October 10, 2023 — Fishers

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HEPL board introduces draft 2024 budget

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

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LIBRARY

The Hamilton East Public Library’s proposed 2024 budget was introduced during the HEPL Board of Trustees regular meeting Sept. 28 at the Fishers Library.

The board also continued its ongoing discussion of a controversial collections policy and agreed to move forward with community listening sessions to gather public input on that topic.

The proposed 2024 HEPL general fund expenses are $13.2 million, compared to $12.5 million for 2023. Other funds in the proposed budget are the rainy-day fund, lease rentals and library improvement reserve funds, which bring the total 2024 budget up to $20.4 million.

The library’s primary revenue sources are property and income taxes from the areas it serves.

The Sept. 28 meeting was the public hearing for the proposed budget. Nobody spoke during the public hearing. The board took no action and is expected to adopt the budget during its Oct. 26 meeting.

Public comment on other topics was moved from the end of the agenda to the start but was limited to 30 minutes. Eight people spoke, with several complaining about the library’s connection to the American Library Association. One person claimed the ALA is “a Marxist organization that seeks to destabilize our constitutional republic.”

Other speakers criticized the board’s collections policy, which the board adopted in late 2022, The policy was slowly implemented as staff reviewed books to determine whether they contained profanity or descriptions of sexual activity or violence.

The HEPL board and its policy faced national media attention and criticism after the bestseller “The Fault in Our Stars” by Indiana author John Green — along with many others in the teen section — was moved to the general collection because of stipulations in the board’s collections policy

regarding sexual acts and profanity. The board voted in late August to pause implementation of the policy.

During the Sept. 29 meeting, the board discussed how to structure listening sessions to gather input before amending the policy. New HEPL Board President Tiffanie Ditlevson said she’s willing to hold numerous sessions to make sure many different residents can participate.

Board Member Michelle Payne wondered how the sessions would differ from regular public comment, and Ditlevson said they would provide a more focused conversation, seeking ideas and suggestions.

“I never left a meeting after public comment with an idea of how to improve things,” Ditlevson said.

HEPL Director Edra Waterman noted that a facilitator would lead the sessions but would need direction from the board about what questions they want answered. The board agreed to come up with questions and provide them to Waterman as she

works to set up various sessions.

Later in the meeting, Payne suggested that the board remove the controversial section of the library’s collections policy, rather than keep it paused while going through the public input process. She said they agreed to pause it because it wasn’t working.

“Even before the listening sessions, we can show leadership and accountability by adjusting this policy,” she said.

Ditlevson said she prefers to leave it on hold until the board has heard from the public. She said she hopes to find common ground through that process. Payne said she’s skeptical that will happen.

“I fear we’re not going to get to that point where we all agree,” she said, adding that the board will spend time and money, and end up in the same position it is now.

No motion was made regarding the collections policy. The next regular HEPL board meeting is 6:15 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Noblesville Library.

The Hamilton East Public Library Board of Trustees met Sept. 28 at the Fishers Library. (Photo courtesy of HEPL)

Southwest corner of 116th & I-69

Proposed Conner Prairie building size reduced

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Plans for the expansion of Conner Prairie into Carmel continue to be refined.

property and nearby neighborhoods.

With the office building height reduced, Conner Prairie is requesting the White River Education Center be permitted to be two stories tall instead of one.

the front door of the White River Ecology Center.”

DEVELOPMENT

The Carmel City Council’s Land Use and Special Studies Committee met Sept. 26 to review the latest iteration of a planned unit development rezoning ordinance that would set development guidelines specific to the site.

Conner Prairie, a living history museum, owns more than 1,000 acres that straddle the White River south of 146th Street, with all existing development east of the river in Fishers. Plans in Carmel include a ticketed exhibit area north of a White River Ecology Center, eco-lodge, office building and more. The most significant change made to the proposal since the last public meeting is reducing the size of the office building from 70,000 to 55,000 square feet, limiting its height to two stories and shifting it north. Decreasing the size of the office building will also lead to the elimination of two parking lots and expansion of a landscaped buffer area between the Conner Prairie

Other new updates include limiting special events in the exhibit area to 52 days per year and rerouting a public pathway that connects with existing trails.

“(Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation) would like some (additional) frontage along the riverfront, and we feel this is a good way to accomplish this and still allow for flexibility for development to occur in a coordinated way,” said Aaron Kowalski, a planner with MKSK involved with the project. “This also allows for the trail to come close to

Councilor Sue Finkam, whose district includes the proposed expansion site, asked project officials for a commitment to not construct buildings other than those outlined in the PUD without coming back to the council for approval, adding flashing beacons at a proposed crosswalk and committing to clean up trash along River Road adjacent to the property.

The committee is set to reconvene at 5 p.m. Oct. 16 to continue discussing the proposed expansion. The city council must vote on the PUD by Oct. 25, otherwise the version approved by the Carmel Plan Commission will go into effect.

“(Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation) would like some (additional) frontage along the riverfront, and we feel this is a good way to accomplish this and still allow for flexibility for development to occur in a coordinated way.”

– AARON KOWALSKI

HSE administrators present draft fiscal plan for 2024-2026

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees spent nearly three hours Sept. 26 discussing the draft fiscal plan for the next three years, with a focus on 2024.

The work session presentation was led by the district’s Chief Financial Officer Katy Dowling, who went through the 71-page, small-print document that detailed revenues and expenses for various funds the district relies on to maintain its operations.

The combined total of those funds for 2024 is a projected $296 million. That’s about $10 million more than the current year’s budget. The primary revenue sources are state and federal funding, which together total about $158 million; and property taxes, which total about $121 million after the circuit breaker loss is factored in.

The fiscal plan projects budget increases in 2025 and 2026, as well, with revenues of an estimated $304 million and $312 million, respectively.

The draft plan anticipates ending 2024 with a reserve balance of $80 million. The budget also assumes that voters will approve the operating referendum on the Nov. 7 ballot.

The referendum calls for a reduced rate of up to .1995 cents per $100 assessed value, providing annual 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.

Most of the revenue from the referendum is earmarked for instruction, accounting for

about $21 million of the $24 million total. The rest goes toward student support services, such as school resource officers and security services.

“And if — if is a little word that means a big thing — the referendum does not pass, then we have to go back to the drawing board and see,” Dowling said, noting that the state Department of Local Government Finance is aware the district has a pending referendum, and will work with the district if a significant budget adjustment is needed.

SCHOOLS DISPATCH

Dowling noted that the draft fiscal plan doesn’t include new hires in 2024 in support services or administration.

“We told all leaders not to come in this year with any requests for staffing of that nature,” she said. “Knowing we were going into a referendum, the only thing we were staffing were certified staff members and no (new) administrators.”

The plan anticipates hiring eight teachers, five instructional assistants and two counselors in 2024.

About 40 minutes into the lengthy presentation, Dowling acknowledged that the information was a little dense and dry.

“Is it the weather or is it me? I feel like everybody’s either ready to go to sleep or run away,” she joked. “I feel like I should have bought Redbull or, you know, cotton candy.”

A video of the Sept. 26 work session can be viewed at hseschools.org/board/boardof-school-trustees. Click the “Watch the live board meeting” button to find the list of archived meeting videos.

The board’s Finance Committee was expected to continue reviewing the district’s fiscal plan during a meeting Oct. 3. Additional Finance Committee meetings are set for 8 a.m. Oct. 10 and 10 a.m. Oct. 24.

Teacher faces charges of sexual contact with student – Fishers police arrested a Fishers Christian Academy teacher Sept. 29 on six counts of inappropriate sexual contact with a student. According to Hamilton County Jail records, Stephen Ayon of Noblesville faces felony charges of disseminating matter harmful to minors, soliciting sexual conduct from a child between 14 and 16 years of age, seducing a child who is 14 to 15 years of age, sexual misconduct with a child who is 14 or 15 years old, human trafficking a child under 16 with the intent to participate in sexual conduct, and vicarious sexual gratification with a child between 13 and 16 years of age. Ayon was booked into jail Sept. 29 and bail was set at $250,000. At the time of publication, he remained in custody at the Hamilton County Jail. At deadline, a response to a court records request for the probable cause statement in the case was not received. This story will be updated online at youarecurrent.com when more information is received.

Dowling

HSE sophomore has been key to girls soccer team’s success

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern High School sophomore girls soccer player Sloane May has made up for lost time.

Hampered by an ankle injury her freshman season, May has been a force this fall.

Entering the sectional, the forward had five game-winners for Hoosier Crossroads Conference champion Hamilton Southeastern this season. She had teamhighs of 10 goals and seven assists.

“Sloane has a knack for taking players on and finding her goal,” Royals coach Greg Davidson said. “When the game is on the line, Sloane has certainly stepped up for the Royals. Her biggest improvement is that although only a 10th-grader, she is willing to take the team on her shoulders and get the big goal when needed.”

May said the team focuses on grit.

“We’ve had a few games when we’ve gone down and I think us working together

MEET SLOANE MAY

Favorite athlete: Mallory Pugh

Swanson

Favorite subject: Spanish

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite vacation spot: Costa Rica

and persevering has been really good for us,” May said. “We’ve been able to get some last-second goals in to secure the win.”

May was a starter as a freshman but sprained her ankle in the opening game.

“It bothered me, and I was never strong and healthy for the season,” May said. “I played four or five games but was hurt in all of them. (The sprain) was just reoccurring.”

She said she did physical therapy and has been healthy since December. She plays

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club soccer for Indiana Premier Soccer Club.

“There are a lot of girls on my club team that play on my high school team,” May said. “Just being able to play with them and play with them in high school, too, has been going really well because we just have so

much chemistry. We’re working together and encouraging each other. I know the other players have been key for the mental aspect for me and on the field.”

May said it’s helped that she and her teammates play against a high level of competition year-round.

“We push each other in practice to play high intensity and push each other in games because we know what we’re capable of,” May said.

May said she started playing soccer when she was 3 years old.

“I played volleyball and basketball, but I’ve always enjoyed soccer more than other sports,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to succeed in soccer and focus on soccer so I could pursue my goals.”

She stopped playing basketball in fifth grade and volleyball in sixth grade.

“I’ve been fortunate with amazing soccer coaches throughout my entire journey, which have helped me create a passion for soccer and helped me pursue my goals,” said May, who wants to play soccer in college.

Her younger sister, Sydney, plays soccer and will be a HSE freshman next year.

Sloane May has been a clutch performer for the Hamilton Southeastern High School girls soccer team. (Photo courtesy of Marcus Laux)

Fishers announces new planning and zoning director

City of Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness has named Ross Hilleary as the new director of planning and zoning.

dinator, the city liaison for the Fishers Advisory Committee on Disability and a mayoral appointment to the Fishers Arts & Culture Commission. He also serves on the board of the Fishers Arts Council.

PROMOTION

Formerly the assistant director, Hilleary will lead the department’s day-to-day operations, implementation and special initiatives for long-range planning of the city’s parks, trails and greenways efforts and the Unified Development Ordinance update, according to an announcement from the city.

“Ross has been instrumental in the success of our Planning & Zoning Department, and his efforts are crucial to elevating the quality of life in Fishers,” Fadness stated. “I’m excited to collaborate with him as we continue investing in our community.”

Former director Megan Vukusich resigned from her position in August.

According to the announcement, Hilleary also serves as the City of Fishers’ ADA coor-

Hilleary first joined the City of Fishers in 2017 as a city planner and was later promoted to assistant director where he oversaw the continued growth of the Nickel Plate District, annual comprehensive plan updates and public art grant programs.

“I am excited to work under leadership that is committed to finding ways to improve the built environment and community we live in today through sustainable measures, smart growth practices and community design standards,” Hilleary stated.

Hilleary received his bachelor’s degree in urban planning and development from Ball State University and is CNU-accredited. He resides in Fishers with his husband and two dogs.

Hilleary

FISHERS

Project: Tree trimming

Loca-

tion: Con-

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

tractors will be performing tree trimming in the medians along 116th Street and Allisonville Road. As the work progresses, one lane on each side of the median will be closed between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Restrictions will be in place along 116th Street from Eller Road to Olio Road and along Allisonville Road from Eller Road to 126th Street.

Expected completion: Early October

Project: 2023 resurfacing

Location: ADA ramp and curb reconstruction has begun in the Cottingham Estates, 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 Cottingham Estates, Harrison Parks, Harrison Lakes and The Parks at White River.

Expected completion: Fall

Project: Geist Greenway Trail

Location: 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: 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. Use caution if canoeing or tubing through the work zone.

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

DISPATCHES

Golf outing raises money for Indiana Members Foundation — Indiana Members Foundation, the charitable arm of Indiana Members Credit Union, hosted its annual Golf Outing at The Hawthorns Golf & Country Club, 12255 Club Point Drive, Fishers, on July 17. According to an announcement, 118 golfers attended the sold-out event which raised $32,000 to benefit the Indiana Members Foundation, whose mission is to enrich the lives of those within the communities they serve by supporting charitable activities focused on human services, health and education.

Fall Festival at Fishers AgriPark — Fishers AgriPark is hosting its annual Fall Festival 4-7 p.m. Oct. 10-14 at the park, 11171 Florida Rd. Participants will enjoy fall-themed activities including: a scarecrow trail, campfire and s’mores, pumpkin picking and carving, animal encounters, corn maze, inflatables, midway games, crafts, music, food trucks, and more. All activities are included in the price of registration, which is $3 per person ($4.50 for non-residents). Children 2 and younger are free but still must be registered. For more, go to playfishers.com/551/ Fall-Festival.

Fishers American Legion plans Trunk or Treat — The Fishers American Legion Post 470 is hosting a Trunk or Treat event from 3-5 p.m. Oct. 28 at the Legion, 9091 E. 126th St., Fishers. People who want to hand out treats can come, open their trunk and pass out candy. Parents can bring their little ones in costume to get lots of treats. This event is free and open to the public.

Halloween Food Drive planned — Delaware Township Trustee’s Office has scheduled a Halloween-themed food drive for 6-7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Delaware Township Trustee’s Office 9090 E. 131st St. in Fishers. Costumes are encouraged, and there will be a kids’ craft, story, games and treats. The entry cost is a non-perishable food donation. All ages are welcome.

Handgun safety class scheduled — The Delaware Township Trustee’s Office is offering a basic handgun safety class from 6-9 p.m. Nov. 1 at the Delaware Township Trustee’s Office 9090 E. 131st St. in Fishers. The class will cover safe storage, safe handling, range safety and cleaning. Registration is required. Sign up online at bit.ly/3POUmko or call 317-842-8595 and ask for Scott Wilcox.

2024 solar eclipse a once-in-a-lifetime experience

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

In August 2017, scores of Hoosiers donned boxy cardboard protective glasses to catch a glimpse of a solar eclipse, which occurs when the moon’s orbit lines up with the sun and blocks at least some of its light. So, with another eclipse set to occur on the afternoon of April 8, 2024, many people might be inclined to discount it as old hat.

ASTRONOMY

But astronomy experts are urging central Indiana residents to ditch the “been there, done that” mentality. This time, much of the state is in the path of totality, meaning the sun will be completely blocked by the moon for several minutes. For the local area, totality will begin at 3:06 p.m. and last for nearly 3 minutes and 30 seconds.

Central Indiana hasn’t been in the path of a total solar eclipse since 1869, and after

the 2024 event occurs it won’t have another one for nearly 130 years.

That’s why the 2024 eclipse is expected to be one of the biggest tourism draws central Indiana has ever seen, according to Turner, who is helping local municipalities and organizations prepare. Thousands of people who live outside the path of totality are expected to head to the Hoosier state for the full eclipse experience.

CONNER PRAIRIE TO HOST ECLIPSE FESTIVAL

Conner Prairie in Fishers has plans for an eclipse party starting at 10 a.m. April 8 and lasting through 5 p.m. According to the organization’s website, the festival will feature music and dance performances, and talks from experts about the science behind the event.

“The festival experiences all build up to the breathtaking convergence of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacle — the total eclipse,” the website states. “Our expansive grounds guarantee each guest will have an uninhibited view of this special moment in time. An event like no other, this festival offers experiences for every-

one in the family as we experience history in the making together.”

Tickets are not yet available. For more, visit connerprairie.org/solareclipse2024.

The City of Fishers is preparing for increased traffic during the April 8 eclipse, but city officials say they are not planning a city-hosted event.

Hamilton East Public Library plans to have fun and educational programs leading up to the big day, according to HEPL Director of Marketing and Communications Kelsey Sweet. It also is not hosting a dayof eclipse event.

During a solar eclipse, the orbit of the earth and moon align with the sun. This causes the moon to block all or some of the visible sun. (Photo by Gherry Bender)

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State comptroller resigns

news@youarecurrent.com

Auditor of State Tera Klutz, whose title changed in July to state comptroller, submitted her resignation to Gov. Eric Holcomb, according to an announcement from Klutz’s office.

GOVERNMENT

“The past 20 years of leading and serving the financial offices of state and local government have been challenging, rewarding and the opportunity of a lifetime,” Klutz stated. “In 2002, I left public accounting to join the Allen County Auditor’s office because I was looking for more flexibility for my young family. What I found was my dream job. My career in government started as the state was dramatically changing the way property was assessed and taxed, resulting in tax bill delays in all 92 counties. While working through those early challenges, I learned I had a passion for solving problems and helping people, which ultimately led me to run for office at the local and then state levels.”

Klutz, a Fishers resident, was appointed by Holcomb in 2017 as state auditor, and was elected to the position in 2018.

“The highlight of my public service career has been working with my team of dedicated public servants who provide accountable and reliable back-office functions that keep our state running efficiently and successfully,” she stated. “My service as the state comptroller afforded me the opportunity to travel the state and meet so many Hoosiers. I am especially grateful for the welcome and respect our local and state officials have shown me.”

Klutz will continue in her position through Nov. 30, according to the announcement.

Klutz is the 57th Indiana Auditor of State and the first Certified Public Accountant to serve as the state’s chief financial officer. Effective July 1, she became the first state comptroller for Indiana, per House Enrolled Act 1001-2023.

Klutz

FALL COLORS

Fishers Parks recommends four spots for prime leaf viewing

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Autumn in the Midwest is a time for open windows, cooler temperatures, warm clothing and fall colors. It’s also the perfect time to walk among the trees.

Fishers Parks is making it easy to find the best fall foliage in the community with a list of area parks to visit.

“Fall is my favorite time of year and as the temperatures drop, I look forward to the celebration of color our foliage explodes with,” Parks Director Marissa Deckert said. “We are so lucky to have a diverse parks system. Each of our parks offers a unique experience to unplug, explore and connect with nature.”

The recommended parks for fall leaf viewing are:

• Ritchey Woods, which Deckert said is a state-designated Nature Preserve. It is 127 acres with nine nature trails that total more than 2.25 miles. Deckert said the trails are perfect for running, walking or enjoying time in nature, although some trails are rugged and the surface varies between crushed stone, dirt and boardwalk. Deckert said the park has views of Cheeney Creek at the north end of the property, a shelter for picnics, several picnic tables and public restrooms.

• Flat Fork Creek, with more than 60 acres, has three treehouses, a paved multi-use loop trail, other more rugged dirt trails — including a mountain-bike trail — and a fishing pond, a shelter for picnics and restrooms that are open through first frost.

• Cheeney Creek, which is 25 acres with about 2 miles of multi-use trails and a fishing pond with a dock. Deckert said the area is popular with birders and the woodland part of the park is known for wildlife sightings.

• Heritage Park, a 33-acre park with a half-mile paved loop trail, views of the White River and a shelter for picnics. It also features the Ambassador House, a special-event venue that was built in 1826 at the corner of 96th Street and Allisonville Road. Deckert said the restored Greek Revival-style home was once the summer house of Indianapolis

attorney Addison Harris, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Austria-Hungary from 1899-1901.

Deckert said visitors could easily spend half a day at Ritchey Woods and Flat Fork Creek — two of the city’s most popular parks. If they have less time or want a quieter experience, she said they could get some quality leaf viewing at Cheeney Creek or Heritage parks.

“Our tree canopy at each park is largely created by sugar maple, red and white oak, eastern redbud, green ash, Ohio buckeye and American elm,” Deckert said. “All show off their warmest tones of red, orange and yellow in the fall.”

Deckert said her favorite time to visit is at dawn or dusk, and if visitors arrive early enough, they might see some wildlife. She added that weekend afternoons and evenings are the busiest times.

Leaves change color in the fall for a couple of reasons, according to Lindsey Purcell, executive director of the Indiana Arborist Association.

“Much of it has to do with day length and temperature,” she said. “The important thing is not that the amount of sunlight

has decreased but the amount of dark has increased.”

She said trees “sense” in late September that the days are getting shorter. Photosynthesis slows down and the foliage produces less chlorophyll, which is what makes leaves green. As the green disappears, underlying yellow colors in the leaves, called carotenoids, are revealed.

“Things like pigment, light, weather conditions, plant species, soil type and location all play important roles in the fall party and colorful confetti trees create for us to enjoy,” Purcell said.

Other colors are the result of a chemical reaction.

“Unlike chlorophyll and carotenoids, which are present in leaf cells throughout the growing season, anthocyanins are produced mainly in the fall,” Purcell said. “These complex compounds in leaf cells react with excess stored plant sugars and exposure to sunlight creating vivid pink, red and purple leaves.”

Purcell said a fall with sunny days and cool nights following a summer with adequate rain is the ideal combination for autumn leaf colors, although there are nu-

Flat Fork Creek Park has more than 60 acres and offers a multiuse trail and other more rugged trails.

merous factors that can affect the season’s vibrancy.

“Some tree species displaying yellow foliage are ash, birch, beech, elm, hickory, poplar and aspen,” she said. “Red leaves are seen most often in dogwood, sweet gum, sumac and tupelo trees. Some oaks and maples present orange leaves while others range in color from red to yellow, depending on the species.”

IF YOU GO

The Fishers city parks listed below are open to the public from dawn until dusk throughout the year.

• Ritchey Woods, 10410 Hague Rd.

• Flat Fork Creek, 16141 E 101 St.

• Cheeney Creek, 11030 Fishers Pointe Blvd.

• Heritage Park, 10595 Eller Rd.

ON THE COVER: Flat Fork Creek Park in Fishers is one of the recommended locations for fall leaf viewing. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

(Right) The tree canopies at Fishers parks include sugar maple, red and white oak, eastern redbud, green ash, Ohio buckeye and American elm. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

(Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

DISPATCHES

Fishers student part of ‘White Coat’ ceremony — Jefney Ongeri of Fishers, a student in Des Moines University’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program, was a participant in the university’s 2023 White Coat Ceremony Sept. 15. According to the university, Ongeri and others in the Class of 2025 received the white coat as a symbol of the training aspiring health professionals receive and the accompanying responsibilities they’ve accepted for their future roles. Participating in DMU’s ceremony were 149 students in the College of Health Sciences’ Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, Doctor of Occupational Therapy and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs; 56 students in the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery’s Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program; and 226 students in the College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program.

Art show raises $8K for Riley – An art show, featuring work by late Carmel teacher and Westfield Principal Robert Brower, held in August at the Carmel Clay Public Library raised $8,195 for Riley Hospital for Children for pediatric cancer research. More than 200

HEALTH

original paintings and drawings were sold at the event, which was organized by the EmilyStrong Foundation, a nonprofit named after Carmel resident Emily Alberts, who received treatment at Riley in 2018.

Girl Scouts releases The Indiana Girl Report — The Indiana Girl Report, commissioned through the Indiana Youth Institute in collaboration with Indiana Girl Scout councils and the Girl Coalition of Indiana is the first of its kind and was developed through qualitative and quantitative research to provide insight into critical challenges girls are experiencing and the variances across the state. Among the findings, the report notes that among 7th to 12th grade girls in Indiana, 47.1 percent experienced depression in 2022 and nearly 1 in 4 girls seriously considered suicide. The report also shows girls in Indiana are more likely than boys to become victims of bullying, traditional and online; and that the rate of physical and sexual dating violence among girls in Indiana has increased, while the prevalence among boys has decreased. A full copy of the report can be found at gsci.me/indianagirlreport.

Prevent fall hiking injuries

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

In Indiana, October is one of the most beautiful months to enjoy the fall foliage by hiking trails. Before heading out, you’ll want to take the proper precautions to avoid foot or ankle injuries. Check out my three tips for hiking safely.

PODIATRY

PROTECTION

Uneven surfaces, branches or rocks on the path can cause you to misstep, leaving you with a sprained ankle and causing you to walk back out on that injured foot! Protect yourself by picking a high-top hiking boot with plenty of ankle support. Strong, well-insulated and moisture-proof boots with steel or graphite shanks offer excellent ankle and foot support that helps lessen stress and muscle fatigue to reduce injury risk. The supportive shank decreases strain on the arch by allowing the boot to distribute impact. So, if a boot bends in the middle, don’t buy it.

BLISTERS

To prevent blisters, socks and boots

boots in by wearing them around the house or on short walks. Keep your feet dry by choosing sweat-wicking athletic socks for the first layer. For the second layer, wool socks absorb moisture, add warmth and provide cushioning. Use Band-Aids or padding to protect sensitive areas and avoid further irritation. If a blister pops, wash the area with clean water, then apply antibiotic cream and cover to prevent infection.

OVERUSE

Pain usually occurs from overuse, even from just walking. If you’re not accustomed to walking on sloped or uneven ground, your legs and feet will tire and cause muscles and tendons to ache. Rest if your feet start hurting to avoid a serious injury, such as a severe ankle sprain or an Achilles tendon rupture.

If you injure your foot or ankle while hiking, see us immediately.

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Local Solutions to a National Workforce Challenge

How The Pursuit Institute is generating a pipeline of talent for advanced manufacturing

Kristopher Subler, Senior Consultant at TPMA

Recently I had the oppportunity to facilitate multiple town hall discussions with local manufacturers, educators and other stakeholders on the state of the advanced manufacturing workforce in their region.

The objective of these town halls was to determine the workforce and training needs of regional manufacturers. As we surveyed the room, it became clear that everyone acknowledged the need for a highly-skilled, well-trained workforce to fill the growing demand for jobs in the sector. However, when asked who would recommend a manufacturing career to their child, few hands were raised.

The demand for advanced manufacturing jobs in Indiana is real. According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, over 9,100 new manufacturing jobs are projected to be in demand by 2031 in Indiana– an increase of 1.7%.

A prospective workforce needs the tools and resources to not only know about the jobs in advanced manufacturing, but also what it takes for them to be successful. A career pathway provides an overview of the career opportunities within an industry and details the education and training, wage outlook, and skills needed to succeed.

Take entry-level jobs in manufacturing. The average annual wage for workers aged 19-21 was over $46,000 in 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Entry-level skills can be developed at the high school level through career and technical education (CTE) where students can earn stackable, industryrecognized credentials.

According to a recent workforce study completed by Conexus Indiana, fewer than 6 in 100 students are enrolled in an advanced manufacturing or logistics CTE course in Indiana. Hamilton County is positioned to reverse that trend.

The Pursuit Institute (TPI) offers

Fishers senior facility offers concierge service

news@currentinfishers.com

Hamilton County students the opportunity to pursue their career pathway into advanced manufacturing, among other industries. TPI is focused on delivering CTE courses onsite at local businesses and community partners, which leads to credentials and skills. TPI is changing the way that education and industry collaborate, and students benefit from opportunities afforded by this deliberate partnership. (can we pull this out as a pull quote in the article?)

We change the perception of career pathways and advanced manufacturing by bringing it to the people: offer facility tours to families and teachers; offer hands-on, work-based learning opportunities; provide the opportunity for students to “dip their toe in the water” by enrolling them in a course; and promote returnships by capturing success stories of students who pursued and were successful in a manufacturing career.

Through career pathways and partners like The Pursuit Institute, we can begin paving the way for a strong, resilient workforce.

Kristopher Subler is a Senior Consultant at TPMA, an Indianapolis-based consulting firm that specializes in workforce development, economic development, education, and research/evaluation.

RESIDENTIAL

RealAmerica, a multi-family housing development company that operates Ritchey Reserve senior living in Fishers, announced it has designed a new program offering customizable services for residents at its senior living facilities.

According to the announcement, with a traditional approach, residents at senior living facilities pay for all of the services whether or not they use them.

“With the goal of better serving residents, Real America’s concierge service allows tenants to pick and choose the activities, services and amenities that best fit into their lifestyle,” the announcement stated.

Their concierge program offers services to enroll in a-la-carte style. That includes options for meal service, personal care, health care and more.

“It doesn’t make sense for residents to pay for services they’re not going to use,”

stated Ronda Shrewsbury, president of RealAmerica. “Our residents love the customizable nature of our concierge program and that they can select services based on their lifestyle and their budget. We’re proud to offer a more affordable, high-quality option.”

To learn more about RealAmerica, visit realamericallc.com.

RealAmerica operates Ritchey Reserve in Fishers, where a new program offers customizable services for residents. (Photo courtesy of Ritchey Reserve)

To learn more The Pursuit Institute, scan our QR code.

“TPI is changing the way that education and industry collaborate, and students benefit from opportunities afforded by this deliberate partnership.”

– KRISTOPHER SUBLER

OneZone announces newest leadership member

news@currentinfishers.com

OneZone Chamber of Commerce has announced Riverview Health as its newest leadership-level member.

CHAMBER

According to the announcement, Riverview offers a full scope of inpatient and outpatient services in Hamilton County. It comprises a 156-bed hospital in Noblesville, a 16-bed hospital in Westfield, freestanding ER and urgent care facilities and more than 25 primary, immediate and specialty-care facilities in Hamilton County.

“Our mission is to improve and preserve the health and well-being of those we serve,” stated David Hyatt, president and CEO of Riverview Health. “We want to help contribute to a strong business community, because we recognize that can have a significant impact to the overall health and well-being of our residents. As the county hospital, we

are committed to providing care for all of Hamilton County and being a part of the business communities will help us find opportunities to do that. We have locations in Carmel, Fishers and northern Hamilton County, and are currently growing in those areas as well.”

Jack Russell, president and CEO of OneZone and Northern Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber is proud to welcome Riverview in its new membership level.

“Their long history of serving Hamilton County is valuable to our members,” he stated. “Thank you to the board of directors, David Hyatt and each and every person at Riverview who believes in our mission.”

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.

Go ahead, ask

neighbors and search the internet,

fairly confident the name you’ll hear most for expert chimney repair is Bone Dry. We get a lot of five-star reviews because of our five-star masons. Each one well-versed in all sorts of chimney and fireplace issues. Call us. We’ve been in and out of more chimneys than, well, just about anybody.

Hyatt

TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT with INDIANA UNIVERSITY HEALTH

BEHIND EVERY HIP IS STRONG

a highly skilled orthopedics team of pre-surgery coordinators orthopedic surgeons nurses

post-surger y coordinators physical therapists and rehab specialists WORKING TOGETHER TO GET YOU BACK TO FEELING YOUR BEST.

Knee & Hip Pain Seminar

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | 6 pm

IU Health Saxony Hospital Medical Of ce Building | 13100 E. 136th Street in Fishers

VIEWS

Trying to keep my brain alive

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Kevin Sonn, MD

Free to attend | RSVP required Register at iuhealth.org/joints or scan the code.

HUMOR

I love to walk up and down the bookstore aisles occasionally removing something from the shelves to sample, hoping it fits my tastes. The people at Barnes & Noble are totally OK with this, but that habit has gotten me kicked out of Kroger about six times.

Recently, I decided to search the shelves for a book that might help me address a problem I am facing. My memory is not what it used to be. I tried Prevagen, but that was a total waste of money. They tout the product as made from jellyfish, one of the few animals in the world with no brain.

I did find one book, “Keep Your Brain Alive: 83 Neurobic Exercises.” The authors, Larry Katz and Manning Rubin, contend that there is not enough unpredictability in our lives. So, the book encourages you to use each of your senses in new and innovative ways. One of the author’s suggestions is to brush your teeth with your nondominant hand, thus creating new neural pathways. I tried it one night and found the experience instructive. I then used my other hand to clean the toothpaste out of my nose and inside my ear.

To enhance your appreciation of good food, says Katz, stick plugs in your ears. This permits you to fully enjoy what is on your plate, focusing only on taste. I totally forgot to tell my wife, Mary Ellen, I was doing this, so I didn’t hear a word she said during dinner for almost a week. Fortunately, she didn’t notice the difference.

The book also suggests that to fully experience the texture of food, you should hold your nose when you eat. My wife did notice this on that first night when she had prepared what I assume was a delicious dinner. She was not happy, but I got a nice note from Grub Hub thanking me for all my subsequent take-out orders 10 nights in a row.

There is also a chapter on sex. Katz encourages you to have a romantic dinner with your partner, and “to be sure to enjoy some flowers and candles.” I choked down a few rose petals, but the candles made me gag. For another novel experience, Katz suggests you switch cars with a nearby friend for a day so you can have a new tactile experience behind the wheel. Of course, remember to tell your neighbor before you do this, or you can then look forward to really feeling something new: Your hands cuffed behind your back.

My favorite suggestion is to eliminate the traditional grocery list. Instead of jotting down the name of each item, write a description instead so you can fully appreciate its qualities. I tried that. On my shopping list, I wrote, “It’s about the size and shape of a soccer ball, tannish, heavily veined and dimpled.”

I was talking about a cantaloupe, but it sounded a lot like my rear end.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

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

“My memory is not what it used to be. I tried Prevagen, but that was a total waste of money. They tout the product as made from jellyfish, one of the few animals in the world with no brain.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

In search of equilibrium

Commentary by Terry Anker

The squeeze is on. It happens in most things. A competitive sporting event might find the participants in a vice between a soon-to-expire clock and a run down the field that might require more than the time remaining. The young paramour might find his inability to make a decision at odds with the object of his affection’s desire to elevate their relationship to something more permanent. The pressure to commit is palpable. At home, many of us feel the tension between increasing prices and stagnant income. How can we hold our position against the forces pulling against us? Are we doomed to living a lower standard of life than we were just a few weeks ago? Can we stop the bleeding?

ESSAY

of consumer credit now demands 25.24 percent interest on balances and 29.99 percent for cash. A loan shark might blush. Affordable payments that were once attacking principle are now insufficient to cover interest.

In December of 2021, many — including this writer — called out the looming problem on the horizon. To be sure, some of us overspend, some are debt-free and others still are caught in the vortex of changes to their financial situation that are beyond control and prediction. The question, it might seem, is how and if we share in the cost? Do we demand higher wages, thus higher costs of goods and services for our customers? In turn, do they do the same? Who sacrifices the most? With winners and losers, what is the best equilibrium?

That cabal of bankers around the world that sets the rates of interest for borrowers of all sorts has continued to ramp up the cost of debt. For Americans, it tends to manifest most immediately in credit cards, where the rates can move up without constraint. One of the nation’s largest providers

Jumping through Hulu hoops

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

I am so irritated right now. I just wanted to have a nice morning sipping coffee and Googling dream vacations while Ryder Cup matches played quietly in the background. But no. Stupid Hulu has decided to mess with me, and my husband, Doo, has made it worse. Here’s the lowdown.

HUMOR

For some reason when I switched on the TV, Hulu asked me to sign in. This is an annoying process that includes — but is not limited to — tracking down a crazy password that consists of numbers, letters, symbols, swear words and the blood of a sacrificial lamb. Doo insisted I use a generated one, and he changes it periodically because god forbid someone hacks my “Handmaid’s Tale” streaming account.

Anyhoo, I hail Doo as he’s heading for the door, and he tells me to open Last Pass. What the heck is Last Pass? “I helped you set it up. It has all the passwords.” He is correct. He did. I found it buried among my apps and discovered three different passwords for Hulu. I picked one at random and painstakingly used the remote to enter it, deftly toggling between 17 screens and

“For some reason when I switched on the TV, Hulu asked me to sign in. This is an annoying process that includes — but is not limited to — tracking down a crazy password that consists of numbers, letters, symbols, swear words and the blood of a sacrificial lamb.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

praying I capitalized the middle Q. Denied. “It didn’t wooooooorrrrk!” I whine.

Eyeballing me like I’m a dummy, he showed me his phone, where Hulu is condescendingly open. “Try it on your computer,” he said. I did, but it signed me in automatically. “Log out and reenter everything.” Login failed. Then Doo left, mumbling he didn’t have time for this nonsense, and I was left with only my coffee and Google, no calming British accents or green grass in sight. Sonofa! Stupid Hulu. Peace out.

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.

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ATI co-founder Farrell embarks on next performing journey

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Don Farrell is ready for the next chapter of his performing career.

BEEF & BOARDS

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” through Nov. 19 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘THE PROM’

PERFORMANCES

Farrell, a co-founder of Carmel-based Actors Theatre of Indiana with Judy Fitzgerald and Cynthia Collins, resigned in September. Collins resigned in the summer to concentrate on her job in the musical theater department at Anderson University. Fitzgerald has taken over as artistic director and Darrin Murrell has joined as associate artistic director.

“It’s a new phase of my life,” Farrell said. “It’s been a great ride with ATI. I’m proud of all the accolades, successes and accomplishments that the organization has been able to accomplish in the past 18 years. I’m excited to see what new opportunities might open up for me. I’m looking to pursue more of my acting and performing career and exploring new projects and ideas I’ve had on and off during the past 18 years. Sometimes there are some great ideas to pursue but you just don’t have the time to do it.”

The 54-year-old Westfield resident said it wasn’t an easy decision to make.

“I truly love everybody that I’ve been able to work with and all the new friends and acquaintances, whether it’s the artists, the artisans, the patrons, the sponsors, the donors, the directors, the designers, the staff and the board,” Farrell said. “Everybody I’ve worked with is lovely. I don’t want to let anyone down.”

Farrell said he wants to use his talents in other ways to perform for the community.

“I love this community,” he said. “I’m heartfelt about that. It’s just been a great community to be a part of. I want to find ways to give back. Hopefully, these ideas and projects may benefit one arts organization but possibly more than that. We’ll see where the journey takes me and what opportunities open up. There is a lot of

faith and trust and a lot of excitement in this new chapter in my life. I’m very proud of all the work at ATI. It was literally blood, sweat and tears for all three of us. I’m very excited for the future of ATI. I love ATI. I always have and always will. I’m still going to help when I can. Hopefully, in the future, people will see me on that ATI stage — just in a different capacity.”

Farrell said his relationship with Feinstein’s has been very successful. He previously had performed his Frank Sinatra and Barry Manilow shows at Feinstein’s.

Farrell has three Feinstein’s shows scheduled with his collaborator Terry Woods. They will perform tributes to Tony Bennett Oct. 12, Neil Diamond Nov. 9 and

“A Sinatra Christmas” Dec. 13. He also will play the role of the narrator in a “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 1-22 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre.

Farrell also has some private events scheduled for the rest of 2023 and has

committed to shows in 2024 that have yet to be announced.

“I’ve been auditioning for some other plays and theater companies, so I’ve been excited about being able to do that,” he said.

Farrell said the idea of leaving ATI to pursue other options has been on his mind for a while. He said there was so much administrative work that he didn’t have a great deal of time to devote to his craft.

“The talents and gifts we’ve been given in our life are not ours but given to us from God,” Farrell said. “I think a true sin is to not take the talents as best you can.”

Farrell had previously set up Crossroads Entertainment LLC as his production company. For more, visit crossroads-ent.com or Crossroads Entertainment’s Facebook page.

For private events, contact thisisdonfarrell@gmail.com

Civic Theatre’s production of “The Prom” is set to run through Oct. 21 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

ROBERT

CRAY BAND

The Robert Cray Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S

CABARET

Don Farrell will present “Because of You ... a Tribute to Tony Bennett” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 12 and Ben Johnson and Ron Abel present a tribute to Frank Sinatra at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 14 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

“WISH YOU WERE HERE”

“Wish You Were Here: The Sight & Sound of Pink Floyd” will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

“DON’T TELL ANYBODY THE SECRETS TOUR”

Lucinda Williams and her band will perform presents its “Don’t Tell Anybody The Secrets Tour” at 7 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

“TROILUS & CRESSIDA”

Bard Fest’s “Troilus & Cressida” will conclude with performances Oct. 13-15 at The Cat in Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

CELEBRACIÓN DE ESPAÑA

The Indianapolis Opera will present Celebración de España, a fundraiser and a celebration of music, opera and art, set for 6 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Indiana State Museum in Indianapolis. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Don Farrell will perform with pianist Terry Woods at Feinstein’s. (Photo courtesy of Don Farrell)

PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

Authors present ’Summer Stock’ legacy at Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

More than 50 years after her death, Judy Garland’s legacy lives on.

Film historians

Answers

BOOK DISCUSSION

Tom Johnson and David Fantle will discuss their book, “C’mon, Get Happy: The Making of Summer Stock,” at 6:45 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“There is worldwide fandom for Judy Garland that is very robust to this day,” Fantle said. “People are endlessly fascinated by her life.”

The lobby will open at 5:30 p.m. for the book signing. Fantle and Johnson will give a 15-minute talk before the 7 p.m. screening of the movie and a brief Q&A after the screening. Tickets are $10 for the presentation.

The book, which will be released Oct. 16, includes extensive interviews with the cast, crew and writers involved in the production.

It’s fitting that the book release is held in Carmel, where the Great American Songbook Foundation is headquartered. Fantle said Songbook Foundation founder Michael Feinstein provided great insight into Garland’s career. There will be an archival display of materials relating to Garland’s life and legacy, donated to the Songbook Library and Archives by her daughter and fellow Songbook Hall of Fame member Liza Minnelli.

Fantle said there is a lot of significance to “Summer Stock.” It was Garland’s final film after 15 years at MGM.

“The film was beset with behind-thescenes issues,” Fantle said. “Judy was part of the reason that there were delays and production delays. But we really go out of the way to tell the entire ‘Summer Stock’ story and make sure there were other factors beyond Judy’s own personal issues that caused these production delays. We have to have empathy for Judy at this stage of her life.”

Fantle said during filming in 1949 and into early 1950, Garlands marriage to movie director Vincent Minnelli was on the rocks. Their daughter Liza was a toddler then. She had concert appearances and radio

recordings.

“She was just worked to the bone,” Fantle said. “She also had a growing dependence on prescription medications. It was the perfect storm.”

Fantle said while the movie is not as well-known as other Garland films such as “Meet Me in St. Louis,” “The Wizard of Oz” and “Easter Parade,” there are more wonderful musical numbers jammed into the 108 minutes than virtually any of the famous MGM musicals. The film ends with one of Garland’s iconic songs, “Get Happy.”

“Most people don’t realize that Gene Kelly’s all-time personal favorite solo tap dance is in ‘Summer Stock,’ so there are a lot of compelling reasons why we thought this story should be told,” Fantle said.

Fantle and Johnson began researching the golden age of Hollywood in 1978 when they were starting as college journalists at the University of Minnesota.

“We had the tenacity, hutzpah and dumb luck to have face-to-face interviews with Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly,” Fantle said.

They saved money to go to Los Angeles, where they had interviews set up by requests through the mail. They also had interviews with “Summer Stock” director Charles Walters, co-star Eddie Bracken and Harry Warren, the musical’s primary songwriter.

Those initial interviews weren’t only about “Summer Stock,” but all touched on the musical. The authors had the foresight to save the old cassettes from those interviews.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Fantle

Johnson

The book cover of “C’mon, Get Happy: The Making of Summer Stock.” (Photo courtesy of Dave Fantle)

Lab series features ‘Liars Bench’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Julie Lyn Barber looks forward to seeing what changes a reading might bring to her play.

READING

Barber’s musical

“The Liars Bench” will be presented as part of Actors Theatre of Indiana’s Lab Series. The play will be presented as a free reading at 2 p.m. Oct. 14 at Carmel Clay Public Library. The Lab series helps playwrights receive feedback on their work.

each of the character’s specific voices and three-dimensionality.”

The story is set in the 1920s in a small town that hasn’t progressed as much as the rest of the nation.

Barber

“(The reading is) such a gift,” Barber said. “It’s always so helpful to hear it out loud and to be able to see audience reactions in real time, in addition to the opportunity to hear their thoughts about it after the reading. My goal was to wrap some heart into a comedy so that it’s an evening spent laughing, that sends you away with a bit of nostalgia. There’s no way to know if that goal is near achieving until there is an audience involved. I’m also very excited to have such a skilled group of professional actors interpret the characters. It really helps me in developing

“I grew up in a small town in Canada. My husband grew up in Selma, Indiana, which is where my kids went to school,” Barber said. “I used to work in Farmland, Indiana, and one of our favorite places to visit is the small town of Nashville in Brown County. Frank Hohenberger’s photographs of the people of Brown County provided inspiration for several of the characters in the play.”

Barber said the play has had several readings through the years.

“The piece has changed significantly after each reading,” said Barber, who is the head of musical theater at Purdue University Fort Wayne. “The last one was a staged reading with students at Western Kentucky University, after which the cast size was significantly pared down to focus on the three sets of siblings.”

Registration for the free tickets is on Eventbrite. For more, visit atistage.org.

LYRICS BY CHAD BEGUELIN

MUSIC BY MATTHEW SKLAR

BOOK BY BOB MARTIN & CHAD BEGUELIN

BASED ON AN ORIGINAL CONCEPT BY JACK VIERTEL

CCP brings ‘aMUSEd’ to the stage

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Kelly Keller was eager to bring Megan Ann Jacobs’ latest play to the stage. The Carmel Community Players will present “aMUSEd” from Oct. 13-22 at Switch Theatre in Fishers. Keller, a Fishers resident, will direct the show.

“I’ve worked with Megan before when she directed me in ‘Coping with Autumn,’ which she also wrote,” Jacobs said. “I love her writing style. It’s direct and real. She writes about regular, ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her language is accessible by everyone but is smart, thoughtful and funny. When Megan gave the cast of ‘Coping with Autumn’ the ‘aMUSEd’ script as a gift, I read it shortly thereafter. I immediately loved it. I love how it starts. I love how it evolves. I love the story and themes. (Jacobs) includes themes of loss, recovery and redemption expertly through interesting and real characters.”

The play has been produced a total of five times previously, three times in its full form in Wisconsin and twice in Indianapolis as an hour-long festival version.

Jacobs, an Indianapolis resident, said she got the idea for the story when Danielle E. Shipley showed her the cover of her new book “Inspired.”

“This image with the man in the suit in this light bulb and the great line of ‘What the muse wants...he gets,’” Jacobs said. “And I truly was inspired by it. This image launched my brain into the general premise of ‘aMUSEd.’This was actually the first time I had ever written a play. I had mostly done fiction writing and poetry. But from the onset, I knew this idea was meant for the stage.”

Jacobs said the play’s last revisions were in early 2019 for both versions of the show.

“I think I am most excited to experience it like new,” Jacob’s said. “Seeing it come to life under someone else’s direction, the choices of the performers, and seeing the production team add their flair, truly it feels like a gift.”

For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

The Edwards Twins return

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Edwards Twins sold out their first appearance at Feinstein’s in Carmel last year.

PERFORMANCES

“The promoter said then next year we’re going to do two shows,” Anthony Edwards said.

Identical twins Anthony and Eddie Edwards, 58, will present “The Ultimate Variety Show” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20-21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.

Some new additions will be in their repertoire.

“We’re doing Elton John from the ‘70s, the ‘80s and the 2000s era,” Anthony said. “That’s a new thing we put in the show and it’s blowing the audience away. We’re also bringing in Bette Midler, which is also brand new. The Bee Gees will be coming. John Fogerty is another new one.”

Anthony impersonates all the male performers while Eddie portrays the females.

“Eddie’s favorite character is Barbra Streisand because he has been doing that the longest,” Anthony said. ‘That’s really a character people just go crazy over.

Anthony said two of his favorites to impersonate are Elton John and Andrea Bocelli.

Anthony said it was natural for Eddie to impersonate females because he spent years touring the world as part of La Cage aux Follies.

It was Carol Burnett who suggested the twins combine their acts.

“She was very instrumental in getting the act started,” Anthony said. “She had seen me in Toronto, and we became good friends. She then went to see Eddie and was so enamored with him, she asked him to be on ‘Carol & Company.’ Eddie was on the first season of that show. After we got endorsed by her, it absolutely skyrocketed.”

For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

11 at 7:30pm

GRACE POTTER

Fri Nov 3 at 8pm

Eddie Edwards is well known for his Barbra Streisand impersonation. (Photo courtesy of Anthony Edwards)

An expanding vocabulary

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

The folks at Merriam-Webster have been hard at work keeping the dictionary relevant for a new generation of vibrant verbophiles. The new class of 690 words promises to keep M-W a real page-turner.

pass anything that is clearly superior to other things in its category. Depending on your perspective, Michael Jordan is the GOAT of basketball, while others consider LeBron James to be the GOAT.

GRAMMAR GUY

As you can see, the English language is alive and well, as its words, phrases and meanings continue to evolve. Allow me to introduce to you a few words from the class of ‘23.

• Doomscroll: to spend endless time scrolling on your phone. I’m an expert doomscroller, seamlessly switching between Instagram, Facebook and Reddit. While the youngsters prefer TikTok, I prefer to watch reposted TikTok videos on Instagram.

• Doggo: a dog. My doggo, Socks, is a 1-year-old cockapoo who likes stealing food from my 1-year-old son.

• GOATED: G.O.A.T. stands for “greatest of all time,” and the phrase “GOATED” (in all caps) has evolved to encom-

• Jorts: jean shorts. There’s nothing inherently wrong with jorts, but they have come to be associated with men over the age of 40. The best place I’ve found to see the most jorts per capita is at the Indy 500. Whether they’re cutoffs or born that way, jorts are a mainstay among American motorsport fans. While some may scoff at the slang terms and online lexicon added to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, new words keep a language fresh and exciting. I, for one, think the English language is really bussin’ (extremely good).

Experiencing aviation progress

Commentary by Don Knebel

In our continuing visits to places within easy driving distance of Indianapolis, we resume our exploration of Dayton’s National Museum of the United States Air Force.

TRAVEL

Walking among the 350 or so airplanes on display in the 19-acre museum makes one conclusion unavoidable — 80 years after a Wright brothers airplane became the nation’s first powered military aircraft, an enormous amount of progress had been made in the design of military aircraft, some made very quickly.

The earliest powered airplane on display is an exact reproduction of the Wright brothers’ Flyer, sold to the U. S Army for $30,000 in 1909. Like their earlier planes, this biplane had chain-driven pusher propellers in the rear, no wheels, elevators in the front and muslin-covered wooden fuselage and wings. It had a top speed of 42 mph and a range of 40 miles. Just eight years later, the Sopwith F.1 Camel, which destroyed more German aircraft than any other Allied airplane, featured wheels and a

rotary engine driving a single puller propeller in front. It had a top speed of 112 mph, a range of 300 miles and could reach an altitude of 19,000 feet. Fast forward to 1964 and the North American XB-70A, a bomber with a top speed of 2,056 mph (more than three times the speed of sound), a range of 4,288 miles and a ceiling of 77,350 feet. Also on display is the Lockheed F-117A, introduced in 1981, the world’s first operational aircraft capable of evading enemy radar, with an unlimited range enabled by inflight refueling.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is open, with free admission and parking, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Visitors are advised to arrive early, go first to the back of the museum and work forward.

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

A Lockheed F-117A on display.

A North American XB-70A bomber at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. (Photos by Don Knebel)

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

9. Nike rival

13. Scannable bars, briefly

14. Postpone

15. Fundamental

16. Gen-___

17. Hang loosely

18. Palladium to-do, e.g.

19. With 56-Across, Clay County facility where you can find 9-, 34-, 41- and 67-Across and 30-Down

22. Singer Lana

24. Katz Sapper & Miller audit pro

27. Viking Ship Museum city 28. Indianapolis Indians fielders’ gloves

31. Awl, for one

32. Gestation sites 34. Schoolcraft College

mascot

36. White River angler’s string

38. Rokita, Hill and Zoeller, initially

40. Word-of-mouth

41. Cub Scout newcomer

43. Blunder

45. Run away

46. Like the Hanna Haunted House

48. Indiana Senate staffer

52. “___ chance!”

53. Okla. neighbor

54. Black eye, informally

56. See 19-Across

59. Show reluctance 62. Come next

63. MashCraft brew letters

64. Offed

65. Ford flop

66. Lucas Oil Stadium restroom sign

67. Colt foe

68. Go-getters

69. Finish Down

1. Fishers HS prom wear

2. Highest points

3. Rolled up document

4. ___ Merlot’s steakhouse

5. “Oh, lordy!”

Waterpark

26. PC key

29. 401(k) kin

30. Golfer Woods

31. Part of ATV

33. Earl Grey, e.g. 35. Dove’s sound 36. “Damn Yankees” siren 37. “Yeah, right!” 39. ___ Lanka 41. Pal 4 life

42. Plum Creek Golf Club pegs

44. Carmel firefighter, on occasion 47. Surpass 49. Eventually

Dredge, say

Gofer’s task 53. Shore bird 55. Shoe parts 56. Destroy

Cancel out

Latin 101 verb

6. Uwe Blab’s “little” brother (at 7-feet), who played at Evansville

7. Masking or duct

8. Shoelace hole

9. Do I-69 roadwork 10. “For Official ___ Only” 11. Hr. part

12. Perform at The Belfry Theatre

15. Not straight 20. Beat the Pacers decisively

21. “In that case...”

24. Coca-___

25. Place to do laps at The

Indiana Dunes Reptiles 2 Largest Indiana Cities

5-Letter Palindromes

1 ISU Sports Teams Nickname

ISP option 60. A Manning 61. Chinese chairman Answers on Page 24

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