July 11, 2023 — Fishers

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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIII, No. 23

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Eid al-Adha celebration brings unity to community

By Kiersten Riedford kiersten@youarecurrent.com

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Opinions

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

RELIGION

Eid al-Adha, one of two main Islamic holidays, was celebrated by Muslims from throughout the greater Indianapolis area June 28 at the Grand Park indoor complex in Westfield.

The celebration brought together more than 5,000 participants to commemorate the story of Abraham — a prophet in the Quran and in religious texts of Judaism and Christianity — who was willing to sacrifice his son to prove his devotion to Allah, the Arabic word for God.

The Alhuda Foundation, located in Fishers, organized the event alongside the Ahikmah Islamic Center, Al Salam Foundation, Masjid Al Mumineen, Masjid Al-Fajir and Masjid Al-Taqwa.

Ahmed Alamine is the imam — a person who leads prayers in a mosque — and director of religious affairs for the Indianapolis Muslim Community Association. He said his sermon focused on the importance of coming together and sacrifice.

“As (the) Muslim community and greater Indianapolis community, we have been going through a lot of challenges, whether it is homicide issues, drug overdose issues, Islamophobia issues,” Alamine said. “We have to come together to address all these issues.”

Alamine said Muslims strongly believe in the importance of family structure to build a strong community.

“(The) Muslim community and beyond (is) calling everyone to join in unity,” Alamine said. “This is not just a show, it is something that we believe in deeply because it’s part of our faith to be united.”

The message of Eid al-Adha is of hope, courage and sacrifices, according to State Sen. Fady Qaddoura, a Democrat serving District 30, which encompasses the north side of Indianapolis, including portions of Washington, Pike and Lawrence Townships. He said the celebration unites all faiths and all communities together.

“It is not just the religious celebration,”

Qaddoura said. “We have many of the faith communities come together and actually celebrate our unity and utilize the values that inspire the celebration to unite us. The desired outcomes of hope of love and compassion and unity are the things that bring us all collectively together.”

Alamine said Islam is the only one of the three Abrahamic faiths that celebrates Eid al-Adha, despite all three acknowledging the story of Abraham in their religious texts. He said there are more connections between the faiths than many people realize, and he encourages people to educate themselves about Islam and the connections between the Abrahamic faiths.

“In learning Islam, I encourage people to read the Quran,” Alamine said. “We tell

people Islam is an extension to Christianity and Judaism. So, talk to your neighbors, talk to your coworker. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You will never be able to offend a Muslim by asking questions.”

Alamine said he hopes to see the celebration develop into an interfaith event. Qaddoura said he hopes to see the space become more diverse.

“The more that we are inclusive, the more that we support one another,” Qaddoura said. “The more that we love and respect one another, the more that we act in a kind way towards our neighbors and our friends, the stronger our communities will be.”

To learn more about Eid al-Adha and Islamic celebrations, go to alhudafoundation.org.

Imam Ahmad Alamine leads the June 28 Eid al-Adha service in Westfield. (Photos by Kiersten Riedford)

Three young women participate in the June 29 Eid al-Adha service

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HSE school board considers reduced referendum rates

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

A school-funding referendum was the topic of a June 26 Hamilton Southeastern School District Board of Trustees work session, and the issue is expected to be up for ratification during the board’s July 12 regular meeting.

Board Member Suzanne Thomas asked whether, for marketing purposes, it would be better to have a rate of .1995 or .1990, rather than .1997. Dowling said that would be an easy adjustment and would not require creating a new scenario.

EDUCATION

HSE Chief Financial Officer Katy Dowling led the work-session presentation, where she offered three scenarios for the board to consider, all with a reduced funding rate for the school district.

The current levy for school district funding is .2275 per $100 assessed property value, which generates about $25.6 million. That rate expires at the end of the year. Dowling said that the district needs to consider continually increasing property value assessments when choosing a new rate that voters can support in November.

“There’s no scenario where we come in without a lesser rate,” she said of the options she prepared for the board.

The first scenario she offered was an approximately 10 percent reduction, or .2047, which would lead to revenue of about $24.5 million; the second was an approximately 12 percent reduction, or a levy of .1997, for revenue of $23.9 million; and the third was about 15 percent, or .1916, with revenue just under $23 million.

Dowling told the board that she’s most comfortable with the second scenario.

Dowling asked if any board members wanted her to bring significantly different scenarios to the July 12 meeting for consideration, and there were no requests.

The board also talked about the language of the referendum that voters would see on the ballot. The proposed amended language was “Shall the Hamilton Southeastern Schools continue to impose increased property taxes paid to the school corporation by homeowners and businesses for eight years immediately following the holding of the referendum for the purpose of essential safety initiatives, maintaining class sizes, retaining and attracting teachers, funding academic and educationally related programs, and changing the previously approved maximum referendum tax rate from $0.2275 to $0.XXXX.”

The language was adjusted slightly, to switch “academic and educationally related programs” and “essential safety initiatives.”

Consultant Steve Klink told the board that if the referendum failed to pass Nov. 7, the board could not bring another proposed referendum back to voters for another two years. However, a petition could be filed to bring the issue back within one year.

DISPATCHES

American Legion plans fundraising events — The Fishers American Legion Post 470 has two fundraising events planned in July. The first is a euchre tournament set for 3 p.m. July 22 at American Legion Post 470, 9091 E. 126th St. in Fishers. Registration is capped at 48 players, who must register before the event at eventbrite.com/e/ euchre-tournament-tickets-649736267667. The $20 cash-only registration fee will be collected at the door, and doors open at 2:30. On July 29, the Legion will host its third annual luau featuring a roasted pig dinner served from 5 to 8 p.m. Meals are $12 per adult and $6 for kids 10 and under.

Nominations open for teachers in free-burritos contest — The More Moe’s Indiana restaurant group, which owns and operates six Moe’s Southwest Grill locations in Central Indiana, will award a year of free burritos to a teacher who is making a difference in the lives of their students. Parents, students, co-workers, and community members are encouraged to nominate a life-changing teacher for the award through July 7. Moe’s Southwest Grill has restaurants in Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville and Indianapolis. Nominations can be made online at form.jotform. com/231425380667054.

IMMERSE YOUR INNER ARTIST while exploring both doable and viewable art. Put your skills to the test at a u-paint class and enjoy art events throughout the county. With three recognized state cultural districts, no matter where you go in Hamilton County you will experience the arts.

July 29

August 5

August 11–12

August 25–26

Brews on the Boulevard, Carmel Art Fair on the Square Carmel Jazz Fest, Carmel GreekFest 2023, Carmel

The sounds of summer have arrived and that’s music to our ears! Find a full list of live music and concerts, from free to famous, happening around Hamilton County by scanning the QR code below.

Dowling

RIGHT SIZE. RIGHT CARE. RIGHT HERE. NOBLESVILLE / WESTFIELD / CARMEL / CICERO / FISHERS / SHERIDAN / ZIONSVILLE

“They know me, they support me and they care for me.”

With advanced technology and expert care, we’ll get you back to what you love.

Fishers police offer condolences to shooting victim’s family

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Fishers Police Chief Ed Gebhart released a statement June 30 expressing condolences to the loved ones of Kaylah Ann Farmer, the woman who was shot to death June 28 at the Speedway Gas Station.

CRIME

AROUND FISHERS THIS SUMMER!

Joshua Alexander Farmer of Anderson, was arrested June 29 and charged with murder in the case. He remains in custody at the Hamilton County Jail.

Farmer, the victim’s ex-husband, faces multiple felony charges and one misdemeanor in addition to the murder charge, but the other charges were pending weeks before the deadly June 28 shooting. Those charges, which were filed June 5, include intimidation with a deadly weapon, criminal confinement with a deadly weapon, criminal confinement with bodily injury, strangulation, domestic battery with a deadly weapon, domestic battery committed in the presence of a child under 16, and battery when the victim is less than 14 years of age.

In his statement, Gebhart wrote: “This week our community experienced a tragedy with the murder of Kaylah Ann Farmer. Kaylah was the mother of three children, a daughter, and friend to many. We want to extend our sincere condolences to Kaylah’s family and friends. Our agency will continue to advocate for Kaylah and work closely with the Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to ensure justice is served for her.”

In an earlier news release, police stated that officers responded to the gas station at 7235 East 116th St. at the Allisonville Road intersection a little after 5 p.m. June 28, and found a woman shot to death in a red Chrysler Van.

Police identified Farmer as a person of interest at that time, noting a possible ongoing domestic violence situation.

The City of Fishers offers many ways to get involved in causes that are important to you, whether it’s volunteering at a community event or getting connected at a Citizen Academy.

PARTICIPATE IN CITIZEN ACADEMIES

Mayor's Youth Academy

High school juniors and seniors can work with Mayor Fadness to explore future careers in the public sector. Register by July 14.

City Government Academy

Residents ages 18+ can get a behind-the-scenes look at local government in this 9-week course. Register by August 4.

REGISTER

Geist

Fishers

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Opportunities

Farmer

FISHERS

Project: 146th and Allisonville Interchange

IT’S TIME TO SEAL THE DEAL.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Location: Phase 2A traffic restrictions are in place, which eliminate left turn movements from 146th Street onto Allisonville Road and reopen to two through lanes on eastbound and westbound 146th Street. Sowers Drive, Wellington Court and Kensington Drive will be closed at 146th Street during this phase. Increased utility relocation activity is expected along Allisonville Road south of 146th Street. Flaggers will be present when lane or shoulder restrictions are necessary. Construction crews will be working to complete the connection of Sowers Drive to Allisonville Road. Saville Road will be closed at 146th Street for construction crews to construct the new frontage road and Saville Road access at 146th Street. The worksite speed limit will be 35 mph.

Expected completion: The entire project is set for completion in summer 2025

Project: 106th Street and Allisonville Road

Location: A sanitary sewer project is taking place at Metro Airport at 106th Street and Allisonville Road. There are times when lane restrictions may be in place on Allisonville Road.

Expected completion: TBD

Project: 2023 resurfacing

Location: ADA ramp and curb reconstruction will begin taking place in the Bristols as part of the 2023 Resurfacing Project. After ADA ramp and curb reconstruction is completed, those areas will be restored with topsoil and seed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to water the seed for the seed to germinate. Prior to road resurfacing, residents will be notified via street signage for street parking restrictions.

Expected completion: The entire project should be done by the end of summer

Project: Fall Creek Road

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

Expected completion: August

Project: 106th Street & Kincaid Drive

Location: Phase 1 started July 10. During this phase, lane restrictions will be in place on 106th Street, and both roundabouts at 106th and I-69, and 106th and Lantern Road will be converted into a single lane. This phase is anticipated to be completed by July 28.

Expected completion: August

Concrete Cleaning Concrete Sealing Roof Cleaning Pressure Washing Epoxy Floors

Hamilton County plans to build women’s shelter, 911 center

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

new facility will be.

“We’re in the scoping phase right now,” Hubbs said. “We definitely need the space.”

GOVERNMENT

Hamilton County plans to build a women’s shelter for domestic violence victims and their children off Ind. 38 in Noblesville next year.

That facility was one of several projects discussed during the State of the County address June 28 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, where Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger highlighted various projects taking place. The county recently purchased 9 acres of land off Ind. 38 for $550,000 for the shelter, Dillinger said.

Officials plan to work with Prevail, Inc., a Noblesville-based organization that works with victims of crime and abuse, regarding the planned facility. Details of how large the facility will be and how much it will cost haven’t been determined, according to Dillinger.

Construction on another project is also set to begin next year on a county emergency operation and 911 center off Ind. 37 in Noblesville that will include a child care

facility. The project, behind Home Depot in Noblesville, is needed because of Hamilton County’s growth and a lack of space in its current location at 18100 Cumberland Rd.,

DISPATCHES

Duke Energy expands solar resources —

Duke Energy announced that it has signed an agreement with renewable energy developer Ranger Power for up to 199 megawatts of solar power to serve the equivalent of roughly 35,000 homes. Duke Energy has filed a request with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to approve the agreement. Pending regulatory approval, the energy generated from Ranger Power’s new facility will be sold to the company under a 20-year power purchase agreement. Construction on the 1,700-acre facility located south of Gwynneville, Ind., began in March 2023. It’s expected to reach commercial operation by September 2025. Under the company’s most recent Indiana Integrated Resource Plan, Duke Energy is proposing to add 2,218 megawatts of solar power, 450 megawatts of solar with energy storage and 6,200 megawatts of wind energy. These new investments in renewable energy are in addition to the continuing operation of the company’s Crane solar plant in southern Indiana, the recent expansion of its Markland hydroelectric plant and additional solar and wind power the company purchases.

Memorial golf outing set for July 15 – Pebble Brook golf club in Noblesville will host a memorial golf outing July 15 at 1 p.m. to support the Hamilton Southeastern High School’s Best Buddies program and Sharonsweb Autism Foundation. Scholarships for $2,000 will be given to some HSE seniors who were Best Buddy mentors. Any money that is donated will be given to Sharonsweb Autism Foundation, an organization that helps nonverbal children receive technology so they can communicate through typing. Jay Stutz, organizer of the event, said this is the third annual memorial golf outing. The event remembers Jay Stutz’s son, Jeremy Stutz, who was 19 when he died. Jay Stutz said Jeremy Stutz developed autism when he was 2 years old and passed away from a seizure. Jay Stutz said typing was a breakthrough for his son, which is why he supports Sharonsweb Autism Foundation. Last year, there were 84 golfers at the outing. Jay Stutz is looking forward to seeing more people come and support the causes. The outing is still accepting participants. To learn more about the event, go to pebblebrookgolfclub.com.

said Mike Hubbs, director of the county’s 911 communications center.

Hubbs said officials are still working through details regarding how large the

Dillinger’s State of the County address also highlighted other county projects currently taking place, including an interchange project at 146th Street and Allisonville Road, that is set to be completed in the summer of 2025. The $44 million project on the border of Noblesville and Fishers will convert the intersection into a grade-separated interchange with 146th Street going over a roundabout on Allisonville Road.

Construction on the interchange project began in March and is expected to improve traffic flow through the corridor when it is finished.

“We had to do something with this intersection,” Dillinger said.

Work is also nearing completion tied to the first phase of a county wastewater treatment plant at U.S. 31 and 236th Street. The first phase carries a price tag of $45 million with the county using $25 million from American Rescue Plan Act funding, according to Dillinger, who said the second phase of the project will cost $20 million.

Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger speaks June 28 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

SENIORS ENJOY DAY OF KAYAKING

HCLA names 2023 graduates

news@youarecurrent.com

Thirty-four community leaders have graduated from the Hamilton County Leadership Academy.

Library)

• Taylor Hollenbeck (Indiana Office of Technology)

• Sam Hughes (Church Church Hittle + Antrim)

LEADERSHIP

The HCLA is a 10-month program for professional and community leaders who live or work in Hamilton County with class sessions focusing on topics that affect the operations of the county. Participants learn about government, education, criminal justice, arts, culture, business, industry and more through the program.

The following individuals were named as graduates of the HCLA’s Class of 2023:

• Ramona Adams (The Center for the Performing Arts)

• Ali Alvey (Beaver Gravel)

• Stephanie Amick (Agape Therapeutic Riding)

• Ed Bukovac (Citizens Energy Group)

• Jamar Cobb-Dennard (Indiana Business Advisors)

• Todd Crosby (Eli Lilly and Company)

• Christi Crosser (Nova 29, LLC)

• John DeLucia (Citizens State Bank)

• Dustin Dixon (Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

• Laurie Dyer (T&T Sales and Promotions, Inc.)

• Brad Fruth (Beck’s Hybrids)

• Roz Harris (Fit Chicks)

• John Helling (Hamilton East Public

• Dave Hyatt (Riverview Health)

• Travis Lovett (Krieg DeVault LLP)

• John Mann (Noblesville Police Department)

• Harley McCorkle (Duke Energy)

• Kathryn McLaughlin (Community Health Network)

• Brian Millis (ADVISA)

• Jennifer Neher Sommers (Conner Prairie)

• Kathy Pelletier (The Children’s TherAplay Foundation, Inc.)

• Jennifer Penix (Carmel Education Foundation)

• Stephanie Perry (City of Fishers)

• Julie Pettypool (Browning)

• Anita Rogers (Hamilton County Community Foundation)

• Steven Rushforth (Hamilton County Government)

• Jack Russell (OneZone Chamber of Commerce)

• Jen Sacheck (Dentons Bingham Greenbaum LLP)

• Sarah Shields (Hamilton Superior Court)

• Bailey Spitznagle (City of Westfield)

• Dr. Jennifer Wheat Townsend (Noblesville Schools)

• Leah York (Talbott Talent)

For more, visit hcla.net.

“Besides my love of fishing, I’ve inherited heart disease from my father and grandfather. How

I keep it under control?”

Seniors from Lake Meadows Assisted Living in Fishers checked an item off their bucket list June 26 when they went kayaking at the CIty of Fishers’ Geist Waterfront Park. According to the city, Indianapolis-based Wheel Fun Rentals donated rentable kayaks for the senior citizens to use that day. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

Fishers wellness coach takes business to the next level

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

For Fishers wellness trainer Lindsay Willard, health is not about getting skinny.

lunch-and-learn sessions covering a variety of health topics, as well as on-site health coaching, where employees can sign up for a session.

ENTREPRENEUR

“The only times I’ll turn someone away — and this has happened lots of times — people will say things like, this event is coming up and I have to lose like 40 pounds,” she said. “Like, no. I don’t want this to be sort of a ‘quick fix, I want to get skinny’ kind of thing because I don’t feel like that’s what nutrition, coaching and fitness stuff should be all about.”

Willard works 1-on-1 with individual clients who want to improve their health, but another focus of her one-woman business is corporate wellness. She previously worked for companies that provided wellness programs to corporate clients, and then one year ago, decided to take a chance and work full-time for herself, instead.

Willard, now 45, already had been providing individual coaching as a side gig through her business, 10 More Seconds. Moving to full-time meant more effort reaching out to potential corporate clients. Sometimes, she knew someone who knew someone in a business.

“But then a lot of it was just me, seeing a company and thinking, ‘OK, I’m going to research them and find their HR department, reach out to them and see if they have any interest in bringing wellness onsite to their company,” she said. “And, you know, a lot of people said no, but then people were saying yes.”

Willard’s corporate programs include

“It’s been really fun to have it be my own thing,” she said, adding that as a one-person business, her overhead is minimal. “It’s just me, so I’m able to charge a lot less.”

For 1-on-1 clients, Willard said she likes to have an initial consultation at a coffee shop, for example, rather than her basement gym.

“I meet with them somewhere neutral first because people might not be comfortable coming to some random woman’s house,” she said.

“‘Come into my basement’ has like a creepy connotation.”

And for all her clients, she stresses health, not weight loss.

“I feel like there’s such a movement right now with body positivity and body acceptance and you can be not a size 2, and still be a super, super healthy, strong, happy, confident person,” she said. “Maybe somebody can run a marathon and maybe a woman can bench press 50-pound dumbbells, but she’s also a size 14 or 16. I really like the idea of not making so much of this focus on the aesthetic side but making more of it on the ‘I’m taking care of my health side.’”

Willard wrote a book this spring called “80 Days to Better Health.” It offers advice, tips, exercises and recipes, and space to journal and reflect throughout the 80-day journey. She said she chose 80 days, because that’s about how long it takes to form a new habit, and 80 seems less daunting than 100.

Willard’s book is available on Amazon.

For more, visit 10moreseconds.com.

Willard

(Advertorial)

Tom Wood Subaru supports Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital

Tom Wood Subaru, in its continued commitment to making a positive impact in our community, recently made a heartwarming donation of blankets and craft kits to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. The gesture aims to provide comfort, warmth and fun to young patients during their hospital stays, bringing a touch of cheer to their healing journey.

Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, renowned for its exceptional pediatric care, was thrilled to receive the generous donation from Tom Wood Subaru. The blankets, known for their cozy and high-quality material, are a symbol of care and support for the brave children undergoing treatment.

Tom Wood Subaru’s commitment to giving back to the community aligns perfectly with the hospital’s mission of providing exceptional healthcare services to children in need. By creating a comfortable environment, the blankets not only offer physical warmth but also contribute to the emotional well-being of the young patients and their families.

“We are incredibly grateful to Tom Wood Subaru for their thoughtful donation,” expressed Laura Keefe; Certified Child Life Specialist at Peyton Manning. “The blankets bring smiles and comfort to our young patients during their time at the hospital. This act of kindness showcases the compassion and dedication that Tom Wood Subaru has for our community. Everyone has been so grateful for comfort and distraction!”

This initiative is part of Tom Wood Subaru’s larger philanthropic efforts under the Subaru Love Promise, a commitment to making a positive impact in areas such as healthcare, education, animal welfare, and the environment.

Tom Wood Subaru, along with Annabeth Stem from the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society, were honored to support Peyton Manning

Children’s Hospital and contribute to the wellbeing of the children in their care. Together, they strive to create a brighter future for the community they serve.

You may ask, “How can I help?” Well, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital is in great need of the following: Infant toys, colored pencils, markers, coloring books (regular and adult), puzzle books (word search, sudoku, etc.), and infant board books (new packaged items only please). They solely rely on donations around the holidays, so during this time of year, they are really running low on these items!

If you would like to donate to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, please bring donations inside door 4, the main entrance of the children’s hospital, during normal business hours; Monday through Friday. If you have questions, please contact Laura Keefe at laura.mcilrath@ascension.org or by phone at 317-338-8835.

As the blankets wrap the young patients in warmth and comfort, Tom Wood Subaru, The Leukemia/Lymphoma Society and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, will continue to inspire hope and healing, reminding us all of the power of compassion and the difference we can make when we come together.

MYSTERY SNAPSHOT CHALLENGE

Hey there, folks! Take a good look at this zoomed-in image we’ve snagged from a spot in Fishers. We want you to channel your inner Sherlock and head over to youarecurrent.com/mysterysnapshot to submit your best guess about where this photo was taken. Ready for the challenge? Check back next

From left: Anna Stover, Julie Janssen, Laura Keefe, Scott Reckley, Peyton Dorsey, Shannon Cook and Hunter Radke.

DISPATCHES

146th Street and Allisonville Road interchange project shifts phases — Construction crews have shifted to Phase 2A traffic restrictions for the ongoing 146th Street and Allisonville Road interchange project. The new restrictions eliminate left turns from 146th Street onto Allisonville Road and will reopen to two through lanes on eastbound and westbound 146th Street. Sowers Drive, Wellington Court and Kensington Drive will be closed at 146th Street during this phase. Phase 2A is anticipated to last through the end of October.

Veteran services grants awarded — The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs recently awarded more than $400,000 through the Grants for Veterans’ Services program in support of organizations providing direct

services to veterans. Among the grant recipients is the Pets Healing Vets program run by the Humane Society for Hamilton County. Other recipients are Family Service Association of Howard County, Hope Southern Indiana, Indiana Legal Services, Inc., Indy Warrior Partnership, InteCare, Lafayette Transitional Housing Center, Liberty Place, Muncie-Delaware County Area Senior Citizens Council, Inc., Reach Services, Inc., Turnstone Center for Children and Adults with Disabilities, Veterans Life Changing Services, Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans, YMCA of Indianapolis and Veterans Impact Services, Inc.

Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children website launched — The Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has created a new website to provide

the public with information about reporting internet crimes against children, resources, statistics, applicable statutes and more. The Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is a multiagency task force that investigates and prosecutes people who use the internet to exploit or entice children sexually. The Indiana State Police oversees the task force, comprised of more than 50 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. The Indiana ICAC Task Force encourages Hoosiers to report all online exploitation, solicitation and enticement-type crimes against children to NCMEC. To report an active crime against your child involving the internet or other electronic means, please contact your local law enforcement agency. The new website can be viewed at in.gov/ isp/icactf.

Start a conversation with an OB-GYN

We listen to understand you and your preferences

You and your baby (or babies!) deserve maternity care that’s personalized to both of you. The OB-GYNs at Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent — Fishers Women’s Health listen to understand your preferences. Choosing to have your baby at Fishers Birthing Center means having a spacious room for labor, delivery and postpartum, 24/7 lactation support and a Level II nursery where we can provide special care for moms and babies — all close to home. You may even choose to work with a birth designer from the very beginning of your pregnancy to create a personalized care plan for delivery day.

Ascension Medical Group

St. Vincent Fishers Women’s Health

13914 Southeastern Parkway, Suite 110 Fishers, IN 46037

To schedule your appointment today or to chat with a care navigator for help with scheduling, call 463-240-3022 or visit ascension.org

© Ascension 2023. All rights reserved.

Amy Dodson, DO OB-GYN

Jessica Ebinger, MD OB-GYN

NATURE GUIDE

Fishers grandmother pens book for kids to explore city parks

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Nina Hershberger is a grandmother of seven, and said she noticed how much time the grandkids wanted to spend on all their screens, whether they were tablets, computers or TV.

“They just don’t get out and play like we did when we were growing up,” she said. “I had this brainstorm one day. I don’t know where I saw it, but I saw that Fishers has 24 parks. At least, they did. I thought, you know what, that would be a fun thing — to put together something.”

So she came up with the book, “Fishers, Indiana City Parks.” Hershberger said she found descriptions and photos on the Fishers Parks Department’s website to create a guide but wanted to make it more than just a guide.

“So, then I thought, ‘Well, when we were growing up we did leaf collections.’ That was the standard thing when we were in school,” she said. “I don’t know if they still do it, but I thought, ‘Well, you know, you’re going to a park. That would be a fun thing.’ And then I said, “OK, what else could they do?’ So, I came up with about 100 different ideas to have fun.”

Those fun ideas include math puzzles, a schedule of free concerts, and space for kids to write down their thoughts about each park.

“I know the kids, when they visit the parks, it’s a fun day out, but I really wanted it to go beyond just a fun day out,” she said, adding that she’s been talking with city officials about how the book can encourage kids to get out and explore. “Oh, my goodness, we’ve got so many plans for so much more expansion going forward.”

Hershberger said feedback has been positive, and people seem to especially like the journaling aspect of the book. Kids are encouraged to answer questions about each park they visit.

“What do you notice? What do they have? So, it’s not just go visit the park,” she said. “I took one of my grandsons, his name is Luke. I took him to a park I never knew existed. It’s just off 126th (Street), right by the (Hamilton Southeastern) High School. It’s tucked way back in. But it was delightful. It was just delightful. And so we’re sitting there on the picnic table, and he’s writing in his journal and he said, ‘I never knew this park existed. It’s really pretty.’ So again, it’s encouraging them to journal, to think, to observe — trying to use all of the senses.”

Hershberger said she wants to create a new version of the book annually, with different activities and updated information, and to work more closely with the Fishers Parks Department. She also wants to get business sponsors for the publication, so it can be distributed free to kids throughout Fishers.

“We’re really trying to do some really fun things to make this really a fun thing for families, for kids, with the primary purpose of getting them off their screens,” she said. “And as we partner with businesses, the vision is, boy, it would be really nice to have a major sponsor who says, ‘I will pay to

have one of those journals for all the first-graders, or I’ll pay for half of it.’”

Hershberger is a marketing professional who has written numerous informational books for clients to distribute to their customers.

“I love marketing. I live and breathe marketing,” she said. “I laugh at the story that my parents told (about) me growing up — I wanted to go door-to-door selling rusty bobby pins. They did not let me, but I did go door to door selling Avon. I did have a paper route. I did all of that kind of stuff.”

She also earned her degree in marketing and has been in that field ever since. She started publishing books for clients in 2010, she said, and has created hundreds in the past 13 years. Hershberger offers some of her own books, including the Fishers Parks book, on Amazon.

WHAT’S PLANNED FOR FUTURE ‘FISHERS, INDIANA CITY PARKS’ EDITIONS?

Author Nina Hershberger has lots of ideas for adding fun, engaging children’s activities to future versions of her Fishers Parks books. Those include:

• Design fun coloring pages featuring scenes from the parks.

• Create park-themed “find the hidden object” puzzles, challenging kids to spot specific items or characters within park illustrations.

• Include various activity pages like mazes, word searches, spot-the-difference and crossword puzzles.

• Design a scavenger hunt checklist that kids can use while exploring the parks, encouraging them to find and document natural elements like flowers, birds or insects.

• Share interesting facts and trivia about each park, including historical information, unique features, or fun anecdotes.

• Offer drawing prompts related to parks, such as “Design your dream playground.”

• Provide simple craft ideas using everyday materials, allowing kids to create park-inspired crafts like paper kites, nature collages or leaf rubbings.

• Include motivational and uplifting quotes that encourage kids to explore, appreciate nature and embrace outdoor play.

• Begin a short story or writing prompt related to parks, inviting kids to continue the story or develop their own imaginative tales.

• Educate kids about park safety through simple and informative illustrations or short tips, promoting responsible behavior during park visits.

• Share instructions for classic outdoor games like tag, hide-and-seek or duck-duck-goose, encouraging kids to play and stay active in the park.

• Feature different park animals, their characteristics and habitats, fostering curiosity and appreciation for local wildlife.

• Provide guidance on creating a mini nature journal within the park journal, teaching kids how to observe and document their outdoor discoveries.

• Add some humor with park-themed puns and jokes that kids can share with friends and family.

• Include short stories or anecdotes about children who have made a positive impact on their local parks, inspiring young readers to get involved and make a difference.

• Introduce imaginary park rangers who share tips and tricks for exploring parks, making it a playful and informative experience for kids.

‘Fishers, Indiana City Parks’ is a guide and journal to help children learn and enjoy public parks throughout Fishers. (Photo courtesy of Nina Hershberger)

Author Nina Hershberger’s granddaughter, Coletta, has fun exploring Flat Fork Creek Park. (Photo courtesy of Anya Albonette)

ON THE COVER: Nina Hershberger and her granddaughter, Coletta, explore Flat Fork Creek Park. (Photo courtesy of Anya Albonetti)

BUSINESS LOCAL

Ghost kitchen adds service

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

On June 4, Fishers-based Room Service on Wheels began welcoming customers to dine and listen to live music at its new restaurant and beer garden.

RESTAURANT

The former ghost kitchen, a facility where meals are prepared for delivery or takeout, made new additions to its walk-up site at 11110 Lantern Rd. in Fishers. Now, it offers delivery, takeout and dine-in service. The outdoor area has been remodeled with a performance stage and beer garden, giving customers the option to dine outside and listen to live music.

Room Service on Wheels owner Randy De John said as a ghost kitchen, the business started out as a delivery-only restaurant.

“Everything is fresh and nothing is frozen,” De John said. “Our menu was built around speed and food that traveled well.”

De John partnered with Indianapolis-based King Jugg Brewery and turned Room Service on Wheels into a full-service restaurant.

“We did really well, and we expanded into

a brewery,” De John said. “We added a patio, and we always had a big, long area, and I used to do concerts out there.”

The revamped outdoor space can seat approximately 300 people, De John said. Live music is scheduled Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The restaurant also expanded its menu.

“We have fish, nachos, stuffed pizzas,” De John said. “A lot of the stuff that didn’t travel well, we do have inside.”

Dine-in hours for Room Service on Wheels are Monday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more, visit roomserviceonwheels.com.

Mobile donut truck opens

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton County residents can sweeten parties and events by booking a new food truck.

FOOD TRUCK

On May 31, a Noblesville family launched DonutNV, a mobile shop that serves Carmel, Westfield and Noblesville. It serves mini doughnuts with a wide range of toppings and lemonade.

Business owner Jason Puetz said DonutNV is a franchise, but he bought the Noblesville and Carmel territories with his wife, Christine Puetz. They call their new food truck the “donut wagon.”

“(We serve) hot mini donuts,” Puetz said. “We have 20 or 30 topping choices like Oreo, Lucky Charms and Fruity Pebbles.”

Doughnuts ts are sold in $7 small bags and $10 large bags.

DonutNV offers six fruity flavors of freshly squeezed lemonade that can be served as a drink or frozen. The owners plan to add hot and iced coffee to the menu.

Since its launch, the food truck has been at several events for organizations that in-

clude Grand Junction Brewing and the Boys and Girls Club.

“We will do birthday parties, weddings, farmers markets, neighborhood (events),” Puetz said.

The family plans to add another truck so two events can be done at once.

Puetz said that he wants his business to be deeply connected to the community.

“People think ‘franchise’ and they think ‘big corporation,’ but It’s just our family-owned small business,” Puetz said. “We’re trying to be involved in our local communities and we give back to schools.”

Learn more and book the food truck for an event at donutnv.com.

Fishers-based Room Service on Wheels added in-person dining for customers June 4. (Photo courtesy of Randy De John)

Jason Puetz and his wife, Christine Puetz, owners of a local DonutNV franchise. (Photo courtesy of Jason Puetz)

Importance of eye exams for kids

Commentary by Dr. Jeremy Ciano

55433

BREAKING

ON YOUR PHONE

Vision problems

VISION

Regular eye exams are a must for kids. Since vision problems often appear for the first-time during childhood, having annual eye exams offers a simple way to protect your child’s eyesight.

Good vision is essential for learning

Your child relies on their visual memory to remember spelling words and recognize shapes and letters. If your child’s vision is blurry, the information stored in the brain’s visual memory center may not be accurate. This can lead to difficulty reading, completing math problems, copying words or writing clearly.

School eye exams don’t identify all vision issues

Although the eye exams schools conduct are certainly helpful, they may not identify all vision and medical problems related to the eye. In fact, school vision screenings fail to detect up to 75 percent of vision issues, according to the American Optometric Association.

A variety of vision problems can affect your child’s eyesight and school performance, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), visual processing disorders, focusing problems and eye teaming or tracking difficulties.

Kids may not realize they need glasses

Just because your child has never complained about poor vision doesn’t mean that they can see clearly. After all, it’s impossible to tell that you have a vision problem if the world has always looked slightly blurry.

Regular eye exams will help ensure vision is crisp and clear. Not sure how often your child needs to visit the optometrist? The AOA recommends these visit guidelines: Once between three and five years, before first grade, and annually up to age 18.

Fishers resident picked to lead Indiana Optometric Association

news@currentinfishers.com

multiple association boards.

NONPROFIT

Tabitha Arnett is the new executive director of the Indiana Optometric Association, according to an announcement from the Indiana Optometric Association’s Board of Trustees.

Arnett, a Fishers resident, previously served as the executive director of the Indiana Osteopathic Association.

According to the announcement, she has more than 20 years of experience in association management and served as executive director of the Indiana Psychological Association and director of professional development with the Indiana Pharmacists Alliance.

Arnett is a Certified Association Executive through the American Society of Association Executives and has served on

According to the announcement, prior to entering association management, Arnett spent six years in higher education at IUPUI, including positions as an academic advisor, admissions counselor and assistant director of the university’s honors program.

“Tabitha has shown an enthusiasm, commitment and desire for success in her previous roles, and we look forward to working with her as the new executive director of Indiana Optometry,” IOA President James Stickel said. “Her knowledge and experience in healthcare, legislative and policy efforts will ensure that our association will be well-positioned to represent the profession of optometry for many years to come.”

Arnett replaces Jim Zieba, who is retiring after 17 years as Indiana Optometry’s executive director.

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.

Arnett

READERS’VIEWS Northview Church offers welcome

Editor,

I would love to invite you and any reader to experience the phenomenal place we call Northview Church and our newly selected executive pastor, CJ Johnson. In the short time Pastor CJ has been here, his sermons have been phenomenal, relevant and filled with Scripture!

As many know, Northview has been serving the residents of Carmel for 43 years now. This publication couldn’t even contain all the wonderful things Northview has done for the city, country and worldwide. What a lovely idea it would be to see a spread dedicated to those beautiful acts!

Weekend Services are at 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday. Child care is offered at no cost. The doors are always open and smiling faces are ready to warmly welcome you, your family and your friends!

Jill Davis, Carmel

Thankful for honest-to-goodness journalism

Editor,

Thank you for the article “Brought to Light” in the June 27 Current in Carmel that deeply impressed me for its journalistic quality. The article describes a newly hired pastor in the Carmel community who faced allegations of dishonesty and manipulative behavior at a former church. Similar allegations are brought forward at the new church.

Current interviewed numerous people for the article and made innumerable (unanswered or declined) requests to others for comment. The story is still unfolding, and nothing has been proven, but journalism of this kind ensures that the hard questions are asked in society.

Hopefully, this article will be of service to the church and the community in seeking the truth. I am grateful to have a local newspaper like Current that produces honest-to-goodness journalism.

Tom Doman, Carmel

Local Labor Market 2023 Midyear Review

Unique Open Positons – Hamilton County

Growing wiser with age?

Commentary by Terry Anker

Mike Thibideau, President/CEO, Invest Hamilton County

Amid the fears of recession, impacts of inflation and the tumultuous nature of consumer spending in our economy comes very real impacts on what is still a very hot (but cooling) labor market. Talent is still in very short supply and more expensive than ever before with over 26,000 open positions so far in 2023 and median wages for open roles up to $23.45/hour. Local unemployment was 2.8% in May.

Compared to the peaks of 17,000+ open positions per months in May 2021 and 2022 the 11,724 open positions in May shows how the labor market is loosening slightly and puts the local labor market right about where we were in May 2019 (which was not a contracting or shrinking economy), except far more expensive with wages up 33-40% depending on experience and education. This past month the median wage for open positions requiring a high school level of education in Hamilton County was $19.02.

With the notable exceptions of Tractor-Trailer Drivers and Registered Nurses most high-demand occupations have now seen multiple consecutive months with more hires than new postings, which is in sharp contrast to employers hiring experiences since mid-2018. Overall, while compared to 2021 and 2022 the market is cooling it is our hope we’re entering back into a

period of more predictable and resilient growth.

At Invest Hamilton County, we love where data, stories and impact intersect. Currently, in partnership with our education, economic development, philanthropic, and business community leaders we are performing a labor market forecasting project going all the way out to the year 2030 focused on our resident and employer occupation makeup. After the data launch this fall, we’ll update it every summer and use it to develop tools and empower impactful collaboration across communities and stakeholder groups.

Please reach out (investhamilton county.com) if you would like to learn more about the local labor market, have any questions we can help answer, or would like to share your story.

Sources: Hoosierdata.in.gov; Invest Hamilton County via Lightcast; June 2023

Scan here to learn more

ESSAY

We’re all prone to cast the aspersion. No matter how mature we have become or imagine ourselves to be, we feel the need, from time to time, to label our fellow humans as idiots. They cut us off in traffic. They go through the 12-items-or-less line with 27 items. They say something on their social media feeds that is so disturbingly inconsistent with our own studied and thoughtful views that we know that there must be something wrong with them. Perhaps they write an entirely incomprehensible column that we wonder who, in their right minds, would have conferred a doctorate upon the writer. We determine them to be idiots, each and every!

Definitionally, an idiot is medically determined to be one suffering from an intellectual disability. Yet, we probably intend it as a pejorative. “Those folks are just plain stupid.” So far, stupid has not been defined as a protected class of Americans, so we evaluate applicability individually, based upon

circumstance. Math would dictate that half of the people in any room are smarter than the other half. But most of us are brighter sometimes and not-so-bright at other times. Experience, prudence and education all enter the equation. The hubris of youth can lead to an abundance of kidiotic behavior. With each passing year, the expectations increase but we are likely to tolerate imprudence from youngsters while expecting more from those of us a bit longer in the tooth. Sure, I.Q. is a weighty variable on our preferences and actions. But is it the most important? Does it ever seem not to matter? If we all make suboptimal choices from time to time, is carelessness, disregard, immaturity or aggression to blame? Are we doomed to grow from kidiot to idiot? If not, how do we avoid it?

An unhealthy airport exercise

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, I’ve always considered myself a “fit” person. I work out regularly and take geriatric vitamins. But my recent experience with Delta Airlines suggests that I’m not in as good a shape as I thought. Here’s the skinny.

large purse. I arrived as the last person was being checked in under the final boarding call — unable to breathe, let alone talk, and with a now-defunct boarding pass. Bless the attendant who quickly assessed my situation and got me on the plane.

HUMOR

My 6 a.m. flight from Mobile, Ala., to Atlanta was delayed 25 minutes because of, per the pilot, “a series of unfortunate events.” This was problematic because I had a tight layover, but I didn’t sweat it. The ATL-IND route runs every two hours. If I missed my original, I’d just catch a later one.

But Delta had no faith in me and automatically bumped me to another flight — the following morning. Umm, no. Unacceptable. There was still time! I’d have to navigate a crowded jetway, 30 B gates, several escalators, a stupid train and the majority of Terminal A, but it could be done. So, off I raced, sprinting and speed-walking, trying not to pee my pants, dragging a carry-on and

As I collapsed in my seat, though, I was a hot mess. I could not slow my heart rate, and my blood pressure was through the roof. What was happening? I should be able to hurry through an airport without suffering a cardiac episode, but apparently not. “Ma’am? You’re in the wrong seat.” Oh, lord.

Despite exercise and old people supplements, friends, I’m not in as good a shape as I thought!

Peace out.

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

(Chart: Unique open positions June 2018-June 2023, Hamilton Co, IN; Source: Invest Hamilton County via Lightcast June 2023)

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

“As I collapsed in my seat, though, I was a hot mess. I could not slow my heart rate, and my blood pressure was through the roof.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

Seventh-inning snooze

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

I love baseball, and now with a few rule changes, the games are faster and even more exciting. I knew it would be fruitless, but I was hoping to entice my wife, Mary Ellen, to enjoy the sport so we could watch a few games together. So, one day in the car, I attempted to pique her interest.

HUMOR

“Would you watch a baseball game with me one night?” I asked.

“How long does a game last?”

“Well, no one knows exactly.”

“How could that be? Haven’t they been playing baseball for over a hundred years? Can’t somebody time it?

“It’s not like football or basketball. Theoretically, the game can go on forever.”

“Maybe it just seems that way?”

“Let’s try again. Ask me any questions you might have about baseball.”

“OK, why do they call it a strike when the guy doesn’t hit it, but in bowling it’s a strike when he does?”

“Again, I have no clue.”

“And why four balls and only three strikes?”

“I don’t know that, either.”

“Maybe my questions are too hard, Dick. Here’s an easy one: When is the World Series?”

“They don’t play those games until November, after each baseball team has played 162 games in the regular season.”

“Then when is the Super Bowl?”

“That’s in February after each football team has played 17 games. Again, in the regular season.

“That sounds like an easier job than 162 games. Maybe it’s hard to find guys willing to work every Sunday. Dick, is your favorite team in the National Group or American Group?”

“They are not groups. They are called leagues, the American League and the National League.

“What’s the difference?”

“I couldn’t really answer most of Mary Ellen’s questions. As I continued talking about baseball, I glanced over, and she looked like she was nodding off. We pulled over and I drove.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

“Again, you have stumped me. It’s a hard question to answer.”

“Why is that a difficult question? Nordstrom and Kohl’s are in different leagues. Any fan of shopping knows that.”

“OK, here’s one difference. The American League has a DH, a designated hitter. The pitcher does not bat. Someone bats for him.”

“That doesn’t seem very fair to the pitcher.”

“The pitcher doesn’t care.”

“Well, if he doesn’t care, he shouldn’t be playing.”

“By the way, Mary Ellen, there was a perfect game a few nights ago.”

“What does that mean?”

“The pitcher allowed no hits, no runs, no walks. Not a single person reached base. Everything was perfect.”

“Sounds perfectly boring. Why would anyone go to a game like that?”

I couldn’t really answer most of Mary Ellen’s questions. As I continued talking about baseball, I glanced over, and she looked like she was nodding off. We pulled over and I drove.

That night we watched a game together. I explained to her the fascinating intricacies of baseball. It was a close one between the archrival Cubs and Dodgers. I don’t know the final score. I fell asleep in the seventh inning.

POLICIES

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

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

Carmel Jazz Fest to feature blues and soul singer Robinson

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Tad Robinson is thrilled to be part of the inaugural edition of the Carmel Jazz Fest. “It looks to be a nice eclectic group of musicians,” the Greencastle resident said. “I think they are doing a beautiful job organizing it.”

The Tad Robinson Band will perform from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 11 and 1:30 to 3 p.m. Aug. 12, with both shows on the Gazebo stage.

Robinson sings and plays harmonica. The band consists of Paul Holdman, guitar/ vocals; Brian Yarde, drums/vocals; Harlan Terson, bass guitar; and Kevin Anker, keyboards.

Terson is from Chicago and the others are from the Indianapolis area.

Carmel Jazz Fest is set for Aug. 11-12 at six different venues throughout the city.

“It’s always good to play in that community because there are a lot of people who love roots music, Americana, blues and jazz,” Robinson said. “I think the festival is doing a great job in representing those music (genres).”

Robinson said many of the groups performing in the Carmel Jazz Fest make great music.

“We’ll be playing some new tunes that will be on the upcoming album, plus doing our usual set of blues and soul,” said Robinson, whose band’s setlists are mostly his original songs.

Robinson has seven albums on the Seven label and Delmar Records. He is working on a new album and expects to make an announcement of a release later this summer.

Robinson, who has played in more than 20 countries, did three tours outside the U.S. in 2022.

During last year’s busy schedule, Robinson performed Aug. 31 in the Live at Center Series at the Palladium, then a few days later he performed at the inaugural All In Music and Arts Festival at the Indiana

State Fairgrounds.

“I got to perform with the Allman Brothers Dreamset, which was a really nice experience,” he said. “I think the idea of the dreamsets is unique and a nice idea. All the guys couldn’t have been nicer. I enjoyed that festival a lot. I’d love to return.”

Robinson, who is originally from New York City, lived in Chicago for a decade before moving to Greencastle. He has 10 Blues Music Award nominations, which are considered the Grammys for blues music.

Robinson has already spent 10 days in Sweden this season.

“Later in the year, I’ll also be on the West Coast with some touring in Southern

California,” he said. “It’s been a good year.”

At 67, Robinson shows no signs of slowing down.

“We’re just beginning,” he said. “In the world of roots music, jazz and blues, I don’t think they hold age against you as much as in pop music. I think sometimes people see it as an asset. You get rid of your bad habits, and you know how to communicate more musically at that level when you are a little bit more experienced. Doors seem to be opening, so I’m happy to go through them.”

For more, visit tadrobinson.com. For festival tickets and the schedule, visit carmeljazzfest.com.

‘SOPHISTICATED LADIES’

“Sophisticated Ladies” is set to run July 14 through Aug. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Liberace and Liza: A Tribute” is set for 7:30 p.m. July 14-15 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinhc.com.

LOBSTER PALOOZA

Indianapolis Opera’s annual fundraiser, Lobster Palooza, is set for 6 to 10 p.m. July 15 at the Basile Opera Center, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis. For more, visit indyopera.org.

‘CURTAINS’

Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “Curtains” through July 16 at the Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.

‘MUSIC OF ABBA’

“Arrival from Sweden, the Music of Abba” will be featured at 8 p.m. July 14-15 in the Symphony on the Prairie series at Conner Prairie in Fishers. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.

DISPATCH

Three win CarmelFest Has Talent titles — Westfield resident Spenser Johns won first place in the 17-and-old division in the CarmelFest Has Talent competition July 3 at the Carmel Gazebo stage. Rachel Dwaram, Fishers, finished second and Jenna and Jacey Green, Columbus, Ind., third. In the ages 13-16 category, Vivian Vreeman, Carmel, took first place. John Paul Pack, Carmel, finished second and Jackson Mullen, Fishers, third. In the 12-and-under class, Azalia Davidson, Noblesville, was victorious, followed by Liv Keslin, Zionsville, in second and Leah Dwaram, Fishers, in third. First place paid $300, second place $200 and third place $100 in all three categories.

MUSIC

Tad Robinson will perform twice during the Aug. 11-12 Carmel Jazz Fest on the Gazebo Stage. (Photo courtesy of Michael Mark)

Musical plays tribute to Ellington

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Serving as musical director of “Sophisticated Ladies” has a special meaning to Tenéh Karimu.

olis since the 1980s.

“So, for me, and quite a few people, this will be our first time experiencing this,” said Karimu, who is leading an eight-person orchestra.

SONGBOOK ACADEMY IN CONCERT*

Sat Jul 22 at 7pm

DAUGHTRY: BARE BONES TOUR*

Wed Aug 9 at 7:30pm

SPYRO GYRA*

Sat Aug 12 at 8pm

BEN HARPER*

Tue Aug 15 at 7:30pm

LIFE WITH THE AFTERLIFE: TRUE TALES OF THE PARANORMAL WITH GHOST HUNTER

AMY BRUNI

Sat Sep 16 at 8pm

UPTOWN: MOTOWN REMIXED

Thu Sep 28 at 7:30pm

ANIMANIACS: IN CONCERT

Thu Oct 5 at 7:30pm

HARRY CHAPIN AT 80: A RETROSPECTIVE, FEATURING THE CHAPIN FAMILY

Fri Oct 20 at 8pm

BILL FRISELL FIVE AND AMBROSE AKINMUSIRE’S OWL SONG

Sat Oct 21 at 8pm

ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS CHAMBER ENSEMBLE

Sat Oct 28 at 8pm

AN EVENING WITH BRUCE COCKBURN

Wed Nov 1 at 7:30pm

BÉLA FLECK, ZAKIR HUSSAIN, EDGAR MEYER WITH RAKESH CHAURASIA

Thu Nov 2 at 7:30pm

GRACE POTTER

Fri Nov 3 at 8pm

ETTA MAY

CANDACE BUSHNELL: TRUE TALES OF SEX, SUCCESS AND SEX AND THE CITY

Sun Nov 12 at 7pm

ANNE SOFIE VON OTTER & BROOKLYN RIDER SONGS OF LOVE AND DEATH

Fri Nov 17 at 8pm

MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO

Sat Nov 18 at 8pm

THE BLACK MARKET TRUST

Sun Nov 19 at 7pm

VIENNA BOYS CHOIR: CHRISTMAS IN VIENNA

Fri Nov 24 at 2pm

JIM BRICKMAN: A JOYFUL CHRISTMAS

Thu Nov 30 at 7:30pm

THE MIDTOWN MEN: HOLIDAY HITS

ALAN CUMMING & ARI SHAPIRO: OCH & OY! A CONSIDERED CABARET

Sat Feb 3 at 8pm

MARIACHI HERENCIA DE MÉXICO: HEREDEROS

Fri Feb 9 at 8pm

SOFIA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Fri Feb 23 at 8pm

ARETHA’S GOLD: CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE TRIBUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN

Fri Feb 24 at 8pm

THE IRISH TENORS

Fri Mar 8 at 8pm

CARRIE NEWCOMER WITH PIANIST GARY WALTERS & STRING QUARTET

Sat Mar 9 at 8pm

BRUCE HORNSBY WITH YMUSIC

PRODUCTION

“Sophisticated Ladies,” which will be presented July 14 to Aug. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theater in Indianapolis, features the music of Duke Ellington.

“I grew up listening to jazz, especially Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan and Dianne Reeves,” Karimu said. “I stole my mom’s Duke cassette tape, which this show has so many of the songs on, and (I) would listen to it pretty much every night. Jazz is such an integral part of the fabric of this country because it comes directly from the songs and lives of members of the African Diaspora, specifically survivors of American chattel slavery. I am so honored to be a part of this production with this inimitable cast and team.”

The Indianapolis resident has never seen the show. Karimu said this is the first time the show has been performed in Indianap-

This is the 100th anniversary of when Ellington moved to New York City to perform. Act I examines Ellington’s early days at the Cotton Club through his widening acceptance abroad, while Act II explores the private man as captured in his music

“We have a smaller ensemble than other productions, but that simply gives all of our folks more time to shine and bless us with their gifts,” Karimu said. “I’ll be on the keys and conducting. I took a bit of a break between my last show (‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’) and this one, but I plan on this production being a springboard of sorts for more performing, for me, as well as the rest of the team.”

Karimu’s previous Beef & Boards’ experience was performing in the Live Theatre for Kids productions in 2017 as Dr. Wink in “Pinkalicious.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS: BILL MEDLEY & BUCKY HEARD

Fri Oct 6 at 8pm

THE TALLEST MAN ON EARTH*

Sun Oct 8 at 7pm

THE ROBERT CRAY BAND

Wed Oct 11 at 7:30pm

WISH YOU WERE HERE: THE SIGHT & SOUND OF PINK FLOYD

Sat Oct 14 at 8pm

STEWART COPELAND: POLICE DERANGED FOR ORCHESTRA

Thu Oct 19 at 7:30pm

Fri Nov 3 at 7:30pm

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE

Sat Nov 4 at 8pm

TRES SOULS

Sat Nov 4 at 8pm

THE LITTLE MERMEN: THE ULTIMATE DISNEY TRIBUTE BAND

Sun Nov 5 at 3pm & 7pm

EASTON CORBIN

Thu Nov 9 at 7:30pm

GREGORIAN: PURE CHANTS

Fri Nov 10 at 8pm

Fri Dec 1 at 8pm

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS  CHRISTMAS TOUR 2023

Tue Dec 5 at 7:30pm

JON MCLAUGHLIN: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Fri Dec 8 at 8pm

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND HOLIDAY SHOW

Sat Dec 9 at 8pm

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD & SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY

Wed Dec 13 at 7:30pm

AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS

Fri Jan 26 at 8pm

Sat Mar 9 at 8pm

IMAGINATION MOVERS

Sun Mar 10 at 1pm & 4pm

JESSE COOK

Sun Apr 7 at 7pm

RAY CHEN

Fri Apr 12 at 8pm

SAMMY MILLER AND THE CONGREGATION

Fri Apr 19 at 8pm

RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE

Sat Apr 20 at 8pm

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN & SPECIAL GUEST

Fri May 17 at 8pm

BEN HARPER GRACE POTTER ROBERT CRAY DAVE KOZ

KATHERINE MCPHEE

Tenéh Karimu is the musical director of “Sophisticated Ladies.” (Photo courtesy of Tenéh Karimu)

Filmmaker enjoys sharing stories

By Jeff Decker editorial@youarecurrent.com

ming from gun violence but didn’t feel right about including it in the film, Walls said.

INDY SHORTS

A local documentary filmmaker often tells others he has the best job in the world. Rocky Walls, co-founder of 12 Stars Media in Noblesville, enjoys meeting interesting people, hearing their stories and working with other creative types to share those stories.

“To top it off, we tell stories that inspire positive change, so there’s inherently a lot of fulfillment that comes from our work,” Walls said.

Two of Walls’ stories, “Gun Control” and “Fleeing Silesia,” will be told during the Indiana Spotlight 2 program, part of the Indy Shorts International Film Festival. Walls’ documentary shorts will be shown July 18 at Living Room Theaters, 745 E. Ninth St., Indianapolis, and July 22 at The Toby at Newfields, 4000 N. Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. They also will be available online from July 18 through 23 at watch. eventive.org/indyshorts.

In “Gun Control” (11 minutes), Indianapolis artist, designer and furniture maker Brian Presnell addresses gun-related childhood trauma through art therapy. The short is a follow-up to a feature-length documentary, “IMBPREZ,” released by 12 Stars Media in 2021. During the filming of that documentary, Presnell mentioned his trauma stem-

“Six months later, Brian reached a more peaceful acceptance of these experiences through a form of art therapy, and we produced ‘Gun Control’ to tell that story,” Walls said.

“Fleeing Silesia” (28 minutes) tells the story of one family’s escape from Silesia, a state in Eastern Germany, after World War II. The Lachmann family of central Indiana and a family friend, Joel Wittman, had previously filmed footage hoping to preserve the family’s story but hadn’t been able to piece it together. Peter Max Wendrich Lachmann, son of Peter Franz Joseph Lachmann, whose story is told in the short, approached 12 Stars Media after seeing one of its films.

“The first time we heard the story, directly from Peter over a cup of coffee, we were hooked and ready to help them get it across the finish line,” Walls said.

Walls is also co-founder of Hoodox, a streaming service exclusively for Indiana-focused films and shows. Hoodox is partnering with Indy Shorts to offer PitchDox, a festival contest in which Hoosier filmmakers can submit their unfinished documentaries to a panel of filmmakers in the hopes of winning $10,000 to complete their project.

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org/ indyshorts.

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Walls

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Windermere home featured a spacious master bath with good bones but an outdated style. Thanks to a few functional upgrades and an elevated mix of materials, this bathroom makes each day feel like a spa day.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A luxurious soaking tub replaced the original deck-style tub, and wall-to-wall carpeting that made the room feel dated and drab and was replaced with stunning porcelain tile.

• Built-in shelving featuring beautiful sconces surrounds the tub nook, providing additional storage and display space as well as privacy.

• The shower was upgraded with a frameless glass enclosure and features Calacatta Gold marble and brushed gold fixtures, giving the shower space an upgraded spa-like feel.

• Tonal wallpaper, butcherblock counters stained in a rich tone and brushed gold fixtures complete the bathroom’s elevated aesthetic.

Capital offense a tiny violation

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

As soon as I wrote a column on Caps Lock, the lowercase -- a.k.a., “minuscule” letters -- demanded an essay of its own. The irony is that both of my Apple keyboards have decapitalized the command keys, leaving Caps Lock in a minor key.

he didn’t always employ that style. The trend of his name appearing in small letters started in the 1960s, when book cover designers decided to opt for this style. After that, the “e.e. cummings” format stuck.

GRAMMAR GUY

I’m sure the first topic that comes to mind is the American poet E.E. Cummings. Edward Estlin Cummings (you can see why he went with “E.E.”) often wrote in all lowercase letters, played with spacing and challenged traditional punctuation rules. Cummings took full advantage of his poetic license but didn’t always write exclusively in lowercase.

Contrary to popular belief, Cummings didn’t even write his own name in all lowercase letters. His signature clearly featured two capital “E”s with periods after each one, and a capital “C” followed by an apostrophe and a lowercase “s.” How’s that for a John Hancock?

Cummings’ poetry did feature entire poems in lowercase letters, although

Fast forward to today, when we find many areas of no caps. Texting has led to shorthand typing that often lacks proper capitalization or punctuation. I don’t fault people for this method, as they are simply eking out a brief communiqué. The person receiving the message gets the point without needing the formal style we’re used to seeing in books, newspapers and magazines.

In these other forms of communication, the rules aren’t as important as the perceived urgency to communicate. After all, telegraphs never discriminated between uppercase and lowercase.

From Anchorage to Seward

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, in our continuing tour of Alaska, we first visit Anchorage and then take a scenic highway on to Seward. In 1914, a site at the end of Cook Inlet in Southcentral Alaska was selected for unloading materials for building the Alaska Railroad. A tent city sprang up, which was incorporated as Anchorage in 1920. The city grew rapidly, first because of the railroad, then because of military installations, and finally because of oil discovered at Prudhoe Bay. Today, Anchorage, with a population of nearly 300,000, is by far the largest city in Alaska. About 40 percent of all Alaskans live there. Covering 1,706 square miles, about five times the size of Indianapolis, Anchorage is the United States’ fourth-largest city by area. The modern and vibrant city includes a number of important statewide cultural institutions, including the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts and the 170,000 squarefoot Anchorage Museum.

TRAVEL

ning along the Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet, the highway passes the picturesque and glacier-covered Chugach Mountains and offers numerous places to stop for hiking, whale watching, moose and bear sightings, kayaking and the like. The City of Seward, named for former U.S. Secretary of State William Seward, who arranged for the purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million in 1867, is between the mountains and the Gulf of Alaska.

With fewer than 3,000 permanent residents, the number of people in Seward swells dramatically during the summer with the arrival of large cruise ships. Seward is the site of an important annual salmon run in July and August. It is also the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where more than 40 flowing glaciers have created some of the most spectacular fjords in the country.

The 127-mile Seward Highway, connecting Anchorage and Seward, provides some of the most scenic views in the country. Run-

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

Seward Harbor in Seward, Alaska. (Photos by Don Knebel)

A cruise ship in Seward Harbor.

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

4. WTTV spot seller

9. Gomer Pyle’s org.

13. Nest egg choice 14. Sharp flavors

15. White River angler’s basket

16. US Senator who attended ISU

tive who attended Indiana Wesleyan

41. Temporary vehicle from Tom Wood

42. Wyo. neighbor

45. Grow every which way

48. Grissom, e.g., initially

51. Fair Oaks Farms cow chow

52. Place to dock

53. Bedwear, briefly 56. Bill of ___

58. Art museum vase

59. Persian ruler

60. Butler frat letter

61. Florida tourist attraction

63. US Vice President who attended IUPUI

67. Similar

68. Odds opposite 69. Fire

70. Some sneakers 71. Like Indiana Dunes

72. IU Health trauma ctrs. Down

1. Bro or sis

2. Three, up front

3. Mathematical curve

4. Daughter of Zeus

5. Applies

33. Decorative filling

35. Word with bag or cream

36. Poet Teasdale

38. Stock market index name

39. Indiana Gov. Gates

40. “Impossible!”

43. Pecan, e.g.

44. Colts stats

45. Mouse’s sound

46. University of Evansville school color

47. Far from fresh

49. “My ___ Flicka”

50. Tissue analysis

54. Edgerrin in the Colts Ring of Honor

55. Hindu deity

57. Old AT&T rival

59. Sault ___ Marie

62. Approves

64. Need an attorney? “1-800 Call ___”

65. I-69 sight

lightly, as perfume

6. Genetic letters

7. Sphinx site

8. “Fiddlesticks!”

9. Web address 10. Parlor piece

11. Wall Street news

12. Anthem department 15. Snip

17. Cinematic FX 21. IMPD speed checker 23. Hide-___-seek 24. Director Spike

26. Marge Simpson or Carol Brady

29. Yemeni port 31. 1040 grp.

Pies 4 Gift Wrapping Needs 3 Synonyms of Sad 2 Indiana U.S. Senators

Indiana “P” Towns 1 Local Pro Soccer Team

66. USN rank Answers on Page 22