Best Seat in the House

Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods await their turn to putt on the 8th green while Crooked Stick residents look on from their back yard.

For most of the 150,000 golf fans who ventured out to Crooked Stick Golf Club for the PGA Tour’s BMW Championship in early September, half the battle was just getting to the course. They had to negotiate the often-congested roads of 116th Street, Ditch Road, and Towne Road. Then they had to find a parking place in Coxhall Gardens or the alternate parking area near 116th and Pennsylvania. And finally, they had to hop on the shuttle bus to the course.

But for a fortunate few, the commute to the gallery ropes was as easy as walking out their back door. These are the people who live in the Crooked Stick neighborhood with homes bordering the course. Bill Bonner has lived in his house near the number three green since 1994. He said tournament organizers had few, if any, restrictive rules for the residents that live adjacent to the golf course property.

“Just put off cutting grass between certain hours and make sure you let your dogs out when nothing’s going on,” said Bonner. Cleaning up after the dogs was a given – the high rough and deep bunkers were enough of a hazard for the likes of Tiger and Phil without also having to dodge a pile left behind by Sparky.

Scott Prince has a home on 116th Street that backs up to the teeing area of the fifth hole. He and his family and friends were sitting in lawn chairs lined up just to the left of the cart path. In addition to the mowing and dog-walking rules, Prince explained that residents were not allowed to put up tents featuring advertising nor could they make any direct solicitation of the golf patrons. Despite the luxury of being able to watch the tournament for free from his backyard and walk anywhere on the course, Prince chose to purchase a grounds pass good for the entire week of the tournament. “I just wanted to be compliant,” offered the six-year Crooked Stick homeowner.

Muffi James watches Tiger Woods putt on the 7th hole at Crooked Stick GC.

On Saturday during the third round of the tournament, Muffi James was sitting at the top of a small hill to the left of the seventh hole anxiously waiting to see Tiger Woods’ group play through. James, a 36-year resident of Crooked Stick, has access to perhaps one of the best vantage points on the course. She lives on Prestwick Lane, a cul-de-sac that forms something of a peninsula that extends into the small lake on the eighth hole.

“We can see here seven, the tee on eight, we can see them play three, and we can watch them all the way down eight,” said James. She has lived in Crooked Stick long enough to see the 1991 PGA Championship, the 1993 U.S. Women’s Open, the 2005 Solheim Cup, and the 2010 U.S. Senior Open. James has also been a volunteer for each of those events.

Traffic in and out of the neighborhood was mostly a non issue for the residents. Leaving his house on 116th Street, Scott Prince found it “easy” to go west, away from the glut of cars headed to the Coxhall Gardens parking. Muffi James said she had little problem using Ditch Road, as long as she only wanted to go south. “If you wanted to go on up to 116th, it was terrible,” she said.

While Prince and James relaxed in their strategically-placed lawn chairs, back at the third hole, Bill Bonner seemed happy to stand in his back yard with drink in hand watching the action through an unusually-large space in the trees that ring the course. “I got a diseased tree that had to come down,” he explained. “So it worked out well.”

With talk of the BMW Championship returning in 2016 or even another PGA Championship in 2020, Bonner, Prince, James, and the rest of the Crooked Stick residents could once again have the best seat in the house.

BMW Championship winner Rory McIlroy chips to the 14th green as fans look on from the back yard of a home on 106th Street.

Jeff Sheats: A Whirlwind of Creative Interior Design Genius!

Jeff Sheats has over 19 years experience as an interior designer.

If you’ve met Jeff Sheats, you will understand when I describe him as a whirlwind of unlimited interior design creativity. His work is a prime example of someone who takes “getting to know his clients” to a whole other level.

“It’s my job to find out exactly what my clients want and how they ‘see’ the final outcome of what I need to accomplish for them. It’s not about me and what I want. It’s about them. To accomplish this takes a lot of interacting and a well-thought-out discovery plan,” he said.

Jeff accomplishes this by going on a personal “mind trip” with each customer. He calls it the “It’s You Survey.” The questions are unique in an industry where designers usually have a certain style, look and pallette for which they are known. With Jeff, you simply can’t put him in a box like that. He gets the big picture, and he’s a master at honing in on even the smallest details such as if the client is right or left handed; selecting a doorknob that brings out the personality of a client and door; or mixing patterns and colors that, when combined, create a cultural outcome not thought of before. I could go on. It is a fascinating process that he has developed so successfully that in the end, his finished interiors reflect the clients’ personalities to a tee.

“I think of it as satisfying the visual sensibilities of individual living habits. Once you have this insight, everything falls into place. I work with a lot of clients and their builders in new construction, as well as working with homeowners who want to stay where they are, but remodel their interiors and/or exteriors,” he adds. “My forte is building or remodeling spaces then furnishing them to meet the client’s lifestyle, comfort, and aesthetic desires.”

Jeff started this business nearly 19 years ago as a freelancer when his friends started asking him to help them design and decorate their homes. “I grew up in Carmel but moved to the Irvington area, bought a house, and remodeled it. I was involved in my family’s business at the time and hadn’t ventured out on my own until one friend’s project turned into another and, through word of mouth, it led to getting the opportunity to be mentored by two wonderful designers. This really gave me the foundation to open the doors for my own shop,” he said with thoughtful reflection. It’s obvious Jeff loves working with people and being part of the fabric of their lives. To spend a few moments with this creative interior designer is not enough to convey the knowledge that he has stored from his business and design degrees (Indiana and Purdue Universities) and the extensive first-person experience in doing what he obviously was born to do all over the world!

As I said earlier, he’s a whirlwind of unlimited design creativity. So if you are considering building or remodeling a home, or just need professional interior design assistance with furnishing your spaces, give Jeff a call. Even if it’s to be done one room at a time, there is no job too small or too large for Jeff and his talented associates.

For a detailed list of services and visual picture projects from A to Z, we encourage you to see for yourself the comprehensive world of Jeff Sheats Designs at www.jeffsheatsdesigns.com or email him direct at jsheats@jeffsheatsdesigns.com. Call for a consult (317) 357-0155.

Jeff Sheats Designs, Inc.
Jeff Sheats, Allied ASID RID
Indiana Registered Interior Designer No. 00052
Direct email address: jsheats@jeffsheatsdesigns.com
Website: www. jeffsheatsdesigns.com
Studio Phone: 317-357-0155

Living on the Edge with HVAC

It’s all in the family when it comes to keeping your family comfortable. In 1966, Jim Williams, Sr. set out to build a business with comfort as its middle name. Entering the heating and cooling industry, he started one of the first companies in Carmel dedicated to improving living environments and providing reliable indoor air quality in customers’ homes. Williams Comfort Air thrived, homeowners were pleased and he developed the reputation as a reliable caring community partner.

A few years ago, thinking it might be time to retire, Williams sold his company. But, retirement didn’t make him comfortable, thus Williams teamed up with his son, Jim, Jr., daughter Kelly and close friend, Tom Melangton to launch Edge Guys. Now, he is back in the comfort business. “I started my career in 1952, sweeping floors and cleaning bathrooms. I kept progressing until I was hired at Bolls Furnace Company in 1955. They are still in business today.” According to Williams, he learned his trade from his boss, Fran Bolls. He trained at the Williamson Company in equipment manufacturing, engineering and mechanical layouts and learned to hand craft sheet metal on the job. “Back then, we were still doing coal furnaces. Because of utilities and their expanding role in heating, we installed a lot of oil and gas furnaces in the late 1950’s and 1960’s. In that same era air conditioning was coming on strong in the automobile and in residential markets.”

Founder of Williams Comfort Air which sold. His son, Jim Williams, Jr. (1970's) started a new company, the Edge Guys.

As the comfort climate evolved, Williams knew it was time for him to make a change – from employee to employer. He established an office at the northwest corner of 116th and Range Line Road next to the Estridge IGA supermarket. “I worked alongside Paul Estridge when he was just getting into home building.” Carmel’s booming residential market in the 1960’s and 70’s paved the way for the growth of his company. Williams was instrumental in designing and installing HVAC systems in nearly 80-percent of all homes built during that time in neighborhoods like Brookshire, Cool Creek, and Woodland Springs working with innovative builders who plotted subdivisions and built home throughout Carmel.

“My son was born the same year as my company. Back then I could only hope he might be interested in the same line of work.” As his boy grew, Williams began taking him on jobs.

“My favorite memories when I was little are of Dad taking me to places like the Beehive, where Cancun is located today on Rangeline Road. All of the builders and subcontractors met to discuss business over coffee and made deals on a handshake,” said Williams, Jr. “I started working for Dad here and there, after school doing odd jobs and picking up parts at Hedback’s supply house.”

As he got older the tasks became more challenging. “I made sure my son got to do the dirtiest jobs possible, not to be mean but to teach him that he must be able to do what he asks his employees to do,” said the elder Williams. “I put my son in the hottest attics and smallest crawl spaces in an attempt to make him enjoy college and pick out a career of his own.” After a semester in school, Jim Jr. decided he wanted to work in his dad’s business full time doing something he loved and knew well. For 20 years, father and son, worked side by side.

Williams team in late 1970's

In 1992, the Williams duo hired Tom Melangton, a Carmel native, to run the sales and marketing efforts of Williams Comfort Air. “When Mr. Williams decided to retire, I knew there was going to be a change. I enjoyed working with the new owners but missed being on the Williams team.”

According to Jim Williams, Jr., because the family business was so highly respected, when it sold they agreed to a two-year non compete clause. “This would give the new owners an opportunity to engage with our existing customers. I created the Edge Guys thinking the company name would give me flexibility to do pretty much anything,” said Williams, Jr. “And it has. I’ve learned a lot over the few years I was out of HVAC. But, my Dad learned he missed the industry. Our two-year clause came to an end and we decided we should stick to what we know. HVAC.”

“I am honored to join the Williams team in their new venture. We want to get back to the grassroots of providing a high-level of exceptional service with a personal touch. We envision a boutique-style company,” said Melangton, head of sales and marketing. “The Edge Guys are classy guys that take the extra step to ensure that customers get full service and have a positive experience with climate control, as well as comfort in knowing we are going to send the right guys on time, in believing we will respect their homes, and confident that we have the expertise to get the job done right the first time.”

Not only are the Edge Guys taking the lead on service, they are on top of the latest technology and most energy efficient, high-end products representing Lennox and Heil HVAC systems and recently expanded to enhancing recreational comfort as the preferred dealer for Arctic Spas and Primo Grills. Their strong and devoted crew of professionals, are trained to install and maintain a wide variety of mechanical systems including competitor units, as well as service hot tubs around the clock in a timely manner with precision.

“Our goal is to try to fix it first and not just try to sell the customer something,” said Jim, Jr. “We work more and more with women running households and they are making the decision on which company to hire for the job. Our focus on comfort, not only refers to the HVAC system we are installing or servicing, but also includes paying special attention to our customers’ feelings, making certain they trust the Edge Guys in every way ensuring they are 100% comfortable with us working in their homes. After all comfort is our business.”

www.edgeguys.com
Edge Guys
290 Gradle Dr
Carmel, IN 46032
Phone: (317) 595-9720

At Morning Side of College Park, The Best is Yet to Come!

Morning Side near the Pyramids at 96th and Michigan Road.

Nestled in the shadow of the Pyramids of College Park, sits an elegant independent and assisted living apartment home complex, which was designed for both style and convenience The very private and beautifully kept grounds are surrounded with the luxuries of a fine resort.

The first thing I noticed when entering the front lobby of Morning Side of College Park was the laughter where residents and guests were gathered around a beautiful grand piano. The companionship of neighbors enjoying life was clearly present.

A tour of the large complex shows the diversity this senior community offers including impressive multiple floor plans that are based on particular lifestyle needs. Multiple levels of care are available as well for assisted living services, and therapy such as speech, physical and occupational can be arranged to make it convenient for residents to receive any additional care that might be needed in this community living environment.

Morning Side activity room.

A wide variety of daily scheduled activity opportunities for socialization, lifelong learning, inspiration and spirituality, hobbies and cultural arts are always in motion, and a lower level game room, theater, billiards room and full service beauty and barber shop compliment the wonderful physical fitness studio where keeping fit is easy to do.
Susan Albers is clearly at home in her position as Executive Director of Morning Side as the passion she feels for seniors resonates in her face as she speaks to finding her dream job some 6 years ago when she was looking for a new calling after a distinguished career in business development, fundraising and association management.

“I have often thought that we don’t revere our seniors as much as we should. To me, they are our past and within them exists a world of knowledge and a lifetime of experiences that speak to the core values of generations. It’s a rare privilege to share time and space with people who are unique within their lives joining together concentration camp survivors; World War II soldiers and pilots, a Pearl Harbor sailor survivor, retired presidents of companies and other special human beings all in one location. They are a wealth of folks ranging in age from 60 to 102 who bring rich, first-hand experiences to our family of residents. They teach us all so much. I can’t imagine my life now being centered anywhere else,” Albers said.

Susan Albers, Executive Director of Morning Side.

When asked what the most enjoyable part of her job was she answered,”Interacting daily with our residents and helping them with their independent and assisted living experience. In addition, getting to know and work with their families is a wonderful extension of our team of professionals. Our team goes way beyond what is expected. This is what real families do for each other.”

Morning Side is indeed host to a rich cultural exchange of residents with a sampling that includes a blend of Jewish, Irish, Polish, Greek, English, Russian and American heritage. Wonderful gatherings celebrating country traditions and tales of life experiences make for special times of joyful celebration, which are enhanced by Morning Side’s own executive chef, Gozo Schatz who is known for whipping up spectacular menu creations every day.

Yes, at Morning Side of College Park, you will hear a lot of laughter as the staff and the residents love to make each other smile. They share a common belief that laughter is a wonderful vitamin for life. It’s easy to see why this lovely senior complex is often referred to as a living, one-on-one caring community where the best is yet to come!

Morning Side of College Park, an Independent and Assisted Living Community is located at 8810 Colby Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46268. For more information call Susan at: (317) 872-4567 or visit their website at: www.morningsideofcollegepark.com

Titus Dentistry: All in the Family

Alex Titus, D.D.S.

Alex Titus knew from an early age exactly where his footprints would lead him in life. He wanted to be a dentist.  His uncle was a dentist and this family relationship would evolve into a direct personal desire to helping people with their dental needs.
“I saw my uncle solve problems that had to do with people who had toothaches or were embarrassed by their own smile.  His skills and care made a deep impression on me as a kid. I loved going to the dentist and always felt better after a visit to have my teeth cleaned or a cavity fixed,” he said with a beautiful smile of his own.

When he graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry there was never a question as to where he would set up his family dental practice office.

“I come from a big family. I grew up in Carmel and loved the area. I was fortunate to be able to take over the practice of a retiring dentist and the location on Medical Drive. Owning my own business allows me to be able to control my life and my involvement in the community, which is very  important to me,” he added.

This engaging young dentist balances his career with on-going advanced training to make sure that his patients benefit from his “one-stop” approach of care from cosmetic veneer enhancements to difficult bridge construction.

“It is important to me and my team to keep my practice based in the cutting edge of a high quality standard of care,” he reflected adding, “I don’t advertise a lot and am expanding my patient base mostly by referrals. To me, these personal referrals are important as it tells me I am  giving the best care available to my patients, and that they benefit from my skills and years of training. A healthy mouth and a beautiful smile are so very important.”

Giving Back
Dr. Titus  volunteers his time at the Trinity Free Clinic located on the north side of Carmel, which is a free dental and medical clinic.

Sam Titus (left), office manager and younger brother of Alex Titus, D.D.S (middle) with dental assistant Tammy Oyler. Sam has applied to IU School of Dentistry to follow in the family footsteps.

“What I see during my time at the Trinity Free Clinic are individuals who can’t afford or have no access to proper dental care. Helping them truly inspires me. It’s the least I can do and at the end of the day it is so very rewarding.  To me, it demonstrates a lack of care available in our society for so many people, and shows how the insurance industry has changed the landscape  of dental care. This worries me a great deal as dental care is so important in the overall wellness of an individual. Your mouth can reflect disease far beyond cavities. I believe that dental care is undervalued in today’s world. One day, hopefully this will change. Until that time comes, I will be engaged as a volunteer of dental care,” he says with conviction. Just for the record, he also works at Healthwise Dental located in Tipton for Medicaid patients. It’s clear this young dentist actively gives back to his community.

It is interesting to note that Alex Titus is not the only Titus in the dental field. His brother Jonathan is also a practicing dentist who sees patients with Alex. Sam, his younger brother currently working as the office manager, has recently applied to the IU School of Dentistry. There is also one more brother who is seriously considering following in the Titus tradition of producing fine dentists who really do love this professional field of dental care.  When you visit, you will also be introduced to Tammy Oyler, a dental assistant who makes you feel right at home within the Titus dental empire!

For additional information on Titus Dentistry, visit their website at www.titusdentistry.com or call for an appointment at (317) 844-8292.

Invest in Your Nest: Full Steam Ahead

After Shot.

Sometimes a simple repair can lead to a full remodeling job, as in the case of my own guest bathroom, which doubles as a steam shower, and was the most popular bathroom in the house for family members and our guests.

So when it came time to fix a small leak in the shower, I decided it was time to Invest in My Nest, with full steam ahead to give this bathroom the makeover it deserved!

Designer Wendy Prather of Lemire Design was the first to take a look at the room. “We knew that the plain vanity, dated faux painting, and little shower door had to go. In my mind, I wanted to go with a darker, sassy look instead of the neutrals. Wendy agreed and the transformation was started.”

The Carlini bathroom "before" the remodel.

The room was gutted and the opening to the shower was widened by 12 inches, which gave the shower a surprisingly larger look. It also exposed the back wall of the shower, suddenly making it a focal point and in need of something dramatic. We chose a tile pattern (Architectual Brick and Tile) made up of shimmery bronzes with random highlights of silver. It certainly made a statement and we decided on a glass door to show off the new wall of tile.

A strip of the same tile wrapped around the rest of the bathroom, topped with a unique black-bronze chair rail, custom flooring and ceramic tile all in the same hues (The Tile shop) really blended together filling out the rest of the bathroom.

Every project of redecorating can have it challenges and ours came in the tile selection, which came from three different stores with three different grouts. It took some work to make it all blend.

The plain white vanity was replaced with a sleek black cabinet (Zinn Kitchens, Inc.) topped with an exotic stone called Black Thunder (Stone Spectrum). A partially recessed Kohler glass bowl and a Pfister waterfall faucet (Fergusons) brought it all together.

The strip lighting and mirror were replaced with a framed backlit mirror (Glassworks by Design) and two chocolate colored crystal pendants that I found on the internet. A bronze shimmery faux finish (Faux painting by Lisa)was added to the walls and a silvery sparkle to the ceiling completing this steamy oasis ready for all to enjoy.

I did add a warming system to the floor so we wouldn’t get cold fee when it comes time to do the next remodeling project!

If you have a remodeling project in your home, let me know so we can follow your progress, too.

Divvy it Out – Small Plates, Big Impression

Richelle and Kevin "Woody" Rider - owners and chefs of Divvy and The Library in Carmel.

Good things come in small packages…and that is the absolute truth at the new, innovative and fun Divvy restaurant in Carmel, where small plates to share and “fun” are their specialty. There are over 100 cute, little scrumptious dishes on the menu to “divvy” out – from seafood, spreads, salty snacks, cheese, all types of meat, vegetarian, sweets and so on (and I can go on, trust me). Even the beer and wine tasters are cute and presented oh just so! One of the unique elements is the offering of gluten free, vegan and lactose free dishes, which is hard to find at most restaurants. Small plates are the “future of dining” according to Kevin “Woody” Rider, owner and chef of Divvy and The Library. For Kevin and his wife Richelle, fellow owner and chef alike, starting this restaurant was an easy choice. “We eat that way anyway,” said Kevin. “It’s a fun way to dine.”

The dishes at Divvy are the culmination of the past four years of Kevin and Richelle’s travels. “We ate at 27 restaurants in Seattle,” explained Kevin. “And you can’t go ten steps in Chicago without finding a great restaurant.” Another favorite dining destination was New York City. “Divvy is a melting pot of all those traveling adventures. We just wanted something different, edgy and fun.”

When you walk in the door you are immediately drawn into the chic and edgy atmosphere. “We wanted a wow factor,” Kevin said. “The bar tops are poured concrete, the floor is made entirely of reclaimed wood, the overhead lights look like floating clouds. You get a good feel when you come in.”

As you are greeted at your table, you are given the choice of sparkling or bottled water (for a nominal fee), plain tap water or their specialty tap water chilled and infused with a cucumber lemon mixture. Very refreshing and a great twist highlighting the things to come. “We wanted an alternative option that was of no cost to our customer,” said Kevin.

Before you even look at the menu, I suggest asking the wait staff to bring out two of their top favorite dishes to start, so you’ll have something to eat while you are reading over all the unique and flavorful options. And let’s face it, it never hurts to order a little extra!

I’ve been to Divvy twice and have a reservation for the third set up and waiting. This is my next order: I’ll start with a drink of course, will then order the warm bacon jam with pretzel breadsticks and horseradish mustard along with the gorgonzola balls. Moving right along to the corn crème brulee (or save this one as a dessert – it’s a nice sweet treat) and the scallop rockafellas. I would tell you what is in each of these, but it would take up too many words, so you’ll just have to go and see for yourself. Then I’ll order the Thanksgiving balls and bacon bites. Finishing my evening with a nightcap and the chocolate mousse (has a peanut butter glaze – OMG). But honestly, you can’t go wrong with any you choose. Just have fun and try something different.

I had the pleasure and privilege of taking behind the scenes (kitchen) photos. Richelle and two other chefs were working at top speeds to provide amazing turnaround times to the patrons. I was impressed. Every dish had a special added touch of art. “There will never be more than two dishes sharing the same flavor (i.e. sauce),” explained Kevin. From my personal experience and just watching several dishes go through the kitchen in about 20 minutes, each dish was unique and I’m certain they were all savored.

I would say it is the little things that count. Literally. Everything is just above and beyond the norm, from the décor, to the specialty water, to everything on the menu, to the little box of goodies you get with your bill – to either save for later or eat before you leave. (This is a very nice way to end your night.)

Reservations are recommended and it is 21 and over, so go ahead and get your date night or GNO (Girls Night Out) planned by calling 706-0000. Divvy is located at the Carmel City Center. You can’t miss it and there is plenty of parking! Enjoy. Or as Divvy says it “sip, share, savor.”

Something Sweet Even for Valentine Cynics

Connor Alderman enjoys a sweet Valentine's treat at Holy Cow Cupcakes.

Valentine’s Days is a holiday that divides people into one of three categories: hopeless romantics who go all out, cynical skeptics who refuse to participate in a “greeting card holiday,” and people who just like chocolate and flowers regardless of the occasion. Even if you fall into the second category, chances are someone in your life falls into one of the other two and forces you to celebrate Valentine’s Day. So if you’re going play nice and indulge your sweetie with some sweetness, then why not skip the old dinner and a movie standby and use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to try something different?

Everyone has heard the old expression, Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours. For this Valentine’s Day you could take that expression literally and learn to give your honey a massage. La Dolce Salon (1119 S Rangeline Road) offers a “Massage Your Mate” package that teaches you and your partner massage techniques to help each other achieve total relaxation. If the do-it-yourself approach is not for you, then maybe you’re better suited for a couples massage where the two of you will be treated to the massage of your choice in the same room with two massage therapists. Prices start at $75. And if spas are just not your thing at all, then consider gifting your sweetheart with a trip to La Dolce’s new “Makeover Mondays.” On the third Monday of each month each of the departments in La Dolce (hair, nails, etc) will host workshops where the pros will instruct clients on how to achieve salon looks at home. Contact the salon (317-848-0294) for more information or to make reservations.

Maybe you & your lovey are more “foodies” than “spa people” and you would like to splurge a bit on some culinary treats, but dinner at a fancy restaurant is still out of your price range? Consider putting together a basket of goodies from Vine & Table (313 East Carmel Drive). For less than $100, you could assemble a gorgeous basket with a fine wine, delicious cheese, and yummy chocolates. For wine lovers, Neil Charles of Vine & Table recommends Rosa Regale, a romantic sparkling red from Northern Italy ($22.95). For a nice splurge, Charles suggests a bottle of Chartogne Taillet Le Rose Brut ($61.95). Chartogne Taillet is unique in that they grow their own grapes for their champagnes. If your Valentine isn’t a oenophile, Charles suggests a nice bottle of bourbon, for example Black Maple Hill from Kentucky. Pair these with Sottocenere cheese ($25.49/lb), a decadent cheese infused with black truffles, or Delice De Bourgogne ($14.49/lb), a creamy French triple similar to brie. Top off your basket with a box of Ghyslain chocolates (starting at $12.99), which are made in Indiana. Each chocolate is hand painted and each design has an individual flavor. No reservations, no dress code to observe (you guys could even stay in PJs!), and if you wait until after bedtime no babysitter.

So you have some ideas for your special someone, but what about the rest of the gang? Kids definitely fall into the “people who like chocolate regardless of the occasion” category and there’s no reason to leave them out of the Valentine’s Day fun. At Holy Cow Cupcakes (61 W. City Center Drive) you can load up on special Valentine treats such as heart shaped cupcakes, cookies and cinnamon rolls. The bakery will also be playing off the idea of the traditional box of chocolates by creating special chocolate cupcakes with filled with an assortment of flavors such as raspberry or peanut butter. Holy Cow will even deliver a dozen of their Valentine cupcakes right to your door (starting at $24 per dozen with $5 delivery fee). Says Karen Vonkamecke Sutton, owner of Holy Cow, “Our cupcakes delivered are cheaper than flowers and much tastier!”

To help everyone work off their sugar you can take the family over to Carmel Ice Skadium (1040 3rd Avenue Southwest). On Friday, February 10 and Saturday, February 11 from 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., the rink offers Cosmic Skating. The rink plays dance music and turns on the funky lights for a little disco party on ice. If you have younger folks who find that disco skating interferes with their bedtime, Carmel Ice Skadium also offers public skating from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. most weekend days. Admission is $5 for 10 yrs and younger, $6.50 for 11 and up, $8 for Cosmic Skate and $3 for skate rental.

Whether you are of the opinion that Valentine’s Day is a trumped up holiday to boost winter flower sales or whether you believe that Valentine’s Day is the single most romantic day of the year and must be celebrated, there are plenty of local options to satisfy your needs. Wine, cupcakes, and massages are tokens of affection that even the most hardcore Valentine grump will appreciate.

Green B.E.A.N. Brings the Farmer’s Market to Your Front Door

Matt Ewer, owner of Green B.E.A.N. Delivery, is here holding organic produce at his Feel Good Farm in Sheridan, Indiana.

One of summer’s little luxuries is being able to amble through the local farmer’s market, sampling new foods and picking up fresh, local produce. But what if summer mornings are consumed by soccer games or baseball practice, and what happens when the farmer’s market goes away with the winter weather? Where can a shopper turn to find good local foods? Green B.E.A.N.Delivery, a home delivery service of organic produce and natural groceries has a solution to this dilemma.

Founded in 2007 by Matt Ewer and Beth Blessing, a husband-wife team and Indiana natives, Green B.E.A.N. sought to fill a hole in the local market by providing convenient and affordable access to foods from local farmers and artisans. Says Matt, “We knew that everyone has a busy life, and so we felt that if we could make healthy food options convenient that it would be utilized.”

After a short stint on the west coast where Beth earned her Masters degree in Nutrition and Matt worked as the General Manager of Full Circle Farm, they decided to return to Indiana to start their family and to fulfill their dream of owning a farm. Matt’s knowledge of buying, selling, and growing produce combined with Beth’s nutritional acumen, they decided to work backwards toward reaching the goal of owning a farm. First, they would partner with local farmers and artisans to delivery their goods and eventually purchase their own farm where they would grow many of the organic items that they deliver.

Starting with just 4 employees and utilizing word of mouth and social media as marketing tools, Green B.E.A.N. has grown to having nearly a 100 employees and delivering approximately 2,000 food bins to customers in the greater Indianapolis area. When asked for his opinion as to why the organization grew so quickly, Matt responded, “We have a good understanding that you only grow when you are providing a good product. Since the beginning we have been very focused on the quality of our products and service.”

So how does Green B.E.A.N. work? A customer simply logs on to the website (www.greenbeandelivery.com) and creates an account. The only requirements for membership is a standing order totaling $35 or more. This standing order consists of the produce bin you select and the frequency of delivery, either weekly or bimonthly. The produce bins come in small (for a small family or 2-3 people), medium (sized for a family of 4), or large (sized for a large family). Additional options include a fruit only bin and a produce plus groceries bin. All bins include a mix of seasonal produce. A unique aspect of Green B.E.A.N. is that, unlike similar food delivery services (such as a CSA), members may customize their bins with items they can choose from the company website. The company delivers each bin to the customer’s home on their scheduled date.

“Lots of members have reported weight loss after starting the program,” says Matt. “If healthy food choices are dropped off at your door, you will eat healthier.”

Heather Mullins of Carmel, whose family has been using Green B.E.A.N. for 2 years, agrees. “We decided to use Green B.E.A.N. because we wanted fresh organic produce and dairy in our home at all times. We also thought if we had produce automatically delivered to our house we would be more likely to eat it, and we were right.”

Beth Blessing & Matt Ewer, owners and founders of Green B.E.A.N. Delivery, with their daughter and dog on the Feel Good Farm.

This year Ewer and Blessing realized their dream when they opened Feel Good Farm, a 60-acre organic farm in Sheridan, Indiana. “The B.E.A.N. in our name stands for Biodynamic Education Agriculture and Nutrition, and in 2011 we really focused on agriculture by opening the farm,” says Ewer. In addition to the foods they grow at Feel Good, they typically utilize about 100 different growers during the season with an emphasis on using local farmers. According to Ewer, “Local food is so important to the local community.” In addition to the greater Indianapolis area, Green B.E.A.N. also delivers to Fort Wayne, Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Louisville. Plans for 2012 include developing a farm in the Cincinnati area.

Supporting the local community is a top priority to Green B.E.A.N. “We believe in showing what a food company can do. We take our community partnerships very seriously,” says Ewer. In the 4 years that they have been operating, Green B.E.A.N. has donated over 125,000 pounds of food to local food banks and charities. Green B.E.A.N. partners with Gleaners Food Bank and Second Helpings, as well as organizing their own ongoing food drive, called Constant Can Food Drive. Members can place canned goods into their empty bins for pick up on delivery days to make an easy donation. “It’s important for members to know that when they choose us as a delivery service their money is staying within the community, both by supporting local growers and artisans as well as local charities.” That commitment extends to the customer service they provide their members. Says Mullins, “They are a great business because they provide excellent customer service and are very flexible. The few times we have had an issue over the past 2 years it was quickly resolved. I recommend them to all our friends.”

“It’s been one heck of a ride,” comments Ewer when asked about Green B.E.A.N.’s rapid success, “but we knew if we offered a quality service that the reaction would be positive, and we’re proud of what we’ve been able to do.” So while that weekly stroll through the farmer’s market is a distant memory this time of year, by delivering fresh, local, and quality produce and groceries to customers, Green B.E.A.N. is bringing that farmer’s market experience right to your front door.

For more information on Green B.E.A.N., please go to the company website www.greenbeandelivery.com and their blog at www.greenbeandelivery.com/thehealthytimes.

Carmel’s Mary and Martha’s: An Exceedingly Chic Boutique

Laura Shattuck, owner, and her daughter Lillian Bernard, store manager - Mary & Martha's Exceedingly Chic Boutique.

“…Clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Colossians 3:12

Laura Shattuck wanted to open a retail store based on the philosophy that fashion is about textures, color and movement. She also wanted women to embrace their own body with wonder, no matter what size is marked on the tag. That’s one of the reasons Mary and Martha’s clothing inventory carries sizes from 0 to 20.

The name of the store is unique in that it was conceived from a biblical reference from the book of Luke. “I wanted the store to have a focus not only for the business, but for me to live by as well. My life is truly about honoring my faith and my family. Fashion should be something that enhances your personal story. What you wear should enhance how you feel inside as well as on the outside,” Laura states in a quiet manner.

Lillian Bernard serves with her mother as the store’s manager. Knowledgeable in all areas of the store’s inventory it is a good pairing for this chic Carmel boutique located at 111 W. Main Street which opened on July 22, 2005.

Mary & Martha's is located at 111 W. Main Street in the Carmel Arts & Design District.

The fashionable store carries many lines of clothes from formal wear to casual blue jeans, jewelry, purses, scarves, hats and mittens and, Aquiesse candles (Made from soy that can also be used as a moisturizer for the hands. When the wax melts and is warm to touch, just rub it in with no need to peal).

“We love bringing new styles and merchandise to the Carmel area. With all the new construction that has taken place over the last few years it hasn’t always been easy, but we dedicated our efforts to doing whatever it took to keep the business open and growing. In the end, it has put the Midwest in the spotlight in a very positive way. Carmel is now a destination city and Mary and Martha’s is in a super location,” said Laura.

“There are so many new events taking place every week now in Carmel that present an opportunity for our customers to take advantage of our inventory and for us to help them find their own personal style. If we don’t have something they want, we will go the extra mile to find it for them. We hand select every piece of our merchandise with 40% of our stock exclusive to Carmel. For instance, we carry the Masterpiece line of Brighton (there are 3 lines attached to this brand). Workmanship on the Masterpiece line is exquisite and hard to find in some areas,” adds Lillian.

Customers are inclined to shop and then sit down on the comfy couch to touch base with each other and Laura and Lillian. It’s obvious that customers appreciate the extra service and warm atmosphere present in Mary and Martha’s. That’s a sound endorsement for a business philosophy based on a higher purpose.

Mary and Martha’s is located at: 111 W. Main Street, Suite 120, Carmel, IN
For more information call: (317) 848.2624
Website: www.maryandmarthas.com