May 16, 2023 — Carmel

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Jeff Worrell, who has coordinated the CarmelFest fireworks show for more than 30 years, holds an inert fireworks shell near the City Hall gazebo, a popular spot to watch the July 4 display. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Changes coming to July 4 CarmelFest fireworks show

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

trance to Gradle Drive.

Goodrich launches bid for Congress

EVENT

The skies over central Carmel will light up like never before July 4, as the CarmelFest fireworks display is set to be the longest yet. The 30-minute show will last nearly eight minutes longer than last year’s event, but it comes as a result of other changes planned for the two-day festival. Instead of having fireworks shows on the east and west sides of town July 3, this year a single show will take place on Independence Day.

“In the spirit of coming back together again, we have decided that it makes sense for a lot of reasons to do all of the fireworks on one night, as has been the tradition in Carmel for CarmelFest,” said Jeff Worrell, who has coordinated the fireworks show for more than 30 years “So, on July 4 at 9:45 p.m., we’re going to have the largest show we’ve ever had.”

CarmelFest added the two July 3 fireworks shows in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic caused the cancellation of the other aspects of the festival. It continued to present three shows in 2021 and 2022, but it created several challenges for organizers, such as spreading thin the city’s first responders, who are required to be present near launch sites for safety reasons.

Another change this year is that the fireworks will be launched from the Carmel Ice Skadium, meaning the display will be visible toward the southern end of the festival area instead of the north. To accommodate the new launch site, Third Avenue SW will be closed from north of Runyon Equipment Rental’s north en-

CarmelFest organizers will conduct a test show from the Carmel Ice Skadium launch site at 9 p.m. May 18. It will not light up the sky like a traditional show, instead displaying puffs of smoke, but it will include similar loud sounds.

The July 4 fireworks show will be set to music that will be played on speakers throughout the festival area and can be heard on 91.3 FM. The music must be played through an FM radio to be in sync with the show, as music streamed online has a delay.

Worrell, who is also a member of the Carmel City Council, said he knows that not everyone will like the changes, especially the reduced number of shows.

“We do not take that lightly. I understand that there will be people who will be disappointed, because I hear lovely stories about, ‘Our grandmother can’t get out, and so she could sit on the back stoop and take in the fireworks.’ So, I do regret that that is a consequence of this decision,” he said. “But on the public safety side, I think it (is outweighed by) our ability to provide the tradition of fireworks in a safe location, centralized around our festival with the adequate amount of security and safety personnel.”

One thing that hasn’t changed: CarmelFest is selling Spark buttons to support the fireworks show. The light-up pins come with a card that offers discounts at various local retailers and restaurants. Spark buttons will be available at the Carmel Farmers’ Market, All Things Carmel shop on Main Street and at the Wednesday evening concerts at the gazebo at City Hall. Learn more about CarmelFest at CarmelFest.net.

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

A state lawmaker from Noblesville has launched a bid for Congress.

POLITICS

Chuck Goodrich unveiled his plans May 5 at the Mill Top Banquet and Conference Center in Noblesville, where he was joined by his family and supporters in announcing his candidacy to represent Indiana’s 5th Congressional District. The district covers much of Hamilton County, in addition to Delaware, Grant, Howard, Madison and Tipton counties.

U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, who occupies the seat, isn’t seeking reelection. Goodrich, who also serves as president and CEO of Indianapolis-based electrical contractor Gaylor Electric, has been a state representative since 2018.

Goodrich said he has been able to grow his career and life with conservative Midwestern values, saying he has focused on grit, hard work and humility in raising his family. He said he plans to carry those values with him to Washington, D.C., if elected. Goodrich told the estimated crowd of more than 75 people that rising health care costs are “killing our nation” before adding that workforce development, inflation and illegal immigration “is just crushing our companies.”

“I want to bring my conservative perspective to that conversation in Washington, D.C.,” he said. “That’s the reason I want to go to D.C.”

Besides Goodrich, Madison County Prosecutor Rodney Cummings, a Republican, has also announced he will run for the seat.

do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

State Rep. Chuck Goodrich, R-Noblesville, announces May 5 at Mill Top Banquet and Conference Center that he is running for Congress.

(Photo by Matthew Kent)

Jump start your

Indy man arrested for robbery

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Police arrested an Indianapolis man May 8 for robbing Teachers

Credit Union on E. Carmel Drive in Carmel.

in Indianapolis, where Marty McConnell, 63, was arrested that evening. He was taken to the Hamilton County Jail and charged with robbery, theft of property between $50,000 and $750,000 and intimidation.

Police responded to the bank at approximately 4:50 p.m. after receiving a report that a suspect had presented a note to a teller demanding cash.

The investigation led police to an address

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Carmel Police Dept. Det. Brammer Wolf at 317-571-2500 or Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477. Reference CPD case number 23-32449.

New state law establishes rules for school library books

POLICE GOVERNMENT

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

A new law approved by the Indiana House and Senate and signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb establishes rules regarding school library materials that will allow any community member to ask for specific items to be removed from the shelves.

House Bill 1447 states that by Jan. 1, 2024, school governing bodies shall establish:

• Procedures for each school to prepare a catalog of materials available in the school library.

• Procedures for each school to allow a parent, guardian or any member of the community to submit a request to remove material from the school library that is obscene or harmful to minors.

• A response and appeal procedure for each school to respond to such requests.

The procedures must require that the governing body review a request at its next public meeting.

The governing bodies also must publish the catalogs and policies on the website of each school, and make hard copies available, according to the bill. Schools may not make material available that contains obscene matter or matter harmful to minors within a school library.

“Obscene” is defined in state statute. Matter or performances are considered obscene if:

• The average person, applying contemporary community standards, finds that the dominant theme of the matter

or performance, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest in sex;

• The matter or performance depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct; and

• The matter or performance, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

“Harmful to minors” also is defined in state statute. Matter or performances are considered harmful to minors if:

• It describes or represents, in any form, nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or sado-masochistic abuse;

• Considered as a whole, it appeals to the prurient interest in sex of minors;

• It is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community as a whole with respect to what is suitable matter for or performance before minors; and

• Considered as a whole, it lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors.

Carmel Clay Schools Supt. Michael Beresford said the district already has many components of the new law in place.

“We are fortunate that parents can monitor what books their students check out through digital resources,” he stated. “Until the details of the bill are unpacked and evaluated by our school counsel, we’re unsure what measures are needed. While we hope there will be no unintended consequences, we have concerns the new laws may have a negative impact on the growing teacher shortage.”

Read the full story at youarecurrent.com.

McConnell

Late councilor honored for impact

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

The late Carmel City Councilor Bruce Kimball was honored for his efforts to promote bicycling during the 2023 Greenways Foundation of Indiana Annual Awards Luncheon April 25 at Ritz Charles.

Karen Bohn, former president of the Greenways Foundation, said Kimball was “an avid supporter of trails” and encouraged people of all ages to use them.

TRAILS

The Greenways Foundation of Indiana supports the development of trails throughout the state. Each year it honors individuals and corporations for their contributions to the cause.

Kimball, who represented the Central District, died in December 2022 at age 70. At the luncheon, friends and colleagues recalled his advocacy for trails and bicycling in Carmel and beyond.

“Kimball’s goal was to encourage children and their parents to venture out together on their bicycles,” Bohn said. Kimball was posthumously awarded a plaque in recognition of his impact. His long-time friend Cindy Taylor accepted the award on his behalf. She shared about Kimball’s passion for bicycling and her hope for the Great American Rail-Trail, which is proposed to stretch 3,700 miles across the nation, to be completed in his honor.

“I know he’s up there watching us, so we must get this trail completed and be able to ride from Washington to Washington,” Taylor said.

Carmel Princesses looking forward to Indy 500 traditions

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mikayla Tom has been going to the Indianapolis 500 nearly her entire life.

fires, protect our nation and keep us well. That is why May is Epcon’s Hometown Heroes Month. Throughout the month, we are celebrating educators, law enforcement, firefighters, military personnel and medical professionals.

500 FESTIVAL

“My dad grew up in Speedway, and the 500 Festival and Indy 500 itself and everything in between has always weaved its way into my family traditions,” Tom said. “It’s been with me all while growing up. When my sister, Mary-Matalyn Tom, applied last year and became a 500 Festival Princess, I knew this year it was my year to apply, and I’m grateful I did.”

Tom, a 2019 Carmel High School graduate, is joined as a Princess by fellow Carmel resident Kendall Claymon, a Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School graduate. The Princesses are selected through an application process and must be between the ages of 18 and 23 and attend college in Indiana.

“I’m so excited to see the outreaches that I have that are interweaving to my family traditions and the 500 Festival traditions as well as the 500 Festival Parade,” Tom said. “My sister has coached me through how exciting all the events are, and just seeing the previous class’ beautiful friendships that are still carrying on to this day, they talk every single day. I’m so excited to have that in my life.”

Tom is a senior in the honors college studying business administration at Indiana University Kokomo. She has a concentration in marketing and a minor in new media art and technology.

Claymon, a freshman at Purdue University, is majoring in biomedical health sciences on a pre-dental track.

“I’ve known a few girls who’ve been Princesses in the past, and I’ve always gone to the parade as a little kid,” Claymon said. “I’m interested in all the outreach events I’ve been through so far and the ones I have in the future. I’ve done a few events with Girls on the Run. I love the opportunity to just inspire young women.”

When any of these Hometown Heroes* purchase an Epcon home in any of our Hamilton County communities, they will receive $3,000 towards HOA dues. This is our way of saying thank you and showing our gratitude to our heroes.

Kimball

Carmel residents Mikayla Tom, left, and Kendall Claymon at a 500 Festival Princess Program reception in Fishers. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

DISPATCHES

CPD hires crisis intervention specialist — The Carmel Police Department has hired a second full-time crisis intervention specialist. Jody Kennedy was previously a social worker at Damar Services where she worked the last six years. Crisis intervention specialists are responsible for coordinating and managing a variety of community mental health services for the public on police-related matters. Kennedy received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Purdue University and received a master’s degree in social work from IUPUI. CPD hired Hannah Cowles as its first specialist in March 2021.

Memorial Day Ceremony — The City of Carmel will hold a Memorial Day ceremony at 9 a.m. May 26 at the Carmel Clay Veterans Memorial Plaza, 800 3rd Ave. SW. The event is free and open to the public. The ceremony will include musical performances and a keynote address by Eric Donoho, a retired U.S. Army sergeant. A light breakfast will be provided courtesy of Allegion.

Street department group recognized — A group of women who work at the City of Carmel Street Dept. represented the city on a panel at the national Snow Conference put on by the American Public Works Association in Omaha, Neb. Staff members Paighton Armes, a skilled laborer; Terese Ariens, also a skilled laborer; and Crystal Edmondson, operations manager; were invited to sit on the panel and share their experiences of working in a male-dominated industry. According to the Federal Highway Administration, only about 13 percent of the jobs filled at street departments and other transportation-related industries are held by women. The Carmel Street Dept. employs 20 female employees in full-time, part-time and seasonal roles.

St. Luke’s recognized — St. Luke’s United Methodist Church is one of the six national Interfaith Power & Light 2023 Cool Congregations Challenge winners who each have been awarded a $1,000 prize. St. Luke’s won the Electric Vehicle Leader award for the work of their Creation Care Ministry in encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles as an important way to reduce the carbon pollution that causes climate change. Learn more at interfaithpowerandlight.org.

Kennedy

Series of challenges leads to Miss Indiana Teen USA pageant

By Jeff Decker news@currentincarmel.com

been challenging.

Since around third grade, Bochan has struggled with severe anxiety that caused her to miss days and even weeks of school, affecting her studies and friendships.

PAGEANT

Life has presented many challenges for Ellie Bochan in her 18 years. But those obstacles have taught her to stay determined, be flexible and remain upbeat.

She wants to teach others, especially young girls, about the power of positivity and confidence as she prepares to compete in the Miss Indiana Teen USA pageant. Bochan, the daughter of Dr. Mark and Angie Bochan of Carmel, will compete for the state crown July 16 and 17 at Noblesville High School.

Bochan, a high school senior who attends Laurel Springs, an online private college prep school, is a newcomer to pageant competitions. She and her mother watched a Miss Universe pageant on TV, and Bochan said the contestants’ ambition and determination inspired her to compete in the Miss Teen Indiana 2022 pageant. She had long wanted to be in pageants, but said she was timid and slightly awkward as a young girl.

“Fortunately, I grew out of that, and my new confidence and the encouragement of my parents has allowed me to reach for the stars,” she said.

Her path to pageant participation has

On Dec. 15, 2018, during Bochan’s eighth-grade year, her family’s home burned, and she lost everything. Her anxiety heightened as she missed more school.

The struggles continued, and she didn’t feel like she fit in at school.

The summer before her junior year, she was diagnosed with ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder and dyscalculia, a learning disorder. With treatment, her studies improved, but she still didn’t feel comfortable in a traditional school setting. She started high school at Park Tudor before transferring to Guerin Catholic and then opting for online studies.

“This was probably the best decision I ever made in my life,” said Bochan, who plans to attend Savannah College of Art and Design and study fashion design. “The fire may have been a horrible tragedy, and regular school may not have been my thing, but it has shaped me into who I am today.”

Bochan wants to use her platform to share what she has learned about being a confident and positive young woman.

RISING STAR COMPETITION SHOWCASES YOUNG PERFORMERS

The International Talent Academy’s second Carmel Arts Rising Star competition took place in March at the Monon Community Center. The event featured 65 artists ages 5 to 18 from central Indiana and beyond who showcased their musical talent. Winners received diplomas, trophies and medals. Learn more at internationaltalentacademy.org. (Photo courtesy of Tatyana Komarova)

Bochan

COMMUNITY

CARMEL

Project: Transmission line burial

Location:

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

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: Bridge patching

Location: 96th Street east of Hazel Dell Parkway. Work is set to begin on or after May 22 and take place between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. One lane of travel in each direction will be maintained at all times.

Expected completion: May 22

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

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

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

FISHERS

Project: 146th and Allisonville Interchange

Location: Phase 1 of construction for the grade separation intersection improvement will begin at 146th Street and Allisonville Road. One thru lane and one left turn lane in all directions will be closed through the intersection. Closures of Sowers Drive and Saville Road at 146th Street will be necessary in June. Additional notifications will be provided prior to the closures. In addition to these closures, the worksite speed limit will be 35 mph.

Expected completion: The entire project is set for completion in summer 2025

Hamilton Southeastern softball player possesses a powerful bat

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern High School senior third baseman Payton Fox credits her power surge to weight-lifting classes.

“In the beginning of my junior year, I would hit a lot of doubles that would one-hop the fence,” she said. “Now, I feel all those doubles from last year are just going out. So, getting stronger helped me a lot.”

Through May 8, Fox was hitting .492 with nine homers and 36 runs batted in for the Royals (14-5).

“She’s definitely a contact hitter, but she has some power,” Royals coach David Cook said.

This is Fox’s second year as a starter. She hit .427 with eight homers and 32 RBIs as a junior. She saw some action as a sophomore.

“She works at the game,” Cook said. “She works hard in the weight room. She is a

MEET PAYTON FOX

Favorite athlete: Michael Jordan

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite movie: “Pitch Perfect”

Favorite musician: Giveon

smart kid. She just does all the right things. We’ve moved her over to shortstop a couple of times when we’ve had to pinch-hit.”

Cook said Fox, who will play softball for Ball State University next season, is well suited to play third base.

“She has a strong arm, (is) hard-nosed and tough,” Cook said. “She’s not afraid of it because that’s part of the battle there. It’s

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a tough place to play.”

Fox said she tends to lead more by example than being vocal but has worked on

being more vocal.

“I was put in the Student Athletic Council at my school and that’s really helped me a lot,” Fox said. “We talk a lot about leadership in there, and you have to lead by more than example and you have to hold people accountable. I feel like I’ve been trying to work more on that. Being seen as a leader has made me more of one.”

This is her second year on the Student Athletic Council.

After losing in the sectional the past two seasons, Fox said the team goal is to win a sectional title.

“We have a lot of returning starters and we’ve grown a lot closer as a team, and that helps,” she said. “Last year, it took us (some time) to get that team chemistry, and this year we’re coming in with that team chemistry that we left off with.”

Fox started playing softball at age 7.

“I did dance and gymnastics when I was really little and I did soccer, too,” said Fox, who plans to major in architecture at Ball State. “I played basketball from fifth to eighth grade. I realized in high school I was playing basketball for my friends, but I was playing softball because I love the sport.”

team

Hamilton Southeastern High School senior third baseman Payton Fox will play for Ball State University next season. (Photo courtesy of Sorna Chockalingam)

Fox

Carmel woman wins Indy Mini

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

In her first time competing in the event, Carmel resident Anna Rohrer Heiny claimed the top spot among women who competed in the May 6 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. She competed the 13.1 miles with a time of 1:11:31.

ACHIEVEMENT

Heiny had competed in the Boston Marathon April 17, finishing with a 26.2-mile time of 2:30:52, and was eager to run again.

“I was really excited that there was another one that I could do and get to run in Indianapolis,” Heiny said. “I didn’t realize how big it is in the community, so it got me really excited.”

Heiny, 26, said her success at the 500 Festival showed her she is physically able to run at her previous level. In 2017, she suffered a back injury that affected her training.

“It’s a step in the right direction, recognizing my body can do this,” she said. “I’m figuring out the balance to staying healthy, and I’m enjoying it.”

As an athlete at Mishawaka High School in northern Indiana, Heiny won a combined

four IHSAA state titles in cross country and track and field and was selected the Foot Locker Female Cross-Country Athlete of the Year in 2015. She continued her success as a runner at the University of Notre Dame, winning a variety of titles in cross country and track.

In February 2024, Rohrer plans to participate in the U.S. Olympic Trials in Orlando. Heiny is the co-founder and vice president of operations for Dream Fuel, where she works as a mental performance coach.

SCENES FROM THE ONEAMERICA 500 FESTIVAL MINI-MARATHON

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Anna Rohrer Heiny of Carmel won the Mini-Marathon with a time of 1:11:31. (Photo by Edward Redd)

OneAmerica Mini-Marathon’s top three finishers are, from left, third place, Stan Linton, with a time of 1:04:50; first place, Panuel Mkungo, with a time of 1:01:44; and second place, Curtis Eckstein, with a time of 1:04:14 (Photos by Edward Redd)

Pacers’ G League team to call

Noblesville arena home

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Mad Ants, an affiliate in the NBA G League, plans to relocate to Hamilton County from Fort Wayne as part of a plan that will result in an 85,000-square-foot arena being constructed at Noblesville’s Finch Creek Park. City officials say the project could provide a major economic boost and transform the city’s east side.

The city and Pacers Sports & Entertainment announced a partnership May 8 that will result in a 3,400-seat arena being developed. The city is committing $36.5 million and will be responsible for issuing bonds to finance the design and construction of the facility, according to a 10-year partnership agreement.

The agreement, which was approved by the Noblesville Common Council May 9, includes $5 million in cash investment from Pacers Sports & Entertainment, which will also lead an effort to secure another $5 million in naming rights and signage over those 10 years.

Under the agreement, the Pacers will rent the event center for 10 years with a 10-year option with average rent averaging $500,000 annually over the 10-year term. The city would be responsible for issuing bonds to finance the design and construction of the facility, according to the agreement.

“We are excited to welcome Pacers Sports & Entertainment to Noblesville along with the players, coaches and staff of the G League team,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said. “The Pacers are an iconic brand with deep roots in central Indiana. Partnering with such an impactful organization

opens numerous opportunities for our community and drives forward our efforts for a larger sports and entertainment district with enhanced partnerships.”

The new arena is anticipated to open during the 2024-25 season, and the Mad Ants would play at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in the interim, officials said. City and team officials said they are working through due diligence steps with local partners and plan to build the arena at Finch Creek Park near the Mojo Up Sports Complex, which generates nearly 1 million visits per year.

Jensen said he expects the arena, which would be owned by the city, will draw 65,000 fans annually to Noblesville and Finch Creek just for games, which is already the second-most visited area in Hamilton County for sports visitors. He called the upcoming project “a game-changer” for the City of Noblesville.

Jensen said the city is working with the Pacers and other partners on programming options for the arena on days it is not used by the Pacers. The facility would be available for events like IHSAA tournaments and competitions, concerts, conferences, corporate events and graduations, he added.

Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Rick Fuson said the franchise will remain the Mad Ants through the 2023-24 season. A new team name and mascot will be unveiled prior to the 2024-25 season, he said.

Fuson said he thinks the arena could be a boost for the city ranging from more industries and additional restaurants, in addition to fans being able to see NBA-level talent in Noblesville.

“You’re going to see a lot of different folks playing here that play in the NBA,” he said.

As part of the partnership with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Noblesville plans to build a new 3,400seat, 85,000-square-foot arena on the east side of the city. (Photo courtesy of the city of Noblesville)

FBA BREAKS GROUND ON $12M FIELDHOUSE

It’s important for kids to keep up their math skills during the summer, so they’re ready for new material in the fall. Summer at Mathnasium allows them to do this right alongside their other summer activities, with flexible hours and in -center or online learning. And we make it so fun!

Brad Chambers of Buckingham Foundation gives remarks.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett throws out the first pitch at the opening day of FBA baseball, which coincided with the groundbreaking ceremony. FBA baseball players march in an opening day parade.

First Baptist Athletics broke ground May 6 on a $12 million fieldhouse and renovation project at 8600 N. College Ave. in Indianapolis. Many families from Carmel and surrounding areas participate in FBA’s youth sports programs. From left, FBA Executive Director Steve Carr, Sally Barrett, Bryan Barrett, Carol Chambers, Brad Chambers, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, Erik Barrett, Lauri Kauffman and Evan Beaver, senior minister of First Baptist Church of Indianapolis, break ground for the new fieldhouse. (Photos courtesy of Liz McDougall)

CURRENT

Q&A Getting to know Kwan Hui

Kwan Hui of Carmel is an avid gardener and volunteer with several local organizations.

What do you love most about gardening?

Enjoying the outcome of my hard work, which is a natural beauty. Also great exercise keeping me physically and mentally in good condition. What is the most difficult plant you’ve ever grown?

Rhododendron for outdoors and orchids for indoor.

What is your favorite plant to grow?

Oriental Tree Peony — called Mu Dan in Chinese, and Botan in Japanese.

What is your best habit?

Meeting people

What is your dream vacation? Train trips across many countries, U.S., Canada, Europe, Russia, etc. What food do you most dislike?

Raw beef served in a bowl of fresh beef blood.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I have not discovered that yet. But I have a wide spectrum of art appreciation capacity, I think, in gardening, landscaping, music, paintings, sculptures, antiques, performing arts, etc. I have my own Chinese performing art team.

Is there a book that you recommend to everyone?

I am not a good reader; if there is one book, probably the New Testament. What is your favorite meal in town?

I love seafood, especially served in Asian cuisine.

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CCHS Garden Tour set for June 2-3

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Clay Historical Society Executive Director Debbie Gangstad figures the annual Garden Tour is an excellent way to kick off the summer.

FUNDRAISER

The CCHS Garden Tour, set for June 2-3, features four gardens on the east side of Carmel.

“It’s a very relaxed event,” Gangstad said. It also kicks off summer fundraising. Gangstad said the nonprofit is getting closer to breaking ground on a new museum, possibly this summer. The Garden Tour, which is self-guided, helps support that mission.

The tour hours are 10 to 4 p.m. June 2 and 3. The wine and cheese evening tour is 5 to 9 p.m. June 2. A small glass of wine is available at each garden.

“The gardens are all different,” Gangstad said. “One is on a wooded lot. One features peonies in the garden. They bloomed early, but he has some more coming.”

Gangstad said it is a great time to speak with the gardeners for tips.

“It’s a community where people like to share their information,” Gangstad said. “They like everyone to be a gardener. One of the owners is a master gardener.”

Tour tickets are available at each garden. Tickets are $20 for day tours and $25 for the evening tour.

White’s Ace Hardware is the sponsor of the event. For more, visit carmelclayhistory. org/gardentour.

MISSION POSSIBLE BENEFITS ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF INDIANAPOLIS

A garden on the tour on Lakeshore Drive features peonies, the Indiana state flower. (Photo courtesy of CCHS)

Members and guests of the Assistance League of Indianapolis kicked up their heels at the Eiteljorg Museum April 22 for the Mission Possible fundraiser. Attendees enjoyed browsing exhibits, dinner, a silent auction and dancing led by Matt Moore of Five Star Dance Studios. Funds raised from the event support the philanthropic programs of the organization. Learn more or make a donation at alindy.org. Above, from left, Carmel residents Stan and Susan Kwiatkowski attend the fundraiser. (Photo courtesy of Kathy Kerr Wylam)

Carmel host gets to point in weekly ‘Omnibus’ podcast

By Jeff Decker news@currentincarmel.com

In a crowded world of high-volume, often contentious, frequently lengthy podcasts, a Carmel man offers an alternative.

MEDIA

David Gibbs is the host of “The Omnibus Show,” which debuted April 3. A new episode is available each Monday morning at TheOmnibusShow.com on The Omnibus Show YouTube channel and streaming services, including Spotify.

Gibbs’ podcast is billed as “the program for people who are interested in everything” and has featured guests who have discussed such wide-ranging topics as cake making, the performing arts, urban development and the motorsports industry. The episodes are recorded at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael, sponsor of the podcast.

The aim is to present a more grown-up podcast for those seeking informative, educational and intellectual discourse.

“Right now, there is a lot of ‘argy-bargy’ content that thrives due to our social divisions,” Gibbs said. “They have their place, but this show is like going to a table in a garden and talking about all kinds of subjects with anybody.”

Gibbs also wants the podcast to be succinct. The first four programs range from 16 to 42 minutes. Each episode is divided into chapters — one about the guest and what they do, and the second about what listeners can learn from the guest and what is ahead on upcoming podcasts.

“It’s very hard to live your life and listen to podcasts all day. Most people have to

work and do stuff,” Gibbs said. “You can have a deep conversation in a short time. If you get to the point, people will appreciate it.”

Gibbs, 59, grew up in northwest Indiana and studied journalism and photography at Indiana University in Bloomington, graduating in 1986. He has worked as a journalist for publications in Indiana, Seattle and Chicago. More recently he has pursued varied business interests.

Conducting interviews was part of Gibbs’ journalism training. It also ran in the family. His father, the late John Gibbs, was the executive producer of “City Desk,” a long-running interview show on NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV in Chicago. David Gibbs considers “The Omnibus Show” an homage to his father.

Gwendolyn Rogers, owner and CEO of The Cake Bake Shop in Carmel and Broad Ripple, was the podcast’s first guest. She said Gibbs was well-prepared for the interview, asked great questions and put her at ease during the recording of the episode.

“David had me laughing, and I felt like I was at home during the interview,” Rogers said. “He is very gentle and kind, and we had a very nice time.”

Gibbs hopes the “The Omnibus Show” has staying power. The competition is fierce. According to Podcast Index, more than 4 million podcasts are available to listeners, the number having surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Building an audience will take time, said Gibbs, who is among a staff of nine producing and promoting the broadcast.

“You do your best and hope it resonates with people,” he said.

world

Gibbs

STUDENTS, PROS COMPETE AT CHEFTACULAR

CHS senior joins STEM team

By Chris Bavender news@currentincarmel.com

Carmel High School students worked alongside professional chefs May 1 to prepare custom dishes at Cheftacular. The event was organized by the Carmel Culinary Boosters and served as a fundraiser for the CHS Culinary Arts and Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank.

ACHIEVEMENT

Carmel High School senior Katherine Yu has been selected for the Governor’s 2023 STEM Team. The award recognizes high school students who have demonstrated exceptional talent and accomplishments in the fields of science, technology, engineering or math.

Yu, 18, learned she had been named to the team while at a fencing club meeting surrounded by friends.

“It means I have the opportunity to show others that it is possible to overcome challenges if you work hard and don’t let someone telling you ‘no’ stop you. I haven’t always been successful in math, but I kept asking for more opportunities to prove myself,” Yu said. “I failed a math placement test to get into honors math in fifth grade, but I asked for another honors math placement test in seventh grade and self-studied enough and ended up passing. Last year, I got a 5

in AP Calculus BC, so I’ve been successful in proving that I can succeed in math, even though it may not come the most naturally to me.”

Yu learned about the STEM Team application process from her IB Biology professor, Jeremy Cook. Yu said she is interested in STEM because it “can explain the world while offering new perspectives to view life.”

As for the sciences, chemistry is Yu’s favorite.

“It joins together all the other sciences and is therefore the most essential one in my opinion,” Yu said.

In her free time, Yu volunteers at Sunrise on Old Meridian, an assisted living facility in Carmel.

In addition to being selected to the Governor’s 2023 STEM Team, Yu received a $1,000 scholarship and a letterman’s jacket. Yu will attend Williams College in the fall to study chemistry while and pre-med. She also plans to apply to Williams College and Columbia University’s 3-2 program for Liberal Arts and Engineering.

Documentary explores CHTV

By Edward Redd news@currentincarmel.com

A Carmel High School student’s project for his Carmel High TV class turned into a documentary on the station itself.

PREMIERE

The one-hour program by junior Jack Ringenberg will debut at 5 p.m. May 19 in the CHTV classroom at the school.

Ringenberg, who began his research in November 2022, said every semester students in the CHTV elective course make long-format projects that must be at least seven minutes in length. While working on his first semester project, he decided he wanted to focus on the history of CHTV during the second semester but found very little information about it.

“Prior to the documentary, no one really knew when CHTV started,” Ringenberg said. “That was really my driving question. When was CHTV started? Why was it started?”

CHTV advisor Brandy Ostojic expressed amazement with the extent of Ringen-

berg’s efforts to thoroughly research the topic. Ostojic enjoyed that it brought back familiar faces to the classroom.

“My former colleagues who came in to interview were super excited to come back,” Ostojic said. “Mr. Espey was excited to be back. It’s cool that he’s bringing everyone back into the fold.”

Hal Espey is the founder of CHTV. He was among the several CHS staff and alumni that Ringenberg has tracked down to uncover the program’s history, some of whom are featured in the documentary.

Ringenberg said he hopes to show viewers of the documentary how to think critically about the history of something they love.

“I want this documentary to be something that can last for 20 or 30 years and then I want someone to remake it someday with updated information,” Ringenberg said.

The public can watch the documentary at jackringenberg.com on Ringenberg’s YouTube channel @jacksportfolio at 5 p.m. May 19.

Yu Ringengberg

From left, Kim Lenox, a CHS teacher; Tiffany Shannon, a CHS teacher; and Joe Spencer, spouse of a CHS teacher.

From left, Max Lane joins Becky Lane, owner of Becky the Bakester, and Sam Simmons, a CHS freshman, at a booth.

From left, CHS junior Zack Bishop works with Ray Guffey, kitchen manager at The Bridgewater Club.

From left, CHS culinary students Abby Miller and Anna Graham, both sophomores.

From left, sisters Camil McGhee, a freshman, and Asha McGhee, a senior.

From left, chef Emily Daily of Le Petit Gateau works with CHS senior Sophie Cassidy. (Photos by Adam Seif)

‘I DID NOT QUIT’

After 35 years of overcoming challenges, Carmel man earns long-awaited college degree

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

For Jon McMath, the road to earning his college diploma was longer than most.

When the Carmel resident turned the tassel at Marian University’s commencement ceremony May 6, it fulfilled a dream that began 35 years ago when he was accepted as a student at Indiana University, a journey with one twist after another.

In 1988, two weeks after graduating from Tipton High School, McMath and his ex-girlfriend were in an automobile accident that put his plans to attend Indiana University in Bloomington that fall on hold.

“She was only injured on her eyebrow, but she doesn’t remember anything,” McMath said. “I remember everything.”

McMath’s spinal cord was severely damaged in the accident, leaving him a parapalegic. After spending much of his summer in the hospital, he decided to begin college on schedule but enrolled at IU Kokomo, which was closer to home. In 1990, he finally joined his friends at IU Bloomington, but it didn’t go well at either campus.

McMath said he had such severe pain in his legs that it made daily life — let alone college classes — extremely difficult. So, in 1992, he moved to downtown Indianapolis with his brother, where he tried taking classes at IUPUI. But the pain continued, and McMath decided to drop out of school.

By 1999, McMath and his first wife were expecting a son. Tired of living with severe pain, he decided to undergo an experimental procedure (with a low rate of success) only being performed at one medical facility at the time. Thankfully, it worked.

“I knew I could not be a good father with the pain, and I wanted so much to be a good father,” McMath said. “Getting rid of the pain opened up life for being a dad, business owner and being able to finish my degree.”

Feeling renewed, McMath got a job at Carmel-based Conseco, where he worked his way up to an assistant vice president position. But it always bothered him that he hadn’t achieved his goal of earning a college degree, something he had promised his grandmother he would do before her death in 1995.

So, when Conseco held an event featuring higher education opportunities, he decided to enroll at Marian College, now known as Marian University. But once again, his life took a turn, as he soon went through a divorce and found it difficult to manage through the upheaval it caused while still working and going to school. His college plans were back on hold.

In 2010, McMath made a career change when he bought the NAPA Auto Parts store in Tipton from his father. Eight years later, he bought one in Kokomo. In between, he renewed his promise to earn his diploma — this time to his mother, before she died in 2016.

In 2012, McMath married Mona Kheiry, who in 2017 became director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Marian University. With his wife now working at the school he most recently attended (and now eligible for a tuition break), it seemed the right time for McMath to finish college — more than three decades after he started.

At the commencement ceremony, McMath received a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with honors.

“I’m so proud of him and all the hard work he put into it,” Kheiry said. “Watching him graduate over the weekend was extremely heartwarming. This journey has symbolized him overcoming an aspect of his accident. He hasn’t let it stop him from doing anything in life. Now, that also includes getting his degree.”

Becoming a college graduate isn’t expected to change daily life much for McMath, who continues to own and operate his two automotive stores. He had already found business and personal success without a diploma, but he never considered not fulfilling his longtime dream.

“I kept pushing forward in life, with each obstacle just another challenge,” he said. “So, when I was on the stage going across to shake the president’s hand, I thought about how I did not quit, but (also how) I kept pushing forward. It is who I

am and what I do. Call it perseverance or persistence, I keep pushing forward to be better today than I was yesterday.”

ON THE COVER: Jon McMath, center, with his wife, Mona Kheiry, left, and son, Parker McMath at Marian University on graduation day. (Photo courtesy of Jon McMath)

JON MCMATH’S JOURNEY

1988 — Between May 19 and June 4, turns 18, graduates from Tipton High School and is in automobile accident that causes spinal cord injury

1988 — Starts college at IU Kokomo in August

1990 — Begins classes at IU Bloomington

1992 — Moved to Indianapolis and began taking classes at IUPUI

1999 — Successful DREZ lesion surgery to reduce pain, begins working at Conseco in Carmel; son, Parker born 3 months premature

2005 — Begins classes at Marian College

2010 — Bought NAPA Auto Parts from father in Tipton

2012 — Marries Mona Kheiry

2018 — Bought NAPA Auto Parts in Kokomo

2022 — Went back to Marian University

2023 — Graduates from Marian University with a business administration degree with honors

Jon McMath, right, receives his degree in business administration – with honors – from Daniel J. Elsener, president of Marian University. . (Photos courtesy of Jon McMath)

Jon McMath owns NAPA Auto Parts stores in Tipton and Kokomo.

WHAT’S NEW AT 2023

Ace Hardware coming to VOWC

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Ace Hardware is coming to a new building in the Village of WestClay.

Commercial real estate investment firm KennMar has acquired 1.77 acres on the southwest corner of Harleston Street and Towne Road and plans to construct a 20,000-square-foot single-tenant retail center to house the hardware store. Construction is set to begin this quarter, with the building expected to be complete in early 2024.

“Our vision for development projects is that they fit seamlessly into the community,” stated Brent Benge, president and CEO of KennMar. “By adding an Ace Hardware within the Village of WestClay, this new

store will not only complement existing retailers, it will also fill a need in the area by providing nearby residents with more convenient access to home improvement supplies.”

Speedway-based KennMar also owns Brookshire Village Shoppes in northeast Carmel, which underwent significant renovations and landed anchor tenant Needler’s grocery store after KennMar purchased the site in 2019. Other KennMar properties in Indiana include Spring Mill Station in Westfield, The Pyramids in Indianapolis and Harvest Landing in Avon.

The WestClay property previously was proposed as the site of a convenience store and gas station, but those plans fell through after the city passed an ordinance prohibiting gas stations within 500 feet of residences.

DISPATCHES

Tuesday Morning to close — Tuesday Morning, a national retailer that operates a store in Carmel at 2188 E. 116th St., is closing all of its stores. A going-out-of-business sale is under way, with up to 30 percent discounts offered on lowest ticketed prices. Tuesday Morning also has a store in Indianapolis at 6935 Lake Plaza Dr. Learn more at TuesdayMorning.com.

O’Malia’s Living buys showroom — O’Malia’s Living now owns the spacious showroom in Carmel it has leased since 2002 and is moving ahead with expanded marketing to increase sales. The company bought the showroom building on Carmel’s Medical Drive when its landlord decided to sell. O’Malia’s Living owner, Scott Horvath, secured a loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration 504 program to buy the building. Horvath said O’Malia’s Living has added sales person-

nel, increasing its payroll to 15 people and is investing in showroom improvements in the next one to three years.

Telamon recognized — Telamon Corporation has been selected as a 2023 US Best Managed Company. The program, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies and the achievements of their management teams. Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and governance/ financial performance.

KAR hires CFO — Carmel-based KAR Auction Services, which is rebranding to OPENLANE, has named Brad Lakhia as chief financial officer.

Ace Hardware is set to open in a building on the southwest corner of Towne Road and Harleston Street. (Rendering courtesy of KennMar)

BUSINESS LOCAL

KAR rebrands as OPENLANE

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel-based KAR Auction Services will rebrand as OPENLANE, with the change becoming official at the corporate level May 15.

VEHICLES

The move reflects the company’s transformation to a more asset-light, digital marketplace, according to a press release.

“Our vision is to build the world’s greatest digital marketplace for used vehicles, and we are advancing that vision by bringing together all of our sellers, buyers and vehicles under OPENLANE,” stated Peter Kelly, the company’s CEO. “Over the past decade, we’ve built and acquired some of the leading digital platforms in our industry. Combining the best features and functionality from this technology and unifying our supporting operations will help us create the fastest, easiest and most active digital

marketplace available.”

KAR acquired OPENLANE, an internet-based business-to-business automotive remarketing company, in 2011. Kelly served as OPENLANE CEO at the time. He became CEO of KAR in April 2021.

The company plans to combine its ADESA and TradeRev platforms in Canada to create its first OPENLANE-branded marketplace in June. In the U.S., it is focused on rolling out a new live-auction format, which will be followed by integrating its existing platforms into a combined OPENLANE marketplace. The new brand will be used in Europe operations, too.

The company reported facilitating the sale of approximately 1.3 million vehicles in 2022, with a gross merchandise value of more than $23 billion. Its common stock will continue to trade under the ticker symbol “KAR” on the New York Stock Exchange. Learn more at OpenLane.com.

PMG captures 6 honors

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youcurrent.com

After having twin boys in December 2015, TV journalist Nicole Pence Becker learned she was pregnant again.

ACHIEVEMENT

“So, I delivered three babies in 13 months,” said Pence Becker, who left her job as CBS4/WTTV morning anchor in 2017. “I had like a mini-day care. I was changing 30 diapers a day. I only left television because that was what was necessary for our family. I loved my job on television, but it just didn’t work.”

When it was time to start doing something outside the home, she started Pence Media Group, a digital and media consultancy, in 2019. She said PMG really took off in 2020.

“PMG was created to offer the opportunity for startups, Fortune 500s or growing companies to have that agency’s full-service support with a group of experts at the table,” said Pence Becker, who lives in Westfield with her husband and four sons, who are 7 and younger. “It’s been an awesome opportunity for me, because I felt we’ve been able to help people and scale their businesses with and for them.”

That hard work was rewarded recently

when Pence Media Group, which is based in Carmel, won six MUSE Creative Awards, which are part of MUSE international awards, including a gold award for the best Small Agency of the Year.

Pence Becker said the model at PMG has allowed her to bring in talented staff, mostly women who wanted more flexibility for their families, to do what the agency does best, which is marketing, communications and public relations.

“It’s been a really satisfying thing to win that award, to be honest,” Pence Becker said.

For its work on the 95th National FFA Convention and Expo, PMG won a gold award for the event conference/convention and silver for social media for a live event.

PMG won a silver award for its video of a Riley Children’s Hospital Virtual Prom. PMG provided its services pro bono with Women for Riley, a philanthropic group within the foundation for the video project.

PMG won a gold medal for its event video from the Sugar Factory Indianapolis VIP Great Opening Party, which featured a DJ performance by Nick Cannon.

PMG also earned a silver award for its video in the children’s category for Kids 360 Early Learning Academy.

Learn more at PenceMediaGroup.com.

Pence Becker

D1 Training gym features sport-science training regimen

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Tayt Odom is convinced D1 Training differs from other fitness facilities.

“What makes us different is we are an athletic-based training facility,” Odom said.

“When you think of (NCAA) Division I sports teams and athletic departments, they incorporate speed, strength and everything around to make their student-athletes better athletes. Our programs are based on those types of models, which are not typically seen and done for the general public. It’s an hour workout that uses all phases of those things.”

D1 Training, which was scheduled to open May 15 in Carmel, will have its grand opening May 30 at 650 W. Carmel Dr., Suite 120.

Odom, a Fishers resident, is co-owner with Jeff Peterson, a Pendleton resident. The Carmel franchise is the partners’ second D1 Training in Indiana. The other is in the MoJo Up Sports Complex in Noblesville. D1 Training was created by former University of Tennessee football player Will Bartholomew and is based in Nashville, Tenn. D1 Training began franchising in 2017.

Odom is a business teacher and an assistant football coach at Bishop Chatard High School. He left the business consulting world to get back into coaching and teaching. The facility uses a sport-science training regimen led by

certified trainers.

“If it was just training, I probably wouldn’t be involved in doing it,” Odom said. “What ultimately got Jeff and I both involved in it is we have 12-character words on the wall, like perseverance, discipline and integrity. Not only do we work on training the physical body, but we want to have an impact on mental, social and emotional wellbeing. When I say athlete, it could be anybody, it could be the 65-year-old former Marine who needs to lose weight or the 15-year-old soccer player who is looking to get the scholarship to play in college.”

Don’t let your back hold you back.

Back pain, neck pain, numbness in your extremities, and movement disorders can turn everyday tasks into painful challenges.

With self-referral appointment options, Community Health Network makes it simple to start your road to recovery. Find personalized care for your pain at Community.

Learn more about your neurosurgery options at eCommunity.com/neuro

Or call 317.621.2727 to schedule an initial evaluation.

Odom and Peterson also own 11 SmartStyle Salons in Indiana.

Odom, 43, has coached football at the youth level and was president of Mudsock Youth Football League in Fishers. Odom played football for the Pioneer’s Class A state championship team in 1997.

“I love being around kids and impacting kids,” said Odom, whose eighth-grade son will attend Chatard in the fall.

The general manager of the facility is Michelle Blok, who will run the day-to-day operations. Blok is a former Ball State University soccer player.

“We’ve got a team of coaches who have a diverse background in lots of sports, including a former NFL athlete, and a bunch of folks who can help address any need that an athlete may have,” Odom said.

The former NFL athlete is linebacker Andrew Jackson, who played one season for the Indianapolis Colts.

“Jeff and I will oversee the business side of things and make sure we provide the things the team needs to be successful,” Odom said.

D1 offers adult and scholastic-based classes on a daily basis. In addition, there is 1-on-1 training, sport-specific training and speed-agility training.

D1 Carmel offers four age-based programs: Rookie (ages 7-11), Developmental (ages 12-14), Prep (ages 15-18) and D1 Adult. The facility will offer discounted membership rates for a limited time.

For more, visit d1training.com/carmel.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE. SIMPLY DELIVERED.

Tayt Odom is the co-owner of the new D1 Training facility in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of D1 Training)

Missing symbols of Carmel’s past

Editor,

I was raised in Carmel and graduated in 1974. My sister and I attended three elementary schools during the first Carmel boom years. Growing up here was wonderful!

I now have a second home back in Carmel as of December. I love being “back home again in Indiana.” I still love the sycamore trees, Cool Creek, Acorn Farm, White River and all the beautiful wildflowers.

Things that were important to me are being torn down and made into three-story buildings. Why did they tear down the grain elevator? This was a symbol of our past.

However, I have to confess that whenever I go by the little roundabout on Range Line Road and 111th street, I contemplate coming back in the dead of night to place my own sculpture and call it “art.”

Who in Carmel is speaking the truth to power? I have been faithfully reading Current each week. There are a few, but who is really listening?

You all speak of honoring our Carmel history. Who really has the power to make decisions for Carmel’s best long-term interests?

The Rev. Krista Cameron, Carmel

Let’s hear from the candidates

Editor,

The voters have voted in the primaries and now we prepare for the November election. The future of Carmel builds on its past and requires forward-thinking leadership. We need to schedule debates between opposing candidates so we, the voters, can hear firsthand what vision they have for Carmel. We don’t need candidates to just read a prepared paper to us; we need a real debate where questions are asked by an objective moderator, candidates have opportunities to answer, and time for rebuttals is provided. We need debates accessible to all voters to watch both live and through social media streaming sites.

Voters know the importance of going beyond the “R” and the “D” on the ballots as we take time to learn about all candidates running. What do their websites say? What do we hear from them when they meet with voters? What is the experience they bring to the position they are seeking? What are their values that will help shape their decision-making process?

Then we can consider ways we can support our candidates through financial donations to their campaign and by volunteering to work on the campaign by writing postcards, making phone calls, canvassing areas.

Shelley Carey, Carmel

My loyal sidewalk friends

Editor’s note: John P. Schleeter is a member of Carmel Creative Writers, Inc. and submitted the following short work.

Editor,

Whenever walking along Main Street in Carmel, Indiana.

I cherish an opportunity,

To see my loyal sidewalk friends. These friends are always present to greet locals and guests.

One quietly reading the daily news, Another walking her leashed pet, While another plays his violin for dollar tips.

A small child eagerly waters her flowers, And potted plants from a mini spout.

And a sailor greets his sweetheart with a swooping hug, Upon arriving home from a long assignment abroad.

These folks are street greeters, During Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, Never changing clothes due to heat or cold, Rather constant in their presence throughout the year.

I would love to get to know these friendly ones, But that is not to be.

For they are made of bronze and paint, Everlasting sculptures for all of us to see.

John P. Schleeter, Westfield

“I didn’t get anything else out of the other doctors I saw except fuse my ankle. Dr. Sullivan took

time to talk with me, examine my foot and ankle, offer the custom made brace as a choice, and explain all of my options. I can’t say enough about him.”

David Ferrin, ankle and wound patient

You’ve got (a lot of) mail

Commentary by Terry Anker

“Thank you for calling,” mollifies the monotone automated attendant, “the number you have reached has a mailbox that is full and cannot take messages.” What are we supposed to do now? How can someone be so inattentive as to not take a moment to delete a few older communications? In our mind’s eye, we see the physical mailbox at the curb stuffed with paper, exploding from its open door and piled on the ground. Is the good homeowner on an extended vacation and neglected to notify the U.S. Postal Service of their prolonged absence? Are they trapped in their home, fallen and unable to get up? Should we notify the authorities? Happily, it rarely comes to this predicament. Most often, folks empty the tin can on a post at driveway’s end with some regularity. Many even enjoy the walk and retrieval.

In these digital times, we have come to relish less the incoming ping of “You’ve got mail,” often discovering in it more annoyance than joy. Routinely, callers are met

with an outgoing voice message that proclaims — this mailbox is not monitored, and the interaction will not receive a response. Maybe they want us to text them. Maybe they are simply information overloaded. The crammed inbox rejection is a defense mechanism from the endless onslaught of interaction.

Last week, Microsoft shared that a personal account was dangerously close to running out of space. It reported 400 megabytes available out of 50 gigabytes (if you ask, the internet tells us that to be about 0.8 percent). How is it possible? The calendar goes back awhile, and the old messages list is lengthy. But still, how did it get so bad? Could it be time to let it overflow? What’s the harm of locking the door and hiding inside? Would anyone even notice?

Couldn’t be critically catty — darn it!

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

I love weddings. The rituals, the pageantry, the occasional drama. Mostly, I enjoy the people-watching and the opportunity to silently pass judgment on anything and everything, from the food to the timing to the bar placement. I know it’s wrong, but I can’t help myself. My mom owned a catering business when I was a kid and is still the queen of party planning. I come by my critical cattiness very naturally.

Anyhoo, my husband Doo and I recently attended a fantastic event where, honestly, I couldn’t find much to complain about. For starters, the ceremony was adorable. The two ring bearers were dressed as mini-security officers complete with briefcases and tactical earpieces. One of the flower girls decided she’d had enough and left mid-vows, just sauntered up the hill and disappeared around the house. And it was the perfect length of time, not too long, not too short. No full Catholic Mass here!

Cocktail hour was also great. Doo and I stuffed our faces with mini mozzarella balls and gorgonzola cheese and met a couple who’d known Doo when he was young. “You were that tiny boy with glasses!” And it didn’t hurt that both the weather and venue were gorgeous. Partly cloudy, temps in the mid-70s, and a classical revival mansion circa 1915? Yes, please!

The only real annoyance was one of our dinner companions, an older gentleman who, when he learned that I’m a U.S. history teacher, immediately asked if I taught that “woke stuff.” Oh, lord, here we go.

We have a couple more weddings lined up this spring, so stay tuned, friends. Hopefully, they’ll be spectacularly awful!

Peace out.

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

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

Dr. Jeremy Ciano OD Dr. Katherine Schuetz OD Dr. Hannah Wilson OD

Dr. Kimberly Hall OD

VIEWS

Sick of this sick room

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

We just got back from Washington, D.C. I was there for a reunion with old college friends who I worked with on The Hatchet, our award-winning newspaper back in the ‘60s at The George Washington University. I was a humor columnist, and that’s where I got my start in journalism.

SLIDERS?” suggested Mary Ellen. She ended up leaving all my meals on a table in the hallway. I had to exit my office, wearing my mask, and then return to my room, quickly shutting the door.

HUMOR

My wife Mary Ellen and I had a super time, but I hope the event wasn’t a super-spreader. I came home with COVID-19.  Who did I get it from? I don’t know, but even if I did, I am a good reporter. I would never reveal my source.

When we left for D.C., I was excited about the get-together, but meeting up with COVID-19 again was not the reunion I was looking forward to. This was my second bout with the illness.

When we arrived home and I complained of a sore throat, Mary Ellen blamed it on my incessant talking for three days, but she made me take a COVID-19 test. When it was positive, she panicked because she had her own reunion coming up and didn’t want to miss it.

The first thing she did was isolate me in my home office and forbid me to leave it. All our communication was through the closed door. I was never to open it. For a guy who is hard of hearing, this was tough.

“WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR DINNER?” my wife asked loudly.

“Does it have to slip under the door?” I asked.

“YES, HOW ABOUT A DOZEN WHITE CASTLE

“HOW’S THAT SLOPPY JOE?” she asked.

“I dripped a lot all over the carpet.”

“DICK, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO TAKE OFF YOUR MASK WHEN YOU ARE EATING.”

Mary Ellen would often ask what I was doing to keep busy. I told her I was watching the National Geographic special about elephants.

“I thought we would watch that together?” She said.

“OK, I’LL WATCH BASEBALL,” I told her. “YOU HATE BASEBALL.”

“DICK, WHY ARE YOU YELLING AT ME?”

“I forgot who was hard of hearing.”

By the third day, I missed seeing Mary Ellen. I heard the shower running, so I figured it would be safe to talk to her outside the glass sliding door. When she saw me, she used her finger to scroll a message on the fogged-up glass. I hoped it would be a note about how much she also missed seeing me. It said: GO AWAY! OK, this was not a “Love, Actually” moment, but at least we were communicating.

I am better now, and Mary Ellen is headed for her reunion. Before she left, I wished I had asked if I could come out of my room.

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.

“I came home with COVID-19. Who did I get it from? I don’t know, but even if I did, I am a good reporter. I would never reveal my source.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Carmel car collector to sell vehicles to raise funds for nonprofit projects

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Craig Dobbs has more than 30 cars in his collection, but that number will soon dwindle.

‘BEAUTY

AND THE BEAST’

“Beauty and the Beast” is set to run from May 18 through July 9 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘AN EVENING WITH NATALIE MERCHANT’

PHILANTHROPY

“Some of the cars I’ve had for so long,” he said. “If I haven’t driven it for four or five years, I’ll probably sell it.”

The longtime Carmel resident is consigning three cars to sell at Mecum Auctions’ 36th Original Spring Classic at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. The auction began May 12 and runs through May 20. Dobbs is selling a 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Fastback, a 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Super Sport and a 1970 Chevrolet Nova Super Sport. He estimates the Chevelle will sell for about $70,000. He also is selling two other cars to private buyers.

Dobbs founded Children’s TherAplay, which uses hippotherapy to help children with disabilities. Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational and speech therapy that uses the natural gait of and movement of a horse to provide motor and sensory input. The nonprofit was created in 2001, using Dobbs’ Lucky Farms in Carmel.

“I’m hoping to raise around $300,000 between the five cars,” he said. “We’re doing it for scholarships for the kids who can’t afford TherAplay. Even though all the kids are supposed to have insurance, it doesn’t always work that way. We’ll even pay the deductible for the kids.”

The other objective is to rehab the old Jimtown High School gym to make it a community center for children.

TherAplay started with two horses, one therapist and a barn helper. Dobbs said there are 16 physical and occupational therapists, two speech therapists and two doctors. Dobbs said there is a waiting list of 80 to 100 children.

“We are trying to whittle that down with some of the expansion we did,” Dobbs said. “There are plans for a community outreach center next year.”

Dobbs had a 1970 Nova Super Sport when he was in high school similar to the one he is selling, but it was canary yellow.

Dobbs, a managing director with the investment firm Graystone Consulting, has cars stored at his other properties, in Kosciusko County, in a maintenance facility in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Florida.

Dobbs purchased six cars from one Mecum show in Indianapolis, the only time he has made purchases at that show.

“Mecum has been good to me,” he said.

Many of Dobbs’ purchases have come from estate sales.

“I’ve sold and upgraded a little bit of what I have in the collection,” Dobbs said.

“I’m trying to find more things that I will drive.”

Dobbs, 58, owns several muscle cars.

“When I was younger, I wanted to buy a GTO Judge convertible and I have one now,” he said. “I grew up with them and couldn’t afford them, but I love to have them. The Corvette I have is 1964, the year I was born. My uncle was married that year and he built that. He sold it to me for $20,000, which is what he had into it, with the promise I couldn’t sell it until he passed away. I have a 1967 Lincoln Continental with suicide door.”

For more, visit mecum.com.

“An Evening with Natalie Merchant: Keep Your Courage Tour” will stop at 7:30 p.m. May 16 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘ALICE IN WONDERLAND’

Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present “Alice in Wonderland” May 20-21 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit cidedance.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Jeremiah Cosner will perform at 7:30 p.m. May 18 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. A performance of Jim Caruso’s Cast Party with Billy Stritch at the Piano is set for 7:30 p.m. May 19-20. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘LOW BRASS TO THE FORE’

Indiana Wind Symphony presents “Low Brass to the Fore” at 6:30 p.m. May 21 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

Public Universal Friend to perform May 31 — The Live at the Center series will feature Public Universal Friend at 7:30 p.m. May 31 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Public Universal Friend is an Indianapolis-based art rock band fronted by singer-songwriter Jody Galadriel Friend. After a decade-plus solo career, Friend released the album “Perennials” under the PUF name in March 2021, soon after coming out publicly as a trans woman. Her songwriting style has roots in emo and post-punk as well as Appalachian roots and spiritual music, with a unique lyrical perspective of identity, faith and gender-expansive existence. Tickets are pay-whatyou-can with a $5 minimum, or register above for the free livestream at thecenterpresents.org (with optional donation).

Craig Dobbs with a 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Fastback. (Photo by Adam Seif)

Bone records on display Art of Wine set to return — again

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

EXHIBITS EVENT

Art of Wine organizers are hoping a date change brings better luck.

Held in July in previous years, the event has moved to 5 to 10 p.m. May 20 in the Carmel Arts & Design District. For various reasons, Art of Wine was canceled the previous four years.

In 2019, it was canceled because the City of Carmel was under extreme heat warnings, making it a bit dangerous to have people drinking alcohol instead of cold nonalcoholic beverages. The event was on hiatus in 2020 and 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was canceled last year for a different reason.

“In 2022, we had hoped to bring the event back, but on the day of the event, severe weather warnings were issued throughout the state of Indiana, including Carmel, and several of the wineries who had booked a spot on Main Street let us know early in the day that they would not be traveling to an event that was likely to be canceled due to severe storms,” said

Anne O’Brien, City of Carmel community relations. “Ironically, those storms never materialized, but due to the warnings and the multiple cancellations, we decided to cancel the event in its entirety. We are hoping that by moving the event to a date earlier in the year, we can avoid extreme heat and dangerous storms.”

Lost Wax will perform on the main stage from 8 to 10 p.m. Lost Wax specializes in a unique mashup music style that fuses pop, rock, hip-hop and R&B from six decades of hits. Local acoustic bands will perform throughout the festival from 4 to 8 p.m.

There will be 12 Indiana wineries on-site represented on the wine tasting ticket. For more, visit CarmelArtofWine.com.

The Great American Songbook Foundation’s most unusual display has fittingly found a home at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics in Carmel.

Forté Sports Medicine is a title sponsor for the exhibit, which features bootlegged copies of early rock ‘n’ roll, blues and jazz recordings that were etched into used X-ray film for underground sharing among music fans in the former Soviet Union, where Western music was illegal. Although the film is cut into the disc, with a cigarette used to burn a spindle hole in the center, the images of ribs and other bones are still clearly visible.

In 1958, an American doctorate student, Richard Judy, joined one of the first exchange programs with Moscow State University. When he arrived in the USSR, he quickly discovered that Russian students were listening to American music available on flimsy X-rays from back-alley merchants. Judy was fascinated by the bone records and bought several during his time in the

USSR. The Indianapolis doctor donated six or seven bone records to the Great American Songbook Foundation in 2013. After Judy died in September 2020, his wife, Jane Lommel, donated the rest of the 18-record collection.

“Prior to the donation of the Judys, I was not aware of bone records,” said Michael Feinstein, founder of the Greater Songbook Foundation. “It was extraordinary to learn not only about the history but the technology and how they figured a way to bring music to the Soviet Union in the 1950s. It’s amazing how music, culture and history all conflate.”

Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics CEO Marty Rosenberg said his company was looking for something that resonates with the community besides sports.

“We have X-rays and we’re an orthopedic group,” Rosenberg said. “We have an opportunity to partner with a local organization with a national footprint. We’re an independent group and this is the spirit of independence. It’s been the perfect partnership.”

There also is a display in the south lobby of the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

‘Beauty and the Beast’ set

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

MUSICAL

Elizabeth Stark Payne treasures the family shows at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre.

“Maybe because I have young children or maybe because I’m still a kid at heart,” Payne said.

Payne will direct “Beauty and the Beast,” which runs May 18 to July 9 at Beef & Boards in Indianapolis.

“Being surrounded by talented people all day, creating Disney magic, envisioning those little kids dressed as Belle or Beast with smiles, what’s not to love and look forward to?” Payne said. “I stage managed the last production back in 2016 while I was pregnant with my first daughter. My mother (Suzanne Stark) played Mrs. Potts, so it was a special time. I also did props and was the company manager for this and the previous 2005 production.”

Payne, a Fishers resident and Carmel High School graduate, is a Beef & Boards co-owner along with her father Doug Stark and two brothers.

“Every theater has their own special quirks that may be considered challenges, but I like to think of it as thinking outside the box,” Payne said. “Many Disney productions have a lot of spectacle to them, meaning big sets, big costumes and lots of effects. We are an intimate venue, so we don’t necessarily have the space for what you would find in a big Broadway proscenium house. So, I like to think outside the box to give the audience the spectacle they want within the intimate setting. I think it works out great, especially because it gets the kids up close and personal to the characters.”

Payne said “Beauty and the Beast” is probably her second-favorite musical behind “The Little Mermaid.”

“I have three daughters and they each like something different, but my youngest, who is 3, wears a Belle dress weekly,” Payne said. “I’m not kidding.

The last Disney show she directed after “The Little Mermaid” in 2019 was “Newsies” in 2021.

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

Payne

Lost Wax to perform from 8 to 10 p.m. May 20 at Art of Wine. (Photo courtesy of Lost Wax)

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director Jenna Hymes said 2023-24 offers variety. (Photo of CSO.)

CSO’s 2023-24 schedule features variety

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

dy Mlady, our 2022 Whiskers d

CONCERTS

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director Janna Hymes sees the 2023-24 schedule as having something for everyone.

The orchestra will present a total of 13 performances during its 48th season, beginning with its traditional patriotic concert July 4 at CarmelFest at Carmel Gazebo. All other CSO concerts are scheduled at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts.

“What I like about the Masterworks is there is a wonderful array of music throughout the season,” Hymes said. “Similar to this year, I programmed familiar classics like ‘Beethoven’s 7th,’ with new works like our opening piece, a commissioned work by Caroline Ahn. Our Carmel audience will hear an epic choir piece with ‘Verdi’s Requiem’ and a Charlie Chaplin silent film performed to live music. These are just some of the dynamic offerings for the 2023-24 season.”

The Holiday Pops’ two concerts will feature Broadway veteran Ben Davis and teenage vocalist Amelia Wray, who grew up in Carmel.

“Any time I can present a young, polished performer to our audience I am thrilled because I know what it means for them as they are launching their career,” Hymes said.

Other highlights include visits by Cirque de la Symphonie and Jeans ‘n Classics in 2024,

“I know the Cirque de la Symphonie has

stunning music and that the artists are equally magical and mesmerizing,” Hymes said. “This concert will be different from anything we have ever done and a spectacle for our audience. From our recent pops concerts, I know the Jeans ‘n Classics concert will be fun, upbeat and pure joy. People love this music because it is familiar, danceable, brings back memories and they know the lyrics.”

The schedule includes: Oct. 7: Masterworks 1: Modern Classics with guest artist Gabriela Martinez, piano; Oct. 22: Sounds Exciting! – Classical Kids Live: Gershwin’s Magic Key; Nov. 11: Masterworks 2: Unity, Veterans and America (selections by Coleman, Ravel, Ives and Still); Dec. 10: Holiday Pops! Featuring Indiana Ballet Conservatory and Second Presbyterian Church Choir; Jan. 27, 2024: Artistry of Cirque de la Symphonie; Jan. 28: Family Fun Concert with guest conductor Thomas Chen of Carmel High School; Feb. 10: Masterworks 3: Symphony Goes to the Movies with guest artist Francisco Fullana, violin; March 16: Masterworks 4: The Firebird & Bohemian Delight (featuring selections by Smetana, Stravinsky and Dvorak); April 13: Masterworks 5: Verdi Requiem featuring the Anderson University choirs; April 21: Side-by-Side with CHS Orchestras and May 4: Jeans ‘n Classics “Soulful” showcasing 50 years of R&B, Motown, funk, disco and pop selections.

Season tickets will be available soon at the Palladium Fifth Third Bank Box Office, 317-843-3800 or at thecenterpresents.org. Tickets for individual performances will go on sale this summer. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

Benefiting the Humane Society for Hamilton County

, g ack for a night of fun, including:

Wine, beer, bourbon & vodka tastings. A Silent Auction featuring experiences of a lifetime. Adoptable animals just waiting to steal your heart.

Friday, June 16, 2023

6 - 9:00 p.m. Embassy Suites Noblesville

Tickets available at dWhiskers.com

Pet" ckage

Concert all about that brass

By Mike Beas editorial@youarecurrent.com

Charles Conrad recalls being wide-eyed the first time he watched and heard trumpeter Doc Severinsen perform musical magic.

A 12-year-old in the mid-1960s, Conrad, like so many others during television’s three-channel era, had turned the dial to watch “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” on NBC.

Something about Severinsen’s performance clicked with Conrad, who all these years later is confident the Indiana Wind Symphony’s upcoming concert, “Low Brass to the Fore,” has the potential to inspire current and even potential tuba players in the same manner.

The Indiana Wind Symphony concert is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. May 21 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“The biggest thing is that we’re doing a premiere of a new work,” said Conrad, musical director of the Indiana Wind Symphony. “It is a tuba concerto, and the soloist is Tony Kniffen of the Indianapolis Symphony

MUSIC BALLET

Orchestra. The conductor is James Beckel, and he’s a former member of the Indianapolis Symphony.”

The new piece is “Look Through a Window.” Beckel, now retired, had been with the ISO since 1969.

Kniffen has been the principal tuba player with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra since 1997.

“It is a spectacular new work that every young tuba player should hear. They will be inspired by it,” Conrad said.

For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

Dancer does double duty

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Aurora Ausserer is not only playing the lead role in Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s “Fairy Doll,” but she is teaching the younger dancers.

“That, honestly, is more rewarding to me than the dancing for the shows like this,” Ausserer said. “I just see myself when I was 3 and 4 (years old) and being able to help them get on stage and do that (is rewarding). In the piece we’re doing this year, I’m dancing with them, so it’s really fun to be able to share that with them.”

Ausserer has the title role in “Fairy Doll,” set for 1 and 4 p.m. June 3 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The classical piece is about a mechanical doll that comes to life.

Dancers ages 3 to 7 play bunnies and porcelain dolls in the Carmel-based IBC production.

“I’m leaving this year, so it’s like a last

hurrah with all my friends and also all my students,” Ausserer said.

Ausserer, who graduated high school from online classes in December 2022, became a full-time teacher this year.

“It’s making sure they’re working hard and learning but also falling in love with ballet,” she said. “At that age, it’s what it’s all about. You can’t scream and yell at them too much. You just want to nurture their love for it. It’s been fun to see all the little kids get excited for their roles.”

There is more acting in this show than “The Nutcracker” and other smaller IBC shows, Ausserer said.

“The technical stuff is fun to work on, but being able to tell the storylines through acting and working with lots of different people and characters to make it all come to life is really fun,” she said.

Luke Derksen, a Carmel resident, plays the roles of the Postman and Harlequin Doll.

“It’s fun to do a lot of different things,” he said.

For more, visit indianaballetconservatory. org.

Tony Kniffen will perform as a tuba soloist with the Indiana Wind Symphony. (Photo courtesy of Indiana Wind Symphony)

Ausserer

Derksen

CENTRAL INDIANA DANCE ENSEMBLE under the artistic direction of MICHAEL CASEY CLARK AND ASHLEY JACOBS Founding and Executive Director SUZANN DELAY

Blueprint for Improvement: Chic Carmel kitchen

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2000 in Carmel’s Fairgreen Trace subdivision, this home’s owner was ready to update and upgrade the kitchen. A new appliance layout, optimizations and fresh design aesthetic helped transform this room from cramped to chic.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The dark backsplash in a herringbone pattern provides the perfect contrast to the chic white cabinets. Brass hardware and fixtures give the space a touch of warmth and luxury.

• Decorative columns were replaced with a cabinet wall, increasing storage space and overall square footage of the kitchen.

• A reworked layout for the appliances improved both form and function. Placing the range in a central location and moving the sink to an adjacent wall helped improve the room’s sight lines and create a more efficient workflow.

• A new, larger island allows for additional prep, serving and gathering space, for both daily use and entertaining.

• Extending the cabinets to the ceiling adds visual height, making the ceiling feel higher and the room feel more spacious.

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.

LEGAL NOTICE OF STANDARD CONTRACT RIDER NO. 52 LINE EXTENSION – ADVANCE DEPOSIT DUKE ENERGY INDIANA,

LLC

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around May 12, 2023

Duke Energy Indiana in accordance with 170 IAC 4-4.1-10 will submit its Standard Contract Rider No. 52, Line Extension – Advance Deposit (“Standard Contract Rider 52”), to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (“Commission”) for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. This filing of Standard Contract Rider 52 provides updated terms for customer deposit requirements for line extensions for High Load Factor and Low Load Factor customers.

This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing, unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or Randall C. Helmen of the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers: Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St. Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC

By: Stan Pinegar, President

LEGAL NOTICE OF STANDARD CONTRACT RIDER NO. 58 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around May 18, 2023 Duke Energy Indiana in accordance with 170 IAC 4-4.1-10 will submit its Standard Contract Rider No. 58, Economic Development (“Standard Contract Rider 58”), to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (“Commission”) for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. This filing of Standard Contract Rider 58 allows the Economic Development reduction period to be extended from five years to ten years for customers with > 20MW demand. This filing also updates the repayment terms for customers who cease operations or fail to meet performance terms.

This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing, unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or Randall C. Helmen of the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:

Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission

101 W. Washington St. Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC

From Bethlehem to Carmel

A look back at Carmel’s past with historian Andy Wright

Tuesday, May 23 @ 12pm

Main Library Community Room A

Founded as the town of Bethlehem in 1837 but renamed Carmel in 1846, our city’s history is full of interesting stories. Historian Andy Wright discusses his book From Bethlehem to Carmel and uncovers fascinating tales from the town’s 19th-century beginnings.

Learn more and register at carmelclaylibrary.org/events

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494

By: Stan Pinegar, President

Purr more and snarl less

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Are you a dog person or a cat person? This is the age-old debate. Dogs tend to be extroverted and needy, while cats are generally independent-yet-murderous.

Pick your poison.

My wife and I made the ill-informed decision to get a dog last year. After our third child was born, we thought it would be a great idea to add a puppy to the mix. Enter Socks the cockapoo. Socks is cute — bless his heart — but he’s not that smart.

At this point, I’m not going to stay neutral on the dog-cat divide, nor am I going to pick one or the other. Rather, I choose the third option: neither. I don’t think I’m a pet person, although I am the primary person to feed the dog, clean up after the dog and take the dog to vet and grooming appointments. Go figure.

Right now, you’re wondering, ‘Hey, Grammar Guy, what’s the word?’ Today we’re tackling the dog-eat-dog world of snarl words and purr words. You see, when it comes to arguments (like cats versus dogs), snarl words and purr words

can change the trajectory of the conversation, for good or for better.

A snarl word is like a growling dog — baring its teeth to try to intimidate and demean its opponent. You’ll see snarl words in online debates and political… ahem…discourse. When people throw around terms such as “bigot,” “fascist,” “terrorist” and “pineapple-on-pizza lover,” they’re lobbing snarl words like they’re verbal grenades.

Whether snarl words hit their targets or not, they never win the war. In fact, these growling dogs only further the divide between the opposing parties. Remember that when you’re debating politics with your Uncle Rik at Thanksgiving dinner.

Purr words, on the other hand, are used to establish a positive and calming tone in a conversation. Think of Mr. Rogers or Bob Ross entering into an argument.

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

GRAMMAR GUY

CARMEL/CLAY BOARD OF PARKS & RECREATION NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Owner: Carmel/Clay Board of Parks & Recreation

1411 East 116th Street

Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: River Heritage Park Forest Mitigation Project

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation (the “Owner”), will receive sealed bids for the above referenced Project at the Board’s Administrative Offices located at 1411 East 116th Street, Carmel Indiana 46032 on June 13, 2023 at 10:00 am local time, and as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date, the Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Conference Room of the Administrative Offices. The outside of the sealed envelope in which the Bid is enclosed, shall be clearly marked “BID – RIVER HERITAGE PARK FOREST MITIGATION PROJECT”, and as otherwise set forth in the Bid Documents. Any Bid received after the designated time will be returned to the Bidder unopened. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference for discussion of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on May 30, 2023 at 2:00 pm local time at River Heritage Park; 11813 River Road. and, weather permitting, shall conclude with a visit to the location where the Work is to be performed. Prospective bidders are encouraged, but- not required, to attend the pre-bid conference. For special accommodations needed by individuals with disabilities planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please notify Michael Krosschell at (317) 414-7398 or krosschellm@weihe.net at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.

In general, the Work for the Project consists of native plant restoration plantings, seeding, and tree protection fencing, all as set forth in the Contract Documents for the Project which, except for those items not included due to timing, size or other factors, have been assembled into a Project Manual and includes the Bid Documents. The Project Manual and any and all full size drawings may be examined at and obtained from, the office of Eastern Engineering Supply Company, 9901 Allisonville Road, Fishers, Indiana 46038; Phone: (317) 598-0661. The plan charge will be listed on the online plan room. Payment may be made by check, credit card, or cash. NO DEPOSITS ACCEPTED. Make checks payable to Eastern Engineering. All payments and costs of Contract Documents and related supplemental materials are non-refundable. Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets, whether hard copy or electronic, of the Project Manual and drawings and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in Bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carmel/Clay Board of Parks & Recreation

Michael Klitzing, director

A visit to the Morgan Library & Museum

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, in our continuing series about New York City’s often-overlooked gems, we visit the Morgan Library & Museum, formerly the Pierpont Morgan Library, in the Murray Hill neighborhood on Madison Avenue between 36th and 37th streets.

TRAVEL

John Pierpont Morgan was a financier during the so-called “Gilded Age.” Between 1890 and 1913, his company organized or financed 42 major American corporations. In about 1890, Pierpont, as he preferred to be called, began collecting important manuscripts and works of art from around the world. In 1902, he engaged McKim, Mead & White, renowned architects, to design a

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building in the same block as his home to hold his collection. When completed in 1906, the classic marble building cost $1.2 million (about $30 million today) and featured marble blocks cut so precisely that they did not require mortar between them. The library opened in 1910, with Belle da Costa Greene, the African American heroine of 2022’s “The Personal Librarian,” its librarian and curator. By the time of Pierpont’s death in 1913, his massive collection included ancient manuscripts, Egyptian art, Renaissance paintings, Chinese porcelains and much more.

After Pierpont’s widow, Frances, died in 1924, his son, John Pierpont Morgan Jr., known as “Jack,” created a public institution to own the library and its collections. Today, the Morgan Library & Museum houses the nation’s second-largest collection of musical manuscripts, including the score for “Symphony No. 35,” autographed by Mozart, and Bob Dylan’s notes for the lyrics to “Blowin’ in the Wind.” Other highlights include a 15th-century picture Bible from France, a 15th-century Gutenberg Bible, the journal Henry David Thoreau used in writing “Walden Pond,” and a manuscript of “A Christmas Carol,” with Charles Dickens’ handwritten changes. My personal favorites include 1-inch cylindrical seals from ancient Sumer that can be rolled to create detailed, three-dimensional images.

Inside the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City. (Photos by Don Knebel)

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

1. Fox’s feet

5. Panda Express request

10. Joe’s Butcher Shop cut

14. Tropical fish

15. Be indebted

16. Mackey Arena crowd sound

17. Insignificant

18. Clabber Girl Museum site

20. Ambulance letters

21. Hung around

22. Covered in foliage

24. Butler frat letters

28. Moving ahead

31. Utah state flowers

32. Achilles heel, metaphorically

36. GPS reading 37. Sky light

39. Cut into cubes

40. Observe

41. Greek letters that sound like “news”

42. Residence

44. Rundown

46. Patella

50. How Hoosier Lottery numbers are chosen

54. Appliance maker

55. Stages a historical event at Conner Prairie

58. I-69 semi

59. Antique Fan Museum site

62. Indiana Fever’s Cannon

63. Against

64.

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37. Bird feeder fill

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40. Mellencamp song: “Women ___”

41. CIA relative

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47. Museum of Miniature Houses site

48. Indy Zoo inhabitant

49. Missionaries’ targets

51. Trump’s Secretary of Education

52. Chilling

53. Neighbor of Sicily

Eightsome

65. Tilt

66. “Hey, over here!”

67. Clothing lines

68. Misfortunes Down

1. Grapefruit kin

2. Tarzan’s “kin”

3. Hallmark Ornament Museum site

4. That girl

5. Polite denial

6. County adjacent to Putnam, Morgan, Monroe, Greene and Clay

7. I-465 ramp sign

8. ___ throat

9. Attendees

10. Baby’s bed

11. Texans on a Colts scoreboard

12. Hoosier Park feedbag morsel

13. Not post19. Dillinger bank job

21. Old harp

23. Babe in the woods

25. Storybook monster

26. “___ to self...”

Jobs on a Film Set

Hoosier Crops

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56. Chowder bit

57. ___ Montana Grill 59. Electrical jolt

Elected ones

61. NBA tiebreakers

62. Col. Lilly Answers on Page

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