The Southside Times - 11.18.24

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November 18-December 1, 2024

The Southside Times myiconmedia.com

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The Southside Times reaches a vast segment of our community. For information about reaching our readers, call Amanda Babinec at 317-840-9114 or email her at amanda@myiconmedia.com.

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SERVING

THE SOUTHSIDE SINCE 1928

Gerald Sargent, Publisher Emeritus (1925- 2015)

Rick Myers, Publisher Emeritus (1962-2021)

Amanda Babinec, President / Publisher Rebecca Thie, Director of Operations

Annie Wolfinbarger Director of Business Development

Hammerstrom

Brackemyre

For more information, contact us at: news@ss-times.com

Tel. 317.300.8782

P.O. Box 814, Danville, IN 46122 myiconmedia.com

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The views of the columnists in The Southside Times are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

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COMMUNITY

Gracepoint Church welcomes visitors to a Christmas musical

By Linda Begley

I am a senior citizen and have attended church on and off throughout my life. I kept visiting churches in the Greenwood area, searching for something that seemed to be missing. After retiring from Greenwood High School as a counselor, I reconnected with a former student, Dow Boyer, now a youth pastor at Gracepoint Church in Whiteland.

Pastor Boyer invited me to a “Friendsgiving” meal – then came the entertainment from the choir. The singers’ ages range from teens to those in their 80s – it sounded as good as the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square (formerly the Mormon Tabernacle Choir).

I found my new church home at Gracepoint, a nondenominal church with 350-400 members. I went back every week until I had an “aha!” moment. It was the music. As I met people who had attended for many years, I asked why they chose Gracepoint as their church. Most of them said, “the choir.”

The music prepared our hearts for the worship service led by Senior Pastor Jim Devney. Some of you might remember him from years ago when he served at

Emmanual Baptist Church. He is a Bible preacher without all the “fluff.” Each Sunday as I learned something new from his sermon, I left mumbling to myself, “I didn’t know that!” Within the one-hour service, we went from awesome music and singing to listening to Pastor Devney. (I think he has tried to retire but the people of the church won’t let him.)

The approximately 60-member choir, directed by Associate Pastor/Minister of Music Stan Glover, sings a variety of music, from older, traditional music to current hits on K-LOVE Christian radio.

There are several outstanding soloists who could be professional singers. I am looking for someone who might “discover them” and introduce them to someone who might be able to open doors. Yes, they are that good.

On Dec. 8 at 5 p.m., Gracepoint will feature their Christmas musical, called “O, Come Emmanuel.” Visitors are encouraged to attend. Gracepoint is at 330 W. Whiteland Road, Whiteland, IN 46184. I always sit in the fourth row from the front, on the aisle. Come by and say “hello!”

For more information, go to gpindy.net or call 317-535-3512.

(Submitted photo)

COMMUNITY

By Julie Brackemyre

1. In what town do you work, and how long have you lived on the Southside of Indy?

I have lived on the Southside of Indy since moving here from Central Illinois almost 11 years ago. I currently have the pleasure of serving clients in the counties of Johnson, Morgan, Shelby, and also the city of Columbus.

2. Describe your immediate family to us. I have three grown children, two daughters, and one son. My two daughters live in Central Illinois with their children (my grandchildren), which include three boys and one girl. My son lives in Greenwood with his four children (my grandchildren), which include one boy and three girls. These eight grandchildren make my heart so very happy. I have one sibling, my brother, who also lives in Central Illinois. I return to Central Illinois to see my family about every month or so. Family is the second most important thing to me, with our good Lord being first.

3. Does your family identify with a certain faith, and if so, can you tell us more about the traditions in your faith?

I grew up Catholic and converted to Missouri Synod Lutheran. As a child, my family gathered regularly for family events and church events. This tradition carried on with my own children as well. I was very active in our Lutheran church serving as Sunday School superintendent, Alter Guild, Sunday School teacher, Ladies Guild, and other volunteer positions over the years.

4. If you do not identify with a certain faith, what inspires you?

The good Lord inspires me daily with so many blessings.

5. Describe your perfect family outing.

Oh goodness, for me, spending time with family doesn’t need to be an outing. I truly treasure any moments I

get with my family. And sometimes, it really is just a few moments here and there.

6. What is your favorite family tradition?

For me, it’s simply being together for planned or unexpected visits. Many times, those unexpected visits with spontaneous ideas are the best.

7. What are three words to describe the reasons you choose to live on the Southside of Indy?

God – placed me here; People – the people I have met and continue to meet are the best; Service – I love serving those in need.

8. Ask your youngest child (or spouse or sibling) to describe you. I have a serving heart and am always ready to help someone in need.

Jeri Smith

Care Advocate Coordinator, Home Instead of Greenwood

(Submitted photo)

By Julie Brackemyre

Joanna Weiler attended Manual High School and graduated in 1964, and then attended Butler University, studying music education. She is married to fellow Manual grad, Dale Weiler, and has three children: John, Jennifer, and Cathy. Weiler spent most of her working years at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Following retirement, she joined the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Association, serving in

1. What do you consider your greatest virtue? I have a lot of patience.

2. What do you most deplore in others? Not following through

3. What do you like most about working on the Southside of Indy?

I work at home on the Southside. I also drive to the Indianapolis Symphony office downtown. It is a very easy commute from the Southside.

4. If you had to live anywhere else, where would it be? On a lake, near the woods

5. If you could begin life over, what would you change? Study harder in school

6. If money were not an issue, where would you spend it? Travel more with my husband, donate to our charities, and make sure our kids are secure when we are gone.

COMMUNITY

JOANNA WEILER

many capacities, and was recently elected as president. The association supports and promotes the orchestra and its music education programs through fundraising all over the city. The biggest fundraiser, Jubilee 2025, will occur at the Columbia Club next April. She is a member of St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church and sings in their choir. When time permits, she is a violinist with the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis.

7. What makes you happiest? Spending time with my husband and family

8. What is your favorite vacation spot? Ireland, Italy, and Caribbean cruises

9. What do you do with your idle time? I sew a lot. I am in a book club, so I am reading nonstop.

10. What is it that makes you angry? Politics

11. What do you do to escape from reality? I stream a lot of movies, old and new.

12. What/who is the greatest love of your life? My husband, Dale, and my children.

13. What is the quality you most like in a person? Good sense of humor. Humility.

14. What is your greatest extravagance? A few years ago, I bought a late model convertible. We were

in our 70s already and thought it was so frivolous, but so much fun.

15. What is your favorite restaurant? Vitos

16. Who is the person most influential in your life? My husband

17. What are your fears? Being a burden to my kids in my old age

18. Which talent would you most like to possess? I would like to be more athletic. I am a total klutz.

19. What do you most value in your friends? They are sweet, loyal, and non-judgmental.

20. What is your greatest regret? Not studying harder in school

21. What tenet do you live by? Life – it’s better with music.

By Nancy Hammerstrom

National Adoption Month

Founders of Courageous Hearts Adoptions help families afford adoption

National Adoption Month is celebrated in November to honor the love in adoptive families and to raise awareness about the importance of adoption. Former President Bill Clinton first named November as National Adoption Month in 1995. Some goals of National Adoption Month include celebrating families that have been made whole through adoption, ensuring that every child can have a happy and wellbeing life, and helping more families afford adoption.

Courageous Hearts Adoptions, a 501(c)3 nonprofit adoption agency, was founded in 2019 by Greg and Julie Menefee of Franklin, their daughter-in-law Jenna Menefee, and Jenna’s sister Sara Baker. Each was motivated to become involved through their own personal experiences with adoption.

Greg and Julie have two granddaughters through adoption. They recognized the impact of adoption on a family and observed the financial stress involved in domestic adoptions.

The Menefees wanted to make the process more accessible for deserving families, and enlisted Jenna, an adoptive parent, and Baker, who was already a practicing adoption professional in the community, to help develop a new program in Indiana.

“Having been blessed with two beautiful granddaughters, and seeing the cost and struggles, we wanted to help others with support and find ways to both mitigate the cost, but also provide financial support where needed for birth mothers and adoptive families,” Greg said. “Sara and Laronda Southworth’s (board member of Courageous Hearts) passion for this noble endeavor sealed the deal.”

Jenna has two daughters through adoption and understands firsthand how the adoption process can be both emotionally and financially stressful, yet completely worthwhile. She wanted to help other adoptive parents achieve their dreams of starting a family. Like so many other adoptive parents, Jenna would not be a mother today without the loving and selfless decisions made by her daughters’ birth mothers.

Baker is well-versed in adoption. She stood alongside Jenna through both of her adoptions, and through her professional experience, she’s come to learn how inaccurate common adoption language can be in the notion that birth parents “give up” their child to be adopted. Sara is passionate

about changing that perspective in society.

“I have experienced adoption in every living generation of my family,” said Baker. “My father was adopted by his stepfather. I only had one cousin growing up and that was because of adoption. And now, I have two nieces through adoption. Jenna adopted one daughter from China and one from the United States. Those are two very different experiences with different risks but equally rewarding. Our goal in opening this agency was to use a nonprofit status to assist with additional programs/services that may not be standard in the industry.”

Fund” (CCRF) was developed to help adoptive parents with adoption expenses, in particular, when a potential adoption dissolves. Private adoption in this country is expensive and risky for many reasons. Often, potential adoptive parents are matched with an expecting parent during the pregnancy. And sometimes, that expecting parent can change her mind about her adoption plan because her situation may change. This fund was created to help potential adoptive parents move on to their next match.

What are some of the myths about adoption?

Sara Baker: Private adoption is voluntary, and my sister and I recognized that we would not have our cousin or Jenna’s daughters in our lives without the biological parents who made a loving decision and sacrifice. Adoption changes the lives of the adopting parents and the entire family. No one has ever placed their child for adoption because they did not want or love their child. That is absolutely incorrect. Placing parents choose adoption because they want a different life for their child than they are not equipped to provide at that time. Oftentimes, placing parents are dealing with housing instability, or mental health issues, or a substance abuse disorder, and they are choosing to resolve those issues before parenting. That is a huge sacrifice and the grief that placing parents experience is enormous. The decision to place a child for adoption is an incredibly difficult, selfless, and loving decision and should be recognized as that.

Why would you encourage readers to donate toward your nonprofit?

The CCRF helps potential adoptive parents move on from a dissolved adoption to continue their adoption journey. When a potential adoption dissolves, the potential adoptive parents experience emotional grief and financial loss. This is a lot to overcome to move on.

How has Courageous Hearts grown in the past five years?

Adoption has been a huge blessing to all members of this family, and it is their desire to help other families have the same experience.

A Q&A with Greg and Julie Menefee and Sara Baker

How do you provide adoption services that meet the unmet needs of the birth parents you serve, while reducing the financial risks to potential adoptive parents?

We have two funds that we raise money to support. The “Courageous Choice Relief

The other fund is “Embrace, Empower & Renew” (EER). This was created to help with future needs that a biological parent may encounter in their future to help eliminate barriers to future success. Examples of this are maybe helping someone obtain their driver’s license again or maybe help with transportation to work temporarily until they can start getting paid. Additionally, the main feature of this program is that we offer lifetime adoption counseling services to placing parents. Most agencies offer this for six weeks postpartum. Counseling services are provided by the agency, or a placing parent can choose a provider of their choice.

We have had 59 placements since opening. We are also in the process of opening a second location in Arizona. Courageous Hearts Adoptions is in Vantage Centre, 720 Executive Park Drive Suite 3000C, Greenwood, IN 46143. The agency is open 24 hours a day, every day.

For more information, call 317-496-2207 or go to chadoptions.org

(Above) Sara Baker and Laronda Southworth. | (Cover) Greg and Julie Menefee. (Submitted photos)

By Dawn Whalen Whalen Realty Group at F.C. Tucker Company

With the election behind us, many people may wonder what this means for the real estate market. While elections can bring significant changes in economic policies, regulations, and market sentiment, which may directly impact the real estate market, there will likely be little change in the market over the next year. Historically, the time following elections has been positive for buyers and sellers.

Home sales

According to the National Association of Realtors and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, since 1992, home sales have increased the year following an election. Over the past few months, it may seem as though home sales have slowed down, but this is a common trend following the popularity of people moving during the summer months and early part of the school year. During an election year, many people hold off making large purchasing decisions, such as buying a home or car, until the election is over. The local market may seem slightly slower than normal, but within a few months, homebuyers and sellers will be ready to move.

Home prices

Over the long run, home prices tend to move in an upward trajectory following an election, but it’s understandable why some believe home prices may dip. Following seven of the last eight presidential elections, home prices steadily increased. The only exception was after the 2008 election and the housing crash that took place soon after. Based on historical data, it’s safe to expect housing prices to

BEECH GROVE

If you like donuts, this is the race for you! Join the Beech Grove Running Club on March 22, 2025, and help support Teachers Treasures. This is open to all students, staff, and families. You can get more information at runsignup.com/ Race/IN/Indianapolis/CircleCityDonutDash. Did we mention free donuts and pizza and fowling (look up Fowling Warehouse!) after the race? If you want to make it extra challenging, sign up for the donut challenge where you have to eat 12 donut holes in the middle of the race and then keep running!

continue a steady increase, but likely not as sharp as we saw following the 2020 election.

Late fall and winter are traditionally slower in real estate, which coincides with our election season, so prices may not be changing because of the election but simply because it’s getting colder, and people don’t want to move.

Mortgage rates

Politics, the economy and mortgage rates are all connected. Only twice since the 1984 presidential election have mortgage rates increased leading up to election day. According to Freddie Mac, mortgage rates have a history of lowering starting the summer of an election year and continuing through the early parts of the following year; we’ve seen this happen over the past few months. It’s too early to predict if this trend will continue into 2025, but there are currently no signs that an increase is on the horizon. The best option for anyone looking to purchase a home next year is to pay attention to mortgage rates and speak with an experienced REALTOR®.

While REALTOR®s might not have a crystal ball to foresee the housing market’s future, they can provide invaluable advice on navigating a sale and preparing for successful negotiations.

Dawn Whalen is the owner of Whalen Realty Group, at the F.C. Tucker Company and has worked in residential real estate for more than 17 years. She’s a licensed REALTOR®, broker, is a member of MIBOR, and is the founder of Whalen’s Heroes, which provides funding to purchase service animals for veterans. She can be reached at Dawn@whalenrealtygroup.com.

Logan Bell, a senior volleyball player for Roncalli and Oregon State University commit, played a leading role in the Royals’ success this season, as the team capped a perfect season (35-0) with a 3-0 state championship victory over Angola on Nov. 9.

A Q&A with Logan Bell

Q: Was there a moment during this season that showed you how special this group could be?

Athlete of the Month Logan Bell

A: The big game against Hamilton Southeastern (Roncalli swept HSE, who won consecutive Class 4A state titles in 2022 and 2023, on Sept. 24) was something we were really looking forward to. That got us to this point and gave us a lot of confidence that we were a really good team, and that if we worked together, we could do big things.

Q: What was it about Oregon that made you want to play collegiately there?

A: They gave me a really awesome opportunity. Going into my recruiting process, I was told I was a little undersized as an outside hitter, even though I’m 5-foot10-inches, and that (other schools) saw me playing different positions and passing rather than playing in the front row. Coach (Matt) Ulmer at Oregon gave me the opportunity to hit (in the front row) and play in the back row. That really stuck out to me that he wasn’t going to limit me to one position, and that I could do anything as long as I put my mind to it. Also being able to play beach volleyball (at Oregon), it was everything I could wish for in a school.

Q: What is something interesting about you that people might not know?

A: I was born on the U.S. Army base in Heidelberg, Germany, where my mom was stationed. Getting to look back on some pictures and videos, it was really unique, and I’d love to go back some time.

Q: What area have you grown the most in over the course of your volleyball career?

A: I’ve grown a lot in my mental game. During my sophomore and junior years, it was pretty rough – I was living a pretty comparative lifestyle where I wanted to be like a lot of girls I looked up to. I had to learn to be Logan Bell. I need to be myself. I’m unique in my own special way. I can’t compare myself to others, because if I’m looking back, it’s going to hold me back from what I know I can do.

My club coach taught me to focus on my relationship with God and to pray about my struggles. That was an outlet for me and allowed me to decompress. It allowed me to find my reason why I play – to play for those blessings He has given me.

Roncalli freshman wins seventh Marion County title for the program

girls golf program. It is

the seventh in school history. She started the day one under par on the back nine and maintained that momentum with two birdies and nine pars to finish with a score of 78, tied with Claire Davis from Southport High School. The two entered into a sudden death playoff, where Ava was victorious by making par on the first playoff hole. Girls golf coach Eunsun Waugh said, “I am incredibly proud of Ava for her outstanding performance during the Marion County championship. She showed

tremendous skill and sportsmanship throughout the round. She is the first Roncalli freshman to win Medalist in girls golf, and her achievement is nothing short of remarkable. Competing as a freshman on varsity is never easy, but she showed incredible determination and was able to maintain her composure under playoff conditions. Her win not only marks an outstanding individual achievement, but also inspires our entire team. Ava has an exciting future ahead of her in girls golf!”

Logan Bell. (Submitted photo)

Ava Wenzel. (Submitted photo)

Ava Wenzel became the first freshman to win a Marion County championship for the Roncalli

NOTABLES

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

The Franklin Central girls cross country team placed seventh at the state meet on Nov. 2, with an average time of 19:14. Natalie Vandesteene led the team with a time of 18:45.8. Savana Miller (18:59.9), Kaitlyn Pettet (19:41.2), Makenna Bowling (19:42.4), Evelyn Medina (20:32.8), and Camryn Simons (21:14.8) contributed to the Flashes’ finish.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Center Grove 3, Floyd Central 1 (Semistate semifinals, Nov. 2)

Natalie Vance: 13 kills

Reese Dunkle: 11 kills, three blocks

Kaylen Plunkard: 11 kills

Savannah Cook: 17 digs

Anabelle Schembra: 36 assists, 14 digs

Maddi Higginson: 14 digs

Franklin 3, East Central 0 (Sectional finals, Oct. 19)

Rose Mahin: 16 digs, 15 kills, three aces

Kate Pinnick: 13 digs

Karlin Burton: 32 assists

Roncalli 3, Tri-West 0 (Semistate finals, Nov. 2)

Logan Bell: 16 kills, 12 digs

Lydia Stahley: 12 kills

Addie Haberthy: 32 assists, 12 digs, three aces

Lily Jones: four aces

Lutheran 3, Christian Academy 1 (Semistate semifinals, Nov. 2)

Lillian Pass: 11 kills

Zoe Sondag: eight kills, five blocks

Cathryn Erwin: 20 digs

Reagan Crabtree: 13 assists

GIRLS SOCCER

Center Grove 2, East Central 1 (Semistate finals, Oct. 26)

Brooklyn Brown, Maggie Marlin: one goal

Maddie Guilfoy: one assist

Anderson Broshears: five saves

Roncalli 5, Danville 0 (Regional semifinals, Oct. 16)

Summer Fishel: four goals

Sammie Kegerreis: one goal

Addie Gates: one assist

BOYS SOCCER

Southport 2, Lawrence North 1 (Regional finals)

Joshua Antunez: two goals

Joshua Hu: one assist

Diego Alonso-Torres: 13 saves

Center Grove 5, East Central 1 (Sectional finals, Oct. 12)

Austin Lowden: three goals

Matheus Gubert: one goal, one assist

Owen Dorrell: one goal

Niekos Whitney: three assists

Carter Dorrell: six saves

Greenwood Christian 1, Northeast Dubois 0 (Semistate finals, Oct. 26)

Boden Campbell: one goal

Preston Van Til: three saves

FOOTBALL

Roncalli 55, Brebeuf Jesuit 27 (Sectional semifinals, Nov. 1)

Roncalli 0 24 7 24 — 55

Brebeuf 0 13 7 7 — 27

Roncalli

Jayden Buchanan: 4-5, 78 passing yards, two TDs

Collin Ash: 19 carries, 159 yards, three TDs

Zach Dozier: 23 carries, 176 rushing yards, 88 kick return yards, one TD

Drew Nelson: one reception, 20 yards, one TD

Rudy Schoettle: two receptions, 41 yards, one TD

Greenwood 48, Bedford North Lawrence 24 (Sectional semifinals, Nov. 1)

Greenwood 7 21 7 13 — 48

Bedford North Lawrence 0 0 8 16 — 24

Greenwood

Gunner Ruppert: 359 rushing yards, five TDs

Franklin Central 21, Columbus North 17 (Sectional semifinals, Nov. 1)

Franklin Central 0 7 14 0 — 21

Columbus North 7 3 7 0 — 17

Franklin Central

Nevan Tutterow: 7-18, 40 passing yards, one TD, two INT

Avery Allen: 12 carries, 58 yards, one TD

Nathan Sparks: 11 carries, 33 yards, one TD

Emauri Hines: one reception, 4 yards, one TD

Jayce Brewer: two sacks

Center Grove 72, Jeffersonville 7 (Sectional semifinals, Nov. 1)

Center Grove

Gabe McWilliams: 8-10, 115 passing yards, three TDs

Oscar Sloan: 4-5, 69 passing yards, one TD

Austin Hennessy: six carries, 61 yards, two TDs

Brodie Tilton: three carries, 91 yards, one TD

Jack Browning: four carries, 26 yards, one TD

Tristan Baxter: two receptions, 54 yards, one TD

Charlie Annee: two receptions, 46 yards, one TD

Drake McClurg: three receptions, 33 yards, one TD

Dominick Barry: one reception, 10 yards, one TD

Luke Barrett: one interception, one fumble recovery, two TDs

Franklin 42, Columbus East 17 (Sectional semifinals, Nov. 1)

Franklin 14 7 14 7 — 42

Columbus East 14 3 0 0 — 17

Franklin

Greyson Betts: 4-5, 125 passing yards, one TD

Alex Leugers: 31 carries, 323 rushing yards, four TDs

Blake Smythe: one carry, one yard, one TD, two sacks

Cade Petty: two receptions, 84 yards, one TD

Kingston Foor: two sacks

Lutheran 49, Cardinal Ritter 7 (Sectional semifinals, Nov. 1)

Lutheran 21 28 0 0 — 49

Cardinal Ritter

0 0 0 7 — 7

Roncalli Salutes Our Girls Soccer Sectional Champion Team

Congratulations to the Roncalli girls soccer team for winning the sectional championship. The Royals dominated the championship match with an impressive 6-0 win.

Senior Summer Fishel scored four goals, while senior Sophia Lewis and freshman Addie Gates each added one goal for the Royals. Senior Sophie Young-Neawedde and sophomore Vivie Hayes shared the shutout in goal.

Head coach Lacey Hersman shared, “This sectional title was extra special and showcases a total team effort. For our seniors, it marks their third championship in four years, a remarkable achievement. This dedicated group has fully committed to the season and embodies the motto they adopted at the beginning of the season, ‘Giving R All.’”

Congratulations to the Royal girls soccer team and Coach Hersman on their remarkable success!

Now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year. RONCALLI.ORG

SCHOOLS

Celebrating Educators In All Southside Schools!

Southside Educators of the Month

Compiled by Nancy Hammerstrom

Do you know an educator that deserves to be recognized? Please email their name, grade or subject they teach, school name, and reason(s) for nomination to nancyh@ myiconmedia.com. Congratulations to this month’s nominated educators of the month.

Jennifer Widner

ABRAHAM LINCOLN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SECOND GRADE MENTOR TEACHER

Jennifer Widner is extremely patient with the students. She also takes time to listen to and to support each individual’s needs. Jennifer is an advocate for every child, loves the children, and shows each and every day that they develop rigorous lessons that are tailored to each unique learner, as well as creating a fun atmosphere, using humor, to connect with students and inspire them to take risks. She is always willing to collaborate with her colleagues, frequently sharing their ideas and resources. Her years of experience has created a wealth of knowledge with their peers as she is admired and respected.

*Nominated by Perry Township Schools

Randi Tolbert

FRANKLIN CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL RESOURCE TEACHER

I would like to nominate Randi Tolbert for this month. She has done a phenomenal job with her students, championed the School AI, and led us in helping out a coworker during a tough time with family.

*Nominated by Special Education Department Chair Amy Lezon

Hope Academy and The 24 Group featured on RTV6

The staff at Hope Academy was thrilled to lace up their walking shoes and join their partners at The 24 Group for the 19th Annual Hawk Walk on Sept. 21! This special event was all about celebrating recovery and raising funds for treatment assistance grants, which directly support the work they do at Hope Academy, including their family support group. It was a day of community, support, and positive impact. If you couldn’t make it, you can still learn how the funds raised are being put to great use. Watch this powerful story from Nicole Griffin at WRTV, where she speaks with a current Hope Academy parent and a former student about the transformative role Hope Academy has played in their lives at wrtv. com/news/local-news/the-24-group-celebrating-recovery-and-reducing-thestigma-around-substance-use.

WALK

Celebrating milestones and looking ahead

By Rachelle Gardner Hope Academy Executive Director

RECOVERY

The school year is off to a fantastic start, and I’m excited to share some highlights with you. Last month, we celebrated National Recovery Month, and I couldn’t be prouder of how our 35 students fully embraced the opportunity to get involved. We hosted a canned food drive for Gleaners Food Bank, packed meals with Pack Away Hunger, and welcomed former NFL player Jeff Neal as a guest speaker. Our Student Advisory Council also planned an incredible phoneless picnic, where students and staff connected over kickball, sack races, and cornhole. To wrap up the month, we joined The 24 Group for their Hawk Walk event. Thank you for being part of the Hope Academy family and for your continued support of our mission to create a safe, sober, and supportive community for students in recovery from substance use disorder.

(Submitted photo)

Compiled by Nancy Hammerstrom

Small Business Saturday is Nov. 30 this year, and the Southside has plenty of locally owned businesses participating so you can shop for everyone on your list. Beech Grove’s annual Artisan Holiday Market returns with 150 specially selected all-handcraft vendors and artists. Come early and grab a swag bag from the Greater Beech Grove Chamber of Commerce – the nonprofit represents Shop Small Saturday with Beech Grove merchants. The Fountain Fletcher District near downtown Indy offers a “passport” for visitors to receive stamps when shopping at merchants while earning points to enter a drawing for a prize. This year, Old Town Greenwood will host their monthly Final Fridays Nov. 29 with local artisans, entertainers, and other activities scattered throughout downtown Greenwood. Continue the holiday shopping spirit at a number of craft fairs and Christmas markets throughout the area in the next month – see below for more information on them and Small Business Saturday events.

Franklin Central Bands Fifth Annual Holiday Craft Fair

Over 100 handcrafted vendors; bake sale; 50/50 raffle; take a chance raffle; food concessions; $3 admission. | When: Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Where: Franklin Central High School, 6215 S. Franklin Road, Indianapolis. | Info: craftfair@fcbands.org

Winter Market

Visitors can shop at a new Winter Market featuring Indiana artists at booths offering handmade pieces and products. | When: Saturdays: Nov. 23, Nov. 30, and Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. | Where: Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, 500 W. Washington St., Indianapolis| Info: 317-636-9378; Eiteljorg/ events

Greenwood Holiday Craft Fair

There will be more than 200 vendors with holiday gifts, handmade crafts, and pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. | When: Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Where: Greenwood Community High School, 613 W. Smith Valley Road, Greenwood. | Info: greenwoodholidaycraftfair.org

Santa at Miss M’s Holiday Open House Shop great holiday décor in the garden shop

Holiday Gift Guide 2024

or find the perfect fresh-cut Christmas tree, wreath, garland, and greenery. Miss M’s will have door prizes, giveaways, food samples, and more all weekend. Santa will be there on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for pictures. Amy’s Ice Paradise will be there from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days serving great seasonal treats. | When: Nov. 23-24, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. | Where: Miss M’s Home & Garden, 4415 N. State Road 135, Bargersville. | Info: 463-3622001; facebook.com/people/Miss-Ms-Homeand-Garden/100090642210541/?sk=events

Final Fridays

Shops and restaurants stay open late in Old Town Greenwood. There will be local artisans, entertainers, and other activities scattered throughout downtown. | When: Nov. 29, 5-9 p.m. | Where: Old Town Greenwood, 300 S. Madison Ave., Greenwood. | Info: restoreoldtowngreenwood.org/finalfridays

Small Business Saturday at Fountain Fletcher District

This all-day event features sales, special events, and promotions across the cultural districts of Fountain Square and Fletcher Place. Visitors can grab their passport at any participating retailer and collect stamps at every visit. Complete your passport by visiting at least 15 merchants and you’ll be entered to win prizes sponsored by the Fountain Fletcher District Association. Once you’re done (or before 6 p.m.!) drop your passport off at your last stop for a chance to win one of our prize packages of items donated by local merchants. | When: Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | Where: 1101 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis. | Info: fountainfletcher.com/sbs

Artisan Holiday Market

Looking for something special for someone or for you? You will find it at Artisan Holiday Market with 150 special selected allhandcraft vendors and artists. There is also a freshly made cheese spread and a huge bake sale, as well as fresh baked treats for those special pets. Come early to receive a swag bag provided by the Beech Grove Chamber representing Shop Small Saturday with Beech Grove Merchants. This fair is presented by Delta Theta Tau, Nu Tau Sorority with all proceeds from the fair supporting many local charities. | When: Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Where: Beech Grove High School, 5330 Hornet Ave., Beech Grove. | Info: facebook. com/handmadedtt

Christmas Bazaar

Hosted by Perry Seniors Services. Free admission. Find one-of-a-kind gifts. Bake sale, coffee bar, hot cider, hot chocolate bar, and vendors. Get your picture with Santa and your pet. Vendor tables are available for $15. Contact Perry Senior Services if you would like to sign up or donate for the bake sale (baked goods, candies, cheeseballs, etc., hot chocolate, coffee, or cider) Any donation is much appreciated. | When: Dec. 5, 4-7 p.m. | Where: Perry Senior Services, 6901 Derbyshire Road, Indianapolis. | Info: 317783-9321; tracy@perryseniors.org

Santa Train and Christmas Market Santa will arrive via train, and he will pose for pictures with the children. Santa is expected to arrive at 4:30 p.m. The Christmas Market will feature craft vendors and bakers. Free admission. Stay tuned for updated information as the date nears. | When: Dec. 6, 4-8 p.m. | Where: 24 N. Main St., Bargersville. | Info: 317-422-3126; bargersville.in.gov

Christmas in Wanamaker Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as Southeastern Avenue comes alive with holiday decorations and a parade from 1-1:30 p.m. Enjoy live entertainment, shopping local businesses and vendors, petting zoos, “Touch a Truck,” our gingerbread house contest, breakfast with Senator Aaron Freeman, and children’s activities alongside many familiar vendor favorites. Create memories with traditional holiday activities such as Christmas photo opportunities with the Grinch, Santa Clause, and Mrs. Clause. The event is free for all

attendees. | When: Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Where: Downtown Wanamaker, Indianapolis. | Info: christmasinwanamaker.net

Antique and Vintage Market

This show features vendors from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and more. You’ll find a variety of merchandise including primitives, jewelry, antiques, quilts and linens, glassware, artwork, turquoise, vintage items, collectibles, furniture, and so much more. Enjoy breakfast and lunch. $3 admission. Parking is free. Make it a day trip and visit downtown Franklin. | When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Where: Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St., Franklin. | Info: 317-412-3381; vintagewhimsyhome. com/2nd-saturday-markets

Hoosier Handmade Craft Fair and Winter Market

Enjoy festive music and décor as you stroll through Scott and Herring Halls at Johnson County Fairgrounds for a truly unique shopping experience with over 70 local artisans. They will feature leatherworks, pottery, jewelry of all kinds, wood carvings and personalized charcuterie and cutting boards, hand poured soy candles, goat milk products, farm décor, handmade rag rug, and so much more. Stop in for lunch from one of the local food trucks, take a Crafty Class, and kids 10 and younger can enjoy the free scavenger hunt game throughout the event (prizes included). Free admission and free parking. | When: Saturday, Dec. 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Where: Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St., Franklin. | Info: facebook.com/HoosierHandmade1/ events; hh.market.franklin@gmail.com

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Needing

KENDRA SCOTT GIFT SETS

Kendra Scott gift sets will make an amazing gift for Christmas or birthdays! Brianne’s Boutique is open

Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Price: $90-$98

Where to buy: Brianne’s Boutique, 75 N. State Road 135, Greenwood

317-888-8995

briannesboutique.com

GIFT BOXES

Gift boxes can contain an array of gifts such as jewelry, specialty chocolate, mugs, candles, and so much more. Pictured is a gift box containing a travel guide, French soap, playing cards, and a candle. Brick & Mortar is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: $25-$50

Where to buy: Brick & Mortar, 215 W. Main St., Greenwood 317-534-7010

brickandmortarshop.com

NINTENDO WII CONSOLE BUNDLE

The console has been tested, cleaned, and comes with all of the accessories you need to get started. Game World is open Sunday from noon-7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Price: $79.99

Where to buy: Game World, 7625 Shelby St., Indianapolis Phone: 317-300-1070

gameworldindiana.com facebook.com/GameWorldIN

CHARIZARD EX SUPER-PREMIUM COLLECTION

The box for the person in your life that loves Charizard, features a foil promo Charizard EX, two foil cards featuring Charmander and Charmeleon, one card display figure featuring Charizard, 10 Pokémon TCG booster packs, and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live. Mage’s Comics and Games is open Sunday from noon-5 p.m., Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m.-11 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Price: $60

Where to buy: Mage’s Comics and Games, 7623 Shelby St., Indianapolis 930-203-3624 magescomics.com

THREE-PACK BEGINNER LEVEL SUPERHERO GUITARS

A regular sized Superman and Super Girl Stratocaster style guitar. One is a three-quarter size for a younger kid as the Hulk. Main Street Music is open Tuesday and Wednesday from noon-7 p.m., Friday from noon6 p.m., and Saturday from noon-4 p.m.

Price: $519

Where to buy: Main Street Music, 528 Main St. #1840, Beech Grove 317-788-4598

facebook.com/mainstreetmusicbg

CITIZENS ECO-DRIVE WATCH

The watch is from their Suratto Collection (model #AR3120-08L). Eco-Drive means it runs on light, so it never needs a battery. Spalding Jewelry is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m.- 5:55 p.m., and Saturday from 9:30 a.m.- 2:55 p.m.

Price: $375

Where to buy: Spalding Jewelry, 701 Main St., Beech Grove 317-787-1745

spaldingjewelers.com

ELIXIR 11

This is a leave-in conditioner that is great for all hair types. This powerful formula halts and reverses styling tool damage while restoring chemically treated hair. It keeps your color and highlights vibrant and repairs cuticle damage, leaving your hair looking youthful and healthy. Roberts Salon & Day Spa is open Monday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m

Price: $18

Where to buy: Roberts Salon & Day Spa, 899 Loews Blvd., Greenwood 317-881-8207 robertssalon.com

COLON HYDROTHERAPY SERVICE

Colon Hydrotherapy, also known as colonics or colon irrigation, is a gentle, yet effective method aimed at internally cleansing your colon. Through the infusion of warm, UV-purified water into the colon, the therapy helps flush out accumulated toxins and waste matter, leading to a rejuvenated digestive system. Journey Health and Wellness is open Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Price: $95

Where to buy: Journey Health and Wellness, 622 N. Madison Ave. Suite 1 and 2, Greenwood 463-300-4345 journeyhw.com

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

LUXE SCALP FACIAL

Give her the gift (certificate) for one-and-a-half hours of total relaxation with our No. 1 service, the LUXE Scalp Facial. Show this AD and we will add the Japanese Waterfall for FREE! Shine Hairspa is open Sunday from 1-5 p.m., Monday from 10:30 a.m.- 4: 30 p.m., Tuesday from 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 12:30-8:30 p.m., Friday from 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Price: $125; Value: $155

Where to buy: Shine Hairspa, 745 US Highway 31 N, Suite I, Greenwood Phone (call or text): 463-300-5893 shinehairspa.com

Kids say the darndest things … about Christmas

From students at Perry Township Schools

When asked for their thoughts on the holidays, some students at Perry Township Schools offered these tidbits.

Doisa Garcia, second grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“When I think about the holidays, I think about all the singing I have to do, and I don’t like taking all the pictures.”

Naomi Evans, second grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“My elf is funny … one time my elf pooped out chocolate chips and left them in the bathroom.”

Lily Mewes, second grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“My family gets matching pajamas that we wear on Christmas Eve.”

Kathryn Tinkler, fourth grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“We have a cookie making day around the holidays. All of my little cousins come over and we decorate cookies; my favorite part is sneaking bites of sprinkles and cookie dough.”

Tyler Loudermouth, second grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“I like celebrating God’s birthday.”

Christopher Morgan, second grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“I love being snuggled up watching Buddy the Elf drinking hot chocolate.”

Weston Curry, third grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“I like to open presents to see what I get, but Mom and Dad make us eat breakfast before we can unwrap our gifts; it’s hard to wait.”

Jackson Campbell, fourth grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“I like decorating the tree with my mom while we listen to Christmas music.”

Justice Jones, second grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“I like setting up my own little silver tree in my bedroom.”

Maeven Curry, kindergarten, Rosa Parks Kindergarten Academy:

“I love my elf; he brings a magic box on Christmas Eve with surprises.”

Amarhi Reed, fifth grade, Rosa Parks Elementary:

“My family hosts a big party just before Thanksgiving where we play games, eat, and draw names from cups for our Christmas gift exchange.”

CANADIAN BRASS

SAT NOV 23 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DIONNE WARWICK

SUN NOV 24 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

HOME FREE: ANY KIND OF CHRISTMAS TOUR

TUE DEC 3 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

CHERRY POPPIN’ DADDIES: WWII TIKI XMAS CANTEEN THU DEC 5 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE FOUR PHANTOMS: HOLIDAY SHOW

FRI DEC 6 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS

SAT DEC 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

MATTEO BOCELLI: A NIGHT WITH MATTEO THU DEC 12 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024

FRI DEC 13 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

SAT DEC 14 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

MAC MCANALLY

FRI JAN 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

LET’S SING TAYLOR: A LIVE BAND EXPERIENCE CELEBRATING TAYLOR SWIFT SAT JAN 11 AT 2PM & 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

YESTERDAY AND TODAY: THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE SAT JAN 18 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE EVOLUTION OF JONI MITCHELL STARRING LAUREN FOX FRI JAN 24 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

HEART OF AFGHANISTAN FEATURING THE FANOOS ENSEMBLE SAT JAN 25 AT 8PM || THE TARKINGTON

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS SUN JAN 26 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE KINGS OF QUEEN SAT FEB 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

PETER SAGAL: HOST OF NPR’S WAIT WAIT...DON’T TELL ME! FRI FEB 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

FOLSOM PRISON EXPERIENCE: LEGENDARY 1968

JOHNNY CASH CONCERT SAT FEB 15 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH STEVE WARINER FRI FEB 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

SEASON PARTNER

KALANI PE’A: GRAMMY-WINNING SINGER, SONGWRITER SAT FEB 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DON WAS & THE PAN DETROIT ENSEMBLE FRI FEB 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE STEPCREW FRI MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A STEELY DAN TRIBUTE FRI MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

WELCOME BACK: THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE &PALMER FRI MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DUSTBOWL REVIVAL:A LAUREL CANYON RETROSPECTIVE FRI MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS SUN MAR 23 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON

GRIMMZ FAIRY TALES SUN MAR 23 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM

LANG LANG FRI MAR 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

EMMYLOU HARRIS THU APR 3 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE SAT APR 5 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THECENTERPRESENTS.ORG

UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND & SOLDIERS’ CHORUS WEDS APR 9 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN SAT APR 12 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BACHELORS OF BROADWAY: GENTLEMEN OF THE THEATRE SUN APR 13 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL THU APR 17 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

MICKY DOLENZ OF THE MONKEES: AN EVENING OF SONGS & STORIES FRI APR 25 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BLACK VIOLIN SAT APR 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

OUR PLANET LIVE: A NETFLIX ORIGINAL DOCUMENTARY SERIES WITH DAN TAPSTER TUES, APR 29 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

MARTY STUART AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES THU MAY 1 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

CELEBRATE THE SONGBOOK: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SAT MAY 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

iLUMINATE SUN MAY 11 AT 4PM | THE PALLADIUM

JON MCLAUGHLIN

DON WAS LANG LANG

EMMYLOU HARRIS

KALANI PE’A

MATTEO BOCELLI

By Julie Brackemyre

1. How many years has The Mocha Nut Coffee Shop been in business, and what inspired you to start/purchase/work with this business?

We noticed that coffee shops were becoming places that people gathered to build relationships and community, and we wanted to contribute to our area in this same positive, relational way. We reached the five-year mark in June of this year!

2. Are you the original owner?

Yes, I am one of three owners. My husband, Clint, and my son, Seth, are also owners. We each have different areas of serving/working that make things run smoothly.

3. Describe your typical workday. My typical workday includes a variety of operational tasks, mixed with a meeting of some sort and connecting with team members or visiting with customers.

4. What inspires your work, and what sets you apart from everyone else?

People deserve to go to a place where they are known AND can get a great drink. We live in a world where we know tons of people at a surface level, but really only have relational depth with one or two. We’re here to serve fantastic coffee, but most of all we’re here to create an atmosphere where people are cared about, and where they can be greeted by name

and can bring a friend and connect. Or, where they can tell someone that they just got engaged or just finished the last round of chemo (true stories), and someone’s excited with them. And if they just want to come grab a coffee and knock out some work (we all still have to work!), we’re here to provide a nice setting for that too.

5. If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?

This was a much bigger adventure than I could have imagined. It was very challenging and was an emotional roller coaster as we navigated so many obstacles. I think I would’ve given myself some grace and been more patient with the entire process.

6. What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start their own business?

You must know WHY you’re doing what you’re doing. You’ll have to rely on that WHY to get the business going and to continue the work long term. You should also have a very solid community to lean on.

Check out the owner:

Name: Marnie Weber

Occupation: Owner, Back of House Lead Website: mochanutcoffee.com

Social media: @themochanutcoffeeshop

1. How long have you worked with The Mocha Nut Coffee Shop? Tell me a little about your background and how you developed your skill set. We purchased the building in 2017 and opened in 2019. I’ve enjoyed creating The Mocha Nut from the beginning. I’ve been a resident of the Southport area for 50plus years and love seeing past friends and acquaintances on a more regular basis! I’ve volunteered with multiple organizations that have helped me develop a heart to serve and give back to the community. I have a business degree, but much of my skill set comes from the experience of running businesses. My husband and I started and continue to run a background screening company. Being a lifelong learner is also critical for doing life well (reading books, podcasts, seminars, and conferences, and being around other people that challenge me to grow and think in new ways).

2. What has been your biggest success to date, and what has been your biggest challenge?

My biggest success is ongoing personal development and communicating with others. It is tricky to navigate personal and work relationships with family (husband, sons, mom, daughter-in-law, son-in-law). It comes with a lot of “heart” work, but I LOVE it!! One of my biggest challenges is determining ways to meet the needs of our customers and community from a business

perspective. There’s a lot going on in our area, and it’s difficult to know how best to show up.

3. What inspires you to hit the ground running each morning?

My love for Jesus inspires me to live each day to the fullest! He has blessed me with a loving family, friends, church, and community. I want others to know what it feels like to have someone on your side, that wants to be with you, that just cares about you with no ulterior motive.

4. Tell me some of your hobbies outside of working for The Mocha Nut Coffee Shop.

My hobbies include: walking, spending time with my family, “Aunt Marnie” time with my nieces and nephews (there’s 43 of them!), reading books, playing games, and just sitting and wondering about whatever crosses my mind.

5. What’s an interesting fact about your business that most people don’t know?

When we started the coffee shop, none of us owners really liked coffee or knew much about it.

6. What’s an interesting fact about you that most people don’t know?

Well, I think out loud and process in real time so there’s not many secrets. A couple of fun facts are: I love burning sticks and I love the sound of laughter!

Look down, look out, and look up

By Susan Rozzi

I am a firm believer that both men and women can be exceptional leaders. Exceptional leaders are authentic, insightful, innovative, and willing to coach those around them. Each of us faces a unique set of opportunities and challenges in the workforce — some because of how we are naturally wired, and some because of how the workforce is structured. As a leader, I encourage you to look down, look out, and look up.

Growing up, when I walked out the door to go do something that was hard or stretched me a bit, my dad always said, “keep your head down and a short

backswing.” As a golfer, this was his way of saying, “keep your eye on the ball, be confident in what you are doing, and you got this.” Some of us are naturally wired to engage in many activities — work, family, social activities, community service, etc. It’s easy to get overcommitted. Where do you need to look down, keep your eyes on what’s already on your plate, and continue to achieve great things?

Sometimes, however, when you are striving to achieve, life can get very intense and stressful. For years, my family volunteered for a program that provided 2,500 lunches to kids in need. It made us realize that the people we were helping

looked a lot like us — a couple changes in circumstances, and it could be us. It reminded us that our current stress wasn’t quite so big, and it felt good to give to someone else. We can often get bogged down with the stress that is right in front of us. How can you look out and change someone’s life in the midst of your own? Leaders are achievers. Yet sometimes we play it too safe or only do what feels comfortable. Consider taking on a little more risk or setting a goal higher than you think you can achieve, then go after it! Learn and try something that is a little different — hang gliding, learning about a new culture, or whatever piques your

interest. Engage in a conversation with someone who isn’t like you. Listen to their stories and learn how they are similar as well as different. Where do you need to look up and challenge yourself in a new way? As a leader, when you look down, look out, and look up, it can change you. Are you willing to give it a try?

Susan Rozzi is the president of Rozzi and Associates, a leadership and organizational development company helping good leaders become great! Our programs start with the premise that great leadership skills are a product of time, practice and focused development. Our leadership development, emotional intelligence insight and career management programs can be customized to meet your desired outcomes and needs. Contact Susan at susan@rozziandassociates.com.

By Chet Cromer

Technology we can be thankful for this year

As we head into the holiday season, it’s a great time to reflect on some technological advancements we can be grateful for. Here are a few of the standout innovations from 2024 that are bringing ease, insight, and enjoyment to our lives.

1. AI becomes more accessible and useful Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a bigger part of our lives. Many of us have already interacted with AI in some form, whether through virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa, or by typing a quick question into a chatbot. This year, AI has taken things up a notch by becoming more intuitive and accessible.

AI can even write emails or create summaries of lengthy articles, saving valuable time and boosting productivity. It’s improving healthcare, too. With advancements in medical AI, doctors have better tools for diagnosing patients and developing effective treatment plans.

2. Smart homes are getting even smarter Today’s smart devices are designed to connect seamlessly and work together more effectively. Smart thermostats, lights, security cameras, and doorbells have become more affordable and easier to install. You can now control them all from a single app, whether you’re at home or away. Smart home advancements also mean

added peace of mind. Features like motionactivated lights and video doorbells keep your home safe, while smart appliances can reduce energy waste. Plus, some smart devices now offer voice-activated reminders to help you stay on top of tasks, such as taking medications or remembering grocery lists.

3. More Accessible Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

While VR and AR have traditionally been associated with gaming and entertainment, these technologies have started finding practical uses in education, professional training, and even social interaction. VR headsets and AR applications have become more affordable and accessible to the public, giving more people a chance to explore virtual worlds or enhanced learning. I have been to many events where VR headsets provide clarity to students exploring potential fields for their careers.

This year, educators have increasingly used VR to create immersive learning experiences for students. Imagine “walking” through historical sites or “seeing” the insides of the human body in 3D without leaving the classroom. Meanwhile, in the professional world, VR has been a game-changer for training. Surgeons can practice complex procedures, and engineers can simulate environments to test their designs, all within the safety of a virtual space.

4. Improved video calling and collaboration tools

Staying connected, especially in remote or hybrid work environments, has been made easier by continuous improvements to video calling and online collaboration tools. Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet now come with enhanced features such as noise cancellation, real-time translation, and even virtual whiteboards that allow for creative brainstorming from anywhere.

This year, the quality and stability of video calls have improved significantly, making it easier to have “face-to-face” conversations with loved ones or colleagues without the frustration of lagging or dropped connections. At our office, we’ve paired our virtual calls with an AI note-taking tool that provides summaries and action steps after the meeting ends.

5. Health and fitness tech for all ages

Wearable technology, like fitness trackers and smartwatches, has become more advanced and personalized this year. These devices can now track more than just steps

— they can monitor heart rates, sleep quality, stress levels, and even blood oxygen levels. Some can detect irregular heart rhythms, prompting users to seek medical attention if needed.

Fitness trackers also now come with AIdriven insights, providing personalized feedback to help users improve their health habits over time. Even if you’re not a fitness buff, these devices can provide helpful reminders to stay active, drink water, and get enough sleep, helping people of all ages stay healthier. My watch provides a sleep score, which often reflects exactly the way my body is feeling after a good or bad night of sleep.

As we continue to embrace these tools, we can look forward to even more ways technology will enhance our lives in the coming year.

United Way of Central

Indiana

awards $17.8

million

to 72 nonprofits in region

United Way of Central Indiana announced that it is awarding $17.8 million to 72 nonprofits in the region to help meet the basic needs of Hoosiers and improve the education, financial stability, and wellbeing of families. A few local nonprofits include Burmese American Community Institute: $70,000 Basic Needs; $80,000 Family Opportunity; and Catholic Charities Indianapolis: $200,000 Basic Needs; $280,000 Family Opportunity.

The grants come from United Way’s Basic Needs and Family Opportunity Funds. The Basic Needs Fund focuses on safe and affordable housing, healthy food access, transportation, and health services. The Family Opportunity Fund supports integrated programming that serves both youth and adults in the same household, aimed at improving the education, financial stability, and well-being of the whole family. Three organizations received “SystemsLevel” grants for work that addresses poverty through a broad, industry-wide approach, including building, maintaining and training the sector’s workforce, and other system-wide strategies and public policy efforts to advance the sector in reducing poverty. The grants range from $40,000 to $470,000 and are being awarded to nonprofits accredited with United Way of Central Indiana. Funding contracts begin Jan. 1, 2025. A separate grant cycle is currently underway for nonprofits outside United Way’s accredited network, with

that funding announcement expected in February.

For this round of funding, a committee of 16 people – United Way staff, board members, and community volunteers –reviewed Basic Needs Fund applications, and a committee of 15 people reviewed Family Opportunity Fund applications. These committees made funding recommendations, which were approved by United Way’s Board of Directors at its Oct. 24 meeting. Previously, nonprofits applied to the two funds separately and at different times of year. Starting this year, United Way has combined the funds into one application to ease the process for partners. Also new this year: multi-year funding, which will allow accredited partners to better plan for the future. “United Way remains committed to partnering with community organizations to tackle issues Central Indiana residents are facing, and to ensure households have access to programs, resources, and opportunities that help people live the lives they are most capable of living,” said Shannon Jenkins, United Way’s vice president of impact. “Funds awarded through the Basic Needs and Family Opportunity Funds will help more than 70,000 people and households have access to essentials and opportunities that lead to educational success, well-being, and economic mobility for Central Indiana families.” For a list of all grant recipients visit uwci.org/blog/2025-impact-funds.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help with Marketplace choices

By Robert Gonzalez, M.D. Pediatrician with Eskenazi Health

It’s that time again. Open enrollment for Health Insurance Marketplace has arrived, just when you were sighing with relief that Halloween festivities were over, and Thanksgiving hadn’t yet arrived. The deadline to have coverage by Jan. 1 is Dec. 15. You have until Jan. 15 if you do not need coverage until Feb. 1, but after that, you will need a special life event (marriage, move, etc.) to enroll.

In other words, stressful decisions are waiting for you during one of the busiest times of the year, less than a week before many of you have children coming home for winter break. If you have multiple family members to consider (each with different health conditions), deciding on the wisest plan for yourself and your family can be tricky. Balancing extent of coverage versus budget is particularly difficult. That’s why you should never feel like you need to make these decisions without

help. A useful guide offers tips for your enrollment and explains which essential health care services are included in every plan at healthcare.gov/quick-guide/onepage-guide-to-the-marketplace.

The representatives at healthcare.gov (1-800-318-2596) are trained to take time addressing your questions. You don’t have to be ready to enroll to call and ask for help. You can always call back if you come up with more questions.

In addition, you can take advantage of Eskenazi Health Financial Counseling, which offers one-on-one marketplace appointments for those who prefer inperson assistance or those who want a more personalized approach. Dropping in is an option, but to guarantee you get a spot, you should set a time in advance. You can schedule an appointment during regular business hours, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., by calling 1-855202-1053, or you can schedule through Eskenazi Health MyChart. While several Eskenazi Health Center locations offer financial services, Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street, Eskenazi Health

Thomas & Arlene Grande Campus, and the downtown campus at 720 Eskenazi Ave. are the largest financial services and therefore the best for seeking Marketplace assistance.

Eskenazi Health Financial Counseling is even offering extended hours on Saturdays to help patients with Marketplace. These extra hours are available on the downtown campus at 720 Eskenazi Ave. between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Schedule a spot on these remaining days: Nov. 30, Dec. 7, or Dec. 14.

In addition to discussing insurance plans, you can consult about your eligibility for cost reductions and government programs with your financial counselor. For example, you may have questions about whether you’re still covered under Medicaid. Before your appointment, make sure your contact details are all up to date on fssabenefits.in.gov and look over the coverage requirements so that you’ll know which questions to ask.

Financial counselors are also well informed on changes to the Marketplace requirements. For example, DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

recipients are now eligible for a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) if they meet other criteria for enrollment. DACA recipients are also eligible for a Basic Health Program (BHP).

Choosing a health care plan will never be easy, and it will certainly never be an anxiety-free process. You can ease your mind, however, by getting the expertise you need while enrolling.

Duke Energy supports first responder agencies with emergency preparedness grants

First responders statewide, including local police, fire, and emergency management agencies (EMAs) in central and eastern Indiana, will benefit from grants from the Duke Energy Foundation. The funding, which totals nearly $215,000 for organizations across the state, will help public safety agencies increase their response capabilities during severe weather and other emergencies through advanced preparation, planning,

GRANTS

equipment, and training. During major emergencies and natural disasters, local emergency management agencies play a critical role in providing information, resources, and support that Duke Energy relies on to speed power restoration for its customers. In Johnson County, Duke Energy Foundation shareholder-funded grants were awarded to EMA $4,000 for emergency preparedness pamphlets that the EMA will hand out to citizens during special events and speaking engagements.

Center Grove Internal Medicine hires Dr. Yegerlehner

Beth Yegerlehner, MD, is now seeing patients at Franciscan Physician Network Center Grove Internal Medicine in Greenwood. Board-certified in family medicine, Dr. Yegerlehner received an undergraduate degree from Purdue University and earned her medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. She completed

residency training in family medicine at Franciscan Health in Beech Grove. Center Grove Internal Medicine provides primary care, consultative internal medicine and care for patients ages 18 and older. Center Grove Internal Medicine is at 1703 West Stones Crossing Road, Suite 200 in Greenwood. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Yegerlehner, call 317-781-7188.

Robert Gonzalez, M.D. (Submitted photo)

EVENTScalendar

BARGERSVILLE

Pancakes with Santa Santa is making a stop at The Sycamore at Mallow Run before the big night! Join him for breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., or brunch from noon to 2 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to come for a delicious breakfast buffet. Juice, milk, and coffee will be available as well. There will be fun Christmas crafts for the kids, music, and, of course, an appearance from Old Saint Nick! For parents, the bar will be open and selling mimosas, bloody Mary’s, and specialty coffee drinks as well. Adult tickets are $30, and kids tickets are $20. Children 2 and under are free. Reservations are required and non-refundable. Click on the website to purchase tickets. | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Where: The Sycamore at Mallow Run, 7070 W. Whiteland Road, Bargersville. | Info: 317530-6463; mallowrun.com/pancakes-withsanta

BEECH GROVE

Artisan Holiday Market

Artisan Holiday Market is a juried all handmade craft fair. The vendors are selected for the originality and the crafting quality of their work. There are artists in all media selling one-of-a- kind creative works of art and crafts. | When: Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Where: Beech Grove High School, 5330 Hornet Ave., Beech Grove. | Info: facebook.com/handmadedtt

CENTER GROVE

Solar System Ambassador Presents the James Webb Telescope

Meredith Hoog presents NASA’s current work with the James Webb Space Telescope. Snacks and drinks are provided. Please register. | When: Saturday, Nov. 23, 1 p.m. | Where: White River Branch Library, 1664 Library Blvd., Greenwood. | Info: 317885-1330; PageAfterPage.org/events

Christmas Cookie Class with Mrs. B’s Cookies

Learn how to bake and decorate delicious Christmas cookies with Mrs. B’s Cookies. This in-person class is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Get into the holiday spirit by decorating six holiday

NIGHT & DAY

cookies with step-by-step directions. Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to spread some Christmas cheer. | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 1-3 p.m. | Where: Johnson County Public Library – White River Branch, 16644 Library Blvd., Greenwood. | Info: 317885-1330; eventbrite.com/e/christmascookie-class-at-white-river-librarytickets-945094702697

FOUNTAIN SQUARE

Tonic Ball

Presented by Eskenazi Health, Tonic Ball brings together Indy’s best bands and musicians on the Friday before Thanksgiving for an annual music festival at venues in Indy’s Fountain Square neighborhood in support of second helpings, a Central Indiana nonprofit fighting hunger from all angles. | When: Nov. 22, 7 p.m.- late. | Where: several locations in Fountain Square (see website for details), Indianapolis. | Info: tonicball. org

Breakfast with Santa Join IMPD Southeast District for Breakfast with Santa. Celebrate the joy of the season with a free to-go breakfast and photo with Santa. | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 9-11 a.m. | Where: IMPD Southeast District, 1150 Shelby St., Indianapolis. | Info: 317-3276366; Andrew.sheler@indy.gov

FRANKLIN

Santa Paws

Bring your furry friends and get a photo with Santa. Photos are free but participants are encouraged to bring a donation to the Johnson County Humane Society. | When: Sunday, Dec. 8, 1-3 p.m. | Where: Beeson Hall, 396 Branigin Blvd., Franklin. | Info: 317-736-3689; facebook.com/ FranklinParksAndRec

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP

Christmas at the Meeting House Franklin Township Historical Society’s annual holiday celebration includes carols from our Victorian pump organ, stories of Christmas tradition and history, punch and cookies, and a chance to see special displays and our recently added exhibits. | When: Sunday, Dec. 8, 6 p.m. | Where: FTHS Meeting House, 6510 S. Franklin Road, Indianapolis. | Info: fths.org/events

GARFIELD PARK

Santa at the Conservatory Meet Santa Claus and tell him what you’d like for Christmas. This is a free event (from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.) and a chance to visit during Conservatory Crossing. Any admissions after 1 p.m. will be $6 per person or $14 per family (two adults max, 2 and under are free). This event is not pre-registered. No registrations can be made online; it’s dropin. | When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (free). | Where: Garfield Conservatory, 2505 Conservatory Drive, Indianapolis. | Info: 317-327-7183

GREENWOOD

Pictures with Santa Santa Claus is coming to the Greenwood Park Mall for pictures. | When: Through Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Where: Greenwood Park Mall, 1251 N. U.S. 31, Greenwood. | Info: simon.com/mall/greenwood-park-mall/ news-and-events

Lighted Trail

Come to the Greenwood Amphitheater to enjoy a lighted trail. This is free, and it can be accessed via the community center parking lot. It is illuminated from dusk to dawn. | When: Dec. 1-31, 5:30 p.m. - 7 a.m. | Where: Greenwood Amphitheater, 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. | Info: 317-8814545; greenwood.in.gov

Breakfast with Santa in Greenwood Every year, Santa makes an appearance in Greenwood and has breakfast with the kids. | When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Where: Greenwood Community Center, 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. | Info: 317-881-4545; greenwood.in.gov

Hope for the Holidays

Foster and kinship families are invited to enjoy breakfast and photos with Santa, gifts for every child, games, crafts, and more. | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.noon. | Where: New Hope Church, 5307 W. Fairview Road, Greenwood. | Info: 317-3005307; info@resourcesofhope.org

GPL: Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Come and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus,

and stop by for a fun kids’ activity! Our friends from the Kiwanis will also be here with some refreshments! | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 2-4 p.m. | Where: Greenwood Public Library, 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. | Info: 317-881-1953; greenwoodlibrary.us/ calendar#/events

Kid City Christmas

Enjoy a train ride through the amphitheater lighted trail and get a selfie with Santa. Also, enjoy hot cocoa, popcorn, and a holiday craft. | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 5-9 p.m. | Where: Greenwood Community Center 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. | Info: 317-881-4545; greenwood.in.gov

Greater Greenwood Community Band Christmas Concert

Enjoy the most festive concert of the year, with Christmas favorites under the spotlights and Santa visits. The auditorium stage will be decorated for this free concert. Admission is free and tickets are not required. | When: Saturday, Dec. 7, 6-7:30 p.m. | Where: Greenwood Community High School, 615 Smith Valley Road, Greenwood. | Info: greenwoodband. org

PERRY TOWNSHIP

Learn about the Wright Brothers at the Perry Township Historical Society Meeting Ken MacNamara will be the guest speaker at the November meeting of the Perry Township/Southport Historical Society. Ken is a Navy veteran who has some stories to tell about Wilbur and Orville Wright and their Indiana connections. Come join us for an enjoyable and informative evening. | When: Tuesday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m. | Where: Perry Township Education Center, 6548 Orinoco Ave., Indianapolis. (Enter through the center doors at the northwest corner of the building) | Info: 317-787-5157

SOUTHPORT

City of Southport: Christmas in the Park Southport Santa in the City at 3 p.m. followed by Christmas in the Park at 4 p.m. | When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 4-7 p.m. | Where: City of Southport, 6901 Derbyshire Road, Southport. | Info: 317-786-5489; in.gov/ cities/southport/parks-department

NIGHT & DAY

AN OPTION

MEGUMI OF EMERSON

Guests at Beech Grove’s newest Japanese restaurant can’t seem to get enough of the expansive menu options delivered at a fast pace with reasonable prices, which is why they’re repeat customers. “Every time I come here there’s something delicious to try next,” stated a Google reviewer. Megumi of Emerson offers more than a dozen hibachigrilled options made right at your table in addition to various appetizers, salad, raw and cooked nigiri/sashimi, specialty sushi combos and rolls, and rolled sushi, along with choices from the sushi bar, a kids’ menu, and plenty of Bubble tea. “We started with an order of gyoza to share,” added a Yelp reviewer. “They were hot and delicious and came served with some hot chili sauce. I ordered a hibachi tofu dinner that was plentiful and so good. It came with fresh veggies and fried rice and a side of yum yum sauce. I also got a salad with my dinner. There was so much food I had a full carryout for

take-home dinner. I also couldn’t resist a boba fruit tea to go. So yummy and loaded with fresh fruit.”

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; closed on Sunday. Address: 4030 S. Emerson Ave. Suite C, Indianapolis. For more information, call 317-756-9715 or go to megumiofemerson.com

SPOTLIGHT

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Creative Grounds Fine Arts Academy is presenting “Beauty and the Beast” from Thursday, Nov. 21 through Sunday, Nov. 24 at the Ransburg Auditorium on the UIndy campus.

The University of Indianapolis has recently partnered with the nonprofit for the next three years, which further cements UIndy’s status as a hub for the arts in Indianapolis, particularly the Southside.

For several years, Creative Grounds (CGFAA) had been operating out of Greenwood Park Mall, utilizing a much smaller space. The stage did not have a curtain, making some productions difficult to maneuver. Ransburg Auditorium, which seats more than 700 people, removes both of those challenges.

“We could not be more excited as an organization to stage all of our productions on UIndy’s campus,” said Mark Landis, cofounder and executive director of CGFAA. “The arts are incredibly important to our community and

it’s a huge opportunity for our students to experience a traditional theater experience.”

Creative Grounds stages between sixeight shows a calendar year, with about

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500 different people involved in at least one production annually. As a nonprofit youth mentorship program, shows are frequently double cast mixing adults and students for full-length productions — so

that both ensembles can learn from and inspire each other.

“It’s wonderful to add the presence and the energy of the Creative Grounds Fine Arts Academy to campus,” said Grant Williams, director of the UIndy Theatre Program. “It keeps movement and momentum going in that space and I look forward to a long partnership together.”

Another important facet of the program is offering school day performances to area community schools for just $5 a student, a price for live theater that is extremely affordable compared to professional productions elsewhere in Indianapolis.

Showtimes are as follows:

Thursday, Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 23, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 24, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Ransburg Auditorium is at 1400 E. Hannah Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46227. For more information or to buy tickets, go to onthestage. tickets/show/creative-groundsfine-arts-academy-inc.

(Submitted photo)

Order fresh sushi to enjoy at your table or to take home. (Photo courtesy of Megumi of Emerson)

NIGHT & DAY

Revisit your favorite holiday classic flicks at The Artcraft Theatre

By Nancy Hammerstrom

A beloved pastime for many of us between Thanksgiving and Christmas includes watching our favorite holiday movie in our warm PJs while sipping from a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Who can forget the “Italian” (FRA-GEE-LAY) leg lamp in A Christmas Story or watching the eccentric, yet loveable Buddy in Elf enchant everyone he meets in New York after traveling from the North Pole? This year, wander on over to The Artcraft Theatre in downtown Franklin to get your nostalgic fix. The 625-seat, single-screen movie theater has been a 35mm preferred format since 1922, remains one of the most intact Art Deco movies in central Indiana, and is listed on the Indiana State Register of Historic Places. In 2004, The Artcraft Theatre was purchased by Franklin Heritage, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) historic preservation group.

Prices for all movies are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (55-plus), college students, and those in the military (with ID), and $4 for children aged 12 and under. A concession booth sells locally grown popcorn provided by Norton Farms, as well as Pepsi products, Triple XXX root beer on tap, water, and candy. In addition, the theater serves beer, wine, and limited cocktails at all evening shows (after 5 p.m.). Please bring your I.D. Popcorn and refills are free! Doors open 60 minutes before showtime. The Artcraft Theatre is at 57 N. Main St., Franklin. The phone number is 317-736-6823. For more information on the movies and to buy tickets, go to historicartcrafttheatre.org/ movie-and-events-schedule.html.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Description: A Chicago advertising man must struggle to travel home from New York for Thanksgiving, with a lovable oaf of a shower-curtain-ring salesman as his only companion.

Dates and times: Friday, Nov. 22, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Elf

Description: Raised as an oversized elf, Buddy travels from the North Pole to New York City to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs, who doesn’t know he exists and is in desperate need of some Christmas spirit.

Dates and times: Friday, Nov. 29, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 1, 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

A Christmas Story

Description: In the 1940s, a young boy named Ralphie Parker attempts to convince his parents, teacher, and Santa Claus that a Red Ryder Range 200 Shot BB gun really is the perfect Christmas gift.

Dates and times: Friday, Dec. 6, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

White Christmas

Description: A successful song-anddance team become romantically involved with a sister act and team up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general.

Dates and times: Friday, Dec. 13, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Description: The Griswold family’s plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster.

Dates and times: Friday, Dec. 20, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 21, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 22, 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Die Hard

Description: Yippee-kay-yay! Let’s close out the Christmas movie season with a bang! A New York City police officer tries to save his estranged wife and several others taken hostage by terrorists during a Christmas party at the Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles.

Dates and times: Monday, Dec. 23, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

HUMOR

By Torry Stiles

Top 10 signs you found the worst employee of all time

10. Had a week of bereavement leave for his mother passing last month but taking her to the hospital today.

9. Signs on as a forklift driver, demands to work from home.

8. Tells you to watch this week’s “On Patrol Live” because he’s on there again.

7. Insists the company facilities include a litter box and scratching post.

6. You thought ‘only on 420’ referred to April 20th but it refers to a.m. and p.m.

5. Only responds to the title, “Your Highness.”

4. His delivery times are half the average and he’s live on the evening news with his third police chase this week.

3. She made brownies for the office and half of the HR department is dancing naked in the parking lot.

2. His drug test came back with no sign of drugs but that he’s a pregnant German shepherd.

1. You sprayed him twice with the mace, and he’s still in the lobby trying to turn in his job application.

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE:

Disturbances: FUSS, HUBBUB, RACKET, ROW, RUCKUS, UPROAR;

Restaurants: BOB EVANS, CHICKFIL-A; CULVER’S, FIVE GUYS, IHOP; Tape: DUCT, ELECTRICAL, MASKING, PACKING;

Cities: FISHERS, FRANKFORT, FRANKLIN;

. : DOT, PERIOD;

Governor: EVAN BAYH

LIFESTYLE

It’s a gift

HUMOR

By Dick Wolfsie

Over the years, I have poked fun at the Hammacher Schlemmer gift catalog. On the cover, they boast that they have “the best, the unique, and the unexpected.” This is evidenced by the following items in their newest mailing. Stay tuned for more as we get closer to Christmas.

First, let’s take a look at all the huge lawn ornaments in the HS catalog. To name a few: a 16-foot snowman, a 15foot inflatable Rudolph, a 5-foot Grinch, an 18-foot Frosty the Snowman, a 9-foot Twinkling Reindeer, and a 15-foot Santa. Buy them all and put them on your front lawn this week. Your HOA will love you. Trust me.

Oh, I almost forgot. They also have a lifesize replica of Santa on a ladder climbing up the side of your house to the second

floor. The problem is that the police keep shooting at him.

Here are a few more nifty-gifty items in this great catalog.

The Only Outdoor Heated Cat Shelter: This is for feline lovers who don’t love their cat enough to let him in the house. Cats won’t sleep in the shelter, anyway. They will sleep in the box it came in.

Hands-Free Binoculars: This might be a good choice for that Peeping Tom in your life. Now he can hold on to the edge of the windowsill with both hands while he peeps.

Cordless Air Broom: This is the perfect gift for the Halloween witch who takes off only to be yanked back by the electric cord.

The Genuine U.S. Military Watch: This is a beautifully crafted luxurious item priced at just over a thousand dollars. It sounds expensive, but on the bright side it’s a hundred times cheaper than the Trump watch. And it’s made in the USA.

Fertilizing houseplants in winter

GARDENING

By John Chapin

With the arrival of winter, our hardy shrubs, trees, and perennials go dormant for the next few months, and after a fall cleanup, gardeners are ready for a well-earned break. For a “plant fix,” plant lovers take solace in houseplants, which have been experiencing a popularity not seen since the 70s, with new houseplant varieties being introduced every year. Caring for and enjoying houseplants in the dead of winter is very rewarding and satisfying.

Most sources advise to stop fertilizing houseplants during the winter months, reasoning that growth is much slower and plants don’t need the nourishment. However, most houseplants are tropical, and as long as their light and temperature needs are met, they grow continuously, benefiting from fertilizing. Having had the opportunity to tour large, commercial houseplant grower greenhouses over the years, I’ve noticed that the growers all continuously feed the houseplants being raised for market with every watering. It’s important to note that the fertilizer is very

diluted, usually at no more than quarter strength, and dissolved in the watering system. On average, most houseplants don’t need watering more than once a week, so that works out to a full dose of fertilizer just once a month. Succulents and cactus, as well as some foliage houseplants, need less frequent watering, but also less fertilizing, so this system of continuous feeding works just as well for them.

A reminder that more houseplants are killed by over-watering than underwatering. Water only when the top inch or two of soil is dry when probing with a finger or if foliage is wilted. Water generously until the water runs out of the drainage hole. You will find that wellfed houseplants are healthier plants, less attractive to pests and diseases, and, if their light and temperature needs are met, will grow with more vigor!

Happy gardening!

John Chapin is a retired school teacher and sole proprietor of Chapin Landscaping. He has over 30 years’ experience in the landscaping business. Contact him at jchapinlandscaping@gmail.com

The Best Nose Trimmer: Hammacher claims this was tested by a panel of experts who judged it the best nose hair trimmer in business. They claim the device is “good at getting to hairs others would have missed.” Other people? Do you have other people in your life searching for your nose hairs?

The Barber Eliminator: The first time you use this tool to cut your own hair it sends an automatic text to your stylist and fires him. You’ve wanted to do this for years. DONE!

The Full Disclosure Clock: This clock is scary because you never know what it will reveal. Remember, it’s been watching you all day. HS also adds that the clock can tell you what day and month it is in Spanish and French, which is exactly the same as it is in the U.S.

The Side Sleeper Pillow: This pillow is a subtle hint to your significant other that you know that he or she is sleeping with

someone on the side. It’s washable so it’s a good time to air your dirty laundry.

The Illuminated Ear Wax Cleaner: Why would you want to clean your ear wax? More importantly, why would you want the gadget illuminated? You can’t look in your own ears. And even your best friend won’t have any interest in helping.

Stress Building Head Massager: Finally, the Stress-Relieving Full-Head Massager. It’s hard to describe this, so go to my Facebook page and tell me if the Hannibal Lecter Fan Club didn’t design this monstrosity: (facebook.com/dick.wolfsie)

Dick Wolfsie’s weekly humor column is published in more than 30 newspapers. Dick has written 14 books, including Mornings with Barney and Indiana Curiosities. His newest book, The Right Fluff, is a compilation of his most popular humor columns. He lives in Fishers with his wife Mary Ellen and a cat who doesn’t like him.

Margaret Louise Renner

Chittum

Margaret Louise Renner Chittum, 99, Columbus, died Oct. 19, 2024. Survivors: children, David (Debbie) Renner and Judy (Dick) McCarthy; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, one great-greatgranddaughter. Predeceased: husbands, Arlie Renner and Max Chittum; daughter, Linda Renner; brothers, Dudley and Robert Workman. G. H. Herrmann Greenwood Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

Charlene Joan Davis

Charlene Joan Davis, 86, Indianapolis, died Nov. 1, 2024. Survivors: five children, Alfred (Butch) Davis Jr, Sherry Wash, Paul Davis (Karen), Johnny Davis, and Doris Williams, seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a great-great granddaughter. Predeceased: husband, Alfred E. Davis. G. H. Herrmann Madison Avenue Funeral Home.

Mary Joan Jordan

Mary Joan Jordan, affectionately known as Mary Jo, was born on Sept. 14, 1928 in Indianapolis. She gracefully left this world on Nov. 3, 2024, surrounded by the love and warmth she so generously bestowed upon her family and friends. Mary Jo dedicated a significant portion of her life to her career as a secretary with Allison Transmissions, where she worked diligently until her retirement in the early 1980s. Her work ethic was admired, but it was her devotion to her family that cast the brightest light in her life. Mary Jo is remembered for the countless cherished moments shared during huge family dinners and themed parties that filled her home with laughter and love. Mary Jo always was giving back to the community. She had over 3,000 volunteer hours at St. Francis Hospital in Beech Grove and

OBITUARIES

supported organizations that help those less fortunate. Affectionately known for walking to St. Mark Catholic Church, where she was a devoted member, Mary Jo’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. The church was not just a place of worship for her, but a community where she connected deeply with those around her. Her personality radiated warmth; she was loving, generous, and caring. Mary Jo found immense joy in her hobbies, particularly gardening and raising strawberries, which she proudly sold, sharing the fruits of her labor with others. She was a nurturing soul whose touch transformed everything she engaged with, whether it was in her beautiful garden or within her home. Mary Jo’s proudest accomplishment was marrying Hubert “Sonny” Jordan on Aug. 2, 1952. Their union was filled with love and mutual respect, even as she mourned his passing. She also cherished her siblings, Elizabeth Tanasovich, Patricia Raftery, and David Weber; her niece and caregiver Penelope Brown, who survived her. Many fond memories were created with numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her close in their hearts. Mary Jo joins her beloved parents, Fred and Elizabeth Schrader Weber; her late husband, Sonny, and her brother, John Weber in eternal rest. Visitation was on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, from 9 to 10:15 a.m. at O’Riley - Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 6107 S. East St., Indianapolis, IN 46227. A Mass of Christian Burial followed at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mark Catholic Church, 535 Edgewood Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46227 at 11 a.m. Burial was at Round Hill Cemetery. Please visit ORileyBranson. com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry. Mary Jo will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of love, generosity, and cherished memories will

Operation Christmas Child locations

Volunteers are preparing to collect Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, Nov. 18 – 25. More than 4,700 drop-off locations will open across the country in November, and shoebox packers can find their local drop-off locations nearest them. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has been collecting and delivering gift-filled shoeboxes to children including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease, and disaster. Find a stepby-step guide on the How to Pack a

COLLECTIONS

Shoebox webpage at samaritanspurse. org. The project partners with local churches across the globe to deliver these tangible expressions of God’s love to children in need. Participants can donate $10 per shoebox gift online through “Follow Your Box” and receive a tracking label to discover its destination. Participants can find the nearest drop-off location and hours of operation as they make plans to drop off their shoebox gifts at samaritanspurse.org. The online lookup tool is searchable by city or ZIP code. Signs at each location will identify the drop-off. Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan’s Purse.

continue to nurture the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Daniel Ray Markins

Daniel Ray Markins, Greenwood, died Nov. 5, 2024. Survivors: wife, Gerri Markins; daughters, Melissa Eby, Michelle Wire, Amy Lather, and Amanda Brown; four grandchildren; one great-grandson; brother, Bill; and sister, Patty Ives. Predeceased: parents, Jack and Viola; one brother; four sisters. G.H. Herrmann Greenwood Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

Rick Allen Martlage

Rick Allen Martlage, 72, Indianapolis, died Oct. 27, 2024. Survivors: siblings, Gary (Courtney), Deborah Charrlin (Dave), Pamela Burris, Ronald (Patricia), Brian (Cheryl); 13 nieces, nephews; 19 greatnieces and nephews. Visitation: 1-4 p.m., memorial, 4 p.m., Friday, Nov. 22, G. H. Herrmann Greenwood Funeral Home at The Gardens of Olive Branch.

Robert Nolan McKinney

Robert Nolan McKinney, 78, Indianapolis, died Nov. 3, 2024. Survivors: wife, Marcia (Rochner) McKinney; daughters, Michelle (David) Soruco and Laura (John) Hosler; five grandchildren; three siblings, Vicki Auger, Don (Diana) McKinney, and Nancy (Fritz) Kriese; sister-in-law, Becky (Rick) Poe; and brother-in-law Jon (Brandi) Rochner. G.H. Herrmann Funeral Home.

Linda Ann Miller

Linda Ann Miller, 76, Indianapolis, died Oct. 29, 2024. Survivors: husband, Frank G. Miller, Sr.; children, Kelly (finance, Derek Robertson); Frank G. (Amanda) Miller II; three grandchildren; two siblings; five nephews. Predeceased: brother in-law and nephew. G. H. Herrmann Madison Avenue Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

Basic death notices (up to 50 words) are printed free of charge. Personalized Obituaries exceeding 50 words will incur a charge. Full-color photographs may be included for an additional fee. Families/estates or funeral directors are encouraged to send obituaries and photos to news@ss-times.com. Information received by noon Tuesday will be published Monday, space permitting.

Samuel Jene Moore

Samuel Jene Moore, 81, Indianapolis, died Oct. 31, 2024. Survivors: wife, Mary K. (Cosby) Moore; sons, John (Dawn) Moore and Scott (April) Moore; grandchildren, Alan (Saisha) Moore, Ashley J. “AJ” (Ashley) Steele, and Aurora; great-grandson, Kev. Services will be held privately for his family. G. H. Herrmann Funeral Home.

Maxine L. Seale

Maxine L. Seale, 92, of Greenwood, died Oct. 28, 2024. Survivors: daughter, Carolyn (Kevin) Doss; sons, Ronnie (Robin), Doug (Donna), Kenny (Jill) Seale; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; seven siblings. Predeceased: husband, Walter; infant son, Dennis; two brothers; sister. G. H. Herrmann Greenwood Funeral Home at The Gardens of Olive Branch.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16

First Baptist Church of Beech Grove 5521 Churchman Ave.

Sunday Bible Study 10 am

Worship Service

11 am

Current preaching from Book of Acts

Wednesday Prayer Meeting 7 pm

* Copies of The Southside Times are available each week in this church's office or lobby.

✞

BAPTIST

Southwood Baptist Church • 501 S. 4th Ave., Beech Grove | 317-786-2719 | Proclaiming Christ because we care | Pastor John C. Jones II | Sunday worship 10:45 a.m. | Sunday school 9:30 a.m.

✞

CATHOLIC

*Good Shepherd Catholic Church • 2905 S. Carson Ave., Indpls. | (317) 783-3158 | Rev. Jeffery Moore, Sac. Minister | Sat. Mass: 4:30 p.m. | Sun. Mass: 9 a.m. | Ordinariate Rite 11:00 a.m. | Completely Handicapped Accessible | All Welcome!

Holy Name of Jesus • 89 N. 17th Ave., Beech Grove | (317) 784-5454 | Rev. Robert Robeson | Worship Times & Anticipation Sun.: 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. | Sat. Mass: 5 p.m.

Saints Francis & Clare of Assisi • 5901 Olive Branch Road, Greenwood | (317) 859-4673 | Fr. Steve Giannini | Sat. Anticipation Mass: 5:30 p.m. | Sun.: 7, 8:45 & 11:30 a.m.

✞ DISCIPLES OF CHRIST

PLACES OF WORSHIP

First Christian Church of Beech Grove • 405 Main Street, Beech Grove, IN 46107 | (317) 786-8522 |

In Person on Sundays at 10:30 or Zoom, same time: 121 813 648

✞ LUTHERAN

Calvary Lutheran Church & School • 6111 Shelby St. Indianapolis | clcs.org | (317) 783-2000 | email: info@ clcs.org | Worship — Traditional: Sat. 5:30 p.m. & Sun. 8:00 a.m.; Contemporary: Sun. 10:45 a.m. | Sunday School & Bible Study: 9:25 a.m. | Engaging People In Christ through Connecting, Learning, Caring and Serving

*Concordia Lutheran Church and Preschool • 305 Howard Road, Greenwood | (317) 881-4477 | Worship Sun.: 9:30 a.m. | Mon.: 6:30 p.m. | concordia-lcms.com

Emmaus Lutheran Church • 1224 Laurel Street Indianapolis 46203 | Fountain Square 317-632-1486 | elcindy.org emmauschurchindy@gmail.com | Pastor Raymond Smith | Sundays: Bible Study 8:45 a.m., Service 10:00 a.m.

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

MATTHEW 21:22

If the devil can convince us to give up on the ones who are walking in the wrong direction in life, then our best efforts to be like Jesus are in vain. After all, what are we fighting for? How will the blind ever come to see with eyes of faith if we don’t first practice what we as Christians preach? It can be exhausting to show true love, forgiveness, mercy, and grace, but this is why we need God even more than we need Red Bull to give us wings! Recently I tried to squeeze a short nap into a very busy day. Just as I laid back in my recliner, I received a call that a lady had locked her keys in her car, and she was in tears, standing in the rain, about to break her window with a brick. Our minister of outreach saw her in distress and pleaded with her to not break her window. He asked her to give his pastor a chance to unlock her

✞ NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Tallwood Chapel Community Church • 5560 S. Shelby St., Indpls. | (317) 787-5595 | The Gospel is a seed - come grow with us | Worship with us Sundays 10:30 a.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Prayers are with you during this time | BIBLE CHURCH, Ministry of HOLY WORD

✞ UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

St. John’s United Church of Christ • 7031 S. East St., Indpls (U.S. 31, Southport Road) | (317) 881-2353 | Sunday Worship: 10:30 a.m. | Sunday School: 10:30 a.m.

✞ UNITED METHODIST

Rosedale Hills United Methodist • 4450 S. Keystone Ave., Indpls. | (317) 786-6474 | Email: officerhumc@att.net | Senior Pastor Amy Lee | Sun.: 9:30 a.m. | Sunday School: 10:45 a.m. | rosedalehillsumc.com

Are we there yet?

By Carey Rudicel

Almost! We are almost at the busiest holiday season of the year. If you are like me, nothing is done. Nothing is prepped. There are countless invitations to family events, friend events, concerts, school programs, and craft fairs. It is overwhelming to think about. So how do we divide our time to make everything work? Is it OK to pass some things up? Will our kids recover?

car. I asked him why he told her that I could help her, especially since I was about to take a nap while it rained. He said he told her to have faith because he believes in the power of prayer. She told him that she would be fired if she was late for work, and that she had little use for prayers. He told her that was OK, because his pastor used to break into all kinds of locked cars before he gave his heart to Jesus! I went into the storm, tools in hand, and within minutes her keys were in her hands. One hug later, I was paid in full. God bless and go and have a great day.

Pastor Dan Bailey is the chair of the Mayor’s Faith Based Round Table for the City of Beech Grove, who believes in its mission statement to “Strengthen the Community with Christ’s Love.” He is a lifelong resident of Southside with his wife, four children and five grandchildren. He has also been a criminal investigator for the last 30-plus years for the Public Defender Agency.

We divide our time into how it works for our family. I know, less than direct, but I don’t need to tell someone how they should do their holiday season. What works for one family doesn’t work for another family. I am basically saying “you do you, boo,” unapologetically, in whatever shape that takes. As mothers, we often do what makes the masses happy. What about doing what makes you happy? If it is beating roads, making an appearance at several gatherings, go for it. If not, go for it. Class, this is your permission slip to take back your holiday and enjoy it as you see fit.

One holiday season, while I was a mother to two small children, we attended three Thanksgivings, two Friendsgivings, and five Christmases. There was not a single thing enjoyable about that season. I was insistent that we not miss anything so everyone would get equal time with us, and no one would feel left out. That was the worst year ever. There were fits, exhausted tantrums, traveling endlessly, and rushing through each stop, not actually enjoying anything. That was a one and done season. Never again.

For those of you that want to see and do it all through the holiday season, I salute you! For those of us that don’t, I am with you. One hundred percent. The way I see it, we get very few chances to soak up the magic of the holidays with the littles. There is a very short window of something we, as mothers, get to do that is super special. This is our time to create traditions and memories with our kids that we don’t get back. Memories and traditions that our kids will take with them as they get older. When they are little, make the memories, do the fun things, and soak it in. When they get older, take the trips, and be part of the experience. Let them tell you what means most to them. Having adult children, and young ones alike, I was surprised that my kids chose to be home together, watching movies, and eating snacks.

So, they will recover. Spend your time over the holidays investing in you, your kids, and your happiness, without worry. Spend your time how you want. Do what you want. There will come a time you can attend countless events and gatherings when your kids have families of their own. Until then, slow down and enjoy because the magic will fade, time will go on, and before you know it, all you have left are memories.

PUBLIC NOTICE AUCTION OF PROPERTY BY Nick’s Packing And Storage LLC. Public auction of personal property including household goods, furniture, non-perishables, belonging to the following persons: Quiana Linel Williams, Ximena Garrido, Felipe Vincente Flores, Main Malabeh, Tiffany Napoleon, Jean Napoleon, Blaise Fomunyoh On Thursday December 5, 2024 at 6:30PM The location for the auction is: Mike Heimel Auction Services 59 N. 2nd Ave, Beech Grove, IN 46107 PURUSANT TO IC 32-31-4-4, IC 32-31-4-5, IC 26-1-7-210(B)(5)

Local families enjoy Touch-A-Truck sensory fest

Calvary Lutheran Church hosted its first Touch-A-Truck community event, drawing in over 400 people to Indy’s Southside in September for a truckload of fun!

Families enjoyed a crisp fall morning full of activities, including face painting, a musical puppet show, toy car racing games, a monster truck bounce house, and a complimentary lunch. Children of all ages could explore climbing into and honk the horns of ambulances, concrete trucks, and squad cars! This

unique event was free to all families, the community, and church members. Visitors were treated to truck scavenger hunts and yellow “I serve GOD” construction hats to collect small mementos. Activities were tailored to children between the ages of 3 and 12. Additional events open to the public include Calvary’s annual Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 9, and an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 12, 2025. To learn more about these events and our church worship services, please visit the website at clcs.org.

(Photo captured by Don Fisher, Jr.)