Greenwood Community Magazine March 2016

MARCH 2016

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

AUTISM SPEAKS… ARE WE LISTENING?

Lindsay Eichelman, Autism Speaks Walk Chairperson

Nanci Bonfield, Autism Speaks Senior Coordinator

THINKING AHEAD IS THINKING FOR LIFE

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2 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

PUBLISHER’S WELCOME As I write this, the forecast predicts recordhigh temperatures, touching 70 degrees. I can feel the first twinges of spring fever in my bones, but I am sure that the forecast is not so promising as you read this. March weather in Indiana is a dance between the teasing of spring and the taunting of winter. If you are a gardener, you likely know that our frost free date, the date where the chance of frost is less than 10 percent, is May 1, but that doesn’t keep us from challenging the weather.

surviving a number of cold snaps that totally froze the water, there came a light snow one night that was just too much to handle, and my experiment came to a limp end.

If you are itching to get your garden started, I strongly suggest you start with a seed catalog and a garden plan. These are much more appropriate activities for gardening in March in Indiana. But if you don’t have a place to garden, now is the time to check out our article on Greenwood Community Garden.

One year, after attending a home and garden Perhaps you recently downsized and no show in early March, I purchased some tomato longer have that large yard. Or perhaps you seedlings. Rather than do the reasonable are starting out, and it’s impossible to garden thing and place them under a lamp until it was in an apartment. Whatever your situation, a time to move them outdoors, I took a chance community garden may be the answer. You and had them in the garden by March 15! I provide the seeds and the sweat. Mother protected them with an accessory known as a Nature will take it from there.

Wall O’ Water (bit.ly/water-wall), water tubes that absorb the cold and protect the plants. It While gardening is a pleasurable activity, you worked! Well, at least for about a month. After know if you are a homeowner that there are

Dann Veldkamp, Publisher

many less enjoyable activities that you have to do to maintain your investment. One of them is managing your stormwater. If you have a ditch or a swale running along your property line, it is important to ensure it is properly maintained. While in some cases it may be the responsibility of the City, in every case it is in your best interest to ensure that it is free of debris and allows snow melt and rain water to run freely off your property. Alaina Sullivan’s story “Maintain Your Drain” provides the details you need to minimize the chance of flooding on your property.

Regardless of whether March comes in like a lion or a lamb, you can be sure that warmer weather is on the way, and we will be here to help you make the most of it.

CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE The team photo in last month’s “The Genesis of a Team” was taken by Gary Blake.

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4 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

March 2016 / Vol. 2 / No. 10

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

BUSINESS MANAGER Jeanne Britt

jeanne@TownePost.com / 317-288-7101

COVER STORY

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alyssa Sander

ADVERTISING DESIGNER

Cover Photo / Jim Eichelman

24

Austin Vance

EDITOR

AUTISM SPEAKS… ARE WE LISTENING?

Katelyn Bausman

Writer / Jim Eichelman

Autism. What is your reaction when you hear this word? Those with loved ones that struggle with autism probably have a very different reaction than the general population.

For many of us who are not impacted by autism, our reaction may range from a lack of understanding and misconceptions to indifference. But there is an organization that is working tirelessly to change all that … Autism Speaks!

FEATURED COLUMNS 17 Teen Film Festival 18 Maintain Your Drain 41 Join the Greenwood Community Garden!

8 Get the Yuck out of Your Ducts 11 Wine, Women & Shoes 14 Gender Reveal Parties 22 Partners in Connecting the

6 44 45 46

Greenwood Health Kick Event Calendar Word Search Kate in the Middle

MARCH WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Alaina Sullivan / Alicia Wettrick / Eghe Lenze / Janelle Morrison / Jim Eichelman / Kara Reibel / Kate Rhoten / Katie Burrell / Keeley Miller / Kris Parker / Nancy Craig

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.

28 Bringing New Life to a Lake

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

SouthSide Parents of Multiples Becker Landscape Beyond 3.1 Business Spotlights are sponsored content.

MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 1272 / Greenwood, IN 46142 Phone: 317-507-4334 / Fax: 317-868-2240 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 / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 5

 GREENWOOD HEALTH KICK

MYTHS THAT CAUSE PREGNANCY PARANOIA March Madness is here! For basketball fans, this is a time for lots of game watching and excitement. For an OB/GYN office, this is the time for lots of new expecting mothers!

Very excited and anxious mothers with many questions pouring in about ’what to do’ and ‘what not to do’ during pregnancy.

Writer & Photographer / Alicia Wettrick

the newborn when heard outside the womb, but there is no evidence that gestational auditory stimulation will enhance intelligence.

Omega-3s are good for the baby’s brain, and fish is a good source of Omega-3s to help with the baby’s brain development. It is recommended to eat 12 oz. of fish weekly that Drinking red raspberry leaf tea during is low in mercury such as salmon, cod and pregnancy will help with a quicker light tuna. (Albacore tuna has higher mercury, delivery, but if you drink it early in the pregnancy, so limit to 6 oz. per week). it can cause preterm delivery.

Pregnancy and paranoia come hand-in-hand Heat deli meats and hot dogs until steaming due to the immense and overwhelming There is not enough evidence to support first. This is in case the bacteria Listeria, which responsibility felt in taking proper care of the the first claim, and the second claim is a causes food-borne illness, is present. Listeria unborn child. It is difficult to sort through resounding no! can cause complications such as miscarriage, the mountains of pregnancy information preterm labor, stillborn and newborn infection. out there. And lots of families, friends and Only one very small study found shorter even strangers are eager to weigh in on their pushing times in pregnant women that drank Avoid raw or undercooked meat, and for pregnancy do’s and don’ts. The Internet, while the tea. Consequently, this has resulted in a soft cheeses, only eat those made with resourceful, also can be a pregnant woman’s lot of ‘pregnancy tea’ concoctions that claim it pasteurized milk. worst enemy. I spend a lot of time in the office, will strengthen the uterus and pelvic muscles addressing and reassuring expecting mothers to facilitate an easier delivery.

You can only sleep on your left side when about what they read on the Internet. pregnant and never on your back or Most likely, the tea is not going to help, but stomach. if you feel the need to try it, make sure it is a FIVE MYTHS ABOUT THE BUMP well-known brand. Do not take a chance on Yes and no. You can sleep on your right side So to help alleviate some paranoia, let’s and stomach, but it is uncertain about your address the five most common prenatal myths. a tea bought on the Internet from an exotic location. back.

Stimulating the fetus with classical music, What can help with labor? Being fit. Fit It is advised by some OBs, after 20 weeks, to rhythmic literature or talking into a mothers do have quicker deliveries. Many not sleep on your back. The idea is that the microphone attached to the pregnant belly will studies have found pregnant women who weight of the pregnant uterus can compress make the baby smarter. exercise regularly throughout the pregnancy the main vein that returns blood flow to your push for less time and are less likely to need heart which may decrease the blood flow to Save your money! Piping music and sounds an assisted delivery or caesarean. the uterus. There is not adequate evidence into the pregnant belly will not make to support blood flow is reduced to the baby your baby smarter. Do not buy stomach So instead of buying expensive teas, invest in a with back sleeping or that it causes a problem headphones, Bellybuds, prenatal music belts good pair of tennis shoes. in pregnancy, so do not panic if you wake up or the Baby-Bump Sound System. on your back.

Cocoa butter, aloe or coconut oil can help In the first half of the pregnancy, the fetus’s prevent stretch marks.

In this month of basketball and baby madness, brain is rapidly developing at an astonishing remember to relax. A stressed mom can lead to rate of 500,000 neuron cells a minute, so they False. Actually pregnant women can develop a stressed baby. Don’t let pregnancy paranoia do not need any more stimulation. Leave very sensitive skin. Lotions, oils and creams get the best of you. them alone. can cause skin irritation and rashes.

Yes, the baby can hear! In the second half of Pregnant women cannot eat seafood, deli Alicia Wettrick is a Family Nurse the pregnancy, over 20 weeks, the fetus does Practitioner working in OB/GYN for meat or hot dogs. respond to outside stimulus such as sounds, Community Hospital Network. She touch and mother’s movement. Research believes that Greenwood is a great place Yes, you can have seafood. Just be a little has found that newborns can recognize to lead a healthy lifestyle and raise a family. selective and avoid fish that eat other fish such sounds heard when they were in the womb She is married to Don Wettrick and has as swordfish and mackerel because they are such as their mother’s voice or a song played three kids, Ava, Anna and Grant. She has been a southsider since higher in mercury. frequently. These familiar sounds can soothe childhood and has lived in the Greenwood area since 1998.

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RESCUE DUCT, AIR DUCT AND DRYER VENT CLEANING 317-451-4233 RescueDuct.com Read reviews on 

If you have seen the truck with the giant yellow duck in the fireman’s suit on the side, you have seen the Rescue Duct truck.

Rescue Duct is a two-year-old air duct and dryer vent cleaning business, owned and operated by two local veterans.

started in the laundry. Over 90 percent are caused by dryer lint and dryer vents, resulting in property damage and even death.

HOW IT STARTED

• Reduces Allergens Such as Dust, Mold, Bacteria and Fungi Resulting in Cleaner, Healthier Air • Reduces Dust and Dusting and Keeps Draperies, Furnishings and Carpets Cleaner • Increases Furnace Efficiency and Air Flow, Reducing Furnace and A/C Repairs • Air Ducts Can Be Disinfected Using a Natural, Food Grade, Product • Reduce Fire Risk – Clean Dryer Vents at Least Annually

Art Schlangen, a Coast Guard veteran and now a Lieutenant with the Franklin Fire Department, was looking for a business opportunity when he realized there was not a professional air duct cleaning company on the southside with a truck mounted system.

Other duct cleaners used small portable units or brushes.

BENEFITS OF KEEPING YOUR AIR DUCTS AND DRYER VENTS CLEAN

Art and his wife Rhonda contacted longtime friends Jim Girdley and his wife Meresa (Baker) to discuss the opportunity. Jim, just retired from the National Guard as a Lt. Colonel, was looking for a new endeavor. After months of planning and market research, it was WHY USE RESCUE DUCT time to put the plan into action. They obtained equipment, outfitted • It Takes More Than a Truck and A Duck to Do the Job Right a truck, went to Pittsburgh to train, advertised and did some pro • Art, Jim And Their Staff Are Trained Air Duct Cleaning bono work to get started. So many things fell into place so quickly Specialists that Art states “divine providence led us here.”

• Truck Mounted System Cleans Better Than Smaller Units • Several Cleaning Options Allow Them to Clean Air Ducts Others WHY THE TRUCK AND THE DUCK Can’t The truck mounted unit provides a powerful vacuum sucking out debris while air whips pass through the ducts, dislodging the “yuck” Art and Rhonda and Jim and Meresa live in Center Grove. Rhonda clinging to your ducts. Using a large vacuum also keeps a home and Meresa are the “silent partners” working on advertising, cleaner during the process. equipment and business development. “We couldn’t have done it without them,” adds Art. The duck was Art’s idea. It was one of those ideas that “sort of comes to you, and you scribble it out on a piece of paper.” With the help of a graphic designer, the “Rescue Duck” was hatched and now adorns their trucks which leads people to ask if it is a franchise. The answer: “Not yet!”

Duct BEFORE cleaning

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Duct AFTER cleaning

Dust or dirt and warm air provide a place for bacteria, germs and viruses to live. Look at the before and after pictures. Do you really want the air you breathe passing by that “stuff ”?

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Many people are unaware of the danger from the buildup of lint in their dryer vent. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) states there are over 15,000 fires annually in the United States that

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8 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

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Schools fill their heads with knowledge.

Help us fill their tummies with food.

One in four Hoosier children doesn’t have enough to eat – nearly 90,000 kids in Greater Indianapolis* alone. Gleaners Food Bank is trying to change that with our BackSacks Weekend Food for Kids program. But distributing a school year’s worth of weekend BackSacks in our entire service area comes with a cost of about $2 million.

Fundraising events like Wine Women & Shoes and its sponsors help pay for this program. Yet, they’re not enough. A gift of just $20 from you provides a child with a month’s worth of weekend BackSacks. And a $100 gift provides him or her with an entire semester’s worth. Please help us fund this worthy program by making a donation today at gleaners.org

2015 Map the Meal Gap

*

A special thanks to our 2016 Wine Women & Shoes sponsors:

Benefiting Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana

WINE, WOMEN & SHOES

A DAY OF WOMEN, WINE AND SHOES…A WEEKEND OF FOOD FOR CHILDREN

Front row left to right: Jill Burnett and Jill Schuman. Back row left to right: Heidi Dilger, Sara Kirby, and Ann-Marie Deets.

Held at the opulent Lucas Oil Estate, the fashionable midday event will be hosted on Friday, May 13 in Carmel for its third In the words of the iconic Marilyn Monroe, annual year.

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” In the case of some The fundraiser’s heritage comes from an dedicated local women fundraisers, “Give established fundraising corporation that them the right shoes, and they can conquer began over a decade ago. Wine, Women a worthy cause.” & Shoes originated in Napa Valley, Writer / Janelle Morrison Photographer / JJ Kaplan

In previous years, the Women, Wine & Shoes event has been the toast of the town when it comes to feeding chronically hungry children through Gleaners BackSacks Weekend Food for Kids program. Last year’s fundraiser hosted 400 guests, targeting high income women aged 30-55+ and has raised nearly $200,000 annually to fund the Gleaners program.

California, and has become a popular sophisticated fundraising platform. The WW&S® team has managed more than 175 events and raised over $37 million for their charity partners that includes the local event benefitting Gleaners. Inspired by the classic country ballad “Wine, Women and Song,” this unique concept offers both charity and corporate clients the opportunity to leverage their successful TownePost.com / MARCH 2016 / TOWNEPOST NETWORK

platform to achieve a variety of goals from charity fundraising and cause awareness to team building and client networking.

The event will boast world-class wine tastings, gourmet treats, an exclusive fashion lounge, shopping opportunities for the latest in shoe fashions, a silent auction and of course the company of the striking “Shoe Guys.”

What woman could possibly resist a hunky man who knows the difference between a wedge and a platform pump? The Shoe GuysTM are one of the highlights of a WW&S® event. These attractive, fit and friendly guys may look like models, but they are men from the community who support the cause and are willing to brave a

party full of women.

Jill Schuman, co-chair of the event, spoke about the collaborative efforts that go into organizing this incredible event and the purpose that continues to motivate her and her co-chairs.

“We have been thrilled with the previous years’ success,” Schuman said. “It all began when Gleaners pitched the idea of teaming up with Wine, Women & Shoes, enjoying a day with our girlfriends shopping, eating and wine tasting while raising money for a good cause. It is a relaxing and enjoyable midday event that is designed to be different from a typical black-tie evening gala.”

Schuman mentioned that guests will be able to experience a wide selection of wines and delectable foods from local sponsors and restaurants. There will be 10 local vendors and restaurants on-site. As another way to raise money that day, the vendors will donate back 20 percent of the purchases made by the attendees. They will also be able to participate in a variety of contests, and the most incredible raffle prize is a key to a magnificent wardrobe closet, constructed on-site by California Closets and filled with over $12,000 of merchandise, gift certificates and other incredible prizes donated by the 10 vendors at the event.

There will be 160 tickets sold at $160 per ticket, and at the end of the event, the lucky ticket holder will take home all of the prizes and the opportunity to have California Closets come to their home and build a custom closet. In the closet are hidden boxes with additional prizes such as a certificate to purchase a pair of designer shoes with the assistance of a personal shopper at Saks Fifth Avenue at the Keystone Fashion Mall and other elaborate and fun gifts.

“This year’s event will feature the Saks Fashion Lounge,” Schuman added. “There will be a bar and music in this area.

We will have a live auction with some incredible donated items, and we will have a presentation for our guests on the Gleaners BackSacks Weekend Food for Kids program and how the event and all of its components supports Gleaners. We will also have a ‘Fund a Need’ segment. There will be several photo opps and fun contests such as ‘Best Shoes’ and ‘Best in Dress.’”

Schuman also expressed that one of the more unique and entertaining parts about the event is the presence of their Shoe Guys.

“Our Shoe Guys are absolutely phenomenal,” she said. “We will have ‘shoe cards’ with each of their faces printed on the cards. Our guests will vote for their

TOWNEPOST NETWORK / MARCH 2016 / TownePost.com

favorite Shoe Guy, voting through the Gleaners website during the event. They can donate as little as a dollar or whatever amount that they wish. Whichever Shoe Guy wins the most votes will be honored and recognized on stage and is awarded some fun gifts. In the past, we have awarded them fun trips and even a foursome at Crooked Stick Golf Course.

“I would really like to emphasize that all of our gifts and prizes are generously donated by our amazing donors and sponsors who are very supportive of this event. We couldn’t do these things without them. I also work with an amazing committee of dedicated women who are very talented and focus on making their parts of the event successful, entertaining and fun. We identify the list of things that need to be done and then we divide and conquer.”

The event is supported by a plethora of community and corporate sponsors such as Moyer Fine Jewelers, Saks Fifth Avenue, Pillow Talk, Sullivan’s Steakhouse and so many more wonderful local businesses.

For a complete list of this year’s sponsors and supporters, visit gleaners.org.

Carmel Magazine will be the exclusive print media sponsor, so look for photos from the event in their June issue.

GLEANERS Leadership Team: Cindy Hubert,

WW&S HAS RAISED MORE THAN $37 MILLION FOR THEIR CHARITY PARTNERS!

Gleaners Executive Director David Moore, Gleaners Chief Advancement Officer Sheila Carlson, Gleaners Director of Corporate and Volunteer Partnerships Kristen Grills, Gleaners Director of Marketing

GLEANERS Team on this Event: Kari Strolberg Detail & Design — Logistics/event planning/staff lead/operations Syanda Miley Detail + Design — logistics

Event Co-Chairs: Jill Burnett Culinary partners & entertainment Ann-Marie Deets Graphic design/sponsorship materials & signage/social media Heidi Dilger Shoe Guys

In a world of change, our focus is steadfast.

Sara Kirby Keys to the Closet Jill Schuman Marketplace vendors/fashion lounge

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© 2016 Diamond Capital Management

P

GENDER REVEAL A

Writer / Eghe Lenze

T

here’s an exciting new trend among expecting families called gender reveal parties. If you’re asking yourself, “What’s a gender reveal party?” then you either don’t know anyone who’s expecting, you aren’t expecting or you live under a rock.

A gender reveal party is a party to find out the gender of an expecting couple’s baby. Generally, gender reveal parties lie somewhere between the pregnancy

R

T

I

announcement and the baby shower.

Thanks to social media, this trend is exploding with some good and bad reviews, but it’s a trend that is not going anywhere any time soon.

Who is doing it? A lot of people. Gender reveal parties started popping up around 2011 with a simple cake you could cut into to find out reveal the baby’s gender: blue for boy and pink for girl. What started with a small gathering of immediate families has grown to include friends, extended families TOWNEPOST NETWORK / MARCH 2016 / TownePost.com

E

S

and even the whole world.

Celebrities like Snooki, Dave Annable and Carrie Underwood, just to name a few, revealed their baby’s gender on national television or video to not only tell their families but the entire world. Other celebrities have used gender reveals on their Instagram and other social media pages.

If you are invited to a gender reveal party, you should expect food and games, maybe even together. Be prepared to have some

cookies or cupcakes either pink, blue or some neutral color. Games often include guessing the gender of what you think the baby might be, predicting the day of birth or learning old wives’ tales of boys versus girls.

Finally, the reveal — is it a boy or a girl? If you are thinking of bringing a gift, it’s not necessary (unless it’s a shower and gender reveal in one).

Thinking of throwing one? Let your sonographer know ahead of time that’s the plan, but you can always know and keep it a secret too. Bring an envelope if you don’t want to know and ask the sonographer to put the gender inside. At that point, you can give the envelope to a trusted friend or family member or give it directly to your baker/party planner.

If you plan on doing a cake reveal, contact a local bakery and see if they accommodate your request.

BOY? GIRL?

OR

Beat the Spring rush Beat the Fall Rush & make your backyard & Make your Backyard dreams a Reality reality Dreams a

Setting the date a month in advance for your gender reveal party is enough time for you to plan and invite guests. Decide how you want to do the reveal — Cake?

Balloons? Silly string? Reveal tees? The possibilities are endless and honestly a lot of fun!

If you are looking for a little bit of inspiration, check out our Pinterest page for tons of ideas. Pinterest is full of tips that you can use for themed gender reveal parties such as Football theme, Ties or Tutus and What will it Bee. Don’t forget to check out gender reveal themed decor. Visit your local party supply store for more ideas. Another forgotten gem for inspiration is Etsy. If you have something more out of the box, this is definitely the place to go for inspiration, ideas and one-of-a-kind decor. And to see what not to do, search YouTube.

Whether you have been to one, think it’s ridiculous to have one, are thinking of having one for your first or your third or never heard of one, one thing is for sure — this trend is not going away. Prepare to see more Instagram reveals, YouTube videos and whatever social media platform is coming next. My advice, enjoy the cake.

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2015 Film Festival Winners

and documentary. Special awards, based on content, could highlight “best villain,” “best monster” or “best costume.”

Last year’s winner, Kyle Bastin, is now a junior at Greenwood High School. His short film, “Alone,” told the story of a teen who struggled with depression and self-harm. After releasing his film on YouTube and showing it at the Festival, he had multiple people come up to him, all of whom he’d never met before and shared with him how much the film meant to them.

TEEN FILM FESTIVAL Writer / Kara Reibel . Photography / Provided

The 7th Annual Teen Film Festival will be held May 5 at the Greenwood Library. Creator Emily Ellis, Head of Reference and Teen Services, is the Chair for the event.

“The Teen Film Festival is all about supporting and encouraging the creative efforts of the teens in our community. It offers a platform for inspiring filmmakers, directors, script writers and actors to show off their talents and receive recognition for what they are creating,” shares Ellis. “And what they’re creating is pretty awesome.”

“This meant the world to me, even more so than winning the Festival,” confides Bastin. “I hope I can continue helping people and displaying inspiring new ideas through my films for the rest of my life. I am very excited to enter into this year’s Festival with my film ‘Persecution’ which will tackle the idea of a Catholic high school student who is also gay.”

Film is a powerful means of expression, and with the technology available and reasonable pricing, films can be made on a mobile device. The Teen Film Festival encourages the creative process for these kids, welcoming middle school students with the category of “Up and Comer” for the Festival.

“The Teen Film Fest was such a great experience for me,” shares Bastin. “My whole goal as a filmmaker is to create pieces of art that can have positive impacts on someone’s life, and the Johnson County Teen Film Festival was a perfect outlet for that.”

“The students are thoughtful, hilarious, introspective and passionate about what they are creating,” shares Ellis. “It also gives us an opportunity to thank the teachers, media specialists, librarians, friends and especially parents who support these amazing and creative teens. We really feel like we get to know each The Greenwood Library reaches outside of Greenwood to invite the student and their family with each entry.” greater area of Johnson County and surrounding areas, including “I would ask anyone who has the slightest interest in filmmaking to Roncalli, Martinsville HS and Perry Meridian HS. Others are enter and to not give up after their first year. I entered in the 2014 welcome too.

Film Fest with my film ‘Visions,’ and I didn’t have the slightest The Teen Film Festival is a collaborative program with the Johnson chance of winning, but it was still a great experience,” says Bastin.

County Public library system. The highlights are shown at the Greenwood Library in the Teen Room and Community Room.

Last year, 80-90 people attended with as many, if not more, expected to be in attendance this year.

Bastin plans to attend film school after graduation.

MAY 5

A montage of highlights is featured with everyone recognized. The winners of each category have their films shown in their entirety.

TEEN FILM FESTIVAL  Greenwood Library  greenwoodlibrary.us/ The awards categories include music video, book trailer, feature film teenfilmfestival

“The Teen Film Fest was such a great experience for me. My whole goal as a filmmaker is to create pieces of art that can have positive impacts on someone’s life, and the Johnson County Teen Film Festival was a perfect outlet for that.” - Kyle Bastin, 2015 special awards winner atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 17

BEFORE A ditch in need of cleaning increases the risk of water where you don't want it.

AFTER The clean ditch can now handle the level of water it was designed to move.

MAINTAIN YOUR DRAIN BEFORE The fences likely led to the decline of this swale to a point where weeds were blocking water flow.

AFTER With significant effort, a clear path for storm water is now open.

18 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

The problem does not necessarily show up immediately upon planting the tree but more so as it matures. “Their root ball then Owning a home comes with a lot of raises the ground around [the tree] as it responsibilities, and they do not just include matures and grows,” said Jones. That would maintenance of the home. As a homeowner, result not only in the removal of the tree but your duties extend to the yard and structures extensive work to restore the soil around it, on the yard in addition to the actual house neither of which are low-cost fixes. structure. This includes general drainage and maintenance of the drains and swales on COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS your property. Generally speaking, a ditch is One of the more common misconceptions a trench for drainage while a swale is a low people have is the result of a property tract of moist, often grass-covered, land. owner not understanding what an easement Writer / Alaina Sullivan Photographer / Jim Eichelman

“Roadside ditches along public roads are generally the responsibility of the Highway Department, but any ditches/swales on private property are the responsibility of the property owner and Homeowners Association (HOA),” said David Hittle, Director of Johnson County Department of Planning and Zoning.

BASIC MAINTENANCE OF YOUR PROPERTY’S DRAINAGE

is, said Jones.

easement does not necessarily mean that we have to come through there, but that we have a right to come through there.”

Therefore, if your swale clogs up and floods the yard, do not assume that because you did not put it there that you have no responsibility for fixing the damage. The city has no duty to come in there and repair any damage caused from lack of maintenance.

MAINTAINING YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD RETENTION POND

Individual homeowners are not the only ones with responsibilities but the entire Just because you did not put the swale or neighborhood as well. Retention ponds drain there does not mean it is not your are considered privately-owned drainage responsibility. Unless it is on city property, systems and are thus the responsibility of said Jones, the responsibility rests in the those in the neighborhood. “The city owns hands of the homeowners. Most, however, the pipes, storm sewer pipe, but not the assume that the term “easement” means that actual ponds themselves,” said Jones. particular part of their land is city property.

“The homeowners, as represented by the The easements are there for a purpose, HOA, fully owns the retention ponds,” said but it is the homeowner’s responsibility to Hittle. “Their maintenance is wholly the maintain them. owners’ and HOA’s responsibility.”

Property owners are to keep the drainage swales clean and free of debris. These areas include side yard or rear yard swales as well The City has released a pamphlet recently as tributaries and creeks located around to inform the public about easements, what the home. they are and what they are not. According to Jones, residents may say, "I have a puddle in “For ditches and swales, it is important my yard so fix it,” which is not a responsibility to not erect structures, berms, landscape of the city per se but of the homeowner. “The islands, fences or the like within them,” said Hittle. “Also, ditches and swales which are subject to collecting sediment over time Chris Jones is responsible for storm need to be cleaned out occasionally.” water planning for the city of Greenwood.

Continual maintenance for a retention pond would include basic oxygenation and clearing of the area around the inlet.

Fountains can mean bubblers or ones that shoot water up in the air, said Jones. The key is to keep the water moving and turning.

Maintenance can be basic or fairly complex.

It simply depends on the drain, its quality and upkeep. “It depends on the drain, it depends on the swale,” said Christopher Jones, Greenwood City Superintendent.

“Generally, just keeping up with the mowing and [avoiding] planting trees as well as encroaching with fences and or yard barns” will ensure free-running water.

Knowing where to plant and what to keep clear can add extra work, but in the end, it could save you a lot of work in the future.

“Just because it is wet there often does not mean you should plant a little tree there,” said Jones. “It is really not a good idea to plant a tree in an easement.” atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 19

Jones suggests ensuring the HOA secures a quality aquatic management company to treat for algal blooms, installation of a fountain or bubbler to encourage the aquatic life of the pond and keep the outlet or control structure free from debris.

The life span of a pond before it needs to be cleaned out, Johnson said, is approximately 10 to 12 years. Hittle said that in the long term, sediment will collect, making dredging necessary. Aesthetically speaking and on a more short-term basis, algal blooms will negatively affect the appearance of the pond.

It can be a common misconception that smaller animals, such as muskrats and beavers, can lead to major issues in retention ponds or surrounding land. “Muskrats can dig into pond banks and cause some bank destabilization, but we do not really see a problem with them,” said Jones. “Beavers, who build a dam here and there during certain times of the year, are usually over a tributary somewhere.”

However, those problems are fewer and farther between. Jones said, however, geese are the usual suspects when it comes to these problems. The amount of waste, as well as the e-coli that the waste produces, can cause major issues for the pond.

The costs for basic maintenance versus the cost of fixing a big problem can vary wildly, said Hittle. “Recently, a neighborhood had to spend $40,000 repairing a retention pond which had been neglected for decades,” he said.

Relatively speaking, Hittle said, that is a modest repair cost.

Not staying on top of the pond’s maintenance could result in your HOA fees increasing due to costs of repairs as well as to cover any fines issued for code violations. More importantly, not staying on top of pond maintenance can almost guarantee a hit to your home value.

“Ponds, if lacking maintenance, can impact property values negatively,” said Hittle. “Eventually, the neglected pond will adversely impact subdivision drainage.”

To learn more about maintaining your drain, visit the Johnson County Indiana Partnership for Water Quality’s site at jccleanwater.org.

Alaina Sullivan is an attorney in Greenwood, focusing her work on family law and estate planning matters. She is passionate about serving those who are not able to afford normal legal fees and devotes part of her practice to modest means cases. You can reach her by visiting alainasullivanlawoffice.com or email at alaina.sullivan.law@gmail.com.

20 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

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Join us in COLORING THE COUNTY for our 25th anniversary. We have planned three outdoor mural paintings for Johnson County.

We need you – aspiring, local artists and community members – to create the mural designs for consideration.

Connect with a cause that matters and beautify our streetscapes with a splash of paint!

Learn how to participate at jccf.org 317.738.2213 | jccf.org | #jccf25

Connecting people who care with atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 21

causes that matter

JOHNSON COUNTY FIBER NETWORK, LLC Franklin JCFiber.com 317-883-6000 Find on 

PARTNERS IN CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY Writer / Alaina Sullivan . Photos provided

Local information technology service and support can be hard to find. Finding quality service can be tricky, but finding quality locally outsourced services can be near impossible. Johnson County Fiber Network was created with this in mind and provides top-notch information technology products and services to businesses, schools and organizations in Johnson County.

WHO IS JCFN?

Johnson County Fiber Network was created out of a partnership between Johnson County REMC and NineStar Connect. In

late 2012, Johnson County REMC (jcremc.com) completed installation of 115 miles of fiber optic cable spanning their entire distribution network. With this installation complete and with the potential to reach their entire membership base, Johnson County REMC was ready to take the next step of offering fiber to the premises.

NineStar Connect holds over 120 years of experience in the telecommunications and fiber industries and offered a large number of highly trained staff, experts in technical and customer support services.

“We were not experts, so for this, we needed a business partner – one that not only had the technical and logistical background for the job but who also had an understanding of

the cooperative business model,” said Chet Aubin, CEO of Johnson County REMC. Therefore, Johnson County REMC joined forces with NineStar Connect to become Johnson County Fiber Network, LLC. To JCFN, it is all about being local. “We do not have stockholders in other states or countries, nor are our board’s actions dictated by some outside influence,” said Aubin. “Everything is local and is akin to the saying that ’a rising tide lifts all ships.’”

JCFN SERVICES

Johnson County Fiber Network’s services include broadband services (up to 1Gig and beyond), Voice Services, Hosted Phone Solutions, Outsourced Information Technology Solutions. Data solutions

Taxman Brewing in Bargersville is another business using JCFN fiber service

22 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

include Colocation Services, Live Call Center offerings and Security solutions.

NineStar Connect’s outsourced information technology services include installation and reinstallation of operating systems, server and network setup, wireless networking, data migration and backup services, hardware upgrades, diagnostics and repairs, new computer setups, virus and spyware removal and more.

“Most providers cannot provide this type of speed both up and down,” said Aubin.

The company decided 10 days before our opening date that they couldn’t provide the requested services. I turned to Johnson “We have over 140 miles of fiber optics County Fiber Network. They were able to installed throughout Johnson County,” install fiber and deliver the critical Internet/ he stated. “Existing customers are in VPN services needed to support our network areas including Greenwood, Bargersville, and point of sales systems at the new facility.

Trafalgar, Franklin, Nineveh and Whiteland.” Their quick response was a lifesaver!”

Indiana FFA Leadership Center, located south of Trafalgar, used to suffer from poor Internet access. Joe Park, Executive Director, WHY JCFN? said, “When we were looking to upgrade “JCFN is a Central Indiana company,” our Internet access, our current provider Aubin points out. “All of our operations, submitted a bid too. NineStar [ Johnson staff, support center and field personnel are County Fiber Network] came in at half the located in Johnson and Hancock counties.” price with a much faster speed. It’s been a godsend for us. Having fiber allows our JCFN also deploys the latest in technologies visitors to keep in touch with the outside that provide the fastest broadband speed world, and it opens up new opportunities to and most reliable services to organizations host new groups and events.” in Johnson County.

One of JCFN customers is the City of Broadband speeds are synchronous, which Greenwood. Rich Jones, Greenwood’s means if you have a 150Mb connection, CIO, had this to say about working with you get 150Mb down and 150Mb up JCFN at Freedom Springs Aquatics Park, connectivity. Broadband solutions up “After months of planning with a major to 1Gig and beyond are also available telecommunications company, I suddenly through JCFN. found myself scrambling to find a vendor.

INVESTING IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

“At the core of JCFN are two cooperatives, Johnson County REMC and NineStar Connect,” Aubin pointed out. “These companies are owned by their members, and their board of directors are elected by the members. They operate within their specific territories and are driven to provide the best services possible to the customers they serve.”

Both founding partners of JCFN reinvest in the communities they serve. Millions of dollars have been provided to charities and organizations within their service territories including sponsoring students on weeklong Youth Tours to our nation’s capital and the Johnson County Fair Queen contest. They also award scholarships annually to high school students.

“HAVING FIBER OPENS UP NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE INDIANA FFA LEADERSHIP CENTER.” - JOE PARK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“IN BUSINESS, YOU WANT TO GET QUALITY, PRICE AND SERVICE. YOU ARE USUALLY LUCKY TO GET ONE OF THE THREE. WITH JOHNSON COUNTY FIBER NETWORK, I TRULY GET ALL THREE.” - ED SULYA, PRESIDENT, ARCHITECTURAL WALLS, INC

atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 23

Johnson County Fiber provides fiber and critical Internet/VPN services to support the network and point of sales systems at Freedom Springs Aquatics Center.

AUTISM SPEAKS… ARE WE LISTENING? Writer and Photographer / Jim Eichelman

AUTISM.

What is your reaction when you hear this word? Those with loved ones that struggle with autism probably have a very different reaction than the general population. For many of us who are not impacted by autism, our reaction may range from a lack of understanding and misconceptions to indifference. But there is an organization that is working tirelessly to change all that … Autism Speaks!

AUTISM – WHAT IT IS (OR IS NOT)

First of all, let’s understand that autism is not a single thing. In fact, since 2013, the term autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has been used as a general term “for a complex set of developmental brain disorders caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. ASD can be mild or severe and is characterized by social and communication challenges as well as repetitive behaviors,” says Autism Speaks Walk Chairperson Lindsay Eichelman. The terms ASD and autism are generally used interchangeably.

This collection of disorders includes a number that, in the past, may have been diagnosed as separate conditions. “With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD. Previously, they were recognized as distinct subtypes, including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disordernot otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome,” according to the Autism Speaks website, autismspeaks.org.

Autism usually becomes noticeable in young children between the ages of 18 months and 3-4 years, typically when a child’s communication skills become more evident. Today, 1 in 68 children are diagnosed as being “on the spectrum,” a term used frequently to describe someone who struggles with one of the disorders. The diagnosis is more prevalent in males than females. While improved diagnostic methods may account for some of that number as may the inclusion of additional disorders in the spectrum, still the prevalence of ASD has increased in the last decade.

AUTISM SPEAKS

Autism Speaks is a U.S. based philanthropic organization with global reach. The group provides advocacy, awareness and support for those impacted by autism. Founded by Suzanne and Bob Wright (then Chairman and CEO of NBC Universal), whose grandson Christian is “on the spectrum,” the organization is now in its 11th year.

While Bob and Suzanne provided help for Christian and his parents, they recognized that autism was not well understood, and many did not have resources for coping, so Autism Speaks was formed. Alpha Xi Delta women’s fraternity has been the organization’s national philanthropy partner since 2009. Beginning in April 2009, the fraternity has since raised over $4 million for the Autism Speaks cause.

The complexity of the autism disorder spectrum leaves many struggling to determine how the pieces of the puzzle fit together. In

24 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

AUTISM RESPONSE TEAM Autism Response Team (ART) members are specially trained to connect families with information, resources and opportunities. They are available to answer calls and emails from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. local time.

• 1-888-288-4762 • 1-888-772-9050 (en Español) • familyservices@autismspeaks.org • autismspeaks.org

fact, you will notice that a blue puzzle piece is part of the Autism Speaks logo and interspersed liberally throughout their material.

[Note: you can participate in Light It Up Blue – visit autismspeaks. org/liub/how-to-liub to see how.]

THE PILLARS

Strategic sporting event partnerships such as last year’s FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks is another way in which Autism Speaks strives to increase awareness of these disorders. NASCAR, Major League Baseball and the NBA are significant partners in awareness activities. In addition, a new initiative has been started over the last two years with the NCAA, Coaches Powering Forward for Autism.

This has allowed Alpha Xi Delta to engage their college women across the country in awareness efforts. Locally, the Indianapolis Indians and Indiana Pacers have been great partners for awareness.

The organization’s activities are informed by a set of guiding principles, the Four Pillars. These pillars are: 1) Awareness, 2) Science, 3) Family Services and 4) Advocacy.

Efforts to increase awareness involve Autism Speaks volunteers working in partnership with many other groups and organizations around the world. One of the most significant partnerships is with the Ad Council of America. “The campaign and partnership with the Ad Council have led to a 50 percent increase in awareness among parents of young children of the prevalence of autism,” indicates Nanci Bonfield, Autism Speaks Senior Coordinator for Field Development-Indiana/Michigan.

Worldwide, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries to promote autism awareness. The United Nations has established April 2 annually as World Autism Awareness Day, one of just a few such days sponsored globally by the U.N. Autism Speaks celebrates this day around the world with their signature campaign, Light It Up Blue. On World Autism Awareness Day, thousands of landmarks, office buildings, bridges, sporting venues, schools, businesses and homes unite by shining bright blue lights.

Autism Speaks, through their fundraising efforts, provides funding for various scientific initiatives, researching the causes of these disorders. While today there is no “cure,” this scientific inquiry continues to identify new and better ways to manage these disorders.

Family Services is another contribution of Autism Speaks. Some of the services and resources provided include toolkits for families and healthcare professionals (going to the dentist, getting a haircut, etc.), grants (Autism Speaks has awarded over 966 grants totaling $7.63 million to local service providers for programs, including a water safety program here in Indiana), and national and local iPad grant programs to assist those with communication difficulty.

atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 25

The Autism Cares program helps affected families meet basic needs such as utility bills, rent, etc. Finally, the Autism Response Team (ART) call center function is manned by members specially trained to link families with information, resources and opportunities.

Autism Votes is the advocacy arm of Autism Speaks. Working at the federal level, Autism Votes has been instrumental in lobbying for the passage of legislation such as the ABLE Act, which allows for tax-free savings accounts to be used for autism care, and the Autism Cares Act, which provides $3 billion in federal research dollars through 2019. Advocacy also occurs at the state and local levels to facilitate implementation of programs.

THE WALK

Ms. Bonfield challenges all Center Grove elementary schools, middle schools and the high school to be involved this year, either with Team Center Grove or by starting their own school teams. She would also love for Greenwood and other area schools to join the team as well. Information for the 2016 Indianapolis Autism Speaks Walk can be found at bit.ly/indywalk4autism.

So, autism is speaking … louder than ever before. The question is, can you hear it now?

Jim Eichelman is a freelance photographer and writer. A long time Center Grove area resident, he also operates James Eichelman and Associates, LLC, a computer consulting firm.

Each year, walk events are held around the country. In 2016, more than 60 such events are planned. Renamed this year to the Autism Speaks Walk Sponsored by Alpha Xi Delta, the women’s fraternity is now the North American Walk Sponsor.

The walk is the largest grassroots autism walk program in America and is Autism Speaks signature fundraising and awareness event. The walks are fundraisers but are also a day when the autism community can come together in a nonjudgmental celebration of their unique challenges and unique joys, so it is “not only a fundraising event but also a real celebration of the community and a way to connect people to services they may not know about,” says Nanci Bonfield.

Indianapolis will be holding its fifth annual Autism Speaks Walk at White River State Park June 4. Last year, a walk team of teachers from one of the elementary special education departments in Center Grove participated (Team Center Grove).

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BRINGING NEW LIFE TO A LAKE HOME

BEFORE THESE HOMEOWNERS WANT TO LEAVE SOMETHING TO THEIR CHILDREN, CREATE MEMORIES WITH FAMILY AND SPEND THE SUMMERS AROUND CAMPFIRES AND BOATING.

AFTER

Writer / Katie Burrell Photographer / Alan Petersime

There comes a time when you think, “Should we stay, move or remodel our current home?” Gettum Associates is a design-build remodeling contractor that can take a home and make it look new. Their consultation and planning process will lay out a complete package that adheres to your budget.

You may want to switch out hardwood floors for carpets or upgrade hardware on cabinets.

That’s not a problem, Gettum is flexible throughout the entire process.

The Sweetwater vacation retreat, featured on

this page, has been a summer getaway for the current owners for more than 15 years as the 1,200 square foot cabin served its family well.

Now, with three adult children and middle age on the horizon, they had hopes of opening up the home for the possibility of an extended family and ease of use as the homeowners age.

Things don’t always go as dreamed of in a complete remodel, but Gettum Associates is prepared for the unexpected, such as finding moisture and mold in walls during a bathroom remodel. Sometimes local ordinances may prove to be a roadblock for major projects like what happened with the Sweetwater project.

Located south of Nineveh, Sweetwater Lake has become a popular place for families to have a home away from home. What was once an area filled with small cabins is now an area filled with beautifully remodeled lakefront homes designed for weekend entertaining. The lots, however, are connected to septic tanks and not set up to handle a large family for the longterm.

While Gettum stressed that the remodel was not about adding square footage, the family had hopes of being able to entertain a large family by adding bedrooms to the structure.

Local ordinances, however, put a halt to the family’s plans and forced them to keep it a two-bedroom home.

28 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

Still, Gettum said they created a home that will allow for additional bedrooms if and when a sewer system is installed in the Sweetwater area.

Founded in 1987, Gettum Associates is a family business with a big reputation.

Specializing in home additions, kitchens, bathrooms, cabinets, decks or porches and exterior improvements, President and founder Phil Gettum said his business is a one stop shop for all remodels.

With a team of design consultants, construction supervisors and carpenters, Gettum can offer quality services because its team of in-house employees answer directly to Gettum, which helps keep costs down and efficiency up.

While overcoming some major obstacles, Gettum stepped in to handle the planning, attend local board of health meetings and even got creative with ways to make the home everything the family wanted, all without infringing on the law and burdening the homeowners with more headaches.

By opening up the home and offering breathtaking views of the lake in nearly every room, Gettum honored the family’s wishes. The project took about six months – not including the correspondence with local government – and involved taking the home down to the studs. It features new wiring,

repositioned walls for ease of use, a new kitchen with vaulted ceilings, two additional levels offering large bedrooms on each level and a covered outdoor entertaining area complete with a fireplace and infrared heaters for year-round enjoyment.

“Gettum Associates is responsible for design and quality,” he said. “Aside from trade partners such an electricians and plumbers, it is our team that delivers the complete remodeling project.”

“These homeowners want to leave something to their children, create memories with family and spend the summers around campfires and boating,” Gettum Associates President Phil Gettum said. “This remodel was all about the space, views of the lake and the family connection.”

As with all of their designs and projects, Gettum Associates looks to the future of a home. “We try to bring perspective, not just today and now but after the homeowner retires,” Gettum said. “We plan as much of the life cycle of a structure that we can, so that we don’t eliminate the available people who want to buy your home in the future.”

BEFORE THIS REMODEL WAS ALL ABOUT THE SPACE, VIEWS OF THE LAKE AND THE FAMILY CONNECTION.

AFTER atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 29

SOUTHSIDE PARENTS OF MULTIPLES

MULTIPLYING THE SUPPORT Writer / Kris Parker . Photographer / Forrest Mellott

Caring for a single child can be a difficult and sometimes stressful prospect; caring for more than one child can add to the anxiety and strain. Further that with multiple children who are the same age. This is why SouthSide Parents of Multiples (SSPOM) exists: to offer support and encouragement to parents of twins and higher-order multiples.

OPPORTUNITY FOR SUPPORT

“When I had my twins, they were my first babies. I was terrified as a new mother, even more so as a mother of two babies. I wouldn’t take them many places at the beginning because of the hassle of having to take pretty much two of everything,” said Susana Haywood, mother of four and SSPOM member and coordinator of its Children’s Events. “Joining SSPOM made me realize that others were in the same boat, and I was able to get great advice on making outings easier from the other moms that had older twins.”

SSPOM Vice President Nichole Elizondo was driven to find a network of parents who understood what she was going through.

“A lot of us joined because we needed to find someone we could relate to; it makes the biggest difference,” she said.

Each group member comes in with her own experiences at parenting and the chance to offer support and encouragement to other members. Even for those who have twins but also have singletons, they can often relate to those with higher-order multiples.

“I’ve never had the chance to just have two. I had one and then twins, so I’ve mostly been outnumbered … so I can sympathize with parents of higher-order multiples,” said Laurel Castelot, copresident and mother of six boys, ranging in age from 7 to 21 years old. “I can relate to not being able to grab all the kids at once.”

SSPOM is not simply about support and encouragement.

Through it, many friendships have begun and deepened over the years. “SSPOM has been a blessing to me,” said Rebecca Jones, copresident and mother of 8-year-old fraternal BG (boy/girl) twins.

“I have met some wonderful people and now have friends that I will have for the rest of my life.”

OPPORTUNITY FOR EDUCATION

After joining the group, Haywood realized there was another opportunity awaiting her in the public realm: the chance to educate others on twins. “Once I gained the confidence to go out with the twins by myself, it became easier and easier. It was then when I learned another challenge of being a mom of twins: the many stares and questions from curious people. I took that as an opportunity to teach people about twins. It’s even funnier when we have play dates in public places, and there are several sets of twins in the group. People are fascinated by it!” she said.

OPPORTUNITY FOR CONNECTION

Meeting once a month at St. John’s United Church of Christ (just off East Street in Indianapolis), SSPOM runs the gamut on its topics and activities. “It may be as simple as a craft, making freezer meals, Zumba, essential oils or guest lectures on schooling or financial planning. We welcome outside speakers for certain topics. The board determines a tentative schedule with input from members for the year that includes specific programs for each month,” said Jones.

“For example, every year around Christmas, we have a cookie or brownie in a jar program. We always make a lot of extras to hand out to St. John’s Church. We will also have random hobby nights.

You can bring an activity you are working on and enjoy snacks while having adult conversation.”

in our community. Last year, for example, we donated money so that several kids could attend the HEAR Indiana camp, among other things,“ said Haywood.

Much of their funding comes through their Bi-Annual Clothing and Large Equipment Sales. The next sale is slated for March 12 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Clark Pleasant Intermediate School. Parents or expectant parents of multiples only are allowed early admittance at 7 a.m. Additional information can be found on the SSPOM Sale Group page on Facebook.

OPPORTUNITY FOR MEMBERSHIP

Initially founded in 1956 as “SouthSide Mothers of Twins Club,” the group changed its name a few years ago to include higher order multiples and fathers as well.

SSPOM, however, is part of something much larger than itself; this nonprofit is the local club of the national group “Multiples of America” (which can also be found under “National Organization of Mothers of Twins Club”). The $27 annual SSPOM dues cover the cost of various things, including each family’s membership SSPOM offers the flexibility to attend as many or as few events to the national organization – an organization “dedicated to as desired. “I was very intimidated when I first started coming to supporting families of multiple birth children through education, meetings. I started off slowly, attending meetings when I could. As the twins have gotten older and more independent, I can attend and research and networking.” participate more. I have learned the club becomes what you make of In addition, Multiples of America partners with SSPOM and other it,” said Jones. local clubs to help parents of multiples and “raise public awareness of the unique qualities of multiple birth families.” (source: Multiples “There is always someone that has been there and dealt with of America website) whatever you are going through now. It is great to have people to talk to when you need advice or suggestions. If you can attend all New members can join at any point in their “multiples journey”; the meetings and activities, that is great; if you can’t, we totally some members join when they are still expecting, while others wait understand because we have all been there. Everyone has families, until later on. Membership of SSPOM ebbs and flows but ranges schedules and things we have to do.” from 50-90 members.

In addition to their monthly meetings, the group also has monthly “Moms Night Out” events, periodic play dates for the children, Children’s Parties (four per year) and a Family Picnic each summer.

OPPORTUNITY FOR SERVICE

However, in addition to helping one another, the group also seeks to be civic-minded. “We are a nonprofit organization, and we allocate funds to help families in need as well as support programs

For more information or to contact SSPOM, visit the website at sspom.org or nomotc.org for more on the national organization, Multiples of America.

32 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

APRIL 23

ROCK THE BLOCK

Writer / Bethany Henderson

Looking for something fun that you and your family can do together?

Come ROCK THE BLOCK! Create an exciting new tradition, enjoy a bit of healthy competition or train for the upcoming Mini-Marathon, all while making unforgettable memories. This inaugural event April 23 is structured as a community celebration featuring a 10K, a family-friendly 5K walk or run and a FREE Kids Run. In other words, fun for ALL ages!

Howard Harrell, Center Grove Boys Cross Country Coach, is excited about ROCK THE BLOCK. “Competitive running races on Indy’s southside are few

and far between. This event will cater to the competitive 10K runner as well as the first time 5K walker. Add in a few kids races, and now you have an event for the whole family!”

The Main Street Expo will feature food vendors, healthy lifestyle gear and interaction with local charities and sponsors as well as activities and games to participate in. Experience a lively block party atmosphere as local bands entertain you on the Main Stage.

The proceeds from ROCK THE BLOCK will benefit charities, organizations and trail projects in the Center Grove area.

Plan to have an enjoyable time Rocking the Block while supporting and improving

your community.

With enthusiasm, Carla Johnson, Executive Director of the Center Grove Education Foundation, says, “This will be a unifying and energetic event that underscores the strong sense of community in Center Grove.”

Are you ready to start an exciting new tradition? We invite YOU to come ROCK THE BLOCK! *ROCK THE BLOCK is powered by Pay it Forward Johnson County and Tuxedo Brothers. Early registration runs through March 31 and is $25. For more information, contact Erin Smith at info@rocktheblockrun.org.

Print • Apparel • Promo • Signs

April 23 rd @ Center Grove HS Campus

Register Online

RocktheBlockRun.org This community event includes...

...10K Run, Family-Friendly 5K Walk/Run, FREE Kids Run, Music, Food, Vendors, Giveaways & Awards! Proceeds raised will benefit CG area charities, organizations & trail projects.

TownePost.com / MARCH 2016 / TOWNEPOST NETWORK

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

3

Becker Landscape 3749 N. Kitley Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46226 317.542.5200 beckerlandscape.com

Jay Cheesman, Larry Becker, Allison Becker, Steve Hastings, Michelle Morris, and Adam Bossung

satisfaction and customer retention are Becker Landscape’s key areas of focus as they continue to systematically grow Becker Landscape, a family-owned business, their company. Becker and his team offer began reshaping the greater metropolitan’s a complete line of both residential and landscapes in 1976. The company, founded commercial services, including lawn

by John C. Becker and his five sons, started care, lawn maintenance, design/build, out of the family’s garage. Today, the construction, tree care, irrigation, lighting founder’s son Larry Becker oversees the and snow removal. daily operations and has grown the family’s business to where it employs as many as 240 Becker Landscape has first rate during their busy season. educated and experienced employees to Writer / Janelle Morrison Photographers / Kevin Foster & Lori Koppold

Becker graduated from Purdue with a degree in Landscape Management and Design. Afterwards, Becker continued to work for his father and now presides as president and CEO. Both of his daughters work for the company, full-time, and sons work for the family when they are not attending school.

Integrity, attention to detail, customer

complement the services they provide, including professionally trained arborists, accredited and credentialed managers and supervisors, and fully trained, professional, and dedicated teams working onsite. Each client receives a customized program, customized exclusively for their unique landscaping needs.

When asked about trending installations, Becker said that the outdoor living areas TOWNEPOST NETWORK / MARCH 2016 / TownePost.com

are still the most requested installations by their residential customers.

“When we work with our clients, we sit down with them and one of our designers to discuss their ideas and how they plan to use their outdoor space,” Becker explained.

“We try to identify and utilize the ‘bones’ of what currently exists and work with that.

Trees are the clients’ most valuable asset in the landscape. While we try to work with the existing features, we also have clients who want or need to start completely fresh and new. We are able to accommodate our clients, whatever their needs and preferences are. We take a practical approach to each project. One can design anything but our specialty is building and maintaining it.”

Becker and his team work with clients to fully understand the project and desired outcome and set milestones right out

of the gate to ensure everyone involved achieves those goals. This includes full commitment to building a meaningful relationship with the customer and maintaining it past the end of the project, whether residential or commercial.

other specialty vegetation including driving focused wildlife activity if desired.

“Landscapes, particularly in residential installations, are incredibly personal and intimate to our clients,” Becker stated. “We are creating these outdoor spaces as an extension of their homes. They use these spaces to relax or to entertain so we want to create high-quality features WITHIN functional spaces for them.”

For these clients, Becker and his specialists are able to offer recommendations for specific types of trees and plants that will attract several species of birds or other wild life if the client is interested in assisting the ecosystem while designing their landscapes.

Trees like the Grey Dogwood or Wild Cherry trees act as a single-source feeder to many native Indiana birds and are commonly included in the design process for this reason.

Becker also works with clients who are not as concerned about an outdoor kitchen or fire pit area but are avid horticulturalists who want to design healing gardens or other specialty areas where they can cultivate their favorite species of exotic plants and

There are examples of Becker Landscape’s work all over central Indiana. Notable projects, including the landscaping along Georgia Street for the Super Bowl, the vegetation garden on the rooftop of Eskenazi Hospital, Saxony Park, both the

residential and corporate park behind the I.U. Hospital, the new entrance to Mooresville, along Highway IN-67, and the Hamilton Town Center and the Palladium in Carmel, are just a few of the exquisite installations designed and completed by Becker Landscape.

“We are more than just contractors,” Becker said. “We are designers and specialists who work with our clients to create their own personal sanctuary, meditative gardens or ultimate outdoor living spaces and maintain them, using the same high-level of quality personnel and products as we would provide our commercial cliental.”

For more information on Becker Landscape and their full-service landscape and maintenance options, visit www.beckerlandscape.com.

Becker Landscape has received numerous awards over the years and most recently has received recognition for the following: Becker Landscape is ranked 104th on Landscape Management’s TOP 150 for 2015 and 2014.

INLA’s Award of Excellence Application in 2013 • Commercial Landscape Installation, Hamilton Town Center, Noblesville •C ommercial Landscape Design/Build, Hamilton Town Center, Noblesville •C ommercial Hardscape Installation, CityWay, Indianapolis

TownePost.com / MARCH 2016 / TOWNEPOST NETWORK

BEYOND 3.1 : INDIANA’S RACE FOR THE CURE CELEBRATES 25 YEARS Founders of the first Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Central Indiana recently met the current organizers to talk about the first year race and the 25 year impact. Standing left to right Natalie Sutton, Pam Miltner and Jane Ambro. Seated Sally Friend, Kathy Harrison, Lisa Cole and Kasey Koffman.

Writer & Photographer / Keeley Miller TownePost.com / MARCH 2016 / TOWNEPOST NETWORK

S

usan G. Komen Central Indiana began a race 25 years ago that lasted for more than the final mile marker. The annual Race for the Cure 5K has become the largest fundraising event for breast cancer globally, reaching to 150 annual races in four continents since beginning in 1983. In 1991, Susan G. Komen Central Indiana joined that legacy with the first race in the state, beginning at historic Fort Benjamin Harrison. But with 25 years of spreading hope, change and support, Susan G. Komen’s Race for the Cure is more than just a race.

racers and members on breast health. Today, to breast cancer research, a large amount for that push for education is also a driving force only the first year. That money was able to for the race, although it is open to males as well. potentially save numerous lives by providing women with mammograms and even biopsies. “[The first race] was back in the time where Twenty-five years later, the money raised from breast cancer was not talked about like it is the annual race is still being pushed back into today,” commented Pam Miltner, Co-Chair the community, saving lives and raising hope. of 2016 race as well as Co-Chair of the 2004 and 2008 race. But not only has Miltner been Natalie Sutton, current Executive Director of Susan G. Komen Central Indiana, emphasized a key role in the Race for the Cure, she is how important these donations and funds are also a survivor of breast cancer, making her experience with the race much more personal. to helping the local community, not only to the national program.

“I was diagnosed in ‘93, and during my last In celebration of the 25th anniversary of treatment, [my oncologist] gave me the “We still feel like it is really important that the Indianapolis race, the leaders that put brochure for the race. He said, ‘You need to go most of the money stays local, and it is together the very first race came back together invested in breast health programs in the local and do this.’ He told me I would not be able to for a special interview. Sharing memories, run or walk, but they would need volunteers,” community,” said Sutton. the group was able to reminisce on where said Miltner. “[At the race], there were 200 Indiana’s Race for the Cure began and what it After countless hours of work and preparation, survivors. I remember standing at the water has grown to. station, and all the women came over and told roadblocks and accomplishments, the very me to join them. Going up there with them,… first Central Indiana Race for the Cure took Local organizations, including the Junior it was wonderful. Having all those survivors place. In 1991, the only major race that took League of Indianapolis and Little Red place locally was the OneAmerica 500 Festival together helped me because they knew exactly Door Cancer Agency, were crucial in the Mini-Marathon, so to put together a race from what I was going through. They were all just formation of the first race. Lisa Cole, who was nothing and grow it to an event recognized hugging [me] and saying that it was going to introduced to the race from her position in the around the city that gives back so much was be okay. That was huge for me, and the rest is women’s volunteer organization Junior League powerful. history.” and became the 1991 race’s first chairman, That community of support has only grown. shared how these organizations pulled the “I think that is what is great about being able community together. to have this chance now and look back,” added In the 2015 race, around 1,500 survivors were present, and the event raised $1.3 million. For Cole. “Those are the important things that “The Junior League has a long-standing have stuck with the race all these years. It still 2016, the goals are even higher with hopes to history of starting efforts from the ground exceed the previous year’s outcome to be able has that really strong connection.” level. Conner Prairie Farm is an example of Not only has the race been able to provide the to give back even more. that. There are a lot of different institutions local community with healthcare, but it has that have stayed here in our city. Komen also been able to educate women and provide For more information on the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, visit approached Junior League to see if we would support. The first year, the race was exclusive komencentralindiana.org/race. be interested in starting a race with the to women only and also aimed to educate eventual opportunity of starting a chapter.

In the process, Junior League selected their Go online to townepost.com to watch the 25 year reunion of the original Race for the Cure leadership team for the event, so that is how all organizers and current organizers hosted at Ed Martin Acura in Fishers. of us got to be a part of it,” said Cole.

“Although [the race] was coming from a national program, to have that local connection [was special]. We knew that a percentage of the money raised from the race would go to national efforts for research and all the important things that were going on on a national level, but we also wanted to make a difference in our own community.”

In the first year, the race granted $35,000 to Little Red Door Cancer Agency and $15,000 TOWNEPOST NETWORK / MARCH 2016 / TownePost.com

HARDING OUTDOOR LIVING WILL TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE INTO AN OUTDOOR LIVING EXPERIENCE!

SERVICING ALL YOUR CONCRETE NEEDS SINCE 1960 • Curb & Gutter • Sidewalks & Patios • Dumpster Pads • Commercial Lots • Whitetopping Overlay • ADA Ramps

• Retaining Walls • Bollards & Signs • Footers • Drain Collars • Decorative Concrete • Pavers

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• Structures • Landscapes • Pools • Water Features • Fire Features • Outdoor Kitchens

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“After Mom died, we all began worrying more about Dad.” —Kate Weese “Having raised 10 children in our family, our Mom and Dad were always busy and very active socially, even after we all left their home.

When Mom died suddenly, we knew it would be difficult for Dad to transition into a “new normal” in an empty home. With the help of all the kids, from coast to coast, we sought a retirement community that would provide Dad with a safe and active life. We all agreed Westminster Village North was our best option and to him, a perfect new home.”

“ I couldn’t be happier here. My apartment is comfortable, the staff are wonderful, there are many things to do and I’ve met a lot of new friends.”

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To learn more about retirement living at Westminster Village North, contact Margaret at 317-826-6072.

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©2016, Westminster Village North, Inc., all rights reserved.

Mulching is a good way to keep weeds down without chemicals. Straw makes excellent mulch.

JOIN THE GREENWOOD COMMUNITY GARDEN!

A birdhouse surrounded by sunflowers adds some additional beauty to the garden.

Writer / Nancy Craig . Photographer / Ron Stiemert

Probably the most famous community gardens of the 20th century were the Victory Gardens during WWII. Not only did these gardens let people grow their own fruits and vegetables, but they provided a sense of patriotism. Now most community gardens are in urban areas, and some provide a sense of community and a way to support food pantries.

Just one of many watermelons on the vine.

atGreenwood.com / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 41

In Johnson County, the City of Greenwood under the Parks and Recreation Department has a community garden located on Fry Road. They rent 34 garden plots each year, and you can get their application for membership online at bit.ly/gw_garden.

The Greenwood Community Garden is perfect for those people with Green Thumbs but nowhere to garden. It is located along Fry Road between U.S. 31 and State Road 135. A 20-foot by 20-foot plot rents for $20 for community center members, $25 for city residents and $30 for nonresidents. Returning members can reserve their plots before March 1. Newcomers can rent remaining plots beginning March 1.

Located near the fire station on Fry Road, piles of Christmas trees are turned into piles of mulch to be used on the Community Garden.

The membership application packet lists rules and conditions for gardening at the site. The gardeners are expected to use organic practices, weed and water their own plots. The city provides water, but the gardeners must bring their own hoses

New customers who sign up for 6 application program will receive last application free.

• Fertilization • Aeration • Mowing

• Weed Control • Over Seeding • Pruning

• Grub Control • Spring Clean-up • Mulch

Certified Lawn Care is a local family owned company established in 2005!

Our knowledgeable team is dedicated to serving all your lawn care needs!

www.CertifiedLawns.com CertifiedLawns@yahoo.com

Serving Johnson County and Surrounding Areas

Free Estimates!

42 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

and garden tools. Rob Taggart, director of the Parks and Recreation Department, said some years, the parks department will till the ground, but they do not have staff on-site. Gardeners can call the Greenwood Community Center with questions at 317-881-4545. The Center’s address is 100 Surina Way, Greenwood.

Ron Stiemert has gardened at the Greenwood Community Garden in the past and had a very good experience, especially interacting with the other gardeners. You can see from his pictures that he was successful in growing watermelons; he got 13 good watermelons out of one three-plant mound. Ron also had success with beans, radishes, onions and early tomatoes. He said weeds were a major problem, and each gardener had their own technique to deal with them.

Ron used straw and mulch to help control the weeds. The Fire Department next door has mulch free for Greenwood residents.

Gardeners can get information from the Purdue Extension offices. In Johnson County, they can call Sarah Hansen, Ag and Natural Resources Educator, at 317-736-3724.

There is also a Johnson County Garden Club that has educational speakers on gardening – visit facebook.com/ JohnsonCountyGardenClub andGardenCelebration.

Marion County has a Demonstration Garden located at their offices on the Northwest corner of the Indiana State Fair Grounds, 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. “The garden demonstrates how to grow food and ornamental plants,” says Steve Mayer, Extension EducatorHorticulture for Purdue ExtensionMarion County. “Gardeners can see and learn about plants adapted to Indiana and how to care for them.

Gardeners can see award-winning flowers and vegetables as well as vegetable gardening techniques

such as raised beds.” Visit facebook.com/ PurdueIndyDemoGarden.

home, you can always take advantage of the Greenwood Community Garden.

Growing your own fruit and vegetables is very satisfying and a great way to teach your children where their food comes from and how to care for the land. So if you do not have room for a garden at your

Nancy loves flower gardening almost as much as she does her great nephews and nieces. Her interest in gardening intensified while living in Holland and was perfected with Master Gardener courses.

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

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 / MARCH 2016 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / 43

Lahm Chapel

211 E. State St. Pendleton, IN 46064

(765) 778-2136

SPONSORED B

EVENTS L A C O L H C R A M BEGINS MARCH 2 / WEEKLY GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Get help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member or friend. You do not have to attend the first session if you want to join us Wednesday evenings. Please feel free to contact us to find out more about the wonderful resources available through GriefShare.

6 p.m. $20 Southland Community Church, Room 31 5800 W. Smith Valley Rd. 317-513-9203 or 317-340-3284 griefshare.org/groups/63700

12 / SOUTHSIDE PARENTS OF MULTIPLES SPRING SALE

More than 130 families will be selling gently used clothing, shoes, toys, large equipment, furniture, maternity clothes, strollers, high chairs, swings, costumes and so much more. Only expectant parents of multiples (twins or higher) and parents of multiples can shop early at 7 a.m.

7 a.m.-1 p.m.

Free Clark Pleasant Intermediate School

MALCOLM T. RA

Y MALCOLM

MSEY AGENCY,

T. RAMSEY AG

INSURING GREE

E N CY

NWOOD FAMILIE S SINC

2111 Sheek Rd., Greenwood 317-498-1412 clubsale@sspom.org

3100 W. Stones Crossing, Greenwood (enter through door #4) jcasg.org

17 / LAWN CARE CLASS

26 / EASTER EGG HUNT

Learn how to establish your spring lawn and maintain it for the summer. The class is lead by Dick Huber, local lawn expert.

6-7:30 p.m.

Free Greenwood Public Library 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood 317-885-5036 to register

17 / JOHNSON COUNTY AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP

A mother and son bring the audience into the world of Asperger’s. Tamara Perry, a behavior therapist specializing in Asperger’s, will join us with her 17-year-old son, Alexander, who is helping to educate others through his personal journey from childhood to teen years since being diagnosed with Asperger’s at 9 years old. Tamara will also offer her insight on how to work with this amazing population.

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Free (RSVP to Sheila at jcasg@jcasg.org) Mt. Auburn United Methodist Church

E 1999

All children in fifth grade and younger are welcome to join us for an Easter Egg Hunt. Please gather in the auditorium in building A. 10 a.m.

Free Bluff Creek Church 6268 West State Rd. 144, Greenwood 317-422-5718 sarney@bluffcreek.org bluffcreek.org

APR. 7 / WHITE RIVER HOME EDUCATOR’S OPEN HOUSE

CHOOSE THE TEAM THAT COMES THROUGH IN THE CLUTCH

Join us and find out how beneficial a homeschool group can be for your family.

1:30-2:30 p.m.

Free New Hope Church 5307 Fairview Rd., Greenwood 317-418-3434 Stephanie@smofamily.com

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44 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

WORD SEARCH

Cold as ICE Creator / Lucy Stravers

Hidden in the puzzle are words that contain the letters ice. Hey are listed below the puzzle and may appear in any direction in a straight line.

1. ACCOMPLICE

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6. CAPRICE 7. COMPLICE

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11. DEVICE 12. DICE

16. JAUNDICE 17. JUICE

21. LICENTIOUS

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25. NICELY 26. NICER

31. OFFICE

36. PRACTICE

41. PUMICE

46. SERVICEMAN

51. TRICE

27. NICEST

32. ORIFICE

37. PRECIPICE

42. RADICES

47. SPICE

52. TWICE

28. NICETY

33. OUTPRICE

38. PREJUDICE

43. RICE

48. SPLICE

53. VICE

29. NOCICEPTIVE

34. POLICE

39. PRICE

44. RICER

49. SURPLICE

30. NOVICE

35. POULTICE

40. PRICEY

45. SERVICE

50. THRICE

54. VICE PRESIDENT

Lucy Stravers lives in Pella, Iowa, and is the mother-in-law of Dann Veldkamp.

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 KATE IN THE MIDDLE

CONNECTING WITH KIDS IN THE UNEXPECTED MOMENTS Writer / Kate Rhoten

Having two teenage boys is an interesting endeavor. Each son has different interests and has completely unique attitudes in their approach to life, but they both need opportunities to connect with us.

There are many moments in our daily lives that can be opportunities to connect with our kids. We just have to find the time and place which doesn’t have to be a major production. Here are five opportunities to connect with our children that I believe are often overlooked:

these experiences tie us together. Experiences create memories that children can take with them.

We have plenty of opportunities to just be. It is important to just be with our kids. It is important to take advantage of the easy opportunities. It won’t be long before there won’t be these easily obtained moments as the boys keep getting closer to their next phase of life. In the meantime, I am going to capture and hold on to as many of these moments as I can.

Kate’s nearing mid-life in the middle of America raising her boys with her hubby building their dream one day at a time while feeling like she’s always in the middle of something.

1.

Dinner for two. Occasionally, there is an opportunity to have dinner with one of my guys when the other is busy doing some extra-curricular activity. Going out separately and asking open-ended questions will help get the conversation started. Let the young man or woman lead the conversation.

2.

Running errands. I have found that there can be great moments to be had in the mundane activities. Recently, I had a pretty long list of things to do, and both boys came with me. We ran to a children’s resale shop, a recycling center, Goodwill, a bookstore to sell books and then off to get ice cream to cap off the afternoon. During these errands, stories were shared that did not come up previously during the week. Some of the conversations were funny stories that were overlooked, and others were question and answer in design.

3.

Breakfast before school. It is important to start your day off with a good meal, and a few minutes with your children will do the same. If we can adjust our schedule to carve out a little bit of time in the morning, we might send the kids off in a better frame of mind.

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4.

Taking a break from the daily household activities. My youngest occasionally gets me to stop what I am doing to sit and watch a movie with him. Recently it was “The Boy in Striped Pajamas.” He was about 30 minutes into it and asked me to sit with him. He had heard about the movie and found it on one of our streaming services. This gives great insight into their interests and opens up a conversation afterward.

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5.

Experiences. We have been able to go on trips and do activities that we continue to reference in our conversations periodically. Whether it was our trip almost four years ago to Europe, skiing in Colorado or going to Comic Con,

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46 / GREENWOOD COMMUNITY MAGAZINE / MARCH 2016 / atGreenwood.com

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