May 2, 2023 — Fishers

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Fishers well-represented in Princess program

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Boneta, a public relations major at Ball State University, said she has two older sisters and a strong mother.

last year.

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500 FESTIVAL

It seems fitting that the 500 Festival Princesses reception program was held April 22 at The Club at Crosspoint at Fishers. After all, four Princesses are from Fishers. Only Indianapolis has more 2023 Princesses with six.

Ellie Albin, Reagan Frank and Chloe Smith are Fishers High School graduates, while Savannah Boneta is a Hamilton Southeastern graduate.

Albin is a junior majoring in journalism at Indiana University,

“I’m a lifelong IndyCar and Indy 500 fan and I’ve known about the Princess program my whole life,” Albin said. “It’s a lifelong dream to do this. I’ve always seen the Princesses around and I love the Indy 500 so much.”

Albin said she has participated in a fourth-grade education program and a 10-miler series to prepare people for the Mini-Marathon, which is set for May 6.

“I also have a lot of outreaches I’m looking forward to, libraries, Girl Scouts and Girls, Inc., in Bloomington,” Albin said.,

Albin also is eager to be with the other Princesses in the May 27 parade. The Indy 500 is set for May 28.

“I’ve never been to the parade, but I’ve seen it on TV,” she said. “I’ve been to the race several (times).”

“In my household, it was always empowering women around you and building each other up instead of tearing each other down,” Boneta said. “I didn’t grow up in Indiana, so I didn’t know much about the history of the 500 Festival, so this gives me a really cool perspective on what I missed. It’s a great insider perspective to the 500 that most people don’t really get because they just watch it happen and they go home. We get to pore into the community that feeds the 500, and I think that’s really special.”

Boneta, who moved to Fishers before her junior year in high school, said she looks forward to the Breakfast at the Brickyard event at 8 a.m. May 20.

“I’ve heard it’s a really fun event and you get to meet a lot of very influential people,” Boneta said. “I’m also excited for the 500 (race) because I’ve never been.”

Smith, who is graduating this spring from Valparaiso University with a health science degree, has a direct admission into Valparaiso’s physicians’ assistant program.

“I saw the Princess program on the float at the parade last year when I went with my family,” she said. “That was the first time I saw anything about it, and I was definitely intrigued. When I looked it up, I saw it was about academics, leadership, community service and I thought I would apply.”

Smith also attended her first Indy 500

“I’m looking forward to the parade to hopefully inspire other young women and, of course, race day,” Smith said.

Smith conducted an outreach event at Camp Tecumseh, where she was a counselor in high school and attended in seventh grade. She also is organizing some blood pressure screenings and workout classes.

“Those are things I’m passionate about and want to do in my future career,” Smith said.

Frank, a sophomore at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, said a woman in her scholarship program was a Princess last year.

“I watched her social media feed last year and it seemed really neat,” Frank said. “I was really attracted to the community outreach part of it. I had never done anything with the Indy 500 before, so it’s a cool opportunity to get an inside look. I’m an entrepreneurship major and my most recent outreach I went to an entrepreneurship class at an Ellettsville high school (Edgewood) and talked to them about the entrepreneurs who are part of the Indy 500, like (Michael) Andretti starting Andretti Autosport and (Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner Roger) Penske with all the businesses he has.”

Frank said she is excited for the parade as well.

“I’m practicing my waving skills,” Frank said.

From left, 500 Festival Princesses Ellie Albin, Reagan Frank, Savannah Boneta and Chloe Smith attend the Princess reception program in Fishers. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

City of Fishers offers one-stop shopping for volunteers

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Fishers-area residents who want to get involved in the community through volunteering can find all the information they need on one webpage, hosted by the City of Fishers.

OPPORTUNITIES

Amy Crell is the force behind the VolunteerFishers web page, which she helped launch after she joined the city in 2019 as the volunteer coordinator. The city had another platform for volunteers at that time, she said, but it was antiquated.

“So, I started doing some research and narrowed it down to this platform that we’re currently using,” she said. “Not only does it provide volunteer opportunities for the city, but it’s an opportunity for the nonprofits.”

The website is a one-stop shop for anyone who wants to volunteer in Fishers.

Crell said there are 55 agencies listed on the webpage, volunteerfishers.com, from the Good Samaritan Network, to Big Brothers Big Sisters, to Meals on Wheels. The city’s various departments also need volunteers regularly for events such as the weekly summer farmers markets, pulling invasive weeds at city parks and helping with the upcoming Spark!Fishers festival.

Through the volunteer website, Crell said, all those volunteer spots regularly fill up, usually resulting in a waiting list.

“When I joined the city, we had about 1,200 people on our (volunteer) platform, and we’re now over 4,500,” she said, adding that Fishers has a great volunteer community.

Businesses often look for volunteer opportunities to give back, Crell said, and school clubs sometimes require volunteer hours for participants. There also are retirees looking for constructive ways to stay involved, along with others who simply want to help out.

The city also offers stewardship opportunities, Crell said. Through that program, people can “adopt” and be in charge of taking care of a little free library location, or part of the Nickel Plate Trail, or a fire hydrant, for example.

“It’s a great resource for residents to see all the opportunities that are available to them,” Crell said. “Hopefully, it will allow people to get more involved in the community, either individually or as a family.”

The webpage launched in spring of 2021, Crell said. Part of its appeal is how simple it is to use. People interested in volunteering can go to the webpage, volunteerfishers. com, and either look at the different agencies listed — each with a link to their own website — or look at the list of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers using the page must create a profile. Some volunteer opportunities require background checks, and the page takes the person through that process, too.

Crell said the great thing about the volunteers webpage is that it benefits everyone.

“Because it’s a pool of volunteers all in one place,” she said. “So, if one nonprofit joins the platform and they bring on 100 of their volunteers, those 100 volunteers have access to all these other opportunities and all these other nonprofit organizations and their needs. It’s a win-win.”

Virginia Tate is a volunteer through the VolunteerFishers program. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

It’s May Mental Health It’s May Mental Health Awareness Month Awareness Month

Help

a revamped stigma free fishers

DISPATCHES

Girl Scout Troop to honor volunteers — Fishers Girl Scout Troop 4182 is working toward its Bronze Award, one of the highest achievements that can be earned by a Girl Scout during her time in the program. To earn that award, the troop is holding a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on May 7 at the Counterpart Fishers office in Visionary Park. Girl Scout Lily Cloys said the event is all about thanking adult volunteers, because there would not be a Girl Scout program without those volunteers. “They are our leaders, our cookie parents, our teachers, and our guides through many adventures and lessons,” she said. “When we have our events, they are there to ensure the event is awesome and safe for all of us girls. Each volunteer brings something unique and special to the program and that means our experiences are wide ranging and different, but still connected together as a sisterhood of Girl Scouts.”

Department of Veterans Affairs taking grant applications — The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs will award grant money to nonprofit organizations throughout the state that assist veterans with a variety of services. The application period for the Grants for Veterans Services is open through May 15. Eligible applicants must be a non-profit organization registered with the Indiana Secretary of State. The organizations must use the money to help veterans in any of the following areas:

• Prevent veteran suicide

• Work to eliminate homelessness

• Prevent near-term homelessness

• Provide assistance concerning safe and secure living conditions

• Provide assistance for veterans moving from public housing programs toward home ownership or long-term rental status

• Provide assistance in finding available state and federal resources

• Provide therapeutic services

• Provide on-the-job training and job search assistance

Applications are due by 5 p.m. EST on May 15 and must be emailed to GVS@dva.in.gov. The grant period of performance will begin July 1. GVS may only be used to provide services to veterans who reside in the state of Indiana, who have served in any branch of the armed forces of the United States or their reserves, in the national guard, or in the Indiana National Guard, and have not received a dishonorable discharge as evidenced by a DD-214 or National Guard Bureau (NGB) Form 22. For more information, go to in.gov/dva

Day care worker charged with felony battery of children

news@currentinfishers.com

FAMILY

Fishers police announced April 25 that an employee at Kiddie Academy Daycare in Fishers has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of felony battery.

CRIME

Molly Taxter, 23, of Noblesville, is in custody at the Hamilton County Jail on two counts of Level 5 battery and 17 counts of Level 6 battery, according to police.

The investigation began mid-March after a parent reported that their child returned from the day care, at 11703 Olio Rd., with a handprint bruise on the child’s right leg.

“The parent informed officers that she immediately contacted the day care and

met with the owner,” Fishers police reported. “The parent and day care owner/operator viewed a video of the child’s classroom. The video revealed a day care employee inappropriately touching the child. The owner of the day care fired the employee that same day.”

Detectives identified additional victims, but the police department believes there could be more children involved. Detectives would like to speak with any parent of a child that attended the Kiddie Academy Day care from January of 2023 through March 16 with reason to believe their child suffered an injury at the day care. Fishers Police have established a hotline for parents to call. The number is 317-595-3317.

“The parent and day care owner/operator viewed a video of the child’s classroom. The video revealed a day care employee inappropriately touching the child. The owner of the day care fired the employee that same day.”

SATURDAY, MAY 13 FROM 10:00AM - 1:00 PM

Meet Current in Fishers Managing Editor Leila Kheiry from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 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

Taxter

CARMEL’S NEWEST GATED COMMUNITY

ONLY 6 HOMESITES REMAINING COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY MAY 7th, 12PM-4PM

MUDSOCKS YOUTH ATHLETICS ACQUIRE AEDS

| 317.343.0046

DISPATCHES

Check your polling location — May 2 is primary election day. Voters who are not sure where they should go to cast their ballot can check through the state’s voter portal at indianavoters.in.gov. In addition to information about polling locations, the portal can be used to check the status of your voter registration, and to register to vote. Although it’s too late to register for the primary, eligible residents can get registered before the general election. The portal includes information about election security, as well, for those who have concerns.

Duke Energy asks people to call before digging — Duke Energy reminded customers and communities in a recent announcement to call 811 before digging to protect underground utilities. “A spring yard project can quickly turn into an emergency if you don’t plan ahead and call 811,” said Brian

Weisker, Duke Energy senior vice president and chief operations officer, natural gas.

“Calling 811 is the best way to prevent costly and potentially dangerous damage to underground utility lines.” The national 811 “Call Before You Dig” system was created so anyone who plans to dig can make a free call to have underground utility lines clearly marked. Contractors, homeowners, business owners and anyone preparing for an excavation project should call 811 at least three business days before digging begins. Local utilities will send a crew to mark underground lines in the area, including electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, cable TV and others), with stakes, flags or paint. In 2022, Duke Energy reported approximately 475 damages to its underground electric network in Indiana. To get in touch with the 811 center in your state, dial 811 or visit call811.com.

Mudsock Youth Athletics recently added two AED devices for use by its member leagues at Holland Park and Olio Fields. The automated external defibrillators were donated by Bolt for the Heart through a community partnership between Mudsock Youth Athletics and IU Health. The devices are in addition to those currently housed at the locations to provide coaches and families even greater access during practices and games. Pictured from left are Jennifer Stern, nurse practitioner for IU Health Saxony’s Cardiology department; Pierre Twer, president of Bolt for the Heart; and Scott Spillman, executive director of Mudsock Youth Athletics. (Photo courtesy of Mudsock Youth Athletics)

Westfield’s No. 1 golfer’s sharper mental skills provide boost

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

Westfield High School senior golfer Alec Cesare views his mental game as his biggest improvement.

“I don’t get down on myself when I hit bad shots and make big mistakes,” Cesare said. “I know if I have a bad hole, I can make it up.”

The right-handed Cesare plays in the No. 1 spot for the top-ranked Shamrocks. His brother, Jake, a sophomore, plays the No. 2 spot. “Alec has made a huge commitment to his physical strength the past couple of years, which is allowing him to hit the ball higher and farther than ever before,” Shamrocks coach Josh Bryant said. “Alec has also improved his course management through pre-round preparations on his own and in-round adjustments that allow him to score well even when he doesn’t have his best stuff.”

Cesare has lofty goals for himself and his team.

MEET ALEC CESARE

Favorite subject: Accounting

Favorite athlete: Cameron Smith

Favorite movie: “Happy Gilmore”

Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii

“My goal is to win state finals individually and as a team,” Cesare said.

Cesare, who has signed to compete for Ball State University, is one of the state’s top-ranked players.

“Alec has focused on continuous improvement during his time at Westfield,” Bryant said. “He arrived already having a decorated junior golf prep career, including a trip to the Drive, Chip and Putt national

finals in Augusta (Ga.) in 2019. He continues to push himself every day individually to maximize the most out of his ability, which, along with our senior class, pushes the rest of our program to new heights.”

Last year, the Shamrocks won conference, sectional and regional championships and placed second in the IHSAA state finals, losing to Guerin Catholic by one stroke. Cesare finished tied for 15th among individuals. He finished tied for 12th in the state finals as a sophomore.

“It was honestly disappointing last year to see the way it ended,” Cesare said. “We played great and we let it slip away on the backside. We’re still frustrated and upset about that. We’ve worked and practiced even harder to win it (this year).”

In the summer of 2022, Cesare finished tied for 11th in the Indiana Amateur. He has won 35 junior golf tournaments through the years.

Cesare, who picked up golf at an early age, played on the freshman basketball team for the Shamrocks before deciding to concentrate on golf. He committed to Ball State in July and plans to major in finance or sports management,

“I really liked the head coach (Mike Fleck) and the way he coaches,” he said. “The golfers are all good guys. I’ve grown up playing against them. It was a no-brainer decision.”

AMERICA’S MOST ACCOMPLISHED BRAIN AND SPINE TEAM— JUST MINUTES AWAY

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Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine is a world-class neurosurgery team pioneering best practices and providing collaborative, patient-centered care—and right here in Central Indiana.

Alec Cesare is the No. 1 golfer for the topranked Westfield High School boys golf team. (Photo courtesy of Alec Cesare)

Cesare

Guild marks 150 years helping area elderly residents

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

Since 1873, the Little Sisters of the Poor have worked to provide a home for elderly residents in need in central Indiana. The charity, which relies on volunteers from Hamilton and Marion counties, will celebrate 150 years of serving the community this spring.

NONPROFIT

The Little Sisters of the Poor is an organization of Roman Catholic nuns founded in 1839 by St. Jeanne Jugan. It provides homes and services for the elderly in need. Internationally, the group serves more than 9,900 people in 31 nations and 164 homes.

Sister Maria Cecilia of Little Sister of the Poor in Indianapolis said worldwide, it has approximately 1,300 sisters as well as Jeanne Jugan association members.

“It is such a joy to have (St. Augustine Home Guild) members with us,” Sister Maria Cecilia said. “We always have people to turn to who are part of our big family. It is really a blessing. We cannot do this mission without the support of our volunteers and benefactors.”

The organization has been in Indiana since 1873. Its first home was at 500 E. Vermont St. For more than 50 years, its home has been at 2345 W. 86th St. in Indianapolis.

Most of the home’s residents are in their mid-to-late 80s. Many are Roman Catholic, but the home welcomes low-income elderly of at least 65 years of age, regardless of race or religion. Although the majority of its residents are from Indiana, the home has also taken in residents from out of state and overseas.

The St. Augustine Home Guild of India-

napolis has full-time and part-time staff members and more than 300 volunteers who work to create a loving home for approximately 100 residents. Forty percent of its members live in Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fishers, Zionsville and Lawrence.

Sister Maria Cecilia said residents live as a family. The Little Sisters are committed to living out their vocation, giving joy to residents each day and adding meaning to their lives.

“The residents here at St. Augustine are elderly, but they don’t come here to die. What we are doing is striving to make their last days full.” Sister Maria Cecilia said.

A normal day for a SAHG resident begins at 6 a.m. when they are awakened by a nun who makes their bed as the resident showers. Breakfast is served at 7 a.m. Daily mass is at 11 a.m. and lunch is at noon.

SAHG Member Colleen Yeadon said residents can have company any time of the day. The Little Sisters stay in contact with visitors that come to see residents, to make the environment feel more like a home.

Learn more at littlesistersofthepoorindianapolis.org/st-augustine-home-guild.

From left, Linda Bear, former president of St. Augustine Home Guild, Sister Marie Christine and Mary Patout, 2023 St. Augustine Home Guild president. (Photo courtesy of Colleen Yeadon)

Fishers horse photos wanted for mural

news@currentinfishers.com

Presented by

CARMEL ARTS & DESIGN DISTRICT

ART

Fishers artist and muralist Koda Witsken is looking for horse photos from Fishers residents to use for a planned new public art mural that will be created at Alderman Automotive on Trade Center Drive in Fishers.

In an announcement about the project, Witsken said it is a collaboration with the business and the City of Fishers, through a matching grant. She wants to make sure the mural design is locally inspired.

“According to local history, the City of Fishers used to go by ‘Mudsock,’ referring to the knee-high mud that caked horses as carriages pulled through the city,” Witsken wrote. “In celebration of Fishers’ continued history as a ‘smart, vibrant, entrepreneurial’ meeting place for people, commerce, and culture, the Alderman Automotive mural will honor this ‘Mudsock’ theme by incorporating references to horses.”

To help make that happen, Witsken is seeking photo submissions from Fishers residents of their horses, themselves or their family with a horse, or their family enjoying a horse experience in Fishers. The photos will be used as inspiration for the mural.

Submissions will be accepted through June 2 through the following link: huemuralsbykoda.com/horse

According to her artist profile on the This Is Fishers website, Witsken was exposed to art early on, and credits art teachers at Hamilton Southeastern High School for helping her become a professional artist. She worked in the corporate world for a while after college, but then returned to Fishers in 2018 and became a full-time artist.

You can see images of Witsken’s work on her website, huemuralsbykoda.com.

MAY 13, 4 – 8 P.M.

SECOND SATURDAY GALLERY WALK

New exhibits and features in district galleries

EXPERIENCE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Live music throughout the district featuring:

Joseph Filipow: Anthony’s Plaza (201 W. Main St.)

Mina Keohane: Indiana Artisan (22 N. Range Line Rd.)

Adam Shuntich: Chocolate Café (43 W. Main St.)

BINGO!

Pick up a BINGO card at the CCA Gallery for your chance to win a $250 gift basket.

Remember to get your BINGO cards stamped before turning them in at 7:30 p.m. See Bingo card for rules

FREE

April Dual Shows: “Flowers For All By All!” & “Sara Bernstein’s Reimagined Collection”

Art on Main Gallery and Gifts (111 W. Main St.)

Make and take Tamari balls CCA Gallery (111 W. Main St. Suite 135)

Create Mother’s Day Jewelry Circle Real Estate (30 W. Main St.)

Penmaker William Bradburn will demonstrate his creative process Indiana Artisan Gifts & Gallery (22 N. Range Line Rd.)

Art in the Garden The Carmel Arts Council

Children’s Art Gallery (40 W. Main St.)

Create Hamsa Hands The Art Studio of Carmel (30 N. Range Line Rd.)

Art show by Ryan Lane and Greg Huebner Magdalena Gallery of Arts (27 E. Main St. Suite 100)

Saturday,

Featured Activities

• Caricature Drawings, Balloon Art and Face Painting

• Variety of Food Vendors

•

•

•

Witsken

FISHERS

Project: Fall Creek Road

Location: Citizens Energy Group is mobilizing the lift station on Fall Creek Road near Geist Woods Way, resulting in the closure of Fall Creek Trail.

Expected completion: August

provided after project bids are accepted in the Summer of 2023.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Project: 106th Street & Kincaid Drive

Location: Construction of center curb on 106th Street and intersection improvement at 106th Street & Kincaid Drive to modify to a right-in/right-out entrance starts in April.

Expected completion: August 2023

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.

Expected completion: To be determined.

Project: Ind. 37 Improvement Project

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

Expected completion: The full timeline for the 141st Street interchange will be

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: Nickel 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 of 2023.

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. Homeowners will be notified via door hangers prior to any curb restoration near their home.

Expected completion: Summer 2023.

Project: 2023 resurfacing

Location: Lane restrictions are in place on Fall Creek Road between 96th Street/ Carroll Road and Brooks School Road as part of Phase 1 milling and resurfacing work.

Expected completion: May 6

Project: Cumberland Road Reconstruction

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: 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.

Q&A Getting to know Gail Robbins

Gail Robbins is a Zionsville resident and is a past president of the Zionsville Lions Club. Where do you volunteer?

The Zionsville Lions Club.

Do you have any hobbies?

I have several, but long walks are my favorite thing to do.

How long have you lived in Zionsville?

We moved away for a little while and came back in 2002 so, about 21 years this time.

Can you tell us a little about a Lions Club’s program that is the most meaningful to you?

Amongst so many life-changing programs, the eye screening is by far the most meaningful to me. We screen close to 16,000 students each year.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Zionsville?

I’m pretty classy, I love Friendly’s and Greek’s Pizza.

What do you feel is the best place to visit in Zionsville?

Beautiful Lions Park!

What would you suggest for anyone wanting to join the Lions Club?

I would suggest that they understand our motto, which is we serve, first and foremost.

Anything you would like to add here?

After doing a lot of traveling throughout my life, I can honestly say Zionsville is a dream town to live in.

NEW ‘LEASH’ ON LIFE

Medical Mutts gives former shelter dogs loving homes and a purpose

Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

There was no pomp and circumstance, but there were a lot of wagging tails as seven very good dogs and their new humans graduated from the Medical Mutts service dog program on April 18.

“Tonight, we’re going to celebrate all of you,” Medical Mutts Director of Development Kelsey Burton said to the graduates. “You’ve worked incredibly hard over the last 10 days to get to this point, and we know how hard this is. And we’re just really proud of each of you and all the work that you’ve done. We know you’ve grown and bonded, and you’re now starting this incredible, life-changing journey together.

“The service dogs are improving independence for their people, and the people are providing a loving home and purpose for these great dogs.”

Medical Mutts is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year, Burton told the group of supporters and clients gathered at the Delaware Township Community Center in Fishers. The nonprofit was founded in 2013 with the idea that shelter dogs can be trained to help people. The program takes shelter dogs that show potential for service work and starts the training process with the help of staff and volunteers.

Burton said only 25 percent of the dogs they take from shelters end up as service animals. The rest are adopted out to good homes as pets.

One of that 25 percent is Chai, a German shepherd who became guest speaker Kathleen Simmonds’ service dog a couple years ago. Simmonds, who lives in Missouri, told the graduates that the best advice she can give is to let go of expectations.

Chai is Simmonds’ second service dog through Medical Mutts. She said her first dog, Emma, bonded with her immediately, which made the ongoing training easy. Chai, though, had a rough start in life and wasn’t ready to bond with her right away.

“He decided that I needed to work for his trust and his respect,” Simmonds said. “I had to drop my expectations when I got Chai.”

Before his new life as a service dog, Chai had been neglected and left tied up outside during harsh winter weather. A companion

dog who also had been left outside died of exposure, she said, and Chai lost the tip of one ear to frostbite.

Simmonds said she decided to work on bonding, rather than on the service Chai was trained to provide, which is alerting her when her blood sugar spikes or drops.

Since Chai loves playing ball, they did a lot of that, along with walks and random

snuggles. Their bond did get better, but slowly. After six months, she said, they had a breakthrough. Following a walk, Chai did a play bow and zoomies with Simmonds.

“He was being his goofy self,” she said. “I had seen this with my husband multiple times, but never with me. He ran straight to me. We played. Chai loved on me. I cried.”

After that, Simmonds said she still had

to work with her dog daily, but he started alerting her when her blood sugar levels were too high or low, and their relationship continued to improve. Now, Chai is a great service dog and a great companion.

Simmonds said there are some expectations that the graduates can hold onto.

“Expect your dog to change your life for the better, and not just for the reason why you acquired a service dog,” she said. “They will change all aspects of your life. My top tip for you is to let time be your greatest asset, and not let expectations throw you off course. You should enjoy all your new adventures and enjoy the teammate you now have to help you, because they love you unconditionally and there’s nothing better than that kind of love.”

The graduating dogs and their new people appeared to feel the love. They each had their moment in the spotlight and received their graduation papers and a gift bag. The services that the dogs will provide vary from emotional support for autism and anxiety, to seizure and diabetes alerts, to mobility support. They will be going home with their people to Colorado, Texas and Pennsylvania, and to nearby Noblesville.

For more about the nonprofit, go to medicalmutts.org.

ON THE COVER: Medical Mutts trainer Jenna Miller and Director of Development Kelsey Burton work with Patch, a 2-year-old shelter dog. (Photo by Adam Seif)

MEDICAL MUTTS TRAIN FOR MANY TASKS

The April 18 graduation ceremony included a demonstration of some of the actions Medical Mutts dogs are trained to perform.

Dug the Labrador retriever helped with the demonstrations. He showed how trained dogs can assist with anxiety by getting on their person’s lap and providing comforting pressure to relieve anxiety.

Dug also was trained to interrupt potentially damaging repetitive behaviors that some people with anxiety exhibit, such as scratching themselves.

A person also can use their service dog as an excuse to leave a situation. The dogs are trained to ask to go outside in response to a “secret” signal from their person.

Service dogs can act as a barrier between their person and others, helping to maintain a comfortable distance.

The dogs are trained to detect and give an alert if their person is experiencing specific symptoms that create a scent. That includes anxiety, blood sugar spikes, or a seizure. The dogs also are trained to fetch medication if the person is not able to; and to press a button that calls for help.

Medical Mutts Director of Development Kelsey Burton said the organization has a “tiny and mighty” staff that provides the training before the dogs are matched with their new people. They also rely on volunteers to help in many ways.

Burton said the organization is always looking for volunteers, and they are well compensated.

“They get doggy snuggles,” she said. “That’s how we pay them — puppy tax.”

For information about how to volunteer, go to medicalmutts.org.

Medical Mutts Director of Development Kelsey Burton plays with 2-year-old Bilby. (Photo by Adam Seif)

ONEZONE PRESENTS TASTE OF THE CHAMBER EVENT

OneZone’s largest business event of the year, Taste of the Chamber 2023, was presented April 20 at Ritz Charles in Carmel. The event drew more than 600 attendees and 115 exhibitors from various industries. Guests were treated to tastings from local restaurants, caterers, breweries, bakeries and wineries while they networked and made connections. (Left) A Cut Above Catering and The Center for Performing Arts were among the businesses at the event. From left, owner of A Cut Above Catering David Von Eiff, and event coordinators at the Center for Performing Arts Nicole

Alcohol-free shop expands

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Sisters Andrea Marley and Kristin Patrick saw a need for more alcohol-free options.

OPENING

So, in July 2022, they launched Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages as an online store before opening a retail store Aug. 20 at Main Street and Hazel Dell Parkway in Carmel.

Marley said sales have exceeded their expectations. Thus, a second store will open May 6 at 12770 West Market St., Suite 105 in the Village of WestClay.

“The second location is much smaller than our Hazel Dell store,” Patrick said. “We will be running products between the two stores for deliveries and local pickup orders.”

Patrick said the WestClay location sprung from customer demand, as Loren’s has been making a lot of deliveries to the west side of Carmel since launching lorensaf.com.

“People kept telling us how nice it would be if we had another location on the other side of the city,” Patrick said.

Patrick said customers are embracing the Be a Better Host concept of offering nonalcoholic choices.

“We are incredibly touched whenever someone comes into the store to buy for a visiting friend or family member,” Patrick said. “Also, we love helping people create a fun mix of drinks for parties. More people

are recognizing the value of offering alcohol-free options.”

The sisters have been listening to feedback from customers for their stock.

“We’ve gained extensive product knowledge in the fields of wine, spirits, craft beers and adaptogens in the previous eight months,” Marley said. “It’s an exciting time to grow. The demand is there.”

Patrick lives in Fishers and Marley lives in Westfield. The sisters, who are Carmel High School graduates, named the store after their late father, Loren Marley.

The May 6 opening of the new store will be from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The tentative plan is for the WestClay location to be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays

Chernish and Sra Kious.

(Photo by Edward Redd)

From left, sisters Kristin Patrick and Andrea Marley will open a second location of Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages in the Village of WestClay.

(Photo courtesy of Andrea Marley)

Fishers Health Department reports monthly services

news@currentinfishers.com

The Fishers Health Department’s monthly report to the city council included information about flu-like illnesses, vaccinations, outreach, restaurant inspections, COVID-19 and other health-related services.

UPDATE

According to the report, influenza-like illnesses that needed emergency care have not changed significantly in numbers from December 2022, and COVID-19 cases remain low. All counties in Indiana are in the “low” risk level for COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the report states. Core health services the department provided in March:

• 220 patients were seen for non-COVID-19 immunizations and tuberculosis testing.

• 208 COVID-19 vaccines were administered, with a 22.3-percent increase in boosters

• 13 COVID-19 tests were given free of charge using grant funding.

Mental health services:

• Credible Mind will launch in May. That’s a free online platform with information, resources and interventions for people with mental health questions. Information

about the platform is available at crediblemind.com.

• Hamilton Southeastern High School’s Bring Change2Mind club will host Hope for Happiness during the May 13 Farmers Market.

Environmental health and inspections:

• The Health Department is continuing to inspect various food-services facilities using

the new grading system. It has inspected 192 facilities so far and has 191 left to grade. Of those that have been inspected, 173 received an A grade, 15 received a B, and 5 received a C. Grades will be posted publicly on Sept. 30.

• A public dashboard will be launched over the summer, allowing people to see the facilities and their associated inspection reports and grades.

Community outreach:

• The department took its mobile clinic trailer to the Mudsock Youth Athletics Softball opening day to deliver health education and routine vaccinations for children entering sixth grade.

• The department is launching its first teen academy for youth to learn more about public health.

Grants and funding:

• The department has collected about $2.9 million from the Indiana Department of Health for administered COVID-19 vaccinations.

• The Fishers Health Department will host an intern through the Indiana Public Health Association student internship program.

Fishers resident matched with Ascension St. Vincent — Marion University announced that Fishers resident Katelyn Smiley has been matched with a family medicine clinical residency at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, as part of the school’s Medical School Match Day 2023. After Smiley graduates from Marian University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine on May 8, she will continue her medical career in Indianapolis.

Community Hospital North delivers most babies — Community Hospital North announced that for the eighth year in a row, it delivered the most babies in Indiana for the year 2021. Community Hospital North serves the north side of Indianapolis, including Lawrence; as well as Hamilton County, according to a hospital spokesperson.

The Fishers Health Department took its mobile clinic trailer to the Mudsock Youth Athletics Softball opening day to deliver health education and routine vaccinations for children entering sixth grade. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Health Department)

VIEWS

READERS’ VIEWS Trust educators

Editor,

In the April 4 edition of Current in Fishers, Karen Craft wrote that she has to fight the HSE administration to act in the best interest of all students. I am concerned Mrs. Craft feels this way, especially since her children do not attend HSE schools. I appreciate that she is a taxpayer and is interested in public education, but I do not need or want her to fight for my children. Public school educators have completed years of higher education focused on the most effective ways of teaching the whole child. I trust they know more than me on how to best teach our students. Adults who no longer have children in our schools are vocal that HSE is failing, children are being indoctrinated, and everything is “woke.” This demeans our teachers and administration. It’s concerning that these people believe they know better than educators and parents of children attending HSE.

Sarah Arbuckle, Fishers

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 specialinterest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.

Business is still open through construction.

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Guided — or misguided — by fear?

Commentary by Terry Anker

Birth rates among the young, First World and educated have never been lower. It seems that our modern age has determined that the greater privilege is to avoid procreation. Absolutely, babies are not requisite, and a full life is readily available without them. But some would imagine selfish millennials, Gen Zs, or whatever group one might wish to disparage, refusing to share their avocado toast with the hungry, chirping mouths of their fledgling offspring.

ESSAY

Still, isn’t it all too convenient to accuse and malign those generations that follow our own as idle, selfish and rudderless? It has been the sport of the old and aging for centuries. But just as much as those might like it to be true, the evidence pushes to the contrary. The young will come, as they always have, to pick up the yoke of advancing civilization – well, when the elders are willing to get out of the way. In the passing years, experience, maturity and grit inevitably are gained. It is a good system and has served humanity well.

Recently, a 30-something and highly successful professional proclaimed his intention to soon marry. Wedding arrangements were being made and life decisions were firming. “No kids,” he proclaimed, continuing, “We cannot, in good faith, bring a child into this terrible world.” The jarring turn from flowing optimism to intense cynicism is increasingly common with the demographic. Climate, war, pandemic, bad political leadership, the loss of Tom Brady, and the inescapable looming zombie apocalypse have led many to the brink. Kidding aside, there are legitimate and concerning matters. Besides, who cares how others choose to live? And what defines a good life, anyway? Yet, why are so many opting out so soon? If fear dominates our decisions, are we selling ourselves short? Are we dying before we’re dead?

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

Not the same ‘old’ feeling

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

suddenly back on tour (“Um, Mrs. Wilson, I think you mean Maluma, not Madonna”).

HUMOR

Most days, friends, I don’t feel my age. Sure, I can’t sleep through the night anymore without multiple potty runs and hot flashes, and my knees have wrinkles, but generally I go about my business as if I’m a seasoned 30-something. Recently, however, I was forcibly reminded that I’m nearly eligible for full AARP benefits. What happened? I hosted a bridal shower for one of my best friend’s daughters. Her daughter! The horror!

And what’s next? Babies? For the love of all that is holy! It seems crazy to me that I could realistically become a grandmother at any time. Not that I wouldn’t be amazing. Are you kidding me?

I’m on the other side of 50, and if I’m not wearing my readers, party games become powerful time warps where long-retired ‘80s pop stars are suddenly back on tour.

How is it possible that our kids are old enough to get married? That my own children are technically “grown-ups” and that, like my friend, I might soon be hunting down a pair of 1996 champagne flutes so the happy couple can toast with the same glasses their parents used. But that’s the world I’m currently operating in. I’m on the other side of 50, and if I’m not wearing my readers, party games become powerful time warps where long-retired ‘80s pop stars are

I’d be the best gosh-darn mamaw that ever lived. But the point is, the person in the mirror doesn’t look like someone’s mother-in-law, let alone a grammy.

Anyhoo, the shower was certainly a reality check, and one that I’m not entirely sure I’m OK with. Despite the slightly elevated cholesterol and random white brow hairs, I just don’t feel that old! Peace out.

- DANIELLE WILSON

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

Funny things about Washington

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

I am going to a get-together of the folks who worked on my college newspaper, The Hatchet, in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s at The George Washington University. As I reread some of my stuff almost 55 years later, I realized my writing then wasn’t really very good. My journalism teacher said my column was sophomoric, which I took as a compliment because I was only a freshman at the time.

HUMOR

All those attending submitted a brief summary of what he or she has accomplished since graduating. I was a little intimidated by some of these, but I also thought many had rambled on and not stuck to the suggested length of 500 words. I opted for brevity. The sign of a good humorist is being succinct. Here’s my employment history in a few words:

• Hired

• Fired

• Hired

• Fired

• Rehired

• Fired again

• Hired

• Retired

In my bio, I did mention that I had recently been elected to the Indiana Broadcasters Hall of Fame. I wanted my GW friends to know this as soon as possible. I was concerned that by the time I got to the reunion, they might take back the award.

My friend Seth has visited 46 countries, enjoying all the different cultures based on his interest in anthropology. Another classmate became an executive editor of

the Chicago Sun Times. The more I read these mini resumes, the more I knew that being a goofy field reporter and a humor columnist was not going to get me selected to address the group on the topic: How I changed the world.

By the way, I saw an old girlfriend from back in the ‘60s on the invitee list who I hadn’t seen or heard from in 55 years. I sent her an email telling her I hoped she was coming to the reunion.

“I’m sure I will recognize you after all these years,” I told her.

“I bet you will,” came the response. “I’m still 6-foot-2 with a full-length beard.”

I had sent the email to Seth by mistake.

Just a final note. Ten years ago, a similar reunion was held. My wife and I were excited to return to Washington, D.C., for a visit. I made the hotel arrangements, which I seldom do because I always mess something up. A week before the trip, Mary Ellen asked me to confirm the reservations and to be sure we were near The White House, a site we planned to visit, and close to the restaurant where the reunion dinner was to be held. I called.

“I’m just confirming our rooms and I wanted to know how far we are from The White House,” I said.

“About 3,000 miles,” the hotel clerk said.

I had booked a hotel in the state of Washington.

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

In my bio, I did mention that I had recently been elected to the Indiana Broadcasters Hall of Fame. I wanted my GW friends to know this as soon as possible. I was concerned that by the time I got to the reunion, they might take back the award.

– DICK WOLFSIE

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67,403 households and more than 1,300 businesses!

BUSINESS GUIDE

KEY COMMUNITY TOPICS, RESOURCES AND DIRECTORY

Carmel and Fishers comprise one of the top commerce areas in all of Indiana. With no end in sight for growth and development, the cities represent the present and future of enterprise to our more than 1,300 members and tens of thousands of consumers in our midst. Business Guide will publish June 27. It will be distributed to 67,403 households in our two cities. It, again, will be a magazine-style publication and will include a complete chamber membership directory and stories on key topics that drive commerce in our cities as well as a look at the future. Directory listings are free of charge to members. Additional ad prices below.

Ad Deadline: May 26

For Carmel and Zionville businesses: Steve Greenberg, 317.847.5022, steve@youarecurrent.com

For Fishers and Noblesville businesses: Ben Weir, 317.748.2662, ben@youarecurrent.com

For Indianapolis, Westfield, and surrounding areas: Chad Barkdull, 317.437.7869, chad@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Symphony Orchestra shows respect to Queen of Soul in concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Shaleah Adkisson’s respect for the Queen of Soul’s talent has only grown since she joined a tribute group.

“It really gave me an opportunity to dig into Aretha Franklin’s music in a way that I hadn’t before,” she said. “I feel like she and her music are so pervasive in our culture. So, we know who Aretha Franklin is and her songs on the radio, but having to perform and perform at such a high level really required me to learn more about the songs themselves and where they came from and who wrote them. Was it a cover and how long after the original cover was it recorded?”

Shaleah Adkisson and two other Broadway vocalists, Tamika Lawrence and Melvin Tunstall III, and pianist and music director John Boswell form Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin. The group will join the Carmel Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. May 6 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It is part of the pops concert series and the final CSO concert of the 2023-24 season.

“A lot of the arrangements we’re doing are in her original keys, which in a lot of cases she didn’t even perform in her original keys once the albums were recorded,” Adkisson said. “So that is definitely a challenge. It’s just having to dig in and learn about the songs, then really figuring out how to navigate them in my own voice and make them my own.”

Adkinsson said that challenge has been one of her favorite parts of the act.

Adkisson said the singers have solo numbers, and some are duets and some are all together.

Adkisson enjoys singing “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.”

“That is my favorite Aretha song by far and my favorite Carole King song,” Adkisson said. “It’s just so iconic, and every time I get to sing it, it’s really special.”

Adkisson said she enjoys “The House

that Jack Built.”

“I don’t think I heard it before this concert,” she said. “Actually, when I first started working on the show, there was another singer that sang it, and I always thought it was so much fun. That song was handed to me this year. It’s a lot of work and it’s a very quick tempo. So, it really requires a lot of memory, which sometimes fails me. But I really like the song a lot.”

Adkisson no longer performs full time. She became an arts administrator as the manager of school programs in the education program at New York City Center in the fall of 2021.

“I have friends that have since the pandemic stepped away from it completely, but I know that I need to feed my artistry, regardless of circumstances,” she said.

“So, this really gives me a great outlet to just sing and to be in front of these really amazing symphonies with these large audiences. It’s really soul-feeding and helps me to continue to practice my artistry

even though I’ve shifted my focus.”

CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes looks forward to the joint performance.

‘I grew up with this music. My older brothers played it all the time, so it is all familiar to me and I love them all,” Hymes said of Franklin’s songs. “I could never pick a favorite Aretha song because they are all unique and wonderful.”

Hymes said the pops concerts have been a popular part of the CSO seasons. An Earth, Wind & Fire tribute act joined the CSO in January.

“I think the community of Carmel is mixed, and the Carmel Symphony Orchestra is providing variety in all of our programming from music selected for kids of all ages, more traditional classical concerts, music written by living composers, pops concerts with music from familiar bands like The Beatles and great vocalists like Frank Sinatra and Aretha, American music and much more,” Hymes said For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’

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

‘MR. CONFIDENTIAL’

Actors Theatre of Indiana’s world premiere of “Mr. Confidential” is set to run May 3-14 at the Studio Theater at at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’

Civic Theatre’s production of “The Sound of Music” runs through May 13 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Brent Marty and vocalist Amy Rafa present “The Carpenters Project: An Offering” at 7:30 p.m. May 4 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Clint Holmes will perform the songs of Peter Allen at 7:30 p.m. May 5-6. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

EVIL WOMAN: THE AMERICAN ELO

Evil Woman: The American ELO, a tribute group to Electric Light Orchestra, will perform at 8 p.m. May 5 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘RESPECT: A TRIBUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN’

Carmel Symphony Orchestra presents “Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin” at 7:30 p.m. May 6 in a pops concert at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

“ALMOST, MAINE”

The Carmel Apprentice Theatre’s production of “Almost, Maine” continues May 4-7 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

“CRIMES OF THE HEART”

The Belfry Theatre’s production of “Crimes of the Heart” continues through May 7 at the Theater at the Fort in Lawrence. For more, artsforlawrence.org.

MUSIC

Shaleah Adkisson performs in an Aretha Franklin tribute band. (Photo courtesy of CSO)

‘Unity’ concert designed to showcase the power of music

By Mike Beas editorial@youarecurrent.com

MUSIC

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir makes the turn toward summer with two concerts scheduled for May.

On May 6, the presentation entitled, “Unity,” takes place at 3 p.m. at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis. The ICC features, “Celebrations,” at 4 p.m. May 21 at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, 6501 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.

Joshua Pedde, the ICC’s artistic director, looks forward to both concerts.

“The ‘Unity’ concert will showcase our youngest singers, who are in kindergarten, through high school,” said Pedde, a Carmel resident. “Then we are bringing in other choirs, from Anderson and Columbus, and they will be part of the concert. It’s an opportunity to see the breadth of the Indi-

anapolis Children’s Choir.”

The show also features the Directors’ Jazz Orchestra, a talented group of musicians which has roots in Madison County, and is the resident band for the Pendleton Heights Jazz Festival.

The full ICC family of choirs will be on display, bringing the total number of participants to approximately 400.

“Unity” is named in honor of music’s generations-long knack of being able to unite while celebrating hope and joy, Pedde said, adding that the concert will debut two new pieces of music.

Later this month, “Celebrations” will be its own unique musical showcase.

“The concert will be our high school singers accompanied by a chamber orchestra,” Pedde said. “The text is based on Walt Whitman’s poetry, and it’s some really neat music.

For more or to purchase tickets, visit icchoir.org/tickets.

Film adaptation of classic novel worth the wait

Commentary by Julianna Childs

The carefree dog days of summer in 1970s New York City evolve into traditional American family suburban life in Kelly Freemon Craig’s charming adaptation of the landmark novel, “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” Judy Blume’s avant-garde novel has impacted generations with its timeless coming-of-age story and insightful humor for over 50 years.

MOVIE REVIEW

In one of the year’s most anticipated movies, Abby Ryder Fortson (“Ant-Man”) plays the title pre-teen role, whose awkward stage is magnified when she moves from NYC to a New Jersey suburb with her family. As they pack up the family car, Margaret whispers to God, “Please don’t let New Jersey be too horrible.”

Rachel McAdams and Benny Safdie play Barbara and Herb, Margaret’s parents, who struggle with their identities while adapting to a spacious home, yard sales and PTA meetings.

Margaret acclimates to her new life by

navigating a series of conflicting moods about buying her first bra, crushing on boys and joining a secret club. As she and her friends wait to see who will get their period first, they try to rush puberty along by landing training bras and reciting, “I must, I must, I must increase my bust.”

Craig films these scenes with affection for the girls, never illustrating them as silly.

Oscar-winner Kathy Bates plays Sylvia, Margaret’s free-spiriting, judgment-spouting grandmother who makes for some of the film’s more entertaining scenes. With its timeless themes and tender approach to complicated emotions, audiences will find “Are You There God?” a familiar and enjoyable film adaptation of Blume’s classic novel that was definitely worth the wait.

During the past 14 years, Julieanna Childs has worked as a film studio representative, contracting for all the major Hollywood studios. Her film reviews can be found at TheJujuReview.com. She is a Hamilton County resident.

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

Pedde

NIGHT & DAY

Conductor set for ‘Magic Flute’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Scott Schoonover has a long history with “The Magic Flute.”

worked with Indianapolis Opera. However, Schoonover had worked with Indianapolis Opera General Manager David Starkey at Asheville (N.C.) Lyric Opera.

“When I was in college, I played piano for the opera class, and that was one of the first operas I ever learned,” he said. “It’s kind of fun to go back to it now. Those things that you learn in college really stick in your head in a certain way differently than things that you learned later. It’s really fun to work with those again. I’ve conducted two productions of it. The last time was 2007.”

Schoonover, founder and artistic director of the Union Avenue Opera in St. Louis, is serving as the guest conductor for the Indianapolis Opera’s production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” May 5-7 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis.

This is the first time Schoonover has

Schoonover said he likes the music and the story of “The Magic Flute.”

“It’s always interesting to see what different companies do with it,” Schoonover said. “The music is super accessible. It’s got a lot of drama, but it is also very beautiful and lyrical. It’s interesting, I think, for people who haven’t seen a lot of operas. There are songs, and then in between the songs, there are lines, which is a little different than most of the things that Mozart wrote, which was just all music up to that point.”

Schoonover said the songs are not long and the pieces are very different from one another.

“It presents a lot of different styles, and there’s really something for everybody in this particular opera,” he said.

For more, visit indyopera.org.

En Pointe dancers excel in YAGP

OPERA BALLET

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

Dancing has been in Joey Moore’s family for many generations. His parents, Christopher and Anne Moore, have co-owned En Pointe Indiana Ballet in Noblesville since 2016. His uncle and aunt, Robert Moore and his wife Pollyana Ribeiro, are the studio’s co-directors.

Joey Moore performed the “Male Swan Lake Classical” at the 2023 Youth America Grand Prix competition March 16-19 at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. He earned top honors in the men’s senior classical solo.

Youth from Hamilton County presented the award-winning performances.

Moore, 16, began dancing at age 9. After his first year of dancing, he won his first competition at a BellaMoxi dance competition in Kentucky. Since then, dancing has been a passion.

“I was kind of at this spot (BellaMoxi) where I was like, ‘Do I really want to keep doing this or is it just a hobby of mine?’” Moore said. “Winning first place for my cat-

egory really pushed me to understand that this is what I want to do.”

Moore, a Noblesville resident, said his dream is to join a ballet company and be either a principal dancer or a soloist.

John Paul Pack, a Carmel resident, took first place in the 2021 and 2022 Midtown’s Got Talent competition in Carmel. He finished second in CarmelFest Has Talent in his age division in 2022. At the 2023 YAGP, he performed the “Paquita” dance and placed in the top 12 in the junior division.

Pack, who was 13 at the time and is now 14, said he has been dancing for seven years. The YAGP was his first dance competition.

Pack said he fell in love with dance after seeing “The Nutcracker” at age 7. He has trained at En Pointe for six years. He said he loves dance but has little interest in performing competitively.

“I’m not really a competition dancer, so I haven’t really looked into any competitions,” Pack said. “But I really enjoyed this one.”

Pack will appear in “The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland” May 12-13 in Anderson, performing as the door mouse. He plans to return to YAGP in 2024.

Schoonover Pack

Where’s Amy?

PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

Where’s Amy attends “The Four Phantoms in Concert”

Where’s Amy attended “The Four Phantoms in Concert” April 21 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concert brought together four stage actors who have played the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning “Phantom of the Opera,” which recently closed in New York. The powerful performance featured many hits from “Phantom of the Opera” as well as songs from other Broadway favorites. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Fruits: APPLE,

LEMON, LIME, MANGO, PEAR; Animals: CHEETAH, LION, SEAL, TIGER, ZEBRA; Jewelry: BANGLE, NECKLACE, RING, TIARA; Wines: CHARDONNAY, RIESLING, ROSE; Cities: MINNEAPOLIS, SAINT PAUL; Home: MUNCIE

CURRENT TO 317-489-4444

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.

From left, Asheley Harris (Noblesville), Brittany Webber (Geist) and Kristie Cassidy (Noblesville). (Photos by Amy Pauszek)

From left, Jordan and Janel Jensen (Fishers) with their children, Hannah, Carter, Eliza and Emma.

Blueprint for Improvement: Basement built for entertaining

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2018 in the Hidden Oak section of Indianapolis, this home’s unfinished basement began as a blank canvas and was ready to be optimized for gathering and entertaining.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A wet bar, fridge and dishwasher were added to make prep and clean-up a breeze

• From movie night to gameday, this space was redesigned to provide plenty of room for any size crowd. A snack bar with waterfall edge, custom sectional and table with builtin bench seating ensure there’s room for everyone.

• Built-in shelving offers more than meets the eye, serving as both a display feature and as a hidden entry to the storage room.

• An industrial-style light fixture, stone walls and brass finishes perfectly compliment the warm and transitional aesthetic of the space.

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.

A canvas of purple prose

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

When you think about the color purple, what comes to mind? Probably the movie, “The Color Purple.” That makes sense. Beyond that, you might think of Prince’s “Purple Rain” or maybe even Sheb Wooley’s 1958 hit “The Purple People Eater.” Not to be discounted, Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” probably outranks Wooley’s song on my popular purple song chart.

difficulty in inducing Oliver to take upon himself the office of respiration -- a troublesome practice, but one which custom has rendered necessary to our easy existence …”

GRAMMAR GUY

What do you get when you come to the intersection of “purple things” and grammar? You get “purple prose,” a style of overly ornate, elaborate language most often reserved for descriptions of intimate interactions in paperback romance novels and teenage love poems.

I’m sure you’re just dying for an example at this point, and I won’t disappoint you. In the Victorian era, the purple prose style took off. We see this trend in authors like Charles Dickens. Here’s how Dickens describes Oliver Twist’s breathing condition in the eponymous novel: “The fact is, that there was considerable

You’ll notice that I trailed off at the end of that sentence. Dickens continued to describe poor Oliver’s asthma. As a reaction to this type of writing, enter Ernest Hemingway. “The Old Man and the Sea” author was not a fan of purple prose. Hemingway writes, “A writer’s style should be direct and personal, his imagery rich and earthy, and his words simple and vigorous. The greatest writers have the gift of brilliant brevity, are hard workers, diligent scholars and competent stylists.”

I prefer Hemingway’s no-nonsense prose, even though Dickens got paid by the word.

A visit to the Negev

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, during our last stop in Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we come to the Negev, a rocky desert and semi-desert region that has several connections to the Hebrew Scriptures, which Christians call the Old Testament.

Canaanites and their cities when they eventually entered near Jericho. In about 1,200 B.C., the Israelites built a fortress at Arad near the original Canaanite city.

TRAVEL

The Negev, between Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula and Jordan in southern Israel, includes about 55 percent of the land of the State of Israel, but only about 8 percent of its people, about one-fourth of whom are Bedouins. Near the southern end of the Negev is the Wilderness of Zin, which scholars believe is the biblical Kadesh Barnea, where Moses struck a rock to get water for his parched followers and their animals. Bedouins have long known that porous rocks in the area absorb water, which can be released by striking the rock.

Arad, on the eastern edge of the Negev, is where the Bible says the Canaanite king of Arad barred Moses from entering the Promised Land, leading God to promise that the Israelites would be allowed to destroy the

In 1962, archeologists unearthed a temple within the fortress, dating to the time of King Solomon and built to honor Yahweh, the invisible God of the Israelites. Unlike other temples to Yahweh, this one also included a shrine to what many scholars believe was Asherah, a Canaanite goddess. Beersheba, today a city of about 20,000 that is the administrative capital of the Negev, marked the southern boundary of the United Monarchy of David and Solomon. South of Beersheba is Makhtesh Ramon, a 1,500-feet-deep crater created by geologic forces that is the largest of its kind in the world. Wildlife in the Negev includes the ibex, a once-endangered wild goat.

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

Makhtesh Ramon in the Negev in Isreal. (Photos by Don Knebel)

A Bedouin home in the Negev.

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

Across

1. Curly coif

5. Spooky

10. *Hive sound

14. Tattle

15. *Crucifix

16. Sheltered, at sea

17. Recipe word

18. Some Butler exams

19. Wildebeest

20. Phone button

22. Region including Lebanon and Turkey

24. Common swab

26. Actor Brynner

27. Former “American Idol” judge

30. Indy winter hrs.

33. Old Russian rulers

37. *Prairie View Golf Club warning

38. Like Hanukkah celebrants

40. “The Raven” writer

41. Half and half

42. Ma and pa

43. Debtor’s letters

44. Fleece-lined boots brand

45. Trepidation

46. *Colts throw

47. Not the winner

49. Rap’s Dr. ___

50. Helpful clues

51. Rep. rival

53. In need of a map

55. Assembly of delegates

60. Opens a bottle

64. Medicinal plant

65. Trolley bell sound

67. Harvest

68. Benjamin Harrison’s VP: ___ Morton

69. *Ensnare

70. The E in HOMES

71. *Merchants Bank of Indiana offering

72. Turn away

73. Dictionary entry...and what can be added to the answers to the starred

clues to make more Down

1. Ind. or ETA

29. Bottom-of-the-barrel stuff

31. *Take an oath in Hamilton County Court

32. Christmas tree decoration

34. Bee-fitting description?

35. Pigeon perch

36. Children’s Dr. ___

38. Indy’s coldest month, usually

39. Sault ___ Marie

42. Less diluted

46. Brickyard 400 quickchange artists

48. Squeeze between

50. QVC alternative

52. Muslim holy city

54. Should

55. Ump’s “safe” or “strike”

56. Bread spread

57. Flaring star

58. Croat or Serb

59. Fill

61. Aviation prefix

2. Ice chunk

3. Surprise attack

4. Muscle targeted by side planks

5. Bacteria that led to the temporary closing of Carmel’s Flowing Well

6. Goof

7. Hoosier Park horse color

8. Speck in the ocean

9. Fishers HS writing assignment

10. Einstein Bros. ___

11. Arm bone

12. Greek god

13. Citrus peel

21. Hawks on a Pacers scoreboard

23. ___ Chris Steak House

25. Gazed

27. Run ___ of the law

28. Drum type

Winery

Indy Zoo

62. Two twos, say 63. Raced around I-465

66. Major ATM maker Answers on Page 22

Wth

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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.

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SPLUNK DVLPMNT ENG’R

for Kinney Group (Carmel, IN). Architect, deploy & configr Splunk products. Reqs BS in CS, IT or rel +5 yrs progrsv exp in IT systs admin us’g Splunk (incl Splunk Admin, Search Proc language, Report’g & Dashboard Creatn). (In lieu of above, will accept MS in CS, IT or rel +2 yrs of stated exp). Also reqs Splunk Entrps Cert Admin & Splunk Core Cert Power User certs. Reports to Carmel, IN & may work remote & travel to unanciptd clnt sites. Apply @ bill.carson@kinneygroup.com

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