December 27, 2022 — Fishers

uwci.org

Contact the editor:

Have a news tip? Want to submit a calendar event? Have a photograph to share?

Contact Managing Editor Rebecca Fending at rebecca@youarecurrent. com or call 317.489.4444 ext. 804. You may also submit information on our website, currentinfishers. com. Remember our news deadline is typically eight days prior to publication.

News tips/story ideas: stories@youarecurrent.com

Letters to the editor/ guest columns: letters@youarecurrent.com

Southwest corner of 116th & I-69

From all of us to all of you... Have a happy & healthy New year!

Local toddler spreads joy with musical talent

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

A lover of classic and alternative rock, Atticus plays drums, sings and has many of the attributes of a future rock ‘n’ roll front man — qualities he’s shown since he was a baby, according to his grandmother, Brigitte Gates.

MUSIC

Not far removed from the cradle, Atticus — whose family requested his last name not be published because of his age — is only 3. But his family is convinced that a musical career is on the Lawrence toddler’s horizon.

Advertise your business:

If you’re interested in reaching virtually 100 percent of the Fishers market (29,403 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent (subject: Fishers advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.

Obituaries: obits@youarecurrent.com

Legal advertising: legals@youarecurrent.com

Delivery questions: circulation@youarecurrent.com

Appreciation for music, after all, runs in the family.

“We’re a very musically diverse family,” said Gates, the benefits coordinator for Lawrence Township Schools. “Atticus’ mom (Riann) listens to jazz, his dad listens to hip-hop, and his aunt is very into Queen. It’s kind of all over the map. Atticus loves to listen and dance to any type of music.”

Music has been a large part of the family since Riann was a child.

“While our kids were growing up, my husband and I always had music playing,” Gates said. “I mean, we didn’t really watch TV. It was more music playing in the background. So, we did the same with Atticus since he’s the only grandchild. And he really took a liking to his great grandma’s jazz music. He could tell who the artist was based on what instrument was playing.”

Gates said musical talent does run in the family, as Atticus’ great-grandfather and uncle both played guitar. Other family members have played in regular group sessions with homemade maracas made of rice and bottles.

performing. Since then, the two have been a match made in musical heaven.

“Atticus can be slow to warm up to people,” Gates said. “But he was immediately taken with Ed. I think just because Ed lets Atticus’ talent come through. (Atticus) chooses three songs to play at their weekly appointment and Ed just lets him play.

Join our community: www.facebook.com/currentinfishers www.twitter.com/CI_Fishers instagram.com/youarecurrent

Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XII, No. 48

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.

“Atticus loves to encourage the family to make music together,” Gates said. “He passes out the tambourine and homemade rice and bottle maracas for the family. He uses a curling rod as his microphone. It’s a regular family gathering.”

When he was almost 2 years old, Atticus began listening to his favorite alternative rock performer, Dave Grohl, of the Foo Fighters.

“He couldn’t pronounce his Fs, so Atticus would request the ‘Too Tighters,’” Gates said. “He really took a liking to them and would memorize the lyrics of songs after only listening to them two or three times.”

The little drummer went so far with his adoration of the Foo Fighters that during a visit with Santa, he said his name was Dave instead of Atticus.

“Atticus got up on Santa’s lap and told him his name was Dave, as in Dave Grohl,” Gates said. “He told Santa that he wanted a blue Gibson guitar and everything.”

Although he displayed advanced skills at an early age, Atticus has improved dramatically since being paired with his music teacher, Ed Gaus.

Gaus, owner of Bongo Boy Music School in Indianapolis, was recommended as a teacher and mentor for Atticus. At first, Gaus was hesitant to teach Atticus because the child was only 2 1/2 at the time, but Gaus changed his mind after watching videos of Atticus

“He’s helping teach him how to work in more beats and keep time with the music.”

Gaus mentors children in the foster care system. Often, he said, those children return as adults to catch up and share where his mentorship took them.

“It’s all about never losing that spirit,” Gaus said. “I tell him to always play and always have fun.”

Gates said Gaus constantly encourages Atticus, which is part of what makes the relationship between the two so special.

Atticus’ musical talent reaches beyond the practice studio. It pulls the family together, according to Gates.

“The music is a constant,” Gates said. “As Atticus grows, music has been a way that each family member stays engaged with him. It really pulls us together.”

Given Atticus’ talent and supportive family, Gates believes that “the sky is the limit.”

“As a grandparent, you see things in a different way than you did with your kids,” Gates said. “The sky is the limit, and I truly mean that. This child can do whatever he wants to do with his mindset and charisma. He’s a great kid to be around.

“I think that he may dabble in different instruments, but his true passion is being the frontman or singer, even while playing guitar and drums. He’ll likely start putting on performances soon. Whatever he does, he’s going to make people smile.”

Atticus pauses mid-drum session with music teacher Ed Gaus. (Photo courtesy of Brigitte Gates)

Woodworker helps brighten holidays for Hoosier children

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

process of making toys.”

The toys are often made from wood that would be thrown away.

GIVING BACK

Michael Sapper does his part to supply toys to disadvantaged children during the holidays, handcrafting them in a woodworking shop in his Carmel home.

Sapper works with the Central Indiana Woodworkers club, which was founded in 1948, to create the toys for children.

“I find it super rewarding,” Sapper said. “It’s a great group of people, and (the toys) fill a worthy cause for kids, whose parents sometimes don’t have funds to buy gifts. There are about 35 different agencies in (the Indianapolis area) that come to us with requests. The last seven or eight years we’ve averaged around 15,000 to 16,000 toys a year. They are not all cars. Some are educational toys. There may be games, there might be gender-oriented toys specifically for boys or girls.”

Other than cars, toys include planes, trains and cribs. Wheels for the toys are factory-made.

“I’ve had opportunities to take the toys out and meet some of the families, and it

might be the only things the kids get,” Sapper said.

Sapper said the toys are stored throughout the year. They are taken to a warehouse in Fishers where they pack the toy to meet the agencies’ requests.

Sapper said he and Indianapolis Rowing Center friends made 100-plus wooden toys

in one day. He also has a designated day making toys with his cycling friends.

“Some people know how to use tools and others don’t,” he said. “Some people who are petrified of tools, we just have them sand and do stuff that is really safe. We have people with all different skill levels come out, and we take them through the

“I like that you can take firewood that might be for one person and turn it into something different,” said Sapper, who is a certified public accountant.

Sapper also makes bowls, cutting boards and other items from leftover wood or logs.

“I also feel like I’m honoring the tree to give it a second life,” he said.

Sapper, who has been making toys with Central Indiana Woodworkers since 2015, has a YouTube channel under Sapper Woodworking with instructional videos.

“I row and I cycle, but this (shop) is my happy place,” Sapper said.

Sapper makes items from used skateboards. He won a 2022 Indiana State Fair blue ribbon for a bowl he made from used skateboards in the turning division for woodworking.

“I also entered a lamp I made out of recycled plywood that came out of a friend’s floor, and that won a blue ribbon in the home decor,” he said.

From those individual category winners, Sapper’s lamp won grand champion.

Michael Sapper displays some of the toys he makes in his home woodworking shop. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

With more than 38 years in the dental care industry, Lynn Uptgraft, owner of Dental Office Training by Lynn at 9780 Lantern Rd. in Fishers, is well-versed in the career of dental assisting.

CAREER

Uptgraft has owned and operated her training school for 16 years. Dental Office Training by Lynn offers 12-week dental assisting training. Graduates leave the school with certificates in radiology. Thanks to partnerships with dental offices throughout the state, program graduates are typically quickly placed in their careers.

“We work with a little over 300 offices in the state that help with job shadowing and placing our students post-graduation,” Uptgraft said. “We fully prepare resumes and hold (in-house) career fairs.”

Uptgraft said dental assistants are “in huge demand,” making her school a go-to for dental offices throughout the state in search of dental assistants.

“Most of my students have jobs before they even complete the program, usually from the days that the students job shadow in a dental office,” she said. “Since we’ve been doing this for 16 years, dentists know the type of program we run and what we teach. So, we’re very well known in the community.”

Typically, Uptgraft said she has more dentists calling her for soon-to-be graduates than she has students.

Among several success stories for Uptgraft’s business is the return of instructor Katie Weir.

“Katie was in my second class ever,” Uptgraft said. “Now, she’s back as an instructor and we’re so happy to have her.”

The training program consists of combined lecture lessons and hands-on lessons. Students are trained on computer systems, lab work — such as taking molds and impressions of patients’ teeth — and working in a mock dental room, complete with dental chairs.

Uptgraft said the purpose for her school is to provide a way for those not interested in college to have a successful professional career.

Dental Office Training by Lynn is currently enrolling for the spring session. For more, visit dentalofficetrainingbylynn.com.

Dental Office Training by Lynn simulates real patient interactions with mock dental room materials. (Photo by Rebecca Fending)

Staff at Dental Office Training by Lynn include, from left, Anette Brown, expanded functions instructor; Lynn Uptgraft, founder and licensed dental hygienist; Denise McDonald, expanded function dental assistant and clinical director; and Katie Weir, oral surgery assistant, expanded duties dental assistant and dental anesthesia assistant. (Photo courtesy of Dental Office Training by Lynn)

CURRENT Q&A

Get to know Stephanie Perry

Stephanie Perry is the assistant director of community and public relations for the City of Fishers. What follows is a Q&A with Perry, part of a new series of Current Q&A interviews with local officials.

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

A: When my husband and I are both home in the morning, we have family breakfast with our kids and a cup of coffee together before work. I’m not a morning person, so it’s a great motivator to wake up and spend time together before the craziness of the day begins.

My worst habit is procrastinating, although I’ve gotten much better with it over the years. Breaking projects into smaller, more manageable pieces has been a lifesaver for me.

Q: Do you have a favorite podcast?

A: I’m a big “Crime Junkie” fan. True crime is my go-to podcast genre. When I need to feel inspired, it’s “The Lazy Genius” or “The Simplified Podcast” with Emily Ley.

Q: How do you exercise?

A: I love to run! I’m part of the Fishers Running Club and enjoy running on the Nickel Plate Trail, especially the southern portion near Cheeney Creek. I love the half marathon at Carmel and Indy Monumental, and we always do the Wishbone 5K on Thanksgiving at the Fishers YMCA. It’s one of my favorite holiday traditions!

Q: Favorite local meal?

A: Red curry chicken from Thai Kitchen on Allisonville Road is my ultimate comfort meal. I also love The Weekender breakfast from The Roost, especially after a long run.

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch

Service dog trainer helps shelters

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

Medical Mutts Service Dogs Inc., at 6120 Allisonville Rd., held a Service Dogs Graduation Celebration at the Delaware Township Community Center Dec. 13. The organization has called Indianapolis home for 10 years and plans to keep supporting the community.

Medical Mutts trains shelter dogs to become service animals for people with disabilities. Director of Development Kelsey Burton said what sets Medical Mutts apart from other training organizations is that it does not breed dogs.

“We go to local shelters for our dogs,” Burton said. “We work with Indianapolis Animal Care Services and other smaller shelters to source dogs for training. If we end up not being able to train a dog to be a service animal, we adopt them out.”

The organization also uses “ethical training methods.” Burton said that is important for helping foster positive relationships between recipients and their dogs.

“Ethical training is so important for the bonds the dogs create — bonds between

Bertie, 1 1/2 years old, was a graduated from Medical Mutts’ Dec. 13 Service Dogs Graduation Celebration. (Photo courtesy of Medical Mutts)

trainers and other people in the office and then the bond with their owner,” Burton said.

Medical Mutts focuses on providing service animals for seizure and diabetic alerts and psychiatric support animals. Burton said the organization helps combat the negative stigma associated with shelter dogs.

“These dogs are great,” Burton said. “They kind of become ambassadors for shelter dogs everywhere. A little training goes a long way.”

For more, visit medicalmutts.org.

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

DOT by Lynn has been an elite training program for over 16 years. There are over 300 dental offices in the state of Indiana that support our program and help us provide well trained and highly skilled employees into the dental community.

This dental assisting course is designed to perfect core dental assisting skills for entry level dental assistants. Radiology is included in this program and we fully prepare you for the DANB/RHS exam which is necessary to obtain your Indiana radiology license. 9780 Lantern Rd, Fishers, IN 46037 (317) 585-9015

Fully Accredited • This institution is regulated by: Indiana Department of Workforce Development Office for Career and Technical Schools 10 N Senate Avenue, Suite SE 308 Indianapolis IN 46204 • OCTS@dwd.in.gov http://www.in.gov/dwd/2731.htm

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

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

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com

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

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S.

11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S.

317.576.8070

Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com

Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911

PETS

Kelly to retire from Current post effective Dec. 31

news@currentinfishers.com

be overly envious … and he knows it.”

MILESTONE

CarmelFest 2005 had just wrapped up about nine hours prior, when Carmel resident Steve Greenberg made a call to Brian Kelly, also of Carmel. At the time, each was working on a plan to launch a weekly newspaper in Carmel, but neither of them knew the other was on the same track.

It was at CarmelFest, where Greenberg ran across Ron Carter, the former longtime city councilor. Carter asked how Greenberg’s plan for the paper was coming along, and Greenberg, a career journalist and marketing specialist, said it was developing fairly well, although distribution was kind of a sticking point. Carter asked, “Do you know Brian Kelly? He’s working on the same plan as you are. You ought to give him a call.”

So, at 8:45 a.m. the next day, Greenberg called Kelly, whose career exclusively has been in publishing, and after a short conversation it became readily apparent to both that combining strengths and “going for it” was the wiser move.

Now, more than 17 years later, after launching their dream, Kelly has opted for retirement at the ripe young age of 64. His last day at Current will be Dec. 31. Soon, he and his wife, Maggie, a former media and marketing executive who also is concurrently retiring as bookkeeper for Current, will have no need to set an alarm clock.

Kelly will be succeeded as a co-owner, president and publisher by Carmel resident Ben Weir, who joined Current in September 2020.

“Brian shared heavily in the development of Current, and I believe we’re in a good position for future growth. His retirement is well earned,’’ Weir said.

Greenberg will remain as co-owner and executive vice president with no plans to retire as of now.

“My role still is to serve my customers and help the staff however I can while also helping to further Ben’s development at Current, not that he needs much assistance, believe me,” Greenberg said. “He is the future here, which is exactly what Brian and I wanted.”

What became evident led Kelly to his decision.

“Ben joining us made my decision not only easier, but he made it possible. Maggie and I have been talking about retirement for a handful of years, but the timing just didn’t seem right. Now, it is,” Kelly said. “Ben has brought a lot of energy and new ideas that

have resulted in a lot of growth the past two years, so the timing is perfect.

“We’ve been working on the transition, really, since March of this year. There are a lot of moving parts, but the process has gone quite well. A lot of that is the result of an outstanding staff. It may sound cliché, but it is absolutely true: Current would not be where and what it is without the brilliance of the people I’ve been so fortunate to work with.”

Meanwhile, back to the beginning, Kelly and Greenberg traipsed through the customary startup minefield, always managing to put, collectively, one foot in front of the other. After 16 months of business formation; a capital raise; legal, accounting and logistics work; and hiring a staff, the pair was off to the races, signing landmark advertisers, whose initial commitment to Current never will be forgotten, they said.

“It was pedal to the metal for both of us back then,” Greenberg said. “As late-stage entrepreneurs, it was either success or failure, and the latter never was an option.

I recall a former Gannett publisher telling me, ‘Good luck. You’ll be chewed up and spit out within six weeks.’ I told Brian what was said to me, and, after our respective blood pressures came back to normal, it was ‘go like hell’ from then on. It worked out well, I’d say.”

Joining forces proved to be a successful pairing of strengths.

“The partnership with Brian worked well, just as it will with Ben, because we both brought different attributes to the company. Complementary, I’d say, and perfect for a business with seemingly a billion moving parts,” Greenberg said. “Brian was strong on fiduciary experience and distribution/ operations, while I had heavy newsroom experience and years of sales behind me. Brian could sell, too, and often we paired for ‘four-legged’ sales calls. Suffice it to say, we slept in our spare time. I’m extremely proud of what we built. And if anyone could turn a penny into a spool of copper, it’s Brian. If he and Maggie end up on a beach in St. Somewhere, I’ll be happy for them, but, no lie, I’ll

Kelly said the “cast of characters” made Current the best stop of his accomplished career. Both founders recognize and appreciate that the accomplishments they’ve enjoyed through the years never would have been possible without the team they assembled way back when and have grown since then. It’s a colorful troupe at Current — and it always has been — so much so that Kelly often would say, “That belongs in the movie,” or “That belongs in the book,” and always preceded by, “Man, I love this place.”

Three of Kelly’s longtime Current colleagues are Mark Ambrogi, Night and Day editor; Dennis O’Malia, senior advertising sales executive; and Zach Ross, art director. Ambrogi actually was a childhood friend of Kelly’s in Cincinnati. Ambrogi is a veteran of central Indiana media. O’Malia was hired before Current even had a business address, and Ross came along in Year 2.

“I can’t say enough about Ambro, Dennis and Zach. You could say we’ve pretty much been through it all,” Kelly said. “I’m amazed at the detail and amount of work they each process week in and week out, year after year, and the same goes for the rest of our team. And speaking of outstanding talent, I can’t say enough about Maggie’s contributions to our company. She’s the best bookkeeper in town!”

Terry Anker, a Current Publishing board member, founding investor and weekly essayist who owns Anker Consulting Group, said, “As a longtime Hamilton County resident, Brian Kelly knew firsthand of the lack of a local journalistic perspective on events affecting our communities. When we were talking about the idea of a new concept in local news that would include print editions, it would be an understatement to say that not everyone supported the concept. Now, almost two successful decades later, Brian and Current have unequivocally proven to me and everyone else that newspapers work, especially the ones that he helped to found. Kudos to him on a well-deserved break from the daily action — but let’s hope he doesn’t go too far. The tireless work he and his bride, Maggie, have done for the not-for-profit community and as an advisor and friend to countless of small business owners and young people just starting their careers is more important now than ever.”

Fellow Current board member and founding investor Ersal Ozdemir owns Keystone Corp. He offered Kelly “heartfelt congratula-

Brian Kelly, co-founder, president, publisher and co-owner of Current Publishing, will retire from his roles on Dec. 31. (File photo)

tions” on his pending retirement:

“Seventeen years ago, Brian co-founded Current Publishing and set in motion several important local publications that helped fill a void in coverage in Hamilton and Boone counties,” Ozdemir said. “Over the years, Current’s publications have become valuable resources to residents and local businesses. This would not have been possible without Brian’s dedication and vision, and I am proud of what he has achieved and has done for so many communities. I am glad to call Brian a friend and wish him the best.”

Long before Current was even an idea, Kelly sold advertising for the Indiana Daily Student while attending Indiana University. Upon graduation from IU’s Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science degree, he joined Gordon Publications, a national trade magazine company. After stints at Gordon’s Tustin, Calif., and Chicago offices, and later, the home office at Randolph, N.J., he was promoted to publisher of Software Retailing magazine at the ripe young age of 28. Later, he would help launch NUVO Newsweekly, and he was the founder of Kelly Publications, Inc., publisher of The Greenwood Gazette, The Greater Greenwood Business Journal and Business Update. He later sold KPI to Central Newspapers, Inc. (now Gannett). He also previously served as publisher of Thomson Newspapers’ niche division in Indiana, launching Indy Curiocity, which was distributed in more than 1,700 Indianapolis-area classrooms, and Image Newspapers, a group of weekly newspapers in Hamilton County.

Kelly also is the recently retired chief executive officer of Grow Local Media, publisher of The Southside Times, Hendricks County Business Leader, Hendricks County ICON and Center Grove ICON.

“I’ve been very lucky in life, to say the least,” Kelly said. “I married the woman of my dreams and had a great career in an industry I absolutely love, and always will. The partners I’ve had; the outstanding people with whom I work; the wonderful communities we’re fortunate to serve; and our wonderful customers and readers, many of whom have become great friends through the years … it’s all to be valued. I treasure these relationships, and that’s why Maggie and I will continue to call Carmel home. We’ll be doing some traveling and I’ll be indulging in my favorite pastime, reading. I’m looking forward to the challenge in my next stage in life, but I know I’m going to miss a lot of the day-to-day action in the office, and the people, of course.”

Senior leader wants Greyhounds to get defensive

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Sam Orme knows one way his Carmel High School basketball team can improve.

“I feel like we can be a lot better defensively as a team right now,” Orme said. “We haven’t got there yet.”

Orme said the Greyhounds have taken some big steps.

“We have a long way to go in becoming our best,” Orme said.

The 6-foot-9 senior is Carmel’s most experienced player. Orme was averaging 16.6 points and 7.5 rebounds as of Dec. 20 for the Greyhounds (5-3). Orme averaged 11.8 points and 5.5 rebounds as a junior.

“He’s a leader by example, more so now,” Carmel coach Ryan Osborn said. “We graduated seniors last year that were naturally leaders, and these (current seniors) have stepped into the role.”

Osborn said Orme is coachable and engaged in practice.

“He’s always willing to do whatever (is

MEET SAM ORME

Favorite subject: History

Favorite movie: “Fight Club”

Favorite TV show: “Breaking Bad”

asked), and that goes a long way when your best player is one of your hardest workers,” Osborn said. “He’s turned the page from leadership perspective with his effort with practice every day and showing up to games ready every night.”

Osborn said Orme is the team’s anchor defensively.

“He has a high basketball IQ,” Osborn said. “His confidence exudes to everybody else.

I’M BACK TO LIVING A NORMAL LIFE.

For Jay, the thing that pained him most wasn’t his back, it was living within the limits his back pain set for him. Skipping workouts. Contorting to pick up a shoe. Avoiding playing with Agnes. Now that Goodman Campbell physicians treated not only his pain, but the underlying spine issues that caused it, Jay is back to living the life he loves.

Learn more about Jay and his story at GoodmanCampbell.com.

”

He passes with either hand and finishes with either hand. He’s efficient offensively for us.”

The Greyhounds won the Class 4A state title Orme’s sophomore year. He averaged 5.8 points in that 2020-21 season. Last season, Carmel lost to Westfield in the sectional final.

“It was a tough one, but we’ll be back,” Orme said.

Orme’s biggest growth spurt came when he grew about five to six inches to 6-foot-6 the summer before his freshman year.

Orme chose NCAA Div. I Belmont over Miami (Ohio) University to continue his playing career.

“Belmont was the right fit for me in the end with the coaching staff and style of play,” Orme said.

Orme said the style of play is similar to Carmel offensively.

“They play a little faster, put up a lot of shots, which is going to be fun,” said Orme, who plans to major in finance.

Jay R., Goodman Campbell Patient

Carmel senior Sam Orme is the Greyhounds’ leading scorer. (Photo courtesy of Ryan Osborn)

Orme

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

Looking ahead to 2023, Fishers will continue to grow as a city, according to Mayor Scott Fadness. With many enterprising construction projects and businesses moving to the area, the city expects to extend its trend of growth.

“If 2022 was the year of introducing big ideas, then 2023 is going to be about executing all of those projects,” Fadness said. “What’s fun for our team now is to put our heads down and really make sure these projects live up to what we sold the community on. We get to watch the excitement build as ground breaks on these projects and they get to see the buildings come up and new programs and events are introduced.

“That’s what we’re looking forward to in 2023.”

FISHERS EVENT CENTER

The $170 million event center planned for Fishers District will be home to the Indy Fuel minor league hockey team. The team will set up headquarters and play home games at the event center. However, the facility will also be a hub of entertainment events, such as concerts, high school graduations and other large events hosted by the city.

Fishers expects multiple projects to begin in 2023

ment perspective, but also because of the economic development promise to come.

“This expansion not only answers the call from CEOs and employees looking for restaurants and entertainment but can now be home to our schools’ graduations and statewide sporting events.”

The facility is slated to open for the Fuel’s 2024-2025 season.

ANDRETTI HEADQUARTERS

Andretti Global, the parent company of Andretti Autosport, announced Aug. 22 that it plans to build a $200 million headquarters in Fishers. The 575,000-square-foot building will be constructed on 99 acres in Fishers near the Nickel Plate Trail Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve and Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport.

The facility is expected to create up to

Plate Railroad. The Fishers portion stretches from 106th Street to 146th Street. The trail will eventually extend into Indianapolis and Noblesville.

In spring of this year, Fishers was awarded $4.5 million by the Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources via the Next Level Trails Grant for construction of the remaining 1.3 miles of the Nickel Plate Trail from 96th to 106th Street as well as completing connectivity along 106th Street between Hague Road and the recently constructed Nickel Plate Trail.

In the coming months, the city will begin designing the additions to the trail, including a pedestrian bridge over 96th Street connecting the trail to Indianapolis. The city is exploring a phased approach that would allow the construction of the Nickel Plate Trail between Hague Road and 106th Street to potentially begin as early as spring of 2023.

COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

Fadness said community will continue to be at the forefront of the city’s plans to grow in the new year.

A rendering of the new Andretti Global headquarters slated to open in 2025. Photo courtesy of Andretti Autosport.

600 new jobs by 2026. The projected annual salary for the jobs will be about $100,000 and will create 956 construction jobs during the year of construction, according to city officials.

Construction will continue through 2023. The facility is slated to open in 2025.

STEVANATO GROUP

“Most importantly, we’re focusing on community-building,” Fadness said. “We’re not immune to a lot of the national narrative that has polarized our community. We plan to be intentional with community events and nurturing bonds between neighborhoods.”

CITY HALL AND ARTS CENTER

Construction on Fishers’ new City Hall and Arts Center is underway. The facility will be a 3-story multi-use building that will double as a city government building and a community center.

COMMUNITY CENTER

Fishers is also working to create a plan for a Community Center — something Fadness believes is long overdue.

“It felt like the community really needed a central community center,” Fadness said. “So, we hope to unveil our official plans for that in January or February of 2023.”

Fishers’ event center will be under construction during 2023. Come 2024, the center will be home to the Indy Fuel for the 2024-2025 season. Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers.

“Fishers is thriving, and this demonstrates that our momentum isn’t slowing down,” Fadness said. “Since 2019, residents and visitors of Fishers have enjoyed The Yard at Fishers District with a demand we haven’t experienced elsewhere. This decision to expand the District into even more neighborhoods is exciting news from an entertain-

The Stevanato Group, a technology company headquartered in Piombino, Italy, is working to make Fishers its new U.S. hub. The $1.45 million project includes a new 370,000-square-foot facility that is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. The headquarters is expected to be fully operational in early 2024.

NICKEL PLATE TRAIL

The Nickel Plate Trail is a paved walking and bicycling trail along the former Nickel

The first floor will include theater space with the capacity to seat up to 330 people where city council meetings will be held. The first floor will also have rooms for exhibits, classes, workshops and meetings. The second and third floors will be offices for city officials.

The arts center featured in the new City Hall will provide local painters, sculptors, actors, singers and dancers a place to perform.

Construction will continue through 2023 with the expected opening date to be in spring of 2024.

An artist rendering of the expected entryway sculpture for the Fishers library to be built in 2023. Photo courtesy of Hamilton East Public Library.

The Hamilton East Public Library-Fishers, at 5 Municipal Dr., is under construction. Phase II of the project, which includes renovating the interior of the library with new carpet, paint and interior design aspects such as the entryway sculpture, is expected to begin in early 2023.

ON THE COVER: An artist rendering of Fishers new City Hall and Arts Center expected to be completed in 2024. (Photo courtesy of City of Fishers)

THE BUDGET FOR FISHERS’ GROWTH IN 2023

With so many projects underway or ready to be launched, residents will see a total investment of $1 billion in the city.

“I don’t think that residents realize just yet the amount of development that’s going to go on (in Fishers) in the next 12 to 24 months,” Fadness said. “It’s really exciting from our perspective.”

HAMILTON EAST PUBLIC LIBRARY

ESSAY

Friendly with the enemy?

Commentary by Terry Anker

The Wicked Witch of the West famously warned Dorothy, “I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog, too.” The erstwhile Kansan, at that moment, was under the protection of the most powerful sorceress in the Land of Oz, Glinda, The Good Witch of the South, and far beyond harm’s way. But true to her wicked word, the evil enchantress spent the rest of her life chasing and tormenting the youngster and her pet. Getting even for the accidental killing of her partner in crime, the Wicked Witch of the East, became an overwhelming obsession.

The Hatfields and McCoys battled for decades. Hamlet fought to the death. And Richard Nixon famously kept lists — all to ensure that the score stayed even. Likewise, the Book of Exodus demands “an eye for an eye” in retaliatory consequence. But does it all really do any good? Are we able to extract anything close to justice by tit-for-tat attacks? Or is our effort to find equilibrium creating a hopelessly unstable arms race, sure to collapse like a stack of Jenga?

Political leadership seems especially fond of vengeful action. We have come to expect all manner of investigation, special prosecution, and congressional hearing from one election to another — as if our newly elected majority representatives are the Horsemen of the Apocalypse arrived to right all wrongs perpetrated by the unholy who had ruled just before. Perhaps it’s inseparable from power, this desire to punish those who would challenge or resist us. If so, can we break the cycle? Those in charge would have to show restraint. We’ve done it before with nuclear arms treaties signed by our government. But as the Russians once again maraud, is armed détente more prudent? Still, could a little kindness to our foes impede vengeance from generational reproduction?

CURRENTOON

Finally spoiling for a fight

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Longtime readers know that I am highly conflict adverse. I’m terribly uncomfortable with emotional displays, particularly anger, and avoid hard conversations like they’re large gatherings in 2020. But no more! My New Year’s resolution is to woman-up and learn to engage with friends and family in a healthy, productive manner when the proverbial poo hits the fan. Basically, I’m embracing “Fight Club.”

And I’ve started early. My husband Doo and I have been at each other for a few weeks. The stress of holidays, work and parenting four young adults has led to neither of us sleeping particularly well and numerous stupid but hurtful squabbles. Normally, I run for the hills (i.e., hide in my bedroom) at the first sign of an impending confrontation, but this time I decided to put my big-girl pants on and dive headfirst into the fray.

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

QUOTE OF THE WEEK POLICIES

– TERRI GUILLEMETS

After 30 minutes of neither of us really hearing each other and both of us pretty upset, we hit the pause button. I was honest and told him I needed to cry (privately, of course!) and blow dry my hair (which was on the verge of becoming a frizzy monstrosity). I felt better afterward, and when Doo offered to run errands with me, I assumed we were good.

We were not. The next morning, Doo announced he was still mad, and I had to force myself once again to step into an argument. I was anxious and uncomfortable, and we didn’t entirely resolve the issue, but at least we are now on the same page. And more important, I did it!

So welcome, “Fight Club 2023.” I embrace thee!

Peace out.

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

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

Thanks for the memories – Part 1

snore?”

(Advertorial)

“I get a lot of complaints from the neighbors.”

HUMOR

Every year about this time I look back at the previous 12 months and express appreciation for the people, places and things that have made their way into my weekly columns. So, thanks to:

• My old roommate from college who called me after 55 years. He reminded me we hadn’t spoken in 55 years. I told him it was 57, if you count the two years we lived together.

• My wife’s mother, Margaret, gave an original copy of the “The Joy of Cooking” to Mary Ellen to read. Not to cook anything, just to read. In the poultry and game chapter, here is a summary of its advice: “Draw out the entrails, cut the neck close to the body, remove the windpipe end then chop off the feet.” As you can tell, this book was also a big hit with serial killers.

• My physical therapist, who helped me through rehab. For several months I was encouraged to do Kegels. There is a specialist for that at Community Hospital, but she was out one day, so I asked a question of another therapist who was not trained in the procedure.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Wolfsie, that’s a little over my head.”

“Then you are doing it wrong,” I told her.

• The folks at the Sleep Center at Community Hospital, where I participated in a sleep study. They had lots of questions:

“Does your wife say you snore?”

“She has no idea because she sleeps in another room … maybe because I snore.”

“Mr. Wolfsie, then how do you know you

• My wife, who wanted to try a new Chinese restaurant, found one online and ordered the food. I called back because I wanted to know how long it would take to get there. “Where do you live?” I was asked.  I told him the northside of Indianapolis.

“Oh, about six hours. Sir, you are calling a Chinese restaurant in Canton, Ohio.”

“That’s OK,” I said. “I love Cantonese food.”

• The researcher at Ohio State University found that the average couple kisses about 25,000 times in a marriage. Were we keeping up with the Joneses, the newlyweds down the street? I told Mary Ellen how beautiful she was, how good dinner was, and how hot she looked in her jeans. I was hoping that kissing up counted.

• My brother-in-law, Tom, who gave me an Apple Watch for Christmas last year. I called him in Oregon and admitted I was overwhelmed by how complicated it was to operate.

“Come on, Dick. You just think you are out of your league. Relax. Don’t be nervous. And don’t be intimidated like so many others have.”

“Tom, that is exactly the same advice you gave me when I married your sister.”

I’m not done. More next week.

Tom Wood Subaru believes that all students deserve an equal and fair opportunity for a quality education. Through our partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, all Subaru retailers combined, have supported more than 300,000 students nationwide and are proud to be their largest corporate supporter!

Millions of students in high-needs schools lack the supplies and learning materials they need to be successful in the classroom. In fact, 92% of classrooms have students whose families cannot afford to purchase any school supplies for their children, often requiring teachers to purchase resources using their own money. We find these teachers just absolutely, amazing individuals!

My old roommate from college who called me after 55 years. He reminded me we hadn’t spoken in 55 years. I told him it was 57, if you count the two years we lived together.

Here at Tom Wood Subaru, we celebrated Subaru Loves Learning by providing teachers with flexible funding to purchase the school supplies and resources they need to help their students thrive in the classroom, through Adoptaclassroom.org. They believe that every child deserves the tools and materials they need to learn and succeed in school. With the help of sponsors such as Tom Wood Subaru, they’ve helped to equip classrooms with the supplies students need to learn and thrive. Since 1998, AdoptAClassroom.org has raised $57 million and supported more than 5.8 million students across the U.S........So amazing!

Our selected school for the last several years has been Edison School of the Arts. Principal; Amy Berns and

her team have been so amazing to work with and they sent us some amazing photos and videos to share with you! English Teacher; Mrs. Buchanan was so grateful for the new headphones and glue gun she was able to purchase for her classroom. Another teacher sent us a great video of her opening many items she ordered to help calm and destress the children in her class. She opened each box with joy, in amazement that these items were purchased for her classroom!

Edison is still really in need of so many more items though. How can you help you ask........well let me tell you! The teachers have created a wish list of items they are really in need of: https://docs.google.com/ document/d/1lL_vrJ65EzMKqgRXuuE1xmc-cy1GRbNfbyki3DSwVHY/ edit?usp=sharing

If you go to this link, you will be directed to a list of each individual teacher, with the link to their needs included. We would like to thank Subaru and Adoptaclassroom, for providing these great resources to the children in our community!

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

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Merry flexible spending season

Commentary by Dr. Jeremy Ciano

It’s that time of year again! When the dust settles on all the toy wrappings, tree needles falling and broken slot cars, we find ourselves on Dec. 26 starting to look at our unused health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts. That’s when the panic sets in, because “if you don’t use it, you lose it.” What to do? And the mad end-ofyear rush starts.

VISION

Most folks aren’t aware of the “gift of sight” they are missing out on. It’s the perfect gift for your returning college kid, that husband who hasn’t had his eyes checked in “forever” or that 5-year-old who has never had a full “real” exam before. It’s also an opportunity to give to others who don’t have as much under the tree this year.

Fashion frames, sunglasses and contact

lenses are eligible with most HSA/flex spend programs. Have you been eyeing that second pair of frames? How about computer lenses? Night driving lenses? Sport contacts for the pickleball players and golfers out there? There are myriad options available for you to help better your hobby, sport, fashion or functionality with new glasses.

So, this holiday season, when you are struggling to find that perfect gift for a loved one who already has everything, find a local optometrist and use your flexible spending/HSA before it runs out. The “gift of sight” is powerful and lasts a lifetime.

Dr. Jeremy A. Ciano, an international lecturer and published author, is a Current Publishing columnist. For more information or to ask a question, he may be emailed at DrCiano@ Revolution-EYES.com.

DISPATCHES

Improve your focus — Do you have more trouble concentrating than you used to? Studies show that our attention spans are declining, largely due to the use of technology. We feel we have to respond to every text, alert and call immediately. Instead, try putting the phone on “do not disturb” mode for a few minutes when you need to focus on something else. You may find it easier to concentrate and you probably won’t miss anything truly important.

Source: Cynthia Green, Ph.D.

Reduce arthritis pain naturally – Unlike many medical remedies for arthritis, these are safe and inexpensive. Give them a try to see if they work for you:

1. Tea – contains polyphenols that suppress arthritis inflammation

2. Vitamins C and D

3. Grapes and grape juice – contain resveratrol which suppresses inflammation

4. Taping – therapeutic taping has been proven to reduce symptoms. Have a physical therapist show you how to do it properly.

Source: Bottom Line Personal

Healthier bread – Like it or not, bread just isn’t that good for you, especially white bread. Even though whole grain bread is a better option, it is still low in nutrients. Now, though, there is a healthy bread substitute. Called Barely Bread, it’s a soy-, yeast- and gluten-free, paleo-friendly bread substitute that actually tastes a lot like real

bread. The texture isn’t identical to regular bread, but it is close. Available online or at Whole Foods, it’s worth trying.

Source: MSN.com

Better way to take meds – Some medicines are better absorbed by the body if taken sublingually. This means the medicine is placed under your tongue and held there until it is absorbed. It can go directly into the bloodstream without being digested first. If you have trouble taking pills, or have digestive difficulties, ask your doctor about sublingual alternatives.

Source: The Alternative Advisor

Wake up faster – If you have trouble waking up in the morning, try using your shower as a stimulant. Switch the water temperature from hot to cold several times, holding each temperature for about 10 seconds. The changes in temperature can rev up your blood flow, which can help make you more alert.

Source: BottomLineHouseholdMagic.com

Air pollution and dementia – A large new study provides evidence that invisible air pollution such as that emitted by cars, trucks and power plants might be responsible for more than 1 in 5 cases of dementia. This is because microscopic particles generated by fossil fuels get into our bodies directly - they go from your nose right into your brain.

Source: BottomLineHealth.com

currentnightandday.com

Beef & Boards 50th season starts with ‘Clue’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

‘CLUE’

“Clue” will be presented from Dec. 28 to Feb. 5 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘DECEPTION’

PERFORMANCES

For Jeff Stockberger and Suzanne Stark, it’s only appropriate that the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre regulars appear in the first show of venue’s 50th anniversary season

Stockberger and Stark will perform in “Clue,” which will be presented Dec. 28 to Feb. 5 at the Indianapolis venue.

Stockberger estimated he has appeared in 75 to 80 Beef & Boards productions as an actor.

“If you add in all the shows that I either directed, stage managed, or backstage managed, that number goes up significantly,” he said.

His first show was “Peter Pan” in 1996 when he portrayed Noodler, the pirate.

“I’ve been a part of the second half of the 50 years, especially the last 20 years, and it’s been amazing to watch this theater continue to thrive in this difficult business,” Stockberger said. “Beef & Boards is one of the few remaining Equity (Actors’ Equity Association) dinner theaters in the country. (Owner) Doug Stark and the whole Stark family have proven that you can have a successful business while treating all employees with respect.

“There is a reason there has been so many people that have worked for Beef & Boards for 20 to 30-plus years. We’re family.”

Stark, the former wife of Doug Stark, has regularly performed in Beef & Boards shows through the years.

“I am terribly grateful to Beef & Boards every time they ask me to be in a show,” Suzanne said. “This year, especially, it really is special. Fifty years is remarkable for any business, and I know that many of the employees have been a part of the operation for a good number of those years. I am blessed to have been a part of the story.”

Stark has never seen “Clue” performed live, but said she loved the movie when it first came out (in 1985).”

“I really do love these comedy ensemble pieces,” Stark said. “To know we’ve made

an entire audience let loose and laugh for an evening is really satisfying as a performer. The waves of laughter are a bit addictive.”

Scot Greenwell plays the role of Mr. Green in “Clue.”

“I love ‘Clue,’ the film, which I’ve seen innumerable times, so I have to put that aside because the play is different in some places,” Greenwell said. “And trying not to break character will be a big challenge with this hilarious cast. I love being part of an ensemble, and I haven’t done a mystery like this, so I’m excited. I enjoy Agatha Christie plays, as well as sendups like the film ‘Murder by Death.’ Like those others, ‘Clue’ will be a fun escape for the audience.

Greenwell has performed for several theaters.

“I’ll perform wherever they’ll hire me,” he said. “I’ve acted at Indiana Repertory Theatre, the Phoenix Theatre, Civic Theatre, and Actors Theatre of Indiana. I’ve worked in the galleries of The Children’s Museum, and even outside the (Indiana) Statehouse, playing the father of gerrymandering.”

Greenwell said he wanted to act since he was a child.

“I loved school programs and singing with the church choir,” said Greenwell, who grew up in Loogootee. “I did high school musicals, alongside community theater, then went to the University of Evansville with broader theatrical interests. In 2004, I remembered how much I loved acting, and I’ve been doing so ever since.”

When not doing a play, Greenwell said he works as a standardized patient, “helping health care professionals and students hone their skills.”

Standardized patients are independent specialists who are trained to portray patients in realistic scenarios to help students learn.

Greenwell had an interesting internship with the NBC soap opera “Days of Our Lives” when he was in college.

“I’d watched ‘Days’ since I was quite young, when my mom watched it,” Greenwell said. “So, in 1999, I lucked into an internship there, and it was thrilling. I learned about the soap industry and rubbed elbows with Deidre Hall, Ali Sweeney and Jensen Ackles. I wrote previews for magazines and attended an awards show.”

David Ranalli’s “Deception: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 29 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘NYE WITH ELTON & ME’

Craig A. Meyer’s “NYE with Elton & Me: My Life as Elton John” shows are set for 7:30 and 10:30 p.m. Dec. 31 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

DISPATCHES

Songbook Academy accepting applications

— High school students with a passion for singing and the stage can learn directly from Broadway performers and other arts and entertainment professionals at the Great American Songbook Foundation’s annual Songbook Academy, which is now accepting applications for its 14th national summer intensive July 15-22, 2023. Only 40 students nationwide are selected each year to attend the weeklong intensive at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Candidates may apply at app.getacceptd.com/songbookacademy. The application deadline is March 26, 2023, with an early bird discount available through Feb. 26.

Crash Test Dummies set to perform – Canadian rock band Crash Test Dummies, best known for their 1990s hit “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm,” will perform March 11, 2023, at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Opening the show will be Carleton Stone, an Americana and pop singer-songwriter from Nova Scotia, Canada. Tickets starting at $40 are on sale at the Palladium’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office, online at thecenterpresents.org and by phone at 1-317-843-3800. The concert is part of the Faegre Drinker Encore Series and the 20222023 Center Presents Season, presented in partnership with Allied Solutions.

Beef & Boards acting regulars Jeff Stockberger and Suzanne Stark appeared in “Shear Madness” at Beef & Boards’ first show of the 2022 season. (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

‘Avatar’ sequel is satisfying

After more than a decade, we arrive back in the world of Pandora, where Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) have started a family and are raising their three children. Life is good until the Sky People invade, led by Col. Miles Quaritch (Stephan Lang) and his troops, who attempt to capture and retrieve Jake.

To protect his family, Jake relocates them to the islands of Metkayina, where the Reef People offer them sanctuary. The tribe introduces the family to their rituals and how they coexist with nature and animals.

In “Avatar: The Way of Water” — the sequel to director James Cameron’s 2009 blockbuster “Avatar” — the audience is treated to a journey alongside the natives as they lead the children through the new aquatic habitat. You’ll need to remind yourself that what you’re watching isn’t real as the ocean floor and its creatures come to life!

Chaos erupts when Quaritch locates Jake and launches a military attack, kidnapping

his children. The Reef People join Jake and Neytiri in a battle to save their kids and protect the “Great Balance” of their world.

A suspenseful battle aboard a warship ensues with thematic and visual elements of “Titanic,” Cameron’s epic, action-packed film.

There are a few hiccups with the story: a rocky road into Pandora at the film’s beginning, and Quaritch’s obsession with tracking and capturing Jake is never really explained.

But for its hitches, this long-awaited sequel grabs the audience with stunning special effects and wholesome themes.

“Avatar: The Way of Water” is a flight of imagination showing that family isn’t just who you start with but those you connect with along the way.

During the past 14 years, Julieanna Childs has worked as a film studio representative, contracting for all the major Hollywood studios, including Marvel, Disney, Sony, Netflix, Universal, Paramount, Columbia, and Warner Bros. Her film reviews can be found at TheJujuReview.com. She is a Hamilton County resident.

The Izzy Spritz features Exotico reposado tequila, aperol and grapefruit soda

To see a video of this drink being mixed, scan this QR code.

Commentary by Julieanna Childs

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER

(Photo courtesy of Huse Culinary)

BEHIND BARS: IZZY SPRITZ

Attesti to perform concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The City of Carmel’s sister city relationship with Cortona, Italy, will bring a taste of Italian culture to Carmel in February 2023.

PIANIST

Cortona Deputy Mayor Francesco Attesti, who also happens to be a well-known classical concert pianist, will perform with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra at 7 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. The concert will be followed by a VIP reception in the Cole Porter Ballroom of Hotel Carmichael.

In addition, Attesti and his AB&C Trio, which includes Attesti (piano), Maurizio Bozzi (double bass) and Maicol Cucchi (drums), will perform a jazz concert at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael for a special black-tie event that begins at 5:30 p.m. and will feature a celebration of Cortona food and wine. The weekend is called “Arte D’Italia.”

The Rotary Club of Carmel, in conjunction with the City of Carmel and the Carmel-Cortona Sister City Committee, is presenting the events. Rotary president-elect Julie Lundin-Shadinger is serving as chair of the committee for the shows. Proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club of Carmel and the many local projects it supports throughout the year.

Packages and tickets are available at the Center for the Performing Arts box office.

Lundin-Shadinger said Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard talked with the Rotary Club about inviting Attesti to the city for the concerts.

“It seemed like a good fit,” she said. “He’s the deputy mayor, and to boot, he’s a world-renowned concert pianist. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate that kind of culture in a community where culture has been wonderful here. Carmel is kind of a cultural Mecca, I think. I think it’s wonderful that he has that kind of talent to share and help us celebrate the relationship.”

Among his generation of musicians, Attesti is considered one of the finest interpreters of the Romantic and early Twentieth Century Repertoire. He began practicing the piano at the age of 6 and performed his first concert at 11.

Attesti has recorded several albums and performs regularly in internationally prestigious concert halls around the world. He has performed approximately 1,000 concerts

in 40 nations, including the United States.

Attesti has served as deputy mayor and councilor of culture and tourism for Cortona since 2019.

Following the Feb. 19 concert, there will be an “Elegantly Italian” VIP dessert reception at 8:30 p.m., featuring desserts, coffees and liqueurs.

On May 23, Carmel and Cortona became official Sister Cities, signing an official agreement designed to promote international goodwill, understanding, student educational exchanges and expanded business relationships between the two cities and their respective nations. Cortona is Carmel’s fourth international Sister City. Earlier this year, the city entered into a similar relationship with Jelgava, Zemgale, Latvia. Previously, Carmel established relationships with Kawachinagano, Osaka, Japan and Xiangyang, Hubei, China.

Lundin-Shadinger has been a Rotarian in Carmel for seven years. She previously was a Rotary Club member in South Bend. She moved to Carmel 15 years ago.

“I’m a pianist and this meant a lot to me,” said Ludin-Shadinger, a minister of music at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Carmel. “Our college choir sang at various locations in Italy. In a way, this is a perfect fit for my background. It gives me a little extra joy to do this.”

Lundin-Shadinger is the organist and directs the adult and children’s choir at King of Glory.

For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Cortona Deputy Mayor Francesco Attesti, a classical concert pianist, will perform Feb. 23, 2023, at the Palladium in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Francesco Attesti)

Lundin-Shadinger

Blueprint for Improvement: Mid-century modern master bath

After

Built in 1957 in Indianapolis’ historic Crow’s Nest neighborhood, this home’s primary bathroom had seen its fair share of renovations through the years. The homeowners were ready for a fresh revamp — looking to update the dated aesthetic while staying true to the home’s historic roots.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The floorplan was redesigned to accommodate a larger shower, a soaking tub and a master closet.

• The custom wall treatment and floating vanity feature clean lines and warm wood tones, adding a touch of mid-century modern flair that honors the home’s roots

• Matte black plumbing fixtures and a quartz countertop elevate and modernize the space while minimizing maintenance.

• The curves on the soaking tub, vanity mirror and vanity pendants balance the room’s clean lines for a sleek appeal.

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.

Before

SIGN UP FOR YOUR MORNING BRIEFING

A free newsletter delivered to your inbox at 7 a.m. Monday through Friday. AND

BREAKING NEWS

Free news alerts delivered to your inbox when the news happens.

SIGN UP AT youarecurrent.com/morning-briefing

Commentary by Larry Greene

In the ear of the beholder

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

words like “moist,” “slurp,” “bulbous,” “pus,” “phlegm,” “mucus,” and the like.

But today we’re not focusing on “moist” and its legions of blech; we’re going to take a “meh” word and make it marvelous by using euphonyms.

GRAMMAR GUY

There’s a subreddit page I like to visit called r/eyebleach. It essentially gives your eyes a break from scrolling through cynical and often disturbing Reddit entries by showing photos of kittens, baby otters and puppies doing funny puppy things. The page has 9.4 million subscribers.

Our eyes and brains all need a respite from bad news, polarized politics and 2 a.m. doomscrolling. But, what about our ears?

There’s a term I love for synonyms that sound more pleasant than similar words: euphonyms. A euphonious word is a word that is pleasing to the ear. C.S. Lewis posited that the most pleasant-sounding term was “cellar door.” Others have their preferences, but I like cellar door.

On the other hand, many people have unofficial list of their least-favorite words. My friend Jeff has an official list in a Word document. The term for avoiding icky terms is called “word aversion.” By employing word aversion, we can avoid

Euphonyms allow neutral or negative-sounding words to seem more pleasant. We take “moist,” and it becomes “dewy.” “Supple” (one of the words on my “ick” list) becomes “limber.” We can replace “orifice” with “aperture.” Pleasant-sounding synonyms can really save a sentence.

You may be reading this and wonder, “Could a euphonym have a different definition?” Yes! We can consider an alternate application for this pleasing prose. Personally, I’m fond of the sound of former Major League Baseball pitcher “Goose” Gossage.

Israel’s Tel Dan Nature Reserve

Commentary by Don Knebel

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

Today, as we begin our trip through Israel and Palestinian territories, we stop at one of the area’s most scenic and historically significant sites. Tel Dan Nature Reserve is a 120-acre park in the far northeastern corner of Israel, about 100 miles from Jerusalem. The Dan River, fed with runoff from Lebanon’s nearby Mount Hermon, runs through the park. Trails along the river, the most important source of the River Jordan, pass through lush forests, including 60-foot-tall ash trees.

TRAVEL

The park also includes Tel Dan, a large archeological mound that has produced many important archaeological discoveries. The oldest structure uncovered in Tel Dan is a mud-brick gate from Laish, a city established by the Canaanites about 4,000 years ago. The gate includes the oldest known arched opening, an invention once incorrectly attributed to the much later Romans. According to the biblical Book of Joshua, members of the Israelite Tribe of Dan conquered Laish from the Canaanites. Archaeologists have unearthed stone gates and walls from the period of Israelite occupation of Dan, which formed the northern boundary of the United Monarchy established by King David. Visitors can also explore an excavated “high place” the Bible says King Jeroboam built when the northern Kingdom of Israel split from the southern Kingdom of Judah after the death of David’s son Solomon. Dan’s high place, originally featuring a golden calf, competed for worshippers with the Temple in Jerusalem.

During excavations at Tel Dan in 1993 and 1994, archaeologists discovered pieces of a broken stele (monument), probably erected by King Hazael of Aram-Damascus in the

late ninth century B.C. Aramaic writing on the stele boasts of capturing Dan and killing Israel’s King Jehoram. Most scholars now believe the writing also says the king killed Ahaziah, “son of (a king) of the House of David,” the first non-biblical evidence of David’s existence.

Jeroboam’s “high place” in Tel Dan Nature Reserve. (Photos by Don Knebel)

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

Reconstructed Israelite wall.

Canaanite gate in Israel.

Dan River in Israel.

FINE BATHROOMS

Complete Bathroom Remodeling

-Ceramic and Porcelain Tile Installations

-Custom Showers

-Leak and Mold Solutions

-Low Maintenance Choices

Anderson Construction Services www.iwantanewbathroom.com

Learn more at:

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

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

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

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

To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net