January 17, 2023 — Carmel

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Caucus selects Ayers to fill vacant Central District council seat

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

country.

Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XVIII, No. 12

Copyright 2022 Current Publishing, LLC

All Rights Reserved.

30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

The views of the columnists, cartoonist and, where applicable, advertisers in Current are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

CITY NEWS

Teresa Ayers was selected to fill the Carmel City Council’s vacant Central District seat at a Hamilton County Republican Party caucus held Jan. 10.

Ayers received five of nine votes, the minimum needed to secure the seat. Leah York earned the other four votes. Jonathan Blake and Chuck Ford did not receive any votes. All four candidates have filed to run for the seat in the May primary election.

In Indiana, the Republican and Democratic parties use a caucus to fill most elected seats that become vacant between elections. At the caucus, precinct committeemen who represent the area with the vacancy cast ballots to select a replacement.

“The precinct committeemen represent the grassroots and are the core of the Republican Party,” Ayers said. “I appreciate the faith they have placed in me and will not let them down as a council member or as a candidate going into the primary.”

Ayers is vice chairman of the Hamilton County Republican Party and is on the board of the Carmel Clay Republican Club. She graduated from Carmel High School and is a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Parish. She is a graduate of Virginia Intermont College, where she played soccer and ran track and cross

Ayers is the daughter of former Hamilton County Councilor Paul Ayers. Both are precinct committeemen in the Central District, and both cast votes in the caucus.

Mario Massillamany, chair of the Hamilton County Republican Party, said it’s not uncommon for precinct committeemen to vote for themselves when the opportunity arises.

“I would hope, if you’re running, you feel you’re the most qualified person and would vote for yourself,” he said, adding that Paul Ayers has been a precinct committeeman for approximately 40 years, and Teresa Ayers has served as one since turning 18.

Other precinct committeemen to vote in the caucus were Peg Durrer, Denise Moe, Tina Mangos, Virginia Kerr, Debbie Mikulla, Tim Hannon and Sue Maki.

After losing by a vote, York, a lifelong Carmel resident and owner of a nonprofit consulting firm, is eager to keep campaigning ahead of the primary election.

“I look forward to May 2, when all voters in the district get to choose their next council member,” York said.

The Central District seat became vacant after the Dec. 30 death of Councilor Bruce Kimball, who hadn’t attended a meeting in two years after suffering a stroke. Last year, the council considered removing him from his position, but the measure did not have enough votes to pass.

Altman elected president — Christine Altman has been elected president of the Hamilton County Commissioners. She replaces Steve Dillinger in the role. Mark Heirbrandt will serve as vice president. Election of officers is an annual practice at the first meeting of each year. Altman was first elected a Hamilton County commissioner in 2003. She represents District 1, which includes Carmel and Clay Township. Altman and her husband live in Carmel. They have four children and two grandchildren.

CHS basketball player nominated — Sam Orme of Carmel High School has been nominated for the opportunity to participate in the McDonald’s All-American Games, set for March 28 in Houston. The top 24 players, who will be invited to compete in the game, will be announced Jan. 24. Players were nominated by a high school coach, athletic director, principal or member of the McDonald’s All American Games Selection Committee.

Campbell won’t seek 3rd term

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel City Councilor Laura Campbell has decided not to seek a third term in office.

CITY COUNCIL

Campbell, who represents the North District, said she never intended to become a career politician and believes it’s important for the council to have fresh perspectives. She joined the council in 2016, and her second term runs through the end of the year.

“Council does take up quite a bit of time. I’d like to use that time in other ways,” Campbell said. “I’m fully committed to serving until the end of the year.”

Both of Campbell’s parents died within a short time frame in 2021, an experience that

she said changed her view of the world and contributed to her decision not to seek reelection. She said both parents had a heart for people in need, and she is interested in devoting more time toward supporting nonprofits with a similar mission.

In her final year on council, Campbell said she plans to continue her work with Carmel’s Advisory Committee on Disability, which she played a key role in establishing in 2019. She also plans to work closely with the next councilor elected to her district to ensure a smooth transition.

All nine seats on the council will be on the ballot this year. As of Jan. 11, Republican Sheldon Barnes was the only candidate who had filed to run in Campbell’s district, which will be known as the Northwest District beginning in 2024.

Earth Day Art Contest — Carmel Green Initiative is inviting students in kindergarten through 12th grade to enter the 2023 Earth Day Art Contest. Art entries will be displayed at several community exhibits to give youth a voice, empowering them to inspire the community to live more sustainably. Entries are due by Feb. 17. Learn more at CarmelGreen.org.

Author to visit CCPL — Ross Gay, the bestselling author of “The Book of Delights,” will visit the Carmel Clay Public Library at 7 p.m. Feb. 3 to share the stories behind his most recent collection of essays, “Inciting Joy.” Register for the free event at carmelclaylibrary.org/ event/7561577.

Ayers

Altman

Orme

Candidates file for municipal primary election

news@currentincarmel.com

Candidate filing for the May 2 municipal primary election is underway through Feb. 3. As of Jan. 11, candidates to file in Carmel are:

Mayor

• Kevin “Woody” Rider (R)

City clerk

• Jacob W. Quinn (R)

City court judge

• Brian G. Poindexter (R)

City council Northwest District

• Sheldon Barnes (R)

City council North Central District

• Leah York (R)

• Teresa Ayers (R)

• Jonathan Blake (R)

• Chuck Ford (R)

• Courtney Culver (D)

City council Northeast District

• Jason Engle (R)

City council Southeast District

• Adam Aasen (R)

City council West District

• Ven Tadikonda (R)

City council at-large (vote for three)

• Jake Madore (D)

• Rich Taylor (R)

• Matthew J. Snyder (R)

• Jeff Worrell (R)

Project: Roundabout, multi-use path construction

Location: The intersection of 106th Street and College Avenue is open, as work is paused for the winter. A multi-use path is under construction along 106th Street from Pennsylvania Parkway to College Avenue.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Expected completion: Full and partial closures are planned in the spring to finish the project.

Project: Culvert reconstruction

Location: The Monon Greenway is closed from north of west Smoky Row Road to the Hagan Burke Trail.

Expected completion: End of the year

Engle launches Northeast District campaign

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

After living in Carmel for 14 years, Jason Engle wants to take the next step in giving back to his community.

ELECTION

On Jan. 5, Engle, a Republican, became the first candidate to launch a campaign for Carmel City Council in the Northeast District.

“I am a fan of the way Carmel is today and what it has become. I would like to be a part of seeing it continue,” he said. “I believe that with the change of leadership, everybody working together will be important more now than ever.”

Mayor Jim Brainard is not seeking an eighth term, and Sue Finkam, the city council’s current Northeast District representative, is running to replace him. The office of mayor and all nine council seats will be on the ballot in the May primary and November general elections.

Engle, 42, is a Chicago native, but his wife, Trisha, is from the Carmel area, and he began visiting the city in 2002 after meeting her. The couple has three children who attend Carmel Clay Schools. Engle is a longtime volunteer coach with the Carmel Dads’ Club.

Engle has a bachelor’s degree in politics and government from Illinois State University and works as manager with the Century 21 Scheetz real estate group.

“I don’t have a long political resume by any means, but what I do have is 14 years of living in the 46033 ZIP Code, with another seven years of experiencing the community through visiting,” he said. “That’s 21 years of seeing this town and Mayor Brainard’s vision unfold, the result of which is that our community is a magnet for people from all over the Midwest and the country.”

Engle does not have a campaign website live yet but expects to launch one soon.

January

22,

• Professional ice carving demonstrations in the Arts & Design District

• Fast-paced ice carve-off competition at The Ice at Carter Green

• Carmel Fire Department chili cook-off

• Skating to a live DJ

• And more!

February 10 – 11, 2023

Exciting winter fun awaits!

20–

2023 The 2023 Festival of Ice at Carter Green features:

This event builds real team spirit through on-ice, non-skating competitive games like:

Cheer on our hometown heroes at 6 p.m., February 10.

Human Hungry Hippo Human Curling Ice Trike Relays

Daily skating every Thursday-thru-Sunday until February 26 • Special event days!

A special thanks to Allied Solutions for participation and sponsorship of many of our holiday events.

Engle

Website highlights CRC projects

By Ann Marie Shambaugh • AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel City Council held its first meeting of the year on Jan. 9. Topics included a new website highlighting Carmel Redevelopment Commission projects, proposed amendments to the Legacy Planned Unit Development ordinance and early repayment of 2013 bonds.

What happened: CRC Director Henry Mestetsky presented a new website for individual and businesses seeking to relocate.

What it means: ChooseCarmelIN.com

What

What it means: Advenir Oakley Development is seeking to build 230 single-family rental homes and 120 apartments on 32 acres in the Legacy PUD area, which is south of 146th Street and west of River Road. The proposal requires amendments to the Legacy PUD, which was approved in 2007. Proposed amendments would impact use of blocks, maximum unit limitations and removal of units at the amenity area.

What’s

What’s next: The council’s land use committee will discuss the proposal in more detail. A meeting date has not been announced.

What happened: The council approved an early payment in full of 2013 Redevelopment District Bonds that funded the Illinois Street projects.

What it means: The city will save $1.2 million in interest payments by paying off the bond early.

HAMILTON COUNTY RECOGNIZES LONGTIME EMPLOYEES FOR SERVICE

provides details about current and past redevelopment projects, information about the city for site selectors, a series of videos about tax increment financing and other resources.

next: The site is live and will be updated as redevelopment projects progress.

happened: The council introduced an amendment to the Legacy Planned Unit Development Ordinance.

Hamilton County recently recognized 170 employees for their service to the county. Front, from left, Jennifer Sundling, Mervin Hair and Rex Foutz have worked for the county for 40 years. Back, from left, Hamilton County Commissioners Mark Heirbrandt, Christine Altman and Steve Dillinger. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County)

New members join CCS board

By

At the Jan. 9 Carmel Clay Schools board of trustees meeting, three school board members took the oath of office, the board approved its salary amount for the year and more.

Valor continues efforts to open

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Classical Schools officials said they are disappointed in a Jan. 4 ruling that states Carmel Clay Schools is not required to offer the former Orchard Park Elementary school building to charter schools for $1, but they are continuing efforts to open Valor Classical Academy elsewhere.

EDUCATION

400 kindergarten through sixth-grade students this fall and include enough space to eventually expand to 700 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. It states that if it is unable to open the school this fall as originally planned, Valor may expand beyond offering only K-6 classes in its first year.

ICS sued CCS in April 2022, stating that the district violated the state’s “dollar law” after closing the school. Judge J. Richard Campbell disagreed, however, stating that a 2019 change in Indiana code requires school districts to offer former school buildings to charter schools only if they are vacant and unused. He ruled that CCS demonstrated that it has been using the building since the school closed.

Holly Wilson, a founding Valor board member, declined to comment on whether ICS would appeal the ruling or where other potential sites for the charter school might be.

In a newsletter to Valor supporters, school officials stated that its board is exploring alternate locations that could serve

“Establishing Hamilton County’s first tuition-free, classical charter school is no small task,” the newsletter states. “Our volunteer founding board is well-prepared for the significant investment of time it takes to establish a sound footing.”

The newsletter also stated that the judge’s ruling, which described the dollar law as “ambiguous as to what constitutes a school corporation’s ‘use’ of a school building,” wasn’t completely negative for ICS.

“We’re encouraged by the Court’s opinion that there is ambiguity in the law for what constitutes a viable ‘use’ of former school buildings by school corporations,” the ICS newsletter states. “This opens the door to appeal the decision to a higher court. The good news is that the success of Valor Classical Academy doesn’t hinge upon acquiring a ‘dollar building’ or upon opening in the heart of Carmel.”

What happened: Judge Paul Felix administered the oath of office to Greg Brown, Kristin Kouka and Jennifer Nelson-Williams.

What it means: Brown, Kouka and Nelson-Williams won school board district races in November 2022. Brown and Kouka are new members of the school board, while Nelson-Williams first joined the board in 2021 after Pamela Knowles stepped down.

What’s next: The four-year terms run through the end of 2026.

Ann Marie Shambaugh • AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

From left, Jennifer NelsonWilliams, Greg Brown and Kristin Kouka pause after taking the oath of office at the Jan. 9 school board meeting. (Photo courtesy of

Emily Bauer)

Estridge remembered for business, philanthropic impact

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

communities. That was truly Paul. A community builder.”

Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard said Estridge’s impact was felt in Carmel and beyond.

IN MEMORIAM

Paul Estridge Jr., a Hamilton County developer and restaurant owner, died Jan. 8 at age 65. A Westfield resident, Estridge was an owner of Carmel-based Estridge Homes, part of a family of companies launched by his father in 1967. The companies worked to develop more than 35 neighborhoods and 9,000 homes in the Indianapolis area.

Estridge was also known for his philanthropy. He founded the Estridge Family Foundation in 2007, and since then it has donated more than $6 million to local nonprofits.

Estridge was named Builder of the Year by the Builders’ Association of Greater Indianapolis, Entrepreneur of the Year by INC. Magazine, Citizen of the Year by the City of Westfield and is a member of the Carmel High School Hall of Fame. Last year, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from OneZone, the chamber of commerce for Carmel and Fishers.

“Paul was such an incredible part of the story of our county, not only his work with Estridge Homes but his philanthropic work to support so many initiatives and projects across the county,” OneZone President and CEO Jack Russell stated. “Paul was an incredible mentor to me, like many others. His ability to listen to people and help guide them toward their passions was unbelievable. I always remember in our conversations together something that sums up his journey: We do not build houses, we build

“I was saddened by the news of the death of Paul, who was well known and respected throughout the real estate profession in central Indiana,” he stated. “Paul was an innovator and risk taker who pursued his ideas with great passion. He will be missed.”

Estridge helped shape development in Westfield, too, according to Westfield Mayor Andy Cook.

“Paul Estridge Jr. was a true pillar of this community, whether in business, philanthropy or just being a friend,” Cook stated. “He taught us how to come through trying times and come back stronger. Many may not remember that Paul was instrumental in conceiving a sports facility that became Grand Park. He will be sorely missed in Westfield.”

In 2019, Estridge was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable lung disease, and he received a lung transplant in early 2021. His weakening health contributed to his decision to step back from managing daily operations at Estridge Homes that same year. He remained an owner of the company and helped with strategic planning.

After his diagnosis, Estridge helped launch Carmel restaurant Monterey Coastal Cuisine, which he co-owned. He also launched TAB Indy North, a small business advisor and coaching service.

Estridge graduated from CHS in 1976 and the University of Evansville in 1980.

A funeral service was set to be held Jan. 14 in Westfield.

DISPATCHES

Holiday Lights

Recycling

Drive — Carmel

Clay Schools’ Green Teams, City of Carmel Utilities, City of Carmel, Tech Recyclers and White’s Ace Hardware are working together to offer a Holiday Lights Recycling Drive. Residents can recycle used and unwanted holiday lights through Jan. 20 at White’s Ace Hardware, 731 S. Range Line Rd. Since the start of the collaborative program, more than eight tons of holiday lights have been recycled. Recycling inoperable or inefficient holiday lights keeps those items out of landfills, which reduces the long-term car-

bon impact on the environment.

Silver Pen writing competition — The Stratford is accepting essay submissions through Feb. 10 for the 10th annual Senior Living Communities Silver Pen writing competition. The Stratford will award three local high school seniors with cash prizes up to $2,500 to assist with their post-graduate plans. Award recipients will be announced in the spring. For the full rules and to submit an essay, visit Silverpen-SLC.com.

Jean W. Landy Vice President Personal Trusts

Estridge

CHS junior dies from injuries sustained in crash into building

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

A Carmel High School student who crashed a vehicle into the Olivia on Main building on Jan. 6 died from his injuries Jan. 8. Michael Jent, 16, was heading eastbound on Main Street at approximately 5:19 a.m. Jan. 6 when he lost control of the vehicle, driving it into the mixed-use building on the southwest corner of Main and Old Meridian streets.

IN MEMORIAM

Jent, a junior at CHS, was on his way to swim practice at the time of the crash. First responders transported Jent to the hospital with serious injuries.

In the days following Jent’s death, flowers and other items were left at the site of the crash in his memory.

CHS is encouraging any students in need of counseling or support to dial 988.

Jent

Flowers and other items mark the spot where Michael Jent crashed into the Olivia on Main building. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

CURRENT Q&A Getting to know Ann Manship

Ann Manship has played violin with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra since its founding in 1975. She lives in the Geist area and works as a pharmacist.

What is your favorite piece of music to perform? To hear?

Beethoven’s “9th Symphony” literally gives me chills when performing this piece or hearing it.

What is the most memorable thing that’s happened when you’ve been on stage with an orchestra?

During one of our educational concerts when older folks were invited on stage and a woman, possibly 80-plus years old, came up and enjoyed the experience of sitting within the orchestra.

What is your best habit?

The art of conversation. I literally “interview” new people I meet and can get them comfortable talking. I have always said I could go to a stranger’s wedding reception and have a perfectly good time talking to the folks I meet.

What do you do when you’re creatively stuck?

I turn my concentration to a different subject and explore it in my mind.

Is there a musician you admire? Why?

Joshua Bell, violinist, and Andrea Bocelli, Italian tenor. Not only do I enjoy their performances, but I am fascinated about their life journeys.

Advice for aspiring musicians?

Follow your passion but realize how much hard work it will entail and be realistic about your goals.

and

the “This is

are

Prairie

‘Problematic’ podcast launches

news@currentincarmel.com

On Jan. 9, Conner Prairie launched “This is Problematic!,” a new podcast spotlighting controversial history and the ramifications still felt today.

CONNER PRAIRIE

The podcast is hosted by Hannah Murphy and Easton Phillips, both curatorial research associates at Conner Prairie. In this season of the podcast, Murphy and Phillips discuss topics ranging from Native American representations and misrepresentations to gentrification in Indianapolis to the history of William Conner and the property Conner Prairie occupies today.

“Conner Prairie is currently undergoing a shift towards telling a more complete history,” Murphy said. “Part of that is acknowledging the problems of the past. There are more wrongs of the past than (there is) time and space to exhibit on-site. The podcast format allows for deeper conversation over a wider variety of topics to engage with a broader audience.”

Podcast guests include Conner Prairie staff, such as President/CEO Norman Burns, local historians and other scholars with expertise in historical events and people.

“We hope that our conversations spark curiosity to learn more about history and explore some of our topics further,” Phillips said. “Each episode comes with a source list for further research but also resources for engagement in case guests want to get involved with community work also.”

To learn more about “This is Problematic!” and to listen to the complete first season, visit connerprairie.org/this-is-problematic.

Easton Phillips, left,

Hannah Murphy

curatorial research associates at Conner

and host

Problematic!” podcast. (Photo courtesy of Conner Prairie)

Senior provides strong leadership to ZCHS girls basketball team

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The only number Zionsville Community High School girls basketball player Mallory Heerdt is concerned about is the victory total.

“Mallory does not worry about her stat line. She does all the little things that have made us successful this season,” Eagles coach Andy Maguire said of the senior forward. “She is the heart and soul of our team on the floor and in the locker room. We had a leadership academy this fall, and it was unanimous that Mallory was the leader of the team. Mallory is our most vocal leader, and she always leads by example.

“She knows everyone’s responsibilities on every play, and she does a great job of coaching her teammates up during the game. Mallory also is very helpful at practice with our JV and freshman kids when we are doing skill work, especially post work.”

As of Jan. 11, the 6-foot Heerdt, a three-

MEET MALLORY HEERDT

Favorite subject: Calculus

Favorite movies: All Marvel movies

Favorite musician: Zach Bryan

year starter, was averaging 5.1 points and 3.9 rebounds for the Class 4A No. 2 Eagles (18-0).

“The success that we’ve had so far is the result of all the hard work that my team has put in behind the scenes, and so it is really special and means a lot to us to see it pay off,” Heerdt said.

Heerdt said she has improved the most in her leadership ability.

“My job is to make sure the team is running seamlessly on the court, whether that be on defense or offense, and this season I have taken that role very seriously,” Heerdt said. “My role has never been to get the most stats or score the most but to be the

voice for my teammates

“I am also very blessed that my teammates have so much talent that it allows me to fill this role.”

Senior Laila Hull, who will play for the University of North Carolina next season, averages team-highs of 22.2 points and 8.6 rebounds.

“Laila is my best friend, on the court and off,” Heerdt said. “When she moved here in sixth grade, we have been inseparable playing basketball with each other every single year since. I’ve seen her journey and her growth, and I am so, so proud of everything she has accomplished, and it makes me very happy to see her reach all her goals and dreams.”

Heerdt’s father, Brian Heerdt, is the ZCHS junior varsity boys basketball coach, so she has been around the game her entire life.

Although Maguire said Heerdt could play college basketball at the NCAA Division III or NAIA level, she doesn’t plan to pursue playing opportunities.

“Although I have a great passion and love for the sport, I know it is time to move on and start a new chapter of my life,” Heerdt said.

BRAIN AND SPINE CARE FOR WHAT MAKES

YOU, YOU.

Athlete and professional. Student and parent. Caretaker and loved one. We provide exceptional brain and spine care so you can get back to being everything that makes you, you.

Learn more at GoodmanCampbell.com

Zionsville Community High School forward Mallory Heerdt is the Eagles’ senior captain. (Photo courtesy of ZCHS athletics)

Heerdt

Nonprofit

By Edward Redd new@currentincarmel.com

Nadine McGowan believes community is a need that is often overlooked.

She made the observation after a mission trip to Africa, where she noticed a strong sense of community among the women living there. She began wondering if the lack of these types of relationships in the U.S. could be contributing to high numbers of women battling depression, abuse, addiction and isolation.

So, McGowan founded Purposeful Living, a Carmel-based nonprofit. She launched the charity in 2016 with a mission to inspire and transform women.

“We walk alongside women through mental health challenges, trauma, brokenness, addiction, things along those lines,” McGowan said.

The nonprofit offers several resources, including support groups and free coaching

inspires women

to help women through difficult times. According to McGowan, the organization has helped more than 2,200 women of all ages since it was established.

Carla Sands said the group helped her find healing. She discov ered Purposeful Living in 2019 through a friend. She said she suffered a miscar riage in 2014, and it left her feeling like no one around her understood the pain she was experiencing.

“I was surrounded by people but felt really alone and isolated,” Sands said.

According to Sands, she found a commu nity she didn’t know she needed.

“I have been empowered by the communi ty of women,” said Sands, who has become a Purposeful Living growth group leader.

Purposeful Living will celebrate another year of healing and transformation at a fundraising gala set for 7 p.m. Jan. 27 at 502 East Event Centre in Carmel. Learn more about the event and nonprofit at purpose fullivinginc.org.

McGowan Sands

Mixed-use town center envisioned as part of reinvestment in Parkwood Crossing office park

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

As vacant land in Carmel becomes scarcer, city leaders and developers are eyeing office parks and their expansive parking lots as prime spots for redevelopment.

Parkwood Crossing, which includes eight office buildings on approximately 50 acres northeast of I-465 and U.S. 31, could be one of the first to be transformed. Philadelphia-based Rubenstein Partners, which acts as the fund manager for a real estate fund that owns Parkwood Crossing, has been working with the Carmel Redevelopment Commission and other partners on a plan to create an urban village along Carmel’s southern border.

Preliminary plans call for a mixed-use town center that straddles College Avenue. Designed by city planner Jeff Speck, whose work in Carmel includes the Monon Greenway through Midtown and the future Monon Square, it would include office, housing and retail elements, parking garages and recreational and entertainment opportunities at an amphitheater, green space and pickleball courts. Many of the existing buildings would remain, but they would be surrounded by new construction rather than parking lots.

“I love the master plan that Jeff Speck put together. It’s a really nice introduction, in terms of a gateway, to the city of Carmel,” CRC Director Henry Mestetsky said. “Having this project at 96th (Street) and College (Avenue) shows the continuing investment happening in Home Place and around the Home Place area.”

The city annexed Home Place in 2018 and plans to begin reconstruction of College Avenue, the area’s prime north-south roadway, as a boulevard with roundabout intersections this year. The dialogue between the CRC and Rubenstein Partners about redeveloping Parkwood Crossing began after the city alerted Rubenstein Partners about the upcoming road work.

According to Brian Simel, Rubenstein Partners vice president, the company was already looking to reinvest in its office properties to better match evolving needs of the workforce.

“We are trying to stay ahead of that curve,” he said. “One of the ways we’re doing that is by looking across our portfolio for opportunities where you can densify through mixed-use, particularly in the suburbs. We’ve found a mix of uses tends to add some fresh energy as opposed to a traditional 9-to-5 environment.”

Parkwood Crossing seemed a perfect fit for redevelopment, Simel said, as Carmel had already seen success with mixed-use projects elsewhere, such as in the Midtown area along the Monon Greenway.

“We see a lot of different opportunities across our portfolio, but Carmel jumped toward the top of that list,” Simel said. “We see all the momentum downtown, and none of that happened by accident. It happened because of strong pro-growth leadership in the city. That’s one of the main

things that attracted us to Parkwood Crossing to begin with.”

Speck said he is excited to be part of building on the success of previous transformation projects in Carmel. “(Parkwood Crossing) is one of the most interesting projects I’ve ever worked on,” he said. “The idea of turning a purely car-centric office park into a walkable town center is something that many communities need, but few have accomplished. Where better than Carmel to show how it can be done?”

Rubenstein Partners does not have a projected timeline for upgrades to Parkwood Crossing, as its plans are preliminary and it is seeking partners with residential, hospitality and retail expertise to help make them a reality. Mestetsky said he expects the city would support the project by issuing bonds, which would need approval from the city council.

ON THE COVER: A view from the main square looking west in preliminary plans for the redevelopment of Parkwood Crossing. (Image courtesy of Jeff Speck)

‘NOT SHY ABOUT INVESTING’

Soon after acquiring Parkwood Crossing in 2016, Rubenstein Partners began updating the campus and added an $8 million, 14,000-square-foot amenity center with a fitness area, gourmet cafe, tenant lounge and wrap-around deck.

The company has also invested in new amenities at Lakefront at Keystone, an office park east of Keystone Avenue and south of 96th Street acquired by Rubenstein Partners in 2017. Upgrades included an indoor amenity center, an entertainment venue housed in a floating barge on the park’s 38-acre lake, a waterfront walkway and lakeside outdoor retreat area.

“We rarely buy anything without a clear vision of how our ownership and investment will translate into a better experience for current and future tenants,” Rubenstein Partners Vice President Brian Simel said. “What we’re talking about at Parkwood would be a logical extension of everything we’ve done to date.”

Learn more at RubensteinPartners.com.

Top, Parkwood Crossing as it exists, and below, a preliminary design to redevelop it.

Above, several elements of the preliminary design for redevelopment of Parkwood Crossing. (Images courtesy of Jeff Speck)

Adding insult to injury?

Commentary by Terry Anker

Famed fashion icon Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, Coco to most of us, is reputed to have said, “I’m so sick of immaturity, of name-calling, of labels, of gossip, of high school. It doesn’t make sense anymore, and I find myself being nice to people that I want to strangle.” Chanel long attributed her rise from extraordinarily humble beginnings to become a symbol of wealth, access and good taste as the result of her immunity to the critiques of others. She is believed to have said that it was her very differences from the rest, at the time, that granted her advantage. Attributed with changing the perception of sun tans from being the bastion of the working-class laborer to representing the idle leisure of permanent vacation, Chanel soaked-up criticism as she did the sun. Coco owned her cuckoo.

While name-calling appears to be something hardwired in nearly every human, it has a remarkable impact on most of us. Even the youngest child intuitively attacks her perceived transgressors with a pointed verbal assault. She demands, “Give me

back my toy, you monkey head!” And the so-called “monkey-headed” nursery mate retorts, “No chance, stinky face.” Now the fight is on! Words, then shoving, then tears — all from a denunciation that makes no sense.

Adults are little better. We wither as the insults are hurled at us. We resent those who’ve sent them. We plot our vengeance because of the offence. Mostly, the abuses are inconsequential. Often, we could care less about the person labeling us. Yet, why does it get under our skin? Why do we care so much about something so insignificant asserted by someone so inconsequential? Likewise, how often are we responsible for wrongly castigating others? Would we care less about the invectives launched at us if we weren’t so keen to shoot them at others?

WATER FOLLOWS THE PATH OF LEAST RESISTANCE.

MAYBE YOU SHOULD FOLLOW THE PATH OF LEAST COMPLAINTS.

Wasn’t the best idea

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

This year for my birthday, I decided to nix the annual family Escape Room experience and throw myself a good old-fashioned murder mystery dinner soiree. I may have chosen poorly. It started out OK. Sure, I was exhausted from taking down the last of the holiday decorations (you’re welcome, neighbors!), vacuuming virtually enough dog hair to make another, hiding nine potential murder weapons in creative yet not-impossible-to-find locations, going to the grocery, setting the table for 10 (even though it only comfortably seats eight), artistically arranging a body, and then, of course, transforming myself into Alex Cited, an overly dramatic 1920s theater owner with a penchant for spontaneous duets.

HUMOR

My guests arrived around 4 p.m. (it’s my party and I’ll start obscenely early if I want to!), looking fabulous as either flappers or Peaky Blinders. But I’d forgotten to preheat the oven, so already the schedule was delayed 20 minutes. And as the hostess, not only was I responsible for feeding everyone, but also facilitating the game. One minute I’m tossing the salad, and the next

I’m screaming hysterically about finding a dead guy in the basement. Then I’m back to checking the Stouffer’s. And on it went for three hours, through multiple meal courses and preposterous clue rounds.

Don’t get me wrong, I did have moments of fun. My redheaded daughter played her role with such a thick French accent and a professed disdain for gingers that I laughed every time she spoke. But I think it was simply too much work for me to enjoy.

I’m glad I tried something new, but lesson learned. Next year, I’m booking an Escape Room.

Peace out.

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

Danielle Wilson is

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

I’m glad I tried something new, but lesson learned. Next year, I’m booking an Escape Room.

– DANIELLE WILSON

Already broke these resolutions

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

HUMOR

For the year 2023, I made 12 New Year’s resolutions. I’ve already broken every single one. Here is the dirty dozen:

1. In a restaurant, when the waitress sees my totally cleaned plate and asks how I enjoyed my meal, I will not say, “I didn’t like it one bit.”  According to a survey I read, they hear this all the time and they do not think it is funny.

2. When people ask, “How’s Barney?” (my famous dog who passed 20 years ago), I will stop saying, “Still dead.” No one finds this amusing, and they think I am an insensitive jerk.

3. I will stop salting what Mary Ellen makes for dinner before I even taste it. In future years, I will tackle my addiction to pepper, Heinz 57 and teriyaki sauce.

4. I will put a cover on food when I heat it in the microwave, so the meal doesn’t end up as splatter all over the inside (amendment to resolution: I’ll try to remember not to use aluminum foil).

5. For stocking stuffers next Christmas, I will not buy kitchen gadgets for my wife that she will never use. We have 11 devices engineered to open jar lids. None of them work.

6. When Mary Ellen asks me what I want for dinner, I will not say, “I don’t care.” I still won’t care, but I will stop saying it.

7. When someone says, “You remind me of Dick Wolfsie,” I will not jokingly reply, “I’m sorry to hear that. I found him very annoying on TV.” I will stop this because when I have said it, many people have agreed with me.

8. I will not cut the crust off a sandwich, realize I’m still hungry, and then eat the crust.

9. I will not cheat when I play Words with Friends. Last year, with the help of a word-finder website, I

– DICK WOLFSIE

placed “oxazepam” (a drug) on just the right squares for a whopping 192 points. Now, no one will play with me, so I call the game, ‘Words All By Myself.’

10. I will not open the fridge looking for a snack and stare for two minutes hoping that some miracle will appear, like a corned beef sandwich on rye.

11. I will not whistle in my downstairs office while writing my column. My wife says that if I whistle while I work, I sound like one of the Seven Dwarfs. Which dwarf am I? See the next resolution.

12. When I watch a movie with Mary Ellen, I will not nod off, because when I wake up, I make her tell me what I missed.

“Mary Ellen, why are those people jumping off the ship?”

“It’s the Titanic, Sleepy. I hope you had a good nap.”

POLICIES

Letters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to info@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19th

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

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

For stocking stuffers next Christmas, I will not buy kitchen gadgets for my wife that she will never use. We have 11 devices engineered to open jar lids. None of them work. When Mary Ellen asks me what I want for dinner, I will not say, “I don’t care.” I still won’t care, but I will stop saying it.

READERS’ VIEWS

PrimeLife Enrichment second-to-none

Editor,

I’m glad that Carmel (City Council Central District) candidate Chuck Ford is interested in improving opportunities for senior citizens in Carmel. He says, “My dream is to have a senior center that is second-to-none in the country.” I would like to point out that Carmel and Hamilton County do have

a senior center that is second-to-none, and it’s called Prime Life Enrichment! I hope that if elected, it’s Mr. Ford’s goal to support PLE, not create a competing senior center.

If you know a senior citizen who wants excellent programming, please consider PLE, 1078 3rd Ave. SW in Carmel.

Ilene Arends, Carmel

No room for ‘milquetoast mayor’

Editor,

I am begging Carmel mayoral candidates to please take a hard look at yourselves in the mirror and make sure you can answer yes to these: Am I a visionary? Do I understand that Carmel’s objectively extraordinary success was not built on politics or even consensus? Am I allergic to conversations about municipal debt? Do I realize that the most desirable places in the world to live and visit are largely car-free? That I will be remembered for things that foster a vibrant public domain, not for road projects or meeting budgets?

Carmel unwittingly hit the jackpot with the bold and unconventional leadership of (Mayor Jim) Brainard and (former City Councilor Ron) Carter. They got thousands of things right, and we can forgive one or two petty things like art we don’t like. Less than 25 years ago, Carmel was a suburban no-place, and now that we are a national leader, there is no room here for a milquetoast mayor. We deserve another disruptor. Chances are it’s not you, so please give it another look before running.

Kevin Heber, Carmel

TOM WOOD SUBARU SUPPORTS MEALS ON WHEELS

One of our 4 charities during Tom Wood Subaru’s “Share the Love” initiative is; Meals on Wheels.

Meals on Wheels has been guided by a single goal – to support our area senior neighbors to extend their independence and health as they age. What started as a compassionate idea has grown into one of the largest and most effective social movements in America, currently helping nearly 2.4 million seniors annually!

MEALS ON WHEELS IS ASKING FOR YOUR HELP IN TWO AREAS, VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS

VOLUNTEERS

Meals on Wheels could not serve our clients on 36 routes all over greater Indianapolis without our dedicated volunteers! Whether they deliver meals once or several times a month, the need to serve our senior, disabled and chronically ill clients is more important than ever. Volunteering is a win-win: a win for the clients and a win for the volunteer(s) to serve a basic need in the community.

• There are nine meal pick up sites: 7 hospitals and 2 healthcare facilities.

• Meals are delivered at lunchtime on weekdays (minimum once a month).

• Training is provided.

• 1 hour orientation + an experienced volunteer accompanies new volunteers on their first delivery day.

DONATIONS

Every dollar donated goes directly to purchase meals for our low-income clients who struggle. For example, a $100 donation will provide 25 meals! The impact is tremendous. Supporting this mission to innovate, collaborate and advocate to end hunger and malnutrition is vital to our success. Every dollar donated goes directly to purchase meals for our low-income clients who struggle.

Here is how to donate:

• Online donations can be made at: www. mealsonwheelsindy.org/donate

• Or mail checks to: Meals on Wheels: 708 E. Michigan St. , Indianapolis, IN 46202

During the month of December , thru Jan 3rd, 2023, Tom Wood Subaru donated $250 for every vehicle you leased or purchased.

The donations went to your chosen charity; Meals on Wheels, or one of the other “Share the Love” charities. (the ASPCA, National Parks Foundation or Make-A-Wish or Miracle Place)

To find out more about Meals on Wheels and how you can help, be sure to visit their website at: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/

Left to right: Patrick Sebanc (Communications Coordinator of Meals on Wheels), Hope Steel (Volunteer Coordinator of Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana). Marisol Davalos Esqueda (Outreach Coordinator), Barb Renshaw (Director of Outreach for Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana), and Scott Reckley (Tom Wood Subaru GM).

Zach Wilska (Sales & Leasing Consultant ) and Scott Reckley. (Tom Wood Subaru GM) deliver a Meals On Wheels.

Carmel resident ready for new role at Lucas Oil Products

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Katie Lucas is ready for her next challenge with Lucas Oil Products.

as adding to our product lineup in 2023.”

Forrest Lucas is confident Katie is up for the challenge.

LEADERSHIP

The Carmel resident was recently appointed as chief administrative officer. Katie’s husband, Morgan, is the company president. Morgan is the son of Chief Executive Officer Forrest Lucas.

“In my previous role as vice president of strategy and philanthropy, I was overseeing, and will continue to oversee, our marketing and HR teams, becoming intimately familiar with business development initiatives and shaping communications and campaigns to align with long-term strategic goals,” Katie said. “Moving to chief administrative officer, I will also manage our legal department and have a more significant role in our day-to-day operations. We are expanding our operations in Indianapolis and southern Indiana as well

Lucas

“Over the years I’ve known and worked with Katie, I’ve seen her ability to motivate teams and drive initiatives forward while exemplifying the vision and core values that have made Lucas Oil what it is today,” Forrest Lucas stated.

Before joining Lucas Oil almost 11 years ago, Katie worked in corporate sales with the Indianapolis Colts and then joined Creative Marketing Solutions as director of business development.

“Each of these positions prepared me for my new role as CAO, setting a clear vision and executing dynamic strategies to help the company continue to thrive,” Katie said.

Katie, who was born in Carmel, graduated from Indiana University in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the Kelley School of Business.

Read the full story at youarecurrent.com.

Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band to perform with Carmel Symphony Orchestra

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director Janna Hymes has always been a big fan of Earth, Wind & Fire.

The music of Earth, Wind & Fire fits perfectly with an orchestra.

currentnightandday.com

‘CLUE’

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

TAY BRONSON & THE TACKLE BOX

The Live at the Center series features Tay Bronson & the Tackle Box at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25 at The Tarkington. Tickets are $5 or register for a free livestream at thecenterpresents.org.

‘DRINKS WITH DEE DEE SORVINO’

“Drinks with Dee Dee Sorvino: A night of comedy, cocktails and chords” is set for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20-21 at Feinstein’s Cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

CCP names artistic director

Carmel Community Players has named Hannah Janowicz its artistic director.

The Noblesville resident has been involved in performance art from a young age, performing in more than 20 productions and providing costuming, makeup, prop making and assistant direction.

MUSIC

“I have been listening to this music since I was in high school,” Hymes said. “This genre of music is appealing to so many as it covers different styles — funk, R&B, jazz, soul and more. The music is timeless, and people familiar with this music as well as people new to the group will enjoy it.”

Serpentine Fire, a tribute act for Earth, Wind & Fire, will join Carmel Symphony Orchestra for a concert at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show is billed as “a fast-paced journey through those ‘70s and ‘80s EW&F hits that everyone knows.” The band’s name is derived from one of those hits.

Hymes has not seen Serpentine Fire perform in person.

“I have heard they are fantastic musicians and wonderful entertainers,” Hymes said. “All of my favorites will be played at the concert, and there are many.”

“The orchestral arrangements are excellent and fit perfectly into the style of Earth, Wind and Fire,” Hymes said. “The brass parts are especially suited to their style, and I think the audience will truly enjoy this special concert. Sometimes pops concerts fall short because the arrangements don’t feature the orchestra and the orchestra is just filler. I look for programs that highlight the orchestra and make it more interesting to perform.”

Tyriq Johnson formed Serpentine Fire and is the lead vocalist.

FAMILY FUN CONCERT SET

CSO’s Family Fun concert is set for 3 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Palladium. Children will have an opportunity to sit on the stage with the CSO musicians during the interactive concert.

“Every time we perform this concert, we feel it is a success because the audience gets so excited coming on stage, being close to the musicians and present ‘in’ the sound,” Hymes said. “We plan this program to suit all ages and it never disappoints.”

Tom Chen, Carmel High School director of orchestras, will be conducting the program.

For tickets for either show, visit thecenterpresents.org. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

Janowicz graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in public communication and theatre studies, with an emphasis in arts administration and advocacy. Since then, she has worked in marketing, ticket sales and community outreach for various theater companies, including Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre, Indiana Repertory Theatre and Muncie Civic Theatre. She recently returned to the stage and was featured in CCP’s 2022 productions of “The Fantasticks” and “Shipwrecked! An Entertainment.”

Janowicz is replacing Lori Raffel, who she met while working on CCP’s production of “Shipwrecked!”

Raffel, who has served on CCP’s Board of Directors since 1999, stepped down as artistic director in November 2022.

Serpentine Fire to perform in concert with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra. (Photo courtesy of Carmel Symphony Orchestra) editorial@youarecurrent.com

Janowicz

Classical concert pianist helps create multimedia performance

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Clare Longendyke’s grief during the COVID-19 pandemic provided inspiration for her project.

PROJECT

The Fishers classical concert pianist was awarded a 2022 Faith, Justice, and the Arts grant through St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Indy to create a new work of multimedia performance art called “Requiem for the Adrift and Shattered.”

“(The project) combines the live performance of four new solo piano works by composers with the presentation of a new film presented in three short chapters and the reading of poems by contemporary poets to create an hour-long performance.”

Longendyke said. “The inspiration behind the project was to create a multi-movement artistic work that includes multiple artistic forms and perspectives that address issues of social justice/injustice, all within the structure of a classical requiem, which is historically a piece of music that accompanies a funeral mass and offers repose to the soul of the deceased person.

“In the performances of ‘Requiem for the Adrift and Shattered,’ the music, film segments and poems will alternate, making the performance truly multimodal.”

The film was created by Deonna Weatherly, an Indianapolis-based videographer and film director. The premiere will be at 4 p.m. Jan. 29 at St. Paul Episcopal Church Indy, 6050 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. Admission is free. There will be a second performance at 4 p.m. Feb. 5 at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, 6501 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. Admission is free, although a donation to the IHC is suggested.

Longendyke said she felt grief when deep in thought, practicing or speaking with her husband, colleagues and collaborators during the pandemic.

“The feeling of uselessness that overwhelmed me when I would open my New York Times app every morning, and then question how my life as a concert pianist was making any difference in a world filled with hatred, unkindness, violence and destruction,” she said. “We all saw it

happening around us during the pandemic, the rotating media cycles that sparked fear, the growing distance between humans, the crumbling of our planet with no clear direction for how to stop or slow it down. I needed a way out, a spark of inspiration, during that time, and it came in the form of creating new work.”

Longendyke said the piano pieces she commissioned were by four composers from a variety of cultural backgrounds. They are Rex Isenberg, an American composer from Philadelphia now living in Los Angeles; Emily Koh, a Singaporean composer on faculty at the Hugh Hodgson School of Music at the University of Georgia; Reinaldo Moya, a Venezuelan composer who is residing in Minnesota; and Nkeiru Okoye, an American-born composer of African American and Nigerian ancestry.

“Each composer was prompted to compose a piece from a deeply personal place that aligns with their social justice advocacy, and the result was four divinely individual works of art,” Longendyke said. “Each of the four piano pieces responds to an issue or an emotion that the composer felt was vital to put into the world after the global upheaval of the last three years. Rex’s piece explores the search for solace in a troubled world. Emily’s piece is a response to the silencing of Asian immigrants and Asian Americans in the United States. Reinaldo’s work is a response to the grief of losing a family member, and Nkeiru’s piece is about hope, giving listeners something to root for. Deonna’s film is about the search for self.”

For more, visit clarelongendyke.com.

CABARET

EVENING TO BENEFIT CIVIC THEATRE

JANUARY 26 at 6PM & 8:30PM

Clare Longendyke will play the piano pieces for “Requiem for the Adrift and Shattered.” (Photo courtesy of Clare Longendyke)

Weatherly

The Mavericks set for Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For The Mavericks’ guitarist Eddie Perez, there is no shortage of concert material.

CONCERT

Perez said there is a lot of music over the band’s 30-plus years to cover in a two-hour concert.

“So, we try to hit the mark on just about all of it, from the country music stuff we first got our start with until present day with the Spanish record and everything in between,” Perez said. “It can be challenging to cover all the music and make sure you hit everything everyone wants to hear.”

The Mavericks will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Perez said some of the band’s concert staples include hits such as “Back in Your Arms Again,” Dance the Night Away” and “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down.”

The Mavericks’ latest album, which is all-Spanish, was released at the height of the pandemic in August 2020. The band has covered a variety of genres through the years, crossing through musical boundaries.

“The roots were based in honky-tonk, country and ‘50s and ’60s rock ‘n’ roll,” Perez said. “When we started picking up instruments, that’s what we looked at. All of our music encapsulates all of the music over the years.”

Perez, a Mexican American guitarist from Los Angeles, joined the band in 2003.

Not long after Perez joined the band, the group took a break.

“It turned into an eight-year hiatus,” he said. “But in the incarnation that we are in now we’ve had seven or eight records in the last 11 years. We’ve toured extensively.”

During The Mavericks’ hiatus, Perez, who is based in Nashville, Tenn., was touring and making albums with Dwight Yoakam.

Raul Malo, the lead singer and songwriter, did some solo albums and toured during that time.

“A couple of us kept going (in the music world) and a couple tried other things,”

Perez said. “But we decided to see if there was any music left in The Mavericks, and we’ll probably know quickly. Here we are 11 years later, and I think it’s been the most advanced and prolific time.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Explore the world of hams

Commentary by Mark LaFay

When thinking about meats that are used on a charcuterie board, I group them into three categories:

• Spreadable meats like pâté, nduja, terrines, or rillettes.

• Ground meats, which are mainly salami.

• Whole muscle meats, like speck, lomo, bresaola, or ham like prosciutto.

In the whole muscle category, the king, in my opinion, is prosciutto, or simply put — ham. Dry-cured hams are simply whole hind quarters that are salted down and slowly dried and aged over extended periods of time. As the ham is dried and aged, it develops rich flavors that can be absolutely sublime.

The two most popular hams in the world are lesser-known Iberico ham and the more widely known Prosciutto di Parma. Iberico ham is made from aged hind quarters of Iberico pigs that live on the Iberian Peninsula of Spain. They are finished largely on acorns on the oak forest floor. Prosciutto di Parma is ham made from pigs in the Parma region of Italy that are finished with whey from the parmesan-making process.

Pigs don’t sweat, and so they tend to take on flavors of the ingredients of their diet. Parma ham takes on a slightly cheesy flavor as it ages and, you guessed it, Iberico ham takes on a nuttier flavor. Both hams when aged past 24 months become truly unforgettable. There are several other types of hams made in regions around the world. However, these two hams can’t be passed up. Domestically, we have a handful of producers of ham that are made in the tradition of Parma, but by law are not Parma hams. There are hundreds of producers of Iberico and Parma Ham. Start exploring and make notes as you find brands and ages that you prefer.

For a great domestic ham, check out La Quercia, an Iowa-based ham producer.

There are countless options for epic prosciutto, both domestic and international. Enjoy the exploration!

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Hot off the grill station

space, storage space for utensils and possibly storage space for your fuel source.

CARMEL CLAY PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENTS

Ross Gay

Friday, February 3 @ 7pm Main Library Community Room

Visit the library for a conversation about joy with bestselling essayist and award-winning poet Ross Gay. This discussion of his most recent collection of essays, Inciting Joy, will explore the joy we incite when we turn our attention to what brings us together and to what we love.

Ross Gay is also the author of the New York Times bestseller The Book of Delights as well as four collections of poetry.

REMODELING

I just had to break down and take the cover off my grill this past week. I thought I could resist the urge and hold out for warmer weather. I guess I’m just weak, but having an outdoor kitchen is awesome.

If you would like to up your grilling game, here are a few ideas to consider while planning your ultimate grill station. There are various amenities and functional issues that can take your layout from perfectly functional to ultimate oasis.

First, you’ll need to decide what type of grill you want. Will it burn propane, natural gas, or do you prefer charcoal? Perhaps your grill of choice is a flat-top griddle. Maybe you want more than one method of cooking. Once the cooking appliance has been determined, it’s time to think about functional issues, such as countertop

You might want to consider some sort of overhead covering as part of your grill station. The covering could come in the form of a pergola or even a solid roof. You’ll want to be sure and provide adequate ventilation at the grill.

Pizza ovens have become very popular. Whether the oven is a portable tabletop version or a custom built-in style, having pizza on the outdoor menu can certainly elevate your grilling game.

It’s never too early to start planning. Stay home, be moved.

Bill Bernard works for SURROUNDINGS by NatureWorks+.

He has more than 30 years of experience. For more, email aaron@choosesurroundings.com.

Register for this free event at carmelclaylibrary.org/events .

Commentary by Bill Bernard

Will AI replace human writers?

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Welcome to the year of AI content creation. From writing to artwork created by artificial intelligence software, the internet is embracing this “make-the-computer-do-it for-me” approach.

AI-written website articles,” you’ll get a result that is a solid “C”-grade essay. If that is your standard of quality, then feel free to publish it on your website.

GRAMMAR GUY

Soon after OpenAI launched ChatGPT at the end of November 2022, the company was valued at a cool $29 billion. But my question is: Will AI chatbots replace human writers? Not anytime soon.

As a content manager for a robotics startup, my day job involves writing relevant and interesting articles, case studies and thought leadership on my industry. It takes time to do this well, but quantity of content is simultaneously as important as the quality of the work.

For website articles, SEO, or search engine optimization, is king. In theory, you could crank out a ChatGPT essay once per day and load it up with all the keywords you want your potential customers to find in a Google search. This would direct customers to your website, where they might purchase your product or service. But what if the writing is lousy?

After weeks of experimenting with ChatGPT, I’ve found that the service creates vague and repetitive articles. If you type in a prompt such as, “Write a blog article discussing the limitations of

During winter break, Princeton computer science major Edward Tian built software that can sniff out a ChatGPT plagiarism checker called GPTZero. Essentially, GPTZero can determine whether a human or a bot wrote an article.

Although I come from the “don’t use Wikipedia as a source for your research paper” millennial generation, I do fear the rise of AI chatbots is going to make us even more reliant on these technologies to form coherent thoughts. In fact, there’s a dating app service that will help you compose replies to potential matches that will help you sound cooler, sexier and funnier. It’s a regular cyber Cyrano de Bergerac.

– CURTIS HONEYCUTT

Visiting where Jesus taught

Commentary by Don Knebel

AI software like ChatGPT does have some cool applications. You can prompt it to write original jokes; you can use it as an alternative to Google to explain complex topics; you can even prompt it to write a silly limerick about your great Uncle Vern.

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL,

Ordinance Z-680-23

INDIANA

Notice is hereby given that the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana meeting on the 6th day of February, 2023, at 6 o’clock p.m. at their regular meeting place in the Council Chambers, Second Floor, City Hall, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana 46032, will hold a Public Hearing to consider a request to change the zoning classification from the existing R-1 and B-1 zones to B-3 and to remove property from the Business District Sub-Area of the Home Place Overlay District. The property address is:10402 North College Avenue.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Tax ID parcel Numbers: 17-13-11-00-00-007.000, 17-13-11-00-00-008.000, 17-13-11-00-00-008.001, 17-13-11-00-00-009.000, 17-13-11-02-07-006.000, 17-13-11-02-07-008.000, 17-13-11-02-8-001.000, 17-13-11-02-08-002.000, 17-13-11-02-08-003.000, 17-13-11-02-08-004.000, 17-13-11-02-08-005.000, 17-13-11-02-08-006.000, 17-13-11-02-08-007.000, 17-13-11-02-08-008.000, 17-13-11-02-08-022.000, 17-13-11-02-08-023.000, 1713-11-02-08-024.000, 17-13-11-02-08-025.000, 17-13-11-02-08-026.000, 17-13-11-02-08-027.000, 17-1311-02-08-028.000, 17-13-11-02-08-029.000, 17-13-11-02-08-045.000, 17-13-11-02-08-046.000, 17-13-1102-08-047.000, 17-13-11-02-08-048.000, 17-13-11-02-11-004.000

The Proposal details are on file for examination at the Office of the City Clerk, Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032, telephone 317-571-2440.

Interested persons appearing at the hearing for this matter shall have the right to be heard or may file written comments prior to the hearing. In addition, the hearing may be continued by the City Council, as it may find necessary.

CARMEL CITY CLERK Sue Woflgang

TRAVEL

Continuing our tour of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we go around to the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee to sites important in Jesus’ ministry.

In the first century, Capernaum, home to four of Jesus’s disciples, was a fishing village, which became the center of Jesus’ ministry when Nazareth, his hometown, drove him out. According to biblical accounts, Capernaum was the location of many of Jesus’ healing miracles, including the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law in Peter’s Capernaum house. Jesus taught in Capernaum’s synagogue, where he healed a man possessed by demons. Jesus also performed miracles in Chorazin, a farming village famous for its wheat set on a hillside about 2.5 miles north of Capernaum, and in nearby Bethsaida. Because the people witnessing those miracles did not repent as he had expected, Jesus expressly denounced all three villages by name.

Archaeologists have uncovered the ruins of Capernaum and Chorazin but disagree about the location of Bethsaida.

Today, Capernaum includes a memorial to Peter, perched on columns above what has long been regarded as Peter’s house. Capernaum also includes the ruins of a fourth-century synagogue erected over the one in which Jesus taught. Although archaeologists have not yet found the remains of first-century Chorazin, they have uncovered ruins from the third century, including a large synagogue constructed of black basalt. Just west of Capernaum is the Church of the Beatitudes, perched on a hill over-

looking the Sea of Galilee associated with Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount. It was built in 1936 with the financial support of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. In the nearby area of Tabgha, associated with Jesus’ reported miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fishes, a statue remembers the account in the Gospel of John when Jesus forgave Peter for having three times denied knowing him after Jesus’ arrest.

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Memorial to Peter in Capernaum. (Photos by Don Knebel)

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

Church of the Beatitudes.

Statue of Jesus and Peter in Capernaum.

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