Carmel Monthly-January 2023

17 COVER STORY

Carmel Rotary and the City of Carmel to Host Arte d’Italia

It is with great pleasure that Carmel Monthly is featuring world-renowned pianist and Deputy Mayor Francesco Attesti of Cortona, Italy. Attesti is considered one of the finest interpreters of the Romantic and early Twentieth Century Repertoire, and he is scheduled to perform at the Palladium alongside the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and will also be performing at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in February.

Cover Story Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photo // Submitted

The Cake Bake Shop Sprinkles Its Magic Along Disney’s BoardWalk

Writer // Janelle Morrison

It is no secret that I am a frequent flyer at The Cake Bake Shop® by Gwendolyn Rogers in Carmel, Indiana. Since its grand opening at its City Center location, it has become the go-to for special events, meetings and pre-show delights. And soon, for anyone traveling to the magical world of Disney in Florida, The Cake Bake Shop will share its culinary magic in all its splendor along Disney’s BoardWalk at Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida.

A FAIRY TALE COME TRUE

With a grand opening slated for late 2023, the new restaurant and bakery will offer both savory and dessert menus along with an Afternoon Tea service fit for royalty.

The Cake Bake Shop President and Owner Gwendolyn Rogers shared some details regarding her newest endeavor that will be her third location — her first to be located out of state. When asked if a goal of Rogers has always been to open a located in Disney World and what special meaning it holds for her, Rogers replied,

“Yes, I was fortunate enough to go to Disney World the year it opened in 1971 – I was 6 years old. On my 56th birthday, I attended Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary party. It has been a love for me for 50 years, and I am so excited and grateful for this opportunity Disney has given me.”

Aside from The Cake Bake Shop’s renowned delectable and first-class menu offerings, Rogers spoke about the Afternoon Tea service she and her staff will be offering and delighting guests with at the Disney BoardWalk location.

“The Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk will have the same offerings my

“We are very proud of our menu, and we will continue the dishes that our current guests love for the Disney guests. We will be highlighting our Afternoon Tea service, which is a fan favorite for our guest experience. Our teas are imported from France, and our scones are made every morning and are served with clotted cream, our homemade jams, honey and mini desserts. We also offer to pair with my Rosé Bubbles® sparkling wine. This is all served on our pink and gold porcelain dinnerware, tea pots and tea cups, which creates the ultimate experience. All guests are encouraged to dress up in Disney attire as they dine under the glittering crystals.”

When asked if Rogers and her staff will decorate in themes as they do throughout her central Indiana locations, Rogers enthusiastically replied, “This is what I love most about what I do. I love to create an experience like no other, so Disney and Cake Bake are the perfect match. Yes, I plan on decorating as I do in my other locations.”

BUILDING A BRAND THAT’S BECOMING A LEGACY

I asked Rogers if, when she looks back over the last few years, she feels that she has met some major benchmarks with regards to her brand.

“Every day is like taking little baby

steps,” Rogers shared. “I strive on a daily basis to not only keep the brand excellent but to grow it as well. I have a million ideas in my head, and I try to bring as many of them to life as I can. Each idea takes years to come to fruition, so I never stop striving to make it better.”

Rogers credited her team for her brand’s continued success and growth.

“Having an incredible team is extremely important,” Rogers emphasized. “I work with over 180 people on my team, and each and every team member is the core of what we do. It is a huge group effort to make every guest happy every day — from our team in the production kitchen that makes each and every dessert by hand and from scratch daily, to my warehouse/shipping team that ships a few hundred cakes nationwide each week, to the leaders in the restaurants that manage their own teams for each and every guest.”

Rogers continued, “We have an incredible customer service team who is there to answer and help in any way they can.

Customer service is extremely important when growing your brand. It is what makes the guests want to come back time and time again. We work extremely hard to make that happen on a daily basis. I am so proud to work alongside each and every one who is really like part of my family. I also look forward to all the new team we will need to bring on to run the operation in Florida — so many new faces that I get to meet and work with. That is fun and exciting.”

I asked Rogers what is still on her to-do list as far as new endeavors go, and she thoughtfully replied, “My to-do list is so long that sometimes I feel like it will never all get done, as every day I am constantly adding to it. The moment I get something off the list, I add two more. I wouldn’t change a thing; every day is different — fun, exciting, exhausting, so much pressure, complicated, new, and with all of that, I am so grateful for this adventure I am on. I hope it turns out as great as I imagine it, and I hope everyone loves it as much as I do.”

For updates on the Disney BoardWalk location and for more information on The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers at the Carmel City Center and Broad Ripple Village locations, visit thecakebakeshop.com.

At Feinstein's, enjoy upscale dining and cocktails in an intimate venue. Feinstein's delivers patrons a unique entertainment experience unlike any other in the Midwest! Scan for

Submicron

It’s Like Taking Two Breaths in One

The quality of air that people breathe has never been so important to human health. Submicron — a veteran-owned small business —offers cutting-edge technologies and approaches that deliver unrivaled, portable air purification systems that are proven to not only purify the air but are the only purification systems in existence that are capable of increasing blood oxygen levels.

REVOLUTIONIZING AIR PURIFICATION SYSTEMS

Submicron was founded in 2018 by John Combs. Combs’ background as an electrical technician and healthcare administrator was the impetus for inventing the patent-pending purification systems that Submicron has assembled and is currently selling in the B2B market.

Submicron air purifiers are designed to deliver extraordinarily high levels

of microbial filtration and elimination, as well as provide unmatched removal of VOCs — volatile organic compounds from certain solids and liquids in the form of gases — from the air that we breathe. Submicron’s design philosophy ensures its purifiers offer a relatively small footprint, low energy consumption and minimal noise levels suitable for occupied spaces. These proprietary air purifiers are designed and built using

military-grade components and highly advanced technologies.

Submicron products are built to last and are constructed from corrosion-resistant marine grade aluminum, making them suitable for all environments in which they operate. Another remarkable feature is that the noise level can go as low as 56 decibels at its maximum setting, which makes Submicron’s air purifiers ideal for occupied spaces such as hospitals, firehouses, schools, Department of Corrections facilities, Department of Defense facilities, manufacturing facilities, salons and more!

DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION

Combs shared that while he was developing his air purification systems, his teenage son came into their home after he’d been working out and stuck his face into the filter that Comb’s was working on.

“He said, ‘Dad, it’s like taking two breaths in one,’” Combs shared. “Each of our main filters is individually tested

and certified that it is 99.998% efficient, which is jaw-dropping. What you typically see in the market are purifiers that say ‘Will filter up to 99%.’ That is key … that is like a 50% off sale where everything is ‘up to 50%’ off and there’s a bin of junk that’s 50% [off] but everything else is more like 10% off.”

Combs continued, “Our purifiers are averaging about a four-point increase [in blood oxygen levels], and consistently bump people up to 100. You can’t trick a pulse oximeter. It reads what it reads. Other than putting someone on oxygen, there’s nothing else in the market that has done that before. And yes, our air purifiers eliminate things like COVID, but that’s more of an afterthought.”

Combs shared that increasing one’s blood oxygen levels is critically important to folks who suffer from lung diseases such as COPD and asthma and can conceivably keep people in the hospital from being put on a ventilator. Additionally, it can assist patients with tolerating room air when being extubat-

ed by keeping their oxygen saturation levels up.

ENERGY AND SPACE EFFICIENT

There are currently three air purification units that Submicron offers to accommodate a variety of spaces. The units themselves have a small footprint and are portable.

“The air purifiers are designed to be like a tower that doesn’t take up too much square footage and are built on casters so that they can be easily moved,” Combs explained. “The prefilters are conventional [air] filters that can be purchased at home improvement stores. At full blast, our purifiers use about 275 watts, and the fans are a newer technology — EC fans, electronically communicated — and use very little energy. Our fans are warrantied by the manufacturer for 2 years, and we add another 2 years so that the fans are under warranty for 4 years.”

It takes approximately 1 week for a unit to be assembled because they are assembled by hand, but they require little

time to install once onsite. It’s a matter of wheeling the Submicron air purifier tower to its designated spot and plugging it in.

“People ask me why somebody hasn’t done this before, and I tell them it’s a variety of reasons,” Combs said. “There were countless hours of development and engineering involved. And a study out of South Korea proving what this [level of air purification] can do only came out in 2017, so people are just now starting to get a true grasp of it. To purify air at this level takes a lot, and there’s nothing remotely like our purifiers on

For more information and to schedule a free consultation, visit Submicron at submicron.net. And be sure to follow Submicron on Instagram for educational materials and current product information.

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK CIVIC PRESENTS:

Based on Anne Frank’s diary, this production explores the relationships between Anne and her sister, Margot Frank, as well as with Peter Van Daan and the adults who lived in the secret annex. It also takes a deeper dive into the relationships between the adults, providing audiences with an authentic depiction of the day-to-day goings on for these eight humans. The set itself provides visuals of life within the annex as well as projections of historical images of the atrocities that were occurring outside of the walls that protected the inhabitants of the annex for just a little over 2 years.

CLAIRE WILCHER – DIRECTOR

SHOWTIMES:

FEBRUARY 10–25, 2023

THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS @ 7:00 P.M.

SUNDAYS@ 2:00 P.M.

STUDENT MATINEES:

FEBRUARY 15–17, 2023 @ 10:30 A.M.

FEBRUARY 24, 2023 @ 10:30 A.M.

In this transcendently powerful new adaptation by Wendy Kesselman, Anne Frank emerges from history a living, lyrical, intensely gifted young girl who confronts her rapidly changing life and the increasing horror of her time with astonishing honesty, wit, and determination. An impassioned drama about the lives of eight people hiding from the Nazis in a concealed storage attic, THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK captures the claustrophobic realities of their daily existence — their fear, their hope, their laughter, their grief. Each day of these two dark years, Anne’s voice shines through: “When I write I shake off all my cares. But I want to achieve more than that. I want to be useful and bring enjoyment to all people, even those I’ve never met. I want to go on living even after my death!” This is a new adaptation for a new generation.

(Dramatists Play Service, Inc.)

PURCHASE TICKETS AT THECENTERPRESENTS.ORG.

Ispoke with a few of the lead cast members and their remarkable director, Claire Wilcher, about how they’ve been preparing for this powerful production that requires the actors and crew to capture

all of the human emotions and portray eight ordinary human beings whose lives became extraordinary through the diary of Anne Frank.

The cast and crew will be taking the audiences on a trip back in time, but as director Wilcher says, “We’re not telling a Holocaust story, we’re — we’re telling a story of humans living in the Holocaust time.”

The story of Anne Frank really coincides with my love of literature, and in capturing the story through the eyes of Anne [Frank], we get a snapshot of history through a young person’s eyes. I took this [production] on because I love making theater and working with young artists. I love doing dramatic theater because there is room for levity, hope and heart in the saddest of pieces. I enjoy the challenge of walking that fine line of honoring, in memoriam, and respecting the story while bringing out the love and joy that we get from the story, because Anne’s joy and inherent love of creating, writing and connecting shows that she was a person that really cared for people. Anne Frank is a historical touchstone for just about everybody. It was a no-brainer for me when I was asked to take on the project to say yes. Civic is professional … all the way. I can’t image a better environment to tackle such a subject.

GEMMA ROLLISON – ANNE FRANK

There’s definitely a lot of research that had to be done. Honestly, there was so much that I didn’t understand. I’ve watched a lot of movies and read books and read what [Anne] actually wrote. She was aware of the situation that was going on around her and still had love and joy in her heart. I think my eyes have been opened, in a lot of different ways, to who this girl actually was, her story and her history.

I feel that, in a way, this role has been easier for me than others because I feel

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of Civic Theatre

that [Anne] was very similar to me in that she was fiery and always had a lot to say. She was curious and, like a detective, she was always exploring.

REBECCA PIÑERO – MARGOT FRANK

I am an older sister of two younger siblings, and I feel like I understand [Margot]. She makes sense to me. And the actions that she takes towards Anne, the protectiveness that she feels over Anne — as an older sister, I completely relate to her role in the family.

The unification that these people felt even in dark times, and the joy that they felt … they focused on the triumphs throughout that time. Learning about this piece of history and humanizing these people is very important to me.

GARRETT ROWE – PETER VAN DAAN

Peter has a lot of guards up, and he’s at that age where he’s a lot more self-conscious. At 16, he’s not very confident and looks down on himself. It’s an opposition to Anne, who’s more carefree and sees the world differently.

I was reading into the death marching, and it struck a chord with me. And knowing that I am playing a role that was a real person, I think is really impactful. I am finding ways to bring the character to life while making sure that I’m presenting [Peter] in the truest way possible.

If I could tell Peter anything, it would be that he is worthy. I’d say, “You are enough. You don’t need to prove yourself. And then, I’d give him a hug. I think he would have needed a hug.

SYDNEY PINCHOUCK – ANNE/MARGOT SWING

Both characters have such different personalities, but they connect so well. It’s really an honor getting to learn about

both of them. I’m so glad that I get to connect with both characters, and I’m having a lot of fun with it.

I’ve always felt a bit of a connection with Anne because I’ve been raised celebrating both Jewish and Christian holidays because my parents are different religions. I’ve read The Diary of a Young Girl, and Anne really helped me connect and understand my Jewish heritage.

I wanted to be part of this show because it’s really thrilling to actually be part of this story that has had such an impact on my life. And I hope that it’s going to make an impact on somebody else.

NEWLY ADAPTED BY Wendy Kesselman

A PLAY BY Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett BASED UPON “Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl”

CAST LIST

Anne Frank – Gemma Rollison

Margot Frank – Rebecca Piñero

Anne/Margot Swing – Sydney Pinchouck

Mrs. Frank – Brittany Magee

Mr. Frank – David Wood

Peter Van Daan – Garrett Rowe

Mrs. Van Daan – Carrie Reiberg

Mr. Van Daan – Jay Hemphill

Mr. Dussel – Mookie Harris

Miep Gies – Kelsey VanVoorst

Mr. Kraler – Kevin Caraher

CENTER PRESENTS:

LVIV NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA OF UKRAINE

THE PALLADIUM // FRIDAY, FEB 24, 8 P.M. ET

Established in 1902, the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine has collaborated with many of the world’s great composers and musicians. The orchestra regularly performs at top international festivals and has released acclaimed recordings on major labels, including Naxos and Brilliant Classics. Ukrainian-American Principal Conductor Theodore Kuchar will lead the orchestra in a program of Brahms, Grieg and Dvořák, featuring pianist Oksana Rapita.

It was one of the highlights of my career to interview Maestro Theodore Kuchar. He provided wisdom and insight to current events as they relate to the arts as well as thought-provoking historical references that have made a lasting impact on me, both as a journalist and as a member of the human race.

FOR TICKETS, VISIT THECENTERPRESENTS.ORG.

Janelle Morrison: Maestro, what an honor it will be to have you and the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine perform at the Palladium in Carmel, Indiana. The fact that you have included our city on your tour is a testament to the faith you all have in our audience.

Theodore Kuchar: It is a great honor for us. I know Europe and America very well, and both have been extremely good to me. This is the first time that the orchestra as a whole has been able to have such a tour.

JM: I would like to convey to my readers how incredible it is that the entire company is touring, having survived the pandemic and now, as the war in Ukraine wages on. How important is it to you and your fellow musicians to continue performing under such challenging circumstances?

TK: We are living in a new world, but at the same time, I think about the world that we’ve come from. I think during the nearly 2 years of COVID, we were the most active orchestra in the world, performing every Friday or Saturday doing online concerts. I was very proud that there was at least one orchestra that was trying to keep a sense of normalcy about its existence, and this orchestra, under the most sever obstacles and circumstances, just like the Siberian Huskies ... we mush! We just keep on moving.

JM: What has your reception from audiences been throughout this tour?

TK: The orchestra walks out, and the public is standing on its feet and screaming. People who are not Ukrainian bring Ukrainian flags. Let’s face it, this tour was organized long before the war started, but with what is happening now, there’s a whole different, emotionally charged message with our presence. Even in December, nobody was completely sure that we would be here. This [war] is nothing new ... it is a historical evolution ... a continuation, except it’s growing to a different level. Ukraine is in a geographically difficult position and has always maintained its identify and its need for the language to exist under various politically occupied systems. Stalin didn’t start [this] during the war of 1932–33. This [current war] is a continuation of what has been going on for the last 500 years [regarding Russia], and the Ukrainian spirit and the language have always been prevalent in western Ukraine, and the biggest obstacle or barrier of any oppressive regime is nationalism.

JM: You were born in New York, raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and have had directorships in the U.S., Australia and across the globe. What compelled you to go back to your family’s place of origin in western Ukraine?

TK: My father always said, “You don’t know how lucky you are to be an American and to have

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of the Center for the Performing Arts

this life. You have to go back [to Ukraine] and do for those people and give them what you were fortunate to have.” At 24, I thought, “What better time to go and try life in Europe?” And the 5 years that I lived in Helsinki were the most productive in my life. I earned the credentials to have that first music directorship in Brisbane, Australia, at the age of 27. The Soviet Union went kaput, and suddenly, many Ukrainian elites who had emigrated after the Second World War were going back to Ukraine to try to help in whatever ways possible to redevelop the country. At the same time, various people were asking Ukrainians from America if they knew of any symphony conductors who would like to come back and give to their mother country. My name, Theodore Kuchar, came up.

In 1994, I became the principal conductor and artistic director of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine. Those 10 years were the most fruitful 10 years of musical existence in Ukraine, because those were the first times that Ukraine was a free nation and was able to negotiate with the West, for itself, to do musical business. People very quickly found out that Ukraine was not some provincial culture. So, from 1991 up until February 25, 2022, it was the most joyous and fruitful existence for

JM: It is not lost on me that the date of this concert falls on the one-year anniversary of the official start of the war in Ukraine, albeit it was scheduled more than 2 years ago. What do you want the audience at the Palladium to take away from an evening with you and the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine?

TK: We will be presenting a rather well-rounded symphonic program for the people of Carmel to enjoy. We are not coming seeking pity because of the war. The point of this tour ... I see myself and the orchestra that travels with me as being ambassadors for an international awareness to what not only exists in Ukraine presently but to what has existed all along but has been suppressed and hidden from Western awareness. We’re still 32 years into this democracy, but I would say the world is still largely unaware.

SOCK DRIVE FOR UKRAINE

February 24 is the first anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine and also the date of a performance at the Palladium by the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine. In conjunction with the concert, the Center for the Performing Arts is assisting the local nonprofit organization Indiana Supports Ukraine in its mission to provide supplies to military personnel and civilians at the front lines of the ongoing conflict.

One critical need in Ukraine is thick, heavy socks for men and women that can be worn with boots. Through February 24, donations of new socks only will be accepted for delivery to Ukraine. Donated socks can be dropped off at the west entrance of the Palladium. In Zionsville, Robert and Rose- Marie Goodman have graciously agreed to have their store, Robert Goodman Jewelers, located at 106 N. Main Street, Zionsville, 46077, as a collection point.

More information on the aid effort is available at IndianaSupportsUkraine.org.

More information on the concert is available at TheCenterPresents.org/UkraineOrchestra.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17th

Black-tie, Cortona-inspired Dinner and Jazz Concert Featuring the AB&C Trio from Cortona, Italy, at Feinstein’s Cabaret Club

Join Us In Celebration A presto!

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19th

World-renowned Pianist Francesco Attesti of Cortona, Italy, Performs at the Palladium with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra

Proceeds from the events will benefit the many local organizations and projects the Rotary Club of Carmel supports throughout the year.

and the City of Carmel to Host

Arte d’Italia

It is with great pleasure that Carmel Monthly is featuring world-renowned pianist and Deputy Mayor Francesco Attesti of Cortona, Italy. Attesti is considered one of the finest interpreters of the Romantic and early Twentieth Century Repertoire, and he is scheduled to perform at the Palladium alongside the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and will also be performing at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in February.

Upon Attesti’s arrival to Carmel, Indiana, the Carmel Rotary and the City of Carmel will host an authentically Italian experience — Arte d’Italia — on February 17 and 19, 2023, during the Celebration Launch Weekend for Carmel’s sister-city relationship with Cortona, Italy. Proceeds from the events will benefit the many local organizations and projects in Carmel

that the Rotary Club of Carmel supports throughout the year.

Purchase your tickets for the show at the Center for the Performing Arts or indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime, VIP opportunity to witness an artist and his craft while partaking in an authentically Italian meal featuring wines directly imported from Cortona.

For more information, visit www.arteditalia.org.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17th, 5:30 p.m.

Black-tie, Cortona-inspired Dinner and Jazz Concert

Featuring the AB&C Trio from Cortona, Italy, at Feinstein’s Cabaret Club at Hotel Carmichael

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19th, 7 p.m.

World-renowned pianist Francesco Attesti of Cortona, Italy, performs at the Palladium with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra in a program including works of Rossini, Copland and Grieg. Following the concert is an “Elegantly Italian” VIP dessert reception in Hotel Carmichael’s Cole Porter Ballroom, featuring Italianinspired desserts, coffees and liqueurs.

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // submitted

Carmel Rotary

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF A SISTER CITY’S PURPOSE

You may have read in our June 2022 issue of Carmel Monthly our story on the city of Carmel’s announcement of a new Sister City relationship with the city of Cortona, Italy, making that official foreign agreement the fourth international Sister City for the city of Carmel.

In that article, we spoke with Mayor Jim Brainard about the purpose of Sister Cities, and he shared with us a little more about the ancient and beautiful town of Cortona.

According to Brainard, the City of Carmel — and any city or town that is a member of Sister Cities International — benefits from the promotion of international goodwill, the student educational exchanges and expanded business relationships between the Sister Cities and their respective nations. Brainard views the recent agreement that he recently signed, along with Cortona Mayor Luciano Meoni in Italy, as an effort to “encourage global community.”

In anticipation of Cortona Deputy Mayor Francesco Attesti’s impending visit and artistic performance in Carmel, Brainard said, “Sister cities are important [relationships] for all cities, I think. This is a beautiful part of Italy … a historic city that predates the Romans, back to the times of the Etruscans. It is a medieval city — an excellent example of medieval architecture that is still existing in the world.”

Brainard added, “If you remember the film, ‘Under the Tuscan Sun,’ it was filmed in Cortona. Sister Cities exist because it is so important to give opportunities to students, adults and cultural organizations so that they can learn from each other’s experiences and cultures. Those experiences enrich our city and hopefully will enrich the people of Cortona as well.”

It has been a goal of Brainard’s to put Carmel, Indiana, on the global map for its advocacy of the arts and culture in addition to its ability to build a sustainable city for the present and its future. When asked if he is proud to host a worldclass musician who also happens to be a

statesman for a foreign country, Brainard replied, “It is an example of some of the best that Carmel has to offer people that live here, to our business community, as well as for our visitors. I believe that Carmel can compete for a high quality of life with the best cities anywhere in the world. This event will be one that people here and those who are visiting from abroad will remember for a long time.”

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR STAKEHOLDERS TO SHINE

Hotel Carmichael General Manager Jamie Hopwood and Carmel Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director Janna Hymes weighed in on this spectacular opportunity to showcase some of Carmel’s finest and most beautiful venues and organizations.

“We are delighted to welcome Francesco Attesti to Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael,” Hopwood expressed. “Our Chef, Jason Crouch, and his team [have] curated an amazing menu focused on the rich culinary influence found in this region of Italy. Having a sister city and bringing these experiences to our residences here in Carmel allow people to experience Italy without leaving our own town. We

are excited to be part of this collaborative event lead by the [Carmel] Rotary and excited to bring another songbook experience to our fans.”

Just as Attesti expressed his enthusiasm for performing with CSO and Maestra Hymes, Hymes spoke about what the upcoming performance means to her and the members of CSO.

“Francesco is so excited, we Zoomed with him twice,” Hymes shared. “He is a very well-respected not only politician but also a concert pianist. So, when we were approached about doing a concert with him, we designed a whole new program, and I thought it would be nice if we featured Italian and American pieces to show the collaboration that we’re doing. And to perform these with this Italian pianist along with an American orchestra is a wonderful combination and he loved the idea!”

STRENGTHENING DIPLOMACY THROUGH ART AND CULTURE

Attesti became Deputy Mayor in 2019 and Counsellor of Culture and Tourism for Cortona, an interesting path for a world-renowned musician. We had the great privilege of speaking with Attesti about how he is using his political position to increase cultural awareness of not only his city of Cortona and the country of Italy but to enhance the economic development of his city by strengthening relationships with countries like America and cities such as Carmel, Indiana.

“I travel the world [as a performer and as Deputy Mayor] to be connected with several cultural institutions, universities and foundations for music and culture,” Attesti shared. “This position allows me to improve the cultural and touristic revenue for my city. It is a very complicated mission because Cortona is quite known worldwide, and so what we are trying to do is bring a better kind of tourism experience so that people stay longer than a few hours and maybe in the future will stay for a longer period of time. We are using new technologies and social media [to promote Cortona], and we are the first Tuscany town that does its own TikTok page! We also have Instagram and

of course Facebook to promote Cortona through upscale cultural events. These could be exhibits, concerts and conferences — inviting important guests from different sectors and from businesses all over the world.”

The Deputy Mayor of Cortona proudly shared that his city is known for its many festivals that celebrate the various facets of Tuscan life in a modern era.

“We have several festivals — all different from each other,” Attesti expressed. “The festivals start from June and go through the end of summer, so into September, October. We have all the history; we have all the culture and the heritage. And we have museums, and we have wonderful buildings from medieval and renaissance times, the Roman time and so on. And then we have good food and wine, which is what we are known for!”

When asked what Attesti hopes to accomplish in this special visit to Carmel, he replied, “I see that Carmel is a very good opportunity for both cities to ben-

efit from each other from our different experiences. I’m sure we can learn [from Carmel] how to grow businesses [economic sustainability], and maybe we can suggest some solutions to increase tourism and cultural life [in Carmel]. We lack resources, especially economic resources, because our [Italian] system is a little bit more complicated and our legislation is different than yours — especially with tax deductions. That is a big obstacle and problem for us when we approach our sponsors for cultural activities. I know very well how it works for you [Americans], and it is a wonderful system.”

MUSIC IS A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE

Attesti has a penchant for all kinds of music and has been growing his passion for music since the age of 6. Although he is, of course, classically trained, Attesti enjoys a myriad of genres and will be performing with his trio, the Jazz Ensemble AB&C Trio of Cortona, Italy, at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.

Attesti spoke with exuberance about performing timeless and beautiful classical works with CSO at the Palladium. With as much excitement, Attesti spoke about performing with his trio from Cortona in an even more intimate setting at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.

“I am sure these will be great evenings of friendship and music,” Attesti stated. “I always say that music is the only language where, without saying anything, everyone in the world can understand you. My trio is a small formation of three musicians: piano, drums and double bass. We revisit the classical [pieces] in a different and modern way. It’s just my approach and is a project that I’ve wanted to realize since I was about 20 [years old] and started to do it only 4–5 years ago. It is very nice and very lively. I have a feeling that the public will be moved by it. Everybody knows the tunes that we are playing, but we present it in a very different style. You will see what we do in our performance!”

AWARD-WINNING POP & JAZZ VOCALIST

Anthony Nunziata

RETURNS TO CARMEL FOR A SPECIAL VALENTINE’S CONCERT

Direct from his 50+ city 2022 concert tour of PAC’s, theaters and symphony concert halls, ANTHONY NUNZIATA — the award-winning, critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and entertainer — performs at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael on Sat. Feb. 11 @ 7:30 p.m. Nunziata offers a thrilling Valentine’s set list that includes soaring Italian arias, crossover hits, Broadway classics, famous love songs and his timeless original songs destined to become classics.

Dubbed “America’s New Romantic Singing Sensation” (Broadway World), the powerhouse vocalist and Carnegie Hall headliner — who has been compared to the stylings of Michael Bublé, Andrea Bocelli and Michael Bolton — will serenade the audience

with songs including “Ave Maria,” “Somewhere,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Unchained Melody,” “O Sole Mio,” “The Prayer,” “I Found a Home” and tunes from his critically-acclaimed jazz/pop album “The Love Album.”

With the combination of his melodious voice, compelling interpretation of lyrics

and soul-stirring original songs, Nunziata captivates the minds and hearts of an audience like no one else. His concerts are life-affirming experiences that you simply have to experience in person. This is your chance to catch Nunziata live in concert for this perfect gift for the Valentine’s season.

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Submitted

Special Guest: AMELIA WRAY — Amelia Wray is widely known for her recurring character of Sophia on all three seasons of the hit Disney Channel hit show “Sydney to the Max.” A Carmel native, Amelia’s passion for acting and singing came about at the young age of 6 while participating in the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre. Today the singer-songwriter-actress is writing and releasing new music while continuing to pursue opportunities on stage and screen.

PURCHASE TICKETS AT FEINSTEINSHC.COM.

I was fortunate to engage with both Nunziata and Wray, who shared their thoughts on the upcoming show and what they hope the audience will take away from this special evening.

Janelle Morrison: Being a fellow Carmel native, I am curious about your thoughts on Carmel becoming a notable hub for the performing arts.

Amelia Wray: I am so proud to say that I was born and raised in Carmel, Indiana! Although I spent lots of time in Los Angeles, California, it made me realize just how special Carmel is. We are so lucky to live in a community that has endless opportunities for those in performing arts. It continues to grow every day, and that couldn’t make me happier!

JM: Please share how your experiences at Civic have impacted where you are in your career now.

AW: I would not be where I am today without Civic Theater. I started theater at just 5 years old, and I learned so many skills that I still use to this day. But most importantly, it’s where I fell in love with performing. Civic is a really special place, because not only are there amazing teachers and guides, but it’s a safe space. Civic truly became my second home.

JM: What’s on your radar for 2023?

AW: 2023 is going to be a big year of change for me. I graduate high school and leave for college in the fall. I have tons of new music in the works, and I am so excited for the world to hear it!

JM: What do you hope the audience will experience and take away from the evening with you and Anthony?

AW: I hope people come to Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael and have a wonderful night full of music, food, and laughter. My goal every time I perform is to leave a positive impact on people’s lives. If I can leave at least one person feeling inspired or happy, I will know I did my job correctly!

JM: Anthony, you selected 10 cities for your Valentine’s Tour — why Carmel?

Anthony Nunziata: Carmel has quickly become one of my favorite cities in the Unites States to perform. My February 11th concert will be my fourth concert engagement in 16 months in Carmel. It is rare that I visit a city more than two times a year. This city and audience in the greater Indianapolis area has embraced my music in such a genuine and amazing way. My concerts feel like one big familial love fest — lots of fun and lots of hearty moments.

JM: What, specifically, do you enjoy most about performing at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael — the venue, the audience, etc.?

AN: Feinstein’s at the Carmichael is a gem of a venue. The sound system is excellent. The atmosphere and seating allow everyone to have a good view of the stage. The food and drinks are wonderful. I keep coming back because the entire experience for myself and the audience is truly world-class.

JM: How did you curate your set list for this tour?

AN: The set list of this tour includes a crossover of classics and originals that celebrate the season of Valentine’s. Well, the season of Valentine’s is all year round for me — singing about all the facets of love: new love, friendship, longing and belonging. I’ll be singing songs off of my jazz/pop album “The Love Album,” including “When I Fall in Love,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and Italian classics like “Ave Maria” and “O Sole Mio.” I’m including original songs, including “Will You Be My Everyday?” “I Found A Home,” “Longer than a Lifetime,” “Just One Prayer Away” and some brand-new songs coming out on my next album.

JM: If you could perform a duet with anyone, who would it be and why?

AN: I’d love to sing a duet with Adele one day. She connects so deeply to her songs. And her voice is just gorgeous and so emotive.

JM: What do you hope the audience will experience and what do you hope they take away from the evening with you and Amelia?

AN: My hope is that the audience will come away from my concert feeling more alive and connected. It’s going to be another fun and moving experience. See you all soon.

St. Luke Catholic School Celebrates

Six Decades of Academic Excellence

For more than 60 years, St. Luke Catholic School has been a beacon of faithbased learning and development for students, is rated a 4-star A school by the Indiana Department of Education and has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School.

A LEGACY BUILT FROM DECADES OF TRADITIONS AND VALUES

Having an established reputation as a premiere faith-based school for more than 60 years, it is no wonder why many of St. Luke’s current students are the second or third generation to attend from within their families.

St. Luke is an educational institution that prides itself on its ability to fundamentally prepare each student so that they can attain their greatest spiritual, academic, social, physical, emotional and creative potential to make a positive difference in their religious community and beyond.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT AS A FAITH-BASED SCHOOL

St. Luke Principal Johnathan Grismore shared more on what makes St. Luke Catholic School one of the archdiocese’s most reputable and successful K–8 schools.

“As of December 2022, we had 566 students enrolled, and from this point last year, we have grown 20 students,” Grismore stated. “Since my first year here [2020], we have grown considerably,

and St. Luke is one of the larger schools in the archdiocese.”

St. Luke is also unique in its music and STEM curriculum offerings.

“We just completed a significant building campaign, and as a result, we were able to add four fine arts classrooms: two music [rooms] for orchestral and band instruction, a STEM lab and an art room that we opened for this current school year,” Grismore said. “We also added a new kindergarten classroom and a new resource room.”

Grismore elaborated that these additional spaces allow St. Luke to maximize all of its spaces.

“The new spaces allow us to be fully functional,” Grismore said. “We have three sections per grade and can accommodate up to 70–75 students per grade level and still have room for capacity.”

DIFFERENTIATING FACTORS

When asked what factors differentiate St. Luke from other area private and public-school options, Grismore explained, “We are a traditional-progressive school, so we are always looking

to be better and to be current with the times without losing focus on our roots in our Catholic faith. That is reflected in our curriculum as well.”

Grismore added, “Part of our mission is to look at each individual child and provide them all of the support they need. I think another thing that sets us apart is that by having three sections per grade level, we’re able to keep the class sizes relatively small. We also have a robust resource department as well as four full-time resource teachers. In addition, we have two enrichment teachers. This year, we’ve added an ENL [English New Language] teacher. When you think of a true-to-tradition Catholic community, that’s exactly what St. Luke is.”

ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE

What many folks may not realize is that St. Luke’s student body and parish comprises many families from Hamilton and Boone Counties. Grismore, a Zionsville resident, enjoys a short 20-minute commute to St. Luke Catholic School.

“About 20 percent of our students come from Hamilton County,” Grismore stated. “And we’re seeing an increase just over the past couple of years of students coming from the Zionsville, West Carmel areas. We’re seeing that [growth] as a parish too.”

Though private school tuition retains a stigma of being unaffordable to most of the state’s population, Grismore explained that because of the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program and other available resources through the school and parish’s designated programs, financial support is available to most families that might think they wouldn’t qualify.

“The Indiana Choice Scholarship Program is fairly generous,” Grismore emphasized. “A family of four making less than $154,000 a year would qualify. All of the application and registration information is on our website. And you can schedule an individual tour, which we do every week, so that prospective families experience the individualistic approach from the very beginning of their St. Luke Catholic School journey.”

For more information and to schedule a tour, visit school.stluke.org.