October 11, 2022 – Fishers

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IN Vol. XII, No. 38 Copyright 2022 Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved. 30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

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

Simon joins Hamilton County Coroner’s Office as new therapy dog

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

An 11-month-old boxer has become the latest addition at the Hamilton County Cor oner’s Office and will serve as a therapy dog in providing comfort to office staff and families who visit the agency.

SERVICE DOG

Simon recently completed a four-week private course at Petco tailored toward his therapy work and also passed the Canine Good Citizen program, said Sarah Lockhart, deputy coroner who has owned Simon since he was 13 weeks old.

“For our benefit, he boosts morale around here,” Lockhart said. “We go to some calls that are traumatic for us and traumatic for people involved in the incident. He’s a good decompression tool.”

The coroner’s office is tasked with go ing out to scenes within Hamilton County involving unattended deaths related to suicides, homicides or drug overdoses. The agency also assists police in investigations and works closely with pathologists in per forming autopsies.

Lockhart, who grew up showing and training dogs, said she got the idea for a therapy dog from the Noblesville Police Dept. and noticed that his temperament was perfect for the job. Simon works along side Lockhart during the night shift from 5 p.m. to 4 a.m.

“He’s super calm and loves to snuggle,” she said.

Lockhart, who noted that Simon was a surprise gift from her husband, said Simon has changed her life for the better and re minds her of her previous dog who passed away six years ago.

“I absolutely love having him and he’s been a fantastic dog,” she said.

For grieving families who may need to visit the coroner’s office to pick up a report, talk with staff and are dealing with the death of someone they know, Simon can sit or snuggle with them to comfort them and help them with their difficult situation, according to Lockhart.

“He greets families who come to the office and sits with them, especially kids, while we meet. If the situation is just right, he can also be called out to the scene,” Lockhart said.

Visits from a therapy dog can lower blood

Simon, a 11-monthold boxer, sits in his dog bed at the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office. He serves as an office therapy dog and will provide comfort to families who visit the coroner’s office. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

pressure and heart rate, reduce patient anx iety and increase levels of endorphins and oxytocin, according to the American Kennel Club. Hamilton County Coroner John Chalfin said Simon will be a benefit to the coroner’s office.

“Simon is good medicine for those who have been through traumatic events,” Chal fin said. “We really hope that he is able to go out and give comfort to witnesses and family members and reduce the heightened short-term anxiety following a death.”

Simon has also had the opportunity to get to know other individuals at the office on a regular basis, according to Lockhart.

“John’s his favorite person,” Lockhart said. “He spends a lot of time in his office.”

Bruce Gipson, who is also a deputy coro

Sarah Lockhart, dep uty coroner with the Hamilton Coun ty Coroner’s Office, sits in the lobby with her 11-monthold boxer Simon. Simon recently joined the coroner’s office and will serve as a therapy dog to staff members and families. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

ner, said he tries to be compassionate when dealing with grieving families and pointed out that Simon’s presence in the office has been a positive experience.

“He’s a comical dog,” he said. “He gives us a lift up.”

While the staff at the coroner’s office are often faced with a difficult job, Lockhart said that Simon “has the best job out of all of us.”

“He gets to come into work happy every day, he has no stress,” Lockhart said. “He genuinely wants to please people.”

FOLLOW SIMON ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

To learn more about Simon, visit his personal Instagram page

Committee approves shipping container home

By Taylor Dixon

taylor@youarecurrent.com

Construction of a unique shipping con tainer home was approved Sept. 28 by the Fishers Nickel Plate Review Committee.

CONSTRUCTION

The project is a 2,260-square foot-home to be built at 11405 Lantern Rd. using repurposed shipping containers.

Final changes to an initial rendering included adjustments to the rear facade, which were originally proposed to have shipping container doors. Now, the render ing has wood accent doors and additional windows on the third floor.

The project has gone through many re visions since it was first proposed at the July 23 Nickel Plate District meeting. Most notably, wood accents were added, and the amount of steel initially proposed was reduced to make the home fit more aes

thetically within the neighborhood at the corner of Lantern Road in the Village Center neighborhood.

After completion, property owner Joe Nixon — owner of Joe Nixon Properties — plans on renting the home out as an Airbnb. However, at the Sept. 28 meeting, he said if the home were to be sold, it would sell for a similar price per square foot as other homes in the neighborhood. He estimates it would sell for between $650,000 and $750,000.

“We think adding some of the (new back facade) features will make it look less like a shipping container and more like a home,” Megan Vukusich, Fishers director of planning and zoning, said at the Sept. 28 meeting.

Construction of the home is expected to start as soon, Nixon said.

“(I’m) happy to get approval,” Nixon said. “I’m not sure exactly on (the) timeline but will be trying to get (the project) going as soon as possible.”

Local businessman celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

By Chris Bavender news@currentinfishers.com

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BUSINESS

Fishers’ businessman Tom O’Neil has been called a trailblazer for his work in the Hispanic business community. From spearheading the Hispanic Business Council, to assisting development of a schol arship fund for Hispanic children to co-founding the first Indianapolis Latino Expo, his work has been transformative.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs through Oct. 15.

“There is certainly a better understand ing of the size and scope of the Hispanic business community because of the work through the Business Council, which formed in the early 2000s as part of the IndyChamber,” said O’Neil, CEO and chair man of Officeworks. “Our group of Hispanic business owners stepped up, and our goal was to make Main Street aware of Hispanic businesses that were small and wanted to

His passion for improving the community comes from knowing that the “stronger the whole community, from minority to ma jority, the healthier the environment is for everyone,” he said.

“If you get too narrow in your focus, there are certain segments left out,” O’Neil said. “We want to be able to create an environment where everyone has the opportuni ty to thrive and be sustainable, and I think that helps everyone in the long run.”

That is why he believes Hispanic Heritage Month is so important.

“It makes the rest of the population aware of the Hispanic heritage, culture and business opportunities,” O’Neil said. “At the same time, months such as Hispanic Her itage Month help others become aware of cultures in their midst, which strengthens the entire community.”

As for the future, O’Neil is excited to watch the “great work” being done by the Indiana Latino Institute’s Leadership Circle.

O’Neil

DISPATCHES

Fall-a-palooza set for Oct. 25 — Fall-apalooza will kick off the fall season Oct. 15 from 1-5 p.m. at the Fishers District, located at 9713 District North Drive in Fishers. Fish ers District, a mixed- use dining, entertain ment, retail and residential development will host their version of a fall festival at The Yard. The festival will include live music by local polka band “Indy Polkamotion,” a live pumpkin carving demonstration, face painting, performances by magician Daniel Lusk and a stilt walker. Apple cider will be available while supplies last and kids will be able to paint miniature pumpkins and par ticipate in other fall related activities.

Brighton Hospice looking for volunteers Brighton Hospice is looking for volunteers to help our office staff perform a variety of office duties such as organizing admission paperwork, filing, preparing and sending mail, answering phones, stocking supplies and helping with special projects and events. Hours and days for this volunteer opportunity are flexible and training will be provided. To learn more about this opportu nity please contact, Katresha Taylor, Volun teer Coordinator at by calling 317-798-2160 or by email at ktaylor@brightonhospice.com.

Studebaker named re gional sales manager with Centier Bank - West field resident Ben Stude baker has been named by Centier Bank as regional sales manager and will oversee the greater In dianapolis and Lafayette markets.

Fishers Wrestling– Fishers Wrestling Sea son is set to run Oct. 31- Jan. 11 2023. It costs $250 to register for the season and includes a shirt, shorts and singlet. For more infor mation or to sign up, visit https://docs.

Fishers State of the City announced– Fish ers will hold its state of the city address Nov. 17 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites by Hilton Noblesville Indianapolis Conference Center. OneZone Chamber an nounced that IU Health will be the present ing sponsor. Guests will hear from Mayor Fadness and then join in the first ever VIP Reception afterwards, which will cost $50 to attend and will include live music, appe tizers and drinks.

Studebaker

Ivy Tech to begin School of Nursing program in January

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Scholars Program.

Other health care partners, including Indi ana University Health, have also supported the School of Nursing with donations to increase nursing enrollment, according to Ivy Tech.

EDUCATION

Ivy Tech Community College’s Hamilton County campus in Noblesville will launch its School of Nursing in January, officials have announced.

The community college, which announced plans for the School of Nursing Sept. 29, said it was approved by the Indiana State Board of Nursing ear lier in the month and will mark the college’s 19th nursing location.

“We heard from our community that credentialed nurses were a tremendous need in our area,” said Stacy Atkinson, chan cellor of Ivy Tech Hamilton County. “We are extremely proud to help address the public health crisis by adding more credentialed nurses into the pipeline.”

Ivy Tech’s School of Nursing will admit 20 students for the upcoming spring semes ter and 20 students for the following fall semester, with increases in seats to come. The college has also partnered with Com munity Health Network to provide fully paid scholarships for 15 Ivy Tech Hamilton County students to assist with tuition, course ma terials and clinical resources as part of its

“Thanks to the leadership of Dr. Atkinson and her team, we will educate even more highly skilled nurses that will meet the workforce demand in the Hamilton County region and the state of Indiana,” said Sue Ellspermann, presi dent of Ivy Tech Com munity College.

In the fall of 2021, after approval of Ivy Tech Hamilton Coun ty’s campus board and Ivy Tech’s state board of trustees, the college committed

$1.75 million to the Hamilton County campus to begin construction on a state-of-the-art health care lab space that will now also permanently house its CNA and medical as sisting programs.

According to Ivy Tech, by 2025 it will increase the number of nursing students enrolled by 600 and is the largest associate degree in nursing program in the country. It graduates more than 1,300 annually, offi cials said.

For more, visit ivytech.edu/nursing/index. html.

Atkinson stands outside of Ivy Tech Community College. (File photo)

“We are extremely proud to help address the public health crisis by adding more credentialed nurses into the pipeline.”

– STACY ATKINSON

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Meet Indiana Senate District 31 candidates

By Taylor Dixon taylor@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Senate District 31 is a highly contested race that covers parts of Fishers and Lawrence. The incumbent, Republican Kyle Walker, has served District 31 since 2020. His opponent, Jocelyn Vare, became the first Democrat elected to the Fishers City council in 2019. District 31 extends from 146th street to as far as 63rd street and stretches from Atlan tic Road to the White River.

Kyle Walker

Name: Kyle Walker

Age: 45

Education: B.S., Busi ness Management, Indiana Wesleyan University

Occupation: Execu tive Vice President, MO Strategies

City of residence: Lawrence

Immediate family: Wife, Jennifer. Sons, Chase and Cameron

Previous political experience: City of Lawrence Council, 2004-2008 Website or best way for voters to reach you: WalkerForIndiana.com

Why do you want to run for office? I’m running to help strengthen our economy, bring more, good-paying jobs to our region, keep taxes low, reduce the cost of living, increase public safety, support our public schools and improve the quality of life for all residents in the district. As senator, I’ve listened closely to residents and my votes reflect the majority of residents’ views. I’m dedicated to making a difference and being the most effective voice for residents, fami lies and businesses here.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on? I’m focused on delivering common sense leadership for our district. I will continue to support fiscally responsible policies, balanced state budgets and low taxes. I’m also focused on acceler ating economic development and bringing high-paying jobs of the future to our dis trict. Additionally, I’ve led and will continue to lead efforts to strengthen public safety, support and appropriately fund our public schools and improve quality of life in our communities.

What sets you apart from other can didates for this office? I have a proven record of passing legislation in the Senate and delivering results for our district. I au thored the second most bills that passed in 2022. I’ve led successful efforts to reduce crime, support law enforcement and first responders, and attract investment and de velopment to our region. I’ve also effectively secured funding for programs important to the success of our community, including the IoT Lab in Fishers which is accelerating local entrepreneurship.

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What are your qualifications for this office? As a small business owner, I un derstand what it takes to start and grow a business. I’m passionate about fostering entrepreneurship, encouraging innovation, and making it easier for businesses to grow and thrive. I also have past experience in local government working to improve infra structure, drive investment and strengthen our cities. As senator, I authored several successful pieces of legislation that will in crease public safety and strengthen econom ic development and job growth in our region.

Age: 52

Education: B.A., Butler University

How long have you lived in your dis trict? I’ve lived in what I know to be the past or current boundaries of the district my en tire life except when I was away for college.

Something you want people to know about you? I take my responsibility of rep resenting people seriously. I listen to resi dents then I lead and vote to represent the views of the district. I focus on issues that matter most to people and on actions I can take to make a difference in peoples’ lives. I strive to be a commonsense leader and the most effective voice for our suburban dis trict. I will always prioritize doing the right thing regardless of the consequences.

Jocelyn Vare

tising agency that specializes in tourism and economic development for Indiana

Occupation: Founder/owner of Propeller Marketing, a 20-year-old Fishers adver

Michelle Bliley,

Williams,

Adrienne Einhorn,

Walker

Continued from Page 8 communities.

City of residence: Fishers Immediate family: A son (27), a daughter (25) and a dog (shih tzu-poodle).

Previous political ex perience: I am an at-large member of the Fishers City Council, elected in 2019.

Website or best way for voters to reach you: JocelynVareForIndiana.com

Why do you want to run for office? I want to serve you. You may have never voted for a Democrat before. That’s OK. But Indiana’s state government has never been this extreme before. Instead of working to improve Hoosiers’ lives, Indiana’s GOP su permajority is making life harder for all of us. I am running to provide better represen tation, real transparency and more balance. As a sensible Democrat with a proven track record of service, I am asking for your sup port and trust.

What are your qualifications for this office? I’ve been elected by the people of Fishers to serve the community. Now, the entire City of Fishers is in one State Senate district for the first time. You deserve a ded icated, proven voice to represent you in the statehouse. I am proud of my record as a representative who is accessible, engaged, open-minded, inviting and brave enough to

stand up to a supermajority when they are too extreme or like to work behind closed doors.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on? Repeal Indiana’s extreme abortion ban; pass sensible gun legislation, including the repeal of “permit less carry”; strengthen our public schools.

What sets you apart from other candi dates for this office? I will fight to repeal Indiana’s abortion ban. My opponent advo cated to further restrict women’s access to abortion care. I am a designated “Gun Sense Candidate,” which means you can count on me to fight for sensible gun legislation. My opponent is not. I’ll work to strengthen Indiana public schools and ensure that tax payer funds are dedicated to public school needs and addressing the teacher shortage, not funneled into private/charter schools without accountability.

How long have you lived in your dis trict? Twenty-four years

Something you want people to know about you?

If you live in Fishers or Geist and believe that our state needs a course correction, please know that I am the only State Senate candidate on your ballot with a record of moderating a supermajority. On Fishers City Council, I have worked with a GOP super majority to deliver solutions for neighbors. I also know how to hold a supermajority accountable when it is out of control.

COLUMNIST SHARES LAUGHS WITH NEWCOMERS CLUB

From left, columnist Dick Wolfsie joins Newcomers Club of Carmel board members Sally Ulrich, Cindy Garloch and Barbara Needleman at the club’s Sept. 15 luncheon. Wolfsie, whose work appears in Cur rent and is syndicated in other media outlets, spoke to the club about laughter. The Newcomers Club of Carmel is a nonprofit social club open to those living in Carmel and surrounding communities, whether they are new to the area or long time residents looking to meet new friends. It offers dozens of group activities and holds monthly coffee meetings for prospective members and a monthly luncheon with a featured speaker. Learn more at Car melNewcomers.com. (Photo courtesy of the Newcomers Club of Carmel)

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Vare

Franki Henriques, right, a volunteer handler with Mas sachusetts-based Search Dogs North east, and her blood hound, Diamond, work with Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Nate Biddle to follow the scent of a person hiding in the woods during a Sept. 27 training exercise. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Bloodhounds descend on Hamilton County for training

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

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in some states (although Indiana is not one of them). For those reasons, they are often used to follow trails of missing people or suspects on the run.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Clear skies and crisp fall air in central In diana provided just the right conditions for Michael Sarvich to enjoy a week off from his job as an Amazon delivery driver.

He spent the time away in Hamilton County with his search-and-rescue partner, Joey, a 4-year-old bloodhound.

“People who don’t do this, they go on cruises, or they’re over in Europe,” Sarvich said. “My vacations are spent in a car with a dog in the woods.”

Sarvich and Joey, who live in Indianapolis and volunteer with the North Star Interna tional K9 Training Association, were among 15 teams from across the nation that partic ipated Sept. 25-29 in the second bloodhound seminar organized by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. During the week, the teams visited several sites throughout the county to practice trailing techniques and gathered in the evenings for dinner and discussion.

HCSO held its inaugural bloodhound semi nar in 2021 after COVID-19 restrictions closed a similar event held in Virginia to out-ofstate handlers. Indiana’s COVID-19 measures were not as strict at the time, allowing teams to attend from across the nation.

Neal Hoard, a HCSO deputy and seminar host, said the inaugural event went so well that HCSO plans to continue hosting it for the foreseeable future.

Bloodhounds have more scent receptors in their noses than any other dog breed, and their trailing work is so reliable it is permitted to be used as evidence in court

“They’ve been bred for this. They’re very ef ficient,” Hoard said. “They’re not agile. They’re made for straight lines and long distances.”

Hoard and his bloodhound, Maudie, are one of the few in central Indiana employed by a law enforcement agency. Some of the seminar participants work in law enforce ment, including a team from the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Hoard said, but the majority — like Sarvich — are volunteers.

Most volunteer bloodhound handlers purchase their own dogs, and they continue to fund expenses related to their care and training. They’re typically on call 24 hours a day and must be willing to head out to a case at a moment’s notice.

It’s not always easy, Sarvich said, but it’s worth the effort.

“We show up at someone’s house at probably one of the worst moments of their lives. Their family member is missing, and they don’t know what’s going on,” he said. “We show up to try to help.”

Franki Henriques, a volunteer with Search Dogs Northeast, traveled 15 hours from the Boston area with her 7-year-old bloodhound, Diamond, to attend the seminar. They also participated in 2021, and Henriques said the experience was “priceless.”

“We actually get to work alongside law enforcement, so we are training exactly the way they would train,” said Henriques, who works full time as a pet groomer. “When we are deployed, we can follow the same pro tocol and procedures that law enforcement would want us to take.”

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WHS sophomore’s golfing skills continue to grow

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Westfield High School sophomore Addi Kooi has only played competitive golf for three years, but she is rapidly developing on the girls golf team.

“She’s had an incredi ble season,” Shamrocks coach Josh Bryant said. “Her game is blossom ing before our very eyes. She plays tennis on West field’s team. We love having multiple-sport athletes. She’s a competitor.”

Kooi finished in a two-way tie for fourth place with a 154 total in the IHSAA State Finals at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. She shot 79 in the Sept. 30 opening round and 75 in the Oct. 1 final round.

Kooi battled windy conditions in the sec ond round.

“The front nine was a challenge. We had a few shots that didn’t go our way,” Kooi said. “You have to work for every shot out here, and being patient really helped.”

Kooi said she learned some things from

MEET ADDI KOOI

Favorite athlete: Roger Federer

Favorite subject: Science/math’

Favorite TV show “The Office”

the first round, as far as where to place the ball.

“I definitely could have shot lower (than 75),” Kooi said. “I made a few mistakes.”

Bryant said she handled adversity very well during the state finals.

Kooi said she has improved the most in her short game.

“It saved me a lot of strokes getting up and down,” Kooi said.

Addi Kooi finished tied for fourth Oct. 1 in the IHSAA state finals. (Photo courtesy of Addi Kooi)

Kooi’s teammate, junior Samantha Brown, was one shot behind with a 78-77 for a 155 total. Westfield finished seventh as a team. “(Brown) pushes me so much,” Kooi said. “This is the first time I’ve ever beaten her.

She’s made me such a better player to see how she works and (how) she hits the ball. She’s a phenomenal player. It’s definitely impacted my play and got me to this level.”

Brown, who has committed to play for Purdue University’s women’s golf team, and Kooi both earned all-state honors from the Indiana State Golf Coaches Association.

“Sam was the leading all-state points getter,” Bryant said. “The crazy thing about Sam is, she was 14-under par for the season cumulatively.”

Kooi has been playing tennis since she was little. She played No. 3 varsity singles for the Shamrocks as a freshman last season.

“I’m leaning more toward trying to play golf in college,” she said. “But I love tennis and I will play throughout high school. I think I’ve gravitated more to golf, and it is more of my passion now.”

Kooi’s mother, Keri Grossman, played college tennis at the University of Southern Illinois and her father, Jeff Kooi, played basketball at Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa.

“My dad started golfing when he was young and he taught us all,” Kooi said.

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Dog walkers gear up for sixth annual Strut 2 Save Lives

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Donor Network will host the sixth annual Strut 2 Save Lives 1K dog walk Oct. 16 at Dr. James A. Dillon Park, 6001 Edenshall Ln., in Noblesville.

EVENT

The event, which was re scheduled from its original date of Sept. 11 because of inclement weather, will begin at 10 a.m. with registration followed by a wel come at 10:45 a.m. by Mayor Chris Jensen, event founder and organizer Diana Clauson, and Indiana Donor Network COO Steve John son. The 1K dog walk will begin at 11 a.m.

The cost to participate is $25 for adults, $12 for children ages 12 and under, while families up to five participants is $65. All proceeds benefit the Indiana Donor Network Foundation’s Bryan Clauson Legacy Fund, which provides financial and counseling support for Hoosier organ transplant recipi ents, their families and the families of donor heroes.

A live DJ will provide music at the event

Walkers and their dogs participate in the Indi ana Donor Network Strut 2 Save Lives in 2021 at Dr. James A. Dillon Park in Noblesville. (Photo provided by Indiana Donor Network)

until 1 p.m., while a professional photogra pher will be available at no charge.

Anyone who registered for the Sept. 11 date but can’t attend the Oct. 16 event can receive a refund. Individuals are asked to contact Savannah Scott by emailing sscott2@INDonorNetwork.org or call 317-222-3448.

For more on the event, visit indianadonor network.org/events/strut/.

Meet HSE District 1 Candidates

Current Characters! We need your help creating one more!

By Taylor Dixon taylor@youarecurrent.com

Brad Boyer, Edward Gedeon, Jackie How ell and Tiffany Pascoe are vying for the Hamilton Southeastern School Board District 1 seat. District 1 encompasses the north eastern part of the district. Pascoe did not respond to Current’s request to fill out the questionnaire upon time of publication.

Brad Boyer

Entry and Participation Rules:

Ages 3-8 years old

app page or email to smorestoryapp@gmail.com

Age: 54

Education: B.A. Econom ics, MBA, J.D.

Occupation: Business owner

City of residence: Fishers

How can public schools help student test scores reach pre-pandemic levels?

We will continue to emphasize and place a high priority on academic excellence. We will continue to use all available resources and funding to enhance the performance of all students, especially those that are the most vulnerable.

Edward Gedeon

Age: 65

Education: BSEE Purdue, 1979; MBA Indiana Universi ty (Kokomo) 2001

Occupation: Former software engineer, retired City of residence: Fishers

Purchase of S’more Story app not necessary for contest entry

Submissions must be received by. 10.21.22.

Ages 3-8 years old

Winner announced 10.26.22. Winner’s character added to our app!!

Purchase of S’more Story app not necessary for contest entry

Take picture of drawing and post it to our Facebook S’more Story app page or email to smorestoryapp@gmail.com

Submissions must be received by. 10.21.22.

Boyer

picture of drawing and post it to our Facebook S’more Story app page or email to smorestoryapp@gmail.com

How long have you resided in your school board district: Eighteen years

How long have you resided in your school board district: One year

Winner announced 10.26.22. Winner’s character added to our app!!

Name & Age:

Submissions must be received by. 10.21.22. Winner announced 10.26.22. Winner’s character added to our app!!

Name & Age:

3-8 years old picture of drawing and post it to our Facebook S’more Story page or email to smorestoryapp@gmail.com

Immediate family: Heidi (wife), Rachel (age 21), Mackenzie (age 19), Caleb (age 17) Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: Contact me by email at bboyer@watermarkeps.com or phone at 317-223-8552.

Previous political experience: HSE School Board

Immediate family: Cynthia (wife), Alfredo and Doris (parents), Elizabeth (sister)

Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: email eagedeon@yahoo.com

Previous political experience: None

Submissions must be received by. 10.21.22. Winner announced 10.26.22. Winner’s character added to our app!!

Name & Age:

Name & Age:

Why do you want to run for school board? I want to have the opportunity to improve the academic record and restore trust and excellence in our school system. We have gotten derailed by nonacademic issues like COVID, SEL, DEI and other sec ondary issues that seem to be of primary importance. These may be and can be important, but they need to be secondary. Our primary focus should be academics and holding ourselves to high standards.

What are your qualifications for this office? I am a lifelong learner, a product of public education, a business owner, an ex perienced school board member and a child of an educator.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on? Academics, aca demics, academics.

What do you see as strengths at Ham ilton Southeastern Schools? Dedication of our teachers and staff and the breadth of opportunities (courses, clubs, experiential learning, etc.).

How do you believe public school districts should address diversity, equity and inclusion matters? We should focus on the ‘Fruits of the Spirit’. If we could do that, our DEI matters would all be resolved, and we would not need to spend a second of time or a dime of money.

Why do you want to run for school board? I am concerned about attacks on education taking place around our country. Rumor and disinformation are passed off as facts, funding for education is being restrict ed, and important books are being banned.

What are your qualifications for this office? Both of my parents were teachers, so I understand the importance of educa tion leading to success in later life.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on?

Student safety and health

Support for diversity

Rebuttal of misinformation

What do you see as strengths at Hamilton Southeastern Schools? Support of diversity, and a varied curriculum so that students can prepare for their chosen path in life.

How do you believe public school dis tricts should address diversity, equity and inclusion matters? Students do better in life when exposed to a diverse, multicul tural environment. Also, especially in their teen years, young people are learning who they are. Very often, they may feel out of place, or isolated. All students need to know that they are supported, encouraged, and protected.

How can public schools help student test scores reach pre-pandemic levels? We need to get students back in the class

our Current Characters! We need your help creating one more!

Gedeon

Continued from Page 14 school board district: Fif teen years

rooms. To do this, we need to stress vacci nation for all students, teachers and staff. Also, maintain strict cleaning practices throughout the schools.

Jackie Howell

Age: 42

Education: MA Counseling Psychology, Ball State University; MA Higher Education, Ball State University

Occupation: Therapist

City of residence: Fishers

How long have you resided in your

Immediate family: James: Husband, children: Parker, Fishers Junior High and Evelyn, Sand Creek Intermediate Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: jackieh4hse1.weebly.com

Howell

Previous political experience: None

Why do you want to run for school board? First, I am a proud HSE parent who wants to see continued excellence from our district. My time in the district, as a parent

volunteer, has made me aware of strengths and challenges. I want to be an advocate for all students and staff as we address these needs. I want to ensure a safe learning environment for our students.

What are your qualifications for this of fice? As a licensed mental health counselor, I bring 20 years of experience and am cogni zant of the needs of students. In additional to clinical work, I have managed grant fund ed program budgets and am knowledgeable with program evaluation.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on? The health and safety of all students via a mental health

program expansion, pre-K education and teacher retention.

What do you see as strengths at Ham ilton Southeastern Schools? Respected educators and administration, range of im mersive opportunities offered for students, and strong community partnerships.

How can public schools help student test scores reach pre-pandemic levels?

Standardized tests are only one way to measure student success. Data from recent ILEARN at HSE shows overall improvement and proficiency. This included an increase in all demographics. Any subset that needed attention has action areas created.

W hen you need care right away

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Timely ER care is important — whether it’s stroke, heart attack symptoms or major injury — doctors and care teams at Ascension St. Vincent listen to quickly understand and care for your needs.

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If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or dial 911.

Fishers evolves from ‘wild, wild west’ town to vibrant city

By Taylor Dixon taylor@youarecurrent.com

One hundred fifty years ago, Fishers was founded by farmer Salathiel Fisher, who divided his land into town lots along the railroad tracks that ran through town. At the time, Fishers was a sleepy blip on the state map, notable only for being a stop along the Peru & Indianapolis Railroad near the present-day intersection of 116th Street and the tracks.

Today, Fishers is a vibrant city of 101,171 residents. It is Indiana’s fifth-largest city and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest. Since its humble beginnings as a railroad stop, Fishers now is home to more than 900 businesses and prides itself on being a hub for life sciences and technol ogy companies.

As Fishers celebrates its sesquicentenni al with various events that honor the past, city officials embrace a projected future of continued growth and employment, recre ational and quality-of-life opportunities for its residents.

“(The sesquicentennial) is an opportunity to reflect back,” Fishers Mayor Scott Fad ness said. “What’s astounding is how much change has happened to this community in such a short period of time. If you look at the 150-year life of Fishers, for the first 130 years Fishers stayed pretty much the same. It’s really been over the last 20 to 30 years that we’ve seen this unbelievable transfor mation in our city.

“When you look at it, it provides a per spective on just the sort of dynamic time we’re living in.”

What follows is a brief look at Fishers from its humble beginnings to its pres ent-day explosive growth.

‘LOOSE AROUND THE EDGES’

‘Loose around the edges’ reputation

Since its formation as a town in June 1872, Fishers — which became a city in 2015 — has gone through many changes.

Originally named Fishers Switch — and later renamed Fishers Station — the town was rechristened Fishers in 1908.

At the time, Fishers had a reputation as being “loose around the edges” because it was a railroad town, according to Hamilton

County Historian David Heighway.

Fishers Historian Robert Bowling com pared Fishers in the late 1800s and early 1900s to the “wild, wild west” because many people who visited were either pass ing through or visiting one of the taverns in the town.

Heighway also said there wasn’t much of a law enforcement presence, noting that the closest was the Hamilton County sheriff in Noblesville.

“Fishers was basically a Dodge City prior to the first World War. It was literally shoot ings and bombings and train robberies and grave robbing, and just all sorts of insanity,” Heighway said. “If you wanted a place to go have a drink and blow off some steam, you went to Fishers. That’s why it got a little rough and rowdy in those first few years.”

Part of what fueled that reputation was the Nov. 19, 1881, “Battle of Mudsock,” which began as an argument between two men from rival saloons that sat on either side of the railroad tracks. The fight escalated and continued throughout the night and ended in a gun battle. Two people were killed and 30 were injured.

The Battle of Mudsock made national news, in part because it happened 10 days after the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Ariz. The news of the deadly bar brawl spread as far as New York, Texas and even England, Bowling said.

“A lot of the (local) residents were upset about it because most of the people that were involved weren’t even from Fishers,” Bowling said. “Most of them lived outside of

the city limits of Fishers, and so it gave the city a bad name.”

Fishers also experienced bombings and had a history of grave robbing that also gave the town an outlaw reputation in its early years.

A SOFTER REPUTATION

As the town grew and Fishers High School was established in the late 1800s, the rough-around-the edges reputation started to fade as residents formed a com munity. The Fishers High School Building that used be at Lantern Road and 116th Street, where Fishers Elementary now sits, was built and dedicated in 1908. How ever, Heighway said records of Fishers High School graduates date back to 1896, although the exact location of the original school is unknown.

Schools often do settle towns down, Heighway said.

“When they built Fishers High School, that all of a sudden became identifiable,” Heigh way said. “It was like, ‘We are now Fishers High School people. We have our yellow brick building, and we now have at least some kind of identity because all our kids are a part of this.’”

As a result, Fishers was a rural farming community for many decades afterward.

Larry Reynolds, who grew up in Fishers and graduated from Fishers High School in 1959, was among the town’s first historians. He said his graduating class had only 20 people, and he was related to 13 of them.

Reynolds said the town was desolate and rural during his childhood.

“Kids played in the streets,” Reynolds said. “We would play football or basketball at the edge of the street because nobody came through town. The big social event was church or basketball games, and every body in Fishers would fill the gym, which could only hold about 300 people.

“Fishers was a great place. Of course, ev erybody thinks (that) about their hometown, but we did have something unique.”

A CITY OF GROWTH

Fishers officially became a city in 2015. As the city grows, people who were reared there decades ago marvel that it was a one-stoplight town only 50 years ago.

Reynolds was reared on a farm on 116th Street, where the Fishers District now sits. His grandfather owned the farm, and Reyn olds spent most of his life there. But in 2016, the city bought the land and the farmhouse, so Reynolds moved permanently to his va cation home in Florida.

“It’s just progress. It’s wall-to-wall build ings, and whether you agree with the way it has taken shape or not, it’s still a culture shock to people who lived in that tiny little town,” Reynolds said. “There’s a lot of good things happening, but personally, I would have loved to live in that house for years. We had 65 Christmases in that farmhouse. But (the city) widened the street and now there’s restaurants there. That’s what hap pens with progress.

“But, personally, I feel pushed down by progress.”

Others in Fishers, such as Fadness, em brace the growth and want to build on it. Fadness has served as Fishers’ only mayor since it became a city in 2015.

In September, Fishers announced three new development projects that will contin ue to expand the city. A $1.1 billion economic development that includes the Andretti Global headquarters, Stevanato Group and the expansion of the Fishers District is planned to be built by the end of 2025.

Fadness said at the beginning of his time in office he was focused on growing the city and attracting businesses. Now,

A look at downtown Fishers, circa 1920s. (Photos provided by Robert Bowling)

said the focus is shifting to create more entertainment opportunities, like the event center planned in the heart of the new Fish ers District expansion east of Interstate 69 between 106th and 116th streets.

“When I first became mayor, (Fishers) set out on this course to become a smart, vibrant, entrepreneurial city,” Fadness said. “If you think about it, in those early dayswe were trying to make very smart, informed decisions about policy and where we need ed to go. That led to really our entrepreneur ial movement, which attracted more devel opment and more commercial activity and has put the city in a really sound financial place. And because of that, and the financial resources that we have, we’re able to in vest in vibrancy now so people have a really pretty dynamic place to live. It’s all been part of a broad strategy to make Fishers (one of) the best places to live in America.”

Not surprisingly, Fadness looks forward to the future and the city’s next 150 years.

“With each year and each project and the momentum that continues to build, the quality and caliber of opportunities contin ues to increase,” Fadness said. “My end goal is a bit abstract. I think we have to not get set in a particular way, but rather always be evolving, adapting and changing to the world around us.”

SESQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS

The City of Fishers kicked off its 150th celebrations in June with the launch of the Sesquicentennial trail. The self-guided trail leads through Fishers with stops at some of the city’s most iconic locations, such as the Ambassador House and Conner Prairie, as well as local businesses and other im portant landmarks. Participants can pick up an adult or childrens passport at six loca tions, including Fishers Park’s front desk, Hamilton East Public Library, City Services Building, Ohanalulu, Schoolhouse 7 Café and Conner Prairie.

Squirrel Stampede mini golf launched at the Fishers Farmers market Sept 24 and is set to pop up at future events includ ing AgriPark’s Fall Festival Oct. 12-15. The four-hole course follows the adventures of squirrels as they migrated through Hamilton County nearly 200 years ago.

The city is partnering with the Towne Post to create a community time capsule that will be displayed at the new Arts and Municipal Complex set to open in the spring of 2024. The time capsule will be opened in 2073 as a celebration of Fisher’s 200th

The new Fishers District, where many farm houses once sat. Today, the Fishers District is an 18-acre, multi-use area that includes restaurants, retail and housing. (Photo by Taylor Dixon)

anniversary.

Fishers has also launched a blog and bi monthly podcast series that looks at topics related to Fisher’s history. The podcast is hosted by Tom Britt and Larry Lannan and will be ongoing throughout the year.

For more information on any of the cities other sesquicentennial celebra tions visit https://www.thisisfishers.com/ fishers-sesquicentennial/.

ON THE COVER: A look at downtown Fishers at 116th Street and Lantern Road. (Photo by Taylor Dixon) (Inset) Men stand outside an old saloon in Fishers, estimated to be in the late 1800s or early 1900s. (Photos provided by Robert Bowling)

THE

JON

MCLAUGHLIN

ESSAY

Ready to roll?

Commentary by Terry Anker

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, United Airlines Flight 93 did not arrive at its des tination. Most Americans recall without prompting the events of that day. Ag grieved radicals, making a point of their dissatisfaction with our society, decided to teach us a lesson in the form of mass murder. With most tragedy, there are tales of heroism. There are stories of the best of us to counter the obvious exam ples of the worst. In coming to know that their lives were surely to be soon taken, a group of daring passengers refused to go silently into that good night. They refused to allow the villains to reap the full pleasure of their heinous acts. In rushing the cockpit, they’d either take control of the guided missile upon which they found themselves or drive it into the open fields below. Their sacrifice might allow others to survive.

Even as he headed to his own execu tion, Todd Beamer entreated the cellular operator to call his young wife and say that he loved her. It must have resem bled an epic moment from a modern re make of “Romeo and Juliet.” At home, Lisa Beamer must have clung to their young sons, 3-year-old David and baby Drew. Leading the resistance, Todd dropped the phone and was last heard to proclaim, “OK, let’s roll.”

Life is filled with many moments of both importance and inconsequence. They come to us as we are — ready or not. Sure, not having our car keys in hand as we walk through a darkened shopping center parking lot is likely inconsequen tial. Or it may predict our demise at the hand of an armed robber. Can we prepare after the fact, or do we have to be ready to roll when life demands it? What is the price if we choose not to be?

HUMOR

Gravely behind in decorating

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Oh, it’s on. I drove by my neighbor the other day as she was setting up Halloween decorations in her front yard. With weeks to go before the greatest and most perfect holiday of the year, she’s already fooling around with purple twinkle lights, Styrofoam tombstones, and what looked to be a new inflatable. How dare she! I have not yet mentally nor physically prepared for my own elaborate display of zombies, witches, a pumpkin-head man and various incar nations of demon-possessed Regans and Carol Annes. But now she’s thrown down the gauntlet. I cannot have her house up and ready while mine still bears the boring décor of fall mums and pretty green September grass.

OF THE WEEK POLICIES

— WILLIAM JAMES

I’ll have to start with the big-ticket items, which means hauling close to a dozen life-size animatronics and skele tons from our basement room of horrors up the stairs, out through the garage and onto the lawn. I’ll then spend an hour or so on each “tableau,” arranging them in either unsettling or humorous scenes involving cauldrons, lawnmow ers and spider-infested tea parties to eventually construct a veritable wonder land of evil. Next up is the arbor entry way, a cheap metal apparatus held to gether only by duct tape and my sheer force of will. The electrical comes last, which, depending on the weather and if I can locate enough splitters, extension cords, and green floods, could take any where from one day to several. I’m not that far from Lowe’s, but each trip takes precious time!

My gung-ho neighbor may have gotten the jump on me this glorious Halloween season, but not for long. Be cause it’s on.

Peace out.

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Danielle

The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it.

Smashing tale of a lost cellphone

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

On my way to pickleball last Saturday, I realized I didn’t have my cellphone with me. I panicked, but as I admitted in a previous column, my phone is never really lost, it is simply — to coin a new application for a perfectly good word — “unfounded.”

I knew when I arrived home it would be exactly where I left it, which is usually where you find things.

I remembered load ing the car with my stuff: gym bag, sun glasses, hat, paddle and … the phone. It must be in the car, I thought. I pulled over, got out, and looked between the seats, under the seats and in all the side compartments.

has a magnet on the back of the case) on the car’s roof and sped away. Your watch tracked the phone as you drove. The phone remained secure until you hit a pothole at 111th and Westfield. In a nanosecond, it was dislodged and bounced into the street.”

After I thanked Sherlock, I left to buy a new phone.

I showed the destroyed phone to the salesman.

“Isn’t the protective case guaranteed?”

“It was completely smashed to smithereens. I retrieved it and went home, clueless as to how this had all happened.

– DICK WOLFSIE

I said.

“Yes, 100 percent guaranteed.”

“But the phone is smashed.”

“Sir, we guaran teed the case, not the phone.”

I explained how embarrassed I was.

I got back in the car and headed for the gym.

At the first stoplight, I activated the “Find My Phone” app on my Apple Watch. It said the phone was at 96th and Lantern Road. So was I! When I turned west, the watch said the cell was at 96th and Gray Road. Me, too! A few minutes later, we were both at 106th and Westfield.  Obviously, the phone was in my car. But where?

The last time I checked the app, it said the phone was at 111th and Westfield. I played my pickleball games and bee-lined back to that address afterward. Sure enough, there was my phone — smack dab in the middle of the street, and except for the protective case, it was completely smashed to smithereens. I retrieved it and went home, clueless as to how this had all happened.

“Oh, don’t be,” he said. “I’ve had several customers who drove over their phones.”

I said, “I did not run over my own phone. Someone else did it for me.”

The tech guys shared other cellphone misadventures.

“Years ago, I had a customer,” said one employee, “who forgot he had set his phone in the freezer while he needed both hands to retrieve a stuck ice cream container from the back.”

That made everyone laugh. Except me. It was a very painful memory. I searched for hours to find that cellphone. And my screen was frozen the rest of the day.

Check my Facebook page for photo of my phone.

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

My wife’s analysis: “Loading the car with your hands full, you placed the phone (which

Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch

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

FAMILY

FAMILY DENTISTRY

FAMILY

FOR

AGES

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.

Kevin

Kevin

Kevin D.

Kevin

Kevin

Ward,

Hip and knee replacement: What to expect from your care team

Commentary by Dr. Leonard Buller

Getting a knee or hip replaced is a sur gery that can improve an individual’s quality of life dramatically. Throughout the entire process, from before surgery to the recovery stage, the patient’s care team will be there every step of the way.

ORTHOPEDICS

ment, the surgeon will make an incision on the front or side of the knee to access the joint. The surgeon will then remove the damaged bone, tissue, or cartilage and re place the area with a new (manmade) joint.   What happens after surgery?

What happens before surgery?

The patient’s doctor will determine if surgery is necessary by taking X-rays. From there, the doctor can get a closer look and decide if surgery is the right path. Patients are encouraged to try other alternatives to limit pain before deciding on surgery. Options include exercise, over-the count er-medications, steroid injections, bracing, acupuncture, weight loss, or activity mod ifications. It is also vital that the patient’s health is evaluated with blood tests and sometimes a chest X-ray prior to surgery.

What happens during surgery?

A hip or knee replacement can last one to two hours, while the patient is under general anesthesia. For a hip replacement, the surgeon will remove the damaged bone, tissue and cartilage from the hip joint. Then, the “ball-and-socket” part of the hip is re placed with artificial parts (typically metal rods) that will allow the hip joints to work properly and smoothly. For a knee replace

The patient’s movement will be extremely limited post-surgery. Patients can expect to be prescribed medication for pain. Following the surgery, a therapist may help with move ments and exercises to regain movement, momentum and recovery. Patients may be in the hospital anywhere from two to four days. It is vital to make sure the patient has a caregiver available to help them. Also, the patient should make sure they have enough groceries and prepared meals. Creating a designated area with easy-to-reach items and a plan for washing/bathing is also important. Patients should also make sure floors are walkable. Anything that may cause a tripping/falling hazard must be moved.

At IU Health Saxony, the care team will be there to answer any questions and help to make this process as seamless as possible. For more information, visit iuhealth.org/ joints or call 317-944-9400.

DISPATCHES

Get started running — Want to start run ning but are so out of shape you don’t know how to begin? Couch to 5K is a free app that takes you through an eight-week program designed to build up your endurance and stamina. It’s a great way to get started if you’ve never tried running. Available for iOS and Android.

Source: Greatist.com

Natural appetite suppressant — Research shows that a spinach extract, called Ap pethyl, can significantly reduce cravings and snacking. A teaspoon per day was given to women in the study and they lost 43 percent more weight than women in the placebo group. Appethyl is available online as spinach extract in powder or capsule form.

New radiation technique — For patients with cancer of the left breast, radiation therapy can be dangerous because it ex poses the heart and lungs to radiation. New research shows that holding one’s breath during radiation can push those organs out of the way and protect them. A machine assists with the process, so the patient breathes properly.

Source: Practical Radiation Oncology

Moving for better health — Sitting for most of the day is terrible for your health, raising your risk for diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. For better health, try to get up and do some light activity several times a day, even if you have a sedentary job. Moving around triggers blood flow, clears glucose from the blood and breaks down triglycerides.

Dr. Leonard Buller is an orthopedic surgeon at IU Health Saxony–soon to be IU Health Fishers

Genezen opens new headquarters in Fishers

By Taylor Dixon taylor@youarecurrent.com

On Sept. 29, Gov. Eric Holcomb joined Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness to welcome Genezen, a biotechnology and life sciences business, to its new headquarters. The busi ness started in 2014 at Launch Fishers and recently moved to a large manufacturing facility at 9900 Westpoint Dr. in FIshers.

GROWTH

In November 2021, Genezen announced plans to invest $40 million to lease and up grade its facility and create 62 new jobs at the 75,000-square-foot building.

Holcomb spoke on the growth of the life sciences industry in Indiana and lauded Fishers for its growth and recent announce ments in development.

“I’ve always known that there is a Fish ers airport here locally, but I think it’s really a Fishers launching pad created here by Mayor Fadness,” Holcomb said. “Many companies are deciding, rightly so, to come here for good reasons. (Fishers is) a busi ness-friendly, family-friendly community, friendly place to be, and that speaks to the high quality of life that the (Genezen) team here is able to enjoy inside these walls and

outside close by.

“This is a noble cause, and we’re just so proud to have you and your mission here at Genezen on fertile Hoosier soil. “

Fadness said he has seen Genezen grow from a small company working out of Launch Fishers to becoming a large compa ny in a permanent headquarters.

“I feel like I’m a proud parent to watch Genezen come from its early days to what it is today,” Fadness said.

Genezen CEO Ray Kaczmarek said he is proud of his team and all the company has accomplished since starting in Launch Fishers.

Church Church Hittle + Antrim, Hamilton County’s oldest law firm, celebrated its expansion Sept. 29 at 10765 N. Lantern Rd. in Fishers. According to Alex Pinegar, CCHA managing partner, the law firm has had a presence in Fishers for nearly to 20 years. “Being in Fishers is important to us,” Pinegar said. “We’ve been in Fishers for a long time. This specific building is convenient to the interstate. It’s convenient for our clients to get off the interstate quickly. (It’s) close to the heart of Fishers. It’s right in the middle of everything.” (Photo by Edward Redd)

Back, center, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness, left, and Gov. Eric Holcomb with Genezen staff at the Sept. 29 grand opening. (Photo by Taylor DIxon)

CHURCH CHURCH HITTLE + ANTRIM OPEN DOORS

Carmel Community Players ready to set off ‘Tick, Tick … Boom!’ musical

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Dominic Piedmonte, the theme of “Tick, Tick… Boom!” immediately had an impact.

‘THE ADDAMS FAMILY’

“The Addams Family” runs through Nov. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianap olis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘RENT’

MUSICAL

At first, the Indianapolis resident was unfamiliar with Jonathan Larson’s autobiographical musical.

“A friend told me about the auditions the day before I auditioned, and so I did a deep dive the night before and fell in love with the show immediately,” Larson said. “I was 29 and turned 30 the week after auditions, so I was incredibly connected to what Jonathan was feeling at the time of my audition.”

Piedmonte will play the role of Jon in the Carmel Community Players’ production of the musical Oct. 14 to 23 at The Switch Theatre, 10029 E. 126 St., Fishers. Larson went on create the musical “Rent” before dying of aortic dissection at age 35 the day of the off-Broadway preview in 1996.

“I really try to capture Jon’s mannerisms in the show, but also a bit of myself since a lot of what this show is talking about is turning 30 and having that feeling of not having done enough with the time that is given to us,” Piedmonte said. “That’s some thing everyone over 30 has experienced at one time or another.”

The biggest challenge for Piedmonte is mastering the lines.

“I’m on stage the entire time and have several monologues that are tricky in their wording because they are literally the writings of what was going through Jona than’s head when he encounters the feel ing of failure, realizations that the world around him feels dystopian, that everyone around him is so much more successful by the societal standards of the ‘90s,” he said. “Being a musician and artist myself as well as a full-time teacher, time just is something I never have enough of it seems. This show honestly really helped me process through some of the turmoil I was struggling with turning 30, and I

really am grateful that I’m given the oppor tunity to share this wonderful show that Jonathan Larson created.”

Like Piedmonte, Ervin Gainer is per forming for Carmel Community Players for the first time. Gainer said what he enjoys about the role is that he can relate to the character in some ways.

“I know what it feels like trying to achieve a dream that just doesn’t pan out in your favor,” said Gainer, who plays Michael. “I know what it feels like to settle for a job that isn’t your dream job/career, but it pays the bills and keeps a roof over your head. I know what it feels like to want love, have a family and be financially secure. Michael wants to live his ‘American dream,’ but it does come with challenges.

He is an openly gay male in corporate America who happens to find out that he is HIV positive at a time where folks left and right were dying of AIDS. To most, getting an HIV positive diagnosis meant a death sentence. You could be alive and well one week but gone the next week.

That is a major struggle for the character throughout the show and it weighs heavy

on his heart. I know how it feels to be openly gay and HIV positive because that is my life. I am thankful that nowadays getting an HIV positive result doesn’t mean a death sentence with all of the HIV medications that are out today.

“I love that this subject matter is touched in the musical. It’s so import ant. HIV stigma is still alive and well, unfortunately.”

Kathleen Horrigan, a Fishers resident, is directing with CCP for the first time. Horri gan said the biggest challenge is also serv ing as a director for the Lawrence Central High School play “You Can’t Take it  With You,” which is set for Nov. 11-13. She is the director of theater for Lawrence Central.

“I directed ‘Rent’ in Indianapolis for Footlite Musicals about 10 years ago and became quite a fan of Jonathan Larson,” Horrigan said. “Then my high school stu dents told me about the movie version of ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ and once I watched it, I was hooked then. Then I started reading a book about Jonathan Larson’s life and really wanted to direct it.”

For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

Civic Theatre’s production of “Rent” will be presented Oct. 22 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘POSTMODERN JUKEBOX’

Scott Bradlee’s “Postmodern Jukebox: Life in the Past Lane” will be held at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘MY NAME IS NOT MOM’

Internet stars Tiffany Jenkins, Meredith Masony and Dena Blizzard will present “My Name is NOT Mom” at 8 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘VOICE OF ROMANCE TOUR’

Johnny Mathis will visit with his ‘Voice of Romance Tour’ at 8 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Palla dium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

EDWARDS TWINS

The Edwards Twins present “The Ultimate Variety Show: Vegas Top Impersonators” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more fein steinshc.com.

Candlelight Theatre hosts ‘Haunted States’

The Candlelight Theatre will present “The Haunted States of America” at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site this month. The actors include Geist resident Donna Wing, who is the Candlelight Theatre creative di rector. The show is set for three weekends, Oct. 14-15, 22-23, 28-29, at the Harrison Pres idential Site, 1230 North Delaware St., India napolis, For more, visit: bhpsite.org/events/ hauntedstatesofamerica/.

From left, Dominic Piedmonte, Margaret Smith and Ervin Gainer appear in “Tick, Tick … Boom!” (Photo courtesy of Carmel Community Players)

CHS graduate shakes off nerves to earn spot on ‘The Voice’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Morgan Taylor Koontz began performing in musicals when she was 9.

ACHIEVEMENT

The 2019 Carmel High School graduate has sung solo in public numerous times — such as at CarmelFest Has Talent and at Urban Vines — through the years and was selected as a Songbook Academy finalist in 2019.

But her blind audition performance for “The Voice” was another level of challenging.

“Personally speaking, I don’t think there is any amount of performing I would have done to prepare for the amount of nerves you feel when you go on that stage,” Koontz said. “Especially when you know it’s been recorded and in front of these incredibly talented and well-known artists right in front of you. The more you do it, the easier it gets, but that first time was really a dif ferent experience performing.”

Koontz, who performs as Morgan Taylor, shook off the nerves and earned a spot on Season 22 of “The Voice” on NBC with her rendition of Lizzo’s “Cuz I Love You.” The performance was taped a few months ago but it aired Sept. 26.

Blake Shelton quickly turned his chair around to indicate support, followed by the other three judges, Gwen Stefani, John Leg end and Camila Cabello.

All four celebrity judges made a pitch to have Koontz on their team.

“When (Shelton) turned around, it was so early on, I felt that I did a double-take,” said Koontz, who majors in commercial music and songwriting at Belmont University in

Nashville. “The excitement really got to me. I think that showed in my performance, because in that moment what would you be doing if you weren’t singing? You’d be screaming to yourself. There’s a lot of adrenaline. There was one bit where I thought about what I was doing, and I had to reel myself back in and finish strong.”

Koontz said it is “super weird” to describe the feeling she had unless one had been in that position.

“You can’t even imagine it until you are there,” said Koontz, who is in an ensemble group at Belmont.

Koontz, who views her genre as soulful pop, chose Legend as her coach because he best fits her style.

“I wanted to go with John from the getgo,” she said. “But I won’t lie, I really recon sidered my choices because of all of the arguments, I was reconsidering all of them. I’m happy I chose John in the end because I really like working with him. But I think you can’t go wrong with any of them, honestly.”

Koontz said musically speaking, Legend’s style is the closest to what her original mu sic sounds like.

“Vocally, he has the most to offer, but genre-wise, he also made the most sense,” she said.

Koontz submitted audition tapes and was invited to Los Angeles for the blind audition.

“The rest is history,” said Koontz, who was a three-year member of the Ambassa dors, the mixed show choir at CHS.

The taping was a few months ago, so she had to keep her selection a secret. Her par ents, Angela and Scott Gallagher, attended the audition.

Morgan Taylor Koontz performs during the blind audition of “The Voice.” (Photo courtesy of Tina Thorpe/ NBC)

‘One Dark Night’ at Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Nick Zaza is eager to see how his Hal loween stage extravaganza plays in other markets.

The first one was performed in in 2018 in Akron, Ohio, where Zaza is based. The clas sically trained rock guitarist has previously played other shows across Ohio.

“One Dark Night…A Rock Symphony of the Macabre” will make its out-of-state debut at 8 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“We’re excited because the Palladium is beautiful,” said Zaza, who will perform four shows this month. “That’s the date I’m most looking forward to this year.”

The show will then be in the Pittsburgh area later in the month.

“The show is a celebration of the Gothic classical music from some of the great com posers, Prokofiev, Mozart, Beethoven. The musical element is classical music, rocked up with the band,” Zaza said. “It’s really electrified. We bring in the seasonal Hallow een element. We love the classical Holly wood monsters, Frankenstein and Dracula,

but quite possibly, could the real monster be inside of us, the monster within? We have a story that goes through it and great multimedia visuals behind us. It’s really an immersive experience.”

There are actors performing as “haunters” who loom throughout the set and venue,

There is a six-person band for the orches tral rock show and a narrator.

“It seems to be catching on and blowing up,” said Zaza, who also tours with his own band.

For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org

Twins bring act to Feinstein’s

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Twin brothers Anthony and Eddie Ed wards are not only identical but they share the gift of being mas ter impersonators.

VARIETY SHOW

“We do over 100 lookalikes and soundalikes,” Anthony said. “Every year is a different show. Everything is live. It’s not a drag show.”

“The Edwards Twins and their Ultimate Variety Show” is set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael.”

“We started out at the Riviera many years ago,” Anthony said. “We decided to take the show on the road. We’re adding shows ev ery year. It’s been a great journey.”

The twins, based in Las Vegas, perform ap proximately 300 shows a year. They do about 20 different impersonations per show.

“We never usually do this small a theater, but Michael (Feinstein) is a dear friend,” An thony said. “We want to do as many of his showrooms as possible. We’ve been doing his showroom in (Los Angeles) for a very long time. We were in the area. I’m sure it’s a matter of time before we come back,

and we probably have to do two shows (in Carmel).”

Anthony said the show is fast paced and similar to variety shows like “Laugh-In,” “The Sonny and Cher Show” and “The Carol Burnett Show.”

“Carol saw me perform as her in Toronto and we became instant friends,” Anthony said. “Then two weeks later, she was in LA and she saw my brother in ‘La Cage’ and she thought it was me. She said, ‘Why are you guys together? You need to form an act.’ She said she would help any way she can, and she did. The rest is history.”

For more, theedwardstwins.com.

“One Dark Night…A Rock Symphony of the Ma cabre” is set for Oct. 22 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. (Photo courtesy of Nick Zaza)

Anthony Edwards performs as Andrea Bocelli during the variety show. (Photo courtesy of the Edwards Twins)

Naraine’s art described as ‘bold’

Commentary by Randy Sorrell

Absolutely one of my favorite local artists is Janie Naraine, known in the art commu nity as JD Naraine. Perhaps that’s why we have several of her pieces confidently hanging on our walls! Her work is very bold and suggestive and can be well described as abstract figurative.

ARTIST

Naraine has been painting all her life and has a degree in fashion design from the University of Cincinnati and loved several classes in the fine art department. For years, she focused on portraits and transi tioned to her present mode about 15 years ago. Most of her work is completed with a live model and then finished back in her studio. Predominantly working in oil and pastel, Naraine also enjoys mixed media influences. She notes, “I play with color and shape and composition, capturing a bit of the essence of the model but also striving for a complete and finished painting.”

I fell in love with her style and work when my design studio was in the Indiana Design Center. Diane Wright featured her work at Coats Wright Art & Design there and now at her new place at 1057 East 54th St., C3, in south Broad Ripple. Her work also is available at galleries in Naples, Fla.

Naraine mentioned how affordable her art is and that she is witnessing a strong movement of people wanting original art. That’s a trend I have experienced as well.

Randy Sorrell, a Carmel artist, can be reached at 317-6792565, rsorrellart@gmail.com or rsorrellart.com.

“Face of Many Colors” is dis played at CoatsWright Gallery in the Indiana Design Center

Creepy sound of onomatopoeia

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Most people know what onomatopoeia is, but I’d bet most of them couldn’t spell it! Just ask me. Onomatopoeia, of course, is the naming of a thing based on the sound it makes. I can’t think of a better season to discuss onomatopoeia than Halloween. The word onomatopoeia is a Greek word meaning “the making of a name or word.” We’re all wary of things that go “bump” in the night. Is “bump” an example of ono matopoeia? The answer is: probably. Bump first shows up in the late 16th century as an English word meaning “a protuberance caused by a blow.” We can pretty safely assume that “bump” came from the dull noise made that causes the bump itself. Obviously, there’s the noun “bump” and the verb “bump” as well. Bump’s cousins include thump and thud.

instance of a word formed by the sound it makes. If you give out the “Krackel” candy, you’re likely to be one of the more popular houses on the block.

GRAMMAR GUY

You’ll want to be careful about mysteri ous creatures rustling in your bushes. The word “rustle” means what it sounds like: to emit soft, rapid sounds when in motion.

Does anyone have creaky basement stairs? I do, and they come complete with complimentary cobwebs. Creak shows up in the early 14th century, meaning “to utter a harsh cry.” By the end of the 16th century, the definition evolved to what we think of today — the sound of rusty hinges and old basement stairs.

Keep your ears open this season for spooky things that make creepy noises from which we get imitative, soundalike words. After all, onomatopoeia could be lurking around every corner.

A visit to Boston’s Old Town

Commentary by Don Knebel

What about the sound a nice bonfire makes? The fire crackles, as we say. The word crackle is another good example of onomatopoeia in action. The word “crack” showed up first, and it’s yet another great

Aerate

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

Today, returning from Cape Cod, we visit Boston’s Old Town, so successfully combin ing the best of our past and present that I was induced to “dance” in public.

TRAVEL

In 1630, Puritan settlers established Boston, named for an English coastal town, on an 800-acre peninsula extending into Massachusetts Bay. By 1710, Boston, capi tal of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, was the largest city in the 13 colonies, with a population of 9,000. In 1713, the colonial government constructed a brick building near the waterfront for meetings of the Massachusetts General Court. Now known as the Old State House, the brick structure replaced a building destroyed by fire. In 1742, Peter Faneuil, a wealthy Boston mer chant and reputed slave trader, built a mar ket house nearby, which he donated to the city. Despite its origins, Faneuil Hall became known as the “Cradle of Liberty” because Samuel Adams, James Otis and others made important speeches in the building support ing independence from England. In 1762, Otis made a speech in the Old State House that inflamed Bostonians against the English. On March 5, 1770, the Old State House was the site of the so-called “Boston Massacre,” in which British troops opened fire on an un

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ruly crowd, killing five. Today, the restored Old State House houses a museum. A cobblestone marker in front remembers the Boston Massacre. Nearby, Faneuil Hall, along with Quincy Market and two other markets, constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, one of the nation’s earliest and most successful urban renewal projects. Since its opening in 1976, street performers have helped make the Market place area one of Boston’s most popular destinations, attracting 18 million visitors a year. When I was there, five multi-talented African American performers, looking for “seven rich white guys” to teach to dance, pointed to me. What followed was not really dancing, but it was a lot of fun.

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

Faneuil Hall in Boston, Mass. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Old State House building in Boston.

Downtown Boston’s Quincy Market.

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