May 2, 2023 — Carmel

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Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, I3 Vol. XVIII, No. 23

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Carmel plan commissioners frustrated by variance requests for project well underway

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

When the Carmel Plan Commission met April 18, the only action item on its agenda included several variances and other matters concerning 1st on Main, a mixed-use development at one of the city’s most prominent intersections.

CITY NEWS

Commissioners approved six of the seven requests on first reading, but only after several said they felt they had little choice. The $40 million redevelopment project, which includes a four-story office building, 35 apartments and a public parking garage, has been under construction since mid-2022, with a well-established footprint making variance requests for increased lot coverage and reduced open space an apparent formality.

“The process that has brought us to this unfortunate set of seven questions has been followed as designed,” Plan Commission President Brad Grabow said. “Like the results or not, the project design has been approved, and the petitioner is complying with that. Some variances and waivers now are coming before us to essentially permit what is that horse that’s out of the barn. So, what I perceive is our frustration with the process is very valid, but not necessarily something that the petitioner has to bear at this point, because they followed the process that the city gave to them.”

Many commercial projects come before the plan commission for development plan (DP) and architectural design, lighting and sign (ADLS) approval, but because 1st on Main, a collaboration between Lauth Group and the Carmel Redevelopment Commission, is zoned C2, those approvals are handled by a single hearing officer.

Mike Hollibaugh, the director of Carmel’s Dept. of Community Services, served as the hearing officer and gave DP/ADLS approval for 1st on Main at a public hearing held April 14, 2022. According to meeting minutes, the approval was contingent on the petitioner providing city planners an updated site plan, receiving final approvals from the city’s engineering department and receiving approval on the lighting, bike and signage plan.

“The DP/ADLS was approved at (the) hearing with a condition that outstanding issues would be resolved satisfactorily,” Hollibaugh said April 26. “The DOCS staff and

I believed the variances were reasonable and would be approved.”

Construction on the project began in late 2021, more than a year before developers submitted the variances and waivers that came before the plan commission in mid-April.

Hollibaugh said every development project in Carmel is unique and that it’s “not typical for construction to be far along” when variances are approved, such as in this case.

“We’re not stamping out widgets, but shaping a unique, special project with beautiful architecture and places for people,” Hollibaugh said. “A lot of thought and care goes into that effort by a number of people. Sometimes there are site issues, unique aspects of the project that don’t jive exactly with a (unified development ordinance) that was written largely for suburban-style projects. It is not uncommon for development projects of all types to also require variance approvals, but normally they are heard by the Board of Zoning Appeals.”

At the April meeting, Commissioners Adam Aasen, who is also a member of the Carmel City Council, and Christine Zoccola requested the items be sent to the commission’s commercial committee for further review and to discuss the project’s approval process. After much discussion, the commission sent only one item — a variance to not include street trees with the project — to be heard by the committee.

Commissioner Leo Dierckman said send-

ing most of the items to committee would be “highly inefficient” in a project already so far along.

“This cart is out of the barn, a long way down the road. I don’t disagree this is the most ridiculous process I’ve ever seen in 25 years of being on this dais in some form or another,” Dierckman said. “It’s a huge issue that we’ll never understand in one (committee) meeting, because there were a lot of assumptions that were made about this project.”

Hollibaugh said he intends to work alongside his planning staff to better communicate with plan commission members, especially regarding C2 projects.

“I was sorry that some commission members felt it was a negative situation; that’s on me,” he said. “I thought there was a better understanding of how our C-District redevelopment process works.”

Kevin Buchheit, a land use planner with Krieg DeVault, spoke on behalf of the petitioner at the plan commission meeting. He said 1st on Main is designed to “create place” using memorable dynamics.

“This is a recreation of an intense urban downtown area where it had not existed before,” Buchheit said. “I think the results of what has happened along the corridor over time are inarguably wonderful for the community overall.”

The commercial committee is set to meet at 6 p.m. May 4 at Carmel City Hall to discuss 1st on Main and other development projects.

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.

1st on Main is a mixed-use development under construction on the northeast corner of Range Line Road and Main Street. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Chinese garden details unveiled

By Ann Marie Shambaugh • AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Clay Schools board of trustees met April 24 at Clay Middle School to review plans for a proposed Chinese garden on school property, discuss a donation to the Carmel Clay Historical Society and recognize employees with 20-plus years of service to the district.

What happened: A group of Purdue University landscape architecture students and their professor presented a proposed design for a Chinese garden planned on CCS land between the Carmel Clay Public Library and Carmel Elementary.

What it means: The students, who are working in conjunction with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, created the design after collecting community feedback through surveys and meetings. Proposed design elements include a covered pavilion, a water feature, walls with murals, flowering plants and more.

What’s next: The school board will vote on the design for the project at a future meeting.

What happened: The board briefly discussed a plan to donate original artwork collected by CCS decades ago to the Carmel Clay Historical Society.

What it means: The collection, which primarily features Indiana artists, has mostly been in storage since the 1980s. It contains 54 pieces and was largely purchased with grant funds for approximately $9,200. CCHS intends to share the collection in museum exhibits and community presentations. If CCHS were to sell any or all of the collection, CCS would receive the proceeds.

What’s next: The school board will vote on the plan at a future meeting.

What happened: The board recognized CCS employees celebrating 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of service.

What it means: Daniel Bates, a teacher at Carmel High School, was the only employee to reach 45 years of service this year. Employees with 40 years of service are Annette Liechty (CHS) and Michael Wyatt (maintenance); 35 years are Mikel Esher (transportation) and Kay Sharp (Clay Center); and reaching 30 years are Brian Getz (Forest Dale), Jennifer Gossett (College Wood), Jeanette Higgins (Mohawk Trails), Andrew Himelick (Towne Meadow), Michael Holloway (maintenance), Margaret Lehman (CHS), Kristine Myers (Clay), Michael Pote (CHS), Jay Vahle (Woodbrook), Leslie Ward (Clay) and Greg Wilson (Creekside).

DISPATCHES

School. Learn more at Silverpen-SLC.com.

start

Seigel Norris Kalra

Silver Pen essay winners — The Stratford has selected the winners of the 10th annual Silver Pen Award essay contest, a competition aimed at bridging the communication gap between high school seniors and senior citizens. The first place winner is Jordan Seigel of Carmel High School; second place is Jacob Norris of Noblesville High School; and third place is Archit Kalra of Carmel High

Valor won’t pursue Marion County site — Valor Classical Academy is no longer considering a site at 3600 Woodview Trace in Marion County as a possible location to open a charter school this fall. Valor, which is authorized by Grace Schools Charter Authority, is continuing its search in Hamilton County.

Governor’s STEM team — Katherine Yu, a student at Carmel High School, has been named to the 2023 Governor’s STEM team. The award recognizes outstanding high school students accomplishments in science, technology, engineering, or math.

(Rendering courtesy of CCS)

Grand jury: Stabbing of Carmel woman a hate crime

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

An Evansville grand jury has indicted a Bloomington woman with committing a hate crime when she allegedly stabbed an 18-year-old Carmel woman of Chinese descent in the head multiple times on Jan. 11.

COURTS

The indictment alleges that Billie Davis, 56, willfully caused bodily injury to the victim, who was exiting a Bloomington bus when the attack occurred, because of the victim’s race or national origin. It also alleges that Davis attempted to kill the victim.

According to a probable cause affidavit, Davis told police she targeted her victim because she was Asian and that “it would be one less person to blow up our country.” Bloomington police said camera footage from the bus showed that Davis and the victim did not interact before the stabbing.

CPD WELCOMES NEW OFFICERS

The Carmel Police Dept. welcomed three new officers during a swearing in ceremony held April 17. Officer Caleb Law comes to CPD from the Indianapolis Metro Police Dept., where he worked for four years. Officer Jason “Ryan” Hitchcock also comes to CPD from IMPD, where he worked for six years. Officer Austin Ritenour comes to CPD from the Elwood Police Dept., where he worked for four years. Above, From left, Carmel City Council President Jeff Worrell swears in Law, Hitchcock and Ritenour. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

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Davis

$8.7M awarded for roundabout at Hazel Dell Parkway, 146th St.

news@currentincarmel.com

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Committee has awarded $8.7 million to Hamilton County to transform the 146th and Hazel Dell Parkway intersection into a roundabout interchange. Construction could start as early as 2026.

COUNTY

“This is one of the highest crash locations in the county,” Hamilton County Highway Director Brad Davis stated. “There were 94 reported crashes at this intersection from 2015 to 2019 — most of them rear-end accidents. We hope that turning the intersection into a roundabout will slow traffic and help alleviate some of the danger.”

Project engineers believe the grade separated roundabout interchange will improve safety by eliminating angle crashes and reducing crash severity. The pedestrian cross-

CARMEL

Project: Roundabout construction

Location: Full closure at 106th Street and College Avenue

Expected completion:

Early May

A possible configuration for the roundabout at 146th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway. (Rendering courtesy of Hamilton County)

ings will only occur through Hazel Dell Parkway and the ramps to 146th Street, which have lower speeds than 146th Street. The Indianapolis MPO is comprised of the cities, counties and towns in central Indiana. The MPO award was based on a competitive process that identified the significant improvements to congestion along with safety improvements for pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists as the justification for the award.

Location: Gray Road from 106th to 116th streets. The project is not expected to result in a full closure of the road.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Project: Transmission line burial

Location: A half-block stretch of Veteran’s Way, south of Main Street. The road closure is expected to be limited to daytime hours and some weekends. Access to the public parking lot south of the Main Street shops will remain open.

Expected completion: Mid-May

Project: Roundabout construction

Location: The westbound lanes of City Center Drive will be closed between Range Line Road and 3rd Avenue SW for construction of the northern half of the roundabout. Eastbound traffic will be maintained.

Expected completion: Mid-May, with work on additional phases beginning at that time

Project: Widening and improvements, including a roundabout, along Smoky Row Road

Location: Between the Monon Greenway and U.S. 31. The road will be fully closed during the project.

Expected completion: June

Project: Multi-use path construction

Expected completion: June

Project: Roundabout construction

Location: E. Main Street and Lexington Boulevard. Beginning on or after May 29, the intersection will close for completion of the project.

Expected completion: July 4

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Project: Ind. 37 Improvement Project

Location: Ind. 37 and 141st Street. A preconstruction phase is currently in place. During this phase, 141st Street will have a temporary right-in-right-out traffic configuration.

Expected completion: The full timeline for the 141st Street interchange will be provided this summer.

Project: Clear Path Improvement Project (I-465 and I-69 interchange)

Location: New ramps will provide direct movements from eastbound I-465 and northbound I-465 to northbound I-69. Binford Blvd. will also be reconstructed to separate local traffic from traffic entering and exiting I-69 and I-465. Access to I-69 from Binford Blvd. will remain open. Expected completion: Project lasts through 2024.

Carmel cyclist aiming for largest GPS drawing by bike

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Dave Schweikert enjoys a good cycling challenge.

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FUNDRAISER

The Carmel resident has taken on a new quest to raise money for World Bicycle Relief’s annual Pedal to Empower event and Filter of Hope. World Bicycle Relief provides bicycle distribution to those in need in underprivileged nations.

Schweikert, 55, plans to set a Guinness World Record for the largest GPS drawing by bike. The drawing has deep meaning as he plans to draw the world’s largest Latin cross with his route. He originally planned to start the ride May 27 but moved it up to May 4 because of work-related reasons.

“As a Christian, the cross has deep personal meaning for me,” he said. “To anyone who is not a Christian, my hope is that this ride embodies the very meaning of the cross: Love above all, sacrifice, service to others and hope.”

Schweikert, an engineer for Zipp, said the cross required dozens of hours drawing and redrawing maps all across the U.S. to find enough straight roads to make it possible. He said mountains and bodies of water tend to get in the way. He first started working on the route about 18 months ago.

Schweikert will drive to Galesburg, Ill., and then pick up an Amtrak train to Lincoln, Neb.

“I did a reconnaissance trip last fall and found a lot of gravel and sandy roads with rolling hills,” he said. “There is the chance that I could face a headwind for 200 miles at a time due to the straight lines. That will be something I’ve never encountered before, which is part of the challenge. Plus, this is sparsely populated terrain, so I may be forced to ride longer each day than I want just to reach shelter and to go off course to get food and water. Finally, it is almost inevitable on a ride this long that there will be road construction, such as a bridge out, so I’ll have to get creative on the spot to pause my GPS, find a route around to the other side and restart the GPS.”

The route is about 950 miles and should take seven or eight days, following a route through South Dakota, Nebraska and Minnesota. It would break the existing GPS drawing record by nearly 300 miles.

“I’ve ridden 1,000 miles in seven days

twice before, but always on mostly paved roads,” he said. “So, while this won’t be the farthest I’ve ever ridden in this time period, it could turn out to be the hardest.”

Schweikert said he would be thrilled to raise $10,000 but hopes to raise more.

“Since my ride across the USA in 2017, I’ve raised over $35,000 for WBR, and my lifetime goal is 1,000 bikes ($165,000),” he said. “It would be fantastic to reach $50,000 total with this ride.”

Schweikert set a Guinness World Record by riding his bike around Carmel’s first roundabout (Main Street and River Road) for 24 hours in 2019. He completed 376 miles with more than 3,000 laps.

For more on this ride, visit whyiride.org/ world-record-attempt. Follow Schweikert’s attempt at maps.findmespot.com/s/LN9S.

Dave Schweikert, above, seeks to set a record for riding 950 miles in the shape of a Latin cross, below. (Photos courtesy of Dave Schweikert)

Westfield’s No. 1 golfer’s sharper mental skills provide boost

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

Westfield High School senior golfer Alec Cesare views his mental game as his biggest improvement.

“I don’t get down on myself when I hit bad shots and make big mistakes,” Cesare said. “I know if I have a bad hole, I can make it up.”

The right-handed Cesare plays in the No. 1 spot for the top-ranked Shamrocks. His brother, Jake, a sophomore, plays the No. 2 spot. “Alec has made a huge commitment to his physical strength the past couple of years, which is allowing him to hit the ball higher and farther than ever before,” Shamrocks coach Josh Bryant said. “Alec has also improved his course management through pre-round preparations on his own and in-round adjustments that allow him to score well even when he doesn’t have his best stuff.”

Cesare has lofty goals for himself and his team.

MEET ALEC CESARE

Favorite subject: Accounting

Favorite athlete: Cameron Smith

Favorite movie: “Happy Gilmore”

Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii

“My goal is to win state finals individually and as a team,” Cesare said.

Cesare, who has signed to compete for Ball State University, is one of the state’s top-ranked players.

“Alec has focused on continuous improvement during his time at Westfield,” Bryant said. “He arrived already having a decorated junior golf prep career, including a trip to the Drive, Chip and Putt national

finals in Augusta (Ga.) in 2019. He continues to push himself every day individually to maximize the most out of his ability, which, along with our senior class, pushes the rest of our program to new heights.”

Last year, the Shamrocks won conference, sectional and regional championships and placed second in the IHSAA state finals, losing to Guerin Catholic by one stroke. Cesare finished tied for 15th among individuals. He finished tied for 12th in the state finals as a sophomore.

“It was honestly disappointing last year to see the way it ended,” Cesare said. “We played great and we let it slip away on the backside. We’re still frustrated and upset about that. We’ve worked and practiced even harder to win it (this year).”

In the summer of 2022, Cesare finished tied for 11th in the Indiana Amateur. He has won 35 junior golf tournaments through the years.

Cesare, who picked up golf at an early age, played on the freshman basketball team for the Shamrocks before deciding to concentrate on golf. He committed to Ball State in July and plans to major in finance or sports management,

“I really liked the head coach (Mike Fleck) and the way he coaches,” he said. “The golfers are all good guys. I’ve grown up playing against them. It was a no-brainer decision.”

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Alec Cesare is the No. 1 golfer for the topranked Westfield High School boys golf team. (Photo courtesy of Alec Cesare)

Cesare

Flower Market

Guild marks 150 years helping area elderly residents

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

Make Mathnasium part of your summer plans.

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NONPROFIT

Since 1873, the Little Sisters of the Poor have worked to provide a home for elderly residents in need in central Indiana. The charity, which relies on volunteers from Hamilton, Boone and Marion counties, will celebrate 150 years of serving the community this spring.

The Little Sisters of the Poor is an organization of Roman Catholic nuns that was founded in 1839 by St. Jeanne Jugan. It operates the St. Augustine Home Guild in Indianapolis, which was established in 1873. Its first home was at 500 E. Vermont St. For more than 50 years, its home has been at 2345 W. 86th St. in Indianapolis. The guild provides shelter and services for elderly in need.

Internationally, the Little Sisters of the Poor serves more than 9,900 elderly poor in 31 countries and 164 homes. Sister Marie Cecilia of Little Sisters of the Poor in Indianapolis said worldwide the organization has nearly 1,300 sisters and Association Jeanne Jugan members.

“It is such a joy to have the guild members with us,” Sister Marie Cecilia said. “We always have people to turn to who are part of our big family. It is really a blessing. We cannot do this mission without the support of our volunteers and benefactors.”

Most of the home’s residents are in their

elderly, but they don’t come here to die. People think this is a nursing home for the elderly and they come here to die. What we are doing is striving to make their last days full,” Sister Marie Cecilia said.

Inez Hayes, who has been a resident for five years, said her experience at the home has been familial.

“They’re very, very warm, friendly people. They love to give parties and they love to dance,” Hayes said. “They’re just a totally different experience and it’s perfect for this age.”

Learn more at littlesistersofthepoorindianapolis.org/st-augustine-home-guild.

HATS OFF TO SPRING

The St. Augustine Home Guild of Indianapolis will celebrate Little Sisters of the Poor’s 150 years of providing a home for elderly residents in need with the Hats Off to Spring luncheon and fashion show, set to begin at 10:30 a.m. May 3 at Ritz Charles in Carmel.

Each year, the event serves as a fundraiser for the guild. This year, organizers want to raise at least $150,000. The cost to operate the home each month is $250,000, according to the SAHG

Linda Bear, a SAHG member, said the organization heavily relies on donations to keep the home running.

The event will open with a champagne social and raffles. In the afternoon there will be a fashion show presented by Secret Ingredient. The Hats Off to Spring event is at capacity. To make a donation visit, staugustinehomeguild.org/donate.

“The residents here at St. Augustine are

From left, Linda Bear, former president of St. Augustine Home Guild, Sister Marie Cecilia and Mary Patout, 2023 St. Augustine Home Guild president. (Photo courtesy of Colleen Yeadon)

CHS set for ‘Hunchback’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School senior Ava Roan was quite familiar with “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”

MUSICAL

“This was one of my favorite movies growing up,” Roan said of the Disney animated movie. “I love the soundtrack, too, so it’s exciting we are doing it.”

Roan plays Esmeralda in Carmel High School’s production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” set for 7 p.m. May 11-12 and 2 and 7 p.m. May 13 at the high school auditorium.

Roan said the challenge is “being open to interpreting for myself, because there are so many versions with the musical, the book and trying to make it the same but be original with it.”

Senior Ethan Sanchez plays Frollo, the villain.

“It’s one of my first acting experiences, so I’m really excited,” Sanchez said. “I’ve been in the school musicals, but not as big a role as I have right now.”

Sanchez said he was eager to play Frollo

because his songs are in a low bass range like Sanchez’s voice.

Noah Plake plays Phoebus and Ethan Brown is cast as Clopin. Both are seniors.

“I like that his whole purpose is to help the Romani people who are being oppressed in France,” Brown said. “His whole goal is to create a safe haven for them. It’s fun to channel eccentric and flamboyant energy.”

Senior Micah Phillips portrays Quasimodo, the hunchback. He said this was a dream role, so it’s great it came true.

For more, visit carmeldrama.org.

John Abrams, MD

Leslie Abrams Tobe, MD Michael Hopen, MD

Deborah Mann, OD

Rolando Mendoza, OD

From left, Carmel High School seniors Noah Plake, Ethan Brown, Ava Roan, Ethan Sanchez and Micah Phillips have leading roles in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.” (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

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COMMUNITY

CCPR receives ACA accreditation

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

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ACHIEVEMENT

Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation has received many awards through the years for its impact on the environment and the community. Most recently, its Summer Camp Series received nationally accredited camp status from the American Camp Association.

To celebrate, CCPR held a banner unveiling April 18 at the Monon Community Center. The CCPR team, park board members and city councilors attended the event.

Summer Camp Director Jennifer Brown said the SCS has 13 camps ranging from day camps to specialty camps. Annually, the camp serves 6,000 children. This year, camps will run from May 30 to July 29.

Brown lauded staff members for making the accreditation possible.

“This day belongs to our staff,” Brown said. “They work tirelessly with our campers on a daily basis.”

CCPR Director Michael Klitzing opened the ceremony with remarks about the community’s appreciation for the camps. He said the accreditation reflects CCPR’s incredible staff and the positive experiences they give to campers and parents.

“Earning accreditation from the ACA is no easy feat, nor should it be,” Klitzing said.

The ACA is the only independent accrediting organization in the nation. Its standards emphasize program quality and health and safety aspects of a camp’s operations. By working with experts from youth-serving agencies like the American Red Cross, it ensures camps reflect the most up-todate research-based standards in camp operations.

Klitzing said CCPR is the only department in Carmel that has two national accreditations. In 2014, it was accredited as a national agency by the Commission for the Accreditation of Park and Recreations Agencies.

Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard said he was proud of CCPR’s staff for their impact on children in the community.

“Everybody remembers some of the neat (firsthand) experiences we had as young children,” Brainard said. “You’re helping these kids make those memories as well.”

Brown

COMMUNITY

CURRENT Q&A Getting to know Gail Robbins

Gail Robbins is a Zionsville resident and is a past president of the Zionsville Lions Club.

Where do you volunteer?

The Zionsville Lions Club.

Do you have any hobbies?

I have several, but long walks are my favorite thing to do.

How long have you lived in Zionsville?

We moved away for a little while and came back in 2002, so about 21 years this time.

Which Lions Club program is the most meaningful to you?

Amongst so many life-changing programs, the eye screening is by far the most meaningful to me. We screen close to 16,000 students each year.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Zionsville?

I’m pretty classy, I love Friendly’s and Greek’s Pizza.

Where is the best place to visit in Zionsville?

Beautiful Lions Park!

What would you suggest for anyone wanting to join the Lions Club?

I would suggest that they understand our motto, which is we serve, first and foremost.

Anything you would like to add?

After doing a lot of traveling throughout my life, I can honestly say Zionsville is a dream town to live in.

DISPATCH

Recycling Made Easy — Carmel Green Initiative will present “Recycling Made Easy” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. May 4 at the Carmel Clay Public Library, 425 E. Main St. Craig Lutz, Republic Services manager of municipal sales, and Leslie Taljaard, director of Hamilton County’s Household Hazardous Waste Center, will speak about local recycling efforts. The event is free and open to the public. Learn more at CarmelGreen.org.

MAY 13, 4 – 8 P.M.

SECOND SATURDAY GALLERY WALK

New exhibits and features in district galleries

EXPERIENCE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Live music throughout the district featuring:

Joseph Filipow: Anthony’s Plaza (201 W. Main St.)

Mina Keohane: Indiana Artisan (22 N. Range Line Rd.)

Adam Shuntich: Chocolate Café (43 W. Main St.)

BINGO!

Pick up a BINGO card at the CCA Gallery for your chance to win a $250 gift basket.

Remember to get your BINGO cards stamped before turning them in at 7:30 p.m. See Bingo card for rules

CARMEL ARTS & DESIGN DISTRICT

FREE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:

April Dual Shows: “Flowers For All By All!” & “Sara Bernstein’s Reimagined Collection”

Art on Main Gallery and Gifts (111 W. Main St.)

Make and take Tamari balls CCA Gallery (111 W. Main St. Suite 135)

Create Mother’s Day Jewelry Circle Real Estate (30 W. Main St.)

Penmaker William Bradburn will demonstrate his creative process Indiana Artisan Gifts & Gallery (22 N. Range Line Rd.)

Art in the Garden The Carmel Arts Council

Children’s Art Gallery (40 W. Main St.)

Create Hamsa Hands The Art Studio of Carmel (30 N. Range Line Rd.)

Art show by Ryan Lane and Greg Huebner Magdalena Gallery of Arts (27 E. Main St. Suite 100)

Presented by

BIG PIANO STOPS IN CARMEL

The Big Piano was stationed near the Monon Greenway and Main Street in Carmel on the afternoon of April 20 to create a buzz for the American Pianists Awards. Those walking by had the opportunity to play the 23-foot keyboard with their feet. The American Pianists Awards’ Gala Finals for jazz took place April 22 at Hilbert Circle Theatre in Indianapolis.

Part 2: Understanding tax credits

Commentary by Jim Grimes

Just seven more years. By 2030, the world, and by extension the United States, must reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by half to avoid the worst calamities associated with climate change. The timetable is short, and the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act is helping U.S. businesses and households reach the 2030 goal by reducing the upfront costs for transitioning to clean energy.

The majority of IRA funding available to households is in the form of tax credits for which all households qualify. IRA tax credits can be used to install solar panels and batteries (30 percent), switch to an electric vehicle (up to $7,500 new, $4,000 used), convert a gas furnace to an electric heat pump (up to $2,000), and weatherize your home (up to $1,200), among other upgrades. You purchase the item and then file for a credit on the same year’s tax return. For solar panel and battery purchases, households can rollover unused tax credits year over year.

By the end of 2023, low and moderate-in-

come households will be eligible for pointof-sale rebates (up to $14,000) for qualified residential electrification upgrades. Rebates make more sense for these households because they can least afford the upfront costs and they don’t have the tax liability required to offset a tax credit.

The easiest way to determine what tax credits and rebates are available to your household is to use the Rewiring America IRA Savings Calculator at rewiringamerica. org/app/ira-calculator. Enter a few pieces of information, and the calculator will show you the dollar amounts of rebates and tax credits for which you qualify. Limits apply, so be sure to check out the IRA fact sheets at rewiringamerica.org/ira-fact-sheets.

In Part 3 of this series, I will discuss the need for a multi-year plan, using available IRA funds over time, to electrify everything.

Carmel resident Zosia Brinson, 7, tries the Big Piano. (Photos by Adam Seif)

From left, Carmel residents Sofia Stanco, 8, and her grandmother, Debbie Gostomski, play a duet.

Hoosier Adult Baseball League seeks older players

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Hoosier Adult Baseball league is looking for a few good men — or at least enough to field two more teams.

SPORTS

The 48-and-older baseball league is seeking to expand from six teams to eight, league president John Dearth said. The season begins Aug. 1 and ends Oct. 17. There are 12 games in the regular season, followed by the playoffs. All games are played at Grand Park in Westfield.

Dearth, a Carmel resident, said most of the players are from Hamilton County with some from Zionsville and Indianapolis.

“For me, personally, someone who has loved baseball since I can recall at age 4, playing in this league has been some of the most fun I have ever had playing baseball,” Dearth said. “We are there to compete, but our goal is to place a premium on sportsmanship, and fun. I have met some terrific people in the five years this league has been around. Grand Park is a terrific facility, and it helps to make the baseball experience that much better to play on top-of-theline fields.”

The league was started in 2018 by Todd Eschmann and Dwight Podgurski. Dearth said Eschmann couldn’t play because of an injury. Podgurski was president and Dearth became vice president. When Podgurski moved to Colorado, Dearth became president midway through the 2020 season.

Each team has 12 to 16 players.

“The reason we put a limit on the high side is guys get to play,” Dearth said.

The oldest league player last year was 76, but the 53-year-old Dearth said most play-

ers are in their early to mid-50s.

Dearth said the competition is very good, and players have really embraced the culture.

“It is very regular to have a conversation while on the base paths, with guys complimenting each other on a hit or a defensive play,” said Dearth, who played baseball at Bishop Chatard High School in Indianapolis.

“I have been very impressed by the players’ attitudes and the willingness of the guys who played at a higher level to help those who may have never received the coaching or had the opportunities to play beyond grade school or junior high. We are more of a rec league, and we try to find a home for anyone who wants to play.”

Dearth said there are a few rules that help older players, such as no stolen bases and limited leadoffs. Pitchers are limited to five innings per game.

Board members include Chris Kania, vice president, and Tom Hayes, secretary. Jeff Schmitt and Robert Newton are at-large members. Tom Weesner is a former vice president but stepped away this year because of a shoulder surgery.

For more, visit hoosieradultbaseball.com.

Carmel resident Scott Metzinger, a former Butler University pitcher, pitches for the Monarchs.

(Photo courtesy of John Dearth)

Speaker warns of dog whistles

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Michael Wallack, the sound has been unmistakable. The anti-Semitic dog whistles are getting louder.

HOLOCAUST

“Several years ago, some ‘very fine people’ marched through an American city carrying torches and chanting ‘Jews will not replace us,’” Wallack said of the 2017 march in Charlottesville, Va. “They were talking about replacement theory, the idea that Jews are using immigration by people of color as a means to take over America from its dominant white population. Replacement theory became a popular talking point on certain media outlets and among certain elected officials, though they were often careful not to mention Jews. A year later, a man driven by fear and anger over replacement theory walked into a synagogue in Pittsburgh and opened fire, killing 11 Jews. A year after that, a man opened fire in a synagogue in San Diego. That murderer was also motivated by fear of replacement theory.”

Wallack, a Carmel resident who spoke April 21 at the City of Carmel Holocaust Remembrance ceremony at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts, is on the mayor’s advisory council on human relations. Wallack said the Anti-Defamation League has recorded a frightening increase in the number of anti-Semitic incidents and attacks in the last few years.

Wallack said anti-Semitism doesn’t happen spontaneously but is learned and taught.

“These days, there is a segment of society that is hurting, feeling left behind, feeling as if society is moving in a direction that frightens them,” he said. “The easiest way to sway those people, to bring them to a particular view, is to give them an outsid-

Michael

er to blame. This strategy has worked for millennia. Offer up a scapegoat. Troubles are not of their own making. They’re not the making of those they’ve trusted to advocate on their behalf. They’re not the making of those who benefit from their misery. Nope. All of the troubles can be targeted at the same people who have been the scapegoat for similar misery for millennia: the Jews.”

Wallack said once someone recognizes an anti-Semitic dog whistle, it is that person’s duty to say something.

“Calling it out when you hear it is the first step to being sure that it doesn’t escalate from words to action to violence,” Wallack said. “Jewish homes, businesses and houses of worship should not be places of fear. But do more than call out the anti-Semitic speaker. Call out the co-worker or Facebook ‘friend’ who sends the anti-Semitic meme just because it was funny. Call out the elected official who stands by silently. Call out the politician who is afraid of losing a vote and so won’t call out bigotry amongst his or her supporters.”

Wallack said silence and acquiescence are not options.

“Otherwise, statements like ‘never again’ will become ever more hollow,” he said.

Wallack speaks of rising antisemitism at the City of Carmel Holocaust Remembrance ceremony. (Photo courtesy of Beth Maier)

Bourbon raffle set for May 5

By Jessica Todd news@currentincarmel.com

Carmel Tri Kappa will hold its third annual bourbon raffle on Facebook Live at 1 p.m. May 5.

The drawing will be on the sorority’s Facebook page.

EVENT

The event is a fundraiser for scholarships for Carmel and Westfield high school seniors who will attend an Indiana college or university. The scholarship covers the first year of college expenses.

“We hope to get a lot of interest and ticket sales through the rare bourbons that we’ve had donated to us,” said Nanette Foster, vice president of Carmel Tri Kappa. “We want to find those in our area who need help with college costs.”

Only 300 tickets will be available for purchase. Tickets are $75. Participants will have the opportunity to win a bottle of bourbon.

“One of our most-sought-after bourbons is Pappy Van Winkle,” Foster said. Raffle sales will conclude May 4, and the winners will be drawn the following day.

“One hundred percent of the money we raise at our event goes to help fund scholarships,” Foster said. “How many we give out depends on the amount of money we can raise.”

Tri Kappa is a Greek service sorority that is only in Indiana. It focuses on charity, culture and education. It has 8,000 members across 140 chapters in the state.

“We aim to choose charities that do not get a lot of support,” Foster said.

The sorority’s Carmel chapter works specifically within the Carmel and West field areas. It serves the community by volunteering at events such as the Carmel International Arts Festival and the Carmel Marathon.

“Last year, we worked with Reins of Grace to help support their mission of pro viding horse therapy to children with spe cial needs,” Foster said.

To purchase a raffle ticket, contact Foster at nanette.r.foster@gmail.com.

Kroger donates $12K to Humane Society

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

The Humane Society for Hamilton County recently received more than $12,000 through Kroger’s Community Rewards program.

DONATION

Through the program, customers choose a charity to link to their Kroger Plus card. A percentage of what they purchase then goes to that charity at no extra cost to the customers, according to the Community Rewards website.

Eric Halvorson, Kroger Central Division Manager of Corporate Affairs, said hundreds of people supported the HSHC by connecting their Kroger Plus Card to the program.

“You shop with us, we donate to your favorite local charity,” Halvorson said. “We’re here to show our gratitude to members of the HSHC. It’s because of them and the trust they place in Kroger that we were able to make such a donation in support of the services provided here every day through the past year.”

Kroger also gave the animal shelter a $250 Kroger gift card to help fund its daily needs.

For more, kroger.com/i/community/community-rewards. Nonprofit organizations interested in becoming a beneficiary of the program can apply through a link on that page.

From left, Lily Pesavento, community engagement manager for the Humane Society for Hamilton County; Jennifer Dant, corporate sponsorship and events manager; and Eric Halvorson, Kroger Central Division Manager of Corporate Affairs with a replica check. Also pictured is Lasagna the dog. (Photo courtesy of Eric Halvorson)

PLENTY OF DRY EYES

Ophthalmologist helps introduce innovative tool to better diagnose common condition

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Dry eye has been a growing concern in the eye care industry.

Dr. John Abrams, an ophthalmologist, said patients experiencing dry eyes are like complaints of back pain to a general doctor.

“There’s lots of causes of back pain. There are no great diagnostics for it,” said Abrams, whose main Abrams EyeCare Center is in Carmel. “You kind of take a stab at what might help them, and then it doesn’t work, and they try something else. Well, dry eyes have been like that for us for a long time. We’ve not had really good diagnostics at all for it.”

Abrams said approximately 40 percent of his patients have symptoms of dry eye, and he believes much of it is caused by environmental factors, medications, an aging population or hormonal changes in women.

Abrams, a former Carmel resident who now lives in Westfield, helped co-found a company in Israel that developed the Tear Film Imager, a diagnostic tool, which is now being used in his Carmel office. The tear film covers the ocular surface and helps protect and lubricate eyes.

“So, we’ve developed this camera that takes a picture of the tear film, and it does it down to such small amounts down to a nanometer, which is a very, very small amount,” Abrams said. “We can actually image the layers of the tear film, and nobody’s been able to do that before. So, the thought process of this camera and this technology is that it will help with the diagnosis. But that’s not really what I think the main importance of it is. It might allow us to see what layer of the tear film has the problem and direct treatment to that problem, so we would have more specific treatment. We can monitor our treatment and see if the tear film has improved or the area we were addressing has improved.”

Abrams said the FDA-registered device is not ready for use in any office, because it’s too costly and is built by hand and not fully automated. Abrams said product designers are working on automation now.

“I have the only one in private practice anywhere in the world,” he said. “Most of them are in university ophthalmology departments for research purposes.”

Abrams said a lot of drug companies have purchased them because they want to show how their new dry eye drugs or therapies work.

Abrams said his office has just started using it. It can’t be submitted to insurance yet because it’s too new.

“We’re probably going to do it for next to nothing to get it out there,” he said. “It could revolutionize how dry eyes are treated and how people are cared for going forward.”

Kylene Polhamus, an Abrams EyeCare optometrist, said she is already using the Tear Film Imager with patients.

“It is very interesting to see how my patients’ symptoms correlate with what reports we get from the TFI,” she said. “Then (it helps) direct our treatment and monitor and manage how they’re responding to the treatments. It’s really quite user friend-

ly. It’s not not difficult to use. It’s quick, noninvasive.”

Polhamus said dry eye is generally a multifactorial eye disease. Symptoms include vision fluctuations, dryness, burning, itching and watery discharge.

“Being on computers and our phones, we are not blinking as much as we used to,” she said.

Abrams said he added Polhamus to the practice about six months ago because of her experience with dry eye treatment. Polhamus, who had been working in the northern part of Indiana, was moving to the area and looking for work

“Dry eye has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember,” the Fishers resident said.

napolis, retiring at age 92 after practicing for 70 years.

Abrams, 65, recently opened a practice on the east side of Indianapolis to provide care for the underserved Latino community.

AN EYE ON SPORTS

Dr. John Abrams got his start in sports as a ball boy for the Indiana Pacers in the last year of the ABA.

Abrams has been the eye doctor for the Pacers for 36 years, with the Indiana Fever since the team started in 2000, and with Butler University and Indianapolis Motor Speedway for 35 years.

“We just took on Indy Fuel and Indy Eleven,” Abrams said. “I do it for fun. For the teams, I usually do a screening in the beginning of the season and make sure they have no contacts issues or need contacts. I take care of injuries. During the Pacers games, I take care of the visiting team, the officials and our team. I don’t do it to make a living, but I do it because I love basketball.”

Abrams and his partner, Scott Tarter, started the Dropping Dimes Foundation to help former ABA players who need assistance.

ON THE COVER: Dr. Kylene Polhamus, an Abrams EyeCare optometrist, uses the Tear Film Imager. (Photo by Adam Seif)

John Abrams as a ball boy for the Indiana Pacers. (Photo courtesy of John Abrams)

Abrams’ late father JJ Abrams was an optometrist. His father eventually worked in Abrams’ office on the west side of India-

Dr. John Abrams co-founded a company in Israel that produced the Tear Film Imager, which gives eye doctors a closer look at what causes dry eyes. (Photo by Adam Seif)

Guided — or misguided — by fear?

Commentary by Terry Anker

Birth rates among the young, First World and educated have never been lower. It seems that our modern age has determined that the greater privilege is to avoid procreation. Absolutely, babies are not requisite, and a full life is readily available without them. But some would imagine selfish millennials, Gen Zs, or whatever group one might wish to disparage, refusing to share their avocado toast with the hungry, chirping mouths of their fledgling offspring.

ESSAY

Still, isn’t it all too convenient to accuse and malign those generations that follow our own as idle, selfish and rudderless? It has been the sport of the old and aging for centuries. But just as much as those might like it to be true, the evidence pushes to the contrary. The young will come, as they always have, to pick up the yoke of advancing civilization – well, when the elders are willing to get out of the way. In the passing years, experience, maturity and grit inevitably are gained. It is a good system and has served humanity well.

Recently, a 30-something and highly successful professional proclaimed his intention to soon marry. Wedding arrangements were being made and life decisions were firming. “No kids,” he proclaimed, continuing, “We cannot, in good faith, bring a child into this terrible world.” The jarring turn from flowing optimism to intense cynicism is increasingly common with the demographic. Climate, war, pandemic, bad political leadership, the loss of Tom Brady, and the inescapable looming zombie apocalypse have led many to the brink. Kidding aside, there are legitimate and concerning matters. Besides, who cares how others choose to live? And what defines a good life, anyway? Yet, why are so many opting out so soon? If fear dominates our decisions, are we selling ourselves short? Are we dying before we’re dead?

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

Not the same ‘old’ feeling

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

suddenly back on tour (“Um, Mrs. Wilson, I think you mean Maluma, not Madonna”).

HUMOR

Most days, friends, I don’t feel my age. Sure, I can’t sleep through the night anymore without multiple potty runs and hot flashes, and my knees have wrinkles, but generally I go about my business as if I’m a seasoned 30-something. Recently, however, I was forcibly reminded that I’m nearly eligible for full AARP benefits. What happened? I hosted a bridal shower for one of my best friend’s daughters. Her daughter! The horror!

How is it possible that our kids are old enough to get married? That my own children are technically “grown-ups” and that, like my friend, I might soon be hunting down a pair of 1996 champagne flutes so the happy couple can toast with the same glasses their parents used. But that’s the world I’m currently operating in. I’m on the other side of 50, and if I’m not wearing my readers, party games become powerful time warps where long-retired ‘80s pop stars are

And what’s next? Babies? For the love of all that is holy! It seems crazy to me that I could realistically become a grandmother at any time. Not that I wouldn’t be amazing. Are you kidding me? I’d be the best gosh-darn mamaw that ever lived. But the point is, the person in the mirror doesn’t look like someone’s mother-in-law, let alone a grammy.

Anyhoo, the shower was certainly a reality check, and one that I’m not entirely sure I’m OK with. Despite the slightly elevated cholesterol and random white brow hairs, I just don’t feel that old!

Peace out.

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

I’m on the other side of 50, and if I’m not wearing my readers, party games become powerful time warps where long-retired ‘80s pop stars are suddenly back on tour.

- DANIELLE WILSON

Funny things about Washington

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

I am going to a get-together of the folks who worked on my college newspaper, The Hatchet, in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s at The George Washington University. As I reread some of my stuff almost 55 years later, I realized my writing then wasn’t really very good. My journalism teacher said my column was sophomoric, which I took as a compliment because I was only a freshman at the time.

HUMOR

All those attending submitted a brief summary of what he or she has accomplished since graduating. I was a little intimidated by some of these, but I also thought many had rambled on and not stuck to the suggested length of 500 words. I opted for brevity. The sign of a good humorist is being succinct. Here’s my employment history in a few words:

• Hired

• Fired

• Hired

• Fired

• Rehired

• Fired again

• Hired

• Retired

In my bio, I did mention that I had recently been elected to the Indiana Broadcasters Hall of Fame. I wanted my GW friends to know this as soon as possible. I was concerned that by the time I got to the reunion, they might take back the award.

My friend Seth has visited 46 countries, enjoying all the different cultures based on his interest in anthropology. Another classmate became an executive editor of

the Chicago Sun Times. The more I read these mini resumes, the more I knew that being a goofy field reporter and a humor columnist was not going to get me selected to address the group on the topic: How I changed the world.

By the way, I saw an old girlfriend from back in the ‘60s on the invitee list who I hadn’t seen or heard from in 55 years. I sent her an email telling her I hoped she was coming to the reunion.

“I’m sure I will recognize you after all these years,” I told her.

“I bet you will,” came the response. “I’m still 6-foot-2 with a full-length beard.”

I had sent the email to Seth by mistake.

Just a final note.

Ten years ago, a similar reunion was held. My wife and I were excited to return to Washington, D.C., for a visit. I made the hotel arrangements, which I seldom do because I always mess something up. A week before the trip, Mary Ellen asked me to confirm the reservations and to be sure we were near The White House, a site we planned to visit, and close to the restaurant where the reunion dinner was to be held. I called.

– DICK WOLFSIE

“I’m just confirming our rooms and I wanted to know how far we are from The White House,” I said.

“About 3,000 miles,” the hotel clerk said.

I had booked a hotel in the state of Washington.

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.

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

In my bio, I did mention that I had recently been elected to the Indiana Broadcasters Hall of Fame. I wanted my GW friends to know this as soon as possible. I was concerned that by the time I got to the reunion, they might take back the award.

Minor Chores to pilot app

By Jeff Decker news@currentincarmel.com

An idea for a startup app has roots in cleaning up what dogs leave behind.

TECH

Mitchell Thiem, 29, a 2012 Guerin Catholic High School graduate and former Carmel resident, had started a new job at a solar company in Pennsylvania in May 2022. At his first in-person company meeting, he presented an “about me” slide show. He opened it like this:

“When I was 10 years old, I started a business called Poop Patrol: ‘Make Every Step a Good One!’” Thiem explained that it became profitable and evolved into other Carmel neighborhood businesses, including lemonade stands, mailbox painting, babysitting and more.

Thiem, who now lives in Jupiter, Fla., but returns to the area frequently, said he had hoped to create a business that helps young people become successful entrepreneurs. Thus, Minor Chores — designed to connect young entrepreneurs with those seeking their services — was born. He purchased the domain name, started the LLC, pitched it to a close circle of acquaintances and family and quit his solar energy job to focus on his new idea. He is the founder

This is Thiem’s first try at creating a startup app business. His previous experience has been in numerous roles in the renewable energy industry — and, of course, as a young business owner in Carmel, where his parents, Gene and Becky Thiem,

“The way I think of it, I’m simply creating an app based on how my parents raised

Minor Chores, slated to launch as a pilot program in mid-May, is subscription-based, with the annual fee ($75 to $125) based on age. Those looking for services (“chore customers”) post jobs, and entrepreneurs bid on them. The app also offers business resources, social media outreach templates and links to educational YouTube videos.

What is designed to set the app apart is parental control. Parents can create sub accounts for their kids and access the app. Parents have full access to their child’s account and can filter on or off several features, including allowing access to internal messaging. Also, chore customers and men-

tors, who must be 18 or older, are required to upload a photo and provide background details when creating a profile.

“The safety of our young entrepreneurs is of utmost importance,” Thiem said.

Work on Minor Chores has moved quickly. Thiem pitched the idea to family friend Valerie Osinski, whose knowledge and connections in the tech world have been invaluable, he said. Osinski introduced Thiem to partners Mike Kelly and Michael Cloran of Indianapolis-based DeveloperTown, who connected him with Boundless App Developers in Indianapolis. Boundless got involved in October, according to co-founder Jason Ward, and he and two software developers have been working full time on the app.

Ward described Thiem as “a very bright guy, definitely driven, very personable.”

“He’s been a real pleasure to work with,” Ward said.

According to Ward, startup apps have a success rate of about 20 to 25 percent.

“I think (Thiem) is going to be one of (the successes),” Ward said.

Thiem will consider the app a success if it helps young people become confident entrepreneurs with an understanding of business basics, community building and financial literacy. Pre-registration for the app is available at minorchores.com/pre-register.

“My goal is to replicate what my parents taught me and put it in a trusted, sophisticated educational app for millions of parents and kids to do the same throughout the world,” Thiem said.

Learn more at MinorChores.com.

Minor Chores allows young entrepreneurs to see available opportunities near them. (Photo courtesy of Minor Chores)

Theim

Alcohol-free shop expands

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Sisters Andrea Marley and Kristin Patrick saw a need for more alcohol-free options. So, in July 2022, they launched Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages as an online store before opening a retail store Aug. 20 at Main Street and Hazel Dell Parkway in Carmel.

VOWC

Marley said sales have exceeded their expectations. Thus, a second store will open May 6 at 12770 West Market St., Suite 105 in the Village of WestClay.

“The second location is much smaller than our Hazel Dell store,” Patrick said. “We will be running products between the two stores for deliveries and local pickup orders.”

Patrick said the WestClay location sprang from customer demand, as Loren’s has been making a lot of deliveries to the west side of Carmel since launching lorensaf.com.

“People kept telling us how nice it would be if we had another location on the other side of the city,” Patrick said.

Patrick said customers are embracing the Be a Better Host concept of offering nonalcoholic choices.

“We are incredibly touched whenever

someone comes into the store to buy for a visiting friend or family member,” Patrick said. “Also, we love helping people create a fun mix of drinks for parties. More people are recognizing the value of offering alcohol-free options.”

The sisters have been listening to feedback from customers for their stock.

The May 6 opening of the new store will be from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The tentative plan is for the WestClay location to be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays.

WARBY PARKER OPENS IN CLAY TERRACE

Warby Parker celebrated its grand opening April 22 at 14407 Clay Terrace Blvd. in Carmel. It is the first location in the Indianapolis area to have an eye doctor on staff. (Above) Warby Parker staff, from left, Jess Merrick, Elisha Cain Parchman, Callie Bailey, Lashanda Cunningham and Keyon Congress. (Left) Approximately 150 guests attended the store’s grand opening. Each purchase included a gift to thank customers for visiting on opening day. (Photos by Edward Redd)

From left, sisters Kristin Patrick and Andrea Marley will open a second location of Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages in the Village of WestClay.

(Photo courtesy of Andrea Marley)

Mental health workshop set

By Jeff Decker news@currentincarmel.com

Mental health is a subject that can be difficult to talk about openly, even when it’s an important conversation to have. A program at Orchard Park Presbyterian Church aims to initiate dialogue about mental health and erase some of the stigma attached to it.

FAITH

The church, 1605 E. 106th St. in Carmel, will host Building a Mental Health Community from 8:30 a.m. to noon May 20 as part of Mental Health Awareness Month. The workshop is free and open to the public, though participants must register by May 18 at orchardpark. org. Designed for youth leaders, volunteers and parents, the program will address suicide awareness and the importance of self-care and offer an optional presentation on the intersection of faith and mental health.

“We just felt the need to address mental health,” The Rev. Trish Lisa said, noting the importance of having such “hard conversations” that are frequently shied away from by youth, their parents and church leaders. “We want to build community in conversation about mental health.”

A committee of Lisa; Kristie Watts, a licensed marriage and family therapist who has a private practice at the church; and Kristin Lehr, OPPC’s youth director; recognized the need and that the church had Watts on hand and the space to host mental health workshops.

Addressing mental health has become especially important because of the COVID-19 pandemic, said Watts, who will deliver the keynote address at the May 20 workshop.

The OPPC congregation is acutely aware of the effect the pandemic has had. Of 30 members of the church’s youth group, six lost parents during the pandemic, Lisa said. Social protocols in place because of the pandemic shaped the grief process and some of the circumstances surrounding those deaths, Watts said.

Watts said that according to the World Health Organization, the latest Global Burden of Disease study shows that the mental health of young people has been most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and that they are disproportionately at risk of suicidal and self-harming behaviors.

“Discussing the changes and challenges of the past three years, as well as educating and addressing how to effectively manage and change the negative mental health side effects of the pandemic, is important,” Watts said.

Faith is important in addressing mental health issues, Watts said, because it “gives us something bigger than ourselves to rely upon for changes and wholeness.” Research suggests that religiosity reduces suicide rates, alcoholism, drug use, anxiety and depression, she said.

“Faith congregations offer community, a sense of belonging and hope — all of which positively affect mental health,” Watts said.

The Building a Mental Health Community workshop is part of a series that will include three or four events this year. The topic for a workshop in September is anxiety.

“We need congregations to step up and deal with mental health issues,” Lisa said. “We would like to be a resource for mental health in our community.”

DISPATCHES

Riverview CEO selected — The Riverview Health Board of Trustees has appointed Dave Hyatt as the hospital system’s next president and CEO. Hyatt joined Riverview in January 2022 as chief operating officer. Prior to his time with Riverview, he spent nearly 15 years with Indiana University Health in various roles. During that time, he served as president of multiple hospitals, including Blackford Hospital and Jay Hospital. He holds a bachelor of science in public health from Indiana University and a master

of health administration from Indiana University—Indianapolis. He is also a certified Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Hospice volunteers needed — Brighton Hospice in Carmel is looking for volunteers to help office staff perform a variety of office duties. To learn more, contact Katresha Taylor, volunteer coordinator, by calling 317-798-2160 or by email at ktaylor@brightonhospice.com.

Lehr Lisa

Watts

Dr. Jeremy Ciano OD

Dr. Katherine Schuetz OD Dr. Hannah Wilson OD

Your LOCAL EyeCare Concierge

Dr. Kimberly Hall OD

Carmel Symphony Orchestra shows respect to Queen of Soul in concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Shaleah Adkisson’s respect for the Queen of Soul’s talent has only grown since she joined a tribute group.

“It really gave me an opportunity to dig into Aretha Franklin’s music in a way that I hadn’t before,” she said. “I feel like she and her music are so pervasive in our culture. So, we know who Aretha Franklin is and her songs on the radio, but having to perform and perform at such a high level really required me to learn more about the songs themselves and where they came from and who wrote them. Was it a cover and how long after the original cover was it recorded?”

Adkisson and two other Broadway vocalists, Tamika Lawrence and Melvin Tunstall III, and pianist and music director John Boswell form Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin. The group will join the Carmel Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. May 6 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It is part of the pops concert series and the final CSO concert of the 2023-24 season.

“A lot of the arrangements we’re doing are in her original keys, which in a lot of cases she didn’t even perform in her original keys once the albums were recorded,” Adkisson said. “So that is definitely a challenge. It’s just having to dig in and learn about the songs, then really figuring out how to navigate them in my own voice and make them my own.”

Adkinsson said that challenge has been one of her favorite parts of the act.

Adkisson said the singers have solo numbers, and some are duets and some are all together.

Adkisson enjoys singing “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.”

“That is my favorite Aretha song by far and my favorite Carole King song,” Adkisson said. “It’s just so iconic, and every time I get to sing it, it’s really special.”

Adkisson said she enjoys “The House

that Jack Built.”

“I don’t think I heard it before this concert,” she said. “Actually, when I first started working on the show, there was another singer that sang it, and I always thought it was so much fun. That song was handed to me this year. It’s a lot of work and it’s a very quick tempo. So, it really requires a lot of memory, which sometimes fails me. But I really like the song a lot.”

Adkisson no longer performs full time. She became an arts administrator as the manager of school programs in the education program at New York City Center in the fall of 2021.

“I have friends that have since the pandemic stepped away from it completely, but I know that I need to feed my artistry, regardless of circumstances,” she said.

“So, this really gives me a great outlet to just sing and to be in front of these really amazing symphonies with these large audiences. It’s really soul-feeding and helps me to continue to practice my artistry

even though I’ve shifted my focus.”

CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes looks forward to the joint performance.

‘I grew up with this music. My older brothers played it all the time, so it is all familiar to me and I love them all,” Hymes said of Franklin’s songs. “I could never pick a favorite Aretha song because they are all unique and wonderful.”

Hymes said the pops concerts have been a popular part of the CSO seasons. An Earth, Wind & Fire tribute act joined the CSO in January.

“I think the community of Carmel is mixed, and the Carmel Symphony Orchestra is providing variety in all of our programming from music selected for kids of all ages, more traditional classical concerts, music written by living composers, pops concerts with music from familiar bands like The Beatles and great vocalists like Frank Sinatra and Aretha, American music and much more,” Hymes said For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’

“An American in Paris” runs through May 14 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘MR. CONFIDENTIAL’

Actors Theatre of Indiana’s world premiere of “Mr. Confidential” is set to run May 3-14 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’

Civic Theatre’s production of “The Sound of Music” runs through May 13 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Brent Marty and vocalist Amy Rafa present “The Carpenters Project: An Offering” at 7:30 p.m. May 4 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Clint Holmes will perform the songs of Peter Allen at 7:30 p.m. May 5-6. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

EVIL WOMAN: THE AMERICAN ELO

Evil Woman: The American ELO, a tribute group to Electric Light Orchestra, will perform at 8 p.m. May 5 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘RESPECT: A TRIBUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN’

Carmel Symphony Orchestra presents “Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin” at 7:30 p.m. May 6 in a pops concert at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

“ALMOST, MAINE”

The Carmel Apprentice Theatre’s production of “Almost, Maine” continues May 4-7 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

“CRIMES OF THE HEART”

The Belfry Theatre’s production of “Crimes of the Heart” continues through May 7 at the Theater at the Fort in Lawrence. For more, artsforlawrence.org.

MUSIC

Shaleah Adkisson performs in an Aretha Franklin tribute band. (Photo courtesy of CSO)

‘Unity’ concert designed to showcase the power of music

By Mike Beas editorial@youarecurrent.com

MUSIC

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir makes the turn toward summer with two concerts scheduled for May.

On May 6, the presentation entitled, “Unity,” takes place at 3 p.m. at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis. The ICC features, “Celebrations,” at 4 p.m. May 21 at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, 6501 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.

Joshua Pedde, the ICC’s artistic director, looks forward to both concerts.

“The ‘Unity’ concert will showcase our youngest singers, who are in kindergarten, through high school,” said Pedde, a Carmel resident. “Then we are bringing in other choirs, from Anderson and Columbus, and they will be part of the concert. It’s an opportunity to see the breadth of the Indi-

anapolis Children’s Choir.”

The show also features the Directors’ Jazz Orchestra, a talented group of musicians which has roots in Madison County, and is the resident band for the Pendleton Heights Jazz Festival.

The full ICC family of choirs will be on display, bringing the total number of participants to approximately 400.

“Unity” is named in honor of music’s generations-long knack of being able to unite while celebrating hope and joy, Pedde said, adding that the concert will debut two new pieces of music.

Later this month, “Celebrations” will be its own unique musical showcase.

“The concert will be our high school singers accompanied by a chamber orchestra,” Pedde said. “The text is based on Walt Whitman’s poetry, and it’s some really neat music.

For more or to purchase tickets, visit icchoir.org/tickets.

Film adaptation of classic novel worth the wait

Commentary by Julianna Childs

The carefree dog days of summer in 1970s New York City evolve into traditional American family suburban life in Kelly Freemon Craig’s charming adaptation of the landmark novel, “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” Judy Blume’s avant-garde novel has impacted generations with its timeless coming-of-age story and insightful humor for over 50 years.

MOVIE REVIEW

In one of the year’s most anticipated movies, Abby Ryder Fortson (“Ant-Man”) plays the title pre-teen role, whose awkward stage is magnified when she moves from NYC to a New Jersey suburb with her family. As they pack up the family car, Margaret whispers to God, “Please don’t let New Jersey be too horrible.”

Rachel McAdams and Benny Safdie play Barbara and Herb, Margaret’s parents, who struggle with their identities while adapting to a spacious home, yard sales and PTA meetings.

Margaret acclimates to her new life by

navigating a series of conflicting moods about buying her first bra, crushing on boys and joining a secret club. As she and her friends wait to see who will get their period first, they try to rush puberty along by landing training bras and reciting, “I must, I must, I must increase my bust.”

Craig films these scenes with affection for the girls, never illustrating them as silly.

Oscar-winner Kathy Bates plays Sylvia, Margaret’s free-spiriting, judgment-spouting grandmother who makes for some of the film’s more entertaining scenes. With its timeless themes and tender approach to complicated emotions, audiences will find “Are You There God?” a familiar and enjoyable film adaptation of Blume’s classic novel that was definitely worth the wait.

During the past 14 years, Julieanna Childs has worked as a film studio representative, contracting for all the major Hollywood studios. Her film reviews can be found at TheJujuReview.com. She is a Hamilton County resident.

Music by RICHARD RODGERS

Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II

Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE

Suggested by “The Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp

Pedde

NIGHT & DAY

Conductor set for ‘Magic Flute’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Scott Schoonover has a long history with “The Magic Flute.”

worked with Indianapolis Opera. However, Schoonover had worked with Indianapolis Opera General Manager David Starkey at Asheville (N.C.) Lyric Opera.

“When I was in college, I played piano for the opera class, and that was one of the first operas I ever learned,” he said. “It’s kind of fun to go back to it now. Those things that you learn in college really stick in your head in a certain way differently than things that you learned later. It’s really fun to work with those again. I’ve conducted two productions of it. The last time was 2007.”

Schoonover, founder and artistic director of the Union Avenue Opera in St. Louis, is serving as the guest conductor for the Indianapolis Opera’s production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” May 5-7 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis.

This is the first time Schoonover has

Schoonover said he likes the music and the story of “The Magic Flute.”

“It’s always interesting to see what different companies do with it,” Schoonover said. “The music is super accessible. It’s got a lot of drama, but it is also very beautiful and lyrical. It’s interesting, I think, for people who haven’t seen a lot of operas. There are songs, and then in between the songs, there are lines, which is a little different than most of the things that Mozart wrote, which was just all music up to that point.”

Schoonover said the songs are not long and the pieces are very different from one another.

“It presents a lot of different styles, and there’s really something for everybody in this particular opera,” he said.

For more, visit indyopera.org.

En Pointe dancers excel in YAGP

OPERA BALLET

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

Dancing has been in Joey Moore’s family for many generations. His parents, Christopher and Anne Moore, have co-owned En Pointe Indiana Ballet in Noblesville since 2016. His uncle and aunt, Robert Moore and his wife Pollyana Ribeiro, are the studio’s co-directors.

Joey Moore performed the “Male Swan Lake Classical” at the 2023 Youth America Grand Prix competition March 16-19 at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. He earned top honors in the men’s senior classical solo.

Youth from Hamilton County presented the award-winning performances.

Moore, 16, began dancing at age 9. After his first year of dancing, he won his first competition at a BellaMoxi dance competition in Kentucky. Since then, dancing has been a passion.

“I was kind of at this spot (BellaMoxi) where I was like, ‘Do I really want to keep doing this or is it just a hobby of mine?’” Moore said. “Winning first place for my cat-

egory really pushed me to understand that this is what I want to do.”

Moore, a Noblesville resident, said his dream is to join a ballet company and be either a principal dancer or a soloist.

John Paul Pack, a Carmel resident, took first place in the 2021 and 2022 Midtown’s Got Talent competition in Carmel. He finished second in CarmelFest Has Talent in his age division in 2022. At the 2023 YAGP, he performed the “Paquita” dance and placed in the top 12 in the junior division.

Pack, who was 13 at the time and is now 14, said he has been dancing for seven years. The YAGP was his first dance competition.

Pack said he fell in love with dance after seeing “The Nutcracker” at age 7. He has trained at En Pointe for six years. He said he loves dance but has little interest in performing competitively.

“I’m not really a competition dancer, so I haven’t really looked into any competitions,” Pack said. “But I really enjoyed this one.”

Pack will appear in “The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland” May 12-13 in Anderson, performing as the door mouse. He plans to return to YAGP in 2024.

Schoonover Pack

Where’s Amy attended “The Four Phantoms in Concert” April 21 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concert brought together four stage actors who have played the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning “Phantom of the Opera,” which recently closed in New York. The powerful performance featured many hits from “Phantom of the Opera” as well as songs from other Broadway favorites. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Amy Pauszek is a photographer, award winning film producer and scouting and casting associate for Talent Fusion Agency in Indianapolis. She can be reached at Amy@ youarecurrent.com. To see more of her photos, visit currentnightandday.com.

Lynn Ducat (Carmel), left, with daughter Bethany Ducat (Carmel). (Photos by Amy Pauszek)

Sponsored in part by

Phil and Caroline Knickrehm (Carmel).

Blueprint for Improvement: Basement built for entertaining

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2018 in the Hidden Oak section of Indianapolis, this home’s unfinished basement began as a blank canvas and was ready to be optimized for gathering and entertaining.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A wet bar, fridge and dishwasher were added to make prep and clean-up a breeze

• From movie night to gameday, this space was redesigned to provide plenty of room for any size crowd. A snack bar with waterfall edge, custom sectional and table with builtin bench seating ensure there’s room for everyone.

• Built-in shelving offers more than meets the eye, serving as both a display feature and as a hidden entry to the storage room.

• An industrial-style light fixture, stone walls and brass finishes perfectly compliment the warm and transitional aesthetic of the space.

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

Advanced Active Safety Vehicle Systems Engineer. Carmel, IN. Lead internal/external advanced automotive engineering development builds for feature development/validation and perception algorithm stack performance evaluation. Lead vehicle integration testing and system check-out for systems and software teams. Perform test scheduling, test planning, test procedure generation, test execution, test data analysis, and results/issue reporting. Ensure proper implementation of vehiclelevel requirements. Plan and prioritize program deliverables with project and product owners in AGILE program iterations. Identify opportunities for quality and product improvement. Design and execute vehicle feature benchmarking tests. Requires Master’s degree in Automotive Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Industrial and Systems Engineering and two years of industry experience with coordinating verification and validation activities for automotive hardware and software, executing DVP&R validation, assessing and resolving technical issues, designing systemlevel test setups and test cases, automating regression testing, validating ADAS features, performing root cause analysis to identify failure modes, CAN, CANalyzer, JIRA, ISO26262 and MATLAB-Simulink. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Jennifer Zacarias, HR Manager, 13085 Hamilton Crossing Blvd., Carmel, IN 46032. Ref: 71373A.

Algorithm Engineer. Carmel, IN. Develop and implement critical components, embedded systems, vehicle control algorithms, and system architecture for Passive Safety (Interior Sensing). Design vehicle rollover, side slip, and occupant detection system algorithm to comprehend, predict vehicle crash and in vehicle scenarios, assess risks/threats, and bridge the gap between new product requirement and implementation. Optimize algorithms for real-time implementation. Integrate algorithm features per ISO26262 functional safety requirements. Perform software implementation in MATLAB or C/C++. Perform data analysis to assess algorithm performance using real and synthetic data. Support on-road testing and data collection activities. Requires Master’s degree in Automotive Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering and coursework in Automotive Powertrain, Hybrid Electric Vehicles, Automotive Power Systems, Vehicle System Dynamics, Design Methodology, Vehicle Crash Dynamics, and Engineering Math. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Jennifer Zacarias, HR Manager, 13085 Hamilton Crossing Blvd., Carmel, IN 46032. Ref: 71458A.

A canvas of purple prose

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

When you think about the color purple, what comes to mind? Probably the movie, “The Color Purple.” That makes sense. Beyond that, you might think of Prince’s “Purple Rain” or maybe even Sheb Wooley’s 1958 hit “The Purple People Eater.”

GRAMMAR GUY

What do you get when you come to the intersection of “purple things” and grammar? You get “purple prose,” a style of overly ornate, elaborate language. In the Victorian era, the purple prose style took off. We see this trend in authors like

Notice of Public Hearing Before the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals

Docket No. PZ-2022-00022V

Notice is hereby given that the carmel Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on the 22nd day of May, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Square, 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance Application to review request for variance approval to add second sign to the property (wall sign on the west side of the building ) where only one sign is allowed and modify the existing Marquise.

With the Property being known as Majestic Care of Carmel located at 12999 North Pennsylvania, Carmel, IN 46032.

The Application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2022-00022V.

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

Parcel ID: 16-09-26-00-00-015.101

Legal Description: Acreage 8.46, Section 26, Township 18, Range 13

The petition may be examined on the City’s Website, through Public Documents – Laserfiche. All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place.

John Seib on behalf of Majestic Care of Carmel Petitioners

Charles Dickens. Here’s how Dickens describes Oliver Twist’s breathing condition in the eponymous novel: “The fact is, that there was considerable difficulty in inducing Oliver to take upon himself the office of respiration -- a troublesome practice, but one which custom has rendered necessary to our easy existence …”

You’ll notice that I trailed off at the end of that sentence. Dickens continued to describe poor Oliver’s asthma. As a reaction to this type of writing, enter Ernest Hemingway. “The Old Man and the Sea” author was not a fan of purple prose. Hemingway writes, “A writer’s style should be direct and personal, his imagery rich and earthy, and his words simple and vigorous. The greatest writers have the gift of brilliant brevity, are hard workers, diligent scholars and competent stylists.”

I prefer Hemingway’s no-nonsense prose, even though Dickens got paid by the word.

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

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 5/17/2023 at 12:00PM. Kathryn Moyer unit #C59; Brian Brewer unit #K27; Al Matuly Yaser Z unit #L16; Sarah Alarayes unit #L17. 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 BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Docket Numbers: PZ-2023-00083, PZ-2023-00084, & PZ-2023-00085

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on the 22 day of May, 2023 at 6:00 PM in Carmel City Hall, 2nd Flr Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq, Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to:

Docket No. PZ-2023-00083 V (UDO Section 2.38):

L’Etoile Mixed Use - Applicant seeks a variance for the 40’ Minimum Side Setback for surface parking required, 4’ requested.

Docket No. PZ-2023-00084 V (UDO Sections 5.12 & 5.32):

L’Etoile Mixed Use - Applicant seeks a variance for more floor area than the parking it can provide; and 1.2 vehicle parking spaces per dwelling unit (45 units) and 1 parking space per 350 sq. ft. of retail required (66 spaces total required), 38 requested.

Docket No. PZ-2023-00085 V (UDO Section 2.38):

L’Etoile Mixed Use - Applicant seeks a variance for the 40’ Minimum Rear Setback for surface parking required, 3’ requested; and 20’ Maximum Rear Setback required, 43’ requested.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Tax ID Parcel No. 16-09-25-03-01006.000

The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche. All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place.

PETITIONER: Dan Moriarity

A visit to the

Commentary by Don Knebel

Negev

Canaanites and their cities when they eventually entered near Jericho. In about 1200 B.C., the Israelites built a fortress at Arad near the original Canaanite city.

TRAVEL

Today, during our last stop in Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we come to the Negev, a rocky desert and semi-desert region that has several connections to the Hebrew Scriptures, which Christians call the Old Testament.

The Negev, between Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula and Jordan in southern Israel, includes about 55 percent of the land of the State of Israel, but only about 8 percent of its people, about one-fourth of whom are Bedouins. Near the southern end of the Negev is the Wilderness of Zin, which scholars believe is the biblical Kadesh Barnea, where Moses struck a rock to get water for his parched followers and their animals. Bedouins have long known that porous rocks in the area absorb water, which can be released by striking the rock.

Arad, on the eastern edge of the Negev, is where the Bible says the Canaanite king of Arad barred Moses from entering the Promised Land, leading God to promise that the Israelites would be allowed to destroy the

In 1962, archeologists unearthed a temple within the fortress, dating to the time of King Solomon and built to honor Yahweh, the invisible God of the Israelites. Unlike other temples to Yahweh, this one also included a shrine to what many scholars believe was Asherah, a Canaanite goddess. Beersheba, today a city of about 20,000 that is the administrative capital of the Negev, marked the southern boundary of the United Monarchy of David and Solomon. South of Beersheba is Makhtesh Ramon, a 1,500-feet-deep crater created by geologic forces that is the largest of its kind in the world. Wildlife in the Negev includes the ibex, a once-endangered wild goat.

Makhtesh Ramon in the Negev in Isreal. (Photos by Don Knebel)

A Bedouin home in the Negev.

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

Across

1. Curly coif

5. Spooky

10. *Hive sound

14. Tattle

15. *Crucifix

16. Sheltered, at sea

17. Recipe word

18. Some Butler exams

19. Wildebeest

20. Phone button

22. Region including Lebanon and Turkey

24. Common swab

26. Actor Brynner

27. Former “American Idol” judge

30. Indy winter hrs.

33. Old Russian rulers

37. *Prairie View Golf Club warning

38. Like Hanukkah celebrants

40. “The Raven” writer

41. Half and half

42. Ma and pa

43. Debtor’s letters

44. Fleece-lined boots brand

45. Trepidation

46. *Colts throw

47. Not the winner

49. Rap’s Dr. ___

50. Helpful clues

51. Rep. rival

53. In need of a map

55. Assembly of delegates

60. Opens a bottle

64. Medicinal plant

65. Trolley bell sound

67. Harvest

68. Benjamin Harrison’s VP: ___ Morton

69. *Ensnare

70. The E in HOMES

71. *Merchants Bank of Indiana offering

72. Turn away

73. Dictionary entry...and what can be added to the answers to the starred

clues to make more Down

1. Ind. or

29. Bottom-of-the-barrel stuff

31. *Take an oath in Hamilton County Court

32. Christmas tree decoration

34. Bee-fitting description?

35. Pigeon perch

36. Children’s Dr. ___

38. Indy’s coldest month, usually

39. Sault ___ Marie

42. Less diluted

46. Brickyard 400 quickchange artists

48. Squeeze between

50. QVC alternative

52. Muslim holy city

54. Should

55. Ump’s “safe” or “strike”

56. Bread spread

57. Flaring star

58. Croat or Serb

59. Fill

61. Aviation prefix

ETA

2. Ice chunk

3. Surprise attack

4. Muscle targeted by side planks

5. Bacteria that led to the temporary closing of Carmel’s Flowing Well

6. Goof

7. Hoosier Park horse color

8. Speck in the ocean

9. Fishers HS writing assignment

10. Einstein Bros. ___

11. Arm bone

12. Greek god

13. Citrus peel

21. Hawks on a Pacers scoreboard

23. ___ Chris Steak House

25. Gazed

27. Run ___ of the law

28. Drum type

Easley Winery Wines

Indy Zoo Animales 1 Ball State University

62. Two twos, say

63. Raced around I-465

66. Major ATM maker Answers on Page 26

Wth

WE DO CONTACTLESS EXTERIOR ESTIMATES

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VACATION PROPERTY RENTAL

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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.

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With Baker Scott

Hondo’s Hideaway on beautiful, serene Bald Head Island, N.C., is a new-tomarket, exquisitely decorated 3 BR/2.5 BA in prime location. Close to beach, shopping, market and dining. Owner’s suite on first floor with ensuite bath, tile shower, dual sinks and two closets. Second floor has two bedrooms with Jack-and-Jill bath, each with private sink and tile tub/shower. Two four-passenger golf carts, bicycles and kayak. Spacious screened porch. Additional queen air bed will accommodate two additional guests. Temporary club memberships to both Shoals Club and BHI Lifestyle Club. Kitchen is fully equipped with top-of-line large and small appliances as well as every culinary necessity you would need to prepare the most elaborate meal.

Additional details and photos: https://www.bhiturtletimevacations. com/vacation-rentals/rental/6988/

SPLUNK DVLPMNT ENG’R

for Kinney Group (Carmel, IN). Architect, deploy & configr Splunk products. Reqs BS in CS, IT or rel +5 yrs progrsv exp in IT systs admin us’g Splunk (incl Splunk Admin, Search Proc language, Report’g & Dashboard Creatn). (In lieu of above, will accept MS in CS, IT or rel +2 yrs of stated exp). Also reqs Splunk Entrps Cert Admin & Splunk Core Cert Power User certs. Reports to Carmel, IN & may work remote & travel to unanciptd clnt sites. Apply @ bill.carson@kinneygroup.com

We

12555 Gray Road Carmel 46033

Immediate opening for full time experienced dental laboratory technician. Position offers full benefit package Please forward inquiries and resume: khunterlab@gmail.com

HELP WANTED

Looking for an entry level employee to join our help desk.

Primary duties include inbound tech support calls and emails utilizing a project management, ticket tracking software. This is a part-time position, depending on experience and demand (15+ hours), in a flexible work environment. Available shifts are mid-day 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. and evenings 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Please send resumes to info@theankerconsultinggroup.com