Center Grove Magazine July 2026

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

AUTO

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS

AUTOMOTIVE

GREENWOOD (317) 740-1883 cbac.com/greenwood

KOPETSKY AUTO WASH (844) 927-4386 CG (844) 529-2833 GW kwash.com

MY BABY DETAILING (317) 360-9222 mybabydetailing.com

BANKING

EVERWISE CREDIT UNION everwisecu.com

JCBANK (317) 884-8817 jcbank.com

COUNSELING

SERENITY COUNSELING

COACHING CONSULTING (317) 210-0662 serenitynowllc.com

DENTAL

SAUER DENTISTRY (317) 865-1234 sauerdentistry.com

DRIVING

ACADEMY

DRIVING ACADEMY (317) 534-0016 drivingacademy.com

EVENT CENTERS

BARN AT BAY HORSE INN (317) 760-8778 barnatbayhorse.com

CHURCH ON JEFFERSON (317) 527-6417 churchonjefferson.com

EXTRACURRICULAR

CODE NINJAS (317) 360-9732

codeninjas.com/inindianapolis

FITNESS

VICTORY STRENGTH & FITNESS (317) 721-2821 victorystrengthandfitness. net

FOOT & ANKLE

CARROLL FOOT & ANKLE CLINIC (317) 799-9000 carrollfootdoc.com

FUNCTIONAL & INTEGRATIVE

HEALTH

ELEVATE HEALTH (317) 708-0798 elevatehealthcg.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK ecommunity.com

JOHNSON MEMORIAL HEALTH (317) 736-3300 johnsonmemorial.org

ORTHOINDY (317) 802-2000 orthoindy.com

FRANCISCAN (317) 528-5000 franciscanhealth.org

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

COOL INTERIORS, LLC

DECORATE • DECLUTTER • UNPACK • ORGANIZE (317) 223-3042 facebook.com/ coolinteriorsllc

CLOSETS BY DESIGN (317) 779-3212 closetsbydesign.com

FURNITURE FAIR (800) 966-3040 furniturefair.net/pages/ greenwood

HOME SERVICES

1-800-WATERDAMAGE (317) 399-9141 1800waterdamage.com

A PERFECT CLIMATE HEATING & COOLING (317) 868-7274 indianapolis-hvac.com

BLUE KANGAROO PACKOUTZ (463) 263-9114 bluekangaroopackoutz. com/greater-indianapolis

RAPTOR ROOFING (317) 886-0696 raptorroofing.com

VIP HOME SOLUTIONS & RESTORATION (317) 883-4847 vip-homesolutions.com

WINTERS PLUMBING (317) 696-5844 wintersplumbers.com

INSURANCE

INDIANA FARM BUREAU INSURANCE/ NEER AGENCY (317) 360-7500 x3321 infarmbureau.com/ agency/owner/BryanNeer-JohnsonGreenwood-IN

INVESTMENTS

JCBANK (812) 524-7965 jcbank.com

MORTGAGE LENDING

JCBANK (317) 506-7235 jcbank.com

OFFICE SUITES

CHURCH ON JEFFERSON (317) 884-1100 churchonjefferson.com

PLASTIC SURGERY

HAMILTON FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY (317) 210-4339 hamiltonfps.com

POOLS

POOLS BY CORY (317) 800-5093 poolsbycory.com

RESTAURANTS

ARNI’S (317) 881-0500 meetyouatarnis.com

VERDE FLAVORS OF MEXICO (317) 893-4084 verdeflavorsofmexico.com

SPA

BAYBERRY SPA (317) 893-5370 bayberryspa.com

SPORTS CG SPORTS NETWORK

@cgsportsnetwork

WEDDING SERVICES

JUST THE TWO OF US WEDDING SERVICES LLC (317) 416-7777 justthetwoofus weddingservices.com

*Valid at Greenwood location only. Excludes diesels. Up to 5 quarts. Shop supplies & taxes extra. Most cars/light trucks. Cannot combine with any other offer. Present coupon at time of service to receive discount. Expires July 31, 2026

SAVE ON ANY SERVICE

$ 25 OFF* $ 250+

$ 50 OFF* $ 500+

$ 75 OFF* $ 750+

$ 100 OFF* $ 1000+

*Valid at Greenwood location only. Excludes tires & batteries. Cannot combine with any other offer. Present coupon at time of service to receive discount. Limited time only.

DIAGNOSTIC WITH COUPON $99.95 VALUE

*Valid at Greenwood location only. Any additional parts and/or labor extra. Cannot combine with any other offer. Present coupon at time of service to receive discount. Limited time only.

• Check Brake Pads

• Check Rotor Surface

• Check Brake Fluid

• Check Brake Components

*Valid at Greenwood location only. Any additional parts and/or labor extra. Cannot combine with any other offer. Present coupon at time of service to receive discount. Limited time only.

scan here to schedule online Locally Operated by Jeremy & Casey Forsyth 317-740-1883 Christian Brothers Automotive Greenwood 317-740-1883 • cbac.com/greenwood 4985 W Smith Valley Rd • Greenwood, IN 46142

PUBLISHER FREDDA KOVACS fredda@townepost.com (463) 283-6613 KEY CONTRIBUTORS STEFANY DOLAN ANDREA EMERSON NANCY HAMMERSTROM ALEXIS HUBLER, TIDES SOCIAL ROBERT JONES

KEVIN CONRAD, CG SPORTS NETWORK CHARRIE STAMBAUGH, PHOTOG BOSS, LLC

Skylake Adventures Brings Floating Obstacle Courses, Towering Slides And Lakeside Fun To A New Family Destination

Center Grove Girls Tennis Captured Sectional, Regional And Semistate Titles While Advancing To The Ihsaa State Finals In One Of The Program’s Most Successful Seasons

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

EDITOR JOSH BROWN

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

Maybe it’s riding a bike. Walking the golf course. Gardening without pain. Or simply getting through the day comfortably. Whatever “feeling like yourself again” means to you, our orthopedic team is here to help get you there.

You don’t have to travel far for world-class orthopedic care. Our experienced surgeons bring advanced technology right here to Johnson County. For you, that means improved outcomes, faster recovery and getting back to doing the things you love.

“FLYING OVER THE TRACK AT THE INDY 500 WAS TRULY AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE. I WAS BEAMING WITH PRIDE THAT THE 38TH COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE COULD EXECUTE THIS MISSION AND REPRESENT THE INDIANA NATIONAL GUARD AND THE UNITED STATES ARMY ON SUCH A PUBLIC STAGE. HEARING THE SOUND OF THE CROWD FROM THE COCKPIT AS WE FLEW AROUND THE TRACK IS A MEMORY NONE OF US WILL EVER FORGET.”

“MY FAITH, MY FAMILY AND THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE I GET TO WORK WITH TRULY INSPIRE ME. I LOVE WEARING THE UNIFORM EVERY DAY, AND BEING PART OF SOMETHING SO MUCH BIGGER THAN MYSELF IS TRULY AN HONOR.”

SCOTT A. ODEN COLONEL, AVIATION COMMANDER, 38TH COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE DIRECTOR, AVIATION & SAFETY (SAAO) INDIANA NATIONAL GUARD INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

WHY CHOOSE US?

• Compassionate and Caring Staff

• Cutting-Edge Technology

• Convenient Location

• Emergency Same-Day Appointments

• Every Patient is Treated Like Family

• 100’s of 5 Star Google Reviews

SERVICES WE OFFER

• Foot and Ankle Surgery

• Ingrown Nails

• Sports Injuries

• Diabetic Foot Care

• Custom Orthotics

• Any and All Foot and Ankle Problems

Saving Lives One Foot at a Time

For comprehensive foot and ankle care, rely on our skilled team. Visit our advanced facility and committed staff to enhance your mobility and comfort.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2026

JULY

2

FIREWORKS ON THE RANGE

Hickory Stick Golf Club

4422 Thompson Blvd.

5-10:15 p.m.

Join the 250th birthday celebration of the USA! Bring the whole family out for an incredible evening of fun, food, and a spectacular fireworks show. Bounce houses, games, face painting, live music from Tastes Like Chicken.

2

FREE FAMILY SWIM

Franklin Family Aquatic Center

396 Branigin Blvd.

6-8 p.m.

Free pool entry, patriotic music and free American flag pinwheels to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

3

FRANKLIN FIRECRACKER FESTIVAL

Franklin Amphitheater

237 W. Monroe St.

5-11 p.m.

Kick off the celebration weekend with food vendors, entertainment, fireworks and more. Food trucks, beer garden and live music starting at 5 p.m. Fireworks begin at 10:10 p.m.

4

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Happy 250th birthday, America!

4-5

MALLOW RUN WINERY RED, WHITE & BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL

6964 W. Whiteland Rd.

Bargersville, Indiana

2-10 p.m.

Celebrate American summertime with the annual release of Mallow Run Winery’s blueberry wine and blueberry hard cider, plus food trucks and live music. Saturday’s event is 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and features music from The Bishops and a fireworks finale. Sunday’s music features Park Avenue Band from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. There is a $10 per car charge on Saturday after 5 p.m.

9, 23

BARGERSVILLE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Umbarger Plaza 118 Baldwin St.

7-9 p.m.

Bring a lawn chair and enjoy live music, community and fun at this free concert series, all summer long. Beer & wine garden and food trucks on site at each event.

11

GREENWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY ART FESTIVAL

310 S. Meridian St.

Greenwood, Indiana

11 a.m.-2 p.m.

All ages are invited to watch nearly a dozen local artists at work. Learn about their different art forms, ask questions and try your hand at some collaborative art projects. The library will also be unveiling its Bloom at the Library community art project spearheaded by Patty Fulton from Weaving in Community.

16

ARTS IN OLD TOWN 2

OLD TOWN GREENWOOD

Greenwood, Indiana

5:30-8:30 p.m.

Enjoy this summer series taking place the third Thursday of each month from June through September, featuring artists and artisan vendors, live music, live art demonstrations and an interactive community art project.

19-25

JOHNSON COUNTY FAIR

250 Fairground St.

Franklin, Indiana

8 a.m.-11 p.m.

Nothing says ‘summer’ quite like the County Fair. Enjoy rides, games, food, music and great events like the demolition derby and rodeo.

LOCAL YOUNG PATRIOT’S ADVENTURE TO THE NATION’S CAPITAL

Since the 1870s, the White House Easter Egg Roll has been a longstanding U.S. tradition held annually on Easter Monday on the South Lawn of the White House. This popular event features egg rolling, music, games and family activities.

This spring, Jace Harte, a Center Grove Middle School Central sixth grader, had the incredible honor of attending. Accompanied by his parents, Robert and Laura Harte-Ob-

lon, he traveled to Washington, D.C., for what they describe as a surreal and deeply meaningful experience.

They kicked off their adventure with breakfast at Founding Farmers DC, a well-known restaurant where senators and government officials are often spotted starting their day.

“It was the perfect beginning — sitting in the heart of the nation’s capital, surround-

ed by history and possibility,” says Laura Harte-Oblon.

Then it was on to the White House for the Easter Egg Roll. Jace was especially captivated by watching the United States Marines perform — a highlight that spoke directly to his heart. His dream is to one day serve in the U.S. Air Force, and the experience only strengthened that calling.

During the event, Jace had the opportunity to see Usha Vance and Melania Trump, as well as several senators and members of the U.S. House of Representatives enjoying the event with their families.

Laura Harte-Oblon recounts an unforgettable moment.

“Standing just feet away from the Oval Office in the Rose Garden, Jace looked at me and said, ‘Mom, that’s going to be my office someday.’”

The family also explored the city in one of the most enjoyable ways possible — riding scooters through the streets of Washington. They visited war memorials and took in some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks, including the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

Timing was everything, as their visit coincided with Washington’s breathtaking cherry blossom season, adding even more beauty to an already unforgettable trip.

One of the most meaningful parts of their visit was a private tour of the U.S. Capitol, graciously arranged by Congressman Jefferson Shreve and his team.

Nate Pettyjohn, an intern from Franklin, Indiana, served as their guide. Discovering that Pettyjohn attends Emmanuel Church, the Harte-Oblons’ home church, created an instant connection and made the experience even more special.

Pettyjohn’s vast knowledge brought history to life in an engaging way as he explained the Capitol’s history, architecture and traditions with passion and clarity.

Jace was especially fascinated by the hidden details and symbolism throughout the Capitol — what he proudly referred to as the “secrets” of the building. From architecture to untold stories, every moment deepened his appreciation for the nation’s history.

The family wrapped up their adventure with bike rides through the city, picking up souvenirs and soaking in the final moments of the trip. From museums and monuments to historic restaurants and unexpected connections, Washington offers something unforgettable at every turn.

“While our trip was quick, it was filled to the brim with experiences we’ll cherish for a lifetime,” says Harte-Oblon. “More than anything, it reminded me how important it is to give children opportunities to see, feel and understand the foundation of our country.”

She adds, “Jace left inspired, proud and dreaming bigger than ever. And as a mom, there is nothing more powerful than watching your child stand in the place where history is made — and believe with all his heart that one day, he will be part of it.”

For Jace, the trip was more than a visit to the nation’s capital. It was an experience that inspired him to dream bigger, appreciate history and envision a future of service.

MAKING A SPLASH

SKYLAKE ADVENTURES BRINGS FLOATING OBSTACLE COURSES, TOWERING SLIDES AND LAKESIDE FUN TO A NEW FAMILY DESTINATION

Writer / Nancy Hammerstrom Photographer / Robert Jones

A new nature-based adventure park has splashed into central Indiana, offering thrills from a giant floating obstacle course and multi-slide jump towers to climbing and sliding fun for young children and carefree swimming for all.

SKYLAKE Adventures, sprawling across 133 acres in Sheridan, opened in early June, just in time for guests to experience an exciting new way to escape the sweltering summer humidity.

The brainchild of founders Sean Howard and Phil Sack, SKYLAKE Adventures was inspired by travels with their families to different states and watching their children’s enthusiasm for water parks.

Their vision was to bring this type of entertainment to the local community for their children, grandchildren and other families to enjoy, according to Ben Peacock, general manager of SKYLAKE Adventures.

Kids of all ages are welcome — from 2 to 102. Even if guests prefer something low-key on the beach, like lounging in a chair while soaking up the sun or people-watching in the comfort of the shade, every member of the

family can find something to enjoy.

“Maybe it’s grandparents that want to come here and just watch their children in the water enjoying themselves, and we will have those opportunities for everybody. So it really is somewhere where everybody, from all levels and all ages, can come out here and enjoy,” Peacock says.

There are three beaches, each offering a different vibe. Children can laugh their cares away by building sandcastles in the soft sand and playing in shallow water at Splash Beach. SKY Beach is designed for families and teens who love social energy, while adults may prefer the quieter, more relaxed Sunset Sands.

SKYLAKE offers equipment to rent on-site, including umbrellas, chairs and aquabanas, as well as paddleboards and kayaks for those who want a bit more physical activity across six acres of water.

For those who can’t get enough thrills, “we’ve got this ‘Zoom Flume,’ which is a bit of an adrenaline ride; it’s a 90-foot slide,” Peacock says. “That’s for children over 48 inches tall. They can have a great time on that.” With

two water slides available, kids can race their friends down the hill and into the water.

An even bigger thrill is “The X Tower,” a 40-foot-tall floating deck with 10 water slides, cliff-sized jump platforms and drops.

“It’s a really fun attraction, one of only two in the U.S.,” Peacock says. “It came over from France, and it is a sight. When you’re driving down U.S. 31, you can actually see it, which is exciting as well.”

Kids can enjoy a friendly contest with friends while bouncing, balancing and climbing around an obstacle course called Splash Challenge, while their younger siblings can do the same on the smaller Tidal Trek.

After expending their energy, families can refuel at one of several food trucks, including Tropical Snow, Indi Taco, Pastelitos, Chef Dan, Zobots, Porkopolis and Union Jack. They can enjoy their meals at one of the many nearby picnic tables.

After summer ends, the adventure will continue on land with the addition of a High Ropes Treetop Course slated to open this fall and an all-season tubing hill this winter.

More indoor attractions will follow next year, including a conference center, according to Peacock.

The addition of SKYLAKE Adventures helps the area benefit economically in more than one way. The park has created jobs for 90 people in the community, including 35 lifeguards.

A collaboration with Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield can also help encourage out-of-town visitors to stay a little longer after attending a game.

“What we wanted to do was create a partnership where people wanted to spend the weekend here or maybe even a week,” Peacock says. “Now it’s a bit more of a stayand-play destination.”

SKYLAKE Adventures is located at 22105 Dunbar Road, Sheridan, IN 46069. For more information, including admission prices, hours and reservations, go to skylakeindiana. com or call 317-647-4759.

A STORE THAT KNOWS YOUR NAME

BRIANNE’S BOUTIQUE BUILDS COMMUNITY THROUGH CONNECTION

Most stores know you by a number — a loyalty card, a phone number or a purchase history buried in a database. At Brianne’s Boutique, somebody knows your name — and probably knows what you’re looking for before you do.

Sara Brianne Slaughter likens it to seeing a friend in each customer.

“We view you as a best friend walking into our home. A best friend we haven’t seen in a month,” Slaughter says.

That intentional relationship-building approach is something Slaughter absorbed over a lifetime while watching her mother, Teresa Dillard, build a successful store on the same stretch of State Road 135 for nearly four decades. In the age of

Writer / Andrea Emerson

Photography / Alexis Hubler, Tides Social

e-commerce and retail giants, it’s the kind of neighborly, corner-store experience that’s increasingly rare.

HOMEGROWN AND RELATIONSHIP-DRIVEN

Back in 1989, Slaughter’s mother purchased a small Hallmark store from its original owner and grew it into one of the largest Hallmark stores in the country. Slaughter grew up inside it. When the duo opened Brianne’s Boutique together in 2011, the same instincts that built Teresa’s Hallmark became the foundation for Brianne’s Boutique.

“We’ve created a culture based on treating people right,” says Slaughter. “It’s heartfelt. It’s not a box you check off.”

Customers who grew up in the area still talk about visiting the Hallmark store as children for Beanie Babies, Webkinz and whatever that year’s must-have item happened to be.

“They have these core memories of visiting our store,” Slaughter says.

Now she and Dillard are working to create the same experience at Brianne’s Boutique — new traditions for a new generation of families and reasons to visit that go beyond a transaction.

That culture shows up in the details. Since day one, the store has recorded customer names on receipts — not phone numbers, not loyalty card numbers, but names. When Brianne’s Boutique moved into its new, larger space this spring, the idea of switching to a more conventional identifier was discussed. The staff quickly rejected

“They said, ‘How are we supposed to know who our customers are if we switch?’” Slaughter says. So the names stayed.

That attentiveness extends well beyond the sales floor. When staff members learn a customer is experiencing a difficult time, they often reach out with cards, bereavement gifts or a phone call.

“I can’t think of another store that even knows my first name,” Slaughter says, “let alone one that would send me a note because the last time I came in, I was having a bad day.”

NEW SPACE, SAME FEEL

Brianne’s new location, formerly home to Teresa’s Hallmark for decades, represents a significant expansion. The 7,000-square-foot store features seven dressing rooms, dedicated shop-in-shop spaces for popular brands and an upstairs event space planned for fashion shows, workshops and seasonal displays.

To Slaughter, the details matter.

“I spent two and a half hours in our dressing rooms yesterday. They are so beautiful and comfortable. We want you to feel good when you’re trying on clothes,” she says.

Slaughter intentionally seeks out brands

with limited local distribution. Shoppers will find names such as Brighton, Hammitt, Kendra Scott, Tribal and Judy Blue alongside newer discoveries she sources each season.

While many of those brands can also be found online, customers continue to shop in person.

“Customers also want to support us

because we support them,” Slaughter says.

WORTH THE DRIVE

Shopping at Brianne’s often feels like a gathering of old friends. Regulars run into each other in the aisles. Strangers help one another in fitting rooms. People linger.

“It’s almost like an event when you come shopping because you get to see your friends,” Slaughter says.

The concept is simple: park once and shop twice.

Building that kind of environment has always been the goal.

A 2005 Center Grove High School graduate, Slaughter has long been rooted on the south side. She and Dillard used to drive north on weekends to shop because that’s where the best stores were. To Slaughter, that always felt like a gap worth filling.

“I think Brianne’s is good for the community,” she says. “There haven’t been a lot of options down here.”

Brianne’s Boutique celebrates 15 years in September, and the next chapter is already underway.

Later this fall, Slaughter and her husband, Jacob, will open Collier Outfitters next door

“A lot of couples shop with us, making us part of their Saturday morning routine,” Slaughter says. “They get coffee, run errands, and Brianne’s is one of their stops. Now the husband can shop next door.”

For Slaughter, the new space, expanded brand selection and addition of Collier Outfitters are all part of a deliberate effort to create something the south side hasn’t had before — a homegrown, multigenerational shopping destination that can’t easily be replicated.

“We have everything you’re looking for,” she says. “This is a destination that’s worth the drive.”

Brianne’s Boutique is located at 49 N. State Road 135 in Greenwood and online at briannesboutique.com.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Nutrient (pill) 4. End of war

7. Nervously restless

DOWN

1. Disappeared

2. Every time

3. Actor, ... Nolte

4. Settles account

8. Wrap for head & shoulders

9. Remained

12. Leaves (sinking ship)

5. Pilot

6. Fragrant type of tea, ... Grey

10. Move to music

11. Make happen

15. Regional speeches

17. Greatly pleased

18. Complete

21. Of the beach 22. Family adage 23. Deserved

13. Followed secretly

14. Lowest British titled rank

16. Italian sausage

18. To ... it may concern 19. Resound 20. Pacify

GLITTER & GRATITUDE GALA CELEBRATES THE HEART OF JOHNSON COUNTY’S NONPROFIT COMMUNITY

Writer / Stefany Dolan, becauseOne Photography / Charrie Stambaugh, Photog Boss, LLC

On an evening filled with music, laughter and meaningful moments, nonprofit leaders from across Johnson County gathered for the third annual Glitter & Gratitude Gala — an event designed to simply celebrate those who spend their lives serving others.

Originally launched in 2024 as a Leadership Johnson County project, with the financial backing of Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, the gala was created with a clear purpose: to recognize and honor the individuals behind the missions that quietly and consistently shape and serve our community.

During traditional events, nonprofits are focused on making sure the evening goes off without a hitch. Glitter & Gratitude flips the script. Instead of nonprofit leaders planning and making sure the evening runs smoothly, a group of community champions hosts an

evening that provides an opportunity for nonprofit leaders to pause and be celebrated.

This year’s event was inspired by the spirit of the ’60s and ’70s — Peace, Love & Gratitude: A Night of Soul & Service. Guests were welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, themed attire and even live art created throughout the night by local artists. From the moment attendees arrived, there was a shared sense that this night was different.

It wasn’t just about the décor or entertainment — it was about the people in the room.

Throughout the evening, guests were reminded of the deeper purpose behind their work. A heartfelt message from Dr. Carolyn Goerner encouraged attendees to reflect on the lessons of popular television shows: connection, resilience and community —

values that have long stood the test of time and continue to define nonprofit leadership today.

The night gave way to celebration, with dancing, laughter and moments of genuine connection among peers who are often focused on meeting the needs of others.

The evening was full of surprises, many of which came during the awards presentation. In a unique and meaningful approach, award recipients were not aware they had been nominated. As names were announced, honorees took the stage with tearful smiles to accept their awards.

This year’s recipients included:

• Kendee Kolp, executive director of Reach for Youth, and Becky Allen, director of transportation at ACCESS Johnson County,

both honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for their lasting impact and dedication to the community.

• Jesse Hicks, District 7 junior vice commander of VFW Post 6978, who received the Catalyst of Hope Award for his commitment to serving others.

• Turning Point Domestic Violence Services of Johnson County, which received the inaugural People’s Choice Award — an honor determined by votes from fellow nonprofit organizations and event attendees. The award was accepted by Johnson County Director Michele Lee.

Each recognition served as a powerful reminder of the lives being changed every day throughout Johnson County — often quietly and without recognition.

In the nonprofit sector, where the work is constant and the needs are great, moments of celebration can be few and far between. This event creates space for nonprofit leaders to step away from their responsibilities, connect with one another and be reminded that their work matters — not just in outcomes, but in the lives they touch.

The gala continues to grow as a beloved tradition within the community. What began as a leadership project has evolved into an annual moment of connection and encouragement — one that nonprofit leaders can look forward to each year.

The momentum isn’t slowing down.

Planning is already underway for next year’s event, which will take place on Tuesday, April 13, 2027. As the community looks ahead, one thing remains clear: the heart behind the Glitter & Gratitude Gala will continue to shine a light on those who give so much of themselves — ensuring they, too, have a moment to feel seen, valued and celebrated.

For more information about the Glitter & Gratitude Gala initiative and Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, contact Beau Jackson at 317-452-6927 or beau.m.jackson@ mwarep.org.

Expanding Community at Stones Crossing

Community Health Network is expanding the Stones Crossing family medicine team.

Community is excited to broaden access to exceptional primary care at our Stones Crossing Pavilion by expanding our space in the pavilion and adding additional providers to our team. And now, all of our primary care services are together on the third oor of the pavilion, making it even more convenient to get the care you and your family need.

Whether you’re looking for annual checkups, pediatric care, management of chronic conditions or comprehensive healthcare services, our experts provide it all — in one convenient location. With more primary care physicians in your neighborhood, receiving exceptional care just got easier.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our team at the Stones Crossing Pavilion, call 317-497-2400 or visit eCommunity.com/StonesCrossing.

A SEASON TO REMEMBER

CENTER GROVE GIRLS TENNIS CAPTURED SECTIONAL, REGIONAL AND SEMISTATE TITLES WHILE ADVANCING TO THE IHSAA STATE FINALS IN ONE OF THE PROGRAM’S MOST SUCCESSFUL SEASONS

The 2026 season will be remembered as one of the finest in Center Grove girls tennis history.

A talented blend of veteran leadership, youthful energy and championship determination carried the Trojans through one of the most successful campaigns the program has ever experienced. By season’s end, Center Grove had compiled an outstanding 22-3 record, earned a No. 5 state ranking, captured sectional, regional and semistate championships, and advanced to the IHSAA State Finals before ultimately falling just short of a state title.

Writer / Kevin Conrad, CG Sports Network

While the season ended with a narrow 3-2 loss to eventual state champion Carmel, the Trojans proved throughout the spring that they belonged among Indiana’s elite.

“They functioned very much like a true team,” head coach Debby Burton said. “They supported each other and genuinely enjoyed being around one another. Our returning players embraced the newcomers immediately, everyone bought into the team concept, and the girls worked hard every day to improve their games. This was a special group.”

A POSTSEASON RUN TO REMEMBER

Center Grove elevated its play when the stakes were highest.

After capturing another sectional championship, the Trojans advanced through regional competition and secured a semistate title. Along the way, they showcased the depth and balance that made them one of the state’s most dangerous lineups.

That momentum carried Center Grove to the State Finals, where it faced perennial powerhouse Carmel.

The championship showdown lived up to expectations. With victories coming from different parts of the lineup, the outcome remained in doubt until the final points were played. In the end, Carmel escaped with a 3-2 victory before going on to claim the state championship.

“I knew going in it was going to be a battle, but I felt like we had a chance,” Burton said. “Sophia gave us an early point and really put pressure on Carmel. Sloane battled through cramping and still found a way to win her match, and Ragan fought until the very end of a tough three-set battle. Every player gave everything she had. That’s all a coach can ask.”

Despite the disappointment, Burton believes the experience can serve as motivation moving forward.

“The loss should serve as fuel for the future,” Burton said. “We’re a young team, and there are talented players waiting in the wings. Everyone knows who we are now. We have to get back on the courts and keep working.”

FRESHMAN SOPHIA HECK EMERGES AS A STAR

One of the biggest storylines of the season was the emergence of freshman Sophia Heck at No. 1 singles.

Facing the top player from every opponent, Heck quickly established herself as one of Indiana’s premier young players. Her composure, maturity and consistency gave

Center Grove a dependable point at the top of the lineup and helped set the tone for the rest of the team.

“Playing No. 1 singles as a freshman was a great experience that helped prepare me for the future,” Heck said. “I learned so much throughout the season by competing against high-level players multiple times each week. While I may not have played my best tennis in the state quarterfinals, I’m proud of how far I came and how hard I fought throughout the season.”

Heck also credited her teammates and faith for helping her handle the pressure that came with playing at the top of the lineup.

“Having support from my teammates was one of the biggest helps to my mental game,” Heck said. “My faith in God also helped me through the nerves and pressure. I wanted to honor Him in the way I competed and carried myself on the court.”

Burton was impressed by how Heck handled the expectations that came with being a freshman standout.

“Sophia competes in high-level tournaments year-round, so I felt confident she could handle the No. 1 singles role,” Burton said. “She had a lot of expectations placed on her this season, and I thought she handled everything with grace and maturity.”

With three seasons remaining, Heck figures to be a cornerstone of the program’s future.

SENIOR LEADERSHIP LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY

While Heck’s emergence highlighted the future, Center Grove’s success was also shaped by the leadership of seniors Kenna Harbin and Sloane Small.

Both players played key roles in guiding a young roster through a demanding season

and deep postseason run. Their experience and leadership helped establish the culture that fueled the team’s success.

“I feel extremely lucky to have been part of such a successful season as a senior,” Harbin said. “We were all working toward the same goal, and that brought us closer together. My hope is that the program continues to succeed at the highest level while always remembering the importance of being good people.”

Small reflected on the special bond the team shared throughout the season.

“My final season at Center Grove was nothing short of incredible,” Small said. “We had a tight-knit group with great offcourt chemistry, which led to success on the court. Everyone put in the work outside of the season, and making it to the state finals was a reflection of that effort.”

As one of only two seniors on the roster, Small embraced the responsibility of helping younger teammates.

“I wanted to help instill confidence in our younger players and remind them how talented they are,” Small said. “What I’ll miss most is the team. We all supported each other while pushing one another to become better players.”

Burton praised both seniors for the impact they made on the program.

“Kenna and Sloane were tremendous leaders and outstanding representatives of our program,” Burton said. “Both are four-year varsity winners who love the game and love to compete. Their leadership this season was some of the best I’ve had the opportunity to coach.”

THE FUTURE REMAINS BRIGHT

As impressive as this season was, there is every reason to believe Center Grove can remain among Indiana’s elite moving forward.

The Trojans are expected to return five varsity players from this year’s State Finals squad, including Heck and several key contributors who gained invaluable postseason experience.

“We have to stay humble and continue working hard,” Burton said. “We can’t assume that because we were close this year, it will be easy next year. We’ll be one of the teams everyone is watching, and that brings added pressure. We need to enjoy what we accomplished this season, use the ending as motivation, and then get back to work.”

For now, however, the focus remains on celebrating an extraordinary season.

A 22-3 record. A top-five state ranking. Sectional, regional and semistate championships. A State Finals appearance. And a match-for-match battle with the eventual state champions.

Those accomplishments place this team among the best in Center Grove history and offer a glimpse of what could lie ahead for a program poised to remain a contender for years to come.