Carmel Magazine March 2024

COMING UP IN CARMEL

CELEBRATING CORTONA, CARMEL’S ITALIAN SISTER CITY

A special exhibit from December 8–March 8

Friday, March 01: All Day

Main Library, All Ages

Stop by the Main Library Kids Area to see items celebrating Italian culture. This special exhibit is presented in partnership with the Carmel-Cortona Sister City Committee.

03/18/2024,

BASTA PASTA!

A Bilingual English/Italian Storytime

For Kids, Ages 2–8 and their Families

Sunday, March 03: 1:30pm - 2:15pm

Main Library - Discovery Room

Join us at 1:30pm or 2:30pm for stories, songs, a pasta-making demonstration, and a pasta craft. Read the full description for important info about required tickets or call 317.814.3992.

CHS TEACHERS AND STUDENTS ART SHOW

On display March 5–31

Tuesday, March 05: All Day

Main Library

All Ages

In celebration of Youth Arts Month, enjoy a month-long exhibit of artwork by Carmel High School students and their art teachers in the Main Library lobby.

03/14/2024

6:00

03/20/2024

10:00

TOURISM SPOTLIGHT

Spring is Closer Than You Think

There are plenty of things to do with your family right here in Hamilton County. Get out of the house and take your kids on family-friendly adventures at local parks and attractions to beat the winter blues.

IKEA AND TOPGOLF

Fun fact: Fishers is home to Indiana’s only IKEA and Topgolf. Even if you’re not redesigning your home, IKEA is a fun place to explore. You could even create your own scavenger hunt or “I Spy” challenge to keep the kids entertained. Don’t forget the iconic Swedish meatballs in the cafeteria! After all that shopping, head across the street to Topgolf, a premier entertainment venue where you can challenge each other to addictive point-scoring golf games – no experience necessary.

CONNER PRAIRIE

Spring is when the outdoor grounds at Conner Prairie in Fishers come alive. Your first stop should be the Animal Encounters barn to visit with the baby goats and sheep. Take a ride high in the sky on the 1859 Balloon Voyage, as weather permits. On a clear day, you can even see the downtown Indianapolis skyline. Then, make your way to Treetop Outpost to explore a three-story treehouse, connect with nature and see stunning views of the White River.

STRAWTOWN KOTEEWI PARK

Did you know this is Hamilton County’s largest park at more than 900 acres? There’s more to explore beyond the eight miles of trails. Book a guided horseback trail ride or pony ride with K-Trails Equestrian Adventures. Or, try your hand at using a bow and arrow at Koteewi Range: Sport and Target Archery Center. If you want a thrilling adventure, visit Edge Adventures Koteewi: Aerial Adventure Park to conquer treetop trails, ziplines and your fear of heights.

PARKS AND TRAILS

Hamilton County has 600+ miles of trails and dozens of great parks. Get your bikes out of the garage and pedal along the Monon Trail, connecting through Sheridan, Westfield, Carmel and south to Indianapolis. Must-see parks in the area for families include local favorites like Central Park in Carmel, Flat Fork Creek Park in Fishers, Forest Park in Noblesville and Cool Creek Park and Nature Center in Westfield.

INDOOR ATTRACTIONS

Spring weather in Indiana can be unpredictable. If the forecast calls for a rainy day, take your adventure inside and visit the indoor waterpark at the Monon Community Center, The Escape Room, K1 Speed, Laser Flash or Pinheads for all-day entertainment.

For more information, check out

CULTIVATION AND CONTRIBUTION

APPRECIATING CARMEL RESIDENT KWAN HUI’S LOCAL LEGACY

Writer & Photographer / Jeff Worrell

You may never have met him, but his fingerprints are all over our community. He is a Harvard-trained scientist now retired from Eli Lilly who was born in the southern province of China. His parents immigrated to the United States when he was very young and he came to Carmel with his wife to start a family in 1989. He is the devoted caretaker and creator of one of the largest collections of species of Oriental tree peonies, started the popular Chinese Lion Dance Team, is a tireless volunteer for Carmel nonprofits and is a big supporter and promoter of all art forms both in Carmel and across central Indiana.

I have bumped into Kwan Hui on multiple

occasions as he sits on the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Human Relations, is active with the Chinese Mooncake Festival and advocates for our Sister City, Xiangyang. He is a member of Rotary Club of Carmel, King of Glory Lutheran Church, Chinese Community Church, Chinese Orchestra and the Indiana Museum of Art Asian Art Society board, to name just a few.

During an interaction last summer, I had the opportunity to appreciate Hui’s love for all things Carmel and enjoy one of his passions - master gardening.

“Kwan donated his time and his garden to support us with our Garden Tour annual

fundraiser,” says Debbie Gangstad, executive director of the Carmel Clay Historical Society. “He was absolutely wonderful, phenomenal, exuberant and generous with his time and resources. Our patrons really appreciated his hard work and the grounds on his property.”

And they should. In addition to beautiful plantings and landscaping throughout Hui’s flowering slice of heaven, nestled along the shoreline of Lake Woodland, he nurtures over 70 Oriental tree peonies, displaying 40 different species. Sometimes he must use floodlights in order to get the necessary pruning done before calling it a day.

“I love everything that pleases my eye and pleases my ear; I originally thought I would be an artist and go to art school, but my parents thought I should become a scientist,” he says with an understanding look of being a parent himself.

Last month I watched Hui turn the gavel

over to his successor when he completed his term as president of the Indiana Association of Chinese Americans, as they celebrated their 50th anniversary. It is obvious that Hui loves sharing his Chinese culture with others and believes strongly in contributing to the American way of life.

The next time you see the lion dancing in Carmel’s midtown or the dragon twirling along Main Street, I hope you will think fondly of Carmel’s longtime resident, Kwan Hui. He has dedicated a significant portion of his life to sharing his culture, all done in the spirit of better understanding and love for all mankind. I hope you enjoy his work.

Living the American Dream

GODBY HOME FURNISHINGS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Justin Sicking

Jim Godby was born on December 10, 1941, and grew up in a farming family in Sheridan, Indiana. He spent his youth in 4-H, FFA, and athletics. He feels these activities taught him commitment, self-confidence, leadership and determination. These valuable tools would be the foundation later used to serve his country and start a successful business.

Jim studied agriculture at Purdue University. He graduated with distinction while completing the ROTC program. He then served his country in Vietnam.

Coming home from the service, Jim began a career in agriculture until a friend in the furniture business offered him a job, which he accepted. After about three years he thought that it was time to try it himself. He moved the family to his hometown of Sheridan in 1974, and a family member cosigned a $5,000 loan so he could start his new venture.

On September 1, 1974, Jim opened a 600-square-foot showroom in Sheridan. He displayed four sofas, a few recliners, a bedroom suite and a mattress set. When something sold, he went to a wholesale furniture warehouse in Indianapolis and bought its replacement. He took help from friends and family whenever he could. It’s not uncommon for customers to tell the staff how they purchased their first piece of furniture at the Sheridan location.

Jim was content with the status of the company when his son, Jeff, approached him about joining the company. Jeff saw the potential to grow the business to multiple locations. Jim wrote a letter trying to dissuade him, but in the end they agreed to give it a try.

Jeff began working with his father in 1992. In that time they succeeded in their goal of adding stores and increasing visibility through more advertising. In 2011 they remodeled the recently vacant O’Malia’s grocery store to anchor the Meridian Village Plaza. They had previously operated a clearance center in the location now occupied by Ollie’s, and felt that area was perfect for one of their mainline stores.

Jeff is now the second-generation owner of Godby Home Furnishings. Jim has retired, although he’s still very much a part of the business. “My dad’s not wired to sit around,” says Jeff. “He’s officially retired, but he still does what he calls the fun stuff, like mowing the yard at the warehouse and trimming the bushes. He’s also still a mentor to everyone because his

work ethic is unmatched. He doesn’t know anything besides working, which garners a lot of respect from our employees.”

The team at Godby Home Furnishings takes great care in providing a comfortable work environment. “It’s amazing when I go down the roster and see how long many of our staff have been with us,” says Jeff.

QUALITY FURNITURE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

Their loyal customers come back, time and again, not just for the superior service, but also because of the high-quality product.

Many of their veteran sales staff members have been a part of the team for so long that they are now selling to their original customers’ grandchildren. Brian Cox, for instance, is a Sheridan resident who has worked at Godby Home Furnishings for more than four decades, having started right out of high school.

“He’s still one of our lead salespeople at the Carmel location,” says Jeff. “He has generations of people who come in and ask for him.”

Godby Home Furnishings employs around 100 people, the vast majority of whom have been there for a decade or more. The current staff has over 800 years of combined service to the company. They enjoy great benefits including an unrivaled 401(k) program and a yearly Christmas party, with bonuses based on years served with the company. Most of them describe co-workers as a big family.

“That’s in our company motto: ‘Quality furnishings at affordable prices,’” says Jeff, noting that their starting price points are incredibly attractive. Plus, they treat all customers the same and never play games when it comes to cost. They are not about negotiating deals with customers. Everyone who walks in gets their best sale price.

The motto has been the foundation since opening in 1974. Fifty years later, there are locations in Avon, Noblesville/Fishers, Carmel, and a clearance store in downtown Noblesville. They’ve become one of the largest furniture companies in the Midwest, verging on becoming one of the top 100 stores in the nation.

The stores are constantly refreshed with new product. Their aim is to help their customers create their dream home at any budget. From the furniture to the accessories, down to area rugs, they take pride in providing everything needed. All of their sales associates have extensive mattress training because a great night’s sleep is the key to the

comfort and well-being of their clientele.

Having their own

75,000-square-foot distribution center in Westfield allows them to stock most everything you see on their sales floor. You can have your new furniture delivered in a matter of days by their own team of drivers, or pick it up yourself on the same day.

Godby Home Furnishings is involved in philanthropic efforts to help the community, especially for causes that are important to their employees, such as Little League, church outreaches, or charities that employees are passionate about. They also are big sponsors for local programs like the Sheridan Youth Assistance Program.

“We had success in those early days because lots of friends and relatives came to that first store in Sheridan to make the whole thing happen,” says Jeff. “They wanted to see a local kid in the community make good.”

And that he did, in so many ways. Happy 50th anniversary, Godby Home Furnishings!

Godby Home Furnishings is open seven days a week and is located at 13610 North Meridian Street in Carmel. For more information, call 317-566-8720 or visit godbyhomefurnishings.com.

CARMEL CLAY PARKS & RECREATION UPCOMING EVENTS

JUNIOR LIFEGUARDING

• March 23 and 24

• 9 a.m-1 p.m., Monon Community Center West

• Ages: 11-14

• Cost: $120 for two-day program

• This two-day Junior Lifeguarding program is designed to prepare youths aged 11-14 for the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course. The course focuses on building foundational knowledge for future lifeguards. This class is for youth looking to build water safety skills, confidence, and leadership experience.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

• March 6-27

• 7-8 p.m., Monon Community Center

• Ages: 18+

• Cost: $105 for four-week session

• Do you have a passion for photography? Join us on Wednesday nights for beginner or advanced photography club! The program focuses on the fundamentals, concepts and practices that make great photos. You will find yourself growing as you work with a wide variety of real-world exercises and engage in friendly classroom critiques.

KNEE HIGH NATURALIST: BIRDS

• March 1-22

• 10-11 a.m., Monon Community Center

• Ages: 1-5 with parent

• Cost: $30 for four-week session

• You and your little one will have fun learning about our feathery friends! Each Friday morning class includes a birdthemed craft or activity and an adventure outdoors to see who may be flying around Central Park.

MY PARK SERIES: FOUNDERS PARK

• April 17

• 5-6 p.m., Founders Park 11675 Hazel Dell Parkway

• Ages: All ages

• Cost: Free

• Take a walk with a naturalist in the beautiful 37-acre Founders Park. This park features open prairie, wetlands and a pond, as well as a nature-themed playground. We will explore the landscape to find what wildlife calls this park home and how its water features help to serve the surrounding community.

PRENATAL/POSTNATAL YOGA

• March 16

• 10-11:30 a.m., Monon Community Center

• Ages: 18+

• Cost: $25

• This specially designed yoga class includes safe postures for people who are pregnant, and exercises to boost prenatal recovery. Emphasis will be on hip flexors, breathing and meditation, in preparation for giving birth.

ADAPTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY, COLLAGE & SCRAPBOOKING

• March 7-28

• 4-5 p.m., Monon Community Center

• Ages: 6+

• Cost: $75 for four-week session

• Program designed for individuals with disabilities.

• If you have a creative and crafty side, then this is the perfect program for you! Join us on Thursdays for the chance to capture unique moments through the art of photography and scrapbooking. We will work through different exercises to create a variety of personalized photographs. Once our photography collection is completed, the scrapbooking process begins!

MONON COMMUNITY CENTER

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MATT F. & SAM R.

Matt and Sam were on their college track team together. Following graduation, the pair thought their days of working out together were over, but then they found the Monon Community Center (MCC). With their MCC memberships, Matt and Sam exercise together all the time! They enjoy lifting weights, playing basketball and running on the treadmills. “Fitness was such a huge part of my life in college, but after I graduated, I had a really hard time finding the motivation to keep exercising,” Matt says. “Once I became a member at the Monon Community Center, I found it so much easier to keep a consistent workout routine. I feel like the MCC has helped me become the healthiest version of myself.”

STAFF SPOTLIGHT GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR, COURTNEY C.

Courtney has taught group fitness classes at the MCC for nine years. Cycling is her favorite class to teach. Did you know cycling classes are offered daily at the MCC? “I love when people come into the MCC who have never exercised before,” she says when asked about her favorite aspect of her job. “They’re sometimes nervous or scared to work out for the first time, but most of the time they end up loving it and realize that their physical and mental health depends on daily exercise. Whether their end goal is weight loss or just to improve their overall health, seeing those changes happen and all the hard work they put in is so gratifying.”

WELLNESS AND BEAUTY WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

U Glam Girl’s Wellness and Beauty Extravaganza, founded by Christina Lockett, is a safe space to support ALL women from ALL walks of life on their purpose-discovery journey. Experience our expert panelists as they host a series of conversations on wellness over cocktails and a plated lunch. You will learn the importance of health and beauty by prioritizing it through the balance of self-care and GLAM while networking and shopping local small businesses. www.UGLAMGIRL.com

HOTEL

CARMICHAEL CARMEL CITY CENTER 1 CARMICHAEL SQUARE CARMEL, IN 46032

Sunday May 5th, 2024

TASTE OF CARMELCelebrating 20 Years

The Carmel Education Foundation is preparing for the 20th annual Taste of Carmel on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 502 East Event Centre. This sell-out community event, with a “Starry Nights” theme this year, raises funds to support students, educators and families in Carmel Clay Schools.

Featuring more than 40 local eateries, distilleries, caterers, wineries and breweries, guests will also have the opportunity to win a diamond necklace commemorating the upcoming solar eclipse, designed exclusively for Taste of Carmel by Indy Facets, one of two Pedego electric bikes, or a full VIP package for 10 guests for the 2025 Taste of Carmel event. Raffle tickets are $40 each or three for $80.

Complementing the raffle is a silent auction that is considered the best of the best, featuring a private planetarium package, a Costa Rica trip for eight, many local experiences and

packages, and an array of unique items from area companies.

Joining Jeff Worrell, longtime emcee and foundation advocate, is Jack Russell, president of OneZone. The two will share foundation highlights with guests, and recognize restaurants and the incredible sponsors who make this event top-notch. A special thank-you to our premier sponsors, which include State Bank, CoasterStone, 185 Promotions, Fanning Howey, the City of Carmel, and Ed Martin Automotive.

Individual tickets are $100. State Bank First Taste VIP Party tickets are $200, which includes early admission to the main event, entertainment, a unique attendee gift, exclusive small plates from Kahn’s Catering, hand-crafted libations from

Four Finger Distillery, Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages, and full-pour beer and wine selections. Additionally, for those who want to keep the fun going, the 185 Promotions Last Taste party tickets are $50, where you can dance the night away with DJ Fred Lockstar, and continue with snacks and beverages. Currently, there are five reserved tables for 10 guests, which are particularly popular, available for $1,500.

A full list, updated daily, of all participating restaurants, sponsors and auction providers can be found at tasteofcarmelindiana.com. Tickets are purchased at this site as well. Additionally, the foundation is seeking community volunteers to assist at the event - volunteers will work at half the event and enjoy the festivities for the other part of the evening. A volunteer link is on the site as well.

“Taste of Carmel is a high-energy, community-centered event with tremendous benefit,” says Jennifer Penix, executive director of the Carmel Education Foundation. “The foundation connects people in our community, and Taste of Carmel brings together - Carmel Clay Schools parents, business, civic and nonprofit leaders, culinary professionals - all in the spirit of providing incredible opportunities for our 16,000 students. Proceeds fund grade-level programs, often in conjunction with local businesses, initiatives aimed at lifelong learning, grants that bring innovation to classrooms, mental health support, and so much more. For the price of a dinner out in today’s economy, Taste of Carmel provides more food and drink than is possible to imagine, all for a great cause. We can’t wait to see you on March 8!”

The State Bank First Taste VIP Party starts at 5 p.m., reserved table seating opens at 6:30 p.m., the main event is from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and the 185 Promotions Last Taste party is from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Guests are encouraged to share rides or utilize ride services.

CARMEL EDUCATION FOUNDATION

One of the oldest foundations of its kind, the Carmel Education Foundation was created to help Carmel Clay students achieve their full potential. Since 1966, the foundation has awarded over $2,100,000 in college scholarships to Carmel High School seniors, and over $850,000 in education grants to inspire lifelong learning for Carmel Clay students. The Carmel Education Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors who give their time and energy to accelerate the foundation’s mission by funding grants, awarding more than 85 scholarships annually and expanding resources for Carmel Clay Schools.

CARMEL EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Formed in 1966, the mission of the Carmel Education Foundation (CEF) is to support Carmel Clay students in academic achievement and lifelong learning. We do this by raising funds to support innovation in classrooms, to foster safe and positive learning experiences for all students, and to provide scholarships for lifelong learning.

The CEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, with a board of directors representing diverse backgrounds and experiences, but all focused on providing resources and opportunities for students in our schools.

Our role as the CEF is to make connections in our community to provide value, enhanced education, and unique experiences for Carmel Clay students.

Since 1966, the CEF has grounded our role in Carmel’s public schools through our Great Idea Grants program, awarding well over $1 million to teachers and students. The grants we fund bring innovation, enthusiasm for learning, and creative inquiry to classrooms across the district.

Another hallmark of the CEF is our scholarship program. Scholarships are funded by individuals, families, organizations or companies, and have a wide range of continued-learning focus areas - from engineering, technology, education and business to hospitality, public service, skilled trades and many more.

In 2023, the CEF launched the ACHIEVE Initiative to provide more resources for students to be thoughtful in planning their futures. This initiative is a progressive program for a public education foundation and focuses on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and workforce preparation for all students - in many cases, preparing students for jobs that do not exist today. Our founding partners in this initiative include Junior Achievement of Central Indiana, State Bank, and Carmel Clay Schools. Together, we are reaching elementary, middle and high school students in their classrooms, at events and, most importantly, in their belief that they can do anything they set their minds to.

UNMATCHED SERVICE FROM OUR EXPERTS

When it comes to your business, we take a comprehensive approach toward meeting your goals. Our cross-functional team works together to provide innovative solutions, personal service and local decision making that exceeds expectations. With Commercial Banking at The National Bank of Indianapolis, you are supported by experts in their field, so you can succeed in yours.

FROM ORCHARD PARK ELEMENTARY TO CARMEL EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Taste of Carmel (TOC) began in 2005 as a parent-teacher organization fundraiser for Orchard Park Elementary (OPE), a public school in Carmel. Originally designed as an event for OPE families, the event soon became a popular, can’t-miss night out for many Carmel Clay Schools parents. By 2014, TOC had become the largest indoor food experience in Hamilton County. Annually, more than 1,000 guests from Carmel and surrounding areas attend to enjoy an array of food and drink while visiting with friends or entertaining clients.

When Orchard Park closed in 2021, the Carmel Education Foundation (CEF), the nonprofit funding partner of Carmel Clay Schools, was honored to adopt this event as an opportunity to expand the impact to benefit 16,000-plus students in all 15 Carmel Clay schools. Though the branding has been updated, many traditions have been carried on including the First Taste VIP Party, which features an exclusive chef, handcrafted libations and a signature gift. The main event includes entertainment, a one-of-a-kind raffle and an upscale auction, and some unique twist each year. This fundraiser is an amazing deal for guests, with ticket prices that include appetizers, main courses, amazing sides and delectable desserts, as well as a wide mix of drinks for every palate - it is more affordable than going out for dinner.

ANBI-12902-05

In 2023, Taste of Carmel was moved to a Friday night and the inaugural Last Taste after party was launched. Additionally, the support of local businesses has increased significantly, and the proceeds from this event have enabled the foundation to launch new, district-wide programs, create a student-led grant program, and extend its reach within the school district and the Carmel community.

Job #:

Colin Fahey Vice President, Commercial Banking

Carole Veatch Vice President, Treasury Management

Scott McDermott Vice President, Private Banking

HOOSIER VILLAGE

Known for its upscale, maintenance-free living, Hoosier Village is now thrilled to announce a new opportunity for high-end living: Magnolia Trace Townhomes. These stunning homes are the latest addition to our beautiful 300-acre community.

Boasting ample living space, two or three bedrooms, private elevators, oversized two-car garages, and luxury finishes, attention to detail and impeccable service define Magnolia Trace Townhomes at Hoosier Village.

As a non-profit life plan community, Hoosier Village provides a rewarding lifestyle with a range of amenities and services for those 62+. In addition to our independent living options, we also offer a full range of supportive care services, restaurants, pickleball courts, indoor pool, park, and more.

Regardless of your needs, we have the perfect option for your next chapter.

Magnolia Trace Townhomes

TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024

THE

SKIES ALIGN FOR A SPECTACULAR SHOW IN HAMILTON COUNTY ON APRIL 8, 2024

Get ready to be mesmerized by a celestial masterpiece as the communities of Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the Northern Towns become the perfect stage for the Total Solar Eclipse, when the moon gracefully dances in front of the sun and casts its shadow across the landscape.

Witness the magic of the cosmos with friends and family at official viewing locations like Carmel Civic Square, Conner Prairie, Cool Creek Park, Grand Park Sports Campus, Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center and Strawtown Koteewi Park.

Grab your Eclipse glasses, set up your cameras and join Hamilton County in this celestial celebration—it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!

VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Eclipse

ARCADIA ATLANTA CARMEL

CICERO

THE SKY WILL BEGIN TO CHANGE AROUND 1:50 P.M. WITH TOTALITY AT 3:06 P.M.

Hamilton County is in the narrow path of totality for the Total Solar Eclipse. These communities will be some of the best places to experience prime views of the epic event.

Arcadia 3m 6s

Atlanta 2m 56s

Carmel 3m 29s

Cicero 3m 15s

Fishers 3m 39s

Noblesville 3m 27s

Sheridan 2m 51s

Westfield 3m 19s

HAMILTON

FISHERS

NOBLESVILLE

SHERIDAN

WESTFIELD

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE BRIGHTER with COSMO’S KIDS CLUB!

Good financial habits start early in life. Teach your children the value of savings with Cosmo’s Kids Club, a program for kids 12 and under. Cosmo’s Kids Club allows parents, grandparents and family members to help save money for a child’s future.

• Access to funds by those authorized on the account • No set-up fee

• No monthly service fee

No minimum balance required

NAVIGATING HOME LOANS AND UNDERSTANDING THE ADVANTAGES OF LOCAL LENDERS

Writer / Aaron Holland Photography Provided

When you’re in the process of buying a home, securing a mortgage becomes a crucial step. There are various lenders to choose from, ranging from large national institutions to smaller local ones. Let’s discuss why opting for a local lender may be your best choice.

To begin with, the mortgage world can be overwhelming with its numerous rules and choices. While big national lenders might seem appealing due to their size and use of technology, local lenders are better acquainted with your community and can offer distinct advantages. Local lenders are woven into the fabric of your community, understanding the local landscape and having connections with key players like real estate professionals. This familiarity makes the mortgage process more streamlined for you. They serve as the local experts, guiding you through the home buying journey.

Consider the value of face-to-face communication. Local lenders arrange in-person meetings to discuss your financial goals. This

personal touch not only simplifies the process, but also enhances your understanding of the nuances of mortgages. In contrast, larger lenders often rely on digital communication, which may not be as clear cut.

Another noteworthy aspect of local lenders is their adaptability and quick response. The mortgage landscape is ever changing and local lenders possess the ability to promptly adjust their plans to align with local trends and conditions, as well as your personal schedule.

So, when you’re deciding on the source of your home loan, you may want to consider working with a local lender. At Cross Country Mortgage, we pride ourselves on getting to know you and your home buying dreams, and turning them into a reality. With over 100 products to offer, we have the solutions, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, self-employed professional or an investor. If you have questions, please call me at 317-809-1048 or email me at aaron.holland@ccm.com.

Teaching young kids the importance of saving money is a valuable life skill that can set the foundation for a financially responsible future. With the advent of relevant technology, several online apps cater specifically to young children, making the process of learning about money engaging and interactive. Here are some online apps (some free and some that require a fee) for young kids to start saving money:

PIGGYBOT:

• PiggyBot is a digital piggy bank that allows kids to set savings goals and visually track their progress. It’s a simple and intuitive app that helps children understand the concept of saving and budgeting. PiggyBot is available in the App Store.

IALLOWANCE:

• iAllowance is a comprehensive app that not only teaches kids about saving, but also helps parents manage allowances and chores. It allows parents to set up recurring allowances, assign chores, and track their children’s spending and saving habits. jumpgapsoftware.com

MONEY MINDED

ONLINE APPS CAN HELP KIDS SAVEAND INCREASE FINANCIAL LITERACY

BANKAROO:

• Bankaroo is an online platform designed to introduce kids to the basics of budgeting and saving. Children can create their virtual bank accounts, set savings goals and track their allowances. The app also provides insights into financial concepts in a kid-friendly manner. bankaroo.com

PIGGYVEST KIDS (FORMERLY KNOWN AS PIGGYBANKNG):

• PiggyVest Kids is an extension of the popular savings app PiggyVest, tailored specifically for kids. It allows parents to create savings plans for their children and introduces them to the concept of earning interest on their savings. piggyvest.com

ISAVEMONEY:

• iSaveMoney is an app that caters to both parents and children. Kids can set savings goals, track their spending and understand the value of money, while parents can monitor and guide their children through the process. isavemoney.app

GREENLIGHT:

• Greenlight is a family finance app that includes a feature for kids to manage their money. Parents can set up chores, allowances, and even create savings goals for their children. The app also offers a prepaid debit card for kids, controlled by parents. greenlight.com

SAVINGS SPREE:

• Savings Spree is an educational game app that teaches kids about the value of money and the consequences of spending. It engages children in a fun way, allowing them to make virtual spending decisions and learn from the outcomes. Available in the App Store for a fee.

BUSYKID:

• BusyKid is an app that combines chores, allowance, and investment education. Children can earn money by completing chores, and parents can choose to allocate a portion of that money for saving, spending and even investing in real stock. busykid.com

THE PIGGY BOX:

• The Piggy Box is an app that focuses on the concept of sharing, saving and spending. It encourages kids to allocate their money into these three categories, fostering a balanced approach to managing finances. thepiggybox.com

MONEYTIME:

• MoneyTime is an app that turns learning about money into a game. It covers various financial concepts such as earning, saving, spending and giving, making it an engaging and educational tool for young kids. moneytimekids.com

These apps not only make saving money a tangible and interactive experience for kids, but also provide parents with tools to guide and monitor their children’s financial activities. By introducing these apps early on, parents can instill smart money habits in their kids, setting them on the path toward financial literacy and responsibility.

2024 DIRECTORY & RELOCATION GUIDE

TARGET YOUR MOST SOUGHT-AFTER LOCAL CONSUMERS EXISTING and NEW MOVERS to your local community

INCLUDE

MY BUSINESS!

Back by popular demand, our Annual Directory & Relocation Guide for will feature all sorts of local extras to make it a keepsake reference for the entire year. In addition to our regular distribution in April, we will be mailing copies throughout the year to the following people:

þ New movers: We purchase a list of new homeowners each month and mail them a complimentary copy via First Class USPS.

þ Relocation requests: Through TownePost.com, people looking to relocate can request a FREE copy.

TARGETED DISTRIBUTION

• Direct mailed to all local residents in April

• Online requests from new movers

• Mailed out to new movers monthly

• Realtors, relocation companies, and real estate developers

• Home builders and new home communities

Indiana Eclipse Route featuring DNR properties

54 PROPERTIES PROPERTIES FOR BEST VIEWING

LAKES

1. Brookville

2. Cagles Mill (Lieber SRA)

3. Cecil M. Harden (Raccoon SRA) & Mansfield Roller Mill

4. Hardy

5. Monroe

6. Patoka

FISH & WILDLIFE AREAS

1. Atterbury

SCAN the QR code for a full list of properties and viewing times

1.

5.

8. Shades

9. Shakamak

10.

11.

13. Versailles

14. Whitewater Memorial

2. Blue Grass

3. Chinook

4. Crosley

5. Deer Creek

6. Fairbanks Landing

7. Glendale

8. Goose Pond

9. Hillenbrand

10. Hovey Lake

11. J.E. Roush

12. Sugar Ridge

13. Wabashiki

STATE FORESTS

1. Ferdinand

2. Greene-Sullivan

3. Jackson-Washington

4. Martin

5. Morgan-Monroe

6. Mountain Tea

7. Owen-Putnam

8. Pike

14. Wilbur Wright STATE

1. Abe Martin Lodge

2. Canyon Inn

3. Spring Mill Inn

4. Turkey Run Inn

5.

1.

1.

2.

9. Ravinia

10. Selmier

11. Yellowwood

NATURE PRESERVES

1. Big Walnut (Oscar & Ruth Hall Woods Trail) (Tall Timbers Trail)

2. Bluffs of Beaver Bend

3. Loblolly Marsh Wetland

* Nature Preserves have limited parking

NOTE: The properties located closest to the white center line will have the longest periods of time viewing the solar eclipse in totality.

OFFICIAL SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING LOCATIONS IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDY AND THE GREATER LAWRENCE AREA

Just after 3 p.m. ET on April 8, 2024, Indianapolis will experience darkness for three minutes and 44 seconds as the moon completely covers the sun while passing between the Earth and sun. It will be the first time in 819 years that a total solar eclipse will be visible in Indianapolis, and the only total solar eclipse to occur until August 2044.

TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024 Civic Square, Carmel

April 8 at 3:06 p.m., 3 minutes 29 seconds

CONNER PRAIRIE TOTAL ECLIPSE 2024

13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers

April 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MOON MARKET AT STRAWTOWN KOTEEWI PARK

12302 Strawtown Avenue, Noblesville

April 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

PARK SIDE OF THE MOON AT COOL CREEK PARK

2000 E. 151st St., Carmel

April 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024

19000 Grand Park Blvd., Westfield

April 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

ECLIPSE TAILGATE EVENT AT RUOFF MUSIC CENTER

12880 E. 146th St., Noblesville April 8

SCARLET LANE TOTAL ECLIPSE AT THE BREWERY

McCordsville and the brewery’s four-acre property are directly in the path of totality and we plan to party! VIP tickets include early entry starting at 11 a.m., commemorative pint glass, spot selection on our four-acre parcel, live music, Total Eclipse beer launch, three beer tokens, and eclipse after-party. Parking is limited and is on a first-come, first-served basis. We highly recommend scouting out McCordsville parking options at Meijer, empty grass lots, side roads, etcetera. Please bring a blanket and/or lawn chair to enjoy the eclipse outside on our private property. This is a rain or shine event. Please plan accordingly.