Carmel, IN August 2023

LIFE + CULTURE

GROOMING & GREEN SPACE

SHOPPING

IGNITING IMAGINATION, ENRICHING LIVES

HEALTH + WELLNESS

PLANTING THE SEEDS OF CARING

Unbreakable Bonds

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits! This month I'm pleased to share with you our Pets & Kids Issue.

This issue—our fifth—is one of my favorites to date. It's because of the immense joy that both children and pets bring to our families and to our community.

As a mother of a two- and four-year-old, I’ve come to understand that children represent much more than our hopes for a brighter tomorrow. They are part of the foundation upon which our society stands today. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless enthusiasm shape the world in each moment. Moreover, kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment. I'm happy to highlight some of the best opportunities for Carmel’s kids in this issue.

Pets also hold a special place in our hearts. Their companionship can be a transformative experience. Pets provide us with unconditional love, as well as the opportunity to learn, grow, and develop life skills.

I vividly remember welcoming a dog into our home as our first family pet. I was around six years old, and our new friend brought such amazing energy with him. Throughout the years, our dog was not only a constant source of fun and amusement, he also provided unwavering companionship and comfort when we needed it.

And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry (or feathery) friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

The common link between kids and pets is their need for us. Our care, attention, and intention shapes how they grow and who they become. We hope this month's issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets who brighten your life.  Cheers!

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Danielle Daugherty danielle.daugherty@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Danielle Daugherty, Emma Fitzgerald, Heather Hunter

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maverick Marketing, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

city scene

1: Sweet sisters enjoy a fun night of dinner, ice cream, and fountains in downtown Carmel. 2: Andy Kingsley, Coxhall Gardens Park Manager, shows off the Atomic Kaleidoscope, donated by Coxhall Guild. 3: Faith Apostolic Church’s goal is to build faith and friendships among kids and grownups alike. 4: Old Town Design Group, through its philanthropic venture, the Orchard Project, awards scholarships to local high school students studying construction. 5: Young thespians enjoy a three-week summer camp with the M3 Theater production group in Carmel. 6: Minna Kerchner’s (R) Nest Indy Team celebrates Father’s Day at Prime Car Wash. 7: Melanie Brewer (center), CYAP Ex-officio Board Member and Carmel Gala Committee Chair, poses with family.

OLD TOWN DESIGN GROUP

ASHLEY SMITH

CARMEL YOUTH ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

@PRIYASINGLETON

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

EMMA REYNOLDS

COXHALL GUILD

@EJHAWTHORNE34

8: 100+ golfers participated in the third annual Tee Off for Tyler charity event in Carmel. 9: Colts center, Ryan Kelly, picks his golfing partner for Tee Off for Tyler. 10: Kelly and Tony Trent present a $20,000 check to Riley Children’s Foundation to support cancer research.

Photography by Tyler Trent Foundation

business monthly

Indulge your sweet tooth at Cinnaholic!

This premier, 100% vegan bakery offers an array of freshly baked (never frozen) plantbased treats seven days a week, right here in Carmel. Owned and operated by local residents David and Sanya Strawser, this delightful establishment serves an assortment of goodies, including Cinnaholic's renowned cinnamon rolls, brownies, banana bread, cookies, edible cookie dough, and Dole Soft Serve. Each item is made-to-order with options ranging from traditional to seasonal flavors, 30 different toppings, and 20 different frostings. Yum!

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Time to Celebrate

Pure Barre Zionsville is celebrating its fourth birthday, and you're invited to the celebration! From August 17 to 19, join them to get your first class free, win special raffle prizes, and shop retail sales. All are welcome and no experience is needed. The weekend will kickoff with a sip & shop Thursday evening at 4:30 p.m., and the celebration continues through Sunday. Book a class and join them!

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Female-focused, Experienced Providers

HerMD is health care powered by a female-founded, physician-led organization that focuses on gynecology, menopause, sexual health, and medical aesthetics. Its unique model sets it apart from others by specializing in two often overlooked and underserved areas of women's health: menopause and sexual health. Highly experienced providers Taylor Hahn, MD, FACOG, and Amy Kinnett, WHNP, are now accepting new patients. Located in Carmel City Center. For additional information, visit www.hermd.com

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Carmel

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Grooming & Green Space

ARTICLE BY HEATHER HUNTER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAVERICK MARKETING

KEEPING YOUR PUP HAPPY AND HEALTHY AROUND CARMEL

Perks for dogs and dog owners in Carmel extend beyond the walkable city streets. It’s not hard to find restaurants that allow four-legged friends on their patios, or small businesses specifically designed with dogs in mind.

Scenthound Carmel is one such business. Located in Clay Terrace, Scenthound is a membership-based care and grooming service for dogs.

“The maintenance, routine part of it is at the heart of what we do,” says Sarah Davis. She and her husband, Doug, are the team behind Scenthound Carmel. “Our goal is to take your dog’s preventative care completely off your hands.”

Each dog’s visit to Scenthound includes a bath, nail trim, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. It may sound time consuming for an individual pet owner, but these professionals can usually provide all your pet’s needs in less than an hour. Plus, Scenthound’s Clay Terrace location makes it easy for dog owners to hit the shops or grab a coffee while their pets get pampered.

At the end of the appointment, Scenthound presents each owner with a digital report card called a ScentCheck, which grades your dog’s overall health— ears, teeth, coat, nails and glands— based on the services provided. The goal, Davis explains, is to get every dog to a top-tier rating in every category over repeated visits.

“We’ve heard a lot of our members say that before Scenthound, the biggest challenge when it came to grooming was getting an appointment,” Davis says. “But the membership model makes it easy.”

Provided by Scenthound

While anyone can make appointments without a membership, members have a few extra perks. Scenthound has an app for members that includes virtual vet access around the clock. Members also receive access to all 52 Scenthound locations nationwide and 25% off additional services: grooming, blow dry and brush outs, and shedding treatments.

“It seemed like something Carmel and the Greater Indianapolis area could really use,” Davis says. Natural entrepreneurs, she and her husband jumped at the chance to open a few local locations. Scenthound Carmel opened in March of 2023, and Scenthound Zionsville is set to open by the end of the year.

“Clay Terrace has been incredible, and the Carmel community has been really supportive,” she adds. “It’s a dog community. They have lots of dog-centric events, especially at Clay Terrace.” Right now, Clay Terrace is hosting a dog-friendly summer concert series with features designed specifically for pets.

Outside of the city, Carmel is home to plenty of dog-friendly parks. For families with both kids and dogs, Meadowlark Park is a perfect choice for an afternoon outside. A haven of pickleball courts, unique playground equipment, restored wetlands, walking paths, and open green space, this park has something for every two- and four-legged family member.

For those with water-loving dogs, Flowing Well Park is a must-see—the first public park recognized by Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. While pets are not allowed to drink from the “Old Faithful” artesian well, people certainly are. Fill up your water bottle, then take your pup for a walk along the nature trail or a splash in Cool Creek.

In sprawling Central Park, northeast of the trails, playground, community center, and The Waterpark, you’ll find the Central Dog Park. This three-acre park has designated areas for small and large dogs with plenty of space to run and play. Central Dog Park is membership-based and accepts new registrations twice per year. Follow Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation on social media for the next opportunity to register, coming this fall.  Check out carmelclayparks.com for more places to take your furry friend yearround. And If your dog gets dirty exploring all Carmel has to offer, don't worry. Scenthound's doors are wide open.

Meadowlark Park

Central Park

Flowing Well Park

Igniting Imagination, Enriching Lives

In the heart of Carmel City Center, amidst the hustle and bustle of life, stands a whimsical toy shop where childhood dreams come alive. Its shelves are brimming with opportunities for imagination to take flight and wonders to be discovered.

In today's world, opportunities to peruse the aisles of local toy stores have become less prevalent, as many of us now find ourselves shopping virtual aisles online or hastily testing and playing with items at the back of a grocery store before making a purchase. Fortunately, Kits & Kaboodle continues to

offer this cherished childhood experience for both the young and the young at heart.

Sitting down with owner Teneen Dobbs, I discovered how she is enchanting the Carmel community with her developmental toy business. We also explored how her family is building a legacy that revolves around the well-being and happiness of children.

Teneen emanated an enthusiasm from a recent trip to market, where she immersed herself in discovering the latest and greatest products to bring to her store. I was captivated by her learnings, and was transported

KITS & KABOODLE IS COMMITTED TO CREATING A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR CHILDREN.

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE DAUGHERTY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAVERICK MARKETING

to my own childhood memories of a large store best-known for making sure “I don’t want to grow up.” As Teneen thoughtfully explained the latest toy trends, I fondly remembered the childhood magic I once felt walking through a giant “toy chest” to pick out some sort of fun and entertainment.

Kits & Kaboodle, a long-standing establishment since the 1970s, has consistently offered imaginative and educational play experiences since its beginnings at Glendale Mall. Over the years, the store has relocated a few times. Teneen and husband, Craig, acquired the business in 2004, and have dedicated themselves to making families’ lives a little more fun ever since.

Through a smile, Teneen shared, “We still have those people who used to shop at that location, back in the 70s, come in today, which is lovely.” While owning a toy store was never on the radar for her career, Teneen's college degree with a minor in business and extensive retail background, coupled with raising four children of her own, served as the ideal combination to sustain the enchanting atmosphere that customers love.

“I started at the Glendale Mall location learning the ‘business of toys,'" Teneen said. “So, I had to kind of go back to the 101 of child-rearing because my kids were past the developmental ages for most of the products.” While no small feat, getting into the developmental toy industry felt comfortable because she was raised by two teachers, her siblings became teachers, and her business was an extension of her passion for education and being around children.

In 2020, Kits & Kaboodle moved to its current location in Carmel City Center, and Teneen set out to design what she felt was the perfect toy store. During the height of the pandemic, she saw a renewed focus from families searching for ways to find laughter and joy, so she drew inspiration

from a trip to London and her favorite childhood story about Mary Poppins to create the playful atmosphere. The entire shop was designed to encourage kids to play, and if you time your visit just right, you can even have tea with Mary Poppins herself!

It’s important to Teneen that the store not only provide a welcoming atmosphere for children, but is also a place to test-drive some of the toys. “We will feature a game once a week to show people, and we set it up so they can try it out.” This helps customers get to know some of the store's unique and rare products.

While toy trends may change from year to year, one constant for Teneen is her family’s spirit of caring for children. They proudly support and provide developmental and educational opportunities for children outside of the store walls.

With Teneen's support, her husband, Craig, founded the Children’s TherAplay Foundation in 2000. TherAplay's mission is to ensure children with disabilities and/ or unique needs receive physical, occupational, and speech therapy using the movement of a horse (hippotherapy) as a tool to accelerate physical, emotional, and behavioral development. Currently, their daughter, Kassie O'Malley, is the Director of Development, and their son, Kalvin Dobbs, manages the show-jumping barn on the same property.

Near Elkhart, Indiana, where Teneen and Craig grew up, they are partnering with the local Boys & Girls Club and community members on a project aimed at restoring a 1929 gym. The revitalized space will serve as a hub for after-school activities and care. The two are active contributors to this project, and find so much joy enhancing the well-being of children in their hometown.

As she shared more about her passion for children and education, Teneen expressed, “I also

“We still have those people who used to shop at that location, back in the 70s, come in today, which is lovely.”

“...our motto: play is my job.”

love the public library. It’s where I go when I need a little break from the world.” From a very young age, she remembers the library being her “happy place.” So it’s no surprise she dedicated six years as a board member during the planning of the new Carmel Public Library, and continues to support the Carmel Public Library Foundation with contributions from the store for fundraising or as a volunteer for events. In fact, the store frequently contributes to organizations with education-based missions who request donations.

Reflecting on her personal experience and the importance of local libraries, Teneen shared, “I believe everyone should have a library card, because at the library there are no limits to what educational purposes you can have to better yourself.”

After getting to know Teneen, I understand why she and her husband wanted to own a business where happy childhood memories were made. They have built a space with an unwavering commitment to fostering imagination, education, and the well-being of children. Even

when looking at who they want to hire to run the store, they are committed to finding those who love education. “We are always looking for friendly faces to greet people at the store entrance, and then the training behind it follows our motto: play is my job.” She likes hiring aspiring educators who understand children’s developmental needs, but is equally grateful for some key hires who have been with her along the way. Teneen shared, “I have a staff member, Eric Demalon, who was Salesperson #1, and he is still with the company. And there's my store manager, Jeri Dorsey, who is my lifeline. I appreciate her because she loves what we do.”

These employees have helped create a haven where dreams take flight and childhood memories are made.

Beyond the walls of their store, Teneen and Craig’s outreach and involvement in community projects demonstrate their genuine dedication to lifting up the lives of those around them. As the laughter and joy reverberate through the aisles, it is evident that this toy store is not just a place to purchase toys, but a testament to the transformative power of compassion and community spirit. By supporting this local treasure, we not only invest in the future of our children, but also in a brighter, more vibrant community.

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Planting the Seeds of Caring

MEET AN ORGANIZATION PASSIONATE ABOUT GUIDING THE NEXT GENERATION.

KIDS CORNER | HEALTH + WELLNESS

Projects for August and September 2023:

1. Book Drive for Indy Book Project

2. Welcome Kits for New Americans for Exodus Refugees

3. Cards & Crafts for Family Promise of Greater Indianapolis

4. Treat Our Animals Well for IndyHumane (active during September)

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If there is one thing we can all agree on, it’s that children offer us hope for a better tomorrow. It is our shared responsibility to instill the necessary values in children for kind and well-rounded adults. One might say it's our job...to plant the seeds of caring.

In 2017, Brandy Jemczura, the founder of Seeds of Caring, wanted to share her values of social change with her children. As a teacher and a social worker, Brandy was no stranger to being involved in the community. After searching for ways to get her own children involved in service projects, she realized there were hardly any non-profit, community outreach programs centered around providing children experiences to give back to their communities. She took matters into her own hands and started Seeds of Caring.

Seeds of Caring is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on teaching children to make the biggest difference every day. Striving to instill gratitude, curiosity, growth, and integrity in their young volunteers, most projects are designed with children ages 2 to 12 in mind. The organization utilizes three pillars to enhance the community: service projects, social action, and community building. After years of growth and seeing the difference Seeds of Caring made in Columbus, Ohio, Brandy chose to expand the organization into Indianapolis and its surrounding cities.

The Indianapolis Program Manager, Blair Everett, shares a story similar to Brandy. Blair spent most of her twenties volunteering, and also wanted to pass on the idea to her children that community matters.

Blair hopes the largest impact made by Seeds of Caring is providing children with the “social skills, confidence, and awareness to become empathetic leaders.”

Blair's favorite volunteer opportunity has been the Sack Lunch Project. Children decorate paper bags, fill them with a sandwich and some snacks, and then the lunches are delivered to homeless shelters. Long after the lunches are gone, she has been told recipients hold on to the bags because of the joy they feel seeing the artwork of the young volunteers.

Aside from working to involve children ages 2 to 12, Seeds of Caring sets itself apart by allowing all service projects to be completed remotely. This allows families to get involved in a timeframe that works best with their schedule and in the comfort of their own homes. Summer, a young volunteer with Seeds of Caring, shared, "I like being a part of Seeds of Caring because it makes me feel good to know I am helping people. I also like knowing even though I am a small part of a much larger effort, we all can help the community."

Yes, our children are the future, but instilling values and creating change starts in the present. Seeds of Caring is an organization that is passionate about this idea and wants to kickstart change by helping children grow into leaders who break down barriers and create a “full community.”

TO JOIN A SERVICE PROJECT:

• Visit seedsofcaring.org/indianapolis

• Select the project best suited for your family, friends, sports team, etc.

• Read through the packet sent to your email. Then gather your supplies.

• Complete the project on your own timeline in your own space.

• Drop off the project at an ambassador’s home for distribution using the specified dates in your packet.

“Our children are our future.”

Seeds of Caring Founder, Brandy Jemczura, and Indianapolis Program Manager, Blair Everett

Pawesome Bites

FOR FURRY FRIENDS

Welcome to a world of tail-wagging and purr-inducing delight! In this article, we delve into the realm of homemade treats for our beloved four-legged friends –dogs and cats. As pet owners, we strive to provide the best care for our furry companions, and that includes offering them nutritious and delicious treats that are made with love right in our own kitchens.

So, grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and prepare to unleash a world of gastronomic joy for your furry friends. Let’s dive into the realm of homemade treats, where wholesome ingredients meet tail-wagging and purrfect satisfaction for our beloved dogs and cats.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4-1/3 cup peanut butter (xylitol free)

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half (lactose free)

• 3 cups oatmeal

DIRECTIONS

1. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk with a mixer on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate. Serve to your pet as a tasty treat!

HOMEMADE, WHISKER-LICKIN’ TREATS FOR YOUR FELINE AND CANINE COMPANIONS.

Janie Jones Photography

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE DAUGHERTY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

INGREDIENTS

• 1 egg

• 4 tablespoons peanut butter (xylitol free)

• 1/2 cup apple, chopped fine

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool and serve to your pup!

Birthday Cake for Your Pup Salmon Cat Treats

INGREDIENTS

• 10 ounces canned salmon, undrained (any oily fish works, i.e. mackerel or canned shrimp; chicken works too)

• 1 egg, beaten

• 2 cups of whole wheat flour

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Pulse 10 ounces of undrained, canned salmon in a food processor to chop as finely as possible. In a stand mixer, combine salmon, 1 egg (beaten), and 2 cups whole wheat flour until dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add up to 1/3 cup water. If it is too wet or sticky, add a bit more flour. The dough should be tacky but not sticky. Roll dough on a floured surface until about 1/4-inch thick. Use a 3/4-inch cookie cutter in the shape of your choice to create your treats. Place treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350° for about 20 minutes. When they’re slightly browned and crunchy, they’re done. Allow to cool before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. (recipe found at: www.thecookierookie.com/ )

Janie Jones Photography

This weekend project is sure to become a family-favorite spot for making summer memories!

DIY PLAY FORT

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

This adorable outdoor play space is not only easy and inexpensive to build, but it is full of charm and the perfect spot for the kids to play and lounge. The A-frame structure is easily customizable to any style and color scheme desired. Leave the wood bare, or add flare with paint or stain. An outdoor clubhouse provides a space that allows kids to make it their own and to let their imaginations run wild while spending time outdoors.

For this project, we visited Home Depot to get all the necessary supplies. The deck is an 8 x 10 platform so there is no need to cut down the length of any boards and pressure treated wood was used. First, dig holes 18 inches down to put the footers, which is a 4 x 4 x 8 treated post, and cut those into two foot lengths.  Next, pour quick set concrete in the holes. Add water, and set the posts in and let it dry. We used lag screws to attach the base 2 x 10s to the corner posts, and then 2 x 6s for the joists with metal hangers.

Now time to put on the decking boards with exterior screws. Don’t forget to constantly check with a level.  Once the decking is finished, now it is time for fun!

For the A frame you need a 60-degree angle at the top of the A, and a 30-degree  angle at the bottom. You can run a 4 x 4 along the decking to attach the A frame which adds a bit of height so adults can stand in it as well.  Use heavy duty exterior screws to attach the A frame 2 x 4’s to the structure. The top of the A comes together and is held by exterior screws. For the roofing, we used 8-foot corrugated clear panels and screwed those into the A frame for a weather protecting cover.  We left three feet uncovered so a chair and some pots with herbs and flowers could be added to the entrance. Decorate with outdoor pillows, a children’s table, outdoor rug  and hanging flower pots to make it feel like a special place for kids to go. If entertaining friends, a few simple charcuterie boards are always a hit.

AUGUST

AUGUST

Clay Terrace: Back 2 School Bash

VILLAGE GREEN, 14390 CLAY TERRACE BLVD. (NEAR DICK’S SPORTING GOODS) | 11:00 AM

Join your friends and neighbors for one final bash before school starts! This free event (11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), will host a Touch-A-Truck attraction, food and booth vendors, a selfie station, face painters, music, games, and a Passport Trail to collect school supplies at participating retailers. The first 50 people to complete their passport receive a free backpack stuffed with school supplies!

Pure Barre Pop-up

COXHALL GARDENS AMPHITHEATRE | 9:00 AM

Start your weekend with an outdoor pop-up barre class! The class is free and starts at 9:00 a.m. All you need is a mat and comfortable athletic attire. Pure Barre is a full-body, high-intensity, low-impact workout that will tone and strengthen your muscles. Editor’s Note: last month’s City Scene misprinted the date for this event as the first Saturday in August and labeled this as a yoga rather than a barre class. Please note the changes.

Posh Picnic

AUGUST 2023 34

AUGUST Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

COXHALL CRIPE PAVILION | 6:30 PM

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