Carmel native Ted Allen, host of “Chopped” on the Food Network, will host a fundraiser for the Carmel Clay Library Foundation on May 11 at the Ritz Charles.

Tantalize your taste buds as Carmel native, Ted Allen, dishes up his new cookbook featuring amazing and colorful recipes complete with mouth-watering photos brought to the table by his affection for mixing unique ingredients with fresh techniques. On Friday, May 11, Allen will share his love for cooking at an reception and dinner hosted by the Carmel Clay Public Library Foundation. “In My Kitchen: 100 Recipes and Discoveries for Passionate Cooks” is not just another recipe book, but is designed for the creative home chef who has a passion for cooking and gusto for anything from the perfect pizza to delectable desserts.

“If you think a library fundraiser is a predictable, sedate affair – think again,” said Linda Kennen, chairperson of the evening. “Crème de Carmel will be a celebration filled with fine wines, craft beers, gourmet foods, live auctions and surprises. Combine Ted Allen’s charm and subtle sense of humor with the hilarious Paul Poteet and you are guaranteed a wicked good time. The Carmel Clay Library Foundation is thrilled to spotlight this premiere event and hope it becomes an annual affair.”

Allen is the host of the popular Food Network show, “Chopped”, now in its seventh season, and frequently appears on “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” The food and wine specialist on Bravo’s Emmy award-winning “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” he was also a judge on the first 4 seasons of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” and on Food Network’s “Iron Chef American.” In addition, Allen is a contributing editor to Esquire magazine.

Tickets are available online at http://www.carmel.lib.in.us/foundation/tickets.cfm or by contacting Ruth Nisenshal at (317) 814-3905.

Crème de la Carmel
Ted Allen – Host of Chopped on The Food Network
Friday, May 11
5:30 – 7:00pm VIP Cocktail Reception
7:00pm Dinner & Program
Ritz Charles
12156 North Meridian Street, Carmel
Individual tickets $125
VIP reception $175 (per person)
Corporate table for 8, including VIP reception $2000

Hello World Clothing Company founder Cynthia Wise has developed baby sleepers featuring zippers instead of snaps.

Have you ever had to change a diaper at three o’clock in the morning? You have one eye open, your baby is fussing, and you’re trying to snap the bottom of the kid’s pajamas. Frustrated and cursing under your breath you think; there has to be a better way! Enter Hello World Clothing Company.

Hello World® is the brain child of a loving mom, Cynthia Wise, who wanted an easier way for savvy parents to connect with the needs of their children and with their own world. “We realize that busy parents and children have one important common thread: each other. When your child shines the eyes of innocence in your direction, everything else is insignificant,” said Wise.

The first product was the SmartZip Sleeper. It comes in blue “Blue Me Away” and pink “Made Me Blush.” Both have brown accents. The sleeper has a two-way zipper that allows you to unzip from the top for traditional dressing, and it has an additional zipper pull at the bottom, so you can unzip from the bottom, where access is needed most during a diaper change. No more little arms wiggling out at the top when you want to change a diaper at the bottom!

“Our second product was the SimpleZip Pant,” added Wise. “This pant has a one way zipper at the inseam. This allows for one simple zip when changing the diaper. I loved the snap pants, but didn’t enjoy realigning them. And there weren’t very many on the market. I also would get frustrated when I would be in a public restroom and had to take the pants completely off as they would inevitably fall on the dirty floor. I wanted to simplify a sometimes very stressful situation for all caregivers.”

Wise also unveiled a new green color unisex sleeper, “Olive You More,” with sizes ranging from 0-24m.

Where were these gems when I was changing diapers?

Not only does this new company make great products, they understand that part of being in business is giving back to the community. Hello World Clothing Company has a giving back foundation that donates 5% proceeds of online sales to The Aidan Brown Foundation, a local charity that raises money to provide iPads to children in the hospital with cancer, in honor of Aidan Brown, who fought Neuroblastoma and won! They donate sleepers and 5% proceeds to The New Life Home Orphanage in Kenya through the Amani Foundation. This was inspired by a local girl in Wise’s daughter’s school, her family created the Amani Foundation to help support the orphanage where they adopted their daughter.

“We are currently working with a tube fed children’s organization. It turns out our sleepers are a great answer for tube fed babies. The two-way zipper allows for an opening anywhere along the body. The parents typically cut holes in clothes or use gowns. Our sleepers keep their babies warm and comfortable while keeping the tube in place. I get letters all the time from parents wanting bigger sizes and more colors. Our hope is to run a yearly holiday campaign to provide one sleeper to the foundation for every one sold on our site,” Wise stated.

Hello World made their first sale in June of 2009, they continue to grow and learn new things daily. Thoughts on being a business owner, what does it take? “Money! It takes money to start and keep going, but sales take time to catch up to that initial investment. I believe if you do your research, continuously ask questions and give it your all, you will succeed. In the end the business may fail, but at least I took a risk, had fun and learned a lot about myself. I also have more enthusiasm and less trepidation about launching new ideas.”

That’s good, because we love those zippers!

For additional information on products please visit: www.helloworldclothing.com

Anna Pictor, Amy Pictor, Jesse VanOsdol, Mark VanOsdol and Daisy. The Pictors give Jesse a box of cookies to fuel up for the walk!

It was the type of morning that we haven’t seen too much this winter—one where the thermometer reads at a frosty 15 degrees and your breath freezes on your scarf in just a few seconds. Jesse VanOsdol, however, strapped on his backpack and waited on the Monon Trail for anyone who might brave the temperatures to join him for the “Walk With Jesse Day” in Carmel, Indiana.

Jesse has been on a cross-country “Step It Up” walk to raise money for the Burn Unit at Riley Hospital for Children and was recently in Carmel on a break halfway through his walk.

Jesse never dreamed that his life would take such a dramatic turn after high school graduation, but before the ink had barely dried on his diploma, he landed in the burn unit at Riley Hospital for Children.

A bonfire accident left Jesse with second and third degree-burns on 15 percent of his body, facing possible skin grafts, and temporarily unable to walk due to burns on both of his lower legs. The first few days are a painful blur in Jesse’s mind, but through the prayers of many people and the wonderful care at Riley, Jesse healed up far faster than anyone expected. He didn’t need skin graft surgery, was released to outpatient care after just one week, and then was cleared to leave for school just three weeks later.

On July 15, 2010, one month after the accident, Jesse left for Universal Technical Institute’s (UTI) automotive training program in Kissimmee, Florida and another three months of training with UTI and Mercedes Benz in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Life was moving at such a fast pace that it took a while to process everything that had happened to him. “Despite how quick everything was moving, I just took on one thing at a time,” Jesse said. “I was really lucky and blessed. I had a lot of support. In some ways I really benefited from the aftermath of being burned. I got closer to family. I learned a lot about myself. I found that God really takes care of you. And the whole walk for Riley came about because of this.”

Toward the end of all his training, Jesse was in a bookstore in California when he started reading a book about hiking across America. He was so captivated by the idea, that he decided he wanted to try the same thing after he completed his training, but he wanted to do it to benefit children who experience the horror of burns. With only about two months to pull everything together, Jesse and his parents, Mark and Jane VanOsdol of Westfield, contacted Riley Children’s Foundation and began making the arrangements. “I was excited because I could put some of my passion for adventure to a good cause,” he said.

Jesse began his walk on November 17, 2011 from Huntington Beach, California and to date has walked over 1,400 miles (averaging about 23 miles per day) through four states: California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. Most nights he sleeps in his bivy tent and eats out of his stash of food using a small camp stove. He’s been caught in the December Santa Ana wind storm in the Mojave Desert in California, been tracked for 15 miles by the border police in New Mexico following his boot tracks, been snowed on in the Dragoon Mountain pass in Arizona, and had to scale a 20-foot cliff pulling his cart up behind him after getting off trail. He’s also been given water by strangers in the desert when he was out, mysteriously found the exact gear that he needed in perfect condition lying at the side of a deserted road after his had broke, and witnessed the joy of a homeless man after stumbling across his home under an overpass.

On this recent freezing morning in Carmel, Jesse was waiting for some of his supporters to join him for the walk, hoping to get a chance to meet a few of the people who have thus far helped him raise $8,188 dollars toward his final goal of $15,000. Despite the temperatures, two diehard souls showed up: 11-year old Anna Pictor and her mom Amy Pictor. Anna is in the Girls of Grace group, a BIble study group for 5th grade girls led by Jean Gresham and Maryanne Roush. The group has been a big supporter of Jesse, raising over $300 through a craft and bake sale they held. Anna was excited to get to meet Jesse, walk with him for a cold mile, and hear a little about his journey. “Right away I noticed that Anna is a brave, sweet, outspoken little girl. She has a big heart, and is not afraid to mix with adults,” Jesse laughed.

Jesse hits the trail (destination Jacksonville, Florida) again on February 25, along with his dad who is joining him for a week, picking back up where he left off in Austin, Texas. He’s excited to complete his journey and wants to meet his goal. “I’m hoping if the kids on the burn unit hear about me, that I can be an inspiration to them,” he said. To know there will times in life when you suffer and get knocked down, but that you can get right back up and do bigger things than you imagined.”

Follow Jesse’s journey on his blog: http://stepitupjessevanosdol.wordpress.com/

Donate at Jesse’s First Giving site: http://stepitupjessevanosdol.wordpress.com/

Jodi Golden is the Executive Director of the Indiana Education Savings Authority.

The journey of life starts when a child is born. Parents welcome their bundles of love into the world with open arms and love in their hearts. First steps of parenting usually concentrate on providing daily emotional and materials needs for the child. As parents, we all can relate to those first hectic years. One thing that is generally put on a list way down the road is the savings path that provides for a child’s college education. They may be young now, but before you know it that little bundle of joy will be ready for college. As parents, the question is: “Will you be ready to pay for their college education?”

In Indiana, we have something all parents and grandparents should be aware of called “CollegeChoice 529 Savings Plans.” They are unique savings plans that can provide your child with a greater opportunity for achieving success. Advice to parents and grandparents: The sooner you get started saving a few dollars each month, the more time your money will have to potentially grow. And, as an incentive, you may be eligible to receive tax benefits to help your money go farther.

What is CollegeChoice 529?

CollegeChoice 529 plans are education savings programs administered by State Treasurer Richard Mourdock and the Indiana Education Savings Authority.

“Indiana has one of the best tax advantages in the country with our 20% state income tax credit up to $1,000 maximum credit for contributions in the CollegeChoice Plans. And, yes, I said tax credit, not deduction. I encourage all Hoosiers to begin planning early and start saving now. Although, it’s never too late to start saving as every dollar counts,” states Mourdock.

Grandparents Can Get in Gear with a Lesson in Saving – Little by Little

Grandparents can also get involved with their grandchildren by giving them a gift of saving for them through their own CollegeChoice Plan. Birthdays, holidays and special family occasions add up year -after-year. So why not help out with a gift that will not be forgotten in a matter of time? The icing on the cake with a designated CollegeChoice529 plan is that it will not only send a powerful message to the child that Grandma and Grandpa have faith in their future dreams, but they too would be eligible for the state income tax credit based upon their contribution. The nature of this plan is that you can take each grandchild along on your savings trip starting as early as you are prepared to do so. College Choice 529 makes it easy to get started with multiple investment options and enrollment can be done online as well. There is also the ability to earn college savings on everyday purchases when you shop online, dine out and much more. It’s a choice that keeps on giving to your grandchild long after the candles on the cake are blown out.

Studies Show…

Parents’ who start talking to their child while they are young and, then take the next step by getting them involved with the process of saving, introduces the child to solid lifetime habits that will remain with them forever. Studies show that youths who have school saving plans are almost 4 times more likely to attend a 4-year-college than youths with no savings plan in place. It’s a habit well worth establishing at an early age and it doesn’t have to wreck your budget.

“We have 3 great programs for Hoosiers to start their college savings in. The CollegeChoice Direct and CollegeChoice Advisor 529 Plans offer a wide range of investment opportunities with low fees and a simple user-friendly website. Both plans offer individual investment options and also an Age-Based program that automatically invests your assets based on the age of your beneficiary. Last year we also began to offer the CollegeChoice CD Plan, which gives participants an opportunity to save through a variety of FDIC insured certificate of deposit products. It is important for Hoosiers to begin saving as early as possible. As college expenses rise yearly, every dollar counts as each dollar you save is one less dollar your loved one will walk off campus in debt with at graduation,” states Jodi Golden, executive director for the Indiana Education Savings Authority, which acts as the administrator for the CollegeChoice 529 plan.

Being a parent presents many responsibilities. Not every child will go on to college for various reasons, but for those children that want to take this journey, investing in CollegeChoice 529 makes perfect sense.
For more information on CollegeChoice 529 Savings Direct Plan call: 1-866-485-9415 or go to www.collegechoiceplan.com. You can also email Jodi Golden, executive director of the Indiana Education Savings Authority at jgolden@tos.in.gov.

Dick Wolfsie is a Geist resident and syndicated columnist.

Mary Ellen has signed up for another year of Prevention magazine. This pocket-sized monthly tells you how to prevent most everything except how to stop your wife from wasting another $24.95.  Quite frankly, I think the whole publication is a lot of baloney, although in this guide to healthy living, you hardly ever see a baloney recipe.

The cover of the most recent issue caught my eye: DROP THREE POUNDS A WEEK WITHOUT EXERCISE.  These titles are often misleading. I assumed I’d soon discover that to lose this weight required only giving up three little things—like breakfast, lunch and dinner. But no, it was actually 100 methods to increase what they call your “calorie burn,” or activities that help you shed some excess baggage. Newt Gingrich has purchased a lifetime subscription.

My own svelte physique is a result of my previous adherence to some of these suggestions, even without being aware of what I was doing. For example, No. 23 recommends that you hide your remote so you have to stand up to change TV channels. Well, duh! I’ve been pawing through pillows, dead-lifting the sofa and shoving the easy chair on its side for decades looking for the darn thing.  No. 62 proposes that you get off the bus at the wrong stop so you can walk the rest of the way. Once again, I’m ahead of the curve. I used to do this back in New York when I took the subway.  Sadly, I wasn’t doing it on purpose.

No. 24 advocates that you ask your paperboy to leave the newspaper at the end of your driveway, providing you an opportunity to walk a little extra each day. My delivery guy is on board already. He’s got me searching through the bushes and even climbing up on the roof.  It’s so nice when people care.

The article suggests you shovel your own driveway after a snowstorm, and then graciously offer to do the neighbor’s, as well. This makes sense to me because I read in my doctor’s office that some weight loss usually follows a serious cardiac event. Number 73 urges you to get your Starbucks coffee “to go,” then walk briskly with your friends as you sip. Yes, and then you can walk another six blocks to the dry cleaners.

Friendliness is also an asset in your quest for a healthy lifestyle. Apartment dwellers should get acquainted with a person on another floor and then, using the stairs, of course, visit as often as possible. I tried this back when I first got married. Mary Ellen didn’t like the idea and neither did Collette’s boyfriend.

Here’s a great one: instead of sitting in that regular chair in front of your computer, buy one of those giant  stability exercise balls to balance on while you work. Let me try it right now…I thknk therf may be somf drwbcks to sittinj that way whjle typinh.  Also, why not give your pizza delivery guy a break and pick the pie up yourself? Yes, drive your SUV to the take-out window for a tasty triple cheese, sausage and pepperoni combo. What a great way to get in shape. Why do people even bother working out?

Finally, for pet lovers, play fetch with your dog every day.  Am I missing something here? Shouldn’t you be chasing the ball? Who’s the chubby one, anyway?

Even though the article claims to list 100 examples, there are only 84. The author wants you to get up from the couch, go to the computer and log on to Prevention.com for the other 16. Be careful not to trip over the exercise ball! But if you do, make sure to walk to the emergency room.

Katie Pallone and York enjoy their time together at Big Brothers Big Sisters Summerfest in downtown Indy.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (Big Brothers Big Sisters) has been matching mentors with children for forty years now. Although Big Brothers was first established in the 60’s followed by Big Sisters in the 70’s, both organizations operated separately until combining forces in 2002. Currently, there are over 800 youth already established in mentoring relationships through this program. Big Brothers Big Sisters will create 400 more connections this year. This means this organization will match at least one child to a mentor each day of the year.

“I’ve always been inspired by the stories of parents and caregivers who contact Big Brothers Big Sisters,” says Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana. “It takes a lot of love and a lot of courage for parents to ask for help, and it’s an amazing demonstration of how much our parents believe in their kids that they contact Big Brothers Big Sisters to be a part of their family. We consider it an honor to take those calls.”

Many different family situations require the need for a mentor, such as a family that is dealing with some health issue or a single parent. Darcey reminds us, “Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to have positive academic, socio-emotional and behavioral outcomes for youth who face adversity. We are a research backed, evidence-based program. Our standards are high, and our practices are exemplary. We take our work very seriously and are honored to work with so many amazing families, volunteers, and supporters…There are always more boys ready to be matched with mentors, so we especially need more male mentors and Big Couples.”

Offering Convenience & Flexibility

Ryan Quesenberry: Big Brother to Will

Big Brother, Ryan Quesenberry (far right) with Little Brother, Will, (middle) and former NFL Player, Darrin Smith who proudly displays his rings, 2 of which were from Superbowl when he played for Dallas!

Ryan Quesenberry, of Fishers, has been a Big Brother to Will since June of 2011. Will, 12 years old, is home schooled and lives with both parents. “Will is very respectful and is a very nice kid,” says Quesenberry who works as a medical sales representative for Orthofix.

In his free time, Will enjoys playing hockey. On his 12th birthday, Ryan took Will to Dave & Buster’s Restaurant. They have also ventured downtown to watch a hockey game. In addition, they have gone ice-skating, played video games and went fishing. One of the most memorable experiences was the day they went to pet the dolphins at the Indianapolis Zoo. Since this exciting day, Will has been talking about going to college to become a veterinarian or an oceanographer. He also hopes to play professional hockey someday.

Quesenberry offers his inspirational message to anyone thinking about becoming a big brother. He says, “This is a very reputable program. If you want to give back and have a positive influence, it feels good to help out.” Also, he likes the flexibility. “It’s not like we have to meet at a certain time and day of the week. We can schedule our activities whenever it works out best for our individual schedules…this program allows you to provide a good aspect in a child’s life that he might not otherwise have.”

Mentoring as a Big Couple: Twice as Nice

Shirley and Rick Altstadt: Big Couple to Allen

Shirley and Rick Altstadt are a Big Couple to Allen, a freshman, who plays football, basketball and runs track. Shirley and Rick attend most of his sporting events.

Shirley and Rick Altstadt, of Carmel, are a ”Big Couple” to 16 year old Allen — meaning that together, they mentor him as a team. Actually, Shirley began mentoring Allen (solely) when he was in third grade as part of the school program. She would have lunch with him weekly. Eventually, this progressed into a “Big Couple relationship” (Shirley and Rick), just before Allen started sixth grade.

“Allen lives with both his parents and his mom used to be a little.” says Rick. “Her experience was so positive that she wanted to extend this opportunity to Allen. Shirley and Rick, whose two daughters are grown, have enjoyed their time with Allen. They have taken him to the Carmel Palladium, and to Chicago (as part of an organized trip and one of many, by Big Brothers Big Sisters.) They have also frequently enjoyed various sports-themed activities such as bowling and attending a Colts game. Allen, a freshman, plays football, basketball and runs track. Shirley and Rick attend most of his sporting events.

“It doesn’t matter what age you are as a mentor,” says Shirley. “Each generation gives a child a different perspective of life.” Let’s face it. Every child can benefit from more adults who believe in them, inspire them, and help them discover their possibilities.

Matching Personalities & Interests Incredibly Well

Matt Cohen: Big Brother to Nathan

Matt Cohen, (Big Brother) takes his Little Brother, Nathan, to Climb Time, as one of their weekly visits.

Matt Cohen is a father of two and lives in Carmel. Before becoming a big brother to Nathan, a few months ago, he cleared it with his children who were open to sharing their dad, so he can help serve the community.

Nathan comes from a middle-class family with two parents who care about him greatly. They are so consumed with the two older siblings who have medical conditions that they guided Nathan to Big Brothers Big Sisters so that he could receive more personal attention and mentorship.

“Nathan has really wowed me with some of his quoted facts and concepts about science and technology,” says Cohen who shares many of the same interests. It’s no wonder that Nathan is in the gifted program at school. Some of their “brotherly” activities so far, have included going bowling, playing arcade games, getting frozen yogurt and assembling a Star Wars puzzle together.

Reflecting back on his personal life, Cohen reveals, “After losing my job in July, I had time to shift my focus from myself to realizing that others have more difficult situations than me. I began to see that it makes perfect sense to offer up my assistance to others in the community.” Cohen has since started a non-profit educational organization called Project Lead the Way, where they provide STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) curriculum in middle/ high schools across the nation.

Cohen marvels at how well Big Brothers Big Sisters has done with connecting him and his little brother, Nathan. “They did such a tremendous job. They did as much research as possible with matching Nathan to my background, interests, job, and activities.”

Mentoring Opportunities Close to Home

Katie Pallone: Big Sister to York

Katie Pallone, Big Sister to York, incorporates activities into their schedule that foster tradition and promotes their creativity.

Katie Pallone, of Carmel, has been a Big Sister to 11 year old York for two years now. “York is very creative,” says Pallone who works as a Financial Advisor at La Salle St. Securities and has served as a board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters for three years. “I have taken York to paint pottery, decorate cupcakes, and other places that bring out her creativity.” Pallone has even taught York how to swim. York sings in choir and plays the cello. Someday, she wants to move to California and become a singer.

“I try to instill tradition whenever I can within our activities” says Pallone who has decorated gingerbread houses and carved pumpkins with York. They have even helped out at the Fishers Food Pantry at United Methodist Church and then treated themselves to cupcakes afterwards. Pallone recalls one of her favorite family traditions when her mom would make her homemade cookies on the first day of school. Even in college, her mom would send her cookies to celebrate the new beginning of the school year. Likewise, Pallone has also taken York cookies on the first day of school to carry out this special custom.

Pallone shares her experience when she admits, “There is plenty of need for strong, enduring, mentoring relationships on every side of town. You can volunteer by becoming a big, helping at community events, sponsoring events, or even assisting with college funding. After becoming a big brother or big sister to make a difference in a child’s life, people soon realize how big of an impact that this child has made in their lives.”

Experiencing Indianapolis Through a Young Person’s Eyes

Bob Tollini: Big Brother to Ziah

Bob Tollini and his little brother Ziah enjoy exploring Indianapolis. This photo is from a recent trip to the top of Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis during Super Bowl week.

Bob Tollini, of Geist, has served as a big brother to three boys over the last twenty-three years. He is now mentoring his fourth little brother, 11 year old Ziah, who loves History. Tollini can tell you everything you’d ever want to know about the sites to see right here in Indy. He has taken his little brothers to experience culture and so much more. Some places they have seen are The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the Indiana State Museum with IMAX theatre and Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. They have also visited the NCAA Hall of Champions and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. In addition, they have played basketball and baseball — both sports that Ziah loves to play. Plus, they’ve attended many games of different sports.

“I’ve been doing this for twenty-three years now and it is fun,” says Tollini who was awarded “The Unsung Heroes Award” in mid-December by the Indianapolis Rotary Club for his dedicated commitment to helping others in the community. He continues, “Being a mentor isn’t work. You enjoy it. You get to see much of what Indianapolis has to offer through a young person’s eyes. It reminds you of when you were a kid. You can see how different the kids are from you as they’re living in a different culture and environment.”

Changing Lives for the Better

Here is what some are saying about how Big Brothers Big Sisters has changed their lives for the better:

“My experience as a Big has been rewarding, fun and educational! I get to not only play a positive role in a child’s life, but have a lot of fun doing it. Everyone involved in the entire process, has been nothing but great. I can see myself being a part of this program for a long time!”(Ryan Quesenberry, Big Brother)

“Ryan has changed my life in lots of ways. He encourages healthier habits and I have become more outgoing since hanging out with him. I love just hanging out and playing video games with Ryan.” (Will, Little Brother)

“It has changed my life adding another dimension where I feel I am giving to the community, helping to shape a person and getting back a lot from him. I love being around this young person and I like how he shares information with us.” (Shirley Altstadt, Big Couple)

“Without the involvement of Allen, my association with young kids would be limited. I’m learning about what kids are doing today, their culture, and how he deals with everything.” (Rick Altstadt, Big Couple)

“Rick and Shirley have introduced me to new things. I didn’t even know I liked classical music before Shirley and Rick took me to the Palladium in Carmel. We have gone to different restaurants and tried new foods together. They offer me academic advice. I was struggling in Biology and with Shirley and Rick’s help, I was able to raise my grade by an entire letter! They are both very dependable and I know I can ask them anything or call on them if I need to.” (Allen, Little Brother)

“Becoming a Big Brother has been a personal life-enhancing episode. It has allowed me to begin sharing my life experiences with a bright young individual and forged a relationship I know will last for a very long time.” (Matt Cohen, Big Brother)

“We have not been together very long, but so far we have done lots of fun things such as bowling and putting together puzzles. I always come home from our outings very happy.” (Nathan, Little Brother)

“One quote that truly sums up my experience thus far with York and Big Brothers Big Sisters is from Ralph Waldo Emerson, ‘It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.’” (Katie Pallone, Big Sister)

“Katie is someone I can talk to and call on if I need advice. We have made several pieces of pottery and we really enjoy baking cupcakes together. I struggle with math so she helps me out with my school work which has made a big difference.” (York, Little Sister)

“Being a mentor is not a one-way street. You don’t just give to the community but you get something out of it as well.” (Bob Tollini, Big Brother)

“Bob encourages me to behave and do well in school by teaching me manners and helping me with school work. We also enjoy going to Colts games, playing golf and doing other sporting activities. I really like having him as a Big Brother. He is a role model to me.” (Ziah, Little Brother)

“I didn’t have children of my own and was new to Indianapolis; I met eight sweet girls (Littles) during my 19 yrs. as a Big Sister. I felt I helped them gain confidence, see the need to study/finish school, and served as a trustworthy adult friend whom they knew cared for them unconditionally. I’m proud to know three of these young women today and they’ve done well. It’s been wonderful! (Jenien Beach, Big Sister)

If you would like to make a difference in the community and lend your mentorship to someone in need, consider becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister. This may be the perfect way to fill a void in your life. Perhaps you never had the opportunity to have children or you have always wanted to help guide a young child to realizing his/her full potential. Whether you mentor someone as a “Big Couple,” or you go solo, either way, you can help discover new meaning in someone’s life—including your own.

Go to www.bebigforkids.org to volunteer or to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. If you are unable to mentor, then you can give a gift that helps connect a mentor with a child.

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.

“We are planning a yummy kid-friendly tea, lunch and art project,” said Katherine Dill, Executive Director of the CCHS. “We’ll make some really neat 3-D Valentine cards similar to the antique cards we have in our collection at the museum.”

Dill plans bring the those ornate cards that date back to the Victorian era to display, as well as several additional cards on loan from Bob Brown and Fred Swift. The tea party costs $15 for adults, $10 for the first child and $7 for additional children. Make reservations by contacting Katherine at the CCHS, 317-846-7117.

Founding partners Lanae M. Harden and Michele L. Jackson specialize in family law. adoption and surrogacy matters.

Lanae Harden and Michele Jackson have invested years in the practice of law. Their reputations as experienced lawyers are soundly respected locally, nationally and internationally. To have achieved such a status takes extensive knowledge of the court system and the huge body of laws that apply in their respective areas of representation. When you read stories on attorneys, you don’t often think of them as compassionate and empathetic, however, Lanae and Michele will change your mind.

“Families depend on us to provide a professional, yet personal level of service during a difficult and emotionally draining period in their lives. It is our role to support them with compassionate insight and sound legal advice based on our experience to deliver successful resolutions for their situation.” says Harden.

Jackson adds, “No two client circumstances are alike when it comes to the cases we handle. We know that we must deliver positive solutions for their life transitions. We employ an empathetic approach to our clients’ cases. This is the passion that drives our practice.”

Needless to say, the founding partners of Harden Jackson, LLC have more than earned their national and international reputations as two of Indiana’s top attorneys, as well as being influential advocates for families and those who can’t speak for themselves. You will find their deep footprints of accomplishments documented in a wide array of awards and publications.

To say they are active in the community would be an understatement. Together their legal interests are diverse, and yet, they mesh seamlessly in their very successful legal practice. The firm’s practice areas include: divorce, custody and other areas of family law (including collaborative law and mediation), adoption, reproductive law, and appeals.

About the Founding Partners

Lanae M. Harden chairs the firm’s Family Law Practice Group. She is known nationally as a skilled family law litigator with extensive trial experience who has successfully represented a diverse clientele from stay-at-home mothers to professional athletes. Harden’s professional career includes 9 years at one of Indianapolis’ larger law firms where she was the only attorney who practiced exclusively in the area of family law. Harden is a member of the Indianapolis Bar Association, the Indiana State Bar Association, and the Hamilton County Bar Association. She has also been selected a Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers Magazine two years in a row (2010-2011), an honor that results from nominations by her peers.

Michele L. Jackson concentrates her law practice in Adoption and Surrogacy matters, serving as chair of the firm’s Adoption and Reproductive Law Practice Group. Ms. Jackson is regarded as one of the foremost legal authorities in Indiana on international adoptions and international family law issues. She is a member of the Indianapolis Bar Association and the American Bar Association. In 2010 and 2011, Michele was also named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine, an honor recognizing outstanding young attorneys under 40.

The obvious question would be to ask these two amazing and passionate women if they knew they would one day end in the in the practice of law? Harden laughs as she reflects on the question. “The answer is no. I was good at tennis and extremely competitive (she was a member of the University of Texas at Austin tennis team and a four-time Indiana State Tennis Champion), but I finally came to terms with the fact that tennis wasn’t in my professional future. I thought about studying medicine, but didn’t like blood. Law and my competitive nature seemed to be the right choice for me,” she added. The right choice indeed as Harden received her Juris Doctor magna cum laude from Indiana University School of Law, finishing in the top 5% of her class.

Jackson responded, “I always knew I would be involved in a career that somehow focused on children, especially those without parents. Doing the work I do today evolved from my love of kids.” Today, she represents clients interested in domestic or international adoption or those who are seeking alternative reproductive options for building their families (including gestational surrogacy). Jackson has indeed dedicated herself to the care and adoption of orphans worldwide, while assisting couples and individuals to realize their dreams of becoming parents. She is also the founder and director of MLJ Adoptions, a licensed child placing agency in Indiana, which is also Hague-approved.

This firm has recruited two other seasoned attorneys, Clarissa A. Finnell and Laura M. Taylor and is supported by a knowledgeable team of paralegals and administrative staff, who are integral to the firm’s mission to provide clients with responsive, personal attention.

If you have questions concerning family law, divorce, custody, mediation, appeals, adoption (domestic or international based), reproductive laws and surrogacy issues or collaborative law, this is the firm you need to be on your side.

The law practice of Harden Jackson,LLC is located in Carmel. For more information on this Super Team of nationally recognized attorneys, please call (317) 569-0770 or visit their interactive website www.hardenjacksonlaw.com for an in-depth explanation of areas of practice.

The America China Society of Indiana, established by Albert Chen (middle) of Carmel’s Telamon Inc., is a nonprofit that advocates cooperation between Indiana and Chinese companies. Pictured here are the ACSI board members (left to right) Denesa Woods, Carmen Hendrixson, Jenny Massey, Albert Chen, John Skelton, and Windi Hornsby.

Albert Chen is no stranger to building concrete Guanxi (Gwan-chee) in business and in life, and he believes education is the mortar that bonds relationships. Thus, he established the America China Society of Indiana, an organization created as a foundation to foster networking, cooperation, and trust between Indiana and Chinese businesses.

An important idea in Chinese culture, Guanxi is based on trust and is similar to doing business on a handshake in Western terms. Chen would like to take that handshake a bit further by teaching Asians and Americans about each other, their diverse cultures and how to work together to build trust, share knowledge and create opportunities on U.S. soil and abroad.

“My vision is to bring more Chinese companies to Indiana, promote economic development and help companies understand how to do business with the Chinese,” said Albert Chen, founder of ACSI and owner of Telamon Inc., a nearly $500 million Carmel-based telecommunications provider with more than 500 employees at 9 locations.

ACSI is an independent, not-for-profit organization that acts as an advocate and catalyst, promoting cooperation between Chinese and Indiana companies for business, trade and investment opportunities. The society was founded in 2010 and launched in January 2011 by Chen and a group of individuals committed to strengthening Asian/American ties.

“ACSI is the primary source of connectivity between Indiana and China for conducting effective business relationships,” said Jenny Massey, Vice President of ACSI and director of operations at Bingham Economic. “Economic development is the basis of job creation, which benefits the community.”

Albert Chen Family Mid 1980's (left to right) Stephanie Chen Fuhrmann, Albert Chen, Margaret Chen, and Stanley Chen.

As a young man, Chen, a native of Taiwan, arrived on the west coast armed with a degree in tax finance. Speaking little English, he enrolled in Portland State College and earned a master’s degree in mathematical statistics. After graduation, he went to work with GTE, eventually transferring to Indiana as a manager of the Midwest region. In 1984, during corporate downsizing, Chen was asked to layoff 200 employees.

“I did not feel comfortable firing those people,” recalled Chen. “After I let them go, I resigned.” No job, no plan and no direction, he knew he had to support his wife and two young children. Thus, his entrepreneurial fire sparked as he turned his knowledge of telephones gained through his previous employer into a thriving business based on the concept of harmony.

While American companies follow legal guidelines when engaging in business, harmony, trust, reciprocity, face, time, hierarchy, and long-term orientation have been identified as key Chinese cultural values. Chen hopes to encourage goodwill and assist companies in growing their businesses. “The Chinese still shake hands and make promises,” said Chen. “But in today’s society, companies need well-developed contracts so they don’t forget promises.”

“Developing Guanxi is probably the most important step in Chinese business and needs to be properly cultivated,” said Denesa Woods, who is responsible for ACSI’s business development.

Chen with Andy Ording, former President of ZIPP Speed Weaponry, spoke at a recent ACSI meeting about the cultural challenges and opportunities of working with Chinese companies.

The society invites guest speakers to share their experiences in the Chinese marketplace. Andy Ording, former President of ZIPP Speed Weaponry, manufacturers of elite bicycle wheels, and current CEO at Business Builder, Inc., explained the cultural challenges of working with Chinese business owners and the opportunities for success at a November meeting.

“In Asia, a tremendous amount of respect is given and expected,” said Ording. “When doing business with the Chinese do the right thing, make promises you will keep, understand the culture and the market, and be realistic.”

Chen is realistic about his vision for ACSI. Filled with ideas, always searching for ways to fill a gap with a solution, Chen started the Asian American Alliance in 1999. He and other community leaders saw a need to mobilize the growing Asian community, inspiring them to contribute their time, treasure, and talents to improving their communities.

“As a way to educate the younger generation, I worked with others to form a group that would teach them to give back to their communities,” said Chen.

Chen provided funding for the Asian Learning Center of Indiana. Its mission is to educate, connect and engage Hoosiers about the history, cultures, and emerging business opportunities of Asia through public, private, community and business partnership in Indiana.

“Since becoming an American citizen I feel I need to contribute to this country,” said Chen. “Some Chinese do not want to stay in the U.S. and become citizens. But those who do stay should have a basic loyalty and give back.”

That’s a philosophy Chen and his wife, Margaret, have instilled in their two adult children, Stephanie and Stanley, both of whom work at Telamon and are active in the community. And it’s a principle inherent in the ACSI as the organization strives to encourage positive business relationships with member services focused on business and economic development.

“Our goal is to attract 100 members the first year,” said Woods. “And have a total of 200 to 300 total members.”

According to Chen, who is supporting ACSI by providing office space and staff, the organization should be self-sufficient in two or three years. He is convinced strong Guanxi and effective business development will encourage Chinese investment in Indiana as well as promote small businesses to export to China.

“Indiana and the Midwest is a key center,” said Chen who hopes to bring Chinese investment to the state that spans from South Bend to Evansville.

As for Telemon, future building blocks include a ventures into health care and energy industries as he researches ways to fill needs in those areas. “If I have a customer who has a headache,” said Chen. “I’ll find a solution for him.” And ACSI is the solution to preventing headaches in American and Chinese business collaboration.

For more information or to join the America China Society of Indiana: Contact Denesa Woods (317) 818-6603 or (317) 997-8137, denesa.woods@ChinaIndiana.org or visit the website at www.ChinaIndiana.org.

2012 America China society of indiana Programs

• Feb 24 – China Strategy/Six Business Principles
• March/April – Indiana Delegation travels to China
• Jun 1 – Ignorance, Experience & Success in Business
• Aug 24 – The Art of War: Insights into Business
• Oct 19 – Giving, Saving,and Showing “Face” in Business