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About us
Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIV, No. 27
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Southwest corner of 116th & I-69
Dive into Delicious
HSE board hears from teachers’ supporters
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees’ July 11 meeting was standing-room-only, with most of the audience members wearing red T-shirts showing their support for the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association.
EDUCATION
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HSEA recently filed an unfair labor complaint against the school district, focusing primarily on the actions of Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Brian Murphy. The complaint, filed with the Indiana Education Employment Relations board, was scheduled to have a prehearing conference July 23.
Although the July 11 board meeting room was packed, only three people spoke during public comment. The first was Sarah Renfro, a minister with Geist Christian Church. She said she and her family moved to the area nine years ago.
“As the church is located in both Indianapolis and Fishers, we could have chosen to live anywhere,” she said. “We moved to Hamilton Southeastern Schools district for the schools. Our daughter has had only great teachers who take their vocation, their calling, seriously. Their focus has been solely on their students’ success, which reaches beyond test scores.”
Renfro said she “will not stand by as teachers are disrespected, dismissed and
silenced. I will do everything I can to support teachers. I pray the same for you.”
Stephanie Hunt addressed district spending for legal representation and speculated that the expenses are related to the HSEA complaint.
“The behaviors and approach this board has allowed and encouraged from this administration are costing us thousands of dollars and potentially even more exceptional educators,” she said. “Stop fighting our teachers. Treat them with respect. Stop spending legal fees for a problem you are creating and continue pushing.”
A list of expenses approved by the board that night included three line items for Barnes & Thornburg — about $3,500 for a “legal matter,” $5,000 for “general labor” and $10,000 for “board counsel.” The previous two months show comparable payments to that law firm, a monthly $10,000 retainer and a $5,000 additional “professional services” expense in May.
HSEA President Abby Taylor also addressed the district’s legal fees.
“Instead of working with HSEA to solve issues impacting our schools, the school district escalated to involve the district’s high-priced attorneys, only increasing the spending on legal fees while diverting money from the classroom,” she said. “To not work with HSEA to come to a resolution prior to legal action is neither fiscally conservative nor responsible.”
The board and administration did not
respond to the comments.
In other matters, the board approved one-year extensions for school nurse and sports medicine contracts with Community Health; and new elementary science textbooks and materials from McGraw Hill.
The board was split 4-3 on a vote to approve amendments to the student handbook, with Suzanne Thomas, Sarah Donsbach and Sarah Parks-Reese voting no. The three objected to a change in the process for student-athletes to appeal suspensions from participating in sports, primarily because the new language was provided to the board the same day as the board meeting.
Thomas said she needed more time and attempted through two motions to separate that section for later consideration. Her motions failed, with Donsbach and Parks-Reese joining her in each vote.
The handbook also included changes to the district’s policy regarding cellphone use in the classroom to align with new state regulations that prohibit cellphone use unless it is for instructional purposes.
HSE’s policies around cellphone use in schools already had mostly matched the new state guidelines, so the language changes were minor. The adjustments added smartwatches and “other wireless” devices to the list of items that must not be used during the school day; and clarified circumstances when students can use electronic devices.
Multiple boats overturn on Geist
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
No one was reported injured after multiple sailboats overturned on Geist Reservoir July 14 during a sudden storm that included strong winds, rain, thunder and lightning.
STORM
According to the Fishers Fire Department, first responder boats 392, 391 and 391B, with assistance from the Indiana
Department of Natural Resources and Indianapolis Fire Department, conducted search and rescue operations at the reservoir, making multiple surface rescues.
FFD reported 12 boats capsized on the water during the storm, carrying 24 people.
“All were accounted for and no injuries were reported,” according to the FFD.
Jim Jordan from the Indianapolis Sailing Club stated in an email that he had heard of at least one overturned sailboat on
Geist, but didn’t have details about which boat was involved.
He noted that it’s not unusual for smaller racing boats to capsize during strong winds.
“We usually have at least two safety boats on the water during races to provide assistance to sailors who may need help,” he said. “Most of the time, the crew is able to right the boat and bail out the water.”
Fishers
Sun on the Monument by Margot Bogue is one of the pieces featured in the Fishers Arts Council’s July exhibit, “All Our Best.” (Photo courtesy of the Fishers Arts Council)
Arts
Council gallery features Hamilton County artists
news@currentinfishers.com
Fishers Arts Council’s July exhibit, “All Our Best,” featuring work by artists of the Hamilton County Artists Association, is on display through Aug. 2 at the FAC’s gallery space at the newly opened Fishers Art and Municipal Center, 1 Municipal Dr.
EXHIBIT
The Hamilton County Artists’ Association has more than 50 local artists who have been juried into the nonprofit organization, according to a FAC news release, as well as supporting members from across Indiana.
Sixty paintings by its members are on display in the “All Our Best” exhibit in the Art Gallery at City Hall, according to a FAC news release. The gallery is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“Fishers Arts Council is so elated to be back home inside Fishers City Hall,” stated Les Reinhardt, executive director of the Fishers Arts Council. “After a decade of curating exhibits in the Town Hall, turned City Hall, it was bittersweet to move out in 2022 in preparation for construction. The city has made this homecoming a wonderful experience; the gallery and theater spaces will truly make guests to our monthly receptions feel welcome.”
The Fishers Arts Council also will continue to curate displays at the FAC Hub Gallery at the Hamilton County Community Foundation, 11810 Technology Drive.
The City of Fishers’ new building also has ground-floor space managed by the Indy Art Center — called the Fishers Art Center — with “Balderdash,” an exhibit of artwork by Kurt Vonnegut, on display.
We’ve MOVED!
Fishers Event Center opening events announced
news@currentinfishers.com
The first few events planned at the Fishers Event Center have been announced ahead of the center’s November opening, featuring a country music concert, a standup comic and a professional wrestling show.
LINEUP
“We are thrilled to be bringing this to life,” Fishers Event Center General Manager Mitch List stated. “We are joining the ranks of the amazing entertainment options in this market with something different to offer, having a unique opportunity to bring in great shows that are selling out arenas elsewhere in the country. We look forward to seeing the Fishers Event Center become a catalyst for so much growth as it fills a void for this community.”
The inaugural event Nov. 22 will feature country band Turnpike Troubadours, bluegrass band Trampled by Turtles and country singer Tyler Halverson. The second event at the center will be comedian Leanne Morgan and her “Just Getting Started” tour, set for Nov. 30.
“I’m so excited to be the first comedian at the Fishers Event Center,” Morgan stated. “It’s such an honor and I can’t wait to laugh with all the darling people in Fishers.”
Tickets for the first two shows went on sale July 19 at the center’s new website, FishersEventCenter.com.
The third event will be an All Elite Wrestling professional wrestling show, set for Dec. 4. Tickets are not yet available for that event, which will feature wrestling headliners Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, Adam Copeland, Swerve Strickland, Will Ospreay, Christian Cage, The Young Bucks, Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, Hangman
The Fishers Event Center, which broke ground in March 2023, is on track for completion this fall.
Adam Page, Toni Storm, Mercedes Mone, Saraya, Adam Cole, FTR, Dr. Britt Baker, Orange Cassidy, Darby Allin, Jay White, Claudio Castagnoli, Malakai Black, Will Hobbs, The Acclaimed, The Lucha Bros., Mark Briscoe and Samoa Joe, among others.
The $170-million Fishers Event Center broke ground in March 2023 at its site near I-69 and 116th Street. The 7,500-seat facility is part of the 18-acre Fishers District development. In addition to concerts and performances, it will host home games for the Indy Fuel hockey team, Fishers Freight indoor football team and Indy Ignite professional volleyball team.
“We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to build an unmatched venue that brings top-level talent to one of the most dynamic parts of our community,” Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said. “These opening events at the Fishers Event Center will mark an incredible milestone for our city and there’s even more to come.” For more, visit FishersEventCenter.com.
(Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)
Carjacking, multicounty vehicle chase ends in Noblesville
Two unidentified juveniles are in custody following a July 15 armed carjacking that started in Grant County and ended in Noblesville following a chase in vehicles and on foot, with one suspect apprehended in the Hamilton East Public Library building.
According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle was stolen at gunpoint in Marion, about 40 miles north of Noblesville. State law enforcement agencies shared information about the vehicle, which was reported seen in Madison County headed southbound on Ind. 37.
“While our deputies were looking for the vehicle, the 911 Emergency Communications Center received a driving complaint on a vehicle matching the description of the suspect vehicle,” the news release stated. “(Hamilton County) deputies located the suspect vehicle at SR 37 and 206th Street southbound. Our patrol deputies pulled behind the suspect vehicle to initiate a traffic stop and the suspect vehicle then fled from deputies.”
The sheriff’s office reported that the vehicle’s driver evaded stop sticks at Ind. 37 southbound and 186th Street and ran off the road at Connor Street, crashing into two uninvolved vehicles.
“After crashing, the suspects in the vehicle fled the scene,” the news release stated. “(One) juvenile suspect ran west from the scene and was apprehended in the Hardee’s parking lot. The other suspect ran northwest from the scene. A perimeter was set up in the area around the businesses and the Hamilton East Public Library Noblesville campus. During a search of the library conducted by several law enforcement agencies, the second suspect was found.”
The sheriff’s office reported that both juvenile suspects were taken into custody without further incident and there were no injuries. The case remains under investigation.
Other law enforcement agencies assisted with the arrests, including the Noblesville, Fishers and Westfield Police Departments.
DISPATCH
Fishers road construction update — The following projects are underway and might affect traffic in the Fishers area:
• Later in July, there will be lane restrictions at 106th Street and Cumberland Road while Verizon contractors install underground facilities. Lane restrictions will be in place between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• The City of Noblesville began construction June 17 on a roundabout at 141st and Promise Road this summer. The intersection of 141st Street and Promise Road will be closed through mid-August. Detour route signage will be in place prior to the closure.
• Construction work has begun on the final interchange of the State Road 37 Improvement Project at 141st Street. Around July 22, the west side of 141st St. at Ind. 37 will close for a new phase of construction. Traffic will transition to the east side, with Ind. 37 north and southbound lanes remaining open. This closure will remain in place through 2024. For more and to sign up for updates, visit 37thrives.com.
• Allisonville Road at 146th Street will have occasional lane restrictions for the delivery of materials in the work area. These lane restrictions will take place in the left-hand westbound lane of 146th Street.
• Closure of 126th Street and Southeastern Parkway began May 30 for construction of a single-lane roundabout. The project is due for completion at the end of July.
• Construction is ongoing for the 96th Street and Allisonville Road Roundabout Project. Allisonville Road remains open with lane restrictions but 96th Street is closed from Allisonville to Hazel Dell Parkway. Construction has moved to Phase 3A, which involves a slight shift in traffic to allow the contractor to build the future driveway for the Circle K gas station. On or after July 22, the contractor will move into Phase 3B and traffic will shift from the east side of Allisonville to the west and will continue to flow north and south. The project is scheduled to be completed at the end of the year.
From left, Fishers High School’s Tiger Dynasty robotics team members Surya Myneni, Fernando Pedrozo, Parker Melling, Ian Stone, Esaban Rosas and Max Probala comprised one of the approximately 60 teams that competed in the Indiana Robotics Invitational at Lawrence Central High School July 12-13. The invitational included teams from 19 states and teams from Canada and Mexico. (Photo by Adam Seif)
Fishers resident heads to Ironman World Championship
By Samantha Kupiainen news@currentinfishers.com
Fishers resident Kyle Gabbard has qualified to compete this fall in the annual Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
ENDURANCE
The Ironman World Championship is a Hawaii-based competition that features “the very best male professional and age-group triathletes from around the world,” according to the organization. The competition, which attracts about 2,000 international competitors, is a combined 140.6-mile event that consists of swimming in Kailua Bay, biking along the coast and running through barren lava fields.
“To qualify for Hawaii, it comes down to a bunch of races throughout the year,” Gabbard said. “Each race is based on how many participants there are and the depth of the field. There’s spots allotted for the championship. I qualified in the Chattanooga Ironman last September.”
Gabbard said he has completed two full Ironman competitions and five half-Ironman events.
According to Ironman, a full competition comprises a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run, which must all be completed in 17 hours. A half-Ironman is a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run.
Gabbard said he expects the caliber of the field to be the main difference in the Ironman World Championship.
Hawaii also presents obstacles that people from the continental United States aren’t used to.
“The conditions are supposed to be
pretty tricky because it’s along the coast, which can be super windy, and Hawaii conditions — it’s usually quite hot with super high humidity,” Gabbard said. “Most of the race, at least the bike and the run portion, are done on the Queen K Highway, which is black asphalt and the sun reflects off of that and makes the course extremely hot and hard to do the race in.”
Queen K Highway, otherwise known as Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway, runs 33 miles from Kailua-Kona along the coast and ends south of Kawaihae.
To prepare for the tropical Hawaiian conditions, Gabbard is doing a lot of sauna and heat training. After runs, he typically sits in the sauna for 15 to 20 minutes to become better acclimated to the heat. Additionally, with Indiana summers reaching as high as 95 degrees some days, Gabbard has been completing workouts outside to prepare his body for the Hawaii heat.
Gabbard, who will be a senior at Indiana University this fall, is studying parks recreation and the outdoors. His career goal is to work at a national park.
Kyle Gabbard runs across the finish line at Ironman Chattanooga in September 2023, the race where he qualified to compete in Ironman World Championship. (Photo courtesy of Kyle Gabbard)
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
HSE plans back-to-school event — Hamilton Southeastern Schools will celebrate the new school year with the annual Before the Bell event, sponsored by Meijer. The free event is 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, 6 Municipal Dr., and is open to all HSE students and families. All 22 schools, along with several different departments, will have informational booths about the 2024-25 school year. Families will also be able to learn about different activities and offerings during the school year. Other sponsors include the Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation and Fishers Parks and Recreation.
Mayor’s Youth Academy application period ending — Applications are due July 26 for the Mayor’s Youth Academy, which invites high school students to work alongside Mayor Scott Fadness and other city leaders to address issues facing the community. Participants experience behind-the-scenes tours, discuss policy questions and explore career opportunities within the public sector. In coordination with local schools, students meet monthly on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at various locations around Fishers through spring 2025. Applicants must be a Fishers resident and a junior or senior in high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Register at FishersIN.gov/MYA.
Police Citizens Academy applications open — The 42nd session of the Fishers Police Department Citizens Academy is accepting applications. Citizens Academy classes will be 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday nights at the Fishers Police Department Aug. 14 through Nov. 20. The Academy is open to Fishers residents ages 16 and older. Class size is limited to 25. Each applicant is subject to a screening process and advanced registration is required. To begin the registration process, visit bit. ly/3W2cysG.
School assistance for children of veterans – Operation Back to School — also known as the Military Family Relief Fund Back to School Program — provides financial assistance to Hoosier veteran families experiencing financial difficulties. Offered by the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, the program offers $500 of assistance per qualified dependent for back-to-school supplies and other school-related expenses. Applications are accepted through Aug. 30. Learn more at in.gov/dva.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 16 TH , 2024 11AM to 3PM at Lucas Estate, Carmel, IN
oki.wish.org/wws
Fishers council OKs INCOG expansion incentives
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A Fishers-based biopharmaceutical company is moving forward with plans to significantly expand its business following the Fishers City Council’s approval of an economic development agreement.
GOVERNMENT
The council voted unanimously July 15 in favor of a resolution that waives personal property taxes for INCOG BioPharma Services, Inc., for 13 years. The abatement applies to new equipment purchased for the expanded facility at 12050 Exit 5 Parkway before the end of 2027.
Economic Development Director Megan Baumgartner told the council that the value of the abatement over the 13-year period is an estimated $2.1 million. She said the expansion will allow INCOG to move from manufacturing drugs for smaller-scale clinical trials to large-scale commercial distribution.
Baumgartner noted that the company already has made significant investments in the community.
“In 2020, they made a commitment for a $60 million investment — the actual total investment was north of $90 million,” she said. “They planned on building a 50,000-square-foot building — ended up building about a 90,000-square-foot building.”
Continued on Page 11
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INCOG BioPharma Services at 12050 Exit 5 Parkway in Fishers plans to expand with a new 100,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. (Photo courtesy of INCOG)
Continued from Page 10
Baumgartner said the company also hired more employees than originally estimated, with average salaries at more than $100,000 a year.
The expansion will involve a new $40 million investment for an additional 100,000-square-foot facility. The company has agreed to add 370 full-time jobs by 2029 with an average annual salary of about $73,000.
Mayor Scott Fadness added that the company’s executives have worked to bring other life-science companies to Fishers.
“They are tireless advocates for the City of Fishers and what we’re trying to create around life sciences,” he said. “They’ve gone well beyond anything that would be required of them to make sure that Fishers is being put on the map when it comes to life sciences and we’ve just been really grateful for their help in that regard.”
In a news release from INCOG, the
company stated that it plans to break ground on the new building in August. The company specializes in sterile injectable biopharmaceuticals.
“We are excited about this new investment and the opportunities it brings,” stated Cory Lewis, CEO and founder of INCOG. “Our customers will have access to a suite of solutions from filling through final packaging. This supply chain integration is essential in accelerating a drug product to commercial launch and even more important in today’s constrained markets as the need for sterile injectable products is quickly growing to address challenging diseases and improve health care outcomes.”
For more about INCOG, visit incogbiopharma.com.
In other matters, the council recognized the Hamilton Southeastern High School boys lacrosse team and girls volleyball team, both 2024 state champions.
The next Fishers City Council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Aug. 19 at the Fishers Municipal Center theater, 1 Municipal Dr.
DISPATCH
Volunteers needed — The City of Fishers has numerous volunteer opportunities available for upcoming and ongoing events. Those include the weekly farmers market, the Fishers AgriPark and Geist Half Marathon. For more, visit volunteerfishers.com.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
August 10, 2024 | Four Day Ray, Fishers Register at WoofstockRocks.com or scan below!
Race in-person or virtually
Fundraise for PAWsome prizes
Leashed & in-stroller dogs welcome Shirt, medal and swag for all participants
Proceeds benefit HSHC's Survivor Program and hundreds of animals in need
Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health Center, Indiana’s first community mental health center, provides comprehensive care for all types of emotional and behavioral problems. Patients of all ages are welcomed, from children to seniors, with a philosophy of care that stresses strength-based and family- and community-centered treatment utilizing the Recovery Model of treatment.
FOCUS ON WELLNESS
Fishers Health Department marks fourth year in operation
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Born in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fishers Health Department started in April 2020 with a strong focus on that health emergency, along with establishing the services required of any public health department — birth and death certificates, restaurant and public pool inspections, communicable disease tracking and outbreak response.
During an interview at the department’s clinic, 8939 Technology Dr., Public Health Director Monica Heltz said that since 2020, health department and city officials have been able to think beyond the basics required by state law.
“In the last, probably two years, we’ve really been able to think a little bit bigger about what can we do — what are the needs of the community, how can we really meet those needs effectively and what are our best opportunities to do that?” she said. “We’ve spent a lot of time looking at data and gathering community feedback.”
Some of that data showed that 20 percent of the city’s emergency calls were the result of people falling and injuring themselves, she said. That led to establishing a fall-prevention program.
“We have an automated referral process, so when somebody does fall, we call them and offer our services,” she said. “We can install equipment in their home — if that’s what’s warranted after their assessment — and connect them to other resources if they need those.”
Another data-driven initiative is a translation program for city services beyond the health department.
“I think over 15 percent of our residents speak a language other than English primarily in their home,” Heltz said. “A lot of our community agencies and services are realizing that’s a big need to serve a broader community. So, looking at that, we brought in language interpretation software — which we have to have in the health care industry anyway — but we’ve managed to make that available to the whole city.”
Heltz said the ability to collaborate with other departments is one of the benefits of Fishers running its own public health agency.
“It’s kind of a passion area of mine, being able to serve people, and being embedded in the city the way that we are really makes it easier from a health department perspective to have a greater impact, holistically, on people,” she said. “That was one of the aims that (Mayor Scott Fadness) had in creating the health department — how do we strategize to really affect people’s health in a lot of different ways?”
Before spring 2020, Fishers’ public
health needs were served by the Hamilton County Health Department.
Heltz noted other collaborative efforts, including action teams made up of representatives from various city departments. The mental health action team, for example, has helped city engineers think about more than the fastest way to move traffic.
“They’re in charge of making the roads go fast, right? But from a mental health perspective, from a quality-of-life perspec-
FISHERS HEALTH DEPARTMENT SERVICES
The Fishers Health Department provides:
• CLINICAL SERVICES: Testing, vaccinations and treatments
• MENTAL HEALTH: Hosting the stigmafreefishers.com website and offering mental health support for businesses
• BIRTH AND DEATH CERTIFICATES
• HEALTH EDUCATION AND OUTREACH: Mental health first aid training, Naloxone education, nutrition, suicide prevention, school health and the annual teen public health academy
• FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM:
Home visits and assessments, education and help with in-home modifications
• ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING: Open water sampling, mosquito control, pest control, well samples, pool samples and indoor air quality
• RETAIL FOOD INSPECTION: Inspections and a grading system, with results publicly available at map. fishers.in.us/restaurants
• PERMITTING: Retail food establishments, public pools and spas, septic systems and private water wells.
tive, from a health perspective, we want people to be able to walk places,” she said. “So, we have to kind of balance the need to move the cars when they need to go against where should cars not move fast.”
Heltz said the department’s mental health focus has been an important innovation and includes a website with articles, advice and resources for people facing mental health challenges — stigmafreefishers.com — which had more than 10,000 visits in its first year.
The department also provides health education and outreach, going to local schools and setting up shop at the weekly Fishers farmers market on alternating Saturdays.
“People already go to the farmers market — it’s such a hub of activity for Fishers,” Heltz said. “So, instead of trying to host separate events, which is a whole lot more work, we can combine some of (our) activities and special days with the farmers market.”
Special days include a mental health awareness day, Club Day — where residents can learn about clubs they can join — and a community service day for people who want to sign up to volunteer in various ways.
“We have a community filled with people that have moved here from somewhere else, right? Not a lot of people that live here have been born here, so because we’re such a fast-growing community, people are hungry for those kinds of connecting opportunities,” she said. “Anything we can do to facilitate that is going to, by extension, facilitate mental health and wellness in our community.”
Heltz said one of her goals is to make sure the department is serving the whole community, not just certain segments of the population. To that end, the department recently added a position that focuses on promoting physical activity and nutrition for everyone, and is building a maternal health program, funded through the state’s Health First Indiana program.
For more about the Fishers Health Department, visit health.fishersin.gov.
ON THE COVER: City of Fishers Public Health Director Monica Heltz stands at the entrance to the Fishers Health Department clinic on Technology Drive. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Brittany Cheviron-Smith, who is about a month away from giving birth, displays a onesie that the Fishers Health Department gives to new Fishers residents born within city limits. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)
The shingles vaccine is one of many in stock at the Fishers Health Department clinic on Technology Drive.
The Fishers Health Department uses its mobile clinic to bring vaccines to residents at festivals, farmers markets and neighborhoods. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)
Average White Band’s farewell tour lands during Carmel Jazz Fest
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Average White Band co-founder Alan Gorrie said it is time to get off the road.
The band launched a final tour this spring but will continue to make music.
“It’s the touring that is the hard part,” Gorrie said. “Being on stage is wonderful and still exciting. Since COVID, touring has become really difficult. It’s extremely expensive and hard to manage. We all felt it was time to give it our best show. I use an analogy of a boxer — you don’t want to go out when you are on the slippery slope down. You want to hang up your gloves when you are still at the top of your game. You don’t wait until you get knocked down on the canvas. With our age and experience, you know that’s what coming if you don’t call it quits.”
The Scottish funk and rhythm-andblues band will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Average White Band is the Aug. 10 headliner in the Aug. 9-10 Carmel Jazz Festival.
“It’s wise to let people see you one more time at the top of your game,” the 78-year-old Gorrie said. “Expectations are high for this band. We’ve been hugely respected by musicians, the musical community and audiences alike over the years, so you don’t want to diminish that respect by dwindling out.”
Average White Band was founded in 1972. Gorrie and Onnie McIntyre are the original members still performing. Gorrie shares lead vocals with Brent Carter. Gorrie also plays guitar and bass. McIntyre plays guitar along with vocals.
“Onnie and I have been on the road for more than 58 years,” Gorrie said. “We were in a couple bands before the Average White Band. We’ve been constant travelers since the mid-60s. We’ve put in our time.”
Average White Band has had to replace members through the years but remained intact. The group disbanded in 1983 and restarted in 1989 with Gorrie and McIntyre.
“Another analogy is that a great sports team can only stay great by bringing in new blood,” Gorrie said. “As people retire, or in our case a couple of people have passed away, you have to keep regenerating and rejuvenating. We’re very fortunate because of the respect (we have) in the musical industry. It’s never been hard for us to get the best talent who are a little younger than Onnie and I but have grown up playing AWB music and have fitted right in there as if they’ve been there all the time. In fact, one of our horn players has been with us for 28 years.”
Gorrie said there are six to 10 staples the band always plays, such as “Cut the Cake” and “Pick Up the Pieces.”
“We vary the rest depending on where we are playing,” Gorrie said. “We’re not pure jazz, but we’re on the jazzy tip of rhythm and blues. We do play a lot of jazz festivals.”
Average White Band had its farewell
tour of the United Kingdom in April and May, then began playing in the U.S. this summer. Gorrie said playing in the U.K. for the last time on tour was emotional.
“There were a lot of tears in the audience the very last night just outside of Manchester, England,” Gorrie said. “It was an emotional time for us and them. After 52 years of AWB, people have come to expect we might just go on forever. When people are all in the same venue and they realize this is the last time we’ll be playing in the United Kingdom, it’s a pretty heavy burden. We got through it with aplomb. It’s bittersweet when you know it’s the final run.”
Average White Band performed in May 2023 at the Madame Walker Theatre in Indianapolis.
“We haven’t played Indianapolis enough over the years,” Gorrie said. “We used to do a festival at the Indiana Convention Center in the 1990s and early 2000s. This is our first time outside (of Marion County).”
For tickets, visit thecenterpresents. org. For more information, visit carmeljazzfest.org.
‘LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” runs through Aug. 25 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE’
Main Street Productions presents “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” through July 28 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
‘CATS’
Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program’s production of “Cats” is set for July 25-28 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Deception: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for July 25; Ryan and Lauren Ahlwardt’s Human Jukebox is July 26; and Eric Baker & Friends presents Southern Calfornia in the ‘70s is July 27 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE
She’s Got Soul with Capathia Jenkins will perform July 26 and singer-songwriter Cody Fry is set for July 27 at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie in Fishers. Both performances start at 8 p.m. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
RENEGADES AND JUKE BOX HEROES
Styx and Foreigner, along with opening act John Waite, will perform at 6:45 p.m. July 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. For more, visit livenation.com.
DISPATCH
Bandleader Meeks set for Live at the Center show — Bassist and bandleader Brandon Meeks will kick off the 2024-25 Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. July 30 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
From left, Average White Band Cliff Lyons, Rob Aries, Onnie McIntyre, Brent Carter, Alan Gorrie, Rocky Bryant and Fred “Freddy V” Vigdor. (Photo courtesy of AWB)
Film focuses on endometriosis
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Hannah Lindgren is convinced it’s important to share her medical story. Lindgren, 33, was diagnosed with endometriosis — a disease that can cause extreme pain in the pelvis — in 2017. She suffered several years before her diagnosis.
DOCUMENTARY
“Once I got diagnosed, I had a big learning curve on understanding how to deal with the disease. There is not a ton of research,” Lindgren said. “There are not a lot of specialists. There are people that claim to understand but don’t. It’s really taken those seven years since then to learn about the disease and find the right care. It’s always been important for me to be open about my journey and connect with other people about the disease.”
This is Kramer’s first time directing a documentary.
Lindgren said although she has been open about her condition, it was a different feeling to have co-workers come to her major surgery in August 2023.
During the surgery, she got a second diagnosis of adenomyosis, a condition that causes endometrial tissue in the lining of the uterus to grow into the muscular wall of the uterus. The only treatment is a full hysterectomy.
For more, visit tickets.indyshorts.org.
’THE ICE CREAM MAN’
Following the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands during World War II, popular Jewish ice cream parlor owner Ernst Cahn was targeted by Klaus Barbie, the infamous “Butcher of Lyon.” The story is based on Cahn’s choice between resistance and death.
“The Invisible Crown” is a 20-minute documentary that focuses on Lindgren’s journey. It premieres at 12:30 p.m. July 28 at Newfields in Indianapolis as part of the Indy Shorts International Film Festival.
“We do hear from my mom (Brenda Myers) because she has been a huge support system to me,” said Lindgren, a Lawrence North High School graduate.
Myers is a Fishers resident. Lindgren lives in Indianapolis. Amelia Kramer, a Westfield High School graduate who lives in Indianapolis, is the director and editor. They are co-workers at Chop Shop Post, a post-production house in Indianapolis.
“I was honored she trusted me to tell her story,” Kramer said. “From there, we worked together with our team and created our story.”
“The Ice Cream Man,” a 35-minute film, will debut July 25 at Indy Shorts. The historical story was filmed in Columbus, Michigan City and Amsterdam.
“(The film’s goal is) to highlight the incredibly outsized effect that one person can have on their community if they are brave enough to stand up and do the right thing,” said Geist-area resident Amy Pauszek, who serves as co-producer. “Ernst Cahn’s actions ultimately led to over 300,000 Dutch citizens going on strike and shutting down Amsterdam, and the German war machine, for three days. It was the single-largest anti-Nazi protest in history, all because of one man.”
A July 25 screening in the 530-seat Tobias Theater at Newfields sold out. An encore screening set for July 27 sold out in one day.
For more, visit theicecreamman.movie.
Lindgren
Film recounts boxer’s story
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Sugar Ray Seales was the toast of the U.S. boxing world after winning the Olympic gold medal in the light-welterweight division in the 1972 Summer Games.
DOCUMENTARY
Seales was seriously injured when he got a thumb to his eye during a 1980 fight with Jamie Thomas and suffered a detached retina. He eventually had to retire because of his loss of vision.
Zionsville resident Michael Husain directs “The Sugarman,” a 14-minute black-andwhite film about Seales regaining his eyesight, thanks to Dr. John Abrams, a Westfield resident whose main Abrams EyeCare Center is in Carmel.
The film will be featured in the Indiana Spotlight 2 at 7 p.m. July 23 at Theatre 3 at Living Room Theatres in Indianapolis.
An ophthalmologist, Abrams performed the surgery on Seals.
“The greatest save I’ve ever had on a surgery is Sugar Ray Seals, hands down,” Abrams said in the film. “It was a very com-
plex surgery. He was basically legally blind.”
Husain said Seals coached Golden Gloves teams in Indianapolis for several years.
“He was a pretty respected coach, but he was losing the ability to do that as well,” Husain said. “He had eight failed surgeries to get the eyesight back.”
Husain said Seales had developed a massive cataract.
“Abrams said a normal cataract surgery is seven to eight minutes and Sugar Ray, to get his cataract off, took 3 1/2 hours,” Husain said.
Husain learned about it when talking with Abrams.
For more, visit indyshorts.org.
Sugar Ray Seales with his gold medal in “The Sugarman.” (Photo courtesy of Michael Husain)
CURRENT CRAVINGS SAVOR
Savor, 211 W. Main St. in Carmel, features Mediterranean- and Italian-inspired fare prepared over a wood fire in an open kitchen. Menu items range from handmade pasta, fresh seafood and luscious desserts (Savor owner and chef Henri Najem tried nearly 50 different combinations of ingredients to perfect the Gooey Butter Cake). Hours are 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday. Learn more and make a reservation at SavorCarmel.com.
MOST PHOTOGRAPHED:
22 OZ BONE-IN RIBEYE
MOST UNIQUE MENU ITEM: CIOPPINO
courtesy of Henri Najem)
MOST POPULAR MENU ITEM: Romano Crusted Chicken CHEF’S FAVORITE DISH: Alaskan Halibut with Spinach Risotto
RECOMMENDED DRINK: Spa Day Cucumber Martini BEST WAY TO END THE MEAL: Gooey Butter Cake
What are your Current Cravings? Let us know. Email news@youarecurrent.com.
FREE EVENT CONCERTS AT THE CARMEL GAZEBO
Feeling strapped for cash but still want to have some fun? Each week, Current helps you find things to do without breaking the bank. Here’s what’s on tap this week:
Concerts at the Carmel Gazebo at 1 Civic Square is a series to provide a venue for families to enjoy arts and culture in the community. Concerts are free and accessible to everyone. Stella Luna & the Satellites will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. July 24.
OTHER FREE AREA EVENTS
SUMMER CELEBRATION —
Options Westfield will host its fourth annual Summer Celebration 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 25 at 17721 Gunther Blvd. The Summer Celebration is open to the public and free of charge and will include a mechanical bull, inflatables, a video game trailer, corn hole and more.
Cioppino. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
Time ripe for summer salads
Commentary by Mark LaFay
Summer in central Indiana is the perfect time to enjoy fresh local produce, and there’s no better way to do that than by whipping up some delicious summer salads.
FOOD
With July here, the farmers markets are bursting with seasonal produce waiting to land on your plate. Also here is the summer heat and humidity and if you don’t like sweating when you eat, lighter options should be on the menu.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 AT 5PM THE
First Merchants Bank Red Carpet Arrival and Cocktail Reception Elegant dinner in partnership with Aaron Wealth Advisors Show-stopping dessert sponsored by Payne & Mencias Group Live auction supporting arts programming for the community Celebrate, dance and revel at the Gala After-Parties
HEADLINE PERFORMANCE BY Grammy-winning master trumpeter and composer
Now, I will say, I’m usually not one to default to salad for dinner, but the time of year makes a compelling argument. Let’s get building!
Start with a base of crisp greens from the local farmers market. Look for tender lettuce, peppery arugula or a mix of hearty kale and spinach. These greens provide the perfect foundation for layering flavors and textures.
Nothing says Indiana summer like sweet corn, and My Dad’s Sweet Corn is as good as it gets. Grill it until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob to add a burst of sweetness and crunch to your salad.
CHRIS BOTTI
Tomatoes are at their peak right now and you’ll find a rainbow of heirloom varieties at the market. Slice them thick and juicy. They have a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh greens. Add some crisp cucumbers for a refreshing bite.
For a touch of creaminess, crumble in feta cheese from Sirocco Ridge Creamery. Its feta is tangy and rich, adding a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory elements of your salad.
Find more information and our table reservation guide at
No salad is complete without a bit of protein and bacon from Old Major is a game-changer. Cook it until crispy, then crumble it over your salad for a smoky, savory kick that ties everything together. For the dressing, keep it simple. Consider using some local ingredients like Artisano’s Oils and Spices for balsamic and olive oil, and Eagle Creek Apiary for honey.
Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old
BUSINESS LOCAL
DISPATCHES
Fishers business owner in Who’s Who — Fishers resident Jeff Dossett has been included in Marquis Who’s Who, which selects individuals to feature based on position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility and prominence in a field. Dossett is the owner and founder of Fishers-based Dossett Consulting LLC, a firm he established in 2010. He serves as a financial services consultant for county governments on budgeting and revenue enhancements. He also prepares Title IV-D child support reimbursement claims for county clerks, courts and prosecutors and is involved in preparing county cost allocation plans to assist with government reimbursement for administering grants. Dossett has been in the financial industry since 1990.
Summit to recognize DEI efforts — Companies prioritizing DEI in their mission and values can apply for the 2024 Jackson Lewis Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champion Award. This honor showcases best practices that positively affect the workforce and expand opportunities in the state. The recognition is part of the
Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit Oct. 8 at Ritz-Charles in Carmel. Companies can apply through Aug. 29 at indianachamber.com/deiaward.
McCordsville company opens new facility in Florida — McCordsville-based electro-pneumatic pressure regulator and flow-control manufacturer Proportion-Air recently celebrated its new facility in Gulf Breeze, Fla., with a grand-opening event showcasing the new 12,000-square-foot building, which houses research and development, marketing and sales and administration functions. For more, visit proportionair.com.
State chamber studies workforce mental health — Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation has awarded a grant to the Wellness Council of Indiana, a subsidiary of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, for research to support WCI’s Hoosier Well-Being Data Project. The grant will provide $360,000 over a two-year period. For more, visit wellnessindiana.org.
Blueprint for Improvement: Sleek and stylish Indianapolis kitchen
Commentary by Larry Greene
Built in 1977, this Mystic Bay condo was prime for a modern upgrade, starting with the kitchen. Our team transformed the space into a sleek, contemporary haven that radiates a fresh vibe and perfectly reflects the homeowner’s style.
THE BLUEPRINT
• New flat-panel cabinets, gleaming chrome hardware and a tonal palette establish a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.
• Removing the bulkhead allowed us to extend the cabinetry to the ceiling, creating a bold, streamlined look with enhanced functionality and storage.
• Reworking the layout enhanced the flow between the kitchen and dining room, allowing for the addition of a larger island and wine fridge.
• Double doors leading to the new deck flood the space with natural light and showcase stunning lake views.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
Before After
Meridian Audiology LLC is a small private Audiology Practice owned and operated by Dr. Alison Wyss and Kira VonBlon, M.S. We have 40 years of Audiology expertise between us and pride ourselves on being able to give as much of our time to our patients as they need. We won’t rush you through the process like those in ENT or Retail Audiology, but we will spend the necessary and wanted time with you to help you know your questions are valuable and your patient experience is our top priority.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY
Pennington Park Church, Inc (13222 E 126 th St, Fishers, IN 46037) is submitting a NOI letter to notify the IDEM of the intent to comply with the requirements under 327 IAC 15-5 (Rule 5) to discharge stormwater from construction activities for the following project: Pennington Park Church Building/Parking Lot Addition in Fall Creek Twp, Hamilton County, Indiana, more specifically, part of the SE 1/4 of Sec 26-T18N-R5E; located at 13222 E 126 th St, Fishers, IN scheduled to commence with construction on July 30, 2024 and be completed on or before July, 2025. Stormwater Run-off from the project site will discharge to Mud Creek. Questions can be directed to Alt Construction; Casey Huffman; 10650 Bennett Pkwy, Ste 200; Zionsville, IN 46077
NOTICE OF ORDINANCE BY CITY OF FISHERS COMMON COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that the Common Council of the City of Fishers, during a regular meeting, on June 17, 2024, approved and adopted Ordinance No. 041524B, An Ordinance Amending Chapter 50 (Garbage, Trash and Refuse) of the Fishers Code of Ordinances and included a Penalty as follows:
§ 50.99 PENALTIES.
Whoever violates any of the provisions of this chapter shall be fined in an amount of $200 for the first offense; $500 for the second offense; and, $1,000 for the third offense and the contractor’s license may be revoked, and reinstatement of said license shall require the approval of the City Council. A separate offense shall be deemed committed upon each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The City of Fishers, Hamilton County, Indiana (“City”), pursuant to Ind. Code §36-9-30-5.3(o), hereby provides NOTICE that the City’s Board of Public Works & Safety (“Board”) will conduct a public hearing during its August 13, 2024, regularly scheduled Board meeting for public comment on a contract award for Residential Solid Waste, Yard Waste, Recycling Collection and Disposal.
The Board meeting will take place at 9:00 am on August 13, 2024, at Fishers City Hall, Theater, 1st Floor, One Municipal Drive, Fishers, IN 46038. Residents appearing at the meeting shall have the right to be heard. Following the public hearing, the Board will vote on the Residential Solid Waste, Yard Waste, Recycling Collection and Disposal contract.
Public comments may be submitted on the City of Fishers website, www.fishersin.gov.
