Noblesville Magazine January 2021

JANUARY 2021

ENGINE OF SUCCESS REGGIE STEWART EMBRACES AN ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

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CHEESE PLEASE

Big Dawg Pizza Opens in Noblesville

WITHOUT BORDERS BOUTIQUE

Local Business Thrives as a Mom-and-Pop Clothing Establishment

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BICA CAFÉ

LOCAL EATERY BOASTS CROSS-CULTURAL CUISINE

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Eli Beaverson

Although it’s in the heart of downtown Noblesville, Bica Café has a European sensibility. The atmosphere inside is upscale yet casual, and filled with delicious aromas of both sweet and savory offerings. Its earlymorning treats, small plates and lunch items come from authentic Portuguese and Italian recipes.

Owners Maria and Mark (last names withheld) are originally from the east coast, and have extensive experience in the

restaurant industry. Opening a cafe that blends their Portuguese and Italian heritage fulfills a long-standing dream. Finding the right site took several months.

“We have six children and our youngest daughter is the last one still at home,” Maria says. “While she was at Kiln Creations, a pottery painting shop on the Noblesville Square, I waited for her at Noble Coffee & Tea Company. I wanted our cafe to be in an area like that, with a community feeling.”

In October of 2019, the owners noticed an

empty space on Conner Street they thought might work for their business idea.

“Last June, after COVID hit, we drove past it and saw it was empty,” Maria says. “We signed the papers on July 1 and took three months to build it out. I must have looked at 2,000 blue paint swatches before I found the right shade of turquoise.”

Material such as butcher block, hardwood flooring and woodgrain shelving lend a rustic feel to the interior. Immediately upon entering the cafe, there is a seating area anchored

4 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

by a large coffee table made from a glossy, varnished cross-section of a tree trunk. It is surrounded by a couch and comfortable chairs upholstered in black leather.

Among its many hot and cold coffee and tea drink offerings, the cafe serves up a bica shot, and there are lots of pastries available to complement the beverages.

Throughout the expansive space, there are a variety of places to sit. The side opposite the ordering counter offers plenty of traditional restaurant seating, with electrical outlets accessible along the wall. In the middle is a large communal table, and there are a couple of raised seating areas with stools. Lucky patrons can grab a seat by the window and enjoy a view of the cafe’s patio, which is open in warm weather.

All pastries including the pastel de nata, an iconic Portuguese custard tart, are made in house. The kitchen staff uses unbleached, unbromated flour with no additives or extenders for baked goods, which include savory rosemary, ham and cheese scones, croissants, bolo levedo (Portuguese muffins), and papo secos (Portuguese buns).

“It’s a place where people feel like they fit in, whether they are wearing shorts and sandals, or professional attire and are meeting for coffee or a business lunch,” Maria says. “The cafe has a slightly elevated atmosphere but it’s not stuffy. We have board games and people meet here for Bible studies and book clubs. We want it to be the place people need it to be.”

The name of the cafe is directly related to Maria’s Portuguese roots. Bica is an acronym for “Bebe isto com acúcar,” which translates in English to “Drink this with sugar.” The term “bica” has come to be known as a certain kind of espresso originating in Lisbon, Portugal. It has a longer pour than traditional espresso and is not as bitter, resulting in a smoother taste without as much bite.

Prices range from $1 cookie specials, $2.50 muffins, and $4.50 cake slices, to $8.75 for a gluten-free, dairy-free galette that serves six.

Pastries for quick purchase are available in the deli case, along with other items such as the brick chicken salad, which has become one of the cafe’s most sought-after dishes.

For those desiring lunch fare, soups, salads, sandwiches and small plates can be ordered from the chalkboard menu hanging above the counter. The popular $12 steak sandwich features thinly sliced sirloin, hand cut in the kitchen and grilled. It’s served with roasted red peppers, Portuguese brown sauce and an egg on top. The cafe’s signature $3.50 soup is filled with beef, veggies and tangy chourico sausage.

“We sell out of our mussels in a tomato and onion sauce every day,” Maria says. “Another huge hit is our Portuguese fries. They are

atNoblesville.com / JANUARY 2021 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / 5

hand cut, smothered in a garlic beer wine sauce, and topped with an egg along with piri piri, a hot sauce made from bird’s eye chili.”

in some dishes. Bloody marys, mimosas, and Portuguese and Italian wines are also available.

Maria adds that the Saturday and Sunday brunch menu is a twist on tradition, as the cafe substitutes Portuguese ingredients

“Our motto is to focus on the sweet side of things,” Maria says. “I love to feed people’s bellies because it feeds people’s souls.

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I get fulfillment, joy and happiness watching people smile as they experience our cafe.”

Bica Café is located at 933 Conner Street in Noblesville. Call 317-764-2555 for more info and to place carry-out orders.

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NOBLESVILLE PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR CHAD KNECHT the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), and his roles included deputy chief of operations, district commander and SWAT team leader.

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Chad Knecht brings a wealth of experience to his job as Noblesville’s public safety di-rector. Knecht spent 29 years with

Noblesville is working with the Noblesville Police Department and The Noblesville Fire Department to create NobleAct, which is a mental health crisis and substance abuse response program.”

After retiring in 2018, Knecht was the senior Knecht says the NobleAct utilizes police director of security and safety for the Inofficers, community paramedics and diana Pacers. mental health clinicians to provide locals with a connection to community services.

Knecht’s new position oversees the The agen-cies involved with the program Noblesville Police and Fire departments. endeavor to divert those experiencing a He is re-sponsible for coordinating crime crisis away from the criminal justice system. prevention and safety efforts inside Noblesville, and he also works with various outside agencies. Knecht wants to work with “One of my big goals for 2021 is to enhance the NobleAct so that it helps as many these agencies to fight drug issues, suicide people as possible, and sets them up to and teen depression in the community. succeed,” Knecht says. “With the NobleAct, different agencies can utilize our public Knecht is confident that Noblesville safety, health care and community resources residents will greatly appreciate the to proactively help people with noncity’s new No-bleAct, a comprehensive emergency problems or needs.” community response program.

“One of the positive things about NobleAct is the level of cooperation between different Noblesville agencies that will greatly benefit people,” Knecht says. “The City of

Knecht says the NobleAct is an all-purpose plan that benefits the entire Noblesville community.

8 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

“We can address problems and concerns before they get bigger,” he says. “One posi-tive example would be checking on an elderly person who might need to be reminded to take their medication. We could send a community-based medic to check on them before it becomes a crisis.

It’s taking preventive measures to make sure people are all right.”

Knecht says the NobleAct also incorporates mental health and addiction services.

“We can have an active crisis response,

and use the resources of the different depart-ments to help de-escalate a scene by utilizing the abilities and experiences of a com-munity paramedic, mental health officer and mental health clinician,” Knecht says. “The team of professionals can asses a patient’s needs and give them direct linkage to the best community-based services for them. There would also be followup services such as checking on people transported to a hospital within 72 hours.”

Community-focused outreach programs and community awareness events are also

key elements to the success of the NobleAct, according to Knecht.

“A lot of the success of the NobleAct depends on everyone working together to help as many people in our community as we can,” he says.

Knecht says he and his family love Noblesville.

“Noblesville is a wonderful place to live with great people,” he says. “I’m looking for-ward to serving the community in my new role.”

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CHEESE PLEASE

BIG DAWG PIZZA OPENS IN NOBLESVILLE Owner David Small 10 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

toppings. Open a box of Big Dawg pizza and you’ll find pepperoni slices as big in diameter as hockey pucks, large meatballs, Back in May of 2020, when many businesses as well as peppers and onions that come in were shut down due to local governmental rings rather than diced-up sizes. measures related to the coronavirus pandemic, David Small began considering a “When they come here for the first time, business idea that he could launch inside of people sometimes say, ‘Oh my gosh, how Bowl 32, a family entertainment complex he am I going to eat that?’” Small says with a owns on Westfield Road in Noblesville. laugh. “I just say, ‘One bite at a time.’”

Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Kelli White

Throughout the next few months Small and his staff, including General Manager Jeremy Thurber, built out the space that would eventually house Big Dawg Pizza, which offers a unique take on pizza, breadsticks, wings, salads and more.

“I always wanted to get into developing my own franchise, and began looking at the businesses who were capitalizing on carryout and contactless delivery business during the shutdowns,” says Small, who has owned several bowling centers for the past 11 years in Lafayette, Anderson, Kokomo, Fort Wayne, Noblesville, and Jackson, Michigan. “We’d never gone in that direction. I’ve always been involved in sit-down restaurants, lounges and places of entertainment. We sat and developed a concept, and Big Dawg Pizza was born.”

Three pizza sizes are available, including the Pup (7”), the Standard (16”) and the Big Dawg (16”x26”). Specialty pizzas include the Golden Retriever, featuring Big Dawg’s signature California sweet sauce with mozzarella, provolone, Muenster and freshly grated parmesan cheeses, as well as the Tail Wagger, which comes layered with red onion, shaved ham, blended cheeses, sausage, green peppers, jumbo pepperoni and sriracha.

on a pizza, but trust me, it’s really good.”

The Big Dawg staff sources its ingredients locally, including veggies from Piazza Produce, and the dough is made in-house daily.

“There’s really a wow factor when you open the box, and it’s all fresh and all made inhouse,” Small says. “The size of the pizza is not anything you’ve seen before - you usually see tiny toppings and things like that, that sometimes don’t have the flavor we have. I would never speak ill of other places, but we certainly bring a unique flavor and appeal.”

There’s even a pizza shaped to resemble the American flag, complete with bacon for the stripes, and bacon bits and crumbled sausage for the stars.

The eatery’s name, and the dog-inspired names of many menu items, are the result of Those interested in something a bit different a few factors. can try out the Dog Bowl, which consists of Italian meatballs, marinara, and six types “I have bulldogs in my own life, and Jeremy of cheese in a bread bowl, topped off with always says things like, ‘Don’t mess with the oregano and parmesan. big dog,’ and so I said that we should just make it Big Dawg Pizza because of all that,” “The Mutt is the biggest pizza seller, and Small says. people tend to get it in the Big Dawg size,” Thurber says. “It’s two different sauces Since opening on October 1, Small says According to Small, what separates Big pinwheeled together - half is barbecue and half Big Dawg has already accumulated several Dawg from many other pizza establishments is your more traditional marinara sauce - and repeat customers, and he hopes to establish is the sauces, the recipe for which are house it’s got pulled pork, pickles, red onions and the eatery as a local fixture. In November secrets, as well as the sizes of the pizzas and bacon. People are a little unsure about pickles Small, Thurber and their team opened a atNoblesville.com / JANUARY 2021 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / 11

bulldog-themed lounge area with couches, chairs and coffee tables.

Big Dawg has slowly developed a following despite challenges related to the pandemic.

“It’s a cool place to hang out and just relax, if you feel like getting out of the house and having a drink and some pizza, and maybe watching a game,” Thurber says.

“We’re very please with the response people here seem to get what we’re doing, and I think as we master the craft we hope to start franchising around Indy and other places,” Small says. “I’ve always wanted to have a franchisable operation, and that’s one

Small and Thurber are both excited that

of the things I’m excited about. ” Big Dawg Pizza is located inside Bowl 32 at 845 Westfield Road in Noblesville.

For additional details including a menu, specials, an ordering page and more, visit bigdawgpizza.com. Call 317-678-8385 for more info.

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FOR THE LOVE OF COFFEE DARK SIDE COFFEE HOUSE OPENS IN CICERO

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Jason Graves

L

ike a scene out of a Lifetime movie, Matt and Vanessa Emery had their first date in a coffee shop when they were in college. Right from the start, Vanessa was smitten.

“I remember calling my mom that night and telling her that he drinks coffee the same way I do - black,” Vanessa says. “And college kids don’t drink black coffee. I said, ‘I’m going to marry him!’”

And she did. The couple often talked about how unimpressed they were with the coffee selection in the area, and after going on a vacation and visiting a coffee shop that roasted beans in-house, they were inspired to do the same. They purchased a small sample roaster and began roasting beans for themselves in their garage.

“We really loved the flavor we could pull out of different coffees so we started experimenting,” Vanessa says.

That Christmas, they gave all their friends and family members coffee, and the response they received was overwhelmingly positive.

Since individuals can’t sell coffee unless they officially establish a commercial kitchen, the couple had to get creative. They retired their 10-pound roaster and bought a 1,600-pound roaster that can roast 20 pounds at a time, and officially opened as Dark Side Roasters in May of 2018, selling online and at farmers markets. Last winter they set up a pop-up shop in Alexander’s on the Square.

“It allowed us to gauge community interest, and interest was high,” Vanessa says.

“Customers kept asking when we were going to open a brick-and-mortar coffee shop.”

In November of 2020 Matt and Vanessa held a grand opening for Dark Side Coffee House, located in downtown Cicero.

“We loved the idea of providing a place for people to come and meet with us, talk about our coffees and relax, and there was

nowhere other than restaurants and bars around here to do it,” Matt says.

The pair envisioned a coffee shop where people could sit for a quick meeting or check in with friends, without having to order a meal. They also paired with a friend who owns Cookies & Bytes to sell sweets in their shop, which they have found is a great combination.

“We get quite a bit of dessert traffic after dinner, where people will come grab a brownie and coffee on their way home,” Vanessa says.

The seating capacity is 16, with four twotops, a couch and a chair, plus a bar with four seats. Rather than quick customer turnover, the owners want an intimate place for people to come and hang out with friends.

One item that makes the business unique is a slushie machine. The team creates caramel cold brew slushies and apple cider slushies.

The signature cinnamon syrup, made inhouse, also sets them apart. They sell a lot of s’mores lattes and toasted marshmallow whipped cream lattes. They start with their espresso blend and carefully balance the milk with the syrups.

“With some places, it seems like you’re JANUARY 2021

drinking sweet milk,” Matt says. “We put more espresso in our drinks so that they actually taste like coffee. After all, that’s what you’re coming in for.”

Down the road, the owners would like to move to a larger space with enough room for both a coffee shop and roasting operations, so that they can show people the roasting process.

“Nobody thinks about how their coffee is made,” Vanessa says. “They just know if it’s a good or a bad cup of coffee. We’d like to educate them on what goes into that.”

In the future, they also hope to introduce other styles of coffee such as trendier West Coast coffee.

“We don’t have a lot of a third-wave coffee population in Cicero,” Matt says. “It’s about meeting people in the middle. People tell us, ‘I drink Folgers at home. What’s the closest thing to that?’”

The name of the shop stems from the fact that the owners are “Star Wars” fans with two young boys, Andyn, 9, and Adlyr, 3.

Vanessa had a blast naming the blends, including Rey of Light, The Kid Awakens Way Too Early, and Java the Hutt. She also

came up with the shop’s tagline: “We are the force that wakes you.”

The couple found that their social media following has been helped by the fact that many people are at home more often than usual due to the pandemic. Online sales

have also increased. In fact, the company has Vanessa, noting that the company offers free shipped products to all 50 states. Vanessa local delivery. has also been part of a mothers group, which helped to drive business their way.

Dark Side Coffee House is located at 110 West Jackson Street in Cicero. For more “Moms need coffee and they want to information, call 765-730-2689 or visit support a mom-owned business,” says darksideroasters.com.

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WITHOUT BORDERS BOUTIQUE

LOCAL BUSINESS THRIVES AS A MOM-AND-POP CLOTHING ESTABLISHMENT

Owner Jacqueline Beeler

used it as a backdrop for some of my events,” Beeler says. “We can kind of just pick up and travel anywhere to go to different events, and we meet people all over the place. The name made sense in that aspect.”

Additionally, the name is closely tied to Beeler’s faith.

Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Jason Graves

Faith plays an important role in many people’s lives. For Jacqueline Beeler, her faith is displayed in her business as well as her everyday life. Beeler owns Without Borders Boutique in Atlanta, Indiana.

“Around five years ago I started selling

women’s clothing for a larger company,” Beeler says. “Then about two-and-a-half years ago I decided to try and go out on my own.”

The meaning behind the boutique’s name is twofold.

“I had purchased a vintage camper and I JANUARY 2021

“The main factor behind the name was lyrics to one of my favorite songs by Hillsong [United],” Beeler says. “The main lyrics are, ‘Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders.’ For some reason, when I was coming up with a name, that just kept running through my head. I was worried about making a change from the other company to being 100% on my own. The lyrics just felt right.”

The boutique sells items that women of any size can wear, including dresses, tops, bottoms, outerwear and accessories.

“I will only carry an item if I can offer it in size small through plus-size,” Beeler says. “I feel like that is important to people, for my clothing to be all-inclusive.”

The boutique is located in a barn on Beeler’s property in Atlanta.

“I started out with a mini-barn, but then realized I needed a bigger space,” Beeler says. “In August I had a bigger barn built on our property, which I call the barntique.”

Beeler’s children played a role in the boutique’s location close to her home.

“I have two small kids at home, so the idea of having the boutique on our property was important,” Beeler says. “I wanted to have a business where I could still revolve everything around them as much as I needed to.”

street,” Beeler says. “The main reason I do appointments, though, is so I am available for my children, Wyatt and Scarlett, and my teenage stepdaughters who live in Fortville - Mackenzie and Alexis.”

Many of Beeler’s clients contact her through her Facebook page to set appointment times.

“If I’m doing any events I’ll post on my Facebook page,” Beeler says. “People message me through Facebook to set appointments to shop. I’m pretty flexible with times.”

The store is open by appointment only, and for online shopping.

Beeler has previously done pop-up shops at Hamilton Town Center, and participated in small-business Saturday events as well.

“Since the barntique is on our property, we are not in a traditional retail setting where we would get walk-in business off the

For more information on Without Borders Boutique, call 317-503-9617 and visit withoutbordersboutique.com.

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GIVING SPIRIT

OPEN DOORS OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF SERVICE on the days the pantry is open.”

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

The leaders and members at Open Doors of Washington Township recently celebrated 30 years in the Westfield community.

Today the pantry is supported by 13 local churches that supply food, clothing and volunteers.

“Over the years it has grown from serving a few families to serving a few hundred families,” says President Bruce Watson. “The food pantry began in the basement of a church, and then moved to the basement of the old city hall. From there it moved to the former fire station on Jersey Street, where it operated until 2017.”

“A number of local businesses also support Open Doors on a regular basis, as well as the many special programs run throughout the year,” Watson says. “In addition to its ongoing pantry operations, we provide nutritious snack foods to the intermediate and middle school counselor offices, summer meals for children who would normally re-ceive free and reduced lunches at school, back-to-school backpacks with school sup-plies and clothing, Thanksgiving dinner foods, children’s toys and clothing gift cards, and spring cleaning supplies.”

In 2016, Open Doors leaders ran a campaign called “Keep Open Doors Open.”

Watson says between pantry reserves and the generosity of the Westfield community, enough money was raised to build a new 5,000-square-foot facility on the Monon Trail Ele-mentary School campus.

Clients can be referred to Open Doors by one of their church partners, come to the pantry during open hours, or contact the organization through the official website.

New clients will be asked to complete an application, and will be interviewed by a client ad-vocate.

“The Westfield school system donated the land,” Watson says. “The new building was opened in July of 2017. Over the years, Open Doors added a clothing pantry to better serve its clients. Food and clothing donations are welcome any time in our donations box, or

Clients may come to the pantry once per month for groceries, the amount of which depends on family size. At that time, they may also access the clothing pantry.

Open Doors was started in 1990 by a group of women who wanted to provide food for Westfield families in need.

JANUARY 2021

“All food and clothing is free,” Watson says.

“Open Doors stocks a wide variety of canned foods, dry goods, meat, bakery items, deli items and produce. Clients may also shop our front room during four additional times a month. On these trips, they can pick up miscellaneous groceries, bottled drinks, produce, deli items and clothing.”

Those interested in volunteering can go to the Open Doors website and click on the Volunteer Opportunities tab.

“Someone will contact them to sign them up for any of a variety of volunteer

jobs,” Watson says. “Open Doors is an allvolunteer organization. No one, including the ex-ecutive board, is paid for their time and service. We are very appreciative of those who are willing to serve on a weekly, every-other-week, or monthly basis, or for our season-al programs.”

Watson says the coronavirus has led to an increase in the number of families in need, and volunteers have risen to the occasion.

“Since much of the food we distribute is purchased through monetary donations, we ask people to consider making regular

donations, or donations to support the many special programs we offer our clients throughout the year,” Watson adds.

Open Doors of Washington Township is located at 19360 Tomlinson Road in West-field. For more info, visit opendoorswestfield.org or call 317-867-8670.

Donations can be submitted online through the Open Doors website by clicking on the Donate button, or by mail to: Open Doors of Washington Township, P.O. Box 196, Westfield, IN 46074.

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BIRD FOOD • FEEDERS • GARDEN ACCENTS • UNIQUE GIFTS JANUARY 2021

DECLUTTERING FOR A LIFETIME Writer / Carla Cupp

Everyone has a different definition of tidy. We often get so comfortable in our homes that we can’t see the forest for the trees. That is until the closet contents fall out on us like a busted can of biscuits. Ok so maybe that’s a bit extreme but there are easy ways to keep our homes orderly throughout the year. Remember that organized homes require maintenance.

AS YOU BROWSE ITEMS IN YOUR HOME, HERE’S A FEW IDEAS TO HELP KEEP YOU ON TRACK:

1 I may need to consider re-homing it.

When was the last time I used this item? If not in the past year,

2 Am I keeping this item because it cost a lot of money?

3 Do I have a similar item serving the same purpose?

4 Is this item sentimental or something that makes me happy?

5 Am I keeping this item out of obligation?

6 would it be worth the cost of the repair and/or time?

This item is broken. Am I realistically going to fix it and if so,

7 If I were in a store right now and saw this, would I want to buy it?

JANUARY 2021

Unravelled Mindful Organizing UnraveledMindfulOrganizing@gmail.com 317-984-0424 UnraveledMindfulOrganizing

8 Am I saving this item “Just in case?”

9 Does this item suit my style and home?

I removed this item, could it free up space for 10 Ifsomething else that would better serve me?

When you think about decluttering your home, it can feel overwhelming at first. Enlist help if needed or go slow and tackle a few items a day. The goal is to have breathing room and simplicity in your home. Organizing and decluttering are a way of life, not a once and done task. For more tips like these, you can visit me on Instagram or Facebook at Unraveled. Mindful Organizing.

Happy New Year!

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JANUARY 2021

CUTTING EDGE COUNTERTOPS GIVES BACK THROUGH HABIT FOR HUMANITY DONATION Writer / Ryan Kennedy Photography Provided

sense,” she says.

company raised $14,869.

Rae says the donation went towards the Habitat for Humanity branches in all three states where Cutting Edge Countertops Rae says Cutting Edge Countertops decided does business. to make the donation both because of “We got together and formed their first triHabitat for Humanity’s history of helping “Cutting Edge Countertops has been very state donation,” Rae says. “They had never those in need, and because Habitat for successful in the last several months as done a tri-state donation before, so that was Humanity itself is an organization in need. people have taken time to invest in their exciting. We were able to raise money during homes, rather than going on vacations and that month and we initially set a goal of “Habitat for Humanity has been doing a spending their money in other ways,” says number of great things,” Rae says. “They rely $10,000. We obviously surpassed that goal at Cindy Rae, marketing manager. a lot on corporate donations, and with the almost $15,000. We’re really excited by that.” cost of lumber and other things that have With business in Indiana as well as Michigan been increasing during the pandemic, their In Indiana, the donations went to Greater and Northwest Ohio, Rae says the company need has just exploded.”

Indy Habitat for Humanity, largely to help began looking for ways to give back. with home repair.

During the month of October, which is also “We wanted to come up with a way that we National Kitchen and Bath month, Cutting “In a time when a quality, affordable home could give back to the communities that we Edge Countertops donated a percentage of is vital to the health and safety of families, serve, and for it to be purposeful so that it sales from every purchase made to Habitat we are grateful for the generous support was within the building industry and made for Humanity. By the end of the month, the of Cutting Edge Countertops to Habitat’s The COVID-19 pandemic has affected businesses all over the country, but that has not been the case for Cutting Edge Countertops.

That purpose became a donation to Habitat for Humanity.

JANUARY 2021

mission,” says Jim Morris, president and CEO of Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity.

“Their support locally and in the tri-state area will not only help build homes for qualified, dedicated homebuyers, but it also builds hope in a time when our communities desperately need it.”

Rae says the company’s donation isn’t a onetime occurrence. She says it’s part of a culture the staff wants to build within the company.

“When we started this initiative, obviously it was our first time doing this, but we don’t want it to be the last time,” she says. “What we’re trying to move toward as a business is being not only more ingrained in our communities, but also in the importance of our employees working for a company that believes in giving back.”

Cutting Edge Countertops is located at 14425 Bergen Boulevard in Noblesville.

For more info, call 317-774-8888 or visit cectops.com.

Genuinely Helpful People here in your neighborhood CFBindiana.com

Natalie Morrow

Junction Crossing Branch Manager Southeast corner of Spring Mill Station Westfield

Nicholas Harbin

Oak Ridge Branch Manager Corner of SR32 and Oak Ridge Rd Westfield

Joshua Faudree

Pebble Village Branch Manager West of SR32 and Hazel Dell Rd Noblesville

JANUARY 2021

Bank of Indiana

HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS AWARENESS MONTH LEARN THE FACTS ABOUT HPV

HPV. Symptoms of cervical cancer include heavier and longer menstrual bleeding, bleeding after intercourse and unexplained, persistent pelvic and/or back pain.

OROPHARYNGEAL CANCER HPV can infect the mouth and throat, which can lead to oropharyngeal cancer. Oropharyngeal cancers occur in the back of the throat, usually in the tonsils or the base of the tongue.

According the CDC, 70 percent of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States are caused by HPV. In fact, the incidence of these cancers has increased dramatically over the past 40 years, making it now the most common HPV-related cancer in the United States.

Long-lasting sore throat, earaches, swollen lymph nodes and pain while swallowing are symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer.

WHEN TO TALK WITH A DOCTOR Writer / : Dr. Michael Moore, otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon at the IU Health Joe & Shelley Schwarz Cancer Center at IU Health North Hospital

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 79 million Americans, mostly in their late teens and early twenties, are infected with HPV. Some types of HPV are low risk, causing mainly genital warts, while others are high-risk and can lead to various types of cancer.

CERVICAL CANCER Infection with high risk HPV has been long known to be a risk factor for the development of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Cervical cancer can be caused by various strains of

The Head and Neck Cancer Alliance recommends people with a history of tobacco or alcohol use, a history of oral lesions or exposure to radiation therapy, and those with 5 or more sexual partners be screened for HPV. Talk with your doctor if you are showing any symptoms mentioned above. Getting screened is a quick and painless process.

GET VACCINATED Although there is no cure for HPV, there is a vaccine that can prevent it. It is recommended for children to be vaccinated around age 9 to 11, but anyone vaccinated through the age of 26 can receive the benefits of the vaccine. According to the American Cancer Society, studies have shown that the vaccine provides close to 100 percent protection again infections and pre-cancers caused by specific types of HPV. To learn more about HPV and the HPV vaccine, contact your primary health care provider.

JANUARY 2021

NORTHERN HAMILTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 70 North Byron St. Cicero, IN 46034 (317) 984-4079

chamber@northernhamiltoncountychamber.com

Serving the communities of Arcadia, Aroma, Atlanta, Bakers Corner, Boxley, Cicero, Deming, Millersburg, Omega, Sheridan, Strawtown, and Walnut Grove.

BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE TOGETHER IN 2021

By Liz Foley Nelson, President, Northern Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce

As 2020 draws to a close, we expect the effects of the pandemic to follow us well into the new year. The toll of this global pandemic remains at the forefront of our minds, heavy on our hearts, and recovering our economy a shared focus.

The challenges of COVID-19 have and continue to affect businesses, communities, and livelihoods world-wide, and we have felt its stinging impact right here at home. Yet we remain resilient and see reasons every single day to be hopeful as we look to the future and our collective recovery. In fact, our new strategic plan reflects this optimism and solid blueprint moving forward into 2021.

WELCOME

It is our pleasure to welcome Denny Miller, AVP Business Development and Branch Manager and staff at the new First Farmers Bank & Trust in Cicero which officially opened for business on Monday, December 14, 2020.

We value your undaunted commitment in making Northern Hamilton County a desired place to own a business, work, and call home. Thank you for being a valued partner and an essential ingredient in the success of the Chamber and the communities we serve. Together we can build a stronger, better future.

HEIGHTS AND SHERIDAN SHOW SOME C.L.A.S.S. TEEN TASK FORCE

Hamilton Heights and Sheridan Teen Task Forces have shown innovation and creativity while they share the county’s C.L.A.S.S. acronym with peers to help keep them healthy and in class during this health pandemic. #ShowsomeCLASSHamCo Heights’ seniors Eric Malott, Josh Russell, Kim Trese, Jade Voltz, and Olivia Yott make up the Heights’ Teen Task Force. Together, they have helped spread the C.L.A.S.S. acronym among their peers by creating C.L.A.S.S. masks for Homecoming, creating school banners, and messaging parents and students through email, daily announcements, and videos. Yott even did a “takeover” of the Health Department’s social media accounts. Courtesy photo.

Sheridan’s Teen Task Force consists of seniors Cole Bales, Allison Delph, Lillie Dickerson, Cameron Hovey, Megan Lunn, and Leah Moorman.

Together, they have helped spread the C.L.A.S.S. acronym among their peers by producing videos for daily announcements, taking over the Health Department’s social media accounts, and introducing a Flat Stanley-like competition with the campaign’s mascot. Lunn says her involvement in the project is personal. Courtesy photo.

RIBBON CUTTING

Dark Side Coffee House owners Matt and Vanessa Emery, along with sons, Andyn and Adlyr, hosted a grand opening at their new storefront at 110 W. Jackson Street, Cicero in November. They offer a quaint, cozy environment featuring fresh brewed cups of their famous Dark Side Roasters brand coffee. Check out their specialty collection and accessories onsite or online @ www.darksideroasters.com JANUARY 2021

STUDY AT THE REMNANT

The Remnant Coffee Shop in Arcadia has study tables available for students. Social distance etiquette practiced. No purchase necessary.

COMING SOON!

Erika’s Place has transitioned its restaurant from 102 S. Union Street in Westfield to the former site of Courtney’s Kitchen at 654 Logan Street in Noblesville. Expect Erika’s Place in Noblesville to open mid-January 2021.

Declare Your Love

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(317) 773-3383 / 98 N 9THDECEMBER STREET / NOBLESVILLE, IN 46060 2020

KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CHATHAM HILLS

1324 Chatham Commons Blvd 317-343-0654 chathamhills@kiddieacademy.net

Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

Kiddie Academy of Chatham Hills offers educational childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 12-years-old. Their national accredited curriculum, Life Essentials, is developed by an independent board of experts in early childhood education, includes Common Core and Stem, and exceeds the curriculum requirements established by the State of Indian for every age group.

“We focus on the development of the whole child including age-appropriate, engaging activities designed to build cognitive skills and promote social and emotional development.” says Kelley Pritchard, Owner.

“We also highlight a different character trait each month. The month of December is “We are Kind”. Children in each classroom learn about what it means to be kind and how to express kindness appropriately. We change the theme each month with our goal being to introduce a wide variety of character traits that will assist children in succeeding now and in the future.

“Our Heath Essentials component of the curriculum focuses on teaching children healthy habits and encouraging them to make healthy choices. We also promote the

development of gross and fine motor skills through games and activities that build confidence and encourage the kids to try new skills”.

Given the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on the Westfield-Washington 2020/2021 school schedule, Pritchard and her team quickly established an E-Learning support program, Creative Explorers. The program is facilitated by a licensed teacher who works with the various elementary schools and assists the school age children in completing their E-Learning activities. As the school schedules changed, Pritchard and her team have altered the program such that it aligns with the needs of the community.

Kiddie Academy of Chatham Hills also offers a private kindergarten program called “On My Way” which is facilitated by a licensed teacher who has over 7 years’ experience teaching in the public school system. The “On My Way” program meets and exceeds the State kindergarten curriculum requirements such that the children currently enrolled in the program will be able to successfully transition into 1st grade next year.

Pritchard adds “In the Fall, many parents were torn between whether or not they should send their children to school or JANUARY 2021

enroll them in 100% E-Learning. We were able to establish the Creative Explorers program to support families who enrolled in either the Hybrid or the 100% E-Learning initiatives. We also implemented the On My Way program, which offered parents an affordable alternative for their kindergarteners and provided them with the “traditional” school day.”

“We are really trying to be a positive contributor to the community we serve.

We want to be the “home away from home” for the children in our care and to set a new standard in educational childcare. All of the team at our Academy is committed to being the best of the best and providing a loving, safe, and learning environment in which the children will excel.”

Kiddie Academy of Chatham Hills is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Children who arrive by 8:00 a.m. will receive breakfast at no additional charge. All children are also provided with a morning and afternoon snack as well as a hot lunch which is prepared on-site. Kiddie Academy of Chatham Hills is located at 1324 Chatham Commons Blvd. For more information call 317-343-0654 or email chathamhills@kiddieacademy.net

January 4-31, 2021 Dining out and carry-out from local restaurants is easy, safe, and sanitized.

Plus, if you check in or redeem offers at least five times from participating restaurants using the digital passport, you’ll get a $25 gift card (while supplies last).

Get started and get your passport at DineOutHamiltonCounty.com

DECEMBER 2020 Visit DineOutHamiltonCounty.com for more information on local dine out and carry-out locations.

ENGINE OF SUCCESS REGGIE STEWART EMBRACES AN ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

early college years, Stewart started a deejay business, providing deejays for bars in Broad Ripple and downtown Indianapolis. He was also a booking agent for talent at Indiana and Purdue universities. Between 1995 and 2005, the business flourished.

“I had a lot of fun,” Stewart says. “The job paid the rent and put food on the table for 10 years.”

Eventually he was ready to retire from the deejay business.

“I didn’t want to be out until 4 a.m. anymore,” he says with a chuckle.

After walking away from the music industry, however, Stewart felt a void.

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Brian Bosmer

Reggie Stewart moved to Noblesville soon after his father passed away. Raised by a single mom who owned a doughnut shop and Hallmark store, Stewart learned a lot about what it is to be an entrepreneur.

“I was immersed in this situation where my mom didn’t have all the freedom in the

world,” Stewart says. “Owning businesses stressed her out, but she could get away from time to time because she set her own hours. She taught me how to buy and sell at a young age.”

“I needed to feel passionate about something again,” says Stewart, who always had a soft spot for vintage cars.

In his younger years, he had a 1967 Ford Mustang with a V8 engine. He owned Stewart’s first venture involved buying and several cars and when his mom moved to selling trinkets in middle school. In high Florida, he inherited her old BMW, which school, he transitioned to buying and selling had a different set of bumpers and trim on car stereos. In his late high school and it. Stewart was already hooked. atNoblesville.com / JANUARY 2021 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / 29

TAKING CARE OF PEOPLE WHO DRIVE EUROPEAN CARS

“I had such an appreciation for that car,” says Stewart, who tinkered with it even though he really didn’t know what he was doing. “It had 225,000 miles on it and just kept going. I didn’t have a lot of money so I started learning.”

He refurbished the suspension, raced the vehicle for fun a few times, and blew up the engine.

OUR MISSION To preserve the performance, safety, reliability, and comfort that a car’s manufacturer originally intended, while fulfilling the owner’s need for information, convenience, and peace of mind.

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“I then had to teach myself how to rebuild an engine,” says Stewart, who worked for Nextel for three years, first as a salesman, then as a repairman before becoming a service manager.

Though the job suited him, he longed to be at the helm.

“I was not the owner,” he says. “I was not fully in control of my destiny.”

An avid car enthusiast, Stewart opened Reggie’s Motorworks. He began buying

30 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

derelict BMWs in a pole barn with no heating or plumbing, and selling the parts on eBay. Over time, customers began asking if he could install parts on their cars. Though he enjoyed custom detailing, modification and restoration, he responded to customer demand and by 2010 had decided to transition solely to service and repair.

“I transitioned all my eggs into the entrepreneurial basket,” Stewart says.

Though he entered the automotive profession with no training or background, over time he has assembled a talented team who knows the trade well. In November of 2011, Reggie’s Motorworks moved to South 10th Street. Stewart hired Nick Howard, a 1994 Noblesville High School grad, who became his service manager and righthand man.

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atNoblesville.com / JANUARY 2021 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / 31

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this year, when the opportunity arose for Stewart to meet with other shop owners in Colorado Springs, he saw his chance.

“I didn’t want to get on an airplane with COVID-19, so I took an extra week to show the kids the mountains,” says Stewart, who loves being involved with both his own children and other kids in the community.

That’s why he recently partnered with Fueled for School, an organization dedicated to providing nutritious food and drinks for Hamilton County children.

“It’s heartbreaking how some kids don’t have access to proper nutrition,” Stewart says. “Noblesville is an upscale community.

You don’t see a lot of poverty, but the statistics show that 25% of this community from time to time has food insecurity.”

Reggie’s Motorworks hosts an open house each year for the cause. This year they accepted donations and sold T-shirts, “When things first started shutting down, campgrounds remained open so we took the bringing in $1,600 for Fueled for School. kids to Brown County over spring break,” “I definitely see that being an ongoing Stewart says. relationship,” Stewart says.

Stewart and his wife Stephanie, a It has remained a favorite destination, as the photographer, have been married since family never runs out of things to do. Several Reggie’s Motorworks is located at 1362 South 10th Street in Noblesville. For 2008. They have two sons, Remington, 8, years ago, Stewart went to Colorado on more info, call 317-316-3013 and visit and Emerson, 4. In their free time the family business and knew that one day he wanted reggiesmotorworks.com. embraces a new hobby - traveling in an RV to bring his family back with him. Earlier “Nick took care of the customers as I worked as a technician, but then we got too busy and I needed to hire more help,” says Stewart, who no longer works on cars.

“The guys I hired are way more advanced than I am.”

to explore nature.

32 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

NOBLESVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1 Library Plaza Noblesville, IN 46060 (317) 773-0086 noblesvillechamber.com

WELCOME TO 2021! JOIN US IN HAPPILY TURNING THE PAGE ON 2020. THIS YEAR IS SURE TO SHINE BRIGHTER. AS A MATTER FACT, IT ALREADY IS HERE IN NOBLESVILLE. While we all have been focused on the health and safety of our families and neighbors, our city has continued to move forward building a healthy future. Noblesville recently broke ground on many new projects to expand opportunities for folks to live, work, and play. This confidence to invest in Noblesville is brought about by a combination of community spirited residents and forwardthinking City leadership who together create a climate that is attractive to business and residents alike.

pretty amazing for the year we just left behind. We invite you to explore and experience these new businesses as well support our long-established small businesses. To make it easy for you to shop local, we have launched the www.lovenoblesville.com. online marketplace featuring more than 20 retailers, and the Love Noblesville Gift Card at www.NoblesvilleGiftcard.com, redeemable at an ever-growing number of businesses. We see both initiatives as the chance for neighbors to support neighbors.

Over the last several months, we have seen more than a dozen new retailers and restaurants choose to call Noblesville home. That’s

Noblesville, a great place to call home!

atNoblesville.com / JANUARY 2021 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / 33

Co-Owners Kory & Savannah Musolf

GET YOUR FIX

ACE HARDWARE’S NEW OWNER VALUES CUSTOMER SERVICE “I have worked at Ace Hardware for the past eight years,” Musolf says. “My first two years were at an Ace Hardware in Dexter, Michigan. For the past six years, I have been at Noblesville Ace Hardware. I started off as a sales associate, and worked my way up to store manager prior to becoming the owner.”

Savannah also currently works for Corteva Agriscience as a supply chain production planner.

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Kerch Creative

Kory Musolf, co-owner of Ace Hardware in Noblesville, is living proof that if you work hard, you can advance professionally and eventually even run your own business.

Musolf took over Ace Hardware in Noblesville on September 25, and enjoys his work tremendously. His wife Savannah is his co-owner.

“We both moved to Hamilton County in 2014 from Michigan after graduating college,” Musolf says. “We currently live in Westfield.”

Musolf stresses customer service at Ace Hardware.

“Helping customers is truly the most important thing that we do, and is what separates us from the competition of big-

box stores,” he says. “We also like the highquality brands that Ace chooses to carry. We know these are brands we can stand behind, knowing you’re getting a great product.”

Musolf adds that Ace Hardware has always had outstanding customer service.

“Even though Ace is a nationally recognized brand, most Ace stores including Noblesville Ace Hardware are locally owned and operated,” Musolf says. “This gives a different feel than your big-box retail stores.

Each Ace can customize their inventory to the specific needs of the area. You will always be greeted when you come in the door, and the staff is always available to help answer any questions you have.”

Musolf says Ace Hardware’s customers are very loyal.

“The customers have been very supportive about our transition as the new owners,” he

34 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

says. “We’ve received a lot of positive, congratulatory notes on our Facebook page and in person. We had a great ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce and Noblesville mayor on September 28. We are lucky that the previous owners created such a reputable store within the community.”

Musolf says sales of home maintenance items have increased recently.

“We have been fortunate enough to have sales increase this year due to COVID-19, as people are spending a lot of time at home doing repair projects or DIY improvements,” he says. “We also started to offer curbside pickup back in March, which has been successful for us, and we will continue to offer this service for our customers.”

Musolf says people in Noblesville are extremely friendly.

“Savannah and I love being a part of the Noblesville community,” Musolf says. “It’s so nice to see people you know that are out and about, and to see returning customers at the store.”

When they aren’t busy working, Musolf says he and Savannah, who were married in June of 2017, enjoy spending time with their baby girl, Peyton, who was born in April of 2020.

Musolf wants people to know that when they shop at Ace Hardware, they are helping their city prosper.

“The Noblesville Ace Hardware is a locally-owned business, something that some might not realize,” he says. “When you shop with us, you are supporting your community.

Customers can also shop on acehardware.com and ship items to the store for free pickup as well.”

Ace Hardware is located at 603 Westfield Road in Noblesville. For more info, call 317-770-5223, or visit acehardware.com. atNoblesville.com / JANUARY 2021 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / 35

MELISSA JONES

GIRLS POSITIVITY CLUB LOCAL PROGRAM FOSTERS CHARACTER AND CAMARADERIE

Writer / Peyton Gigante Photography Provided

into place. She found that change started from the inside out.

When Melissa Jones started Girls Positivity Club, she had no idea it would grow into the community it is now, just two years later.

“I wondered, ‘Why not do this with my students?’” she says.

“It’s something I developed to teach girls positive habits, how to have confidence in themselves, and connect them in an empowering environment,” says Jones, one of Noble Crossing Elementary’s fifth-grade teachers.

The club was created by Jones in 2018 with the sole purpose of helping the girls in her fourth-grade class at North Elementary.

“In 2018 I went through a pretty hard time in my life,” Jones says.

After her father was diagnosed with brain cancer, and her mental and physical health had declined, she decided she had had enough. Jones joined a group online through a nutrition expert, and the rest fell

So that’s what she did.

After realizing that her own childhood had lacked a certain confidence and community that left her with a feeling of inadequacy, she saw that same struggle in some of her students.

“I decided that with my childhood experience and then going through the hardest time in my life, I could make something good out of it,” Jones says. “I took the pain I was going through and turned it into good, and I introduced this to the girls. They loved it.”

During lunch meetings covering topics such as courage and friendship, the girls would talk and do crafts, and soon students were

asking for more time during recess. Before she knew it, Jones was expanding these little meetings into an after-school program that quickly grew to other schools.

From North Elementary to White River Elementary, and even to the Boys & Girls Club, Jones saw different needs throughout the community.

Then COVID hit.

“I decided that I couldn’t give up and not do it, and so I pivoted,” Jones says. “I offered those same girls, who were doing my afterschool [program], Zoom meetings. Now I do all virtual - a six-week class with girls from the whole district of Noblesville, and then a 12-week program that’s a little more intensive.”

From virtual workshops to small groups and one-on-one meetings, Jones has become a confidant and mentor to young girls, giving them what she wished she had as a pre-teen.

36 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

“It can be any kind of girl who joins,” Jones explains. “We’re all coming together with a common goal of learning positive habits at a young age. My goal is that they can apply these to everyday life, and then it carries with them so when they do face the hard things, they not only have the support of our group, but they have tools.”

Jones hopes to expand Girls Positivity Club nationwide, across all age groups.

“I’m constantly investing in my program and my girls,” Jones says. “I would never take the place of a parent, or want to seem like I’m trying to parent someone’s child. I just want to offer another voice who believes in them, and give them tools that they can use with their family and a community of girls - and just support them all the way through.”

For more information on Girls Positivity Club, visit girlspositivityclub.org.

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With each new year, people often sit down and try to figure out resolutions.

Last year was a tough one in many ways, and hopefully 2021 will hold many happy moments. Resolutions can sometimes feel overwhelming, and oftentimes disappointing. This year, let’s try a fresh approach.

For 2021, create your own bucket list of things you can feel good accomplishing.

Complete them any time during the year, at your own pace, and enjoy the moments when you are doing them. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

READ SOMETHING Every year many people decide they are going to read more, but this year let’s take it easy. Just pick something to read. Maybe you’ll start a book that you’ve been wanting to read for a while. Maybe try reading the newspaper every day. Whatever it is, don’t overcomplicate it. Read something, an entire something, and be done with it.

COOK SOMETHING 2020 could possibly be called the year of cooking for many. Still, take time in 2021 to try a new recipe or cook as a family. Try family pizza night, or if you’ve done that, go for something harder. Your kids will love trying to make macarons or some sort of festive cake. If you really want to have fun with it, create a little competition.

38 / NOBLESVILLE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2021 / atNoblesville.com

CLEAN SOMETHING All year long things can often get shoved into closets, and now is a great time to tackle them one by one. You can check this one off WATCH SOMETHING VISIT SOMEWHERE after you’ve cleaned up a room or a closet, Many of us have been binging on plenty of Many people were stuck at home more than or maybe reorganized a pantry. Whatever old and new TV shows lately. There’s so much usual last year, exploring what’s available to it is, pick something you’ll feel good about out there to watch that sometimes it can be them in their own backyard. Maybe it’s time when you are done. overwhelming. Take a minute to research to visit that state park you haven’t been to, documentaries online, and choose one that or that new campsite. You can still travel and covers a topic you know nothing about. be safe, and it’s good for the soul - even if it’s Post on Facebook asking for suggestions just exploring a newly built park down the from friends for new shows to watch. Pick street. Get outside and visit somewhere new something and watch it from beginning to to you. Remember, it doesn’t have to be far. end, even if it’s a seven-season sitcom.

TRY SOMETHING May I suggest yoga? Try something new that you haven’t done before, and maybe something that will help to alleviate stress and clear your head. It doesn’t have to be yoga - maybe try a new workout or starting a new routine. Think outside the box here, too. It could be a new game, a new sport or a new type of art. Whatever you choose, make it something you can continue to do throughout the new year and maybe longer.

CREATE SOMETHING Many homes were filled to the brim with artwork in 2020. Every year should be like that. Don’t always leave this to the kids, and remember, creating isn’t limited to painting or drawing a picture. It could be those mudroom lockers you’ve been meaning to build, or maybe it’s that backyard oasis that’s been on your list too.

MAKE A DONATION Choose a favorite cause, and donate or volunteer this year. There are many people and foundations in need of help after such a rough 2020, and this is the perfect time to get out there and help others. It’s never a bad idea to offer help to those in need, and you can do so in many ways. If you are very busy and can afford it, monetary donations can be helpful. If volunteering in person is more your speed, reach out to your local food bank, homeless shelter or other organization, and find out how you can serve as a volunteer. *** Hopefully these ideas have given you a start on how to rock your 2021. Wishing you the best in the new year - you’ve got this!

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