November 22, 2022 — Carmel

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Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XVIII, No. 5

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Current in Carmel currentincarmel.com

BZA to review variance for group home

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

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

CITY NEWS

The Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals’ hear ing officer is set to review a request Nov. 28 for a special exception variance to allow for a group home in the Wood land Springs neighborhood.

Jennifer Piccione, an Illinois-based attor ney, purchased the home at 44 Horseshoe Lane with the intention of renovating its interior to accommodate eight elderly res idents. Two caretakers would be on-site daily to provide assistance with routine activities, such as bathing or preparing meals, and one caretaker would be on duty overnight. The caretakers will not provide medical or memory care.

“Our heart and our soul is to provide a home that is shared by eight like-minded individuals who come from the same neigh borhoods and the same communities to share their meals together and share their life experiences together,” Piccione said. “I think it’s a terrible situation that a lot of people are in when they get to a certain age, and they have to choose between moving out of the area or moving in with a family member.”

As of Nov. 15, the BZA had received letters regarding the group home from at least three Woodland Springs residents, all in opposition to the project.

Jean and Jon Rivers, whose home backs up to the proposed group home, emailed their concerns to Current, stating that they believe caretakers and family members vis iting those living in the group home would significantly increase traffic on Horseshoe Lane.

“(We are) not at all comfortable letting (our) two elementary-aged kids play in the backyard with so much traffic in and out of that home. There will be caretakers work ing different shifts, and with the employee turnover, we may never get to meet and

know the people that are there,” the email stated. “This is all far too much traffic for this small neighborhood where many kids ride their bikes and play outside.”

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

The variance request won’t come before the Carmel City Council, but Councilor Adam Aasen, who represents the district that includes Horseshoe Lane, said he intends to express his opposition to the group home to the BZA. He said the group home “doesn’t really fit with the feel” of the neighborhood.

“I am very sympathetic to the housing needs of everyone, and assisted living fa cilities need to go somewhere, but I don’t believe this is the appropriate location,” Aasen said.

Piccione said she penned personal letters to neighbors living near the proposed group home site to alert them to the plans and explain her vision for the project. She said several Woodland Springs residents have reached out to her to share concerns that include increased traffic, frequent deliveries and the group home’s impact on surround

ing property values.

Residents won’t have vehicles, Piccione said, and staff will be told to park in the two-car parking garage. Laundry will be done on-site, and the caretakers will pur chase food at the grocery store, limiting the number of deliveries to the house. She said research shows that property values are typically brought down by unkept yards, homes in disrepair and criminal activity, which are issues the group home is not expected to exacerbate.

“We all have had those neighborhood nuisances, loud teenagers throwing parties, loud cars or motorcycles, barking dogs, the neighbor that doesn’t cut their lawn or shovel their sidewalk. (Our neighbors) don’t have to worry about any of those concerns with us,” she said. “The house will be pro fessionally maintained and professionally landscaped. There won’t be any barking dogs or loud teenagers or loud cars. I think the neighbors are going to see that we’re going to be really, really good neighbors.”

If the special exception is approved, Pic cione said she expects renovations to be complete in January 2023 and for the home to welcome its first residents the following month. She said she has received a great deal of interest in the home and expects a wait list to quickly form.

DISPATCHES

CPD seeking information — Carmel police are seeking information re garding four people (pictured) who are believed to have taken numer ous bottles of liquor from Payless Liquors, 14580 River Rd., just before 1 p.m. Nov. 3. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Mike Morley at 317-571-2500 or Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477. Ref erence CPD case number 20-70453.

Synergize benefits kNot Today – At its last 4:30 Meetup, Synergize gathered at 3Up in Carmel to help local children by benefiting nonprofit kNot Today, which generates awareness and sup ports restorative services to end sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking of children. Founded in 2019 by Linda Reich and her husband, former Colts head coach Frank Reich, kNot Today works with schools, families and churches to provide tools that prevent crimes against children. The event raised $2,300 for kNot Today.

A special exception variance has been requested for a home at 44 Horseshoe Lane to allow for a group home for eight elderly residents. (Photo from documents filed with the City of Carmel)

CHS earns 6th Grand National title

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel High School Marching Grey hounds added another chapter to their suc cess story.

CHS won its sixth Bands of America Grand National Championship title Nov. 12 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The other titles came in 2005, 2012, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

“It was also our 26th consecutive appear ance in the Grand National Finals, which is the longest active streak in the country,” said Chris Kreke, CHS’s marching band di rector. “The sweep of the caption awards (Music, Visual, and General Effect) was the third time that it has occurred for us, and we are the only group to have done so in Grand Nationals history.”

The band’s show was titled “Vitruvian” and was visually based on the famous da Vinci drawing “Vitruvian Man.”

“It featured Samuel Barber’s ‘First Sym phony’ as the musical source material and was arranged by Richard Saucedo (retired director of bands at Carmel),” Kreke said.

“The students did an absolutely amazing job of bringing the show to life with a very detailed and emotional performance on finals night. They’ve put in over 650 hours of rehearsal time since May working on this project, and I’m thrilled with the perfor mance that they were able to give (Nov. 12).”

CHS senior Riley Stuelpe, one of the drum majors, said he was especially proud to have shared the field in the 12-band finals with four other Indiana bands. Avon finished second, Brownsburg eighth, Fishers 10th and Castle 12th.

“Winning Grand Nationals has been the honor of a lifetime,” Stuelpe said.

Marching Greyhounds prepare for Macy’s Thanksgiving parade

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

After winning the Bands of America Grand National Championship title Nov. 12, the Car mel High School Marching Greyhounds had to get right back to work.

“About 70 percent of the group has never been to New York before and none of them have participated in the parade, so I’m very excited to share the experience with them,” Kreke said.

HOLIDAYS

“It’s a quite a hectic continuation of our season but a very, very exciting time for our group,” said Chris Kreke, CHS’s marching band director. “We’ve been working on the Macy’s material off and on throughout the season.”

Kreke said the band dedicated all its re hearsal time this past week to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the NBC per formance set for Nov. 24.

“We did the parade once before in 2011, so we’re familiar with the production timeline, but it definitely will be a busy week for us,” Kreke said.

Kreke said the band has 307 members, and all but a few will make the trip to New York City.

Kreke said the band will perform two pieces of music and a drum cadence along the parade route, which extends for approx imately 2.5 miles from Central Park West down 6th Avenue to the Macy’s flagship store at Herald Square,

“Once we get to the famous Herald Square performance area with the green street and Macy’s star logo, we’ll be doing a 1:15-minute production titled ‘Winter Won derland’ for the NBC television audience,” Kreke said.

Kreke said the band will travel to New York via bus overnight Nov. 22 and will stay in midtown Manhattan through Nov. 27.

“The students are going to get to expe rience several sightseeing attractions and shows,” Kreke said.

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The Carmel High School Marching Greyhounds perform in the Bands of America Grand National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Photo cour tesy of Chris Kreke)

Fired equity manager files lawsuit

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Director of Administration Jim Crider as defendants.

CITY NEWS

The City of Carmel’s former equity man ager filed a lawsuit Nov. 7 in federal court that claims his firing was racially motivated.

Timothy Knight joined the city in May 2021 as the employee develop ment coordinator. Later that year, after Carmel ended a contract with a company providing its diversity training, city officials tapped him to develop the training in-house and changed his title to equity manager.

In mid-March, the city fired Knight, who is Black, for performance concerns and insubordination, according to a document previously provided. City officials declined to comment on the pending lawsuit.

Knight presented his claims of discrim ination to the Equal Opportunity Employ ment Commission, and he received a “Right to Sue” letter on Sept. 16. The lawsuit demands a jury trial and names Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard, City of Carmel Director of Human Resources Lisa Hartz and City of

According to the lawsuit, the city’s former human resources director, who has since retired, told Knight before he began his em ployment with the city that “a cul ture of anti-African American racial discrimination exists within the rank and file of the City of Carmel.”

The lawsuit also states that in August 2021, “certain Carmel em ployees began resisting the idea of an African American (Dr. Knight) conducting city-wide diversity train ing” and that one employee refused to allow such training at a certain city facility.

Knight alleges in the lawsuit the suspen sion of in-person diversity training prevent ed him from performing the principle work he was hired to do, and that the suspension was discriminatory and occurred because heads of various city departments “simply did not want an African American providing training on racial diversity.”

The city has not hired a replacement for Knight or publicly announced a plan for im plementing diversity training.

March the suspension prevented work pension because “simply providing er

Knight

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CPD investigating apparent murder, attempted suicide

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Police Dept. is investigating a shooting that left a woman dead and her husband injured in an apparent murder/attempted suicide.

POLICE

Upon responding to a welfare check at approximately 8:24 a.m. Nov. 12 in the 700 block of Johnson Drive in Carmel, police found Susan Shaw, 63, deceased from a gunshot wound, and John Shaw, 79, suf fering from what is believed to be a self-in flicted gunshot wound.

John Shaw remains in the hospital and is receiving treatment for his injuries.

Police said the incident was isolated and that there is no danger to the public.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact CPD Det. Landry Smiley at 317-571-2500 or lsmiley@carmel.in.gov. Refer ence case number 22-72609.

DISPATCHES

Correction — A story in the Nov. 15 edition of Current in Carmel misstated the total amount of funds raised at the Ronald Mc Donald House Charities of Central Indiana gala. The event raised $175,000.

Sister city logo designs sought — The Carmel-Cortona Sister City Committee is seeking logo submissions that exemplify both cities. The selected logo will be used on all official Carmel-Cortona Sister City Committee documentation. The deadline for submissions is Dec. 2. Submit designs to CortonaCarmel@gmail.com and include your name, address and telephone number.

Zoo president to speak — OneZone cham ber will feature Rob Shumaker, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, at its luncheon set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 6 at Ritz Charles, 12156 N. Me ridian St. Shumaker is an evolutionary biologist who specializes in the study of behavior and cognition. At the luncheon, he will speak about the future of the zoo and its regional impact. Register by Nov. 22 at one zonechamber.com.

Shumaker

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Guerin Catholic receiver has memorable season

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Guerin Catholic High School senior wide receiver Will Fremion has had a mood swing.

“I’ve always been full on baseball and this season changed it all,” Fremion said. “I’m a lot more focused on foot ball now.”

Fremion had 61 catch es for 1,103 yards and 11 touchdowns for Guerin Catholic (7-5), which lost to Bishop Chatard 49-13 Nov. 4 in the Class 3A Sectional 28 final.

“We were pumped for the year, working all offseason with team bonding stuff,” Fremion said. “We knew we had something special.”

The Carmel resident who had 24 catches as a junior, said he had a huge connection with junior quarterback Ryan Zimmerman during the preseason jamboree.

“Zimmerman and I had a great three (regular) games,” he said. “I think going into Week 4, he was leading the state in passing

MEET WILL FREMION

Favorite athlete: Justin Jefferson

Favorite TV show: “The Office”

Favorite subjects: English litera ture or business management

yards and I was leading in receiving yards. I thought it was funny but really cool.”

Zimmerman was injured in the fourth game and missed the rest of the season.

“Seeing him go down against Brebeuf Je suit was the toughest thing that happened all season,” Fremion said. “What he and I did in those first three games was incredible. I’m never going to forget those. Even on my

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highlight film, half the plays are with him, which I think is hilarious because it’s just three games.”

Fremion said he had confidence in soph omore Malcolm Houze, who became the starter. After a tough two games, Houze was able to turn things around in a 31-30 loss to Chatard in the regular season.

“This year was remarkable,” Fremion said. “From the seniors to the young guys, this was by far my favorite season of all time.”

Fremion said he made the most im provement in speed and strength.

“I got a lot bigger in the offseason and definitely faster than I was the year be fore,” he said.

Fremion gave up basketball after his sophomore season.

“I’ve always taken baseball the most seriously because we come from a base ball family,” Fremion said.

Fremion, a center fielder, hit .330 with 19 runs batted in for Guerin last season.

His older brother, Grant, plays baseball for Saint Louis University.

Fremion is considering playing football or baseball in college.

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Guerin Catholic receiver Will Fremion had 61 catches this past season. (Photo courtesy of Will Fremion)

Fremion

Carmel woman to celebrate 100th birthday

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

So, what is the secret to Ruth O’Banion’s longevity?

ACHIEVEMENT

O’Banion

“Meanness, I think,” O’Banion said jokingly.

O’Banion, who lives in Majestic Care of Carmel, will turn 100 on Nov. 27. Her family will hold a party for her that day.

Laura McConnell said she attributes her mother’s longevity to “no drinking, no smoking, no fun.”

O’Banion likes to play bingo at Majestic Care two or three times a week. She also is an avid reader, with her favorite author being Danielle Steel. In addition, she enjoys sewing and visiting garage sales.

O’Banion moved from Loogotee to Indi anapolis as a youngster during the Great Depression.

“My father was a builder, and he thought he could get a better position here,” said O’Banion, who graduated from Arsenal Tech High School.

She married Robert O’Banion around the start of World War II. O’Banion had five chil dren. Three are still living. She worked be fore she had children as a bookkeeper and then went back to work in that capacity when her youngest child, Laura McConnell, was in fourth grade.

Her husband, Robert O’Banion, died at age 64 in 1985. She lost two children to cancer. Her son, Tim O’Banion, died at age 60 in 2013, and her daughter, Trish Erwin, died at age 53 in 2014.

O’Banion was the part-time bookkeeper for Doyle Furniture Co. in Nora for 50 years. She finally retired at age 83 from being a bookkeeper at Keep Indianapolis Beautiful.

McConnell and her sisters, Kathy and Char, live in Carmel. Tim’s wife, Jennifer “Jef fie” Tupper, who lives in Hilton Head, S.C., is helping to throw the party.

O’Banion has 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

“I think they are all going to be there,” she said.

Christkindlmarkt nominated — The Carmel Christkindl markt has been nominated for Best Holiday Market in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2022. The Market won #1 Best Holiday Market in two previous years, 2019 and 2021. Contestants are nominated from all over the nation by a panel of experts and 10Best editors. The public can vote for their favorites in each category once per day through noon Dec. 5. Winners will

be announced Dec. 16. Learn more at 10best.com/awards/ about-usa-today-10best-readers-choice-awards.

intent to play softball at Coastal Carolina University. She plays first base and outfield for the CHS Greyhounds and plays travel ball with Indiana Bombers Poeck Gold 18U.

Holiday Lights Recycling Drive — Carmel Clay Schools’ Green Teams, City of Carmel Utilities, City of Carmel, Tech Recyclers and White’s Ace Hardware are working togeth er to offer a Holiday Lights Recycling Drive. Residents can recycle used and unwanted holiday lights through Jan. 20, 2023, at White’s Ace Hardware, 731 S. Range Line Rd.. Since the start of the collaborative program, more than eight tons of holiday lights have been recycled. Recycling inoperable or inefficient holiday lights keeps those items out of landfills, which reduces the long-term carbon im pact on the environment.

Softball player signs letter of intent – Hope McDonald, a senior at Carmel High School, recently signed a letter of

(Photo courtesy of Brian McDonald)

CARMEL

Project: Roundabout, multi-use path

construction

Location: The intersection of 106th Street and College Avenue is closed for construction of a roundabout. The multiuse path is under construction along 106th Street from Pennsylvania Parkway to College Avenue.

Project: New roundabout

Location: E. Main Street and Lexington Boulevard.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Expected completion: The project is set to conclude with median reconstruction between Lexington Boulevard and Richland Avenue in 2023.

Project: Widening and improvements along Smoky Row Road

Project: Widening of the Monon Greenway

Location: Between City Center Drive and Carmel Drive  Expected completion: November

Project: 1st on Main construction

Location: North Range Line Road is closed just north of Main Street to accommodate construction of the 1st on Main mixed-use development.

Expected completion: Road expected to reopen in December, with full and partial closures planned in the spring to finish the project.

Project: Culvert reconstruction

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

Expected completion: End of the year

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

Expected completion: The road is expected to reopen in December with closures planned in the spring to complete the project.

Expected completion: The road is expected to reopen in January 2023.

Project: Storm water work

Location: Along 116th Street and Washington Boulevard near the intersection with Pennsylvania Street. Closures are not expected, but lane restrictions may be in place.

Expected completion: December

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Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Justin Crocker gives the keynote address at the Nov. 10 Carmel Veterans Day Ceremony at the Tarkington theater. The free event included music performed by the Cherry Tree Elementary School choir, a performance by Actors Theatre of Indiana, recognition of essay con test and poster winners and remarks from other officials. (Photo by Beth Maier)

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

There wasn’t much that could pull Damien Geter away from the joy of working in the classroom. But in 2019, he received an offer too good to resist.

“I always said if I ever got a contract with the Met or on Broadway that I would leave teaching,” he said. “I got a con tract with the Met.”

Before landing his dream job with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, Geter launched his career in Carmel at Uni versity High School, where he taught all the private school’s music classes from August 2004 to June 2015.

UHS honored Geter, who has become an acclaimed bass-baritone, actor and composer, with a Trailblazer Award, a recognition for community leaders who represent the school’s core values. Geter received the award Nov. 12 at the Trailblazer Awards Gala at Newfields in Indianapolis.

Susan Berry, a UHS parent and gala chair, said Geter made a lasting impact on his students, whether they were new to studying music or already accomplished in their craft.

Several of Geter’s former students became profession al musicians, with some performing on Broadway. Berry doesn’t believe that’s a coincidence.

“Damien always had big dreams, and I think he helped the students to dream big as well and foster that passion in them,” said Berry, a Zionsville resident.

Geter left UHS in 2015 to teach at a school in Portland, Ore., because he felt the West Coast would provide more opportunities to hone his skills as a performer than central Indiana. However, he said UHS is where he “grew up” as a teacher, and he was thrilled to be selected for a Trailblazer Award.

“Some of the friendships I forged (at UHS) are lifelong,”

OF NOTE

he said. “It just feels very, very sweet to be honored in this way.”

Since he left teaching, Geter, who is now based in Chi cago, has performed as the Undertaker with the Met in the Grammy award-winning production of “Porgy and Bess” and with the Seattle Opera as the Immigration Officer in its filmed production of “Jonathan Dove’s Flight.” He’s also performed with the Portland Opera, the Reno Symphony, the Chicago Opera Theatre, the Oakland Symphony and elsewhere.

He’s not expecting to spend much time on stage in the near future, however, because he is focused on composing. Geter is writing two operas, with premieres set for 2024 and 2025.

Geter, a Virginia native who earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Old Dominion University and a mas ter’s in conducting from Indiana State University, has long been interested in composing, and he penned several piec es for his students during his time at UHS. More recently, he has become known for a style that combines pieces from the Black diaspora with classical music, and much of his work has focused on issues of social justice.

“These are topics that are very important to me, because they affect me,” he said. “To me, it’s about equity and mak ing the world equitable for everyone.”

“An African American Requiem,” which Geter created in response to violence in the U.S. against African Americans, premiered in May to a sold-out crowd at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., which Geter said was one of his career highlights.

“For a premiere, you get people’s reactions, so that makes me nervous sometimes, but to hear it all come together, there’s nothing like it,” Geter said. “It always sounds way better than I could’ve imagined, which is the fun part for me.

Learn

TRAILBLAZER AWARD RECIPIENTS

In addition to Damien Geter, University High School selected four other Trailblazer Award recipients this year. They are:

• Arnetta Scruggs, founder and executive director of the Bloom Project, Inc., a nonprofit that pro vides character development, career exploration, group mentoring and more for young men in the Fort Wayne and Indianapolis areas.

• Ben Hanna, associate artistic director for the Indiana Repertory Theatre, who is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible art to young audiences

• Kizito Kalima, founder and executive director of the Peace Center for Forgiveness & Reconciliation, who is also a public speaker, author and advocate for genocide survivors

• Andrew Hart, CEO of The Oaks Academy, who has developed and leads the Indiana School Leader Fellowship and the Indiana Teacher Renewal Fellowship

Learn more at universityhighschool.org/giving/ trailblazer-awards-gala/honorees.

How people interpret the piece is half of the joy in this.”

more about Geter and his work at DamienGeterMu sic.com.

ON THE COVER: Damien Geter, second from right, performs as Colline in Puccini’s La bohème with the Tacoma Opera. (Photo courtesy of Tacoma Opera)

UHS honors composer, Met performer who launched teaching career in Carmel

Damien Geter performs as the Immigration Officer in Seattle Opera’s production of “Jonathan Dove’s Flight.” (Photo courtesy of Seattle Opera)

ESSAY

Share the road

Commentary by Terry Anker

Scooting along in traffic, we come to know that some people like to use their brakes more than their accelerator. They are a bit more cautious. They planned ahead and take their time. They are not going to risk their lives, or that of any one else, in making up for “lost time” on the way to the grocery. How can these drivers not be loved?

Still, others — who like to use their accelerator more than their brakes — might argue the reverse. “Don’t these slowpokes have anything better to do?” While they may be taking their time, they are also taking ours, so the argument goes. Productive people don’t waste time plodding along. There is nothing wrong with living a full life. There is nothing wrong with moving a little more deliberately through space. These good people are making the best of every moment. How can they not be loved?

The challenge, of course, is that we all share the same streets. Sometimes, we even share an office, home, or bed with one decidedly in the opposite camp from our own. Sure, we can make it all work. Each of us, in certain conditions, use both the gas and the brake pedals. But mostly, we tend to deploy the one most closely aligned with our perspec tive on life. Are we likely to accelerate into traffic or hold back, reticent be cause of the risk? Even as we make our own choices, are we also imposing our views on those who share the road with us? Are we that certain of our justification?

As a society, we’ve set some bound aries around it all through myriad regulations, codes and enforcement mechanisms. But mostly, we just have to figure out how to share. Accelerator or brakes, do we leave room for others?

CURRENTOON

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Unhappy with happy people

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Sometimes, I don’t like happy peo ple. Sometimes, I want to luxuriate in my own bad mood without chronically joyful folks invading my space. Some times, I just want the world and all its inhabitants, and even Mother Nature, to join me in feeling grumpy. The proverbial misery loves company, you know?

Which is why on a recent morning I found my husband, Doo, so annoying. I came downstairs to him watching a “SNL” recap on his phone, oscillating between grade-school giggles and up roarious laughter. This went on for a solid 15 minutes, and my temperament — which had started at “Blessings, it’s cold and gray outside” — nosedived to, “Ugh, you’re ruining everything!” He was too gosh-darned happy for my pre-cof fee, introverted, already-in-a-funk-self to handle, and of course, in my tactless manner, I told him exactly that. Doo, with a big smile, simply responded, “Deal with it.”

My teaching neighbor, who is school-renowned for her high-energy kindness and spontaneous hugs, is at least aware of her occasional toxic posi tivity (her words, not mine) and can rein in the cheerfulness when necessary. A couple of my kids are like that, too. They can read when the room is gloomy and understand that force-feeding joy is not always the right play. And in fairness to Doo, he’s come a long way in accepting the idea that it’s OK to not constantly be OK.

CHARLIE BROWN

POLICIES

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

But on this day, he clearly misread the “Your wife is in a snit; tread care fully” signs. Instead of moving to the kitchen and leaving me to wallow, he in advertently exacerbated my blechtness with his obnoxious delight. So, yeah, sometimes I don’t like happy people.

Peace out.

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

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

“What if today, we were just grateful for everything?”

—

ALL IS CALM: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914

Fri Dec 2 at 8pm

CANADIAN BRASS CHRISTMAS

Sat Dec 3 at 8pm

LUMINARE CHRISTMAS

Thu Dec 8 at 7:30pm

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CHRISTMAS TOUR

Fri Dec 9 at 8pm

MARIE OSMOND: A SYMPHONIC CHRISTMAS TOUR

Sat Dec 10 at 8pm

MICHAEL BOLTON: GREATEST HITS & HOLIDAY FAVORITES

Tue Dec 13 at 7:30pm

CELTIC WOMAN: A CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY TOUR

Thu Dec 15 at 7:30pm

JEFF ALLEN

Sat Jan 7 at 7:30pm

THE MAVERICKS

Fri Jan 27 at 8pm

UGLY DUCKLING

Sat Jan 28 at 11am & 1:30pm

DUBLIN IRISH DANCE:WINGS A CELTIC MUSIC CELEBRATION

Fri Feb 10 at 8pm

BONEY JAMES

Sat Feb 18 at 8pm

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: LINDSAY ZANNO: T. REX RISES

Tue Feb 21 at 7:30pm

LVIV NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA OF UKRAINE

Fri Feb 24 at 8pm

SAMMY MILLER AND THE CONGREGATION

Fri Mar 3 at 8pm

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

Fri Mar 17 at 8pm

PEKING ACROBATS

Sat Mar 18 at 8pm

JIM MESSINA

Wed Mar 22 at 7:30pm

Sun Mar 26 at 7pm

KEVIN NEALON

Fri Apr 7 at 8pm

MARC COHN & SHAWN COLVIN TOGETHER ONSTAGE

Thu Apr 13 at 7:30pm

ABILENE

Sat Apr 15 at 8pm

THE FOUR PHANTOMS IN CONCERT

Fri Apr 21 at 8pm

GRAHAM NASH: AN INTIMATE EVENING OF STORIES & SONGS

Sun April 23 at 7pm

ENSTUDDARD&CLAYAIKEN•Thu

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE:

FILIPE DEANDRADE: UNTAMED

Tue Apr 25 at 7:30pm

GET HAPPY: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN CELEBRATES THE JUDY GARLAND CENTENNIAL

Sat Apr 29 at 8pm

GEORGE HINCHLIFFE’S UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN

Sun Apr 30 at 7pm

EVIL WOMANTHE AMERICAN ELO

Fri May 5 at 8pm

RUBEN STUDDARD & CLAY AIKEN: THE REUNITED TOUR

Thu May 11 at 7:30pm

New food, vendor offerings at Christkindlmarkt add to holiday cheer

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Christkindlmarkt has quickly become a favorite holiday tradition for many families in central Indiana and beyond.

The festival features foods, beverages, gifts and experiences similar to those of fered at holiday markets in Germany, which inspired the creation of Carmel’s event in 2017.

Carmel Christkindlmarkt CEO and Market Master Maria Murphy works throughout the year with vendors and artisans in Germany and the Hoosier state to ensure the holiday festival is as authentic as possible. She strives to create a spirit of Gemütlichkeit, a German word used to describe feelings of warmth, peace of mind and good cheer.

“I can’t think of another place that I’ve been in Indiana that really has that warm, fuzzy vibe,” Murphy said. “The Christkindlmarkt should have Gemütlichkeit, and I think we have achieved that. It’s a really special feeling that you get when you’re at the market.”

In continued pursuit of that vibe, the Christkindlmarkt has added several new food offerings and experiences this year.

Food offerings debuting this year include:

• Baumstriezel (also known as chimney cakes), a pastry roasted to a golden crisp and dressed with sugar, cinna mon or nuts

• Lángos (also known as Hungarian fried bread), a common street food featuring deep fried dough adorned with savory or sweet toppings, such as garlic but ter, cheese, cinnamon sugar or Nutella

• Käsespätzle, a dish featuring egg noodles and melted cheese, often gar nished with crispy fried onions

• Tartiflette, a potato casserole-like dish cooked in a paella pan and topped with meats and cheeses

New gift and vendor options include:

• Kinderboutique, which offers heir loom-quality clothing, toys, books and accessories for children up to eight years old. Goods are imported from Germany and the surrounding region.

• Werkstatt Souvenirs, which sells an ar ray of gifts and crafts made by German artisans, including wood toys, tradi tional bells, snow globes, finely carved wooden sculptures and more

• Lichterwald, a hut specializing in lights, including Herrnhuter Sterne (also known as Morovian Stars), traditional German paper lanterns, candles and candle holders

• ChocoIdea, which offers high-end choc olate and chocolate sculptures import

ed from a German-owned company

Visitors can also enjoy traditional food

and beverage favorites, such as raclette sandwiches, Belgian hot chocolate, Ba varian pretzels and Glühwein served from the market’s iconic pyramid. Several gift vendors are also returning, as well as the Kinderecke, which features children’s ac tivities, and the Kulturecke, which includes exhibits about German holiday traditions.

As the market has grown, Murphy said the growing number of families returning annually is an indication that the event has inspired Gemütlichkeit for many. She is ea ger to see that continue.

“There are children in Carmel and in Indi ana and the Midwest who will grow up ex periencing the Carmel Christkindlmarkt and German traditions as part of their memories from childhood,” she said. “It will always be a part of their Carmel culture and their Indiana culture.”

The Christkindlmarkt, which operates at 10 Carter Green in Carmel, is open 4 to 9 p.m. Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 30. It is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day and has special hours on select days. Learn more and see a full schedule of events at the market at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com.

30 N Rangeline Rd. | Carmel, IN 46032 | 317- 993-3011

Baumstriezel, a pastry roasted to a golden crisp and dressed with sugar, cinnamon or nuts, is among new food offerings at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt this year. (Photo courtesy of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt)

Holiday Traditions

“For Christmas traditions, I always go to my dad’s and mom’s house on Christmas so we can celebrate Christmas with them. I always have Christmas with my kiddos at home and open presents. We’re usually just super lazy on Christmas Day.”

Favorite part of Christmas? “Giving to other people. I don’t like to get as much stuff because I always feel awkward, but I love to give.”

“Matching family pajamas. I know it’s a big thing now, but we’ve done it since the 80s. We don’t just go on and get whatever Christ mas pajamas. It’s a theme. For example, in 2016, the Chicago Cubs won the World Series. So, we bought World Series Raise the Flag T-shirts and red flannel pants.”

How do you feel when you see everyone dressed up? “Togeth er, happy and loved.”

“We put up a tree and we usually go see a show, a play or a mu sical or something during Christmas every year.”

What is the last play you saw? “Last year we went to a musical, ISO’s “Yuletide.” It’s a musical where they go through Christmas dancing and singing.”

Favorite memory? “Probably going to Chicago during Christmas. I love that. We go shopping.”

USPS Operation Santa

USPS Operation Santa pairs letters from kids and families with generous people who fulfill their holiday wishes. You can be a part of it — the more letters sent to Santa, the more magic they can deliver.

HOW IT WORKS:

• Letters are written to Santa’s special address and USPS receives them.

• They redact personal information and publish those letters online.

• Generous people “adopt” and fulfill them.

• Adopters ship gifts. Holiday wishes are delivered.

WRITE A LETTER TO SANTA

What to include within the letter:

• Tell Santa what type of year you’ve had. Be honest. He knows!

• Requests for clothes and shoes should include preferred size, style and color. For toys, games and

books, include names and titles.

• Return address information with a full name, street address, apartment/unit number (if applicable), city, state and ZIP code.

ADDRESSING A LETTER TO SANTA Letters to USPS Operation Santa must be postmarked no later than Dec. 12.

1. Write your full name and home mailing address, including apartment number if applicable, in the upper left corner of the envelope.

2. Address the envelope to: Santa Claus, 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888

3. A first-class mail postage stamp is required, placed in the upper right corner of the envelope.

For more, visit about.usps.com/ holidaynews/operation-santa.htm

CASEY ELLIOTT

LINDSAY HOLT

KYLE WILLIAMS

Favorite Holiday Pastime

“Definitely spending it with my family. During the morning we’ll open the Christmas presents and then after that at night we’ll go watch a movie.”

Favorite memory? “We were all getting up. Us three kids got up be fore our parents. We woke them up at 5:30 in the morning and rushed them downstairs because Santa was there. After that we had hot chocolate, opened Christmas presents and sat by our morning fire.”

“Christmas. We celebrate on the 24th. We’re from Venezuela so on the 24th we dress up. We put on the best clothes on Christmas Eve. We cook early in the day. Usually, we go to grandma’s house and spend the night there. Then at (midnight), Santa comes. We usually party. It can be until 5 a.m. or 6 a.m.”

“Sitting around the table with the family.”

Why? “It’s hard getting everybody together. It’s hard to get peo ple together and sit down and eat. So, you know, during the holi days it’s when you can do it.”

Is there memory you can think of? “It’s been several years ago with my grandson that is now passed but just seeing him smile and all of us together.”

Favorite Holiday Memory

KORTZ

“I think one of my favorite holiday memories is on Christmas Eve, it snowed a lot. After my family had got done with their get-togeth er and everything, my parents took me and my brother to this really big sledding hill on Christmas Eve. We just spent a couple of hours just sledding down and it was just us, so that’s a good memory. I was probably 11.”

“My grandma who passed a couple of years ago, she made all of us stockings and she spelled my name wrong on the stocking but never changed it because she thought it was unique. So, it’s my favorite memory when we get to see that hanging up and I get a laugh about it. I still have it. I was probably like 8 or 9 and she passed two years ago and I’m 20 now. So, she kept it that long and it was gifted to me last year for Christmas.”

“Going to Chicago for Christmas with my grandparents. Tradition ally now we do Swedish pancakes, because we’re Swedish. So, we have Swedish pancakes every year for brunch for Christmas.”

LILY SENNE

BLAKELEE

DANIELA ZARRAGA

ANNIE HORN

ALICIA HAAF

SUZANNE BOATRIGHT

Best Holiday Song

“

All I want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey

Why? “Because it’s full of love, and that’s what the holidays are all about.”

“What Child is This?” by Vanessa Williams

Why? “It’s just a touching song. It talks about the birth of Jesus. I just like the song. It’s a nice song.”

Chris Brown’s version of “This Christmas”

Why? “Not the original. Donny Hathaway did the original, which is great, but that Chris Brown from This Christmas, bomb.”

Worst Holiday Song

“Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley. Alan and his wife, Lindsay jokingly harmonized together as they sung the chorus, “I’ll have a blue Christmas without you.”

Why? “It’s just sad and depressing.”

“Justin Bieber’s ‘Mistletoe.’ It’s about enjoying Christmas with his fam ily and a special individual.”

Why? “It’s great, but I think he hits the point too many times. It has great lyrics to it, a great meaning to it, but it’s really redundant I think.”

BRITTANY PERSON

ALAN HOLT

DAMON HOUSTON

ERIC MOORE II

DIANE HOUSTON

KEYS

“The Best Man Holiday” directed by Malcolm Lee and “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” starring Jim Carey

Why? For “The Best Man Holiday,” it’s just a nice film to see Black excellence in the individuals whose friendships have lasted over time. “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” is just a very fun movie. Jim Carrey is a very funny comedian and I quote that movie a lot even throughout the regular year.

KAYLAND MOORE

Best Holiday Movie Worst Holiday Movie

“Four Christmases.” It’s about a couple that aren’t ready to get married, well they don’t think they’re ready to get married. Their families are both horrible, and somehow, they end up coming to gether throughout all of the turmoil in the holiday season with their families and they do end up getting married. It’s a really good movie. It’s funny.” Four Christmases stars Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon.

“White Christmas” starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye

Why? “We have two girls, and they love to do the sisters’ song, the duet, and sing it.”

Favorite scene? “My favorite scene is when the two guys do the sisters’ act instead of the women doing it, Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye.”

BRANDON PUSZKIEIWICZ

The movie “Elf” starring Will Ferrell. Why? “I don’t like it. I kind of makes me uncomfortable. It’s just a grown man that’s acting like a child and I never got into it. I’ve only watched it once and that was all I needed to know I didn’t need to watch it again.”

“I’m going to throw a curveball, “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.”

Why? “I just think it’s very cheesy and corny.”

Most memorable scene? “When they put mud over his nose to block the light.”

“Anything on the Hallmark channel,” she joked. “Just kidding. “The Sound of Music that they play on repeat on Thanksgiving.” “The Sound of Music stars Julie Andrews. Why? “It’s infuriating. I mean I love Julie Andrews. I love her to death. But they literally just shove it down your throat for 12 hours on Thanksgiving and call it a holiday movie. It’s terrible.”

TIMESHIA

THERESA DUNN

CHRIS STEEB

ROBYN KAVANAGH

2022 HOLIDAY CALENDAR

See a complete calendar at youarecurrent.com

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Listen to live holiday Christmas classics while enjoying a breakfast that includes appetizers, an entrée and a sweet treat for the table. Pictures with Santa are included. The event will take place at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael, Carmichael 1 Carmichael Square in Carmel.

When – Tables available 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 3. Learn more at eventbrite.com/e/ breakfast-with-santa-tickets-418127629997.

Cost – $30-$50

THE ICE AT CARTER GREEN

An outdoor ice-skating rink will be inside the perimeter of the Carmel Christkindl markt at 10 Carter Green, Carmel. Guests are welcome to bring their own skates or rent them at the venue. Reservations can be made online at theiceatcartergreen.com.

When – Closed Monday to Wednesday for private rentals. Open 4 p.m. to 9.p.m. Thurs day and Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 9.pm. Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 19 to Feb. 26, 2023. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Cost – For ticket and reservation informa tion visit, theiceatcartergreen.com/tickets.

COXHALL MANSION HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Come see the mansion decked out in its holiday best! The public is invited to leisure ly stroll through the mansion and admire the holiday decor. Knowledgeable staff and docents will be on hand to share the history of the mansion.

When – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Nov. 26 Where – Coxhall Gardens & Coxhall Mansion, 11669 Town Rd. in Carmel.

Cost – Free

MOVIES AT MIDTOWN

Midtown Plaza is showing movies through out the day every Saturday through De cember. Movie showing announcements will be made on the Midtown Plaza Carmel Facebook page and the Midtown Carmel Instagram page.

Where – Midtown Plaza, 365 Monon Blvd. in Carmel.

When – Noon., 3 p.m., 6 p.m., Saturdays, Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. No showings on Christmas Eve.

Cost – Free

AN INTIMATE CHRISTMAS WITH LORIE LINE

Expect a very intimate evening with solo piano artist Lorie Line as she shares her

music and and heartwarming stories cen tered around the piano. The show will be 1 hour 30 minutes with no intermission. Chil dren are welcome, and the recommended age is 10 and up.

Where: The Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green in Carmel.

When: 7 p.m., Nov. 29.

Cost: $65

NO CHESTNUTS (NOT YOUR MOTHER’S CHRISTMAS SHOW)

In “No Chestnuts”, Adam B. Shapiro treats guests to a set of songs that Hallmark doesn’t include in their movies. You’ll hear songs about the perils of Christmas shop ping and what happens on the twelve days after Christmas. The show closes with a truncated version of the first animated spe cial produced for television, 1962’s “Mr. Ma goo’s Christmas Carol” (the only carol you’ll hear all evening).

Where- Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael, 1 Carmichael Sq. in Carmel.

When- 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Nov. 30. Cost: $65 to $95. A $25 food and beverage minimum will be required of all patrons.

CCHS HOLIDAY HOME TOUR

Kick off the holiday season with one of the Carmel Clay Historical Society’s most trea sured traditions! This year, the tour features four mid-century modern beauties, decorat ed to let their unique style shine.

Where: All of the homes are centrally locat ed in Carmel, in the Eden Glen and Wood land Springs neighborhoods. For more, visit bit.ly/3V2Y8Gz.

When: 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 with home tours. A VIP reception will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. at Woodland Springs Clubhouse. Home tours only from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3. Cost: Dec 2. $75. Dec. 3. $30

A CHRISTMAS STORY THE MUSICAL

The musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts — an Official Red Ryder car bine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Where: Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre, 3 Carter Green in Carmel.

When: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 2-3, Dec. 8 – 11,

Virtual Silent Auction, Friday Nov. 18 to Tuesday

Nov. 29

from

Dec. 15 – 18, Dec. 21 - 24

Cost: Tickets start at $60.50.

MARK WILLIAM: IT’S SNOWTIME!

Mark William returns to Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael for his third engagement, this time with a new holiday show.

Where: Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael, 1 Carmichael Sq. in Carmel

When: Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Showtime at 9 p.m., Dec. 3 and 4

Cost: $60 to $95. Tickets can be pur chased at prekindle.com/find-tickets/ id/531433528583229271?3

HOLIDAY SHOWS AT THE PALLADIUM

The Palladium will feature a variety of per formances with holiday themes throughout the season. Performers include Michael Bolton, Marie Osmond, the Carmel Sym phony Orchestra and many others. Visit TheCenterPresents.org for a full schedule and ticket prices.

Where: The Palladium, 1 Carter Green Cost: Varies

A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS

A Motown Christmas is a powerful, fam ily-oriented show combining Motown’s greatest hits with everyone’s favorite holi day classics.

Where: The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green in Carmel. When: 7:30 p.m., Dec. 6

Cost: Tickets start at $49. Learn more at thecenterpresents.org.

“UH-OH, HERE COMES CHRISTMAS”

From the author of “Everything I Ever Need ed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten”, this show presented by Carmel Community Play ers takes a funny, heartwarming and often poignant look at the struggle to find the spirit of the holidays amid the avalanche of commercialism, stress and chaos that crashes down every December.

Where: The Cat, 254 Veterans Way in Carmel When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday Dec. 9 to 18

Cost: $18 for adults, $16 for students and seniors (62+)

“HOLIDAY CABARET ON STRINGS” WITH MELCHIOR MARIONETTES

This fast-paced, entertaining cabaret of handcrafted marionettes will delight children and adults with the hilarious an tics of the characters and the skill of the puppeteers.

Where: The Studio Theater at the Center for Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green in Carmel

When: 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Dec. 10

Cost: $10 per child (1-7) with two free adult

admissions included. To reserve more than two adult tickets, contact the box office at 317-843-3800.

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH ATI LIVE

Join Actors Theatre of Indiana as they present classic holiday music and welcome some talented special guests to join in the fun and, of course, an appearance by Santa. A $25 food and beverage minimum is re quired per ticket holder.

Where: Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael, 1 Carmichael Sq. in Carmel

When: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Dec. 15 to 16

Cost $40 - $75 tickets can be purchased at prekindle.com/event/56286-celebrate-theholidays-with-ati-live-carmel.

D’AMBROSIO’S CHRISTMAS IN CARMEL

Join Franc D’Ambrosio on a nostalgic stroll through one of his favorite cities as he joy ously celebrates the music and magic of the holidays.

Where: at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael, 1 Carmichael Sq. in Carmel

When: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 18 Costs: $60 to $100. Tickets can be bought at prekindle.com/ event/77674-franc-dambrosio-carmel.

DONUT 5K HOLIDAY RUN/WALK

Enjoy Jack’s Donuts on the course and at the finish line. Packet pickup and post-race party are indoors on the courts of the Carm el Racquet Club.

Where: Carmel Racquet Club, 225 E. in Carmel

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec 24. Cost: 5K run or walk for ages 6-12 is $20. Prices go up after Nov. 23. 5K run/walk for ages 13 and older is $40. Prices go up after Dec. 18. Tickets are limited. Registration is available at runsignup.com/Race/IN/ Carmel/16thAnnualDonut5KHolidayRunWalk.

CARMEL HOLIDAY TROLLEY

Enjoy a spin around the city’s entertain ment districts. The free Holiday Trolley will stop at the Christkindlmarkt, City Center, In diana Design Center, Agave & Bub’s Burgers. Where: Carmel Arts & Design District at Main Street and Range Line Road in Carmel. When: 5 - 9 p.m. Fridays and 2 - 9 p.m. Sat urdays., Nov. 25 to Dec. 24 Cost: Free and open to the public.

SANTA SATURDAYS

Come and enjoy a visit with Santa in his very own Santa house.

Where: Santa House in Indiana Design Cen ter parking lot at 200 S Range Line Rd. in Carmel

When: 2 to 5 p.m. Saturdays Dec. 12 to 24. Cost: Free

NO ONE HAS MORE CREDIBLE REVIEWS THAN US.

Holiday at the Table

“The thing I absolutely want to have is sweet potato casserole.”

Why? “My mom started making it when I was in high school and everybody said, ‘Ooh what’s for dessert?’ and I dug into it because I thought it was a side. I just can’t go without it.”

“One thing that’s essential would have to be rolls.”

What’s your favorite? “Just big fluffy rolls.”

Why? “They go with everything and when everything is fin ished off your plate you just have this juice and all that stuff, you know? You can get the roll and finish it all off.”

“Real yeast rolls.”

Why rolls? “Oh, because they’re just warm and they’re gooey and they’re just wonderful.”

Is there a brand that you prefer? “Rhodes. They’re frozen. You have to let them sit and they get really big, and you put it with real butter.”

BRAXTON KORTZ

KYLE BENGE

MARY FRIEND

Marriage in double ‘Jeopardy!’

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Third night

Mayim: Dick, tell us about the time you had an embarrassing moment on TV with a big Hollywood star.

HUMOR

In last week’s column, I shared personal recollections my wife might discuss during the “chat” portion of the show “Jeopardy!” if she were a contestant. All of Mary Ellen’s responses were true stories. This week is what I would say if I were accepted to be one of the three challengers. Again, all my answers are true.

First night on show

Host Mayim Bialik: So, Dick, I understand you lied to get your first job as a teacher.

Dick: Mayim, it’s true. Arriving for my interview at the high school I had attended four years earlier, I discovered that the En glish position I wanted had been filled. What they needed now was a psychology teacher. The assistant super intendent asked me what I majored in. I said psychology, which wasn’t true. I got the job. Then I taught psychology for 10 years.

Second night

Mayim: Dick, is it true you once made the front page of a tabloid magazine?

Dick: In New York City, I became friendly with exercise guru Richard Simmons. The paparazzi snapped a photo of us jogging together in Central Park. The next week at the supermarket checkout counter, I saw one of those trashy tabloids with a photo of us on the lower left-hand corner of the cover. The headline read: Exercise with your lover. I received calls from friends I hadn’t heard from in years. I thought the whole thing was funny. Richard thought it was hysterical. So did my wife. What about you?

Dick: Mayim, I interviewed Cyd Charisse, the renowned actress and dancer. My pro ducer told me to mention Underalls, a panty hose brand that I assumed was sponsoring her tour. This made sense; the woman had awesome legs. I mentioned Underalls nu merous times until Ms. Charisse corrected me, saying she had nothing to do with Underalls, but she did want to talk about Enderall, her arthritis medicine. This week, 35 years later, I finally got a pair of hearing aids. A little late, to be sure.

Fourth night

Mayim: I’m told you have asked some really dumb questions on your TV shows. What was the dumbest?

Dick: I interviewed a man who had a 6-foot-long alligator pet named Fritz. When I got to his house, his reptilian giant had on a T-shirt that said, “I’m a Dick Wolfsie Fan.” I asked the owner if he had ever gotten in the tank with the gator. “No, Dick, Fritz put that shirt on by himself.”

Fifth night

Who am I kidding? There is no chance I would get to the fifth night. Or the second night, for that matter.

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

Dick Wolfsie

Who am I kidding? There is no chance

I would get to the fifth night. Or the second night, for that matter.

– DICK WOLFSIE

Surviving a blood clot scare

By Edward Redd news@currentincarmel.com

At 55, Chris Betelak considered himself active and healthy. So, it was a surprise when doctors found blood clots in his leg and lungs.

AWARENESS

The discovery occurred in March 2017, when the Carmel resident began feeling chest pain while working in his yard.

“I’m thinking, well, could this be bron chitis, you know, a cracked lung or some thing?” Betelak said.

He called his primary caregiver, Stephen Knauss, who recognized the symptoms — which included a swollen and warm leg — as blood clots.

That night, Betelak was admitted to As cension St. Vincent Indianapolis Hospital on 86th Street in Indianapolis.

A couple of days later, he had an ap pointment with Dr. Brandon Hardesty, a hematologist who practices at the Indiana Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center in Indi anapolis. Hardesty ran blood tests to see what might have caused the blood clots but found no underlying conditions or health

factors. The diagnosis: deep vein thrombo sis and a pulmonary embolism.

Betelak said he hasn’t had any blood clot-related issues since 2017. He believes he will be taking blood thinning medication for the rest of his life.

“When you see something so sudden like that, try not to think it might be something else. Don’t be afraid to react to it,” Betelak said.

Hardesty said 100,000 blood clot-related deaths occur annually in the U.S. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath and persistent muscle cramps. Risk factors include recent surgeries, trauma/injury to the legs and a family history of blood clots. Some cases can have no direct cause and have no symptoms.

Chris Betalak visits with his wife, Kathy, and children, Maya and Kyle, while in the hospital in March 2017. (Photo courtesy of Chris Betelak)

MERCHANTS BANK OFFICIALS RING NASDAQ CLOSING BELL

Officials from Carmel-based Merchants Bank of Indiana visited Times Square to ring the Nasdaq closing bell Nov. 9 in celebration of the company’s five-year anniversary of its initial public offering. Merchants was recently recognized as the No. 1 performing public bank in the nation in the 2021 S&P Global Market Intelligence Ranking. (Photo courtesy of Nasdaq)

currentnightandday.com

The Wright Brothers set for ride into sunset

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

“It’s a Wonderful Life” is set for Nov. 25 through Dec. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beef andboards.com.

CONCERTS

The Wright Brothers were ready for their farewell concert at CarmelFest July 4, 2021. Unfortunately, the sound person got sick and went home and there was no one to run the system.

“The last concert we did at CarmelFest was a disaster and we hated leaving the people with that in their ear,” John Mc Dowell said. “Fifty years is a long time not to have a good finale, if you know what I mean.”

The Wright Brothers will say goodbye with a series of concerts at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The Nov. 25 and 26 shows are sold out at Fein stein’s, which is seating 135 for the show. There are tickets remaining for the Dec. 3 and 9 concerts.

“So, these shows at Feinstein’s will be our apology to the fans that had to endure that outdoor fiasco in 2021,” Carmel resi dent Tim Wright said.

There is a possibility of another show being added in January.

“We’ll keep doing shows until everyone is sick of us,” Tim said jokingly.

The group, which formed in 1971, was originally called Wright Brothers Overland Stage Company with brothers Tom and Tim Wright and Karl Hinkle. McDowell replaced Hinkle a few years later.

“These shows will be like what we performed in showrooms all across the country during the ‘70s and ’80,” Tim said. “There were many hotels, casinos and stand-alone showroom venues where Tom could do stories and do his comedy bits and we could actually put on a show, com pared to outdoor festivals and the private corporate jobs we began playing when we got off the road in 1988. We’ll be playing songs that go back to our very beginnings, some originals and the many covers we redid our way musically.”

The band dressed in Western attire with cowboy hats and had nine singles reach Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart.

“We started as folk or country rock,” Tim said. “It was heavy on vocals. We did more

folk music at first. We’ve always done a variety of music.”

The Wright Brothers will perform one of their biggest hits, “Made in the U.S.A.”

“There will be some Beatles songs and Eagles song,” Tim said. “It will be the stuff we enjoyed listening to and playing.”

The Wright Brothers performed “Shot Down in Hot Blood” and a cover of “Jim Dandy” for the soundtrack of the 1987 mov ie “Overboard,” starring Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

McDowell was in a band called Shiloh Morning when The Wright Brothers began.

“And I would go see The Wright Brothers and The Wright Brothers would come and see us often when we had a chance,” he said. “We were quite popular here in Carm el, along with The Wright Brothers, I got an offer from Tim and Tom Wright to join the band and I accepted in the late ‘70s.”

McDowell has been in Carmel since 1972 when he moved from Texas, with a short stint in Cicero for 10 years.

“The band has had some incredible

experiences over the years, and it’s been quite a journey,” McDowell said. “We are so looking forward to our shows at Fein stein’s, a much better way to close out the years of music.”

Tim said the band was a full-time pur suit with 17 years on the road. When it got off the road in 1988, the members got jobs but kept playing and doing out-of-town shows.

“For the last 10 years, we’ve just been playing locally,” Tim said. “We played at the Palladium five times with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra.”

Tom and McDowell are both 74. Tim is 70. Mark Dodd, from Dodd Technologies, will be running the sound, Tim said.

“We will say our farewell with the best sound man in the business,” he said. “We are so looking forward to these shows, we’re even rehearsing. But after 50 years of playing most of these songs, the ‘call back’ is pretty easy.”

For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

’THE NUTCRACKER’

Indiana Ballet Conservatory will present “The Nutcracker” Nov. 26-27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Car mel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘HOLIDAY & MORE’

Ashley Nicole Soprano’s “Holiday & More” concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’

The Belfry Theatre will present “The Sound of Music” from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4 at the Ivy Tech Auditorium, 300 N. 17th St., Noblesville. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com.

‘AN INTIMATE CHRISTMAS WITH LORIE LINE’

“An Intimate Christmas with Lorie Line” is set for 7 p.m. Nov. 29 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Car mel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Art on Main celebrates anniversary — Art on Main Gallery and Gifts recently celebrat ed five years in the Carmel Arts and Design District. Art includes paintings in oil, acrylic and mixed media; fine art photography, mosaics, pottery, jewelry, glass art, textiles, charcuterie boards, cards, artisan candles and more. Featured artists for November are Sara Bernstein and Tresa Steenberg. December will feature all artists and holiday offerings.

Film premiere set for Kan Kan Cine ma— Indianapolis resident Demetrius Witherspoon, a screenwriter and film di rector, will have the red carpet premiere for “Submerge: Blue Star” Nov. 22 at the Kan Kan Cinema, 1258 Windsor St., India napolis. The movie was filmed at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel, downtown Indianapolis and Monrovia. For tickets, visit goelev ent.com/Kan-KanCinemaandBrasserie/e/ SUBMERGEBLUESTARPREMIERE.

From left, John McDowell, Tim Wright and Tom Wright form The Wright Brothers, who are per forming farewell concerts. (Photo courtesy of Tim Wright)

Show’s theme is ‘Peace, Love, Joy’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The theme of Carmel High School’s 2022 version of Holiday Spectacular is “Peace, Love, Joy.”

CONCERTS

“It’s just a collection of wonderful music that reminds us all what the true focus of the season should be,” said Kathrine Kouns, director of choirs. “It also is focused on reminding everyone that we have more in common than we think and that we should pay more attention to our similarities than our differences at this time of year, and always.”

The annual Holiday Spectacular runs Nov. 30 through Dec. 4 at the Carmel High School Auditorium.

“We always start the show with a huge, combined number featuring eight of the 10 choirs,” Kouns said. “We also end the first act with a Christmas Extravaganza bringing in Santa, of course. The finale will include the traditional carol, ‘Silent Night,’ just as it has for over 30 years.”

Kouns said the show will be a combina tion of some familiar favorites as well as

many songs that are being performed for the first time at Holiday Spectacular. A va riety of choreographers from both in town and even out of state worked on the event.

“The group numbers are always a blast, it is so rewarding to sing with the many beautiful voices in our program,” said senior Kate Smith, who is president of Accents, the all-female show choir.

The performances are at 7 p.m. Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3 and 2 p.m. Dec. 4.

For tickets, visit bit.ly/3ULruts.

Noblesville actor lands dream gig

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Benjamin Elliott will finally get his wish.

who is portrayed by Logan Moore.

“I have dreamed of being on the Beef & Boards stage since I first saw Kenny Shepard in ‘A Beef & Boards Christmas’ when I was a young child,” said Elliott, a Nobles ville resident. “Beef & Boards was my first experience with profession al theater, and the people onstage were like celebrities to me. It is humbling to think that a child in the audience could now be inspired by a play that I am a part of.”

THEATER

Elliott will play Harry Bailey in the Beef & Boards’ production of “It’s a Wonderful Life” from Nov. 25 to Dec. 23.

“I have always loved the themes and sentiments of the movie, and this adapted script in particular brings the best moments from the movie to life and makes the char acters stand out in a relatable and emotion al way,” Elliott said.

Elliott said he appreciates the love Harry shows for his older brother, George Bailey,

“I am the youngest of three brothers, and I am lucky to have a good relationship with them,” Elliott said. “I feel like Logan and I, on and off the stage, have crafted a brotherly relationship that is truly indicative of the sentiments of familial love, especially around the holiday sea son. Harry is an honorable man, and despite the luck he inherits at George’s detriment, he never for gets his roots in his hometown.”

A 2018 Noblesville High School graduate, Elliott sang the role of Figaro in “The Marriage of Figaro” at Anderson University in the spring of 2019. He is studying musical theater at Anderson University and will graduate in 2023.

“I am passionate about all stage works,” Elliott said. “There is nothing like the immersion and communication that live theater provides, and I see all stage works as works of important and profound art. I would love to direct modern interpretations of classical works.”

For more on “It’s a Wonderful Life, visit beefandboards.com.

Photo by Daniel Grose Photography

Elliot

Performers at a previous Carmel High School Holiday Spectacular. (Photo courtesy of Kathrine Kouns)

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Ralphie Parker hated putting on the pink bunny suit.

Jackson Duncan loves it.

The Zionsville Middle School seventh-grader plays Ralphie in Civic Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story, The Musical” Dec. 2-24 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Per forming Arts in Carmel.

“I try not to laugh when I walk down the stairs in that suit,” Duncan said of his favor ite scene. “I really like the scene where Flick gets stuck to the flagpole. I think that is an iconic scene.”

Duncan said he was somewhat familiar with the movie but had never seen the musical.

“Ralphie is a very funny character,” he said. “He also has the side where he can be serious. He is a character who knows what he wants. He doesn’t wait around for it to come to him, he goes to it.”

Duncan, who has performed several times at Christian Youth Theater, is performing in his first Civic Theatre show. He previously participated in Civic Theatre’s intensive summer camp.

“This is the most fun role I’ve had,” Dun can said. “It’s my first super, super lead role. It’s been fun to work with all the amazing cast and crewmates. Everyone has been super helpful. The adults can be helpful if I’m confused on a term I haven’t heard before or if I don’t understand a part of blocking.”

Evan Cohen, a fifth-grader at Carmel’s Clay Center Elementary School, plays Grover Dill.

“It’s fun I get to play a bully when I’m not actually a bully,” he said.

Cohen said the biggest challenge is tap dancing.

Jackson Duncan wears the pink bunny suit as Ralphie in “A Christmas Story, The Musical” at Civic Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)

dance numbers.

“I’m living my dream to be a Rockette,” she said. “I grew up dancing and singing.”

This is her seventh show with Civic.

“I love doing Christmas shows at Civic. This is my third year,” she said.

Gaudreau performed in “Elf” in 2019 and 2021.

“We would stream the movie in our house almost nonstop,” she said. “We had lines and scenes memorized. They just make me laugh when I think about the movie because it’s such an iconic comedy. It’s a heartwarming story. You see the develop ment of the father and son’s relationship. It’s really touching, along with the comedic aspect of it. It’s attractive to a large range of audience.”

Gaudreau was a figure skater but stopped because of injuries. She has been acting since 2016.

Steve Kruze, a Plainfield resident, por trays Jean Shepherd, who narrates the story.

Cohen

“I like doing shows with adults and kids,” he said. “Doing a show with adults and kids makes it a lot more fun. The adults are able to help us with dancing.”

Cohen performed in Junior Civic Theatre’s production of “The Little Mermaid” during the summer.

Carmel resident Leslie Gaudreau performs in the ensemble, playing a couple of small roles as children’s mothers and different

“I have a real sentimental attachment to a group of friends who saw this movie when it came out,” he said. “It hit us at the right age and stuck with us. It’s not typical for me to work on the holiday shows. but I could not pass up the opportunity to see if they could use me for this.”

Carmel resident Emily Rogge Tzucker, who is directing, said she grew up watching the movie that was made in 1983.

“It’s been a big part of my holiday enjoy ment,” Tzucker said. “It’s 100 percent true to the movie. It has every single big fun thing in the movie that people that are serious about it would want.”

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BENJ PASEK AND JUSTIN PAUL Based on the motion picture A Christmas Story distributed by Warner Bros., written by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown, and Bob Clark, and upon 12/2-12/24 ACS Ad for The Current.indd 1 11/10/2022 1:33:07 PM

In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash written by Jean Shepherd.

Civic Theatre presents iconic Christmas show

Holiday Steals

Drinking in salami cocktails

Commentary by Mark LaFay

There is something really awesome about a well-crafted cocktail. The flavor possibili ties are endless. From the fruity and sweet to the herbal and bitter, there is an ocean of possibilities because of all the different wonderful ingredients that can be found all around the world. Cocktails are a lot like salami: They both can tell the story about a place and its people. They can give you a taste of what a place is about. Cocktails and salami give the artisan the ability to express themselves in culinary form. But what if you took your favorite cocktails and used them as the inspiration for your own salami? That’s what Scot Bridi at Brooklyn Cured did!

First, let’s take a look at the Brooklyn Cured Pork Salami with Bourbon and Sour Cherries. This is a riff on a classic cocktail, The Manhattan. This salami is made with a touch of bourbon, sour cherries, a touch of black pepper and garlic. This is a great sala mi with subtle oaky flavors and spice with a touch of sour and sweet from the cherries.

Great with olives and sharp cheeses.

Next up is the Brooklyn Cured Pork Salami with Rye Whiskey and Orange Zest. Any guesses? Maybe my favorite cocktail for sitting around a fire, the Old Fashioned. An other delicious salami from Brooklyn Cured. Warm spices pair nicely with the spiciness of rye whiskey. The fresh orange zest brings a vibrant pop of flavor that brings it all together. This pairs nicely with white hard cheeses, mustards, or go sweet with fig jam.

Last but not least is the Brooklyn Cured Pork Salami with Mezcal and Lime. Mezcal is an agave-based spirit that is made by fermenting the sugars in agave piñas that have been cooked in wood fires. The species of agave and the smokiness from cooking in a wood fire give the mezcal a smokey flavor. The salami is further flavored with lime zest, coriander and garlic.

N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011

From left, CSO board director Susan Anderson (Carmel) and Mike and Sandra Pirkle (Carmel) at the Carmel Symphony Orchestra Masterworks 2 cconcert with CSO guest artist/violinist Alexi Kenney of Palo Alto, Calif., and CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes Nov. 12 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Don’t miss CSO’s Holiday Pops featuring guest artists Josh Kaufman and Leah Crane Dec.

carmelsymphony.org. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Working with a blank slate

Unfinished basements are often the “blank slate” of the remodeling world, and we welcome the oppor tunity to create some thing stunning.

REMODELING

This basement started as an empty shell, and we considered a variety of options for how to best use the space. Ultimately, we settled on a flexible family room space that included an accent wall to house attractive storage, a fireplace and a television. The center of the accent wall bumps out to house the fireplace and mount the televi sion. The fireplace adds warmth (literally and figuratively) to the space, and it also has an incorporated lighting system that enhances the enjoyment of the fireplace.

Beneath the television we mounted a soundbar that improves the listening experience within the room. Flanking the fireplace are custom cabinets with shaker doors and a clean flush-toe detail. The cab inets provide much-needed storage space to house electronic components and other family items.

The cabinets are capped with stained

natural wood countertops, and the wall surfaces are wrapped with shiplap trim. The cabinets and shiplap wall treatment were painted in a deep gray color from Sherwin Williams called Peppercorn. The uniformly painted surfaces make for a striking feature within the room and immediately draw your attention.

Stay home, be moved.

Bill Bernard works for SURROUNDINGS by NatureWorks+.

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

Commentary by Bill Bernard

This basement was transformed from an unfin ished “blank slate” to a stunning living space (Photo courtesy of Bill Bernard)

A visit to Lexington’s historic homes

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, we begin a visit to Lexington, Ky., stopping by the homes of two important families.

1866, the Ashland estate became the home of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky, the predecessor of the University of Kentucky.

TRAVEL

In 1797, Henry Clay moved to Lexington, where he developed a thriving law practice, once successful ly defending Aaron Burr against treason charges. He established Ashland, a 672-acre plantation outside town, where, among oth er agricultural innovations, he bred champi on thoroughbred horses. In 1806, Clay built a Federal-style house on the property, which he enlarged as his wife Lucretia bore 11 chil dren. While residing at Ashland, Clay, a slave owner, became known as the “Great Com promiser” for his actions as a United States senator and ran three times for president, losing each time. Among those voting for him was Abraham Lincoln, whose wife Mary Todd grew up in Lexington and knew the Clays. In 1847, Lincoln and his wife visited the Todd house on their way to Washington, D.C. When Henry Clay died in 1852, his son razed Ashland’s house, replacing it with an Italianate-style house using the same foundation and floorplan as the original. In

The Ashland estate has been open to the public since 1950. The 18-room mansion is filled with Clay-family memorabilia. The tree-covered grounds include formal gardens and reconstructed icehouses that provided cooling water for Henry Clay’s dairy. An outbuilding features the carriage Clay used for his many trips to and from Washington. In downtown Lexington, about 2 miles from Ashland, is the 14-room Federal-style house where Mary Todd Lincoln was raised, along with her 15 siblings. The house opened to the public in 1977, the first house museum honor ing a first lady. It includes period furnishings, a rare print picturing Lincoln’s assassination and information about how the Civil War di vided the Todd family.

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

Icehouses on Henry Clay’s Ashland estate, in Lexington, Ky. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Queue up for Scrabble score boost

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Of all the Scrabble letters, Q and Z hold the most value, at 10 points each. In 1982, Karl Khoshnaw — the Michael Jordan of Scrabble — used both letters to spell the word “caziques.” Caziques (plural form of a type of oriole) earned Khoshnaw 392 points, which still is the world’s top-scoring single Scrabble move ever.

GRAMMAR GUY

You don’t see many Q words out there, but one has always intrigued me: queue. I’ve seen the following phrase online in many language humor forums, which prob ably means Mark Twain said it: “‘Queue’ is just the letter ‘Q’ and four silent vowels waiting in line.”

Queue can’t be a word. It looks ridiculous and feels even more strange to type. How ever, it’s a word. Pronounced like its first letter, queue (as a noun) means “a line of

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

people or cars.” As a verb, queue means “to get in line.” It’s more often used in British English in the same way that the word “line” is used in American English.

In computing, queue is a type of linear data structure. I won’t get into any more detail, as I have reached the limits of my hacker knowledge.

We sometimes find people writing “que” instead of “queue.” The word “que” is an often-used word in French, Spanish and

other Romance languages that means “that” or “what,” depending on context. Que and queue are not the same. If you didn’t know — now you know.

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

NOTICE OF

PUBLIC HEARING

PUBLIC NOTICE

In accordance with the Construction Stormwater General Permit from the NPDES General Permit Program, this is to notify the public that CrossRoad Engineers, PC (115 N. 17th Avenue, Beech Grove, IN 46107) is submitting a Notice of Intent to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to discharge storm water from construction activities associated with the following:

The project site, to be known as City Center Dr and Veterans Way Roundabout, is located in the northeast quarter of Section 36, Township 18 North, Range 3 East, Township 18 North, Clay Township Hamilton County at the intersection of City Center Dr and Veterans Way in Carmel, IN. The project involves the construction of a new roundabout at the intersection, including storm sewers and other required utilities. The ultimate receiving water for the project is Cool Creek. Construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2023.

For persons wishing to comment, or with questions, drawings and specifications are on file and may be examined at the following location: CrossRoad Engineers, PC 115 N. 17th Avenue Beech Grove, IN 46107 (317) 780-1555

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS CARMEL, INDIANA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION from the GENERAL FUND (#101) Ordinance D-2655-22

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, that the proper legal officers of the City of Carmel, at their regular meeting place at Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Council Chambers at 6 p.m. on the 5th day of December, 2022, will consider the following appropriation in excess of the budget for 2022:

$294,136.09 from the GENERAL FUND OPERATING Balances

To

Carmel Fire Department (1120): Line item 4112002 - Unscheduled Overtime $294,136.09

The source of revenue for the above is the General Fund (#101).

Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have a right to be heard. The additional appropriation as finally made will be referred to the Department of Local Government Finance. The Department will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a certified copy of the action taken.

Sue Wolfgang, Clerk

November 9, 2022

CARMEL, INDIANA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION from the MOTOR VEHICLE HIGHWAY FUND (#201) Ordinance D-2653-22

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, that the proper legal officers of the City of Carmel, at their regular meeting place at Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Council Chambers at 6 p.m. on the 5th day of December, 2022 will consider the following appropriation in excess of the budget for 2022:

$8,786.14 from the Motor Vehicle Highway Fund (#201)

To Motor Vehicle Highway Fund #201 (2200): Line Item 4350900 – Other Cont Services - $8,100.00

The source of revenue for the above is the Motor Vehicle Highway Fund (#201).

Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have a right to be heard. The additional appropriation as finally made will be referred to the Department of Local Government Finance. The Department will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a certified copy of the action taken.

Sue Wolfgang, Clerk November 9, 2022

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS CARMEL, INDIANA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION from the STORM WATER MANAGEMENT FUND (#250) Ordinance D-2654-22

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, that the proper legal officers of the City of Carmel, at their regular meeting place at Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Council Chambers at 6 p.m. on the 5th day of December, 2022 will consider the following appropriation in excess of the budget for 2022:

$69,603.07 from the Storm Water Management Fund (#250) Operating Balance To Storm Water Management Fund #250: Line Item 4350900 – Other Cont. Services - $69,603.07

The source of revenue for the above is the Storm Water Management Fund (#250).

Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have a right to be heard. The additional appropriation as finally made will be referred to the Department of Local Government Finance. The Department will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a certified copy of the action taken.

Sue Wolfgang, Clerk November 9, 2022

BEFORE THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA Ordinance No. D-2656-22

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Common Council, on December 5, 2022 at 6:00 PM in the Carmel City Hall Council Chambers, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana 46032, will hold a Public Hearing to consider proposed Ordinance D-2656-22 which would vacate certain public rghts-of-way abutting the Petitioner’s (JR Farmer Finance SC, LLC) Old Meridian and Main redevelopment project. The rights-of-way to be vacated are located entirely within the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana.

A copy of the proposed Ordinance is on file and open to inspection in the Office of the Clerk, City of Carmel, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana 46032.

All interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed ordinance will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. The hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.

Sue Wolfgang, Clerk November 9, 2022

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

CARMEL, INDIANA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION from the PARKS AND RECREATION NON-REVERTING CAPITAL FUND (#103)

Ordinance D-2652-22

PLAN COMMISSION

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL

Docket Number: PZ-2022-00154 DP/ADLS

S-Mart Real Estate, Inc.

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Plan Commission meeting on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civil Square, 2nd Flr, Carmel, Indiana 46032 will hold a Public Hearing upon a/an DP/ADLS in order to:

The applicant seeks site plan and design approval for a new BMO Harris Banking Center and a two-sto ry retail/office building at 1701 E. 116th Street (previously Valero Gas Station). The site is zoned B-3 and is within the Rangeline Over Zone. Filed by Warren Johnson on behalf of S-Mart Real Estate, Inc.

The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2022-00154 DP/ADLS: 116th & Rangeline – Redevelop ment and may be examined at the DOCS office.

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

Parcel Number: 16-14-06-01-01-001.000

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

Any written comments to the proposal should also be filed with the Secretary of the Plan Commission not later than 2 PM on December 13, 2022, the date of the Public Hearing. All written comments will be presented to the Plan Commission. Any oral comments concerning the proposal will be heard by the Plan Commission at the hearing according to its Rules of Procedure.

Joe Shestak, Administrator Carmel Plan Commission 317-571-2417

Petitioner Name: Warren Johnson S-Mart Real Estate, Inc.

5824 Plum Creek Blvd. Carmel, IN 46033 Phone: 317-694-6500

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, that the proper legal officers of the City of Carmel, at their regular meeting place at Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Council Chambers at 6 p.m. on the 5th day of December, 2022, will consider the following appropriation in excess of the budget for 2022:

$104,394.45 from the PARKS AND RECREATION NON-REVERTING CAPTIAL FUND

To Parks and Recreation Non-Reverting Capital Fund: Line item 4460703 – Monon Greenway $104,394.45

The source of revenue for the above is the Parks and Recreation Non-Reverting Capital Fund (#103).

Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have a right to be heard. The additional appropriation as finally made will be referred to the Department of Local Government Finance. The Department will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a certified copy of the action taken.

Sue Wolfgang, Clerk November 9, 2022

LIFESTYLE

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

City of Carmel, Indiana Department Board of Public Works and Safety

One Civic Square

City of Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: Clay Township Center - Addition

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Public Works and Safety for the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana will receive sealed bids for the above described “Project” at the office of the Clerk, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana (City Hall) until 10:00 a.m. EST on December 7th, 2022 and, commencing as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date, such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers of City Hall. No late bids will be accepted.

All bids and proposals shall be properly and completely executed on the proposal forms provided with the plans and specifications, which will include the non-collusion affidavit as required by the State of Indiana. The bid envelope must be sealed and have the words “BID –Clay Township Center - Addition”.

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

The Project consists of Two Separate Bids (Bid-1 & Bid-2) that will be funded from two separate sources, but is not necessarily limited to, the following: All items within the Construction Documents dated October 26th, 2022 (10-26-22) are by the General Contractor and his Subcontractors. Generally described below:

Bid-1 (Demolition, Civil Site Wo(rk & Building Shell)

• Demo existing curbs, sidewalks, curved exterior entry feature, and interior demo work.

• Remove landscaping, relocate site furniture, and salvage light poles.

• Create new entrance to property with access drive to new building addition.

• Install new concrete curbs, and sidewalks.

• Install new asphalt paving and stripe parking.

• Install salvaged light poles with new foundations in new locations.

• Install a new rain garden and connect new stormwater utilities to existing system.

• All site grading and excavation required to complete project with new landscaping.

• Install new concrete foundations, slab, structural steel, stud walls with face brick veneer, interior rough carpentry and insulated roof at building addition.

• Install overhead coiling doors.

• Install new sewer line, connected to existing sewer.

• Install new electrical feeder line with new sub-meter connected to existing power main.

• Install conduits for future EV stations.

• Install metal railing/handrail at interior ramp.

• Install interior storefront in conference room.

Bid-2 (Interior Built-out, Finishes & MEP)

• Insulate walls and finish with drywall and paint.

• Install interior doors, hardware and interior windows.

• Install finish carpentry and interior trim.

• Install carpet, tile, LVT and seal concrete floor.

• Install acoustical ceiling tiles.

• Install cabinets, shelving and countertops.

• Install fire extinguishers and cabinets.

• Install new plumbing and connect to new sewer line.

• Install new electrical and lighting.

• Install new HVAC system.

• Install access control, security and camera system.

• Install technology/communication.

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

City of Carmel Department of Engineering - 1st Floor One Civic Square Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 571-2441

Copies of such drawings and project manuals must be obtained from: Eastern Engineering https://easternengineering.com/fishers-in/ 9901 Allisonville Road Fishers, IN 46038 (866) 884-4115

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

This Project will be funded by the City of Carmel.

A pre-bid conference for discussions of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on November 30, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. in the Caucus Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall (One Civic Square). All prospective bidders are invited to attend the pre-bid conference. The pre-bid conference is not mandatory.

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

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

November 22, 2022 Current in Carmel currentincarmel.com

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

City of Carmel, Indiana

Department Board of Public Works and Safety

One Civic Square City of Carmel, Indiana 46032

Project: 21-05 CITY CENTER DR & VETERANS WAY ROUNDABOUT

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Public Works and Safety for the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana will receive sealed bids for the above described “Project” at the office of the Clerk, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana (City Hall) until 9:45 EST and in the Council Chambers at the same address between the hours of 9:45 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. EST on or before December 7, 2022 , and commencing as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers of City Hall. No late bids will be accepted.

All bids and proposals shall be properly and completely executed on the proposal forms provided with the plans and specifications, which will include the non-collusion affidavit as required by the State of Indiana. The bid envelope must be sealed and have the words “BID – 21-05 CITY CENTER DR & VETERANS WAY ROUNDABOUT”

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

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

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project is for the construction of one new roundabout at the intersection of City Center Dr and Veterans Way in Carmel, IN. The project consists of installing storm sewers, water main, sanitary sewer, communications conduit, new full depth asphalt pavement, curbs, decorative and concrete sidewalks, asphalt path, lighting, and raised crosswalks.

Contract Documents must be obtained from Reprographix (Reprographix.com). Payments and costs of Contract Documents are non-refundable.

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

This Project will be funded by the City of Carmel.

A pre-bid conference for discussions of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on November 30 at 2:00 P.M. in the Caucus Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall (One Civic Square). All prospective bidders are invited to attend the pre-bid conference. The pre-bid conference is not mandatory.

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

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

Sue Wolfgang Clerk

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL PLAN COMMISSION

Docket Number: PZ-2022-00224 OA

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Plan Commission meeting on December 13, 2022 at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Square, 2nd Flr, Carmel, Indiana 46032 will hold a Public Hearing upon an Ordinance Amendment in order to: Amend the PUD requirements to construct a BJ’s Wholesale Club building.

The common address of the property is: 14480 Lowes Way, Carmel, IN 46033 and southern portion of 14598 Lowes Way, Carmel, IN 46033.

The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2022-00224 OA.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Parcel 16-10-19-00-00-001.009 and southern portion of parcel 16-10-19-00-00-001.004.

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

Any written comments to the proposal should also be filed with the Secretary of the Plan Commission not later than 12 PM on December 13, 2022, the date of the Public Hearing or at the hearing. All written comments will be presented to the Commission. Any oral comments concerning the proposal will be heard by the Commission at the hearing according to its Rules of Procedure.

Joe Shestak, Administrator

Carmel Plan Commission

317-571-2417

Petitioner Name: BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. by Steven D. Hardin, Attorney Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP 600 E. 96th Street, Suite 600 Indianapolis, IN 46240 Phone: 317-569-9600

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LIKE TO SEW & CREATE?

Custom drapery and soft furnishings workroom in Carmel is looking for friendly, personable people who like to sew. Sewing experience is necessary and the desire to learn and enjoy and increase your skill is a must. We’ll teach you our methods. Part-time weekday daytime, flexible 20 hour week position in a handy location in Carmel. Ability and willingness to climb a ladder is needed. Good communication skills. Call Mark at Silk Mountain Creations 317 815-1660 to set a time to come by. Please do not drop-in. www.silkmountaincreations.com

MATH TEACHER

A math teacher at Midwest Academy will be responsible for teaching all aspects of mathematics, including fundamental and introductory algebra skills, to middle school students in a progressive environment designed for children with learning differences. .

Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a child-centered mentality are essential to this position..This position is full time and compensation is commensurate with experience.

To apply please send your resume to careers@mymwa.org

LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER

A language arts teacher at Midwest Academy will be responsible for teaching all aspects of language arts, including fundamental reading and writing skills, to middle school students in a progressive environment designed for children with learning differences.

Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a child-centered mentality are essential to this position. This position is full time and compensation is commensurate with experience.

To apply please send your resume to careers@mymwa.org

PRESCHOOL TEACHING ASSISTANT

Seeking a reliable, motivated, positive Christian applicant with good communication and interpersonal skills to assist the Lead Teacher.

Experience with children preferred. Full time - $16/hour + Email ltob.preschool@gmail.com to apply or for more information.

Little Town of Bethlehem is a ministry of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Carmel, IN.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

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

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

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

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

Carmel Indiana 46032

www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

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