Issuu

DECEMBER 2015

Shop, Wrap & Deliver

SKILLMAN’S CLOTHE-A-CHILD PROGRAM Event Coordinator Amy Estabrook

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

hoff, Keely Butrum, Gary L to R front:Â Dean Abplanalp, Aaron Frye, Jeff Kirk Ulrich Koenig and Yadi Garcia Stringer (Br Mgr), Doug Stewart, Chuck Hensley, hoff, Craig Reed, Greg Brodnik, L to R Back: Cory Smith, Robert Parke, Mark Kirk and Tim Hansen Jim Evans, Gary Lewis, Scott Mings, Kyle Hensley

We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous new year.

701 E. County Line Road, Suite 302 | Greenwood, IN 46143 317.885.0114 | www.raymondjames.com/greenwoodin

2 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

PUBLISHER’S WELCOME

Jody Veldkamp, Publisher

I grew up in Luverne, Minnesota (if you are watching the TV series “Fargo,” yeah, Luverne is just like that except that it’s not anything like that). Sometime in the late ’60s, the city bought new Christmas decorations, and the lights hanging over the entrance to town read “Seasons Greetings.” I recall residents lamenting the loss of “Christmas” as if Christmas was what some elected officials decided to make it. To this day, people in Luverne still celebrate Christmas, put angels and manger scenes in their yards and say “Merry Christmas” to each other.

anyone being arrested for saying “Merry Christmas” or displaying religious symbols at their home, church or business. Actually, I think Christmas is doing pretty well these days.

The phrase “the war on Christmas” has been bantered about in recent years, making it sound if as is there is some grand scheme to eliminate it. I’m not sure that hanging “Seasons Greetings” in Luverne was the first shot fired in the “war on Christmas,” but if it was, the “war” has been about as successful as the “war on drugs.” We still celebrate Christmas, be it for Jesus or Santa.

As you can tell from this month’s issue, Christmas is doing well in Greenwood. You’ll find more than three pages of events, and almost every story has a Christmas theme to it.

Every church in Greenwood, our county, our state, the USA and the rest of the world is celebrating Christmas. I am not aware of

Merry Christmas to all, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year and let’s not forget, Season’s Greetings!

CHOICES

If there have been casualties in this so-called war, I would contend they have been self-inflicted. As in the case of someone who is worried that saying “Merry Christmas” might offend someone. If you are one who is offended when you hear “Merry Christmas,” get yourself a Grinch suit and go live on a mountain.

We hope you enjoy what we have to offer, and no offense was intended should you feel this is the season to be offended.

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atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 3

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GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

December 2015 / Vol. 2 / No. 7

PUBLISHER

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Dann Veldkamp dann@atGreenwood.com / 317-345-9510

VP OF SALES Jody Veldkamp

jody@atGreenwood.com / 317-507-4334

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Miranda Stockdall / 317-833-2248

TOWNEPOST PUBLISHER Tom Britt

tom@TownePost.com / 317-288-7101

COVER STORY

BUSINESS MANAGER Jeanne Britt

jeanne@TownePost.com / 317-288-7101

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Cover Photo / Chris Williams

Alyssa Sander

ADVERTISING DESIGNER

SHOP, WRAP & DELIVER

Austin Vance

Writer / Joyce Long

Each year, Santa’s elves invade Greenwood the first week of December. Volunteers, assisted by Ray Skillman Auto Group employees, shop and wrap clothing items for families of 1,100 children throughout Central Indiana. Volunteer Amy Estabrook, a special education teacher at Clark Pleasant Intermediate School, coordinates this annual Clothe-A-Child project and works with school counselors to identify recipients. A majority of Skillman’s 980 employees donate through automatic payroll deduction, which this year raised $188,000, an amount Ray matches.

FEATURED COLUMNS 8 History Meets Hallmark 14 Modern Miracle is Born and Raised in Greenwood Home for a Hoosier Holiday

10 Digital First Impressions 13 Don’t Let the Most Wonderful

6 36 37 38

Greenwood Health Kick Event Calendar Word Search Kate in the Middle

EDITOR

Katelyn Bausman

DECEMBER WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Alicia Wettrick / Frieda Dowler / Debbie Robertson / Jennifer Uhl / Joyce Long / Julie Yates / Kate Rhoten / Katie Burrell / Kris Parker / Lisa Mitchell / Tia Nielsen

SHOP LOCAL!

Help our local economy by shopping local. Advertising supporters of the Greenwood Community Magazine offset the costs of publication and mailing, keeping this publication FREE. Show your appreciation by thanking them with your business.

30 A Sure Sign of the Giving Season:

STORY SUBMISSIONS

Salvation Army Bell Ringing

Time of the Year Pass You By

18 Candles Light the Way: Middle Davids Artisan Candles

atGreenwood.com

Post your stories to TownePost.com or email to PR@atGreenwood.com.

34 Celebrating Advent Leads One Woman to a Merry Christmas

35 Teaching More Than Art Business Spotlights are sponsored content.

MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 36097 / Indianapolis, IN 46236 Phone: 317-288-7101 / Fax: 317-536-3030 The Greenwood Community Magazine is published by Chilly Panda Media, Greenwood, under license from TownePost Network, and is written for and by local Greenwood residents.

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 5

 GREENWOOD HEALTH KICK

TIPS ON MANAGING POST-HOLIDAY BLUES keeping in mind the common “slump” causes when you are contemplating activities. Engaging these four cornerstones – yourself, others, your health and your bank account – can help in times of holiday doldrums. Last, make it simple. The last thing you want to do before Christmas is more planning and spending, so make it simple and low budget. Here are some simple suggestions for the 12 days “after” Christmas:

DAYS 1-4 (DECEMBER 26-29)

• The day after Christmas, plan to get moving. You need to recoup from the holiday stress and binge eating. A brisk walk or run, exercising and meditation will burn calories and release chemicals in your brain to boost your mood.

Writer / Alicia Wettrick

The fast pace and exciting anticipation of all the Christmas festivities comes to a screeching halt on December 26. For some, it is welcomed; for others, it’s a ‘let down’ or feels sad. Post-holiday or Christmas blues is a common occurrence. It is actually classified by the American Psychiatric Association as a “mild mental distress phenomenon occurring after seasonal holidays due to stress and disruption of daily activities.” After a spectacular holiday season, it is hard to get back to work and a daily routine. Some may feel empty from the lack of exciting activities, surprises and parties to look forward to. Others may feel a little lonely because family and friends returned to their far away homes.

Furthermore, many of us will feel guilty about our ‘festive’ weight gain. Not our wallets! They will be nice and slim from its ‘festive financial weight loss.’ Last but not least, there is less daylight, and the cold, miserable weather is upon us. All of these post-Christmas occurrences can dampen anyone’s spirits.

TIPS FOR COPING WITH POSTCHRISTMAS SLUMP

First identify. What are the top causes of your “slump” feeling? According to studies, the most common causes are a lack of exciting events to look forward to, having to go back to work and/or daily routine, weight gain and financial stress. Then plan. Arrange activities for the days after Christmas to help lift your spirits,

• Reconnect with a friend or family member you have lost touch with. Inquiring “What did you do over Christmas?” is a great icebreaker. • Plan to explore a place you have never been before such as a museum, restaurant, store or plan a quick one or two-night getaway. • Seek out inspiring financial books at the library or just get online. A popular trusted financial resource is Dave Ramsey or Suze Orman. Also research a credible financial adviser.

DAYS 5-8 (DECEMBER 30-JANUARY 2)

• Excavate the high-sugar foods and replace them with mood-boosting foods rich in omega 3s such as nuts, avocados, fish and olive oil.

6 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

• On New Year’s Eve, visit a retirement community at lunch or dinnertime. Pass out flowers or chocolates and/ or bags of trail mixes if you want to go healthier. No big plans for the evening? Have a low stress gathering with friends. • On New Year’s Day, set aside a time with your family to brainstorm on vacation destinations and activities you want to do later in the year. • Get a budget planned. There are free online budget planning tools that can help with monthly budgets or retirement planning. Also online search for healthy low-cost meals. There is an abundance of $5 to $10 healthy meal plans for families.

Just know that it is normal to feel a little blue after the holidays, so allow yourself some recovery time. The blues should pass once your normal routine becomes, well, routine again. Granting a little preparation now for the post-Christmas season can help.

Alicia Wettrick is a Family Nurse Practitioner working in OB/GYN for Community Hospital Network. She believes that Greenwood is a great place to lead a healthy lifestyle and raise a family. She is married to Don Wettrick and has three kids, Ava, Anna and Grant. She has been a southsider since childhood and has lived in the Greenwood area since 1998.

What Matters Most to You is What Matters Most to Us.

DAYS 9-12 (JANUARY 3-6)

• Sign up for a charity run/walk and get a friend to join you. This is a great motivator to keep exercising throughout the winter months. If a friend signs up, you can keep each other accountable. • Handwrite a thank you letter to someone who has inspired or mentored you. • Purchase fresh flowers. Since all the decorations are stored away, your home may look mundane, so bring in fresh flowers. • Reorganize a room. A clean room clears the mind and helps save money. Taking stock of what you have avoids purchasing duplicates. Also less is more, so donate stuff that is collecting dust.

Sometimes the simple ‘blues’ can trigger clinical depression and/or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In this case, please seek help from a health professional.

In 1897 the J.C.Wilson Funeral Home, which later became the Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Home, opened to offer Greenwood families an affordable and dignified option for quality funeral service.Today, nearly 120 years later, the sixth generation of the St. Pierre family continues a tradition of sensitive, professional service, competitively priced. Peace of mind is important. Families like knowing their loved one is treated with dignity and respect which is why we own and operate our own crematory. They want to remember their loved one, which is why we offer memorial tribute jewelry and other forms of tribute. It’s not the 120 years that matter, but the thousands of families that placed their trust in us.

Greenwood Chapel

Chapel of the Chimes

Stirling-Gerber Chapel

(317) 881-2514

(317) 632-9431

(317) 783-3653

481 W. Main St. Greenwood, IN 46142

1234 Prospect Street Indianapolis, IN 46203

5950 E.Thompson Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46237

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 7

Lahm Chapel

211 E. State St. Pendleton, IN 46064

(765) 778-2136

HISTORY MEETS

Hallmark

GREENWOOD’S VINTAGE FIRE TRUCK NOW A HOLIDAY KEEPSAKE Writer / Jennifer Uhl . Photographer / Chris Williams

Each year, Hallmark rolls out more than 300 ornaments that honor everything from pop culture icons to NFL stars and baby’s first Christmas. If you can dream up something you’d like to hang on your tree, chances are Hallmark has fashioned it into a Keepsake Collection ornament. But even if your ornaments of choice run to treasured hand-me-downs and homemade, you’ll want to reserve a branch on your tree for a special newcomer this year: a mini-replica of Greenwood’s very own vintage fire truck sold at Hallmark stores for $19.95. This is the 14th year Hallmark Keepsake ornaments have included the Fire Brigade series. A Hallmark representative contacted Greenwood Fire Department Chief James Sipes nearly two years ago after seeing a photo of the department’s white 1956 Ford fire truck online.

and was in such outstanding shape,” Sipes says. Emails and photos flew back and forth between the fire department and Hallmark for over a year with Hallmark’s artist requesting shots of the truck from different angles throughout the design process. “Hallmark made the ornament exactly as the trucks sits,” says Sipes. He finally saw the finished product in April when Hallmark sent complementary ornaments to the fire department.

This is not the first time Dillard has given back to Greenwood’s service members: On September 11, Dillard dedicated 9.11 percent of the day’s sales to the police department, which was used to purchase two bulletproof vests. Now Dillard will give 91.1 cents to the fire department for each truck ornament purchased at the store. “I thought it would only be the firemen who wanted the ornaments,” Dillard says, “but people who just lived around Greenwood wanted them too. Then family members came, saying, ‘My dad, my uncle…rode on that truck.’”

The ornament was unveiled in July at Hallmark stores nationwide; locally, eight retired Greenwood firefighters posed for photos alongside the real truck at Teresa’s Hallmark, and the 200 fire truck ornaments available sold out. “We had to call Hallmark Sipes has also heard from locals who are and ask them to do another run of them,” says enjoying the little token of hometown owner Teresa Dillard. history. Like all of Hallmark’s Keepsake Ornaments, the truck will only be sold There’s no word on how many of the this year; once it is gone, it is gone. ornaments have sold at other Hallmark Nevertheless, for the community, 2015 will stores (Indy has six), but with the little white always be the year that the little fire truck truck being sold in Hallmarks all over the became a collector’s item. world and featured on page 83 of Hallmark’s Keepsake Ornaments Dream Book, the “We’re very excited that the community pride of the Greenwood Fire Department is is as excited as we are,” Sipes says. getting plenty of publicity. “We’re very proud “Greenwood now has this incredible of the fact that our truck is representing recognition, thanks to Hallmark.” Greenwood,” Sipes says.

While the truck looks like it just rolled off the assembly line, it’s still nearly 60 years old. So when Dillard heard retired firefighters discussing maintenance of the truck, she saw interest in the ornament as an opportunity to “[Hallmark] was really impressed that the truck had so much history with the community do the Fire Department a good turn.

Jennifer Uhl is a former associate editor of Indianapolis Monthly Home. Now a freelance writer and stay-at-home mom, Uhl’s work also appears in Indianapolis Monthly and the city’s suburb-based publications. She lives in Center Grove with her husband, two children, and a bluetick coonhound named Naomi.

8 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

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DIGITAL FIRST IMPRESSIONS Writer / Lisa Mitchell . Photos Provided

How often do you “meet” someone digitally before you actually meet them in person? If you’re like most people, the answer is “more often than not!” It has become standard procedure now to check out a professional’s LinkedIn profile before deciding to book an appointment, research a candidate’s social media profiles before considering them for a job interview and to “Google” someone before going on a date with them. We like to do our research, and using the Internet is our tool of choice. What is your digital first impression saying about you? Chances are, you haven’t put a lot of time or effort into really assessing what type of first impression you are making online, but you should. First impressions, especially those made digitally, are a PAIN: Permanent, Accurate, Immediate and Non-Verbal. Digital first impressions matter. And in many cases, your digital first impression can mean the difference between getting the job, being accepted into your dream

college program or being asked out by a person who might be perfect for you in real life. Still not convinced that having a handle of your digital first impression is important? Let me share a story with you. A friend of mine recently had a friend whose daughter had applied to a prestigious university program. She had all the credentials, excelled in every key area and interviewed like a pro. All signs pointed to her being accepted in to the program. But then she was declined. They were truly baffled. When asked by a friend why the girl wasn’t admitted into the program, one of the members of the admissions board had this to say: “Tell her to get all that sh*t off of her social media.” Not representing herself appropriately and not caring for her digital first impression to ensure it conveyed her intentions properly was the difference between being accepted and missing out on an amazing opportunity. Don’t let this be you. So how do you take control of your

digital first impression and make sure that people who are meeting you for the first time digitally are getting a true, authentic representation of who you are? The best way is to take a comprehensive digital asset inventory. A digital asset inventory is a great way for you to take a detailed look at each item that represents you online and to evaluate it for its current strengths and shortcomings, for things that should be changed and for ways it might be enhanced to better represent your intentions and capabilities. Begin by making a list of each digital asset that is currently used to represent you online. Digital assets include: social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google +, etc.), pictures, logos, videos, websites, head shots, brochures, marketing materials and any other item that helps to convey your digital brand. Next, quickly list the first three words that come to mind to describe your first impression with each of those assets. Are the words that came to mind the same words you would hope to have someone

SMIRK VS. SMILE Vanessa Van Edwards, Chief behavioral investigator and founder of The Science of People human behavior research lab says: “Stop the smirk! One of the most common mistakes I see in profile pictures is the onesided smile, otherwise known as a smirk. The problem with smirking is that it’s the universal facial expression for contempt, which means hatred or disdain. If your profile picture shows a smirk, you’re nonverbally telling people you don’t want them to connect with you! Notice the difference in the photos below.” TOWNEPOST NETWORK / DECEMBER 2015 / TownePost.com

If you have a picture of you with a smirk (or half smile) and are angled away from the camera, the impression you give is that you are addressing them with contempt and are blocking or distancing yourself from them or perhaps being deceptive. Definitely not the vibe that you would want a potential client to pick up from your profile! And please, leave the “girls night out” or fishing trip pictures for your Facebook timeline. Those pictures don’t belong as your profile picture on a professional site. You would then work your way through each of your digital assets, evaluating each one in a similar manner. Once you know what specific digital assets aren’t making the first impression you would like it to, you can work through updating each one by removing the components that don’t convey you authentically and adding the photos, videos and content that will more accurately represent you and make a first impression you can be proud of. If you are interested in learning more about how to evaluate and improve your digital first impression, I’d love to help. I’m a Certified Body Language Trainer and Non-Verbal skills expert, and I love helping people master their first impressions, increase their influence and communicate with confidence. You can reach me at lisa@powerbodylanguage.com or on Twitter @powernonverbals.

“

AS HUMANS, WE LOVE SEEING GENUINE HAPPINESS ON OTHERS, SO THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS OR REFLECT ON A GREAT EXPERIENCE TO BRING OUT REAL HAPPINESS IN YOUR PHOTOS.

“

think of when they meet you online? If not, it’s time to make some changes! For instance, if you would want a potential client who found your profile on LinkedIn to immediately think of you as credible, trustworthy and professional, you would need to have a professional headshot of you looking straight forward into the camera and would want to make sure you have a genuine smile on your face to show warmth and openness.

FAKE SMILE VS. GENUINE SMILE Van Edwards goes on to say: “Another common issue with profile pictures is the fake smile. A fake smile is when the smile doesn’t fully reach up into the eyes (the sign of genuine happiness). As humans, we love seeing genuine happiness on others, so think happy thoughts or reflect on a great experience to bring out real happiness in your photos.”

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pass you by Holiday happenings in Central Indiana will keep your December full of cheer! Writer / Katie Burrell . Photos Provided

If you’re looking for some holiday fun, this list will get you started. Start a Christmas tradition, dress up and get out of the house, or give the family some fun without tapping into the gift fund.

If you love Christmas carols & classic holiday entertainment Yuletide Celebration

IPL Yuletide Celebration returns to the Hilbert Circle Theatre stage once again with beloved host Sandi Patty as she joins Jack Everly, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and a cast of Broadway’s best singers and dancers to celebrate 30 years of being Indiana’s greatest holiday tradition. You’ll hear a little “Let it Go,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “All I Want for Christmas is You” and more! Tickets begin at $36 for adults and $20 for children. For more information and to reserve your tickets, visit indianapolissymphony.org.

5th Annual Brown County Christmas Sing-Along December 12 at 7:30 p.m. Brown County Inn located at 51 State Road 46 East This hometown original will take you and your family through your favorite holiday classics, led by Kara, Chuck and Cari. Enjoy songs, laughter, prizes and silly fun! Cost

to attend is $18. For more information, call 812-988-2291.

If you're looking for lights

Get in the holiday spirit with the whole family. Greenwood and the Southside area hosts plenty of impressive light displays listed below (based on 2014 light displays). 4743 Ferguson Rd., Indianapolis *(southeast) – enchanted forest 4015 Blackwood Ct., Indianapolis * (southeast) – synchronized light display 7301 S. Franklin Rd., Indianapolis * (southeast) – synchronized light display 8154 Fendler Dr., Indianapolis * (southeast) – synchronized light display Lynn Dr., Indianapolis (southeast) *– 8152 The Historic Artcraft Theater shows Music and light display classic holiday movies for all ages 405 Tulip Dr., Indianapolis, (south) – * 2watch Franklin’s Historic Artcraft Theater is a Santa and his sleigh fly over the roof novelty in itself, but when you can find 3118 McIntosh Dr., Bargersville – music * and lights Cousin Eddie’s trailer parked outside the Franklin landmark, you know it’s Christmas. Easton Point Dr., Greenwood * 1223 Purchase tickets in advance to be sure you’ll 51 S. Middle St., Greenwood – if you * visit one light display this year, make attend a showing of “Christmas Vacation,” “White Christmas” or “A Christmas Story.” this it! Santa visits, so be sure to watch Cost is $5 for adults; $4 for military, for details. college students and seniors (55+); and Woodside Children’s Center located * at $3 for children 12 and under. Holiday 3366 Fairview Rd., Greenwood – movies sell out quickly, so be sure to synchronized light display purchase your tickets in advance by visiting 1010 Royal Oaks Ct., Greenwood – The * Grinch historicartcrafttheatre.org. House 485 Grey Oak Ln., Greenwood – just * one of the show-stoppers in the Oak Meadows neighborhood 5993 Darlene Dr., Greenwood – * synchronized display with songs from “Frozen” And, if you’re looking for a display that’s worth the drive… Reynolds Farm Supply located at 12501 * Reynolds Dr., Fishers

continued on page 28

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 13

14 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

MODERN MIRACLE IS BORN AND RAISED IN GREENWOOD Writer / Debbie Robertson . Photos Provided

Molly Coraggio of Greenwood believes in modern day miracles, and every day her infant son awakens, her belief is reinforced. Parker Lee Coraggio was born at 22 weeks gestation, placing him in an “elite group” of micro-premature infants with a less than 22 percent chance of surviving to full- term.

professionals in a NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), and not all hospitals are so equipped. Fortunately, St. Francis Hospital has an NICU, and it became Parker’s home for the next 126 days. Molly, however, was released two days after giving birth.

During the crucial first 48 hours, Parker’s weight dropped to 1 pound. “He was as red as a tomato. You could practically see Molly and husband Bruce Coraggio were through his skin. His little eyes were still excited to be expecting their first son due fused together, and his ears were largely in September 2013. Molly’s pregnancy had buds,” describes Molly. “His tiny little been “normal,” so on May 19 when Molly skull was less than the size of a golf ball.” visited her doctor with what she thought As is standard procedure for anything to be a urinary tract infection, she had no but standard birth, he was placed in an reason to be concerned. “My back had been incubator to assist with keeping his body hurting, and they gave me a shot and sent me temperature up and harmful bacteria out. home,“ explained Molly. Twelve hours later though, she was back with more pain, and But in spite of a grim outlook, long and this time, she was admitted to the hospital. difficult days and a dramatically low survival Molly was in labor and was immediately rate, Parker miraculously thrived. The goal, confined to bed rest with the charge of aside from the larger outcome of keeping resting and “growing her infant” to term. Parker alive, was to grow him to his original Turns out, baby Parker had other plans. due date of September 21. Mini-meals were courtesy of a feeding tube. Breathing was A SURPRISE DELIVERY accomplished via a ventilator. For nearly Within 48 hours, the amniotic sac broke, every bodily function, there was a network of throwing Molly into full-blown labor. With wires, tubes and lines to keep Parker alive … such a low-survival rate for infants born this alive but not without setbacks along the way. premature, Molly and Bruce were asked the hard question: did they want to try to save COMPLICATIONS CONTINUE their son? In spite of having been offered Shortly after his birth, Parker developed a only a five percent chance of survival, kidney infection and had to be transported without any hesitation, they answered to Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health “Absolutely.” where treating acute infections in premature infants is more routine. He stayed there Thus, with only one push due to his minute a full month while a second team of size, Friday, May 24, Parker Lee Coraggio healthcare professionals poured over him. was born. “It was at least four hours before we were able to see him because “It was two months before we first heard they immediately went to work on him.” his voice, and he squeaked like a kitten,” Weighing in at a mere 1 pound, 6 ounces remarked Molly. “But every day he lived, and only 12 inches long, Parker’s well-being his odds of survival increased another was beyond critical. percentage point.” According to The New York Times, only a “tiny minority of micro Premature infants, those born before 37 premature infants survives if medically weeks, are cared for by a team of healthcare treated, and of those, only a few are without

any health issues. The vast majority suffer serious medical issues.” Parker’s crib for more than 90 days was an incubator, his nursery was the NICU. At times, infections developed isolating Parker to private areas. But tiny Parker had an enormous team of healthcare workers constantly treating him, monitoring him and growing him including specialists for his heart, lungs, kidneys, ear, nose, throat and eyes, to name a few. And of course, his No. 1 supporter, his mother, never gave up on him. “I had a tremendous trust in his healthcare team and knew they were doing everything they could do to help him survive.”

GOING HOME

In September, when Parker should have just been making his first appearance, he made his grand debut to his home. His breathing was still being assisted, and his heart was being monitored. And of course, he was extremely small.

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 15

“We were constantly feeding him. As it turned out, we thought he had a milk allergy, so he had to switch from breast milk to a prescription formula,” explained Molly. Parker also had severe acid reflux, causing him to vomit through both his nose and mouth. Switching formula was the fix. However, having been released from the hospital brought a new set of demands including all those that any infant requires. Adding to the constant feeding and subsequent diaper changing round-the-clock were the special sleep arrangements made to keep his tiny head upright so he would not choke in his sleep. The solution: a bouncy chair. Parker had been fed for so long via a feeding tube that swallowing on his own was and still remains an issue (delayed muscle development because of the ever-present feeding tube.) Parker’s first year brought many “firsts,” although not the ones that new parents normally look forward to. It took more than eight months before Parker first laughed and was still only rolling on his sides. It was 10 months before he was able to eat from a spoon. He was more than 1 before he crawled and nearly 2 before he walked. But each first was indeed a milestone to marvel, and with every passing day, Parker grew bigger, stronger and more astonishing. In September 2015, the miracle that is Parker Lee Coraggio celebrated his “should have been” second birthday … technically he was 2 ½. “Today Parker weighs about 24 pounds, loves to climb and has a vocabulary of nearly 200 words,” says Molly. He still undergoes therapy four times a week for a variety of issues and will undoubtedly continue, in one form or another, until he’s at least 3 years old. “It’s timeconsuming yet completely worth it,” says Molly.

Convincing Molly and Bruce that there are no more miracles today would be a complete waste of time. They’d just tell you their marvelous story of Parker Coraggio and let you decide. It’s a small price to pay for such a huge blessing.

Debbie Robertson is a former southside resident, a frequent visitor to the Greenwood area and a freelance writer. In addition to writing, Debbie likes all outdoor activities as well as spending time with her adult son Adam and reading with her Book Club. Volunteering and fundraising are also passions as she divides her time between a variety of charities, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Ovar’coming Together and Indy Honor Flight.

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3100 W. Stones Crossing Rd. (just west of S.R. 135) Greenwood 317-535-8555 www.mtauburnumc.org 16 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

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Owners Tauria and David Catlin. Tauria acts as the curator of art, David fills the role of production coordinator.

CANDLES LIGHT THE WAY MIDDLE DAVIDS ARTISAN CANDLES HOBBY TURNS HELPFUL

work and living life. They pastor a small house The business was born from a hobby 40 years church in Franklin, so as the need for income Writer / Frieda Dowler . Photographer / Chris Williams grew, so did their business of candle making. ago in Arthur’s basement in the Chicago In 2009, they opened Middle Davids Artisan area as he filled a need with his candle Middle Davids Artisan Candles shop might Candles marked by a red and white striped making abilities. He helped kids from his have been named David and Son Artisan church go on a mission trip with a fundraiser awning in the Wigwam Building at 152 E. Candles, but it wouldn’t sound as unique, and using the candles. He believed these trips Jefferson St., Franklin. a shop so interesting deserves a catchy name. for kids would be a life changer, but their CANDLE MAKING involvement with generating the funds Owner Dan Catlin’s middle name is David, From the beginning, the goal was to create would add value to the trip’s experience. same as his father Arthur’s middle name, a quality candle product from a renewable hence the name Middle Davids. Both have resource. The wax is from soy, a local and Dan and his wife Tauria met at the Naval become middlemen providing fundraising sustainable crop, and the wicks are cotton, Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, not opportunities with their candles for kids also from a sustainable resource. They use realizing they were only 50 miles apart while desiring to go on school or church trips but growing up in the Chicago area. After their premium fragrances and essential oils from who can’t afford the cost. Arthur is a retired stint with the Navy in Rhode Island and an Indiana fragrance company and a highpastor and son Dan is an active pastor. You quality glass, also reusable so they give a corporate jobs in Chicago and Indianapolis, could also say both are middlemen for they ventured into entrepreneurship in 2007, store credit for returning the jar that the helping people get to know God. desiring to pursue their ideals of intermingling candles come in. 18 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

They make each candle by hand, not a machine. Jars are lined up on a large wooden surface; a wooden stay holds wicks upright across the top of the jar, and scented hot wax is poured carefully into each jar. “We’re all about doing the right thing, not necessarily the easy thing,” says Dan as the production coordinator. “Our fundraisers make more money per item for the student than other fundraisers, and we deliver a quality product that people will use,” Dan says. He states the popularity of candles but points to the uniqueness of theirs. “They are 100 percent made in the USA, have a custom label and are priced the same or less than the big name candle companies.” Their most popular candle this season is Autumn Harvest. During two weeks in September, they made 4,000 candles for fundraisers including church mission trips, school bands and

choirs and Washington, D.C., trips for A gift box is always included. middle schoolers. Not every season is this busy which caused them to consider carrying Tauria, a weaver, skillfully turns bamboo art as an additional stream of income. yarn into beautiful scarves. During slower times in the shop, you can find her in the THE ADDED VALUE OF QUALITY ART front of the store working on her loom. Moving into their storefront in 2009 allowed them to have a retail center. They When Dan and Tauria opened their sought independent artists to represent with storefront in Franklin, they desired to one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in become a part of a community where they big box stores. could safely raise their three daughters, bike to work and know people in the area. They As curator of the art, Tauria seeks variety aspire to live in a way that makes getting from the artists. In their tiny shop, they up each day worth it and to know they are represent 30 artists with a variety of art: contributing to others in a positive way. pottery, jewelry, paintings, fabric, wood, paper and glass to name a few. All the “For centuries, candles have been a source artists are from the U.S. with 61 percent of light, and our goal is not only to share the from Indiana and 30 percent of those from candles that we create but also to add a little Johnson County. You’ll always find a unique light to our community,” Dan says. gift item for someone special, and if you can’t find exactly what you want, most of the You can learn more about their products at artists are willing to customize something. middledavids.com.

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 19

Shop, Wrap & Deliver

SKILLMAN’S CLOTHE-A-CHILD PROGRAM Writer / Joyce Long . Photographer / Chris Williams

20 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

ach year, Santa’s elves invade Greenwood the first week of December. Volunteers, assisted by Ray Skillman Auto Group employees, shop and wrap clothing items for families of 1,100 children throughout Central Indiana. Volunteer Amy Estabrook, a special education teacher at Clark Pleasant Intermediate School, coordinates this annual Clothe-A-Child project and works with school counselors to identify recipients. A majority of Skillman’s 980 employees donate through automatic payroll deduction, which this year raised $188,000, an amount Ray matches. Estabrook emphasizes that every penny donated goes to the children. The company pays for expenses, which totals approximately $700, and includes administrative items such as folders, labels, gift wrap, boxes, tape and transportation. Since it began in the early 1900s, Clothe-A-Child has grown into a massive volunteer effort and event. Ashley Haltom, Skillman’s Internet sales manager explained, “Years ago, we started to help a few families in our community since it had been so good to us. We saw the need was expanding, so the program grew to include families outside of Greenwood.”

1,100 NEEDS MET

This year’s allocation was $160 per child, and volunteer shoppers received a folder for each child detailing sizes for two outfits, a coat, gym shoes and socks. A toy was also included. The Greenwood Kohl’s store, which offered discounts, allocated four cash registers for Skillman shoppers during the 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. buying spree December 1-3. Significantly discounted coats were purchased from JCPenney. A majority of the shoppers include Skillman employees, but a few schools send classes and faculty to help. For the past 15 years, Lutheran High School’s senior class spends three days volunteering. Extended Learning classes from North Grove and Center Grove Elementary Schools also help. Rosa Parks Elementary literally sends Santa’s helpers as their fifth grade and kindergarten class buddies dress up as elves and work in pairs. To protect confidentiality, volunteer students are never given children’s folders from their school. Children chosen to receive these gifts attend 50 different schools including various Indianapolis Public Schools. atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 21

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They also include entire corporations such as Greenwood, Center Grove, Clark Pleasant and Franklin Township. Perry Township’s Southport Middle School, Glenns Valley Elementary and Jeremiah Gray Elementary also participate. Clothe-A-Child’s outreach extends to Martinsville Schools along with PALS from the Indianapolis Police Department and Community Caring and Sharing, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization serving the Mars Hill area in Decatur and Wayne Townships.

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Estabrook’s annual Clothe-A-Child challenge is having enough help for such a massive undertaking. “I always wonder if we will have enough volunteers to do the shopping and wrapping since this is a word-of-mouth project, but every year it works out.”

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She appreciates ongoing help from groups such as Roncalli High School’s softball team that assists each year.

School where his wife Becky taught eighth grade social studies.

From those first 20 students helped to After the gifts are purchased each day, they the current 1,100, local generosity keeps are delivered by 2 p.m. to Ray Skillman’s Greenwood’s elves busy during the first personal car museum located near Skillman’s week of December. Greenwood Ford Dealership. The afternoon and evening elf shifts take over. Groups such as faculty and administrators from Clark Pleasant Intermediate School often enjoy working together to wrap gifts. Skillman drivers then deliver bags full of wrapped gifts to the schools where these are given to families of the children. “When the gifts are handed out, there is no note in the bag saying they’re from Ray Skillman Auto Group. We encourage parents to put these gifts under the tree marked from them and/or Santa,” said Estabrook. In her four years of coordinating Clothe-A-Child, Estabrook, whose husband is employed by Ray Skillman Auto Group as a finance manager, remembers many poignant moments. One time while in the Greenwood Kohl’s store, a man handed Estabrook $20 to help with Clothe-A-Child. Sometimes moments are even more dramatic. Last year, the night before Thanksgiving, the Estabrooks — Amy, her husband BobbyLee and daughter Ashlynn — were shopping for children’s coats in Greenwood. Usually, there are plenty, but the sizes needed weren’t there. At 8:45 p.m., they walked into the Plainfield JCPenney and voila! Coats were found, and a new liaison was formed. Much has changed since Clothe-AChild began over 20 years ago when a few managers from the Ray Skillman Auto Group decided employees should purchase basic needs for area children in lieu of an in-house employee gift exchange. Retired sales representative Wayne Ramsey remembers enlisting the help of consumer science teacher Karen Begley of Greenwood Middle

Joyce Long has called Center Grove home since 1987. She has taught language arts at Greenwood Middle School and coordinated marketing for Mount Pleasant Christian Church and communications for Center for Global Impact. Currently Joyce enjoys freelance writing and co-leading Heartland Christian Writers.

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Home for a Hoosier Holiday Writer & Photographer / Julie Yates

The Christmas season is a time when hearts and houses are filled to the brim with love and memories. Family members, whether they are college students home for semester break or others living miles away, are welcomed home to celebrate. A special meal with dishes that are not served at any other time of the year adds to the nostalgia. Traditional Hoosier fare is sure to bring back reminiscences for anyone who grew up in Indiana as well as start new ones for those who have recently moved to the Midwest. Enjoy these Christmas recipes with those you love!

SUGAR CREAM PIE ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INGREDIENTS Prebaked single crust pastry shell, 1 cup sugar, ¼ cup cornstarch, 2 cups 2% milk, ½ cup butter cubed, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 375. In a pan, mix sugar with cornstarch, then add milk and stir until smooth. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and cook 2 minutes to thicken. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Pour into pie crust and sprinkle top with cinnamon. Bake 15 to 20 minutes until browned.

At one time, Indiana was a leading producer of sorghum before honey and sugar became the sweetener of choice. It is found on the ingredient list of many a passed down Hoosier recipe and plays off nicely against the saltiness of a locally raised Christmas ham.

SORGHUM MUSTARD GLAZED HAM ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

When there was a huge crowd to feed, Grandma brought out canned apple butter and corn relish to complement her traditional Indiana fried biscuits. However, these recipes have a modern twist. The apple butter is made with a crockpot, and the corn relish is prepared using a microwave. Either one makes a great hostess gift when spooned into a jar and tied with a ribbon. Because these dishes are not processed, keep them refrigerated and use within a week.

FRIED BISCUITS ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INGREDIENTS (for 24 biscuits) 1 ½ cups vegetable oil, 2 ½ cups flour, 1 rounded tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 ½ cups milk and 3 tablespoons vinegar INSTRUCTIONS Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Combine wet ingredients and stir in. Roll out on floured surface to ½ inch thickness. Cut into biscuit rounds, then cut each in half. Heat oil to 325. Fry a batch at a time in a covered skillet, three minutes per side.

APPLE BUTTER ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INGREDIENTS A cured ham that is large enough to yield ½ pound serving per person, 1 cup sorghum (or maple syrup), 1 cup Dijon mustard, ½ cup apple cider vinegar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and ¼ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes. INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350. Roast 15 minutes per pound. Pour glaze on during the last hour of cooking.

INGREDIENTS (5 cups of apple butter) 46 oz. unsweetened applesauce, 2 ½ cups light brown sugar, 1 cup sugar, 2/3 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves and 1/8 teaspoon salt INSTRUCTIONS Place all ingredients into crockpot and mix well. Cook covered on high setting for 1 hour. Then set the lid ajar. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, 4 to 5 hours until mixture is thickened.

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 25

A traditional homemade Christmas dinner is a special gift that family and friends share together. Regardless of the size of the gathering or the span of the ages, it is an occasion to celebrate the season and our heritage. The opportunity to slow down and linger around the table while sharing family lore and stories cements memories and creates new ones.

This green bean casserole recipe is the 1955 version developed by the Campbell Soup Company. The sweet potato dish also has its roots in the 1950s when mini marshmallows became available and trendy. Both can be made ahead of time and popped into the oven a halfhour before serving.

other ingredients. Place in 9 x 13 pan and bake 30 minutes. Top with remaining marshmallows and bake 5 additional minutes.

SWEET POTATOES

INGREDIENTS (for 12 servings) 4 cups cooked green beans, 1 can condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, ½ cup milk, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, dash pepper and 1 1/3 cups canned fried onions

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INGREDIENTS (8 servings) 4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, ¼ cup butter, ¼ cup orange juice, ½ cup miniature marshmallows and dash salt. INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350. Combine ¼ cup of the marshmallows with the

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350. Mix 2/3 cup of the onions and other ingredients together in 9 x 13 pan. Bake 30 minutes. Top with remaining onions and bake 5 additional minutes.

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Save room for dessert! Nothing says Hoosier tradition more than persimmon pudding and the official Indiana state pie. Frozen pulp from the orange skinned persimmon fruit can be purchased in local specialty grocery stores. A garnish of whipped cream sprinkled with cinnamon complements the moist, rich pudding as well as the legendary custard in the sugar cream pie.

CORN RELISH ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INGREDIENTS (3 cups of Corn Relish) 1 (15 oz.) drained can whole kernel corn, ¼ cup vinegar, 1 cup pickle relish, ¼ cup minced onion, ¼ cup diced pimientos, 3 tablespoons sugar and 1½ teaspoons celery salt.

PERSIMMON PUDDING

INSTRUCTIONS Mix all ingredients together in a glass casserole dish, cover with wax paper and microwave on high for 10 minutes.

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

INGREDIENTS 1-pint persimmon pulp, 2 cups sugar, 2 beaten eggs, 1 ¾ cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 cup half and a half, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/3 cup melted butter and a dash of cinnamon. INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 325. Combine persimmon, sugar and eggs. Alternate adding the flour and baking powder with the half-andhalf, buttermilk and baking soda. Stir in butter and cinnamon. Pour in greased 9 x 13 pan and bake 1 hour.

Julie Yates is a former teacher and current food blogger. She enjoys sharing quick, easy, and healthy recipes with people who love to cook. Visit her blogs at yatesyummies.com and orangesandalmonds.com.

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continued from page 13 - Don't Let the most wonderful time of the year pass you by into bigger-than-life scenes. On weekends, you can visit Santa Claus in the clubhouse cabin, purchase cookies and hot chocolate to benefit the local schools and snap a photo with the man himself. Think of it as a quick trip to the North Pole. Hours are 6-9 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays and 6-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Santa visits on weekends only. Cost is $8 per car.

If you want to have breakfast with Santa!

Saturday, December 12 You have plenty of options to eat breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 12. Make it a breakfast tour or choose one:

Make it a night on the town! Visit Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. Grab a cup of hot cocoa from South Bend Chocolate Company and let your kids mail their letters to Santa in the mailbox located on the circle. He/she will even get a letter back! Just be sure to include your return address.

If you love that small town, traditional feeling Cookie Stroll and Winter Market in Downtown Martinsville

December 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entertainment and activities for all ages throughout the historic downtown district, live music, carolers and more. Cookie Passports ($10) are required to collect home baked cookies at each stop. FREE admission. Info: 765-346-5611.

from 3-5 p.m. Don’t worry, he’s bringing Mrs. Claus and his reindeer too! This is a FREE event. Craft and food vendors and games will be available from 1-5 p.m. For more information, contact Lynne Hess at lhess@ townofbargersville.org or 317-422-3126.

Greenwood Community Center

9 a.m. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood Santa Claus is coming to town to have breakfast with you and your child. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit, juice, milk and coffee from Bob Evans. Visit with You'll see Santa. You'll see lights. It's Santa and take your own photo or have Proworth the drive to Danville!' Tek Photography take a professional photo 600 East Main St., 46122 for $3 (two for $5). Space is limited. Please Since its inception in 1996, the Winterland purchase tickets in advance online or at the Light Show in Danville has become a community center. Cost is $4 for members, showstopper for Hendricks County. If you’re $5 for residents and $6 for nonresidents. willing to make the drive, you’ll be able to Information: 317-881-4545. drive through an impressive display of more continued on page 33 than one million lights twisted and molded

Victorian Christmas in Mooresville December 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stroll down the street of downtown Mooresville for its annual Victorian Christmas. You’ll see Scrooge and Santa and have the chance to ride in a horse-drawn carriage. Enjoy live entertainment, delicious food and craft booths!

The Santa Train is coming to Bargersville! December 4 from 1 to 5 p.m. 24 N. Main St., Bargersville Santa has a new ride, and he’s coming to Bargersville. See Santa on his very own train 28 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

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A SURE SIGN OF THE GIVING SEASON: SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGING Like twinkling lights and joyful carols, it simply wouldn’t be Christmas without the familiar ringing of The Salvation Army bells. For six weeks each fall, The Salvation Army asks the public to remember their neighbors in need by dropping spare dimes and dollars in its iconic red kettles. These donations help fund programs and services long after the Christmas trees come down and the last of the snow has melted. From after school programs and summer camp to food pantries and utility assistance, The Salvation Army serves tens of thousands of men, women and children in central Indiana. One of these individuals was Phyllis, who is rebuilding her life at the Ruth Lilly Women and Children’s Center, located on The Salvation Army campus in the heart of downtown Indianapolis dubbed the “Block of Hope.” Phyllis has no illusions about how dire her situation had gotten. “If I’d sat out there another day, I’d be gone,” she shares, shaking her head at the memory of her last days on the street. Phyllis had been homeless and living at a local bus station, suffering from hyperglycemia because she didn’t have access to medications to treat her diabetes. She weighed only 86 pounds and had stopped eating when she

walked through the doors of the Ruth Lilly Women and Children’s Center. Phyllis was immediately admitted, given food and looked over by a doctor. It wasn’t long before she was back on her medication and sharing her harrowing tale with the shelter staff, which included the sudden death of her husband from brain cancer and the loss of her house. She’d always been taken care of as a wife and didn’t know how to seek employment, handle personal finances or get the psychological care she needed to deal with the loss of her husband. “This is a place where you can get help,” Phyllis smiles as she gestures at the walls of her new home at the Women and Children’s Center. “They’re helping me through things. I’ve never been homeless before, and it’s really hard. They have a lot of options here. I’m grateful for it because it’s getting me on my feet.” Phyllis is now tackling a list of goals, both large and small. From getting her body healthy again to finding employment and saving money for her own apartment, she works every day to get closer to independence. That work includes weekly meetings with her case manager and social worker, sessions with a psychiatrist, money management classes and a new job at a

TOWNEPOST NETWORK / DECEMBER 2015 / TownePost.com

local restaurant. After just two months, Phyllis already looks like a different woman. She proudly tells anyone she meets that she’s up to 120 pounds and has her diabetes under control. While Phyllis will sheepishly admit that she still isn’t “street smart,” she’s learning how to make smart decisions for her future. “They set you up for success – that’s what they do,” Phyllis explains. “I give thanks to The Salvation Army. I thank God every morning that I’m here.” So when you drop a quarter in a red kettle this month or search out the clear ringing of a bell in a crowded shopping mall, remember the thousands of Hoosiers like Phyllis who know The Salvation Army is more than a red kettle at Christmas. It’s hope for tomorrow.

Interested in volunteering to ring a bell this Christmas? Visit RegisterToRing.com and sign up today!

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continued from page 28 - Don't Let the most wonderful time of the year pass you by Johnson County Public Library website at pageafterpage.org and the Greenwood Public Library website at greenwoodlibrary. us. Registration is required for a number of events.

If you're looking for the true meaning of Christmas

Christmas at Mount Pleasant Christian Church 381 N. Bluff Rd., Greenwood Special Weekend Christmas Services Friday, December 11 at 7 p.m. Saturday December 12 at 3:45 and 6 p.m. Sunday December 13 at 9 and 10:45 a.m. 10:45 a.m. service available in Worship Center, Video Venue across the street and live online at live.mpcc.info More details at mpcc.info

Singing Christmas Tree Spectacular Grace Assembly of God 6822 N. US Highway 31, New Whiteland December 11, 12 and 13 at 7 p.m.

Franklin Cultural Arts Center 9-11 a.m. 396 Branigin Blvd., Franklin SANTA IS COMING! Starting at 9 a.m., breakfast will be served: pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit, donuts, juice, milk and coffee, and every child gets a picture with Santa! Must pre-register. Limited space available! Call 317-346-1192.

photo. Cost for members is $15/family (2 adult max), $5/for 10 and up, $3 for 3-9 years, and 2 and under are FREE. Nonmembers are $6/person and 2 and under are FREE.

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Local libraries are making the holidays something to remember! Programs for all Baxter YMCA ages are happening at the Johnson County 8-11 a.m. Public Libraries and Greenwood Public 7900 S. Shelby St., 46217 Library including Silly Safari Reindeer Join Santa for a pancake breakfast sponsored Reserve, Ornament Making, Cocoa by McDonaldâ€™s. Snap a photo with your own and Canvas, Holiday Science activities, personal camera or purchase a professional Christmas story times and more! Visit the

Katie Burrell has been a southsider most of her life. She enjoys being part of a small community in a big city full of life and culture. She is a runner, writer and nature-lover. There is nothing she loves more than a nice, quiet afternoon at home with her husband and two beautiful, energetic sons.

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 33

Celebrating Advent Leads One Woman to A Merry Christmas Writer / Tia Nielsen . Photographer / G. Polly Jordan

Five years ago, life for Polly Riddell seemed to be going backward. A head injury forced a return to her Indiana hometown to give her a place to heal. Moving in with her mother, Polly’s return — her personal advent — may not have seemed like a desired arrival.

Published under her pen name of G. Polly Jordan, the calendar includes engaging photos for each day. They are paired with a few salient words: words from Scripture, favorite Christian authors who generously gave their blessings on her project or fresh insights from a healing Polly. Polly’s website, RiskyUndertaking.com, is a journey “to inspire, motivate, encourage and entertain.” Polly writes stories we can relate to, displays breathtaking photographs, offers fun cooking helps, a spirit of adventure and lots of Christmas! You’ll also find her brand new Advent and 2016 calendars available.

Polly used her years of healing to reflect more intently on the true meaning of her favorite season of the year, Christmas. She noticed that observing Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas, greatly increased the meaning. She also longed for the day she could be in her own home once again to lavishly decorate for Christmas. Two years ago, Polly moved into her new home, a cabin in the woods. “Christmas at my house is humorous and original. “As the holidays approached, I would go to [local business] Following Christ is a risky undertaking with rewards and Silk Scapes and become immersed in the majestic Christmas transformation beyond your wildest imagination. God’s historydecorations. [They] start their Christmas decorating in August.” changing entrance into the world has been celebrated for more than Polly is grateful that Silk Scapes let her photograph their 2,000 years. When Christ entered our world, He didn’t come to glamourous decorations year after year and post the photos and her brighten our Decembers but to transform our lives.” reflections on Facebook. “I visited every week eager with anticipation to see what would be created at my next visit. I dreamed of putting together an Advent calendar to showcase the stunning Christmas decorations,” Polly said. “It took three years to put together.”

Writer Tia Nielsen has explored human interest stories for 20 publications. She started out at a bilingual newspaper, despite not knowing more than 50 words in Spanish. She also has served on three nonprofit boards, worked for the Indiana Department of Education, and handled communications and marketing for several organizations. You may reach her at Tia@tiaconnects.com.

34 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2015 / atGreenwood.com

TEACHING MORE THAN ART Writer / Kris Parker . Photographer / Forrest Mellott

And while many people consider art classes to be for children, Guckelberg has seen an increase of adult students in recent years. “Every year, I have more and more adult students. It’s the chance for them to learn something new and a way for them to relax, but adults are always the hardest on themselves,” she said.

Some students pursue their interest in art later in life, some come to it much earlier. “Clearly I had an interest from an One of Lisa Guckelberg’s earliest memories early age, but I think it was the combined is spending time in the home of neighbors nurturing attitude and support of many who moved in when she was 4 years old. people that gave me confidence in myself “Mrs. Martin and I enjoyed playing games together. It was like having a grandma living and in my abilities as an artist,” Guckelberg next door for me. I soon became very curious said. “As a result, I put a huge emphasis on building the confidence of my students. about the artwork that Mr. Martin worked In my classes, I try to push students… on in the garage and in the back bedroom. both children and adults…and I try to get Although I was told not to enter those areas them to problem solve and figure out if of the house, I would find excuses to leave Mrs. Martin’s company and take a quick look something doesn’t work, then what will work. I have students that come back years at his current painting projects. later and tell me how much they enjoyed “I really wanted him to teach me how to draw and appreciated learning that skill in my class…because it translates into other areas and paint, but I can only recall one time that of life.” he actually drew something for me. I think Mrs. Martin convinced him. I watched intently Guckelberg continued by explaining the as he drew from the horse model that I had brought over to his house. As he drew, he said encouragement she gives her art students: “Keep your expectations of your drawing nothing about how to draw the horse. I was ability realistic. Your drawings will never totally focused, taking in the demonstration. be perfect. Mine are far from perfect, even I had to learn through observation, which is with all the years I have drawn and painted! exactly what it takes to excel in drawing: the ability to observe your subject with focus and Make it fun, learn something from each drawing that you complete and take that intensity,” said Guckelberg. knowledge with you to the next piece of art that you create. Perfectionism frequently More than simply being an artist herself, leads to frustration. Do art because you Guckelberg shares her talent by teaching are getting enjoyment out of the process. others. Beginning by teaching children’s art Be experimental with your renderings. classes in 1987, Guckelberg currently offers Be willing to make mistakes. Mistakes are classes for adults and children, ages 7 and good…you will learn from them! If you up, at both the Franklin Cultural Arts and Rec Center on Mondays and the Greenwood develop this mindset, you will be able to realize improvements in your artistic ability Community Center on Tuesdays, and enjoy the process.” Wednesdays and Saturdays.

CLASS DETAILS

The classes are adaptable to students’ needs; they are listed as an hour long, but Guckelberg is flexible in that timeframe. She said, “If a student is in the middle of working on something and doesn’t want to stop, he can stay and finish.” In addition, each student works with her one-on-one, so he can work at his own pace and ability. “The classes are run like an open studio. I work with everyone on a case-by-case basis, so it’s all very individualized,” she said. The annual art show, in which all the students have the opportunity to submit their work, is always on the first Friday of December. This year, it falls on December 4 at the Greenwood Community Center from 5-9 p.m. “This is the pinnacle of the year…for both the kids and the adults,” she said. This free event is open to the public and offers the opportunity to view student works of all ages.

THE PERFECT GIFT

Gift certificates for classes and the beginning starter kits are available for purchase. Each student begins classes begin with a four-week focus on pencil drawing; from there, students can branch out into specific areas of interest. To purchase a gift certificate or a starter kit or to enroll in her classes, email Guckelberg at longrunningartist@gmail.com or stop by the Greenwood Community Center during her class time. For more information, check out her website at lisaguckelbergart.com. A lifetime resident of the Center Grove area, Kris graduated from IU Bloomington with a degree in Journalism. She and her husband, Jimmy, parent two active, homeschooled boys and one foster son. If she had spare time, she would enjoy blogging and thriftstore shopping.

atGreenwood.com / DECEMBER 2015 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 35

DECEMBE

TS R LO C A L E V E N

4 / SANTA TRAIN

Visit the Indiana Rail Road Santa Train in downtown Bargersville. Train arrives at 3 p.m. Line closes at 5 p.m. Free Downtown Bargersville bit.ly/bv_santa_train

12-JANUARY / VISIT WITH SANTA

Come get your picture with the man himself! Pictures are free of charge and limited to one per family. 12-3 p.m. Free Johnson County Museum of History 135 N. Main St., Franklin 317-346-4500 kroush@co.johnson.in.us JohnsonCountyMuseum.org

12 / GREATER GREENWOOD COMMUNITY BAND ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The program will showcase some newer arrangements of well-known holiday standards. Then the Band will be

Greenwood Community Magazine December 2015