





Welcome to May. Spring is in full bloom, and we take this time to celebrate all of the special women in our lives. I know the main focus is on Mother's Day during this month, but at Greenwood City Lifestyle, we work with so many amazing women who contribute to our community at extraordinary levels, that we wanted to focus on honoring as many of them as we could. We rely on these women each and every month for everything from advertising and guidance to photography and editorial content. They never disappoint and have helped to mold this publication into the best on the Southside.
This month, we wanted to bring forth content that ranged from self-help advice, provided by some of our partners in the health and wellness industry, to awards and accolades bestowed upon some high achievers in the community. We also wanted to provide some guidance for better health as well as enlighten readers as to what female-led organizations are doing to enrich our community. Finally, we topped it off with a couple of articles that might be fun for ladies to peruse. All of this came together under the guidance of our incredible copy editor Julie Brown Patton, who deserves way more credit for this ladies edition than I do.
As I sit here writing, I can't help from thinking about all of the women who have impacted my life in so many amazing ways. There's an old saying, "A good man is hard to find." Well if that's true, then a great woman is apparently easy to find. I feel like I'm surrounded by them. From a mom to a sister, friend, or simply a coworker, there are so many who've touched my life and been present when I needed them. Then I look to my partners, from business owners and marketing specialists to content creators and just people that I bounce ideas off of. There are so many women who've positively influenced my life.
So as you read through this Ladies edition of Greenwood City Lifestyle, please take a moment to think about the women in your life who've impacted you. Give them some credit for everything they do, and simply tell them thank you. Show them some appreciation. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank them myself and that includes you, our readers.
SCOTT GILCREST,
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Scott Gilcrest | scott.gilcrest@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Amber Gilcrest | amber.gilcrest@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Maleta Schmidt, Janie Jones, Julie Brown Patton, Lesle Lane/Studio Thirteen
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 Megan Cagle
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.
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Eshaan Lothe, DPT, Golden Physical Therapy, led clinic with Greenwood Community High School’s Track/Field team. 2: Eshaan Lothe, Golden Physical Therapy, educated high school athletes on injury prevention and mobility training. 3: Eshaan Lothe answered questions T/F student athletes had regarding pain or physical issues they experienced. 4: Greenwood Library Foundation supporters answered history/pop culture questions from 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s. 5: Greenwood Library Foundation had a great crowd for Decades Trivia, all trying their best. 6: Run, walk, bike or skate Greenwood's trail and park system and green spaces. 7: 2025 Youth Anglers Day at Honey Creek Tackle included guest speakers, awards and prizes.
Sauer Dentistry hygienist Megan Stotts recently attended a conference in Palm Springs, Florida, as an ambassador for the American Dental Hygienist Association’s Hygienist Inspired program. She says she enjoyed collaborating with other hygienists from across the country about recruiting new hygienists to the profession. “For anyone interested in a career in dental hygiene, I’m here to help,” she declares. Megan lives in Greenwood, and also serves as vice president of the Indiana Dental Hygienists’ Association.
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Greenwood Parks & Recreation team members have an exciting lineup of ocean, science and art-themed camps filled with creativity and hands-on activities for youths aged 4-11: Ocean Adventurers, dive into marine fun with sea-inspired art and STEM; Little & Super Scientists, get messy with hands-on experiments and animal-themed STEM; Little & Amazing Artists, explore painting, sculpting and mixed media projects. Camp Dates: June 2-18 at the Greenwood Community Center. Cost: $50-$65 per session. Visit Greenwood.IN.gov/PARKS
Bargersville Police Department staffers welcomed their newest K9 officer, Chase, to the team. They report that Chase is a spirited and determined pup, who was rescued from the Morgan County Humane Society. His handler is Officer Josh Wheat. This incredible opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing support of Redemption Ranch K9 Rescue. Just a week out from graduation K9, Chase made his first arrest for suspected narcotics.
Duke Homes was named a 2025 Small Business of the Year by Indiana Chamber of Commerce representatives. Recognized for its commitment to quality craftsmanship, employee dedication and community impact, the Bargersville-based custom home builder earned top honors at a statewide luncheon celebrating Indiana’s leading small businesses. Companies with 100 or fewer employees were eligible for consideration of this award. Nominations were judged in four categories: leadership and community, chamber involvement, business success and overall deservedness.
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.
Major Health Tips I Wish To Lovingly Share With You
If given a chance to turn back time to provide one's younger self with tips regarding well-being...Greenwood City Lifestyle posed the following question to local, female health-based professionals: "What's the one health tip you would tell your younger self?"
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
"I know you love late nights, but trust me, sleep matters more than you think. It’s the key to waking up refreshed, staying sharp and feeling less stressed. Your body needs to recharge, your mind deserves rest and your mood will reflect it. Start now, set a rhythm, wind down and protect your rest. You’re not missing out; you’re setting yourself up to feel your best every day. Future you will be so glad you made sleep a priority!"
"Take care of yourself. Prioritize your skin, health and body, because the effort you put in now will pay off later. Wear SPF, nourish your skin and invest in your well-being. Health isn’t just about looks; it’s about feeling your best inside and out. I’d remind myself that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Listen to your body, make yourself a priority and don’t wait to start taking care of the future you."
"Prioritize your metabolic health early; your energy, mood and longevity depend on it. Focus on protein intake, strength training and blood sugar balance rather than chasing fad diets. Building muscle and stabilizing glucose levels reduce inflammation, support brain health and improve mental resilience. Small habits like daily movement, quality sleep and stress management lower anxiety and depression risk. Doing this now, helps me bounce around the office with energy during the day and still feel good in the evening for my family."
“Honor your body by making your health a priority; it is the foundation upon which your life’s purpose is built. It’s easy to make excuses, but you’ll never regret putting your health first. Also, there are better late night snack options than Taco Bell.”
"Move your body regularly, but honor rest just as much. Strength and flexibility come from balancing effort and ease, not just from pushing harder. Prioritize recovery, listen to your body and embrace stillness, which is just as important as movement."
Kristie says, "Everything you're doing now will affect you in 20 years. Choose wisely! Pay attention to the toxic load you're putting in and on your body. It all adds up. Learn to read labels. Think of your body as a bucket; when the toxic burden in the bucket overflows, symptoms will present." And Jessie adds, "Your pain is not normal or just something women must endure. Pain and fatigue are signals as your body’s way of speaking to you. Listen, learn and prioritize nutrition and detoxification to restore balance. True wellness starts with understanding what your body needs."
"Do what is best for you and your family, and do your own research. There are so many people claiming to be experts and will tell you what they think but that doesn’t always mean it’s what is best for you. Take your health into your own hands, because ultimately you are the one responsible for your health, no one else."
"Growing up on a farm taught me many values in life. Hard work and dedication open opportunities for the future. After 14 years of treating orthopedic problems, I truly see the importance of building strength and maintaining flexibility to enjoy a more active lifestyle with less pain. The best gift of health cannot be bought. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle starting at a young age. Life is short and sometimes takes you by surprise, so enjoy the time you are given with friends and family."
Ambrosia Sauer, Practice Manager, Sauer Dentistry
"Don't forget to check in and make time for yourself. As a mom of four little boys, it was easy to put everyone else's needs before my own. But, it's harder to care for others if you don't also care for yourself. As the flight attendants say, "Put your own oxygen mask on before securing your child's."
"The Johnson County Community Foundation is committed to making a difference in the community, and our most recent financial numbers demonstrate how much progress we've made in fulfilling that promise. We're grateful to our generous donors, community partners and supporters for helping us drive change and empower those who need it most," says Kim Kasting, JCCF president and CEO.
Under her direction, the Foundation manages more than 370 funds and $47 million in assets.
Previously, Kim served the Foundation as vice president of development and director of grants and scholarships. She directed asset development strategies, donor services activities and managed the Color the County mural program.
She says 2024 was an exceptional year of growth and community impact for the Foundation.
Evidence points toward JCCF ending the year with total assets of $50 million, reflecting the organization's stability and capacity to support important causes. Key highlights of 2024 achievements include:
• Contributions and Gifts: JCCF received 808 gifts, with 574 unduplicated donors, totaling an impressive $4,669,639 in contributions.
• Community Support: The organization is proud to partner with 20 community organizations, providing $67,500 in support through community partnerships.
• Circle of Friends Program: The program has made a significant impact, with 169 gifts totaling $60,345, further supporting our mission to create lasting change.
• Grants: In total, 406 grants were awarded, amounting to $2,232,375, all aimed at improving lives in the community.
• Scholarships: JCCF supporters continue to empower students through scholarship programs. 178 scholarships were awarded in 2024, totaling $810,976, providing invaluable opportunities for education and personal development.
• Grants and Scholarships Combined: The total amount of grants and scholarships awarded this year was $3,134,351, further solidifying JCCF's commitment to positive community impact.
• Active Funds: The organization now manages 387 active funds, with 17 new funds opened last year, underscoring continued growth and engagement from donors and supporters.
Kim is a lifelong Johnson County resident who earned a bachelor's degree from Purdue University. She's active in community organizations, including Leadership Johnson County (2008 graduate), Franklin Development Corporation (president), Franklin Education Connection and Franklin Rotary (past president).
This year, JCCF received accreditation from Community Foundations National Standards, the nation’s highest standard for philanthropic excellence. This accreditation program establishes legal, ethical, effective practices for community foundations throughout the United States.
“Meeting the National Standards benchmarks is a rigorous, comprehensive process,” says Susie Nelson, board chair of National
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JCCF funds are assisting with creating a new low-cost spay/neuter clinic at the Humane Society of Johnson County.
Standards. “This accreditation is a significant accomplishment that indicates the Johnson County Community Foundation demonstrates a commitment to transparency, quality, integrity and accountability as it carries out its mission.”
Designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to legal and financial advisers, the Washington, D.C.-headquartered Community Foundations National Standards
"JCCF MEETS CRITICAL COMMUNITY NEEDS AND SUPPORTS
program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration.
“This (accreditation designation) is critically important to our donors,” says Kim. “When people make a charitable bequest or establish a fund, they are putting their trust in us. They are counting on us to manage the investment wisely, honor their charitable wishes and, in some cases, provide lifetime income to a loved one. The National Standards accreditation says our house is in order.”
In addition to affirming the organization’s philanthropic services, the accreditation validates JCCF’s grantmaking practices for the nonprofit community.
Community Foundations National Standards is the first program of its kind for American charitable foundations. Susie says through philanthropic services, strategic investments and community leadership, the Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter, now and for generations to come. She, and the other Community Foundations National Standards Board members, are responsible for the quality, value and integrity of compliance with National Standards.
317.738.2213
JCCF.org
Emily Cline, M.D.
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LESLE LANE/ STUDIO THIRTEEN
Johnson Memorial Health Provides HER For Every Age, Every Stage
No matter where women are in life's cycle, they need focused care for good health. "The Women’s Health Care team at Johnson Memorial Health is your partner from adolescence to pregnancy to menopause and beyond," says Emily Cline, M.D. Women find care in one convenient place, adds Dr. Cline, through the hospital's HER program that enables females to coordinate all their health care resources. "HER" stands for the "Caring for Her" comprehensive initiative at JMH. Specialists of the JMH women's health team are dedicated to providing caring, compassionate approaches to female needs; experienced and expert providers; nearby offices for care appointments and laboratory services; as well as the knowledge and resources of the Mayo Clinic Care Network when needed.
Many of the HER services are especially aimed at assisting women with solving pelvic health issues. For example, the HER program offers Axonics Therapy, a clinically proven solution for treating symptoms of bladder and bowel issues without surgery. "There are ways to get you back to your best self," assures Dr. Cline.
Emily Cline, M.D., is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. While currently practicing gynecology only, she's committed to caring for women of all ages, with a special interest in urinary incontinence, pelvic support problems and minimally invasive GYN surgery. She's also available to manage annual exams, family planning management, treatment of menopause symptoms and other routine GYN needs.
At the core of this service is Sandi Stinson, CMA, HER care coordinator, who directs patients to the resources they need.
MANDI HARMON, MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC, IBCLC
Mandi Harmon is a board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant. Her specialties are routine GYN care, prenatal care and lactation. She attended Kent State University and Indiana Wesleyan University.
Additional JMH medical experts in women's health include David Ensley, M.D., FACOG; Heather Andrews, MD, FACOG; Carrie Smith, M.D., FACOG; John Norris, M.D., FACOG; and Diana Haymond, MSN, CNM.
833.383.4437
JohnsonMemorial.org/HER
In 2009, the year YES Ministries was founded, Helio Castroneves won his 3rd Indy 500. He has since gone on to become one of four drivers to win the Indy 500 four times. Just as these true champions have left their mark on auto racing, YES Ministries wants to leave its mark as a true champion for orphans. Join “Team YM” today by becoming a monthly partner!
Alliance representatives unveiled recipients of the group's 2025 Women Leaders awards, recognizing outstanding contributions toward advancing women. The Champion of Women Award honors an organization that fosters female leadership and creates growth opportunities.
Winners were announced at the Women Leaders Workshop on March 5 at the Valle Vista Golf and Conference Center. Aspire staffers also chose to recognize a male professional for his exemplary support of women in leadership and advancing women in business.
Award recipients: Champion of Women, AECOM Hunt; Woman Leader of the Year, Sonya WareMeguire with Girls Inc. of Johnson County; and Ally of Women’s Leadership Advancement, Beau Jackson with Modern Woodmen of America.
Nominee finalists also included Anne Schenk, Johnson Memorial Health; Jessica Evans, Allies, Inc.; Brandi Greenleaf-Barnes, Raymond James & Associates; and Deana Haworth, Hirons.
AECOM Hunt actively supports women in leadership roles, encourages participation in professional associations and fosters mentorship opportunities.
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASPIRE JOHNSON COUNTY
Promotions of Corissa Smith to executive vice president over national markets and Pam McNeally Powell as vice president of project development showcase AECOM Hunt’s dedication to breaking barriers for women in male-dominated fields.
Sonya Ware-Meguire was honored as Woman Leader of the Year for her transformative leadership at Girls Inc. of Johnson County. Under her guidance, the organization expanded the budget nearly fourfold and garnered national recognition for trailblazing outreach initiatives. Her leadership has driven collaborations with the Johnson County Juvenile Detention Center and the Atterbury Job Corps Women’s Program. Her career spans 38 years as a licensed clinical social worker.
Beau Jackson was recognized for his advocacy as leader of Modern Woodmen of America’s Greenwood firm via championing gender equity by actively recruiting and mentoring female financial advisers, growing their representation from 0% to 50%. He supports flexible work arrangements, professional development, leadership training for women and women-led nonprofits.
“This workshop has continually evolved to meet the changing landscape of leadership, providing valuable insight and connection for professional women in our community,” says Angela Vandersteen, Aspire vice president of investor development and relations. “We're excited to celebrate the incredible women and allies making a real difference in Johnson County.”
BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
ingredients:
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 cup packed light-brown sugar
• 1 entire loaf (1 pound, 12 ounces) Texas Toast fresh sliced bread (not frozen)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoon light-brown sugar, mixed with 2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Powdered sugar
• Real maple syrup for serving, if desired
directions:
Step 1. Put butter in microwave-safe bowl; heat in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until melted. Add 1 cup brown sugar; stir. Pour into greased 9-by-13-inch pan, spreading mixture evenly.
Step 2. Beat together eggs, milk, vanilla; set aside.
Step 3. Lay single layer of toast in pan, cutting pieces to fit if needed. Spoon 1 cup of egg mixture evenly over bread. Sprinkle half of brown sugar/cinnamon mixture. Repeat with second layer of egg custard and brown sugar/cinnamon mixture. Get custard evenly soaked into bread slices.
Step 4. Cover tightly; chill overnight in refrigerator.
Step 5. Bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes; covered for first 30 minutes, then uncovered.
Step 6. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and/or serve with syrup.
At CFK Counseling, we provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy for adults and adolescents facing: Anxiety & Depression, Stress & Overwhelm, Grief & Loss, Trauma & PTSD, ADHD, Marriage & Relationship Issues, and More!
We specialize in:
Cognitive & Dialectical Behavior Therapy: Manage emotions, reframe negative thoughts, and build resilience.
Motivational Interviewing: Gain clarity, confidence, and motivation to make meaningful changes. Trauma-Focused Therapy: Heal from past wounds and regain control of your life.
You don’t have to face this alone—help is here.
You and your loved ones deserve support and healing. Take the first step today. Call us at 317-881-9923 or visit us at cfkcounseling.com
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
MAY 2ND - 4TH
Varied | 12:00 PM
The 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes allows attendees to explore 60-plus homes from more than 20 builders. Price points for homes on the tour range from $250,000 to $4 million. This Parade reaches homeowners, real estate professionals and design enthusiasts. Tickets are free at BAGI.com/Parade-of-Homes/2025/tickets. Homes will be open to tour from 12-6 p.m. each day.
MAY 5TH
Greenwood Community Center, Surina Way | 9:00 AM
Free health screenings, free admission, door prizes, giveaways and 60 interactive vendors are planned for this event that concludes at noon. The Social of Greenwood team partnered with Greenwood Parks & Recreation staffers to plan the event about nutrition, health and wellness. For more information, call 317.882.4810 and ask for Brianna Owens.
MAY 7TH, 14TH, 21ST, 28TH
24 N. Main St., Bargersville | 5:00 PM
This vibrant, community-driven farmers market will be hosted in downtown Bargersville every Wednesday through Sept. 10 from 5-7 p.m. Discover the finest local produce, handmade crafts and delectable treats from dedicated vendors. Interested in becoming a vendor? Contact Bargersville Main Street at bargersvillemainstreet@gmail.com for more details.
MAY 9TH
Umbarger Plaza, Downtown Bargersville | 8:30 PM
Whether you're an avid film seeker, a casual movie-goer or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening with friends and family, this summer series of movies offers something for everyone and gets kicked off on this evening. All movies are free to the public, thanks to sponsors. For information on sponsorship packages, contact Bree Barger at media@bargersville.in.gov.
MAY 10TH
Greenwood Moose Lodge | 7:00 PM
Expect a mix of rock, country and blues tunes at this band's gathering. They perform until 10 p.m. Call 317.431.2619 for more details. The Lodge is located at 813 W. Smith Valley Road.
MAY 17TH
New Department of Public Works Parking Lot (Accessed Through Craig Park) | 9:00 AM
Every kid's favorite vehicles gather together so little ones can climb in and bring their toy trucks to life. Local departments and companies will pack the parking lot until noon. Cost is $2 per child. Those who have unique vehicles also can participate in the event; if interested, call Troy at the Greenwood Community Center at 317.881.4545 or email events@greenwood.in.gov.
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MAY 22ND
Free Summer Concert
Umbarger Plaza | 7:00 PM
Bargersville Parks & Recreation Department staffers partnered with RD Productions, LLC to host this free summer concert to the heart of Bargersville on Baldwin Street. Join an unforgettable night of music, community and fun. Food, beverage and dessert trucks are scheduled to be available.
MAY 30TH
Mud Day
Freedom Park | 10:00 AM
Ever wish when you were a kid that you were allowed to play in wet dirt? Today's kids can. From 10-11 a.m. or 12-1 p.m., bring youths aged 2-10 to get messy by playing in the mud with Greenwood Fire Department representatives. Admission is free; monetary donations are welcomed to benefit the Parks Foundation.
MAY 31ST
First Yoga In The Park
Umbarger Plaza | 10:00 AM
Studio YOU Yoga will host their first outdoor yoga of the season, held in Bargersville. Live music will accompany this 1-hour event. Participation fee is $15; pre-registration is required. Sign up at StudioYouYoga.com/ workshops-events. Phone 317.882.8733 with questions.