LIVE LOCAL
WELCOME TO HANCOCK COUNTY
STEVE LONG 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 like 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 fall issue of Live Local, your destination for all things Hancock County! Pick pumpkins, learn about the history of our towns and cities, attend the Riley Festival - explore all your new home has to offer. 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.
CITY SNAPSHOTS
1 GREENFIELD
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.
2 FORTVILLE
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.
3 Mc CORDSVILLE
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.
4 NEW PALESTINE
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.
5 WILKINSON + SHIRLEY
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.
HANCOCK COUNTY HALLOWEEN AWAITS
Gourd vibes & ghoul times!
It’s Spooky Season and there are plenty of tricks and treats to be had around town … from haunted houses to Trunk or Treats! Read on for more fall fun activities for ghouls and goblins of every age. Eat, drink and be scary!
HAUNTED HOUSES
PINEY ACRES SCREAM FARM
Acres of Halloween fun, including a haunted loft, trail, and spooky storytelling hayride running Fridays and Saturdays in October! 1115 East 1000 North Fortville, Indiana 46040
INDY SCREAM PARK
Known as “Indiana’s Scariest Haunted House,” Indy Scream Park is located northeast of Hancock County and is ready to get your adrenaline pumping throughout the month of October. From Neon Nightmare to Zombie Paintball Assault, enter Indy Scream Park at your own risk. 5211 S. New Columbus Rd., Anderson, IN 46013
HALLOWEEN CRAFT IDEA
NO-CARVE MUMMY PUMPKIN
SUPPLIES
• m edium foam or real pumpkin
• W hite gauze, cheesecloth, or toilet paper
INSTRUCTIONS
• G oogly eyes
• G lue or tape
• O ptional: black paint or marker for a mouth
Wrap the pumpkin with your gauze or toilet paper, mummy-style. Let some orange peek through for a spooky look.
Glue on googly eyes—peeking through the “wraps.”
(Optional) Add a little black mouth or cracks with a marker to give personality. Done! Set it on a table or doorstep— no carving mess, no spoiling!
TRUNK OR TREATS
CUMBERLAND TRAIL & TREAT Sat., Oct. 18, 3-5 p.m.
FORTVILLE TREATS ON MAIN & COMMUNITY FAIR Sat., Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
GREENFIELD MAIN STREET
TRICKS ON MAIN Fri., Oct. 24 at 5 p.m.
Bring your little ghosts and goblins out for trick or treating with local downtown businesses. Walk along Main St and the Living Alley where our merchants and business owners will be passing out candy. Stick around for our FREE movie Coco at H.J. Rick's Centre For The Arts. Free popcorn and water. Other concessions will be available for purchase.
GREENFIELD PARKS DEPT. Thurs., Oct. 23, 6-8 p.m.
HANK’S SPOOKTACULAR AT HANCOCK HEALTH Thurs., Oct. 30, 6-8 p.m.
MT. VERNON HIGH SCHOOL
TRACK OR TREAT Fri., Oct. 29 6-8 p.m.
NEW PALESTINE - MONSTER BASH AT THE BARNYARD PRESENTED BY FUSE & DDS i Sat., Oct. 18, 4-8 p.m.
TOWN OF MCCORDSVILLE
TRUNK OR TREAT Sun., Oct. 26 4-6p , 6-8 p.m.
OCT. 31 5-8 p.m.
Hancock County Trick or Treating hours
HALLOWEEN
SNACK MIX
SERVES 4—6
INGREDIENTS
• 8 cups popped popcorn ~1/4 cup kernels
• 2 cups Rice Chex Cereal
• 1 cups gluten free pretzel sticks like Snyder’s GF
• 1 cup peanuts
• 1 2 oz bag white chocolate chips
INSTRUCTIONS
• 1 tablespoon coconut or vegetable oil
• 1 cup Reese’s Pieces
• 1 cup candy corn
• H alloween sprinkles optional
• Coarse sea salt optional
• Edible eye balls optional
Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. In a very large bowl (or use 2 bowls), add the popcorn, chex, pretzel sticks, and peanuts.
Place the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds then stir. Keep microwaving/stirring for 10-second increments until totally melted.
Drizzle the white chocolate over the popcorn mixture then gently fold with a rubber spatula until everything is evenly coated. Mix in the Reese’s Pieces and candy corn.
Spread mixture into an even layer on the prepared baking sheets. Then immediately sprinkle with the Halloween sprinkles and salt. Gently press the mix-in’s into the chocolate so they stick together.
Let the snack mix cool until the chocolate is set. Store leftovers in an airtight container or resealable bags. Enjoy!
THE ULTIMATE FALL EXPERIENCE "GET LOST" AT PINEY ACRES
FALL
FUN IN HANCOCK COUNTY
PUMPKIN TO TALK ABOUT
As the leaves turn and the temperatures drop, there’s plenty of fall fun to be had across Hancock County! From picking the perfect pumpkin to enjoying a seasonal brew, here are some fall festivities that are not to be missed this year:
TUTTLE ORCHARDS
For nearly 100 years, this fourth generation family owned and operated farm has offered year-round fun, fresh produce and delicious treats for the whole family. Spend a beautiful fall day picking apples and selecting the perfect pumpkins, enjoying wagon rides, a corn maze and gamesand even participating in the Tuttle Orchards’ History Trail to learn about the farm’s storied history. Pro tip: don’t forget to try the apple cider donut!
5717 N 300 W, Greenfield, IN 46140
PINEY ACRES FARM
FALL ON THE FARM: SEPT 27-OCT 30, 2025
Located in Fortville, this 73-acre farm has something for everyone. Explore tons of family-friendly fun, including Piney Acres Farm’s huge corn maze, tractor-driven wagon rides, farm animals, play area, bounce pillow, gem mining, old-fashioned farm games and so much more. Scoop up some pumpkins, squash, corn, sunflowers and autumn treats while you’re there!
1115 E 1000 N Fortville, IN 46040
LARK RANCH
Known as the “ultimate fall experience,” Lark Ranch is the place to be this fall. Spend the day enjoying the corn maze, hayride, jumping pillows, carnival rides, pumpkin patch and more fall fun!
1611 N Meridian Rd. Greenfield, IN 46140
RILEY FESTIVAL
One of the largest craft festivals in Indiana, with more than 460 exhibitors set up on the streets around the 100 year old courthouse, the famous Riley Festival runs from October 2 - 5 in the heart of beautiful Greenfield. The event is rooted in history, celebrating the birth of famed Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley, who was born in Greenfield. (You can also visit the James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum located in Greenfield!)
20 W. South Street, Greenfield, Indiana 46140
SHIRLEY PUMPKINS + PEDDLERS FESTIVAL
This annual weekend fall event features live music, a parade, pumpkin decorating, a pumpkin recipe contest and more on Saturday, October 18 at Shirley Community Park.
200 Second Street, Shirley, IN 47384
NEW PALESTINE HARVESTFEST
Come out on Saturday, October 18 and spend the day trunk-or-treating, tasting chili, playing fall games and getting in the Halloween spirit at the New Palestine HarvestFest!
11 E Main St, New Palestine, IN
DOWNTOWN BOOS + BREWS
This one’s for the adults 21+! Enjoy live music, a beer garden, costume contest and more at Greenfield Main Street for this year’s annual Boos and Brews on Saturday, October 25! $15 entry is required.
Downtown Greenfield
WOMEN HELPING WOMEN
The Hancock Health Women Helping Women initiative helps support healthcare services for under/uninsured women in our community, including mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies, education, navigation, and support services. On October 24, join us as we celebrate women and fundraise for this hallmark program at our annual Women Helping Women event at the Embassy Suites in Noblesville. Learn more at hancockhealth.org/foundation.
MEET YOUR COMMUNITY PROVIDER
with Elizabeth Sirois, MD, Family Medicine Physician, Hancock Health
WHAT DO YOU LOVE
MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Family medicine has a great deal of variety, and I love that I get to work with patients from all ages and walks of life. There's never a dull moment!
WHY DOES PRIMARY CARE MATTER?
Your primary care physician should be your first contact in the health system! We fill multiple roles - first and foremost to know you, your health history, and help you know what things you should do to stay healthy now. We help you stay on top of recommended screenings, the things that for your age and risk factors, we would want to catch early and address before they become significant problems that affect your daily life and activities. We're also here to address concerns as they come up: sprain your ankle, have a headache that won't go away, or some other new issue that's got you concerned? We're here to see you for acute issues to help keep you out of the ER, or help you get in with the right specialist to get things figured out.
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE GET ANNUAL EXAMS?
As we go through life, we can be at risk for different conditions based on our age, lifestyle, and family history. Annual exams are a time to review these risks and see if screening now, before symptoms may arise, is recommended in order to catch things early. Sometimes by the time symptoms arise, a disease may have already caused significant harm to the body unnoticed. Our goal is to identify problems as early as we can to decrease their overall effect to your
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP 3 WELLNESS TIPS FOR PEOPLE OF ANY AGE?
Stay active, drink water, eat fiber!
WHY IS HANCOCK HEALTH SPECIAL? I love that Hancock Health is focused on its local community! Big networks have their benefits, but a local network that is aimed at improving the health of its community can focus on the specific needs of the people it serves.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO IS NERVOUS OR SHY ABOUT GOING TO THE DOCTOR?
First of all - I understand! Sometimes that healthcare anxiety is due to a sensitive topic, and sometimes it's because of a bad experience, but whatever the reason, it can be a big reason that people don't want to come in. Your doctor is a human; we have felt that discomfort of being on the other side of the exam room. We understand the vulnerability it takes to sit there, and are honored when someone trusts us to put themselves in that position.
When it comes to embarrassment about health issues, we can guarantee you we have heard it before. The doctor's office is a place where you do not need to feel shame, embarrassment, or discomfort in talking about sensitive issues. It's the exact place for those conversations to take place.
When anxiety about seeing a doctor comes from past poor experiences, it can be really hard to trust a doctor again. I would urge people to value their health and advocate for themselves; you can see a new doctor, you can bring a friend to help you feel confident. Whatever you need to feel safe re-engaging with the healthcare system, please take that step for yourself. I'd encourage you to let your doctor know about that experience that left a bad impression, so they can be sensitive to it and help you get the care you deserve.
DOES SOMEONE NEED A REFERRAL TO GET A MAMMOGRAM OR CAN THEY SCHEDULE ONE DIRECTLY?
Patients do not need a referral to receive a mammogram. They can call us at (317) 477-6500 to schedule.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL A WOMAN WHO IS NERVOUS ABOUT GETTING A MAMMOGRAM? For the patients who are nervous to get a mammogram, I would tell them that in many cases it is better to know if you have an abnormality or cancer earlier on. Treatments and interventions for breast cancer are improving and earlier diagnosis may mean fewer interventions.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE TIPS FOR WOMEN TO MAINTAIN OR IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH? Changes to diet (less sugar/carbs, more fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber and plant protein), exercise (even if it is just a fast-paced walk), and more self-care/love. Women sacrifice themselves and their bodies for the people they love and don’t often take guilt-free time for their own mental, emotional, and physical health.
WHAT ARE COMMON ISSUES YOU SEE AMONG WOMEN THAT MIGHT NOT FEEL COMMON TO THEM? I think there is so much stigma surrounding women’s health issues that women feel embarrassed to come talk about many issues, which are actually really common. I would want women to know that it doesn’t matter what topic they are nervous to discuss in my office; I promise someone else has sat in their same seat and worried about the exact same thing.
WHAT CUTTING EDGE TREATMENTS ARE YOU USING AT HANCOCK HEALTH? The newest technology at Hancock in women’s health is the availability of the DaVinci Robot to perform minimally invasive surgery, including hysterectomies. This contributes to shorter hospital stays and recovery times as well as the ability to perform more difficult surgeries while still remaining minimally invasive. That being said, I think the most cutting edge technique is the oldest: taking time with my patients and hearing them out. Not everyone needs a hysterectomy with a robot. Most of them just need someone who will listen to them and meet them where they are.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love the people. I love my partners. I love the staff. I love my patients. I love that I get to work on a problem with my patients and get to see the problem improve. Or I get to see them change through their pregnancy and become a new mom or a mom again. And it’s such a bittersweet moment for me when we have developed a relationship over several visits, but the problem is improved or the pregnancy is over, and I don’t get to see them again for a year. I love that I am offered the privilege to be a part of the most vulnerable times of their lives. And I hope I never take these moments for granted.
SMASH’D MIDWEST BURGERS
NEW RESTAURANT OPENING SOON
Hancock County has been hearing the buzz of the highly anticipated Smash’d Midwest Burgers to Greenfield, and many residents have gotten to try the famed burgers first-hand at their pop-up location at Market on Main this summer - with rave reviews! For two years, Smash’d Midwest Burgers has operated its solo location in historic Irvington, near downtown Indianapolis, but will soon open the doors to its second location right here in Hancock County.
Best of Hancock County
The highly anticipated Best of Hancock County list is here and includes a long list of fan favorites in the community. From salons and spas to gyms and restaurants, everything you need is right here. See the full list at bestofhancockcounty.com.
If you’re craving the best food in town, prepare your taste buds and feast your eyes on the top three restaurants in Hancock County.
THE DEPOT
Housed in a 1906 grain elevator, this historic building now serves elevated bar classics, like burgers, steaks, flatbreads, sandwiches, and more. Experience Hancock County history in this beautifully and thoughtfully preserved space and learn more about its past when you dine here.
TRAX
Described by owners Andrew and Whitney Klein as an "Authentic warehouse BBQ joint", Trax BBQ was recently named Best BBQ in Hancock County. Trax BBQ is a casual counter service, offering Carolinastyle BBQ, including pulled pork, ribs and brisket.
LINCOLN SQUARE
Serving breakfast all day to diners since 1989, Lincoln Square has 15 locations around Indiana, including in Greenfield and Fortville. From traditional breakfast fare to burgers and handhelds, there’s something for everyone.
DON RIGO MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
With more than 1,400 positive Google reviews, Don Rigo is serving authentic Mexican food in Greenfield, priding itself on high-quality and consistent food that tastes great every time. Sit back, relax, and keep the chips coming.
STEPHANIE WHITE-LONGWORTH
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF HANCOCK COUNTY MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
PRESIDENT, PRIDE INVESTMENT PARTNERS
A Hancock County resident for more than 30 years, Stephanie White-Longworth, President of Pride Investment Partners, embodies the motto “give where you live.” She is committed to investing in Hancock County through real estate development, including co-owning Leo’s Market & Eatery with her brother, Keith White, a fan favorite in the community. As if her day job doesn’t keep her busy enough, Stephanie is a member of the THRIVE Committee for Community Foundation, a member of her family-operated foundation (The White Family Foundation), and is a Board member at GBC Bank.
With generations of roots in Indiana and Hancock County, Stephanie has a lot of pride in her community, and applauds the growth and development she’s seen in the area over the years. In her spare time, you can find Stephanie absorbing nature on the Pennsy Trail, attending local events and farmers markets, and of course, frequenting Leo’s Market & Eatery.
“HANCOCK COUNTY IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY BECAUSE IT’S FRIENDLY, THERE’S LOTS TO DO, A LOW CRIME RATE, AND LOTS OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS - ALL WHILE MAINTAINING ITS OLD FAMILY VALUES.”
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
FORTVILLE
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
GREENFIELD
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
MCCORDSVILLE
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
NEW PALESTINE
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
SHIRLEY
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
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
