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Learn more at eCommunity.com/every-mile or call 317.621.2727
The infrastructure that provides water for the spray plaza along Monon Boulevard will soon be reworked, although its features and external appearance will not change.
The Carmel City Council on July 17 approved spending $55,500 to begin the process of converting the mechanisms that clean and recirculate the spray plaza’s water to a single-use system.
“It’s our preference within the parks system to do an uncirculated system, simply because it requires a lot less labor hours in this particular case,” CCPR Director Michael Klitzing told the council. “All of the equipment is within a confined space, which means that we have to have at least two staff to be able to service the location, and chemical-related expenses are greater than just using the water once.”
The $55,500 will allow CCPR to redesign the system and prepare construction documents before taking it out to bid. CCPR has that amount available in unused funds from a recent utility relocation project.
The total cost estimate for the spray plaza redesign will not be known until design work is completed, but CCPR plans to fund the remainder through its 2024 budget.
Klitzing said parks staff must access the underground equipment, which is adjacent to the busy trail, at least once per day. Because of the chemicals involved the employees must wear a hazmat suit when they enter the confined space, which Klitzing said can cause “some degree of concern” for members of the public passing by.
Klitzing said CCPR, which is responsible for maintaining the spray plaza, was not consulted during initial design of the water feature.
“The design team used by the city was well-experienced in creating splashpads and the systems used are fairly common,” Klitzing stated in an email to Current. “Operationally, CCPR tends to prefer non-recirculating systems when feasible, as they tend to be easier and less costly to maintain, but we also understand the logic considered by the city and designers when originally selecting a recirculating system for Monon Boulevard.”
The council approved the ordinance on first reading. The project is expected to be bid in the winter, with construction occurring in the spring of 2024, so the spray plaza is available for use in the summer.
Carmel Clay Schools is once again among top-ranked school districts in Indiana for ILEARN test results.
CCS finished second, behind Brownsburg Community School Corp., among public school districts in English Language Arts and math proficiency, with 59.7 percent of students at that level or above, a 1 percent increase from the previous year. The statewide average is 30.6 percent.
“These results highlight the incredible dedication and hard work put forth by our entire school community,” CCS Supt. Michael Beresford stated. “The district’s performance demonstrates the success of a rigor-
ous curriculum, high-quality teachers, and support provided throughout our district to students at all levels.”
Carmel finished behind Brownsburg in ELA proficiency, with 68.7 percent of students testing at or above proficiency. Statewide, 40.7 percent of students tested at this level.
In math, 70.4 percent of Carmel students tested at or above proficiency. The statewide average is 40.9 percent. Carmel again finished second to Brownsburg among public schools, as 74.5 percent of Brownsburg students showed proficiency in math.
Scores in Carmel and across the state continue to lag behind pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, 66.7 percent of CCS students were found to be proficient in ELA and math.
The Indiana Department of Education re-
1. Brownsburg Community School Corp. – 63.4 percent
2. Carmel Clay Schools – 59.7 percent
3. North Spencer County School Corp. –56.8 percent
4. School Town of Munster – 54.8 percent
5. North West Hendricks Schools – 54.7 percent
leased the spring scores earlier this month. ILEARN assesses students’ knowledge of math and ELA in grades three through eight and includes testing in science for grades four and six and social studies in fifth grade.
The City of Carmel has added stop signs on Main Street at Veterans Way, creating a four-way stop at the intersection.
According to City Engineer Jeremy Kashman, the stop signs are intended to improve safety in an area with increasing foot traffic and active construction projects nearby.
“There is a lot of pedestrian activity at the intersection, as well, and we felt it was best at this time to make the change for safety,” Kashman stated in a press release.
The signs are expected to stay, as Mayor Jim Brainard has directed the city’s legal department to draft an ordinance to make them permanent, according to City of Carmel spokesman Dan McFeely. The ordinance will go before the Carmel City Council for a vote.
Project: Roundabout construction
Location: 111th Street and Spring Mill Road. The intersection will be closed for three weeks at the entrance to the Bridges development and Spring Mill Place neighborhood.
Expected completion: August
Location: N. College Avenue between 96th and 106th streets
Project: Improvements to 3rd Ave. SW
Location: 3rd Ave. SW is closed between Autumn Drive and 2nd Street SW. Access to businesses will be maintained.
Expected completion: Early 2025
Project: Roundabout construction
Location: E. Main Street and Lexington
Boulevard. Partial closures expected for the remainder of the project.
Expected completion: This month
Project: Widening and improvements, including a roundabout, along Smoky Row Road
Location: Between the Monon Greenway and U.S. 31. The road will be fully closed during the project.
Expected completion: TBD
Project: Multi-use path construction
Location: Gray Road from 106th to 116th streets. The project is not expected to result in a full closure of the road.
Expected completion: Fall
Project: Reconstruction of N. College Avenue
Start date: Utility work may begin this summer with construction beginning in the fall Expected completion: Spring 2025
FISHERS
Project: 146th and Allisonville Interchange
Location: Phase 2A traffic restrictions are in place, which eliminate left turns from 146th Street onto Allisonville Road and reopen to two through lanes on eastbound and westbound 146th Street. Sowers Drive, Wellington Court and Kensington Drive will be closed at 146th Street during this phase. Increased utility relocation activity is expected along Allisonville Road south of 146th Street. Saville Road will be closed at 146th Street for construction crews to construct the new frontage road and Saville Road access at 146th Street.
Expected completion: The entire project is set for completion in summer 2025
Project: 106th Street and Cumberland Road
Location: Eastbound 106th Street will be closed, just east of Cumberland Road for utility work. The detour route will use Cumberland Road to 116th Street to Hoosier Road or Cumberland Road to 96th Street to Mollenkopf Road.
Expected completion: Aug. 15
Tony Pancake couldn’t miss this, especially on Father’s Day.
The Crooked Stick Golf Club head pro was watching his daughter, Annabelle Pancake, play on a livestream in the R&A The Women’s Amateur Championship June 17 at Prince’s Golf Club in England while Crooked Stick was hosting a member-guest event at the Carmel club. Annabelle, a 2020 Zionsville Community High School graduate and Clemson University golfer, won her quarterfinal and semifinal matches in match play.
It was around noon in Carmel when Annabelle won her semifinal match and, Tony knew he had to get there for the next day’s championship.
“I was fortunate to find the last seat on an American Airlines flight,” Tony said. “It was a whirlwind trip. I landed in London at 6:50 in the morning. She teed off at 8:30. I had to rent a car and drive to the golf course, which is about 90 miles away. It took me 2 1/2 hours to get there.”
Tony missed the first eight holes but was listening to it in the car.
“It was such a joy to be there and so much fun for me to watch her play that afternoon,” he said.
The match ended up going 30 holes, with Annabelle losing 7 and 6 to Chiara Horder in the 36-hole final.
“Chiara deserved to win. In 30 holes, she made eight birdies and one bogey and was 7-under-par,” Tony said. “Annabelle was even par. It was more Chiara winning than Annabelle losing.”
Several Crooked Stick members encouraged him to go and chipped in to help pay for the flight, which cost more than $4,000.
“Quite honestly, I thought Annabelle would win because she was playing so well,” he said. “But I’m really glad I was there because it gave me a chance to reassure her there was not a winner and a loser. She finished second out of 144 of the best (female amateurs) in the world. There was a lot to be proud of.”
Annabelle said Horder played awesomely in the final.
“She totally earned it,” Annabelle said. “I say this was the most exciting, most rewarding (tournament). Even though I didn’t win, I keep telling people it was a win in my
book because getting to be there was such a blessing and great opportunity.”
Annabelle said having her parents attend was “super cool and special.”
Libby Pancake caddied for her daughter during the match play portion.
Annabelle said either her dad, swing coach or boyfriend usually caddies for her.
“But my mom was the only one with me and we ended up having a blast, so it was totally worth it,” she said.
Annabelle said the journey to the final was more of a mental battle than physical.
“You really have to stay focused for that amount of time and stay committed because you are playing golf basically all day,” Annabelle said. “You have to stay mentally in it and not burn yourself out. I have to remember to enjoy it and not put so much pressure on myself.”
Annabelle loves match play.
“I feel it’s a time where I can be real aggressive because there is nothing to lose,” she said. “If you lose one hole, you are only one down. I think it fits well for my game.”
At the North & South Women’s Amateur Championship at Pinehurst, N.C., earlier this month, Annabelle finished in a tie for seventh during stroke play and won her first match play match before being eliminated July 14 in the round of 16.
The summer makes her optimistic about the collegiate season. Clemson won the Atlantic Coast Conference women’s golf team title for the first time in 2023.
“I’m excited for my final year at Clemson because we are not really losing anyone,” she said.
Registration is open for the annual Woofstock 5K race benefiting the Humane Society for Hamilton County’s Survivor Program.
EVENT
The race is set to start at 8 a.m. Aug. 12 at Four Day Brewing in Fishers, 11671 Lantern Rd. According to the race webpage, it’s open to the whole family — including dogs on leash or in strollers. There is also a virtual option.
“The Woofstock Survivor 5K and Dog Walk is a big deal at the Humane Society for Hamilton County, and I’ll tell you why,” said Lily Pesavento, community engagement manager for Humane Society for Hamilton County. “The proceeds and fundraising efforts associated with Woofstock are what fund our Survivor Program. The Survivor Program provides lifesaving medical care to over half the animals who come through our doors, and covers the costs associated with rescuing animals at risk of euthanasia in Indiana shelters.”
She encourages HSHC supporters to start a fundraiser for the program, register for
the race or simply donate to Woofstock. Prizes for those who fundraise include the honor of naming a litter of kittens, T-shirts, or — for business fundraising teams — a special post on the HSHC’s social media.
Racers who register before Aug. 11 receive a T-shirt, medal and one drink ticket redeemable that day at Four Day Brewing, according to the registration page. Those who register on race day receive a medal and drink ticket.
For more or to sign up, visit hamiltonhumane.com/programs/events/woofstock.
SATURDAY
AUGUST 5, 2023 / 11 AM -3 PM
COMPLIMENTARY SIP & SHOP
Visit BATH JUNKIE, BE.YOU.TIFUL NAILS, FLEXWERK, UPLIFT INTIMATE APPAREL
And, complimentary juice boxes at KITS & KABOODLE CLASSIC TOYS for the little sippers!
SIDEWALK SALES , AIRBRUSH TATTOOS & DJ
Enjoy sidewalk s ales at participating shops all day and free airbrush tattoos for kids from
Is joint pain keeping you from activities you enjoy?
Community Health Network's Center for Joint Health invites you to a FREE dinner seminar to hear from Community orthopedic surgeons, Zach Ongwijitwat, MD, and David Foulk, MD, on the latest treatment options for hip, knee and shoulder pain.
Joint Pain Dinner Seminar
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Marriott North 3645 River Crossing Indianapolis, IN 46240
Register today at eCommunity.com/jointcenter or call 800.777.7775.
This event is FREE, but space is limited and registration is required.
SIPS + SALES + YOGA + DJ
SHOP. DINE. ENJOY. LIVE!
LOC ATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF RANGELINE RD & CITY CENTER DR
C ARMEL C ITY C ENTER . COM
Correction — A story in the July 18 edition of Current in Carmel about an art show and sale featuring work by the late Robert Brower misstated the date of the event. It is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 5.
Parks master plan survey — Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is inviting the community to participate in an online survey to provide input for the 2024-2028 comprehensive parks and recreation master plan. The survey is open through Aug. 23. The survey is an opportunity for the public to share feedback on CCPR’s current offerings as well as new park and recreation opportunities. Take the survey at bit.ly/3Q5dmM1.
Vehicle theft investigation — The Carmel Police Department is investigating multiple thefts from vehicles that occurred from vehicles in the Lawrence Inlow Park and Monon Community Center parking lots between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. July 11. As part of the investigation, CPD is attempting to identify the individuals pictured. Anyone with information regarding the identity of these individuals is asked to contact CPD at 317-571-2500 or Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317262-8477. Reference CPD case numbers 2348442, 23-48452, 23-48449 and 23-48433.
Court reporter honored — The National Court Reporters Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Court Reporters Association, recently presented its first-ever Court to CART Grant to NCRA member Amy Doman, a freelance court reporter from Carmel. The $1,000 grant is awarded to an NCRA applicant interested in broadening his or her skill set from the judicial setting to the path of providing communication access Realtime translation for people with hearing loss or for nonnative English speakers. As a grant winner, Doman will receive an assessment of her real-time skills and instruction about current CART technology. Hands-on training will be provided as well as the chance to learn from applicable existing NCRA videos.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For many, the highlight of the Posh Picnic is the tablescape challenge.
“Each table puts on their idea for a centerpiece,” said Barbara Danquist Mitchell, chair of the event. “You wouldn’t believe what some people come up with. We had one that was a baseball team. We had one that did King Arthur’s time, and they were all dressed up in medieval (attire).”
The Coxhall Guild’s fifth annual Posh Picnic is set for 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Aug. 19 under the tent at Cripe Pavilion at Coxhall Gardens. The event is put on by the Friends of the Hamilton County Parks Foundation. Guests choose a theme, decorate a table and enjoy their own food and drinks along with music, dancing and a silent auction. The tablescape challenge offers prizes awarded for “Most Posh,” “Most Creative,” “People’s Choice” and “Most Coxhall-like.”
Mitchell, a Fishers resident, is a former Camel Middle School teacher who has been involved with the Coxhall Guild for three
years.
Mary Robinson, president of Coxhall Guild, said the organizations’s goal is to raise funds for the improvement of the property, along with educating the public about the property.
The optional table setup is from 2 to 4 p.m. The event starts with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7:30 p.m. followed by the silent auction results at 9 p.m.
The early bird ticket price is $75 until July 31. After that date, the price is $100. To register, visit friendsofhamiltoncountyparks. org/2023-events.
More than 80 Indianapolis-area residents participated in a canoe race on the White River last month following the release of a report card intended to serve as a tool to improve Indiana’s water quality. (Photo by Edward Redd)
Plans to improve and protect Indiana’s water are in the works.
Residents from the Indianapolis area gathered June 23 at the White River Canoe Co. in Noblesville for the release of a report card that will serve as a tool to improve Indiana’s water quality.
The White River Alliance, a nonprofit based in Indianapolis. has been working on the White River Report Card since February 2022, said Kelly Brown, project manager with the organization.
Brown said the WRA reached out to 200 stakeholders from the community, business, industry, government, agricultural, conservation and utility sectors to get a broad understanding of how everyone engages with the White River, which runs along the eastern border of Carmel.
“The report card is important because it helps us know where we need to focus on to improve on things,” Brown said.
The report card gives scores to three major categories: land, water and community. All scores add up to an overall letter grade with bacteria being one of six subcategories under water, according to the WRA.
“Bacteria is the biggest concern we have. It has a D,” Brown said. “That is due to how often the water is unsafe for human contact for swimming and things.”
The water was safe that day, however. More than 80 residents from the Indianapolis area competed in a friendly canoe race on the White River after being informed about its condition.
For more, visit thewhiteriveralliance.org.
Remember the children’s game follow the leader? It begins by choosing a leader, then the remainder of the group is required to mimic that person. They are eliminated when they fail to follow.
Compare this game to life as an adult. What qualities does a group require to choose the leader? I don’t recall how we chose our leader when I played the game as a child, but I’m guessing there would be similarities to the adult version. The “chosen” is not shy, can communicate instructions or organize, has had experiences that provide a background of knowledge, doesn’t hesitate to tell people what to do and is trustworthy. Choosing an adult leader is more complicated if it involves money, adding honesty to the list.
My parents and brothers were natural leaders, so I grew up in an environment of expecting them to lead and learning from them. Then there is the question of whether we are born with a “leader” gene or do we become leaders because of our environment and experiences?
When you think about the leaders in your life, what have you observed about them? Probably you’ve noticed how they are willing to tackle extra responsibilities, no matter how busy they are. The old adage, “if you want something done, ask a busy person” holds true. Somehow, they manage to fit it into their schedules.
As a parent and a grandparent, it has been fun to observe who shows leadership qualities and who prefers to be a follower. They are loved equally, and both are necessary. We just want to be sure that when we are following the leader is worthy of being followed. Something to think about when we go to the polls to vote.
Frankly, I enjoy following an effective leader. I always learn something to add to my skills list and it’s fun to not be in charge.
Clay Terrace, 14395 Clay Terrace Blvd., will present the Back 2 School Bash from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 5. The free event will include a Touch-A-Truck, music, face painters, yard games, vendor booths and more.
The Carmel Farmers Market runs from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays through Sept. 30. Admission is free. The market is held at 2 Carter Green. Learn more at CarmelFarmersMarket.com.
This month, the summer concert series at the Carmel gazebo will feature The Doo (Aug. 2), Country Summer (Aug. 9), The Woomblies Rock Orchestra (Aug. 16), GrooveSmash (Aug. 23) and Stella Luna & the Satellites (Aug. 30). The free concerts are held from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays through Sept. 27. Learn more at CarmelGazeboConcerts.org.
The Carmel Jazz Fest will debut Aug. 11 and 12 at Main Street and Range Line Road. Jazz, blues and R&B artists will perform on multiple stages. Tickets start at $25. Learn more at CarmelJazzFest.org.
Restaurants and shops in Carmel’s Arts & Design District will stay open until 9 p.m. Aug. 12 for the monthly Meet Me on Main. The event will also offer a hands-on public art project.
Public Safety Day will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 19 at 11611 N. Meridian St. Attendees will have the opportunity to see displays and presentations from various local safety departments and organizations. Learn more at bit.ly/3Q5XZTE.
Shops, galleries and restaurants will stay open late Aug. 19 for Late Night on Main, presented by Carmel Porchfest. The free event, set for 7 p.m. to midnight, will include live music and food and beverage vendors. Learn more at CarmelPorchfest.org.
The Cruise Indy Car Show and Car Cruise will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 26 at the Indiana Spine Group Parking Lot, 13225 N. Meridian St. It will include a car show and cruise, food, music, a biplane flyover and more. Learn more at CruiseIndy.com.
During one of the many biking events Matt Turner organizes for the City of Carmel, he observed many children that didn’t know how to ride.
“We had noticed a lot of kids seemed to be too old to be on training wheels,” Turner said. “It sparked an idea.”
So, in mid-June, he launched the Learn2Ride workshop, which meets Thursdays and Fridays on the outdoor basketball court at Carmel Elementary. Through the program, children as young as 4 have quickly learned to ride a bike independently.
“Out of the six kids (that participated in the first event), we had five that could ride with no training wheels in just two hours,” Turner said.
The success of the workshop led to it being extended through the end of July. Each class is limited to five participants, with a minimum age of 4 to participate.
Workshop attendees are taught how to bike in four steps, Turner said. First, training wheels come off and riders familiarize themselves with a bike that doesn’t balance
itself. Then they learn how to keep the bike balanced while riding. After mastering balance, pedaling is added.
“It’s baby steps,” Turner said. “But it progresses fast.”
All remaining workshops this summer are full. Turner expects the class to be offered again next summer. Learn more about the city’s bike programs at bikecarmel.com.
In the past few years, PrimeLife Enrichment, a Carmel-based senior center serving Hamilton County residents, has seen its membership grow at a “faster rate than ever before,” according to Executive Director Gary Wagner.
At the same time, however, several organizations that previously provided consistent grant funds to PrimeLife have significantly scaled back contributions or eliminated them altogether, leading the nonprofit to cut staffing, hours, programs and more.
According to PrimeLife, grant funds from Hamilton County, United Way, CICOA and Clay Township combined to account for $470,000 to $524,000 — covering more than half of PrimeLifes’ operating expenses — between 2015 and 2020. In 2021, PrimeLife saw a drop in grant funds from each of those organizations, and the combined grant totals have continued to slide. In 2023, PrimeLife received a total of $238,000 from the groups.
The reasons for the cuts vary, but they’ve been drastic and sustained enough for Wagner to begin looking for a long-term solution elsewhere.
“The traditional grant-funding model may work for some organizations, but I don’t think it’s working for us,” he said. “Raising money for seniors is one of the most difficult things to do. But when you consider seniors are the fastest-growing demographic in Hamilton County, sooner or later someone has to help support all the activities that seniors need to lead active, healthy lives.”
Founded in 1977, PrimeLife Enrichment, 1078 3rd Ave. SW, offers services, programs, transportation and more to Hamilton County residents aged 50 and older.
Between 2016 and 2020, Hamilton County awarded PrimeLife $240,000 annually as part of its support for local nonprofits. In 2021 that total dropped to $225,000 before falling to $200,000 in 2022 and $100,000 in 2023.
Hamilton County Councilor Sue Maki, who took office in 2021, said the county’s previous funding level for PrimeLife was not in line with what the county provided to other nonprofits. So, the county began scaling
“They’re a great organization, but we just don’t have the funds, and we have to answer to the other organizations (in the county) that do a lot of the same type of work,” Maki said.
County officials are in the process of reviewing grant requests and allocations for 2024, which will be included as part of the 2024 budget.
United Way of Central Indiana gave more than $125,000 to PrimeLife as recently as 2017, but the past two years it has provided $50,000 annually. UWCI announced in late May that it would provide $75,000 to PrimeLife through its Basic Needs Fund in its 2023-24 awards cycle.
Peter Hanscom, UWCI’s chief brand officer, said the nonprofit in 2019 shifted how it awards grants to a competitive model, now requiring each potential grant recipient to submit an application up to three times per year. It’s also seen an increase in grant applications.
“PrimeLife is doing amazing work,” Hanscom said. “We wish we could fund 100 percent of every request that we get from every partner that we have, but, unfortunately, in the landscape of philanthropy and where we are right now that’s not possible. There is immense need across the seven counties in our region that we serve.”
Clay Township stopped providing grants to PrimeLife in 2021. It had previously provided $28,000 or more from 2015 until 2019 and cut its grant to $15,000 in 2020.
Clay Township Trustee Paul Hensel did not respond to a request for comment as of press time, but at a township board meeting earlier this year board member Matt Snyder said the township’s budget, which is facing a steep decline in local income tax dollars distributed through the state when the Central Park bond is paid off, has led to a reduction in its ability to support nonprofits.
Continued on Page 15
Continued from Page 14
With grants drying up or disappearing simultaneously from several sources, Wagner and his team are working to fill the funding gaps in other ways.
“We’re not looking for a Band-Aid,” he said. “What can we do to sustain operations and accommodate the needs of this fast-growing senior population for the next 20 to 30 years or more?”
PrimeLife cut the payroll from more than $520,000 in 2018 to $294,000 this year and has worked to lower its operating expenses, too. It’s looking to form new partnerships to help build back at least some of those losses.
Traditionally, the City of Carmel has not provided direct financial support to PrimeLife, but with 73 percent of the senior center’s membership residing in Carmel, Wagner approached city officials about a financial partnership in the future. In June, the city council helped address the immediate need by providing a $40,000 special donation from its budget.
Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard said earlier this year the city hasn’t generally considered financially assisting PrimeLife because the nonprofit received county funding and is designed to serve residents countywide. Wagner said he recently met with Brainard, however, and that the mayor seemed open to reconsidering the possibility. Brainard did not respond to a request for comment on the matter as of press time, other than to state the next city budget is “not yet prepared.”
The 2024 budget will be Brainard’s last, as he did not seek reelection and will leave office at the end of the year (the Carmel City Council will vote on the 2024 budget this fall). A future partnership with PrimeLife
likely remains on the table, however, as both the Republican and Democratic mayoral candidates said during an April candidate forum they are open to considering the city financially supporting PrimeLife.
Wagner said he is optimistic about a partnership with the city.
“The taxpayers have to understand why it’s important to them as well,” he said. “If we’re not here to do the job that we’re doing, sooner or later the taxpayers will pay for the additional costs of medical care and housing and other transportation.”
PrimeLife has also begun conducting an annual fundraising campaign, raising approximately $23,000 in its first year and $55,000 the second. Wagner hopes to keep building on those totals in subsequent years.
Learn more at PrimeLifeEnrichment.org.
Hey there, folks! Take a good look at this zoomed-in image we’ve snagged from a spot in Carmel. We want you to channel your inner Sherlock and head over to youarecurrent.com/mysterysnapshot to submit your best guess about where this photo was taken. Ready for the challenge? Check back next week for the answer.
“The Carmel FOP Lodge 185 is once again proud to announce the endorsement of Mayoral candidate Sue Finkam in the upcoming general election. Sue demonstrated her tenacity and drive for success in the primary election. She won a hard-fought campaign through prioritizing public safety, transparency, and listening to what Carmel residents want from their next Mayor. While working alongside Sue during this campaign, we have heard from numerous residents that crime prevention is their top priority.
Our city is constantly targeted by those who want to take what we have built. In the past year we have seen a 27% rise in thefts, 22% rise in motor vehicle thefts, and 20% rise in burglaries. We must stand strong to keep our community safe and protect our quality of life. The Carmel FOP remains steadfast that this community deserves nothing less than the finest police officers in the nation, through recruitment and retention. Sue Finkam understands the need for a stronger police force now more than ever, so that we continue to remain one of the safest cities in America. Please join us in voting for Sue Finkam as your next Mayor of Carmel on November 7, 2023.”
Elder law is a specialized legal practice area that focuses on the unique legal needs of older adults. Here are some interesting statistics and points highlighting the importance of elder law:
The population of older adults is growing rapidly. According to the United States Census Bureau, the number of Americans 65 and older is projected to nearly double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060. This demographic shift underscores the increasing need for legal services tailored to the elderly population.
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of elder law. However, a significant number of Americans, including older adults, do not have essential estate planning documents in place. Elder law attorneys play a vital role in guiding individuals through the estate planning process, ensuring their wishes are documented and their assets are protected.
Long-term care is a significant concern for older adults and their families. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 70 percent of individuals aged 65 and older will require long-term care services at some point in their lives. Elder-law attorneys assist with planning for long-term care needs, including navigating Medicaid eligibility, setting up trusts, and developing asset protection strategies.
Older adults are vulnerable to financial exploitation and abuse. According to a study by the National Council on Aging, financial abuse costs older Americans $2.9 billion annually. Elder law attorneys play a critical role in preventing and addressing financial exploitation by establishing safeguards, advocating for their clients’ rights, and pursuing legal remedies when abuse occurs.
Guardianship and conservatorship proceedings are essential tools for protecting the rights and well-being of incapacitated older adults. Elder law attorneys assist families in initiating guardianship or conservatorship proceedings when necessary, ensuring that vulnerable individuals have responsible and trustworthy individuals appointed to make decisions on their behalf.
Advanced health care directives, including living wills and health care proxies, enable individuals to express their health care wishes and designate someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so. Elder law attorneys assist older adults in creating these important documents, ensuring that their healthcare preferences are respected and that they receive appropriate medical care.
Elder law attorneys play a crucial role in advocating for the rights and protection of older adults. They work to address legal issues specific to older individuals, such as elder abuse, age discrimination, access to healthcare, and social security benefits. Some firms, including Applegate & Dillman Elder Law, offer life care planning services, including Elder Care coordinators who assist older adults navigate the aging world.
Elder law encompasses various legal areas, and its importance lies in addressing the unique legal challenges faced by older adults, protecting their rights, and ensuring their well-being and dignity in the later stages of life.
Lisa Dillman is an attorney at Applegate & Dillman Elder Law. The firm has offices in Indianapolis, Carmel and Zionsville. Find out more at applegate-dillman.com.
Is walking regularly enough exercise?
As an ACSM-certified personal trainer working with older adults at Motion 4 Life Fitness, I often hear these three frustrations:
• “I walk regularly, why isn’t that enough exercise?”
• “I’ve been walking for exercise, but I still struggle when climbing stairs, carrying groceries and getting up from a chair.”
• “I’m worried about my balance.”
So, why is it important to add strength training to your walking routine? Although walking will help with cardiovascular health and help maintain endurance, muscular strength, power and flexibility have a tremendous impact on your ability to enjoy life to the fullest. For example, climbing stairs requires muscular strength and power, which also can improve your golf or pickleball game. Everyday activities like gardening, biking and even walking become easier when you have a well-rounded
Take a moment to reflect on the last time you were with your grandkids. Were you able to get down on the ground and play with them – and get back up? Were you able to lift them for a hug? Were you able to play catch or kick a ball? As we age, our bodies change, and while we think we can still do what we did when we were younger, at times like these, we realize it often is not the case.
For many of us as we age, we plan to travel. Are you worried about that upcoming trip? Walking through busy airports and moving through new environments can be challenging. Carrying luggage requires strength and balance as we maneuver through airports and hotels.
I’ve had the joy of watching my older adult clients improve their balance, strength and mobility. They are often amazed at the difference in their lives. So, keep up your walking routine and try to add in a little strength conditioning and balance with the guidance of a trainer. You deserve to have an active and mobile lifestyle.
Katrina Archer is a certified personal trainer for Motion 4 Life Fitness in Carmel.
“Walking is a great, lowimpact way to improve cardiovascular health, but it is just one component of a wellrounded exercise program.”
RN, LPN, CNA Monday-Friday
Music, Art, Specializing in seniors Private pay, longterm
*Offer incentives are valid on or after July 1, 2023 on purchase agreements, not contingent on the sale of another home, accepted by affiliates of Epcon Communities, on a limited number of inventory homes in specified communities and are subject to change or withdrawal at any time without notice. To qualify for the incentive the purchase of the home must close on or before December 31, 2023. The incentives are available only for certain financing options and do not apply to all lenders and loans. Some conditions, limitations, and restrictions apply. Offer may vary locally. See your Sales Consultant for more details. Finance incentives are capped at no more than $20,000 based on participation in this offer, including financing through Go Mortgage, LLC, (NMLS 1018). May require at least 10% down. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. The 4.99% interest rate (5.124 APR) incentive is based on qualification and financing with Go Mortgage, a conventional 30-year fixed rate mortgage, sales price of $600,000, loan amount of $420,000 with a 30% down payment, and a 760 FICO score and payment of 1.13 points. Some buyers may not qualify for this loan or this rate. A Higher rate or a different loan scenario may apply based on credit score and applicant characteristics. Additional closing costs will apply. Rates fluctuate daily based on market conditions and may increase until the rate is locked. Ask for a Loan Estimate. Loans are subject to underwriting guidelines and lender approval. Go Mortgage, 4215 Worth Ave., Suite 320, Columbus OH 43219. Ohio Mortgage Residential Mortgage Lending Act Certificate of Registration Number MB.804284.000, Indiana Mortgage Lender No. 10882. Additional licensing information may be viewed at: https://gomortgage.com/licensing-information. Prospective buyers are free to shop for the best rate and terms and use any mortgage lender of Buyer’s choosing in the purchase of their Epcon home, subject to the terms of the buyer’s home purchase agreement with Epcon. The purchase price for the house
Summer 2023
Dementia is an ongoing decline of the brain and its abilities to function. Symptoms include difficulty problem solving, communication, and decreased memory.
Which stage of dementia do falls happen the most?
Stage 6 is high risk for falls because of confusion, decreased physical coordination and disorientation, although, falls can happen at any stage of dementia.
Incidence of falls with dementia
Falls happen almost twice than that of cognitively intact individuals. Most falls occur at home, about 6 percent
happen in the bathroom, on the stairs, or in the bedroom. Problems with memory, poor judgement/insight, depression and inability to express their needs. Other problems include weakness, lack of exercise, decreased balance, decreased vision and depth perception.
What are the risk factors?
The fear of falling, medication side effects, depression, visual-depth perception and wearing the wrong type of shoes. There are many other intrinsic and external risk factors that play a part as well.
What are some consequences of falls?
Acceleration of the dementia process, decrease socialization because of fear of falling, loss of independence,
chronic pain and depression. Fractures can occur because of bones being more fragile, which can lead to surgery, and recovery time from healing can be increased. Limit distractions when walking, slower paced walk, ensure a clutter-free environment and the avoidance of overuse of narcotics. The use of contrasting colors, adequate lighting in a room, adaptive equipment such as rails, etc., can assist in the avoidance of falls. Regular exercise and an exercise program can potentially slow the progression of dementia.
I’m Darrell Blackburn, a licensed sales agent in Boone, Hamilton and Central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Take advantage of my knowledge and experience to:
• Take the confusion out of Medicare
• Get help comparing plans
• Receive one-on-one service
• Make enrolling in a plan easier
I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence. It’s
317-326-2332, TTY 711 bst3262332@gmail.com
www.MyUHCagent.com/darrell.blackburn
The summer months are a great time for grandparents to play outside with their grandkids. However, before participating in these activities, it is important to know potentially dangerous situations so you can avoid them. Here are some common child health concerns and tips to keep in mind this summer.
ASTHMA
Asthma is a condition in which the airways become narrowed, causing people to cough, wheeze and have difficulty breathing. Asthma is particularly relevant in the summer months because kids are typically more active, which can cause asthma flare ups. Common asthma irritants or triggers include cigarette smoke, pollen, dust, chemical fumes and even pet dander. After your grandchild encounters these triggers, they may start coughing and have trouble stopping. Asthma symptoms include experiencing shortness of breath, chest tightness, difficulties taking a deep breath, and whistling or squeaking when you breathe, commonly called wheezing. If your grandchild experiences one or more of these symptoms, let their physician know.
Three common heat-related illnesses are sunburn, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heat exhaustion is the body responding to losing an excessive amount of water and salt. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, elevated body temperature and decreased urine output. If you think a child is experiencing heat exhaustion, call 911, take off excess clothes, have them slowly drink water and give the child a cold compress on their head, face and neck.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. The body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Signs of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech, dry skin or profuse sweating, seizures or very high body temperature. You can help by calling 911 immediately, getting your grandchild cold by putting them in a cold bath or moving the child to a cool area. Finally, leaving children alone in the car during summer months is extremely dangerous. When left alone in the car for even a short period of time, children are at risk for injury, dehydration or even death.
Before getting into a pool this summer make sure your grandchild knows how to swim or at very least tread water. They should swim with adult supervision. More children ages one to four die of drowning than any other cause of death, according to the CDC. Make sure your grandchild is wearing some kind of flotation device when they are swimming as well.
When accidents, injuries or illnesses occur suddenly and unexpectedly, it can be hard to know the best place to seek medical care. Serious, complex or life-threatening medical emergencies always require evaluation and treatment in an emergency department. But for less severe, more common illnesses and conditions, neighborhood urgent care centers offer a variety of benefits, including lower costs, shorter wait times and less risk of exposure to ill patients. If you’re uncertain where to seek care, go to the nearest healthcare facility or arrange for emergency transportation for more serious situations. Be familiar with the healthcare services offered by your local urgent care center, and if it’s not an emergency, call the urgent care center to find out if they’re equipped to treat the situation.
While summer activities can be fun and lead to lasting memories, they can quickly go wrong without the proper preparation. IU Health North has a skilled Emergency department team, including Riley Children’s Health physicians and nurses, ready to care for patients of any age. If a serious injury does occur, call 911 or go to your local emergency department immediately.
ER
You can’t predict when kids will need emergency care. But you can always count on us to provide highly skilled, compassionate ER care for your kids anytime, day or night. We give you 24/7 access to current emergency room wait times when every minute counts. And your kids get the highest level of care to feel better. Soon.
To view emergency room wait times, scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit RileyChildrens.org/ERnorth
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Leslie Whitesell knows how important movement is to stay flexible.
“As we’re aging, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is for people to keep moving,” she said.
Whitesell, a Carmel resident, opened Inala Movement Studio in Fishers in the summer of 2020.
She had lived in New York City for many years, working for two different studios. She then worked for a studio in Cincinnati before moving to the Indianapolis area.
Whitesell teaches the GYROTONIC Method, which is trademarked by the company.
“It’s a method of teaching movement to basically anybody,” Whitesell said. “It helps with mobility as well as strength. It’s a combination of things, so you’re not getting just strength training and you are not getting just flexibility. You are getting a lot of mobility, which is flexibility supported by strength, especially in the joints and spine, which, as we get older, in their 40s and 50s, people are starting to have their low back or hips hurting all the time. It allows you to keep the mobility and strength to go about your life with ease to deter many of the aches and pains that come with aging.”
Whitesell said the method helps improve posture.
When she teaches private lessons. Weights and tension resistance are involved.
“You are working with weight-bearing exercise as well, which is good as you age for your bones,” Whitesell said. “All of that is combined with work with breathing, which is important for the nervous system and your sense of well-being.”
Whitesell said some people don’t know how to breathe properly. She said improper breathing contributes to not feeling good.
“The equipment is unique to this work,” she said. “You want to be able to work in the full range of motion in the joints.”
Whitesell said group classes are conducted on a stool.
“It’s seated and standing work and sometimes on the floor, but there is no special equipment,” she said. “It’s sort of like a yoga class, but it’s not yoga.”
Whitesell works with a range of clients, including professional dancers in their 20s.
“I have people all the way up to their 70s,” she said. “They choose what they are most comfortable with.”
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She has been teaching the method for more than 10 years.
Whitesell, 47, previously was a competitive ballroom dancer.
“When I moved to Indianapolis, I was still competing and dancing and working at a ballroom studio and teaching GYROTONICS on the side,” she said. “In 2020, I decided I was done competing. I wanted to have my own studio where I can teach GYROTONICS and ballroom dancing.”
Indianapolis resident James Brown is a firm believer in the method.
Brown’s former job was golf course maintenance.
“I’ve done yoga five times a week for 24 years because my job was so physically demanding,” Brown said. “I did yoga to alleviate back pain. I did it as a maintenance to keep from being injured. I didn’t want to take muscle relaxers. Yoga worked great but I started doing this and it’s like yoga on steroids. I’m as strong as a cat. I wrestled in high school and I’m as strong now at almost 65. It makes you engage all your muscles.”
Brown said there are a lot of wavy movements.
“But once you figure it out, you are standing straight for the first time in your life,” Brown said. “When you are driving a car, you are looking 4 inches above the windshield, so it’s like a weird body reformation.”
Brown said he takes two private lessons and two classes a week at Inala Movement Studio. He also does yoga one day a week and has taught yoga in the past.
“I feel like I’m 45 years old,” he said. “I’ve built six golf courses, so my body got beat up. I feel younger.”
When a session is over, he said he feels a natural high.
Brown learned about it through Miriam Resnick, who owned Mindful Movement Studio before it closed in 2019. She now gives private lessons.
Resnick, 65, said she loves Whitesell’s GRYROKENISIS classes.
“She is an excellent teacher,” the Carmel resident said. “She guides us through all the movements with beautiful imagery and important nuances to help everyone get the best experience. I always leave class a little taller and have a big smile on my face.”
Marquette is a not-for-pro t senior living community, giving you the life you want to live. With a wide variety of beautifully designed residential options and maintenance-free living, our community gives you the exibility and control over everything you do.
Spiritually connect with us at 4 p.m. daily for Mass in our beautiful chapel. Our community also offers various dining venues, a state-of-the-art aquatic center, and wellness programs for endless opportunities — and it’s all just steps from your front door.
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Submitted by CarDon & Associates
Leah McManus never imagined she would find herself learning to walk again, especially while living in a senior community at the age of 34. Fortunately for her, rehab stays are available for all ages at Copper Trace, CarDon & Associates’ Westfield community. And that’s where she ended up taking her first steps while recovering from a horrific car accident.
In December 2022, McManus was on active duty as a military dietitian for the Navajo Nation in Arizona. While driving from the hospital there to a satellite clinic in a smaller community, she was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. The accident left her femur and pelvis broken, her knee fractured, her ankle shattered — and the left side of her body impaired after a stroke. The Copper Trace staff’s experience with older stroke patients proved to be vital during her recovery.
“It was just a weird time in my life,” McManus said. Last month, Copper Trace rolled out the red carpet for Leah’s “graduation” from rehab therapy. Her journey to that point was rocky yet rewarding.
While McManus was initially in intensive care in Arizona, her aunt and uncle visited and took care of her 3-year-old daughter. Given the fact that McManus had to be transferred to an acute rehab facility, her
relatives agreed to bring her daughter back home with them to Indianapolis. But McManus felt like she couldn’t fully recover without her daughter.
“I really needed to be near my daughter,” she said. “For mental health reasons and to heal. It was really hard being separated from her because we’re so close. She’s my only child, and I’m her only parent.”
Fortunately, the stars aligned for McManus to receive the rest of her therapy at Copper Trace. She took a military medical flight from Arizona to Indianapolis, where she made the most important milestones in her journey toward recovery.
“Mary was my favorite therapist at Copper Trace,” McManus said. “She really pushed my limits. She taught me how to use a cane, and she challenged me to climb my first flight of stairs — which was really scary, but she was wonderful. Learning to walk again was very exciting.”
Although fellow residents in the community were surprised to see someone so young among them, McManus appreciated the chance to socialize and engage in activities.
“It was great to get out of my room and get out of my head,” she said. “There were all sorts of fun things to do like arts and crafts, nail painting, bingo, games. That put me in a better mental state during recovery. And my daughter appreciated having things to do.”
While she looks forward to being back on duty, McManus is cherishing the time she has now at home with family. And she appreciates Copper Trace for making that possible.
At 94, Sycamore Reserve Senior Living resident Eleanor Best is still able to follow her passion.
“I’m still doing my machine embroidery,” she said. “I have a large machine here and I’ve been able to do quite complicated work. We’ve been making aprons for some of the residents. I amuse myself with the weaving and sewing.”
Best has lived at Sycamore Reserve since shortly after her husband, George, died at age 97 in September 2020. The couple, who were married for 68 years, previously lived nearby in Lawrence Township.
Best has written 15 books on weaving, which are available on Amazon. She switched to machine embroidering.
“I used to do workshops all over the country,” said Best, who was a member of the Indiana Weaving Guild. “I also belong to a sewing group that meets once a month. It originated 30 years ago and there are still a few of us left.”
Best said she is very active working on the computer.
“My husband made programs for me for weaving designs,” she said. “I
have three computers working.”
Best learned to weave while trying to get her daughter, Susan, interested in it while she was in school.
Best was born in Toronto and moved to Michigan before eventually moving to Indianapolis.
Best’s daughter, Susan Best, Indianapolis, died last year. She has two other children, Nancy, and Neil, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“My children went to Lawrence Central and Lawrence North (high schools),” she said.
Best used to play tennis to stay active, playing on an adult tennis team. She skated and skied when she was younger.
“My husband and I traveled quite a lot,” she said. “We’ve been to Europe, the United Kingdom, France and Switzerland.”
Best likes the social aspect of Sycamore Reserve.
“We have some good chats,” she said.
Best gave up driving when she was 90.
“I just felt I was more of a menace than anyone else,” she said, laughing.
Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan
Do you experience painful cramps in your feet or legs?
Muscle cramps of the feet and legs are most often felt in the arch of the foot and the calf of the leg but may include the toes. Here are some common reasons for foot and leg cramps:
Exercise and dehydration
Intense physical activity can make your muscles contract, resulting in a cramp in your foot or leg. Insufficient fluid and electrolytes in your body can lead to muscle spasms and cramps, especially when exercising. Too much caffeine can also lead to dehydration and cause cramps. To prevent dehydration, try to drink 64 ounces of water daily.
Shoes and hard surfaces
Pointy-toed shoes, high heels or shoes without proper support can induce fatigue and cramping in the foot muscles. Hard surfaces can intensify the problem. Restrictive footwear impedes blood flow and oxygen.
Nerve disease, including peripheral neuropathy, can cause foot or leg cramps. With neuropathy, the nerves don’t send proper messages from the muscles to the brain, causing the muscles to fire or cramp at the wrong time.
Leg cramps are a classic symptom of peripheral arterial disease. With PAD, the arteries narrow, and the legs and feet don’t get enough oxygen to support activity. Leg cramps show up when walking or exercising, and the
Continued on Page 14
bottom, back behind the toes. It was miserable to go to work. Since being treated by Dr. Sullivan, I feel so much better, and I am more energetic since I am not in pain anymore.”
By Jeff Decker editorial@youarecurrent.com
An adult day center in the Castleton-area offers its 55-and-older guests life-enriching activities, faith-based routines, individual-focused care … and smiles.
According to Diana Keely, executive director of Still Waters Adult Day Center, 7160 Shadeland Station Way on the campus of Castleton United Methodist Church, smiles and laughter are contagious at the center.
“The guests uplift one another and support each other even on a tough day,” Keely said. “I love watching two ladies walking down the hallway to lunch together holding hands; the one man redirecting the other man that is having a difficult day; the guest that begins crying while petting the therapy dogs, remembering the dogs she had in her past.”
Still Waters opened in 2011 and is one of two adult day centers in Indianapolis focusing exclusively on seniors, according to Keely. The center has 32 registered guests that visit two to five times a week. Still Waters has a 1-to-4 staff-to-guests ratio, with an RN and LPN on staff and all direct caregivers CNAs.
Guests can participate in activities that promote physical, sensory, cognitive, social and spiritual health. Still Waters has received grants from the Central Indiana Community Foundation to provide art, music and expressive therapists weekly, Keely said. A grant from the AARP helped the center create a community garden, and
guests have enjoyed watching it grow, she said. Church volunteers and members of community organizations visit regularly to provide programming.
Many guests come from faith-based backgrounds, and the center opens with a daily devotional and a blessing before lunch. One guest is an ordained minister and leads a brief monthly church service. Guests also can attend a monthly service in the Prayer Chapel.
“Many of our guests are not physically or mentally capable of the activities that used to be such an important part of their lives,” Keely said. “However limited they are, their faith and Christian upbringing are still a very important part of who they are today, and we make every effort to respect and support them right where they are, both mentally and physically.”
For more, visit stillwatersadc.org or call 317-284-0837.
sive alcohol consumption.
Diagnosing foot and leg cramps
cramps improve when at rest. PAD is a serious medical condition and it’s crucial to be seen immediately.
Medications
Some of the most common medications include diuretics, statins and medications to lower blood pressure.
Diet
Diets low in potassium, calcium or magnesium, or deficiencies in vitamin B12 and vitamin D can cause foot and leg cramps. Another reason is exces-
If your foot or leg cramps don’t improve, you should schedule an immediate appointment with our office. Once we see you, we can diagnose the cause of your cramps and get you on the path to feeling better!
“I was on my feet all of the time cleaning and they were bothering me on theJaney Cox, cleaning business owner & ball of foot pain patient Lelola Thomas, left, and Shirley Green, both of Indianapolis, enjoy Still Waters’ New Year’s party. (Photo courtesy of Diana Keely) A board-certified foot surgeon and wound specialist, Dr. David Sullivan is the owner of Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact him at drs@ westfieldfoot.com.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Elizabeth Lee has the perfect outlet for some daddy-daughter time.
Lee, a 31-year-old Carmel resident, and her father perform and write music together under the name Elizabeth Lee
Lee’s group includes her father Bobby Pugh, a 62-year-old Sheridan resident, and Jason McKay, a Noblesville resident who turns 64 in August.
“I think that’s the main thing for me is just being able to be together with your kid,” Pugh said. “I mean, I don’t know if I’d want to go out and play somewhere with my parents when I was a kid. So, I feel very blessed that she wants me to deal with her. No knock on my parents, it’s just a different generation.”
Lee said it’s just as fun for her as well.
“He has amazing harmonies,” she said. “I don’t think I would be gigging if it weren’t for him because I was too shy.”
The one drawback for Lee is Pugh and McKay have their dad jokes.
“I have to keep my eye on them so that they don’t do anything embarrassing in the show,” Lee said.
Lee performs on vocals and guitar. Pugh sings and plays guitar and sometimes plays keyboards. McKay plays bass guitar.
“Jason started out as a classical guitar player, so you can see that in his bass,” Lee said. “He’s awesome,”
McKay has played a few shows and performed on the recording of the single “Regal” that was released earlier this month.
“This is the first original song we’ve released in five years,” Lee said.
Lee and her father have an album out with 11 original songs called “Flyin’… Bye”.
“We’re both good at writing half songs, so we need each other,” Pugh said.
Lee said her mother, Cari, is a band mom, supporting their efforts.
Pugh said Lee started taking guitar lessons at age 9.
“My son started taking piano lessons and he would never practice,” Pugh said. “She said, ‘I didn’t want to disappoint you,’ so she kept practicing. She said she kind of liked it, so he never did play piano but she stuck with the guitar.”
Pugh said he loved to listen to his
daughter play classical music.
“Then one day she graduated from high school and went to college, (and) I thought, ‘It’s so quiet around here,’” Pugh said.
The father and daughter started playing together about six years ago.
“I wanted to major in music in college, but I got scared,” Lee said. “I had a mutual fund job, and it just crushed my soul, even though it was a great company.”
So, she got back into music five years ago. She did it part-time until this year when she went to full time.
“I talked her into working with my window cleaning business for a while and that crushed her spirit, too,” said Pugh, who retired earlier this year.
The group has been playing throughout the Indianapolis area, including wineries, restaurants and festivals.
“We’re fairly chill for the bar scene,” Lee said.
Lee said she describes their style as singer-songwriter or folk pop.
“We do covers from the 1960s on to now,” she said. “We do Jim Croce, The Beatles. I have to teach them some newer stuff, so we do some Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish.
McKay has been playing bass for
about 30 years.
“Mainly I played praise and worship through church,” said McKay, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate.
McKay and Pugh played in a shortlived band several years ago. Pugh contacted McKay, who is retired, a few months ago to see if he wanted to play bass.
McKay said he was thinking about going into a different direction other than music before Pugh called.
“We gave him some direction,” Pugh said.
Lee said McKay is a fast learner.
“We joke that he knows some of our songs better than (we do) now,” she said.
The group’s music can be found on Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon music.
One of the group’s songs, “Quicksand,” was used in a 2023 Lifetime movie called “Sabotaging the Squad.”
Lee said she hopes to have the group’s other original songs used in movies or TV shows.
For more, visit elizabethleeband.com.
Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan
Summer is the time for sandals and opentoed shoes, and who doesn’t love a little foot pampering? While pedicures are great, they can increase your risk for foot infections if you don’t take precautions. Always ensure the salon and technicians are licensed and follow my six tips for getting a safer summer pedicure.
DON’T SHAVE BEFORE YOU GO
Shaving opens your pores, allowing stray germs to enter your bloodstream. And, even in the cleanest of salons, that can pave the way for infection.
Before soaking your feet, the salon should always line the foot bath with fresh plastic to decrease your risk of encountering germs from the previous customer.
To eliminate exposure to infectious germs or foot fungi, bring your own pedicure tools or check to ensure the salon uses disposable tools or an autoclave for disinfecting and sanitizing. Even better? Bring your own nail polish, too.
Indiana state law prohibits salons from using razors on the feet to remove calluses or corns. Using razors can lead to an infection, especially if too much healthy skin is removed, and can cause permanent damage.
Square tips make it less likely that the edges of your nail will turn inward, leaving you with an ingrown toenail.
Diabetes can reduce sensation in your feet. If a pedicurist gets too rough or accidentally cuts your foot, you may not notice until an ulcer develops.
Immediately contact our office if you notice any redness or discomfort following a pedicure. Pain, warmth and changes in skin color are all warning signs of a pedicure infection. The sooner you seek treatment, the easier it will be to prevent serious complications.
Forté adds to team — Carmel-based Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics has expanded its team and service offerings with the hiring of Dr. Michael Del Busto. Del Busto, a fellowship-trained sports medicine physician specializing in rehabilitation and minimally invasive procedures, will provide testing and therapies historically referred out of the practice. A native of Carmel, Del Busto has returned to his hometown to see patients at Forté’s clinic and surgery center inside the Orthopedic Center of Excellence at 10767 Illinois St. Learn more at ForteOrtho.com.
Immunization clinics — The Hamilton County Health Department will host BackTo-School Immunization Clinics as part of a statewide effort to help families easily access school immunizations prior to the start of the school year. Remaining clinics are from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 2, 16 and 30 at the Hamilton County Health Department, 18030 Foundation Dr. in Noblesville. Register at patients.vaxcare.com/registration. Enter
code IN15561 and then select preferred date. There is an $8 administration fee per vaccine for those who are uninsured or underinsured.
Hospice volunteers needed — Brighton Hospice in Carmel is looking for volunteers to help office staff perform a variety of office duties such as organizing admission paperwork, filing, preparing and sending mail, answering phones, stocking supplies and helping with special projects and events. To learn more, contact Katresha Taylor, volunteer coordinator, by calling 317798-2160 or by email at ktaylor@brightonhospice.com.
Website connects residents to resources — The Hamilton County Community Foundation, Duke Energy, the Hamilton County Trustees Association and Good Samaritan Network have partnered to launch Help4HamiltonCounty.org to provide residents with a onestop resource for support services. The new resource offers connections in the areas of aging and seniors, food assistance, medical and mental health, youth and families, housing and education and employment.
A world to explore, a vibrant community to come home to. A lifestyle that embraces true independence, friendships, culinary celebrations, & the safety of community. It’s time to enjoy retirement the way it’s meant to be.A board-certified foot surgeon and wound specialist, Dr. David Sullivan is the owner of Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact him at drs@ westfieldfoot.com.
company’s years of achievements, Warren Rose said.
Edward Rose & Sons reached a milestone on July 13. The company celebrated its 70,000th apartment unit built during a ceremony at Avant II Apartments at 12950 Old Meridian St. in Carmel.
Warren Rose, president and CEO of Edward Rose & Sons, said the company was founded in 1921 by his grandfather, Edward Rose. Since then, the company has developed more than 140 properties in the Midwest and neighboring states.
The 70,000th unit presented a good opportunity to celebrate the Carmel-based
“In the past we hadn’t really celebrated these milestones,” he said. “We’re one of the top owners in the country, and it’s a convenient spot to really reflect on the achievements.”
Avant II Apartments is a 96-unit development that includes an outdoor pool, gym, green space with fire pits and indoor lounge areas.
“Reaching this milestone is really just a crowning achievement for my team,” Warren Rose said. “I’m proud of their achievements and all the incredible work it takes to put together something like this.”
Learn more at EdwardRose.com.
Attorney joins law firm — McCarter & English, which will soon relocate its local office to Carmel, announced that real estate attorney James Barkley has joined the firm in the Real Estate Practice Group. Barkley will provide strategic advice and counsel to clients and focus on the growth of the firm’s national real estate practice. During nearly 40 years with Simon Property Group, the world’s largest public real estate company, Barkley was both general counsel of the company and secretary to the company’s board of directors.
Summer Sip & Shop — Carmel City Center will host a Summer Sip & Shop from 11 a.m.
to 3 p.m. Aug. 5. Festivities will include a DJ on the plaza, sidewalk sales at participating shops, complimentary white wine and raspberry refresher cocktails at four shops, free airbrush tattoos for children and a donation slow flow outdoor yoga class on the plaza. Carmel City Center is on the southwest corner of City Center Drive and Range Line Road.
Merchants Bank hire — Carmel-based Merchants Bank has hired John Douglas as assistant vice president in the bank’s Correspondent and Warehouse Lending divisions. Douglas joins the growing segment of Merchants’ lending platform remotely in New Jersey. Prior to joining Merchants Bank, Douglas served as president and CEO of eWise Home Lending, a company he founded.
With everything in the human-created social order, our mores shift and flex with fad and fashion like reeds in the wind. When 100 years ago most men owned a single suit and wore it daily, today many have closets full of clothing and almost never, if ever, wear a suit. In between, blue-collar or agrarian men sported what was colloquially coined the “marrying-and-burying” suit. It would be procured on the occasion of one’s wedding and maintained throughout the years to serve its final purpose in attiring its owner in the coffin. It might be called into use for the odd special occasion or Easter Sunday, but mostly, it was reserved for those times of deepest respect, like seeing a banker or flying on an airplane.
standard uniform, now we communicate our opinions directly on an often graphic, graphic Y-shirt. Today, standing in the taxi or ride-sharing service line anywhere, one is more likely to encounter folks attired for hiking than for appearing in public. Americans are now significantly more likely be overweight than at the turn of previous century, and it is easy to quip that we look like our last hike was from our table to the buffet. But as our culture dictates screen time over fun time, how do we resist? Even so, who gets to wear the costume of fitness? Are gym clothes reserved for the gym? Does one have to have muscles to wear a muscle shirt, practice yoga to wear the pants, or labor to wear Carhartt’s? Who gets to don the uniform? All of us, or only those deemed worthy?
The passing years have led to far greater access for all of us. What may have been once-in-a-lifetime has become significantly more commonplace. When humans, especially men, once sought to conform with a
Remember the Life Alert commercial with the elderly woman who cries, “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up”? Friends, that was me the other day. Read on for a tale of AI salvation during a muscle mutiny.
I was paying absolutely no attention to engaging my core or quads when I went to lift our newly arrived meal prep delivery. An instant twinge in my lower back had me dropping the box and gingerly tiptoeing to the kitchen for drugs. But when I reached for the Aleve, I felt the muscles give way in a spasm of pain. I managed to snag the bottle before collapsing onto all fours, where even the slightest attempt to move had me groaning in agony.
Luckily, I’m excellent in a crisis. I quickly assessed my situation and determined I was pathetically incapacitated. “Hey, Siri!” I shouted at my phone. “Text Doo Wilson!” My husband Doo was purportedly in the basement. “Come upstairs now! Need help!” No response; new plan. “Hey, Siri! Call Doo Wilson on speaker!”
Doo, sounding irritated, “Yes?”
Me, trying to keep it light, “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up.”
Doo, not bothering to hide his amusement, “Hold tight. Be right there.”
And so, after multiple pills, a Salonpas patch and 40 minutes in modified child’s pose, I was mostly fine. I walked hunched over for the rest of the day and had to wave off one very concerned father-in-law who’d accidentally received my first text, but otherwise, no worse for wear.
Bottom line, dear readers? Siri is the new Life Alert, especially when you’re a middle-aged woman who’s fallen and can’t get up.
Peace out.
“Luckily, I’m excellent in a crisis. I quickly assessed my situation and determined I was pathetically incapacitated.”
– DANIELLE WILSON
Saturday, August 12, 2023 | Four Day Ray, Fishers Register at WoofstockRocks.com or scan below!
Race in-person or virtually
Fundraise for PAWsome prizes
Leashed & in-stroller dogs welcome
Shirt, medal and swag for all participants
Proceeds benefit HSHC's Survivor Program and h d d f i l i d
DECLAN 2022 Top Fundraiser
Last week, I shared with you some of the most common inquiries I have received from readers about the writing of humor. Here are a few more: Are there taboo subjects in humor?
A comic named Tig Notaro learned the day before a performance that she had breast cancer. She then created a monologue for her next stand-up about receiving the bad news. Was that an appropriate topic for comedy? Yes! Keep in mind it was her own diagnosis she was joking about. That gave her some leeway. As Tig has reported, it was those people with cancer who enjoyed her riff the most.
Jon Stewart said the key to writing about sensitive topics is to make fun of the smoke, not the fire. Example: Stewart did a show satirizing the way reporters covered Michael Jackson’s death. Not the fact the legend died, but how it was handled in the press. Mel Brooks skewered Hitler, not the Holocaust.
Comedy is about going right to the edge and sometimes over, which means you risk alienating some. Sarah Silverman is brilliant, but she crosses that line for many. She does make Holocaust jokes. I don’t find them funny, but if I don’t like what I am hearing, I grab the remote. Or walk out of the club. Some old “Seinfeld” episodes seem extremely politically incorrect now. Would I ban them from TV? Of course not.
You once said puns were the lowest form of humor? Why?
I was wrong. In order to understand
a (good) pun, you must hold two very different ideas in your head at the same time. In poems, the words rhyme. With puns, the ideas rhyme. Some puns do require a little thought to see the connection of two separate ideas. The story goes that a rich passenger on a sinking ship asked the captain if he could choose himself to row the lifeboat or not. “Of course,” the captain said, “either oar.”
“Make me the subject of a joke,” the king said to the court jester. In fear of getting himself in trouble, the jokester responded, “I cannot do that, the king is not a subject.” Of course, some puns are groan worthy. For example, I hate puns about sausages They are the wurst. See what I mean?
How long does it take to write a column?
Actual writing takes about two hours at the keyboard after several days with the idea rattling around in my brain. I never sit down to write without already knowing the topic and having some direction. Otherwise, I’d be sitting there all day.
Mark Twain once said, “Humor is easy. If something funny occurs to you, just write about it.” Then he said, “The writing is easy; the hard part is the occurring.”
Next week, I’ll write a real humor column. Hopefully, something will occur to me.
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In order to understand a (good) pun, you must hold two very different ideas in your head at the same time. In poems, the words rhyme. With puns, the ideas rhyme.
– DICK WOLFSIE
For Gregory Hancock, his musical based on Mexican artist Frida Kahlo gives him the opportunity to exhibit a different side of his talents.
DANCE
“While most people are familiar with my work as a choreographer/ director, I am also a composer/musician,” said Hancock, executive artistic director of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre. “This is a wonderful opportunity for people to experience another side of my interests and skills. Honestly, this will be a dream come true to hear my music played by the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and sung by 20 talented vocalists at the beautiful Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts.
“It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me, and the entire cast of instrumentalists, vocalists, dancers, directors and audience.”
Hancock’s production of “The Music of La Casa Azul” is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 5 in a different format than the original production. It is a sung-through musical inspired by the life of Kahlo.
“Previous productions have been the presentation of the complete theatrical musical experience,” Hancock said. “This production is a concert version with the focus of the music of ‘La Casa Azul.’ Concert versions of musicals allow the audience to focus solely on the music and have a different and unique perspective of a production. Of course, because it is a sung-through musical, the audience will still understand the narrative of the storyline. The vocalists will be dressed in evening attire and staging is more minimal without all the usual stage action to aid in progressing the storyline.”
Dancers will be dressed in costumes from the theatrical production and will add color and a visual element to the production.
Hancock said a few edits have been made to enhance the concert experience. The musical was first performed in 2015.
“I feel productions are often a living
organism, which continues to evolve with our world,” Hancock said. “Whenever I return to this production, I see and learn new things about myself and the piece itself. Just as we grow and evolve throughout our lives, so it is with works of performance art as well.”
Hancock said 16 of the 20 dancers have been in previous productions, including Abigail Lessaris, who will again portray La Muerte (Death) as Frida’s constant companion.
Bibi Heredia, a TV personality from Telemundo, will be the emcee for the evening.
Jessica Crum Hawkins, a Fishers resident, will sing the role of Kahlo.
“Jessica has appeared in all the previous productions and was the originator
of the role in the premiere production,” Hancock said. “Jessica not only brings an incredible voice to the incredibly vocally demanding role, (but also provides) by a depth of understanding to the trials and tribulations of Frida Kahlo. While the musical is inspired by the life of Frida, it is ultimately about the resilience of the human spirit in us all. Frida took her tragedies and turned them into unique and personal creativity. I have done the same throughout the previous productions, and this time it is another cathartic journey for me.”
Staging will be directed by director and playwright Georgina Escobar, with vocal direction by Tammy Anderson.
“Georgina is a brilliant (New York City)-based playwright/director, and as a Mexican woman brings her world of experiences to the production,” Hancock said. “Tammy is an exceptional vocal director and knows exactly how to bring out the best in each singer. Both are completely invaluable to the production.”
Carmel Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director Janna Hymes said it’s always special to collaborate with other arts organizations.
“This project is extra special because I will be working with my friend, Gregory Hancock, who is an incredible artist in many ways,” Hymes said. “A choreographer, dancer, painter, costume designer and maker, he also composed this epic piece about the life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. It is rare to meet someone who excels in so many areas, and Gregory is very special in that regard.”
Hymes said the concert will feature a chamber orchestra of about 40 musicians.
“There are always challenges when you put on a production that involves singers, musicians, staging, lighting, dancing,” she said. “I wouldn’t call them challenges as much as components which need to come together seamlessly to seem as one. I don’t foresee any issues and we are all looking forward to an incredible experience.”
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
‘SOPHISTICATED
“Sophisticated Ladies” runs through Aug. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Deception: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for 7:30 p.m. July 27 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. “Opal Staples: Inspiration at a Bar” is set for 7:30 p.m. July 29. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘A TRIBUTE TO BILLY JOEL & ELTON JOHN’
“Face to Face: A Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John” will be presented at 8 p.m. July 28-29 in the Symphony on the Prairie series at Conner Prairie in Fishers. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
‘THE SOMEWHAT TRUE TALE OF ROBIN HOOD’
Main Street Productions presents the youth production of “The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood” July 27 to Aug. 6 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
LIVE AT
The Palace, a soul rock sextet, will perform in the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. July 26 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $10 for in-person or register for a livestream at thecenterpresents.org.
‘MEAN GIRLS’
Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program will perform “Mean Girls” from July 27-30 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
Indy film festivals get recognition — The Indy Shorts International Film Festival and the Heartland International Film Festival have been named among the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World for 2023 by MovieMaker Magazine. The Indy Shorts Festival was set to conclude July 23. Heartland Film Festival starts Oct. 15. For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir’s 202324 season is designed to take audiences on a musical journey around the world.
“This season will showcase the history, culture and languages from across the globe, and I am excited for our singers and audience to have this culturally immersive opportunity,” ICC Artistic Director Joshua Pedde said. “Rather than jumping from one place in the world to another during a single concert, we will get to focus on different parts of the world in each performance.”
The eight-concert series is called “A World Showcase.” The season begins with “Reflections: Sounds of the Pacific,” which will reflect the sounds of fiery volcanoes balanced with shaded, tranquil gardens. Singers will perform songs from India, China and the Pacific Islands, among other destinations, in an Oct. 14 concert at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.
“A European Holiday” will be presented
Dec. 15-17 at Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis. On March 24, 2024, the ICC will present “The Crossroads of America” at Hilton Circle Theatre in Indianapolis.
“Christel DeHaan In Harmony: Rhythm of the Lands” is set for May 4, 2024, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Indianapolis. The concert season concludes with “Sacred Harmonies: The Soul of Misa Criolla” May 19, 2024, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Indianapolis.
Pedde said the ICC also is very excited about “A World Showcase” because it allows ICC great opportunities to partner and collaborate with other organizations within the community.
“We know that these collaborations and partnerships will enhance the singers’ understanding of the music they are singing, and it will give the audiences an opportunity to learn more about each area of the world represented in each performance,” Pedde said.
Season tickets are $12 for each performance; advance single tickets are $14 each; and ages 5 and under are admitted free. For more, visit icchoir.org.
In 1959, the world was first introduced to Barbara Millicent Roberts from Willows, Wis., a.k.a., Barbie.
Creator Ruth Handler, who co-founded Mattel with her husband, launched the doll by advertising directly to children on TV. Barbie was the first “toy” commercial to appear during “The Mickey Mouse Club.”
In 1961, Mattel introduced Barbie’s ultimate “accessory” boyfriend, Ken, who is two years younger than his affluent sweetheart.
An alternative to the limiting gender roles of the time, Barbie was a freethinking, independent gal with the most colorful costumes ever. She’s had more than 250 careers and is limitless in opportunities. Barbie is the No. 1-selling doll in the world, with three sold every second. Her Dreamhouse is sold every two minutes.
Directed and co-written by Oscar-nominee Greta Gerwig (“Little Women,” “Lady Bird”), the film shows what happens when Barbie experiences an existential crisis. The story is smart and witty, with fast-paced dialogue, silly montages and emotional, introspective flashes between Barbieland and the real world. And loads of costume changes.
Every protagonist embarks on a hero’s journey, and Barbie is no exception. Narrated by Helen Mirren, Barbie (Margot Robbie) begins questioning the natural order of life in Barbieland, where extravagant dance numbers and beach parties are daily life. On the advice of Gymnast Barbie (Kate McKinnon), she ventures into the real world to find the person who may hold the key to her dilemma. Along the way, she is confronted by societal expectations, outsmarts Mattel’s CEO (Will Ferrell), rollerblades on Venice Beach and faces the reality of her legacy. Ultimately, the “Barbie” movie is a nostalgic, highly creative and playful journey. It teaches us that self-discovery is an adventure and the important roles imagination and teamwork play along the way. And sometimes, a flashy dance number is just what we need to make life a little more fun.
When Brenda Williams is on stage, she’s more than a vocalist singing songs.
JAZZ
“I never call what I do singing,” the Indianapolis resident said.
“Yes, I’m a performer. There is excitement in performing. There’s nothing I’d rather do than perform.”
Williams will do just that at the first Carmel Jazz Fest. Brenda Williams and Friends will take the stage at 5 p.m. Aug. 11 at the Gazebo stage. They will be among 30 acts performing Aug. 11-12, culminating with a headlining performance by Spyro Gyra at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 12 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. Find scheduling and ticket information at carmeljazzfest.org.
Williams is no stranger to performing at the Carmel Gazebo — or just about anywhere that hosts live music in the area. She declined to say how long she has been performing (so as to not reveal her age). But she has been a mainstay on the local music scene for decades, with appearances at the Cabaret, the Indiana Repertory Theater, Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre and the Jazz Kitchen. And she has performed for three U.S. presidents: George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
She looks forward to performing at Carmel Jazz Fest and supporting the new event.
“I believe it is paramount that we, as musicians/artists, support our communities, give back in ways that will help them grow by sharing our talents, not only by using our talents but giving of our time and energy,” she said.
Blair Clark, executive director of Carmel Jazz Fest, said the Indianapolis area is lucky
to have talented performers like Williams and others who will give the festival local flavor.
“She is a phenomenal performer, a phenomenal entertainer,” Clark said of Williams. “She knows how to captivate a crowd.”
Josh Weirich, a saxophone player who lives in Zionsville and is the music department chair and a band director for Zionsville Middle School, has been performing with Williams since the early 2000s.
Weirich compared Williams’ style to such vocalists as Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Sade, Etta James and Nina Simone.
The ability to connect with audiences helps make Williams special, he said.
“In addition to being a great singer, people find her endearing, and she makes everyone feel like they’re her best friends,” Weirich said. “People just gravitate to her, and as a sideman, it’s just really cool to see and be a part of.”
Williams also has a keen sense of reading the room. Because of that, Weirich and the rest of the players must be ready for changes to the setlist.
“There’s a joke amongst musicians that work with her. You have to be able to ‘speak Brenda,’ which means knowing lots of songs and having the ability to adapt quickly on the bandstand,” Weirich said. “As a result, the players that work regularly with her are truly the top in the city.”
Williams suggested the evening would be about more than just music.
“It’s all about growth and understanding as well as showing love to your brother,” she said. “Also, you may just enjoy the experience and learn to be a better neighbor.”
Principal Cybersecurity Engineer. Carmel, IN. Research automotive applicability of software security technologies. Create implementation strategies for development of prototypes and demonstrations. Work with other team members to transition developed technologies to global production engineering teams. Conduct experiments to test software/embedded systems technologies to generate reference implementations. Generate intellectual property to secure automotive cybersecurity dominance. Leverage virtualization and/ or emulation technologies to expedite technology development and testing while maximizing portability to real hardware. Stay abreast of offensive/defensive cybersecurity activities in the public/commercial domain to design innovative solutions. Serve as intermittent consultant for cybersecurity evaluations/assessments. Guide product teams through integration of cybersecurity system designs and validation methodologies. Requires Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or Computer Engineering and five years of progressive experience with creating engineering specifications from low-level requirements, specification analysis, creating interface specifications, MATLAB modeling, performing code unit testing, MATLAB model conversion, defining modeling strategies, generating auto code for developed models, generating test cases, C, Simulink, Stateflow, and SVN. Mail resumes to: Aptiv Corporation, Attn: Benjamin Tomkovicz, HR Business Partner, 100 Northern Ave., Suite 400, Boston, MA 02210. Ref: 71493Y.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Larry Adams, the challenge of mastering the accent of Belgian detective Hercule Poirot is secondary.
“The real challenge is in portraying such a supremely confident, black-and-white sort of man confronting the grayest of moral dilemmas,” Adams said. “I think that is really what makes ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ the most unique and compelling of Agatha Christie’s mysteries.”
The Pittsboro resident plays the legendary detective in Carmel Community Players’ production of Ken Ludwig’s “Murder on the Orient Express” Aug. 4 through Aug. 13 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. Adams said he doesn’t want to sound cartoonish with his accent because Poirot is such a serious character.
Vickie Phipps, a Carmel resident, portrays Mrs. Hubbard.
“She’s an actress from the 1930s and I love the costumes and the hairstyles,” Phipps said. “I sing a couple of little numbers but it’s more to irritate the passenger
SHEPHERD INSURANCE
next door to me.”
“The whodunit’s ending was shocking when Christie’s novel was first released,” Phipps said. “There are twists and turns.”
Olivia Carrier, who was born and raised in Noblesville and is a 2018 Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate, plays Mary Debenham, a British governess. This is the first time the Broad Ripple resident has used a British accent for a play.
“I was pleasantly surprised that it was easier than I initially anticipated,” Carrier said. “I was really nervous going into the audition that I would have to work on it.”
For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
Answers to HOOSIER
HODGEPODGE: Sports: BASEBALL, FOOTBALL, GOLF, HOCKEY, SOCCER, TENNIS; Companies: BAYER, ELI LILLY, MERCK, MODERNA, PFIZER; Avenues: COLLEGE, EMERSON, KEYSTONE, MASSACHUSETTS; Dogs: GOOFY, ODIE, SNOOPY; Honorees:
SOLDIERS; County:
Built in 2007 in The Village of WestClay, this home’s owners were ready for an exterior upgrade to improve both style and function. Our team got to work transforming the home’s façade, creating a brighter and more modern visual appeal.
• We reimagined the home’s exterior — transforming the previously stark federal-style appearance into a warm and welcoming entryway.
• A new portico over the front door provides added dimension, while a new, sleek staircase railing creates a more modern aesthetic throughout the length of the front walkway.
• Eze-Breeze windows were added to the back porch, allowing the homeowners to effortlessly move from sunroom to screened porch, depending on the weather and time of day.
• A new patio and stone fireplace were added to the back of the home, creating the perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors (almost) year-round.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
Presenting Sponsor: SOLD! Bar Sponsor: $3,000
Partner Sponsor: SOLD! Table Sponsor: $2,500
Companion Sponsor: $5,000 Auction Sponsor: $1,500
Band Sponsor: $3,000 Dessert Sponsor: $1,500
VIP Ticket: $250
Individual Ticket: $175
Commentary by Don Knebel
Today, in our continuing tour of Alaska, we visit sites around Juneau, Alaska’s capital city.
Juneau began as a tent city on the east bank of the Gastineau Channel soon after Joe Juneau and Richard Harris discovered gold nearby in 1879. In 1881, 72 miners named the town, on the Alaska Panhandle along its border with British Columbia, for Juneau. Juneau was the first European settlement in Alaska after the United States purchased the territory from Russia in 1867. In 1906, Juneau, with a population of about 2,000, replaced Sitka, further down the Panhandle, as the territorial capital.
Juneau is famous for the Juneau Icefield to the north. This 1,500-square-mile field of ice includes more than 40 valley glaciers, gradually moving down the valleys because of their massive weight, creating fjords as the ice wears down the adjacent mountain peaks. Much of the Juneau Icefield lies within the 16.7-million-acre Tongass National Forest, the United States’ largest national forest. All but one of the glaciers within the Juneau Icefield reached their maximum size in about 1700 and have been retreating ever since. Only the Taku Glacier, the name the local Tlingit people gave it, continues to advance and is now the largest glacier in the icefield.
A popular activity for visitors to Juneau is a floating bush plane trip over five glaciers
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 of Carmel Prj. No. 22-ENG-13 Miscellaneous Path Connections, is located in: Sections 3-6, 19, 21, 23, 25-26, 28-30, and 35 Townships 17 & 18 North, Range 3 East; and Sections 5-8, 20-22, and 27-29 Townships 17 & 18 North, Range 4 East, Clay Township, Hamilton County in Carmel, IN. The project involves the construction of asphalt and concrete paths, curb ramps, curb, drive approaches, and pavement markings at various locations in the City. The ultimate receiving water for the project is Carmel Creek. Construction is anticipated to begin in Fall 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
in the Juneau Icefield, with a stop at Taku Glacier Lodge, across the Taku River from the face of the Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, a branch of the Taku Glacier. Guests at the lodge are treated to a meal including grilled wild salmon. The salmon attracts black bears, which have become their own attrac-
Docket Number: PZ-2023-00110 & PZ-2023-00155
Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Plan Commission meeting on August 15, 2023 at 6:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Square, 2nd Flr, Carmel, Indiana 46032 will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Plan amendment in order to facilitate expansion of an existing business at Rosie’s Gardens located at 10402 North College Avenue and a vacation of a portion of the plat of Harry Bowser’s Northridge Addition.
The application is identified as Docket No. PZ2023-00110 & PZ-2023-00155.
The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Tax ID parcel numbers: 17-13-11-00-00-007.000, 17-13-11-0000-008.000, 17-13-11-00-00-008.001, 17-1311-00-00-009.000, 17-13-11-02-07-006.000, 17-13-11-02-07-008.000, 17-13-11-02-8-001.000, 17-13-11-02-08-002.000, 17-13-11-02-08-003.000, 17-13-11-02-08-004.000, 17-13-11-02-08-005.000, 17-13-11-02-08-006.000, 17-13-11-02-08-007.000, 17-13-11-02-08-008.000, 17-13-11-02-08-022.000, 17-13-11-02-08-023.000, 17-13-11-02-08-024.000, 17-13-11-02-08-025.000, 17-13-11-02-08-026.000, 17-13-11-02-08-027.000, 17-13-11-02-08-028.000, 17-13-11-02-08-029.000, 17-13-11-02-08-045.000, 17-13-11-02-08-046.000, 17-13-11-02-08-047.000, 17-13-11-02-08-048.000, 17-13-11-02-11-004.000
All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place.
Petitioner: Lawrence K. Hughes
tions to the lodge. After dining, visitors can also take a walk in the scenic woods near the lodge, where they are warned to be on the lookout for bears.
Don Knebel is a local resident. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@ youarecurrent.com.
Docket No. PZ-2023-00147 V
As an adjective, setup often gets used in technology situations: Go to the setup screen to change your network settings.
I don’t attend many movies with groups anymore. I was always the guy who arrived early. Because of my promptness, I ended up saving seats for the whole group. I’d start declaring my group’s territory by draping my jacket over a pair of seats. Then I’d put my popcorn and drink in the cupholders a few seats away.
As the minutes ticked on, I’d have to fend off more people who also wanted middle-middle of the theater. The anxiety of saving six to eight seats for my friends who were chronically five minutes late ended up being too much for me; I did not like this setup one bit.
That brings me to the crux of some more important grammar guidance: What’s the difference between setup and set up?
Let’s start with setup. Use setup (or set-up) as either a noun or an adjective. As a noun, setup means the arrangement or organization of something. For example: The camera setup was all wrong, so the director kept adjusting the shot.
As a verb, use set up: I set up my friend Byron with his new job answering phones at the conspiracy theory hotline.
We set up our BattleBot so it would never attack humans.
Think about it this way: the verb version of the word spreads out. It is in motion; it stretches and moves. The noun version (setup or set-up) is compact. It’s a box — a static thing.
Interestingly, you can apply this same model (noun and adjective vs. verbs) to other sets of words. Some include workout and work out, makeup and make up, dropout and drop out, and checkout and check out. When used as a noun or an adjective, these words are either one word or one word with a hyphen; when used as a verb, these words are two words.
Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.
Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on the 28th day of August, 2023 at 5 p.m. in the City Hall Caucus Rooms, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to:
Docket No. PZ-2023-00147 V UDO Section 5.09 (B) Maximum 42 inch fence allowed in the front yard, 72 inches requested. Also, minimum 25% visibility required, 0% visibility requested.
The corner lot site is located at 3240 E. 104th St. (Glenwood Subdivision, Lot 49). It is zoned S2/ Residence. Filed by Thanh Ho on behalf of Tuyet Nguyen, owner.
With the property being known as: 3240 E. 104th St, Carmel, IN 46033
The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2023-00147 V
The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche.
All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place.
Thanh Ho
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 Veterans Way – City Center Dr. to W. Walnut St. Road Construction, is located in the northeast quarter of Section 25, Township 18 North, Range 3 East, Township 18 North, Clay Township Hamilton County west of Rangeline Rd, between City Center Dr. and W. Walnut St. in Carmel, IN. The project involves the construction of a new roadway between City Center Dr. and W. Walnut St. and roundabout at the intersection Veterans Way and W. Walnut St., including storm sewers and other required utilities. The ultimate receiving water for the project is Cool Creek. Construction is anticipated to begin in Fall 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 OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CITY OF CARMEL PLAN COMMISSION
Docket Nos. PZ-2023-00136 DP/ADLS, PZ-2023-00157 V, PZ-2023-00158 V, PZ-2023-00159 V, PZ-2023-00160 V, PZ-2023-00161 V, AND PZ-2023-00162 V
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Carmel Plan Commission will conduct a meeting on the 15th day of August, 2023 at 6:00 pm at the Carmel City Hall, 2nd Floor, One Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032, to hold a Public Hearing regarding an application identified by Docket Numbers PZ-2023-00136 DP/ ADLS, PZ-2023-00157 V, PZ-2023-00158 V, PZ-2023-00159 V, PZ-2023-00160 V, PZ-2023-00161 V, AND PZ- 2023-00162 V (the “Requests”). The real estate is identified by the Hamilton County, Indiana Auditor’s Office as Tax Parcel Identification Number 17-13-06-00-00-034.000, which parcel has a common address of 11335 N. Michigan Road, Zionsville, Indiana (the “Real Estate”).
The Real Estate is zoned B-3 and is located within the US 421 Overlay zone. The Applicant, REI Real Estate Services, LLC, has filed the Request seeking development plan approval (“DP”) and Architectural, Design, Lighting and Sign approval (“ADLS”) in order to develop a 252-unit multi-family community and one (1) commercial out-lot.
In addition, the Applicant is seeking the following development standards variances from the Plan Commission:
1. Docket No. PZ-2023-00157 V - UDO Section 2.24: Minimum Lot Area – 5,000 sq. ft. per multiplefamily dwelling unit allowed, 2,899 sq. ft. requested.
2. Docket No. PZ-2023-00158 V - UDO Section 5.28: Parking – 540 parking spaces required, 394 requested.
3. Docket No. PZ-2023-00159 V - UDO Section 2.24: Maximum Lot Coverage – 40% maximum lot cover for multi-family dwellings in the B3 zone allowed, 50% requested.
4. Docket No. PZ-2023-00160 V - UDO Section 3.88(C): Building Height - 20’ maximum height allowed adjacent to residential uses; 27’ and 38’ requested.
5. Docket No. PZ-2023-00161 V - UDO Section 3.88(D): Building Facades – Buildings with continuous facades that are 90’ or greater in width shall be designed with offsets not less than 8’ deep required; 1.5’ requested.
6. Docket No. PZ-2023-00162 V - UDO Section 3.96(B): Minimum Rear Yard Building Setback – 52.5’ required adjacent to residential, 40’ requested.
The Petition may be examined at the Carmel City Hall or via the City’s website, through Public Documents – Laser Fische.
All interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposal, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. Written comments filed with the Department of Community Services prior to or at the Public Hearing will be considered, and oral comments will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.
CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA
Joe Shestak, Secretary, City of Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals
Carmel City Hall
One Civic Square
Carmel, IN 46032
Phone: (317) 571-2417
Email: jshestak@carmel.in.gov
ATTORNEY FOR APPLICANT REI REAL ESTATE SERVICES, LLC
James Shinaver, Attorney
Jon Dobosiewicz, Land Use Professional Nelson & Frankenberger, LLC
550 Congressional Blvd., Suite 210
Carmel, IN 46032
Phone: (317) 844-0106
Across
1. Performs with the Carmel Community Players
5. Delight
10. Pack away
14. Gentlemen
15. Hoosier Park paddock papas
16. Faith, ___ and Charity
17. Indiana city: Royal headwear + scoreboard unit
19. Still-life pitcher
20. Spanish gold
21. Top-of-the-line
22. Fishers HS prom, e.g.
23. Biggby Coffee change collector
25. Gumshoe
28. Colts QB mistakes
30. Indiana city: Big deer + male deer
33. Invitation letters
36. WFYI’s “___ Street”
38. Commit perjury in Hamilton County Court
39. Commandment word
41. Crossed out
42. Seasons, in a way
44. Luau strings
45. Respect
48. Future DA’s exam
49. Indiana city: Sailor’s stopover + grow old
51. Out-of-this-world org.
53. Got beaten by
55. Pickleball kin
59. Swiped a mink?
61. Train track
63. Monument Circle musical grp.
64. Crooked Stick caddie’s suggestion
65. Indiana city: Unadorned + pasture
68. Like Current printing presses
69. Squiggle in a Zionsville
HS Spanish class
70. IU sports overseer
71. Flat-topped hill
72. “The Zoo Story”
perhaps
31. “Lovely” Beatles meter maid
32. Butler midterm, say
33. Bra spec
34. Ms. Ono
35. Misses
37. Observe
40. Do hair-raising work
43. Indiana Basketball Hall of Famer Henderson
46. IMPD rank
47. Keystone Art Cinema early show
50. “I knew it!”
52. Part of SASE
54. Big name in toothbrushes
56. Sister’s daughter
57. Muslim religion
58. Pops
59. Do laps at Carmel’s Waterpark
60. Voicemail prompt
62. Indiana Senate staffer
65. School support group
Schuyler Nehrig, Agent 1488 E 86th Street Indianapolis, IN 46240
O: (317) 830-4444, ext. 2492
C: (317) 918-9744
Schuyler.Nehrig@infarmbureau.com
Larry & Rhonda Stewart, Owners
$75
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, good-natured 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
please help this young family and contact Janet Emerson’s Realty at 317.431.1868.
LOVE
HUNT CLUB IS HIRING Part time Kennel Assistant : responsible for the daily care of dogs, kennel upkeep, and other tasks related to keeping our guests happy and comfortable. Hours are from 7 AM to 12 PM or 3 to 8 PM with potential for 18 - 35 hours per week. Part-time Front Desk Assistant: responsible for corresponding with clients through emails ,phone, and in- person as well as various computer tasks. Hours are 8:30 to 11:30 AM or 4:30 to 7:30 PM and as needed. Applicants should have availability on weekdays as well as occasional weekends and holidays. Interested? Have questions Email:huntclubkennal@gmail.com
