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MARCH 2018

BOILER BALLER ZHS JUNIOR POINT GUARD, ISAIAH THOMPSON, IS FULL STEAM AHEAD TO PURDUE

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BOILER BALLER: ZHS JUNIOR POINT GUARD, ISAIAH THOMPSON, IS FULL STEAM AHEAD TO PURDUE

Josh Brown

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MARCH WRITERS

Amanda Vela /Jon Shoulders Josh Brown / Seth Johnson Stephanie Weber

MARCH PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amy Payne / Brian Brosmer Casey Ardizzone / Collin Weber Jamie Sangar / Ron Wise

SHOP LOCAL!

5 Boone Village Kroger Celebrates Grand Opening

9 Public Servant Appreciation:

Zionsville Police Chief Robert Knox

12 Boiler Baller: ZHS Junior Point

Guard, Isaiah Thompson, Is Full Steam Ahead to Purdue

16 Doggone Delicious: Three Dog

Bakery in Zionsville is Finding Success Serving Up Fresh-Baked Treats for Pups

20 Trendy In Indy: 5 Airport Fashion

22 A Father’s Heart: ZFD Firefighter

Raising Money for Children’s Heart Organization in Honor of Son

24 Changing Lives: Jeff Mohler, Talks Impact of Special Olympics of Indiana, New Role As President & CEO

27 Brick & Batten: Take a Look

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30 Zionsville Events atZionsville.com TownePost.com

Tips For Spring Break

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Steve Carroll is the manager of the new Kroger at the Boone Village Shopping Center.

BOONE VILLAGE KROGER CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING Located in the former Marsh building at 5 Boone Village, the Zionsville Kroger had its grand opening on Jan. 25, much to the For several months, Zionsville natives delight of customers. A 26,000-square-foot were without a convenient place to buy space, the new store went through a great groceries. But thanks to the new Kroger deal of revamping before opening location at Boone Village, that problem has its doors. now been solved. Writer / Seth Johnson Photographer / Ron Wise

atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 5

“Kroger put in almost $4 million into this remodel, and a big chunk of it is technology,” says manager Steve Carroll. “The decor in the store is brighter with the new LED lighting too. It just seems larger than what it was. We didn’t expand the walls at all — it just seems bigger because of the way it was remodeled.”

Having worked in supermarkets since the age of 16, the 60-year-old Carroll was originally drawn to the business through his father Jerry. “My dad was with Marsh for 25 years, and his work ethic and the way he took care of his customers just drove me to the business,” Carroll says. A longtime employee of Marsh prior to coming to Kroger, Carroll even worked as a manager at the former Marsh location in Zionsville between the years of 2007 and 2013.

“I love the business,” Carroll says. “My previous boss with Marsh had gone to Kroger several years prior. I just wanted to stay in the business and get back into management with Kroger. So I sought him out, and he gave me directions on what I needed to do to get hired on at Kroger.” In particular, he’s thankful for the training he received from Kroger before entering his position. “They’ve given me a lot of tools,” Carroll

says. “Of course, I’m still learning them, but they’re helping me do my job better and helping me to be a better manager, and to train and teach.” As with any managerial position, a big part of his role at the Zionsville Kroger is to seek out employees who will blossom into excellent leaders in the future. “A big part of my job is training and teaching others and moving people on that are promotable,” Carroll says. “In order for the

company to grow, we’ve got to have those future leaders, and we try to find that in these young men and women that we hire.” Currently, his location is still hiring new employees. “We can always use more good people,” Carroll adds. This will only continue as another Kroger location is set to open up at 106th Street and Michigan Road. “We’ll continue to hire going forward because we will be opening a store over at 106th and Michigan coming up later on in the summer,” Carroll says. “So, we’re not overhiring, as much as there will just be another place for folks.” Already since opening, he’s noticed that customers are enthusiastic about this Kroger location. “People are just excited that we’re open again, and we’re close,” Carroll says. “They don’t have to drive so far to get their groceries. The biggest thing with us being here is the convenience.” Personally, Carroll has been reaping the benefits of the new store as well.

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“I’m enjoying the fuel points and the cheaper prices, too, as a consumer,” he says, laughing. The new Zionsville Kroger location is located at 5 Boone Village, or you can give them a call at 317-873-2366.

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atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 7

PUBLIC SERVANT APPRECIATION: ZIONSVILLE POLICE CHIEF ROBERT KNOX At the end of the day, police officers and other public servants who serve our city are people just like you and I. Get to know Zionsville Police Department Chief Robert Knox in this month’s Public Servant Appreciation Q&A. WHAT’S YOUR STORY? HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE ZPD AND WHERE DID THE PASSION FOR THIS OCCUPATION COME FROM? “My father talked about law enforcement when I was a child. He was a military police officer, and he had a real passion for it. It was something that had always peaked my interest. After school and college, I started in 1979 in a little town on the other side of Boone County called Advance, as a reserve police officer. I also had the opportunity to transfer to Lebanon Police Department for two years before coming back here to Zionsville. After I had some experience with the Zionsville community and this police department, I knew that this was absolutely where I wanted to be. So, I came back here full time in 1984, and it has been an amazing experience. I’ve been very blessed and, a lot of the times, I’ve just been in the right place at the right

time. I came in as patrol, but really came in on the detective side of the house. I was the first full-time detective that Zionsville had. The people that I work with right now make me so proud everyday. They are dedicated, smart and really dialed into the community. You don’t see that everyday. My son is also a police officer in Lebanon.” WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? “It’s going to sound corny, but meeting with the people and families. I love this community and have seen this community grow a tremendous amount over the last 34 years. Zionsville is clean, our crime rate is low. The people are really involved in the community. At my age, having had the experiences I’ve had, I really just enjoy seeing the families and kids and talking with people. And, of course, I am a police officer, so if we get to lock up some people that really deserve it, that is a good day as well.” TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN ZIONSVILLE? “Well, my wife Karin is my rock and my better half. We have been married more atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 9

than 37 years. We have a son, Justin, as I mentioned is a Lebanon police officer. I’m blessed and luckier than I ever deserved to be. We live just outside of Zionsville.” EVERYONE HAS A FAVORITE SPOT AROUND THE TOWN THAT THEY LIVE IN. WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO LUNCH OR DINNER SPOT? FAVORITE BAKERY OR SHOP AROUND TOWN? “You’re going to get me in a lot of trouble if I say one place over the other. Honestly, I’ve never been to a restaurant here in Zionsville where I thought, ‘I’m never coming back here again.’ I just don’t know of any bad places. Of course I have my favorite places, but I’m going to play that card close to my chest.” WHAT IS LIFE LIKE OUTSIDE OF WORK? HOBBIES THAT YOU HAVE? “I own two Harley Davidson motorcycles. So, I enjoy riding my motorcycles when I have the time. My wife isn’t the biggest fan. I would like to get into fly fishing, and I’ve done that once before and that was a lot of fun. My wife and I are really involved in our church, Elizaville Baptist Church. We really enjoy family and our time together, too.”

ANY FAVORITE TV SHOWS RIGHT NOW OR SHOW ON NETFLIX YOU ARE BINGE-WATCHING? “I’ve never been on Netflix, but we do have cable. I’m a big History Channel guy. We don’t watch a lot of sitcoms. I do like Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and things like that.

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BIGGEST DRIVING PET PEEVE THAT PEOPLE DO? “I don’t have any big driving pet peeves. I hate drunk drivers. Anything dangerous, really. The speed limit is like flying for me, so I get made fun of about that. After driving all these years though, I’ve seen just about everything.”

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LET’S SAY YOU ARE STUCK IN A TRAFFIC JAM OR OUT DRIVING IN GENERAL, WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? ANY FAVORITE GENRES OR BANDS THAT YOU WERE A FAN OF WHEN YOU WERE YOUNGER? “I don’t have a go-to radio station. That is my quiet time and when I think. I like the Eagles. My brother is a big Beatles fan, but I’m not over the top there. These days though, in the car, it is my quiet, decompression time.” WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO A YOUTH OR YOUNG ADULT THAT IS ASPIRING TO BE A POLICE OFFICER AND SERVE IN THIS WAY? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE HIM OR HER? “Keep your goals in sight. Never forget what you want to do. It is hard to always make those good choices when you are younger because kids are kids, and I understand that. Believe it or not, I was one once. You have to make good judgement because you really aren’t invincible. You have to realize that the decisions you make today can affect you for the rest of your life. Just like today with social media, so many kids don’t realize that is forever. They make a bad decision and post something like a picture or say something they regret, but once it’s out there, it stays out there. I would say slow down and enjoy your youth too.” TO THOSE WHO HAVE REACHED THAT DREAM AS A POLICE OFFICER AND ARE ON THEIR FIRST DAY ON THE JOB? “Don’t ever let the badge or authority go to your head. You treat people like you want to be treated. Everyone has value. We are the police. We are not the jury or the judge. Don’t step outside of the guidelines and just try to be safe. I would say make sure to have situational awareness at all times, use you training and stay on your toes.”

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BOILER BALLER ZHS JUNIOR POINT GUARD, ISAIAH THOMPSON, IS FULL STEAM AHEAD TO PURDUE Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Brian Brosmer

For many star high school athletes, the decision on which college to attend can be a lengthy, difficult process. For Isaiah Thompson, a standout point guard for Zionsville High School’s varsity basketball squad, it came fairly naturally – and it came barely halfway through his junior year. The six-foot Thompson was the first to commit to Purdue University’s 2019 recruiting class – officially announcing his decision on January 7 – and he says the announcement was, in many ways, years in the making. His older brother P.J. is currently a senior on Purdue’s team,

and Isaiah spent many a weekend in West Lafayette over the past four years soaking up the Boilermaker atmosphere and getting to know his brother’s teammates and coaching staff. “Every time I went down there to hang out with the guys I felt like I was one of them,” Isaiah says. “That was a huge factor in my decision. I’ve developed a good relationship with the coaches and they let me know how interested they were in me. They’ve been very supportive of me along the way.” With a consistent top 10 ranking among Indiana recruits according to 247Sports. com, Isaiah has made the most of his playing time as a Zionsville Eagle, 12 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / MARCH 2018 / atZionsville.com

averaging more than 20 points and three assists per game this season. He celebrated his commitment to Purdue with a simple message on Twitter that characterized the feeling Lafayette gave him since he first began visiting the campus: “There’s no place like home.” The game of basketball goes even further back in the Thompson family than just Isaiah and P.J. – their father LaSalle played at Ball State and Indiana State, and subsequently in oversees leagues for several years. Since the first grade Isaiah was playing hoops with brother and dad, and even before high school years approached, the notion of playing Division I ball began to lurk in the back of his mind.

Zionsville’s Isaiah Thompson was the first to commit to Purdue University’s 2019 recruiting class. atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 13

“I was always working out with my dad and my brother – you always want to compete with your big brother growing up,” Isaiah says of P.J., also a point guard and a graduate of Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. “It was always in a fun way though, and he always made me a better player. As a kid I dreamed about playing in the Big Ten, and I feel like it’s one of the best conferences in the country. I figured why not commit now.” Adding to Isaiah’s excitement about being a future Boilermaker is the wealth of talent among the players who have committed to the school for the 2018-2019 season, including Eric Hunter, a 6’3” shooting guard currently attending Tindley School in Indy, Trevion Williams, a power forward from Sterling Heights, Michigan and Emmanuel Dowuona, a center from Miami, Florida. While Isaiah received scholarship offers from Butler and Miami of Ohio, as well as strong interest from several other schools, his visits to Purdue gave him the impression of a family atmosphere that he felt would foster success. Multiple discussions with head coach Matt Painter and his assistants allowed Isaiah to get familiar with the team’s system, further strengthening his resolve to become a Boilermaker. “I felt like it was the best fit for me,” he says. “It’s where I want to be and I’m excited. And I get to play in front of the Paint Crew – the best fans in the country.” With a taller, sleeker physique than his brother, Isaiah feels he has developed a playing style all his own, but says he continues to try to emulate the work ethic and dedication P.J. has developed both on and off the court during his career at Purdue – a career that has established the senior as a sensible shot taker with dependable passing and ball control skills. So what does P.J. think of Isaiah’s upcoming collegiate prospects? “He’s been real supportive and always tells me to keep working hard and not slack off,” Isaiah says. “Seeing how serious he’s taken it and how he’s improved his game is inspiring. He’s definitely showed me that you have to mean business at that level. So I feel like I have a big advantage in that way.”

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THREE DOG BAKERY IN ZIONSVILLE IS FINDING SUCCESS SERVING UP FRESH-BAKED TREATS FOR PUPS Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Amy Payne

When Christy Zeller realized it was time for a career change, she knew she had to find a way to make use of her passion for animals to make the next step in her professional life truly fulfilling.

Zeller had been working in the medical sales field, and spending much of her free time with three dogs of her own – two boxers, Bailey and Simon, and a beagle named Trudy. While casually scrolling through the official website for Three Dog Bakery, where she had become a regular customer, she noticed that the company offered 16 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / MARCH 2018 / atZionsville.com

franchising opportunities and realized that such an endeavor would combine both her love for animals and her sales experience. “I knew that if I was going to make a career switch, I felt like I was young enough and in a good enough position to make a real change,” Zeller says. “I had been a customer

Christy & Brett Zeller own the Three Dog Bakery located at 120 South Main Street in Zionsville.

WHAT SEPARATES US FROM OTHER TYPES OF PET STORES IS THAT WE’RE A BAKERY, AND OUR TREATS ARE ALL MADE IN-HOUSE at another Three Dog Bakery for years and loved it. When I figured out that it was a franchise, I convinced my husband to just get some information and look into it.” Zeller noticed the amount of pedestrian and dog-walking traffic in and around Zionsville, her husband Brett’s hometown, and figured Main Street would be a prime spot for the Three Dog Bakery concept. The couple officially opened their store on July 9, 2016, and since then Zeller has spent nearly every day at her establishment baking custom, allnatural treats with help from Brett and her small staff. “What separates us from other types of pet stores is that we’re a bakery, and our treats are all made in-house,” Zeller says. “Those are the big sellers, and our chews are also always really popular. We love seeing all kinds of dogs in the store, and we have plenty of regulars now. There’s just a ton of dogs in this area, and it’s a very wholesome, family-oriented place.” Inside the store, dogs often gravitate toward Zeller’s glass bakery case and drool over fresh-baked items like Pupcakes, Peanut Mutter Cookies and Drooly Cream Bars. Working in the exposed kitchen where customers 18 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / MARCH 2018 / atZionsville.com

“ZIONSVILLE IS EVERYTHING WE HOPED IT WOULD BE. FOOT TRAFFIC IS A HUGE PART OF OUR BUSINESS BECAUSE DOGS ARE WELCOME TO THE STORE – AND IN FACT ENCOURAGED”

can see their baked goods made from scratch daily, Zeller and her staff work hard on each and every baked creation, and will even craft personalized cakes for special events and celebrations. The store also stocks prepackaged Three Dog Bakery treats like Classic Crèmes and Wafers in several flavors.

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You’ll also find a wide selection of accessories, toys, books, gift sets and novelty pet items like party hats for dog birthdays – there’s even a line of clothing called Ruffwear, which Zeller jokes is “like the Patagonia brand for dogs.” Founded in 1989, Three Dog Bakery is a worldwide chain with more than 40 locations in the U.S., Canada and Hong Kong, and currently features four locations in Central Indiana. The company’s products and ingredients are made entirely in the U.S., and include no artificial colors or flavorings. “The community has been very receptive,” Zeller says. “Zionsville is everything we hoped it would be. Foot traffic is a huge part of our business because dogs are welcome to the store – and in fact encouraged – so that’s something we were really looking for. The other thing is that our store is very much a boutique, and we pride ourselves on having more quality items and put a lot of thought into what we carry in the store.” Three Dog Bakery is located at 120 South Main Street in Zionsville. For more information including product details and hours of operation, call 317-344-0070 or visit threedog.com.

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atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 19

Stephanie Weber, Trendy In Indy

5 A I R P O R T FA S H I O N T I P S F O R S P R I N G B R E A K

Writer / Stephanie Weber Photographer / Casey Ardizzone & Collin Weber

Spring back is upon us, and airport fashion is a “thing,” but it’s definitely not a new concept. My grandmother is 90 years old and traveled to California and Hawaii in October 2016. She arrived at the airport in

heels and a stylish hat, ready to board her five-hour flight to Los Angeles. Travel style is different for everyone, but in most cases, it involves some version of casual and comfortable. In other cases, it might involve business professional or a dressier look. I’ve created a list with five style basics so you can plan your own airport outfit. 20 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / MARCH 2018 / atZionsville.com

1. A STAPLE HAT.

I don’t think I’ve been on a plane in the last seven years without a hat. If it’s not on my head during the flight, it’s in my carry-on for easy access. Hats are great for those early morning flights when you don’t have time to do anything with your hair. Whether you choose a fedora or a baseball cap, hats are a travel necessity.

2. JOGGERS.

This is a trend I can fully stand behind as they are comfortable, but also trendy. Joggers can be dressed up or down making them a versatile piece to wear later in your trip too. I like to pair mine with a graphic tee and a denim jacket for travel days. 3. LAYERS

You never know what the temperature might be like in the airport or on the plane. A jacket or sweater is advisable so you can adjust to these differences. 4. C OMFORTABLE SHOES THAT SLIDE OFF EASILY.

Going through security is no easy feat, but if you wear shoes that slide on and off, it makes this process smoother. I like to wear shoes that cover my feet to keep them warm, but sandals are an easy choice for beach getaways. Comfort is key, especially if you might be running to catch a connection. 5. B ACKPACK OR CROSSBODY W/ EASY ACCESS TO YOUR I.D.

When you check your bag and go through security, you have to show I.D. twice. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve temporarily misplaced my I.D. because I just threw it in my bag. If you have a backpack or small crossbody to store your cards and cash, your travel day will be a breeze. BONUS TIP

After traveling domestically and internationally over the last few years, I’ve learned that less is more. Bringing a small bag in addition to my backpack is easiest for me so I don’t have to mess with a roller carry on that may or may not fit in the overhead compartments. I know this isn’t exactly style related, but it will make your travel experience more positive. These five style basics are the necessities for your upcoming travel plans. Whether you’re driving or flying to your destination, you can follow these guidelines for a comfortable day. Wherever you’re headed, be sure to use the hashtag #TRENDYTRAVEL, so I can follow along your journey. Here’s to new adventures. atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 21

Writer / Amanda Vela, Town of Zionsville Director of Communications & Community Relations Photography provided by Town of Zionsville

When Zionsville Fire Department firefighter/EMT Robert Coonfield and his pregnant wife Aimee went in for their 20week check-up appointment and found out they were having a boy, they were thrilled. With a two-year-old girl, Addison, already at home, they could not wait to have a baby boy. But the doctor noticed something on the ultrasound and asked Aimee to come back for more pictures of the baby’s heart. When the doctor told the parents that their son had a heart defect, Robert and Aimee’s world changed. “It was like hitting a wall,” Coonfield says. “And the buildup from that point of finding out the sex to his birth – we didn’t know what to expect.” The Coonfield’s son, Caden, was born on Nov. 13 with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a complex birth defect that affects normal blood flow through the heart. His heart is on the right side of his body. For babies with HLHS, the left side of the heart can’t effectively pump blood to the body, so the right side of the heart must pump blood to the lungs and to the rest of the body. Immediately after birth, Caden was transported to Riley Hospital for Children to be treated in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit. Caden has already had one surgery – Norwood – and will have two more – Glenn and Fontan. His next surgery is currently scheduled for March 7. Although these surgeries are helpful, they are not a complete cure and the Coonfields do not know what life will hold for Caden once he leaves the hospital. “Between surgeries one and two, it’s super intense with potentially a lot of ups and down,” Coonfield says. “After the second surgery, babies can be completely different. The surgery can really change the heart. We’re hoping that not too far after that surgery, and if he potentially recovers, he can go home. But all depends on how his body reacts.”

In between working for Zionsville Fire Department and coaching men’s soccer at the University of Indianapolis, Coonfield has found the time and energy to start a running challenge with the aim to give back to an organization that helped him and his family. This May, Coonfield is running the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon – and doing it in full firefighter gear (an extra 70 pounds of weight). Up until the Mini-Marathon on May 5, Coonfield will run a total of 240 miles as part of his training program. With donations from friends and family, Coonfield will complete the 240 miles. His pledge tiers include: 22 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / MARCH 2018 / atZionsville.com

$0.10 per mile - $24 donation $0.20 per mile - $48 donation $0.25 per mile - $60 donation He is asking that donations go to Mended Little Hearts, an organization that supports and empowers children with congenital heart disease and their families. The organization provides group programs, educational resources, hospital outreach, online connections for families and more. With every donation received, Coonfield hopes to raise awareness about the organization, raise money for the organization and support his son. “We have been very blessed with the

support we’ve had. My idea was to give back to Mended Little Hearts in hopes to one, provide further education for other parents going through this and two, to be able to provide financial support to the organization to give care packages.” So far Coonfield has received more than $1,000 in pledges, with most of them being $60 or more and has 208 miles left to run. For Coonfield, the challenge is about giving back to an organization that helped him and his wife. Early on, Aimee connected with Mended Little Hearts and joined their local support groups. They sent a Bravery Bag and supported her along the way. “Caden is laying there fighting and I want to do something alongside with him,” Coonfield says.

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To support the Coonfields and Mended Little Hearts, fill out the online donation form online at mendedlittlehearts.gnosishosting.net/ Portal/NewDonation. In order for Coonfield to track pledges (and miles to run), check the box next to “Donation in honor/memory of someone.” In the “Acknowledgement type” field, select “In Recognition Of ” and then type the name: Caden Coonfield. You can also track Coonfield’s journey by joining his Facebook group: Race For Caden and Congenital Heart Defects.

317-222-1313 atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 23

Jeff Mohler, Talks Impact of Special Olympics of Indiana, New Role As President & CEO Writer / Josh Brown Photographer / Jamie Sangar

“I was a Greyhound, and I like to brag about that championship in ‘88,” Mohler says. “

Jeff Mohler has been running towards his goals and achieving them.

It’s an experience that stuck with Mohler, and his passion for running has remained, even today. From 2009 to 2017, Mohler’s “hobby” was coaching cross country in Carmel schools, where he coached Carmel Middle School for five years and then three years at CHS.

For the last 20 years, Mohler has gained a marathon of experience as a part of the Special Olympics of Indiana. On Jan. 15, he was officially named the new president and CEO for the Zionsville-based organization. “Ive been a part of the Special Olympics of Indiana since 1997, when I came on as a college intern,” Mohler says. “I’m very familiar with this organization. This will be a new learning curve for me, though. But I’m looking forward to the challenge, and I’m honored and humbled to be named president and CEO.”

Run On Mohler grew up in Carmel where he attended Carmel High School and ran for the Carmel cross country team. He was a part of the 1988 state championship team led by legendary CHS coach, Chuck Koeppen, who has won more than 20 state championships at Carmel High School.

integral role in several of the organization’s successful programs. He was instrumental in establishing the Champions Together program, which is a partnership between Special Olympics of Indiana and the Indiana High School Athletic Association. The goal of the program has been to provide students with disabilities the opportunity to compete in high school athletics.

The program has been a booming success “I just wanted to try to give back to the with about 100 schools forming teams for teams and the school that gave me so much,” Unified Sports state competitions. Today, he says. more than half of Indiana high schools participate in the program. Ultimately, last June, Mohler stepped down from coaching to focus on spending more “When we formed this program, it really time with his kids and his position at the shifted the perspective because we started Special Olympics of Indiana. Though his competing as one entity,” Mohler says. coaching days are likely over, Mohler does have his track & field official license for both “So, instead of students at IHSAA member the IHSAA and USA Track & Field as well. schools doing things for Special Olympics, they were doing things with Special Olympics athletes. That has been dynamic, because it shifted from doing things for a charity, to being a partner. Now we do Mohler has served as Vice President of Unified Sports where students with and without intellectual disabilities create a Programs and Chief Operating Officer competitive team together and go out and with the Special Olympics of Indiana since compete against other Unified teams.” 2007. During that time, he has played an

A Strong Track Record

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The program started first with Unified Track & Field. This spring will be the fifth tournament for Unified Track. Special Olympics of Indiana is hopeful this fall that the IHSAA will also start Unified Flag Football.

What’s On the Calendar? With spring upon us, Special Olympics of Indiana has several big events on the calendar. The organization averages about three events a day throughout the calendar year — be it games, tournaments or other competitions. February capped off the organization’s greatest fundraising event — the Polar Plunge. The organization hosts 16 Polar Plunges throughout the year. Several Indiana schools participate in Polar Plunges each year, including Ball State University, Butler University, Purdue University, Indiana University, Indiana State University and more. The organization’s final Polar Plunge event is set for Saturday, March 3 for the Eagle Creek Polar Plunge. As is the case for most everywhere else, March is all about basketball. The Special Olympics of Indiana will host its Women’s State Basketball Tournament March 10-11at DePauw University in Greencastle. “We are the only Special Olympics program in the world that has a women-only basketball tournament,” Mohler says. “This is the Hoosier state, a basketball state, and that trickles down even to us at Special Olympics.” On March 24, Special Olympics of Indiana will host its Youth State Basketball tournament at the University of Indianapolis. March 24-25 will also be the Men’s State Basketball Tournament at Ben Davis High School. “In all, we have about 250 basketball teams around the state that will be competing for gold medals with us,” Mohler says. The Special Olympics will also host its athletes Leadership University on Saturday, atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 25

April 27-28 at Butler University. “Butler University really comes out and helps us train our athletes to serve on boards of directors, serve as messengers for the program and give speeches,” Mohler says. “We even train some of our athletes to be coaches because they want to give back to their fellow athletes.”

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Old FashiOned PersOnal service. At the Indianapolis area’s largest locally owned national bank, our private bankers have a time-tested way of doing things. They put the client first. They ask questions and take a genuine interest in your well-being and financial health. And every private banker has the authority to make the prompt decisions that can favorably impact your bottom line. So if you’re looking for someone who’s ready to shake your hand and send a text, call Lindsay Harmon at 317-261-2270.

The Special Olympics of Indiana’s biggest event of the year kicks off June 8-10 with its Summer Games in Terre Haute. There will be eight different sports state championships kicking off during that weekend of competition.

Changing Lives Now getting fully acclimated to his new position, Mohler continues to have high goals in mind for the Special Olympics of Indiana. He says that the passion in his role comes from how much he supports the cause of the organization. “This is a life-changing organization,” Mohler says. “We celebrate gold medals, eighth place finishes and everything in between. But we really are making a difference in the lives of our athletes and our volunteers just by the intentional and impactful interactions that take place. Through that, I believe we are making a positive impact in our communities across the state.

Service is something she takes personally.

“We are reaching more than 14,000 athletes across the state,” Mohler adds. “I’d like for us to reach that 20,000 to 25,000 mark in the next few years. I believe we will get there some day through all that we do, and there will be many more thousands of peoples’ lives changed because of the Special Olympics.” Lindsay Harmon Assistant Vice President, Private Banker NMLS #1253815 ©2016 The National Bank of Indianapolis www.nbofi.com Member FDIC

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The Special Olympics of Indiana is located at 6200 Technology Center Dr. Suite 105, right off Zionsville Rd. You can give them a call at 317-328-2000 or visit them online at soindiana.org.

L to R: Owners Cassie McDowell and Allison Vaccaro, and partner & designer Shannon Gallimore.

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE THE VIRTUAL EXTERIOR DESIGN COMPANY Writer / Jane VanOsdol Photography provided by Brick & Batten

Vaccaro start working, the duo talks to the homeowners via FaceTime or Zoom.

A childhood immersed in the design and flipping of homes grew into a dream business for sisters Cassie McDowell and Allison Vaccaro.

“We care about their space, where they spend most of their time. We honor their wishes and desires,” McDowell says.

Spurred on by their family’s passion, the two started Brick & Batten in 2017, a virtual exterior design business. They opened their online doors in June, and within the first month they were already up and running with clients, thanks in part to fans who had followed their posts on social media for years.

A comment section also allows clients to specify any of their must-haves for the project. PURCHASING ITEMS Brick & Batten has established relationships with suppliers so they can offer the best pricing on exterior supplies, most of which are available for purchase on their website. Clients then have the option of purchasing from Brick & Batten or locating the items elsewhere. Some of their suppliers include Timberlane Shutters, Pacific Home & Garden and Doors by Decora. Clients are also in charge of either implementing the changes themselves or hiring local help to do it for them.

BUSINESS MODEL Their business model is simple, innovative and genius. People submit a photo of one side of the exterior of their home that needs updating. Vaccaro and McDowell use software to cosmetically update the home’s exterior (no structural issues are addressed), sending a virtual rendering of their recommendations back to the client, With McDowell living in Carmel and complete with a clickable shopping list of all Vaccaro living in Atlanta, Georgia, an online the design elements. business works perfectly for them and allows them to help clients from all across The sisters are careful to include clients the United States. Customers are a mix of in the process. After the client purchases both sellers who want to increase the curb the package and before McDowell and atZionsville.com / MARCH 2018 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / 27

appeal of their home and owners who are staying for life with a desire to make their homes the best they can be. The sisters love design and helping others, so they have priced their service affordably. To be even more budget friendly, they suggest that homeowners complete the outdoor upgrade in stages. For example, painting a home is best completed in spring or fall due to weather conditions. Use the summer to add flowerpots and other landscaping. Doors and shutters can be added during the summer or fall. A LA CARTE OPTIONS In addition to their regular service, clients can elect to add two other options provided by Brick & Batten: • A rendering of an additional side of the house • A virtual landscape consultation designed to their exact geographic location and soil type These choices can be added before finalizing an order on brickandbatten.com.

TRAINING McDowell credits her parents with instilling in the girls a passion for design since the time they were little. Her dad worked in insurance, but buying properties and fixing them up was his passion. During family vacations to the East Coast and southern Florida, they would drive for hours looking at homes while her father pointed out all the architectural details and discussed whether they were mid-century modern or Victorian. Blueprints and home plans were always laying around the house, which he would discuss with the girls, asking their opinions. They’d often find design magazines left open to articles circled for them to read. When they went away to college, their mailboxes were full of information he’d mail to them. “These are his archives that we grew up loving and living every day,” McDowell says. While both Vaccaro and McDowell pursued other careers, they started social media accounts where they posted about design, and they talked about starting a design company someday. In 2017 “someday” became a reality. McDowell quit her job as a teacher, and they launched the business. They’ve since completed design training classes, exterior color classes and American Society of Interior Designer workshops. “We’ve surrounded ourselves with experts in the field,” McDowell says. They also welcomed their sister-in-law Shannon Gallimore to the team, whose strengths are design, creation and innovation. In the short time they’ve been in business, they’ve completed about 50 homes. “Our clients are excited, which makes us excited,” she says. Although they’re just starting, they have their eye to the future. “I’d like to find a way to reach out to people who have been in natural disasters like hurricanes [and help],” McDowell adds. For more information or to submit your home visit brickandbatton.com. You can follow them on Instagram and Facebook @brickandbatten. 28 / ZIONSVILLE MAGAZINE / MARCH 2018 / atZionsville.com

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CAR Community Newsletter March 2018

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/ONTHETOWNE

MARCH Z I O N SV I L L E E ve nt s VIEW FULL EVENT CALENDAR AT EVENTS.TOWNEPOST.COM

HOW TO MAXIMIZE VEGETABLE PRODUCTION FROM YOUR GARDEN

Carmel resident and passionate gardener Xianzhong Wang, Ph.D., will share his experience in maximizing vegetable production from backyard and community gardens. Topics to be covered include when to start vegetable gardening in the spring and how to extend the growing season in the fall. Carmel Clay Public Library 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

THE NEXT STEPS IN HUMAN SPACE EXPLORATION

2018 is the beginning of a new era in human space exploration. NASA and commercial space companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin have plans to send humans back into space. Carmel Clay Public Library 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

From the captivating chase of the hounds in Franck’s “The Accursed Huntsman” to the beautiful, slow movement of Brahms, our March concert promises to stir your emotions and perhaps even get your heart racing. With the incomparable pianist Sean Chen returning to The Palladium as guest artist, this performance is sure to be an audience favorite.

Settlers of Catan Tournament March 17th at Books & Brews Zionsville. This event is free but is ticketed. Use Eventbrite to reserve your spot.

THE JOY: CHEN PLAYS TCHAIKOVSKY

The Center For The Performing Arts 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE! TRIVIA NIGHT

Trivia is every Monday at Books & Brews: Zionsville but we save themed trivia for one special Monday of every month. This March is SNL Trivia! Do you get all of your weekely news from Weekend Update? This night might be for you. Play solo or with a team winning teams get a $20 gift card! Books & Brews - Zionsville 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS FOR FREE! EVENTS.TOWNEPOST.COM

SETTLERS OF CATAN TOURNAMENT

Books & Brews - Zionsville 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

FLY FISHING FILM TOUR 2018

The Town of Zionsville is proud to bring you The Fly Fishing Film Tour 2018 - the original and preeminent exhibition of fly fishing cinema. The film emphasizes the stories, characters and fisheries that make up the vast world of fly fishing. Zionsville Town Hall 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

8TH ANNUAL CARMEL MARATHON WEEKEND

Kick off your spring race season on our flat and fast course. The March 31 Carmel Marathon is a Boston Qualifying course, boasting over a 21 percent qualifying rate in 2017. Choose between the full marathon, half marathon, 8K and 5K courses. All finishers receive a unique finisher medal, event shirt, post-race celebration and aid along the course. The Center for Performing Arts 8:00 a.m.

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2018

MAY 17 7pm

JUNE 14 7pm

JULY 19 7pm

AUGUST 30 7pm

OCTOBER 11 7pm

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Registration Opening March 6th

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