vanilla, and spices. Whisk (or blend) until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the pie:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the filling into the pie crust and smooth the top.
Bake:
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean.
Let cool at least 30 minutes before serving (it firms up as it cools).
Gazing into twinkling lights as the snow falls softly around you, picking the perfect Christmas tree at a local farm, sharing a warm mug of hot cocoa with a loved one…Hallmark movie or Hancock County?
Countdown to Christmas with all the wonder and cheer East Central Indiana has to offer.
GLIMMER LIGHTS + HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDE
AT PINEY ACRES FARMS
NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 21
(Thursday - Sunday evenings, closed Thanksgiving)
Hop on the festive Piney Acres Express with a cup of signature hot cocoa and freshly made cookies to experience the glimmering wonderland of light displays nestled on this Hancock County farm among acres of Christmas trees.
1115 E 1000 N Fortville, IN 46040
GREENFIELD CHRISTMAS
FESTIVAL PARADE OF LIGHTS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Join your neighbors for this favorite community tradition! The Greenfield Christmas Festival Parade of Lights features festive floats and concludes with the city’s annual lighting of the Christmas tree in Depot Street Park, and visits with Santa.
Downtown Greenfield + Depot Street Park
CHRISTMAS AT THE RICKS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
This annual variety show features a three-part musical presentation by professional musicians from Indianapolis, along with a handful of local acts. The show occurs after the Christmas parade and tree lighting and benefits the H.J. Ricks Centre for the Arts.
122 W Main St, Greenfield, IN 46140
PINEY ACRES FARMS
Piney Acres Farms' 73 acres boast a wide selection of choose-and-cut trees, pre-cut trees, a great selection of unique Christmas ornaments and décor.
1115 E 1000 N, Fortville, IN 46040
NEW PAL WINTER FEST
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
This year’s "Home For The Holidays" theme includes a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, games, food, parade of lights, and more.
11 East Main St, New Palestine, IN 46163
MCCORDSVILLE
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5
At McCordsville’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting, guests get a chance to visit with Santa at McCordsville’s town hall and experience the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree together.
6280 W 800 N, McCordsville, IN 46055
THE PENNSY EXPRESS
RIDE AT THE RAILS
DECEMBER 12 | 6 - 8:30 PM
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas on Pennsy Trail! Enjoy a decorated stretch of the trail from American Legion Place to Riley Ave. via foot or wagon ride.
Depot Street Park
FORTVILLE WINTERFEST
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Kick off the holiday season in vibrant downtown Fortville for Winterfest 2025! Enjoy live music, carolers, a festival parade and tree lighting, as well as craft vendors, a visit with Santa, and ice skating and crafts in the kidzone.
Downtown Fortville

SAMBOL’S TREE FARM
Sambol's Tree Farm is a full-service Christmas tree farm offering both “Choose and Cut” trees growing in their field and Pre-Cut trees. Either way, the staff at Sambol’s does all the trimming, shaking, drilling (if required), and baling of your chosen tree.
7783 N State Road 9, Fortville, IN
LOST FORTY TREE FARM
Lost Forty grows a variety of pines, firs and spruce trees directly on their farm! Choose and cut your tree on site for the ultimate Christmas experience.
4499 N 400 E, Greenfield, IN 46140

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER
THE MOST WONDERFUL CRIME OF THE YEAR
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
Join Greenfield Main Street for an evening of laughs, suspense, and holiday spirit at this murder mystery dinner —it's the most wonderful crime of the year! Tickets are required.
Tickets: https://event.ontaptickets.com/ events/murder-off-main-most-wonderful-crime-of-the-year-12-13-2025
Bradley Hall Events, 2 W. Main St, Greenfield, IN 46140
CHRISTMAS IN THE GALLERY FESTIVAL OF THE TREES
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 20
Enjoy Christmas trees decorated by a variety of non-profit organizationsand vote for your favorite! Trees may be donated to needy families to brighten their season. Visit the Artisan Shoppe, which celebrates art and community with unique items and fine art by local and regional artists. The Artisan Shoppe is open each Thursday from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and each Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Hancock County Arts Gallery 20 W North St, Greenfield, IN 46140
HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Shop local, handmade items like jewelry, crochet, and homemade treats by talented artisans at this year’s Holiday Makers Market!
Wooden Bear Brewing Co. 21 W North St, Greenfield, IN 46140
HANCOCK COUNTY
CHILDREN’S CHOIR CONCERT
FRIDAY, DEC. 5, SATURDAY, DEC. 6
Ring in the Christmas season with the Hancock County Children’s Choir! You Need a Little Christmas will be a heartwarming show filled with holiday music performed by some of the community’s youngest stars.
Tickets: https://app.arts-people.com/ index.php?show=285902
Mercy Road Church Northeast 611 Vitality Dr., Fortville, IN 46040
CHRISTMAS AT THE FAIR
(PUT ON BY HANCOCK COUNTY AG)
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Presented by the Hancock County Ag Association, Christmas at the Fair will be a magical day filled with holiday fun and festive activities, like wreath decorating and carriage rides.
Hancock County Fairgrounds 620 Apple St, Greenfield, IN 46140
WEIHNACHTSMARKT IN CUMBERLAND
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Paying homage to Cumberland’s early German settlers, the 14th annual Weihnachtsmarkt (Vynahkts-mahrkt), a German winter market, brings German Christmas traditions to the local community. Cumberland will close US 40 to celebrate the holidays with artisan vendors, traditional food & beer, kids activities, holiday entertainment, and so much more.
Historic Cumberland | E. Washington St. from Muessing St. to S. Heflin St.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS @ THE RAILS 5K AND KIDS DASH
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 AT 6 PM
This brand new event celebrates the beauty of the holiday decorations in Depot Street Park. All participants will get jingle bells for their shoes, a holiday light necklace, and a gorgeous custom medal. Long sleeve shirts will also be available. Run or walk through lights at Depot Street Park, jingle all the way to Brandywine Park and return to the finish line for hot chocolate and holiday cookies. The kids dash is a great way for the young at heart to celebrate holiday cheer.
CHRISTMAS WALK AT THE OCTAGON HOUSE
FRIDAY, DEC. 5, SATURDAY, DEC. 6, FRIDAY, DEC. 12, SATURDAY, DEC. 13
Tour the historic 1879 James Ross Reeves Octagon House
RILEY PARK
1002 E 2nd St, Greenfield, IN 46140
SLEDDING
FORT HARRISON
STATE PARK (Fort Ben)
6000 N Post Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46216
SLEDDING
WINTER FARMERS MARKET
HANCOCK COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
620 Apple St, Greenfield, IN, 46140
WINTER FARMERS MARKET
GREENFIELD
MAIN STREET ON COURTHOUSE
PLAZA
1 Courthouse Plaza, Greenfield, IN 46140
ICE SKATING
Open weekends Dec 5—Jan 4
Open every day between Christmas and New Year
PENNSY TRAIL
American Legion to Riley Ave
TRACKLESS TRAIN RIDES Dec 19, 20 & 21 from 5-9 p.m. Runs every 15 minutes
Return trip$5 per person add on.
FLAT FORK
CREEK PARK
16141 E. 101st St., Fishers, IN 46038



Did you know? Hancock Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, a carefully vetted and select group of independent health systems that are given access to Mayo Clinic’s world-renowned knowledge and resources. At Hancock Health, our top priority is for patients to feel heard and to have a personalized experience from the moment you walk in our doors. Supported by the Mayo Clinic, we are able to provide additional resources that our providers can use to confirm diagnoses and determine treatment plans, giving you complete peace of mind at no additional cost. Learn more and book an appointment with a Hancock Health provider supported by the Mayo Clinic. (Scan QR code.)
MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS AND MAKE YOUR BEST HEALTH POSSIBLE IN 2026 As the year winds down, give yourself the gift of good health to start 2026 off on the right foot! Many healthcare plans reset on Jan. 1, so if you’ve met your deductible (or are close), this is a smart time to book preventive visits, surgeries (or surgical consults if your schedule doesn’t allow for the surgery this year) or follow-ups you’ve been delaying. Book your appointment with one of our primary care providers by calling 317-468-4600.
Despite the fun and festivities, it’s common to experience stress around the holidays. From family stressors to unhealthy eating to financial constraints, here are some tips from your friends at Hancock Health to help you thrivenot just survive - this season.
UNPLUG FROM YOUR PHONE + SOCIAL MEDIA
Constant connectivity and playing the comparison game on social media can zap happiness. Set boundaries with your phone, putting it away at a certain time in the evening or starting your day with phone-free mornings.
SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Know your limits - time, money and energyand set boundaries to prevent your finances and mental health from taking a back seat. It’s OK to say no to one more holiday party or gift exchange to prioritize alone time or saving money.
Remember what’s most important to you this holiday season - your health, your family + friends, your pets, your experiences - and spend a few moments every day expressing gratitude. This can help shape your perspective during a time of year that can feel overwhelming or stressful.


Rudo Mashindi, MD, is a primary care provider at Hancock Family Medicine Gateway and was recently featured as the cover star on the Indianapolis Monthly Top Docs issue! Being named an Indianapolis Monthly Top Doc is a huge honor, which was awarded to 43 Hancock Health physicians this year. Here, Dr. Mashindi answers some frequently asked questions about women’s health:
WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU OFFER WOMEN IN PERIMENOPAUSE?
Women often experience physical and emotional symptoms as they enter menopause, including irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, night sweats, and brain fog. I always recommend that women view this as a transformation rather than a breakdown. A few things women can do to support this transformation include maintaining a healthy + balanced diet complete with calcium, protein and whole foods, incorporating stress management practices and ensuring you’re sleeping 7 - 8 hours a night, and adding regular strength training and aerobic exercise to reduce muscle loss while improving bone density and mood.
GLP-1 medications, originally for diabetes, can aid weight loss, but they aren’t magic pills. Side effects and more serious risks exist, and weight often returns if treatment stops. Long-term success typically comes when those medications are paired with strength training, good nutrition, and healthy lifestyle habits, making them powerful tools in a larger strategy than quick fixes.
Don’t be afraid to consult a healthcare provider to talk through your symptoms and concerns - that’s what we’re here for! Track your symptoms and don’t doubt yourself if something feels different or “off.” The more information you and your doctor are equipped with, the better we can determine a treat ment plan and make recommendations for therapies.
Instead of letting sugarplum overload leave you in a silent night food coma, swap in festive bites that sleigh without regret. With some simple swaps, yule enjoy your holly jolly holidays without derailing your health goals.


SUGARY COCKTAIL





With talented local artisans and shops right here in Hancock County, support fellow community members by shopping small this year! Discover one-of-a-kind finds, enjoy top-notch service, and help our community thrive long after the decorations come down.
The Gilded Nest 10 W Main St, Greenfield, IN 46140/
PJ’s Pink Boutique 108 S. Main St., Fortville, IN 46040
Wild Kard Vintage 6425 W Broadway, McCordsville, IN 46055


No matter what you’re passionate about, there’s a local charity that would benefit from your generosity this holiday season. Donate your time, talent or treasure to help support community members (and animals!) in Hancock County. Here is a small sampling of the non-profits serving our communities:
Nameless Creek Camp
Nameless Creek Camp’s mission is to increase the appreciation of nature and the enjoyment of the outdoors by creating year-round recreational, educational, and camping opportunities for the youth, families, and communities of Hancock and surrounding counties.
Hancock County Food Pantry
Hancock County Food Pantry secures and distributes food to the needy in an effort to alleviate hunger in Hancock County and beyond.
Kenneth Butler
Memorial Soup Kitchen
This soup kitchen serves all community members regardless of their race, religion, gender, orientation, medical diagnosis, mental capacity, or criminal history by providing their immediate need for nutritious meals.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels helps the citizens of Hancock County maintain an independent lifestyle through the delivery of nutritious meals in accordance with prescribed dietary needs, and provides a point of personal contact with the community.

When it comes to community involvement, few people embody the spirit of Hancock County like Sandy Miller. After retiring, she jumped headfirst into volunteer work— serving on the board of the Hancock Health Foundation for nine years (currently serving on the Signature Gifts committee), which included many years participating on the Women Helping Women committee. One of Sandy's favorite volunteer duties is serving lattes at the Hancock Regional Hospital coffee shop on Thursday mornings. Outside the hospital, Sandy has served on numerous other boards, including the board of the Community Foundation of Hancock County, where she currently serves on the Thrive Committee. She also serves on the boards of the Greenfield Central School Foundation, the Friends of the Theater, and the Talitha Koum Women's Recovery House. Over the years, Sandy has enjoyed volunteering at the Soup Kitchen, the ReadUp Program, and all of the activities of Tri Kappa, where she has been a member for over 40 years.
"I enjoy the variety of volunteer opportunities in our community," said Sandy. "One day, I can help make sure that people do not go hungry. Another day, I raise money to help women live sober lives, another day I help with strategic planning to secure the future of a non-profit that makes a difference in our community. I had a wonderful career teaching and practicing law, and now it is time to give back and pay it forward. I like people, so everyone I meet in a volunteer opportunity is someone else I can get to know and appreciate."
Alternatives, Inc. for Domestic Violence (866) 593-9999
Family and Social Services (800) 403-0864
F.A.R.M. (Fortville Area Resource Mission) (317) 203-9060
Hancock Area Rural Transit, Non-Emergency Transit (317) 462-1103
Hancock County Food Pantry (317) 468-0273
Hancock Health Connection Center for Substance Misuse, Mental Health, and Resource Connections (317) 468-4231
Hope House Homeless Shelter (317) 467-4991
ICAP Emergency Rental Assistance, Child Safety Seat Inspections, Foster Programs, Legal Services, Housing Vouchers (317) 462-2557 ext. 281
Kenneth Butler Memorial Soup Kitchen (317) 462-1113
LOVE Inc. of Greater Hancock County (317) 477-1147
Quit Line 1-800-QUIT-NOW or text READY to 34191
Suicide Hotline (800) 273-8255 or call/text 988
WIC (317) 462-3552
714 E. Broadway St., Fortville, IN 46040 fortville.in.gov
Clerk Treasurer (317) 482-4052
Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (317) 485-3100
Parks and Recreation (317) 482-4063
Planning and Building (317) 482-4050
Police NonEmergency Line (317) 485-4044, Option 1
Town Manager (317) 482-4049
Utilities (317) 482-4047
10 S State St., Greenfield, IN 46140 greenfieldin.org
Animal Management (317) 477-4367
Clerk Treasurer (317) 477-4310
Greenfield Central Community Schs (317) 462-4344
Mayor’s Office (317) 477-4300
NineStar Connect (317) 326-3131
Park Cemetery (317) 477-4387
Parks and Recreation (317) 477-4340
Planning (Permits) (317) 477-4320
Police NonEmergency Line (317) 477-4410

Pothole Line (317) 325-1680
Power and Light (317) 477-4370
Street Department (317) 477-4380
Stormwater Utility (317) 325-1376
Utility Billing (317) 477-4330
Vectren Energy Natural Gas (800) 227-1376
Wastewater Department (317) 477-4336
Water Department (317) 477-4350
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Hancock Health Connection Center Resources
6280 Wail Rd., McCordsville, IN 46055 mccordsville.org
Police Non-Emergency Line (317) 462-1125
Sanitary Sewer Services (317) 335-3493
Stormwater Utility (317) 335-3493
Town Hall (317) 335-3151
Utilities Office (317) 335-1044
42 E. Main Street, New Palestine, IN 46163 newpalestine.in.gov
New Palestine Community Schools (317) 861-4463
Police Non-Emergency Line (317) 477-4400
Town Manager, Streets, Stormwater, Treasurer (317) 861-4727
409 Main St, Shirley, IN 47384 townofshirley.com
Emergency Town Maintenance (765) 571-0297
Fire Dept. Non-Emergency Line (765) 738-6590
Police Non-Emergency Dispatch (765) 738-6547
Police Non-Emergency Office (765) 738-0079
Town Clerk (765) 738-6381
Town Council (765) 354-6561
Utility Office (765) 738-6561

www.hancockin.gov
Assessor (317) 477-1102
Auditor (317) 477-1105
Election Office County Clerk (317) 477-1171
Hancock County Jail (317) 477-1158
Health Department (317) 477-1125
Public Libraries Greenfield (317) 462-5141
Sugar Creek (317) 861-6618 Fortville (317) 485-6402
Recorder (317) 477-1142
Recycling & Solid Waste Management (317) 462-1113
Sheriff’s Office Admin (317) 477-1147
Traffic Safety Tip Line (317) 477-7332
Treasurer (317) 477-1152
Veteran’s Services (317) 462-8767

