Tuesday, October 15, 2024
HALLOWEEN FUN-DRAISERS
Fishers, Hamilton Southeastern high schools to host ‘spooky’ events / P16
Fishers resident honored for saving driver / P3
Public hearing kicks off teacher contract negotiations / P4
Council rejects plan to turn down the volume / P7
Ushering in a new era.
For more than a decade, the Center has been a cornerstone for creativity in our community. Welcome to the center for art and culture in Central Indiana. Welcome to the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
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HERO
Fishers resident honored for saving driver
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The City of Fishers organized a brief but meaningful ceremony Oct. 3 honoring resident Adam Barr, who saved a 17-year-old boy from possible death Aug. 28 by pulling him out of a vehicle that crashed into a home, triggering a gas leak that led to the home catching fire.
The ceremony took place at the Fishers Police Department’s training room, which was filled with city officials, media, members of Barr’s family and the family of the young man he saved. Mayor Scott Fadness thanked Barr for his actions that day.
“At times like this when we give out recognition, one might say congratulations, but I think today, the tone is more about gratitude,” he said. “It takes an entire community to come together in these hard moments and to take care of one another and you would exemplify that.”
Fishers Fire Department Chief Steve Orusa said that among firefighters, when you commit yourself to harm’s way for another person, it creates an unbreakable bond.
“You did that and you’re not even a member of a fire department, so we’re measuring you for your turnout (and) helmet right after this event,” he joked. “We might have to do something with the beard, but we’ll talk about that.”
Orusa then presented Barr with the Citizens Lifesaver Award.
The young man he saved, Jaxon Chiamopoulos, and his family took turns giving Barr hugs and expressing their gratitude for his actions.
Chiamopoulos said he was driving home and when he was turning right, the steering wheel locked up.
“I was already mid-turning right, so when the car locked, it went up the curb and hit the side of the house,” he said. “Adrenaline took over and I wasn’t thinking a lot, like I was trying to turn the steering wheel and next thing I know, I’m on the side of the house. It was all a blur, like buzzing in my ear. I couldn’t really hear anything until Adam came and knocked on my window.”
Police body cam video footage from the incident shows Barr explaining that he had witnessed the crash, pulled over and ran to the vehicle. He told a first responder that he saw Chiamopoulos in the vehicle and smelled gas, so pulled him out quickly. Soon after, the vehicle was engulfed.
Chiamopoulos’ parents, Hope and George, were home at the time of the accident. Hope Chiamopoulos said she was cooking and still has a burn on her arm from accidentally brushing against the hot stove after Jaxon called them from an unknown number to tell them what had happened.
“We open our front door because we live in the neighborhood and we just see the smoke,” she said. “And we ran. We just ran.”
Adam Barr, left, holds his Citizens Lifesaver Award, which he received for pulling Jaxon Chiamopoulos, right, from a vehicle that crashed into a home in August.
Nobody was injured in the Aug. 28 house fire in Fishers’ Sandstone Lakes neighborhood that was caused by a vehicle crashing into the home. (Photo courtesy of the Fishers Fire Department)
George Chiamopoulos said the family is deeply grateful for Barr’s actions that day.
Barr, who is the principal of Options Schools in Noblesville, said it was a little uncomfortable to be in the spotlight, but he was happy to see Jaxon is doing well. He said he hopes other people will be inspired to offer aid when needed.
“In that moment, when you see somebody in need, just make sure that you at least stop and see what’s going on and try your best to help,” he said.
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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIV, No. 39 Copyright 2023 Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved.
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(Photo courtesy of Adam Piper, Options Schools)
Public hearing kicks off HSE teacher contract negotiations
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton Southeastern Schools Corp. hosted a pre-bargaining meeting and public hearing Oct. 1 to hear from members of the public before the start of contract negotiations between HSE Schools and the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association.
EDUCATION
Nine people spoke, all expressing support for teachers. Several discussed the need to continue providing financial incentives for teachers who earn master’s degrees. Others questioned why the district moved away from interest-based bargaining — which is collaborative — and reverted to the more confrontational positional bargaining.
public hearing was not taking place during a regular HSE School Board meeting, which had been the tradition in the past.
“I am here tonight to stand beside our HSE teachers because, well, they are amazing,” she said. “They deserve every accolade and all of the support our community can and have shown them.”
Leahy said she thought the referendum funds would go toward teacher salaries. She questioned why the district was stating it is short of funds now, whether administrator salary costs have grown and whether administrators would face a similar health insurance premium increase that has been proposed to teachers.
Leahy warned that the district would start losing teachers if it continued on its current path.
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Envision quiet weekend mornings meandering along walking trails dotted with wide open spaces and a shimmering pond. When you’re ready for a day out, head to nearby Fishers and Fortville, and mark your calendars for the upcoming McCord Square Downtown District! Your favorite artist might just come to the planned outdoor amphitheater.
Janet Chandler, a Britton Falls resident, said she and her neighbors in that 55plus community don’t have children in the school district, but they do have grandchildren. She said Britton Falls supported the district’s operating referendum, which passed in November, because they care about educating the community’s youth.
Chandler said she would like the district to go back to interest-based bargaining and continue to offer incentives for teachers who improve their own education.
“There is value in education,” she said. “That’s the business that the school district is in. The district should reward the teachers who have valued education to obtain their masters and years of experience.”
Megan Leahy, who has two children in the district, said she was disappointed the
Danny Corbin said that for people who work for the state, when they earn higher education degrees or certification, they receive raises. The private sector also rewards employees who better their education.
“So, when I find out that getting a master’s degree and promoting your education isn’t actually going to help you (at HSE) — aren’t going to get you additional resources for the time and effort that you put into it, that doesn’t make sense,” he said, especially for an academic institution. “Those things are logical ways to retain the highest and best in our community.”
The HSE School Board was scheduled to discuss contract negotiations during an Oct. 9 executive session, set for 5 p.m. at the district’s central office, 13485 Cumberland Rd. A regular meeting was to follow at 6 p.m.
DISPATCHES
Eaton recognized – Fishers resident Diane Eaton was awarded the 2024 Edmund Burke Award, recognizing her as the Hamilton County Republican of the Year during the Oct. 1 Hamilton County GOP annual fall dinner. Eaton is the founder of Fishers One, a local organization that promotes conservative values and candidates.
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 Street,
Fishers, and are led by instructor Mark Rotman of Master Repurposers. For more and to register, visit playfishers.com/655/ Art-Classes-Workshops.
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.
Fishers hosts Habitat for Humanity event
HOMEOWNERSHIP news@currentinfishers.com
The City of Fishers and Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity co-hosted the city’s second panel build event Oct. 4 at Holland Park,1 Park Dr.
About 100 volunteers and community partners assembled exterior and interior wall panels for a future home for a family in the Greater Indianapolis area.
“This event represents the essence of Fishers — a strong sense of community, teamwork and collaboration,” Mayor Scott Fadness stated in an announcement. “By partnering with Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity and with the support of local businesses, we’re not just constructing a house alongside the homeowner; we’re uniting our community to work toward a shared purpose.”
A traditional board-cutting ceremony included Fadness and Jim Morris, president and CEO of Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity, along with panel build partners.
“Affordable homeownership is important to the quality of life, health and economic prosperity of an entire community as well as individual households, so we applaud the Fishers community for coming together to build the walls for a future first-time buyer,” Morris stated. “As fewer and fewer families can afford their first home, support from the City of Fishers and their sponsors raises awareness of the need and impact of affordable homeownership.”
Event sponsors and partners included CRG Residential, Meyer Najem, Indy Fuel, Fishers Freight, Carrington Homes, Citizen’s State Bank, Inherent and Sweetgreen.
For more about the project, visit FishersIN.gov/HabitatForHumanity.
Volunteers gather at Holland Park in Fishers to build wall panels for a Habitat for Humanity home. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)
The Fishers City Council met Oct. 7 at the Fishers Municipal Center
Fishers council rejects plan to turn down the volume
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Permitted noise levels in the City of Fishers will remain the same for at least another month after the Fishers City Council voted down a proposed amendment to the municipality’s noise ordinance that would have reduced the maximum legal decibel level.
GOVERNMENT
The amendment was up for a second reading, public hearing and adoption during the council’s regular Oct. 7 meeting. Several people spoke during the public hearing, all in favor of reducing noise levels. The speakers specifically expressed concern about King Jugg Brewing Co., located at a mixed-use development on Lantern Road.
One resident of a nearby neighborhood that was built before the mixed-use development was constructed said bass beats coming from live bands at the brewing company disturb his children when they are trying to do homework, especially when the bands play on school nights. He added that bar patrons park in the neighborhoods and he’s had people urinate in the bushes.
Another resident said the previous restaurant at that site had acoustic music and was a good neighbor. Now, she said, the ambiance of the neighborhood and a nearby nature preserve has been disrupted.
The city’s noise ordinance currently allows a maximum decibel level of 90. The proposed amendment originally would have reduced that to 70, but various business owners said that would put them out of business. The amendment that came
before the council Oct. 7 had an 80-decibel limit, measured at 50 feet from the property line.
Mayor Scott Fadness told the council that the amendment is an effort to alleviate conflicts between residents and some businesses, adding that the issue could come back if the new decibel level didn’t solve the issue.
“I think this is a step in the right direction,” he said. “We would love nothing more than the residents to celebrate that area or that business as a local neighborhood hangout spot. But I also understand that they don’t want to have a nuisance of listening to loud thumping bass music when they’re trying to do homework with their kids. Hopefully, we can find a way through this, either through voluntary compliance or through these levers that we can pull to accomplish it.”
The majority of council members present weren’t satisfied with the amendment as presented, however, and voted it down. The noise ordinance will remain unchanged until the city revisits the issue, perhaps as early as the council’s November meeting.
In other matters, the council approved the proposed 2025 City of Fishers budget. The $183 million spending plan includes funding for road improvements; 6 percent raises for city employees; continuing the popular teacher and neighborhood grants; startup costs for the Fishers Community Center; and about $38 million for debt payments. The budget does not include a property tax rate increase.
The next Fishers City Council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 18 at Fishers Municipal Center Theater, 1 Municipal Dr. Meetings are streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel, youtube.com/@CityofFishers.
Epcon’s Quick Move-In Home Tour
October 14-20 | 12-6pm
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Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to explore quick move-in homes that you can move into by the end of the year.
Theater. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Fishers High School senior earns Congressional Award Gold Medal
news@currentinfishers.com
A Fishers High School Senior has been recognized with the Congressional Award Gold Medal, a recognition that honors young Americans.
ACHIEVEMENT
According to an announcement from the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Corp., Trenton Qualls worked toward the award for the past two years, completing a minimum of 400 hours of voluntary public service, 200 hours of personal development and 200 hours of physical fitness to qualify. Qualls also went on a weeklong expedition to experience a new environment and culture.
The Congressional Award is designed for students committed to personal growth and community service. It was established by Congress in 1979, encouraging youth to achieve goals in four key areas: voluntary
public service, personal development, physical fitness and expedition/exploration.
Qualls was inspired by his father, who introduced him to the program a few years ago, just after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“My dad was looking at different opportunities and asked me if I wanted to take
on the Congressional Award,” he stated.
“At first, I wasn’t sure if I could do it. With swimming, Scouts and schoolwork, it seemed like a lot. But over time, I realized I could do it with the support of my family and my troop.”
As a high school senior, Trenton reflected on what he learned from the experience, emphasizing the importance of balance.
“If you want to make the most of your high school experience, take advantage of as many opportunities as you can, but make sure it’s not a burden,” he stated.
“Last year, I took on too much at once and although it was fun, it can be overwhelming. Hit the ground running but know when to pace yourself.”
Qualls earned his Eagle Scout rank in 2023 for a project that involved planting native trees at the Fishers AgriPark and a memorial for two Scout members who had died the previous year.
For more about the congressional award, visit congressionalaward.org.
DISPATCHES
Hamilton County Parks receives donation — White River Rescue Inc. has donated $52,000 to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation for the refurbishment of a fishing pier at the White River Campground, 11299 E. 234th St., Cicero. The project will enhance the pier’s accessibility to allow fishing and nature viewing to visitors of all ages and abilities.
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. A resource to learn about scams or to check a suspicious email is ScamTracker.com, operated by the Better Business Bureau.
Trenton Qualls summits the Tooth of Time’s 9,003-foot peak at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. (Photo courtesy of Maurice Qualls)
Qualls
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
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. Learn more at blackdogbooksin.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.
Code & Coffee — Software developers and those interested in becoming one, are invited to drop in, drink coffee and converse with other software developers from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays at The Well Coffeehouse, 8890 E. 116th St., Suite 120, in Fishers.
Salvation Army volunteers sought – The Salvation Army of Central Indiana is looking for volunteers for several upcoming Christmas season programs and events, including Coats for Kids sorting/inventory through Oct. 25 in Whitestown, 5102 E. 500 S.; Coats for Kids set up at the Indiana State Fairgrounds Oct. 30 through Nov. 1; Coats for Kids event day Nov. 2 at Indiana State Fairgrounds; Angel Tree sorting/ inventory Nov. 4-27 in Whitestown, 5102 E. 500 S; and bell ringing Nov. 4 through Dec. 24 at various local stores. Interested volunteers can sign up at centralusa.salvationarmy.org/centralindiana/volunteer.
Energy assistance program – Applications are open for winter utility bill assistance from the Indiana Energy Assistance Program. EAP applicants should gather their last three months of income for the application process. While review can take several weeks, EAP approval leads to financial assistance being applied to natural gas and electric utility bills and temporary protection from utility disconnection for nonpayment. Applications close April 14, 2025. Eligibility requirements and the application can be found at in.gov/ihcda under the “homeowners and
Westfield High School golfer’s confidence boost spurs success
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Westfield High School junior golfer
Kelsey Haverluck sees one major reason for her success this season.
“I feel like my confidence over this past year has gone up a lot, not just with (scoring) but the way I approach going into my rounds,”
Haverluck said. “I just feel a lot more confidence in my abilities.”
Haverluck finished tied for ninth Oct. 5 at the IHSAA girls golf state finals with a pair of 76s for a 152 two-day total at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. Senior teammate Addi Kooi tied for third with a 72-76 for 150 total. The Shamrocks, who were state runners-up in 2023, placed fourth in the team standings.
Haverluck was the medalist with a 2-under par 68 at the Sept. 23 sectional at Pebble Brook Golf Club in Noblesville. She was second in the regional with a 73 Sept. 28 at Battle Ground Golf Club near Lafay-
KELSEY HAVERLUCK
Favorite athlete: Jordan Spieth
Favorite movie: “Happy Gilmore”
Favorite subject: History
Favorite vacation spot: Hilton Head, S.C.
Favorite musician: Zach Bryan or Luke Combs
ette. Kooi was the regional champion.
Westfield girls golf coach Josh Bryant said Haverluck had a great season.
“She had a really good summer and it carried over (into) the season,” Bryant said. “Her biggest part of her game that has improved is her consistency and ball
striking. She is really strong off the tee. She added some distance and the overall
consistency that allows for these good scores.”
Haverluck, who averaged 73 strokes this season, started playing golf when she was 10 when her father, Curt, introduced her to the game.
“I was big on tennis, too, but I felt I loved golf more and it’s really something I wanted to work hard for,” she said. “I gave tennis up after middle school and focused on golf.”
Haverluck said she and Kooi, who has committed to play at Butler University, are good friends.
“We push each other all the time to do our very best and we are always there for each other and support, whether it’s happy tears or sad tears,” Haverluck said. “We both hit off the tee the same distance. We both have pretty good short games. It just comes down to whoever has the better day. Addi is definitely an amazing player. I’ve always looked up to her through my three years being on the team.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
Is yourBACK PAIN causing you to miss out?
Westfield High School junior golfer Kelsey Haverluck captured the sectional medalist title. (Photo courtesy of Kelsey Haverluck)
Haverluck
Members of Girl Scout Troop 1484 recently donated a bench that was placed at the south trailhead of Hoosier Woods, 11034 E. 121st St., Fishers. The Scouts also maintain a Little Free Library that troop members previously donated to the Fishers Parks-run greenspace. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)
FEATURING A CALENDAR OF AREA EVENTS INSIDE
INTRODUCING FISHERS EVENT CENTER
New arena quickly filling dates with diverse lineup, including hockey, wrestling, and cirque du soleil
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Fishers Event Center General Manager Mitch List figures the new arena is off to a solid start.
The 7,500-seat facility already has announced concerts by Alabama Dec. 9; country superstar Blake Shelton March 29, 2025; and rising country star Megan Moroney April 24.
“We feel like we have a great lineup to open with six touring concerts and two hockey games in the first 18 days,” List said. “We feel good with the touring shows we have. We feel it’s a well-rounded grouping of events, something for everybody to open the venue. We’re really focused on having a variety. We have some other exciting announcements in the next few weeks”.
Fishers Event Center also will be home to the Fishers Freight, whose season begins in March 2025 in the Indoor Football League. The Freight play eight regular-season home games.
“We’re fortunate to have the three tenants in the building,” List said. “Between those three, it’s 60 sporting events a year, and add to that with touring shows, community events and private events. It’s nice the Fuel has been a successful team in the marketplace for the last decade and they got their built-in fan base that follows them up to Fishers.”
The Fuel had previously played home games at Indiana Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis.
List said the venue's capacity will depend on stage size and reserve seating on the floor. He said the center will hopefully present some events with the stage in the middle.
Rivalry high school varsity basketball game between Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers.
“It will be pretty special for those student-athletes to play in their hometown arena,” said List who said the public is excited to have an arena in the area.
List said the Fishers Event Center should be able to draw visitors from the entire Indianapolis metropolitan area.
“We expect to have year-round programming with the flexibility of the building to do a variety of different events, whether it’s sporting events, concerts, comedy or theatrical-type, like Cirque Du Soleil,” he said. “It’s our goal to have a well-rounded grouping of events with all different kinds of genres of music. A lot of it will be dictated by ticket sales and what is supported in the market as well.”
Violinist Lindsey Stirling will perform Nov. 29, followed by comedian Leanne Morgan Nov. 30, Nitro Circus Dec. 1 and the All Elite Wrestling show Dec. 4. The Indy Fuel opens with hockey games Dec. 6-7.
From Jan. 23-25, 2025, Cirque Du Soleil: Crystal will be held. In mid-January, the Indy Ignite will start play in the Pro Volleyball Federation.
List said he is a big fan of Turnpike Troubadours, which plays Nov. 22.
“I had the opportunity to see them in another venue I was working at previously,” List said. “It was a great show, just hilarious. I’ve seen Alabama before, a great band. Cirque Du Soleil is one of my favorite shows I’ve ever worked.”
List said he also is excited the venue will host the Mudsock
List worked for seven years at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum in Knoxville, Tenn., for ASM Global, the same company that operates Fishers Event Center. He started working for Fishers Event Center in July 2023 and resides in Fishers.
“The interest from promoters and agents has been really strong and the ticket sales are strong, so it’s a good story for us to tell agents and promoters and let them know Fishers is the place to play,” List said.
For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
Blake Shelton will perform March 29 at Fishers Event Center. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Event Center)
Tom Segura brings his Come Together stand-up tour to town Feb. 28, 2025.
Presented By:
December 13-15, 2024 STAR Bank
March 9, 2025
at the Center for the Performing Arts
May 17 & 18, 2025
the
for the
The Tarkington
The Tarkington at
Center
Performing Arts Premiere of: Beauty and the Beast
Choreography by Paul Tillman
BEHIND THE CURTAIN
Finding the the right programming puzzle pieces
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
As vice president of programming for the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, Dan Kemer views his job as always finding the right pieces to a puzzle.
“We look to book 50 to 60 shows to put into our season,” Kemer said. “It’s just a function of looking for the best artists, acts and performers that fit into our various series.”
The Center Presents, sponsored by Allied Solutions, includes the genres of classical, jazz, songbook, holiday, family, pop/rock and passport.
“We try to find four to six acts per category and the pop/ rock is a little heavier with eight to 10 shows,” Kemer said. “We try to find nice possibilities for all the opportunities that
present themselves.”
Kemer has been in his position for three years. Previously, he booked the Center’s contemporary acts for four years on a part-time basis
“The interesting piece on our side is with the six resident companies, we typically get their calendar 18 to 20 months in advance,” Kemer said. “Once they are in place, it’s a jigsaw puzzle to work around those dates to plug in the different variety of shows that we do. This year, we were able to get 60-plus shows for our press conference in May and roll out the subscription series. It’s about finding the right artist for the right mix for our venue.”
Kemer said his daily duties include checking with agents and managers to find out who is touring.
There are a variety of industry events. He attended the
Midwest Arts Xpo in Indianapolis in September and the IEBA in Nashville earlier this month. IEBA is the leading nonprofit trade organization for entertainment industry professionals. Kemer said there is another industry event in New York in January.
Kemer said he is already working on the 2025-26 season, with 10 to 12 shows already scheduled.
“After we came out with the season, we added Home Free and Emmylou Harris,” Kemer said. “It comes down to artists and how far out they want to go ahead and work. A lot of the classical and songbook performers you see work really far out in advance because of balancing with European tours, and with Songbook (series) there is a lot of Broadway.”
Kemer said the Nov. 22 Leslie Odom Jr. show came together late because the Center had to work around his Broadway schedule.
Kemer said there might be a conversation about adjusting a date with a resident company.
“If I get a call from Sting, I’m going to do everything I can to make it work,” Kemer said.
Sting appeared at the Palladium in May 2022 and the seats sold out quickly.
Kemer said there might be one or two more tribute shows on the 2024-25 calendar, but some are different, like Folsom Prison Experience, which is scheduled for Feb. 15, 2025.
“It’s a Johnny Cash tribute but it’s also about his legendary performance at the prison,” Kemer said. “I don’t want to call it a musical, but it’s a bit of a play. The Vitamin String Quartet is doing the music of Taylor Swift (Oct. 27), but it’s also the music of ‘Bridgerton.’ But we have our fair share (of tribute shows). The marketplace likes its tribute shows, but it’s just a piece of the mix we have with all our other shows.”
Kemer said the country genre has broadened to Americana to Triple A, or adult album alternative.
“We have some nice representation with Emmylou Harris (April 3), Marty Stuart (May 1) and Mac McAnally (Jan. 10),” Kemer said. “I wouldn’t call (McAnally) country, but I wouldn’t call him rock. There are so many different subdivisions of country music that we have a nice mix of that.”
Kemer said his job is to bring 150 to 200 show possibilities to the programming board.
“We sit down as a group and run through it and decide what is best for our season,” he said. “It could be a function of (who’s available), it could be a function of do we want to explore a different series a little differently? It’s really a group decision. We sit down and see what the best opportunity is to serve our community, serve our mission and that works with our budget and the calendar where we can fit it in.”
Kemer said there are some decisions that can be made quickly.
“If I get a call about Sting, John Legend or The Piano Guys, I know those (board members) are going to agree with me,” he said. “I still have a conversation. I never want to go into a show without input from others. When there is something that needs to be done quickly, we move fast.”
Stewart Copeland, formerly of The Police, performed at the Palladium in October 2023. (Photo courtesy of Mark Shelton)
MORE STAGES, MORE CHOICES
Indy area increases entertainment venue options
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Dan Kemer views new entertainment venues being built as a positive.
“The more venues there are, there are more opportunities for artists to find the right venue that fit their needs,” said Kemer, vice president of Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. “We’re not just competing with other venues in the market, we are competing to get Indianapolis into a routing. If other venues bring Indianapolis to the attention of managers and agents, that’s a win for everyone. It’s a win for the fans in central Indiana.”
The Allied Solutions Center has three venues — the 1,600seat Palladium, The Tarkington with 500 seats and Studio Theater with 200.
“No one can offer what we have,” Kemer said. “Is there going to be at some point a saturation? Sure, but look at other markets and how many venues they have. I don’t see Fishers Event Center as competition. It’s a different situation they have with an arena compared to a theater. We are competing with other markets to get traffic through Indiana. If it brings attention to the market with the industry, it’s all good.”
Fishers Event Center opens in November with a 7,500-seat capacity.
“I think it’s a competitive market, but I feel good with the varying venues in the market and the mix of indoor and outdoor events,” Fishers Event Center General Manager Mitch List said. “I feel like we’re in a good position here in Fishers.”
The Noblesville Event Center is scheduled to open in 2025 and will be home to the Indiana Pacers’ NBA G League development team. The 3,400-seat arena is slated to host concerts along with community events, trade shows and conferences.
Noblesville is home to Ruoff Music Center, which has a capacity of 24,790, including 6,000 pavilion seats and more than 18,000 lawn seats.
Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park in Indianapolis has a capacity of 6,000, with 2,500 seats under a covered canopy. In addition, Hendricks Live! opened earlier this year in Plainfield with a capacity of 600.
Indiana Farmers Colisuem is a 6,500-seat mulitiuse venue at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.
The Old National Centre’s Murat Theatre has a capacity of 2,675. The Egyptian Room inside the Old National Centre has 900 seats.
There are plans for an upscale Shinola hotel and a 4,000-seat entertainment arena at 230 St. Pennsylvania St., across from Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The target for opening is late 2027. Live Nation will operate that entertainment venue. Live Nation already operates Ruoff Music Center, Everwise Amphitheater and Old National Centre.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse has a capacity of 18,000. Lucas Oil Stadium also hosts several concerts each year. Coming up are three nights of Taylor Swift in November and the Sting and Billy
concert in February 2025.
Joel
The Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (File photo)
Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville is a 24,790-seat outdoor venue. (File photo)
The Noblesville Event Center is scheduled to open in fall of 2025. (File rendering)
The Indiana Farmers Colisuem at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. (File photo)
A new 4,000-seat venue is planned for downtown Indianapolis as part of an upscale Shinola hotel near Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
(Rendering courtesy of Shinola)
McLaughlin enjoys variety of ways of entertaining BALANCING ACT
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin has found another pursuit to keep him busy.
McLaughlin has hosted a weekly podcast with musician Dave Barnes called “Dadville” for the past four years.
“The podcast is so fun. Dave and I have known each other for 20-plus years,” McLaughlin said. “I still do some writing for other artists. For the most part, I’m touring, making my records and doing podcasts.”
McLaughlin, who grew up in Anderson, will perform his holiday show at 8 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This is the second year McLaughlin has brought his show to the Palladium.
“Typically, it’s all original stuff,” he said of his material. “I
might throw in a cover every now and then. With Christmas shows, it’s half well-known Christmas songs. I have three Christmas albums, so I have original songs.”
McLaughlin’s most recent album is “All The Things I Say To Myself,” released in November 2021. He is working on a new pop album that will be released in 2025. He will have a Christmas album out this year with classical piano pieces.
McLaughlin moved to Nashville, Tenn., 10 years ago after the first of his two daughters was born. McLaughlin and his wife, Amy, lived in Carmel for two years after they got married. The couple moved to California for a few years and then returned to live in Broad Ripple for five years.
McLaughlin, an Anderson Highland High School graduate, said if he was just touring, he could live in the Indianapolis area
“But when we had kids, I didn’t want to tour as much as I
did then, so I started writing for other artists,” he said.
As a songwriter, McLaughlin said it was important to be in Nashville. He also has produced a couple of records for other artists but doesn’t consider himself a record producer.
McLaughlin estimates he performs approximately 45 shows annually.
“Compared to most touring artists in Nashville, it’s pretty low,” he said. “There are a lot of artists doing 100-plus shows a year. Forty-five for me is great because I love playing shows.”
McLaughlin said when he could travel with his wife before having children, it was easier to do more shows.
“Now when I leave, I’m going to be missing a soccer game or something,” McLaughlin said. “I’ve got to find that balance.”
In January 2025, McLaughlin will have a stretch of performing nine shows in 10 days.
McLaughlin’s brother, Jeffrey, is a music teacher at Westfield High School and joins his brother on drums at some concerts.
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Fishers resident Ryan Ahlwardt left the a cappella group Straight No Chaser in 2012 to avoid all the travel. His fellow Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate Mike Luginbill, who joined Straight No Chaser at the same time, lives in Nashville. Ahlwardt, who still regularly performs, is the co-host of Indy Now on Fox59.
Ahlwardt and Luginbill form a duo called Small Town City.
“My roots have been planted proudly in Indiana since my family moved to Fishers in 1992,” Ahlwardt said. “The majority of my creative community, relational network and core audience are based here in Indy. I’ve developed a strong and loyal audience in the Midwest over time and enjoyed our lower cost of living than what my creative peers in New York City, LA and Nashville are incurring.”
Ahlwardt said technology allows him to create easily with artists, songwriters and recording musicians in Indy and Nashville, and even in Australia.
“Furthermore, my community on Patreon is made up of generous fans from across the world who financially support the creation of my music every month,” said Ahlwardt, who often performs with friends at Feinstein’s cabaret at Carmel’s Hotel Carmichael. “I have patrons who live just up the road in Pendleton and Noblesville and others in places like London, Buenos Aires and Belfast who discovered my songs online or know me from my time touring with Straight No Chaser.”
Performers from the Indianapolis area are often used for projects by Discovering Broadway founder Joel Kirk, a 2012 Carmel High School graduate.
“Eric Wiegand (‘Plaza Suite’) and Jordan Donica (‘Phantom of the Opera,’ ‘My Fair Lady’ and ‘Camelot’) are just a few of Discovering Broadway’s alumni who grew up in Indiana,” Kirk said.
Wiegand is a Carmel High School graduate and Donica is a Roncalli High School graduate.
Singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin performs about 45 shows annually. (Photo courtesy of Jon McLaughlin)
Ahlwardt
Sunday, September 29 ~ 4 pm
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church*
6050 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis
Monday, September 30 ~ 7 pm
Chistel DeHaan Fine Arts Center
University of Indianapolis
1230 Greyhound Lane, Indianapolis
Outdoor Music
Sunday, March 23 ~ 4pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 5333 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis
Monday, March 24 ~ 7:30pm
Basile Theater, Indiana History Center 450 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis
Season Finale
As the weather begins to turn colder, Ronen invites you to imagine yourself in balmier days… Australian composer Ben Hoadley‘s Porch Music , written for Ronen and featuring the ensemble’s four music directors, shares the first half of the program with Beethoven’s first string quartet, a seminal work in the same key as his Pastoral Symphony. Felix Mendelssohn’s masterful first piano trio balances the program in the rarely heard version for flute, cello, and piano, an arrangement sanctioned by the composer for his adoring British public.
As the weather begins to turn colder, Ronen invites you to imagine yourself in balmier days... Including a premiere by a composer from sunny Australia!
Sunday, November 10 ~ 4pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church
5333 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis
Monday, November 11 ~ 7:30pm
Basile Theater, Indiana History Center
450 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis
The season wraps up with some Ronen firsts and a piece by an old friend. Kurashikku by Michael Schelle, for flute/bass flute, clarinet/bass clarinet, and piano opens the program, after which are featured two rarely heard works by English composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams’s Suite de Ballet for flute and piano and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s unusually scored Nonet.
Sunday, May 11 ~ 4pm
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church* 6050 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis
Monday, May 12 ~ 7:30pm
Basile Theater, Indiana History Center 450 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis
2024 - 2025 CONCERT SEASON TICKET ORDERING
EVENTS CALENDER
KINKY BOOTS
Through Oct. 19
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit civictheatre. org.
'FIDDLER ON THE ROOF'
Through Nov. 24
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre presents this timeless classic is filled with humor, warmth, honesty and tradition.
For tickets and showtimes visit beefandboards.com.
FREEFORM:
RYAN M. BREWER BAND
Oct. 16
Featuring Zach Pietrini & Lynzi Stringer at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC
Oct. 17
An ABBA Party with Don Farrell at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
CHILD & ADULT MUSIC CLASS
Oct. 18 to Nov. 22
Old MacDonald’s Farm at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit civictheatre. org.
SWEET CAROLINE
Oct. 18
The Life and Music of Neil Diamond at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
GRAND FUNK RAILROAD
Oct. 19
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
INDIANA WIND SYMPHONY
Oct. 19
"Old Wine" in New Bottles at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit indianawindsymphony.org
ROBBIE FULKS & JASON EADY
Oct. 19
Country singer-songwriters at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
ESPRESSIVO!
Oct. 22
In this co-presentation with Ensemble Music Society, the ESPRESSIVO! piano quartet performs works by Mozart, Brahms and American composer Nokuthula Ngwenyama. Comprised of IVCI Artistic Director Jaime Laredo, violist Milena Pájaro-van de Stadt, cellist Sharon Robinson and pianist Anna Polonsky, the quartet performs its first-ever commission by Ngwenyama, “Joy Stepping,” co-commissioned by the IVCI. For more visit violin.org.
DRAG ME TO BRUNCH
Oct. 20
Hosted by Pat Yo’ Weave at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
FALL BREAK CAMP 2024
Oct. 21-24
Make music and make friends in a comprehensive music education experience filled with fall fun! For children currently in grades 1-7 at Indianapolis Children’s Choir
Performing Arts Center
For more, visit icchoir.org.
FREEFORM: JD EICHER
Oct. 23
Featuring Neon Birdhouse & Sean Cunninghamat Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
DECEPTION
Oct. 24
An Evening of Magic & Lies with David Ranalli at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
DUELING PIANOS
Oct. 25
Live Jukebox Experience Presented by Brittany Brumfield at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
AUTUMN NIGHTS
Oct. 25-26
Presented by Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
For tickets and showtimes visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
YOUNG EXCEPTIONAL SINGERS – YES!
Oct. 26
Experience the ICC’s artistry through our Young Exceptional Singers (YES!). A one-day musical event where Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel.
For more, visit icchoir.org.
SPACE ODDITY
Oct. 26
The Quintessential David Bowie Tribute Experience at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
THE AHLWARDTS PRESENTS: HUMAN
JUKEBOX EXPERIENCE
Oct. 26
You Pick, We Play! at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
VITAMIN STRING QUARTET
Oct. 27
The music of Taylor Swift, Bridgerton and Beyond at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
DANA & GREG NEWKIRK’S HAUNTED OBJECTS LIVE
Oct. 27
At the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
LIVE AT THE CENTER
Oct. 30
Chad Mills Band at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
PRINCESS TEA
Oct. 27
Magical Luncheon with Fairy Tales Brought to Life at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
ZAKIR HUSSAIN & RAHUL SHARMA
Nov. 1
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
THE MAGIC OF MICHAEL GRANDINETTI:
Nov. 2
Experience the magic at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
DINNER WITH DIVAS
Nov. 2
Elevated Drag Dinner Featuring Veranda L’Ni at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
BONEY JAMES: SLOW BURN TOUR
Nov. 2
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
FOUNDATIONS BOOST CAMP
Nov. 2
Get a one-day glimpse into Indianapolis Children’s Choir for kindergarteners. For more, visit icchoir.org.
SHE LOVES ME
Nov. 1-17
She Loves Me is a euphoric holidaythemed romantic comedy with a soaring score that shares its source material with the classic movies. Presented by Actors Theatre of Indiana at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes visit atistage. org.
NEIGHBORHOOD CHOIR ACADEMY
Nov. 4
Join Indianapolis Children’s Choir at Winding Ridge Elementary School. For more, visit icchoir.org.
CARMEL ARTS COUNCIL PRESENTS DUELING PIANOS
Nov. 6
At Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
NEW WORKS
Nov. 7-10
Join Indianapolis Ballet for this edgy, innovative repertoire. For more, visit indyballet.org.
GRUPO NICHE
Nov. 8
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
NOVEMBER 16 | 7:30 PM AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL
ICC
GALA
– A VINTAGE HOLIDAY
November 8
Celebrate with Indianapolis Children’s Choir in vintage holiday style for their annual Gala at The Ritz Charles in Carmel. For more, visit icchoir.org.
THE PIANO GUYS
Nov. 9
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
INDIANA WIND SYMPHONY
Nov. 10
The Call: A Concert for Veterans at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
JAZZ BRUNCH
Nov. 10
Presented by Blair Clark Featuring Katherine Nagy at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
DECEMBER 15 | 2:00 PM FAMILY POPS: A VIENNESE CHRISTMAS
DECEMBER 15 | 7:00 PM A HOLIDAY IN VIENNA
JANUARY 25 | 7:30 PM BREAKIN’ CLASSICAL
FEBRUARY 8 | 7:30 PM MOONLIGHT & LANTERNS
FEBRUARY 23 | 4:00 PM ARTIST SHOWCASE
MARCH 16 | 7:00 PM APPALACHIAN SPRING
APRIL 19 | 4:00 PM EASTER PARADE
TICKETS NOW ON SALE! For more information and to purchase tickets, please scan the QR code or visit CarmelSymphony.org
TURNPIKE TROUBADOURS
Nov. 22
American county band Turnpike Troubadors brings its act to the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
FREEFORM
Nov. 13
The Rebel E Ves with Bryan Ruby & Cory Williams at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
TEN BRANCHES
Nov. 14
Presented by Don Farrell & Crossroads Entertainment at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS
Nov. 14
Former members of the Temptations, Miracles and Contours will perform at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visit mowtownchristmas.net
THE BARBER OF SEVILLE
Nov. 15 & 16
One of the greatest comic operas of all time: Rossini’s The Barber of Seville is performed by the Indianapolis Opera at The Booth Tarkington Theater
For tickets and showtimes visit www. indyopera.org.
FRANK SINATRA: THE TRIBUTE
Nov. 15
Hosted by Don Farrell at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL
Nov. 16
Presented by Carmel Symphony Orchestra
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit carmelsymphony.org.
INDY NIGHTS WITH RYAN AHLWARDT & FRIENDS
Nov. 16
Straight No Chaser Alumni at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
BUCKETS N BOARDS COMEDY PERCUSSION SHOW
Nov. 17
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
DRAG
ME TO BRUNCH
Nov. 17
Hosted by Pat Yo’ Weave at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
A CHRISTMAS STORY
Nov. 19- Jan. 4, 2025
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre presents this classic based on the movie set in fictional 1940s Hohman, Indina.
For tickets and showtimes visit beefandboards.com.
FREEFORM: MIKE MAINS & YOUNG MISTER
Nov. 20
Featuring Cool Woodruff at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
DECEPTION
Nov. 21
An Evening of Magic & Lies with David Ranalli at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
AN EVENING WITH LESLIE ODOM JR.
Nov. 22
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
2006 IVCI GOLD MEDALIST AUGUSTIN HADELICH IN RECITAL WITH CHIH-YI CHEN
Nov. 22
In collaboration with the Violin Society of America, which celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, the IVCI presents 2006 Gold Medalist Augustin Hadelich in recital with Official IVCI Pianist Chih-Yi Chen in the Grand Hall of the Indiana Landmarks Center.
For more visit violin.org.
DUELING PIANOS
Nov. 22
Live Jukebox Experience Presented by Brittany Brumfield at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
CENTER PRESENTS PEANUT BUTTER & JAM
Nov. 23
Mariachi Sol Jalisciense de Indianapolis: Mariachi Music & Dance at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
CANADIAN BRASS
Nov. 23
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.org.
PRINCESS TEA
Nov. 24
Magical Luncheon with Fairy Tales Brought to Life at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
CENTER PRESENTS LUMINARIES
Nov 26
Gregory Glade Hancock: A Life of Art at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS
Nov. 29 to Dec. 24
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit civictheatre. org.
LINDSEY STIRLING- THE SNOW WALTZ TOUR
Nov. 29
At the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
LEANNE MORGAN: JUST GETTING STARTED
Nov. 30
At the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
THE NUTCRACKER 2024
Nov. 30 & Dec. 1
Presented by the Indiana Ballet Conservatory at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For more, visit indianaballetconservatory.org/ productions
DIONNE WARWICK
7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24
Dionne Warwick is a six-time Grammywinning music legend who has charted more than 75 hit songs and sold over 100 million records. She bring her global hits to the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
CATHY MORRIS
Dec. 1
Electric Violinist at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
NITRO CIRCUS
Dec. 1
At the Fishers Event Center.
For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
VOICES OF CHRISTMAS: A CELEBRATION IN SONG
Dec. 22
Join Indianapolis Opera for a festive Christmas concert at the Basile Opera Center. For tickets and showtime visit indyopera.org.
HOME FREE: “ANY KIND OF CHRISTMAS”
Dec. 3
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
AEW PRESENTS DYNAMITE & RAMPAGE
Dec. 4
At the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
CHERRY POPPIN’ DADDIES: WWII TIKI
XMAS CANTEEN
Dec. 5
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
THE FOUR PHANTOMS: HOLIDAY SHOW
Dec. 6
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Dec. 6-23
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre presents this 1-hour show a musical adaptation of the Dickens story. For tickets and showtimes visit beefandboards.com.
ALABAMA- ROLL ON II NORTH AMERICA TOUR
Dec. 9
At the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
INDIANA CHRISTMAS WITH THE AHLWARDTS
Dec. 7
At Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS
Dec. 7
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
JAZZ BRUNCH HOSTED BY BLAIR CLARK
Dec. 8
At Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
INDIANA WIND SYMPHONY
Dec. 8
Enjoy the Holly Days at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visitindianawindsymphony.org.
MATTEO BOCELLI: A NIGHT WITH MATTEO
Dec. 12
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
ICC SEASON CONCERTS | A VINTAGE HOLIDAY
Dec. 13 - 15
Indianapolis Children’s Choir will present four shows this year. Singers from across the city will share songs that bring you back to wonderful holiday vignettes from years past. For more, visit icchoir.org
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024
Dec. 13
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
THE NUTCRACKER
Dec. 13-15
Presented by Central Indiana Dance
Ensemble at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.
For more, visit cidedance.org.
CENTER PRESENTS PEANUT BUTTER & JAM
Dec. 14
Melchior Marionettes: Holiday Cabaret on Strings at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
JON
MCLAUGHLIN
& FRIENDS: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Dec. 14
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
HUMAN JUKEBOX WITH THE AHLWARDTS
Dec. 14
Holiday Edition at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
DRAG ME TO BRUNCH
Dec. 15
Hosted by Pat Yo’ Weave at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
CARMEL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Dec. 15
Family Pops: A Viennese Christmas at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit carmelsymphony.org.
CARMEL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Dec. 15
A Holiday in Old Vienna At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visit carmelsymphony.org.
A SINATRA CHRISTMAS
Dec. 18 & 23
At Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
DECEPTION
Dec. 19
An Evening of Magic & Lies with David Ranalli at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael. For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
THE NUTCRACKER
Dec. 19-22
Presented by Indianapolis Ballet at the Murat Theatre
For more, visit indyballet.org.
DUELING PIANOS
Dec. 20
Live Jukebox Experience Presented by Brittany Brumfield at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
FRANC D’AMBROSIO
Dec. 21 & 22
Christmas in Carmel at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
For tickets and showtimes visit feinsteinshc. com/events.
THE NUTCRACKER
Dec. 20-22
Presented by the Metropolitan Youth Ballet at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.
For more, visit my-ballet.org/nutcracker FAMILY SERIES: NUTCRACKER SWEETS
Dec. 27-30
Presented by Indianapolis Ballet at Tobia Theater at Newfields
For more, visit indyballet.org.
CENTER PRESENTS PEANUT BUTTER & JAM
Jan. 4, 2025
Singing, Rhythm and Movement with Sarah Scharbrough at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Jan. 9 - Feb. 9, 2025
All aboard for this fast-paced ride inspired by Agatha Christie’s classic novel at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre.
For tickets and showtimes visit beefandboards.com.
MAC MCANALLY
Jan. 10, 2025
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
METROPOLITAN OPERA LAFFONT COMPETITION
Jan. 11, 2025
The Indiana District Competition will take place at the Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center on the University of Indianapolis campus.
For more visit indyopera.com
YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Jan. 18, 2025
The Interactive Beatles Experience at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
Center Presents
SONGWRITING: MELODY AND LYRICS
Jan. 21 to Feb. 18, 2025
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: CRYSTAL
Jan. 23-26, 2025, 2025
At the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
LET’S SING TAYLOR
Jan. 11
A live band experience celebrating Taylor Swift at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Calling all Swifties to sing your hearts out and sport your Taylor-inspired attire. You can show up at our party any time. For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
THE EVOLUTION OF JONI MITCHELL
STARRING LAUREN FOX
Jan. 24, 2025
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
HEART OF AFGHANISTAN FEATURING THE FANOOS ENSEMBLE
Jan. 25, 2025
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS
Jan. 26, 2025
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
CENTER PRESENTS LUMINARIES
Jan. 28, 2025
Trevor Conerly: The Music and Lives of African American Classical Composers At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
JENNIE DEVOE
Jan. 29, 2025
At Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
For tickets and showtimes visit thecenterpresents.com.
WHODUNIT
Jan. 31 to Feb. 16, 2025
Presented by Actors Theatre of Indiana at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes visit atistage.org.
LOVE IS IN THE AIR
Feb. 14 and 15, 2025
Presented by the Indiana Ballet Conservatory at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This event is 21 and over.
For more, visit https://www. indianaballetconservatory.org/productions
BE OUR VALENTINE
Feb. 14-16, 2025
Join Indianapolis Ballet for Balanchine's Who Cares? & a world premiere
For more, visit indyballet.org.
TOM SEGURA
Feb. 28, 2025
At the Fishers Event Center. For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
NEIGHBORHOOD CHOIR ACADEMY WITH ANTHONY TRECEK-KING
Feb. 22, 2025
Join Indianapolis Children’s Choir directors and special guest clinician Dr. Anthony Trecek-King for a fun day of singing and learning to prepare to perform for a live audience.
For more, visit icchoir.org.
ICC SEASON CONCERT | NOW IS THE TIME
March 9, 2025
Join Indianapolis Children’s Choir as singers present new music composed just for their young voices, with featured pieces from the ICC Publishing House.
For more, visit icchoir.org.
BLAKE SHELTON
March 29, 2025
At the Fishers Event Center.
For tickets and showtime visit fisherseventcenter.com.
GRAND FUNK RAILROAD
SAT OCT 19 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
SPACE ODDITY: THE QUINTESSENTIAL DAVID BOWIE TRIBUTE EXPERIENCE
SAT OCT 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DANA & GREG NEWKIRK’S HAUNTED OBJECTS LIVE
SUN OCT 27 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON
VITAMIN STRING QUARTET: THE MUSIC OF TAYLOR SWIFT, BRIDGERTON AND BEYOND
SUN OCT 27 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
ZAKIR HUSSAIN & RAHUL SHARMA
FRI NOV 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BONEY JAMES:
SLOW BURN TOUR
SAT NOV 2 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE MAGIC OF MICHAEL GRANDINETTI–
EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC
SAT NOV 2 AT 2PM & 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
GRUPO NICHE
FRI NOV 8 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE PIANO GUYS
SAT NOV 9 AT 4PM & 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BUCKETS N BOARDS
SUN NOV 17 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH LESLIE ODOM JR.
FRI NOV 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
CANADIAN BRASS SAT NOV 23 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DIONNE WARWICK SUN NOV 24 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
HOME FREE: ANY KIND OF CHRISTMAS TOUR TUE DEC 3 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
CHERRY POPPIN’ DADDIES: WWII TIKI XMAS CANTEEN THU DEC 5 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE FOUR PHANTOMS: HOLIDAY SHOW FRI DEC 6 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS SAT DEC 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
MATTEO BOCELLI: A NIGHT WITH MATTEO THU DEC 12 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 FRI DEC 13 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS SAT DEC 14 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
MAC MCANALLY FRI JAN 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
LET’S SING TAYLOR: A LIVE BAND EXPERIENCE CELEBRATING TAYLOR SWIFT SAT JAN 11 AT 2PM & 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
YESTERDAY AND TODAY: THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE SAT JAN 18 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE EVOLUTION OF JONI MITCHELL STARRING LAUREN FOX
FRI JAN 24 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
HEART OF AFGHANISTAN FEATURING THE FANOOS ENSEMBLE
SAT JAN 25 AT 8PM || THE TARKINGTON
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS
SUN JAN 26 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE KINGS OF QUEEN SAT FEB 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
PETER SAGAL: HOST OF NPR’S
WAIT WAIT...DON’T TELL ME! FRI FEB 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
FOLSOM PRISON EXPERIENCE:
LEGENDARY 1968 JOHNNY CASH CONCERT
SAT FEB 15 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH STEVE WARINER
FRI FEB 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
KALANI PE’A: GRAMMYWINNING SINGER, SONGWRITER
SAT FEB 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DON WAS & THE PAN DETROIT ENSEMBLE FRI FEB 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE STEPCREW FRI MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A STEELY DAN TRIBUTE FRI MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
WELCOME BACK: THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER FRI MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DUSTBOWL REVIVAL: A LAUREL CANYON RETROSPECTIVE FRI MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS SUN MAR 23 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON
GRIMMZ FAIRY TALES SUN MAR 23 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM
LANG LANG FRI MAR 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
EMMYLOU HARRIS THU APR 3 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE
SAT APR 5 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND & SOLDIERS’ CHORUS WEDS APR 9 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN SAT APR 12 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BACHELORS OF BROADWAY: GENTLEMEN OF THE THEATRE SUN APR 13 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL THU APR 17 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
MICKY DOLENZ OF THE MONKEES: AN EVENING OF SONGS & STORIES FRI APR 25 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BLACK VIOLIN SAT APR 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
OUR PLANET LIVE: A NETFLIX ORIGINAL DOCUMENTARY SERIES WITH DAN TAPSTER TUES, APR 29 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
MARTY STUART AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES THU MAY 1 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
CELEBRATE THE SONGBOOK: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SAT MAY 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
iLUMINATE SUN MAY 11 AT 4PM | THE PALLADIUM
Creates,
BONEY JAMES
LESLIE ODOM JR. LANG LANG EMMYLOU HARRIS
GRUPO NICHE
ZAKIR HUSSAIN
COMMUNITY
Special Olympics EKS State Fall Games took place Sept. 29. The state fall games are named in honor of Special
a
hosting four different sports com-
Hamilton County Dee’s Bears finished the Special Olympics EKS State Games in second place, winning silver for flag football in Division 2, Yellow Division. Front from left are Broden Buckner, Cashius Parker, Maddie Cardamone, Brooke Easterhaus and Christian Vittorio. Back from left are coach Abron Buckner, Blake Buckner, Noah Morris, Brycen Buckner, Mitch Bonar, Brayleigh Buckner and coach Mike Morris
Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver. The weekend is
partnership with Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, with their student-athletes
petitions for Special Olympics athletes and partner teams. (Photos by Danyele Easterhaus)
Hamilton County Bulldogs finished the Special Olympics EKS State Games in second place, winning silver for flag football in the Blue Division. Front from left are Zachary Mendel, coach Doug Williams, Samuel Williams and Melinda Williams. Back from left are Patrisha Parker, David Scott, Cade Agnelli and Luke Williams.
The Cabin celebrates 25 years of counseling service
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Asking for help isn’t always easy.
WELLNESS
The Cabin, a nonprofit counseling and resource center based in Zionsville, has spent the past quarter-century trying to fill that need for Boone and Hamilton county residents.
“Often, when folks have a mental health issue, only about 40 percent of adults and 50 percent of children and teens pursue care,” said founder, executive director and licensed marriage and family therapist Deidra Rausch.
The Cabin opened in 1999 at Zionsville Presbyterian Church with two providers. Rausch became executive director in 2002, and in 2010 The Cabin became an independent nonprofit organization.
After several years of growth, the organization expanded services, opening an office in Westfield in 2019 and Lebanon in 2022.
Rausch said the pandemic created an increase in need for its services. The Cabin added 10 additional therapists and a second Zionsville location during the pandemic before opening The Retreat in downtown Zionsville in 2021.
“It is a space we use for 25 or fewer, we really at that point started to cultivate our organizational wellness services,” she said. “In June of 2021, we had a small business approach us. Their employees were being tasked to come back physically and they were experiencing a fair amount of anxiety. So, we created some programming throughout the course of that year for teams.”
Rausch said cost and access are the primary reasons why people don’t reach out for help when they need it. The Cabin works to bridge that gap with assistance from the Samaritan Fund.
“Because costs can prevent folks from pursuing care, about 30 percent of those who receive care at The Cabin qualify for Samaritan Fund assistance,” she said.
“It’s all calculated based on gross income, number of individuals in the household and we utilize the federal poverty scale to
determine what the fee is that the client will pay. That can be as low as $38 for a session.”
The Cabin fundraises for those assistance dollars. This year’s goal is $225,000. Rausch said The Cabin is approaching the $2 million mark for money raised for the Samaritan Fund over the past 25 years.
This year’s main fundraiser, Shining a Light on Mental Health, is from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Nov. 16 at West Fork Whiskey in Westfield. The Cabin also relies on individual donations throughout the year.
“That really has allowed us to continue to offer that Samaritan Fund assistance,” Rausch said.
One message The Cabin hopes to spread as it celebrates its 25th anniversary —
mental wellness affects everyone.
“There is a misperception that only people who are hanging on by their bloody fingernails need to come to therapy,” Rausch said. “That certainly is a moment where we can help. But whenever you look at wellness, it’s multidimensional; physical, psychological/mental, spiritual, social, occupational and environmental. If any of those aspects are not in balance, it can cause anxiety, depression, loneliness, all of those characteristics that I think are emotions that most of us experience. Mental health just means that you’re functioning optimally in all the aspects of your life. It’s hard to find what mental wellness is, because it’s different for everyone. But, making sure you’re as healthy at managing your emotions as you can be.”
Rausch said clients range in age from 4 to 100.
The Cabin employs 25 clinical providers, a life coach and a dietician. Providers include licensed social workers, licensed clinical social workers, licensed marriage and family therapists and licensed mental health counselors.
Learn more at thecabin.org.
Staff from The Cabin participate in the 2023 fundraising event. (Photo courtesy of The Cabin)
Rausch
County requests funds for affordable housing initiative
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton County has submitted a proposal request for $6,955,084 from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which has $100 million in grants available through its Pathways to Removing Obstacles, or PRO, housing program. A grant proposal request was submitted to HUD Oct. 3. It has yet to be announced when grants will be awarded.
GRANTS
PRO Housing supports communities that are taking steps to remove barriers to affordable housing, such as gaps in available resources for development, deteriorating or inadequate infrastructure and lack of neighborhood amenities.
Hamilton County Community Development Program Manager Michelle Westermier told the Hamilton County Commissioners last month that the county needs more affordable housing options. Any grant money received would go toward affordable housing initiatives over the next five years. The grant covers all of Hamilton County, with particular attention given to Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield as the cities grow.
If the county receives the grant, funds will focus on four areas:
• Policy: Analyzing and proposing updates to land use and development
strategies in each community as well as countywide.
• People: Increasing the organizational capacity of new and existing entities for the development of affordable housing and preservation of existing affordable units.
• Production: Addressing funding barriers and land-cost challenges to build a robust pipeline for the development of affordable units.
• Promotion: Engaging and informing the community about the urgent need for affordable housing and its benefits to the community.
Hamilton County has devoted approximately $2 million, or 10 percent, of its Community Development Block Grant allocation to affordable housing projects, producing 90 units serving residents earning at most 60 percent of area median income, according to the request proposal.
“A CDBG-funded housing assessment released in 2022 estimated it will take 286 years at the current pace of construction to meet Hamilton County’s existing need for affordable housing,” the proposal stated.
Westermier said sources of local and federal funds will be leveraged as part of the effort, including $5 million of Hamilton County’s federal ARPA award, which the county allocated to fund an affordable housing “demonstration project.”
Food inspection map available — The Hamilton County Health Department has launched an interactive food inspection map. The map allows residents to access and review food inspection reports for more than 1,200 food service establishments operating within the county. Users can enter their location, view nearby establishments and click on specific restaurants to access reports. The map is available under the food Inspections tab at hamiltoncounty.in.gov/1925/Health-Department.
HALLOWEEN FUN-DRAISERS
Fishers, Hamilton Southeastern high schools to host ‘spooky’ events
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Fishers and Hamilton Southeastern high schools are gearing up for two separate Halloween events that will give families a fun, not-so-scary way to celebrate the season and support area nonprofit organizations.
The events are Fishers High School’s Riley Dance Marathon Club’s annual “All Treats No Tricks” Halloween festival, starting at 6 p.m. Oct. 23; and HSE High School’s haunted house and trunk-or-treat, hosted by the school’s Make-A-Wish and Best Buddies clubs, from 1 to 5 pm Oct. 26.
FHS’s event supports Riley Hospital for Children and proceeds from HSE’s event benefit Make-A-Wish.
FHS senior Ella Roberts is one of the Riley Dance Marathon Club officers and said the annual Halloween event started a long time ago as one of many fundraisers the club hosts throughout the year to benefit Riley Hospital, including a big dance marathon at the end of the year.
The Oct. 23 event includes tables for different FHS clubs and community organizations.
“They all dress up in costumes,” Roberts said, adding that the admission fee is a $5 donation at the door. “And then they basically just get to trick-or-treat around our halls and get to talk to all the high school students and clubs and sports teams and stuff like that.”
Izzy Bowman, also a FHS senior, said they also offer a haunted house that is very popular.
“There’s always a huge line (of) all the kids waiting to get into it,” she said. “It’s not really that scary, but it is really fun for the kids. And — you know — spooky music, dark lights.”
Caleb Dack, another FHS senior, said he likes to see the younger kids come through in their costumes.
“It’s really fun to get to see all the different themed costumes they’ll do with their parents,” he said. “It’s the same thing with all the different clubs — it’s really fun to see all the ideas that they can come up with and just ways that they can make themselves unique from other clubs.”
Riley Dance Marathon Club members did a Lorax-themed group costume last year,
Roberts said. They are still debating how to dress up for the upcoming event.
At Hamilton Southeastern High School, two clubs joined forces to organize a larger-than-usual Halloween event on Oct. 26.
HSE senior Anna Tittle and junior Liam Powers are part of the school’s Make-AWish Club, which raises money throughout the year for the national nonprofit organization. Vierra Lee, a senior, is a club officer with Best Buddies, which pairs students with intellectual disabilities with other students to promote positive, long-lasting friendships.
Best Buddies previously hosted a trunkor-treat event, and Make-A-Wish club members organized a haunted house at the school. This year, they’re doing both at the
same time.
Tittle said the haunted house is geared toward younger children, so there shouldn’t be anything that will cause nightmares.
“I was a ladybug last year,” she said. “Family friendly — got to keep it cute for the kids.”
Teacher Jaclyn Purcell is the Make-AWish Club advisor. She said regional MakeA-Wish leaders reached out to the club wanting to get involved with the annual event, and that sparked the fundraiser’s expansion. The regional organization will take part in the trunk-or-treat part of the event, along with Best Buddies.
“All these things kind of came together in the same year and we’re having a big
IF YOU GO:
FISHERS HIGH SCHOOL
WHAT: Fishers High School’s “All Treats No Tricks” fundraiser for Riley Hospital for Children
WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 23
WHERE: 13000 Promise Rd., Fishers WHO: Hosted by FHS Riley Dance Marathon club
HAMILTON SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SCHOOL
WHAT: Hamilton Southeastern High School’s Haunted House and Trunk or Treat fundraiser for Make-A-Wish WHEN: 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 26
WHERE: 12499 Olio Rd., Fishers WHO: HSE High School Make a Wish and Best Buddies clubs
three-way event,” Purcell said. “It’s a trunkor-treat and a haunted house combined, but three different entities are hosting it together in collaboration.”
Lee said Best Buddies’ trunk-or-treat is a fun event for club members.
“The buddies get together, they decorate the trunk, they do, like, their own theme — we’ve had a ton of random things, like last year someone did a McDonald’s-themed trunk,” she said. “Then we just have them parked out in one of the parking lots and you just go around and you pick up candy.” With the addition of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, some Wish families will be involved, Purcell said.
Powers said he helps set up the haunted house in a school hallway, which involves a lot of black plastic garbage bags. The annual event also includes face painting, crafts and games in the school. He said that, depending on the year, the club has raised up to $10,000 for Make-A-Wish Foundation through its various events.
ON THE COVER: Left: Fishers High School’s Riley Dance Marathon club hosts a Halloween festival every year. (Photo courtesy of Danielle Goodwin) Right: HSE High School’s Make-A-Wish club’s annual Halloween Party. (Photo courtesy of Jaclyn Purcell)
All Treats No Tricks is a family-friendly Halloween festival at Fishers High School. (Photo courtesy of Danielle Goodwin)
HSE High School will host its annual Halloween fundraiser Oct. 26. (Photos courtesy of Jaclyn Purcell)
IWS chamber music concert set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Wind Symphony’s chamber music concerts will have a new look this season.
PERFORMANCE
IWS will present “Old Wine in New Bottles” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
“This is a new format we are trying with our chamber music where I will be conducting ‘Old Wine in New Bottles’ and the members of the Wind Symphony have formed their own chamber groups that they have been rehearsing for the last several weeks on their own,” IWS Music Director Jay S. Gephart said. “The quality of the performances should be very good. Just the sheer fact that there is some significant buy-in on the part of the musicians makes it an even more compelling reason to pursue this format. I’m hopeful it will work and hope the audience will appreciate that.”
Gephart replaced IWS founder Charles Conrad, who retired following the 2023-24
season.
There will be a clarinet quartet, a saxophone quartet, a woodwind quintet, a brass quintet and a chamber group
Gephart said there will be a wide array of music, but the theme is music written in a folk style.
“We’re setting the tone with ‘Old Wine in New Bottles’ and I think the other ensembles are following suit with a repertoire that will fit in that category,” he said. “It’s an experiment on my part with the idea in mind that the style and flavor of each one of these pieces will be in a folk style.”
In the past, Conrad conducted all the chamber music ensembles.
“This is entirely music driven, which I like,” Gephart said. “The Indiana Wind Symphony is filled with very, very competent musicians, so this gives them the opportunity to guide what repertoire they want to perform.”
There is no conductor in the smaller groups.
“Most chamber music is without a conductor,” Gephart said.
ATI presents ‘Maltese Falcon’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Actors Theatre of Indiana’s Lab Series will put a farcical twist on a classic detective movie.
READING
There will be a free reading of “The Maltese Falcon A Musical Nightmare!” at 2 p.m. Oct. 19 at Carmel Clay Public Library. To register for tickets, visit atistage,org.
“Personally, I have always loved Dashiell Hammett’s Sam Spade stories and have a particular affinity for the Humphrey Bogart film version,” ATI Associate Artistic Director Darrin Murrell said. “This version offers a farcical telling of the story as seen through Sam’s fever dream the night before his deposition, where he is accused of murdering his partner. This is similar to the farcical treatment given to the Broadway smash version of Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘The 39 Steps’ from 2007. I thought that show did a great job of bringing a story with little connection to contemporary life and making it relevant and entertaining
For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org. for a modern audience.’
Murrell said the approach has been done repeatedly with the works of Shakespeare in productions like “Kiss Me Kate” and “West Side Story.”
“While they may not be as aged as Shakespeare, they are still relics to a modern audience,” Murrell said. “I believe that finding ways to layer a contemporary sensibility or style, like musical farce, onto an older story is a fantastic way to introduce historic works to new audiences.”
The reading is being presented through The New Musicals Exchange, a project of New Musicals, Inc., a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting new musicals in development across the U.S. One of the Exchange theaters has agreed to produce the show in 2025.
Murrell said ATI was in charge of all casting and creative choices for the reading.
The cast includes Indianapolis resident Eddie Curry and Fishers resident Devan Mathias.
Muirrell
Valiant Primary Care in Zionsville focuses on access
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A new medical practice in Zionsville is focused on bringing back the close relationship that doctors once had with their patients.
WELL-BEING
Dr. Adam Henry, Dr. Luke Pittman and Dr. Rachel Trupe met at the IU School of Medicine. After more than a decade of working in different health care systems, the trio began discussions about opening a new practice for direct primary care.
The result — Valiant Primary Care, 262 S. Ford Rd. in Zionsville — opened in June 2024.
The founding partners said direct primary care means they are present for their patients by design, encouraging patients to advocate for themselves and become more actively involved in their care rather than just taking doctor’s orders.
“It means patients have more access to their primary care physician,” Henry said. “They can call and text their physician. We’re not told what to do by insurance. We have freedom to refer to different places and we have more time with patients with same day appointments and longer appointments. It’s a focus on the relationship between the patient and the physician, more so than the patient-insurance-physician relationship.”
The primary care model essentially cuts out health insurance companies and allows patients to sign up for the service based on a fixed fee. Valiant Primary Care operates on a monthly fee — $150 for individuals; $100 for a second member; $50 for a third; and a cap of $400 for families of four or more.
The doctors said with traditional primary care, patients are often shuffled and transferred within the corporate system while trying to reach their doctors. But with direct primary care, there is no middleman.
The doctors said in those bigger health care systems, where patients are often scheduled in 15-minute increments, it can be difficult to recognize a patient’s immediate issues, especially when patients have to navigate the corporate system before they can even speak with their physician.
“We have more control over everything here, we can say, ‘OK, I’ll see you tomor-
row’ to a patient,” Henry said. “The relationship part is the most important. The access is the most important. That can keep you out of the hospital or getting injured or having something worse happen.”
When it comes to signing up, Pittman said that while some patients want to come in and be guided through the process, others are comfortable enrolling on the website. And, he said, either option works.
“One of the interesting things about the direction that health care is going generally, health care in general is improving at empowering consumers,” Pittman said. “In a lot of other industries, you can appreciate the marginal benefit relative to the marginal cost. In health care it’s really hard to do that, because the marginal cost is obfuscated and it’s also unknown until you’re several bills deep having already received the services.”
Patients still use their health insurance for hospital visits, specialists and prescription coverage, but most low-cost labs and imaging are included with the membership.
The doctors said that while emergencies are nonnegotiable — critical care requires a trip to the hospital — overall wellness is something that patients can be more involved in with direct primary care.
“It’s kind of cool that patients are being more well equipped, because they come with different questions and different degrees of investment in their own health,” Pittman said. “I think some of the era of, ‘I am the doctor, you are the patient, you do what I say’ may exist in certain niches, but it’s less common now. With our patients, we’re partners and advocates. When you have time to actually spend with people, you can dig into things a little deeper, but you can also be a little more tailored to their care plan.”
Learn more at valiantprimarycare.com.
The staff of Valiant Primary Care, front from left, Dr. Rachel Trupe and Dr. Luke Pittman and, back from left, Dr. Adam Henry and medical assistant Meghan Yokem. (Photo courtesy of Valiant Primary Care)
Fishers couple takes ownership of Noble Coffee & Tea Co.
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Fishers couple Amy and Mason McDonald are the new owners of Noble Coffee & Tea Co. at 933 Logan St. in Noblesville.
OWNERSHIP
Mason said he and his wife had been “praying for what was next” for their growing family when he heard the business was for sale.
“It just seemed to fit. It checked all the boxes we were looking at,” Mason said. “We love coffee. I’m a home barista, and now I am a professional barista. But historically, I have been a home barista, and we just love it.”
The couple, who have three children and one on the way, said previous owners Robyn Wilson and Mark Littler have been helpful in the transition.
“A lot of stuff goes on behind the scenes, and Mark and Robyn are awesome,” Mason said. “They’ve been fun to work with and
go through the process with.”
Mason said no significant changes are anticipated for the business.
“The reality is, what’s already happening is working, and it’s working really well,”
Mason said. “Nobody would buy something without wanting to grow it. So, there’ll be stuff that comes up over the years to do, but nothing major.”
Noble Coffee & Tea Co. is open during the transition.
From left, new owners Amy and Mason McDonald outside Noble Coffee & Tea Co. (Photo courtesy of the McDonald family)
Blueprint for Improvement: Warm and inviting Indy kitchen
Commentary by Larry Greene
Built in 1971 in Sylvan Ridge, this home’s kitchen had seen a few updates over the years but was due for a fresh, modern transformation. Our team reimagined the space, creating a light, bright and inviting kitchen that encourages family and guests to linger and enjoy.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Custom cabinetry in a warm white brightens the room, providing a perfect contrast to the black granite perimeter countertops and rich tones of the wood floors.
• The expanded island enhances both prep and gathering space while introducing a bold pop of indigo to the color palette.
• The glazed porcelain subway tile backsplash adds texture and shine, infusing the space with a touch of artisanal charm.
• Finishing touches like custom corbels on the island and crown molding on the cabinetry blend form and function, elevating the room’s overall aesthetic.
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
44. Capital of South Dakota
45. ___ culpa
46. Offers a quick greeting
48. Soft drinks
50. USN rank
52. Clark’s colleague
56. Local haunted house
62. Got up
63. Kick out
64. Torch type
65. Justice Kagan
66. Mexican money
67. Level 68. Bowling lane
Genesis garden
___ Montana Grill Down
Length counterpart
Commotion
Dined at
5. Weak, as an excuse 6. Frozen treat 7. Actor Alda 8. Total 9. Powerful 10. Texter’s “I think...” 11. Biblical pronoun 12. Guided trip
13. Cardinals cap letters
Miss Indiana crown 22. Country music legend Merle
26. Items at the end of 68-Across 27. Bangkok native
28. Bank vaults
30. Hinkle Fieldhouse whistle blower
31. Former IU prez Herbert 32. Weight allowance 33. Austen heroine
34. I-69 semis
35. Tolstoy’s Karenina
36. Aussie greeting
38. Roman emperor
41. Part of TGIF
42. Domain
47. Time of prosperity
49. Group of seven
51. Range of view
53. Relinquish
54. Irritated
55. Animal pelts
56. “___ cost you!”
57. Christmas carol
58. Finished
59. Regretted
60. Latin 101 verb
61. Oodles
62. Body of water Answers on Page 23
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