Tuesday, October 8, 2024
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FLYING HIGH
Metropolitan airport in Fishers expands to meet increased demand / P14
HSE Schools face higher costs, lower revenue / P2
Fishers restaurant to host “Chew on This” event / P7
Meet the Hamilton County Council candidates / P8
About us
Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIV, No. 38
Copyright 2023
Current Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032
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Fall into Puccini’s!
HSE Schools face higher costs, lower revenue
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton Southeastern Schools officials are predicting at least a few years of budget deficits as the district faces increasing costs and decreasing enrollment.
EDUCATION
Chief Financial Officer Tim Brown gave a budget presentation to the HSE Board of Trustees Sept. 25 outlining the district’s finances and introducing the proposed 2025 budget, which totals about $326 million — up from this year’s approximately $300 million.
Brown said a significant portion of the district’s revenue comes from per-student funding provided by the state. He said attendance at HSE Schools peaked in the 2019-20 school year at 21,808 students, with those numbers dropping steadily each year since. This year’s enrollment is 20,913, and the district projects 2025’s average daily membership, or ADM, will be 20,683.
A large part of that drop is in the younger grades, particularly kindergarten.
“We’ve got a student body of almost 1,800 students that are seniors and just over 1,100 students that are kindergartners,” Brown said. “It certainly doesn’t always work out smooth math there, but you can see the difference — over 600 students. If nothing else changes, we’re trending to lose another 600 students next year, just by that count alone.”
Board Member Suzanne Thomas pointed out that some upper grades show an increase year-over-year, which indicates
CORRECTION — An incorrect phone number was listed for Hamilton County in the Indiana Voters Guide inserted into Current Newspapers on September 26th. If you are a Hamilton County resident and need assistance, please call 317-776-8476.
Lifeguard certification offered — Fishers Parks has scheduled an American
people with older children are moving into the district, rather than young families who can’t afford Hamilton County home prices.
Brown agreed, but noted that from the 2019-20 peak, the district is down 1,125 students, which equates to $7.5 million in today’s dollars from state ADM funding alone.
The district also is funded through property taxes and an operating referendum approved by voters in November 2023, also based on property values. Brown said increasing assessed values throughout the district didn’t offset increased costs and decreased ADM funding.
A large part of the district’s costs are salaries, with teachers making up the largest group of employees. Last November, the school board approved a new contract with the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association that raised base pay for all teachers and provided additional compensation for those who earned master’s degrees.
Brown said salaries across the district increased by about $11 million in 2024, with teacher salaries making up the bulk of that increase. He said that for 2025, without factoring in any salary increases for any positions in the district, the proposed budget will need more than $5 million from reserves to cover costs.
Brown said that isn’t a sustainable solution. He recommended the district create a budget study committee to look at where cuts can be made to balance the budget moving forward. However, he said, it likely will take multiple years to resolve the deficit.
DISPATCHES
Red Cross Lifeguard Course Oct. 15 to 18, coinciding with HSE Schools fall break. Through this course, participants will learn to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatics emergencies and learn how to care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illness until emergency medical services personnel arrive. For more or
The district has been exploring the idea of opening a charter school that focuses on work-readiness programs. Board Members Tiffany Pascoe and Ben Orr asked about the budget implications of opening a charter school — noting that ADM funds would move with any student attending that school.
Superintendent Patrick Mapes said the charter school, if it moves forward, would open in 2026, so it wouldn’t affect the upcoming budget. The charter school proposal initially called for an opening date of fall 2025.
Abby Taylor is president of HSEA, the union representing teachers. She said Brown’s budget presentation is clear evidence that a charter school is not what’s best for the community.
“If we are struggling to pay teachers what they are worth, how can we expect to do that with less money when a charter school would be able to dip into our budget?” she said. “HSE students and teachers should come first, always.”
The district will be negotiating a new teacher contract this year. Taylor said the union will continue to fight for fair compensation for teachers.
“We believe that in order to continue to be among the top districts in the state, we must pay our teachers what they’re worth,” she said.
The next HSE Board of Trustees meeting is 6 p.m. Oct. 9 at the district’s central office, 13485 Cumberland Rd. Meetings are livestreamed on the board’s website, hseschools.org/board/ board-of-school-trustees.
to register, visit playfishers.com/736/ American-Red-Cross-Lifeguard-Course.
Fall Break camp set — Fishers Parks’ Fall Break Camp is scheduled for Oct. 14 to 18, aligning with Hamilton Southeastern Schools’ fall break calendar. For more and to register, visit playfishers.com/749/ Fall-Break-Camp.
Southwest corner of 116th & I-69
County commissioners consider Baker’s Corner development
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A crossroads of Hamilton County north of Westfield and east of Sheridan has been eyed by Hamilton County Commissioners for a housing development opportunity.
COUNTY NEWS
County Commissioners Mark Heirbrandt, Christine Altman and Steve Dillinger discussed the potential development during a town hall meeting Sept. 19 at Sheridan High School.
Heirbrandt said the housing development is part of the county’s comprehensive plan, specifically development of the U.S. 31 corridor.
Planning for a housing development at Baker’s Corner — a small residential area at 236th Street and Dunbar Road — began when the county allocated $65 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds to extend water and sewer to the area. Commissioners said the groundwater was contaminated and several septic systems in the area had failed, which prompted the infrastructure project. An additional $30 million provided by the state of Indiana was used to extend those improvements further to the Indiana National Guard Armory in Kokomo.
Commissioners said the housing proposal on 67 acres of county-owned property is in response to growth.
“We are trying to solve the issue of painful housing in this county,” Altman said. “The land costs have escalated, they continue to escalate and we’re at a point where your kids, my kids, when they leave and come back because they want good school systems, cannot afford housing. We either have to figure out how to pay these support staff more, or figure out a housing solution where they can live in the same county where they work.”
Altman said the new housing would target residents such as teachers, health care workers and law enforcement. Commissioners said it would not be government subsidized, but would be affordable.
County Commissioners said they would vote against the housing project if the majority of Sheridan residents opposed it.
FUN IN FISHERS
FALL EVENTS FALL EVENTS
Geist Waterfront Park Fall Hours
Non-swim season: playground, kayak launch & trails open dawn to dusk | 10811 Olio Rd Swim season may be over, but there's still plenty of fun to be had at Geist Waterfront Park, including our pirate-themed playground, kayak launch, and trails. Free for residents and nonresidents. Learn more at FishersParks.com/GWP.
AgriPark Campout
Friday, October 4 at 4 p.m. - Saturday, October 5 at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 5 at 4 p.m. - Sunday, October 6 at 10 a.m. Fishers AgriPark (11171 Florida Rd.) | Various Prices
Group registration (up to 6 people) includes a campsite for a tent, a personal fire pit, a movie, activities, and breakfast Register at FishersParks com/AgriPark
AgriPark Fall Festival
Tuesday, October 8 - Saturday, October 12 | 4 – 8 p m | Fishers AgriPark
$5/resident, $7.50/nonresident (children 2 & under free)
Enjoy a scarecrow trail, campfire and s'mores, pumpkin painting, animal encounters, inflatables, food trucks, and more! Pre-registration is required. Get tickets at FishersParks com/AgriPark
Boo Bash
Saturday, October 26 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | NPD AMP | Free Boo Bash returns to celebrate Halloween with music and entertainment, food trucks, games, and more. Learn more at FishersParks.com/BooBash.
Trick or Treat Hours
Thursday, October 31 | 5:30 - 8:30 p m
Happy Halloween! Fishers Police will be patrolling neighborhoods to ensure everyone's safety, but remember to walk in groups and stay on the sidewalk when possible
Fishers Art Center Make It Take It’s
Various dates & times | Fishers Art Center (1 Municipal Dr ) | Register at FishersArtCenter org October 19: Fishers Art Center Make It Take It: Basic Brushstrokes
October 19: Fishers Art Center Family Make It Take It: Action Painting
October 25: Fishers Art Center Make it Take it: Jackson Pollock
Interchange project coming to U.S. 31 and I-465
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Planning is underway for a major overhaul of the I-465/U.S. 31 interchange. INDOT hosted an informational meeting Sept. 26 in Carmel to introduce the Level Up 31 project — a plan to address regional growth and traffic congestion that affects efficiency at the Meridian Street/U.S. 31 interchange.
CONSTRUCTION
INDOT officials said adjustments to the interchange are a direct result of growth in Hamilton County. Since 2015, the population of Carmel has increased nearly 13 percent, while the population of Westfield has exploded by nearly 60 percent — representing more than 20,000 new residents. That growth has rendered previous future traffic estimations moot. In 2015, INDOT estimated that by 2035, traffic counts though the interchange would total 92,930 vehicles per day. However, as of 2023, that daily count had already exceeded 83,000. The new forecast predicts 112,119 vehicles per day by next year, and 155,520 by 2045. One of the biggest proposed changes to
the interchange is access to 106th Street. Rather than using the ramps onto northbound U.S. 31, travelers on I-465 would exit the interstate, then reenter U.S. 31 via Meridian.
“What we’re proposing is, you would actually come down to the traffic signals (on Meridian) and access that way,” said Jason Littleton, roadway engineer with WSP, the professional services firm working with
Smart financial guidance is now just around
INDOT on planning. “There will be two lanes west to north, two lanes east to north, and then three lanes of Meridian. The 106th Street traffic will go under (I-465) and will already be on the right side to exit.”
Joe Mattick of Carmel attended the meeting specifically to see the proposed changes to the 106th Street exit.
“Based on what they’re saying, for the people like us who want to exit onto 106th,
this does sound better,” Mattick said. “We’d have to stop at a light (but) on the current ramp you have to get across traffic and there’s a concrete wall right there that you can’t see around to see if any traffic is coming. It’s very difficult, there’s a very short merge area once you get past that wall. So, it’s not a good situation now but this looks like it will be better. I always think, ‘Let’s wait and see.’ But I’m optimistic.”
Littleton said the exit ramp and flyover ramp from I-465 will each be widened to two lanes. However, fixing the backups caused by cars queuing into the U.S. 31 exit is not part of the Level Up 31 planning. That falls under the I-465 Northwest Improvements Project, which kicked off in 2022 and aims to make improvements along the I-465 mainline from 86th Street to U.S. 31, including at the interchanges with I-865, Michigan Road and U.S. 31/Meridian.
Planning for that project has been slowed while the U.S. 31/Meridian interchange is adjusted.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2025. Learn more about the project at levelup31.com.
INDOT is planning an overhaul of the interchange at I-465 and U.S. 31/Meridian. (Photo courtesy of INDOT)
IU Health to sponsor 500 Festival Mini-Marathon
editorial@youarecurrent.com
The 500 Festival has announced Indiana University Health as the new title sponsor of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.
PARTNERSHIP
“We are thrilled to welcome IU Health as the title sponsor for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon,” stated Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Their commitment to health and wellness has been instrumental in the growth and success of our events. We look forward to collectively expanding our initiatives to inspire fitness and active living across Indiana for all Hoosiers.”
IU Health has supported the Mini-Marathon in prior years, providing wellness services to runners throughout the race. As the presenting sponsor for the 500 Festival Education Program since 2014, the organization has impacted more than 274,000 students, promoting health and fitness amongst younger generations. More than 700 IU Health employees have participated
in the 500 Festival Employee Wellness Challenge, and more than 100 volunteer annually for the Mini-Marathon and 5K.
Riley Hospital for children, part of the IU Health network, welcomes the 500 Festival Princesses to its annual Indy 500 party, strengthening community ties. Many princesses choose to complete their outreach events at IU Health locations statewide. A child life specialist from IU Health also contributes to the selection process for the Princess Program.
“This partnership moves forward the IU Health vision to make Indiana one of the healthiest states in the nation,” stated Dennis Murphy, president and CEO of IU Health. “Investing in the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is an investment in the long-term health and wellness of Hoosiers and their quality of life in communities across the state.”
The IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, scheduled for May 3, 2025, attracts thousands of participants from across the nation.
•
• Convenient location near friends and family
• Guests welcome to join activities
• Event spaces available for gatherings
• Scenic trails to explore together
• More free time without home maintenance
Greyhounds senior golfer cards most consistent season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School senior Sophie Mock is headed to the University of California/ Berkeley to play lacrosse, but she still managed to have her best golf season.
“Sophie has become a more consistent player over her high school career,” Greyhounds girls golf coach Kelly Kluesner said. “Her ball striking has improved but overall, her course management and course strategy have improved the most. She is an incredible athlete with so much raw talent, she has really just had to work on fine-tuning her game.”
Kluesner said Mock’s mental toughness has always been a strong asset.
“She has led the team by example, offering support through her past experiences and runs practices with different drills and fun contests,” Kluesner said. “She is a natural leader, a hard one to replace.”
Mock was low scorer for the Greyhounds with a 77 in the IHSAA Regional Sept. 28 at Battle Ground Golf Club near Lafayette. Carmel finished third in the regional to qualify for the IHSAA State Finals, which
MEET SOPHIE MOCK
Favorite athlete: Michael Jordan
Favorite subject: English
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite music genre: Country
was scheduled for Oct. 4-5 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. Mock placed third with a 72 in the Sept. 23 sectional at Pebble Brook Golf Club in Noblesville.
Mock agreed with her coach that consistency has been key,
“I definitely had the most improvement in course management, which has reflected in my scoring,” Mock said. “Trying to avoid big numbers by playing smart has
helped my game immensely.”
Mock finished tied for 10th in the state individual standings in 2022 and tied for 22nd in 2023.
The Greyhounds repeated as the state
golf champions in 2023. Then Carmel captured the Indiana High School Lacrosse Association 2A state title this spring.
“Winning both state titles in golf and lacrosse my junior year is a memory I will cherish the rest of my life,” Mock said. “It was always my dream to win state titles in both sports, and to be able to accomplish that meant the world to me.”
Mock said the 10th-ranked Greyhounds didn’t score as well as the previous two seasons because they lost three top players to graduation from last year’s team.
“But the team has demonstrated a high amount of work ethic and an ability to deal with adversity this season,” she said.
Mock, who was named all-state in golf as a sophomore, was named USA Lacrosse All-American last season.
“It can be very difficult juggling two very demanding sports; however, both of my coaches have been incredibly supportive of my goals which has made managing both golf and lacrosse much easier,” said Mock, who started playing both sports in sixth grade.
Mock said she plans to major in business or economics in college.
Is yourBACK PAIN causing you to miss out?
Carmel High School senior Sophie Mock is a two-sport standout. (Photo courtesy of Mike Navarro/Live Action Sports)
FOOD
A Fishers business is among six Indiana restaurants participating in the Indiana Humanities “Chew on This” program, which invites Hoosiers across the state to dig into local food and engage in conversation.
During the Oct. 17 event, conversations about how food plays a role in creating community will take place at participating restaurants, including Thai Villa Cuisine, 10572 E. 96th St., Fishers, encouraging Hoosiers to have insightful dinner discussions.
The event is a part of an Indiana Humanities initiative called Food for Thought, which focuses on food in the context of culture, history, law, politics, science, the arts, religion, ethnicity and humanity’s place in the world.
It’s also part of Indiana Humanities’ multi-year initiative Unearthed, which encourages Hoosiers to discover and discuss their relationships with the natural world
and explore how people shape the environment and how the environment shapes us.
“Time and time again, our ‘Chew on This’ experience has brought people of all backgrounds together for fulfilling conversation over a meal,” stated Marisol Gouveia, director of engagement at Indiana Humanities.
“Our hope is that guests leave the dinners feeling connected and that they continue to think about and use their recipes for community long after they’ve left.”
Each dinner conversation will be led by a facilitator. The facilitator for the Fishers event will be Candace Boyd Simmons, an Indianapolis-based food blogger and author.
Other participating restaurants are Aroma Indian Cuisine in Indianapolis, La Catrina Tacos & Tequila in Jeffersonville, Legacy West African Cuisine in Muncie, the Putnam Inn in Greencastle and Oak & Alley in Warsaw.
Tickets include a meal, nonalcoholic drinks, tax and tip. To register, visit bit.ly/4gIvEgS.
“Chew on This” is an Indiana Humanities program that encourages conversation over dinner. (Photo courtesy of JTPR)
Meridian Audiology treats patients like family
Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S. after working together in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
In stark contrast to the medical audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend whatever time their patients need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.
devices are reporting easy listening in noise and greater clarity than ever before while wearing these amazing hearing aids,” according to Dr. Wyss.
“We want our patients to know that we are here for them, and we will not rush them out the door so we can get on to the next patient. We love to get to know our patients, and we feel we treat them like we would treat our own family,” VonBlon said. “We’ve had many patients find and follow us to Meridian Audiology and that is a testament to our relationships with them.”
The Meridian Audiology Audiologists pride themselves on keeping up with, and offering the top-of-theline newest technology in hearing aids, tinnitus and auditory processing disorder. They were invited to attend Phonak’s new technology launch in August 2024. “Patients now wearing those
Beyond comprehensive hearing evaluations and hearing aid sales, service and maintenance, Meridian Audiology also offers the LACE AI (Listening for Communication Enhancement) program which improves comprehension of speech, tinnitus management consultations, hearing protection options and auditory processing disorder evaluation and management. We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss.
Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email, or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals. Hours are 9am-4pm MondayFriday by appointment only. They are located at 911 E. 86th Street, Suite 035. Phone 317-731-5386. Email info@ meridianaudiology.com Website: meridianaudiology.com
Meet the Hamilton County Council at-large candidates
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Republicans Sue Maki, Brad Beaver and Steve Nation, all incumbents, and Democrat Keely Gladieux are running for the three at-large seats on the Hamilton County Council in the Nov. 5 election.
ELECTION
The candidates recently answered the following questions from Current. Gladieux did not submit answers to the Q&A.
Why do you want to run for this office?
Maki: I am running for reelection as I plan to continue to work for our residents. I have lived here for 36 years, and I have seen the tremendous growth and economic success that we have achieved. This growth must be managed properly so we continue to have vital commerce, community amenities and low taxes.
Beaver: To continue to serve the residents of Hamilton County in a fiscally conservative manner.
Nation: Whether as prosecutor, as judge or now as a councilman, I have been passionate about handling issues locally to make government better, not bigger. I want to continue to protect and help build a better life for the people here in Hamilton County, allowing everyone to reach their full potential.
What sets you apart from your opponents?
Maki: After graduating from the Hamilton County Leadership Academy in 1999, I served on a variety of boards and commissions. My leadership roles include past president of the Hamilton County Tourism Commission, Rotary, PTO and the Solid Waste Board. I currently serve on the board of Invest Hamilton County. I am finishing my first term on county council where I am currently serving as vice president.
Beaver: My years of experience on the county council and track record of conser-
vative policies.
Nation: I am proud of the work my fellow councilors, commissioners and I have accomplished. Representing Hamilton County, I serve through honesty, accountability and impactful governing, ensuring clarity and transparency.
What are your top three campaign issues?
Maki: My philosophy is that public safety is the bedrock of government service. Transportation/infrastructure is second, and economic development is third. Economic development is managed by planning for infrastructure investments and protecting our natural resources. We also must invest in community amenities like parks and trails.
Beaver: Infrastructure, roads and bridges, and quality of life.
Nation: First, public safety should continue to be trained and prepared to protect Hamilton County residents to the highest level. Next, we need a comprehensive mental health plan that serves all residents. Finally, I am committed to fostering collaboration to ensure all governmental entities are effectively working to serve our residents.
What skills and experience do you have that would be beneficial as a council member?
Maki: In addition to my current role as a county councilor, my previous professional experience includes 18 years in the insurance industry. I worked for the City of Carmel Utilities for 15 years, retiring in 2022 to devote my time to county council work. I earned an MBA from Anderson University and graduated with high honors.
Beaver: I am a lifelong resident of Hamilton County who has run a small business in Noblesville for over 40 years.
Nation: Having dedicated the better part of my life to public service, I have always been clear and transparent with my vision. In my first term, I have served the county through honesty, accountability and impactful governing. I took tangible actions to fulfill the commitments I made and I delivered. How will you work to lead and better all Hoosiers – whether they support you or not?
Maki: I have always worked well with
Continued on Page 9
(Photo courtesy of Meridian Audiology.)
VonBlon Wyss (Advertorial)
Nation
Beaver
Maki
Continued from Page 8
individuals with different perspectives. I understand that I represent all residents of Hamilton County and not just the individuals who voted for me.
Beaver: By continuing to focus on making Hamilton County a great place to work and raise a family.
Nation: One pillar of my campaign is collaboration. I believe experts, leaders and individuals providing various services should come together to creatively come up with solutions.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
Maki: Hamilton County government operates with full transparency. Our meetings are livestreamed and available to view afterwards. I am involved in many different organizations around the county, and I attend community events whenever possible. I do this in part to learn and understand what is important to our residents so that I can support what matters to them.
Beaver: All county council meetings are livestreamed. Residents of Hamilton County can stay informed of the decisions and current topics facing the council by viewing the monthly meetings.
Nation: I believe every voice should be represented at the table. Through working together and approaching a topic from different viewpoints, we can best serve our fellow residents. I’m always available to listen to someone’s thoughts and council meetings are open to the public.
How would you mitigate traffic concerns?
Maki: Economic growth brings a growth in traffic. Our county works proactively to manage the traffic that growth brings. Transportation infrastructure is an important part of the equation.
Beaver: Hamilton County has seen a 10 percent increase in population. We have to continue to improve roads, bridges and thoroughfares in order to manage the traffic. There are state, city and county projects going on at all times. We are working to improve communication to help maintain a steady traffic flow.
Nation: Most traffic problems are the result of varying government entities attempting road construction projects at the same time; this is the case due to Indiana’s less-than-predictable weather. Though it is less than ideal, in the end, the improvements are being made to best serve our drivers and pedestrians alike.
Read the full Q&A at youarecurrent.com.
“ 15 minutes can save your life.”
Janaé, Breast Cancer Survivor
In January of 2021, Janaé was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks to a routine mammogram, Janaé’s care team at Community Health Network was able to detect her cancer early, and by May of that year, she was cancer-free.
Janaé often wonders what she might have missed had she not had her annual mammogram, including the births of her seven grandkids. It’s simple, it’s convenient and it can save your life. Schedule your annual mammogram today at eCommunity.com/mammogram
County hires IT security expert
news@currentinfishers.com
Hamilton County’s Information Systems Services Department has hired Timothy Renick as its chief information security officer with the goal of enhancing the county’s cybersecurity.
COUNTY NEWS
Renick brings extensive experience from his previous roles as head of technology for the City of Carmel and Madison County, Ill., according to Hamilton County Communications Director Tammy Sander.
Sander said the establishment of the cybersecurity role is in response to increased cyber threats affecting municipalities across Indiana and nationwide. Additional funds were allocated in the 2024 budget process to secure the expertise required for the position.
Renick will oversee the establishment and execution of security strategies, policies and standards, including those related to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, according to Sander. He also will work to safeguard the county’s information assets, conduct risk assessments, manage compliance issues and coordinate incident response plans to ensure critical services remain operational.
“The recent surge in cyberattacks has highlighted the necessity of being prepared,” Mertens stated. “With the vast amount of data we manage, this is the right time to strengthen our defenses and ensure consistency in our security practices across all departments. Having someone solely dedicated to cybersecurity is a significant and positive step for our long-term resilience.”
“Having a dedicated CISO is essential for Hamilton County,” stated Chris Mertens, director of the ISS Department. “We have various cybersecurity measures in place, but it’s crucial to have someone overseeing the entire landscape to identify any potential gaps. The reality is that cyber threats are not going away; we must be proactive in protecting our community’s resources.”
DISPATCHES
Stained glass classes scheduled — Fishers Parks is offering stained glass classes in October for varying skill levels. Classes take place at Fishers Parks’ Maker Playground, 8100 E. 106th St., Fishers, and are led by instructor Mark Rotman of Master Repurposers. For more and to register, visit playfishers.com/655/Art-Classes-Workshops.
Headless Horseman — The annual Conner Prairie Headless Horseman Festival is every Thursday through Sunday in October. For more, visit connerprairie.org/explore/ things-to-do/headless-horseman.
Boo Bash — Boo Bash 2024 is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, 6 Municipal Dr. Activities include stage entertainment, themed costumes, decorated booths, games, photo opportunities, costume parades, creepy crawly animal shows, puppet shows and magicians. This event is free, open to the public and no registration is required. All ages are encouraged to dress in costume to celebrate Halloween.
Art exhibit reception — A reception for Fishers Arts Council’s October exhibit, “Scenes from Indiana and Beyond” is set for 6 to 9
p.m. Oct. 11 at the Art Gallery at City Hall, 1 Municipal Dr. This free reception is open to the public and all ages are welcome. Participants can meet artists and view their works. Light refreshments and a cash wine bar will be available.
Scam alert — Indiana State Police has received an increase in reports of a common email extortion scam. These scam attempts target a victim by including the person’s name, address and sometimes a photograph of their home. In the email, the scammer claims to have installed Pegasus spyware on the victim’s phone and attempts to extort money from them. Report cybercrimes like this by visiting ic3.gov. More information about cybersecurity is available at in.gov/cybersecurity.
Parks Finder Program recognized – Hamilton County information systems services department was recently recognized by the Center for Digital Government at its 2024 Government Experience Awards. The department tied for fifth place in the Overall County Government Experience category for its work on the county’s Parks Finder program. Learn more at gis1.hamiltoncounty. in.gov/parkfinder.
Renick
Hamilton County officials warn against Sheridan reorganization
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton County Commissioners said a ballot measure to consolidate the Town of Sheridan and Adams Township could have a negative impact on taxpayers and services in the small community.
COUNTY NEWS
If approved, the Town of Sheridan would take over responsibility for public safety that is currently under the jurisdiction of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department starting Jan. 1. The town also would assume jurisdiction over all the roads the county currently maintains in Adams Township, an increase of 100 miles of roadway.
Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush said the county answers 1,500 calls in rural Adams Township annually.
“Our concern is just making sure that the level of public safety that (residents) have come to enjoy here in Hamilton County remains the same,” he said. “The funding is just not there. There is no additional funding provided
by this plan to support the unincorporated areas of Adams Township. (The Town) just doesn’t have the adequate funding and resources to support public safety. That’s my bottom-line concern.”
Commissioners said the consolidation plan does not provide adequate funding for road needs, such as maintenance, improvements, salt and snow removal. The county estimates the road budget to be underfunded by $770,000, with an overall budget shortfall of $2 million.
Sheridan and Adams Township officials balked at the county’s numbers. In a joint town-township meeting Sept. 19, members of the Sheridan council said the budget includes two additional police officers. Town officials also said there are agreements in place to contract road maintenance and snow removal services should the reorganization be approved.
Town officials said the county’s numbers did not factor in gas tax, road tax and levy revenue.
The reorganization documents can be viewed at sheridan.in.gov/reorganization. Election day is Nov. 5.
DISPATCHES
Jane Austen book event – Brad Legge, a collector of rare books by classic author Jane Austen, will speak about his collection at 3 p.m. Oct. 13 at Black Dog Books, 115 S. Main St. in Zionsville. Legge has collected Jane Austen’s works for 25 years and his collection includes English, French and American first editions, as well as several pictorial Victorian editions. The event is free to attend. Learn more at blackdogbooksin.com.
The Raven at Black Dog Books – A candlelight reading of “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe takes place at 8 p.m. Oct. 18 at Black Dog Books, 115 S. Main St. in Zionsville. The annual event will feature a reading by actor Mat Lagemen. Hot cider and raven cookies will be served. The event is free to attend. Learn more at blackdogbooksin.com.
Breakfast for veterans – Hamilton County Veterans Corp will host a free breakfast at 9 a.m. Oct. 9 at the Barrington of Carmel, 1335 S.
Guilford Rd in Carmel, for American Legion and VFW post commanders and their Post Adjutant or other officers or members who want to help military veterans in Hamilton County. Breakfast is courtesy of Hamilton County Veterans Corp and Stronger Veterans Stronger Communities Coalition. Attendees will learn about the Governor’s Challenge on veteran suicide prevention and how veteran organizations play a role in assisting veterans in crisis. Learn more at hamiltoncountyveterans.com.
Quilt guild show – The Mudsock Quilters Guild Quilt Show will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 9 at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, 13450 E. 116th St. in Fishers. The event will include quilts to view, a raffle, vendors and a booth offering gently used quilting supplies at low prices. The guild has nearly 250 members who reside in Carmel, Fishers and Noblesville. Guild members have created more than 300 quilts for hospital patients to receive on Christmas.
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
FLYING HIGH
Metropolitan airport in Fishers expands to meet increased demand
Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport off Allisonville Road in Fishers has seen increasing demand from corporate customers who have business in the northern suburbs and prefer to land somewhere a little more convenient than the main airport south of Speedway.
To help meet that demand, airport operator Tom Wood Aviation recently completed construction on a new hangar dedicated to corporate customers. General Manager Tom McCord said the hangar is 12,000 square feet and is large enough to fit planes up to 26-feet tall.
“This is the first new hangar built on this airport in over 20 years,” he said. “So, it’s good to see some growth at the airport. And you know, we’re getting two new instrument-landing approach systems this coming winter and hoping that one day we can get a runway extension. But even without that, right now there’s still a need for corporate airplane hangar space.”
McCord said the airport sees small, midsize and super-midsize jets, but until a runway extension is complete, it can’t accommodate the largest corporate jets. The new hangar can fit pretty much any of the planes that land at the airport, 9913 Willow View Rd.
“We didn’t want to build something and then have it be too small right off the bat,” he said. “We didn’t overbuild, but it certainly can accommodate a lot of different airplanes that use the metropolitan airport.”
McCord said the airport’s typical corporate customers travel to do business in Fishers or Carmel.
“They can land here (and) be more efficient,” he said. “(It’s) way less time consuming than dealing with (Indianapolis International Airport) and all the traffic that you have to deal with out there and then having to drive across town. So, the strategic location of this airport is fantastic for the north side.”
Depending on the size of the jets, the new hangar can fit between three to 10 planes at a time. Hangars offer protection and security for the planes, McCord said, just like parking a car in a garage rather than in the driveway.
There is demand, too. McCord said Tom Wood Aviation already is building a list of reservations.
In another hangar a few minutes’ walk away, a large corporate jet was parked in the middle of several historic aircraft the company has preserved, including World War II fighters. McCord said that hangar is used for employee events and community fundraisers.
The airport itself has a long history. McCord said it was built in the mid-1950s as a private airport before it became part of the Indianapolis Airport Authority. Tom Wood Aviation has been the fixed-base operator since 2011.
“We’re a maintenance service center… we’re fuel sales, flight school — we’ve got
13 airplanes in our flight school,” he said. “We do aircraft sales, private jet charters and some management of airplanes for people that use it for their business or personal.”
McCord said private airplane travel has grown since the company took over operations.
“I think once you’ve had a bad experience on the airlines, if you can justify the private travel expense, most people don’t want to go back to the airlines,” he said. “So, having that opportunity, plus the time savings of being this close to your home or your business with a smaller satellite airport, is a really big edge.”
The company’s flight school is different than most, he said.
NEW CORPORATE HANGAR
The newest hangar at Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport includes:
• 100 feet by 120 feet of floor space
• 100-foot-wide door with a clear opening height of 26 feet
• Climate control
• Access to maintenance, refueling
and concierge services
• Access for corporate travelers and businesses in the Midwest
For more, including rental space availability, contact General Manager Tom McCord at 317-688-6301 or Tom@TomWoodAviation.com.
“We’re heavier on people that always wanted to learn to fly (and) finally can afford to fly — have a second home, fly for business — as opposed to the career-track student who’s just wanting to go be an airline pilot or something like that,” he said. “We do a fair amount of (career-track students), but the makeup of our school leans heavier on the other side.”
He said flight school students can earn everything from a private pilot’s license to a multi-engine license and can even become flight instructors.
“However far you want to go in your flight training desires, we can handle that,” he said.
That includes a quick lesson for people who want the one-time experience of flying a plane.
“The discovery flights are very popular,” he said. “We get young kids to grandparents, and people that will do it together. It’s a great way to get a taste for (flying).”
For more, visit TomWoodAviation.com.
ON THE COVER: The new corporate hangar at Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport in Fishers provides about 12,000 square feet to meet growing demand. (Photo courtesy of Tom Wood Aviation)
(Above) One of Tom Wood Aviation’s historic aircraft is stored in a hangar at Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport in Fishers. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
(Below)
Private planes are parked outside at Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport.
Comedic moms bring show to the Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley try to find humor in the most trying moments of motherhood. The comedians will present their “#IMOMSOHARD: Ladies Night” show at 8 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It’s the fourth national tour for the friends.
PERFORMANCE
“It’s a two-person standup tour,” Hensley said. “Jen and I just hit all the topics that resonate with women and moms. We talk about stuff that would normally make us cry. We try to make it funny, so everyone feels a little better about the hard stuff.”
The friends began by producing videos online, which built a following.
“When we started, we had babies at home. They were like little, tiny people, and that provided its own material,” Hensley said. “Now, we have these teens and tweens and we have all new material to write about. It’s evolved over the course of the four tours.”
The comedians’ web-series, “#IMOMSOHARD,” started out in 2016.
“Our first video, Jen forgot her daughter’s name and that’s when the videos took off,” Hensley said. “It was a lightning strike in the right direction, ‘Oh, wow. Women like this.’ They like seeing our friendship and what we have to say. We’re not trying to teach them anything or try to show them how to do anything better. We did really sexy videos about hemorrhoids, body hair and the coup de grace we did was our swimsuit video. That one went globally viral and did not garner one modeling contract.”
From there, Hensley said the act became a television pilot, a bestselling book, a children’s book, a podcast and a wine line.
“It’s just been this boulder rolling downhill that we’ve been really happy to be a part of,” Hensley said.
After the series took off, Hensley and Smedley realized they needed to have a
live comedy tour.
“We had to go see these women that are commenting on (us) and see them face to face,” Hensley said. “Jen and I are both comedians. We were like, ‘Let’s put this on the stage in front of thousands of women,’ and it’s been a blast.”
Hensley and Smedley grew up in Nebraska but didn’t know each other there.
“We separately moved to Los Angeles to pursue (careers),” Smedley said. “We finally met after a show in Los Angeles.”
Smedley was doing a comedy show and Hensley was encouraged to attend by a friend with offers of free beer.
“We were drinking beers in the parking lot afterwards because we’re both from Nebraska and we like tailgating,” Hensley said. “A friend said, ‘Did you know you’re both from Nebraska?’ The number of names we started dropping and how high we went in pitch started to break glass because we had all the same friends and knew all the same people but had never run into each other. We became fast friends and the rest is history.”
The comedians’ videos are on Facebook and YouTube,
“When social media really took off eight or nine years ago, everyone was talking to women on how to do a better job of what they were already doing,” Smedley said. “Or scaring us with stories
Kristin Hensley, left, and Jen Smedley will bring their comedy show to the
(Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
of here is what can happen if you don’t do things the right way. We were like there is nothing for a mom who is up late at night that will just make her laugh. We get messages from mothers and grandmothers of, ‘Where were you when I was a mom? I needed someone to voice what I was feeling in a lighthearted way and make me laugh about it.’ I think it was a realization that cavewomen dealt with what we’re dealing with but just without iPads.”
Hensley said they love when women bring their husbands to the shows.
“They’re usually terrified when they show up,” Hensley said. “We like it that way. We also know some women who decided they are going to buy themselves a ticket and go and they end up with 10 new friends.”
Smedley said life creates an array of new material.
“There are a lot of hormonal changes from parents and kids,” Smedley said.
The comedians, who each have two children, often take questions from the audience. But they don’t share advice, just laughs
“When we’re home, you can pretty much be sure we’re on a soccer field somewhere,” Hensley said.
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and imomsohard.com
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” runs Oct. 10 to Nov. 24 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
OPERA CABARET AT UNION 50
Leah Crane and Pavel Polanco-Safadit will perform Oct. 9 at Union 50 in Indianapolis. The fundraiser begins at 6 p.m. with a three-course dinner. For more, visit indyopera.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Lee DeWyze will perform Oct. 10, followed by Paul Hughes Oct. 11 and Richard Cortez Oct. 12 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three concerts are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’
Carmel Community Players presents “Steel Magnolias” through Oct. 13 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
‘RIPCORD’
Main Street Productions presents “Ripcord” through Oct. 13 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse. org.
‘KINKY
BOOTS’
Civic Theatre’s production of “Kinky Boots” runs through Oct. 19 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘PAPER
AIRPLANES REQUEST’ TOUR
Ben Folds’ “Paper Airplanes Request” tour is set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
Shelton concert set at Fishers Event Center — Country star Blake Shelton will perform March 29, 2025, at the new Fishers Event Center. Tickets are on sale at FishersEventCenter.com.
Palladium.
Beef & Boards owner returns to role in ‘Fiddler’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Doug Stark was a young man the first time he played Tevye in “The Fiddler on the Roof.”
MUSICAL
The 75-year-old Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre owner first played Tevye in 1973 or 1974 at Enchanted Hills Playhouse in Syracuse, which he owned and operated with his friend and business partner, Bob Zehr.
He will now portray Tevye for the eighth time at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre from Oct. 10 to Nov. 24 at the Indianapolis venue. Tevye is a poor milkman who wants to find good husbands for his five daughters.
“Thinking about it, it’s like ‘Sunrise, Sunset,’” Stark said. “When I first played it, it was the beginning of my career, and now it’s at the end of my career.”
Stark said Tevye was his favorite role from the first time the played it.
“I have always felt Tevye was a part of me, and I am a part of him — ask any father,” said Stark, who has three children: Nick, Elizabeth and Josh. “It fits on all levels — especially family and Tevye’s relationship to God.”
Stark previously portrayed Tevye at Beef & Boards in 1981, 1985, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004 and 2014.
Time has given Stark more perspective on the role.
“As I experience more of life, I am able to bring that knowledge to the role,” he said. “It is much easier today to act tired, hurt, angry, centered on the family and loss, because I have experienced all of it.”
Stark also has learned to appreciate small things about the role.
“I enjoy sitting down a lot more,” he said. “Like when I sit on the milk can — I enjoy it a lot more.”
Stark said “today more than ever” the musical resonates with audiences.
“It’s about family, tradition and relationship to God,” Stark said. “It’s about people finding happiness in the face of adversity and the ability to survive.”
Stark said his favorite song is “Far From The Home I Love.”
“It’s not Tevye’s (song), but it touches me every night,” he said. “It’s universal.”
For tickets, visit beefandboards.com
FREE EVENT PIONEER FALL FEST
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:
The Taylor Center of Natural History will host a day of pioneer fun from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at 12308 E. Strawtown Ave., Noblesville. Join the quilting bee, make a corn husk doll, try fresh butter and learn about pioneer plants with herbalist Greg Monzel. Attendees can also enjoy music by Hamilton County’s The Pickle Stompers.
ALSO CHECK OUT
ARTS IN AUTUMN — The Arts in Autumn in Midtown Plaza in Carmel will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 12. Midtown Plaza will feature trickor-treating, arts and crafts merchants, free balloon art, a strolling magician and glitter tattoos. Attendees and their pets are invited to dress up in their favorite costumes.
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre owner Doug Stark portrays Tevye for the eighth time at the Indianapolis venue. (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)
Grand Funk stops at Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Grand Funk Railroad burst on the music scene in 1969. In 1971, it sold out Shea Stadium in New York City in 72 hours, breaking the box office record of The Beatles. Now, more than 50 years later, the band is still going.
CONCERT
“I never dreamed I would be doing it in my 70s with grandkids,” said Don Brewer, one of two original members still with the band along with bassist Mel Schacher. “I feel blessed. It’s been an amazing life. I get out on stage and start singing ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ and I look at the audience and sometimes it’s grandchildren, children, parents and grandparents and they are all singing along to the song.”
Grand Funk Railroad will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The band is using the tour to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its Gold-selling single, “The Loco-Motion.” Brewer, 76, is a drummer/vocalist.
“It’s the love of doing it,” he said. “What
(vocals), Mel Schacher (bass guitar), Don Brewer (drummer), Mark Chatfield (guitar), Tim Cashion (keyboardist)). (Photo courtesy of Gregg Roth)
else am I going to do at this particular time in my life? If I can do what I’ve loved doing all my life, that’s what I’m going to do.”
The band typically plays concert halls and casinos, but sometimes appears before much larger crowds at festivals.
“We do three or four shows a month usually,” Brewer said. “We’re not like the guys that get on the bus and do 100 shows. We’re kind of weekend warriors. We fly out, play Friday and Saturday, and fly home.”
Brewer wrote “We’re an American Band,” the band’s No. 1 single in 1973. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘The Waiting Game’ set to debut
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Michael Husain grew up watching the Indiana Pacers in the American Basketball Association.
“The ABA was a bit of a renegade league that broke barriers,” said Husain, a Zionsville resident. “I didn’t realize those ABA players were struggling.”
p.m. Oct. 19 at Living Room Theatres.
Husain served as director, producer, narrator, writer and interviewer. Geist resident Amy Pauszek and Indianapolis resident Bryan Boyd were co-producers.
Dr. John Abrams, a Carmel ophthalmologist, and attorney Scott Tarter co-founded The Dropping Dimes Foundation to help struggling ABA players financially and to help get them proper recognition.
“When I heard about Dropping Dimes and the work they were doing, it became important to me to follow that story,” Husain said.
The result is “The Waiting Game,” a 90-minute documentary that will have its world premiere at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Heartland International Film Festival at The Tobias Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. There will be a second showing at 12:15
The NBA agreed to pay $24.5 million in July 2022 to former ABA players.
Four ABA teams — the Pacers, San Antonio Spurs, New York (now Brooklyn) Nets and Denver Nugget — joined the NBA in 1976. The other teams disbanded.
Husain said after recounting Dropping Dimes’ mission, the documentary tells the story of why the ABA was so impactful and worthy of recognition. The ABA was founded in 1967.
Former Pacers players Bob Netolicky and Darnell Hillman are among those interviewed in the documentary. Other featured interviews are Bob Costas, Julius Erving and sociologist Harry Edwards. Indianapolis filmmaker Ted Green, who was involved with Dropping Dimes, was interviewed as well.
For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.
From left, Grand Funk Railroad members Max Carl
Husain
Come
Community Health launches new identity verification
news@currentinfishers.com
Community Health Network recently announced a new partnership with CLEAR, a secure identity platform, with a goal of streamlining password reset processes and improving identity verification.
TECHNOLOGY
Health care service desks are frequently targeted by individuals pretending to be employees or patients in attempts to reset passwords and gain unauthorized access to information, according to the announcement. To combat these threats, Community is moving away from multifactor authentication, which verifies devices, to CLEAR Verified, which verifies the individual.
“We are taking an important step to secure our network by ensuring that both employees and patients are exactly who they claim to be when accessing sensitive systems,” stated Rick Copple, senior vice president and chief information officer. The rollout of CLEAR at Community be-
gan in September, starting with Community employees, eventually expanding to patients and visitors. Initial enrollment is a quick process — users take a selfie and upload a photo ID, such as a driver’s license. Once enrolled, identity verification can be completed by taking a selfie.
Community Health has facilities in various communities in central Indiana, including Avon, Carmel, Fishers, Lawrence Township and Noblesville. For more, visit ecommunity.com.
Community Health Network’s Community Hospital North is in Lawrence Township on Indianapolis’ north side. (Photo courtesy of Community Health Network)
OneZone launches leadership institute
news@currentinfishers.com
The One Impact Foundation, part of OneZone Chamber of Commerce, has launched its new Leadership Institute, a development series designed to cultivate leadership skills across businesses of all sizes.
DEVELOPMENT
According to a news release from OneZone, the first part of the initiative is the Live2Lead series, a four-part video recording session with nationally recognized speakers. Each session will include a recorded lecture followed by an interactive coaching workshop with leadership coach Randy Wheeler.
“Attendees will learn more about the people, places and things that make Hamilton County a dynamic community,” the news release stated. “Programming will also cover state and national issues, equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and tools to engage with these important topics.”
The institute is designed to fit the busy
schedules of professionals, with each session lasting about 90 minutes. Participants will gain insights and tools to enhance their leadership skills, foster growth within their organizations and contribute to the broader business community, according to the news release.
Jack Russell, president and CEO of OneZone Chamber of Commerce, expressed enthusiasm for the new Leadership Institute.
“Growing leaders within our business community is essential to the success of both small and large enterprises,” he stated. “At OneZone, we believe that by equipping our members with the right tools and knowledge, we can help them navigate challenges, inspire their teams and drive positive change. The Leadership Institute is a crucial step in this direction and we are thrilled to bring such high-caliber programming to our members.”
The series is open to all OneZone members and is expected to draw participants from a wide range of industries. For more about OneZone, visit onezonechamber.com.
DISPATCHES
State manufacturing group picks new president — The Indiana Manufacturers Association recently announced the selection of Andrew Berger as its new president and chief executive officer. Berger will replace Brian Burton, who announced his retirement plans earlier this year. Berger has served as a lobbyist at the IMA for the past 10 years. He will officially start as the new IMA President/CEO effective Jan. 1, 2025.
Coolest Thing contest open — Indiana manufacturers of cool things are invited to enter the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s fourth annual Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition. The state chamber has been joined by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation as a cosponsor of the program. Entries are accepted through Oct. 18 for the Hoosier Hysteria-style single-elimination tournament at www.indianachamber.com/coolest.
Sports authority logo — Hamilton County Sports Authority unveiled a logo and strategic plan ahead of its upcoming 20th anniversary in 2025. The new logo promi-
nently features the letters “HCSA” in bold within a championship banner, symbolizing the organization’s tagline: “Where Champions Play.” HCSA’s three-year strategic plan include an increased focus on sustainability, adaptive sports and fostering sportsmanship. Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. established HCSA in 2005 to develop sports tourism in Hamilton County.
Best places to work – The application period is open for the Indiana Chamber of Commerce 20th annual Best Places to Work in Indiana competition. The awards honor top organizations in the state as determined through employer reports and comprehensive employee surveys. Company evaluations and the selection process are administered by Workforce Research Group. The competition includes a questionnaire and anonymous engagement and satisfaction survey. Winners will be honored April 30, 2025, at the Best Places to Work awards dinner at the JW Marriott in downtown Indianapolis. The application deadline is Nov. 22. Learn more at bestplacestoworkindiana.com.
Russell
More pain at the pump
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
There are two filling stations near me where prices sometimes vary by as much as 40 cents per gallon. These two establishments are right across the street from each other. I wouldn’t drive downtown to save four bucks on a new car, but I sure would venture 300 yards to save a few dollars on a tank of gas. I want a job pointing out to people who drive into the more expensive gas station how they can save some good money. I’d charge them three cents a gallon. I told my wife Mary Ellen I’d find a good-paying hobby when I retired. By the way, they are no longer called gas or filling stations. Oil companies prefer the term convenience store. A real gas station, including someone to pump your gas, is only a distant memory for baby boomers like me. Back in New York, when I was young and virile and could pump my own gas, an attendant did it for me. Sixty years later, I have two bad knees, a sore elbow and a bad back. Now, I’m supposed to do it myself. This was abysmal planning on everyone’s part.
HUMOR
I still don’t know what side of the vehicle my gas tank is on. I drive into the station and try to look in my sideview mirror, but I can’t see the gas cap. So, I take a chance and pull up to the pump. Wrong side. Then I return to the car and drive completely around the pump to the other side. Wrong side again. OMG, someone stole my gas tank. I thought the little arrow on my dashboard was telling me where to look out the window.
Now, how about that gas pump. It’s always asking me questions:
Do you want to pay inside? No!
Do you want a car wash? No!
Do you want a receipt? No, no!
Do you want a Krispy Kreme doughnut?
Let me think about that one.
Do you want us to turn off that stupid
“I still don’t know what side of the vehicle my gas tank is on. I drive into the station and try to look in my sideview mirror, but I can’t see the gas cap. So, I take a chance and pull up to the pump. Wrong side.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
music video? Yes!!!!
Do you want to know why the gas price went up while you were pumping the gas? Oh, yes!
Inside a service center, milk costs are not quite so erratic, but be prepared for this as you enter for a future fill-up:
• Whole milk: $2.39 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• 2 percent milk: $2.34 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• 1 percent milk: $2.28 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• Half-percent milk: $2.17 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• White-colored water: $1.02 and 9/10 cents per gallon
I figured out last night that mouthwash would cost about $150 a gallon and computer ink would cost and about $4,000 per gallon.
I hope that makes you feel better about gas prices.
Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft
Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising
Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker.
LIFESTYLE
37. University that plays at Scheumann Stadium
40. ___/her pronouns
43. Noblesville HS swimming competition
44. Fill-in worker
46. “A Fish Called ___”
48. Part of IMPD (Abbr.)
50. Gov. Holcomb
53. Heavenly spirits
55. Ray Skillman Northeast Kia model
56. Nixed, at NASA
57. Pacers foe
59. Fills
61. “Terrible” czar
62. “And others,” in Latin
64. Haberdasher’s item
65. Tax assessment
66. College that plays at Little Giant Stadium
67. Half and half
68. Angers
Begins
Wood Wind Golf Club standard Down
1. Herb and Mel
2. Man’s jewelry item
3. Pesto ingredient
4. Revise a story for Current
5. Seafood restaurant offering 6. Hamilton County Court do-over
7. Scot’s refusal
8. Clothes
9. Like some Oliver Winery reds
10. Less certain
11. Inventor
12. College that plays at Darrell Beane Stadium
13. Sights in the western
21. High muck-a-muck
23. Speak from memory
26. Small kitchen appliance
30. Batting avg., e.g.
33. El Toro Bravo menu item
35. One who might needle you?
38. Played the first card
39. Change
40. Kenyan language
41. College that plays at Alumni Stadium
42. Make a lasting impression
45. Crooked Stick Golf Club store
47. Home of the Grand Slam breakfast
49. Support column
51. Large lizard
52. Whirlybird, for short
54. Crockpot concoctions
58. Colts’ fig.
60. Oohs and ___
63. Barnes & Thornburg attorneys’ org. Answers on Page 23
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