January 10, 2023 — Carmel

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Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XVIII, No. 11

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currentincarmel.com

Local leaders reflect on late councilor’s impact

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel City Councilor Bruce Kimball, 70, died Dec. 30. Kimball had served as the Central District representative since 2016.

CITY NEWS

“I was saddened to learn today of the passing of Councilman Bruce Kimball. During his time on the council he served his district well and will be remembered as a champion of bicycling on the Monon Greenway and across the city. Bruce was also a friend and I extend my condolences to his family and friends,” Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard stated. “Bruce loved Carmel and worked diligently to make it a special place for his constituents.”

Kimball moved to Carmel in 1991 and was a volunteer with the Carmel Dads’ Club and the Carmel Farmers Market, where he was also a board member. He was passionate about bicycling and the ways it could boost economic development and quality of life, and he founded a weekly family bike ride.

In addition to serving on the council, Kimball was a founding member of the Carmel City Center Community Development Corp. He was also a Republican precinct committeeman.

Kimball, a native of Lebanon, Ohio, was retired from a career in the financial industry and considered his work on the city

(Above) A funeral procession for Carmel City Councilor Bruce Kimball pauses at Carmel City Hall as it travels through the Central District on Jan. 3. (Right) The funeral procession heads west on Gradle Drive as it nears Carmel City Hall. (Photos by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

council his full-time job. Kimball’s death occurred approximately two years after suffering a stroke that caused him to be unable to participate in council meetings or business.

The Hamilton County Republican Party will hold a caucus at 6 p.m. Jan. 10 at the party headquarters to select a replacement for Kimball.

REMEMBERING A COLLEAGUE

Dec. 30.

“Bruce was a good public servant and will always be remembered for his strong advocacy of making Carmel a bike-friendly community.”

— Jeff Worrell, at-large city councilor

“Bruce Kimball loved his community and worked tirelessly to serve his constituents. He will be missed, and my heart goes out to his family.”

— Adam Aasen, Southeast District councilor

“We often met for coffee or the occasional beer to discuss key issues. He patiently answered questions on how to best help constituents. Frankly, for months, he was the only member of council that I regularly communicated with. He made it clear that working across party lines was the best way to govern. That was something Bruce and I held in common. I’m going to miss my friend’s passion for people and for his commitment to making Carmel a bike-friendly suburban city.”

— Miles Nelson, West District councilor

“(My wife) Denise and I are saddened to hear of Bruce Kimball’s passing and our thoughts are with his family. Bruce was an avid supporter of biking and the city of Carmel.”

— Tim Hannon, at-large city councilor

“I’m saddened by the passing of my fellow councilor, friend, and someone who I truly enjoyed serving alongside. Bruce made such a vast impact on the City of Carmel. He made every decision with the best interests of Carmel residents in mind, and always listened. I will continue to keep his family in my prayers.”

— Kevin “Woody” Rider, at-large councilor

“Our prayers go out to the family of Bruce Kimball. He served this city with passion and commitment. We are grateful for his contribution as an elected official, and for the many hours he volunteered advocating for improved cycling infrastructure and working the Carmel Farmers Market.”

— Sue Finkam, Northeast District councilor

Several members of the Carmel City Council expressed condolences after the death of Central District representative Bruce Kimball, who died

Kimball

Hannon will not seek 2nd term on city council

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel City Councilor Tim Hannon will not seek reelection.

ELECTION

He made the decision in late December after evaluating his priorities, using a process similar to one he employed during his military career at the end of each tour of duty.

“It’s not any individual (reason), just a conglomeration of things after looking at personal and professional priorities and what I think is the highest and best use of my time,” Hannon said.

Hannon said he is “deeply honored” for the opportunity to serve as a councilor atlarge, and he has identified several priorities as he concludes his term, which expires at the end of 2023.

“In my remaining year I will continue to push for balanced spending priorities, demand greater ethical and financial oversight and advocate for equitable zoning,” he stated. “I also remain committed to my work to expand Save Stations across the city, to create a strategic plan for pedestrian safety and to reduce veteran suicides in Hamilton County and across the state.”

Hannon said he wants to have more time to dedicate to the health care consulting company he founded and owns, as well as to continue some of the health and safety efforts he identified as priorities while on the council.

“(Being on the) council has been an interesting experience. I’m sort of an incidental politician. I didn’t necessarily want to get involved in politics,” he said. “I’m honored and thankful to have the opportunity, but it’s also opened my eyes to other ways to get involved.”

Hannon, a Republican, joined the council in 2020 as one of three members serving atlarge. In 2019, he said he decided to run for office after observing a lack of independent thinking on the council, and he focused his campaign on balanced spending priorities, financial oversight and increasing citizen involvement in discretionary spending projects.

Hannon

Clay Township board member to run for at-large council seat

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

be done, and I’m excited for the challenge.”

ELECTION

Clay Township Board Member Matthew Snyder announced Jan. 2 that he will run for an at-large position on the Carmel City Council in the Republican primary in May.

Snyder, a lifelong Carmel resident and graduate of Carmel High School, has served on the township board for 12 years. He took a leading role in overseeing the Clay Township Impact Program, which committed nearly $100 million for capital improvement projects that included funds for park improvements, a Carmel Dads’ Club fieldhouse and a Carmel Clay Historical Society Museum.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done in Clay Township, and I’m looking forward to accomplishing just as meaningful work for the city,” Snyder stated. “Living in Carmel my entire life and watching the city grow has given me a unique perspective. There’s still more work to

Snyder has served as president of Janus Developmental Services and on the boards for the Indiana State Parks and Recreation Association and CCHS. He is also a past board president of the Carmel Clay GOP and is active with the local American Legion and VFW posts.

Snyder and his wife, Ashlee, have two children, Charlie, 5, and Benjamin, 3.

All nine city council seats will be on the ballot this year. Only one of the three incumbent at-large councilors, Jeff Worrell, is seeking reelection. Incumbent Kevin “Woody” Rider is running for mayor, and incumbent Tim Hannon will step down from the council after his term expires.

Other candidates running for at-large seats are Republican Rich Taylor and Democrat Jake Madore. Candidates can file for the May primary through Feb. 3.

Learn more about Snyder’s campaign at snyderforcarmel.com or by emailing him at msnyder@snyderforcarmel.com.

Democrat joins at-large race

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The first Democratic candidate has launched a campaign for the Carmel City Council in this year’s elections.

ELECTION

Jake Madore announced his candidacy Jan. 4 for one of three at-large seats on the council. All nine council positions will be on the ballot in the May primary and November general elections.

A 7-year Carmel resident with his wife, Sarah, Madore said he is a “neighbor who listens,” and that he would bring that skill to the council.

“Carmel residents have found themselves represented by a council that too often decides to ignore citizen feedback and instead charges forward with no accountability,” he said. “It’s time for the city council to become a governing body that actually aligns with the voice of its constituents.”

Madore said he is frustrated with “extreme partisan views” that harm communities.

“Too many politicians don’t listen to their voters anymore,” he said. “Many of them are unreachable, unaccountable and out of touch with Hoosier common sense. That’s why unpopular decisions are being made.”

Madore is president of the Carmel Democratic Club and has helped run and support campaigns for left-leaning candidates in past elections. He ran for Hamilton County treasurer in 2020. He has a juris doctor degree from IU’s Robert H. McKinney School of Law and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Michigan. He works in corporate taxation.

Other candidates who’ve announce campaigns for at-large seats on the Carmel City Council — all Republicans — are incumbent Jeff Worrell, Rich Taylor and Matt Snyder. At-large incumbent Kevin “Woody” Rider is running for mayor, and incumbent Tim Hannon will step down from the council after his term expires. Candidates may file for the May primary through Feb. 3.

Learn more about Madore and his campaign at votejakeincarmel.com.

Snyder

Madore

Senior forward’s improvement boosts WHS basketball team

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Westfield High School senior forward Alex Romack has continued making advances on the basketball court.

Shamrocks coach Shane Sumpter said Romack began picking up his game last season during the Hall of Fame Classic Dec. 30, 2021. At that time, when Braden Smith, now a Purdue University freshman starter, was sidelined for several games with an injury, Romack picked up his scoring.

“The first game Braden was out I think Alex had 24 points,” Sumpter said. “He brings a unique skill set to the table.”

The 6-foot-6 Romack was averaging 15.3 points on 49 percent shooting from the field and 10.3 rebounds for the Shamrocks prior to their Jan. 3 game.

“I definitely have worked on my shot a lot,” he said. “I’m trying to get better at creating offense for other players.”

MEET ALEX ROMACK

Favorite athlete: Tom Brady

Favorite TV show: “The Office.”

Hobbies: Going to pool in summer, hanging out with friends

Romack said he has improved his strength, which is helping with his rebounding.

“We have a good weight training program,” he said.

Romack averaged 13.1 points and 7.0 rebounds as a junior.

Sumpter said Romack has continued to improve his quickness.

Alex Romack leads the Westfield High School boys basketball team in scoring and rebounding. (Photo courtesy of Alex Romack)

After missing his only 3-point shot last season, Romack has made 2 of 7 from 3-point range this season.

“He’s definitely a threat from the perimeter now,” Sumpter said. “His free throw shooting is a lot better, especially toward the end of the game.”

Romack, who was shooting 68 percent from the free throw line, said he wants to improve that percentage as the season goes on.

The Shamrocks won their first boys basketball state title last season with Indiana Mr. Basketball winner Smith leading the way. Despite losing Smith, Westfield was 7-1 in its first eight games this season.

“I think we do a really good job playing as a team,” Romack said. “No one on our team wants all the credit. We have really good chemistry, and everyone plays hard. It helps that everyone understands what they need to do, especially in big moments. That’s been part of our success.”

Sumpter said Romack is drawing interest from NCAA Division II schools and NAIA schools. Romack said he definitely wants to play in college and is considering pursuing a degree toward medical school.

Romack played baseball until high school and made the decision to focus on basketball.

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Romack

Judge: CCS followed $1 law

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Clay Schools did not violate the state’s dollar law after the closure of Orchard Park Elementary, according to a Jan. 4 ruling in Hamilton County court.

EDUCATION

Indiana Classical Schools Corp., which eyed the former elementary school building as a site to open Valor Classical Academy charter school this fall, sued CCS in April 2022, stating that CCS violated state law by not offering the campus to charter schools for $1 after closing the school.

Judge J. Richard Campbell, however, sided with CCS, stating that a 2019 change in Indiana law requires school districts to offer former school buildings to charter schools only if they are vacant and unused (previously the dollar law was triggered when school buildings were no longer used for classroom instruction). He ruled that CCS demonstrated that it has been using the building since the school closed.

“We are pleased that the judge agreed that we have been lawful in the handling of the Orchard Park building and site,” CCS Supt. Michael Beresford stated. “We look forward to the continued use of the building to best serve the students of Carmel Clay Schools and the community.”

Indiana Classical Schools Corp. officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The CCS school board voted on June 25, 2018, to close Orchard Park at the conclusion of the 2020-21 school year. CCS never notified IDOE of a building vacancy, however, because it continued using the building for meeting space, professional development, staging and safety drills.

Last month, CCS officials presented a plan to the school board to repurpose the Orchard Park Elementary site for child care for district employees.

Much of the existing building would be demolished for added green space. The plan, which has not yet been approved by the school board, was dependent on the court ruling.

New turn signal law in effect

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

Daniels said. “It’s removing the technical violations that weren’t necessarily dangerous.”

The Perfect Retirement

STATE

Indiana’s new turn signal law went into effect Jan. 1. It removes the specified distance of when motorists are required to activiate their signal before turning or changing lanes. The law now states that drivers must engage their turn signal prior to making any lane changes or turns.

Previously, Indiana law required motorists to signal a minimum of 200 feet before a turn or lane change, or 300 feet if traveling more than 50 mph.

In February 2022, lawmakers argued the specified distances were hard to enforce because the distance between some intersections and turns were shorter than the minimum 200 feet. For Chris Daniels of the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council, the old law created “impossibilities.”

“It’s just removing these impossibilities,”

Police voiced concerns that the specific distances of the previous law made it hard to enforce.

“Was it 170 feet? Was it 230 feet?” Lawrence Police Dept. Chief Gary Woodruff said. “That’s asking an awful lot of an officer in a dynamic environment, in a fluid environment.”

House Enrolled Act 1167, sponsored by Rep. Jim Pressel, removes the specified distance and replaces it with a mandate that drivers need only signal before safely making any lane turns or changes. No specific distance is listed in the law, stating instead that drivers must signal at a “reasonable” time before committing the turn or lane change.

Gov. Eric Holcomb signed the act into law on March 14, 2022.

Woodruff

Beresford

“We look forward to the continued use of the building to best serve the students of Carmel Clay Schools and the community.”

– SUPT. MICHAEL BERESFORD

Missing

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The body of a 24-year-old Carmel man reported missing in November was found Dec. 12 in Indianapolis.

POLICE

Bernard Caillouet was reported missing to the Carmel Police Dept. on Nov. 3. According to police, he was last seen walking away from his residence on Abney Point Dr. on Oct. 29. A Silver Alert was issued on Nov. 4 after investigators determined Caillouet was possibly in danger

and in need of medical treatment.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Dept. on Dec. 12 received a report of a body discovered in the 1900 block of Bluff Road. The Marion County Coroner’s Office confirmed the deceased individual was Caillouet.

Police do not suspect foul play in Caillouet’s death, and his cause of death is under investigation.

Anyone with information relevant to the case may contact CPD at 317-571-2500 of Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477.

Purdue Extension, 4-H to offer ‘Life Lessons’

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Purdue Extension and Indiana 4-H are offering a program targeted to high school students through a virtual eight-week series.

STUDENTS

The workshop series, “Life Lessons,” begins Jan. 17 and will focus on topics that aim to have positive effects on youths as they grow into adulthood. The series is based on the mission of Indiana 4-H to provide real life educational opportunities that develop young people at a statewide level.

Through Google Classroom, topics covered in the one-hour lessons will focus on auto care, basics of budgeting, etiquette and people skills, food prep and safety, home care, online and social media safety, self-care and mental health and celebrating what students have learned. Participants will have a follow-up activity after each lesson to reinforce learning, including one virtual component and one off-screen component.

Guest speakers will also join lessons

LESSON SCHEDULE

All lessons begin at 7 p.m.:

• Jan. 17 — Online & Social Media Safety

• Jan. 24 — Banking & Budgeting

• Jan. 31 — Self-Care

• Feb. 7 — Food Prep & Safety

• Feb. 14 — Home Care

• Feb. 21 — Etiquette & People Skills

• Feb. 28 — Auto Care

• March 7 — Celebration

during various sessions to provide expertise and give participants an opportunity to connect with professionals. Registration can be completed by visiting v2.4honline.com.

To register, create an account or sign-in with registration found under the Events tab. The $30 registration fee covers the cost of all provided material, content and supplies that will be sent to participants, according to Purdue Extension and Indiana 4-H.

For more, contact Kati Sweet by emailing hendrces@purdue.edu or visit bit. ly/23lifelessons.

DISPATCH

Toastmasters open house — Polished Brash Toastmasters, a local Toastmasters International club, will hold an open house from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 18 where guests can learn more about the benefits of being a Toastmaster, meet members and observe a meeting. RSVP to the open house at vpm-9666@toastmastersclubs.org.

Caillouet

Dog park site eyed in east Carmel

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is in discussions with Carmel Clay Schools to potentially use land owned by the school district for a second dog park.

PETS

The proposed site is on the southwest corner of River Road and Main Street. CCPR Director Michael Klitzing said the site could be a good fit because the dog park wouldn’t be immediately adjacent to homes and meets an objective in the department’s master plan to add a dog park on the east side of town. The long-term plan also calls for another dog park on the west side of town.

“What’s great about (the proposed site) is it meets many of the criteria we look for in a dog park,” Klitzing said.

CCPR’s only dog park in Central Park has a waiting list of more than 600 canines, so there is a clear need to add a site, Klitzing said.

CCPR aims to present preliminary plans for the dog park to the CCS school board this spring. If the plans are approved, CCPR will

gather public input as it works to develop a master plan for the park. CCS would likely continue to own the land, Klitzing said.

In addition to a dog park, the site could also be used for additional trails and a community garden, another amenity residents have requested in local parks, Klitzing said. A timeline for opening the park — pending all approvals — has not been set.

CCS declined to comment for this story.

CCPR RECYCLES CHRISTMAS TREES

Hamilton County, Indiana

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation held a Holiday Tree Recycling event Jan. 2 at Westermeier Commons in Carmel’s Central Park. Trees were donated to Tiffany Lawn and Garden to be mulched. (Above) CCPR employees and volunteers pause during the tree recycling event. (Right) Cars line up to donate their live Christmas trees. (Photos by Edward Redd)

CCPR is eyeing part of the land owned by CCS on the southwest corner of Main Street and River Road for a dog park. (Map source: Hamilton County GIS)

DISPATCHES

County council elects president — Ken Alexander has been elected president of the Hamilton County Council for 2023. He replaces Steve Schwartz in the role. Amy Massillamany will serve as vice president. Election of officers is an annual practice at the first meeting of each year. Alexander was elected to the Hamilton County Council in 2018. He represents District 4, which includes Adams, Washington and part of Clay townships.

Theft investigation — The Carmel Police Dept. is investigating a theft from a residence in the 1000 block of Cavendish Dr. that occurred on Nov. 28. As part of the investigation, CPD is attempting to identify the individual pictured. This individual may drive or have access to a black Mercedes. Anyone with information regarding the identity of this person or this incident is asked to contact CPD at 317-571-2500 or Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477. Reference CPD case number 22-76848.

Ball State board appointment — Gov. Eric Holcomb reappointed Carmel resident Rick Hall, a partner at Barnes & Thornburg, to the Board of Trustees of Ball State University. Hall’s term runs through Dec. 31, 2026.

MLK Day program — The City of Carmel will present the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Commemoration at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Tarkington Theater, 3 Carter Green. The event is organized in coordination with the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Human Relations and will benefit UNCF. Learn more at Carmel.in.gov.

Mission Possible — Assistance League of Indianapolis will present its Mission Possible fundraiser on April 22 at the Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W. Washington St. in Indianapolis. This marks the first time the annual event has been held in person since before the COVID-19 pandemic. The fundraiser will include dining, a raffle and silent auction, and opportunities to view displays in the museum. Learn more at alindy.org/mission-possible.html.

Alexander

County equipped with salt, manpower to tackle winter weather

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The leader of Hamilton County’s highway department has seen his fair share of winter weather over the years, and he believes that preparation, manpower and communication with other entities are important factors that help clear area roadways.

PREPAREDNESS

Hamilton County Highway Dept. Director Brad Davis said the county begins its pre-planning process for the winter at the end of the previous winter season.

“Winter operations are taken very seriously and is nearly a yearlong process,” Davis said. “As soon as winter ends, preparations are being made for the next winter.”

The pre-planning process involves taking stock of the county’s inventory and working with municipalities to order salt they may need on their behalf, Davis said. In the fall, county officials also assess their equipment to ensure that it is in working order and to make any necessary repairs, he added.

“We make sure that anything that looks like it might break gets fixed or replaced,” Davis said.

In addition, the county works closely with the Hamilton County Emergency Management Agency regarding weather conditions, Davis said.

County workers also review their snow routes, while a boost in manpower is also an important factor in dealing with winter weather, according to Davis. The county has two crews of 10 people, and will hire five to 10 additional drivers to supplement its workforce, if needed.

Salt from the county’s storage barn, which held nearly 4,500 tons of the material last month, was used to treat almost 1,200

lane miles of roadway and bridges in the unincorporated areas of the county in late December. The county uses a salt brine solution on the roadways ahead of a storm to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the pavement and to allow for a much easier post-storm cleanup.

“We’re always preparing for the worst and hoping for the best,” Davis said. “That includes inspecting all our equipment and repairing anything now to avoid breakdowns later.”

The county’s fleet of equipment includes 14 snow trucks, two brine application trucks and nine pickup trucks with plows. Davis said the county’s salt supply is in good shape and he doesn’t anticipate having to purchase more this season.

Randy Gasho, a truck driver with Hamilton County, said preparation is important in his role clearing the roads. Gasho, who has been with the county for almost 25 years, said paying attention to everything around him when driving in the winter is a key factor.

Gasho said he doesn’t let stress get to him, noting that there’s not much that can be done when faced with poor weather conditions.

“You’re not going to beat the snow, you just hang with it until it’s over,” he said. “You’re not going to do anything to make it quit snowing, to make it warm up. You just hang with it until it’s over.”

Although it is unclear whether central Indiana will get hit with another round of severe winter weather this season, Davis encourages motorists to use common sense on the roads by being aware, slowing down and being careful while driving.

Gasho also noted that if people don’t need to be out, they shouldn’t be.

“Who needs to be out there other than us?” he said.

Hamilton County Highway Dept. Director Brad Davis, right, pauses inside a county garage in Noblesville. At left is truck driver Randy Gasho, who has been with the county for nearly 25 years. (Photos by Matthew Kent)

CURRENT Q&A

Getting to know Danyele Easterhaus

Danyele Easterhaus is executive director of Student Impact of Westfield, an organization that provides afterschool programming for children in Grades 5 through 12 in Westfield Washington Township.

What is your best habit, and what is your worst?

“Best, (reading) Bible before bed every night. Worst, eating my feelings.”

Do you have a hidden talent?

“I am a photographer.”

What do you do when you’re stuck?

“I wait (and) go back later.”

Is there a book that you recommend to everyone?

“’Undistracted’ by Bob Goff.”

Is there a businessperson you admire? Why?

“Danielle Carey Tolan. Danielle leads with character and strength and passion. She develops people for who they want to become.”

Do you have a favorite podcast?

“’Crime Junkies.’”

What is your biggest indulgence?

“Frangos (chocolate) from Macy’s at home. Out, definitely desserts from Rail.”

How do you relieve stress?

“I do deep breathing a lot. But if I have time, I love to read a book.”

What is your favorite drink?

“It depends on time of day. Coffee with cream in the morning. Iced tea most of the time, sometimes a Diet Coke. And a Preservation Fizz for a drink out from Rail.”

Do you have a favorite meal in town?

“Rail burger with potato salad.”

What is your go-to song to get pumped up?

“’Our Song’ by Taylor Swift.”

Age restrictions apply to the occupants/owners in this community as permitted under the Fair Housing Act. This means for some communities that a designated percentage of the homes in the community must be occupied by at least one person 55 years or older (80% or 100%, depending on the community). There may also be minimum age requirements for other residents in the home, and/or a certain number of younger residents permitted in the community. These communities publish and adhere to policies and procedures that demonstrate the intent to operate as age 55 or older housing, and comply with HUD’s rules for age verification of residents. In other communities, all residents must be age 62 years or older (with limited exceptions). You are encouraged to review community documents and disclosures for applicable restrictions before purchasing. Please consult with a Lennar New Home Consultant regarding any questions regarding this community’s age policies. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, and designs vary and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Items shown are artist’s renderings and may contain options that are not standard on all models or not included in the purchase price. Availability may vary. Plans to build out this neighborhood as proposed are subject to change without notice. Please see your New Home Consultant and/or home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature Sq. ft. is estimated; actual sq. ft will differ. Prices do not include closing costs and other fees to be paid by buyer (including a

Don’t be fooled: The size lies

Commentary by Stephanie Grabow

I stood in the fitting room and sobbed. Big, snotty, heaving, agonized sobs.

• Size 8 jeans from different brands can vary by as much as 6 inches in the waist.

FASHION

Thirteen years old and smack dab in the middle of a puberty-fueled growth spurt, I was eager to spend my babysitting money in a fancy boutique. A new pair of dressy pants seemed like exactly the thing an almost grown-up like me needed.

I’d chosen slacks in my normal size to carry into the fitting room, and as I pulled those on? They gripped my thighs and all I could see in the mirror were sausages stuffed into too-small casings. I felt like such a failure because those pants were the right size, so it must have been my fault that they didn’t fit.

Ouch.

Here’s what I wish someone in that store had told me that day.

• Size tags are nasty liars.

• There is no “normal” size. In fact, there’s no industry-wide proportional relationship between a woman’s measurements and a standardized size chart.

• It’s just a tag.

And then there’s the monster of “vanity sizing.” That’s when a brand alters the dimensions and size label of a garment to make you think you’re wearing a smaller size. They want you to feel good about yourself when you’re wearing their clothes, but this trick only works if your ego is tied to the size label.

The takeaway is that when you’re shopping for clothes, there are only four things that you need to pay attention to:

• Does the garment color flatter you?

• Does the garment fit you properly?

• Does the garment fill a need in your wardrobe?

• Does the garment make you feel beautiful?

Everything else is just a distraction.

Software Architect. Carmel, IN. Develop high level software architecture to meet functional safety (ISO26262), cybersecurity, and automotive standards. Identify requirements for Proof of Concepts and understand requirements for automotive embedded Linux devices, diagnostic tools, and electronic control module (ECU) interfaces. Work in agile development on all phases of SDLC, and lead mapping, layering, and interfacing of active safety SW components into target HW. Perform AI SOC evaluation and benchmarking. Verify software architecture design meets all derived SW requirements (performance, throughput/latency). Perform root cause analysis (RCA) and fault tree analysis (FTA) for critical issues. Lead technical discussions with stakeholders. Requires Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering or Computer Engineering and five years of progressive experience in automotive embedded systems and software development, including software development life cycles (SDLC), software architecture design, embedded Linux device hardware, Agile work methodologies, J1939, UDS14229, ODX, ISO26262, AUTOSAR, C, C++, oscilloscopes, debuggers, signal analyzers, emulators, and CANalyzer tools. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Kirsten Gawronski, Director, Human Resources, North America, 5820 Innovation Drive, Troy, MI 48098. Ref: 71359A.

Advanced Development RF Engineer. Carmel, IN. Develop automotive radar transceiver H/W and antenna operating at 77GHz for advanced development projects. Identify and work with suppliers for component and design definition. Work with suppliers of RF devices to specify, test, and develop MMIC devices for automotive radar applications. Optimize HF features and antenna through simulation and testing for performance and manufacturing yield. Generate electrical information for CAD design of PCB layout. Create product verification plans and perform RF microwave testing and H/W checkout. Utilize structured problem-solving techniques for test failure resolution. Present product design, analysis, and test data to customers. Requires Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or Physics and two years of experience designing antenna for automotive radar applications, performing analysis of MIMO angular resolution and angle of arrival estimations, calibrating vector network analyzers and anechoic chambers, performing root cause analysis and Gage R&R, Ansys HFSS, FEKO, and MATLAB. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Attn: Kirsten Gawronski, Director, Human Resources, North America, 5820 Innovation Drive, Troy, MI 48098. Ref: 71341A.

Carmel resident Stephanie Grabow is a former charity executive who took a mid-life turn to follow her passion of breaking the fashion mold. For more, visit stephaniegrabowstyle.com.

Is this the year for change?

Commentary by Lorene Burkhart

walk away or keep responses on a high ground.

PLAIN TALK

If you could change one personality trait about yourself, what would it be? Now, here is the hard part: Do you have the courage to do something about it?

I’ve never done well with New Year’s resolutions, so I’m not going to make one to address the change I hope to make. But if writing it down or telling someone else helps you to stay on track, do what works for you. Some like to start a new journal every year finding that writing about their day and experiences clarifies their life.

Maybe I’ll just buy a copy of the revised book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. It was recently updated after 40 years. Here are a few suggestions from the book:

• When you disagree, lead with curiosity, not conflict. Try saying “tell me more” before you state your own ideas.

• There is always common ground — try to find it. Refocus the topic onto something you share.

• The only way to get the best of an argument is to avoid it. Just gracefully

Always offer sincere gratitude. There is a shortage, so make it a goal to say thank you when you receive service or a favor from a friend and make it specific to that person. You’ll both feel good.

In an article I recently read in the Saturday Evening Post about acknowledging and learning from missteps, the author advised to back off from the situation and take another look. It’s called self-distancing. Supposedly, it will deepen wisdom and enhance problem solving skills. That’s a good explanation for retreating. Or just find a quiet spot and think about it.

Finally, just choose a song like The Beatles’ “Let It Be” or “Let It Go” from the movie, “Frozen,” and be on your merry way. Instead of having a word for the year, have a song, and keep smiling.

Lorene Burkhart resides at The

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Since Russia invaded Ukraine early last year, the Carmel community has been doing its part to provide support for Ukrainians in a variety of ways. Some have opened up their hearts, some have opened their wallets, and some even their homes.

The Koladas, who fled their home in the Kyiv suburbs in March 2022 after air and tank attacks nearby, is one such family that has found a new community in Carmel. They left everything behind, traveling with suitcases filled only with essentials.

Undecided on where to go, the family connected with Nataliya Griffis, a Carmel resident originally from Ukraine and an old friend of the Kolodas, when helping to evacuate Griffis’ 72-year-old mother, Antonina Mazur. Griffis then invited the Kolodas to temporarily relocate to Carmel until it is clear how the war unfolds.

Natasha Sobetska-Koloda and Dmytro Koloda have two children, a daughter, Solomia, 14, and son, Pavlo, 10.

Natasha and Dmytro work at international companies, so they have been able to keep their jobs during the relocation. Natasha is a human resource generalist at Audubon Bioscience, and Dmytro is a finance executive for a real estate company.

When the Kolada family first came to the U.S., they were picked up by friends at the Chicago airport and brought to Carmel, where they lived for two months with Kristi and Sean Kennedy, who are extended family of Griffis.

At first, Natasha thought the family would stay in the U.S. for a month before returning home.

“I thought, ‘How long can war be in the center of Europe, 10 days or two weeks?’” she said.

Natasha said the entire neighborhood of Sunrise on the Monon came together to ease their transition. Neighbors would bring food, clothes and bicycles for kids. Natasha said she is grateful to have such a welcoming Carmel community of neighbors.

“Right now, we are living without health insurance,” Natasha said. “We are allowed to work in America, but our temporary protected status (TPS) will end in October next

(Above) Antonina Mazur, who left her home in Ukraine after the Russian invasion, explores Carmel’s Arts & Design District. (Left) Natasha Sobetska-Koloda, center, pauses with her children, Solomia, 14, and Pavlo, 10. (Above Right) A group of Ukrainian civilian soldiers supported by Empower Ukraine. (Right) A mother and children at the border of Poland and Ukraine. (Photos courtesy of Natalya Griffis)

FINDING A NEW HOME

Nataliya Griffis came to the U.S. approximately 12 years ago to work for a medical device company, Helmer Scientific, in Noblesville. Griffis had met with owner David Helmer in Kyiv.

“The company invited me to do the volunteer and corporate responsibility program for them because they would be sending employees to Ukraine to do camps at the orphanage,” Griffis said. “I’m a board member at Mission to Ukraine now. Then I was helping Helmer Scientific annually.”

Griffis’ mother, Antonina Mazur, was living in Kyiv when Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine began Feb. 24, 2022.

“She stayed there for the first week and didn’t want to leave and then we hardly got her out of Kyiv,” Griffis said. “The bridges were blocked and there were

no planes. She spent three days trying to get out. She spent 24 hours first at the railway station trying to get a train.”

She eventually got on a train and then a bus to Warsaw, Poland.

“My husband flew to Warsaw to pick up my mom, but he was running late,” she said. “I reached out to Natasha because she was there, and they met.”

On March 4, 2022, they connected in Warsaw.

“Having an American along helped streamline, plus she doesn’t know the language and doesn’t like to fly,” said Griffis, whose mother lives with her in Carmel. “My mom is now hosting a family in her apartment in Kyiv. There are a lot of people helping people. That’s one of the reasons Ukraine is standing so strong.”

year. Not knowing if the TPS is extended and not having health care adds to uncertainty for us and our children. We live month to month and can’t plan long term. Our kids are well integrated in Carmel schools, which they love. Uncertainty in the future is one of the biggest challenges.”

The family still wants to return home after the war ends, but until then, they are dedicated to helping their fellow Ukrainians.

“As Russian aggression continues, the needs are growing, but it is getting harder and harder to raise funds, find help,” Natasha said. “It is crucial for us to continue sharing our story that the war is not over. Ukrainians are being terrorized daily by the effects of the war.”

Natasha said the family feels fortunate to have found close friends in the area. The family benefits from speaking English. Many fellow Ukrainians don’t have the means

Carmel residents work to aid Ukrainians in Hamilton County, overseas

Continued from Page 16

to find a place to live, especially initially, or speak the language to get established quickly.

Griffis said Ukrainians living in central Indiana need clothes, groceries, furniture and personal supplies. Griffis estimates there are approximately 100 displaced Ukrainians in Hamilton County.

“There are people who left everything or had their home destroyed and came with nothing,” Griffis said. “We are thankful for the Hamilton County (residents) for trying to support displaced Ukrainians during this tragic time.”

Griffis said they are open to networking opportunities or if someone wants them to speak or share their story to raise awareness.

One way Griffis said they are supporting friends back home is sending bulletproof vests.

“By April, we had sent 24 suitcases of different military gear to help other friends, the civilian soldiers,” he said.

Griffis founded Empower Ukraine for those with shared values to provide aid and support to Ukrainians she knows personally.

“A friend of ours went to the army, and

he was killed,” Griffis said. “We raised some money for his widow and her two kids. Right now, we are raising $20,000 for night vision devices to send to our friends on the frontline.”

Griffis said those wishing to make donations for civilian soldiers scan visit spot. fund/HelpCivilianSoldiersUkraine.

Griffis said many of her friends stayed in Ukraine for multiple reasons.

“Right now, they are struggling with no electricity, no internet, extremely high cost of living to keep homes warm and with light,” Griffis said. “Kids stay in bomb shelters during the school day when the air raids are on. We are actively supporting our friends in Ukraine. They need our help to survive this winter and beyond. Since the inception of the war, we have been constantly raising funds and passing along to meet urgent needs of Ukrainians we know.”

In September 2022, in partnership with InCycle Studio, owner Cathy Miller and fitness instructor Courtney Clyne held a fundraiser called Cycle for Ukraine. It raised almost $20,000.

ON THE COVER: From left, Natasha SobetskaKoloda, who is living in Carmel as the war rages on in her native Ukraine, pauses with Nataliya Griffis, a Carmel resident originally from Ukraine. (Photo courtesy of Natalya Griffis)

ESSAY

Lines of communication

Commentary by Terry Anker

We interact with tons of communication shorthand. We make faces at each other to express myriad emotions, from distrust to sorrow. We pantomime, point and gesture to direct our wishes to those around us. And we use all manner of language conventions to get our points across. We opine, “That dog won’t hunt.” Or demand some time to “get a little shut-eye.” With most of us, we figure out the gist.

Like all linguistic and social conventions, older generations teach the youngsters both meaning and intent. Sure, the up-and-comers like to twist the expressions into their own understanding. But for the most part, we all come to accept that a “thumbs-up” is a good thing.

In a recent conversation, the discussion evolved into an assessment of the space between helping someone and doing their work for them. “It is a distinction without a difference,” one asserted. Looking puzzled, another member of the roundtable asked, “What the heck does that mean?” Shorthand only works where everyone knows the code.

It is a common fallacy to attempt to divide into two camps those things that are essentially identical. Parents of small children know the concept when youngsters will argue over possession of two indistinguishable items — something like, “Eat your own apple and let your sister eat hers.”

Demanding the action of another suggests the authority to do so. No payback is required. But if we are asked to help, what exchange is suggested? Help seems collaborative. A demand does not. If we end up doing someone else’s work, is the polite veneer enough to create a distinction with a difference?

CURRENTOON

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

POLICIES

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HUMOR

A very puzzling time

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, I have officially contracted puzzle mania. This time of year always triggers me with its incessant ugly weather and kids still home from college (just go back already, for the love of a mom’s sanity!). And, since I can’t escape physically to Tahiti right now, I take a mental vacation with jigsaws. Far less exotic and rum soaked, true, but much more accessible.

Who cares if I spend 48 hours hunkered down over a 1,000-piece replication of rural Kentucky? Not me, though my aching shoulders beg to differ. And so, what if my eyes feel a bit crossed from examining no less than 50 shades of green to find the exact one that depicts a Lexington horse pasture? What a thrill when I finally get it! And maybe instead of cooking dinner, I lob meal suggestions like expletives at my aforementioned young-adult moochers: “Microwave! DiGiorgno! HelloFresh!” I’m teaching independent living.

The point is, when I’m working a puzzle, I’m in the groove. I’m engaged, challenged, and most important, distracted from the tedious responsibilities of marriage and motherhood. At the end of the day, or weekend in my case, I have created something. Admittedly, it’s not as productive as writing my Christmas letter (I’m currently shooting for a Valentine’s mailing), but I do experience a sense of accomplishment.

That is, until I discover a piece is missing! My jealous husband? A jilted teen? Perhaps my daughter’s cat, Mr. Crawley? After his first sabotage attempt with the Lazy Susan, I wouldn’t put it past him. Oh, wait. I found it. Stupid oriental rug.

Next up, ‘80s movies. Yippeekiyay! It’s puzzle mania, friends!

Peace out.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@ youarecurrent.com.

— THEODORE ROOSEVELT

Spot-on dinner apparel

“Why not?”

Next month, Mary Ellen and I will take our first vacation out of the U.S. since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re excited about this cruise.

HUMOR

I had to buy a dress shirt for one of the special dinners on the ship. I don’t like to wear a white shirt, but Mary Ellen was adamant that I go traditional. I purchased an additional shirt for the more casual nights.

I came home with the two shirts. I opened the package and tried the white one on. It fit perfectly. My wife was in the room watching me with a smirk on her face.

“It has a smudge under the second button.”

Sure enough, once again I had purchased a brand-new piece of apparel that had somehow anticipated its unavoidable destiny and went ahead and self-stained.

“Wait a second, Mary Ellen. I’ll wear a tie. That will cover it.”

“Super idea. Too bad that every tie in your closet has ketchup on it.”

I came home with the two shirts. I opened the package and tried the white one on. It fit perfectly. My wife was in the room watching me with a smirk on her face.

“You have a stain on your shirt already,” she said.

“That’s impossible. I just put it on.”

“They must really know their customers at Kohl’s.”

“What do you mean?”

“They pre-stained it for you.”

Yes, right next to the third button were brown blotches, nothing I was familiar with despite my extensive experience with the tell-tale signs left by every condiment I have ever slathered on a fast-food sandwich.

“I guess I can’t wear that to dinner,” I said as I was about to unpack my second option.

“Why not?” she asked. “It’s gonna look like that, anyway, right after you finish your appetizer.”

I reached for the blue button-down, carefully removing all the pins from the folded shirt before I put it on. I thought it looked great and said to Mary Ellen, “As long as I’ve got it on, let’s go out for a nice dinner.”

“You can’t wear that shirt, either,” she said.

“OK, I’ll button my sport coat. That will cover the mark on the tie.”

Mary Ellen walked over to the closet and pulled out the one sport coat I still wear. She looked at it carefully and shook her head.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17th

– DICK WOLFSIE

“This is not going to work. It has mustard on the lapel. Do you own a raincoat?”

After we returned home from dinner, I washed both shirts and successfully removed the original soiled areas, but the shirts were destined on the trip to be become a kaleidoscope of tasty tidbits from our buffets.

Recently, we were going over final plans for the vacation, and I asked Mary Ellen questions about the reputation of the cruise line we were using.

“Do you really think I will like the food, Mary Ellen?”

“Oh, yes. For you, Dick, it will be spot on.”

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19th

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Cortona-inspired Dinner and Jazz Concert at Feinstein’s Cabaret Club

Pianist Francesco Attesti of Cortona, Italy, Performing at the Palladium with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra

Nick and Stephanie Stancombe of Carmel welcomed their son, Granger Ray, into the world at 12:25 a.m. Jan. 1. He was the second baby born in 2023 at Community Health Network in Indianapolis, approximately 10 minutes after an Indianapolis family welcomed a baby boy by emergency C-section. Granger weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19.5 inches long. His birth came after the loss of his big sister, Gwendolyn Rae. She died in October 2021 from a rare genetic disease at 13 months old. While Granger’s parents still feel the pain of the loss, they are celebrating the birth of their healthy boy. (Photo courtesy of Community Health Network)

DISPATCHES

Kicking off a Night Of Hope – A fundraising kickoff event in advance of a Night Of Hope will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Westfield City Services Building, 2728 E. 171st St., to celebrate the lives of cancer survivors and to remember those lost. Night Of Hope, set for May 12 at Grand Junction Plaza, is a fundraiser to promote cancer awareness and support the American Cancer Society’s mission to eliminate the disease. Learn more at acsengage.org/hamiltonin.

Diabetes specialist opens office – Dr. Hisham Allababidi has opened a Carmel office of Franciscan Physician Network Diabetes & Endocrinology Specialists. He is part of a team of physicians and advanced practice providers who treat adults who have diabetes, thyroid conditions or endocrine disorders. The Carmel office is at Franciscan Health Carmel, 12188-B North Meridian St., Suite 250. Board-certified in endocrinology, Allababidi was on staff with Deaconess Health System in Evansville before joining Franciscan Health.

Miler Series registration open – The 2023 500 Festival Miler Series running/walking events will start at a new location: Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis. The series features a 3-mile course on Feb. 11, a 6-mile course on March 4, and a 10-mile course on April 1 to help participants prepare for the organization’s Mini-Marathon, which is 13.1 miles, in May. Registration for the series is open at IndyMini.com/Milers.

RRCA selects Carmel Half Marathon – The Road Runners Club of America has designated the 2023 Carmel Half Marathon as its Central Region Championship event for its 13th annual race on April 8. The RRCA Championship Event Series is the largest grassroots-organized running series in the U.S. with more than 200 races participating that attract nearly 300,000 participants. RRCA Championship Events are designated annually at the state, regional and national level through a competitive bidding process. As part of the Championship event, RRCA will provide awards for the top Carmel Half Marathon finishers residing in RRCA’s designated Central Region. Registration is available at CarmelMarathon.com.

Allababidi

Bober Tea & Mochi Dough now open on Main Street

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

David Tang was searching for a perfect concept for his new business in the Carmel Arts & Design district.

RESTAURANT

“We saw the popularity of the Bober Tea drinks,” Tang said. “We were looking for something with a wider variety of options in that department. Then Mochi donuts are something that I fell in love with in California. I wanted to have a place that combined the two. When I was out in California I tried three or four different places. The Bober Tea & Mochi Dough combination was the best-tasting combination that we feel good introducing to our customers.”

Bober Tea & Mochi Dough, a franchise, opened in December at 110 W. Main St., Suite 106, in Carmel. Tang, who moved to Carmel from the San Francisco area in 2018, previously owned Main Street Poke, which was in the same spot before closing Oct. 2.

Bober Tea is open from noon to 7 p.m., seven days a week.

“Our goal as we staff up and get more people trained is to be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. by the end of January,” said Tang, who also owns Vitality Bowls at 110 W. Main St., Suite 115.

By summer, Tang said the shop should be open until 9 p.m.

Tang said most Bober Tea shops have

added Mochi Dough, which is branded as being Premium Japanese Donuts. This is the first franchise in Indiana.

“Mochi donuts are new to people,” Tang said. “This is our fourth week, and we already have regulars coming in. Our drink menu stays the same with the seasonal type of drink. We change our donut flavors every seven to 10 days.”

The Mochi Dough Carmel on Instagram lists the flavors every week.

“Since our donuts are made with rice flour instead of wheat flour, it’s a lighter amount of gluten,” Tang said.

Tang said several of the tea drinks are dairy-free. There are hot tea, coffee and espresso drinks available as well.

“Eighty percent of drinks we sell are cold, fruit teas or Bober milk teas,” he said.

Student Leaders internship program — The 2023 application for Bank of America’s Student Leaders paid internship program is open through Jan. 13. Selected students will participate in an eight-week paid internship at a local nonprofit organization to learn first-hand about the needs of the community and the critical role nonprofits play. They will also attend a leadership summit to learn how government, business and the nonprofit sector work together to address critical community needs. Learn more and apply at bit.ly/3UFHsV9.

System Software Project Manager. Carmel, IN. Manage software project schedule. Plan and monitor content for software deliveries and estimate and allocate resources for software development. Support stakeholders with respect to project backlog and sprint content planning. Ensure project teams develop software according to Aptiv’s software development lifecycle definition. Ensure collaboration with Scrum Coordinators and compliance with quality assurance processes. Facilitate team meetings including stand-ups, iteration planning, sprint planning/reviews/demos, and retrospectives. Work with Product Owners to refine and maintain backlog of software features/defects. Identify impediments and track issues to closure. Provide sprint reports, velocity charts, burnup reports, and resource utilization reports to project teams, stakeholders, program management, and engineering management. Requires Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or Electronics Engineering and two years of experience with developing software quality artifacts, performing software release audits, documenting and tracking software quality issues, performing root cause analysis for software defects, developing software quality assurance plans, ISO26262, ISO15504, JIRA, and Polarion. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Kirsten Gawronski, Director of Human Resources, 5820 Innovation Drive, Troy, MI 48098. Ref: 71213A.

Last year saw a continuation of trends the pandemic exacerbated in Hamilton County, particularly in the realm of workforce development. Opportunities for employment abound with more than 50,000 unique positions posted by local employers at a median advertised salary of $19.26/hour (12% greater than December 2019). Some sectors are finding it easier to hire while most are simply re-allocating responsibilities internally. The peaks and valleys of seasonal hiring have gotten smaller as everyone looks to capitalize on a period of opportunity while retaining a limited pool of talent. The county’s labor force participation was as high as 70.2%, with unemployment as low as 1.6%.

Mike Thibideau President & CEO

Invest Hamilton County has been working with local leaders that are seizing this moment to drive transformational change in our community and adapt to this new normal. In 2021, the Hamilton County Council and Hamilton County Commissioners provided seed funding for the establishment of a Career and Technical Education (CTE) District in the county. In 2022, that project, now named the Pursuit Institute, guided by the six district superintendents, raised more than $3 million for school programming, received certification from the State of Indiana as a CTE District, and was joined by all six school boards. Programming is live for the 2023-2024 school year and is included in District course catalogs.

In 2022, Invest also launched a skills-based career explorer, SkillFit Hamilton County, that pulls in positions from every major job board to one centralized location and expands the opportunities available to people looking for work in Hamilton County. We opened innovative pilots in reentry and disability employment, worked with the county to attract more than $9 Million in broadband investment and the Hamilton County Leadership Academy to launch a new community ambassador program.

As local employers work to fill positions, Invest looks to drive innovative solutions to those talent challenges that also produce resiliency during times of economic turmoil. We always have more room on our HR Advisory Council and would love to help any organization in the community address its challenges. If you are a local business or nonprofit, please do not hesitate to reach out. There’s even more to come in this year.

To learn more about Invest Hamilton County visit InvestHamiltonCounty.com

David Tang pauses in front of the donut case at Bober Tea & Mochi Dough. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

currentnightandday.com

Civic’s ‘Ghost Light Cabaret’ set for Feinstein’s

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

A ghost light is a single light bulb left burning on stage whenever a theater is dark.

‘CLUE’

“Clue” performances run through Feb. 5 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘A CONVERSATION WITH BONEY JAMES’

FUNDRAISER

It is there for safety, but tradition has it that the ghost light keeps burning to keep the theater happy and healthy.

Thus, Civic Theatre officials figure a “Ghost Light Cabaret” is a perfect fundraiser to help keep all its lights burning brightly.

There will be two performances of “Ghost Light Cabaret” at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 26 at Feinstein’s Cabaret at the Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances will include highlights of Civic’s previous seasons since moving in 2011 to the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel

“We’ll have some of our most wellknown performers doing some highlight numbers that people know from those shows,” Civic Theatre Executive Artistic Director Michael J. Lasley said.

The first “Ghost Light Cabaret” was a virtual presentation from The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts, serving as a fundraiser in October 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was successful from a virtual standpoint, and we tried to figure out the best way to do it in person, but we got the idea to work with Feinstein’s,” Lasley said. “They’ve been great at working with us on timing.”

Lasley said it’s a different format from the regular productions.

“We’ve done the same format in our virtual shows (as) in 2020 and 2021,” Lasley said. “This is our first time trying to do it live. I think it will be a fun thing for our performers and our patrons. It’s a different style and presentation than they are used to seeing.”

There has been only one previous presentation of “Ghost Light Cabaret.” Civic Theatre held “Holiday Lights,” which was a similar format, in December 2020. In the spring of 2021, Civic Theatre presented “Light on the Horizon,” which had limited in-person seating with a virtual option.

Zionsville resident Mikayla Koharchik, who performed in Civic Theatre’s “Ghost Light Cabaret” in 2020, will return in the Jan. 26 performances.

Lasley said there is an opening and closing number when all performers are on stage.

“But it’s a pretty small stage, so there’s not a lot of room for staging or choreography,” Lasley said. “There will be solo performers and duets with maybe two to three people backing them.”

Lasley said 30 Junior Civic company performers will perform, with half doing the first show and the other half doing the second show.

“Right now, we have 14 songs that we have cherry picked from our shows,” Lasley said. “We will talk about other shows in between. We have a tried-and-true format we’ve always done. Cabaret allows us to put some twists on things. Some of these pieces will be almost like you saw them in the shows, and some we will sort of mix it up a little bit. Some will be a little more imaginative since it’s a small space

where you can do all the flashy dance and scenery.”

Most of the Civic shows are in The Tarkington, which seats 500.

“This will be a more intimate, close-up view of these performers and the performance itself,” Lasley said. “It’s our hope this will be successful, and it will be an annual fundraiser for us, and we’ll work with Feinstein’s to find a similar date each year. We’ll work to find different themes. We might try a particular musical genre, or we might try a particular composer’s musicals.”

There is seating for 110 at each performance at Feinstein’s.

Lasley said there will be five or six karaoke standards. The highest bidder will get to choose the song and perform it live on stage. The list includes “Sweet Caroline,” “Tomorrow,” “Summer Nights,” “Over the Rainbow,” “Do-Re-Mi” and “Dancing Queen.”

“This is a new idea and I hope it works,” Lasley said.

The karaoke session will be led by Brent E. Marty, Civic Theatre’s director of music and education.

“We loosely refer to this as ‘Marty-oke’ as opposed to karaoke,” Lasley said. “It’s come from a lot of times Brent will go to the theater after-party and he’ll have a box of music where people can pick things out and he’ll play and sing.”

There will be a wine pull and a gift card pull.

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

“JazzTalk: A Conversation with Boney James,” a free livestream, is set for 7 p.m. Jan. 10. James will perform Feb. 18 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. To register for the livestream, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘THE NASHVILLE SONGBOOK’

Mandy Barnett will celebrate “The Nashville Songbook” with performances at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13-14 at Feinstein’s Cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

Carmel PorchFest begins grant program

news@youarecurrent.com

Carmel PorchFest officials have announced the new Carmel PorchFest Grant Program designed to provide financial support for up-and-coming musicians in the community in the form of grants to cover items such as new instruments, lessons, schooling and other musical opportunities in exchange for volunteer hours.

As part of the Grant Program, students must volunteer four hours at a Carmel PorchFest event to become eligible for the grant.

PorchFest recently awarded its first three grants at Holiday PorchFest at Midtown Plaza. The recipients are Carmel High School students Erin Kong, Taehee Kim and Brayden Meng.

Carmel PorchFest is a free event with a variety of local musical acts performing live on neighborhood porches.

Students ages 6-18 years can apply for financial assistance in return for volunteering time at events throughout the year. Students ages 13 and under need a parent or guardian to volunteer with them.

For more, visit carmelporchfest.org.

The Junior Civic company will perform in “Ghost Light Cabaret.” (Photos courtesy of Civic Theatre)

Rian Johnson wants you to know something: “Glass Onion” is not a sequel to “Knives Out,” the 2019 box office success that won over audiences and critics alike. Johnson, the film’s writer and director, intended this to be a self-contained story, not another chapter in the whodunit series. You’ll be disappointed if you’re expecting a follow-up movie. The film’s protagonist is the only thing the two stories have in common.

This time, Detective Benoit Blanc trades his stylish suits and spectacles for resort wear and sunscreen after receiving a puzzling invite to an exclusive murder-mystery party in the Greek islands. Blanc arrives on the island and mingles with the other invitees, learning they all have personal ties to the party’s host, Miles (Edward Norton), an eccentric tech mogul with expensive hobbies and priceless home décor. But sport turns to tragedy when a real crime shatters the party’s festivities. As their backstories unfold, everyone becomes a suspect.

Janell Monae is the film’s superstar with a spectacular performance as Andi, a former

GLASS ONION: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY

business partner of Miles, whose arrival on the island takes everyone by surprise. Andi and Blanc partner together, peeling away the layers of façade surrounding those who have the motive to lie and perhaps even kill.

Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Detective Blanc lacks the cadence and grace of his performance in “Knives Out.” With his best Foghorn Leghorn impression, he delivers some of the film’s funniest lines and moments.

Johnson struggles to find a rhythm between exposition and conflict, rushing through the plot at a dizzying pace. Still, it’s fun trying to keep up with the film’s surprising twists.

It is now streaming on Netflix.

Julieanna Childs has worked as a film studio representative, contracting for all the major Hollywood studios. Her film reviews can be found at TheJujuReview.com. She is a Hamilton County resident.

Old Forester Private Selection #3 was chosen in June of 2022 by Huse Culinary employees. It has notes of caramel, butter toffee, a hint of peanut and spice to finish. Enjoy in an Old Fashioned, on the rocks or neat. Available at HC Tavern + Kitchen, 1933 Lounge, Harry & Izzy’s and St. Elmo Steak House.

To see a video of this drink being mixed, scan this QR code.

Commentary by Julieanna Childs

BEHIND BARS: OLD FORESTER PRIVATE SELECTION #3

(Photo courtesy of Huse Culinary)

We offer weekly music experiences for children ages 18 months -

grade 12.

Tony Award winner to have role in Discovering Broadway concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Discovering Broadway’s concert of “Five Points” will feature a Tony Award winner along with a very familiar face.

Jessie Mueller, who won the 2014 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for her performance as Carole King in “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” will perform with Carmel resident Josh Kaufman, the winner of the sixth season of “The Voice.” Mueller will sing the role of Rona while Kaufman portrays P.T. Barnum.

The concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 10 at Madame Walker Legacy Center in Indianapolis.

A writers’ retreat, hosted by Discovering Broadway, was held in Carmel for “Five Points” in October 2022. The concert is the

next step in moving the musical toward a Broadway production.

“‘Five Points’ is a special story of two men from different cultures fighting for the same American dream in a divided country after the Civil War,” Discovering Broadway chief executive officer and founder Joel Kirk said. “It explores race, fatherhood, and the art made in cultural tension. This is a world-class cast and creative team.”

The concert also features David Owens, who graduated with Kirk from Carmel High School in 2012. Kirk and Owens were in the Ambassadors, the school’s mixed show choir.

“We taught theater classes together and even wrote a musical together,” Kirk said. “In 2015, David interned at Madison Square Garden while I interned at a theater company in Manhattan. A few years later, David was on NBC’s ‘The Voice‘ on Kelly Clarkson’s team. The authors of ‘Five Points’ saw David’s per-

formance on ‘The Voice,’ and when we began casting local Hoosiers, they asked him to audition for Cornelius. It is surreal to collaborate with a friend you have known for 12 years.

“I cannot wait for people to hear David sing this gorgeous music in February.”

Kirk said the concert will be special for several reasons.

“We have actors flying out from New York City and Los Angeles, writers traveling from Minneapolis and Brooklyn, local actors rehearsing in town, and the drummer is flying from Los Angeles,” Kirk said. “Multiple rehearsals will be going on simultaneously in different cities as we have local professional actors and cast members based in New York City.

“What I love about Discovering Broadway is it honors the traditions of Indiana. We are the Crossroads of America, a hospitable place where artists from all over the world can gather and create something special.”

For more, visit discoveringbroadway.org.

CYT Indianapolis to become The Point Theater

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Christian Youth Theater Indianapolis will now be known as The Point Theater.

The local children’s theater program, which serves ages 4 to 18, decided not to renew its license with the national CYT organization when the three-year contract ended Jan. 1. It had been a CYT franchise for 13 years.

“The name comes from at the end of every show we do, all of the students point up to heaven to give God the glory,” said Laura Baltz, board member and artistic director. “It’s a really important part of our process.”

Baltz, a Carmel resident, said CYT members won’t notice much difference, with the biggest changes being the website and the name.

“The franchise cost quite a bit of money,” Baltz said. “Several years back, we stopped using their model. They had a model of weekly classes where we were required to have classes every week.”

Baltz said students were required to at-

tend nightly weekday classes for 10 weeks, and most students just didn’t have the time, she said.

“Our attendance was falling,” Baltz said. “We started doing workshops that are a 90-minute, one-time workshop where you get training on improv, vocals or cold reading. We held those on different nights throughout the week or Sunday afternoon.

“We found that was much better for the kids because they could choose the model they wanted to go to.”

Baltz said the organization hadn’t been using the CYT curriculum. She said the instructors they use like to teach what they developed themselves.

“To be honest, the only thing we were using was the website, the name and the logo,” Baltz said.

Baltz said the cost was between $1,200 and $1,800 a month, along with a percentage of ticket sales.

“CYT has been great. They have been so wonderful to us,” Baltz said. “We love CYT. We are grateful for what they have given us. They gave us our start. They supported us during the pandemic, lowering our monthly

rate. Unfortunately, it’s time for the sake of our students so we can do other things. We want to develop some good programming for the students on the autism spectrum, and that wasn’t part of their programming.

“It gives us a chance to diversify and use that money a little more wisely in a way that benefits our students.”

The first show under The Point Theater will be “Legally Blonde Jr.,” running Feb. 3-5 at Marian University in Indianapolis.

Zionsville Community High School junior Margaret Williamson has been attending CYT classes since she was 6 and has been doing shows since 2014.

“I think that this will be a fantastic transition,” Williamson said. “I think The Point will offer so many opportunities they haven’t been able to offer before. I think it’s good we get to hold the traditions that I hold near and dear to my heart. We always say ‘Crowns for Jesus, sing for the king’ after we pray. It was a tradition like that I was afraid would go away, but I found out we would still be able to do that.

“I think that’s one example of a tradition we are able to keep, along with new things being introduced.”

For more, visit thepointtheater.org.

MUSICAL

PRODUCTIONS

Mueller

Baltz

Blueprint for Improvement: Timeless kitchen upgrade in Cicero

After

Built in 2003 in Cicero’s Bear Slide neighborhood, this home’s kitchen had good bones but needed a modernized facelift. Our team got to work, infusing the space with light, dimension and timeless style.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A new custom range hood was installed, serving as the room’s focal point while adding a touch of elegance.

• White perimeter cabinets and a white herringbone backsplash brighten the room, while the gray tone on the island adds a layer of dimension and depth.

• Crown molding additions on the upper cabinets and carved legs on the kitchen island elevate the space while incorporating traditional design and style.

• Chrome faucet and cabinet hardware finishes add a touch of luster and elegance with classic appeal.

• A dual mount double-basin sink, faucet with magnetic pull-down sprayer and integrated soap dispenser add functionality to the space and make clean-up a breeze.

Before

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

Commentary by Larry Greene

Visiting the Sea of Galilee

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, on our continuing trip through Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we travel 25 miles south from Caesarea Philippi (Banias) to the Sea of Galilee.

TRAVEL

Eight miles wide, with an area less than 65 square miles, the harp-shaped Sea of Galilee is more accurately called a lake. Also known in the Bible as the Lake of Gennesaret, the Sea of Tiberias and the Sea of Kinnereth, its surface is about 700 feet below the level of the Mediterranean Sea, making it the world’s lowest freshwater lake. The Jordan River flows into the Sea of Galilee from the north and flows out of it for 88 miles south until it reaches the Dead

At the time of Jesus, two Greco-Roman cities that were part of the Decapolis overlooked the Sea of Galilee from the east. Hippos, founded by the Greeks in about 200 B.C., was atop a flat hill rising more than 1,000 feet above the water, near today’s Kibbutz Ein Gev. It was probably the city Jesus had in mind when he said, “A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Gardara, just across the Jordan River in what is now Jordan, was probably where the New Testament says Jesus drove evil spirits from a man so tormented by them that not even chains could restrain him. The evil spirits then went into 2,000 pigs, causing them to rush down a steep bank into the lake below, where they all drowned.

Today, boats built to resemble ancient fishing boats take visitors around the Sea of Galilee. The excavated ruins of Hippos, which include Byzantine-era churches, are in the Hippos National Park. The ruins of Gadara are near the Jordanian city of Umm

Qais, accessible from Israel via the Beit She’an border crossing.

Byzantine-era church ruins in Hippos. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Don Knebel is a local resident. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@ youarecurrent.com.

Hippos city gate.

A boat on the Sea of Galilee.

Sea of Galilee from Gardara.

currentincarmel.com

It’s not as bad as it sounds

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

ver and have big tails that kind of look like flags.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS HEARING OFFICER

GRAMMAR GUY

I’ve been accused of acting my shoe size more times than I can count. I’m OK with that. Why is that you ask? Kids have way more fun. If we take ourselves too seriously, we’ll turn into gargoyles — stiffly observing the world around us from our lofty perches. No thanks.

With that in mind, here are some words I’ve collected that only sound bad — they’re actually completely innocent words (I promise!).

Let’s start with the word you know about: masticate. All masticate means is to chew. There’s no need to have your mind in the gutter when someone utters “masticate.”

Have you ever seen an aholehole? Before you ask me if I kiss my mother with that mouth, let me assure you that an aholehole can be found swimming around the Hawaiian Islands. In fact, an aholehole is a species of flagtail fish. Aholeholes are sil-

Speaking of fish, have you ever heard of a lumpsucker? Don’t worry, you don’t have to shield your children’s eyes. In fact, a lumpsucker is another name for a lumpfish. These fish, which come in a few lumpy, frumpy varieties, can be found in an ocean near you. Fun fact: lumpsuckers have pelvic fins that act as suction discs, allowing them to attach themselves to other objects.

While those words were admittedly fishy, the next word will make you blush. In fact, it may replace “moist” as your new least-favorite word. The word is “invagination.”

Before you cancel your subscription, let me assure you that “invagination” is the act of putting a sword into its sheath. When you “invaginate” something, you put an object into a sheath or pocket. Don’t look at me — I didn’t make it up.

Have you ever experienced a fartlek? If you think this word doesn’t pass the sniff test, then think again! Fartlek is a Swedish method of long-distance running training

that involves variations in speed and intensity. A good fartlek allows you to get your second wind, so to speak.

If you’re from the South, you’ve probably had a hoecake. And, no, hoecake isn’t an insulting name; a hoecake is a thick cornmeal pancake! Also called johnnycakes, hoecakes are called “hoecakes” because they were originally made over campfires on the back of hoes.

Believe me in knowing there are plenty of words I couldn’t tackle today, including “titter,” “dipthong,” “haboob” and “peniaphobia.” If you want to find out these definitions yourself, I suggest deleting your internet search history afterward.

Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.

CARMEL/CLAY BOARD OF PARKS & RECREATION NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Owner: Carmel/Clay Board of Parks & Recreation

1411 East 116th Street

Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: Central Park Waterpark Cabana Addition Project Notice is hereby given that the Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation (the “Owner”), will receive sealed bids for the above referenced Project at the Board’s Administrative Offices located at 1411 East 116th Street, Carmel Indiana 46032 on January 31, 2023 at 10:00 am local time, and as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date, the Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Conference Room of the Administrative Offices. The outside of the sealed envelope in which the Bid is enclosed, shall be clearly marked “BID – CENTRAL PARK WATERPARK CABANA ADDITION PROJECT”, and as otherwise set forth in the Bid Documents. Any Bid received after the designated time will be returned to the Bidder unopened.

A non-mandatory pre-bid conference for discussion of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on January 17, 2023 at 10:00 am local time in the Monon Community Center West (Multipurpose Room West); 1195 Central Park Dr. W. and, weather permitting, shall conclude with a visit to the location where the Work is to be performed. Prospective bidders are encouraged, but- not required, to attend the pre-bid conference. For special accommodations needed by individuals with disabilities planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please notify Michael Krosschell at (317 414-7398 or krosschellm@weihe.net at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.

In general, the Work for the Project consists of demolition, concrete flatwork, installation of owner-purchased cabana structures, ornamental fencing, electrical, landscaping, and storm sewer, all as set forth in the Contract Documents for the Project which, except for those items not included due to timing, size or other factors, have been assembled into a Project Manual and includes the Bid Documents. The Project Manual and any and all full size drawings may be examined at and obtained from, the office of Eastern Engineering Supply Company, 9901 Allisonville Road, Fishers, Indiana 46038; Phone: (317) 598-0661. The plan charge will be listed on the online plan room. Payment may be made by check, credit card, or cash. NO DEPOSITS ACCEPTED. Make checks payable to Eastern Engineering. All payments and costs of Contract Documents and related supplemental materials are nonrefundable. Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets,

whether hard copy or electronic, of the Project Manual and drawings and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in Bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets.

Bids must be submitted on the forms in the Project Manual, must contain the names of every person or company interested therein, and shall be accompanied by:

1. Properly and completely executed Form 96 (revised 2013) prescribed by the Indiana State Board of Accounts which includes a financial statement, a statement of experience, a proposed plan or plans for performing the Work and the equipment the Bidder has available for the performance of the Work;

2. Bid Bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total Bid amount, including any alternates, with a satisfactory corporate surety or by a certified check on a solvent bank in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the amount of the Bid. The Bid Bond or certified check shall be evidence of good faith that the successful Bidder will execute within ten (10) calendar days from the acceptance of the Bid, the Agreement as included in the Project Manual. The Bid Bond or certified check shall be made payable to Carmel/Clay Board of Parks & Recreation;

3. A Non-Collusion Affidavit complying with the requirements of Ind. Code § 36-1-2-4.

Owner reserves the right to hold any or all Bids for a period of not more than sixty (60) days after the date on which the Bids are opened and, for such sixty (60) day period, all such Bids shall be in full force and effect. Any Bid may be withdrawn prior to the scheduled closing time for the receipt of Bids but no Bidder shall withdraw a Bid within the sixty (60) day period after opening of the Bids. All bid security of unsuccessful bidders will be returned by the Owner upon selection of the successful Bidder and execution of the Agreement, and provision of the required Performance Bond and Payment Bond.

In the event that the total amount of the contract awarded to the successful Contractor is $300,000 or more, the successful Contractor must be qualified under either Ind. Code § 4-13.6-4 or Ind. Code § 8-2310 before doing any work on the Project.

Pursuant to Ind. Code § 5-22-17-6, Owner reserves the right to specify in the contract with the successful bidder one or both of the following:

1. Early performance of the contract will result in increased compensation;

Docket Nos. PZ-2022-00249 V & PZ-2022-00250 V

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer is meeting on the 23rd day of January, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. in Carmel City Hall, 2nd floor Caucus Rooms, 1 Civic Square, Carmel, IN. 46032, and will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance applications for:

Maximum 35% lot cover allowed, 46% requested. And, for pools & their decking must be located at least 3-ft away from any easement and 10-ft away from property lines; 2-ft encroachment into easement requested and 7’9” rear setback requested.

With the property being known as: 799 Spruce Drive. Carmel, IN 46033.

The application is identified as Docket Nos. PZ-2022-00249 V & PZ-2022-00250 V

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Smokey Knoll Subdivision. LOT 152.

The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche.

All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place.

Zachary SamsonPETITIONER

2. Completion of the contract after the termination or designated completion date(s) will result in a deduction from the compensation.

A Performance Bond and Payment Bond with good and sufficient surety, acceptable to the Owner and Architect/Engineer, shall be required in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, conditioned upon the faithful performance of the Agreement. The surety of the Bonds may not be released until one (1) year after the Owner’s final settlement with the Contractor. Retainage will be as required by Ind. Code § 36-1-12 et seq

All out-of-state entities must have a certificate of authority to do business in the State of Indiana. Application forms may be obtained by contacting the Secretary of State, State of Indiana, Statehouse, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.

Owner reserves the right to (1) cancel this solicitation pursuant to Ind. Code § 5-22-18-2 and/or (2) reject any offers, in whole or in part as specified in the solicitation when Owner determines in accordance with applicable Indiana laws including but not limited to Ind. Code § 36-1-124, that such action is in the best interests of the Owner. Owner reserves the right to delay the opening of the Bids pursuant to Ind. Code § 36-112-4. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Owner reserves the right to waive any of the terms, conditions or provisions contained in this Notice to Bidders or the Bid Documents or any informality, irregularity or omission in the bid process or in any Bid which waiver is deemed in the Owner’s discretion to be to the advantage of the Owner and which does not afford any Bidder a material competitive advantage over other Bidders. Except as specifically otherwise provided herein and as allowed by applicable Indiana law, a contract for the Project shall be awarded in accordance with this Notice to Bidders, Ind. Code § 5-16-13 et seq. and Ind. Code § 36-1-12 et seq., to the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder whose bid does not exceed the funds available for the Project. The Owner shall have the right to accept any Alternates in any order or combination or accept on the basis of the Base Bid alone, unless otherwise specifically provided in the Bidding Documents and to determine the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder on the basis of the sum of the Base Bid and Alternates accepted.

Questions regarding this Project should be directed to Michael Krosschell by email only at krosschellm@weihe.net.

Carmel/Clay Board of Parks & Recreation

Michael Klitzing, director

CARMEL/CLAY BOARD OF PARKS and RECREATION NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Owner: Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation 1411 East 116th Street

Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: WEST PARK PERIMETER TRAIL

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation (the “Owner” or “Board”), will receive sealed bids for the above referenced Project at the Board’s Administrative Offices located at 1411 East 116th Street, Carmel Indiana 46032 on February 17, 2022 at 3:15 pm local time, and as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date, the Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Conference Room of the Administrative Offices. The outside of the sealed envelope in which the Bid is enclosed, shall be clearly marked “BID – WEST PARK PERIMETER TRAIL PROJECT”, and as otherwise set forth in the Bid Documents. Any Bid received after the designated time will be returned to the Bidder unopened.

A mandatory pre-bid conference for discussion of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at 10:00 am local time in the Board’s Administrative Offices and, weather permitting, shall conclude with an optional visit to the location where the Work is to be performed. Prospective bidders are required to attend the pre-bid conference. Attendance at the site visit is optional. For special accommodations needed by individuals with disabilities planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please notify Natalie Carson at (317-573-4022 or ncarson@carmelclayparks.com) at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.

In general, the Work for the Project consists of the construction of perimeter trail at West Park, located at 2700 W. 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032, all as set forth in the Contract Documents for the Project which, except for those items not included due to timing, size or other factors, have been assembled into a Project Manual and includes the Bid Documents. The Project Manual and any and all full-size drawings may be examined at and obtained from, the Board’s Administrative Offices located at 1411 East 116th Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032; Phone: (317) 573-4022; Email: ncarson@carmelclayparks.com. Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets, whether hard copy or electronic, of the Project Manual and drawings and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in Bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets.

Bids must be submitted on the forms in the Project Manual, must contain the names of every person or company interested therein, and shall be accompanied by:

(1) Properly and completely executed Form 96 (revised 2013) prescribed by the Indiana State Board of Accounts which includes a financial statement, a statement of experience, a proposed plan or plans for performing the Work and the equipment the Bidder has available for the performance of the Work;

(2) Bid Bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total Bid amount, including any alternates, with a satisfactory corporate surety or by a certified check on a solvent bank in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the amount of the Bid. The Bid Bond or certified check shall be evidence of good faith that the successful Bidder will execute within ten (10) calendar days from the acceptance of the Bid, the Agreement as included in the Project Manual. The Bid Bond or certified check shall be made payable to Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation;

(3) A Non-Collusion Affidavit complying with the requirements of Ind. Code § 36-1-2-4.

Owner reserves the right to hold any or all Bids for a period of not more than sixty (60) days after the date on which the Bids are opened and, for such sixty (60) day period, all such Bids shall be in full force and effect. Any Bid may be withdrawn prior to the scheduled closing time for the receipt of Bids but no Bidder shall withdraw a Bid within the sixty (60) day period after opening of the Bids. All bid security of unsuccessful bidders will be returned by the Owner upon selection of the successful Bidder and execution of the Agreement, and provision of the required Performance Bond and Payment Bond.

In the event that the total amount of the contract awarded to the successful Contractor is $300,000 or more, the successful Contractor must be qualified under either Ind. Code § 4-13.6-4 or Ind. Code § 8-23-10 before doing any work on the Project.

Pursuant to Ind. Code § 5-22-17-6, Owner reserves the right to specify in the contract with the successful bidder one or both of the following:

1. Early performance of the contract will result in increased compensation;

2. Completion of the contract after the termination or designated completion date(s) will result in a deduction from the compensation.

A Performance Bond and Payment Bond with good and sufficient surety, acceptable to the Owner, shall be required in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, conditioned upon the faithful performance of the Agreement. The surety of the Bonds may not be released until one (1) year after the Owner’s final settlement with the Contractor. Retainage will be as required by Ind. Code § 36-1-12 et seq

All out-of-state entities must have a certificate of authority to do business in the State of Indiana. Application forms may be obtained by contacting the Secretary of State, State of Indiana, Statehouse, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.

Owner reserves the right to (1) cancel this solicitation pursuant to Ind. Code § 5-22-18-2 and/or (2) reject any offers, in whole or in part as specified in the solicitation when Owner determines in accordance with applicable Indiana laws including but not limited to Ind. Code § 36-1-12-4, that such action is in the best interests of the Owner. Owner reserves the right to delay the opening of the Bids pursuant to Ind. Code § 36-1-12-4. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Owner reserves the right to waive any of the terms, conditions or provisions contained in this Notice to Bidders or the Bid Documents or any informality, irregularity or omission in the bid process or in any Bid which waiver is deemed in the Owner’s discretion to be to the advantage of the Owner and which does not afford any Bidder a material competitive advantage over other Bidders. Except as specifically otherwise provided herein and as allowed by applicable Indiana law, a contract for the Project shall be awarded in accordance with this Notice to Bidders, Ind. Code § 5-1613 et seq. and Ind. Code § 36-1-12 et seq., to the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder whose bid does not exceed the funds available for the Project. The Owner shall have the right to accept any Alternates in any order or combination or accept on the basis of the Base Bid alone, unless otherwise specifically provided in the Bidding Documents and to determine the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder on the basis of the sum of the Base Bid and Alternates accepted.

Questions regarding this Project should be directed to Natalie Carson by email only at ncarson@ carmelclayparks.com

Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation

Michael Klitzing, Director

CARMEL/CLAY BOARD OF PARKS and RECREATION NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Owner: Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation 1411 East 116th Street Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: WEST PARK SHELTERS

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation (the “Owner” or “Board”), will receive sealed bids for the above referenced Project at the Board’s Administrative Offices located at 1411 East 116th Street, Carmel Indiana 46032 on February 17, 2022 at 3:00 pm local time, and as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date, the Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Conference Room of the Administrative Offices. The outside of the sealed envelope in which the Bid is enclosed, shall be clearly marked “BID – WEST PARK SHELTERS PROJECT”, and as otherwise set forth in the Bid Documents. Any Bid received after the designated time will be returned to the Bidder unopened.

A mandatory pre-bid conference for discussion of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2022 at 10:00 am local time in the Board’s Administrative Offices and, weather permitting, shall conclude with an optional visit to the location where the Work is to be performed. Prospective bidders are required to attend the pre-bid conference. Attendance at the site visit is optional. For special accommodations needed by individuals with disabilities planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please notify Natalie Carson at (317-573-4022 or ncarson@carmelclayparks.com) at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.

In general, the Work for the Project consists of the construction of three (3) picnic shelters at West Park, located at 2700 W. 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032, all as set forth in the Contract Documents for the Project which, except for those items not included due to timing, size or other factors, have been assembled into a Project Manual and includes the Bid Documents. The Project Manual and any and all full-size drawings may be examined at and obtained from, the Board’s Administrative Offices located at 1411 East 116th Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032; Phone: (317) 573-4022; Email: ncarson@carmelclayparks.com. Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets, whether hard copy or electronic, of the Project Manual and drawings and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in Bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets.

Bids must be submitted on the forms in the Project Manual, must contain the names of every person or company interested therein, and shall be accompanied by:

(1) Properly and completely executed Form 96 (revised 2013) prescribed by the Indiana State Board of Accounts which includes a financial statement, a statement of experience, a proposed plan or plans for performing the Work and the equipment the Bidder has available for the performance of the Work;

(2) Bid Bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total Bid amount, including any alternates, with a satisfactory corporate surety or by a certified check on a solvent bank in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the amount of the Bid. The Bid Bond or certified check shall be evidence of good faith that the successful Bidder will execute within ten (10) calendar days from the acceptance of the Bid, the Agreement as included in the Project Manual. The Bid Bond or certified check shall be made payable to Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation;

(3) A Non-Collusion Affidavit complying with the requirements of Ind. Code § 36-1-2-4.

Owner reserves the right to hold any or all Bids for a period of not more than sixty (60) days after the date on which the Bids are opened and, for such sixty (60) day period, all such Bids shall be in full force and effect. Any Bid may be withdrawn prior to the scheduled closing time for the receipt of Bids but no Bidder shall withdraw a Bid within the sixty (60) day period after opening of the Bids. All bid security of unsuccessful bidders will be returned by the Owner upon selection of the successful Bidder and execution of the Agreement, and provision of the required Performance Bond and Payment Bond.

In the event that the total amount of the contract awarded to the successful Contractor is $300,000 or more, the successful Contractor must be qualified under either Ind. Code § 4-13.6-4 or Ind. Code § 8-23-10 before doing any work on the Project.

Pursuant to Ind. Code § 5-22-17-6, Owner reserves the right to specify in the contract with the successful bidder one or both of the following:

1. Early performance of the contract will result in increased compensation;

2. Completion of the contract after the termination or designated completion date(s) will result in a deduction from the compensation.

A Performance Bond and Payment Bond with good and sufficient surety, acceptable to the Owner, shall be required in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, conditioned upon the faithful performance of the Agreement. The surety of the Bonds may not be released until one (1) year after the Owner’s final settlement with the Contractor. Retainage will be as required by Ind. Code § 36-1-12 et seq

All out-of-state entities must have a certificate of authority to do business in the State of Indiana. Application forms may be obtained by contacting the Secretary of State, State of Indiana, Statehouse, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.

Owner reserves the right to (1) cancel this solicitation pursuant to Ind. Code § 5-22-18-2 and/or (2) reject any offers, in whole or in part as specified in the solicitation when Owner determines in accordance with applicable Indiana laws including but not limited to Ind. Code § 36-1-12-4, that such action is in the best interests of the Owner. Owner reserves the right to delay the opening of the Bids pursuant to Ind. Code § 36-1-12-4. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Owner reserves the right to waive any of the terms, conditions or provisions contained in this Notice to Bidders or the Bid Documents or any informality, irregularity or omission in the bid process or in any Bid which waiver is deemed in the Owner’s discretion to be to the advantage of the Owner and which does not afford any Bidder a material competitive advantage over other Bidders. Except as specifically otherwise provided herein and as allowed by applicable Indiana law, a contract for the Project shall be awarded in accordance with this Notice to Bidders, Ind. Code § 5-16-13 et seq. and Ind. Code § 36-1-12 et seq., to the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder whose bid does not exceed the funds available for the Project. The Owner shall have the right to accept any Alternates in any order or combination or accept on the basis of the Base Bid alone, unless otherwise specifically provided in the Bidding Documents and to determine the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder on the basis of the sum of the Base Bid and Alternates accepted.

Questions regarding this Project should be directed to Natalie Carson by email only at ncarson@carmelclayparks.com

Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation

FULL-TIME EXPERIENCED

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment.

The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net.

We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays.

To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032

www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

IT’S gr e at TO

DINE OUT!

The Great Dine Out in Hamilton County January 2–31, 2023

It’s great to dine out—enjoy the company of others, participate in local culture, and support local restaurants all while earning special deals on food. Simply check in at participating Hamilton County restaurants with the Great Dine Out digital passport. If you check in five times, you’ll get a $25 local restaurant gift card—while supplies last.

Claim your digital passport at DineOutHamiltonCounty.com or scan the QR code.