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Business SOUTHSIDE Exchange SPRING 2021 | A Daily Journal Publication ANNUAL ISSUE women in leadership » Vena Holden » Lee Ann Abercrombie-Logan » Elizabeth Ann (Betsy) Swearingen » Brandi Foster Kirkendall PERMIT NO. 220 » Elaine Pesto GREENFIELD, IN STANDARD PRESORTED
Business Exchange SOUTHSIDE 28 spring 2021 I volume 19 I number 1 RIBBON CUTTINGS 4 All content © 2021 Daily Journal. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher, except as permitted by People on the Move U.S. copyright law. All rights reserved. SUBSCRIPTIONS southside business exchange is published quarterly by the Daily Journal. The magazine is mailed at no charge to businesses throughout 10 Corporate Chatter greater Johnson County. To subscribe, send your name and address to: Daily Journal, P.O. Box 699, 15 Franklin Chamber 16 Franklin, IN 46131 Email: biz@dailyjournal.net Women in Leadership EDITOR: Amy may 736-2726 amay@dailyjournal.net ADVERTISING: Chris Cosner 736-2750 ccosner@dailyjournal.net 27 Kiwanis Perry group 28 GRAPHIC DESIGN: aNNA pERLICH APERLICH@DAILYJOURNAL.NET POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Ribbon cuttings Daily Journal, P.O. Box 699, 30 Franklin, IN 46131 Simon Property Group Southside Business Exchange is published quarterly and direct mailed on the final day of February (Spring), May (Summer), On the cover August (Fall) and November (Winter). Brandi Foster Kirkendall Deadlines for editorial content are the first of the month in which the magazine is mailed. PHOTOs by mark freeland 2 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
INSPIRED BY YOUR RETURN TO BATTLE. AND CONQUERING ORTHO PAIN. Franciscan Health orthopedic specialists are here to help you hit the reset button on nerve, muscle and joint pain. Need a hand getting back to doing what you love? Visit FranciscanHealth.org/OrthoCare. IN-35066367 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 3
students at Center Grove Middle She began working at the college in School Central. Before those 2011, after gaining experience in positions, he taught in an education at the secondary level. People elementary setting for eight years. Alli Fetter-Harrott on the Long holds a Master of Science in was the recipient of educational administration from the Faculty move Butler University and a Bachelor of Excellence in Arts in elementary education from Teaching Award. She Franklin College. He is a member of is an associate the Indiana Principal Leadership professor of political People making news Institute and a graduate of the science and holds Alli Fetter- on the southside Leadership Johnson County Class Harrott the Elmon and Lucile of 2016. Over the course of his Williams Endowed career, he has received numerous Chair in Law and Public Service. awards for dedication and Before joining the faculty at Franklin commitment to student success. College in 2011, she served as a law clerk to David F. Hamilton and n The Franklin n Four Franklin College faculty practiced law at a large Chamber of members received awards Indianapolis law firm. Fetter-Harrott Commerce has hired recognizing their scholarly graduated magna cum laude from Traci Smith as its accomplishments during the Indiana University Maurer School of special project college’s 155th commencement on Law and earned a doctorate in coordinator. She is a Oct. 11. education leadership and policy graduate of Franklin Gordon Strain was studies from IU. Community High the recipient of the Traci Smith Casey J. Hayes was School and earned Clifford and Paula the recipient of the her bachelor’s degree Dietz Award for Faculty Excellence in in Communications from the Faculty Excellence. A Scholarship Award. University of Southern Indiana. In professor of theater, In February it was addition to working with the he began teaching at announced that he chamber, Smith also serves as Franklin in 2006. He Gordon strain had been selected marketing coordinator for Discover is also a sculptor, as the recipient of Downtown Franklin and is the coach muralist, artist, Casey j. Hayes the Fulbright- for the Indian Creek Middle School model-builder, film production Botstiber Award in Cheer Team. designer and producer, and Austrian/American Studies, co-owner of a production company. marking only the fourth time a n Nineveh-Hensley- His professional work outside the Franklin College faculty member Jackson United college and his community has been named a Fulbright School Corp. has engagement have allowed him to scholar. The selection places selected Eric Long provide many of his students with Hayes among an elite group of to lead Indian Creek professional opportunities on films U.S. citizens who will teach, Elementary School as well as through his work as conduct research and/or provide beginning with the 2021-2022 academic co-owner and co-director of the expertise abroad through the eric Long year. Current Franklin Department of Public Art. Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program. He Principal Keith Grant Jessica Mahoney was selected based on his will retire at the end of the school was the recipient of research into the Rosa Wien (Pink year after 31 years of service. the Faculty Steering Vienna), which focuses on the Committee historic role that Vienna played for For the past two years, Long has Distinguished Service Weimar Germany’s displaced served as the coordinator of Award. She serves as LGBT community. Hayes will alternative education for Center the assistant library conduct his research at the Grove Academy, a student-centered Austrian Academy of Sciences in educational program that supports director and jessica mahoney Vienna. and embraces the needs of information literacy students by providing an alternative librarian, as well as Hayes serves Franklin College as method of delivering instruction and an associate professor. She earned an associate professor of music, the monitoring academic success. He a bachelor’s degree in English, A.J. Thurston Chair of Music, music also has experience leading as an secondary education from Franklin department chair and director of assistant principal at Indian Creek College and a master of library choral activities. He joined the High School and as the dean of science from Indiana University. faculty in 2009. 4 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
It’s our business to help your business grow! We offer business loan options with fast decisions and local, personalized service. As a local institution, we are in a unique position to offer your business the best help it can get with loans and local decision-making. Sarah Rogers Amy Doan Anthony Rastall Senior Vice President, Vice President, Business Lending Vice President, Business Lending Business Lending Our experienced and trusted business services team is ready to work with you. When you need equipment, vehicles or real estate, we have the business loan options to fit your needs. Learn more at www.iucu.org Three Greenwood-area locations: • 8936 Southpointe Dr, Ste. C-6 • 996 S. State Road 135 • 800 US HWY 31 South 1-888-855-6928 • iucu.org IN-35065343 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 5
district meeting. He will represent the Bargersville town manager, as elected county commissioners in the Whiteland’s new town manager. East Central district of the state. He McGinnis, a 40-year White River People will serve the district alongside Wayne County Commissioner Ken Paust, who Township resident, was tapped to lead the town due to his experience on the was elected district president during the meeting. IACC is a nonprofit leading Bargersville, land development expertise and move organization that provides education, support and advocacy services to county commissioners. enthusiasm for public service, said Brad Goedeker, a member of the search committee. McGinnis People making news n Franklin College replaces Norm Gabehart, who retired. on the southside has announced the appointment of Ryan n Dr. David Blemker McClarnon as has established a director of practice with admissions at the Franciscan Physician college. McClarnon Network Indiana n Mutual Savings brings more than 15 Heart Physicians. He Ryan Mcclarnon Bank announced that years of experience joins a team of Kellie Gordon, as a college admissions david blemker physicians and senior vice president, professional to his new role. Most advance practice has graduated from recently, he served as director of providers who provide care to the Bank Technology admissions at the University of patients in Indianapolis, Franklin, Security School. The Indianapolis. While there, he led the Greensburg, Martinsville, school offers IT admissions team through several Columbus, Mooresville, Shelbyville, KEvin Murphy security and provides years of steady enrollment growth, Crawfordsville and Greencastle. applications that can be nearly doubling the institution’s Board-certified in cardiovascular implemented at the bank. overall enrollment. disease, Blemker most recently was n Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance McClarnon earned a Bachelor of Arts on staff at Monroe Hospital in announced that Kevin Murphy has in communication, public relations, Bloomington. He also has been on been named its next and a Master of Arts in applied staff at hospitals and other executive vice president and chief sociology, community leadership and practices in Washington, executive officer. CEO Joe Martin nonprofit management, both from the Bloomington, Terre Haute and retired at the end of the year after 40 University of Indianapolis. Vincennes. He is a fellow with the years of service. Murphy has been a American College of Cardiology. key member of the company’s n Franklin College employees came leadership team since 2000, when he together virtually for the 27th annual began as director and chief actuary Employee Appreciation event. of product management solutions. In Employees were recognized with 2008, he was promoted to senior vice service awards for milestone president of property and casualty. anniversaries with the college. In He is a fellow of the Casualty addition, three individual awards Actuarial Society and member of the jordan jackson jeremy stout were bestowed. American Academy of Actuaries. In n Jordan Jackson, December, he began his appointment Two staff members were recognized Brenden Smith and as chair of the board of directors for as recipients of the 2020 Margaret Jeremy Stout have the Insurance Institute of Indiana. A. Hommell Staff Service Excellence joined Indiana Farm Award for having gone above and Murphy graduated from Franklin Bureau Insurance as beyond expectations in adding College with a bachelor’s agents. Jackson and support to colleagues and students degree and earned a master’s Stout are based in during the COVID-19 pandemic. The degree in mathematics from Miami the White River office brenden smith award is named in memory of the University. at 341 S. State Road late Margaret Hommell, a Franklin 135, and Smith is based in the n Johnson County Commissioner College staff member who served on Greenwood office at 972 Emerson Brian Baird was elected 2021 vice the award selection committee for Parkway, Suite B. president of the Indiana Association of several years. The recipients will County Commissioners East Central n The Whiteland Town Council has each receive a $250 cash award District during the IACC’s annual selected Kevin McGinnis, former and an engraved plaque. 6 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
working group, meeting with n Franklin College prospective creative writing students senior Erica Irish has to help them in their college People been selected for the decision-making process, meeting Orr Fellowship with sophomore and junior English program following her on the majors for their yearly consultations, helping to research and plan the graduation. She will begin her fellowship in move department’s curriculum revision, helping to manage the department’s social media accounts, and serving erica irish June. The Orr Fellowship is a highly competitive program with the goal of People making news as an academic adviser to students. helping develop future business on the southside Length of service awards: leaders and entrepreneurs. With an 5-year awards: Callista Buchen average acceptance rate of 6%, (Franklin), Andrea Gash (Franklin), fellows are recruited from the top Adam Heavrin (Indianapolis), Sara seniors at colleges and universities Kinder (Franklin), Steven “Justin” in Indiana and other states. The P’Pool (Greenwood), George program includes a full-time, salaried Jason McHenry, position with a host company, Phillips (Franklin), Matthew “Brett” assistant director of professional development, executive Turner (Greensburg), Gina Waldrip information technology mentorship and civic engagement (Bargersville). services, received opportunities. many nominations for 10-year awards: James Alexander the award. He was ’06 (Franklin), Kathryn Johnston Irish has been placed with cited in one (Franklin), Mary Johnston (Franklin), Innovatemap as her host company, a nomination for his Benjamin O’Neal (Franklin), Eric digital product agency in Broad jason mchenry initiative to switch the Schwarz (Greenwood). Ripple that specializes in digital campus to laptops, which was product research, branding, 15-year awards: Karen Bauman marketing and design. She will serve critical for students and employees (Edinburgh), Bradley Jones ’88 when the campus closed in March. as a marketing partner during her (Franklin), Christine Morris two-year tenure. Chris Shaff, Franklin (Indianapolis), Virginia “Ginger” College’s head athletic George-Nelis (Franklin), Amy Irish will graduate with a bachelor’s trainer, was nominated VerSteeg ’96 (Franklin), Katherine degree in journalism and political for his positive, upbeat Wehner (Franklin). science in May. Her professional attitude, his initiative in development experiences have 20-year awards: Kirk Bixler providing COVID-19 included serving on the staff of The (Franklin), Nelson Preston (Franklin) testing for athletes Franklin, Chalkbeat, Indianapolis 25-year awards: Barbara Chambers Business Journal and and staff, and for his chris shaff (Martinsville), Deana Pierson TheStatehouseFile.com, a news efforts to streamline (Needham) website powered by the college’s processes for the athletic department. Shaff graduated from 30-year award: Katherine journalism students. In June she was Franklin College’s athletic training Remsburg (Trafalgar) part of a team that received an program in 1996. Emmy Award from the National 35-year award: Joel Cramer (Avon) Academy of Television Arts & Katie Burpo, an 40-year award: Gregory Cataldi ’80 Sciences Lower Great Lakes Chapter assistant professor of (Franklin) for its documentary titled “The English, was Children’s Crusade Revisited: recognized with the 45-year award: Janet Schantz ’03 Slaughterhouse-Five at 50,” based (Trafalgar) on the book by Kurt Vonnegut. Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award. Part-time awards: n Dr. Amna Tahir She was also praised 5-year awards: Sam Kinder Ahmed has katie burpo by her colleagues for (Franklin), Joshua Torres established a practice not only excelling in (Indianapolis) with Franciscan the classroom but also contributing Physician Network to the campus in many ways, even 10-year awards: Linda Morse Indiana Heart though as a non-tenure track faculty (Franklin), Elizabeth Stillabower Physicians. She joins member she does not have any (Franklin) a team of physicians amna tahir ahmed service obligations. Her contributions 15-year awards: Janet Stone and advance practice include serving as a contributing (Franklin), DeeAnna Woods providers who provide care to member of the First Year Seminar (Needham) patients in Indianapolis, Franklin, 8 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
“I can’t tell you how happy I have been over the years that Chamber friendships have a long shelf life. As the pandemic unfolded and crushed global momentum, it became apparent to me that the Franklin Chamber network is like Atlas, the Titan God, strong enough to take on the world and make it better. The support and solidarity is unwavering amidst continued pandemic restrictions with the continuation of connections and finding new ways of doing business. For me, the Franklin Chamber is the foundation that continues to raise us up during times, both good and bad.” GAIL RICHARDS President & CEO Johnson County Community Foundation UPCOMING EVENTS 8 Look for event details and updates at franklincoc.org. MARCH APRIL Social distancing will be ANNUAL MEETING & STATE OF CHAMBER MEETING observed at all events. THE CITY ADDRESS Date: April 8, 2021 Events may be impacted by Date: March 11, 2021 Time: 12:00-1:00 p.m. emerging health and safety Time: 12:00 p.m. guidelines related to COVID-19. CHAMBER BASICS Visit franklincoc.org for latest CHAMBER BASICS Date: April 15, 2021 event updates. Date: March 18, 2021 Time: 12:00-1:00 p.m., Time: 12:00-1:00 p.m., RSVP required RSVP required 120 East Jefferson Street | Franklin, IN 46131 P: 317-736-6334 F: 317-736-9553 | W: franklincoc.org | IN-35066585 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 9
Greensburg, Martinsville, Columbus, first-year students in the Master of The Indianapolis Press Club Mooresville, Shelbyville, Science in physician assistant foundation board invited students from Crawfordsville and Greencastle. studies program at Franklin College. all Indiana colleges or universities to submit their best published writing on Ahmed most recently was a The Indiana AHEC Scholars program the past year’s most pressing topics: cardiologist and echocardiography is a part of a national initiative to the pandemic, social justice, the Lab Director with at Ascension Sacred prepare tomorrow’s health election and campus news. More than Heart Hospital in Miramar Beach, professionals to become leaders in 70 entries were submitted. Florida. She has also held positions at inter-professional, transformative hospitals in the Spokane, Washington practice who serve those who need it Ketterer, who graduated in December area where she was Director of the the most. The competitive program is from Franklin College, was runner-up in Women’s Cardiovascular program. designed specifically for individuals the social justice category for a story Ahmed has been widely published in who possess a strong drive to about whether local police agencies professional journals on a variety of provide care to those living in rural are making any changes in light of the medical topics. She is a Fellow of the and medically underserved Black Lives Matter movement and American College of Cardiology, communities across Indiana. nationwide unrest last year. Ketterer, a American College of Physicians and Whiteland native, first interned at the Women in Cardiology Chapter ACC. paper in 2018, worked part time while She also is a member of the American she completed her degree and joined Society of Nuclear Cardiology. the staff full time in December. Franklin College senior Erica Irish won first place in the campus news category for work that was published in The Franklin, the college’s student Emily Ketterer erica irish newspaper. She also was runner-up in the election category for work n A Daily Journal reporter was one of published on TheStatehouseFile.com. two local winners of a prestigious statewide competition. Emily Ketterer, Both Ketterer and Irish were student rebecca jolly stephanie hautsch who covers Greenwood, Whiteland and producers of “The Children’s n Two Franklin College students New Whiteland for the Daily Journal, Crusade Revisited: Slaughterhouse- have been selected for the Class of placed in the 34th annual Thomas R. Five at 50,” a joint project of the 2022 Indiana Area Health Education Keating Competition hosted by the Franklin College Pulliam School of Center Scholars Program. Rebecca Indianapolis Press Club, according to a Journalism and WFYI, which earned Jolly and Stephanie Hautsch are Franklin College news release. them a Regional Emmy last year. The business must have had its base in Indiana since it was Corporate Companies founded. making news on The business must recognize, chatter the southside acknowledge and agree that it is in full compliance with the Indiana Secretary of State, Department of Revenue and the Department of Workforce Development by signing the application. The business must not have Business nominees Applications are due March 31. previously received a Century or sought for state awards Qualifying criteria is as follows: Half Century award. Previous Half The state is accepting nominations The business must have had Century award recipients may for the Governor’s Century and Half continuous operations in Indiana for qualify for a Century award. Century Business Awards, which more than 50 or 100 years by Dec. honor Hoosier businesses that have Eligible companies are encouraged 31, 2020. to complete the online application remained in operation for at least 100 or 50 years, and have The business must have participated at https://iedc.formstack.com/ demonstrated a commitment to in the same line of work for the forms/century_half_century_ serving the community. duration of its operations. awards_2021. 10 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
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Franciscan Health Indianapolis has been recognized by the American Corporate Companies College of Cardiology for its demonstrated expertise and making news on chatter commitment in treating patients receiving transcatheter valve repair the southside and replacement procedures. Transcatheter valve repair is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly. White Coat Ceremony physicians to recommend someone College employees kicks off careers for PAs in central Indiana they would see support United Way The Franklin College Master of themselves or suggest to a family Since 1991, Franklin College Science in physician assistant member. Nearly 1,000 licensed employees have participated studies program hosted its White medical professionals in the area, through an internal fundraising Coat Ceremony on Dec. 18. The representing dozens of specialties, campaign in December to help the college’s cohort of 24 PA students met Castle Connolly’s qualifications. United Way of Johnson County. In from the class of 2022 received their One of the articles in the “Top 2020, college employees white coats and recited a medical Doctors” issue features an interview contributed a total of $16,134, oath during a Zoom ceremony. with Dr. Abhigyan Banka, who surpassing the goal of $15,000. Family members had the honor of practices at Franciscan Physician Network Beech Grove Family The fundraising efforts included presenting the students with their some holiday fun far beyond white coats. Medicine. pledges and gifts. They conducted The ceremony is a rite of passage Franciscan Health hospitals a spare change competition pitting welcoming students into health care throughout Indiana have been the east side of campus against the practice by providing a white coat recognized by the Indiana Hospital west side, and a silent auction for symbolizing professionalism and Association for their commitment to items such as a handmade Grizzly humanistic patient care. At Franklin infant and maternal health at the first afghan, a Grizzly football helmet, a College it marks the transition from INspire Hospital of Distinction reserved parking space on campus the didactic year to the clinical year recognition program. INspire, and various Parkhurst dining funded by the Indiana Department packages. and the beginning of clinical of Health’s Safety Perinatal rotations. It is the halfway mark of Information Network, was developed Additionally, college employees also the 25-month, full-time program. to implement the delivery of best donated 140 boxes of cereal to the The college’s MSPAS program is a practice care for Hoosier moms and Good Cheer Fund of Johnson 25-month course of study. babies and recognize hospitals for County to be distributed to those Graduates are eligible to take the excellence. receiving holiday food baskets. Physician Assistant National Franciscan Health Indianapolis has Kiwanis helps with Certifying Examination and become been recognized by Anthem Blue Thanksgiving giveaway licensed as a physician assistant in Cross Blue Shield with a Blue A trio of Perry Kiwanis members any state. Distinction Centers for Bariatric joined 10 other southside volunteers Johnson County students receiving Surgery designation, as part of the Thanksgiving morning at Friedens their white coats were Mackenzie Blue Distinction Specialty Care United Church of Christ on South (Norder) Willman of Greenwood and program. Blue Distinction Centers Meridian Street to make and box up Jacob Stemper of Bargersville. are nationally designated health more than 560 meals for the Mozel care facilities that show a Sanders annual Thanksgiving Day Franciscan Health commitment to delivering high food giveaway. Kiwanis receives recognition quality patient safety and better Co-president Scott Splichal, Director Nearly 225 Franciscan Health health outcomes, based on Alyssa Taylor, Splichal’s wife, Cindy, employed (Franciscan Physician objective measures that were Southport Mayor Jim Cooney, Network) and affiliated physicians developed with input from the member Kevin Wheeler and Melissa have been honored as 2020 “Top medical community and leading Johnson, the newest club member Doctors” by Indianapolis Monthly accreditation and quality and executive director of Perry magazine. Castle Connolly Medical organizations. The Blue Distinction Senior Services, secured the spot to Ltd., a health care research and Centers for Bariatric Surgery host the dinner giveaway. information company, compiled this program provides a full range of year’s honorees by asking bariatric surgery care. Perry Kiwanis also recently donated 12 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
$500 to Trusted Mentors, which NT Supply was founded as an HVAC Humanities initiative for the next three connects trained volunteers with e-commerce site in 2002, and built a years, with the goal of highlighting at-risk adults to help them stay facility in Greenwood that employs different faith traditions through housed and out of prison. 157 people. The company various expressions of the arts and transformed into a national supplier humanities, such as dance, visual Kiwanis supports various community providing products to sites such as arts, music, poetry and film making. organizations including Hunger Inc., FilterOutlet.com, DFfilterPro.com and Riley Hospital for Children, college The initiative is the inspiration of scholarships and others through flagship site DiscountFilters.com, Franklin College Professor Emeritus various fundraisers, such as the featuring its AirX and ClearChoice filter brands. David Carlson and Franklin College June golf outing, the chili cook-off in Director of Religious Life and February, and the concession stand When it started looking to expand in Chaplain Hannah Adams Ingram, operated during Baxter YMCA June, the company bought a who have long been drawn to spring and youth athletic league 143,000-square-feet speculative interfaith dialogue and games. building adjacent to its property in understanding. Assistant Professor Filter supplier expanding in the Southtech Business Park, east of of Fine Arts and Theatre Nick Greenwood, adding 43 jobs Interstate 65. NT Supply will invest Crisafulli has also assisted with $4.9 million in the building and artistic guidance and direction. A national supplier of air and water manufacturing equipment, according filter products plans to invest $4.9 Carlson said he believes interfaith to the news release. million to expand its Greenwood involves more than working to operations. Grant will fund understand the significant National Trade Supply, 2011 interfaith program differences and similarities between Southtech Drive, announced plans Franklin College has been awarded a the world’s religions; it also requires to grow beyond its current facility $15,000 grant from the Allen Whitehill working together for peace and and create 43 new jobs in the next Clowes Charitable Foundation. The healing in a world that is quick to three years, according to an Indiana grant will fund an annual convocation judge, blame and distort. He hopes Economic Development Corporation in the college’s Interfaith the interfaith convocations will serve news release. Understanding Through the Arts and as a bridge to understanding. Beeson Mechanical Service is a local family owned business that was started in January of 2000 in Whiteland, owned by Kent and Leslie Beeson, both born and raised in Johnson County. Leslie is the majority owner. They specialize in residential, commercial, and Leslie Beeson industrial heating, cooling, refrigeration, and electrical Vice President work. This also includes piping, water heaters, indoor air (317)535-9338 quality, custom metal fabrication, dehumidifier repair, www.BeesonCo.com geothermal systems, and unusual applications. 501 MAIN ST. WHITELAND, IN Beeson is ready to help you with all of your heating & cooling, electrical, and plumbing needs. Beeson services and installs HVAC systems, electrical, and plumbing for both residential and commercial customers in Johnson County and surrounding areas. Beeson carries products from Bosch, Fujitsu, Aprilaire, and more. The Beesons have had extensive community involvement over the years. They started Greater Whiteland Community Day and have supported the Clark-Pleasant Education Foundation, local sports teams, and the Johnson County 4H Fair Livestock auction. Beeson then matched the amount. Leslie also serves on the Board of Zoning Appeals for the Town of Whiteland. Volunteer work for the Beesons has included Gleaners Food Pantry, Whiteland Elementary School PTO, Crisis Text Line, and the HVAC Advisory Board at Central Nine Career Center. Beeson also spearheaded a “shop local” program to help area small businesses survive the COVID-19 closures this past year. Customers were encouraged to buy gift cards from locally owned businesses impacted by the closures. Beeson offers a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and a high rate of approval for customer financing, as well as an extended warranty on every HVAC system. The friendly and knowledeable service technicians are licensed and insured and receive continuing eduation to ensure their knowledge and skills are up to date. Beeson Mechanical Service is a member of the Better Business Bureau. IN-35065315 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 13
Sponsorship funds and donations raised during the one-day giving Corporate Companies making news on initiative will support the college’s athletic programs. The athletic chatter teams, cheer squad and athletic the southside training staff have not had opportunities to conduct their normal fundraising efforts due to their competition seasons being postponed, canceled and reformatted because of the pandemic. This initiative will help the IBC Advanced Alloys plans grow the Franklin site to 60 college provide the best athletic $5 million expansion, new jobs employees, documents show. experiences for its student-athletes IBC Advanced Alloys plans to invest Franciscan Health supports this spring when many will resume more than $5 million to build and St. Francis Soccer Club competition. outfit a 32,000-square-feet copper A staple soccer league on The college used social media, casting facility on its Franklin Indianapolis’ southside is expanding especially Facebook, Twitter and property. its reach to young athletes in nearby Instagram, to market the 24-hour The Franklin City Council agreed to communities and has bolstered its fundraising effort, as well as email create an Economic Revitalization relationship with longtime supporter and other college communication Area on IBC’s property, the first step Franciscan Health Indianapolis. St. formats. At noon and 7 p.m., Rafael in a process to consider tax Francis Soccer Club is expanding Sánchez, WRTV Channel 6 anchor/ abatements. its locations for the 2021 season at reporter and 1992 alumnus of the Hornet Academy, Beech Grove — college, hosted special virtual IBC, also known as Non Ferrous Beech Grove City Parks; Falcon “power hours,” with guests Products Inc., is a Franklin-based Academy, 8600 S. Meridian St., including Franklin College beryllium and copper advanced Indianapolis — German Park; and President Kerry Prather and 2008 alloys manufacturer that serves a Eagles Academy 4, 271 State Road alumnus Matt Taylor, the official variety of industries such as 2144 — Mooresville Christian radio voice of the Indianapolis defense, aerospace, automotive, Academy. The new venues join Colts. telecommunications and precision current locations at The Gathering manufacturing. Miller Transportation and Luson Place, 1494 West Main St., The Franklin facility is IBC’s Greenwood; St. Francis Fields, 7702 BioVentures were the #GRIZTuesday corporate headquarters and the S. Arlington Ave., Indianapolis; and title sponsors. primary manufacturing plant for its Mary Bryan Elementary, 4355 E. Stop 11 Road, Indianapolis. Hospital donates copper alloys division. Employees manufacture and distribute a variety toward athletic center “Franciscan Health Indianapolis is a Franklin College has announced a of copper alloys as castings and longtime supporter of SFSC and this $1 million commitment from Johnson forgings, including beryllium copper, is an excellent opportunity to expand Memorial Health to construct the chrome copper and aluminum an outreach to the communities we Johnson Memorial Health Athletics bronze, he said. are privileged to serve,” said Joann Annex. The expansion, set to start this Henry, the hospital’s wellness spring, will expand its onsite copper manager, who also serves on the The annex will be an indoor multiuse casting capacity to better serve the club’s board of directors. “Under the facility tentatively to be located on facility’s forging and machine shop. new agreement, the hospital will the southwest corner of Park The new building will be a provide a range of sports medicine- Avenue and Second Street on connecting structure between the related services, including injury campus. It will feature retractable two buildings on IBC’s property, prevention and on-site athletic batting cages for use by the bringing the buildings under the trainers during tournaments.” baseball and softball teams, along same roof, he said. with similar areas suitable for men’s Franklin College exceeds and women’s golf. With the hitting The company plans to hire 25 new fundraising goal cages retracted, the open space will employees with wages ranging from Donors stepped up in a big way to provide indoor practice space for $20.96 to $38.55 an hour, including support Franklin College’s first-ever many sports. The annex will also benefits, according to city #GRIZTuesday on Dec. 1. The add a second weight room to the documents. The new employees will college raised $179,912 during the campus. be brought on over the course of 24-hour day of giving, far surpassing about five years, and will eventually its $100,000 goal for the day. — Staff Reports 14 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
southside snapshot Chamber announces 2021 board Photo taken January 2020 2021 board members members Dr. David Clendening, Andy Kinsey, Grace Chris Rynerson, First Franklin Community United Methodist Church Financial Bank The Franklin Chamber of Schools Commerce has named its 2021 Krista Linke, City of Amy Richardson, Main & Board of Directors. The board is Jeff Dutton, Johnson Franklin Madison Market Café a dedicated and active group Memorial Health Kristen Loy, Firestorm of member volunteers who Betsy Schmidt, Franklin Bryan Epperson, Restoration represent the chamber and College Raymond James provide guidance and direction Andy Moorman, NSK Deb Turrel, Crane Credit for the organization. Board Mark Gavorski, Precision Homeview Health and Union members serve two-year terms Rehabilitation Shellee Pietras, Promise and may be asked to serve a Sally Wells, Mutual maximum of two additional Advisory Group Kim Henderson, Edward Savings Bank consecutive terms for a total of Jones Lezlie Richards, six years. TeamLogicIT IN-35066651 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 15
ANNUAL ISSUE women in leadership women Saluting in some of the southside’s outstanding women in leadership roles compiled by Amy May | Photos by Mark Freeland 16 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
Vena Lee Ann Elizabeth Brandi Foster Elaine Holden Abercrombie- Ann (Betsy) Kirkendall Pesto PAGE 18 Logan Swearingen PAGE 22 PAGE 24 PAGE 19 PAGE 21 When you think of a library you most likely think of books first, not technology. However, a library not only makes technology available to the public, think Wi-Fi and computers, it runs on technology. JCPL IT Manager, Cindee Phillips, got her start working as a cataloger Cindee Phillips in a library in Illinois, and then moved into a software IT Manager support role. PageAfterPage.org “When JCPL hired me, it was for software support of our main programs, along with reporting and training. Like most staff in libraries, the IT department does whatever is needed, which allowed me to learn more about the hardware end of things – desktop PCs, printers, phones, etc.” Phillips said. Promoted to IT manager in 2017, Cindee likes making a difference in people’s lives while doing things she enjoys. As with everyone, 2020 created challenges. “For IT, the pandemic has been about answering two questions: first, is there technology that can help us do what we do in a safer way, and second, what do our users (both patrons and staff ) need in terms of training and hardware, in order to use that technology -- often at home” she stated. Next time you get a book at JCPL, remember it takes more than ink and paper to have that book ready for you to checkout. IN-35066674 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 17
women in leadership Vena Holden Job title: Owner Employer name: Selective Seconds Employer address: 1000 N. State Road 135, Greenwood Hobbies, community involvement: I love to spend time at home and cook. I would love to learn gardening. Family: I am married to Art Holden (just retired from his own boat repair business), who is an avid bowler. We have one son, Will Perry, who has an entrepreneurial spirit like his mom. He recently launched Model A Mafia and is passionate about rebuilding Model A cars. Place of residence:We live on the northside of Martinsville on four acres. What career path led to your current position? I was a single mother and worked as a legal secretary for many years. I had to dress professionally and affordably. I appreciated saving money on quality items and fell in love with What are the biggest challenges style? I network nationally with you face? With COVID last year, many resale shops and am a the hunt of shopping resale. In 1997 I had an opportunity to rent a we’ve had to pivot our business member of NARTS (Association small, commercial-zoned house in significantly. Our inventory has of Resale Professional), as well Mooresville and took the leap with always been good and contin- as ARI (Association of Resale a $1,000 investment. Within a year uous. Our walk-in customers Innovation) and attend national I was able to buy the property while have decreased with COVID, so conferences to continue my ed- still working full time, and within we have resorted to selling with ucation in the resale business. I three years I was able to leave my Facebook live shows and on also have a wonderful staff who job and focus fully on building the our website, www.SelectiveSec- share my passion for resale and business. onds.com. Although this has offer great customer service. helped significantly, this pivot What do you like most about your has brought on more challenges Have you encountered any career job? Resale and consignment are with added expenses in payroll roadblocks as a woman? None a win-win business for everyone. and processing costs. I have that come to mind. I have been Customers win by saving money recently hired a new manager to told I’m a risk-taker. My hus- (usually 50% or more off retail). help with the growth and new band and I took the plunge and Consignors and suppliers make challenges. bought our current building on money from their gently loved State Road 135 in Greenwood. items. We are supporting small How would you characterize We moved in one month before business in Johnson County. your leadership philosophy or COVID and are determined to 18 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
push through the pandemic and are excited for what the future holds for us. What is your advice for young women hoping to advance in your field? Resale is more widespread and accepted now than when I started 23-plus years ago. There are lots more opportunities to sell on social media plat- forms. Brick-and-mortar resale businesses are a bit more challenging and risky because of all the overhead, but definitely doable and also add more opportunities to get merchandise. I am always available for consultation. What’s the funniest experi- ence you ever had at work? We find some unique items in merchandise that people Lee Ann bring in. We’ve found money, ID cards, credit cards, pho- tos, jewelry. When you were a little girl, what did you want to do when you grew up? How close is Abercrombie- Logan your career to that childhood dream? I always wanted to work with mentally chal- lenged. This year we will be launching our “Mental Illness Job title: System marketing di- Hobbies, community involve- Awareness” campaign, which rector, orthopedics ment: Board director, Aspire Eco- supports all mental illnesses. nomic Development & Chamber Employer name: Franciscan Alliance|Former board president, You can find more informa- Health Indiana Hospital Marketing & Pub- tion on our website regarding Employer address: 421 N. Emer- lic Relations Society that program. I think the Former founding board director, son Ave., Greenwood pandemic has increased my Greenwood Education Founda- passion for kicking off this Post-secondary schools tion program. We hope to have attended, degrees earned: Member, Franklin Chamber of Ball State University, Bachelor of a drop-off event this spring Commerce Science in public relations/jour- where people can bring their Also, traveling with family and nalism gently loved items to donate friends, going to concerts, volun- University of Kentucky, sports teering and/or attending festivals to our program. We will marketing certification and sporting events and golfing. donate our normal payback Indiana Tech, Master of Business (40 to 70%) plus an addi- Administration with concentration Family: Son, Lex Logan tional 15% to organizations in marketing Place of residence: Greenwood that support mental illness awareness. Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 19
women in leadership: Abercrombie-Logan Continued What do you like most about your that inspires me to learn more. to come up with several jobs in job? Getting to know others and I try to take advantage of every different fields that could offer you finding ways that we can partner learning opportunity that comes an advancement. Identifying those together on projects that will my way. key words and similarities and enhance the quality of life in our connecting them in your resume community. Have you encountered any career and during an interview will be roadblocks as a woman? What sure to get you noticed as a top What are the biggest challenges career path led to your current contender for advancement. you face? Working in health care, position? I have always had a the obvious challenge right now is passion for sports and thought What’s the funniest experience the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve I’d end up working in marketing/ you ever had at work? Early on in been challenged to keep up with promotions for a sports team right my first job, I was coordinating a the daily changes and communi- after college. I quickly learned that blood drive at a local community cating them to the public. When it was difficult for women to get an center. We partnered with a radio the pandemic hit, there were so interview, let alone an internship station to help promote the event, many uncertainties. For many or experience. A woman working and they thought it would be a people, the world stopped for a full time in the sports industry great idea to do a live interview moment. For health care workers, was pretty much unheard of “back while I was donating blood for the it ignited. then.” first time. One of the biggest challenges is So I turned to another passion, We started the interview, and I keeping up with new technology. which is wellness/fitness/health. remember introducing myself and Suddenly, creating a new virtual I got a health care marketing job saying that I was excited to be a health care landscape became right away but initially didn’t plan first-time donor. The next thing a priority to meet our patients’ I know, I was waking up from a on staying for very long. Fast for- needs. In addition, all in-person blackout. I was fine but completely ward 26 years later and here I am, events and most meetings turned embarrassed and had to laugh it still in health care marketing. into a virtual setting. off. At least it was live radio and What’s kept me interested in this not live television. How would you characterize your leadership philosophy or style? field is that I now get to fulfill both When you were a little girl, what From early on, I have truly em- of my passions, sports and well- did you want to do when you grew braced a manage-up leadership ness/fitness. I have been fortunate up? How close is your career to style. I enjoy helping others learn to oversee the sponsorships of that childhood dream? When I was and grow, whether that is teaching many sports teams, sports organi- a little girl, my career dream was them a new skill, providing them zations, national sporting events to be a news reporter. I even had the right resources or connecting and high school athletics through- my own segment named, “Live at them to others in the community out the state. In addition, I work 5 with Lee Ann.” I wouldn’t just who can also help them further with a team on numerous health, watch the news, I would study it. their skills and knowledge. fitness and wellness programs that Then I would recreate it. And then help benefit our patients and the I would practice it over and over I’m also a true believer in lifelong communities at large that we serve. again. learning. I embraced this phi- losophy early on from my now What is your advice for young Although I chose a different career 99-year-old grandfather, Gor- women hoping to advance in your path, my current role in health don Dunn. He’s given me great field? My advice is to not limit care marketing is very similar to wisdom and advice over the years, yourself to a particular field. I like being a news reporter. Whether both personally and profession- to refer to it as the Kevin Bacon ca- it’s interviewing a patient about ally, however instilling a philoso- reer model. There is always a way their recovery success or writing phy of lifelong learning has been to connect one field to another, about a new procedure that can the most valuable. Even today, I so if you focus on the similarities help save lives, there is always a see him learning new things and of the fields, you should be able story to tell. 20 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
Elizabeth Ann (Betsy) Swearingen Job title: Director do. I am an active parishio- ner and volunteer at St. Jude Employer name: Johnson Catholic Church and a Roncalli County Health Department Rebels fan. Employer address: 460 N. Family: I am married to Chad Morton St., Suite A, Franklin Swearingen (21 years) and Post-secondary schools at- have three daughters, a son-in- tended, degrees earned: Bach- law and one beautiful grand- elor of Science in environmental son. Alexis and Gage Wells, health, Indiana University both 27, Lincoln, age 1, Anna Swearingen, 19, and Olivia Hobbies, community in- Swearingen, 16; and a cat I volvement: I love cornhole, never wanted but have learned riding bikes, playing solitaire to love, Tate. on my computer, watching movies and sipping red wine. Place of residence: South- Any time I can spend with my side/Perry Township, India- family is my favorite thing to napolis What career path led to your current How would you characterize your lead- ever had, and although not glamorous position? I began my public health ca- ership philosophy or style?I believe in or high paying and at times, gross and reer as an inner city housing inspector treating my employees like the adults dirty, it led me to where I am now. for the Marion County Public Health they are. I trust them and give them the Work smarter, be kind and thoughtful, Department in Indianapolis after I freedom to make their own decisions to treat those like you want to be treated. graduated in 1993 from IU. I then ad- accomplish the tasks they have in front It will get you places. Forge partner- vanced to the assistant indoor air spe- of them. I do not micro-manage, and I ships because you will need their help. cialist and had the privilege of meeting expect that they will do what needs to John Bonsett, the former director of the be done. I encourage them to do more What’s the funniest experience you Johnson County Health Department, even when they are overworked and ever had at work? I plead the Fifth on at a radon conference in Washington, underpaid. They understand I would this one. What we find funny at the D.C. He asked if I would like to come never ask them to do anything that I health department is not always po- work in Johnson County, and when the wouldn’t be willing to do myself. litically correct. My sense of humor time was right and a position opened has become warped over the years. up, I joined the Johnson County Health Have you encountered any career My staff and I laugh about our “Top Department on Jan. 2, 2002. roadblocks as a woman? Early in my 5 Dirtiest Houses” list and how we career I was passed up for promo- slipped and almost fell in the garbage What do you like most about your job? tions. Sadly enough, it was a woman pile inside the house. I love the face-to-face interaction with that repetitively chose male employ- the public. It makes me feel great to ees for the jobs over me. When you were a little girl, what did help them with whatever concern, you want to do when you grew up? How situation or service that faces them. I What is your advice for young women close is your career to that childhood want them to know that I care about hoping to advance in your field? Be dream? I wanted to be a marine biolo- them and Johnson County. open-minded when it comes to your gist. Advanced college chemistry and career path. A job may appear different biology did me in. I am happy that What are the biggest challenges you then what it really is. Being a housing happened because I love doing what I face? Funding is my biggest challenge. inspector was one of the best jobs I do every day. Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 21
women in leadership Brandi Foster Kirkendall Job title: Johnson County court administrator Employer name: Johnson County Circuit Court Employer address: 5 E. Jefferson St., Franklin Post-secondary schools attended, degrees earned: Bachelor’s degree from Franklin College and law degree from Indiana University School of Law — Indianapolis. Hobbies, community involvement: Snow skiing, reading, traveling, raising golden retrievers and horses. I am an active member and volunteer at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, involved in various charitable organizations and involved in Johnson County Republican Women’s Club. I am a 2006 graduate and former board member of Leadership Johnson County. Family: I am married to Nick Kirkendall, a local real estate developer. We have two sons and one daugh- ter who keep us very busy in their various activities. Place of residence: I was born and raised in Frank- lin. We currently reside in Trafalgar, where we raise our children. My parents, Tom Foster and Sandra Brown and Joe and Dianne Pfennig, are active resi- dents in Franklin. What career path led to your cur- ent every day and hopefully make face? Taking myself too seriously. rent position? From a very early an impact. My job allows for the The first time a client fired me (for age, I knew I wanted a career in flexibility to use my training in a not being “mean enough to oppos- the legal field. I started working for variety of means. Some days that ing counsel”), I couldn’t sleep for Johnson Superior Court 3 during involves being in the courtroom two days. my first year of college. After col- assisting the judges, some days lege, I began law school and clerked I get to research and some days How would you characterize your at Van Valer Law Firm in Green- leadership philosophy or style? (before the restrictions imposed wood, where I remained in private by the COVID-19 pandemic) I got Definitely collaborative. practice for nearly 10 years. After to spend some time giving court- Have you encountered any career leaving private practice, I worked house tours to students. I also have roadblocks as a woman? This is a for Indiana Legal Services, a non- the opportunity to be the liaison tough question to answer. Profes- profit law firm, as a staff attorney between the judiciary and the other sionally, I don’t feel like I have been before joining the county in my departments, which means that I denied any opportunities that are current position. get to interact with a lot of people, gender-related. However, person- which I enjoy. ally, I have struggled with the chal- What do you like most about your job? I get to do something differ- What are the biggest challenges you lenges of balancing motherhood 22 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021
and establishing a career. There if I hadn’t been open to a new idea with the entire council getting to en- have been many times that I have of what my life as a lawyer should joy taco night with the Kirkendalls. struggled with the misperception be, I would definitely be missing that I have to be super mom and out now. When you were a little girl, what did you want to do when you grew super lawyer. What’s the funniest experience you up? How close is your career to that What is your advice for young women ever had at work? There are so many. childhood dream? My mom and dad hoping to advance in your field? Get Of the specific situations that I can tell me that I wanted to be a lawyer involved. It is never too early to ethically share with you, I would from the time I was in elementary invest in your community. Net- have to say that the 2020 Zoom school, and they might even say that working can be intimidating, but world has proven the funniest. I had the attitude to prove it as a especially in Johnson County we Last summer, I attended a Johnson 10-year-old child, ha! So I am lucky have a fantastic community of lead- County Council meeting via Zoom. enough to be living my childhood ers who work well together. Also, While listening to the meeting, I dream. Ironically, my daughter (age don’t be afraid to try new paths. As decided to start dinner for my fam- 10) recently wrote that her life goal a very young professional, I had a ily. My youngest son, unbeknownst was to be a judge, so she is aim- vision of what my career should to me, turned on the video camera ing higher, and she definitely has look like. That vision did not to the meeting, and it should be no the determination to achieve that include my current position, and surprise to you that this story ends dream. “Where Everybody Gets A Great Deal” Stephanie Fletcher Kristin A. St. Pierre Owner/Dealer Principal Advanced Planning Professional (317) 593-2020 (317)881-2514 www.fletcherchrysler.com www.wilsonstpierre.com kristin@wilsonstpierre.com Kristin A. St. Pierre is a licensed Advanced Planning Stephanie has been working in her family’s automotive business since Professional for Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service & Crematory, 1992. She got her start by working for her father, Steve Fletcher, and since Greenwood Chapel. She had spent over 20 years at Pfizer then has worn many hats in the business. Throughout her career, her jobs Pharmaceuticals as a senior territory manager. She later have ranged anywhere from sales, finance, vehicle service, parts and office work. joined the family funeral business providing prearranged funeral services to the community. Stephanie has been married to her husband, Brad Joiner, since September of 1998. They have two daughters, Kali Joiner-Villegas and Grace Joiner, as The Greenwood funeral home is one of the oldest family well as two dogs named Mo and Cooper. businesses in Greenwood, serving families at Main Street and U.S. 31. The funeral campus includes a funeral home Fletcher of Franklin, Indiana offers a wide range of services to serve you. with seating capacity of over 300, and Johnson County’s only They offer a Lifetime Powertrain Warranty on their vehicles as well as both leasing and purchasing services. Fletcher’s Service Dept now has an app crematory, pet crematory, and community center. that allows you to check in online for an oil change, cutting down on wait time for services. Kristin is a graduate of Franklin College, where she was active with Pi Beta Phi and other activities. She is a longtime If your looking for a new or used vehicle, look no further than Stephanie Greenwood resident. Kristin is married to her husband, Paul, Fletcher. Fletcher Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM is located on 3099 North and her kids, Avery and Ryan, attend Center Grove schools. Morton Street in Franklin, Indiana. She loves spending time with family and friends. IN-35065712 Southside Business Exchange | spring 2021 23
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