EDUCATION
Happy Halloween
HSE School District enrollment slightly better than anticipated
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Student enrollment at Hamilton Southeastern Schools is a little better than predicted after the official October count, but it’s still down by more than 200 compared to the previous year.
A significant portion of the district’s budget comes from per-student funding provided by the state. Attendance at HSE Schools peaked in the 2019-20 school year at 21,808 students, with those numbers dropping steadily each year since.
An earlier enrollment projection from before the official count of average daily membership, or ADM, was estimated at 20,683 students for the 2024-25 school year. During an Oct. 9 budget presentation to the HSE Board of Education, Chief Financial Officer Tim Brown said the Oct. 1 ADM count ended up at 20,702.
“I will just throw this out — although the number is 20,702, we will be funded for 20,695 and six tenths,” he said. “You may say, ‘How does that happen?’ We do have some dual-enrolled students, so we only get a portion of that and we do have a small population of virtual students, which will cut that funding back just a little.”
Brown said the higher ADM will mean about $80,000 more in state funding.
The rest of the 2025 draft budget is unchanged from when it was first presented in late September. The proposed budget totals $326 million, up from this year’s approximately $300 million.
Brown said in his previous presentation that the district is facing at least a few years of deficit spending because of reduced enrollment and increasing costs. He has recommended a budget study to see where the district could make adjustments.
The board did not take action on the budget. It will come back for a vote during the board’s Oct. 23 meeting.
HSE officials are about to start contract negotiations with the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association and the board heard from two members of the public who spoke in support of teachers.
Abby Winters said she fears that district officials are “setting the stage to not give our teachers the raises they deserve due to impending financial issues.” She asked for details about administration salaries, how they compare to the previous school year and how much more the school board has spent on legal fees.
“Another best practice in finance is, when you appear to be in financial trouble,
you stop spending,” she said. “You get your house in order. That means hiring freezes for noncritical roles. That means no exploratory costs like charter schools. That means all-hands-on-deck to keep costs to a minimum, but you continue to pay and support the people that are the lifeline — in this case, the teachers.”
A high school junior also spoke, asking the board to take care of the people who take care of her and other students in the district.
The next HSE Board of Education meeting is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 23 at the district’s central office, 13485 Cumberland Rd. Meetings are streamed live on the board’s website, hseschools.org/board/ board-of-school-trustees.
CORRECTION — The Oct. 15 news report about the Fishers City Council contained an error. The majority of council members present voted to approve a proposed amendment to the city’s noise ordinance, but it didn’t have the five votes needed to pass.
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Hamilton Southeastern School District students arrive for the first day of the 2024-25 school year. The district’s enrollment is down about 200 from the previous year. (Photo courtesy of HSE Schools)
DISPATCHES
Road construction — The following road projects in the Fishers area could affect traffic, particularly during peak hours:
• Allisonville and 96th Street roundabout — The main part of the project is nearing completion, with a tentative end date of late October or early November. Some final details will continue through spring 2025.
• Allisonville and 146th Street — The Hamilton County project is ongoing at the intersection. Drivers should expect short, intermittent stoppages along 146th street so the contractor can move materials and equipment within the work area.
• 141st Street and Prairie Lakes roundabout — The intersection is closed to through traffic. Access to Woods of Britton apartments is off of Cumberland Road only. The 141st Street access to Prairie Lakes is closed and access is off of Cumberland and 146th Street.
• 126th Street and Southeastern Parkway roundabout — The roundabout is now open but remains an active construction site with intermittent lane restrictions. Corydon Drive has opened to traffic.
500 Festival Miler Series dates announced — Registration is open for the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, through Feb. 2, 2025. The series, held at Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis, includes three races designed to help participants train for the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. The Miler Series kicks off with a 3-Miler Feb. 8, followed by a 6-Miler March 8, and concludes with a 10-Miler April 5. For more, visit IndyMini. com/Challenges.
Trick-or-Treat hours for Fishers — The official hours for Halloween trick-or-treating are 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 31. City of Fishers police will be patrolling neighborhoods to help keep the public safe, but residents are asked to walk in groups and stay on the sidewalks whenever possible.
Pet adoption special — The Humane Society for Hamilton County is hosting an adoption special — Hocus Pick-Us — through Oct. 31. During that time, cat and dog adoptions will be $31 with some exclusions. Those interested in adopting a cat or dog can fill out an application in advance at hshcadoptions.com. For more, visit HamiltonHumane.com.
A new pedestrian bridge over 96th Street will open in fall 2025. (Rendering courtesy of the City of Fishers)
Project will bridge Nickel Plate Trail from Fishers to Indy
news@currentinfishers.com
A new pedestrian bridge is going up over 96th Street, connecting the Fishers portion of the Nickel Plate Trail to Indianapolis, where trail construction is underway.
CONNECTIVITY
According to an announcement from the City of Fishers, the new pedestrian bridge will provide trail users with a safe crossing over busy 96th Street. The project — funded by a Next Level trail grant from the Indiana Economic Development Corp. — will include concrete arches with cables supporting the bridge deck.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with an anticipated opening date of fall 2025.
“The Fishers section of the Nickel Plate Trail stretches from just north of 96th Street to 146th Street. With the addition of the bridge, the trail will continue south to 42nd Street in Indianapolis and connect to the Monon Trail,” the announcement stated. “On the northern end of Fishers at 146th Street, the Nickel Plate Trail extends nearly 3 miles into downtown Noblesville,
where it connects with the Midland Trace Trail. When fully completed, the Nickel Plate Trail will offer 17.8 miles of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in eastern Hamilton and Marion (counties) while connecting to more than 50 miles of regional trails.”
Fishers is in the middle of an ongoing plan to invest in outdoor recreation and enhance its existing 120 miles of trails and more than 800 acres of parkland, according to the announcement. As part of that effort, the Fishers Department of Public Works is enhancing trail amenities and addressing gaps in the city’s trail system.
“Recently, the small gravel trailhead at 106th Street and the Nickel Plate Trail was replaced with a larger paved lot to offer easier access to the trail and Cheeney Creek Natural Area,” the announcement stated. “Construction has recently concluded on a new sidewalk on the west side of Lantern Road from Pullman Pointe to south of Morgan Drive, improving pedestrian connectivity to downtown Fishers.”
Fishers has an online Trails Dashboard to help residents navigate the city’s trail system and provide updates. For more, visit FishersIN.gov/Trails.
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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.
EDUCATION
HSE Schools announces new administrator appointments
news@currentinfishers.com
Fishers High School Principal Jason Urban was appointed as the new Hamilton Southeastern Schools assistant superintendent of secondary schools following an Oct. 9 vote by the HSE Board of Education.
According to an announcement from the district, Urban has an extensive background in educational leadership and curriculum development and is committed to student success.
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Urban to our executive leadership team as he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help elevate the educational opportunities HSE provides to students and families,” Superintendent Pat Mapes stated. “His deep understanding of both the challenges and possibilities in secondary education makes him an invaluable asset as we continue to advance our mission.”
and ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to thrive.
“It is an honor to join a district leadership team with a visionary approach to student achievement,” Urban stated.
In his new role, Urban will work with building administrators to enhance academic programs. He will be responsible for curriculum development, professional learning initiatives
“I am excited to spotlight the talents of our secondary educators while maintaining our commitment to continuous improvement.”
Urban was named 2024 Indiana Administrator of the Year by the Indiana High School Press Association. He will assume his new role Oct. 21.
The HSE School Board also appointed Kyle Goodwin as Fishers High School’s interim principal and Chrissie Sturgill as interim associate principal.
According to the district, Goodwin is in his 15th year at FHS, beginning as an English and business teacher. He later became an assistant principal before assuming the newly created role of associate principal for the 2024-25 school year.
Sturgill has worked more than 21 years at Fishers High School, including as an exceptional learners teacher, department chair, academic dean and most recently as an assistant principal.
DISPATCHES
StoryWalk book — The newest StoryWalk book is on display at Billericay Park through October. Residents with young children can come to 12690 Promise Rd. for a quick stroll while reading “Hopefully the Scarecrow” by Michelle Youts. Each month, Fishers Parks works with Hamilton East Public Library to pick themed books to match seasons and parks for free, age-friendly walks and hikes.
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.
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.
Early voting has started! Scan here to find early voting locations.
Urban Goodwin
Sturgill
Project will bridge Nickel Plate
Trail from Fishers to Indy
By Jennifer A. Haire news@currentinfishers.com
Digital illustrator and graphic designer Lucie Rice is making grocery shopping a work of art. The Carmel artist’s work has been selected by the Indianapolis Arts Council for display at a new Kroger grocery store in Fishers.
CULTURE
Rice has been creating commercial art for more than 20 years, collaborating with editorial, magazine and book clients. Five years ago, she shifted to large-scale public art projects.
“I work on the computer, which allows me to create work at any size that’s totally scalable,” Rice said.
Rice, who describes her style as whimsical and modern, said she researched iconic aspects of Fishers for the new Kroger artwork.
“They wanted it to be very much about the community of Fishers,” Rice said, adding that the piece features “symbolism to Conner Prairie and to the Geist Reservoir and to the Liberty Square and Nickel Plate district.”
“I wanted it to have a community feel of this is a place where people go and gather and see each other and plan a meal,” she said. “So, I also incorporated grocery elements, produce elements, so that it felt like Kroger and felt like Fishers.” Rice recruited her retired father to help with carpentry aspects that will allow the design to be put together as a series of 12 square panels. The final piece will be roughly 24-by-8-feet and hang inside the store near the entrance.
“To be able to create work on a really large scale, and to have a lot of people see it and enjoy it, has really been so much fun,” Rice said.
The artwork is expected to be ready for display at the store by December.
“Lucie’s mural helps us celebrate the spirit and vibrance of Fishers, acknowledging its history as we celebrate its growth,” said Eric Halvorson, manager of Corporate Affairs for Kroger Central Division. “Those traits enabled us to build this new store.”
For more about Rice’s work, visit lucierice.com.
Artwork for the new Kroger on 116th and Allisonville Road will celebrate iconic aspects of Fishers. (Image courtesy of Lucie Rice)
Spartz
Noblesville goalkeeper develops quickly in first varsity season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville High School junior soccer goalkeeper Alex Eberhart made a quick transition from junior varsity to varsity.
“I think I made the most improvement in my decision making this season, which was something I really had to work at to make big decisions in split-second moments,” Eberhart said.
The Millers, who had won the past three IHSAA Class 3A boys soccer state titles, reached the sectional final Oct. 12 before losing to Carmel 1-0 to finish with an 11-2-6 record.
“Alex is the main reason we were successful this season,” NHS coach Ken Dollaske said. “He has grown so much since last year. Alex was a JV goalkeeper last year and this year he had to fill the shoes of an All-American (Cole Thompson), and he did so admirably.”
Thompson, now a freshman goalkeeper
ALEX EBERHART
Favorite athlete: Matt Turner, goalkeeper for Crystal Palace
Favorite subject: Spanish
Favorite movie: “Surf’s Up”
Favorite band: Red Hot Chili
Peppers
Favorite vacation spot: Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
at Oakland University, was the 2023 Indiana Soccer Coaches Association Player of the Year.
Eberhart played in every game this season, allowing only 11 goals in 18 games. The 6-foot-1 goalkeeper had eight shutouts.
“His reaction saves improved so much
Noblesville High School goalkeeper Alex Eberhart recorded eight shutouts this season. (Photo courtesy of Alex Eberhart)
from last year to this year,” Dollaske said. “His vision and communication from the back have been huge bright spots for us this season. He made saves this year that he would not have made last year. The growth was amazing. Plus, he had never saved a (penalty kick) in his career. This year, he saved two. His senior year will be something special.”
Eberhart said he expects the team will be strong in 2025.
“Given that it was a younger team and many of our guys had never played a varsity minute until this year, I think we absolutely made strides,” he said. “To play the schedule we did and get the results we did was not an easy task at all. We consistently challenged ourselves and made big improvements throughout the year, thanks to our coaching but also the strong, growth-focused mindset of our players.”
Eberhart’s favorite high school memory was watching the Millers defeat Warsaw on penalty kicks last year in the Kokomo Regional semifinals.
“It was great to watch and be able to learn from Cole,” he said.
Eberhart has played for Indy Premier for five years.
“I started playing soccer at 5 years old and started to play goalie around age 10. I played goalie and other positions, too, until I was around 13 and that is when I started playing goalie only,” he said.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
yourBACK PAIN causing you to miss out?
Eberhart
U.S. Navy Adm. William Houston, director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, left, presents a challenge coin to Electronics Technician Petty Officer 2nd Class Riley Spilker of Fishers during an Oct. 3 visit of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis to Newport News, Va. John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipbuilding conducting refueling and complex overhaul to prepare the ship for the second half of its 50-year service life. Challenge coins bear an organization’s insignia or emblem and are carried by an organization’s members. They often are collected by service members and law enforcement personnel. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Tillie)
Lisa Damour for Current.pdf 1 10/11/24 4:26 PM
Meet the District 5 Congressional candidates
Four candidates are running for Indiana’s 5th Congressional District, representing parts of Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Grant, Tipton and Howard counties. The candidates are Democrat Deborah Pickett of Carmel; independent Robby Slaughter of Elwood; incumbent Republican Victoria Spartz of Noblesville; and Libertarian Lauri Shillings of Carmel.
WHY DO YOU WANT TO RUN FOR THIS OFFICE?
Shillings: I believe in responsible government spending, modern education and accessible healthcare. I am a lifelong Hoosier with working-class roots who has become exhausted by the disconnect between our federal government and its people. I will bring a locally rooted, commonsense point of view to Washington, D.C. Spartz: To deliver on some major tough issues neglected by many Congresses for a while, like national debt, so we stop governing by crises.
Slaughter: “A bad system will defeat a good person, every time.” That old quote illustrates what’s happened in our political system: the parties and special interests make sure our government responds
to money instead of voters. We need independent candidates to have a Republic again. That’s why I’m doing this. Pickett: To serve my fellow Hoosiers, and to fight for our democracy and the institutions, rights and freedoms that have been denigrated or taken from us by a former Republican president and his complicit followers.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENTS?
Shillings: I am not a career politician. I have worked service and labor jobs my entire life in Indiana — from detasseling corn, waitressing, bartending, local newspaper graphic designer, to a marketing creative director and adjunct professor in higher education. I want to represent regular voters and their needs, not corporations, life-long politicians, or the elite.
Spartz: Experience, determination and proven track record of results.
Slaughter: They are partisans, I am an independent. They must follow what their parties demand or suffer consequences; I am for the people. They have spent $8.5 million so far in this race; I’ve spent almost nothing. Their party allowed them to run; I collected 6,000 signatures.
Pickett: My military experience as a U.S. Army Reservist, knowledge of international trade and economic issues
acquired from working at Hudson Institute, and my many years of community service set me apart from my opponents. Affection, concern and respect for Hoosiers of all ages makes me their fierce advocate.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Shillings: Inflation: The government’s inability to balance its budget drives inflation, passing the bill onto the people. Individual choice: In a free society, the government has no role to prohibit such behavior as long as people do not resort to violence, force, fraud, or theft. Education: I look to free-market approaches to provide education that best suits individual students and their families, while building a system that makes our future workforce competitive in a global marketplace.
Spartz: Economy, national debt and health care, border security.
Slaughter: The greatest challenge in our nation is not foreign policy, education, the budget or the border. It’s trust: we don’t trust our leaders anymore. And the only way to restore trust is to give up power: term limits, radical financial transparency, and fighting corruption and incompetence.
Pickett: My top three campaign issues are protecting our democratic republic, fighting for and codifying our reproductive rights, and restoring trust in government by working with others to make our government effective and efficient for the people.
For more answers, visit www.youarecurrent.com.
Shilling Spartz
Slaughter Pickett
WHERE THEY STAND
Hamilton Southeastern School Board candidates face off in forum
By Marney Simon leila@youarecurrent.com
Six candidates vying for three seats on the Hamilton Southeastern School Board took part in a public forum Oct. 10 at the City of Fishers Arts & Municipal Center Theater, hosted by Current in Fishers and WFYI.
The candidates are Latrica Schooley and Greg Lannan for Delaware Township, incumbent Suzanne Thomas and Terry Tolle for Fall Creek Township, and incumbent Sarah Parks-Reese and John Stewart for Wayne Township.
One of the topics focused on budget priorities and how to align revenues with expenses in response to the district’s multiyear deficit, due in part to declining enrollment.
Thomas said a budget committee has been formed, but suggested changes.
“I would focus on improving this budget oversight and have a more robust budget finance committee with third-party support, which I suggested repeatedly last year,” she said. “This would provide an in-depth evaluation of spending to ensure financial responsibility. This approach would help identify areas for improvement, optimize resource allocation and ensure that funds are effectively used to benefit both students and staff.”
Tolle, who was a member of the board from 2015 to 2018, said the district previously had to sell property in order to make payroll and ultimately asked for increased funding from the state.
“My first inclination is to see where we make the cuts that don’t include human capital,” he said. “We have to be able to retain our teachers. I’m a big believer that we have to keep our teachers, we need to pay them well and we need to be able to keep our lights on. So, I’m going to do what I can to make sure that we retain our human capital.”
Schooley said the district needs to keep on top of revenue opportunities such as grants and federal funding options and keep the public in the loop.
“Yes, we do have flat enrollment (but) we need to find a way to keep those students inside of our district,” she said. “We lost about 200 students last year and that was over $1 million that we lost. We don’t want to lose human capital (but) when we’re making choices we have to communicate to the public, to the staff, why those specific financial choices are made.”
Lannan argued that while some students are leaving, the district is still desirable for families and particularly for companies looking to relocate to Hamilton County.
“We’re one of the best in the country and certainly the state as a school district,” he said. “In terms of where we have to look in the budget shortfall, our greatest assets are our teachers, and our community’s greatest asset is our schools.”
Parks-Reese said the budget study committee of teachers, administrators and board members already in place
should be allowed to continue its work.
“It’s not up to anyone on this stage what we do,” she said “It’s a collaborative effort. We need to keep in mind that teachers and administrators have to be a part of this decision. We have to protect our class sizes (and) that’s what we will continue to do… There’s not a lot in the budget that I’m willing to cut, but I think we have to work together to figure out where we can find those things.”
Stewart said marketing would play a role in his budget plan.
“We have an issue with our brand at HSE,” he said. “We should not be on the front page of the paper because everybody is arguing and complaining about things in our district. We need to be there when one of our alumni cures cancer or we win some national competition. We’ve lost so many families due to the politics in the school and after COVID — 1,100 families left (the district). Nine million dollars are leaving our school district because parents have chosen to pull their kids out of our school district because our district didn’t align with their values.”
Asked about the district’s vacant position of a diversity, equity and inclusion officer, candidates agreed that the district should provide inclusion and that support is important for all students, but disagreed on whether there needs to be an employee dedicated to DEI, with only Parks-Reese voicing expressed support of filling the empty position.
On the potential for HSE to create a charter or innovation school for high school students that would focus on workforce readiness, each candidate said the idea needs to be explored further before an agreement is reached.
Thomas said she’d like to see a committee formed to explore the opportunity further, due to the district’s budget deficit and to ensure fiscal responsibility.
“We are still doing a lot of research and still gathering information,” she said. “I think it’s very important that we do have (career and technical education) and vocation in our schools.”
Tolle said taxpayers should have a voice in the decision.
“I think we should collaborate with our community stakeholders when it comes down to considering whether we open another school or whether we allow one in our district,” he said. “It’s very difficult for me to see any money be spent anywhere else until we have information to know exactly what’s going to go on and will our board have a seat at the table.”
Schooley said that while she believes in vocational education, the idea needs to be investigated further with additional oversight put in place.
“I feel like we’re opening a Pandora’s Box,” she said. “Once you open that box up, you can’t close it.”
Lannan said he wouldn’t support a charter or innovation school without additional information.
“I think there are a lot more questions than answers,” he said. “Until we get those, I can’t commit to it.”
Parks-Reese voted in favor of exploring the partnership, but said she has concerns.
“The current job posting for the principal doesn’t require experience in career technical education, doesn’t even require experience as a principal,” she said. “We’re trying to create a new model of a charter and we’re not even requiring the person to have experience in leadership or career and tech ed. That’s concerning.”
Stewart said his own children learned differently and attended trade schools.
“I am in favor of more opportunities for our kids who learn differently to be exposed to careers,” he said. “Some students will perform better (in schools) of less than 500 people. It’s early, this thing has not been done, they’ve tabled it for a year. But as it is right now, I’m for opportunity.”
With regard to a labor complaint filed by the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association accusing an administrator of creating a toxic work environment, candidates said they see teachers as the backbone of education in HSE, emphasized the need for teachers to feel respected and supported, and getting to the truth of the matter through the labor dispute process.
Candidates were passionate in their responses regarding how partisan politics have been inserted into school board campaigns, despite the fact that party affiliations are not included in local school board elections under Indiana law. Although all candidates said the school board’s job is to support all students, work collaboratively and stay open minded, candidates Lannan and Stewart said it’s unreasonable to expect candidates to leave political affiliations at the door.
View the full 90-minute forum at youarecurrent.com/ hsedebate2024/
ON THE COVER: From left, HSE School Board candidates Suzanne Thomas, Terry Tolle, Latricia Schooley, Greg Lannan, Sarah Parks-Reese and John Stewart. (Photo illustration by Zach Ross)
Candidates for HSE School Board took part in a public forum Oct. 10 in Fishers. (Current Publishing staff photo)
New studio helps artists achieve their dreams
By Jennifer A. Haire editorial@youarecurrent.com
Nestled in the heart of Carmel on Medical Drive, Artist Development Studio is a new full-service, state-ofthe-art facility to help musical artists achieve their dreams.
A resource for the music and performing arts community, the studio offers private coaching lessons in a variety of musical crafts.
“The idea is to cultivate artists, to get them to be the best that they can be,” said Blair Clark, who has coached young artists for more than 25 years.
Instrumental lessons are offered in bass, drums, keyboard and guitar. Voice lessons in show choir and musical theater, as well as other skills such as audio engineering, looping and DJing, are also offered. Additionally, the studio provides rehearsal and recording space rentals. Clark, 32, of Carmel, is president of Artist Development Co., which operates as a booking agency between artists and community businesses. As an extension of ADC, he created the Artist Development Studio, designed to focus on the artists.
“What I realized is something that’s needed in the community of art is an organization that takes you from the beginning to the end,” Clark said. “Gives you goals, helps you get prepared and then sets you free to go out and get those opportunities in high school, middle school and in the professional marketplace.”
Clark saw the need for a place that appeals to younger artists as well as more advanced performers who want to improve. His solution was a space that could meet the needs of the artists at their skill level and help them grow.
“Blair is a creative force and visionary with an ability to bring together and showcase talents,” said Joseph Filipow, a local musician, DJ and entertainer who has worked with Clark for several years.
Coaches work with artists to identify
long- and short-term goals.
“From the beginning to adult, sometimes the career is just, ‘I’m going to high school (and) I want to get the leads in the musicals,’ and we want to help them with those goals, as well as the ones who decide after college or after high school,
‘I want to be a professional artist,’” Clark said.
Additionally, coaches work with individuals who are interested in the nonperformance, business-side of the industry, as well as prepare artists for the professional environment.
“In the music business, you have to know a lot of different things that have nothing to do with the actual music,” Clark said.
The space has state-of-the-art equipment sourced locally through Piano Solu-
tions. It also has rehearsal rooms with 10- to 20-foot-high ceilings, double-glass doors and drapes for privacy. ADS has collaborated with local artists in the community to feature local artworks.
ADS has hired Indianapolis-based company Vertical Studios, a hands-on marketing educational program, to assist in getting the word out about the unique services ADS provides.
Lessons are offered Monday through Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with Friday and Saturday options based on instructor schedules. Rehearsal space rental dates are available online.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. Oct. 23, with the grand opening scheduled for Nov. 17 at 1 p.m.
For more, visit artistdevstudio.com.
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” runs through Nov. 24 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Deceptions: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for Oct. 24, followed by Dueling Pianos Oct. 25 and “The Ahlwardts Present Human Jukebox” Oct. 26 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three concerts are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘AUTUMN NIGHTS’
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s production of “Autumn Nights” is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 25-26 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org
FLOYD NATION
Floyd Nation’s Experience Pink Floyd is set for 8 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
SPACE ODDITY
Space Oddity: The Quintessential David Bowie Experience will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 26 at Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
VITAMIN STRING QUARTET
Vitamin String Quartet: The Music of Taylor Swift, “Bridgerton” and Beyond is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
HAUNTED OBJECTS LIVE
Dana and Greg Newkirk’s Haunted Objects Live is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
MUSIC
Blair Clark’s Artist Development Studio will have a ribbon-cutting Oct. 23. (Photo courtesy of Blair Clark)
Clark
Children’s Choir gala set
By Les Morris editorial@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir is reaching a fundraising crescendo with a rebranded event Nov. 8 at Ritz Charles in Carmel.
FUNDRAISER
Previously called Big Fun Event, the annual fundraiser has been rechristened The Indianapolis Children’s Choir Gala. There will be more singing, more activities and two auctions. There also is an increase in expectations. Last year, $49,000 was raised. The goal this year is $65,000.
including caroling at the cocktail hour and multiple times during dinner. Bids will be taken from an auctioneer to bring the choir back for an encore in a finale called “Call for the Choir.”
Speaking of auctions, there will be a silent and live auction at the gala. The highlight of the live auction is a jersey signed by Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark and a week’s stay at a home on Lake Michigan.
“This is the first time we are officially calling this our ‘gala’ to let our supporters know to expect a very nice evening,” said Joshua Pedde, ICC’s executive artistic director and a Carmel resident. “Plus, the vintage holiday theme this year ties into our concert season as singers prepare to present ‘A Vintage Holiday’ concerts in December.”
Guests will hear choir voices of approximately 100 singers throughout the evening,
The night also will include a holiday photo booth, an audio guest book where attendees can use a rotary phone to leave a message about the ICC, and a signature mocktail, the Holiday Sparkle.
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir Gala is open to the public and will run from 6 to 10 p.m. at Ritz Charles, 12156 N. Meridian St. in Carmel. Individual tickets are $125 and include hors d’oeuvres, dinner, beer and wine and the musical programming. Tables of eight are available for $1,000. The deadline to purchase a ticket or table is Oct. 24. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more, visit iccchoir.org/gala.
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
GRUPO NICHE FRI, NOV 8 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM THE PIANO GUYS SAT, NOV 9 AT 4PM & 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
Pedde
Blues guitarist books Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
British blues singer-songwriter Joanne Shaw Taylor finds herself in a prolific period.
CONCERT
“Since COVID and not being able to tour as long as we were, it feels good to be creative,” Taylor said. “It’s one of those magical things where you get a load of ideas and you never know how long that is going to last.”
Taylor, who was born and raised in England, lived several years in Detroit before moving to Nashville, Tenn.
Taylor released a single “All The Things I Said” from a yet-to-be-released album earlier this month. She previously released “Black and Gold,” which is the title track of an album due out in 2025. Her 2024 album, “Heavy Soul,” debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Blues Album chart.
Taylor will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Taylor, 39, said getting older has likely helped her improve as a songwriter.
“It’s getting more comfortable with yourself,” she said. “I always suffered from anxiety attacks and depression, and I did a lot of work on that and got myself in a lot better frame of mind. Those things combined got me into a good place where I’m thankful for what I do, and I really enjoy myself. It’s a lucky thing to be able to love what you do for a living.”
Taylor was inspired by listening to renowned blues guitarists.
“Growing up, I was obsessed with blues guitar,” said Taylor, who was discovered by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics when she was 16. “I think I would have been a different artist if I had been born a man because of all my idols on guitar. I could try to copy Albert Collins or B.B. King, but when I was teaching myself to sing, I knew I would never be able to sound like them. So, I had to find female voices to imitate and learn from them, and most of them were outside the blues, like Tina Turner and Mavis Staples.”
For more, visit joanneshawtaylor.com.
Shaw Taylor
New home permits still strong in central Indiana
Permits for new homes increased by 20 percent in August 2024 over 2023, according to a report from the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis.
REAL ESTATE
The City of Westfield continues to outpace other Hamilton County municipalities with new home permits at a rate of two- to five-times more than its counterparts.
Total new home permits issued in August include:
• Westfield — 128
• Noblesville — 56
• Fishers — 22
• Carmel/Clay — 21
• Zionsville — 22
• Whitestown — 45
• Lawrence — 5
• Indianapolis — 238
The breakdown of permits shows the housing market remains robust, driven by strong demand for new homes.
“The recent permit increases in central Indiana signal a healthy housing market,” BAGI CEO Steve Lains stated. “Although home prices remain high, inflationary pressures are easing and that’s a positive sign for builders and buyers. Interest rates are higher than many would prefer even amidst this recent decrease, but with inflation being tamed, we expect to see a stable, resilient housing market moving forward.”
According to BAGI, housing prices in central Indiana remain steady, reflecting the nationwide trend of persistent demand outpacing supply. In September, the Federal Reserve dropped interest rates by a halfpoint. BAGI anticipates that decrease will encourage some homeowners to dive back into the market.
The limited supply of existing homes continues to drive the demand for new construction.
The latest permit breakdown report can be viewed at BAGI.com/Permits.
Meridian Audiology: Here for your hearing needs
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.
many patients find and follow us to Meridian Audiology and many patients refer friends and family to us and that is a testament to our relationships with them.”
“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
Don’t ignore these symptoms
Commentary by Dr.
Hannah Wilson
In our fast-paced world, it can be easy to put your ocular health on the backburn-
experience any of these visual phenomena,
When a retinal detachment occurs, retinal cells separate from the underlying tissue that provides nourishment.
– DR. HANNAH WILSON
Meridian Audiology provides hearing evaluations, hearing aid sales and service, tinnitus counseling and auditory processing disorder evaluation and treatment. They accept most major insurances, offer 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
impossible without a properly functioning
lines or cobwebs. Seeing a few floaters is normal, but a sudden increase of floaters, especially in your central vision, is cause for concern. Finally, if you notice reduced peripheral vision or a shadow of a curtain moving across your field of view, you may
If you experience any of these ocular warning signs, it is imperative that you do not delay in scheduling an appointment with your eye care provider. With early detection, retinal detachments can be treated to preserve your vision and keep you seeing clearly for many years to come.
vision or seeing stars after getting hit in the head. Floaters can appear as specks,
Database compares
Indiana health care costs
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON YOU WILL BE ABLE TO NOMINATE SOMEONE WHO IS IN NEED OF HEARING AIDS TO WIN A SET OF HEARING AIDS FROM MERIDIAN AUDIOLOGY. BY WRITING A SHORT ESSAY EXPLAINING HOW HEARING AIDS COULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE’S LIFE, YOUR NOMINEE COULD WIN A FREE SET! WATCH FOR THE QR CODE AND COMPLETE CONTEST RULES IN THE BLACK FRIDAY EDITION OF THE CURRENT TO NOMINATE SOMEONE!
Nominations will be accepted November 28, 2024 - December 24, 2024; Winner will be announced December 30, 2024 and the fitting will be early January 2025
A new state website is available for Hoosiers to compare health care prices and quality.
WELLNESS news@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana All Payer Claims Database, which is overseen by the Indiana Department of Insurance, helps increase transparency in health care costs. The website collects insurance claims data from public and private health care payers to track the cost, utilization and quality of health care across the state.
The APCD lets Hoosiers search for costs of common procedures across regions, providers and insurance plans. The database includes a list of health care providers that perform services within certain distances from a ZIP code, the average out-of-pocket
costs for a service and the quality rating for that facility.
The database was established by the state Legislature in 2020 and launched this fall. The goals of the database are to identify state health care needs, support health care policy and improve the quality and affordability of health care in the state.
Information collected by the APCD complies with the security standards outlined in the U.S. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and the U.S. Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act. Onpoint Health Data, the Indiana APCD administrator, is certified by HITRUST, an industry-leading standard in health data security that uses both federal and state security requirements. For more, visit apcd.idoi.in.gov.
VonBlon
Wyss
Dr. Hannah Wilson is an optometrist at RevolutionEYES and Little Eyes Pediatric Eye Care in Carmel. She is happy to answer any questions regarding family vision needs and can be reached at DrWilson@Revolution-EYES.com.
Editor,
READERS’ VIEWS
Vote responsibly
Neighbors, it’s that time again — election season! Besides the big position, there is another very important vote this November: Hamilton Southeastern School District School Board.
I’m sure you’ve already seen the multitude of shiny, big signs that say Lannan, Stewart, Tolle on them. What you probably don’t know is that these individuals are part of an organization called Fishers One that “bought” the last four seats on our board (Lang, Orr, Albright, Pascoe) using similar signs and mailers. How much did that cost? Over $90,000. Yes, $90,000 (source: Hamilton County Donation records).
Now that those four individuals own a majority vote on the board, they can push HSE in any direction they’d like, even if the community tells them they don’t want it. One of the platforms this group ran on was fiscal responsibility. However, they made several decisions right out of the gate that proved to cost taxpayers more money:
• They hired a new law firm with a higher retainer than the firm HSE had worked with for years and already has monthly charges 38 percent more than 2022 (source: Board Docs).
• They tried to vote down a mental health grant (Feb. 8, 2023, meeting).
• They hired a new superintendent at a 19 percent higher salary after paying the previous superintendent $364,662.75 to resign and not sue the board (Sept. 13, 2023, meeting and Board Docs).
• They are trying to open a charter school in Fishers that will funnel our tax dollars to it, including the referendum money that was approved last year for our schools.
I don’t think you can call any of this fiscally responsible.
Neighbors of Fishers, giving this organization all seven school board seats wouldn’t be responsible on our part, either. Mike McCabe, Fishers
Get informed and vote
ESSAY Commentary by Terry Anker
The polls are open and early voting has begun. Lawns and public rights-of-way are littered with signage emblazoned with pleas for support or threats of an imagined coming dystopia if the wrong lever is pulled. We get a rest from advertisements for fast food and automobiles during the morning news shows — only to be bombarded with slickly produced “media buys” targeting the unicorn-like independent voter. Good, one could suppose — suffrage matters. An informed electorate is better equipped to meet the minimum expectation of our shared civic duty. Still, a short survey of the ephemera makes it clear that some are all too eager to manipulate and deceive the uninitiated. Like the “small print” in a predatory contract, the commercials make it nearly imposible to discern the bias of the message. Do all office workers, teachers, business owners or baristas support a candidate because the ad says so? Or is a union, chamber or political strategist behind the message —
assuming far more authority to represent the identity group than is justifiable?
National politics tend to suck all the oxygen out of a room. Countless will opine about Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, but few will take time to fully explore the important local candidates. In a world with imperfect information, how do we commit to a vote? We could attend or watch a debate, read position papers or greet the candidates when they knock on the door. But absent the time or inclination, what is right? Do we skip the responsibility and stay home or go with our perception of the top-of-theticket candidate? How hard is it to ballot line by line? If we like the direction of our communities, we should vote to keep that leader group in power. If not, we could vote otherwise — if we could figure out what that means.
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@ youarecurrent.com.
51. Fort Ben Farmers Market veggie
53. Troop group
55. IMPD rap sheet letters
56. PC file suffix
57. The one there
59. Revise
61. Hat worn by some Crooked Stick golfers
63. Erode
65. Installed, as carpet
67. Former IU basketball team member who wrote “On the Rebound”
71. Indianapolis Opera voice
72. Butler frat letter
73. Fallon’s predecessor
74. Large inlets
75. Mythical man-goat
76. Art Deco name Down
1. Blackjack request
2. Family card game
3. Unexpected blessing
4. “Enough already!”
5. Urban haze
6. Bakes of Carmel buy
7. Tuna type
8. Woodworker’s tool
9. Mud Creek thespian
. Lotion additive
. Get back together
. Body of eau
. Chicago-to-Indy dir.
. Smell bad
. Primp
23. Indy 500 entrant
24. Shapiro’s loaf 25. “Don’t move!”
27. White River angler’s lure 28. Pacers stats 31. IND gate info
32. PU advanced degs. 34. Indiana National Guard rank (Abbr.)
36. Astound
38. Hoosier Park horse color 41. Leaves out
. Diamondback, e.g.
. Squeeze (out) 50. Otologist’s concern
. Snap shots
. “Ciao!”
. Fragrance
. Soup server
. Wedding vows
. Tense
. Slightly open 65. Lilly research site
66. MCL dessert choice: pie ___ mode
68. Lions, on a Colts scoreboard
69. Toronto’s prov.
70. Misery Answers on Page 23
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