January 31, 2023 — Carmel

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By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals on Jan. 23 narrowly approved a special exception to allow a group home on Horseshoe Lane in the Woodland Springs neighborhood.

The home, which is undergoing interior renovations but no significant exterior changes, will house eight seniors with disabilities. Two caretakers will be on-site during the day, and one will be on duty overnight, but they will not live on-site.

“Our proposal will give Carmel residents the option to live within the neighborhood setting to which they are accustomed and which they desire,” said Jennifer Piccione, who purchased the home with two business partners.

The 3-2 vote came after an hour of discussion that grew contentious at times. After three nearby residents urged the BZA to deny the exception because they didn’t feel the location was appropriate for a group home, Sarah Jane Hunt, an attorney speaking on behalf of Piccione, drew disapproval from much of the audience after she compared the remonstrators’ feedback to past instances of racial discrimination.

“The not-in-my-backyard mentality is what kept our neighborhoods segregated for decades,” she said, noting that federal law ensures people with disabilities have housing options and aren’t forced to move into an institution.

BZA members Leo Dierckman, who became board president earlier in the meeting, and Alan Potasnik voted against granting the exception.

Dierckman said it was the petitioners’ own claims about the project that convinced him to vote against it. He took issue with their statement that eight people most recently lived in the home after two neighbors said that wasn’t the case.

He also said their attempts to compare the group home to Story Cottage – a group home for memory-impaired seniors in east Carmel – demonstrated possible shortcomings with the Horseshoe Lane plan rather than supported it.

“Your arguments in your findings of fact don’t jive with the way you want us to rule,” Dierckman said. “In fact, they argue against your request.”

Board members James Hawkins, Brad Grabow and Leah York, a new BZA appointment participating in her first meeting, voted to grant the exception.

“(Group homes) blend into the community,” Hawkins said. “It’s a trend that’s going to give seniors an alternative place to live. It’s probably a bit newer to our community, but it is out there, and it has been prominent in the Midwest for quite a while.”

The exception will be valid for five years and must come before the BZA to be renewed.

The state of Indiana considers group homes to be residences, not commercial properties, even if they are owned by a for-profit business. The Americans with Disabilities Act provides federal protection for group homes, and local governments are limited in how they can regulate them.

DISPATCHES

Correction — A story in the Jan. 17 edition of Current in Carmel misstated the location of Parkwood Crossing. Parkwood Crossing is southeast I-465 and U.S. 31.

City retains AA credit rating — The City of Carmel has retained its AA credit rating after a review of its financial strength and long-term stability. The rating was issued by Standard & Poor’s for the sale of $62.45 million in lease rental bonds that will be used to finance the construction of several road system projects, including the completion of various multi-use paths along existing roads.

Candidate town hall meetings — Chuck Ford, a Republican for the North Central District Carmel City Council seat, is hosting town hall-style meetings from 7 to 8 p.m. Feb. 16, March 16 and April 13 at the Carmel American Legion Post 155, 852 W. Main St. The events are open to the public and will allow an opportunity for community members to ask questions of the candidate.

Kindergarten registration — Registration is open for the Carmel Clay Schools kindergarten class for the 2023-24 school year. Early registration helps CCS prepare for anticipated staffing needs and allows families to begin the kindergarten assessment process and receive communication from the district. Register for the Class of 2036 at ccs. k12.in.us/services/curriculum/kindergarten.

County awards $750K in grants — The Hamilton County commissioners and councilors have awarded 12 not-for-profits with more than $750,000 in support for 2023. The grant program is intended to support to organizations that provide services in furtherance of county goals and without these services the county may need to consider the development of such programming. The largest grant, $180,000, was awarded to Prevail to help provide crisis intervention and support services for survivors of crime and abuse.

PrimeLife Enrichment, an agency that provides programs and services to support senior citizens, has been awarded $100,000.

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.

The Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special exception to allow a group home on Horseshoe Lane. (File photo)

BZA denies variance for backyard soccer training

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously denied a variance request Jan. 23 that would have allowed a local soccer coach to continue offering training sessions in his backyard.

“It feels like if there were ever a purpose for a variance, this would be the one, because the neighborhood will sound the same, regardless,” he said.

CITY NEWS

Cary Pruett, a former teacher and coach at Westfield High School, moved into the Springmill Crossing subdivision in March 2022 and began building a turf area for soccer practice — initially planned for use by his family, he said — two months later.

He said he soon began using his backyard to offer training sessions for a few youth athletes and quickly saw the business grow, enough that he could step down from his teaching career and make his backyard training his primary job.

Pruett filed the variance request after some of his neighbors complained about a business operating in a residential area. City code prohibits outdoor areas to be used as part of home businesses without approval from the BZA.

Pruett, who was prepared to limit training hours and student numbers to lessen the impact on neighbors, urged the BZA to approve the variance, in part because soccer training will take place in his backyard regardless, as his family plans to continue using the equipment.

Ryan Feiock, whose backyard is adjacent to Pruett’s, supported the variance and told the BZA he doesn’t find the soccer training disruptive. But Tania Roudebush, who lives next door to Pruett, disagreed.

“Our ability to enjoy our home and backyard in peace has been taken away from us,” she said. “The resale ability and the value of our home have been jeopardized.”

The board asked Pruett if he had considered offering soccer lessons elsewhere, and he said he looked into it but that “a commercial space would be unattainable.”

Carmel’s Dept. of Community Services recommended approval of the variance request pending several conditions to limit parking, reduce the number of trainees on-site at a time, comply with lighting guidelines, receive a city permit for an existing fence and more.

BZA President Leo Dierckman said the many conditions were among the factors that led to his vote to deny the variance.

“I can’t fathom us wanting to get this going and allowing it to remain in this location because of the negative impact it’s having on your neighbors,” Dierckman said. “This is a variance with a whole bunch of contingencies and requirements, which leads me to believe it probably shouldn’t be there.”

Candidate filing continues

news@currentincarmel.com

Candidate filing for the May 2 municipal primary election is underway through Feb. 3. As of Jan. 25, candidates to file in Carmel are:

Mayor

• Kevin “Woody” Rider (R)

• Sue Finkam (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 South Central District

• Anthony (Tony) Green (R)

City council Northeast District

• Jason Engle (R)

• Shannon Minnaar (R)

City council Southeast District

• Adam Aasen (R)

City council West District

• Ven Tadikonda (R)

• Loren Matthes (R)

City council at-large (vote for three)

• Sara Draper (D)

• Jake Madore (D)

• Rich Taylor (R)

• Matthew J. Snyder (R)

• Jeff Worrell (R)

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Green files for reelection

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Tony Green announced Jan. 23 he is seeking reelection to the Carmel City Council in this year’s municipal election.

ELECTION

Green joined the council in 2017 after the Hamilton County Republican Party held a caucus to fill a seat vacated by Carol Schleif, who moved out of state.

“For more than seven years, I have attended HOA meetings, hosted town hall meetings, sent newsletters and fielded community-wide surveys. My purpose is to listen to the thoughts, ideas and dreams of Carmel residents and business leaders,” Green stated. “The feedback that I have received has been a consistent concern over Carmel’s rapid excessive growth and increasing density.”

That feedback has helped Green identify his campaign priorities:

• Preserving the character of Carmel’s residential neighborhoods

• Investing in infrastructure to keep pace with Carmel’s population growth

• Hiring additional police officers and adding another fire station Green is deputy executive director for the Indiana Public Retirement System and previously worked as an attorney for Barnes & Thornburg. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, a former Air Force pilot and serves as the State Judge Advocate for the Indiana Air Guard and is an adjunct professor of law at Indiana University Law School at Indianapolis.

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Only three of the nine city councilors are running for reelection to their current seats, and Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard, who has been in office since 1996, announced he will step down after his term ends. The upcoming shifts in city government contributed to Green’s decision to run again.

“With a new mayor and so many firsttime councilors, I think it’s best for Carmel and those in my district for me to continue serving and run for another term,” he said.

As of Jan. 25, Green was the only candidate to have filed for the South Central District seat. Candidates may file for the May primary election through Feb. 3.

Learn more at TonyGreen4Carmel.com.

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Retired public finance advisor seeking West District council seat

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

serve her well on the city council.

ELECTION

Loren Matthes, who recently retired from a 35-year career as a public finance advisor, has announced a campaign for Carmel City Council in the West District.

A Republican, Matthes is set to face off against Ven Tadikonda in the May 2 primary. Incumbent Democrat Miles Nelson, who joined the council in 2020, is running for mayor. No Democrats had filed for the West District seat as of Jan. 25. The filing deadline is Feb. 3.

Matthes, who has lived in Carmel for 20 years, retired in 2021 from a public accounting and consulting firm that advised local governments — including Carmel — on financial and economic development issues. She believes her professional background would

“My 35 years of public finance advisory work makes me a uniquely qualified candidate to serve on the Carmel City Council,” Matthes stated. “I am an independent and analytical thinker who values integrity and ethics. I am excited for the opportunity to serve my community and ensure Carmel’s residents understand and support financial decisions made by the city.”

As a consultant, Matthes worked with leaders from cities and towns to help plan and finance various types of projects, analyze cash flow, manage tax rates, create budgets and more.

Matthes and her husband of 24 years, Don, have three adult sons and eight grandchildren (with another on the way). Her hobbies include hiking, exercise and reading, and she enjoys spending time with family and at her church.

Democrat joins North Central District City Council race

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Democrat Courtney Culver has announced a campaign for the Carmel City Council’s North Central District in this year’s municipal election.

experience in managing massive budgets, leading large-scale projects and optimizing resources. I will make decisions that support the needs of our city and will not be driven by my ego or partisan politics.”

ELECTION

A senior director at Salesforce, Culver oversees teams that focus on operational excellence, data analytics, marketing and more. She has previous experience in the nonprofit, telecommunications, financial and technology sectors.

Culver, who has lived in the district for 12 years, believes her professional background is among the reasons she would be a good fit on the council.

“It’s imperative that Carmel’s councilors have the skills and experience needed to responsibly manage and lead our city. Leading a functional city government should not be about who you know, but what you know,” Culver stated. “If elected, I will draw on my

Culver earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Franklin College and has a master’s in organizational leadership from Siena Heights University in Michigan.

She and her husband, who have been married for 20 years, have a 17-year-old daughter and a 9-yearold basset hound.

Culver was the only Democrat to file for the North Central District seat as of Jan. 25. Four Republicans are running: Chuck Ford, Leah York, Jonathan Blake and Teresa Ayers, an incumbent appointed by a caucus to the seat earlier this month after the death of Councilor Bruce Kimball.

Culver will hold a campaign kickoff event on March 2 at The Cat in downtown Carmel. Learn more about the event and her campaign at CulverforCarmel.com.

Matthes

Culver

CHS senior wrestler aims for state finals podium finish

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School senior wrestler Isaac Ward’s goal for the postseason is clear. He wants to end up on the podium in the IHSAA state finals Feb. 18 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Ward lost in the first round of the state finals in the 126-pound division last year and the 113-pound class as a sophomore. The topeight placers make the podium.

“I think making it to state last year will definitely help with my experience because I know what it takes to get there, and this year our team should have multiple state qualifiers once again,” Ward said.

CHS coach Ed Pendoski said the experience of being under the lights in the first round should be a benefit.

“Going through it once, you know what is coming,” Pendoski said. “There is a familiarity that makes things calmer.”

As of Jan. 24, Ward had an 18-0 record in the 132-pound weight class. He is ranked fifth in his class by Indianamat.com.

“This year, I have made the most improvements in my mentality and constantly being

MEET ISAAC WARD

Favorite athlete: Allen Iverson

Favorite movie: “Fight Club”

Favorite musician: Zach Bryan

on offense,” he said. “My highlight result probably (was) going 5-0 and winning the Mooresville Holiday Classic as an individual and as a team.”

Ward started out the season at 138 pounds but moved down to 132. which he said has been a good weight for him this season.

“One thing Isaac has always brought to the wrestling room is there are no excuses

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in his world,” Pendoski said. “He works hard. He owns his mistakes. He owns his choices. I think he’s matured a lot through this season. He’s competing at a really high level. A lot of kids will make excuses why they lost, but it’s almost a Ward family tradition not to do that”

Pendoski said Ward has put on muscle.

“What he really has an advantage is with his length and his body,” Pendoski said. ‘There are lot of good kids in his weight class, but no one is unbeatable.”

Ward’s older brother, Ethan, wrestled for CHS. Ward also has two younger brothers competing in the Carmel club program.

Ward will attend Wabash College but is unsure if he wants to wrestle in college.

Growing up, Ward played football, baseball and lacrosse. He started wrestling at age 10.

“I gave up all other sports my eighthgrade year,” Ward said. “I am passionate about wrestling because I love the solo aspect of you controlling your own match as well as enjoying the team and coaches.”

Carmel High School senior Isaac Ward is unbeaten this season. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Ward)

Ambrogi to join Hall of Fame

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Mark Ambrogi, an editor and reporter for Current Publishing, is among six inductees selected for the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association 2023 Hall of Fame Class.

He knew he wanted to be a writer by the time he was in junior high and pursued that dream by studying journalism at Indiana University.

ACHIEVEMENT

Before joining Current, Ambrogi worked for the Indianapolis Star for nearly 30 years, covering beats that included Purdue University, bowling, tennis and high school sports. He also contributed to coverage of the Indiana Pacers, Indianapolis 500, Indianapolis Colts, NCAA Final Four and many other historic events.

“I’ve never been overly concerned with awards, but this one is special because of how many of my former Indianapolis Star colleagues and friends from newspapers around the state are in the Hall of Fame,” said Ambrogi, a Carmel resident.

Ambrogi

Among his most memorable moments professionally was watching quarterback Drew Brees lead the Purdue Boilermakers to a last-minute 37-34 victory over Kansas State in the 1998 Alamo Bowl. Other career highlights include 1-on-1 interviews with legends such as Arthur Ashe, Billie Jean King, Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Mario Andretti, Tony Stewart and many others, he said.

Ambrogi joined Current Publishing in 2014. His work can be found in all six editions, including in the Night & Day section, which he manages.

“Mark has been an extremely noteworthy veteran presence and contributor at Current since joining our team,” said Steve Greenberg, Current co-owner. “He is a ‘pro’s pro,’ and we value him and his body of work.”

A Cincinnati native, Ambrogi — known to his friends and colleagues as Ambro — grew up with a love of newspapers and sports.

Ambrogi will be inducted into the Hall of Fame during an annual awards banquet set for April 16 at the Valle Vista Country Club in Greenwood.

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Hamilton County kicks off year of bicentennial events

By Edward Redd news@currentincarmel.com

Hamilton County kicked off a year of celebrating its bicentennial with a program Jan. 22 at the Palladium in Carmel. Local leaders and residents came together to recount and reflect on critical events that shaped Hamilton County over the past 200 years.

200 YEARS

Josh Kaufman, winner of Season 6 of “The Voice,” emceed the event.

The program began with acknowledging that the land of Hamilton County was previously the homeland of the Myaamia (Miami people) and was near land with ties to the Delaware, Shawnee and other indigenous groups who were forced out.

“For land acknowledgement to be meaningful, it must be coupled with action. We seek to establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships, collaborating with relevant federally recognized tribes to present a complete narrative of our entangled histories,” said Jessica Layman, Hamilton County bicentennial coordinator.

The program also included historical stories and readings dating from the early 1800s to the 1960s. Speakers and storytellers included Hamilton County historian David Heighway, Conner Prairie storyteller Dwight Gallian and Fishers City Councilor

John D. Patterson, 64, was born in Rushville, Indiana on June 18, 1958, to George Elzie Patterson, Jr. and Patricia Ann McFarlandPatterson. He passed away January 23, 2023, at home surrounded by his friends and family.

John graduated from Rushville Consolidated High School, then went on to graduate from Ball State in 1981 with a Bachelor’s in Science and Nursing.

Cecilia Coble, among others.

Live music was performed by the Freetown Village Singers, The Moontown Picklestompers and Josh Kaufman, accompanied by the Mudstock Jazz Combo.

“We hope that we’ll establish a legacy that will last for the next 100 years and will be the template for the next tercentennial committee,” Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman said during the closing.

OBITUARY

He is survived by his daughter Tatiana Grace Patterson and her mother, Amber (Charles) Stevens, as well as John’s nextdoor neighbors, Bill and Becky Deischer, who were like family to him. Also surviving is one of his brothers, George (Tom) Thomas Patterson of Glenwood, Indiana. He was preceded in death by one brother, James Quentin Patterson.  In the early years after graduation, John

worked for St. Vincent Hospital as a critical care cardiac nurse as well as working for an insurance company, and from 1989 to present he worked for Eli Lilly & Company. For about 10 years he owned and operated his own landscaping company called John D. Patterson Landscaping. John attended Northview Church in Carmel, Indiana. He enjoyed traveling, woodworking, landscaping, and riding bikes on the Monon Trail. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his daughter, Tatiana.

Viewing will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, February 3, 2023, at Flanner Buchanan –Zionsville at 105 W. Pine Street in Zionsville. Funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 4 at Flanner Buchanan – Zionsville. Burial will be at East Hill Cemetery in Rushville, Indiana.

Carmel residents, from left, Elizabeth Itzkowitz, Johnny Itzkowitz and Kathy Prusak attend the event. (Photo by Edward Redd)

COMMUNITY

Winter Games return next month

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Winter Games are back with the same wacky set of competitions.

EVENT

The games are set from noon to 4 p.m. Feb. 11 on The Ice at Carter Green with Ice Trike Relays, Human Curling and Human Hungry Hippos.

The Hometown Hero Olympics is set from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 10 at the same spot with the same three games between City of Carmel departments, including community services, streets, engineering, fire, parks and police.

Anne O’Brien, City of Carmel project manager with the community relations and economic development department, said the participation numbers last year were excellent.

This year, the numbers for the Feb. 10 session have increased from two to six teams, with the Feb. 11 event expanding from seven to 14 teams, ranging from businesses or small groups or neighborhoods.

In the Ice Trike Relays, four participants from each team compete. Each participant rides a trike and does two laps in a row around the ice.

“Imagine the game of curling, but instead of trying to shuffle a stone into the target, team members are moving their teammate riding inside of an inner tube,” O’Brien said.

The competition winners will choose a donation beneficiary from the City of Carmel approved list that includes Carmel Youth Assistance Program; Prime Life Enrichment Center; The Children’s TheraPlay Foundation; Carmel Clay Historical Society; Heroes Club; and four food pantries in Carmel.

Sunday, February 26

A sensory-friendly event for families, especially designed for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder or any type of special need. Free admission and skate rental for the entire family. Wheelchairs are welcome on the ice and ice walker supports are available to share. Rink will be closed to the general public.

Guardians must accompany on ice.

February 10 – 11, 2023

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

Teams compete in the Ice Trike Relays at a past Carmel Winter Games. (Photo courtesy of City of Carmel)

Getting to know ISO principal librarian James Norman

James Norman, a Zionsville resident since 2014, is the principal librarian for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. He is a composer by training and a former professor of music theory at Texas A&M University.

What brought you to the ISO?

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is one of the nation’s largest orchestras, with a reputation for innovation and creativity in their programs. Given my background as a composer, I was excited by the idea of working with an orchestra that values creating music as opposed to simply presenting it.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I suppose not, but at one point I could solve a Rubik’s cube in about 30 seconds.

What do you do when you’re creatively stuck?

I’m very much a fan of getting outside into nature as a method of giving my thoughts the time and space to organize themselves. For me, when starting

a new project from scratch, you are forced to confront your own limitations as an artist, which is perhaps the fundamental source of any writer’s block. Therefore, deadlines are a good method for forcing me to move forward even when I’m convinced nothing I’m writing is particularly “good.”

What’s your favorite kind of music and favorite musician, and why?

I fell in love with classical music when I was very young, but I also grew up in the thrall of groups like Chicago, Pink Floyd and Queen, and jazz artists like Robert Johnson, Bill Evans, and Bill Chase. Today, I am amazed by contemporary composers like Thomas Adès and Christopher Rouse.

Any advice for an aspiring musician for the symphony?

Practice is the surest path to success in music. But also, have patience. Music is a skill that takes a lifetime

OBITUARY

to hone, and you cannot rush the process. Enjoy the making of music as well as the journey. And lastly, there is no replacing what you can learn by simply listening to music.

Do you have a favorite place to eat in Zionsville?

I can’t imagine turning down a trip to The Friendly Tavern, especially one that starts with a batch of the battered onion rings.

Do you have a hobby?

Astrophotography. Taking images of objects in the deep sky that are completely invisible to the naked eye, and even most telescopes, is endlessly fascinating to me.

What’s your favorite weekend activity?

I like to relax with a crossword puzzle or some play time at the piano. And, perhaps best of all, I’m happy to find some time to play chess or throw the ball around with my two sons.

Michael Martin Elliott, 82, of Carmel died November 30, 2022. He was born January 22, 1940, in Kansas City, MO. He soon became the son and only child of Ruby Irene Shoup Elliott and James Hugh Elliott of Indianapolis, IN. His father was a colonel in the U.S. Army and the family moved from Dayton, OH, to Huntsville, AL , and then Long Island, NY, to finally settle for good in the Broad Ripple area of Indianapolis, where Mike spent most of his formative years growing up as a Hoosier.

Mike was a loving husband, father, Poppy and a friend to many. From a very early age, Mike participated in sports; his favorites were football and basketball. At 6’6”, he was gifted with the height and had the talent and passion to excel at basketball. He played throughout grade school at PS 76 and for Broad Ripple High School.

Mike then went on to Northwestern University to study finance and play basketball. A serious case of pneumonia during his freshman year derailed his studies and athletics, and he transferred to Indiana University to continue his education where he played basketball for the famed coach, Branch McCracken. Following a redshirt year as a Hoosier, Mike saw some solid playing time with the program until the discovery of a career-ending back issue.

The brotherhood of Delta Upsilon Fraternity at IU became an integral part of his collegiate life post basketball.

Mike and Arden Lee Campbell met at IU on a blind date. A second date almost didn’t happen, but Arden gave him a second chance and the rest is history! They were married 61 years.

Mike graduated from Indiana University with a major in finance from the School of Business in 1962. Upon graduation from IU, he worked for RCA in the record division. He soon moved on to Dunn & Bradstreet and eventually on to the family manufacturing business of Elliott-Williams Company,

Inc., in 1964. He was made president of Elliott-Williams in 1980 and became owner in 1984. Amid running his family company and raising a family, Mike earned a law degree from the IU School of Law was admitted to the Indiana Bar in 1982. He was a member of the Phi Delta Phi Law fraternity. Throughout his professional life, Mike was honored to be part of several significant industry boards, panels, projects and advisory councils. He was a long-standing member the National Sanitation Foundation and past president of the Certification Council and Chair of Standard 7, and a president of the Indiana District Export Council. At E-W he was responsible for important projects like building cold storage warehouses as part of the Aswan Dam project in Egypt, building the cold storage for the original Port of Abu Dhabi project in the 1980s and building cold storage in Santiago, Chile, for the grape and wine industry.

Though completely dedicated to his work, Mike’s true passion was family.  His life’s greatest joys were the births of his four children – his first known blood relatives. His work was simply a vehicle to provide for and to celebrate his family.

Mike took great pride in engaging in all his children’s athletic and extracurricular endeavors. Everyone knew to expect Mike Elliott on the sidelines coaching, in the stands cheering or behind the scenes organizing on behalf of his family. He spent nearly 15 years coaching youth teams of the Jordan YMCA and Carmel families across several sports from the sidelines, and another 35-plus years coaching from the bleachers. While he relished in coaching the skills of the games, it was the “life skills” coaching connections he cherished even more. Throughout life, Mike often told and re-told stories of life lessons learned through sport.

From learning and studying soccer to support and help coach Michael Jr.’s passion to learning the intricacies of Megan’s

figure skating to film and follow her career on the ice there was no questioning the fact that he was a dedicated dad. Home or away, Mike never missed a University of Michigan football game and proudly watched Matt and Marc represent the Maize and Blue on the field. He and Arden traveled the country to support Matt’s NFL career.

Mike was larger than life. He was generous with his advice and never shied away from the opportunity to impart his wisdom on a topic or insert a well-used joke into a conversation. He loved to laugh, yet he had a very stoic and commanding presence. He was unapologetically one of a kind. To him, there was nothing better than a single-malt scotch and a good story to share, peppered with a few triedand-true Dad jokes to keep his audience engaged.

Mike’s quick wit and a sharp focus were nurtured through mastering the crossword puzzles in The Indianapolis Star and Wall Street Journal daily. In retirement, he looked forward to his weekly bridge group at the Monon Center.

Mike is survived by his wife, Arden Campbell Elliott and his four children; Michael M. Jr. (Heather), E. Matthew (Kristin), Marc C. (Lisa), Megan M. DiCiccio (Derek) and eight grandchildren; William and Holly Elliott; Max, Abbie and Teddy Elliott; Cole, Chase and Corinne Elliott.

A celebration of life for Mike will be held February 4, 2023, at Flanner Buchanan - Hamilton Memorial Park (Prairie Waters), 4180 Westfield Road (SR 32), Westfield, IN. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the celebration service at 2 p.m.  Guests are invited for wine and hors d’oeuvres following the celebration service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Carmel Clay Public Library Foundation, 425 E. Main Street 46032 or the American Heart Association, 6500 Technology Center Drive Suite 100, Indianapolis 46278. Online condolences may be shared by visiting flannerbuchanan.com.

Paws & Think programs aim to benefit people, pups at the same time

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Once Gabbie Rothchild discovered the “abnormally chill” demeanor of her standard poodle, Charlie Brown, she said she decided to look for opportunities to train him as a therapy dog to bring comfort and smiles to the community.

An online search led Rothchild, a Carmel resident, to Paws & Think, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that focuses on supporting humans and canines. Since the fall of 2021, Rothchild and Charlie Brown have frequently worked with students at schools, therapy centers and libraries to help them improve their literacy skills through the Paws to Read program.

“It’s amazing seeing them smile,” said Rothchild, a special education teacher at Indiana Math & Science Academy North. “At my school, we work with low-income (students and those with) very hard lives. One of the kids says, ‘I look forward to seeing him every Friday.’ It just makes me want to cry. It’s just amazing to see what dogs can do.”

During the program, children read to a therapy dog, providing a nonjudgmental setting to practice literacy. Suzette Vetrini has brought her two children to Paws to Read at the Carmel Clay Public Library multiple times. She said it’s been beneficial for her 9-year-old daughter, who was recently diagnosed with dyslexia, and her 12-year-old son, who sometimes uses the opportunity to practice reading in French.

“I love the fact that they insert animals that help children and give them that self-confidence to really love reading,” said Vetrini, a Carmel resident.

Paws & Think’s other therapy programs are Paws to Heal, which includes therapy dog visits with patients, families and staff in hospitals and other health care facilities, and Paws to Comfort, which provides specially trained teams that respond during a crisis in the community to assist with grieving and healing.

The organization’s other main initiative is its Youth-Canine Program, which pairs at-risk youth with shelter dogs. The program aims to help the participants learn responsibility, job readiness, anger management, leadership and other skills as they use positive reinforcement to train the dogs in basic obedience skills that increase the canines’ likelihood of adoption.

All of Paws & Think’s initiatives take place in Central Indiana and are dependent on volunteers and donations. The organization has more than 150 teams of volunteers and dogs participating in its therapy programs and is seeking more. It also has several opportunities to serve for those who don’t own a therapy dog.

“Our hospital visits require an escort, a volunteer that doesn’t have a dog. They’re helping with patient management, making sure we’re getting the patient’s information and making sure we’re not entering rooms that we shouldn’t,” said Ashleigh Coster, Paws & Think executive director. “Our youth canine program is basically all volunteers

without dogs because we’re working with shelter dogs.”

Rothchild said she continues to volunteer with Paws & Think because of the impact it has had on countless people and pups, including her own Charlie Brown.

“It’s not necessarily me who’s doing the job, it’s the dog,” she said. “(I’ve enjoyed) seeing my dog grow, too, not being as shy and going up to people and giving kisses.”

Learn more about Paws & Think and ways to be involved at pawsandthink.org.

A NEW LEADER

When Ashleigh Coster heard that Paws & Think was searching for an executive director, she felt the role would be a perfect fit. She had enjoyed working at an animal hospital throughout high school and as a dog sitter beyond that, and after moving to Indiana she spent 16 years working to improve the lives of people through the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, a nonprofit. The role at Paws & Think offered a chance to work with both.

“When this position came open, it just combined everything I love about working with people but also working with animals,” said Coster, who has been in her new role since December 2022. “It’s been really cool to merge the two and see how our dogs are helping people. That’s the basis of our organization.”

Coster and her wife, Kira, live in downtown Indianapolis with their 12-year-old pug, Porky, whom Coster said enjoys “short walks and long naps” and doesn’t qualify as a therapy dog.

ON THE COVER: Aadhya Gandhi, 5, reads to Augie, a Paws & Think therapy dog, during a Paws to Read program Jan. 21 at the Carmel Clay Public Library. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

The Paws & Think Youth-Canine Program allows participants to train shelter dogs. (Photo courtesy of Whitney Riggs)

A young hospital patient hugs a Paws & Think therapy dog making a visit through the Paws to Heal program. (Photo courtesy of Whitney Riggs)

Antonio Vetrini, 12, right, reads to therapy dog Charlie Brown and his owner, Paws & Think volunteer Gabbie Rothchild, at a Paws to Read program Jan. 21 at the Carmel Clay Public Library. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Paws & Think Executive Director Ashleigh Coster and her 12-year-old pug, Porky. (Photo courtesy of Paws & Think)

Scenthound coming to Carmel

By Chris Bavender news@currentincarmel.com

Scenthound, a wellness-focused, membership-based dog grooming business focused on preventative care for canines, is coming to Clay Terrace in March. This will be the first Indiana location for the business and will be owned and operated by Doug and Sarah Davis.

“Sarah and I have always been passionate about dogs, and Scenthound allows us to positively impact the lives of both beloved family dogs and their owners,” Doug said. “We’ve known that we wanted to start our own business for a while, it was just a matter of finding the right fit. When we came across Scenthound, not only did we love the business model, we also quickly realized that there is nothing quite like it here in Carmel.”

They selected Clay Terrace for a variety of reasons, among them the center’s many events and activities that involve dogs and their families. Scenthound will be in Suite 180, just north of Dick’s Sporting Goods and Cafe Patachou.

“(Clay Terrace) has a great tenant base for our clients to visit while their dog has their monthly visit, whether it be a quick bite to eat, shopping or getting a workout in,” Doug said. “Our location is centrally located, allowing for an easy commute for customers in Carmel and other surrounding areas.”

Scenthound focuses on five core areas of routine care for dogs, giving pups routine care through the Monthly Care Club.

“Not only is this beneficial to the dog, but also the dog-parent because we provide each dog with a Scent Check ( monthly report card) on the condition of their skin, coat, ears, nails and teeth to ensure we can be proactive about any issues that might

Doug said.

Haircuts are an additional service Scenthound provides. They can include a blow-dry, brush-out, pad trim, sanitary trim and full haircut. These, along with several other service options, can be added to a dog’s monthly Routine Care Club appointment.

“We will also provide 24/7 access to a vet using the Scenthound mobile app for dog-parents to get any quick questions answered or for after-hours peace of mind,” he added. “Our North Star is, ‘We remove barriers so that people can love and connect with their dogs every day.’”

The Monthly Care Club — which ranges in price from $35-$65 — includes a bath, ear cleaning, nail trim and teeth cleaning. Members receive 25 percent off additional services

Doug and Sarah will be actively involved in hiring, operations and marketing for the business. Scenthound in Clay Terrace will employ 10 people, including a general manager, groomers and Scent Techs, which are bathers and grooming assistants.

A Scenthound lobby at another location. (Photo courtesy of Doug Davis) arise,”

The PNC Financial Services Group held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Jan. 20 at 10570 N. Michigan Rd.,Carmel. From left, Carmel City Council member Sue Finkam; Chip Wood of PNC Bank; Jennifer Van Handel of PNC Bank; Brian Heichelbech of PNC Bank; Rachael Kottlowski of PNC Bank; Cody Cassel of PNC Bank; John Vaughn of PNC Bank; James Stone of PNC Bank; Carmel City Council Council member Miles Nelson; and Dorothy Price of PNC Bank. (Photo courtesy of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce)

HEALTH

Therapist offers tips for seasonal depression

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

cold, so people tend to stay indoors and are less active.”

With winter well underway, so is the potential for young adults to develop seasonal depression. Each year, seasonal depression affects around 5 percent of adults in the U.S., according to Sarah Longe, a behavioral health therapist with IU Health.

WELLNESS

“Typically, seasonal depression begins between the ages of 18 to 30,” Longe said. “Between seasonal and regular depression, it just depends on when the episodes happen. For people with regular depression, the seasonal aspect of depression can be part of it. However, seasonal depression isn’t typically diagnosed as regular depression.”

Symptoms of seasonal depression are similar to “regular depression,” Longe said. Symptoms such as reclusion, lack of interest and general sadness that interferes with everyday life are telltale signs of depression. The difference between seasonal and “regular” depression is that the seasonal variation occurs through winter.

“January and February tend to be the most difficult months for people,” Longe said. “There’s less sunlight, the days are gray, and it gets dark by 5:30 (p.m.). That can be rough for most people. I also think the excitement of the holidays is over, so there’s that post-holiday crash. Plus, it’s

A range of products, from artificial sunlight lamps to health supplements, can help as prevention tools. Longe recommends the former based on feedback from her patients.

“There’s light therapy, which you can get one that’s called HappyLight on Amazon,” Longe said. “It projects bright, indirect light in a room, and it’s recommended that you do that for 20 to 30 minutes every day. I have patients that swear by it.”

Longe also recommends that seasonal depression sufferers settle into a healthy daily routine.

“A good diet and exercise can help, too,” Longe said. “Really, connecting to others is a great way to fight against seasonal depression. That’s something I’ll do with patients is talk about what they’ll be doing during the months and what they’re looking forward to — hobbies to do, friends to see.”

For those whose depression is worsened by the season, Longe advises finding a therapist and keeping the suicide hotline number, 988, on hand.

“If you’re struggling, find a good therapist, if needed,” Longe said. “You can find a list of providers on your insurance company’s website. And if you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, there’s also a crisis line by dialing 988.”

For more, visit iuhealth.org.

DISPATCHES

Walking for arthritis — Walking is so beneficial in fighting arthritis pain that it’s considered a natural medicine. Painful, stiff joints make it hard to get moving but moving is exactly what is needed for pain relief. For maximum benefits, you should try to walk at a moderate pace for at least 30 minutes every day. If 30 minutes is too much, start with less time and work up gradually.

Source: American Journal of Public Health

Fiber to fight diabetes — New research shows that people who are willing to more than double the fiber in their diets from 16 to 37 grams per day can better control diabetes. It needs to be a high amount of diverse types of fibers. Getting nearly 40 grams may sound like a tall order, but it’s

actually not that hard and it could make a radical difference in your blood sugar level by increasing insulin production.

Source: BottomLineHealth.com

Helping loved ones recover — When a loved one is ill, you can help their recovery even if you have no medical training. When you talk to them, get an update and be sympathetic, but quickly shift to a positive, upbeat tone. Don’t talk about your own illnesses. Let the person know that you are looking forward to meeting for lunch, or some other outing, in the near future. Have a funny story or wonderful reminiscence to share. Laughter is a great healer, and it can make the recovering person’s day.

Source: BottomLineHealth.com

Longe

Performers eager to share ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Gemma Rollison has always felt it necessary to know the story of Anne Frank because of her Jewish heritage.

“I’m Jewish on both sides, not religiously,” Rollison said. “It was always something from a young age that my mother made sure that I knew. It never really hit me until I decided to research about it for this role.”

Rollison plays the title role in Civic Theatre’s production of “The Diary of Anne Frank,” which is set for Feb. 10-25 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

The story centers on Anne Frank, who wrote a diary and planned to write a book about her life hiding from the Nazis in a concealed annex in the Netherlands. She and her family were eventually captured, and she died of typhus in a concentration camp.

“It was really inspiring to me because if I had lived those 75plus years ago, it could well have been me, and that’s a very frightening reality,” said Rollison, a homeschooled high school senior who lives on the south side of Indianapolis.

Rollison said her character is always jumping around and saying everything she thinks.

“She speaks very fast and she is very witty, so there are lot of lines to remember,” Rollison said. “There is a lot of complexity in what she says.”

Hamilton Southeastern High School senior Sydney Pinchouck is the understudy for the roles of Anne and older sister Margot but is guaranteed at least two performance as Anne.

“My dad’s family is Jewish and I read it as a young girl,” Pinchouck said. “Anne is the reason I was inspired to learn about my Jewish heritage. I also went to a Christian school for much of my life and learning about the Holocaust in a Christian school was a rough experience. We spent a lot of time talking about the Holocaust but it was less sensitive. Some insensitive comments were directed to me, things people didn’t realize they shouldn’t be saying to someone who is Jewish.

“Having Anne’s experiences to read helps me become more connected with that part of my life. So when I found out that Civic was doing the show, I knew I needed to be part of it.”

Rebecca Piñero, an Indianapolis Shortridge High School junior, is cast as Margot.

“I’m have two little siblings, so it’s easy to connect to the text you see between Margot and Anne,” Piñero said. “I’ve always been very interested in her story. I read her autobiography and autobiography of her best friend. I saw it performed at the IRT a few years ago.”

Piñero said it’s difficult to portray the history while understanding the grief of it.

“But you also still want to explore the hope and the triumph in the moments of the annex,” she said.

David Wood, a Lawrence resident, plays Anne’s father, Otto Frank.

“I’ve seen the play a few times and seen the movie,” Wood said.  Adrienne Reiswerg is the dramaturg for the production, making sure the Jewish holidays and traditions are accurately portrayed.

“My daughter-in-law, Michelle Cohen, is Jewish and thus my granddaughter,” Wood said. “My brother-in-law is Jewish. I have a little background, but I’ve learned more.”

Wood said he always thought Otto Frank was a fascinating character.

“It’s hard to get to know the real Otto because he’s always portrayed so stoically because he was so heroic to Anne,” Wood said. “Everyone else had an outlet and he didn’t have that outlet. I want to be able to think what he is feeling inside and maybe express that a little more, even though if that’s not the interpretation people have seen a lot of.”

Garrett Rowe, a Lebanon resident who graduated from Indiana University in 2022, plays 16-year-old Peter Van Daan.

“He’s trying to find that balance because he’s still a kid, but he gets looked at as an adult,” Rowe said. “I got to see my high school (Lebanon) perform this when I was a freshman in college. I love the way it’s written.”

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘CLUE’

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

THE WRIGHT BROTHERS

The Wright Brothers will play a farewell show at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 3 at Feinstein’s Cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The concert was rescheduled from Dec. 3. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

ACTORS THEATRE OF INDIANA

Actors Theatre of Indiana will present “ATI’s Greatest Hits, Vol. 1” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 4 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

DISPATCHES

Dublin Irish Dance set — “Wings: A Celtic Dance Celebration” is set for 8 p.m. Feb. 10 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. “Wings: A Celtic Dance Celebration” is a new dance production created by a critically acclaimed artistic team. “Wings” features Irish and world champion dancers together with Ireland’s finest musical and vocal virtuosos.

‘Around the World in 80 Days’ — The Belfry Theatre’s production of “Around the World in 80 Days” will be performed at Arts for Lawrence Theater at the Fort from Feb. 10-19. The adventurous play is adapted from Jules Verne’s novel about Phileas Fogg’s attempt to travel the world in a hot-air balloon. For more, visit artsforlawrence.org.

Katherine Nagy Trio concert set — The Live at the Center series will feature the Katherine Nagy Trio with Tim Wright at 7:30 Feb. 22 at the Studio Theater at Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Hailing from Ireland, Nagy brings a slight Celtic influence to her songs, which reflect on love, hope, dreams, motherhood and finding purpose. The trio includes Austin Johnson and Bethany Robinson. The cost is a $5 minimum for in-person concert. To register for the free livestream, visit thecenterpresents.org.

David Wood and Gemma Rollison appear in “The Diary of Anne Frank.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty Photography)

Friends play cousins in comedy

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School seniors Kate Sullivan, Ella Asher and junior Juliet Malherbe play cousins in the play, “The Red Velvet Cake War.”

CHS

“We’ve been friends for a while, so that chemistry is already out there on stage,” said Asher, who plays Peaches. “We get to act like characters and do it. There is a very natural comedic and close chemistry between the three cousins.”

Sullivan plays Jimmie in “The Red Velvet Cake War,” which will be presented Feb. 2-4 at CHS There are 7 p.m. performances each night and a 2 p.m. matinee on Feb. 4.

“I really like this role because I’ve never played anyone quite like Jimmie because she’s very quirky,” Sullivan said. “I’m kind of just crazy and wild.”

Sullivan said comedy is her favorite genre for plays.

“It’s always fun getting up there and making people laugh,” she said.

Peaches is a mortuary cosmetologist.

“She hasn’t had a husband for seven

years,” Asher said. “There are a lot of layers to my character.”

Malherbe plays Gaynelle, a character Malherbe describes as delirious.

“She has just been accused of attempted murder of her ex-husband’s girlfriend,” Malherbe said. “She has an appointed psychologist trying to evaluate if she is safe to keep going as she is, or she will be forced to go to a funny farm, as she keeps calling it. While this is going on, she is trying to plan a family reunion with her cousin.”

For tickets, visit bit.ly/3HAhFua

Concerts for a Cause set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Concerts for a Cause co-founder Bruce Kidd has always had a musical mission for the fundraising series.

FUNDRAISER

“We always like to showcase a local artist as our opening act and a national recording artist as our headliner,” the Carmel resident said. “Ryan Brewer is one of my favorite local artists, a witty lyricist and great voice and a fun live performer. He is a classic storyteller.”

Brewer will open for the Fantastic Cat band Feb. 4 at the Concerts for a Cause event at the Indianapolis Art Center, 820 E. 67th St. Fantastic Cat is a band of four singer/songwriters from New York City. The nonprofit benefiting from the concert will be Cycles for the City, which provides new bikes to kids from low-income homes. Since starting in 2016, Concerts for a Cause has presented 24 concerts and has donated more than $500,000 to nonprofits.

“I heard about the Fantastic Cat band because one of the founders is Brian Dunne,

who played a solo concert for us in 2018,” Kidd said. “He is a gifted guitarist and songwriter, so I knew if he joined forces with three more talented songwriters from NYC to form this folk rock supergroup this would be a very cool band to have play for us. Ryan opened for us in 2020 for Shawn Mullins, and this is the first time Fantastic Cat has played here in Indy since they formed the band.”

The May 13 concert will feature Brian Vander Ark, former lead singer for the Verve Pipe, at the Indianapolis Art Center. It will benefit the Hollis Adams Foundation, which supports adults with developmental challenges.

The Aug. 19 event features Dan Rodriguez, singer-songwriter from Minneapolis. The event at the Landmark Center and will benefit The Heart & Soul Free Medical Clinic for uninsured or underinsured people.

The Nov. 4 concert features Will Hoge, a singer songwriter from Nashville, Tenn. It will benefit Brightlane Learning at a yet-tobe determined venue.

Tickets are $100 and include cocktail hour with the doors opening at 6 p,m. For more, visit indyconcertsforacause.org.

From left, Kate Sullivan, Ella Asher and Juliet Malherbe play three cousins in “The Red Velvet Cake War.” (Photo by Mark Ambrogi) Brewer

‘Night Must Fall’ comes to Basile Westfield Playhouse

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Adam Phillips is making his return to acting after a 13-year hiatus.

PLAY

The 33-year-old Carmel resident is coming back with a splash with the role of Danny, a charming killer, in Main Street Productions’ “Night Must Fall” Feb. 9-19 at Basile Westfield Playhouse.

“Night Must Fall,” a psychological thriller, was first performed as a play in 1935. It was made into a movie in 1937 with Robert Montgomery and again with Albert Finney in 1964.

“It’s a dream character when you look at the script,” Phillips said. “It’s an incredible role, so I was thankful to get cast. I read the script a few weeks before auditions and fell in love with the writing. I only auditioned for Danny. My wife and I are having a baby. Our due date is three days after the show ends. When I came to audition, I said, ‘I’m not going to show up for a role I’m not dying to be in.’ So. this was a perfect marriage.

“I’ve always been more attracted to (playing) villains. There’s a lot of fun in finding the dark spots of those characters.”

Phillips’ last production was “Biloxi Blues” at the now-defunct Spotlight Players in Beech Grove.

“My wife and I traveled the country for my work, and we just came back to Indy a few years ago,” said Phillips, a software developer and Perry Meridian High School graduate. “We got settled in and it seemed like the right time to get back into it.”

Phillips said the line memorization came along quicker than he expected.

“Being away from it a bit, you feel you are familiar with the territory, but it’s all changed a bit,” he said.

Noblesville resident Ian Hauer is directing for the first time with Main Street Productions. He has his own acting company, The Hyperion Players. Hauer said the script was recommended to him by one of the producers, Jen Otterman.

“I read it and was fascinated by it and applied the last time Westfield was taking applications for directors, and they went with me,” Hauer said. “It’s a strong script. It’s an Agatha Christie-type thriller. It’s a little bit faster paced than something Christie would do. It’s a wonderful building of tension from beginning to end. I’ve encouraged the cast

to really sell the tension to the audience.”

Hauer said casting Danny was the toughest decision.

“It creates a lot of talent and a lot of emotional range. You have to hit the notes right,” Hauer said. “Adam does a fantastic job with that. We’re lucky to have him.”

Indianapolis resident Rachel Kelso is making her third appearance with Main Street Productions.

“I had never read the script before the season was announced,” Kelso said. “I always look at the shows putting up and I’ll order some scripts to see if there is a role for me. I ordered the script and fell in love with the character of Olivia. I like that she sticks with her convictions because she has her suspicions, and no one agrees with her. They are all laughing it off, saying, ‘You’re crazy. You’re wrong. He’s charming.’ She is (saying), ‘No, there is a problem here.’ She stands by that, and I admire that quality.”

Kelso said she tries not to look at other portrayals, so not to influence her character choices.

“A lot of times I’ll watch movies, if I haven’t already seen them, after the show is concluded,” she said.

Like Kelso, Phillips said he has avoided watching other portrayals of his character.

“I saw a tiny snippet of Robert Montgomery’s version just to get an idea of the dialect,” he said.

For more, visit westfieldplayhosue.org.

From left, standing, Matt Hartzburg, Ashley Engstrom, Ian A. Montgomery, Adam Phillips. From left, on sofa: Lizzie Schultz and Rachel Kelso, in wheelchair, Julie Wallyn and kneeling, Cassie Knowling. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Harlem Quartet to join Carmel Symphony Orchestra for concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Felix Umansky, it will be nice to perform in his hometown of Carmel.

soloists, but it’s a collaborative masterpiece I think with the orchestra and string quartet soloists together.”

Umansky said the Harlem Quartet has performed the piece several times, but not for a few years.

MUSIC

“I’m definitely looking forward to seeing many familiar faces, friends and family,” he said. “I’ll be seeing friends that go back to high school or even middle school.”

The 2004 Carmel High School graduate is a cello player for the Harlem Quartet, which will join the Carmel Symphony Orchestra for a Masterworks concert at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The performance will be Umansky’s first at the Palladium.

The Harlem Quartet will join CSO for Leonard Bernstein’s “West Side Story.”

“It’s such a fun piece of music,” Umansky said. “This piece itself is fantastic. This arrangement by the late, great Randy Fleischer, he really made an amazing arrangement for a string quartet and orchestra. Unlike some concertos, the orchestra plays a really big role. So, it’s not just having the spotlight shine on the string quartet

CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes is pleased to finally have the Harlem Quartet perform the concert.

“They were scheduled over the past few years with the Carmel Symphony and the pandemic got in the way, but finally they will be here,” Hymes said.

The concert has a definite Valentine’s Day theme.

“Since this performance is scheduled just before the most romantic day of the year, we’re presenting a program filled with some of the world’s most romantic music,” Hymes said. “Each piece has a ‘love’ connection, and I will introduce many of them. Even music from the hit show ‘Bridgerton’ will be on the program.”

Hymes studied under Bernstein while learning the fine art of conducting an orchestra.

“It brings back wonderful memories of the maestro for me,” she said.

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

From left, Felix Umansky, cello; Melissa White, violin; Ilmar Gavilan, violin; and Jaime Amador, viola, form the Harlem Quartet, which joins the Carmel Symphony Orchestra for a Feb. 11 concert. (Photo courtesy of the Carmel Symphony Orchestra)

“Since this performance is scheduled just before the most romantic day of the year, we’re presenting a program filled with some of the world’s most romantic music”

— CSO ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JANNA HYMES

FOLLOWS THE PATH OF LEAST RESISTANCE.

YOU SHOULD FOLLOW THE PATH OF LEAST COMPLAINTS.

Editor, This is the time of year when Indiana’s part-time legislature is beginning in earnest. Each year there are laws introduced that do nothing to improve our lives and are meant only to divide us further and improve politicians’ standing with the extreme ends of their respective political parties. In a state like Indiana that has the 11th lowest life expectancy, some of the highest healthcare costs and is in the bottom third of states in quality of life, one might suspect there are better things the legislature might be spending their time on.

The bills being introduced led me to wonder if life expectancy and quality of life are better if you are living in a state where both chambers of the legislature and the governor’s office are controlled by the same party or in divided government.

Interesting enough, on average, quality of

Editor,

life (according to one that topped my online search) was noticeably higher for states with divided governments. However, with respect to life expectancy the states with divided government had almost the identical average life expectancies as those with state governments totally controlled by one party.

That said, there was over a two-year difference in life expectancy between those states totally controlled by Republicans and those states totally controlled by Democrats. While many might like to know if it is the people in the states totally controlled by Republican or Democrat that can expect to live two years longer, my advice is just to eat right, exercise and know Hoosiers would likely have a better quality of life if we had legislatures talking to each other and needing to compromise.

Matthew Hook, Carmel

When you have as many years repairing leaks and installing new roofs as we do at Bone Dry, it translates into having the fewest complaints. What we’ve learned in three decades can teach you a lot about who to call whenever your roof turns into some kind of medieval water torture.

On Jan. 22, Hamilton County kicked off a yearlong celebration for its bicentennial at the Palladium with a free program that showcased the history of Hamilton County through stories and music. Before becoming a settled area, Native Americans from the Lenape tribe were living here mostly along the White River area. White settlers like William Connor found this area filled with trees so dense you could hardly see the sky.

How fortunate we are to live in Hamilton County where we have access to so many social, cultural, theatrical, historical

and musical programs. Carmel’s Palladium, Tarkington Theater and The Studio Theater are filled with wonderful programs. I look forward to all the events planned this year throughout Hamilton County to help us celebrate 200 years of the towns that comprise our county.

Thank you to everyone working this year to showcase Hamilton County’s 200 year journey, including all of its trials and tribulations, successes and accolades, and the work of today to build an even better tomorrow.

Shelley Carey, Carmel

Debacle ‘terrible for democracy’

Editor,

It took several agonizing days and 15 votes to elect U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy to be the Republican House Speaker. Contrary to U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz’s comments about how this process was democratic and necessary, one could argue that the gamesmanship and control by a few individuals over many, to dictate rules, and secure important committee positions, all in secret from their Republican colleagues and public, were terrible for democracy.

It is not good for democracy when a

“leader,” McCarthy, acts without moral principle and allows a few to wield so much power and influence over who will oversee important legislative committees and who will dictate the legislative agenda. It is never good for a democracy when our representatives trample on, disregard or tailor rules to secure their personal advantage. It is never good for our democracy when deals are made behind closed doors, and the majority’s input into the process is dictated by a few.

Deborah Pickett, Carmel

The benefits of divided government

Fortunate to live in a vibrant county

VIEWS

Destination unknown

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

My wife is getting ready for our upcoming vacation. She has already packed and unpacked and packed again. She practices to make sure everything fits in her suitcase. I practice putting on my pants to be sure there will be room for the waistband to expand after I indulge in the all-you-can-eat buffets on the cruise.

HUMOR

I assume I’m going with Mary Ellen on this trip, but there isn’t a great deal of evidence to support this. My input hasn’t been requested, so I don’t want to jump to any conclusions that could lead to disappointment.

saw her this obsessed with a vacation was years ago when we went to Ireland. There were travel posters in every room, shamrocks pasted on the fridge and Irish music blasting from the portable CD player. Mary Ellen even started calling our beagle Blarney instead of Barney, which might have confused him, but he was getting so many corned beef leftovers, he let it slide.

I finally questioned her detailed planning. I was concerned that this much preparation might make the trip seem less spontaneous.

magazines.

My wife did exhaustive research, studied travel brochures, and did endless web searches to secure the best plane fares. She even made a few meal reservations for when we are off the ship. In fact, she already checked the menu at one restaurant, and she knows what she wants for dinner in three weeks. She made a great salad dressing choice.

Mary Ellen said this trip may be a bit pricey, but it’s the perfect way to celebrate the 50th. This confused me because I know it’s not her 50th birthday. We celebrated that four different times about 20 years ago. And I am almost positive it’s our 43rd anniversary coming up, so it’s obviously just a ploy to get me to agree to splurge on this trip. But just to be sure, I’m going to run the numbers again.

Our house is littered with books, charts, maps and travel magazines. The last time I

“Dick, when you enter a new country, it’s important to have a plan for what to do — a strategy.”

“Yes, I agree — if you are invading, but not if you are vacationing.”

The other day, I asked why she looked so preoccupied.

“Dick, I’m repacking in my head, thinking about how to position my shoes, where to stuff my bathing suit and how to layer in my blouses. I don’t like to leave anything to the last minute. When do you plan to pack?”

–

“The week before our 50th anniversary.”

After reading this, you might be curious to know where we’re going on this trip. I promise you that once Mary Ellen tells me, you’ll be the first to know.

POLICIES

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Our house is littered with books, charts, maps and travel

The last time I saw her this obsessed with a vacation was years ago when we went to Ireland. There were travel posters in every room, shamrocks pasted on the fridge and Irish music blasting from the portable CD player.

DICK WOLFSIE

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

Systems Engineer. Carmel, IN. Work on next-generation radio transceiver modules for vehicle access authentication control. Create and maintain Systems Engineering Management Plans (SEMP). Design schematics and/or antennae. Elicit and manage customer requirements. Analyze and compile requirements feedback from all competencies. Negotiate closure of all RAR items in a timely fashion. Create and maintain systems mechanization and requirements. Perform worst case analysis to ensure system requirement compliance. Conduct architectural design reviews. Lead feature/function implementation prioritization and timing with project managers. Develop systems bench and vehicle verification procedures. Lead the closure of verification incident reports. Requires Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or Electronics and Communications Engineering and two years of experience as an engineer developing automotive or aerospace systems, creating technical requirements based on parent system requirements, analyzing high-level system requirements and writing low-level requirements, preparing requirement verification and validation matrices, supporting system change management processes, preparing system verification and validation plans and procedures, supporting test preparation and execution, IBM DOORS, IBM Rational Change, and Synergy. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Kirsten Gawronski, Director, Human Resources, North America, 5820 Innovation Drive, Troy, MI 48098. Ref: 71352A.

Systems Engineer. Carmel, IN. Work with global radar product development team to design, develop, and validate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Collect and maintain customer-specific product requirements. Define and analyze customer software/systems requirements and technical specifications. Define product functionality and create technical documentation. Define system design for specific system functions/domains. Allocate system elements to build functional architecture. Identify, refine, and create use cases to identify system functions. Participate in program increment planning, system check-out tests, demonstrations, and retrospectives. Support product manufacturing needs in terms of programming and calibration. Represent Aptiv in client discussions, meetings, and investigations. Monitor technical and formal aspects of product development to secure quality standards. Requires Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or Control and Instrumentation Engineering and two years of industry experience with analyzing stakeholder requirements, defining software and systems requirements and technical specifications, gathering and maintaining customer-specific product requirements, defining product functionality and creating technical documentation, performing systems analyses, identifying and creating systems use cases, and defining system designs. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Kirsten Gawronski, Director, Human Resources, North America, 5820 Innovation Drive, Troy, MI 48098. Ref: 71370A.

Best buys are local

Commentary by Terry Anker

We have a bit of a confidence problem. Or maybe we are a tad overly modest about our successes. Whatever the genesis of the matter, we Hoosiers are too quick to dismiss our own advantages while fully embracing perceived, if not self-inflicted, shortcomings. Sure, it is tough to be the best at everything. And there is more than a fair amount of decent competition. But in most cases, Indiana is solidly in the mix. It could be the 50-mile rule — that notion that all things close to us must be discounted in preference for all things distant. Maybe it is simple human nature.

ESSAY

Carmel, Fishers, Zionsville and other municipalities find their way into the top10 national lists each year. Could they be better? Maybe. Yet it is not entirely honest to find less value there. Our institutions of higher education — IU, Purdue, Notre Dame — and others might lack the brand appeal of an East Coast address but are routinely generating remarkable advances in science, human thought and even the occasional

U.S. Supreme Court justice. What the landscape may lack in visual interest, to some, it makes up for in arable abundance to all. Hoosier farmers produce more by land mass than any other state (eighth in production, 38th in size). Balanced budgets provide security to public sector employees. And companies like local investment management firm Woodley Farra Manion, which was just named the top such firm in the U.S., continue to be iconoclastic. How can it be? With talent harvested from Hamilton, Boone and Marion counties, shouldn’t they be behind firms from further away?

Work hard. Improve every day. Stay humble and always be willing to learn, adapt and innovate. Geography doesn’t dictate intelligence, but it may dictate bias. Buy local and expect the best. It is here for the taking.

Happy birthday to me

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

able number of failed attempts. Take that, Balkans!

HUMOR

Friends, I’ve just celebrated another birthday, and even though it occurred in the middle of a work week while I was suffering from a nasty head cold, it was one of the best in years. What gives?

Because it didn’t begin well. I awoke around 2 a.m. to a coughing fit that had my husband, Doo, scrambling to check on me, and then dosed myself with NyQuil until being rudely awaken by an incessant alarm at 6. But I came downstairs to a candle-bearing scone, a latte from Starbucks and a handmade card from our youngest filled with inappropriate but hilarious words of encouragement.

Once at school, my day only got better. Despite being bullied by my teacher neighbor into a dumb hug, I was inundated by sweet colleagues and students stopping by to wish me HB. And during my prep period, I finally named all 197 countries in less than 15 minutes on Sporcle after an immeasur-

I ended my most special of Thursdays with gal-pals and McDonald’s cheeseburgers before hitting two school events, the opening races in a swim meet and then the first half of the annual talent show. I returned home with enough time to chat with Doo, read and respond to the gazillion text messages that had poured in, and be in bed by 9. Perfect. I turned 51 mid-work week while battling a stupid non-COVID virus. By most accounts, this should have been an obvious do-over. But people bent over backwards to celebrate me, making this birthday one of the best in a long time. Peace out.

By most accounts, this should have been an obvious doover. But people bent over backwards to celebrate me, making this birthday one of the best in a long time.

– DANIELLE WILSON

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.

Jenna L. Heavner Matthew D. Miller Ryan H. Cassman Alex Emerson

E. Davis Coots Jay Curts Jeffrey S. Zipes

Daniel E. Coots Brandi A. Gibson Jenna M. Bailey Ryan H. Cassman Alex Emerson

James K. Wheeler Jay Curts Jeffrey S. Zipes

Daniel E. Coots Brandi A. Gibson Jenna M. Bailey

Ryan H. Cassman Alex Emerson

E. Davis Coots James K. Wheeler Jay Curts James D. Crum Jeffrey S. Zipes Matthew L. Hinkle Daniel E. Coots Brandi A. Gibson Jenna M. Bailey

CARMEL CLAY PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENTS

Visiting Beth She’an National Park

Commentary by Don Knebel

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.

TRAVEL

In our continuing trip through Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we come to Beth She’an National Park, featuring ruins from thousands of years of successive occupiers of the site.

The park site, about 20 miles southeast of Nazareth, was first settled in about 7,000 B.C. As the site was repeatedly occupied and abandoned, accumulating debris created a large mound, or “tell,” archaeologists cutting through the tell determined that Canaanites established a city around 200 B.C. After Egyptians captured the area in about 1,500 B.C., they made the city an administrative center. The Egyptians lost control of the area to the Philistines, who used the city as their base. According to the Bible, Philistines defeated King Saul at nearby Mt. Gilboa and hung his headless body and those of his three sons on the wall of the city, then called “Beth She’an.” King David drove the Philistines from the area, adding Beth She’an to his United Monarchy. When the Assyrians conquered the divided Northern Kingdom in 732 B.C., they burned Beth She’an. The Greeks later took over the area and created a city named Scythopolis atop the ruins. The Romans conquered the area in 63 B.C. and expanded Scythopolis beyond the tell, adding a colonnaded main street, or cardo, a hippodrome and a 7,000-seat theater. Scythopolis became the leading city of the Decapolis, a loose confederation of 10 Greco-Roman cities Jesus visited. By the fourth century, Scythopolis was a Christian city, captured by the Muslims in 634. A massive earthquake destroyed the city in 749.

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

Visitors to

Park can explore one of the largest Roman theaters in the Middle East. They can also climb to the top of the tell, where a replica of an Egyptian stele (monument) chronicles the successful efforts of Egyptian Pharaoh Seti I to recapture the area from rebellious Canaanites.

Beth She’an National

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

Replica of the Seti I stele at Beth She’an National Park in Israel. (Photo by Don Knebel)

Beth She’an National Park, about 20 miles southeat of Nazareth.

Ruins of Scythopolis in Israel.

Like Victorian-era London, baby got back slang

Commentary by

Curtis Honeycutt

As I approach the magical age of 40, I’m supposedly getting to the peak of my life (and then it’s all downhill from there). What I didn’t realize is what a rude awakening this would be for my newly aching body. My kids all still want to be held from time to time, which is killing my back. Now, before you recommend your favorite chiropractor, allow me to make a segue as weak as my back.

GRAMMAR GUY

Today, I want to introduce you to the idea of “back slang.” Feel free to groan all you want, but I had to whet your appetite for a healthy dose of word nerdery.

For those of you who love wordplay, back slang is a way to play with language in which you speak or spell a word backward. Easy as “eip,” right?

Originally conceived in Victorian-era London, back slang began as a clandestine way for costermongerers (street merchants who sold produce) to talk to each other about things they wanted to keep secret. I know

Notice of Self Storage Sale

Please take notice Prime Storage - Fishers Ford Dr. located at 12650 Ford Dr., Fishers, IN 46038 intends to hold a sale to sell the property stored at the Facility by the below list of Occupants whom are in default at a Auction. The sale will occur or otherwise disposed as an online auction via www. storagetreasures.com on 2/15/2023 at 12:00pm.

Lisa Hillebrand unit #728; Rachael Dosunmu unit #735; Valerie Hogdal unit #948. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details.

this sounds weird, but I’m guessing the sellers wanted to communicate freely to each other about things like problem customers, prices for cabbage and private theories about the identity of Jack the Ripper.

Imagine a loud, crowded street market where you needed to share trade secrets with your fellow carrot-seller across the way. If you shouted something about “storrac,” you’d be talking about “carrots.” As this secret way of communicating evolved, the sellers developed a fast way of talking that made no sense to their clientele. For instance, if you could get away with swindling an old man, you could tell your friend to “less eht delo nam mus deliops jabbac,” which translates to, “Sell the old man some spoiled cabbage.”

You’ll notice the spelling in the back slang example above isn’t truly backward. That’s because back slang attempts to spell words

Notice of Self Storage Sale

Please take notice Prime Storage - Fishers Britton Park Rd. located at 13323 Britton Park Rd., Fishers, IN 46038 intends to hold a sale to sell the property stored at the Facility by the below list of Occupant who is in default at an Auction. The sale will occur or otherwise disposed as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 2/15/2023 at 12:00pm. Destini Newman Scott unit #C12. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL PLAN COMMISSION

as phonetically as possible once the words are reversed. It seems difficult to understand at first glance, but the costermongerers were experts.

My favorite contemporary example of back slang comes from the world of combat robotics. Yes, Grammar Guy is part of a BattleBots team, and you can see me on TV competing with the 250-pound robot called Bloodsport. But, as it relates to back slang, you’ve got to go down to the 12-pound weight class.

At a smaller robotics tournament called NHRL (Norwalk Havoc Robot Combat), builder

Kris Rummel competes with a robot called Yob Gnol, pronounced “yob guh-nol.” Yob Gnol placed second in the NHRL 12-pound finals in December, and I can’t get enough of it.

You can have “snut fo nuf” with back slang, and now your assignment is to introduce it to a friend through a text conversation this week. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to apply some Icy Hot to my lower back.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

City of Carmel, Indiana

Department Board of Public Works and Safety One Civic Square City of Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: Road Improvements College Ave (96th To 106th Street) (Project # 20-ENG-04)

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Public Works and Safety for the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana will receive sealed bids for the above described “Project” at the office of the Clerk, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana (City Hall) until 10:00 a.m. EST on February 15, 2023 and, commencing as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date, such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers of City Hall. No late bids will be accepted.

All bids and proposals shall be properly and completely executed on the proposal forms provided with the plans and specifications, which will include the non-collusion affidavit as required by the State of Indiana. The bid envelope must be sealed and have the words “BID – Road improvements College Ave (96th To 106th Street) (Project #20-ENG-04)”.

A bid bond or certified check in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount bid must be submitted with each bid. A one hundred percent (100%) performance and payment bond will also be required of the successful bidder. It is intended that actual construction of all work divisions shall be started as soon as practicable, and each bidder shall be prepared to enter promptly into a construction contract, furnish a performance bond, and begin work without delay in the event the award is made to him.

The Project consists of, but is not necessarily limited to, the following:

Roadway improvements on College Avenue from 96th Street to 106th Steet will include new full-depth pavement, curb and gutter, enclosed storm water network, lighting, and shared-use paths with new curb ramps and raised crosswalks. The intersections of College Avenue and Pennsylvania Parkway and of College Avenue and Parkwood Crossing will be realigned and replaced with a roundabout.

Contract Documents for the Project have been assembled into one bound project manual, which together with drawings, may be examined at the following locations:

Docket No. PZ-2022-00247

DP/ADLS and PZ-2022-00248 V:UDO: Security Federal Savings Bank

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Plan Commission meeting on February 21, 2023 at 6:00 P.M. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Square, 2nd Flr, Carmel, Indiana 46032 will hold a Public Hearing upon a DP/ADLS Application and BZA Development Standards Variance Application in order to:

Review requested site plan and design approval for a new three-story bank branch building with office space on 1.47 acres. The site is located at 10880 N. Michigan Road, which is near the SW corner of Weston Pointe Blvd. and Michigan Rd./US 421. It is zoned B-3/Business and is located in the US 421 Overlay District. The applicant seeks a development standards variance for building height. UDO § 3.88(C) provides a maximum building height of 30’; the proposed project has an average height of 47’5”.

The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2022-00247 DP/ADLS and Docket No. PZ-2022-00248 V:UDO.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows:

Part of the Southwest quarter of Section 6, Township 17 North, Range 3 East in Clay Township, Hamilton County, Indiana.

Tax Parcel ID No. 17-13-06-00-00-031.000 / 29-13-06-000-031.000-018

Commonly known as 10880 N. Michigan Road, Hamilton County, Indiana

The file for this proposal may be viewed Monday through Friday between 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. in the office of the Dept. of Community Services, 1 Civic Square, 3rd Floor, Carmel, IN 46032. The materials may also be examined on the City’s website, at the Public Documents page via 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.

Petitioner:

Security Federal Savings Bank

314 4th Street

Logansport, IN 46947

Attn: Jon-Myckle D. Price, COO

City of Carmel

Department of Engineering - 1st Floor

One Civic Square Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 571-2441

Copies of such drawings and project manuals must be obtained from Reprographix (Reprographix.com). Payments and costs of Contract Documents are non-refundable.

Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets of drawings and Contract Documents and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets of drawings and Contract Documents.

This Project will be funded by the City of Carmel.

A pre-bid conference for discussions of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on February 1, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. EST in the Caucus Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall (One Civic Square). All prospective bidders are invited to attend the pre-bid conference. The pre-bid conference is not mandatory.

For special accommodations needed by handicapped individuals planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please call or notify the city of Carmel, Engineer ’s Office, at (317) 571-2441 at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.

No bidder may withdraw any bid or proposal within a period of thirty (30) days following the date set for receiving bids or proposals. The Carmel Board of Public Works and Safety reserves the right to hold any or all bids or proposals for a period of not more than thirty (30) days and said bids or proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said period. The City of Carmel reserves the right to reject and/or cancel any and all bids, solicitations and/or offers in whole or in part as specified in the solicitations when it is not in the best interests of the governmental body as determined by the purchasing agency in accordance with IC 5-22-18-2

Sue Wolfgang Clerk

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

My favorite contemporary example of back slang comes from the world of combat robotics.

– CURTIS HONEYCUTT

37. Some Indy Zoo primates

38. Dupe (and not a feline’s foot, as you might expect)

42. Minn. neighbor

43. Village Spa heated massage item

44. Public square 47. “I’m happy” in Siamese?

48. Table scraps

49. St. Elmo menu item

52. DIY buy

53. Descartes’ conclusion

54. White River slender swimmer

55. Sauvignon ___

57. Utah national park

59. Cut into cubes

61. Superbly pitched game at Victory Field 64. Latin 101 verb 65. Overly fussy

66. Pleasing scent

67. Part of AARP (Abbr.)

68. Letters before Q 69. Taste quality

1. Playground game

2. Mine find

3. St. Elmo menu item

4. Slightly, to an ISO player

5. Eagle’s

dive

6. Food providers

7. Spanish gold

8. The Father of Genetics

9. Native Bread worker

10. School grp.

11. Like a literary Dodger

12. Tragic end

13. Two trios

. Rat, for one 23. Wood Wind Golf Club garb, often

. ___ salad

. Hawaiian dance

. IU prof’s aides

. Needs to repay

Cartoon Characters

Tom Wood Fords

Indy Mayors

Reasons to call

Desserts

Indy Hockey Team

ROLL OFF DUMPSTER SERVICE CALL 317-491-3491 FOR INFO/DETAIL

ARMESON LECTRIC LLC

(317)414-9146

Property Clean Outs

FULLY INSURED

Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com

www.jayspersonalservices.com

LAWN CARE & LANSCAPING

Locally owned/operated over 42 years

FALL CLEAN UP AND LEAF REMOVAL FREE ESTIMATES CALL 317-491-3491

NOW HIRING: PAINTERS

We are in need of painters with or without experience Please Call (317) 397-9389 for info

Hiring-Customer Service Specialist

Royal

Position involves two main responsibilities: data entry and providing exceptional customer service through phone and email interaction. Other responsibilities may include general office tasks and possible help in other departments. Full time position, Monday through Friday. Great work environment w/ excellent pay including quarterly bonus potential. Three years data entry and/or customer service experience required. Starting pay $17 to $20/hr. Send resume to info@royaldentallabs.com

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

Characters: BETTY BOOP, GOOFY, POPEYE, PORKY PIG, TWEETY, YOGI BEAR; Desserts: CAKE, CUSTARD, ICE CREAM, PIE, PUDDING; Fords: BRONCO, EDGE, EXPLORER, MUSTANG; Mayors: BALLARD, HOGSETT, LUGAR; Reasons: FIRE, INJURY; Team: FUEL