September 19, 2023 — Fishers

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HSE board OKs Stokes’ resignation

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

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DISPATCHES

During a special meeting Sept. 13, the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees voted unanimously to accept the resignation of HSE Superintendent Yvonne Stokes, as well as a separation agreement negotiated by the district and Stokes’ legal counsel.

comment that focused on the lack of public information leading up to the special meeting. Three people spoke, and all were critical of the board.

EDUCATION

The board also unanimously voted to appoint assistant superintendent of Teaching and Learning Matt Kegley as the interim superintendent.

The board scheduled the special meeting on Sept 11, but details of what was to be discussed were not released until late afternoon Sept. 12. A summary of the separation agreement wasn’t posted until just before the 7 a.m. special meeting.

According to the summary, Stokes’ resignation is effective Sept. 13. She will be paid her full salary for the final year of her contract, including an annuity and unused sick leave and vacation time. Stokes also will continue to receive health insurance benefits through the district through 2024, unless she begins another job in that time.

Stokes was hired as the HSE superintendent in 2021 and was the district’s first Black superintendent. When she began in 2021, her contract included up to $187,500 annually in base pay and stipends.

The school board’s legal counsel, Chris Geisel, told the board that he was contacted by Stokes’ attorney two weeks prior to the meeting to negotiate a separation agreement. In addition to the financial considerations in the agreement, he said both sides have agreed to waive all legal claims against each other, and to nondisparagement clauses, which means they won’t speak poorly of each other.

He added that the actions of the board this week regarding the special meeting were part of that agreement.

“Every action that we’ve taken or not taken has been done in strict conformity with the agreement that we reached that’s before you here this morning,” he said.

Geisel was responding to earlier public

Among them was Abby Taylor, Hamilton Southeastern Schools Education Association president. She said teachers are frustrated by the board’s actions leading up to the special meeting.

“An unexpected meeting with no context or agenda was announced with an unusual start time, preventing many of our community from attending — especially teachers who were directly impacted by this time frame — resulting in a series of rumors and speculations and contributed to the continued distrust in our board members, which impacts all teachers, students and community members alike,” she said. “It festers in the court of public opinion and does a massive disservice to teachers who are looking right now for stability in central office and in our board of trustees during a desperately needed referendum.”

In November, Fishers voters will decide whether to approve a new tax referendum rate of .1995 cents per $100 assessed value, providing school funding of an estimated $24 million. The current tax levy, approved by voters in 2016, expires at the end of the year. Through the 2016 referendum, property owners have paid .2275 cents per $100 assessed value.

In a statement released by HSE just after the meeting, Stokes said she is grateful to the community for her time in the position.

“The opportunity to serve as superintendent was one I never took lightly,” she stated. “As this shift in leadership commences, I am committed to supporting the district and feel confident that our staff, students and families will be in capable hands. The future is bright for HSE.”

Although the vote to approve Stokes’ resignation was unanimous, two board members — Sarah Parks Reese and Sarah Donsbach — said their votes were in support of Stokes’ wishes rather than a show of support for the process.

The next HSE school board meeting is 7 p.m. Sept. 20.

Correction – In the Sept. 5 edition of the Consume special section, the church hosting Pumpkinfest and Oktoberfest Oct. 7 in Zionsville is St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church.

Newcomers Club meeting – The Newcomers Club of Carmel will hold its first meeting of the fall at 11 a.m. Sept. 17 with a luncheon at the Bridgewater Club, 3535 E. 161st St. in Westfield. The nonprofit social club connects its members with friends, engages in fun activities and explores the community. Membership represents Carmel, Westfield, Fishers, Noblesville, Zionsville and Indianapolis. For more, visit carmelnewcomers.com.

Hamilton County legislators seek Statehouse interns — Local lawmakers are seeking interns to join them at the Statehouse during the 2024 legislative session. According to a news release from the Indiana House Republicans, House interns are paid $900 biweekly as they work in downtown Indianapolis during the session, which starts in January and concludes mid-March. House internships are open to college students and recent graduates of all majors. Paid, spring-semester intern positions are full time, Monday through Friday, and include free parking, career and professional development assistance, enrollment access to an Indiana government class and opportunities to earn academic credits through the student’s college or university. Interns are also eligible to apply for a competitive $3,000 scholarship to use toward undergraduate and graduate expenses. Applications are available online at indianahouserepublicans.com/ internship and are due by Oct. 31.

Stokes

HSE teacher wins state award for excellence

news@currentinfishers.com

A Hamilton Southeastern Schools teacher was one of 16 Hoosier educators recognized during the annual Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala Sept. 8 in Indianapolis.

EDUCATION

According to an announcement from the Indiana Department of Education, HSE English as a New Language teacher Rebecca Schroeder received the English Learner Educator Excellence Award.

“This award recognizes individual educators with over three years of experience who serve students within their school’s English Learning Program,” the announcement stated. “This individual leads, teaches and builds community among all educators to ensure students are supported across settings.”

In addition to the recognition, Schroeder will receive $2,500.

During the event, IDOE awarded nearly $5 million to schools and educators across the state.

“The heart of the Educational Excellence Awards Gala is focused on the impact of our educators and schools. We know that we have continuous improvements to make for our student and we also know that we have shining examples of success existing across our state,” Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner stated. “Our goal was to host a red-carpet event to celebrate our very best educators on a level similar to how we celebrate movie stars and professional athletes, because their incredible impact deserves to be celebrated at the grandest level we can.

“Many of the educators tonight have positively impacted hundreds of students over the years and are leaders in their local communities. So, bringing them together for an awards night to roll out the red carpet and provide surprise monetary awards is one small way we can spotlight the massive impact they continue to make on our state.”

The event had more than 500 educators and guests from across the state.

The Fishers Fire Department presented a Fishers Safety Day Sept. 9 during a weekly Fishers Farmers Market at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. Firefighters helped children try out a fire hose, gave CPR demonstrations and brought the Fire Safety House trailer, which allows people to practice safe exits in case of emergencies. (Photo courtesy of the Fishers Fire Department)

DISPATCHES

Voter forum — The League of Women Voters of Hamilton County will host a voter forum at 3 pm. Sept. 23, at Hamilton East Public Library, 5 Municipal Dr., Fishers. The forum will explain the voting process, from finding your voting location to ensuring that you are registered to learning the requirements for early voting. The event is free and open to the public. Sessions will cover registration, such as when and how to register, age limits and deadlines, and ways to access information about candidates. Members will demonstrate how to use the Indiana Voters Portal, where users can complete a variety of tasks, and will introduce Vote411, the league’s website that features candidates’ statements and positions. Learn more at lwvhcin.org

Salvation Army offers volunteer opportunities — The Salvation Army serving central Indiana is seeking volunteers for upcoming events and fundraisers. According to Fishers resident Kathy Dalla Costa, volunteer manager, volunteers are needed for furniture delivery and building Sept. 22-23 and Sept. 29-30 at the Women and Children’s Center in downtown Indianapolis; organizing coat collection in September for Coats for Kids, as well as sorting setting up in October at the state fairgrounds and dis-

tribution on Oct. 14; bell ringing at various store locations from Nov. 24 through Dec. 24; and sorting and distribution at the Angel Tree Toy Shop. To volunteer or for more information, contact Dalla Costa at (317) 2241010, or by email at kathy.dallacosta@usc. salvationarmy.org.

Student honors — Fishers resident Adison Viars was named to The University of Alabama Presidents List for summer semester 2023. A total of 414 students enrolled during summer semester 2023 at The University of Alabama were named to the dean’s list with an academic record of 3.5 (or above) or the president’s list with a record of 4.0 (all A’s).

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 www.mtpublishing. com.

Expires 9/30/2023

11630 Olio Rd. 105

Fishers, IN 46037

Little libraries offer new way to share books

By Cassie King news@currentinfishers.com

Residential communities and neighborhoods throughout Fishers have seen some new additions — scaled-down, house-like structures on posts, filled with books. They are called little libraries, or Little Free Libraries when registered with the national organization.

BOOKS

In the River Glen subdivision in Fishers, Lou Ann Huey recently installed a little library on her property. The finished product was a group effort involving family members.

Huey said Gordon Boelke, her 89-year-old uncle of Ft. Myers, Fla., built the little library at her request after she noticed other little libraries around Fishers and decided she wanted one. When Boelke was finished building it, he passed it on to his daughter to decorate.

The result is a fairy house with hidden doorways, moss, greenery and fairies. Huey had it installed on her property close to the sidewalk for anyone in her neighborhood to enjoy. The fairy house library is filled with various titles, and anyone can add more books to share.

Huey’s little library is not registered with the Little Free Library organization, but it is available for all to use. Even if someone doesn’t want a book, people can stop by the library to admire it.

“Neighbors and fairies are welcome,” Huey said.

The River Glen little library fairy house can be visited on River Glen Drive just west of Allisonville Road in Fishers.

The little library at River Glen is one of many popping up around Fishers. Because

each community is different, each library is different, reflecting its neighborhood. For example, because River Glen is primarily an adult community, Huey’s library is filled with books for adults. Other neighborhoods have more children and offer more selections for younger age groups.

Little libraries have no set hours of operation. They are accessible by foot, so those who don’t have the time or resources to go to the public library can still find a new book to read.

The idea is to take a book and leave one. If someone has books at home that others might enjoy, they can leave them in a little library to share with others.

To find a Little Free Library near you, check the national online registry, which lists every registered Little Free Library in the country. The website, littlefreelibrary. org, also provides information about creating and establishing your own Little Free Library.

The Little Free Library is a nonprofit founded in 2009 in St. Paul, Minn. It is a national literacy initiative to make access to literature free and available to everyone.

Lou Ann Huey installed her fairy-themes little library at her home in the River Glen subdivision in Fishers. (Photo by Cassie King)

Balloon fest at Conner Prairie

By Cassie King news@currentinfishers.com

The Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival took off at Conner Prairie in Fishers Sept. 8 and continued through Sept. 10. Besides daytime balloon flights, the festival included Friday and Saturday night Glow events showcasing the 42 balloons lit up in full color; live music; bounce houses; demonstrations; food trucks; and activities for all ages. Attendees also enjoyed a festival-exclusive preview of the Headless Horseman corn maze.

EVENT

“This is Indiana’s largest hot air balloon festival,” said Holly Pasquinelli, senior manager of public relations and communications at Conner Prairie. “This year marked the third year for the Jupiter Flights Festival, with 42 participants.”

Pilots participated from different states, including Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Missouri. The balloons varied in color, shape and size.

Competitions featured Hare and Hound races, where competitors follow a “hare” balloon and attempt to drop a marker close

to a target displayed by the hare no more than two meters upwind of the basket after landing.

Fishers resident Peter Freytag said it was his first time seeing the competitive balloon event.

“I wish I had my easel,” he said. “I could try to paint this. Very pretty.”

Marty Gauthier, pilot of the Airbender balloon from Waterford, Mich., was named grand champion. His brother, Travis Gauthier, also from Waterford, came in second. He piloted the Corn-Nutz balloon. Hoosier Andy Sizemore of Crown Point, pilot of the Serenity balloon, came in third.

Attendees watch hot air balloon competitions during the third Jupiter Flights Festival at Conner Prairie. (Photo by Cassie King)

FUN IN FISHERS

FALL EVENTS FALL EVENTS

Geist Waterfront Park

Non-swim season (now - May): playground, kayak launch, and trails open dawn to dusk 10811 Olio Rd. | Free for residents and nonresidents | playfishers.com/GWP

Fishers Farmers Market

Saturdays, now – September 30 | 8 a.m. – noon | NPD AMP (6 Municipal Dr.) | Free playfishers.com/FarmersMarket

Glow in the Park

Friday, September 22 (ages 21+ only) | 8 – 10 p.m.

Saturday, September 23 (family night) | 8 – 10 p.m. NPD AMP | Prices vary, get tickets at playfishers.com/GlowinthePark

City Recycling Day

Saturday, September 23 | 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Billericay Park (12690 Promise Rd.) Free for residents | fishers.in.us/Recycling

Day Out at the AMP

Friday, September 29 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | NPD AMP | Free, register at playfishers.com

AgriPark Campout

Saturday, October 7 at 4 p.m. – Sunday, October 8 at 9 a.m. | Fishers AgriPark (11171 Florida Rd.) | Prices vary, register at playfishers.com/AgriPark

AgriPark Fall Festival

Tuesday, October 10 - Saturday, October 14 | 4 –7 p.m. | Fishers AgriPark Prices vary, get tickets at playfishers.com/AgriPark

Boo Bash

Saturday, October 28 | 10 a m - 2 p m | NPD AMP | Free | playfishers com/BooBash

Get

FISHERS

Project: Geist Greenway Trail

Location:

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Geist Greenway is open between Valley Crossing to 126th Street. Work has resumed on the trail south of Valley Crossing Drive, which will remain closed until construction is finished. Construction continues to take place along Florida Road between Bowline Drive and 104th Street.

Expected completion: TBD

Project: Roundabout at 106th and Hoosier Road

Location: The intersection of 106th Street and Hoosier Road is closed for construction of a roundabout. Access into and out of Windermere subdivision will be on Geist Road via Governors Lane.

Expected completion: TBD

Project: 146th and Allisonville Road

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. Utility relocation work is ongoing. Periodic lane closures may be necessary to complete this work. Watch for flaggers and workers in and around the construction zone. Construction crews are continuing to work on storm sewer installation and roadway grading. Crews have begun working on the widening of the westbound bridge over the White River. The contractor has installed cofferdams and delineating buoys in the White River for pier construction. Please use caution if canoeing or tubing through the work zone.

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 on 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 has begun in Harrison Parks and Harrison Lakes. These 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. Road resurfacing has begun in The Parks at White River and The Bristols.

Expected completion: The entire project should be done by fall.

Senior tennis player seeks to help Carmel add to trophy case

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Senior Braedon McIntyre is eager to help the top-ranked Carmel High School boys tennis team bring home another trophy.

After winning its record sixth consecutive IHSAA state title, Carmel lost to Lafayette Harrison 3-2 in last year’s regional championship.

“I think we’ve had a stronger attitude this season,” McIntyre said. “We’ve had more desire in all our matches, more hunger. I think that’s what’s going to win a state championship.”

McIntyre said losing in the regional was a wake-up call.

McIntyre and junior Rocky Li are the only players who saw action in the 2021 state finals. McIntyre played No. 2 doubles on the 2021 state championship team. He played as a freshman but was an alternate in the postseason.

“I think on the court I’ve made improvements in staying focused and being ready

MEET BRAEDON MCINTYRE

Favorite athlete: Novak Djokovic

Favorite TV show: “Breaking Bad”

Favorite movie: “The Avengers”

Favorite band: Aerosmith

and then vigilant at the net,” McIntyre said. “I’m definitely playing stronger and a lot harder, so I think that’s been a good thing and worked well out on the court.”

McIntyre has returned to playing No. 1 doubles with junior Michael Bao, his partner from last season. Earlier in the season, McIntyre played No. 1 singles for the Greyhounds.

Greyhounds coach Dan Brunette said McIntyre’s maturity has increased.

“He’s learned how to understand his

Braedon McIntyre is a senior leader for the top-

School

Miller

tennis team.

emotions and learning how to deal with pressure adversity,” Brunette said. “He’s stepped up and done a great job leading the team when it comes to things off the court and on the court, so he’s kind of the quintessential senior that you need out there.

He’s been very reliable in that regard.”

Brunette said he has taken on a lot of the responsibilities off the court.

“He’s doing a good job of being a good role model for the younger kids as opposed to just being a guy on the team,” Brunette said.

On the court, Brunette said he is steadier than he has been in the past.

“I think he understands his game better,” Brunette said.

Brunette said McIntyre has improved his decision making as well.

“If you get caught up thinking too much about what happened in the past, you’re not ready for what’s going to happen next,” Brunette said.

Brunette said McIntyre is handling mistakes better mentally.

“He’s coming back stronger and not dwelling on things that can cause multiple game slides,” he said. “He’s played a lot of hard matches because he played No. 1 singles at the beginning of the season.”

McIntyre began playing tennis at age 10.

“As soon as I started playing tennis, I just kind of fell in love with it and just kept going,” McIntyre said.

ranked Carmel High

boys

(Photo courtesy of Luke

Photography)

McIntyre

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To qualify for the incentive the purchase of an inventory home must close on or before December 29, 2023 and the purchase of a to-be-built home must close within 6 months of the acceptance of the contract by Epcon’s affiliates. The incentives are available only for certain financing options and do not apply to all lenders and loans. Some conditions, limitations, and restrictions apply. Offer may vary locally. See your Sales Consultant for more details. Finance incentives are capped at no more than $20,000 based on participation in this offer, including financing through GO Mortgage, LLC, (NMLS 1018). May require at least 10% down. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. The 5.49% interest rate (5.654 APR) incentive is based on qualification and financing with GO Mortgage, a conventional 30-year fixed rate mortgage, sales price of $600,000, loan amount of $420,000 with a 30% down payment, and a 760 FICO score and the possible payment of points. Some buyers may not qualify for this loan or this rate. A Higher rate or a different loan scenario may apply based on credit score and applicant characteristics. Additional closing costs will apply. Rates fluctuate daily based on market conditions and may increase until the rate is locked. Ask for a Loan Estimate. Loans are subject to underwriting guidelines and lender approval. GO Mortgage, 4215 Worth Ave., Suite 320, Columbus OH 43219. Ohio Mortgage Residential Mortgage Lending Act Certificate of Registration Number MB.804284.000, Indiana Mortgage Lender No. 10882. Additional licensing information may be viewed at: https://gomortgage.com/licensing-information. Prospective buyers are free to shop for the best rate and terms and use any mortgage lender of Buyer’s choosing in the purchase of their Epcon home, subject to the terms of the buyer’s home purchase agreement with Epcon. The purchase price for the house will not change based upon the lender selected by buyer. Home sites in the designated communities are subject to availability. Offers may not be redeemed for cash or equivalent. This offer may not be combined with any other offers or discounts. This incentive may affect the amount of the loan for which a buyer may be eligible, check with your lender for details. Offers not valid on previously written sales contracts or contract re-writes. Community Association fees required. This offer is void where prohibited. GO Mortgage is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Although all floorplans, features, illustrations, and specifications of the homes and communities are believed correct at the time of publication, the right is reserved to make changes, without notice or obligation. Windows, doors, ceilings, layout, colors, finishes and room sizes may vary depending on the options and elevations selected. This information is for illustrative purposes only and not part of a legal contract. ©2023 IP86, LLC.

Jeff Goddard)

Magic Gold softball team seeks to build on summer success

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel residents Jeff Goddard and Roger Bennett have been coaching their daughters’ softball team together for eight years, starting in the Carmel Dads’ Club.

SPORTS

This summer, their Indiana Magic Gold team reached the pinnacle by winning the 14U title in the Triple Crown Nationals, which was held July 10-13 in Alpharetta, Ga.

Goddard said he hopes the girls stay hungry as the team moves into the 16-and-under division this fall.

“We got everybody back and we added two new freshmen players,” he said. “Most of the other girls had been playing together for five years.”

Indiana Magic Gold finished with a 7-1 record at the Triple Crown Nationals. The Indiana team defeated Virginia Unity Johnson 5-2 in the championship. Goddard said most of the girls will be 2026 high school graduates and some will be 2027 graduates.

“Along the way, we had big wins over many of the best teams in the country, including Tennessee Mojo Lewis, California Athletics Mercado, Tampa Mustangs Fowler, Louisville Lady Sluggers and Orange County (Calif.) Batbusters Stith/Black,” Goddard said. “It was a full team effort led by incredible pitching and aggressive base running. They played unselfishly, and while we had some players who had an incredible tournament, it seemed someone different stepped up each game, from making a clutch hit to scoring a run to a diving play to prevent a run to picking off a would-be baserunner.”

The team included three Carmel High School students: freshmen right fielder Grace Sharp, freshman second baseman Ellie Goddard and sophomore pitcher Chelsea Bennett. Bennett was not able to play this summer because of back surgery in the spring.

“She is the greatest example of a teammate,” Goddard said. “She traveled all over with us, even though she couldn’t play.”

Other players from Hamilton County included center fielder Makayla Watson, sophomore, Westfield High School; pitcher Grace Swedarsky, sophomore, Hamilton Southeastern High School; catcher Haley Schatko, sophomore, Noblesville High School; and outfielder Hannah Dent, freshman, Hamilton Heights High School.

Sophomore Natalie Hester, a former Zionsville resident, was the team’s shortstop. Her family moved to Princeton, N.J. in 2022 for her father’s work assignment.

Swedarsky had a 5-0 record and allowed just two earned runs in the tournament en route to being selected as the tournament’s MVP. Schatko had two home runs in the championship game, making the all-tournament team along with Swedarsky, Watson, Ellie Goddard, Reese Mosolino and Hadley West. West is from Manchester High School. Mosolina is from Crystal Lake High School in Illinois. Ellie batted a team-high .421 in the tournament and Watson led the team with seven runs scored and five stolen bases.

Following the Triple Crown Nationals, Indiana Magic Gold was runner-up in the 14U portion of the Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series’ national tournament, held Aug. 1-6 at Grand Park in Westfield.

from left,

from left,

(Photo courtesy of

Neumann seeks reelection

Compiled by Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

you address it?

ELECTIONS

Crystal Neumann is seeking reelection to the Fishers City Council, representing the North Central district. She and her husband Joerg have lived in Fishers since 2012. They have two sons, Eli and Anton. Neumann, a democrat has a doctorate in business administration and works as a college administrator. She was inducted into the Indiana Latino Leadership Circle in 2020 and Hoosier Women Forward in 2022.

Q — What can you offer to the citizens of Fishers as an elected official?

A — I love teaching, listening and engaging with others. With my doctorate in business, I like to analyze business operations and how they impact the city economically. I have a strong passion for sustainability and have been serving in the Fishers Environmental Working Group.

Q — What do you consider the most important issue facing the City of Fishers in the next four years and how would

A — In addition to supporting mental health, I work to increase sustainability awareness. We must continue to ensure the quality of our environment for current and future residents. I collaborate with developers to build sustainably by focusing on green space, preserving trees, improving walkability with trails and thinking about future development with solar panels and options for EV charging stations.

Q — How will you make sure all Fishers residents feel included and heard by their elected officials?

A — Elected officials should create open forums to understand everyone’s vision, as well as provide opportunities for civic engagement – such as on boards and commissions. A community is built collaboratively. Transparency is essential.

Q — What can the city do to address housing availability?

A — The city must continue to follow the 2040 plan that Fishers has in place. The city must also invest within itself locally. The general election is Nov. 7

Pritchett running for city clerk

Compiled by Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Janet Pritchett is running as a Democrat for the Fishers City Clerk position. Pritchett is a mortgage advisor for Parker Mortgage. She and her husband Mike are 19-year Fishers residents and have four children. Pritchett said she has a passion for education and supporting Fishers’ children, families and residents. She served previously on the Hamilton Southeastern Schools board.

ELECTION

Pritchett helped to start the Fishers Democrat Club and belongs to Fishers Rotary.

Neumann Pritchett

sure that role is fulfilled?

A — In today’s busy world, it is important for citizens to have access to important information quickly and I will make sure minutes are posted within 48 hours. The city clerk also handles public access requests and I intend to reinstate that role if I am elected.

Q — How will you ensure that public information is easily available to members of the public?

A — In addition to what is already being done, I would propose linking city council agendas to the recordings of public meetings for easier access to the information citizens desire.

Q — What is your experience in maintaining and managing records?

Fishers Town Hall Building Corporation

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Q — What can you offer to the citizens of Fishers as an elected official?

A — Citizens can expect me to be a champion of their involvement in city government. It’s important for every elected official to be accessible and approachable, and I will embody that.

Q — What is the most important role of a City Clerk and how would you make

A — During my tenure as a HSE school board member, I was elected by my peers to serve as board secretary, which included ensuring meeting minutes were posted and maintained based on our policy and state law. In addition, this position enabled me to have a firm grasp on the spirit of Indiana’s public access laws and how to uphold them.

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COVER STORY

HOSPITAL GROWTH

IU Health Saxony expanding services, rebranding to be IU Health Fishers

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

IU Health is in the middle of a $300 million “Fishers Community Impact” project, adding services at IU Health Saxony such as women’s health and obstetrics; neurology, pulmonary and ears, nose and throat care; new intensive care unit beds; and new outpatient clinics.

Chad Dilley is chief operating officer for IU Health Saxony. On a sunny September morning, as a huge crane moves massive construction materials for work crews on the site, he points to what will become the hospital’s new wing, which he refers to as the tower.

“What we’re looking at here on the first floor will be a women’s health focus area,” he said. “We will have an obstetrics and gynecology clinic, we’ll have breast surgical clinic, and we’ll have mammography on the first floor. And then on the second floor, right above that will be a labor, delivery, postpartum unit.”

Those services will be new to IU Health in Fishers, Dilley said. In addition to new services, the project will more than double the hospital’s inpatient capacity, from 38 to 88 beds.

The expansion project and new health services are a direct response to Fishers’ growth.

“This is such a growing and thriving area of the Midwest, seeing a lot of population influx, and we’re growing to meet that population demand,” Dilley said. “Our data strongly indicates that patients want care — IU Health care — closer to home. When you look at how patients are migrating away from the Fishers community to receive care that you can typically receive from a community hospital, it tells us we need to diversify our services here. And to do that, we have to grow our physical footprint.”

The expansion project broke ground in November 2022 and is scheduled for completion in late 2025. Because of its size and the length of time it will take, Dilley said the planning process was meticulous, and was done with patients’ current needs in mind.

“We’ve really focused on minimizing disruption to our patients,” he said. “If you notice, where we’re standing, you’re not

seeing any construction traffic. The construction entrance is actually just on the other side of our central utility plant there.”

The planning process directly involved caregivers, he said. Officials set up giant tents in one of the parking lots and invited IU Health employees to come out and talk with architects and construction partners to make sure the design fit their needs and the needs of patients.

There are interior renovations as well, he said, providing more imaging and emergency department capacity. A new pediatric emergency care department is planned in partnership with Riley Children’s Health, and IU Health opened a new primary care clinic on USA Parkway in Fishers this summer. Dilley said additional new services are planned in Noblesville and McCordsville.

A bigger hospital also means more utility needs, and that also was included in project planning.

“There’s significant infrastructure pieces. The central utility plant there, you have to add on additional capacity to be able to provide the utilities and be prepared to grow

in the future as well,” Dilley said. “We built this with the growth of the community in mind. And then we’re positioned ourselves to continue to grow here based off of some of the infrastructure work we’re doing right now.”

Dilley said that while the $300 million investment is significant, it was needed.

“It’s a response to what the community has told us — that they want IU Health care

closer to home,” he said. “And this is, again, such a growing and thriving area of the Midwest that we’re just trying to keep up with the demand.”

BY THE NUMBERS

IU Health Saxony — soon to be IU Health Fishers’ expansion project will result in:

• 88 inpatient beds, including 64 for medical/surgical; 12 for ICU/progressive care; and 12 for labor/delivery/ recovery/postpartum.

• Expanded emergency room capacity, with 15 exam and treatment spaces and two clinical decision units.

• Pediatric emergency medicine, with eight pediatric emergency rooms, a

four-bed observation unit and staffing by Riley Children’s Health.

• 14 day beds and eight overnight beds for cath lab/observation

• Six operating rooms

• 17 post-op rooms

• Two CT scanners, two MRIs, three ultrasound machines, three X-ray machines and three mammogram machines.

ON THE COVER: IU Health Saxony is in the middle of a $300 million expansion project, adding services such as this new wing for women’s health and obstetrics. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

Left, the completed project, seen in this aerial rendering, includes the new wing and an updated utilities building. (Image courtesy of IU Health)

Right, IU Health’s expansion project goes beyond the main hospital building. A new primary care suite opened in early August on USA Parkway in Fishers. (Photo courtesy of IU Health)

Modern tech eases fears

Commentary by Dr. Jeremy Ciano

“Eye exams make me nervous!”

Do you dread going to the eye doctor because you hate getting that puff of air blown in your eyes? Do you push back your annual eye examination because you don’t want to be dilated and have blurry vision for the rest of the day? Do you get nervous choosing between 1 and 2 and fear that you may be picking the wrong answer? We hear you loud and clear. Fortunately, most of these fears are now a thing of the past.

With modern technologies, a lot of those uncomfortable, poofy and debilitating portions of the eye exam are ancient history. With digital retinal scanners, most dilations and the accompanying blurry vision/light sensitivity can now be avoided. Of course, if there are serious problems, your eye doctor will insist on taking a deeper dive, but with the majority of screening evaluations, the dreaded dilation of your pupils are a thing of the past.

Same with the air puff! There are now handheld devices that can accurately and consistently measure your eye pressure without the puff of air. No more nervous an ticipation. No more uncomfortable shots of air to the eye. Just a quick and gentle tap of the lower part of the eye and you are done. Quick, painless, accurate and easy.

One or two … You’ve heard the jokes — you’ve probably made the jokes. But why do we keep asking you these questions? Simply put, when your eye doctor is asking you to discern between two options, we are finding out where your best vision is. Here’s the best part: You can’t get it wrong! We ask over and over to ensure the prescription is accurate and consistent. So, relax. You did a great job!

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.

Fall prevention tips

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

DUSTY BOOTS TOUR

PODIATRY

September is Fall Awareness Prevention Month. Fall prevention is critical since falls are the number one cause of injuries and death from injury for older Americans. This month, I’m sharing tips on protecting you and your loved ones from dangerous falls.

1. Examine your feet. If you notice any changes in the shape of your feet, make an appointment with our office immediately.

2. Wear shoes that keep you safe. Choose rubber or nonskid soles that fit well. Athletic shoes and shoes with low heels are good choices.

3. Check your medications. Talk with your primary care physician about your medications at every visit. How your body reacts to medications can change as you age, so certain medicines that were once fine may increase your fall risk.

4. Check your vision and hearing. Problems with sight or hearing can lead to falls. Get your eyes checked once a year and your hearing and inner ear health every other year.

5. Remove hazards from your home. Remove items you can trip on, like throw rugs, boxes or cords.

6. Exercise. Simple stretching exercises help you maintain strength, balance and mobility. We can help you determine which activities are best for fall prevention.

7. Improve your balance by wearing orthotics or foot braces. These devices will give your ankle extra support while walking. Orthotics put your foot back in the ‘neutral’ position for more stability while walking. For some of our patients, orthotics will offer sufficient fall prevention. But if you are at high risk, we offer a fully customizable balance brace. This brace helps individuals with ankle instability, mild foot drop and those who walk with difficulty or have a history of falls or near falls.

One fall can rob you of your independence and reduce your quality of life. Contact our office for an appointment to learn how taking good care of your feet and ankles can reduce the risk of a life-altering slip, trip or fall.

A board-certified foot surgeon and wound specialist, Dr. David Sullivan is the owner of Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact him at drs@ westfieldfoot.com.

Feast of Tabernacles Celebration

IndyFuel a new OneZone Leadership Partner

news@currentinfishers.com

and look forward to the future.”

OneZone President/CEO Jack Russell said the chamber is happy to welcome the Indy Fuel as a new Leadership Investor.

BUSINESS

IndyFuel is the newest Leadership Partner with OneZone Chamber of Commerce, according to an announcement from the chamber.

The Indy Fuel is a minor league ice hockey team in the East Coast Hockey League. The City of Fishers has partnered with the team to build a new event center that will be IndyFuel’s new home base.

“The Indy Fuel is incredibly excited to expand our work with the OneZone team by becoming a Leadership Investor,” Larry McQueary, president and CEO of Indy Fuel, stated “We are extremely excited about moving to Fishers and the new Fishers Event Center. So, as we integrate further into the Fishers community, we want to even greater align with the positivity that OneZone brings to the community. We are excited to help build an even stronger business environment alongside OneZone

“Their work and dedication go beyond the ice. They are truly community partners, and we are excited to welcome them to Fishers,” Russell stated. “We want to thank the entire Fuel team for investing in our mission to help businesses and communities thrive. We cannot wait to open the Event Center in the coming year. LET’S. GO. FUEL!”

Leadership Partner is the highest membership level with OneZone. According to the chamber’s website, the $10,000 annual membership fee for that level includes tickets to OneZone events and many marketing opportunities through the chamber.

OneZone Chamber of Commerce serves more than 1,300 businesses in the Carmel and Fishers area. To learn more about OneZone Chamber of Commerce, visit onezonechamber.com.

McQuery

Postbook wins award from USAging

news@currentinfishers.com

A letter-writing business inspired by a Fishers mom and her son has been recognized by USAging with a 2023 Aging Achievement Award.

INNOVATION

According to an announcement from Indianapolis-based nonprofit CICOA, Fishers resident Erica Seabaugh assigned her 7-year-old son to write letters while they were at home during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to keep him busy and improve his handwriting and communication skills.

“She had no idea it would inspire a new business — Postbook — a postcard-writing kit designed to connect children with older adults through the lost art of letter writing,” the announcement stated.

Seabaugh works for CICOA Aging and in-Home Solutions, which used the idea to launch Postbook as a new company. According to the announcement, it was among 50 programs to receive honors during USAging’s 48th Annual Conference and Tradeshow this summer.

A Postbook kit includes two identical journals with prompts — one to be kept, one to be shared with a pal. Individuals read the prompts and send postcards with their responses to their pal, who will do the same.

“The impact of Postbook is measured by the meaningful experiences created and nurtured,” CICOA Vice President of Innova tion Jonathan Haag said. “Pals reflect on and share cherished memories and create deepened connections with those they love.”

The 2023 USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards honored tradi tional and new strategies in a range of categories, including advocacy, agency operations, caregiving, diversity, equity and inclusion, economic security, elder abuse prevention, health-LTSS integration, healthy aging, home and community-based services, housing and homelessness, infor mation and referral/assistance, intergen erational programs, nutrition, public health and vaccinations, social engagement, tech nology, transportation and mobility and workforce development and volunteerism.

Logging frequent prayer miles

Commentary by Terry Anker

good or very bad place.

Taking a bite out of dinner plans

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

ESSAY

We humans long have endeavored to paint a picture of what an afterlife might entail. In crossing the river Styx or descending into Dante’s layer cake, the unknown has left us open to tremendous creativity. Presently, the majority tradition in the West is based on a single framing wherein folks have a largely binary choice between heaven and hell. How we follow the path to one or the other is not entirely the same among all sects but does acknowledge mostly a similar geography.

So interesting and compelling is it to imagine what becomes of us once we’ve shed our mortal coil that artists, writers, singers and stage dressers, for centuries, have made good use of the mystery. Today, Hollywood’s entertainment complex routinely retreats to the question of the afterlife as a sure-fire method to gain market. At present, there are scores of films, episodic series, and even situation comedies dedicated to the premise that we all end up in some version of a very

One such program examines a group of four human souls perhaps wrongly damned to hell and the sympathetic demon dedicated to proving that they should have all gone the other direction. Each must earn enough good “points” to tip the scale upward. Pet a dog, get a point. Kick a dog, lose a few. It is silly to imagine a spawn of Satan changing stripes, but the more ludicrous supposition might be that admission to heaven is earned like a free sandwich at Subway. Is being a vegan worth more points than coaching a youth softball team? Is a generous gift of money earned from a millionaire better than no gift from someone without means? If we can gain afterlife-access status, do we have enough frequent prayer miles to board early?

Haunted by ‘what ifs?’

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

My daughter survived an earthquake. In Africa. And she’s fine, but I am still shaking. Here’s the tea.

HUMOR

Our 19-year-old is on a gap year, backpacking across Europe and working in hostels to stretch her Java House earnings as far as she can. She’s been all over, from Albania to Portugal, and recently committed to a monthlong position in a beachside Moroccan guest house because it’s cheap and she gets free surfing lessons.

Allow me to pause the story to say that my husband and I, though mildly concerned at the beginning of this adventure, usually don’t give her much thought. Yes, we’ve seen “Taken” and she is a young female traveling solo, but she’s smart, does her research and has grown tremendously since she left in April. We trust her to make good decisions. Plus, out of sight, out of mind. I got my own stuff!

But the other night, our budding Rick Steves called to recount a harrowing tale of her dramatic brush with death. “Mom, the building started shaking and we ran down the stairs, but the lights went out

and I fell, and then we had to get up a hill because, like, tsunamis, and oh my god, I was so scared…” I played it cool thinking she was exaggerating, but then it hit the news: “Biggest quake in centuries, thousands dead, Marrakesh devastated.” Cue maternal panic attack.

She’s OK and was never in any real danger, but the “what ifs?” continue to shake me. I’ve been abruptly reminded that I’ll always be a parent, even when my adult children are living their best lives an ocean away.

Peace out.

HUMOR

We have a cat. Her name is Angel, and most of the time she is just that. Except when she is a devil. Last week, when my wife Mary Ellen reached for a tissue while watching TV, Angel, who had nestled next to her for the evening, bit her. The cut wasn’t very deep, so Mary Ellen applied an antibiotic and off to sleep we went.

We both had pretty much forgotten about the feline attack, but the next night on the way to dinner with friends, Mary Ellen casually mentioned the redness on her hand to Bob and Cathy. Both armed with their iPhones, they were in the back seat Googling away, entering phrases like: fatal cat bites; deadly feline teeth; and lethal kitten puncture wounds. Hey, what’s more fun than surfing the net?

Eventually, Bob and Cathy convinced my wife that the swelling was either Pasteurella multocida or staphylococcus aureus. That sounded pretty serious, so we decided to make it a fun evening by socializing in the medical clinic waiting room while my wife was being examined. I know that’s a really dumb way to spend a Saturday night, but with my wife’s excellent health insurance, it was cheaper than going to the movies and dinner.

There was a long line to see the doctor, so Mary Ellen put herself on the waiting list to come back in an hour or so. I told the nurse that the next time my wife needed medical attention like this, we’d try to call

about 45 minutes before she planned to torment the cat. Mary Ellen did not think that was funny.

Cats and dogs aren’t the only attacking culprits. One part of the medical form provided a list of species that could potentially bite a human. Mary Ellen was asked to check the appropriate box. They were in alphabetical order, so the first one on the list was bats and No. 2 was cattle, which I think would be embarrassing to admit. OK, maybe a mad cow, but how do you let an entire herd bite you? Squirrels are the very last one listed. No wolves? And there is no mention of pigs, more proof of just how powerful the bacon lobby is. The doctor confirmed the potential severity of a cat wound and suggested that an X-ray be taken to be sure bone had not been penetrated. Cathy, who was by now the leading cat bite expert in central Indiana, wanted to know why that procedure was necessary. “Because the cat is now missing two front teeth,” I told her.

Many years ago, Mary Ellen was at this very clinic after she tried to take a chicken bone away from our beagle, Barney. The gash from Barney’s bite required three stitches in her hand. My wife has now been bitten twice by our pets. Which is why we are not getting a cow.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

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

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

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

“She’s OK and was never in any real danger, but the “what ifs?” continue to shake me.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

“My wife has now been bitten twice by our pets. Which is why we are not getting a cow.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Editor,

of Current) reveals something of which the younger generation is just not aware, and that is: What made America the greatest nation on Earth.

“woke” had not been invented!

positions of those in the same woke camp as Smyth: Men pretending to be women so they can have the advantage in women’s’ sports; physically seeking to change the sex of teens (and younger!) who are going through some confused thinking which could be handled with proper counseling (a person’s sex, male or female, is encoded in the DNA of every cell in their body). Cadets and staff at the Air Force Academy, at the direction of Commander in Chief Biden, en couraged not to use the terms “husband” or “wife”, “male” or “female.”

The inability of the woke mindset to value literature in our schools that is free of sex ual perversion, vulgar language, etc., also pushes our nation to not being the “great” nation it has been.

library board or POTUS, we need people who have a historical understanding of “why” America has been known as the greatest nation on Earth.

Main Street Productions takes its swipe at ’Sweeney Todd’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

‘GRUMPY OLD MEN’

“Grumpy Old Men” runs through Oct. 1 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

MUSICAL

Playing a murderous barber isn’t the biggest challenge for Mike Lipphardt. For Lipphardt, the hardest part will be handling the lyrics and lines of Stephen Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.”

“Sondheim is always really tricky,” the Noblesville resident said. “There’s just so many lines and so many things moving really fast. Sondheim is a master of music, but the lyricism in the show is just so tricky and easy to get mixed up. So that’s probably been the hardest part for me is the memorization of making sure all the words are in all the right places, so that it sounds good with the music and is the way Sondheim intended.”

Main Street Productions will present “Sweeney Todd” Sept. 21 through Oct. 1 at Basile Westfield Playhouse.

“I grew up on the Johnny Depp movie version but have been in theater most of my life and actually saw a production of ‘Sweeney Todd’ when I was in high school,” said Lipphardt, who grew up outside of Detroit. “I’ve always wanted to play the character, so I’m just really glad that it was able to work out here.”

Lipphardt said the stage version is much more nuanced than the movie version.

“I just feel like the stage version, in particular, nothing can beat the idea of like a two-story set where folks are sliding down into the pie shop or the nuance of the love and the quest for revenge that Sweeney is pursuing throughout the show,” Lipphardt said.

Lipphardt, 34, said he is not getting caught up in other portrayals of the character.

“It’s really hard when you are playing a really iconic character in a show where people have ideas how that character should look and act and how they should sing all the songs,” he said. “So, it’s mak-

ing sure you are faithful to the source material, faithful in the characters the audience come in mind with, but also wanting to make it your own and leaving your stamp on it in a way.”

Noblesville resident Andrea Odle is directing at Basile Westfield Playhouse for the second time. She directed “White Christmas” in 2021.

“I definitely wanted to bring ‘Sweeney Todd’ somewhere, and since ‘White Christmas’ went so well, I figured why not do another musical here?” she said. “It’s the complete antithesis of ‘White Christmas,’ which is all pretty and pure. Then we have ’Sweeney Todd’ and carnivorous pies.”

Odle said this is one of her favorite Sondheim musicals.

“This one is so different from every other Sondheim musical. That’s kind of why I’m drawn to it,” Odle said.

There are 23 cast members, including 10

principal ones and 13 ensemble members. Normally, there is a six-week rehearsal schedule, but Odle added two weeks for vocal rehearsal because of the challenging music.

Odle said the set is intricate with two stories and seven staircases.

“So, that always poses a challenge for actors to block as well as safety (issues),” she said.

Odle saw the musical was performed on stage for the first time last year at Footlite Musicals in Indianapolis.

“I already was planning to do it, so it was kind of neat to see the difference between my vision and their vision,” Odle said. “They did a fantastic production, so we have a lot to live up to.”

Indianapolis resident Claire Slaven plays Mrs. Lovett, owner of a failing pie shop. She performed in the ensemble in the Footlite Musicals production.

“I became close to the woman who played Mrs. Lovett and got to watch her doing it,” Slaven said. “I knew that was something that I really wanted to do. It’s a dream role for me.”

Slaven said many people think Mrs. Lovett is just the comedic relief in the show.

“I really wanted to play this role because I think she’s very challenging because not only is she the comedic relief, but there’s a lot of really deep layers to her,” Slaven said. “She’s been really hurt and really wounded and she’s just lonely and wants to be loved. There’s just a lot of depth to her that I think sometimes goes unnoticed because she’s funny, so people just assume she’s just funny. That seemed like a challenge to me, and I wanted to take that challenge on. It’s very wordy. Sondheim is a mastermind. It’s just really brilliant stuff.”

The song “The Worst Pies in London” pushes Slaven to the top of her range.

“I’m more of a lower singer, so that’s been a challenge, but I’ve really enjoyed being stretched,” she said.

For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

The Freeform Concert Series will feature the Stampede String Band with Electric Blue Yonder at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 20. The show is free but there is a $25 food/beverage minimum. Michael Feinstein will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 24-25 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

THE CENTER CELEBRATION

The Center for the Performing Arts’ annual fundraising gala is set for 5 p.m. Sept 23 at the Palladium at the Center in Carmel. Amy Grant is headlining performer. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

’SWEENEY TODD’

Main Street Productions will present “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” Sept. 21 to Oct. 1 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES’

The Belfry Theatre will present “How the Other Half Loves” Sept 22 through Oct. 1 at Arts for Lawrence.

DISPATCHES

Girl Named Tom to make Palladium debut — Known for soaring harmonies and classic cover tunes, rising star vocal group Girl Named Tom will make its debut appearance Dec. 2 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Hailing from Pettisville, Ohio, siblings Bekah, Joshua and Caleb Liechty made history in 2021 as the first trio ever to win NBC’s “The Voice.” The group has generated more than 25 million streams with its renditions of rock and singer-songwriter gems like Joni Mitchell’s “River,” Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain” and Kansas’ “Dust in the Wind.” The group’s recordings have included the independent EP “Another World” and a Republic Records holiday EP, “One More Christmas,” which reached No. 1 on the iTunes album chart. Tickets went on sale Sept. 15. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Mike Lipphardt and Claire Slaven perform in “Sweeney Todd” at Basile Westfield Playhouse.

(Photo courtesy of Andrea Odle)

NIGHT

DAY

Wheldon documentary to open Heartland Film Festival

editorial@youarecurrent.com

The Heartland International Film Festival will feature more than 120 feature films during the Oct. 5-15 festival in Indianapolis.

SCREENINGS

The lineup includes 19 world/U.S. premieres, 44 regional premieres, 20 special presentations from major distributors and seven Indiana Spotlight films.

The opening night film will be “The Lionheart” at 7 p.m. Oct. 5 at Newfields in Indianapolis. The HBO and TIME Studio film is a documentary about two-time Indy 500 winner Dan Wheldon, who died in a 2011 crash during a Las Vegas race.

The centerpiece featured film is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 11 is “Rustin” from Netflix at Newfields. The film stars Heartland Film honoree Colman Domingo as civil rights leader Bayard Rustin.

The closing night film, “The Holdovers” from Focus Features, is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 15 at Newfields. The film is directed by Academy Award winner Alexander Payne and stars

Academy Award nominee Paul Giamatti.

“Named one of the ‘Coolest Film Festivals in the World’ earlier this year, the Heartland International Film Festival is proud to celebrate impactful storytelling and connect creatives with our dedicated audiences in Indianapolis,” stated Heartland Film Festival Artistic Director Greg Sorvig, a Carmel resident. “Highlighted by our trio of major event titles, HIFF’s reputation continues to grow as a regional destination on the awards season circuit while also highlighting true indies, including dozens of titles making their world, U.S. and regional premieres here in the heartland.”

This year’s theme is “YOU CAN’T LOOK AWAY,” and there will be screenings at Newfields, Living Room Theaters, The Kan-Kan Cinema & Restaurant, Landmark Glendale 12, and Emagine Noblesville. All film selections will have in-person screenings. Many of the films will also be available to view virtually (U.S. restricted). Individual tickets and fest passes are available at HeartlandFilmFestival.org.

IWS show to feature piano soloist

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Indiana Wind Symphony will feature a mix of old and new numbers in its 2023-24 season opener.

GREAT CLASSICS

CONCERT

“Great Classics and Exciting New Sounds” is set for 6:30 p.m. Oct.1 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Sarah Loisch is the featured guest as piano soloist.

“Sarah is a wonderful concert pianist from Chicago,” IWS Music Director Charles Conrad said.

Loisch will play Camille Saint-Saëns “Piano Concerto No. 2 in G-Major, Op. 22” in the final performance of the first half of the show.

“This will be the first time to our knowledge that it’s ever been performed by a concert band with a piano soloist for this piece,” Conrad said. “It’s normally done with a symphony orchestra. The arrangement for a concert band was done by one of our members, Larry Purdue, our principal horn.”

The IWS will perform “Flying Jewels” by composer James David for the first time as the concert’s finale.

“It’s just a magnificent, exhilarating

work,” Conrad said.

“Flying Jewels” was the 2022 Reveille Award winner as the outstanding new concert band composition of the year. Revelli awards are given by the National Band Association.

“There are no hummingbirds in Europe and the Europeans were just amazed by seeing these tiny birds, which flew around so fast because no one had ever seen them before,” Conrad said. “So, the term flying jewel was their term for the hummingbirds.”

The concert will open with a 2023 piece with “Fanfare for Earthrealm,” inspired by the video game series “Mortal Kombat.”

That is followed by John Philip Sousa’s march from 1923.

For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

Sarah Loisch will be the guest piano soloist in the Indiana Wind Symphony concert. (Photo courtesy of IWS)

Fall is season for boerewors

Commentary by Mark LaFay

FOOD

The Autumnal Equinox is only a week away, which means that fall is almost here. If you ask me, fall is the ideal time to get your grill on, but I’m a fall junkie, and so I think most things are better in the fall. The big question is, what in the world are you grilling this fall?

I am an avid hunter, and October kicks off the white-tail deer archery season, which means that I will be making venison sausage soon. Generally, I make summer sausage, but I also like to use the venison to make boerewors — pronounced “boor-eh-vors.”

Boerewors is a South African sausage. The name boerewors is an Afrikaans word that means farmer sausage, and it is primarily made with beef, although it can be made with game as well. Depending on who you ask, it may or may not have pork added for texture and flavor. I prefer it with pork. The sausage is seasoned with scorched coriander seeds, black pepper, nutmeg, clove and allspice. It is a delicious, hearty sausage with a great deal of

flavor. My first time having it was when I arrived in Johannesburg on my first trip to South Africa, so naturally I have some very strong memories tied to this sausage!

If you want to enjoy boerewors, grill them over charcoal if you can and serve with chakalaka, which is best described as a tomato and vegetable relish. There are countless ways to make it, so your best friend will be Google. If you want to go full-on South African, serve it with mieliepap. Think of it as fluffy, finely ground grits.

Now, all you must do is grab a bottle of pinotage-based wine. Pinotage is the hybrid of pinot noir and cinsault. It is a tasty, earthy wine that will go nicely with grilled meat. If you want to get your hands on boerewors, do a Google search for boerewors near me to get some options, or check out Old Major Market.

ARTOMOBILIA MOTORS INTO CARMEL

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM GUILD’S HAUNTED HOUSE PRESENTED BY

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite 19, Indianapolis

(Above) Car enthusiasts filled the streets Sept.9 Carmel Arts & Design District Sept. 9 for the 16th annual Artomobilia. (Right) A 1970 Lotus Super 7 series

4. (Photos by Edward Redd)

Blueprint for Improvement: Glowing Indy kitchen transformation

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Woodmont condo featured a dark and dated kitchen that was raising its hand for a glow-up. With a mix of bright and modern materials, a redesigned layout and storage optimizations, we were able to breathe new life into the heart of this home.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Cherry-toned cabinets and few windows made this kitchen feel dark and cramped. Crisp cream cabinets and a white quartz backsplash and counters brighten the space, providing the perfect contrast to the existing wood floors.

• Reworking the island from diagonal to rectangle was a game-changer — improving flow, increasing storage and adding plenty of space for seating and meal prep.

• Rearranging the appliance layout provided increased functionality, putting everything close at hand, making cooking, baking and entertaining a breeze.

• Elegant brass hardware, crown molding and glass pendants were added, giving the room a sleek, elevated look, completing the design.

Bring back ‘50s slang terms

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

The 1950s were a wild time. Everything was in black and white, there weren’t any footprints on the moon and no one had even heard of Taylor Swift. Can you imagine what that must have been like?

a real chump was saying bad things about your old lady — or worse — your car, you’d be remiss not to tell him, “Aw, cut the gas, chucklehead!”

GRAMMAR GUY

Let’s take a look at some notable quotables from the mid-20th century.

• Gringles: Worries. As in, “Boy, do I have a fat stak of gringles today.” I like gringles because it sounds like “gripes” and “Pringles” had a baby. Let’s bring it back!

• What’s buzzin’ cousin? This means “how’s it going” or “what’s happening.” I love the rhyme and the “z” sounds in this phrase. I’m going to replace “what’s up” with this phrase in daily use.

• Flutter bum: A good looking man. This is the decade’s lesser-known version of “dream boat.” To use the term today, you could say, “Ryan Gosling was a real flutter bum in the new ‘Barbie’ movie.”

• Agitate the gravel: To leave. Imagine a sock hop that goes sideways. Fonz and the gang decide to leave in a hurry, so they peel out in the gravel parking lot. I have dreams of agitating the gravel at most social gatherings, especially when I’m in “Antsville” (a crowded place).

• Cut the gas: Be quiet. This was a nicer way of saying “shut your pie hole.” If

• Cow-handed: Awkward. Imagine a human with cow hooves for hands. Better yet, a T-rex trying to do push-ups. That’s quite cow-handed. In middle school, all my school pictures showed a cow-handed kid who had been sucker punched by preteenage nerdiness.

• Get bent: Die. Yes, to tell someone to “get bent” was to wish their time on Earth to expire. To go West. To kick the bucket. To meet their maker. That’s intense.

• Heavens to Betsy: To express surprise. I still hear this one today, although it sounds antiquated when people say it. That’s not a bad thing, as I think it’s neat to hear a variety of phrases. “By golly” or “boy howdy” can be used interchangeably with “heavens to Betsy.”

We still hear many ‘50s phrases today. Some include the ubiquitous “cool,” “ankle biter,” “cruisin’ for a bruisin,’” “dibs” and “having a blast.” What mid-century words and phrases do you think we should bring back? Jump on the party line and let me know.

Where the Wright brothers learned to fly

Commentary by Don Knebel

Notice is herby given that BW Construction, on behalf of Hamilton Southeastern Schools (“Owner” or “HSE”), will receive electronic bids for the following project until 2:00 p.m. (EDT) on 9/28/2023. Project: HSE High School – Chiller Replacement. Bids will be opened and read aloud virtually via Microsoft Teams at 2:10 p.m. (EDT) on 9/28/2023. A meeting link will be issued via addendum. Bids received after such time are subject to rejection. Bids may be withdrawn prior to such time, but no bids shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days thereafter. Bid shall be submitted according to the Instructions to Bidders and properly executed. Bid shall be submitted via BW Construction’s online public plan room (https://app. buildingconnected.com/public/5c2e30ca1e1c19001317e535). Bid shall be uploaded as a single PDF named “Bidding Company – Bid Submission – HSE Chiller Replacement.” Each bid of at least $150,000 must be accompanied by the Contractor’s written plan for a program to test the contractor’s employees for drugs in accordance with Indiana Code – IC 4-13-18. Each bid of at least $200,000 or more must be accompanied by a Contractor’s Bid Bond or certified check made payable to HSE Schools in an amount equal to 5% of total of the base bid and any alternate bids. If submitting certified check, the check must be delivered to BW Construction, 615 Russell Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225 in an envelope labeled with “Bid for HSE Chiller Replacement” before the bid deadline. Each bid of at least $200,000 or more shall include costs to furnish a Payment Bond in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract. Upon notification to the successful bidder, no contract shall be valid until receipt of bond, if so required. The Instructions to Bidders contained in the specifications are by this reference made a part hereof, and all bidders shall be deemed advised of the provisions thereof, and of the General Conditions of the contract, specifications, plans and drawings for the project. A pre-bid meeting for interested parties will be held on September 13, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. EDT at the HSE High School Maintenance Building, near 13905 E. 126th St, Fishers, IN 46037. Prospective bidders shall meet outside adjacent to the maintenance building, and then a tour will follow. The architectural/engineering firm for this project is: RQAW | DCCM, 8770 North Street, Fishers, IN 46037. Hard copy and electronic PDF bidding documents may be obtained from: Eastern Engineering Supply, 9901 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038 Phone (866) 884-4115 Fax (765) 288-8311. To order a set of plans, please contact Tamara Tincher at the number above. Costs of documents are the responsibility of the bidder. Hamilton Southeastern Schools reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive, to the extent permitted by law, any of the terms, conditions and provisions contained in this Advertisement for Bids or the Instructions to Bidders or any informality, irregularity or omission in any bid, provided that such waiver shall, in the discretion of HSE, be to the advantage of HSE.

TRAVEL

Today, in our continuing visits to sites within easy driving distance of Indianapolis, we make additional stops in Dayton, Ohio, related to the Wright brothers.

Orville and Wilbur Wright selected Kitty Hawk, N.C., to test their gliders and powered airplane because its sand provided softer landings and its strong winds provided additional lift. Their first three powered flights on Dec. 17, 1903, the longest of which lasted less than a minute, were into a 21mph headwind. Because of the expense of traveling to and living in Kitty Hawk, they decided to continue their flight experiments closer to their home in Dayton. They selected 84-acre site 8 miles northeast of town called Huffman Prairie. Because the winds there were more erratic and calmer than those in Kitty Hawk, they built a catapult in which a falling 1,600-pound weight, lifted into place by a team of horses, propelled the plane toward the end of the launching track. At Huffman Prairie, the brothers literally learned to fly. The most important

lesson they learned was how to warp the wings to bank their biplane, enabling controlled turns. On Oct. 5, 1905, in a new plane with a 25-horsepower engine, Wilbur was able to circle Huffman Prairie 29 times before his fuel ran out. The age of aviation had begun.

Today, the Huffman Prairie Flying Field, including a reconstructed catapult and launching track, is open to the public as part of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. The Wright Brothers Memorial overlooks Huffman Prairie, the largest prairie remnant in Ohio. An interpretive center across the street includes exhibits about the Wright brothers and their flights. Wilbur, who died in 1912 at age 45, and Orville, who died in 1948 at age 76, are buried in Dayton’s Woodlawn Cemetery, along with their parents and sister.

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

Reconstructed catapult and launching track at Huffman Prairie, Ohio. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Wright family grave in Dayton, Ohio.

Across

1. Table salt additive

7. Keep confined

13. Required

14. “The Silence of the Lambs” star

15. Lowered your head to avoid contact

16. Old Greek gymnasium

17. Eden evictee

18. Slanted type 20. ___ Aviv, Israel

32. Political house cleaning

33. Pied ___

34. Totaled, as a tab

35. Peeled with a small knife

36. Talk smack, slangily

37. Upper crust

41. Like fine wine

42. Colts’ rookie QB

44. Chest muscle, briefly

45. Needle partner

46. PC key

47. Random criticisms

49. Diamond-shaped pattern

52. Name shared by 14-, 21and 42-Across

53. Not so nice

54. Extreme

55. Deep sleeps Down

1. Owing money

2. Artist’s collective works

7.

8.

9.

10.

11. Ill-prepared

12.

14.

16.

19.

22.

agreement?

29. “Days of ___ Lives”

30. Merriment

31. Possible name for a new GPS service that you watch on your home boob tube?

32. Turkish bigwig

33. Book’s beginning

34. Uncle Ben’s products

35. Dads (Var.)

36. Filthy

38. “Ain’t happening”

39. Bell ringer

40. Goes inside

42. European river

43. Second US president

45. Thunder god

48. That girl

50. ___ Speedwagon

51. Chasm

Answers on Page 27

3. Deception

4. Texter’s “Beats me”

5. Butler alumna bio word

6. ___ Merlot’s (local restaurant)

Powell who was a general and the secretary of state

Oil cartel letters

Gives approval

Meager amount

Biblical songs

Saintly head lights

Trails

Hoosier National Forest units

Plummeted

23. Like the house in a Hawthorne classic

24. Beet type

27. Come to a trade

6 Furniture Pieces 4 Shapiro’s Deli Soups

3 Indiana Governors

2 Mobile Phone Makers

5 Farm Animals 1 Seat of Grant Country

WE DO CONTACTLESS EXTERIOR ESTIMATES

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Indiana’s Largest Stamp Show!

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The Indiana Stamp Club will host the INDYPEX 2023 Stamp Show Oct. 6-8, 2023 at the Hamilton Co. 4-H Fairgrounds and Exhibition Center, 2003 Pleasant Street, Noblesville IN 46060.

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment. The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net. We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays. To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

CHURCH

FULL TIME

Fishers area church seeks an experienced person who has servant/leadership qualities, proven organizational skills, and the ability to be open and flexible. This role is a great fit for a flexible, organizational thinker who is self-motivated and can function in a team setting that requires trust, oversight and motivational skills.

Oversight of these areas: Financial, Personnel, Property Management, Daily operations, Policies & Procedures.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with demonstrated high performance. 3-5 years with supervisory experience Interested persons email resume to mainoffice@christthesavior.org. Job summary, job description and application available at christthesavior.org

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Furniture: BED, BOOKCASE, CHAIR, DESK, SOFA, TABLE; Animals: COW, GOAT, HORSE, PIG, SHEEP; Soups: BEAN, LENTIL, MATZO BALL, SPLIT PEA; Governors: DANIELS, HOLCOMB, PENCE; Phones: APPLE, MOTOROLA; Seat: MARION