Thank Goodness For Kids & Pets
Here we are, sliding into the final month of summer and wondering where the time went. For me, this is actually one of my favorite times of the year because we get to release the "Kids and Pets" edition. At times, I feel like this should be titled "The edition of Unconditional Love." No matter how frustrated I become with my kids, they will always be my No. 1, and I'll always be there for them, whether they like me in the moment or not. Conversely, regardless of what I do, where I go or how my day is, I'm welcomed with a wagging tail and lots of love by man's best friend, as I'm truly loved unconditionally regardless of my flaws and missteps.
For me, this is more than a typical edition, and I really enjoy working with my team to bring our readers relatable and fun content. If finding stories to fit into an edition's theme is ever difficult, it's certainly not for this one. There's such an abundance of great organizations, people and causes relating to kids and pets, we have a difficult time paring down what we should write about and always wish we had more pages to include everything we come across. This month's rendition easily could be 100 pages or more.
As is every month, our primary goal was to put forth content that's both informational and enjoyable. This month is no exception, and we found some stories that really hit the mark. But our lead story is actually my own. It's a story of perseverance and dedication for which I take very little credit, aside from the initial adoption. My dog, Bama, was adopted last August through Love of Labs, as an 8-week-old pup rescued from a barn in Kentucky. We thought he was mostly labrador retriever, but it turns out he's as much bloodhound and Great Dane. As he reached about 8 months old, he was so out of control, he actually ripped the rail off of a wooden deck. The story that follows exhibits the true dedication and determination of one of our partners to get this beautiful little guy under control. I hope you enjoy the story of Bama, as well as everything else in this Kids and Pets edition of Greenwood City Lifestyle. As always, thank you for your readership and support.
SCOTT GILCREST, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Scott Gilcrest | scott.gilcrest@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Abby Barkdull | abby.barkdull@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Julie Brown Patton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christi Henson, Karmen Franklin Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Back to School
A Dental Office Designed Around You
The team at Sauer Dentistry treats each patient as a member of the family. They take time to understand their symptoms and concerns and develop custom treatment plans that encourage optimal oral health and beautiful, vibrant smiles.
Dr. Whitney Marsh & Dr. Aaron Sauer
AUGUST 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Emma Tschopp’s design won Color the County mural on Taxman Brewing Company in Bargersville. 2: Here's the winning mural created by Emma Tschopp, an incoming junior at Greenwood High School. 3: Aberdeen Bark Park held grand-opening ceremony with Dogtopia of Greenwood and Top Tier K9 Greenwood. 4: Studio YOU Yoga hosted Puppy Yoga with Old English bulldog puppies from Big Time Oldes. 5: Proceeds from the Puppy Yoga class were donated to Heartbeat 4 Paws. 6: Heartbeat 4 Paws is a local nonprofit whose representatives rescue senior and special needs dogs. 7: Sparrow's in Top Tier K9 training for scent, tracking, advance obedience and prey drive building.
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JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
STUDIO
STUDIO
STUDIO
business monthly
Franciscan Physician Network In Greenwood Adds New Doctor
Andrew Benton, M.D., joined the team at Franciscan Physician Network North Grove Family Medicine at 362 Meridian Parke Lane in Greenwood. He received his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. He completed his residency training in family medicine at Deaconess Family Medicine Residency in Evansville, Indiana. He sees patients of all ages, from birth to seniors. To make an appointment with Dr. Benton, call 317.528.8760.
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Police Dog Coloring Book Supports Shelter Canines Becoming K9 Officers
A new coloring book from Plainfield-based Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue is available for $8.99 on Amazon, with all proceeds going to this nonprofit rescue so they can take more dogs “from shelter to shield.” The book is for younger kids, and outlines the rescue's mission of helping shelter dogs with second chances as they're trained to become police canines. Therese Ann and K9 Graphics provided illustrations based on real, rescued dogs graduates of the program.
Mallow Run Winery To Host Family-Friendly 20th Anniversary Festival
Join the Mallow Run Winery team in Bargersville, 6964 West Whiteland Road, to celebrate the winery's 20th anniversary on Saturday, Aug. 30, from noon to 9 p.m. They will host music on the patio from noon to 3 p.m. on the lawn. At 6 p.m. the band Roughouse with perform with free admission. All ages welcome. On Sunday, Aug. 31, they will provide a slow-roasted pork meal with sides, plus live music by The Indigos.
Photography by Franciscan Health
Photography by Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue/Illustrated by Therese Ann
Photography by Mallow Run Winery
OUR
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Veterinary Practice
Angel Animal Hospital
https://myangelanimalhospital.com/ | 317.888.6435
Animal Clinic Whiteland Greenwood https://www.thewhitelandanimalclinic.com/ | 317.535.7128
Bargersville Veterinary Hospital & Wellness Center https://www.thrivepetcare.com/locations/indiana/franklin/bargersville-veterinary-hospital-and-wellness-center | 317.534.6000
Franklin Animal Clinic
https://franklinanimalclinic.net/ | 317.434.1755
Center Grove Animal Clinic
https://www.centergroveanimalclinic.com/ | 317.535.8387
Kid's Activity
Storybook Play Cafe
https://storybookplay-cafe.com/ | 463.245.3804
Splash Pad
https://www.greenwood.in.gov/department/blocks-divisions.php?structureid=19 317.881.4545
Want to suggest a
Urban Air Adventure & Trampoline Park https://www.urbanair.com/ | 317.207.0920
Little Jumpers (bounce house rentals) https://littlejumpersllc.com/ | 317.590.4916
Rascals Fun Zone https://rascalsfunzone.com/ | 317.535.7600
Leading the way in Patient Safety
Johnson Memorial Health has earned the nation’s top distinction for patient safety with an “A” from the Leapfrog Group. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is an elite designation from a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the U.S. This honor belongs to every one of the providers and associates at JMH who work each day to provide exceptional health care for our patients.
Great care starts here.
FROM 'BAD' DOG
To 'Good' Dog
Look At Bama's Successful Training Journey With Top Tier K9 Of Greenwood
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTI HENSON
While Bama was understandably in full puppy mode for the past few months due to turning 1-year-old this August, he also became a physically strong, rebellious handful that led to some destructive behaviors and pet ownership frustration for Greenwood City Lifestyle publisher Scott Gilcrest. Giving up was not an option. Enter the training team of Top Tier K9 of Greenwood.
Jen Mutz, Top Tier K9 co-owner/operator, states their training program focuses on building trust to help dogs stay focused, no matter the setting.
Scott says Bama was rescued from Indianapolis-region Love of Labs Indiana.
"We think Bama's a lab/bloodhound/Great Dane mix, so he's naturally muscular, smart and super active. He also was territorial and easily agitated," he says.
Bama's Top Tier K9 trainer, Christi Henson, says he came in with high anxiety toward people, new environments and other dogs.
"During his first week, our focus was to build trust and confidence through positive interactions and to provide simple tasks to celebrate successes. We had to be patient and move forward at his rate of comfortability," she recalls.
Once Bama became comfortable with the training team and training room, Christi says they successfully introduced him to another training dog, Moses. "They became the best of friends, which helped Bama's confidence soar. That's when his training took off. He was able to focus during training, excel in his commands and begin to practice outside with distractions."
During Bama's second week, Christi says they named the commands and began to hold him accountable through a balanced training approach. The third week, she says they added distance, duration and distractions.
Christi says Bama recently graduated from his customized training with confidence and the ability to not only overcome anxiety of new people and situations, but to tune them out and enjoy new adventures.
"As his trainer, I've grown so close to him. This precious boy completely stole my heart. The transformation I've seen with him is unbelievable. He and I worked so hard over a month to get to where he is now. He's an amazing dog, and I'm so proud of him," exclaims Christi.
She says she enjoyed seeing Bama work through so many fears and insecurities. "It's hard to believe he's the same dog. Helping him work through this, watching him gain confidence and become what he has, is one of the greatest things you could see and be a part of."
Bama with his training buddy, Moses (on left).
"I know Bama's life will be better, happier and more fulfilling. It's a heartbreaking goodbye for me, but I'll be OK knowing his life will forever be changed for the better. I love you, my sweet Bama! And I'm so, so proud of you!" shares Christi.
Jen and Christi indicate that their assessment process involves scheduling a free evaluation with a dog and owner(s) to observe the dog's temperament, reaction to new environments and other people, to find out what obedience commands they already know and to discuss training goals with owners.
"We then discuss best training options to meet both dog and owners' needs," assures Jen.
This Greenwood state-of-the-art training facility, which includes boarding, is located at 1709 S. State Road 135, and launched on Aug. 26, 2023. The team provides Pet and Foundation Dog training programs related to COVID-19 detection and the future of K9s in the world of virus detection.
317.447.0853
JEN MUTZ | K9 CO-OWNER/OPERATOR
The first week of Top Tier K9 of Greenwood dog training focuses on luring commands (technique where desired behaviors are achieved by using treats or toys to guide dogs), positively reinforcing commands and building a dog's confidence. During the second week, they name commands and hold dogs accountable through balanced training. The third week, distance, duration and distractions are added.
Photo: Beloved Baby Bama
Grants To Youth Serving Programs
Johnson County Community Foundation Awards Financial Support To 13 Organizations
Johnson County Community Foundation (JCCF) representatives awarded $92,000plus in funding to 13 local organizations that enhance the lives of youth in Johnson County. This is the second year the foundation has awarded a specific cycle of youth-related grants.
This 2025 Youth Serving Programs grant cycle supports a wide range of impactful initiatives, from mentorship and mental health services to leadership development, education and basic needs support. These programs are designed to serve hundreds of young people across the county, helping to build a stronger, healthier and more resilient next generation.
2025 Youth Serving Programs grant recipients include:
• Advocates for Education, Inc.: JusticeInvolved Youth Educational Outreach Program | $7,500
• Angelcare, Inc.: Residential Services for Homeless Pregnant Teens | $4,000
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana: Group Mentoring in Johnson County | $2,080
• Boys & Girls Club of Johnson County: Program Enhancements | $8,440
• Camptown: Trailblazers Youth Outdoor Program | $2,000
• Dotted Line Divas (Indy Hygiene Hub): Hygiene Kits and Period Packs for Schools | $5,000
• Firefly Children & Family Alliance: Family Visitation Room Renovation | $4,000
• Haven for Healing: Healing Through Horses Equine Therapy | $10,000
• Indiana State Climate Office at Purdue: Mesonet Monitoring Station in Johnson County | $26,000
• KIC-IT: Foundations First Fund for Youth in Crisis | $10,000
• Leadership Johnson County: Bold Academy: Middle School Leadership Camp | $4,570
• Resources of Hope: Birthday Blessings for Foster Youth | $4,400
• St. Rose of Lima Catholic School: New Playground Project | $5,000
“We're honored to partner with these outstanding organizations who are doing essential work of uplifting and empowering youth in our community,” says Kim Kasting, president and CEO of JCCF. “These grants reflect our commitment to investing in a brighter future for Johnson County’s young people.”
Founded in 1991, JCCF is a tax-exempt public charity and philanthropic leader. Application for grants regarding mental health programs opens Oct. 10, and is due Oct. 31, 2025 by 4 p.m.
317.738.2213 JCCF.org
K9 Chase Has PAWSitive Followers
Bargersville Police Department's Most Recent K9 Officer Is Popular In-Person And On Facebook
Transformed from unwanted to unstoppable for community safety: Guess which Bargersville police officer has his own Facebook page and optimistic future? Why, it's law enforcer K9 Chase!
His partner is Bargersville patrol officer Joshua Wheat. "Becoming a K9 officer was something I’ve always wanted to do because of my love for dogs, as well as my desire to get dangerous narcotics off the streets," he says. "Chase is my first K9 partner. He absolutely comes home with me (when off-duty) and is a part of my family."
Chase will be 3 years old this November.
"He surprised me by truly being the best dog I’ve ever had. Chase is full of energy, loves attention and is extremely loyal. He’s become my shadow, because wherever I go, he's usually just behind me. Not to mention how he LOVES playing with any and every toy," explains Joshua.
Rob Prichard, founder of Plainfield-based Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue, says Chase had a challenging start in life, often seen alongside his German Shepherd brothers by animal control officers.
Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue team members rescue high-drive, social dogs from shelters and train them to become certified police canines, ensuring they meet and exceed
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARMEN
FRANKLIN PHOTOGRAPHY
nationally recognized police work standards. These once-homeless dogs become heroes serving communities while finding purpose, a home and a family.
The rescue provides the dog, training, equipment and initial vet care to police departments at no cost to agencies or taxpayers — compared to a pre-trained K9 dog with a certification school that can cost $30,000-$40,000. Rob says officers gain valuable partners, shelters have fewer dogs and communities are safer.
When Chase finally was surrendered and abandoned at the Morgan County Humane Society for chasing chickens, Rob says shelter staffers saw that environment and over-kenneling stress was making him rapidly decline.
"The shelter staff met with me after-hours on their own time on more than one occasion as we tried to get him a home because of how loved he was there. They saw that to thrive, Chase needed a job," explains Rob.
Bargersville patrol officer Joshua Wheat and K9 officer Chase: "The police department's glad he’s part of our team, but I’m thrilled to have him as family."
It was clear Chase had incredible potential, Rob says, showcased by his remarkable enthusiasm for chasing balls and willingness to learn. "We were impressed by his drive and talents, so helped him get on the path to a brighter future with a meaningful mission."
He was trained to become a narcotics detection, tracking and article detection/scent K9. "Now Chase has that motivating job. He loves going to work, and the prancing paws he does after finding drugs made him a crowd favorite," Rob shares.
Since K9 Chase joined the Bargersville police department this April, he helped a Make A Wish middle school youth fulfill her dream, and just a week out from graduation, he made his first arrest for suspected narcotics. "Not too shabby for being 'just a pound dog,'" quips Rob.
He adds: "K9 Chase shows that shelter dogs aren't broken, and when given patience, training and guidance, can excel. These dogs are literal underdogs, those left-behind, often overlooked and at risk of euthanasia. Chase is the embodiment of our slogan: 'Emptier shelters, safer streets.' We hope Chase loves every minute of his new life."
Rob says their efforts are all about transforming the lives of shelter dogs by providing them with a second chance. "Through our training programs, these resilient dogs are rehabilitated with love and care, and trained to become highly skilled police canines."
As a 501(c)(3), Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue accepts donations for these four-legged heroes and sells fundraising merchandise. Find Chase's profile at Facebook.com/K9 Chase Bargersville Police Department.
RedemptionRanchK9.com
Sports Rehab, Performance, and Recovery
Hands-On, 1-on-1 Sessions | Dry Needling | Cupping Soft Tissue Massage | Dynamic Air Compression
DR. ESHAAN LOTHE, PT, DPT, CERT. DN
5080 N STATE ROAD 135, SUITE G, BARGERSVILLE, IN 46106
GOLDENPHYSICALTHERAPYIN.COM 317-893-2449 | V GOLDENPHYSICALTHERAPY
ICE BATH BENEFITS
BAYBERRY SPA OFFERS SPORTS MASSAGE, COLD WATER IMMERSION, INCLUDING YOUNG ATHLETES
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Ice baths, or cold water immersion, are commonly used to treat sports injuries, particularly those involving inflammation and swelling. Medical professionals indicate this treatment helps reduce swelling, pain and muscle soreness associated with sprains, strains and muscle contusions.
Additionally, ice baths can aid in post-exercise muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting faster return to activity.
Jennifer Hagner, Bayberry Spa founder and owner, agrees: “After an intense workout or competition, many athletes turn to ice baths as a powerful recovery tool. Immersing the body in cold water (typically 50 to 59 degrees F) can help reduce muscle, soreness and speed up the healing process."
While ice baths aren’t for everyone, Jennifer, a nationally board-certified massage therapist and former instructor, says they can be a valuable addition to an athlete's recovery routine, especially during heavy training cycles or after intense, sports-related events and competitions. Ice-related treatments are among the spa's newer services.
"As always, it’s wise to consult a coach or health care professional to ensure cold therapy is safe and appropriate for your needs," she adds.
Cold water immersion is rooted in ancient practices for both physical and spiritual well-being. Evidence suggests its use dates back to ancient Egypt, based on mentions in the Edwin Smith Papyrus around 3,500 BCE for therapeutic purposes. Ancient Greeks and Romans reportedly also used cold baths. Furthermore, various cultures, including Japanese with the Shinrin-yoku practice, have incorporated cold water immersion for spiritual purification and connecting with nature.
“Sports massage helps young athletes recover faster, improve flexibility and stay injury free. It’s not just about easing sore muscles, it’s an essential tool to keep growing bodies, strong, balanced and ready to perform their best. At Bayberry, each session is customized with techniques like Graston, stretching, taping or cupping to meet individual needs," Jennifer explains.
This spa's team at 1 N. Madison Ave., in Greenwood, specializes in massage therapy, spa facials and body treatments using
"Ice baths can be a valuable addition to an athlete's recovery routine."
FarmHouse Fresh goods and top-notch spa products. Massage therapists on staff provide massage techniques and modalities including: deep tissue; Swedish; pediatric; geriatric; prenatal; couples; sports; myofascial release; trigger point; stretching; heated bamboo, manual- and medi-cupping.
317.893.5370
BayberrySpa.com
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Kids Adore Frozen Desserts, Let's Go!
LOCAL HAND-DIPPED HAPPINESS DELIGHTS THOSE YOUNG AND YOUNG AT HEART
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Known for a distinctively smooth taste that stems from making fresh daily batches of ice cream with premium ingredients, from a proprietary recipe, this store opened during the summer heat of 1945. In Greenwood, it's located at 902 N. State Road 135.
Cellar's Market
Get a taste of Italy in downtown Bargersville at 63 N. Baldwin St., with gelato and sorbet made in-house using high-quality, fresh ingredients.
Mrs. Curl Ice Cream Shop And Outdoor Cafe
Serving fine desserts and outdoor fare, this shop's been a fixture in downtown Greenwood since 1962 (now 63 years). Located at 259 S. Meridian St., it originally was named "Parkview Dairy" and later became "Mr. Curl" before being renamed "Mrs. Curl."
Ella's Frozen Yogurt & Candy Shop
Swirl two sides of yogurt for more flavor/fun, with a selection of 55 toppings, including sugar-free options, in Greenwood at 520 N. State Road 135, Ste. A.
This aviation-themed dessert shop in Greenwood offers scoops, milkshakes and ice cream cakes at 1280 U.S. Highway 31 N.
LiftOff Creamery Greenwood
Photo: Courtesy of Handel's Ice Cream
Photo: Courtesy of Cellar's Market
Photo: Courtesy of LiftOff Creamery Greenwood
Photo: Courtesy of Ella's Frozen Yogurt
AUGUST 3RD
Cars & Coffee
Maple Grove Elementary | 8:00 AM
Enjoy a Saturday morning with coffee, conversations and cars. This event, at 3623 W. Whiteland Road, concludes at noon. Visit Bargersville Main Street event details at BargersvilleMainStreet.org
AUGUST 7TH
Free Summer Concert
Umbarger Plaza | 6:00 PM
The Bargersville Parks & Recreation Department staff partnered with RD Productions, LLC for a free summer concert Aug. 7 by the band My Yellow Rickshaw from 7-9 p.m. They play rock, pop, bluegrass and R&B music. Bring lawn chairs. Food and adult beverage vendors will be available; no tents, umbrellas or outside alcohol allowed. For questions, email parks@ bargersville.in.gov.
AUGUST 16TH
WAMMfest 2025
Craig Park | 12:00 PM
This annual summer WAMM festival equals WINE, ART, MUSIC and MICROBREW. WAMMfest is organized by members of the Sertoma Club of Greenwood (founded in 1966) as a celebration and commitment to Greenwood. Savor fragrant varieties from Indiana wineries, shop juried art fair of 40-plus artists, enjoy live music and taste award-winning craft beer from central Indiana breweries. Entry tickets $15.
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AUGUST 16TH
Sunshine, Sunflowers And Sun Salutations
Dollie’s Farm | 5:00 PM
Goat Yoga, fun and relaxation is available. A $38 fee covers the all-levels yoga flow, a glass of fresh lavender lemonade and participants’ choice of sunflower stem to take home. Register at StudioYouYoga.com/workshops-events
AUGUST 23RD
Myofascial Release Workshop
Studio YOU Yoga | 1:00 PM
Learn how to work the tension out of deep connective tissues of the body to improve range of motion and reduce soreness. The registration of $40 can be taken care of online at StudioYouYoga. com/workshops-events
AUGUST 29TH
Cultural Soundscapes: The Breakes, Free Outdoor Concert
Umbarger Plaza | 6:00 PM
Join musical artist, The Breakes, under the open sky while the rhythm of Bargersville is celebrated with a diverse lineup of live music, local talent and family-friendly fun. Food, drinks and gelato available at Pizza & Libations, Cellar’s Market and Taxman Bargersville. Bring lawn chairs or blankets.
Unleash Joy
Join us as we celebrate the extraordinary bond with our four-legged friends, exploring training tips, behavior insights, and the lighter side of life with dogs. From decoding body language to mastering obedience, each edition offers expert advice and entertaining anecdotes for both novice and seasoned dog owners.
From training tips to entertaining insights, join us as we explore the joys and challenges of sharing our lives with our furry friends. Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or a first-time dog owner, our column is designed to celebrate the unique bond we share with our dogs and provide insights into their behavior, training methods, and overall well-being.
Have a specific topic in mind? Contact us.
ken.weadick@toptierk9.com 317-447-0607
This Month’s Tip
You can’t apologize to a dog. If you’re unfair to your dog it will take time to rebuild trust. If you have a solid history of reinforcement trust will be restored faster. Be slow to anger and quick to forgive and your dog will be as well. Our primary focus in training is all about building a solid communication system.
