April 30, 2024 — Carmel

BE CLOSE TO WHAT MATTERS

CCS to present seminar for potential school board candidates

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

With two seats on the ballot in the November general election, Carmel Clay Schools aims to ensure anyone considering a run for school board understands what the role entails — and doesn’t.

EDUCATION

The Prospective School Board Candidate Seminar is set for 10 a.m. May 21 at the CCS Educational Services Center, 5201 E. Main St. During the 90-minute program, attendees will learn about the role of a school board member, legal requirements and other related matters.

fire the coach, or (implement) a dress code, that’s not your role,” he said. “The daily operations side of it is left to the folks that are running the buildings in the district.”

School board members are elected to four-year terms. This year, two at-large seats will be on the ballot in CCS. Candidates may file to run for school board from May 21 through June 20.

The school board election is Nov. 5 and will be on the ballot with presidential, national, statewide and other races. Beresford said it’s important for voters and candidates of all ages — whether they have students attending CCS or not — to pay attention to local races in a busy election year.

DISPATCHES

Indy Fiber Hundred Festival – A Yarn Market will present the Indy Fiber Hundred Festival, a celebration of fiber arts, from noon to 4 p.m. May 5 in Carmel’s Village of WestClay, 2000 E. New Market St. The Indy 500-themed event for yarn enthusiasts will feature items and displays from multiple vendors. Admission is free. Learn more at ndyfiberhundred2024.com.

“This would be a great opportunity for (potential candidates) to know what you’re getting into and have your questions answered,” CCS Supt. Michael Beresford said.

Speakers include Steve Horton, director of board services for the Indiana School Boards Association, and Andrew Manna, an attorney with Church Church Hittle + Antrim who specializes in education law.

Beresford, 64, who said he does not plan to seek an extension when his contract ends in 2026, said the school board’s three primary responsibilities are to set policy for the district, oversee finances and hire, evaluate and — if necessary — fire the superintendent.

“If you (join) the school board and you want to

“I think you can see from districts around us and across the country that if a majority of people get on the board with a special interest, it will disrupt the educational system that this community has been so proud of,” he said. “I know it’s a presidential election, I know there will be a lot of wild ads on TV and a lot of weird texts, but the impact the school district has on the daily lives of students and the daily lives of families in our community is huge.”

Learn more and register for the Prospective School Board Candidate Seminar at ow.ly/TMcL50Rm8m7. The event is open to anyone considering a run for school board this year or in the future and to community members who want to learn more about the process.

Westermeier Commons closed – Westermeier Commons in Carmel’s Central Park at 920 Central Park Dr. W. is closed for a planned playground resurfacing project. The playground, splash pad, restrooms, community shelter, shelter No. 1 and the western half of the parking lot will be closed and fenced off during the project. The eastern half of the parking lot will remain open and trails to the lagoon will not be impacted. The park is expected to reopen in mid-May.

Appeals court rules CCS did not violate dollar law

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

The Indiana Court of Appeals on April 17 declined to overturn a trial court ruling that found Carmel Clay Schools did not violate the state’s dollar law in its continued use of the Orchard Park Elementary building after closing it to students.

EDUCATION

Indiana Classical Schools sued CCS in April 2022 for use of the former OPE building, which stopped operating as an instructional campus after the 2020-21 school year. ICS claimed CCS violated an Indiana law that requires public school districts to allow charter schools to pay $1 to use vacant buildings. ICS had been eyeing the building as a site to open a charter school, Valor Classical Academy.

In January 2023, Hamilton County Judge

J. Richard Campbell granted summary judgment in favor of CCS, stating that Indiana law requires school districts to offer former school buildings to charter schools only if they are vacant and unused (previously the dollar law was triggered when school buildings were no longer used for classroom instruction).

The appeals court upheld Campbell’s decision and listed several uses of the Orchard Park building since it ceased to be used for student instruction, such as storage space, school resource officer training and office space for the district’s information technology staff.

CCS declined to comment on the ruling. ICS didn’t provide comment as of press time.

According to its February newsletter, ICS officials are continuing to search for a site to open Valor Classical Academy. They ended lease negotiations for a potential

site at 10330 N. Meridian St. in Carmel and were considering other possibilities in the Carmel area.

“Our founding board remains committed to opening Valor in Hamilton County,” the newsletter states. “It may seem like we’re back at the beginning, but in truth, we’re just in the middle of a very challenging startup process, which is not uncommon in this endeavor.”

Because of the difficulty in securing a building, Valor delayed its anticipated fall 2023 opening and forfeited $400,000 in grants, according to the newsletter. It is working to apply for other grants available to charter schools.

The newsletter also stated that during a five-business-day early enrollment period, Valor received applications from 48 families in nine cities and 10 school districts, with half of the interest from students in Carmel.

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Beresford

City employee’s great-grandpa honored for forgotten impact

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Aliza Shalit knew part of what her great-grandfather Paul Hirsch contributed to the German government.

RECOGNITION

But those contributions were wiped out when the Nazis came to power in the 1930s.

Shalit, a Westfield resident who works for the City of Carmel as a sign permit specialist, traveled to Dortmund, Germany, in late November 2023, when Hirsch was being honored for his contributions during a summit of European mayors to combat antisemitism.

“He played a big part in the creation of the great Berlin, taking all of these small towns around Berlin and making it into a truly large area under a single local government,” Shalit said of Hirsch. “From there, he was prime minister of Prussia (from 1918 to 1920) and then minister of the interior. Then they tried to have a coup (in Prussia), which basically failed. But during that time, a lot of people in government had to hide. So, he came back and became mayor of Dortmund in 1925 (by a vote of the city council). He took Dortmund, a really tiny town, and gathered all the towns around it and made a large, influential city.”

Hirsch retired from office because of health reasons in 1932, but when the Nazis took power in 1933, they took his pension

away.

“They erased him from history,” Shalit said. “The (current) mayor of Dortmund said, ‘How does someone who has done so much become unknown?”

Forced to leave his home and move to a Jewish ghetto, Hirsch died on Aug. 1, 1940, at the age of 71.

“He died of malnutrition because of his poverty,” Shalit said. “There was no money, and Jews were kicked out from one place to the other. They couldn’t get jobs. He was named an enemy of the state because of his involvement with politics.”

His wife died by suicide about a year later to avoid going to a concentration camp.

Shalit said the ceremony was very emotional.

“They are looking to make it part of a permanent exhibit,” Shalit said. “They are talking about giving a yearly prize in his name.”

Shalit, 50, grew up in Peru and moved to San Diego when she was 15.

Hirsch had two daughters, Thea and Eva. Shalit’s grandmother, Thea, moved to Peru in 1936 to become a nanny for a family.

Shalit’s great aunt, Eva, didn’t want to leave her parents, but in 1939 she was persuaded to go with a family as a nanny in England and then South Africa. She eventually got a sponsorship to the U.S.

“She had been kicked out of medical school in Germany because Jews were not allowed to go to school with other people,” Shalit said.

I am Married and have 3 Children.

Retired from the Department of Corrections 27yrs.

I have 4 Beagle Shih Tzu mix dogs.

I love Golf, Football and baseball.

From left, Diana Amit, Marilyn Kahn, Aliza Shalit, Leopoldo Kahn, Andreas Kahrs, Adi Amit and Judith Kahn. (Photo courtesy of Aliza Shalit)

Unclaimed remains of Carmel man laid to rest in Westfield

COUNTY By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

George Podolan was 77 years old when he passed away at home in Carmel on Jan. 25, 2023.

But for more than a year, his cremated remains were housed at the Hamilton County Coroner’s office in Noblesville, unclaimed by family or friends for burial.

On April 4, Podolan — remembered simply as “George” — finally received a proper burial thanks to a partnership between Christian-based ministry He Knows Your Name, the Hamilton County Coroner’s office and Flanner Buchanan - Hamilton Memorial Park/Prairie Waters Event Center in Westfield.

“We say that he is worthy of being known, seen and considered as valuable,” Linda Znachko, founder of He Knows Your Name, said during George’s funeral, which was attended by more than a dozen people who never met him. “We honor George, and we set in motion a process for future unclaimed to always have a laying to rest home here.”

In 2022, Znachko’s organization worked with the Marion County Coroner’s Office to bury the remains of 173 unclaimed persons at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens in Indianapolis. She invited every coroner in the state to the ceremony in an effort to push for burial of unclaimed remains in their respective jurisdictions, but only Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison showed up.

“I was becoming more and more aware that the coroners’ offices have an accumulation of unclaimed, and I find that appalling, quite honestly,” Znachko said. “I feel like it’s disrespectful to human life, and that these city offices and county offices have got to put in their budgets some money set aside to do this.”

Znachko and Jellison’s office joined forces to find a way to give George a proper burial. But Jellison said his office isn’t seeking recognition for the effort.

“Today is not about organizations and it’s not about coroners, it’s about dignity and providing dignity to those that don’t have family or don’t have someone to support them to a final resting place,” Jellison said. “The real reason we’re here today is to give George Podolan the dignity he deserves.”

Znachko hopes providing a burial site for George and other unclaimed remains in Westfield will serve as a reminder to Hamilton County residents that despite the overall wealth and resources of the county, people still die alone and are left unclaimed even if they have living relatives. She said that while it’s easy to assume that the unclaimed have died alone with no family, it’s often not the case.

“The truth is, a lot of them do have families, and they have neighbors,” she said. “(George) lived in Carmel. I think we need to realize that Hamilton County has roundabouts everywhere and they have the most beautiful parks everywhere, but this coroner doesn’t have enough money in his budget to (bury the unclaimed).”

George is buried in an ossuary — a vault for cremated remains — inside a memorial garden at Hamilton Memorial Park/Prairie Waters. The garden is specifically for cremated remains. Ben Upton, VP of Advanced Planning for Flanner Buchanan, said the garden is a serene area overlooking the water that makes a peaceful environment for families to visit their loved ones.

George’s memorial stone is a cenotaph, which will hold the names of future unclaimed persons who are buried at the cemetery.

From right, Linda Znachko, founder of He Knows Your Name ministry, and Ben Upton, vice president for advanced planning with Flanner Buchanan, place the remains of George Podolan of Carmel into an ossuary at the memorial garden at Hamilton Memorial Park. (Photo by Marney Simon)

Reaching the next generation

Commentary by Jeff Worrell

Have we forgotten that there is a real human being at the receiving end of our aggressively hostile email, malicious text, overcritical and pompous Facebook post, or just downright nasty tweet? Are our children watching, listening and learning from our digital interactions?

CIVILITY

In today’s world, where face-to-face conversations are often replaced by digital communication, teaching civility to the next generation is more crucial than ever. Civility, the art of treating others with respect, understanding and courtesy, is the foundation of a harmonious society. It’s about acknowledging differences while fostering a culture of dialogue and mutual respect. As technology advances, our children are navigating a world where communication is instantaneous and often anonymous, making it easy to forget the person on the other side. By instilling the values of civility early on and teaching them to wield the power of anonymity carefully, we equip them with the tools necessary for constructive engagement, empathy and

“In

– JEFF WORRELL

effective conflict resolution.

As we guide our children in understanding the importance of civility, we lay the groundwork for a future marked by compassion, understanding and meaningful progress. With our children in mind, let’s explore steps we can take to ensure a community that recognizes the dignity of the human being at the other end of our interactions.

Jeff Worrell is a Carmel City Council member and a civility proponent.

KidsZone adds symbolic ride

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Rotary Club’s logo includes a wheel. So, CarmelFest chair Jeff Lenz figured a Ferris wheel is a fitting KidsZone addition to remind visitors that the Rotary Club of Carmel sponsors CarmelFest.

CARMELFEST

“That’s been a hard thing for us to communicate to the community, that this is our big fundraiser every year to sponsor all the great things we do for the community,” said Lenz, a Rotary Club of Carmel member who lives in Noblesville. “That’s the main reason I ended up getting a Ferris wheel. I’m basically calling it the Rotary wheel. I think it’s going to bring a lot of attention.”

The Ferris wheel is 55 feet tall and needs to be in an area at least 50 feet by 30 feet. It has 12 seats that can fit two to three people each.

“It’s very expensive to rent,” Lenz said. “If it rains and no one buys tickets, I’d lose a lot of money. But I went ahead and took

a gamble. We’ll be selling tickets for people to ride, because I really don’t want to lose money. You can buy tickets online or in person.”

This is Lenz’s first year as chair of CarmelFest, set for July 3 and 4 at Civic Square and adjacent areas.

For more, visit carmelfest.net.

CURRENT MAY CALENDAR

SUMMER FARMERS MARKET

The Carmel Farmers Market will open for the summer season May 4 and run from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays through September. Admission is free. The market is at 2 Carter Green. Learn more at CarmelFarmersMarket.com.

TO EVALUATE INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE: Currently, there is no benchmark. Save over $50,000 a year by increasing adoption of e-billing for property tax statements.

Lifelong investor, fiscal conservative,

of Taylor University, over 30 years service to Hamilton County

BIKE MAINTENANCE

To kick off National Bike Month, Bike Carmel will offer a free bike maintenance drop-in event from 1 to 3 p.m. May 4 at the Carmel Clay Public Library, 425 E. Main St. Attendees will learn about the basics of essential bike repairs. Registration is not required.

CHEFTACULAR

At the Cheftacular fundraiser, Carmel High School culinary students will partner with local chefs to create unique dishes that can be sampled by attendees. The event is set for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. May 6 at CHS, 520 E. Main St. Tickets cost $40 to $300. Learn more and purchase tickets at bit. ly/4drESNh.

ELECTION DAY

Primary Election Day is May 7. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Find your polling location and learn more at hamiltoncounty. in.gov/226/Polling-Locations.

HORSEPOWER CARNIVAL

Children’s TherAplay Horsepower event is set for 4 to 6:30 p.m. May 8 at TherAplay, 9919 Towne Rd. The sensory-friendly carnival and resource fair will include games, food and visits with the horses. Cost is $15. Learn more and purchase a ticket at childrenstheraplay.org/horsepower.

MEET ME ON MAIN

Restaurants and shops in Carmel’s Arts & Design District will stay open until 8 p.m. May 11 for the monthly Meet Me on Main. The event will also offer a hands-on public art project and an opportunity to win a $100 gift card. In addition, Sandra Baughman will demonstrate the art of quilling, which involves curling long strips of paper, at Indiana Artisan, 22 N. Range Line Rd.

ADAPTIVE 5K

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation will host its annual Adaptive 5k at 9:45 a.m. May 18 in Carmel’s Central Park, 1195 Central Park Dr. W. The course is fully accessible for participants who utilize wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility aids, and the event is sensory-friendly. CCPR’s Adaptive 5k welcomes people with and without disabilities to participate. Cost is $25. Register and learn more at bit.ly/3Ue5Ejg.

CarmelFest will feature a Ferris wheel for the first time. (Photo courtesy of CarmelFest)

Indy man charged in fatal overdose case

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Police arrested an Indianapolis man April 23 for his alleged role in selling fentanyl to a Carmel woman who overdosed and died in May 2023.

COURTS

Joey Henery Thompson Jr. has been charged with dealing a controlled substance resulting in a death and is being held in the Hamilton County Jail. His bond is $250,000.

According to the arrest affidavit, Kelly Curry of Carmel is believed to have died May 26, 2023, in her home approximately an hour after rollerblading to the parking lot of Brookshire Village Shoppes on the southwest corner of Gray Road and 126th Street to purchase the drug from Thompson. An autopsy confirmed that Curry died after overdosing on fentanyl.

Investigators discovered messages between Curry and Thompson on Curry’s phone and used video surveillance and license plate readers to identify Thompson and connect him to the sale of the drug, the affidavit states.

Police discovered drug paraphernalia, small bags of suspected drugs, a Glock handgun and several inactive cellphones during a search of Thompson’s home and vehicle, the document states.

Thompson’s trial is set for July 8 in Hamilton County Superior Court 1.

DISPATCHES

Hats Off to Spring fundraiser — The Hats Off to Spring fashion show and luncheon will be presented beginning at 10 a.m. May 1 at Ritz Charles, 12156 N. Meridian St. in Carmel. The fundraiser benefits the Little Sisters of the Poor. Call 317-294-1955 for more information and an invitation. Learn more at staugustinehomeguild.org/ st-augustine-home-guild/hots.

Art & Country craft fair — The Art & Country art and craft fair is set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 11 at the Carmel VFW, 12863 Old Meridian St. Local artists will showcase a variety of handmade creations that include apparel, ceramics, glass, jewelry and more. The event will support local veteran programs. Admission is free.

Lawrence North shortstop puts up impressive hitting numbers

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Lawrence North High School senior shortstop Anna Mauck keeps racking up some impressive hitting accomplishments.

Mauck, who has signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball for the University of Kentucky next season, has a .469 batting average with three homers in the first nine games. She hit .529 with 13 homers and a school-record 70 runs batted in as a junior. She hit .474 with eight homers as a sophomore and .513 with nine homers as a freshman.

Wildcats coach Matt Marino said the four-year starter batted leadoff her first two years but moved into the No. 3 slot last year because of her ability to drive in runs.

Marino said her biggest strength is consistency as her career batting average is .503.

“She is also very strong defensively as

MEET ANNA MAUCK

Favorite athlete: University of Kentucky shortstop Erin Coffel

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite vacation spot: Alys Beach, Fla.

she can play infield or outfield at a high level,” Marino said. “She has a lot of speed. She’s stolen a lot of bases, too.”

Marino said Mauck has developed a better mental understanding of the game.

“This includes knowing game situations offensively and defensively and what needs to be done in those situations,”

Marino said. “Over her career, her improvements have been in team leadership as she has been a team captain for two years.”

Mauck said her biggest improvement has been battling back with two strikes at the plate.

“It’s swinging at every pitch and not being too picky,” she said. “It’s just developing patience and an attack mode of when I need to be less picky and figuring out balls that are close enough to be hit.”

Her goal is to raise her batting average this season.

“I want to break as many school records as possible and maybe make all-state first team,” said Mauck, who was named Class 3A/4A second team all-state last year by the Softball Coaches Association of Indiana.

Mauck plays for a travel softball team, Tennessee Fury Platinum X, which plays in tournaments across the U.S. She plays shortstop and third base on her travel team.

She chose Kentucky for several reasons.

“The campus was beautiful,” said Mauck, who plans to major in business marketing. “The coaching staff was nice and welcoming. The Kentucky coach came to nearly every one of our games in the summer. It was cool to see how persistent and how much they wanted me. I felt they wanted me and would be there for me and it’s not super far from home.”

Lawrence North shortstop Anna Mauck is hitting .469 through the first nine games. (Photo courtesy of Matt Marino)

Mauck

Virtual Announcer becoming a hit with high schools

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

An off-hand comment by North Central High School Athletic Director Andy Elkins led public address sports announcer Aaron Pitman to a business venture.

SPORTS

“He made a joke that if we could clone your voice, you could be here more often,” Pitman said. “That’s how the concept of (the) Virtual Announcer program was built.”

Pitman, a Westfield resident, is the only voice for the program, which creates scenarios for a program to run during games when an announcer isn’t available.

Jake Hinson, another Westfield resident and former high school assistant boys basketball coach, joined the company in August 2023 to help with the business end.

“We put Aaron in the studio weeks in advance, and Aaron is able to record everything you need in a game,” Hinson said. “We determined we could predict with 99 percent accuracy everything that is going to be said at a game, but we are not able to predict when it’s going to be said.”

Hinson said they partner with a company in Portland called Sound Director for software to create the program. Sound Director creates the sound effects at Indiana Pacers games, Hinson said.

“We give the program to the school, and we encourage the schools to give it to a student to run the program,” Hinson said.

While schools have live announcers at football and basketball games, Hinson said the program can be used for junior varsity or freshman games or other sports when an announcer isn’t available.

Carmel and Westfield are two of the high schools using the program. Pitman said he is working with North Central to join in the fall.

Pitman is the live announcer at Carmel High School for varsity football, boys and girls basketball and baseball games.

“It benefits us because it takes the stress out of finding a qualified announcer for your events,” Carmel High School assistant athletic director Jeff Hester said. “It can be a little unnerving. Even with the best intentions, sometimes people with a

live mic can go off script. For us, a lot of time for our freshman and junior varsity events we didn’t have an announcer, or it was a parent volunteer. This gives the same atmosphere of big-time events at the lower levels.”

Hester said he sends the visiting team rosters for Pitman, who records in his home studio. CHS has three laptops with the computer program.

“He pre-records basically anything that could happen, say, in a baseball game,” Hester said.

For football, Hinson said there are generic calls that aren’t player-specific, such as a first down or interception. There is no charge for schools to use the program if they have the package.

The cost of 200 game credits is $5,000, which Hinson said most schools purchase.

“We allow the athletic administrator to pick and choose how to use the credits,” Hinson said. “We don’t put a time limit on it. If it takes them five years to go through, as long as they have the game credits, they get their sponsorship reads for free. The program is designed to get more student involvement.”

Mic’d Up is the parent company, which includes Virtual Announcer and DJ Mic’D Gameday Radio.

“This opportunity presented itself and you can do what you love,” he said.

For more, visit micdup.io.

HOME’S EQUITY

In between making live announcements and updating the scoreboard at the March 27 Carmel High School varsity baseball, Aaron Pitman works to add material to his virtual announcing program that can be run through a laptop. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Pitman

PIECE BY PEICE

Carmel man assembles Guinness World Record winning puzzle collection

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

John Walczak, 58, rediscovered his love for puzzles after he and his wife, Kyle, moved to Carmel in 2018.

On April 10, he claimed a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest collection of jigsaw puzzles, amassing 2,022 stored in the basement of his Carmel home.

The Walczaks relocated to Carmel after living in Fishers for 18 years. Soon after the move, John Walczak came across a puzzle — a translucent rendering of Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” — and started assembling it. It is now framed in the couple’s front room above the standing puzzle table where they are working on their 1,000th puzzle — a 5,000-piece Ravensburger called “Bizarre Town” by Colin Thompson.

“It’s a nice de-stressor,” John Walczak said. “In the evenings, instead of sitting in front of the TV, I can listen to music or put on a podcast and let my brain figure this out.”

The couple started collecting puzzles in 2019. John Walczak keeps meticulous spreadsheets of each puzzle he and his wife own, where it was purchased and when each was completed, including a picture.

“I found one on sale. Then we saw another one that looked interesting. And before we finished that one, we would buy a few more to have ready and then it snowballed,” John Walczak said. “Then we started to wonder how many we had and if there was a record.”

In mid-2023, they looked up the record — then 1,400 — and saw that their collection of 1,200 wasn’t too far behind. They quickly acquired 600 more from garage sales, estate sales, thrift stores and trades.

“We decided to take it to the next level with 2,000. We just started buying as much as we could. By the time we counted everything we had 2,022,” John Walczak said.

To achieve the record, the Walczaks had to label each puzzle with a number, line them up and record the entire collection, then document each puzzle with a picture and provide the corresponding time stamp

from the recording.

“It took me two weeks to upload all the photos, videos and documentation,” John Walczak said.

They asked a neighbor, then-candidate and now-Mayor Sue Finkam, to be their witness.

“We just emailed her. She came over with her husband on a Saturday and we gave her a tour of the collection,” John Walczak said.

The Walczaks plan to gradually sell or trade the puzzles. They particularly enjoy puzzle swaps at local libraries.

“Once I do a puzzle, I’m ready to move on,” John Walczak said.

John Walczak has no plans to grow his collection to keep the record.

“If anyone else beats me, more power to them,” he said. “I don’t want to go through that again.”

As for strategies, the Walczaks use a standing table and start with the edges of a puzzle and sort by color. From there, John and Kyle Walczak differ on their approach.

“If I’m not trying to go fast, there are some puzzles I will sort by shape,” John Walczak said. “Sometimes, you’re in the middle of a puzzle and know it can only be this shape of a piece.”

As members of the USA Jigsaw Puzzle Association, the Walczaks enjoy attending conventions and competing. The group started in 2020 and provides members access to events and product information as

well as traveling puzzles — members ship puzzles to each other across the U.S. John Walczak said his personal-best tie was completing a 500-piece puzzle in less than an hour, but his average is 1.5 to 3 hours per puzzle.

“There was only one puzzle I started and never finished,” he said. “It was a Star Wars puzzle from a cheaper brand with a large area with 200 pieces of nothing but white and the pieces seemed to fit no matter what I did.”

The couple doesn’t collect a particular theme, but Charles Wysocki is one of their favorite artists. His puzzles depict Americana themes, and they favor Ravensburger puzzles for the quality.

“We have everything from cartoons to landscapes, and I love color-gradient puzzles,” Kyle Walczak said.

The biggest in their collection is a 60,000-piece puzzle by Eric Dowdle, “What a Wonderful World,” measuring 29 feet long and 8 feet wide. It took 10 months to complete.

“The smallest puzzle we have ever done, by size, was one called ‘UK 1929 Postal Union Congress Stamp’,” John Walczak said. “It was made of titanium and had to be put together with tweezers.”

Eleven wire shelving units in the Walczak’s basement hold the collection. One shelf holds antique puzzles, and another the has puzzles they are ready to sell or trade.

Learn more about the Walczak’s world record at bit.ly/3JBCaHg

ON THE COVER: John Walczak stands among his record-breaking jigsaw puzzle collection in the basement of his Carmel home. (Photo courtesy of the City of Carmel)

Record: Largest collection of jigsaw puzzles

Total puzzles: 2,022

Achieved: Dec. 9, 2023

Started collection: 2019

Oldest puzzle: 1941

Largest puzzle: 60,000 pieces

Smallest puzzle: 39 pieces

MEET JOHN WALCZAK

John and Kyle Walczak have collected more than 2,000 jigsaw puzzles since 2019. (Photo by Adam Seif)

Urgent care center to open

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

Monarch Medicine will host a community open house and toy drive from 3 to 8 p.m. May 4 at 90 Executive Dr., Suite A. The new urgent care facility aims to serve the Carmel community through compassionate, accessible care. Regular clinic hours begin May 6.

COMING SOON

“Monarch Medicine is a full-service urgent care offering basic medical services as well as X-ray and labs,” said Todd Clay, Monarch Medicine’s co-founder. “Basically, birth to death, you come in and we help you feel better that day.”

The facility will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday. Same-day appointments and walk-ins are welcome.

Todd Clay said his goal is for Monarch Medicine to be a community-first, family-oriented facility.

“We aren’t trying to change health care,

we are trying to make it different,” he said.

Co-founder Dr. Lisa Clay, a family practice physician, wants to provide a space for patients to feel seen and heard through personalized patient care.

“Part of the simplicity we are looking for is when you leave the office, hopefully (you) have your next set of plans set up and in place for you so that you don’t have to navigate it on your own,” said Lisa Clay, Todd Clay’s wife.

Monarch Medicine isn’t affiliated with a local hospital and will help refer patients to the best facility for their needs.

Monarch will offer online access to patient care plans and charts and online scheduling.

Toy drive donations will benefit Riley Children’s Hospital. The open house event will include a bounce house, cake, drinks and balloons.

For more, visit monarchmedicine.org. For Riley donation ideas, visit rileycheerguild. org/wishlist.

Women’s cycling group grows

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

Enrollment is open for the second year of IU Momentum Indy Divas, a weekly bicycling and mentorship group for women of all ages and abilities, presented by VQ Labs.

FITNESS

Rides start at 6:15 p.m. every Thursday through Sept. 26 at Indiana Members Credit Union, 3975 W. 106th St. in Carmel. Riders are placed into groups and set out on predetermined routes ranging in length.

“Having IU Health be mindful of women’s mental health by creating and promoting spaces where women can join together in fellowship to do activities together is important for cardiovascular and mental health,” said Dr. Chemen Neal, a Carmel resident and IU Health OB/GYN and member of the Indy Divas.

With 100 members in the first year, the group reports more than 160 already enrolled for the season that kicked off April 11. “The first ride was really hard for me, and everyone was really encouraging,” Carmel resident Lauren Fitzsimmons said.

“It doesn’t matter what your experience level is.”

For registrants prior to June 8 the $150 membership fee includes weekly rides with snacks and beverages provided, an Indy Diva’s jersey and T-shirt and Divas-only social and networking events, including bike clinics. Divas also receive a $75 discount code to the IU Health Momentum Indy Honor Major Taylor Fondo, with routes of 14, 30, and 62 miles, set for July 13. The event honors famed Black cyclist and Indianapolis resident Major Taylor.

For more, visit momentumindy.org,

Indy Divas Bri Clark, Lauren Fitzsimons and Debbie Kovac after the 2023 Honor Major Taylor Fondo. (Photo courtesy of Indy Divas)

Todd Clay Lisa Clay

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Group home nears opening

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

A group home for elderly residents is preparing to open in May at 44 Horseshoe Dr. in the Woodland Springs neighborhood.

COMING SOON

The Manor at Carmel held an open house April 16-17 to allow neighbors, potential residents and others with interest to tour the home, ask questions and learn more about the facility.

Co-owner Jennifer Piccione, an Illinois-based attorney, said The Manor at Carmel offers a type of living option not widely available in the area.

“It’s an intermediate step (for those who are) still vibrant and want to socialize with friends and be a part of the community and neighborhood but perhaps need a little bit of help with daily life activities,” Piccione said. “We think this is a great environment that doesn’t feel like moving into a traditional nursing home. We’re trying to create an environment where people can live independently for as long as possible and still feel like they’re living in their own community.”

Renovations to the home included altering the interior to increase the number of bedrooms from five to eight, adding a fire suppression system and making it wheelchair accessible.

Two caretakers will be on-site daily to provide assistance with routine activities, such as bathing or preparing meals, and one caretaker will be on duty overnight. The caretakers will not provide medical or memory care, but a home health care program will be provided onsite once a month.

Residential Administrator Nikka Cody will coordinate daily activities within the home and frequent outings.

“We’ll have stretches and exercises every single day (and) offer walks around the neighborhood,” Cody said. “(Residents) will be able to cook with us and bake, as well as do puzzles and brainteasers.”

The Manor at Carmel is hiring staff as well as accepting applications for residency. Learn more at themanorofcarmel.com.

DISPATCHES

Divas bicycle program returns — The second year for IU Health Momentum Indy Divas presented by VQ Labs, a women’s bicycle riding and empowerment program developed to foster a welcoming environment for women of all ages, experience and abilities, kicked off April 11. The program offers weekly rides (road and off-road) through September for women who are seeking a healthy, active lifestyle and an opportunity to connect socially with other women of all cycling levels and abilities. The group meets at 6:15 p.m. on Thursdays at Indiana Members Credit Union, 3975 W. 106th St. in Carmel. Membership is $150, and no woman will be turned away because of inability to pay. Learn more at momentumindy.org/ divas.

RevolutionEYES hire — RevolutionEYES has added Dr. Angeline McLean to its practice in Carmel. She is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and she completed her residency at Indiana Uni-

versity, where she also served as adjunct faculty. She has been practicing primary care optometry in the Indianapolis area for 20 years. McLean is a volunteer with Gleaners Food Bank and Indiana Reading and Information Services. Learn more at revolution-eyes.com.

Women’s Running Festival expands — The Women’s Running Festival, the largest women’s running event in Indiana, has added a 10K race this year to complement its half-marathon and 5K. In addition, race organizers CRRG Events returned the event to its original date during Labor Day weekend. Set for Aug. 31 in Carmel, the late summer date allows women from across the country to participate in the 14th annual Women’s Half Marathon, Women’s 10K and Get a MOVE on Cancer 5K without conflicting with the fall marathon calendar. Registration for the events is open at WomensRunningFestival.com.

The Manor at Carmel is on Horseshoe Drive in Carmel’s Woodland Springs neighborhood. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

INDIANA CENTER FOR RECOVERY CELEBRATES NEW CARMEL FACILITY

Indiana Center for Recovery celebrated the grand opening of its Access to Community Care facility in Carmel with an April 15 ribbon-cutting ceremony. The center is at 14555 Hazel Dell Pkwy., Suite 140. Read more at youarecurrent.com/?p=241004.

3 is the magic number

Commentary by Dr. Frannie Fiechter

As a parent, you might wonder: When is the best age to take my child for their first eye exam?

VISION

We find that many parents think age 9 or 10 is appropriate because that’s when they remember first needing glasses. You might be surprised to know that the best age for kids to have their first comprehensive eye exam is around 3 years old! We, of course, love to see children much sooner if parents or pediatricians have any concerns.

Why is 3 the magic number? A huge part of the development of the visual system happens at an extremely young age. Surprisingly, most children who require glasses at a young age will never give us any external warning signs.

We like to explain it to parents this way: For the same reason that we sing silly songs to teach numbers, colors, letters and language at a very young age, development of the visual system also occurs early in life. We only get two eyes and we have to make sure that system is developing properly.

Thankfully, most children will not need glasses at a young age, and we just get to look at their eyes with special flashlights and instruments to make sure they are healthy. However, some children who are asymptomatic can have very large prescriptions and require glasses.

Kids don’t know what they don’t know and sometimes don’t tell a parent if they can’t see the leaves on the tree. Getting glasses early will teach the brain how to see properly. If we wait until they are 9 or 10 years old, we have lost some of the window of opportunity to help as much as we could have when they were younger.

You might think that your child is too wiggly or doesn’t sit still long enough to be checked yet. Thankfully pediatric optometrists have some incredible tools, toys and games to see the prescriptions and health of the eye for even the wiggliest children!

Dr. Frannie Fiechter is an optometrist at Little Eyes Pediatric Eye Care. You may reach her at DrFiechter@LittleEYES.com.

From left, Riley Hudson, Hayley Dorsett, Soni Kumar, Rob Bartlett and Nick Gore attend the grand opening. (Photos by Adam Seif)

Rob Bartlett, certified peer recovery coach for the access to community care center in Carmel, center, cuts the ribbon.

Dr. Lawrence E. Lloyd, DPM Board Certified, American Board of Podiatric Surgery

SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO

The GOAT to celebrate reopening

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

RESTAURANT

The GOAT restaurant will host a grand-reopening celebration from 1 to 9 p.m. May 4, 220 2nd St. SW, Carmel. Festivities include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, food and drink specials, live music and a meet-and-greet with a live goat. The restaurant already held a soft opening and is open for dining and drinks.

“We look forward to serving our customers and meeting new customers who are looking for a new dining experience in the heart of the Midtown entertainment district. Look for more exciting announcements as we continue to finalize our new expansion,” said Dan McFeely, a spokesperson for The GOAT.

The GOAT, which stands for the “greatest of all taverns,” opened in summer 2020 but had been closed since April 2021, when the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals denied a variance (originally overlooked by the city) that would have allowed it to continue operating in a residentially zoned area.

The Carmel City Council rezoned the site for business use in March 2022, but the decision was contingent on restaurant owner Kevin Paul agreeing to a lengthy list of commitments to address concerns previously raised by neighbors, such as patrons trespassing on adjacent private property and noise late into the night. Even before closing, Paul made several changes to The GOAT that mitigated many of the problems.

“We have worked closely with the City of Carmel to address the issues that arose

during the COVID-19 pandemic,” McFeely said. “We now have more enclosed space — including our new addition, which is not yet open — and we have taken steps to reduce late night crowd noise out of respect for the residential units nearby.”

McFeely said patio seating will end at 8 p.m. daily to limit outdoor noise.

In addition to facility upgrades, McFeely said The GOAT owner Kevin Paul and his staff have worked to improve the dining experience.

“While we were away, we took the opportunity to enhance our menu to include a variety of new and unique menu items such as new apps, smashburgers, pork shanks and a variety of side dishes,” McFeely said. “We also have a new drink menu that includes more options for beer, spirits and some cool new cocktails.”

Operating hours are 3 to 11 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday.

DISPATCHES

Merchants Bank hire — Merchants Bank has hired Francisco Guzman as an affordable lending loan officer, based out of the company’s headquarters in Carmel. His recent roles in the mortgage industry were at American Financial Network and America’s Mortgage Professionals, where he focused on generating leads for local Spanish-speaking realtors and fostering the growth of self-sourced Spanish-speaking businesses. Guzman attended Wabash College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in philosophy.

‘Hamilton County Conversations’ — Invest Hamilton County has launched a podcast titled “Hamilton County Conversations,” which features leaders across various sectors in Hamilton County in discussions with Invest Hamilton County President and CEO Mike Thibideau. Podcasts are released twice monthly and are available for listening through both Apple Music and Spotify.

Woof Gang nears opening – Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming, 1378 S. Range Line Rd. in Carmel, is set to open May 16. Hours will be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m Monday through Saturday. The store will sell specialty dog-friendly cookies and cakes, in addition to chews, supplements, natural dog food, dog toys and accessories. Grooming services are by appointment.

The Manor at Carmel is on Horseshoe Drive in Carmel’s Woodland Springs neighborhood. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Guzman

Balancing the scales of trust

Commentary by Terry Anker

Stephen Covey, author of the seminal “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” is attributed with positing that, “Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.” In the book, which incidentally has sold more than 20 million copies since its first printing in 1989, he argues for character as the human Polaris rather than building or following a cult founded only on personality. There are many more expert Covey readers, but his premise seems iron clad. Trust is essential. Trust is a force multiplier. Trust may not be required but it sure makes life easier. The form that such confidence might take is nearly limitless. We might trust a child to be responsible, or a caregiver to administer medications, or a taxi driver to deliver us safely, or a soldier to protect our sovereignty, or a teacher to help educate our citizens, or a politician to keep our interests front in their hearts. Each is a

ESSAY

distinct variation of the type. As such, they uniquely hold a corresponding bit of real estate in our conscience and well-being. Therefore, the betrayal of that trust will influence both the mundane and grand elements of our existence. When good faith is lost by a child that didn’t wait to eat their dessert, we can recover by letting them mature a bit before giving them another shot, maybe a day, week or month. If fractured by a grown adult, the repair is more complex and elusive.

What is the obligation of the one who betrayed the trust and of the one harmed? Should we be less trusting or they be more responsible? Should we have been more explicit in the confidence, or they more protective of the information? Trust us, it is complicated.

Time for me to fly

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, this month marks my 17th anniversary of writing for Current. 17th! That’s approximately 850 weekly columns sharing my sometimes crazy, often mundane life in suburban Indiana. But an exciting opportunity has developed, and I’ve made the decision to take a break. Alas, this is farewell, at least for now.

HUMOR

In February of 2023, my husband Doo and I listened to a podcast about a young couple who had quit their jobs and traveled for one year. Within 10 minutes, we had hit pause and were seriously discussing doing the same. It was crazy, sure, but we figured there’d never be a better time. So, we pulled the trigger. We leave July 1 for Australia! Then, it’s Indonesia in August, and after that, who knows? Apart from a few bucket list countries, we’ll see where the cheap flights and warm weather takes us. It won’t be all play. Doo will be digital nomad-ing, I’ll be taking online classes, and we hope to take advantage of work exchanges to stay on budget. But I will not be writing columns. Although I love the process, I don’t want the responsibility. The only thing I want to think about is whether

“Doo will be digital nomad-ing, I’ll be taking online classes, and we hope to take advantage of work exchanges to stay on budget. But I will not be writing columns.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

Mai Tais are appropriate before noon.

So, thank you. Thank you for allowing me to vent about Doo, my kids, mean moms, annoying pets, PTO fundraisers, diaper debacles, Scroogey librarians, the perils of competitive dance, moving, sisterhood, road trips gone awry, 2020, incontinence, my ghostly complexion, tinsel wars, terrible drivers who don’t understand zipper merges, parenting woes and, of course, hillbilly shenanigans involving attic racoons. It’s been a pleasure, and more importantly, an honor. Peace out.

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

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

Smoked chicken to gag for

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

HUMOR

My wife Mary Ellen has been cooking dinner for me almost every night for more than 44 years. I always felt guilty about that, but never guilty enough to do anything about it. There was a short period when I was in charge of the barbecuing. I was old-school then and still used charcoal, but Mary Ellen read somewhere that this was an unhealthy way to prepare food. Of course, the meat alone was enough to raise our LDL, no matter how we cooked it.

Then we got a new Weber Grill. I had trouble mastering exactly how long to cook our carnivorian (if that’s even a word) selections. Medium-rare is OK for steaks, but it’s life-threatening with poultry.

“This chicken is certainly in the pink,” Mary Ellen told me one night when I took our dinner off the grill. This was not intended as a compliment to the chicken. Or to the chef.

After I was barred from cooking on our deck, I decided to give it a go inside with our new air fryer, another appliance I knew nothing about. But how difficult could it be? I mean, frying with air? This sounded like a fool-proof endeavor. Even for me.

My first attempt at using the new fryer was making a recipe I found on a social media website. You view a sped-up video making you think you can cook this masterpiece in 12 seconds. They usually don’t give you written directions and I still haven’t figured out how to save something or print it out. No matter now, when Mary Ellen found out I had a TikTok account, I was cooked. Account closed.

The recipe was for lemon garlic chicken. I placed the cutlets and all the required ingredients in a plastic baggie, gave it a good shake and let it marinate. Then I

“After I was barred from cooking on our deck, I decided to give it a go inside with our new air fryer, another appliance I knew nothing about. But how difficult could it be? I mean, frying with air?”

– DICK WOLFSIE

placed it all in a pan and slid it into the air fryer. But first I slathered the top of the bird with olive oil. That was my own little touch.

Mary Ellen had retreated to the back porch to enjoy her night off. I dozed off in my office easy chair. About five minutes later, I was awakened when smoke came billowing from the kitchen. Fumes filled the entire house. What should I do? Call 911? Or Emeril Lagasse?

The problem was that the directions called for baking the recipe in the oven –not the air fryer. And not with oil. Oops! Mary Ellen was aghast at this mistake.

“Look at those directions again. You did something wrong,” she said.

I tried to confirm that she was correct, but it was hard to see the recipe through all the smoke.

But here’s the good news: The chicken that night was very crispy.

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

currentnightandday.com

Narducci returns to ‘A Little Night Music’ for Indy Opera

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Daniel Narducci has a history with Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music,” beginning in 1988 as a junior in Indiana University’s music school.

PERFORMANCES

“It was my first appearance at IU and my first experience performing Sondheim,” Narducci said.

Narducci, who plays Fredrik Egerman in Indianapolis Opera’s production of “A Little Night Music” May 3-5 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. The musical examines the romantic lives of several couples in Sweden in 1900.

Narducci, a Unionville resident, played Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm at IU.

“I did two tours of Lancelot and then eventually ascended to the throne as King Arthur in ‘Camelot’ with Indianapolis Opera,” Narducci said. “I’ve kind of matured into the role of Fredrik versus Carl-Magnus.”

Narducci performed in other Sondheim pieces in concerts through the years and performed in “Sweeney Todd” with the Cleveland Opera.

“What is amazing to me (is) how the music just stuck with me when I listened back intently when preparing the role,” Narducci said. “All of Carl Magnus’ lines came flying back into my mind. It’s almost like it never left. We sing a duet together, so I had to learn the other part.”

His wife sings “Send in the Clowns,” later a huge hit for Judy Collins.

His wife, Heather Hertling Narducci, plays Desiree Armfeldt in the production. The couple plays the two principal lead characters in the musical.

“The joke around the house is she sings the hit song and I have a song as well, and she’ll say, ‘What is your song called again?’” Narducci said. “My song is called ‘Now,’ one of the more challenging in the baritone world because of the expediency of text.”

“It’s been wonderful preparing for this role with (Heather) and digging into (the) backstory of the two characters,” Narducci said.

The Narduccis have a duet album called “Our Broadway Romance.”

fell in love with ‘A Little Night Music’ and it made a profound impact on my musical tastes moving forward. I have admired the genius of Sondheim ever since.”

As director of the University of Indianapolis Opera Theatre, she produced this musical with her students.

“They became better actors and singers through the process,” Hacker said. “They learned the importance of telling a story and how to mine for gold in each phrase. There is no richer teaching vehicle than a Sondheim lyric, and in the meanwhile, they committed an extraordinary musical score to memory.”

Hacker said the production brings everything full circle with the Indianapolis Opera.

“I came to Indianapolis as a young singer to work for the Indianapolis Opera as part of their Outreach Ensemble back in the 1980s and have made Indianapolis my home ever since,” Hacker said. “I am delighted to share in this production at this stage of my life, to be in the hands of such a formidable artistic staff and to create good theater with a truly talented cast.”

Whiteland resident Zoe Lowe plays Fredrika. Lowe, a sophomore homeschool student through Indiana Online via Martinsville High School, is excited to make her Indy Opera debut.

“We’ve appeared in shows together but mostly in concerts,” he said.

Kathleen Hacker, who plays Madam Armfeldt, appeared in “A Little Night Music” way back in the last century, she said jokingly.

”The show was offered by Starlight Musicals, an iconic summer musical series presented for many years in Indianapolis, and I was cast in the repertory ensemble for that summer season,” Hacker said. “I

“I thank my lucky stars every day that I get to be a part of this incredible show and work with some incredible talent,” Lowe said. “This will be my 22nd show that I have been in. Musical theater is my favorite outlet and I always treasure every moment I spend on stage.”

Lowe said the main challenge is fully memorizing her role before going on stage.

“This is a new phenomenon for me, but I think that it has helped grow my discipline as an actress and has encouraged me to continue to work hard in what I do,” she said.

For more, visit indyopera.org.

‘THE KING AND I’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “The King and I” runs through May 19 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Comedy Night is set for May 2, followed by Don Farrell’s Frank Sinatra tribute May 3 and Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt and Friends May 4 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘ANASTASIA’

Civic Theatre’s production of “Anastasia” runs through May 11 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘FORBIDDEN BROADWAY’

Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “Forbidden Broadway” through May 12 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

’THE DINNER PARTY’

Carmel Community Players presents “The Dinner Party” through May 5 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

DISPATCH

Indianapolis Ballet, ISO collaborate on ‘Romeo and Juliet’ — Indianapolis Ballet and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will collaborate on “Romeo and Juliet” May 3 at Clowes Memorial Hall in Indianapolis. ISO Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly leads the orchestra in the production by renowned choreographer Septime Webre. The original production debuted in 1994 with IB’s founding Artistic Director Victoria Lyras as one of the original Juliets. Since then, the production has evolved and traveled to leading ballet companies worldwide, including The Washington Ballet and Hong Kong Ballet. Indianapolis Ballet and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra last collaborated in 2018.

Daniel Narducci and Heather Hertling Narducci appear in Indianapolis Opera’s production of “A Little Night Music.” (Photo courtesy of Daniel Narducci)

Hacker

Lowe

Couple enjoys roles in ‘King & I’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Nathalie Cruz, the time was right to return to the stage.

MUSICAL

“Since COVID, I took a step back to do what I feel like I missed while doing theater straight for 10 years,” the Carmel resident said. “Three years is a long time to be gone and the calling to be on stage has somewhat become palpable.”

Nathalie is sharing the stage with her husband Ian Cruz in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “The King and I,” which runs through May 19 at the Indianapolis venue.

Nathalie has performed in “Victor/Victoria,” “Drowsy Chaperone” and “West Side Story” with her husband.

“This is another one for the books,” Nathalie said. “It’s a memory that we will both have fun looking back for sure.”

Ian is definitely enjoying it.

“Although we only have one scene together, it’s a gift to me to witness her brilliance in the various roles she’s played, but especially in her role of Lady Thiang in our

current production when she’s on stage,” said Ian, who plays Kralahome. “I believe it’s been more than a decade, ‘The Drowsy Chaperone,’ since we’ve been together on stage, so it’s always a treat when we get the chance to do so just because it’s fun.”

Carmel High School senior Sam Tiek said he has wanted to return to Beef & Boards for a long time.

“I really enjoy the atmosphere the theater provides, and joining this cast has been such a cool experience,” Tiek said. Tiek is part of the ensemble. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

Area cast members in “The King and I”, front, Gemma and Calvin Lai, Zionsville; back, from left, are Ian and Nathalie Cruz, Carmel, Willa Cortez, Noblesville, and Sam Tiek, Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

A different kind of prom

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Senior Izzy Casciani missed the Zionsville Community High School prom to attend a prom of a much different nature.

MUSIC

Casciani performed as a vocalist in two shows of music from “The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends” April 20 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. The performances were part of Discovering Broadway’s incubation process. The monster musical comedy involves three girls who cast an undying love spell to summon their dream dates for prom.

“I was lucky enough to go twice with one of my friends,” Casciani said of the ZCHS prom. “So, I felt like I got the experience, but I’d just say this was maybe 100 times better than prom, so it wasn’t that hard (of a choice).”

Casciani had the opportunity to appear alongside some performers who are already making their mark in the entertainment industry, including Barrett Wilbert Weed (Broadway’s “Mean Girls”), Andrew Durand (Tony Award-winning “War Horse”),

Myha’la (HBO’s “Industry,” Netflix’s “Leave the World Behind”), 2014 Carmel High School graduate Eric Wiegand (Broadway’s “Plaza Suite”, Hulu’s “Tiny Beautiful Things”) and Arica Jackson (“The Book of Mormon”).

Discovering Broadway was founded in 2012 by CHS graduate Joel Kirk, who directed the April 20 performances.

CHS freshman Sadie Cohen was one of the backup vocalists.

“Not knowing any of the music before it was really cool to work with people who are super experienced,” Cohen said. “It was great to get advice and learn about that because I definitely want to do this as my career.

Cheers to summer wines

Commentary by Mark LaFay

The month of May is right around the corner, which means I am another year older, race fans will start trickling into town and the unofficial start of summer is almost here.

LIBATIONS

The consistently warmer temperatures have been luring our family outside more often. We’ve officially set up the back porch so we can relax on these warmer, longer weekend evenings while the kids run around. I love enjoying a refreshing glass of wine on the back porch and recently I got to try some really tasty wines that are perfect for patio sipping.

Ameztoi Rubentis: This wine is called Txakolina (chock-oh-lee-nuh) and comes from the Basque region of Spain. It’s made from red and white indigenous grapes fermented with native yeasts. What makes this wine extra fun is that it’s slightly fizzy. The fermentation vessel is sealed toward the end of fermentation, allowing carbon dioxide to build up and make the wine fizzy and delicious. This light, crisp, and dry wine is served chilled.

Easton Amador County Zinfandel: This classic zinfandel is made with ripe red zinfandel grapes grown in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Amador County, Calif. The wine is light-bodied, fully dry and packed with a variety of flavors. Typically, I would suggest cellar temperatures (55 degrees) for red wines, but this one can be served a bit more chilled.

Laporte Sancerre Terre Des Anges: This name is a bit of a mouthful. Sancerre is a region in the Loire Valley of France where white Sancerre is made from Sauvignon Blanc. I love this particular wine because it’s dry, acidic and refreshing. It’s packed with plenty of lemon and peaches. Serve chilled and thank me later.

Give these wines a try. You can find them at Kahn’s, 21st Amendment in Fishers, and Grapevine Cottage in Zionsville. Cheers to spring and almost summer!

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite

From left, Izzy Casciani and Sadie Cohen participating in concert of “The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends.” (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

‘Cinderella’ role suits CHS senior

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

When Carmel High School senior Gabi Bradley auditioned for “Cinderella,” there was no doubt what role she wanted.

MUSICAL

Bradley will play the title role in CHS’ production May 9-11 at the school’s auditorium.

“The thing I like most about playing Cinderella is it’s whimsical and fun,” Bradley said. “The costumes are stunning and gorgeous. The music is beautiful, and I also love that as a Black woman, it’s inspiring to get on stage and be admired for your beauty, which is something that’s not normal to see in media. So, I hope that another little Black girl in the audience can see that she can do that too. Having representation is important, I would have loved to see another black woman lead a show or be praised for her beauty. That would have changed so much for me. I’m so honored to have that responsibility.”

Bradley will attend the University of Michigan to major in musical theater and be part of the school’s dance team.

Junior Isaiah Henderson, who plays Prince Topher, said it’s fun performing with Bradley because she is so talented.

“The thing I enjoy the most about the role is the Prince’s inner conflict is that he doesn’t know who he is,” Henderson said. “He’s trying to figure out what he can do for others, and while I’m at a time in my life when I’m figuring out who I am.”

Senior Ella Glowacki plays Charlotte, the mean stepsister.

“It’s fun playing the evil character,” Glowacki said. “I have a history of playing evil characters.”

by Mark Ambrogi)

Senior Abigail Judy plays Gabrielle, who is a nicer stepsister in this version.

“I get to explore the character development of realizing that Cinderella isn’t all that bad and everybody deserves to be treated equal,” Judy said.

For tickets, visit carmeldrama.org.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL PLAN COMMISSION

Docket Number: PZ-2024-00044 DP/ADLS: Courtyard by Marriott Hotel

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Plan Commission meeting on 5/21/2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 CiviC Square, 2nd Flr, Carmel, Indiana 46032 will hold a Public Hearing upon a/an Development Plan in order to: Build a new full service hotel with 102 rooms.

The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2024-00044.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: 29-09-26-000-001.202018. “At the northwest corner of Main Street and US 31, south of Illinois Street in Carmel. The proposed site sits on 3.37 which has been partially developed. The site is generally part of the NW/4 of Section 26, Township 18 North, Range 3 East, Clay Township, Hamilton County, Indiana”

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: Saamrajya LLC

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Docket No. PZ-2024-00059 V, -00063 V, -00065 V, -00066 V, -00067 V

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on the 28th day of May, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to: Permit the following:

PZ-2024-00059 V; UDO Section 3.64(C)(9); Minimum 8:12 roof pitch required, 4:12, 3:12 and 0.25:12 roof pitches requested.

PZ-2024-00063 V; UDO Section 3.64(C)(7); Roofs shall be asphalt, wood, or slate shingles; Metal seamed roof materials requested.

PZ-2024-00065 V; UDO Section 3.64(C)(7); Building shall be clad in wood, brick, stone, or lap, shake, or shingle style cement board; Limestone, board & batten, and Dryvit requested.

PZ-2024-00066 V; UDO Section 3.64(C)(3); Maximum 45% lot cover allowed, 53% requested.

PZ-2024-00067 V; UDO Section 3.64(C)(1); Maximum 55-ft house width required; 71-ft requested.

With the property being known as: 331 1st St SW

The application is identified as Docket Nos. PZ-2024-00059 V, -00063 V, -00065 V, -00066 V, -00067 V.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Parcel Number 16-09-25-16-06001.000; southeast corner of 1st St SW and 4th Ave SW

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.

Karl and Barbara Meyer, by Russell L. Brown PETITIONERS

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS CARMEL, INDIANA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION from the GENERAL FUND (#101) Ordinance D-2711-24

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, that the proper legal officers of the City of Carmel, at their regular meeting place at Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Council Chambers at 6 p.m. on the 20th day of May, 2024, will consider the following appropriation in excess of the budget for 2024:

$167,833.00 from the GENERAL FUND OPERATING Balances To

(#1501)

Jacob

Quinn, Clerk

From left, Ella Glowacki, Abigail Judy, Isaiah Henderson and Gabi Bradley perform in “Cinderella.” (Photo

Blueprint for Improvement: Outdoor enhancements in Zionsville

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in Zionsville’s Austin Oaks section in 1999, this home’s owners were looking to make their outdoor space more dynamic. Our design included space for entertaining and protection from the elements while featuring low-maintenance materials that make upkeep a breeze.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The existing raised deck was removed and a screened porch, new deck and ground-level patio were built in its place.

• The new porch provides protection from the sun, rain and insects while the stone fireplace can provide a relaxing ambiance and warmth to extend outdoor enjoyment through the fall.

• An outdoor kitchen and integrated storage were added to make entertaining, meal prep and cleanup a breeze. Trex composite decking provides the look of natural wood with minimal maintenance and added durability.

• Roofing, siding and soffits were carefully crafted to match the home’s façade, ensuring the new porch blends seamlessly into the existing aesthetic.

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.

After

Before

SATURDAY, APRIL 27TH

THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 12TH

Fri & Sat: 10:00am-7:00pm Sun / Tues / Wed / Thur: 10:00am-5:00pm Mon: CLOSED

Show House Ticket: $35 • At Door: $40

Credit Card only

Tickets: showhouseindy.org OR SCAN THE QR CODE

No parking in the neighborhood. A shuttle will be provided.

Home tour benefits Eskenazi Health

By Mary Farucci news@youarecurrent.com

Established in 1961, the Decorators’ Show House & Gardens nonprofit is celebrating its 63rd anniversary with its signature fundraising event with a tour of the historic Sylvan House at Northern Estates on the northwest side of Indianapolis.

EVENT

Built in 1927, the Tudor-style home will be open for tours April 27 through May 12.

Presented by the nonprofit St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild, a volunteer organization that raises funds and services for Eskenazi Health, the annual Decorators’ Show House & Gardens is the longest-running show house event in the U.S. It is also the organization’s largest fundraiser for the John & Kathy Ackerman Mental health Professional Development Center at Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health Center.

Mandy Heslin, president of the St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild, said the organization’s fundraising efforts are in the third year of a four-year partnership with Eskenazi Health. The goal is to raise $1 million for

the John and Kathy Ackerman Center for Professional Development at the Sandra Eskenazi Health Center.

Homes chosen for the annual tour, such as the Sylvan House, are selected through a process that includes meeting specific criteria.

“A lot of the homes used for the Show House are typically historical,” Heslin said. “They all have some sort of interesting feature.”

All featured homes must have four or more bedrooms. They also must have a front and back staircase for flow and have between 8,000 to 12,000 square feet of space, with 10,000 square feet being the average. For those reasons, many of the homes that are selected are on Meridian Street, Pennsylvania Street or Washington Boulevard because they meet the criteria.

Besides the home tour, the two-week Decorators’ Show House & Gardens event includes live music, food for purchase and floral arrangement, among other attractions.

For more or to purchase tickets, which start at $35, visit ShowHouseIndy.org.

LIFESTYLE

Supply with supper, say

“The Greatest” boxer

KFC piece

Entice

White River angler’s gear

Blood line

Farm land measure

XXX / X

Fibber’s confession

Start of a whale of a pun...

Young’s partner in accounting

Ho-hum

Line on an Indiana map (Abbr.) 27. Lions, on a Colts

PC key

Insulted, in slang

35. Snakelike swimmers

36. Pun, Part 2

39. Achy

40. Word derived from a person’s name

41. El Rodeo menu item

43. LAX winter hrs.

44. Dolt

47. Toilet paper layer

48. Brian Wilkes winter forecast, maybe 50. Dan Patch, e.g. (one of the greatest pacers of all-time)

52. End of pun

56. Pass, in the Indiana House

58. Garden tool

59. Ripens

60. Shopping ___

61. Mine find 62. Paella base 63. Primp

64. 61-Across homophone 65. Picnic pests

1. Imperfect

2. 32-card game

3. Wide of the mark

4. Specifics, informally

5. Indianapolis Opera solo

6. Joe’s Butcher Shop pork cut

7. Jargon

8. Meditative martial art

9. Opposite of adios

10. It surrounds the Isle of Man

11. Old AT&T rival

12. “It ___ to Be You”

32. Appear to be 33. Eye part 34. Perched on 36. Hoosier Park stable newborn

37. Mess hall grub

38. Unverified stories

39. Brickyard 400 sponsor

42. Lend an ear

44. Starting point

45. Point of view

46. Admits, with “up”

49. Google alternative

51. “Gone With the Wind” name

53. Frozen drink brand

54. Indy northside community

55. Hoosier National Forest critters

56. Clairvoyant’s skill, for short

57. WFYI net.

Fenced Yard Boarding/Daycare for Small & Medium Dogs at My Home in Carmel! Susan 317-432-1627 pawptrl@aol.com

Luv

574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com 24

Technical Planning Solution Architect w/ enVista LLC in Carmel, IN (position remote, req. up to 75% travel))

Prim. Tech. resource for retail planning implementations. Lead tech. & strat. components of retail projects using OMS software; lead implementations of solutions; prep. & analyze project plans and documentation; communicate w/ internal & client; design technical implementation proc.; prep. Postimplem.. Technical guide for client

Requires minimum of BS in Supply Chain, Indust. Eng, IT, Ops Mngt or closely related or foreign equiv.; 7 yrs. Industry exp in supply chain, 3 yrs w/ OMS software, prof. w/ MS Office, BlueRidge implement. & Tagetik implen., SQL, JSON, Data Movement Methodologies, data maniupl. & analysis, etc.

For full description and requirements of positions, https://tinyurl.com/5xbu7962

Submit CV and cover letter to David Jensen, Sr. Mngr, 11555 N. Meridian Street, Ste 300, Carmel IN

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

• A block from the Palladium

• Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances

• Private outdoor living

• Private 2-car garages

• Reservations now open

LEARN MORE ABOUT MAGNOLIA