April 18, 2023 — Fishers

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Fishers High School plans annual Ensemble Showcase

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

DISPATCHES

New polling places for Hamilton County voters — More than 21,000 voters will have a new polling location for the May 2 primary election, according to the county election office. Poll site changes and poll site name changes for 17 precincts were approved by the Hamilton County Commissioners on March 13. Bright yellow postcards have been mailed notifying those affected of their new voting locations. The cards will include the name and address of the new polling site. Voting locations also can be found at indianavoters.com, hamiltoncounty.in.gov or by calling the election office at 317-776-8476.

IN

PERFORMANCE

Fishers High School’s Performing Arts Department students will perform April 27 at the Center for the Performing Arts Palladium stage for the school’s fourth annual Ensemble Showcase.

Kristy Fluhr, the department’s administrative assistant, said the performance features the school’s top-performing band, orchestra and choirs. Those are the wind ensemble, the symphony orchestra and the Electrum and Sound choirs.

The Sound recently won top honors for the second consecutive year during the Indiana State School Music Association Show Choir championships.

Fluhr said the two choirs will perform more concert-style repertoires, rather than the singing and dancing that goes with show choir performances. The pieces will be those that students have been practicing for their April 29 ISSMA qualification judging before the organization’s band, orchestra and choir finals in early May.

In a way, the Palladium performance will be a practice, Fluhr said.

“It’s to put the finishing touches,” she said.

“It’s also an opportunity for people to see it in the beautiful venue of the Palladium.’ Fluhr said a few of the pieces audience members will hear are:

• The Wind Ensemble performing “Sailing With Whales” by Rossano Galante. Band Director Chad Kohler told her that this piece is “programmatic, cinematic and thematic. The students love it and it is like a collage of works by John Williams and Hans Zimmer.”

• The Symphony Orchestra performing Brahms’ “Academic Festival Overture,” written by Brahms in 1880 as a musical thank you to the University of Breslau after he was bestowed with an honorary doctorate. Instead of writing something serious, Brahms wrote a lighthearted piece that meshes four student beer-hall songs that celebrates more the “festival” than the “academic.”

• The Sound Choir performing “Invictus” by Joshua Rist. The message of this inspirational piece is “I am the master of my fate. I am the captain of my destiny.” The concert will be in two halves with an intermission, featuring one choir and one instrumental ensemble in each half. For ticket information, go to thecenterpresents.org/ tickets-events.

Hamilton County drug take-back day set for April 22 — In honor of National Drug Take Back Day, the Hamilton County Council on Alcohol & Other Drugs will host a take-back event on April 22 in the far east parking lot of Riverview Health in Noblesville on Westfield Road. The drop-off location is directly across from Federal Hill Commons. Most people who misuse prescription drugs get them from family, friends, and acquaintances, according to an announcement from HCCOAOD. Clearing out medications that are no longer needed can prevent that from happening. Hamilton County residents are encouraged to drop off their expired or unused medications between 9 a.m. and noon at the drive-thru event. No liquids, sharps or needles will be accepted. For those who cannot make it at that time, there are opportunities to safely dispose of unneeded medications at local pharmacies, hospitals and police departments throughout the year.

OneZone Chamber launches new website — OneZone Chamber recently launched a new website, onezonevoice. com, which includes information about local candidates, the chamber’s advocacy work and priorities, resources for the business community, and a new blog called “The Advocate.” Candidate question-and-answers for Carmel and Fishers mayoral and council candidates are available on the website.

Fishers High School Sound Choir performs during the 2022 Ensemble Showcase. (Photo courtesy Kristy Fluhr)

The views of the columnists in Current in Fishers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

Teen police academy registration open through April 24

news@currentinfishers.com

EDUCATION

Fishers Police Dept. is planning its 21st teen academy June 5-8, with registration open through April 24.

According to an announcement from the police department, this year’s academy will be at Riverside Intermediate School. The Teen Academy is a four-day camp to help teens better understand how law enforcement works and to strengthen the relationship between officers and the community.

During the academy, officers will provide an overview of their roles and responsibilities, including some of the specialized units. Topics will include how to make a traffic stop, how the K-9 Unit works, the role of the Fishers Dive Team, and how Crime Scene Investigators process scenes.

The academy starts at 9 a.m. each day with physical fitness, followed by classroom instruction and role-play training each day, and ends with a social activity with officers. Students are dismissed at 3:30.

Participants of last year’s Fishers Police Dept. Teen Academy learned about some of the skills and responsibilities needed to be an officer. Registration is open for the next academy. (Photo courtesy of the Fishers Police Department)

The free academy has 40 spots available and is open to youth who have completed seventh grade through those entering their senior year in high school. Applicants must be enrolled in or planning to attend a junior high or high school in Fishers in the fall of 2023. FPD officers will complete a background check on each applicant.

For more, including how to register, go to the police department’s website at fishers. in.us/241/Fishers-Police-Department, and scroll down to the “News Flash” section.

Kroger donates $12K to Humane Society

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

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

DONATION

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

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

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

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

For more, kroger.com/i/community/ community-rewards

Nonprofit organizations interested in becoming a beneficiary of the program can apply through a link on that page.

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

Spring Sensation returns April 29

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The first Spring Sensation to benefit the Coxhall Guild was deemed a great success.

Spring into Fun Spring into Fun

A R O U N D F I S H E R S

Fishers AgriPark Opening Day

Opens for the season Tuesday, May 2 | Fishers AgriPark (11171 Florida Rd ) | Free playfishers com/AgriPark

Mental Health Awareness Month

Help create a Stigma Free Fishers with resources, community events, and more Find details at thisisfishers.com/MentalHealthMonth

Fishers Farmers Market

Market at NPD AMP:

Saturdays, May 6 – September 30 | 8 a m – noon Nickel Plate District Amphitheater (6 Municipal Dr ) | Free | Playfishers com/FarmersMarket

EVENT

“We are hoping to make it a little bit better and a little bit bigger,” said Kimberly Shoemaker, event chair. “The theme for Spring Sensation is the many ways spring tickles our five senses.”

The next event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29 at Coxhall Mansion in Carmel.

“We are hosting 38 local women-owned small businesses, with a more diverse selection of businesses represented,” Shoemaker said. “The predominantly service-oriented businesses will create a tablescape design promoting their business offerings in the form of inspirations for entertaining for your springtime events, in the conference room. The predominantly goods-oriented businesses will be located in the balance of the mansion, giving our event guests the opportunity to shop for truly unique handcrafted items.”

There also will be an opportunity to sample savories and sweets in the mansion’s third-floor ballroom from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s principal harpist, Melanie Mashner, will perform.

“We offer spring-inspired finger sandwiches and a variety of delicious desserts from local bakery shops, as well as items donated by a few of our vendors,” Shoemaker said.

All funds raised by the event go directly to the Coxhall Estate Guild.

The $25 tickets can be purchased at friendsofhamiltoncountyparks. org/2023-events.

Market at Saxony:

Wednesdays, June 7 – August 30 | 4:30 – 7:30 p m 13578 E 131st St | Free | playfishers com/FarmersMarket

Touch-a-Truck

Tuesday, May 16 | 4:30 – 7:30 p m | Nickel Plate District Amphitheater | Free thisisfishers com/TouchATruck

Geist Waterfront Park Grand Opening Opening Saturday, May 27 |

Splash Pad Opening Day

Opens daily on Saturday, May 27 | 10 a m – 8 p m | Holland Park, Billericay Park, and the fountain at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater Pavilion | playfishers com/WaterAmenities

Summer Concerts at the NPD AMP

Free Tuesdays Concert Series in June & July | 7 p m | Nickel Plate District Amphitheater | Free Tickets on sale now for RIPE on July 15 and Snarky Puppy on September 8 | npdamp com

Get details & find more spring fun at thisisfishers.com/Spring

From left, Buffy Layton, owner of Blush Love Flora, and Coxhall Guild member Carolyn Griffin at 2022 Spring Sensation. (Photo courtesy of Coxhall Guild)

TOM WOOD SUBARU’S SPRING INTO SAVINGS!

FISHERS & INDY

Project: Roundabout

preconstruction at 106th and Hoosier Road

Location: 106th Street and Hoosier Road. Utility relocation is taking place now for the project, which goes out to bid this spring.

Crosstrek Forester

Expected completion: July 2023.

Project: Cumberland Road

Reconstruction

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Location: Daily lane closures just south of 126th Street for sanitary and water line work, and between 106th Street and 116th Street for tree clearing. The full project is in the design phase.

Expected completion: To be determined.

Project: State Road 37 Improvement

Project

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

Expected completion: The full timeline for the 141st Street interchange will be provided after project bids are accepted in the summer.

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

Location: New ramps will provide direct movements from eastbound I-465 and northbound I-465 to northbound I-69. Binford Blvd. will also be reconstructed to separate local traffic from traffic entering and exiting I-69 and I-465. Access to I-69 from Binford Blvd. will remain open. Drivers can expect to see significant activity on I-69 at the 82nd Street interchange.

Expected completion: Project lasts through 2024.

Project: Nickle Plate Trail

Location: The remaining paving work from 96th Street to 106th Street is underway, and construction crews are currently working to clear and prep the area for paving.

Expected completion: Fall.

Project: 2023 resurfacing

Location: ADA ramp and curb reconstruction is taking place in Rolling Knoll and will then begin in Spyglass Hills as part of the 2023 Resurfacing Project.

Expected completion: The project should begin in fall of 2023. A completion date has not been determined.

Project: Geist Greenway

Location: The Geist Greenway Trail will be an approximately 5 mile pedestrian path, stretching north and south from 96th Street to 131st Street.

Expected completion: Construction started in fall of 2022. A completion date has not been determined.

NOBLESVILLE & NORTH

Project: Pleasant Street

Location: 1.1 miles west of River Road to 10th Street and includes work by Hamilton County for a bridge to be built over the White River.

Expected completion: End of 2024

Project: Stony Creek pedestrian trail

Location: Under Ind. 37

Expected completion: Construction will continue this year with the trail expected to open by early summer.

Project: Roundabout construction

Location: Ind. 32 and River Road

Expected completion: End of summer

Project: Nickel Plate Trail

Location: The city of Noblesville will construct its portion of the Nickel Plate Trail from 146th Street to Pleasant Street. Trail will be 12 feet wide and include the rehabilitation of two existing railroad bridges and conversion to pedestrian facilities

Expected completion: By Thanksgiving

College grad interns at Statehouse

By Edward Redd news@currentinfishers.com

A Fishers resident has been learning how to apply his college experience to a paid internship.

LEGISLATURE

Since early January,

Evan Woodruff has been working with state representatives, including Fishers Rep. Chris Jeter, at the Indiana Statehouse during the 2023 legislative session.

Each year, paid internship opportunities are offered to college students, law school students, and graduate students for a duration of the legislative session. Woodruff recently graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a degree in political science pre-law and saw the internship as a chance to further his experience.

Woodruff said that his father, Troy Woodruff, is a former Indiana State representative. Through his father, Woodruff had familiarity with how the internship would work.

“I decided to apply not only to get experience but to also expand my education and put it to practical use.” Woodruff said.

On an average day, Woodruff helps Statehouse representatives with their daily tasks, some of which involve corresponding with constituents through phone calls and emails. He has interacted with legislation through staffing committee hearings and floor proceedings.

Woodruff said each intern works with around three representatives. His representative is Jeter.

Anyone interested in more information about the House Republican Program should visit indianahouserepublicans. com/2024-house-republican-internship-program.

Evan Woodruff talks with Rep. Chris Jeter on the floor of the Statehouse. (Photo courtesy of Indiana Statehouse)

County residents pray for couples lost in Florida plane crash

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

spectors, according to his LinkedIn profile.

The fatal crash happened about 9:30 p.m. April 5 soon after the plane took off from the Venice, Fla., airport, according to the Venice Police Dept.

TRAGEDY

Friends and family of Hamilton County residents who died April 5 in a plane crash off the Florida coast are offering prayers and expressing shock at the news.

The victims were William Jeffrey and Patricia Lumpkin of Fishers, and Noblesville couple Rick and Bethe Beaver. William Lumpkin, an experienced pilot, was flying his 1976 Piper fixedwing, single-engine plane at the time of the crash.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration registration webpage, he registered the plane in June of 2021.

On Patty Lumpkin’s Facebook page, friends have been posting tributes and expressing sorrow. Among the posts is one from the couple’s pastor, Nathan Peternel, who asked for prayers for the family.

“Our hearts are broken as they were our friends and faithful servants of Jesus here at Life Church,” Peternel wrote. “Let’s lift their loved ones to the Lord. They will be sorely missed, but they are waking up to the Savior’s face this Easter weekend.”

In the many comments responding to his post, friends expressed shock and sadness, and offered heartfelt prayers.

In a telephone interview, Peternel said both Patty and William Lumpkin “were in love with life,” were active with the church, and were always willing to volunteer.

“What’s tough is missing really great people in this world that make the world more beautiful than it is,” Peternel said,

adding that the Life Church is planning a service, but is not yet sure when it can take place.

Erin Juarez was friends with Patricia Lumpkin. She said the couple will be truly missed.

“Patty was a beautiful free spirit, compassionate about other women and shared in their struggles,” Juarez said “Her and her husband Jeff (as William was called) were deeply involved with many ministries and were selfless with volunteering their time. Patty and Jeff were mentors and friends to

many which influenced people of all ages. They were a bright light set on a hill and others were drawn to their love for others and their faith.”

Patty Lumpkin, 68, worked as a real estate agent at Carpenter Realtors, which has several offices in the greater Indianapolis area; and William Lumpkin, 64, worked as an associate director at Raytheon Technologies, an aviation and aerospace technology firm for commercial, military and government clients. He supervised a team of 171 managers, engineers and system in-

Police Capt. Andy Leisenring said the two couples had flown to Venice from St. Petersburg, Fla., arriving at around 5 p.m. They had dinner at a local restaurant, and then left to fly back to St. Petersburg. Leisenring said several witnesses were on the pier at the time of the crash and reported it to police. The two men were recovered that night, and the two women were recovered by dive teams on the morning of April 6.

Leisenring said the main portion of the debris is in 23 feet of water. He added that the National Transportation Safety Board is recovering the debris and is leading the investigation into the crash. He said that the families were notified before the victims’ names were released to the public.

“And certainly our hearts go out to them as they deal with this tragedy,” Leisenring said.

Venice Airport Director Mark Cervasio said his crews did a sweep of the runway the plane used to make sure there wasn’t anything on the ground that could have contributed to the tragedy and found nothing. He said the plane didn’t use airport services, other than parking, and didn’t fuel up at the airport.

Cervasio said his response when he heard about the crash was, “Gut wrenching. Gut wrenching.”

The April 5 crash is the second fatal plane crash in Venice in recent months. According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, a family of three died soon after takeoff on the evening of Dec. 3, 2022. A preliminary NTSB report on that crash noted the lack of light, and the lack of a discernible horizon.

Meet Current in Fishers Managing Editor Leila Kheiry from 10 a.m. to noon each Friday at Launch Fishers, 12175 Visionary Way, Fishers,. Suggest story ideas, ask questions and learn more about Current in Fishers. For more, email leila@youarecurrent.com

Recovery crews search for the wreckage of the single-engine plane that crashed soon after takeoff from the Venice, Fla., airport. (Photo from the Sarasota Sheriff’s Department Facebook page)

A course map for the Spark!Fishers 5K run/walk. (Image courtesy of the City of Fishers)

Registration opens for Spark!Fishers 5K

news@currentinfishers.com

Registration is open for the annual Spark!Fishers 5K run/walk, which is set for June 21.

FUN RUN

According to a City of Fishers Parks and Recreation announcement, the main event starts at 7 p.m. at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater in downtown Fishers, with the Kids Dash starting at 6:30 p.m.

Each main event finisher will receive a 2023 Spark!Fishers 5K T-shirt, a medal, and free admission to the post-race party, according to the announcement. The party will feature a DJ, food truck, and drinks, and participants can redeem their race bib for one free drink (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) from Mashcraft Brewing.

All ages and abilities are welcome at the after-party.

The prices to register for the main race are:

• $19.99 - Anytime registration for those age 12 and under.

• $34.99 - Price level is open to anyone 13 and older through April 26.

• $39.99 - Price level is open to anyone 13 and older April 27 through June 20.

• $44.99 - Day of registration and walkup price for those 13 and older.

The price to register for the Kids Dash is $14.99, no matter when they sign up. All participants in the Kids Dash will receive a 2023 Spark!Fishers 5K T-shirt and medal.

To register, go to playfishers. com/629/5K-RunWalk.

Greyhounds softball player is off to torrid start at the plate

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School senior first baseman Hope McDonald has developed into a consistent force at the plate.

“I definitely feel like I have a lot better plate approaches since my sophomore year,” McDonald said. “I feel like I’m just more comfortable going up there looking early in the count for my pitch. Being a power lefty, a lot of pitchers like to throw me outside. So, (I’m) looking for that pitch early in the count, not waiting to get down in the count. Last year, I feel like I did a much better job with that in comparison to my sophomore year.”

Through the first four games, McDonald is hitting .643 with two home runs and six runs batted in. As a junior, she hit .456 with six homers and 30 RBIs. She hit .297 with one homer as a sophomore.

Greyhounds softball coach Ginger Britton has watched McDonald improve each season.

MEET HOPE MCDONALD

Favorite TV show: “Friends”

Favorite movie: “Avatar”

Favorite subject: Science or biology

Favorite vacation spot: Catalina Island in California

“Hope’s biggest strength at the plate is her mental approach,” Britton said. “She understands the count and what pitches she wants to swing at when she is ahead. She is adaptable if she gets behind in the count and with two strikes is still on the offensive, which allows her to put better

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balls in play.”

Britton said McDonald is at her best when there is a runner on base.

“She thrives in her role of continuing the inning,” Britton said. “As she got older and stronger, balls that were hard-hit singles have turned into hard-hit doubles and now have started to exit the field. Her quality of

bats has increased, and she leads the team in RBIs.”

McDonald, who throws right but has always hit left-handed, said she used to be more of a slap hitter but became more of a power hitter by the time she reached high school.

McDonald primarily plays in the outfield for her club team, the Indiana Bombers.  She has concentrated on being more of a vocal leader this year.

“Our team has a lot of underclassmen that are playing varsity for the first time, so it’s a whole new ball game for them,” McDonald said. “They’re seeing better pitching. I’m definitely setting a goal of being a mentor for all the young girls.”

McDonald, who has signed a National Letter of Intent to play for Coastal Carolina next season, plans to major in biological sciences or exercise science.

“When I was researching schools for that major, Coastal Carolina was one of the top ones,” she said. “I also wanted a warmer place to play softball. “

McDonald attended a Coastal Carolina camp in August of 2021 and committed shortly afterward.

Carmel High School senior first baseman Hope McDonald hit. .456 last season. (Photo courtesy of Shanelle Cunningham)

McDonald

Art needed for Fishers sesquicentennial banners

news@currentinfishers.com

The City of Fishers has been marking its 150th year since 2022, with celebrations planned through June of this year.

CELEBRATION

In honor of the sesquicentennial, the city announced it will install banners on the fence surrounding the development site for the new Arts and Municipal Complex, showcasing work by area artists.

The artwork will feature life in Fishers through the years, according to the announcement. Artists who want to submit their work for consideration should provide up to three digital images, titles for each piece and contact information. The artwork must reflect life in Fishers today or from the past.

“Celebrating all aspects of Fishers is our goal for these banners,” the announcement said.

All artists must be 15 or older and an Indi-

A rendering of the planned Fishers Arts and Municipal Complex, which is under development. (Image courtesy of the City of Fishers)

ana resident or student. Preference will go to Fishers artists. Completed submissions must be received by noon May 1 by the Fishers Arts Council’s email: info@FishersArtsCouncil.org.

Artists will be contacted by May 12 if their artwork has been accepted for the Fishers Sesquicentennial banners.

Fishers Switch, as the community originally was called, was established in 1872, according to the City of Fishers website.

Teacher recognized by VFW

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

Theresa Clark, a history teacher at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic School in Fishers, was named the Indiana winner of the Smart/Maher Veterans of Foreign Wars National Citizenship Education Teacher Award during a March 25 ceremony at the Indianapolis Marriott.

AWARD

The Carmel resident was one of 37 teachers nominated from across the state.

“They get graded on different things: what they teach, how they teach patriotism, how they talk about history and what they do with their students other than just teach,” said Richard Leirer, VFW state commander.

Each year, the VFW Teacher of the Year award is given to exceptional educators for their dedication to teaching Americanism and patriotism. Teachers are recognized from the VFW post to national level.

Clark has been a teacher in Indiana for 18 years and currently teaches sixth through eighth grades. She said being nominated was a shock and winning the state level was an honor.

“We have so many wonderful educators in our area, and then from the district level area, but then the statewide as well,” Clark said. “So, this was quite the surprise.”

As the winner, Clark received a $500 cash prize and plaque. National winners are Kelly Garey, a retired Navy veteran and second grade teacher at Van Buren Elementary School in Caldwell, Idaho; Susan Allgood, a seventh-grade language arts and eighthgrade ELA teacher at Stephens County Middle School in Toccoa, Ga.; and Javier Martinez, a Marine Corps veteran and high school history teacher at Kaneland High School

Park, Ill.

in Maple

Theresa Clark with Ken Lange, commander of Post 10003 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Theresa Clark)

Spark!Fishers planning underway

news@currentinfishers.com

The City of Fishers has kicked off planning for the annual Spark!Fishers summer celebration, set for June 2024 in the Nickel Plate Cultural District.

FESTIVAL

“We are looking forward to welcoming Fishers residents to our spectacular annual tradition of local art, food, music and community,” Fishers Parks Director Marissa Deckert stated. “With a variety of activities over five days, Spark!Fishers provides an opportunity for all residents to engage in the experience. We are especially excited this year to be the first in Central Indiana to feature a customized drone show before our fireworks finale on Saturday night.”

All events except the 5K run/walk are free. Events include a concert featuring Jukebox Luke at the Nickel Plate Amphitheater on June 20; the 5K June 21; a car and art show June 22; and another concert June 23, featuring a yet-to-be announced performing artist.

The celebration culminates June 24 with a street fair around the municipal complex open from 3-10 p.m., a parade starting at 6 p.m., and an aerial show starting at 10 p.m.

Applications are open now for parade participants, vendors and entertainers, according to an announcement from the city; and registration has opened for the Spark!Fishers 5K run/walk, and the car and art show. More information is available at sparkfishers.com.

Volunteers also are needed to help with the festival. Details on how to volunteer is available at volunteerfishers.com.

Spark!Fishers is an annual summer festival offering different ways for the community to celebrate. (Image courtesy of the City of Fishers)

Boozy Ring Toss

Bubbles, Bike & Bling Raffle

Dancing to live music

Jumbo Jenga and more fun games!

Emcee, Tim Griffin, Carmel Firefighter & WISHTV’s Life.Style.Live! Guest Host & Contributor

Dessert Dash

Music by The Bishops

Former Marine Sgt. Ronald Walker sings the national anthem at the 2016 500 Festival Memorial Service. (Photo courtesy of the 500 Festival)

Memorial service honors fallen heroes, Gold Star Families

By Megan Morton news@currentinfishers.com

the national anthem during the Memorial Service in 2016.

500 FESTIVAL

Throughout the month of May, the 500 Festival presents a series of activities in the lead-up to Memorial Day and the Indianapolis 500. The American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service, which recognizes the sacrifices of Indiana’s fallen military servicemen and women, is among the signature events.

The 64th annual American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service is set for 3:30 p.m. May 26 on the steps of the Indiana War Memorial in Indianapolis. The event, which also honors Gold Star Families — those who have lost a loved while serving in the U.S. military — is open to the public. Admission is free.

“For over 60 years, the American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service has been one of our most revered traditions. We have one of the best memorial services in the country,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Thirty-five to 50 Gold Star Families attend this service, which includes performances, a color guard, fly over and a military funeral procession known as a cortege.”

Bryant added that a guest general, traditionally a four-star general, will speak at the service.

“Having a general who serves on the cabinet of the president of the United States shows the significance of this event,” Bryant said. “And it’s an honor we are able to provide a platform for someone of this rank to speak to our families and community.”

The memorial service also offers local service people the opportunity to contribute by serving in the military elements of the event.

“It’s great to see how much the 500 Festival does to honor our military,” said former Marine Sgt. Ronald Walker, who has participated in various 500 Festival events, including singing

Walker, who lives in Indianapolis, now serves with the Indiana National Guard and works closely with Gold Star Families through Survivor Outreach Services, which supports the families of the fallen.

“Gold Star Families are a special group, and I’m honored to support this connection that solidifies the bond of service, family and brotherhood,” Walker said.

Marilyn Frantz, a Gold Star mother from Lafayette, has attended the memorial service for more than a decade in memory of her son, Army Spc. Matthew Frantz.

“It means a lot to know that the 500 Festival takes the time to honor our son,” Frantz said. “On Jan. 20, 2006, while serving as a counterintelligence officer during Iraqi Freedom, a roadside bomb exploded near Matthew’s Humvee. Matthew and three other soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division lost their lives. The support we have received from Survivor Outreach Services has been crucial to help us pick up the pieces. I’ve met many Gold Star Families, and we look forward to the memorial service every year. Countless heroes like my son have given up their tomorrows, so we could have our todays.”

Gold Star Families are invited to march in the AES 500 Festival Parade, set for noon May 27 in downtown Indianapolis. On May 6, OneAmerica Mini Marathon Festival participants can dedicate completion of Mile 6 — known as the “Gold Mile” on the backstretch of the Indy 500 track — to a fallen hero.

“The track is what makes this race fun, and to honor these fallen heroes during the toughest mile of the race is the most emotional part of the run for most participants, including elite runners,” Bryant said. “We are honored and humbled to recognize these fallen heroes.”

For more, visit 500festival.com.

Get a Sneak Peek at What’s Coming to Fishers

The excitement is building as The Courtyards of Fishers, Epcon’s newest low-maintenance community, is coming soon to Fishers, Indiana. And while there may be nothing to show you here just yet, we invite you to discover everything this gorgeous community of 50 homes will feature. You’ll really love Epcon’s new luxury ranch homes, designed and built for your lifestyle now and for years to come, featuring open, light-filled interiors and private, garden courtyards. And it’ll be easier than ever to enjoy the natural world as The Courtyards of Fishers is nestled in a beautiful and secluded wooded area with walking trails and a pond.

The community will also offer a low-maintenance lifestyle (no more mowing, edging or raking) that provides you with more time to do the things that matter most. With great proximity to Geist Reservoir, Fishers AgriPark, Top Golf, Fishers Yard District and Hamilton Town Center, you’ll have plenty of recreation, entertainment, shopping and dining to fill your days with. Additionally, I-69 is nearby, offering easy access to downtown Indianapolis from this beautiful boutique community.

Frantz

Show House event returns

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

The Indianapolis Decorators’ Show House and Gardens event is making another return this year.

FUNDRAISER

The event, which runs April 29 through May 14, by St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild raises funds for Eskenazi Health. Each year, the show house features interior designers and landscapers who transform a resident’s home into an elegant showcase.

This year’s show house is the Failey House at 57 E. 57th St. in Indianapolis. It was owned by the Failey family for 82 years and was designed by Willard C. Olser.

Guests can tour the home and explore 21 designer areas and three landscape gardens. Since January, the artists have spent time decorating and transforming a room.

Noblesville resident Sherell Smith, who serves as the guild hospital’s co-director of functions for the Indianapolis Decorator Show House, said the organization has raised more than $14 million for Eskenazi Health.

The guild is in the middle of a three-year pledge drive to raise $1 million for the San-

CURRENT Q&A

dra Eskenazi Mental Health Center’s Behavioral Health Academy.

“We all know there’s a mental health crisis. You can look around and quickly see (that),” she said. “Eskenazi is trying to help with that.”

On April 19, there will be an evening with the designers that will allow guests an opportunity to tour the house, meet showcase designers and ask them about their work. Complimentary drinks and appetizers will be available after the tour, which requires tickets in advance.

For more, visit showhouseindy.org.

Getting to know Evelyn Lees

Evelyn Lees is the city clerk for the City of Noblesville and has been in the position since 2016. In her role, she prepares agendas, takes minutes, keeps all records for Noblesville Common Council, all council committees, board of public works and safety and various boards and commissions, according to the city’s website.

What is your best habit, and what is your worst?

My best habit is rising early. My worst is procrastinating, which thankfully I don’t do much anymore.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I make really good soup, and I can adapt menus and recipes for just about any special diet.

What do you do when you’re stuck?

I stop, step back to look at the situation, find the problem and fix that.

What is your biggest indulgence?

Reading.

How do you relieve stress?

Exercise, prayer and watching cooking shows.

Favorite drink?

I make my own ginger kombucha. Do you have a favorite meal in town?

The cactus salad at El Palenque.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I played baritone in high school.

The Failey House at 57 E. 57th St. in Indianapolis will be this year’s featured show house during the 2023 Indianapolis Decorators’ Show House and Gardens event. (Photo provided by Whitney Kinkel)

NO VACANCY

Huge increase in surrendered dogs means Hamilton County Humane Society is above capacity

Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

At the Humane Society for Hamilton County, there are dogs everywhere. The shelter’s 124 kennels are filled, along with dog-visiting rooms, and even administrative offices. In all these spaces, dog after dog after dog watches people walk past. Some are eager for attention, with smiles and wagging tails. Others seem defeated, curled up in a corner. Still others are frustrated, and bark unhappily.

They’re all “babies” to HSHC President and CEO Rebecca Stevens, and her goal is to get homes for each of them. But not just any home — a good home; a forever home.

That’s challenging, though, because the Hamilton County shelter isn’t the only one bursting with dogs right now. And other shelters make it easy to adopt, but difficult to surrender. That’s part of the problem, Stevens said.

“What I’ve discovered over the last few months is that the biggest part of our issue is not animals not being spayed or neutered. We’re not getting a bunch of puppies and kittens,” she said. “What we’re getting are a lot of Marion County animals, and Marion County residents that are finding animals in that county.”

But the shelters there have started to require an appointment for dropping off a dog, even to bring in a stray someone found on the street.

“That puts people in a precarious position,” Stevens said, “They tried to do a good thing, and now they’re faced with, ‘What do I do with this animal?’”

She said many of those people are told to try shelters outside of Marion County, and some are showing up at the Hamilton County shelter, desperate to find someone who can take in a stray that they simply wanted to keep safe. The HSHC will always take Hamilton County dogs, because that’s its mission and what it’s contracted to do. But it can — and does — say no to dogs brought in from other counties if there’s no space. But, Stevens said, the people who bring dogs here don’t want to hear that.

“Now, I’m dealing with the customer-service impact on my people,” she said. “They’re the ones being yelled at (and) spit on.”

Sometimes the person who is turned away at the counter simply lets a dog go in the parking lot, so it becomes the shelter’s problem, anyway.

But why are there so many dogs? Stevens said some of it might be people surrendering pets they adopted during the pandemic, but now don’t have time for the dog anymore. While spaying and neutering is important, they’re not seeing a big influx of puppies, so that doesn’t seem to be the issue, either. Stevens says the root of the problem is a lack of commitment.

“It all starts with ultimately the original owner,” she said. “And that’s irrespective of county or anywhere. Over the years, there is an increased lack of compassion and commitment and dedication.”

There are several ways people can help with the influx of dogs at the shelter, Stevens said. First and foremost, when you’re thinking about adding a dog to your family, hold off on going to a breeder or one of the other shelters that doesn’t charge adoption fees or provide any screenings. Check out the HSHC first, she said, because the best dog for you could be right there.

“We still charge an adoption fee,” Stevens said. “You have to still fill out an application; you have to jump through some hoops. So, at the end of the day, we’re not moving out as many competitively because it’s harder. It’s better in the long run for everybody, but it is harder. And so, my

message is: this is a good thing. You want to know before you go home with a dog if it’s going to be OK with your dog, or your kids, or your cat, right? I mean, isn’t that a win for everybody? So, take a little extra time. It’s forever; it’s a family member.”

If someone can’t adopt, Stevens said the HSHC needs foster homes for dogs recovering from surgery, for example, or a quiet place for a dog or cat to nurse a new litter. One other very important way people can help is to not surrender their pet to a shelter.

“If you’re having a problem, we offer free behavior counseling,” Stevens said. “You could call up here, and somebody will talk you through how to help you keep your dog from barking or jumping up on people or counter surfing. None of that is unsurmountable. That’s diversion — finding a way for people to keep their animals that really want to, and we’re all about it. What we won’t do is make it somebody else’s problem.”

MORE THAN JUST A SHELTER

The Humane Society for Hamilton County has contracts with various county governments that cover a seven-day hold on pets brought in, but the shelter offers much more than that, and all the additional services are paid for through donations.

One of the services is Pets Healing Vets, an emotional-support pet program for Indiana veterans. HSHC President and CEO Rebecca Stevens said any veteran in the state — not just Hamilton County — is eligible. They just need a medical referral showing they would benefit from a companion animal. The program matches those veterans with pets that best meet their needs. If it’s a dog, then training is provided free of charge.

“What is unique, and still to this day, I haven’t found another similar program that does this. is that we will fund 100 percent of anything that’s necessary for that veteran to have an animal,” Stevens said.

That includes food and veterinary care, if needed. Not all the approximately 40 veterans in the program take that financial assistance, Stevens said — only those who really need it.

The shelter also offers youth programs, providing in-school education about proper pet care, and another program that selects at-risk youth to help train dogs and, at the same time, achieve a sense of accomplishment while helping a new friend learn new skills.

ON THE COVER: The Humane Society for Hamilton County is located on Hague Road in Fishers. (Photo by Adam Seif)

Stevens

Two of the adoptable dogs available at The Humane Society for Hamilton County greet visitors at the shelter. (Photos by Adam Seif)

Vision tech Part 3: MD screenings

Commentary by Dr. Kim Hall

In this third (and final) column exploring pre-testing equipment at the optometrist’s office, we would like to uncover two more tests you may encounter. Both are significant in detecting early forms of macular degeneration and other ocular diseases.

Another flicker/clicker-type machine now exists, similar to the visual field I wrote about last week. It is called the macular pigment optical density tester, or MPOD. This flicker varies in intensity, is circular and is mostly in the center of your field of view. It is measuring the amount of protective pigment you have in your macula based on the sensitivity at which you can detect various wavelengths of light.

This is very important to know as we have learned that blue light coming from all our devices may also be damaging to our eyes. The sun is no longer the only offender! When this value starts decreasing, we must consider measures to boost up the good pigment that absorbs these harmful high energy short wavelengths of the light

spectrum. Similar to sunscreen, the more pigment and protection we have, the better.

Here’s a fancy name for another pre-test: optical coherence tomography. This machine has been around for some time now but was mainly utilized by specialists during diagnosis and treatment of many eye diseases. It allows the retina, and other structures of the eye, to be viewed cross sectionally at a microscopic level.

It is now becoming standard of care, and OCT may even become part of the screening process in your pre-test room. Why shouldn’t it? It is the best anatomic map and pulls the puzzle pieces together when viewing all of the images of the surface of the eye.

We hope these brief intros to optical tech can give you a better understanding of all of the details and importance that go into your eye exam pre-testing instruments.

At just 18 years old, Carlo was in disbelief of his mental health diagnosis. After overcoming his initial mistrust for his care team, he learned mental health doesn’t just impact you, but also those around you. According to Carlo: “If you’re willing to be vocal about what’s troubling you, things do get better over time.”

Eskenazi Health was recently named Indiana’s #1 hospital for community benefit and health equity by the Lown Institute. Thanks in part to community partners and philanthropy, we are helping families get beyond barriers.

eskenazihealthfoundation.org

Head, neck cancer awareness

Commentary by Dr. Michael W. Sim

April is Oral, Head and Neck Cancer

Month, a time to bring awareness to these conditions. Head and neck cancers occur twice as often in men as they do in women, but overall are relatively uncommon. As with all cancers, the earlier that physicians can diagnose head and neck cancers, the better the outlook.

Head and neck cancers are, as they sound, any cancers that occur within the head and neck. Many types fall under this category. This includes those on the skin of the head and neck, inside the nose and sinuses, mouth and throat, salivary glands, thyroid gland and at the base of the skull.

Several symptoms are associated with this kind of cancer, including skin bumps or sores that don’t heal, mouth or throat ulcers, trouble swallowing, ear pain, difficulty breathing, double vision, change or hoarseness in the voice, blocked sinuses and any unexplained lumps in the cheek or neck.

There are several known risk factors for head and neck cancer. This includes common lifestyle choices, such as tobacco use and alcohol use. Poor oral hygiene, ul-

traviolet exposure (skin cancer), and some occupational exposures to wood, metal, formaldehyde and other substances are also considered risk factors. Human papilloma virus, HPV, has come to play a major role in the growing incidence of throat cancers in the oropharynx, which includes the tonsils, base of tongue and soft palate. In fact, most oropharynx throat cancers we treat now are caused by HPV, not from smoking and drinking.

Many head and neck cancers develop in delicate locations that require great skill and experience for a successful outcome. One treatment option is transoral robotic surgery, which is a minimally invasive surgery that removes tumors through the mouth to treat the throat or voice box, while preserving swallowing and speech.

Learn more about IU Health’s head and neck cancer program at iuhealth.org/ find-medical-services/head-neck-cancer.

Participate in fun Israeli-themed and Earth-friendly activities!

Petting Zoo, Farmers Market, food trucks, and more!

12 – 4 p.m. Sunday, April 23 Max & Mae Simon Jewish Community Campus - front lawn and parking lot! Learn

Dr. Kim Hall is an optometrist at RevolutionEYES. She graduated from Purdue University in 1999 and the Indiana University School of Optometry in 2005.

Dr. Michael W. Sim, surgeon specializing in head and neck oncology and microvascular reconstruction at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel.

Eyemart Express opens store in Fishers

news@currentinfishers.com

On April 17, the first Eyemart Express in the greater Indianapolis area opened in Fishers. The national retail chain’s newest Indiana storefront is at 8240 East 96th St.

NEW BIZ

The new store offers eye exams, frames and finished glasses in one day, according to an announcement from the Texas-based company. Eyemart Express stores carry about 2,000 frames for men, women and children, and have a lens lab at the store. The announcement said that 80 percent of customers’ glasses are done in an hour.

Customers can bring a valid prescription to the store or get an exam from an independent licensed optician operating next to the retail store.

“Demand has grown in Fishers for high-quality eyewear that you can wear home on the same day and won’t break the bank,” stated Marie Shaffer, Eyemart Express manager in Fishers. “Our stores are an easy and convenient choice for timestrapped shoppers who want to maintain

their eye health.”

The announcement said that Eyemart Express plans to open two additional Indianapolis storefronts in May.

Eyemart Express in Fishers expects to add around a dozen full- and part-time jobs. Those include sales associates, lab technicians and opticians.

The new store is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more, visit eyemartexpress.com.

Eyemart Express opened a store in Fishers April 17. It’s the first location in the Indianapolis area for the national chain. (Photo courtesy of Eyemart Express)

Dhaval Patel, left, and his wife, Disha Patel, own The Learning Experience Academy of Early Education at 13650 Bent Grass Lane in Fishers. The day care opened April 3. Headshots of the couple that appeared in the Feb. 21 edition of Current in Fishers were incorrect.

Cultivating future landscapes

Commentary by Terry Anker

We are quite lucky to live where we do. Well, many of us are in most ways. Included on the list of blessings would likely be that our communities are often counted among the utmost “treed” in the nation. That is to say that we value the photosynthesizing, shade-providing living objects rustling outside our windows, or under which we sway on the hammock strung between a pair of them. Many such local jurisdictions have been identified by the Arbor Day Foundation as “Tree Cities USA” — with one attaining “Tree City of the World.” Good. As our shifting planet brings the sun gloriously back to the Northern Hemisphere, the longer, warmer days escort in an eruption of flowers and leaves upon the once-gray Hoosier horizon.

ESSAY

spindly sprouts of fresh plantings. One must note the advantages. New stock is orderly, free from the damage or disease that accompanies a long life and does not resist new construction on old land. But what of the loss? How many years will pass before a family can picnic in the outspread arms of the looming, benevolent giant? When will the branches form an interlocking arch with her neighbors and provide cool passage on a hot summer day?

As we clearcut our lives to accommodate lost relationships, changes in circumstance or our incessant hunger for the new, are we accounting for the change? Once a lifelong friend is culled from our companionship, what span of time is required to plant, nurture and grow anew? Still, if we fail to seed soon, our landscape will be barren.

Yet, our perspective has been nudged a bit by progress. For some, shade comes now from high-piled concrete, glass and brick in the edifices of greater density “edge-city” living. Where once decades-old native hardwoods stood, now we find the

Who says school isn’t fun?

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

I love the people I work with. We prioritize community and fun, and to that end often share in hilarious hijinks. Take last week, for example.

HUMOR

Every Friday, we sing karaoke in our hallway, and by “we” I mean me and occasionally a couple other teachers who I bully into it. Kids secretly dig it, though they have been known to take the long way around to avoid making eye contact as I croon “I Want It That Way” or “All the Single Ladies.” Anyhoo, when I came out after second period to perform some Zac Brown, the karaoke machine was gone. Disappeared. MIA. I looked high and low, made several not-so-discreet inquiries, and eventually discovered an honest-to-goodness ransom note demanding “a billion doll hairs” if I ever wanted to see my baby again. What the what?

Devastated and in shock, I stood there, paralyzed with indecision. But my alcove buddies immediately jumped in to help solve the mystery. One managed to confis-

cate security footage, which clearly showed the perp, a fellow department member, absconding with our beloved music magic maker. Another, our resident Canva goddess, printed highly professional-looking “Wanted!” posters to hang around the building, and my door neighbor managed to interrogate a senior and learned that the machine had in fact been spotted in the suspect’s room only minutes before. Ultimately, thanks to the sleuthing diligence of our team, we successfully rescued our karaoke machine and enjoyed the schtick of a fake kidnapping.

My husband Doo often comments that I always seem to be playing at school. He’s not exactly wrong. Because I love the people I work with! 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.

Devastated and in shock, I stood there, paralyzed with indecision. But my alcove buddies immediately jumped in to help solve the mystery.

— DANIELLE WILSON

A comedy of (grammar) errors

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

My editor and proofreader, Heidi, is retiring. She has been correcting me for 22 years. Only my wife has beaten her record. When Heidi told me she was quitting, I panicked. Many of the mistakes she found over the years were from my haste to get a new idea fleshed out, knowing that in her capable hands everything would be checked. I never worried about stuff like punctuation because Heidi would fix the errors. Sometimes she would just underline phrases and say something very subtle like: NOT FUNNY!

Who would replace her? Within hours, Mary Ellen volunteered for the job. My wife is an excellent proofer, but I worried it could affect our relationship. Heidi and I often disagreed and got into wording arguments. Mary Ellen said if she took on this task, she’d be the boss and there would be no quibbling. I was to do what I was told. This was also in our wedding vows.

To ensure she could be objective with my writing, I created a test — a paragraph about an upcoming trip we have planned to compare Heidi’s nitpicking against Mary Ellen’s. Following is the draft I filled with intentional (and probably some unintentional) errors.

Mary Ellen and me are planning a trip to D.C. for a short weekend. While in our Nations Capitol we will stay at the Downtown Holliday Inn. I hope we have time to do other things like visit the Smithsonian Institute and the International Spy Mueum! I look

forward to seeing alumnus from George Washington University and dinners at some of the old joints we used to go to.

Here’s Heidi’s corrected version:

Mary Ellen and I are planning a trip to Washington, DC, for a short weekend. While in our nation’s capital, we will stay at the downtown Holiday Inn. I really want to visit the Smithsonian Institution and the International Spy Museum. I Iook forward to seeing the alumni I worked with from The George Washington University and then having dinners at some of the old joints we used to frequent.

Here are Mary Ellen’s changes:

My beautiful wife and I are planning a trip to Washington, DC, for a long weekend. While in our nation’s capital, we’ll stay at the Waldorf Astoria and we’ll spend an entire day at the National Gallery of Art, viewing their French sculpture exhibit. I look forward to visiting with one of Mary Ellen’s longtime friends who lives in DC. Mary Ellen and I can’t wait to dine at Imperfecto, which is among DC’s most exclusive and swanky restaurants.

After seeing Mary Ellen’s edits, I said, “You fixed the grammatical and spelling mistakes, but you also changed our trip.” Before the conversation got heated, we came to an agreement. Now, she’s my travel agent, too.

POLICIES

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

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

Heidi and I often disagreed and got into wording arguments. Mary Ellen said if she took on this task, she’d be the boss and there would be no quibbling. I was to do what I was told. This was also in our wedding vows.

— DICK WOLFSIE

ATI to host world premiere of ‘Mr. Confidential’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Samuel Garza Bernstein became fascinated with the story of Confidential magazine and its owner Bob Harrison.

‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’

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

‘THE SPITFIRE GRILL’

MUSICAL

Garza Bernstein’s book about the Hollywood magazine from the 1950s came out in 2006. It was called “Mr. Confidential: The Man, His Magazine & the Movieland Massacre that Changed Hollywood Forever.”

“(Harrison) really changed the face of journalism, for better or for worse, and it was phenomenally successful,’ Garza Bernstein said. “Confidential outsold TV Guide and outsold Time magazine. At its height, 6 million people were reading it. We kind of think of it from the ‘LA Confidential’-kind of darkness. But the more that I got into the story and the family behind it, the more that I found it wasn’t that at all. It was very funny, very lighthearted, and really my mind started churning that it could be a musical.”

Actors Theatre of Indiana will present a world premiere of “Mr. Confidential” April 28 to May 14 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

ATI had a reading as part of its Lab Series in February 2022.

When Garza Bernstein decided it could be a musical, he reached out to composer David Snyder,

“I thought it was in his wheelhouse because he loves standards, and he worked with, I mean, he worked on arrangements and charts that were done for Judy Garland and for Frank Sinatra and has been in that kind of musical world for a very long time,” Garza Bernstein said. “We sat down in 2010 and started writing the musical, and it’s been a very long road, but musicals are kind of like that because there’s such a gigantic enterprise with so many moving parts.”

The project started with some readings in New York and then had a developmental small production at the New York Music Theatre Festival in 2014.

Garza Bernstein said the language of the magazine convinced him it could be a musical from the start.

“He wouldn’t talk about a beautiful African American woman; he would talk about a Nubian nymph. He loved the alliteration,” he said. “He loved puns and wordplay. It really lent itself to a musical comedy.”

Harrison faced a trial of conspiracy to commit criminal libel in 1957.

“All of these stories they talked about were true, but it became kind of this media circus,” Garza Bernstein said.

Garza Bernstein said Confidential magazine’s position was, if the court wanted proof their stories were true, it would subpoena every celebrity it had written about.

“No one wanted to go on the stand,” Garza Bernstein said. “Liberace did testify to the absurd libelous claim that his theme song should be ‘Mad About the Boy,’ which is what the magazine said. He took great umbrage at that, but I think we all know his theme song was ‘Mad About the Boy.’”

There was a hung jury, but Garza Bernstein said had he been

convicted, there was almost a 100 percent chance the verdict would be reversed on appeal because of several questionable decisions by the judge. The case was never retried and Harrison sold the magazine.

“The magazine was in existence through the early 1970s, but it never again had the financial success it had under Bob,” Garza Bernstein said. “But it also wasn’t as fun. It became like every other tabloid magazine.”

ATI co-founder Don Farrell is playing Harrison. Fellow co-founders Judy Fitzgerald and Cynthia Collins are also in the cast. Garza Bernstein said most of the cast is from the Indianapolis area.

Snyder said the ATI reading offered him a great opportunity to create orchestrations that could bring the swinging 1950s to life.

“At the New York Music Theatre Festival in 2014, we had piano, bass and drums,” Snyder said. “For our premiere at ATI, I’ve been given a seven-piece orchestra and have spent the last month creating the custom orchestrations for this group.”

Snyder said Garza Bernstein did a lot of rewriting of the script between 2014 and last year’s reading.

“The show now really has an emotional center, and that has helped me so much in the crafting of the songs, underscore and orchestration,” Snyder said.

Snyder said the idea of seeing the full production is extremely exciting.

“Normally for a new musical, the cast and musicians would have more time to become comfortable with unfamiliar material,” Snyder said. “But some of the cast did participate in the 2022 reading, which is helpful and, of course, there’s that adrenaline rush when you just have to commit to bringing your full concentration every minute of rehearsal.”

For more, visit atistage.org.

Main Street Productions’ presentation of “The Spitfire Grill,” a musical, runs through April 23 at the Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

LIVE AT THE CENTER

Premium Blend will perform in the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. April 20 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $5 in person or register for livestream at thecenterpresents.org.

‘TRUE WEST’

Carmel Community Players’ production of “True West” is set for April 21-30 at Ivy Tech Hamilton County in Noblesville. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

MASTERWORKS 5

Carmel Symphony Orchestra will present Masterworks 5, featuring cellist Sterling Elliott, in concert at 7:30 p.m. April 22 at the Palladium. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

GRAHAM NASH

Graham Nash will perform at 7 p.m. April 23 at the Palladium. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

EAR CANDY

Carmel High School’s a cappella group, Select Sound, all perform at 3 p.m. April 23 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

Candlelight Theatre features 3 area performers — Ann Richards, Noblesville, Donna Wing, Geist area, and Tony May, Fortville, are among the performers in Candlelight Theatre’s production of “Classic Murder,” a trilogy of one-act plays. “Classic Murder” opened April 15-16. The remaining performances are at 8 p.m. April 21-22 and 28-29 at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, 1230 North Delaware St., Indianapolis. For more, visit bhpsite.org.

Bob Harrison’s Confidential was a successful Hollywood magazine. (Photo courtesy of Samuel Garza Bernstein)

Four Phantoms set for concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

“The Phantom of the Opera” is the longest-running musical in Broadway history. So, Franc D’Ambrosio had the idea of teaming four actors who have played the Phantom in the past as a concert tour.

The Four Phantoms will appear in concert at 8 p.m. April 21 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Brent Barrett played the Phantom in a Las Vegas production for two years.

“I also went over to Germany and had to learn it in German,” Barrett said. “I did the show for six months.”

Barrett has known D’Ambrosio, who had a 6 1/2-year run as the Phantom on Broadway, for many years. D’Ambrosio held the title of world’s longest-running Phantom for more than a decade.

Barrett and D’Ambrosio have been part of the Four Phantoms since its start. D’Ambrosio emailed Barrett about the Four Phantoms concept while Barrett was performing in Germany.

Barrett told him it was a great idea and would love to be part of it. John Cudia and Ciarán Sheehan have replaced the two other original Four Phantom members.

“We’re drawing from all of our careers, as well, as we’ve added a new section,” Barrett said. “I’m hesitant to say pop, but it’s not strictly Broadway.”

Barrett said there are a lot of four-part arrangements for the material that musical

PERFORMANCE MUSIC

director Ryan Shirar arranges, and their solo songs.

Barrett sings a number from “Chicago” because he played Billy Flynn in that show.

Cudia is the only actor to have performed as both as the Phantom and Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables” on Broadway.

“Anyone coming is not going to be disappointed as far as there not being enough ‘Phantom’ material,” Barrett said. “It’s dispersed through the evening, and there is a large chunk later in the show. We also tell stories about our lives and how the music connects to us.”

Barrett said “The Phantom of the Opera” was a musical he always wanted to do.

“When I heard that they would be doing it in Las Vegas, I sent Hal Prince an email,” Barrett said, “I went and sang for (composer) Andrew (Lloyd Webber). You jump through the hoops, and they offered it to me. It’s important simply because of the historical context of this monumental show and me having been a part of it in some way.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Concert features famous tenor

editorial@youarcurrent.com

Congregation Beth Shalom will host acclaimed tenor Carlos Montané in an April 23 concert. The 6:30 p.m. free performance, which is open to the public, will be at Congregation Beth Shalom, 3085 W. 116th St., Carmel.

“It is the first time that Congregation Beth Shalom has hosted a world-renowned musical event at our facility, and we hope to be able to do more in the future, as well as to be engaged with the Carmel community through other interesting events as a way of giving back to the community for all it has done and for all it means to us,” said

Karen Friedman, who is a member of Congregation Beth Shalom membership and communications committees.

Born in Cuba, Montané has studied in Cuba, Italy and the United States. Montané is a professor of music on the faculty of the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. Throughout a career spanning more than five decades, he has performed only leading roles around the world, including at the New York City Metropolitan Opera and the Philadelphia Lyric Opera.

Montané will be joined by Shaina Sanders, soprano, and Elizaveta Agladze, mezzo soprano.

Donations will be accepted.

Music by RICHARD RODGERS

Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II

Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE

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

From left, Ciarán Sheehan, Franc D’Ambrosio, Brent Barrett and John Cudia perform as the Four Phantoms. (Photo courtesy of Four Phantoms).

Bryant

NIGHT

DAY

Whodunit? Find out at Mud Creek

By Jeff Decker editorial@youarecurrent.com

committee last year. He had directed comedies and dramadies for Mud Creek, but not a murder mystery.

MYSTERY

To Mud Creek Players director Kelly Keller, the popularity and staying power of Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” is no mystery.

“Agatha Christie writes interesting stories,” said Keller, a Fishers resident. “Her characters are rich with texture and content. Actors love to play characters with such range, and audience members love to watch them.”

The Mud Creek Players will present “The Mousetrap” at the Mud Creek Barn Theater, 9740 E. 86th St., Indianapolis, from April 20 through May 6.

Christie’s murder mystery opened in London’s West End in 1952 and ran continuously until March 16, 2020, when it went on hiatus because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It reopened in May 2021. It’s the longest-running play in the world, having been staged more than 28,000 times.

Keller submitted “The Mousetrap” for consideration by the Mud Creek Players’ drama

“I wanted to put on something audiences would enjoy, our actors would want to be in, and give me an opportunity to do something new,” Keller said.

“The Mousetrap” is set in 1950s London. A murder takes place, guests arrive at a manor, and a “whodunit” with a twist ending ensues. To give away more would spoil the mystery.

Carmel resident Jennifer Poynter plays Mrs. Boyle, described as unpleasant and negative. Poynter said it is challenging to present Mrs. Boyle as a real person but that she has had fun imagining a backstory to explain her demeanor.

Poynter said she thinks the audience will enjoy the story’s constant twists.

“There are just as many laughs as there are suspenseful moments,” Poynter said. “I feel incredibly lucky to be able to work with the talented people to bring this story to life on stage.”

Tickets are $13 to $15. Tickets are available at mudcreekplayers.org.

CCP presents ‘True West’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Eric Bryant submitted three scripts to possibly direct for Carmel Community Players this season.

The Fishers resident was delighted when one of them, Sam Shepard’s “True West,” was selected for him to direct.

The CCP production about two brothers is set for April 21 to 30 at Ivy Tech Community College/Hamilton County in Noblesville.

“I have always loved the play, and having a younger brother (I) can relate to the sibling rivalry,” Bryant said. “The thing that intrigues me about this play in particular is the idea of two brothers, both lonely, both desperate to change their circumstances, and both dissatisfied with the choices they have made in life.”

Indianapolis resident Robert Webster Jr., who plays Austin, saw the play several years ago in downtown Indianapolis.

“I remember thinking this piece was such an amazing script for actors since the show is mainly carried by the two brothers, Aus-

tin and Lee,” Webster said. “In addition to that, the set they had built blew me away as it looked and worked exactly like a kitchen you would see in anyone’s house in (the 1970s) in America. It wasn’t until I read the script and the notes Sam Shepard had put into it that I realized how important the sounds and staging of the play are. The spiral that both brothers go down is something that I love to immerse myself in and portray on stage in a way that the audience will not only be able to see, but hopefully feel inside themselves.”

Indianapolis resident Matthew Walls, who plays Lee, views the play as a true American classic.

“It’s a play that’s important but seldom done,” Walls said. “It’s great acting across from Robert and trying to match his energy while remaining aloof. Lee has lived a life that I will never know. So, living that life on stage for an hour and a half is a challenge.”

Walls has seen John Malkovich and Gary Sinise’s performances of “True West.”  For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

Keller

Where’s Amy?

Where’s Amy attends GHDT’s ‘Illumination’

attended a special two-night only production April 7 of Gregory Hancock Dance

“Illumination.” The performance was a collection of dances created over several decades by GHDT Executive Artistic Director Gregory Glade Hancock. The dances shared a common thread of faith, hope and inspiration. Don’t miss the upcoming ‘“Director’s Choice” coming June 9-10. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

BEHIND BARS: ESPRESSO MARTINI

When you need a little extra boost, the Espresso Martini is here to save the day. A shot of espresso, Stoli vanilla, Nocello and Woodford Reserve chocolate bitters makes the perfect espresso martini. To see a video of this drink being mixed, scan this QR code.

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

Krissy Oeff (Geist), left, and Jessica Crum Hawkins (Fishers)

Theatre’s

(Photo courtesy of Huse Culinary)

Decluttering charcuterie board

Commentary by Mark LaFay

We spend a lot of time around our house thinking of ways to simplify our lives. It is easy to get overcommitted, overworked, and overwhelmed, so we make a conscious effort to simplify where and when we can.

Decluttering has become a beloved pastime for my wife. This Easter we had a very simplified weekend to cherish the time together and I had some time to declutter the garage. Naturally, I began thinking about food. Some of the best food I’ve had was very simple but high quality. When you remove distractions, there is less to hide behind. This week, you should try to declutter your charcuterie board — one meat, one cheese, crispy crusty bread, olive oil, sea salt.

I’m not shy when it comes to making charcuterie brand suggestions. My favorite domestic producer of salami is Olympia, based in Oregon. Its salamis have rich flavor, are slightly musty, the fat is creamier, and it is very consistent from batch to batch. This week, I smashed some Olympia sopressata — cured pork salami with garlic, clove and red pepper flake. It is mild and easy to pair with over flavors. Slice thin to make it go further.

Aged parmesan is a great cheese to pair with bread, olive oil and meat. I love parmesan that is around 36 months of age. Aged parmesan has a savory and fruity flavor. The cheese has dried enough that minerals start to form, giving it pops of crunch while having a crumbly and creamy texture. It goes great with sopressata, or just on bread with some high-quality olive oil.

Now, all you need is some tasty bread and olive oil. Colavita, California Olive Ranch, and Cobram Estate are all good olive oils that you should be able to find locally at Market District, or even Angelo’s Italian Market in Fishers. I kid you not, Kirkland Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a solid option as well.

Simplify your next charcuterie board. Good bread, cheese, meat and olive oil will go the distance, and it’s less shopping!

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Blueprint for Improvement: Fashionable space for laundry in Westfield

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2008 in the Countryside section of Westfield, the laundry room in this home had become a disorganized drop zone. Our team got to work, implementing innovative storage solutions and classic style that took this space from cluttered to captivating.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Custom cabinetry provides ample storage space, keeping household essentials close at hand yet out of sight.

• Crown molding, an arabesque light fixture and statement backsplash tiles are perfect finishing touches, giving this otherwise utilitarian room a pop of pizzaz.

• Integrated under-cabinet lighting and shades of white accent keep this windowless room nice and bright, while dark metal tones on the hardware and light fixture provide contrast.

• Extending the cabinets to the ceiling, unique corner pullout shelving and an integrated drying rack provide smart storage solutions that help ensure every inch of space is maximized.

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.

Let’s try these words again

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Do you ever hear yourself use a word or phrase that makes you say, “I am becoming my parents?” It happens to me all the time. The biggest example is when something surprising happens and I blurt out, “Golly!” It sounds like I’m from the black-and-white “Leave It to Beaver” days.

people who suffer from all the symptoms of uglyography — in a “bless your heart” kind of way.

GRAMMAR GUY

While “golly” is still hanging in there like a loose tooth, I’ve been collecting a list of words that no one uses anymore — but I think they should. Here are some defunct words I think we should make re-funct.

We should definitely bring back “snollygoster,” as it has plenty of modern applications. The word means “a shrewd, unprincipled person, especially a politician.”

A snollygoster has an unquenchable thirst for power, but lacks the competence to fill the shoes of the office he desires Do you have a snollygoster representing your district?

The word “tarrydiddle” means “pretentious nonsense.” Have you heard a load of tarrydiddle come out of a D.C., snollygoster’s mouth? I’m sure you have. Synonyms for tarrydiddle include flim-flam, poppycock, bunk and balderdash.

History

of Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, in our continuing tour of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we come to Qumran National Park, about 10 miles south of Jericho.

TRAVEL

Qumran National Park lies at the foot of a cliff in the Judean Desert, about a mile northwest of the Dead Sea. In 1946, Bedouins exploring caves in the cliff found the first of what became known as the Dead Sea Scrolls. Archaeologists then explored the nearby area, discovering more than 950 complete manuscripts and fragments in 11 additional caves, with Cave 4 yielding the largest cache. The scrolls include at least portions of all the books of the Hebrew Scriptures except Esther, pushing the dates of the oldest-known copies of those books back about 1,000 years. Others contain recognized books not in the Hebrew Scriptures, including Jubilees and 1 Enoch.

After finding the scrolls, archaeologists excavated the nearby ruins of Qumran, unearthing a narrow room, ceremonial baths, pottery and inkwells. Some scholars are convinced Qumran was home to the Essenes, a strict first-century Jewish sect who wrote or copied the scrolls in their “scriptorium.” Qumran guides recite this idea, speculating that John the Baptist may have been an Essene. Others argue, with equal conviction, that Qumran was a villa, a fortress or perhaps a pottery factory having no connection with the scrolls, which they claim were hidden by people fleeing Jerusalem before its fall in A.D. 70. Others believe

the scrolls were written at Qumran, but not by Essenes.

No matter who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls, their discovery has added greatly to understanding the diversity of Jewish thinking about the Messiah at the time of Jesus.

Their discovery has also spurred a new interest in Essenes, known from the writings of first-century historian Josephus but previously ignored because of the biblical emphasis on the Sadducees and Pharisees.

This first word is one that holds a special place in my heart, seeing as I do this action all the time. The word is “latibulate,” which means to hide in a warm corner to escape the harsh conditions of the outside world. I feel like I’ve been latibulating since March 2020.

How about “uglyography”? It’s a 19th-century word that means “poor, illegible handwriting, and bad spelling and grammar.” Doctors are notorious for illegible handwriting, but I feel sorry for

Have you ever suffered from “apanthropy”? I certainly have. After all, apanthropy is the aversion to human company.

A map of Qumran in the Palestinian Territories. ((Photo by Don Knebel)

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

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

Qumran ruins near Jericho.

Qumran National Park.

49. ___, skip and jump

50. Software writers

52. Velvety fabric

54. Message Envy, for one

55. Eagles, on a Colts scoreboard

57. “Start the music!”

59. Civic Theatre offering

63. La Hacienda dips

65. Transport in a town just south of US 40?

68. Most sickly

69. Seaman’s aid

70. Lone Star state

71. Fifth, often, for a manual transmission

Down

1. Kind of ring or swing

2. A Guthrie

3. Blue man group

4. Video device, briefly

5. James Whitcomb Riley’s “sphere”

6. High-strung

7. Bagel seeds

8. Dawn deity

9. Scornful look

10. Actor Kercheval

11. Transport in a city on I-69?

12. Showroom model

13. Sgt. or cpl.

15. Not pos.

20. Warm place to chill

23. How IU fans dress, for the most part

24. New Mexico art colony

26. Texting shrug

27. Part of USMC

6 M&M Candy Colors

4 Defunct Indy Newspapers

3 Films Set in Indiana

5 Fictional Cats

2 DC Comics Superheroes

1 Site of Central Indiana’s Annual Viking Fest

67. Playground game Answers on Page 31

Service

VACATION PROPERTY RENTAL

Hondo’s Hideaway on beautiful, serene

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

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

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

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

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

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

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

40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

MATH TEACHER

A math teacher at Midwest Academy will be responsible for teaching all aspects of mathematics, including fundamental and introductory algebra skills, to Middle School and High School students in a progressive environment designed for children with learning differences. This position is full time and compensation is commensurate with experience. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a child-centered mentality are essential to this position. To apply please send your resume to careers@mymwa.org

PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Colors: BLUE, BROWN, GREEN, ORANGE, RED, YELLOW; Cats: FELIX, GARFIELD, KRAZY KAT, SYLVESTER, TOM; Newspapers: JOURNAL, NEWS, SENTINEL, TIMES; Films: BREAKING AWAY, HOOSIERS, RUDY; Superheroes: BATMAN, SUPERMAN; Site: WHITESTOWN