PrimeLife Enrichment seeking long-term solution to sustained drop in grant funds
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.comAbout us
Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIII, No. 26
Copyright 2023
Current Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
30 South Range Line Road
NONPROFIT
In the past few years, PrimeLife Enrichment, a Carmel-based senior center serving Hamilton County residents, has seen its membership grow at a “faster rate than ever before,” according to Executive Director Gary Wagner.
At the same time, however, several organizations that have previously provided consistent grant funds to PrimeLife have significantly scaled back contributions or eliminated them altogether, leading the nonprofit to cut staffing, hours, programs and more.
According to PrimeLife, grant funds from Hamilton County, United Way, CICOA and Clay Township combined to account for $470,000 to $524,000 – covering more than half of PrimeLife’s operating expenses – between 2015 and 2020. In 2021, PrimeLife saw a drop in grant funds from each of those organizations, and the combined grant totals have continued to slide. In 2023, PrimeLife received a total of $238,000 from the groups.
The reasons for the cuts vary, but they’ve been drastic and sustained enough for Wagner to begin looking for a long-term solution elsewhere.
“The traditional grant-funding model may work for some organizations, but I don’t think it’s working for us,” he said. “Raising money for seniors is one of the most difficult things to do. But when you consider seniors are the fastest-growing demographic in Hamilton County, sooner or later someone has to help support all the activities that seniors need to lead active, healthy lives.”
‘WE JUST DON’T HAVE THE FUNDS’
Founded in 1977, PrimeLife Enrichment, 1078 3rd Ave. SW, offers services, programs, transportation and more to Hamilton County residents aged 50 and older.
Between 2016 and 2020, Hamilton County awarded PrimeLife $240,000 annually as part of its support for local nonprofits. In 2021 that total dropped to $225,000 before falling to $200,000 in 2022 and $100,000 in 2023.
Hamilton County Councilor Sue Maki, who took office in 2021, said the county’s previous funding level for PrimeLife was not in line with what the county provided to other
nonprofits. So, the county began scaling back the grant.
“They’re a great organization, but we just don’t have the funds, and we have to answer to the other organizations (in the county) that do a lot of the same type of work,” Maki said.
County officials are in the process of reviewing grant requests and allocations for 2024, which will be included as part of the 2024 budget.
United Way of Central Indiana gave more than $125,000 to PrimeLife as recently as 2017, but the past two years it has provided $50,000 annually. UWCI announced in late May that it would provide $75,000 to PrimeLife through its Basic Needs Fund in its 2023-24 awards cycle.
Peter Hanscom, UWCI’s chief brand officer, said the nonprofit in 2019 shifted how it awards grants to a competitive model, now requiring each potential grant recipient to submit an application up to three times per year. It’s also seen an increase in grant applications.
“PrimeLife is doing amazing work,” Hanscom said. “We wish we could fund 100 percent of every request that we get from every partner that we have, but, unfortunately, in the landscape of philanthropy and where we are right now that’s not possible. There is immense need across the seven counties in our region that we serve.”
Clay Township stopped providing grants to PrimeLife in 2021. It had previously provided $28,000 or more from 2015 until 2019 and cut its grant to $15,000 in 2020.
Clay Township Trustee Paul Hensel did not respond to a request for comment as of press time, but at a township board meeting earlier this year board member Matt Snyder said the township’s budget, which is facing a steep decline in local income
tax dollars distributed through the state when the Central Park bond is paid off, has led to a reduction in its ability to support nonprofits.
‘NOT LOOKING FOR A BAND-AID’
With grants drying up or disappearing simultaneously from several sources, Wagner and his team are working to fill the funding gaps in other ways.
“We’re not looking for a Band-Aid,” he said. “What can we do to sustain operations and accommodate the needs of this fast-growing senior population for the next 20 to 30 years or more?”
PrimeLife cut the payroll from more than $520,000 in 2018 to $294,000 this year and has worked to lower its operating expenses, too. It’s looking to form new partnerships to help build back at least some of those losses.
Traditionally, the City of Carmel has not offered direct financial support to PrimeLife, but with 73 percent of the senior center’s membership residing in Carmel, Wagner approached city officials about creating a sustained financial partnership. In June, the city helped address the immediate need by providing a $40,000 special donation.
Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard said earlier this year the city hasn’t generally considered financially assisting PrimeLife because the nonprofit received county funding and is designed to serve residents countywide. Wagner said he recently met with Brainard, however, and that the mayor seemed open to reconsidering the possibility. Brainard did not respond to a request for comment on the matter as of press time, other than to state the next city budget is “not yet prepared.”
The 2024 budget will be Brainard’s last, as he did not seek reelection and will leave office at the end of the year (the Carmel City Council will vote on the 2024 budget this fall). A future partnership with PrimeLife likely remains on the table, however, as both the Republican and Democratic mayoral candidates said during an April candidate forum they are in favor of the city financially supporting PrimeLife.
PrimeLife has also begun conducting an annual fundraising campaign, raising approximately $23,000 in its first year and $55,000 the second. Wagner hopes to keep building on those totals in subsequent years.
Learn more at PrimeLifeEnrichment.org.
Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444
Contact the editor
Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?
Contact Managing Editor Leila Kheiry at leila@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444 ext. 804. You also may submit information at currentinfishers.com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.
Share your thoughts
Letters to the editor and guest columns may be sent for consideration to letters@youarecurrent.com. Letters have maximum word count of 200 words. Guest columns have a word count of 300 words. Please include your city of residence and a contact phone number for verification.
Advertise your business
If you’re interested in reaching the Fishers market (31,463 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Fishers advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.
Obituaries obits@youarecurrent.com
Legal advertising legals@youarecurrent.com
Delivery questions
circulation@youarecurrent.com
Join our community www.facebook.com/currentinfishers www.twitter.com/CI_Fishers instagram.com/youarecurrent
Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Fishers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
COMMUNITY Fishers man dies in vehicle accident
news@currentinfishers.com
A 21-year-old Fishers man died following a July 22 collision between a motorcycle and a truck near the intersection of 116th Street and Spyglass Ridge.
FATALITY
According to a news release from the Fishers Police Dept., the accident was reported at about 6:30 p.m. When officers and other first responders arrived at the scene, they found two vehicles had been involved in the accident: a 2007 Yamaha YZRF1 motorcycle and a 2008 Ford F350 truck.
Jasnoor Aukakh, the driver of the motorcycle, was transported to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, according to police. The driver of the Ford, a 48-year-old Fishers woman, remained on the scene.
“The Fishers Police Department Crash Reconstruction Team responded to the crash,” the news release stated. “Based on evidence collected at the scene and witness statements, it appears the Ford was in the process of turning westbound onto 116th Street from Spyglass Ridge Drive when the Yamaha, traveling eastbound, collided with the Ford.”
According to police, the crash remains under investigation.
DISPATCH
Girl Scouts plan recruitment events at Dairy Queens — Girl Scouts of Central Indiana will be setting up camp from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 12 at various Dairy Queen locations to recruit new members. According to organizer Whitney Parker, some of the confirmed locations in Hamilton and Boone counties are:
• Fishers Dairy Queens at 11976 N. Allisonville Rd.,13092 Publishers Pl., and 13647 Olivia Way
• Carmel Dairy Queen at 951 Range Line Road
• Noblesville Dairy Queen at 5625 Pebble Village Ln.
• Zionsville Dairy Queen at 340 S 1st Street
• Whiteland Dairy Queen at 99 S US Highway 31
• Westfield Dairy Queen at 940 Tournament Trail
Fishers Newcomers Club offers social opportunies
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.comFor the past two decades, a group in Fishers has been gathering just for fun. The Newcomers Club of Fishers is a women’s social group with more than 90 members, mostly of retirement age. They welcome all ages, though, and invite anyone who is interested to join — and you don’t have to be a newcomer to the community to be a Newcomer Club member.
Club secretary Maribeth Pittman said she found out about the Newcomers Club through a notice in Current a few years ago. She actually was a newcomer at the time, she said and soon became a regular participant.
“It’s a good mental health group,” she said. “Just a good connection for ladies.”
Pittman said the group meets monthly, but there are many sub-groups within the club. Some meet to play euchre, some formed a book club, others meet up for breakfast or lunch or to go see a movie.
Pittman said although the group is primarily a social club, members are encouraged to volunteer in the community and many do just that.
“We’re all busy, even if we’re not doing it officially as Newcomers Club,” she said. “For a hen party, we’re pretty nice.”
The club also raises money each year for a few local charities: the Come to Me food pantry at Fishers United Methodist Church, Fishers Youth Assistance Program’s HSE Summer Meals for Kids and Good Samaritan.
General meetings are the second Thursday of each month, at 3 p.m., at the Delaware Township Office Building, 9094 E. 131st St. in Fishers.
The club takes a break from official meetings January through March.
For more, email fishersnewcomers@gmail. com.
Committee relaunches to support HSE referendum
news@currentinfishers.com
Advance HSE, a committee of parents, teachers and community volunteers, announced that it has relaunched in support of the Hamilton Southeastern Schools referendum that will be on the Nov. 7 ballot.
session with the school board, unanimously approved a resolution in support of the referendum.
EDUCATION
The committee worked in support of the 2016 school-funding referendum that passed but is expiring at the end of this year. The committee announcement stated that members are focused on generating public support for continuation of the school district operating referendum renewal at a reduced rate.
The HSE Board of Trustees voted July 12 to place the referendum renewal on the Nov. 7 ballot. If voters approve it, the new rate will be .1995 cents per $100 assessed value, providing annual school funding of an estimated $24 million. Through the 2016 referendum, property owners have been paying .2275 cents per $100 assessed value. The Fishers City Council, which met in joint
“This referendum seeks to ensure the continuation of teacher salaries, student safety measures and a diverse range of course offerings that underpin the exceptional educational experience provided by HSE,” the Advance HSE announcement states. “The referendum on the November 7 ballot is a renewal of the successful 2016 referendum, with the maximum tax rate being reduced. Voting yes will not lead to a tax increase for residents; on the contrary, homeowners will experience a substantial 19.1 percent reduction in the impact of the referendum, starting in 2024.” Co-chairwomen, Sneha Shah and Laura Smoots, will lead the committee’s effort.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming number of volunteers who have joined our cause so far,” Shah said. “We welcome and encourage all residents of the school district to get involved and support the referendum.”
For more, visit advanceHSEschools.com.
DISPATCHES
Geist Christian Church plans event for women — Geist Christian Church is hosting a women’s event Sept. 30, with keynote speaker Julie Butchtenkirch. Butchtenkirch “is a writer and speaker who uses humor and inspirational messages so that we, as women, are able to see ourselves as God sees us — empowered, loved, and called to live the abundant life that He has planned for us,” according to an announcement from the church. The event will be held at Geist Christian Church’s Promise Road campus at 12756 Promise Rd. from 9:30 am until 2 pm. There is no cost to attend, but donations will be accepted. Registration should be completed by Sept. 15 at geistchristian.org/womensministry.
Bicentennial commission releases book – The Hamilton County Bicentennial Commission has released the official commemorative book of Hamilton County’s bicentennial, “Celebrating Hamilton County, Indiana: 200 Years of Change.” The glossy,
9-by-12-inch, full-color book features events and figures many people know and love, as well as never-before-published photographs, stories and oral histories. The book is available for purchase on Amazon and through MT Publishing Co. by visiting mtpublishing.com.
WE BELIEVE YOUR ROOF SHOULD LAST AT LEAST AS LONG AS THE COMPANY THAT INSTALLS IT.
WE
BELIEVE YOUR ROOF SHOULD LAST AT LEAST AS LONG AS THE COMPANY THAT INSTALLS IT.
BONEDRY.COM 317.873.6005
We like to think shingles started getting installed the right way back in 1989. That’s when Bone Dry hung out its own shingle. The very reason the company has endured over 30 years of rain, wind and hail . . . is because our roofs have. Other roofers come and go like a flash of lightning. For a roof that’s going to be around a long, long time, call Bone Dry. We’ll not only answer our phones tomorrow, we’ll answer them the year after tomorrow.
FISHERS
Project: Florida Road
Location:
WE’RE THE BEST UNDER PRESSURE.
CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION
Beginning on July 20, Florida Road is closed for 30 days to realign the S-curve. Local traffic only will be allowed between 113th Street and Southeastern Parkway.
Expected completion: Aug. 19
Project: 106th Street and Cumberland Road
Location: Eastbound 106th Street will be closed, just east of Cumberland Road for utility work. The detour route will use Cumberland Road to 116th Street to Hoosier Road or Cumberland Road to 96th Street to Mollenkopf Road.
Expected completion: Aug. 15
Project: 146th and Allisonville
Interchange
Location: Phase 2A traffic restrictions are in place, which eliminate left turns 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 where lane restrictions may be in place on Allisonville Road.
Expected completion: TBD
Project: 2023 resurfacing
Location: ADA ramp and curb reconstruction is 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.
Fishers PD to celebrate National Night Out
news@currentinfishers.com
The City of Fishers Police Department will participate in the Aug. 1 National Night Out, a nationwide effort to build relationships between communities and law enforcement.
EVENTS
According to an announcement from the department, it will host an open house for National Night Out from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 1.
Fishers Police Chief Ed Gebhart stated that the event is a night to open the doors of the police department to show residents the resources in place to make the community a safe place to live and work.
“National Night Out is a perfect night for our city to stand together and promote awareness, safety and neighborhood unity, with an added bonus of a concert at the Nickel Plate Amphitheater later in the evening,” he stated.
The final free Tuesday concert featuring Dude! is scheduled for 8 p.m. that night.
“Residents are invited to an evening of learning and fun (at the police station),
Made Fun!
with activities planned for all ages,” the announcement states. “Those include police vehicle and equipment displays, crime scene collection displays, crime prevention information and much more.”
The Fishers Police Corps will serve free hot dogs, chips, cookies and water to participants. Parking is available in the parking garage. Visitors can enter through the front doors to tour the first floor, or they can enter directly from the Nickel Plate Trail.
FULL SERVICE CLEANERS
DON’T OVER-PAY ANY LONGER, WE HAVE THE AREA’S LOWEST DRY CLEANING & LAUNDRY PRICES
CARMEL CLEANERS
7253 Fishers Landing Dr. 317-841-9727 SAME DAY SERVICE
MON - FRI @ FISHERS CLEANERS IN BY 8AM - OUT BY 5PM
Some restrictions apply. See store for details
ENVIRONMENTALLY
State chamber ranks lawmakers
By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com126 East Main St. 317-846-8923
ADVANTAGES OF DF-2000 FLUID
• Can be used with Sensitive Fabrics
• Removes Oil & Grease
• Aids in removing Water Soluble Soil
• Virtually Odorless
• Compatible with Fabric-Finish Additives
ExxonMobil Chemical Company’s DF-2000™ Fluid for drycleaning was first introduced in 1994 as an alternative to the solvents in common use by drycleaners. Since that time, DF-2000 Fluid has gained widespread acceptance and today is used in thousands of drycleaning plants in the United States alone.
QUALITY CLEANING FOR LESS EVERYDAY SPECIALS WE HONOR COMPETITORS’ COUPONS
Some restrictions apply. See store for details.
The growth of DF-2000 Fluid has outpaced all of the alternative technologies offered for drycleaning. This is a result of many factors including health, safety and environmental benefits, excellent cleaning performance, proven equipment technology, commercial practicality, and a reduced regulatory burden.
DF-2000 Fluid provides you with the peace of mind that comes from a well-developed, broadly supported technology with a track record of proven performance.
• Proven Cleaning Performance
When used with properly designed processes, additives and equipment, DF-2000 Fluid provides cleaning performance comparable to perchloroethylene.
• Consistent, Premium Quality
DF-2000 Fluid is manufactured and packaged to high standards of consistency and purity to deliver the same high-quality performance time after time. DF-2000 Fluid remains stable through multiple distillation and reclamation cycles.
• Virtually Odorless
Solvents with a higher level of aromatics contain more solvent odor. DF-2000 Fluid has the lowest aromatic content of any HFHC drycleaning solvent.
• Gentle on Dyes, Safer on Trims
The gentle cleaning action of DF-2000 Fluid is safer for most dyes and trims, so you can rely on it to safely clean a wider range of fancy and fragile articles with less risk of dye bleeding.
• Cost Effective
There are no usage, franchise or royalty fees required. In states where a solvent usage tax has been imposed, DF-2000 Fluid is either exempt or the usage tax per gallon is minimal. When coupled with effective processes and additives, labor and production costs are reasonable.
• Proven Equipment Technology
Equipment makers have more experience with DF-2000 Fluid than any other alternative solvent. Modern filtration, distillation, solvent recovery, water separation and safety technologies are refined and well developed to give you reliable, trouble-free operation.
• Proven Additive Technologies
Detergent and fabric finish additives are essential to provide important enhancements to cleaning performance in any drycleaning system. DF-2000 Fluid is the only alternative solvent technology that is supported by a comprehensive system that includes proven additives and widely available technical support. That means you get cleaning technology you can rely on to perform for now and the future.
• Friendly Drycleaning systems based on DF-2000 Fluid are so dependable and easy to use, you might say they are friendly to everyone: landlords, owners, operators and customers. It is the one alternative solvent that you can look to for peace of mind.
THE PRICE BRINGS YOU IN! THE QUALITY BRINGS YOU BACK!
POLITICS
Indiana Chamber of Commerce officials said they were pleased with state lawmakers, including those from Hamilton County, after the General Assembly session concluded in the spring.
The Indiana Chamber released its annual Legislative Vote Analysis that scores state legislators on how they voted on important business legislation during the session. All but one local legislator representing Hamilton County fared well this year.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich, R-Noblesville, received a grade of 86 percent this year, up from 81 percent a year ago. State Sen. Scott Baldwin, R-Noblesville, received a grade of 92 percent, a boost from the 85 percent he received last year.
State Rep. Donna Schaibley, a Republican who represents northeastern Boone County and western Hamilton County, received a grade of 85 percent this year, up from the 77 percent she received in 2022.
A Democratic freshman lawmaker from Fishers, Victoria Garcia Wilburn, received a grade of 59 percent, according to the Legislative Vote Analysis report.
The chamber said the success or failure of 37 key pro-economy, pro-jobs policies — introduced in bills or amendments — was used to determine lawmakers’ scores.
Garcia Wilburn voted against nine of the House bills that were supported by the chamber, according to the report. She supported all but two Senate bills backed by the chamber, the report says.
Bills included for examination in the Legislative Vote Analysis are tied to the Indiana Chamber’s economic development initiative known as Indiana Vision 2025, officials said. That plan contains 37 goals in the four driver areas of outstanding talent, attractive business climate, superior infrastructure, and dynamic and creative culture, officials said.
For more, visit indianachamber.com/ wp-content/uploads/2023/07/LegVoteAnalysis2023.pdf.
Storm blamed for blaze at Sanctuary Apartments
news@currentinfishers.com
Fishers Fire Department firefighters re sponded to a fire at Sanctuary Apartments off 116th Street July 24, according to a social media post from the department.
FIRE
According to the post, a narrow band of storms went through the center of Fishers that afternoon and is the suspected cause of the fire, which was reported quickly to county 911 dispatchers.
The quick report “and aggressive tactics from firefighters kept this fire from causing more damage than it did,” according to the post. “At least two families will be relocated. Apartment complex staff were on the scene and able to assist occupants. “
The fire department reported no injuries from the fire. Firefighters were assisted by Fishers Police Department personnel.
“Due to the apartment fire, the Northfield Estates cul de sac drill will be resched uled for another night so Station 393 can get their equipment back in service and cleaned,” a later social media post stated. A new date for the drill will be scheduled soon.
DISPATCH
Second Friday in August features Jerry Mannell — The Fishers Arts Council’s August exhibit features the work of Jerry Mannell, the FAC’s 2022 Best in Show award winner. A free reception at the Hub Gallery, 11810 Technology Dr, in Fishers, is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 11. A special focus on the artist program starts at 6:45 p.m.
TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT with INDIANA UNIVERSITY HEALTH
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 week for the answer.
rehab specialists
TOGETHER TO GET YOU BACK TO FEELING YOUR BEST.
Hip & Knee Pain Seminar
Monday, August 21 | 6 pm
IU Health Saxony Hospital Medical Of ce Building | 13100 E. 136th Street in Fishers
Free to attend but registration is required. Register at iuhealth.org/joints or scan the code.
Leonard Buller, MDEvents offer tours, samples at Fishers AgriPark
By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.comThe community urban farm in Fishers recently offered tours and samples of homegrown produce to residents.
AGRICULTURE
On July 19 and 21, the Fishers AgriPark, 11171 Florida Rd. in Fishers, hosted free events allowing residents to see what the community farm has to offer. Guests were able to explore the farm, see animals, try dips made from produce and pick vegetables to take home.
Erica Foreman, experience coordinator with Fishers Parks and Recreation, said the AgriPark comprises 33 acres that were donated to the city in 2020. The Fishers Parks Department decided it was best suited for a community farm. Five days a week between May and October, the park offers free produce..
“It’s a totally free event,” Foreman said. “It’s meant to supplement people’s meals and help them.”
The AgriPark was included in one of the department’s regular programs called Wednesday Walks. Each month, a park is
chosen for a tour where residents can walk and connect with parks officials.
“We want to give the public an opportunity to speak with the staff directly,” Foreman said. “We want to be transparent and have those conversations and get to know people face to face.”
“Wednesday Walks” at the AgriPark was presented July 19. It began at a sensory garden in front of the farm. Guests were led onto a short trail where they observed plants and read descriptions about them. Visitors then were shown animals and crop fields.
“Try It Day” July 21 was a new parks
department program at the AgriPark that Foreman said she added to her yearly events planning. She wants to educate the public more about where their food comes from.
“Our goal is to get people to come out to the park and learn about different types of produce,” Foreman said. “Specifically, things we provide here for free.”
Try It Day volunteer and Fishers resident Manvith Bolisetty said guests can pick any of the farm’s available produce. Visitors can find peppers, tomatoes and other vegetables that vary depending on the season.
“People come by and pick vegetables,” Bolisetty said. “It’s basically a community garden where people come together and pick stuff that they need.”
Foreman said at least 100 people showed up on Try It Day and she plans to host the event again next summer.
The Fishers AgriPark is open through the last week of October, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more, visit playfishers.com/217/ Fishers-AgriPark.
COUNTING DOWN
Geist Half Marathon & 5K is fast approaching
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.comAlthough the race is still a little more than a month away, registration for the annual Geist Half Marathon & 5K on Sept. 16 has been ongoing for about nine months.
The race, which was founded about 15 years ago, has gone through some changes in the past year. The two biggest changes are that it now is organized by the City of Fishers, and it switched from its traditional May timeframe to September.
Jake Reardon McSoley is director of recreation and wellness for the City of Fishers. He said the group that previously organized the annual race approached the city about taking it on.
“We went through some productive conversations for the better part of six months and ultimately came to a really good place,” he said. “We were able to open registration around the holidays.”
McSoley said it’s typical for longer races to open registration early. It allows participants to plan and train in the months leading up to the run.
The change from spring to fall was a strategic decision, McSoley added.
“We did quite a deep dive with the past board and learned that they actually had interest in exploring that prior to the pandemic and had heard some input from the community,” he said, noting that September works better for families. “Every month is busy, but May might be especially busy (and the) second part of May is especially busy to try to get a race done, so September felt like it might be a little cleaner.”
He said the May race date was also too close to the popular Indianapolis Mini Marathon, part of the Indy 500 Festival.
“There’s just not a lot of folks that are excited to do two mini-marathons two weeks apart,” McSoley said. “We felt like this gave us a chance to really engage a broader community.”
What has not changed for the Geist half marathon is the course. McSoley said they decided it’s pretty great as is.
“There’s more than 14 opportunities for runners and walkers to see the beautiful Geist Reservoir and get great vistas of the water,” he said. “We got a lot of great feedback that the course was awesome, just the way it was.”
The 5K course, though, will have a slight change, which McSoley said should improve the experience.
“There was a section of the 5K in the past that really was added in just to get to the correct mileage,” he said. “It was a little bit awkward in that it was in and out of sort of like a cul de sac area of a neighborhood. We were able to cut that part out, but then we were able to add in the brand-new Geist Waterfront Park.”
Both courses are USA Track and Field certified, so serious runners will be able to count them as official races, and there are some serious runners who come out for the
The course for the Geist Half Marathon takes runners and walkers through neighborhoods and along the waterfront of Geist Reservoir. (Image courtesy of the City of Fishers) event. But not-so-serious runners and walkers make up a large portion of participants, McSoley said.
“If you’re just there to do your first ever 5K, If you’re trying to walk it with your neighbor, if you want to participate together as a family with your young kids in a stroller, we’re excited to welcome all of those ages and abilities to the course and have fun with us,” he said.
Gavin Fisher is a Geist Half Marathon and 5K volunteer ambassador. His role is to promote the race at events and through social media. He said he’s been a runner since 2003 and has been involved with the Geist Half Marathon from its inception.
“I went to some of the original planning meetings for the Geist (race) back in 2008 and then ran the first event,” he said. “Then here within the last three to four years, if not a little bit longer, I’ve been on the board.”
Fisher said the Geist race offers a great course.
“You cut through one of the neighborhoods along the water, so you’re getting a lot of water views and then you hit Fall Creek Road and see the water again as you go past that area over the bridge,” he said. “Then you get some golf course views as you go through another neighborhood.”
He said running through neighborhoods is nice, because there’s always something to look at along the way and resi-
dents come out to cheer on participants.
City of Fishers Community and Public Relations Assistant Director Stephanie Perry said the Geist Half Marathon & 5K is special for many reasons.
“It’s the 15th annual race, so this is a community tradition that has been around for over a decade and it’s really important to the Geist community where it started to really showcase their neighborhoods and their beautiful scenery, but it’s really become a Fishers tradition,” she said. “And being the only half-marathon in Fishers, it’s a really exciting opportunity for everyone to kind of come together. It’s not just about the runners and walkers — you have people who will come outside their house cheering others on, (and) with the addition of the Geist Waterfront Park this year, that’s a new spot that people can gather and cheer. So it’s so much community support and involvement, which is really exciting.”
More information about the Geist Half Marathon and 5K, including how to register, is online at geisthalf.com. You can also find information by searching for Geist Half on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
ON THE COVER: Geist Half Marathon and 5K organizers and ambassadors check out part of the race course. Back row from left are Recreation and Wellness Director Jake Reardon McSoley, ambassadors Jim Ziino, Jon Wade, Marc Emenhiser, Tracie Nebrich and Gavin Fisher; and front row, City of Fishers Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Ali Hancock and Parks Director Marissa Deckert. (Photo by Adam Seif)
NOT A RUNNER? YOU CAN STILL GET INVOLVED
The City of Fishers is looking for volunteers to help with the Sept. 16 Geist Half Marathon & 5K.
City of Fishers Director of Recreation and Wellness Jake Reardon McSoley said community engagement is a big part of the event, whether participants run, hand out water or cheer from the sidelines.
“We want to help strengthen our community with this event,” he said. “If you would like to join us as a participant, great, but we also have plenty of opportunities as a volunteer. We’re looking to fill over 500 volunteer slots for the event and everything from water stations to finish line to course marshals and more.”
The city also is looking for “course talent,” which is groups or individuals who can provide encouraging entertainment along the route to keep runners and walkers motivated for the longer 13.1-mile course. That can include bands, cheerleaders, cloggers, bagpipes and more.
For volunteer information, visit geisthalf.com and scroll down to click on “volunteer.”
Hamilton County chambers partner for Eggs & Issues
news@currentinfishers.com
OneZone and Northern Hamilton County Chamber have announced a partnership with Westfield Chamber of Commerce on their monthly advocacy event, Eggs & Issues.
EVENTS
Eggs & Issues gives attendees the opportunity to hear about a variety of topics affecting local cities and towns, the county and the state, according to the announcement. Through this partnership, all three organizations will be able to look at current trends and provide high quality speakers for their membership.
“We live in the most dynamic and fastest growing county in the State of Indiana,” Westfield Chamber CEO Steve Latour stated. “We have topics large and small to discuss and tackle as a business community, as residents and as elected officials. So, when the opportunity was extended to partner with OneZone to co-
host their monthly Eggs & Issues event, we had to say yes, We look forward to having timely topics for the purpose of education but to also begin working together to make Westfield and the other communities in Hamilton County a national standard.”
Jack Russell, president of OneZone and Northern Hamilton County Chamber, said they are excited to welcome the Westfield Chamber to Eggs & Issues.
“As we continue to provide programming that impacts our communities, county and state, it is important to expand our reach,” he said. “This partnership also gives our members the opportunity to meet new business leaders in their community.”
The upcoming August Eggs & Issues event will be 8 to 9:30 a.m. Aug. 14 at The Bridgewater Club, 3535 E 161st St., in Carmel. The cost is $28 for members and $40 for nonmembers. Reservations can be made at onezonechamber. com, or by calling 317-436-4653.
Northwest hires regional VP/ community lending officer
news@currentinfishers.com
Northwest Bank has named Arlicia Robertson as its new Indiana regional vice president and community lending officer.
NEW HIRE
Northwest Bank recently opened its new regional hub in Fishers, in the Ellipse Building at 11 Municipal Dr.
An announcement states that, with more than 16 years of experience in the banking and finance industry, Robertson brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the banking industry. She worked at Mutual Bank for more than 14 years as a teller, teller team lead, personal banker and business development officer.
“As we continue to celebrate the grand opening of our new business office and regional hub in Fishers, Arlicia’s exceptional track record and deep understanding of our customers’ needs make her the ideal
candidate to lead our community lending initiatives in Central Indiana,” stated Jen nifer Gibson, Indiana region president for Northwest Bank.
As community lending officer, Robertson will spearhead Northwest’s efforts to provide accessible financing solutions to individuals and small businesses, according to the announcement.
“I’m thrilled to work alongside our central Indiana team as we strive to uphold our commitment to further strengthen our relationships within the community and continue to contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the region,” Robertson stated,
An Indianapolis resident, Robertson vol unteers with Indianapolis Wheeler Mission Food Service, Wheeler Mission Strength of the Streets, MLK Center Indianapolis, Rebuilding Together — South Bend, Muncie Habitat for Humanity and Indiana Region United Way.
Presenting Sponsor: SOLD! Bar Sponsor: $3,000
Partner Sponsor: SOLD! Table Sponsor: $2,500
Companion Sponsor: $5,000 Auction Sponsor: $1,500
Band Sponsor: $3,000 Dessert Sponsor: $1,500
VIP Ticket: $250
Individual Ticket: $175
Invitations to thievery
Commentary by Terry Anker
Each day, it seems our technologies deluge us with an array of would-be crooks, ready to steal our hard-earned cash or even our very identities. Through subterfuge and guile, they get us to give that which they could not get, at least not without our agreement: personal information. This kind of crime, as could be supposed, is the same as many others in that the criminal employs deceit and manipulation rather than pistol and dagger. Theft by prevarication may do no less harm to the victim than one at knife point. Sure, most of us would rather suffer the humiliation of an empty bank account than suffer a stab wound, but the emotional damage caused should not be underestimated.
learned. The cardiac muscle is not actually taken but the trusting nature of the mark is forever changed, hardened. We wrongly give away our hearts. They are not robbed.
ESSAY
It is said that once educated, no one can take the knowledge from us. But does the nature of what it means to hold knowledge shift as time passes? Can we go from being a computer expert and a decade later become obsolete? Can Father Time steal our skills just as easily as our youth? Or do we have the opportunity to replace our waning talents by updating or new learning? Is vigilance always required? Clicking on a link in a random email, falling in love too hard or too quickly, and believing that we have completed our education once the degree is in-hand — each opens us welcomingly to invited thievery.
Almost all the Hallmark Channel movies remind us of the danger of a “stolen” heart. Some handsome Lothario or lovely Maleficent wiles their way into the good graces of the naïve, unassuming hayseed. Ultimately, the ruse is exposed and hard lessons
Warming up to icy travel plan
Commentary by Danielle WilsonAvid readers may recall my family’s December 2022 vacation competition, when we each pitched a potential destination (within a given budget and time frame, of course) and then voted on our favorite. Our younger son won with his beautiful PowerPoint presentation of Iceland and a promise of Northern Lights and breathtaking landscape (in case you’re wondering, I finished dead last with my Costa Rica all-inclusive. Whatever. My kids are idiots).
“Managing one person, it turns out, is way simpler than wrangling four young adults (and on occasion, a man-child husband) as they prep for international travel.”
– DANIELLE WILSONHUMOR
So, we purchased airline tickets out of Chicago, booked an Airbnb and wasted many a weekend searching for affordable snowmobiling and volcano tours (of which there are none). But in May, I learned I’d be attending a teaching conference in Seattle that ended less than 25 hours before our pseudo-Arctic adventure began. It seemed silly for me to fly home when I could just reschedule my flight to meet everyone in Reykjavik. So, that’s what I did. Obviously.
This meant that for the first time in nearly 25 years, I prepared for a big trip with only me in mind. I know! No pre-buying plane snacks for picky eaters, no making sure everyone has clean clothes and appro-
priate footwear and no triaging electronics chargers and sunscreen on the kitchen table. Tough stuff, offspring! You’re on your own!
And that made a huge difference in my stress level. Managing one person, it turns out, is way simpler than wrangling four young adults (and on occasion, a man-child husband) as they prep for international travel. Packing, passports, protein bars –not my problem.
I still wish our destination was a tropical paradise with unlimited Rum Runners, but fjords and glaciers are cool, too. Iceland, here I come. Alone. Peace out.
There’s an app for that?
Commentary by Dick WolfsieI make a U-turn.
HUMOR
I subscribe to several health publications, and most of them offer some advice on avoiding medical scams. A few years ago, a dermatologist in Southern California avoided jail time by the skin of his teeth. He had been marketing an app for smartphones that emitted a bluish light, which he claimed would cure acne. Dr. Smith sold about 20,000 of these. Now, ironically, he has a blotch on his once-unblemished medical record.
Most of the experts agreed that these lights can’t hurt you, but if a kid is holding his Android or iPhone against his pimply nose while driving, he’s likely to back the Volvo into a mailbox. No instructions were provided with the app, so one of the difficulties was knowing exactly how far from the problem area to hold the device. Some of Dr. Smith’s accomplices — I mean, associates — are now thinking of adding a GPS, a global pimple searcher, that will automatically zero in on any facial imperfections.
Nine out of 10 teenagers with zits will believe anything you tell them if they think it will clear up their faces. That is why I spent most of the ninth grade with lemon wedges and a heating pad on my forehead at night. Another researcher was equally concerned, noting, “I am worried about this because bacteria on the phone could lead to other skin infections.” Wait! There are germs on cellphones? That’s the last time I’ll hold my iPhone between my teeth while
which anyone with a post-doctoral degree in laser technology knows can’t hold a candle to a good glob of Clearasil. If you are one of those people who paid five bucks for this cyber rip-off, it still might not be a bad idea to rub the smartphone across your forehead. Maybe the smart part will rub off on you.
Saturday, August 12, 2023 | Four Day Ray, Fishers Register at WoofstockRocks.com or scan below!
Race in-person or virtually
Fundraise for PAWsome prizes
Leashed & in-stroller dogs welcome
Shirt, medal and swag for all participants
Proceeds benefit HSHC's Survivor Program and h d d f i l i d
Scan Here!
PR people to say, “Breaking out is not an option.”
prison sentence would jeopardize their marriage. Dr. Smith confirmed their love. “She’s my main squeeze,” the dermatologist told everyone. Which is not something his PR agency wanted him to say.
DECLAN 2022 Top Fundraiser
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.
“Wait! There are germs on cellphones? That’s the last time I’ll hold my iPhone between my teeth while I make a U-turn.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
Versatile duo set for Carmel Jazz Fest performance
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comBethany Robinson is confident the inaugural Carmel Jazz Fest will spark more interest in jazz year-round.
‘SOPHISTICATED LADIES’
“Sophisticated Ladies” runs through Aug. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
CONCERT
“This will provide different options to hear live jazz,” she said. “Hopefully, it will spark interest in people coming to The Jazz Kitchen.”
The Noblesville High School music teacher said it will benefit her students to have opportunities to see several different jazz bands perform during the festival because so much jazz is played in 21-and-older bars or clubs.
“I’m really excited to get my students to as many events as possible,” she said.
Robinson and Sarah Scharbrough will perform from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 11 in the Carmel Jazz Fest at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts. The twoday festival, held at indoor and outdoor venues, ends Aug. 12.
“It will be my first time playing The Tarkington and I’m most excited to be playing among Indiana jazz legends,” said Scharbrough, who lives in Noblesville. “Bethany and I pull from our backgrounds incorporating jazz standards, pop classics with twists and I write lots of original tunes for our performances.”
Scharbrough said the two started performing together in 2009 and have played hundreds of times together.
“I think a fun thing that happens when we’re together is that we both bring our training — reading, lessons, disciplined musical study and then allow our ears and intuition to bend that construct,” Scharbrough said. “It’s a fun mashup of planned and off the cuff. We enjoy playing all kinds of events and styles. This coming event will have more of a jazz vibe but, per normal, with our own take on it. It’s going to be fun.”
Robinson said they will play some of Scharbrough’s original songs and some of their favorite jazz standards.
Robinson, who plays upright and electric bass, said keyboardist Scharbrough performs lead vocals. Robinson provides backup vocals.
Scharbrough’s husband, Jeff McLaughlin, a Westfield High School music teacher, will play drums for the group during the festival. Scharbrough’s brother, Stephen, plays guitar.
Robinson plays with different groups and artists around the Indianapolis area, including Katherine Nagy, who performs folk, Americana music and Irish music.
“Bass is so versatile that the thing that I love about it is I can play every genre any night of the week,” Robinson said. “It’s really fun to play so many different types of music.”
Robinson, a Fishers resident, is the Noblesville High School jazz band program director and assistant band director. She has been with the school district for 18 years.
Scharbrough’s daughter was a freshman in Robinson’s jazz band this past school year.
As a Yamaha Performing Artist, Yamaha
sponsors Robinson when she speaks at music conferences or as a guest artist at schools.
“I spend a lot of evenings and weekends not being bored,” she said. “Most of the time I’m able to do it around my school schedule and don’t have to take time off.”
Robinson was the 2022 Grammy Music Educator Award finalist. She was the 2015 Noblesville Schools Teacher of the Year and 2014 Indiana Jazz Educator of the Year.
Jazz groups from the University of Indianapolis, Butler University, Ball State University and Indiana University will perform Aug. 12 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts.
A small group of Robinson’s jazz students from Noblesville will open as a combo for Spyro Gyra, which is the Carmel Jazz Fest headliner at 8 p.m. Aug. 12 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. Spyro Gyra is a separate ticket event through thecenterpresents.org.
For a schedule and tickets, visit carmeljazzfest.org.
Brittany Brumfield presents Baby Grand Dueling Pianos at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 2 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘THE SOMEWHAT TRUE TALE OF ROBIN HOOD’
Main Street Productions presents the youth production of “The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood” through Aug. 6 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
‘LA CASA
AZUL’
Gregory Hancock’s production of a concert of “La Casa Azul” will feature the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre at 7 p.m. Aug. 5 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
‘MURDER
ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’
The Carmel Community Players’ production of Ken Ludwig’s “Murder on the Orient Express’’ is set from Aug. 6 to 13 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
DAVE DUGAN
Carmel comedian Dave Dugan will perform at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4 at the Echo Room, 124 S. Lebanon St., Lebanon. For more, visit madhattershows.com.
DISPATCH
Indy Shorts issues awards — The 2023 Indy Shorts International Film Festival, presented by Heartland Film, concluded July 23 with a record number of film submissions (more than 3,900). The festival’s three grand prize-winning films, “We Were Meant To” (Tari Wariebi, United States), “Oasis” (Justine Martin, France) and “Rosemary A.D. (After Dad)” (Ethan Barrett, United States), will receive Academy Award qualification in their respective categories and $5,000 in cash prizes.
NIGHT
DAY
ZZ Top keeps rocking on
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons has a unique perspective on transitioning from a solo tour in Europe right into a huge multi-city tour.
CONCERT
“When (giving) the topic of good times due consideration, the main catalyst is definitely live, loud music,” said the 73-year-old Gibbons, the band’s guitarist and primary vocalist. “ZZ maintains the position to generate that exact kind of good time for audiences across the board. The offshoot of the ZZ outfit does best by staying out there keeping it turned way up. Rock ’n’ roll stays hard on its own as a special reward worthy of multiple gold stars.”
The blues rock band joins Lynyrd Skynyrd on “The Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour,” which includes an Aug. 20 appearance at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. Uncle Kracker opens the concert at 6:30 p.m.
ZZ Top has a long history with Lynyrd Skynyrd, so it’s fitting the groups are again touring together.
“We’ve known ‘The Skyn’ since forever and it’s great always reconnecting any place, any time,” Gibbons said. “Working with the Skynyrd outfit maintains a strident reward, renewing again and again.”
ZZ Top took a three-year break from touring in the late 1970s as drummer Frank Beard dealt with a substance abuse issue. All three band members were also exhausted from the grind of touring.
“Each of us knew that peculiar break was necessarily temporary,” Gibbons said. “We came back realizing the same wavelength resonated with a crazy fashion of chin whiskers and valuable views of a common world. The mission, which we chose to accept, was and is to get out and make big noise. It’s a time-tested formula for fine times on deck.”
Gibbons and late-bassist Dusty Hill came back from the hiatus with their famous beards, and their status grew even larger with MTV videos.
“Quite unexpectedly, millions felt in touch with the ongoing offerings of ZZ Top videos,” Gibbons said. “Quite a league of followers liked what we were doing. It expanded the band’s horizons with a searing, serious reach. That, and the real Texas get-down approach became obvious — truly, a cross-cultural, cross-generational big bang.”
Hill died in 2021 and was replaced by Elwood Francis, who Hill had recommended as his successor. Francis had previously
been the band’s guitar technician.
“Elwood’s got a great ‘can-do’ attitude that comes through each and every night for the band and beyond,” Gibbons said. “There’s a special positioning maintained so very respectful of the ZZ Top legacy. And now, known to having been inside with us more than three decades, Elwood’s part of it. And, after all, it was The Dust’s desire that wanted ‘Sir Francis’ to be the designated hitter.”
Gibbons has joked the key to the band’s longevity has been separate tour buses, but the main factor is the band members have always been on the same page musically.
“Though we came up in different places around Texas, we experienced the same inspiration thanks to the powerful border blaster X radio stations broadcasting from down in Mexico, which we respectively tuned in and listened to,” Gibbons said. “The skew was a cauldron of blues, Gospel, R&B and rockabilly and reinforcing that common impact driving a desire to play all that stuff in the recording studio and on stage.”
“La Grange” is always a special moment in the concert, Gibbons said.
“The two numbers delivering an unexpected personal charge is actually a collision of ‘Waitin’ For The Bus’ and ‘Jesus Just Left Chicago,’” Gibbons said. “That pairing wasn’t written as a combo. Tracks 1 and 2 on ‘Tres Hombres’ wound up without separation, which unexpectedly melded as a seamless single to the luck of the mastering slip of the blade. We took that coupling forward making certain they co-join with each performance.”
PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE
Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE:
Toms: BRADY, CLANCY, CRUISE, HANKS, PETTY, SELLECK; Stores: LULULEMON, NORDSTROM, POTTERY BARN, SEPHORA, TIFFANY; Body Parts: EYE, FUR, PAW, TAIL; Towns: TELL CITY, TERRE HAUTE, TIPTON; Beers: CORONA, MODELO; Station: WRTV
‘Jerry’s Girls’ raises funds for CCP
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comVickie Phipps knows how important this two-night fundraiser is to the future of the Carmel Community Players.
MUSICAL REVUE
“We’re the oldest community theater (in the area) without a home,” Phipps said.
Phipps will perform in “Jerry’s Girls’’ at the fundraising events, set for Aug. 18-19 in the grand ballroom of Woodland Country Club of Carmel. The reception starts at 6:30 p.m., with the performance at 7:30 p.m. each night. There also will be a silent auction and prizes. Proceeds benefit the CCP Capital Fund.
“Jerry’s Girls” is a musical revue from the works of composer Jerry Herman.
“There will be a lot of familiar music,” Phipps said of Herman, who composed music for Broadway hits such as “Hello, Dolly!” and “Mame.”
Phipps will be joined by five other women for the revue. Phipps and Susan Smith are from Carmel. Diane Tsao and Jill O’Malia are Fishers residents. Heather Hansen lives in Zionsville and Georgeanna Teipen is a Greenfield resident.
Phipps’ first CCP show was “Hello, Dolly!” in 1994, when Smith played Dolly and Phipps was joined on stage by her daughter, Carley.
O’Malia co-starred with Teipen in the CCP production of “Suite Surrender” in 2017. O’Malia, who serves on the CCP board of directors, has performed in five different productions of Herman shows, including “Mame” twice, “Hello, Dolly!” “La Cage aux Folles” and “Milk and Honey.”
“It’s so much fun singing favorite Jerry Herman songs and learning some new ones we’ve never heard,” O’Malia said. “Three of the women in the cast are very close friends of mine. The other two ladies (Tsao and Hansen) I’ve met through the rehearsal process are lovely and I’m happy to call them new friends. The chemistry in the group is extremely good. The Carmel Community Players fundraiser ‘Jerry’s Girls’ is being produced to celebrate CCP bringing high-quality theater to Carmel for 30 years.”
Friday, August 11, 2023 6 p.m. at Hickory Hall Polo Club
Join us for a night of polo to support the Riverview Health Foundation. Sponsorship levels include a variety of different options. New this year is a VIP hospitality suite. Scan the QR code to learn more.
O’Malia said CCP’s intention is to “continue producing quality and affordable entertainment in Carmel for years to come.”
Tsao, a vocalist for Swing Shift Indy Big Band, has performed in almost 70 theater productions.
Smith has been in more than 20 CCP productions. She has received 13 Encore Award nominations and has five Encore Award
wins. She was in the crew/production staff of every CCP show produced from 1995 until 2003, more than 40 consecutive productions.
Smith also has played the title role of “Mame” at CCP. She has played the role of Dolly five times at different theaters and was a Dolly understudy at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre.
Smith has served as a music minister since her teens as a cantor for Sunday services and a soloist for funerals and weddings.
Teipen will be performing the title role in “Hello, Dolly!” at Footlite Musicals in September. She has performed in two prior CCP shows, “Next to Normal” (2016) and “Suite Surrender (2017). She was last season’s Encore Award winner for best female singer in the production of “White Christmas” for Main Street Productions at the Basile Westfield Playhouse.
Hansen is performing in her first show featuring Herman’s music.
“It has really opened my eyes to the wonderful work he created,” Hansen said. “I watched ‘Hello, Dolly’ regularly as a child and it is one of my favorite movie musicals. I will be performing in ‘Hello Dolly’ this fall at Footlite as Irene Malloy, and I’m really thrilled with the opportunity to help tell that fun story.”
Hansen’s only previous CCP experience was performing as Mother in “Ragtime” in 2018.
“CCP holds a dear spot in my heart for offering me my first major role (in ‘Ragtime’) after my long maternity leave,” Hansen said. “I will forever be grateful for those who had faith in me, took a chance on me, supported me and have become dear friends.”
Tickets are $75 each or $500 for a table of eight. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
Fair’s backyard BBQ contest returns
Commentary by Mark LaFayThe Indiana State Fair is coming back around. I love our annual celebration of Hoosier agriculture. The animals, the competition, the fried food, it is all great! This year is going to be extra special because it will be the first post-pandemic year for the backyard barbecue competition. Team Old Major took home the grand champion prize in 2015 and 2017. We are champing at the bit for a rematch and have been putting in the work to prep for this year’s competition! Here are three ideas to get the juices flowing as you are dreaming up what to get on the grill this weekend!
SAUSAGES
I often get asked my preferred method of cooking a sausage. It isn’t an easy answer. It depends on what sausage I’m cooking. I love smoking Old Major Jalapeño Cheddar Brats. In 2015, we won the loin category by making a fresh jalapeño cheddar brat with pork loin. I also love grilling brats, Argentine chorizo and boerewors over hardwood charcoal!
BURGERS
Our default burger is a blend of Hoosier beef and Old Major Bacon. But there is more to burgers than beef! Shoup’s makes a pork burger that is as easy as it gets. Joe’s Butcher Shop in Carmel also has ground pork and beef. Bulk sausage is great for making patties and grilling on charcoal. Breakfast burgers with runny egg? Yes, please.
BRISKET
Entire books have been written about this, so I’ll be brief. Find a nice brisket, don’t over-trim it. Season it based on the weight of the brisket: 1.5 percent salt, 0.75 percent brown sugar and 0.25 percent ground black pepper. Rub it down. Wrap it in plastic. Rest it for 24 hours. Smoke it at 215 degrees with hickory or pecan wood until the temperature of the point is 195 degrees. Don’t wrap it at all while cooking.
Where’s Amy?
Where’s Amy attends
Heartland’s Indy Shorts
Where’s Amy attended the Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts International Film Festival kickoff party July 20 at High Alpha in Indianapolis and the awards ceremony July 22 at Tinker House Events in Indianapolis. The festival included short films and filmmakers from around the world. Next up is the Heartland International Film Festival, set for Oct. 5-15. For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.
Here we grow again.
Learn more about the inclusion of the Riley Children’s Health pediatric emergency department at our community feedback meetings.
Indiana University Health is investing $300 million to complete an expansion of IU Health Saxony Hospital—soon to be IU Health Fishers. As part of this expansion, Riley Children’s Health will have a dedicated pediatric emergency department.
Work is underway and will be complete by December 2025. Feedback meetings open to the public will be held on Thursday, August 10
3 – 4 pm
IU Health Saxony Hospital
13100 E. 136th St., Fishers Community Room A
Please enter through Door 4
Thursday, August 10
6 – 7 pm
IU Health Saxony Hospital
13100 E. 136th St., Fishers Community Room A
Please enter through Door 4
These meetings will provide an opportunity for the IU Health project team to share information about the project and for the public to ask questions. iuhealth.org
Visiting Icy Strait Point
Commentary by Don KnebelIn our continuing tour of Alaska, we stop at Icy Strait Point, about 30 miles west of Juneau, which provides a great experience and is a wonderful economic and cultural success story.
at Icy Strait Point each summer, providing an enormous economic boost to nearby Hoonah, a town of about 900, most of them indigenous Tlingit people.
TRAVEL
Icy Strait Point is a privately owned tourist destination on Chichagof Island, the fifth-largest island in the United States, which reportedly contains more bears per square mile that any other place in the world. In 1996, the Huna Totem Corp., owned by 1,300 indigenous Alaskans, purchased the 23,000-acre site using proceeds received under the 1971 Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. They named the area, which includes a beachfront and a temperate rainforest, after Icy Strait, which separates Chichagof Island from the Alaska mainland, and began trying to convince cruise lines going to Juneau to stop there. In 2004, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship did stop, opening the way for other lines to make Icy Strait Point a regular destination on their Alaska cruises.
Today, more than 100 cruise ships dock
Visitors to Icy Strait Point have a variety of things to do. A building on the site that once housed the Hoonah Canning Co., now includes a museum, a restaurant, shops and some original fish-canning equipment. Whale-watching trips leaving from Icy Strait Point guarantee that passengers will see whales. A $30 million gondola transporter, completed in 2022, takes visitors to the top of Hoonah Mountain, where they can explore the rain forest or ride a mile-long zip line dropping more than 1,300 feet, considered one of the longest and highest in the world. Visitors can also take a 30-minute walk to Hoonah, where they can see authentic totem poles and experience the Tlingit culture.
Don Knebel is a local resident. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@ youarecurrent.com.
NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS OF ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION
The City of Fishers, Hamilton County, Indiana (“City”), pursuant to Ind. Code §6-1.1-18-5, hereby provides NOTICE that the City’s Common Council (“Council”) will conduct a public hearing during its August 21, 2023 regularly scheduled Council meeting for considering the following additional appropriation(s) in excess of the budget for the current year.
Addition Reduction
Court Record Perpetuation Fund– Supplies $7,000 $0
Continuing Education Fund – Capital Expense $35,000 $0
Sewer Fund – Professional Services $150,000 $0
Total $192,00 $0
The Council meeting will take place at 7:00pm at the Huston Theatre, Launch Fishers, 12175 Visionary Way, Fishers, IN. Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have the right to be heard. The additional appropriations as finally made will be referred to the Department of Local Government Finance (Department). The Department will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds to support the appropriation within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a Certified Copy of the action taken.
Dated this 21st day of July, 2023
CITY OF FISHERS
Lisa Bradford
City Controller Hamilton County, Indiana
5. “___, Brute!”
9. Big Hoffa’s BBQ rib order 13. Sheltered, at Geist
14. Mattress size
15. Scarlett of Tara
36. Words of understanding
38. State Fair description, continued
42. Waterpark feature
45. Fishers Farmers Market veggie
46. Emailed a dupe to
50. Colt foe
51. Photo ___ (media events)
54. Crater’s edge
56. Yes vote
57. Unrefined metal
58. Slangy refusal
60. DVR button
61. Made-to-order item?
63. Collectible print, briefly
65. Moral principle
66. End of State Fair description
69. Chilling
70. Repel (off)
71. Shoe part
72. Folk story
73. Carmel Racquet Club match units
74. Small bills Down
1. Traveling tot’s spot
2. Some
3. Oversee
35. Broom closet item
37. Col. Sanders’ chain
39. Newborn
40. Shore bird
41. “Who ___ that?!”
42. Sellout inits.
43. Petty or grand crime
44. “For real!”
47. Tim Campbell drawing
48. Mask feature
49. Solves a cryptogram
52. Indiana Statehouse figure, briefly
53. Shows derision
55. Jell-O shaper
59. Concur
62. Ivy ___ Community College
64. In that case
65. Car czar Wood
67. Colts QB mistake
68. Some Current staffers, for short
Answers on Page 18