December 3, 2024 — Fishers by Current Publishing

THE LEO SOFA

BARTOLA END TABLE 18”x24”x20”

ALLIE SWIVEL CHAIR

BERNIE SWIVEL CHAIR

Holiday Porchfest

MIDTOWN PLAZA

Join us at Holiday PorchFest, a free holiday event in Midtown Carmel with performers singing our favorite Holiday songs. Vendors will be onsite o ering warm beverages and snacks.

2:00 p.m. Bach to Rock Band

3:00 p.m. Carmel PorchFest Grant Presentations

3:10 p.m. School of Rock Band

Midtown Plaza is a Trolley Stop for the Carmel Holiday Trolley.

Hamilton County Tourism picks new CEO

By Les Morris news@youarecurrent.com

David West is comfortable in a learning environment. The son of two Michigan State University professors, the new CEO of Hamilton County Tourism is getting a crash course on the county’s landscape as he navigates his new gig, which started in October.

INDUSTRY

“One of the big things we’re doing in Hamilton County is economic development and my background in economics is really playing out,” West said. “This has been my training for most of my life to be in this business.”

West is meeting with, among others, public officials, board members and executives at various attractions to get a better feel for his new surroundings. He replaces Brenda Myers, who retired this summer after leading the organization for 19 years.

West, 53, was seemingly born into the world he inhabits, a milieu built on tourism and adventure. His father, a professor of education at MSU, organized university programs abroad and the family lived in Europe for a time. The college environment back home in East Lansing provided opportunity as well.

“I grew up with people from all over the world,” West said. “It was always around my house.”

“Tourism is in his blood. His entire background touches tourism in many different sectors.” said Scott Spillman, executive director of Mudsocks Youth Athletics and incoming Hamilton County Tourism board chair.

After earning an undergraduate degree at the rival University of Michigan, West returned to MSU for a graduate degree with an economic emphasis.

West has more than two decades of professional experience in the tourism and destination management industry, including stints at the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau in Pennsylvania, the Michigan Economic Development Corp.

— he led the “Pure Michigan” marketing initiatives — and for the last seven years as an executive with Herschend Family Entertainment based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Herschend’s notable tourism properties include Dollywood Parks & Resorts, Kentucky Kingdom, the Newport Aquarium and the Harlem Globetrotters.

The experience with Herschend was evidence of significant accomplishment, according to Norman Burns, president and CEO of Conner Prairie and board chair for Hamilton County Tourism.

“David spearheaded so many initiatives with them, including record-breaking visitation at Dollywood,” Burns said.

During this trajectory, West made many industry contacts, including Jeff Robinson, managing director of marketing for Visit Indy.

“I’ve always thought him to be an innovative and interesting guy who pushes the boundaries creatively,” Robinson said of West.

One example of that creativity occurred early in West’s career when he worked for an ad agency in Pennsylvania and his client

DISPATCHES

OneZone ‘Member-Bration’ planned — OneZone Chamber is hosting its first Member-Bration lunch, set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Forum Event Center in Fishers. OneZone Chamber President and CEO Jack Russell will present a yearin-review, a discussion of the 2025 goals and the new OneZone brand, including a refreshed logo, messaging and programming. For tickets, visit onezonechamber. com.

Winter Art Sale — The Fishers Art Center presents its first Winter Art Sale, set for noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Fishers Art Center, 1 Municipal Drive. The free event is an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts,

was Sesame Place Philadelphia, a children’s theme park in suburban Bucks County. His idea, novel at the time, was to come up with “bus wraps” for Sesame Place and put them on New York City buses. He still has that campaign’s artwork.

West was not unfamiliar with central Indiana. A devoted gamer and Gen Con fan, he attended the group’s annual convention in Indianapolis and he said he’s been to a few Big 10 championship football games at Lucas Oil Stadium. When he heard about the Hamilton County opportunity, he jumped.

“There is so much they want to accomplish, where they want to go, and the excitement and passion for growing the county,” West said. “They were speaking my language.”

His objective is for Hamilton County to create a sense of place — to have visitors come for a weekend baseball or soccer tournament at Grand Park in Westfield but stay a couple of extra days after the headers and hits to enjoy all the county has to offer.

“People want to go out and want to have experiences,” he said. “They are starved for things to do. If we can just get people here, the next thing they’ll ask is ‘What else is there?’ Your enemy is people doing nothing.”

Board chair Burns added, “With what we bring to the table in terms of destinations for athletics and entertainment, we have a good base for someone like David to come in and build on the success we’ve had in the past.”

For more about Hamilton County Tourism, visit visithamiltoncounty.com.

including paintings, jewelry, textiles, ceramics and more.

Mr. Quik buys Fishers business — Reasonable Plumbing, a southeast Fishers-based plumbing company, has recently been acquired by the Indianapolis-based Mr. Quik Home Services, according to a news release from the company. Mister Quik Home Services provides various emergency home services, including plumbing, electrical and HVAC, throughout the greater Indianapolis area.

Art for veterans — The Fishers Art Center has partnered with Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) to offer free classes

and workshops for veterans, service members, military family members and caregivers, including a free printmaking Make It Take It workshop for the military-connected community from 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 7. For more about the center, visit fishersartcenter.org.

Cookies with Characters — The City of Fishers Parks Department presents the annual Cookies with Characters Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15 at the Ambassador House. All parents and children, regardless of age, must be registered to attend. Children 2 and under are free to attend with registration. To register, visit playfishers. com/583/Cookies-with-Characters.

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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIV, No. 46

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- M u s t p a r t i c i p a t e i n 1 - 2 h o u r s o f i n d i v i d u

- M u s t a t t e n d a t l e a s t o n e C i t y o f F i s h e r s b o a r d , c o m m i s s i o n , o r C i t y C o u n c i l p u b l i c m e e t i n g d u

KKK fliers distributed in Hamilton County

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Some Hamilton County residents reported finding fliers in neighborhood streets Nov. 18 and 19. The fliers ask people to “track and monitor illegal immigrants” and “report them Jan. 20” to U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. The fliers claim to be distributed by the Trinity White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan from Maysville, Ky.

Fliers were discovered on the ground by residents in downtown Westfield, between Main and East streets. Several residents made reports to the Westfield Police Department. However, there is little the police can do at this time.

“There was a case report done, but nothing illegal was done, as disturbing as it may be,” WPD Captain Rob Dine said. “It is documented. It seems like some fliers were found in Carmel and Fishers as well. It kind of looks like someone just threw them out of a car window as they were driving.”

Current Publishing readers also reported finding fliers in Noblesville.

Dine said although a report was made, the fliers are considered protected speech under the First Amendment.

“The KKK is considered a hate group, but it’s not illegal to be a member,” Dine said. “The literature may be disturbing to Hamilton County residents, but unfortunately, it’s not illegal.”

Fliers purported to be distributed by the Ku Klux Klan were discovered Nov. 18 and 19 in Hamilton County. (Photo provided)

Opportunity Education cancels HSE charter school application

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

A proposed innovation charter school that Hamilton Southeastern Schools officials had been working toward with international nonprofit Opportunity Education since August will not move forward after OE officials withdrew the application from consideration.

EDUCATION

ed during the exploration of this opportunity, and we have been impressed by your district leadership’s vision and collaboration throughout this process.”

Mapes stated that OE’s withdrawal marks a missed opportunity.

HSE Superintendent Patrick

Mapes sent an email Nov. 20 to HSE families and staff announcing the news.

Mapes quoted some of Opportunity Education’s withdrawal letter, which stated, “Opportunity Education and our founder, Joe Ricketts, proposed to serve the teachers and students of the HSE District with unprecedented philanthropic investments in school facilities and an excellence-focused school model built on student ownership of their learning and readiness for college and career. We saw exciting synergy between our philanthropic mission and your district leadership’s commitment to student future-readiness.

“While we believe this synergy still exists, we also understand that this may not be an optimal time for the community to undertake such an innovation effort, particularly one that challenges accepted assumptions about what schools can be, with a focus on putting student interests first. We deeply value the time and thoughtful consideration you have provid-

“Hamilton Southeastern Schools will continue to explore all possibilities to enhance educational opportunities for our students while emphasizing open and transparent communication with all stakeholders,” he stated.

During a Nov. 13 public hearing on the charter school application, 20 people spoke strongly against the proposal. Some school board members also expressed reservations. A final vote on the application had been scheduled for the board’s Dec. 11 meeting, but that item will no longer be on the agenda.

Hamilton Southeastern Education Association President Abby Taylor shared a statement from the teachers union declaring the news a victory for students, teachers and parents in the school district.

“We are proud of everyone who showed Opportunity Education that there is no place for its charter school or any other charter schools within HSE’s boundaries,” the union stated, adding that it makes sense to explore expanded career and technical education opportunities within the district.

The proposed charter school was going to focus on CTE.

DISPATCHES

Winter Break camp — Registration is open for the City of Fishers Parks Department’s 2024 Winter Break Camp. The annual winter break camp offers drop-in camp days for a range of ages and follows Hamilton Southeastern Schools’ district calendar. Classes are Dec. 23, 26, 27, 30 and 31, and Jan. 2 and 3. For more and to register, visit playfishers.com/750/Winter-Break-Camp.

Event Center to host Mudsock Rivalry — Tickets are on sale for the annual Mudsock Rivalry boys and girls basketball games between Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high schools, set for Dec. 20 at the new Fishers Event Center. The girls game starts

at 6 p.m. and the boys play at 8 p.m. For tickets, visit FishersEventCenter.com.

Citywide trash service — All households in Fishers city limits will transition to Republic Services for all trash and recycling collection beginning Jan. 13, 2025. Monthly services fees will be reflected in residents’ January Fishers Utilities billing statements. Information on routes and container delivery will be released in December. No action is required at this time for current Republic or Waste Management customers for this change. For updates and details, visit FishersIN.gov/Trash.

Mapes

CELEBRATE WITH EPCON COMMUNITIES DURING THE DECEMBER 1-15 • 12-5 pm

Discover our Beautiful Model Homes, in Close, Connected Communities Across Fishers, Westfield and Zionsville

The countdown to the holidays is on, and for 15 days, you can experience the magic of Epcon’s luxury ranch homes during the most wonderful time of the year. We invite you to tour our festive model homes, beautifully decorated for the season. Experience firsthand how our open, single-level designs bring warmth and ease to holiday gatherings, with plenty of space to host and celebrate. At Epcon, our low-maintenance communities in Fishers, Westfield and Zionsville offer more than homes—they offer a way of living that keeps you close to what matters most, all year long.

Don’t miss your chance to join us for Epcon’s Holiday Tour of Homes.

Pedestrian killed on I-69 near Fishers High School

An unidentified man was killed a little after 4 a.m. Nov. 22 when he tried to cross I-69 on foot and was struck by a tractor-trailer.

According to an announcement from the Indiana State Police, the accident was reported at 4:23 a.m. First responders were called to the highway’s northbound lane near Fishers High School.

“Upon arrival, first responders found a man lying in the roadway unresponsive,” the announcement stated. “That man was later pronounced deceased at the scene. There were no other injuries reported.”

The announcement stated that the man was crossing the roadway from the west to the east and was struck in the center

lane of the northbound side. The semi driver remained on-scene and waited for police to arrive.

A vehicle belonging to the victim was found on a city street in Fishers with two flat tires.

“At this point, investigators are not sure why the man was crossing the interstate or where he may have been going,” the announcement stated. “As standard practice with all fatal crashes, tests for intoxication are pending.”

The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene to recover the remains. The northbound lanes of I-69 were closed for several hours for on-scene investigation and clean-up.

Fishers Police Department, Fishers Fire Department and INDOT personnel also assisted at the scene.

Free Yoga Wednesdays — The City of Fishers Parks Department offers Free Yoga Wednesdays indoors at the Billericay Park building, 12690 Promise Rd. The classes run from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. through the end of the year and are led by Roots & Wings Yoga Wellness. All skill levels are welcome. Participants must bring their own mat.

Fishers police arrest three on drug, forgery charges

CRIME news@currentinfishers.com

Three suspects face felony charges related to drug possession and an alleged scheme involving fraudulent checks following an investigation by the Fishers Police Department.

According to an announcement from FPD, officers discovered hundreds of fraudulent checks during a Nov. 13 welfare check on a vehicle parked at a stoplight near I-69 and Campus Parkway.

from Indianapolis. Officers found multiple gift cards, credit cards and hundreds of checks in the vehicle.

“Some checks appeared to be ‘washed,’ showing signs of tampering and alterations and others were blank checks from various businesses,” the announcement stated.

“When officers approached, they found three adults asleep in the vehicle,” the announcement stated, identifying them as David Davis of Avon, Jessica Sprankle of Indianapolis and Amy Gill of Needham.

According to the announcement, Davis allegedly stole the vehicle and license plate

Police identified dozens of victims and learned that Davis allegedly had stolen checks from mailboxes.

“Through the diligent efforts of our officers during this welfare check, we may have prevented numerous individuals and businesses from falling victim to fraud,” FPD Chief Ed Gebhart stated. “The action not only apprehended the suspects but also dismantled a scheme that could have caused significant harm to our community,”

Davis Sprankle

Gill

DISPATCHES

Public Safety — The Hamilton County Traffic Safety Partnership has increased patrol visibility as part of the annual Safe Family Travel campaign. The campaign focuses on impaired driving, aggressive driving and proper use of seat belts. During the campaign, officers will work overtime conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols designed to discourage impaired driving and promote seat belt use. Motorists are encouraged to call 911 if they encounter an impaired or unsafe driver on the road.

Diaper drive — The Indiana Diaper Bank is collecting diapers, training diapers, wipes and monetary donations through the month of December in the 2024 #ShareTheLove diaper drive. The goal is to collect $30,000 — approximately 120,000 diapers — by the end of 2024. The drive assists struggling families through the Indiana Diaper Bank’s social service organization partners. Indiana Diaper Bank distributes up to 600,000 diapers every month throughout the state to programs that support Hoosier families who struggle to afford diapers. Learn more at indianadiaperbank.org.

Pickleball Palooza — Ivy Tech Hamilton County will host the inaugural Pickleball Palooza beginning at 11 a.m. Dec. 15 at Grand Park in Westfield. Players of all ages and abilities are invited to participate. Pickleball Palooza will feature a non-sanctioned, mixed-singles scramble with players competing in skill-based pools. Funds raised through Pickleball Palooza will support Ivy Tech Hamilton County’s campus programs. Registration is $75 and the registration deadline is Dec. 10. Register at tinyurl.com/z7nyvv9d.

Sporting goods drive – Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield is hosting a sporting goods drive through Dec. 15 to collect new and gently used items to benefit youth in local communities. Requested items include cleats, baseball and softball equipment, soccer balls, helmets and school gym equipment. Donations will benefit Hamilton County Youth Assistance Programs, Indianapolis RBI, Mudsocks, Sheridan School District and Hamilton Heights School District. Drop-off locations include Grand Park Events Center, baseball administration building, Pro X, Pacers Athletic Center, Westfield YMCA, Westfield Police Department and Westfield City Services. Learn more at grandpark.org.

Image: Aren Straiger

Max & Tilly’s brings British flavor to Fishers

By Cassie King news@currentinfishers.com

Fishers has welcomed a taste of England with the opening of Max & Tilly’s, a restaurant specializing in authentic fish-andchips and other British-inspired dishes.

RESTAURANT

The restaurant, at the corner of 116th Street and Moore Road, is the brainchild of Newcastle, England, native Sharon Moore. Moore, who previously operated Tilly’s Tea Room in Fishers in 2015, explained that the new venture is a return to her roots.

“This was our original location when we first opened Tilly’s Tea Room,” Moore said. “The area has developed into such a great spot, and it felt like the perfect time to bring our concept back home.”

The restaurant’s name reflects Moore’s family ties, with “Max” representing her 14-year-old son and “Tilly” her 16-year-old daughter.

Moore said Max & Tilly’s prides itself on providing a traditional English dining experience, including a music playlist that is exclusively British, with customer suggestions encouraged.

The fish-and-chips are made with a signature beer batter and served as a whole cod fillet, accompanied by authentic chips — distinct from fries — and classic sides such as mushy peas, gravy or curry sauce.

“We use authentic recipes and top-quality ingredients,” Moore said. “The fish must

This Week’s Market Magic!

Special Events

be the best quality to ensure it fries up perfectly — crispy on the outside and flaky inside.”

In addition to fish-and-chips, the menu features a variety of savory pies, including pepper steak with merlot and chicken curry. The menu also will feature “filthy fries,” a British twist on poutine, loaded with toppings such as roast beef and gravy or chicken curry.

The tea room’s legacy continues with sweet and savory scones served with homemade preserves and fresh clotted cream.

Moore said Max & Tilly’s is more than a place to grab a meal — it’s designed to be a vibrant community hub.

“We want it to feel like a comfortable gathering place, with a fun vibe and great food,” Moore said.

The space also includes plans for Tilly’s Tea Room to reopen next door, offering afternoon tea by day and transitioning to wine and small plates in the evening.

After a soft-launch opening in mid-November, Moore hoped to fully launch Max & Tilly’s menu by Thanksgiving, pending final inspections.

“We’re excited to share the true English fish-and-chips experience, served wrapped in newspaper with salt, malt vinegar and mushy peas,” Moore said.

Max & Tilly’s hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 8701 E 116th St #140.

For more, visit maxandtillys.com.

Dec. 4, 4:30-9 p.m., Christkind ChoralFest

Dec. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Sankt Nikolaustag

Dec. 7, 12:30-3 p.m., KulturFest

Werkstatt

Dec. 4-8, Falk Bauer & Katrin Zapf, Lauscha Glassblowers

Kinderecke

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., String Art Craft

Dec. 6, 4-9 p.m., Dry Snow Globes Craft

Spielhaus

Dec. 4, 4-9 p.m., Market Magic Show

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., Storytelling & Music

Dec. 8, 12-6 p.m., Santa

Entertainment

Dec. 5, 4:30-6 p.m., Matt Tolentino Trio

Dec. 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio

Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m., Alex Meixner

Dec. 7, 6:30-9 p.m., Alex Meixner

Dec. 8, 1-3 p.m., Alex Meixner

November 23 - December 24

Max & Tilly’s specializes in British-inspired food. From left are staff members Dylan Harter, Willena McDade, owner Sharon Moore, Jonathan Smith and Ruth Ann Hundley. (Photo by Cassie King)

Westfield High School senior improves her post presence

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

In her first year as a starter, Westfield High School senior Samantha Price has made a significant impact on the girls basketball team.

“She has good size and athleticism inside and we want to get the ball into her when we can,” Shamrocks coach Kelsey Steele said. “Sam can run the floor well for us and put pressure on the defense in those ways.”

Price saw limited action as a sophomore. As a junior, she averaged 3.7 points and 3.4 rebounds per game for the Shamrocks, who finished 13-11 last season. She sank 61 percent of her shots and was 36 percent from the free throw line.

Prior to the Nov. 26 game at Pike, the 6-foot-1 Price was averaging team-highs of 14 points on 65 percent shooting and 8.7 rebounds per game for the Shamrocks (2-3).

“Sam has made the most improvement in her post game at the rim. We are continuing to work on this with her but we are proud of the growth we have seen so far,” Steele said.

SAMANTHA PRICE

Favorite TV show: “Outer Banks”

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

Favorite subject: Math

Price said she has become more comfortable with the ball in the post.

“I’ve had to step up more and lead more than I did last year,” Price said.

Steele said Price is growing as a vocal leader and growing her game.

“Sam does so much more than just score,” Steele said. “An underrated part of her game is her ability to affect the game on the defensive end. She had incredible

instincts around the ball and impacts the game in so many ways.”

Westfield graduated three starters, Ellie Kelleher, Kiki Loveless and Reagan Lorenzen, from last season’s team. All three are playing college basketball. Kelleher is at Indiana Wesleyan, Lovelace is at Indiana Tech and Lorenzen is at Rose-Hulman.

Price’s goal for the season is “to win sectionals and make it to state.”

Price will play basketball for Mount St. Joseph University, an NCAA Division III pro-

gram in Cincinnati.

“I just felt the most comfortable and at home there,” she said. “Everyone was really nice and welcoming.”

Price started playing basketball in recreation leagues in second grade.

“(I) started playing competitively in ninth grade,” said Price, who also played softball growing up.

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.

Westfield High School senior Samantha Price has become a solid scorer in her first year as a starter. (Photo courtesy of Samantha Price)

Local police help with federal meth bust

CRIME news@geistcurrent.com

Eleven Indiana residents have been indicted in federal court on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine following a multiagency operation that included Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Lawrence Police Department. In all, 16 agencies coordinated to execute 22 arrest and search warrants at 11 locations in central Indiana Nov. 20. Ten individuals were arrested and are in federal custody.

According to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Southern District of Indiana, federal agents and local police seized firearms and quantities of

fentanyl, methamphetamine and marijuana.

The people indicted are:

• Matthew Fishman, 38, of Bloomington

• Megan Gaskin, 29, of Indianapolis

• Joseph Grubb, 37, of Bloomfield

• Amanda Hornaday, 40, of Indianapolis

• Candace Rich, 44, of Indianapolis

• Ashley Russell, 38, of Indianapolis

• Colton Shorkey, 33, of Franklin

• James Sublett Jr., 39, of Westfield

• James Tyus Jr., 39, of Indianapolis

• Kelly Willis, 52, of Indianapolis

• Thomas Winkley, 45, of Indianapolis

Joseph A. Grubb remains a fugitive, according to the announcement.

The indictment alleges that since February, all 11 defendants conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Tyus allegedly acted as the leader

DISPATCH

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

of the operation and Sublett was named as the supplier. The remaining defendants allegedly acted as dealers and distributers.

The alleged meth deals took place at various locations across Indianapolis, including parking lots, gas stations, apartment complexes, motels and a gentleman’s club.

“Getting deadly drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl off our streets is a top priority for our office,” stated Zachary Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “That is why working with our partners at DEA, IMPD and across federal, state and local law enforcement is so important. We are committed to identifying drug traffickers and holding them accountable in federal court.”

If convicted, each defendant faces up to life in federal prison.

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.

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RQAW leader stepping down

RESIGNATION news@currentinfishers.com

Fishers-based architecture and engineering firm RQAW I DCCM recently announced that CEO Troy Woodruff will step down from his position effective Dec. 2, 2024, after nearly a decade with the business.

RQAW | DCCM was founded in 1954 as a civil engineering firm and evolved over the years into a full-service multi-discipline firm providing consulting services in transportation, environmental, survey, water/wastewater and architectural design.

According to the announcement, after becoming co-president/CEO in 2017, Woodruff and business partner Brad Battin were able to expand the company from a staff of nine to nearly 140 employees and increased company revenue from $500,000 to more than $23 million annually.

RQAW was acquired in 2022 by DCCM, an infrastructure design firm headquartered in Houston, Texas. Woodruff continued the role of CEO/president until early in 2024 when Lisa Casler was promoted to president.

Woodruff stated that he had always considered himself a builder and prides himself in putting the right people in place to ignite a company’s growth and potential.

“I never intended to stay forever when I started this venture but wanted to be sure that, when the day came, the company I love and have poured my heart into was stable, had a great leader in place and was in a strong position to move forward into the future,” he stated. “I truly believe all those boxes have been checked. Lisa is 100 percent ready to lead this organization and with her leadership and the support of the DCCM family, the sky is the limit.”

Woodruff has not yet determined what is next for his career, according to the announcement. In the meantime, he stated that he is looking forward to enjoying time with his wife, Melissa, and planning their next chapter.

For more about the company, visit rqaw. com.

Woodruff

Ex-Carmel High School standout ready for Ignite

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Former Carmel High School volleyball player Carly Skjodt can’t imagine a better scenario.

VOLLEYBALL

Skjodt will play for the Indy Ignite of the Pro Volleyball Federation. The Ignite will play their games at Fishers Event Center, with the season opener set for Jan. 11, 2025.

“It was never a thought when I was in college, but it’s only grown exponentially with the college scene growing and growing,” Skjodt said. “Being able to play (professionally) in the U.S., I can’t even say I dreamed of because it was never even a possibility. When I was growing up, overseas was the only option. I tried it out for a bit in Portugal.”

“Being able to play (professionally) in the U.S., I can’t even say I dreamed of because it was never even a possibility.”

– CARLY SKJODT

After playing indoor volleyball at the University of Michigan, the 2015 CHS graduate played two seasons of beach volleyball at Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif.

“That’s more of a hobby because the money you can make in that is not comparable,” said Skjodt, who was an All-American at Michigan. “When PVF was talked about, I wasn’t even sure I could get back into the indoor game. It had been like three years since I played. It’s so special to be a part of. It’s really a full-circle moment for me to play.”

A 6-foot-1 outside hitter, Skjodt played with Orlando earlier this year in the league’s first season.

“It was an amazing experience, and for the first year of the league it was really well put together,” Skjodt said. “They treated us great. We have so many resources. It was so much fun to be part of a team again. When you are playing beach (volleyball), it’s just you and your partner. Being part of this movement of volleyball in the U.S. was really cool. I loved my team in Orlando.”

Skjodt said it is an unbelievable experience for her to be back at home.

“My parents love volleyball and love to support me,” Skjodt said. “My sister is having babies now. I get to be around my parents and it’s a special time in my life and their lives. They are first-time grandparents, and my siblings are in town.”

Skjodt has spent the fall as the executive assistant to head coach Steve Aird for the Indiana University women’s volleyball team.

“Depending on my playing career will determine the next steps,” she said. “I’m really enjoying it. Coach Steve gave me this really cool opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the college game from the outside, not being a player.”

Skjodt said she is determining whether she wants to be involved with college volleyball in the future.

“It’s interesting to see the changes in college sports,” she said. “I’m not quite sure if it’s the route I’m going to take, but it’s awesome to be a part of it and see what life would be like in college sports.”

Skjodt helped lead CHS to its only IHSAA state volleyball state championship when the Greyhounds won the Class 4A title her senior year in 2014.

Skjodt has been playing volleyball since age 10.

“It’s crazy (volleyball) is finally getting the recognition it deserves,” Skjodt said. “I’m obviously biased but volleyball is such an entertaining and enjoyable game for people to watch and play.”

The Ignite was scheduled to report Dec. 1 to training camp. Skjodt said she has been working out on her own at IU.

“We’ll have a month and two weeks to get the team ready,” she said. “I’m so excited to play in Fishers Event Center. Growing up, I felt Indiana was a volleyball state, in my opinion. I think Indiana is such a perfect market for volleyball because it’s small and intimate enough for people to appreciate it. Women’s sports (are) on the rise as a whole with the (way the Indiana) Fever are taking off. I think our community is really going to show up for us.”

Skjodt

OPENING DAY

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

After many years of planning and more than a year of construction, the City of Fishers celebrated the official opening of the new 7,500-seat Fishers Event Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 22, hours before the $170 million center hosted its first event, a concert by country band Turnpike Troubadours.

“This is a very, very special day for the City of Fishers and it’s a long time in the making,” Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness told the group gathered for the ceremony. “For some of us, this has been a dream or an idea that’s been kicked around literally for over a decade.”

Fadness said he and Jim Hallett, owner of the Indy Fuel hockey team, started talking about an event center in Fishers in 2011 or 2012. There were some obstacles they had to overcome, including the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, but they eventually found a suitable location in the Fishers District — 11000 Stockdale St. — close to the FORUM Event Center and Ikea, and found business partners to help make it happen.

Fadness credited Deputy Mayor Elliott Hultgren for his work and the Fishers City Council for supporting the project; and ASM Global, which is managing the center and booking all the events. Fadness said he hopes the community enjoys what the center has to offer moving forward.

“I’m not one for a pomp and circumstance. I’m not one for ribbon cuttings most of the time,” he said. “What I will enjoy … more than anything tonight, is … sitting back and watching countless Fishers residents today, tomorrow and well into the future, experience this facility, share a memory with their family — whether that’s an unbelievable concert, whether it’s an Indy Fuel game, whether it’s our incredible women’s volleyball team that we’re going to have here, whether it’s the Fishers Freight or, frankly, whether it’s graduation or the (Hamilton Southeastern Schools) Mudsock basketball game — whatever those things are, the opportunity to know that I had a small part in creating this opportunity to have them experience that — that’s what this is all about for me.”

Community

new Fishers Event Center

The center is the new home base for the Indy Fuel as well as the new Indy Ignite professional volleyball team and Fishers Freight indoor football team. The first Indy Fuel home game is scheduled for Dec. 6 at the center.

Center manager Mitch List from ASM also spoke and thanked everyone who was part of planning and building the new facility.

“In the final weeks, the building has

transformed into an extraordinary venue with finishing touches, bringing every space to life in the venue,” he said. “Behind the scenes, cutting-edge technology supports seamless operation, from free-flow parking to advanced screening technology at the entrances to get you to our concession stands faster, ensuring that you won’t miss a moment of the action at the Fishers Event Center. The attention to detail is evi-

dent in every corner of this facility, delivering a venue that truly stands apart.”

For more about the event center and its upcoming events, visit fisherseventcenter. com.

ON THE COVER: Audience members packed the new Fishers Event Center for the opening show by Turnpike Troubadours. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Event Center)

The Fishers Event Center isn’t offering the usual steamed hot dogs and popcorn. Instead, peckish guests attending events at the new center can choose locally sourced bratwurst; pizza with jackfruit; a mac-and-cheese bar with add-ons like brisket, bacon and blue cheese; and smashburgers with a signature seasoning blend.

During a recent tasting event for media, John Stockholm, director of food and beverage at the Fishers Event Center, said his team looked at food offered at a variety of stadiums and arenas before coming up with the Fishers Event Center’s menu.

“The bottom line is, the top-10 items in any arena are pretty much the same,” he

said. “So instead of trying to go adding things — whether it’s unnatural colors or something that’s so big no one can eat it — we decided to take those top-10 items and work on what we could do to

elevate those top-10 items.”

The double-cheese smashburger is one example. Stockholm said the meat is locally sourced and grass fed, bought from Fischer Farms. The burgers are seasoned with a special blend created by the center’s head chef.

Center guests also can try a roasted beet salad, bratwurst from Old Major Market and a pork-belly cinnamon roll — a pork belly that is cut thin, rubbed with spices and brown sugar and rolled up before cooking, then topped with a creamy horseradish sauce.

For more about the food offerings at the Fishers Event Center, visit fisherseventcenter.com/venue-info/ food-and-beverage.

NOT YOUR TYPICAL CONCESSIONS

celebrates

A double-cheese smashburger and pineapple nachos are among the concession items at the new Fishers Event Center. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

Construction on the new Fishers Event Center began in spring 2023. The $170 million facility will host events such as concerts and comedy shows along with sporting events.

Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness speaks during the Fishers Event Center grand-opening ceremony. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

‘WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen’ set for Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Steve Perry’s group originally started out as a punk rock/ska band.

“Our first music was swing music, so we’ve really been playing swing music from the beginning along with the other stuff,” Perry said.

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will perform its “WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5.

“We’re basically known for being a swing band, which is a large amount of 20th century popular jazz,” Perry said. “We run the gamut from ragtime to hot jazz to all the way to 1961 with the Rat Pack and Frank Sinatra vibes. We touch on all of these subgenres of music that swings. It’s very danceable and very 20th century.”

Perry calls the “Xmas Canteen” concert a swing spectacular

“We ended up playing in Hawaii as part of Pearl Harbor celebrations on Dec. 7 and started doing this 1940s music,” Perry said. Perry said the night before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, there was a battle of the bands between U.S. Navy ships.

“Different ships sent their bands to compete in it and I’m sure it was a wild night,” he said. “They were probably hung over and then Dec. 7 hit.”

The concert will include 1940s classics. The band’s latest album, “At the Pink Rat,” focuses on the golden era of swing music of the 1940s highlighted by Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman.

“The biggest job is to be a popularizer of this kind of music because it kind of fell out of favor in the early 1960s,” Perry said. “After The Beatles came, it was pretty much gone forever. This last record I tackled that as well. I hadn’t really written in that style, which means big band (music) with major chords. We also have our own music, which is very danceable and upbeat.”

One of the original songs is “Brown Flight Jacket,” which is about a dying grandfather who bequeaths his jacket to his grandson who works at a Starbucks

“The kid hangs (it on) his closet door and stares at it, thinking about his own life compared to his grandfather, who dealt with life and death situations (in World War II),” Perry said. “It’s a modern take on old music.”

The musical setting is a military canteen during the holidays in Hawaii or the Pacific Theater from 1941-45.

“It’s Christmas, it’s 90 degrees and they are in the middle of the war,’ Perry said. “It’s a way for us to address the golden era of swing in our way. There will be fun Christmas songs you can dance to as well, such as ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’ and ‘Roll ‘Em.’ We hit a few different eras even though it’s a 1940s theme for the most part. It’s very upbeat and fun.”

Perry said the band plays the late-Steve Allen’s song “Cool Yule.”

“We recorded that for a movie,” Perry said. “I asked him if I could change a chord and he tongue-lashed me like you wouldn’t believe and he said, ‘If every note I wrote cannot be played, there will be no symphony.’”

Perry founded the band in Eugene, Ore., in late 1988.

“We have a lot of material and could have three different bands with all the material we have,” Perry said. “It’s a project that’s never been completed quite to my satisfaction until this era. I’m 61 and I’m finally getting it to touch on all the things I want to touch on. In the next couple of years, I’ll finally reach the goals I’ve set for myself.”

Two other members, bassist Dan Schmid and trumpeter Dana Heitman, have been part of the band for the entire time and several members have been a part of it for several years.

“We caught fire in Southern California, where there is a huge retro music appreciation,” Perry said.

The band’s first compilation album of its first three studio albums, called “Zoot Suit Riot: The Swingin’ Hits of Cherry Poppin’ Daddies.’” was released in 1997 and enjoyed commercial success.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and daddies.com.

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical” runs through Jan. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Holiday Blues at the Club with Zach Day is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, and Indiana Christmas with Ahlwardts is set for 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 7 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.

‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’

Civic Theatre presents “White Christmas” through Dec. 24 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘ANY KIND OF CHRISTMAS’

Home Free’s “Any Kind of Christmas” tour stops are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FOUR PHANTOMS

The Four Phantoms Holiday Show is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.

‘A

SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS’

Jane Lynch’s “A Swingin’ Little Christmas” concert is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘ENJOY THE HOLLY DAYS’

Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Enjoy the Holly Days” concert is set for 4 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

ALABAMA

Alabama’s Roll On II North America Tour stops at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Fishers Event Center. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.

MUSIC

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will perform its “WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Cherry Poppin’ Daddies)

IWS features holiday favorites

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Wind Symphony’s holiday concert should evoke many memories.

CONCERT

“We’re doing a combination of works that will appeal to children in the audience as well as the adults,” IWS Music Director Jay Gephart said. “We’re doing a medley of music from ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas.’”

and orchestras. “She is top-notch. She has performed with my ensembles on three different occasions. My Purdue world absolutely adores Twana. She really made a connection with my Purdue audiences.”

That is just part of the 70-minute show set for Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Enjoy the Holly Days” concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Twana Harris is the special guest and will perform “O Holy Night.” The North Central High School graduate is a pastor and music director at a church in Detroit.

“She sings more a gospel style than a classical opera style, but I think she will be well-received by the Indiana Wind Symphony community,” said Gephart, who is a chair of the Purdue University bands

Harris will be accompanied on piano for “Some Children See Him.”

“Santa has committed to being there in his busy schedule,” Gephart said. “So will Mrs. Claus, who narrates ‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas.’”

There also will be Christmas music from various Broadway shows and a performance of late jazz composer and arranger Sammy Nestico’s “Good Swing Wenceslas.”

Gephart said more serious work is a transcription by H. Robert Reynolds of Morten Lauridsen’s “O magnum mysterium.”

“It was originally written for chorus by Morten Lauridsen and then transcribed by H. Robert Reynolds, who was the former director of bands from University of Michigan,” Gephart said.

For more, visit indianawindsymphony. org.

Dancers set for sweet debuts

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This will be Westfield resident Maddie Neff’s 11th appearance in Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker,” and this one is extra special.

PERFORMANCE

“I’ve had many different ‘Nutcracker’ roles, but I’ve never danced the role of Sugar Plum before,” said Neff, who recently graduated early from Westfield High School.

Neff shares the role of Sugar Plum Fairy with Carmel High School senior Claire Barbour. Neff will perform as the Sugar Plum at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14. Barbour will take over as Sugar Plum at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15. All performances are at STAR Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.

“This role has always been a dream of mine,” said Neff, who also plays Candy Cane. “It’s always been my favorite part to watch, and I am so excited to finally get to dance it.”

This is Barbour’s first time as the Sugar

From left, CIDE performers

Maddie Neff, Claire Barbour and Ella McNeely have key roles in “The Nutcracker.” (Photo courtesy of Paul Rezlaff)

Plum, too. She also plays Arabian.

“What I enjoy most about the classic role is having the freedom to perform it as my own,” said Barbour, who has attended CIDE for seven years. “Most of the time I will either be by myself or with my partner on stage, so I won’t have to prioritize matching other dancers around me as much as I have had to in previous ‘Nutcrackers.’

Fishers High School senior Ella McNeely is enjoying her role as Snow Queen.

“The music for the Snow pas de deux has always been one of my favorites, so I am very grateful to be able to dance to it this year,” McNeely said.

For more, visit cidedance.org.

JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 FRI DEC 13 AT 8PM THE PALLADIUM

Harris

Koz’s holiday show returns

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This is the 27th year saxophonist-composer Dave Koz has taken his Christmas show on the road.

CONCERT

Koz said a stop in Carmel has become a given the last several years.

“The Palladium is one of my personal favorite venues in the entire United States, maybe even the world,” Koz said. “It’s a spectacular place to play. I love the way the staff makes you feel. I love the way the audience wraps fully around you and you are immersed in the audience. It’s a gorgeously sounding room. The audience that comes to see us is so full of love and energy and warmth. We love (going) there. It’s a very special part of this tour.”

Jade.

“Jonathan is like my musical brother, partner, especially at Christmastime,” Koz said. “We love making music any time, but at Christmas, it’s very special. He brings all that emotion, all that heart and soul from his background.”

Ingala and Hawley are new to the tour while Jade is making her fourth appearance.

The Dave Koz & Friends Christmas show is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show will feature Jonathan Butler with special guests Vincent Ingala, Adam Hawley and Rebecca

“Adam Hawley is a young guitar player and the future of contemporary jazz guitar,” Koz said. “We have a single together that is moving up the (Billboard smooth jazz) charts now called ‘Automatic.’ Vincent Ingala is an incredible saxophone player, singer and guitar player. He’s an all-around entertainer. He’s been doing a competing Christmas tour for the last (several) years. This is the first year he’s been able to do our tour and bring all of his good vibes with us. We have a lot of new (performers) and a lot of veterans to bring a heartfelt, highly energetic and fun show, which I think we really need right now.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

KLaunch announces free access to new AI Cloud Innovation Lab

news@youarecurrent.com

KLaunch, a leader in omni-channel conversational AI technologies, has officially opened its cutting-edge AI Cloud Innovation Lab and in a groundbreaking move, it’s free. The initiative allows businesses, entrepreneurs, startups and innovators to experiment, prototype and deploy AI-driven solutions without the usual financial barriers.

TECHNOLOGY

As a result, KLaunch aims to accelerate technological advancement, making AI innovation accessible to everyone.

The AI Cloud Innovation Lab is equipped with worldclass resources, a team of AI experts and sophisticated conversational AI frameworks like KBot Lightning and HumanX, along with all other major LLM’s that can integrate into the ecosystem. This will empower users with the tools they need to tackle real-world concepts with AI, unlock new growth avenues and transform industries. By offering free access, KLaunch is breaking down financial barriers, inviting organizations of all sizes to explore and deploy AI solutions that can enhance customer experiences, drive operational efficiency, improve workforce productivity and scale innovation.

Key Features of the KLaunch AI Cloud Innovation Lab

• Free AI prototyping and experimentation: Users

can bring their ideas to life with powerful prototyping tools, data analytics and model training resources, enabling rapid iteration and validation of AI concepts with zero upfront costs. Users can build out their prototypes, once finalized, and can launch their real-world environments from the same ecosystem.

• Access to advanced AI models and tools: The lab includes access to KBot Lightning and HumanX, pretrained models, use case templates, state-of-the-art machine learning frameworks, and an intuitive interface, making it accessible for both AI experts and beginners.

• Collaborative environment with expert support: Participants will have direct access to KLaunch’s AI specialists for guidance and support, fostering a collaborative space where ideas can evolve into actionable solutions.

• Ethics and governance tools: KLaunch’s commitment to responsible AI is evident in the lab and production environments, where integrated tools ensure projects align with ethical standards, security and compliance, with special infuses on data privacy, transparency and fairness in AI applications.

• Real-world application testing and launch from ecosystem: The lab provides capabilities to test prototypes in simulated real-world environments, helping businesses measure effectiveness before

deploying at scale and also has built-in tools to launch live when ready.

• Lab participants own IP on what they build/ design: While KLaunch facilitates the underlying technology and owns the rights and use of their AI engines and protocols, anything built in the lab is the intellectual property of the lab participant. What it means for businesses

The KLaunch AI Cloud Innovation Lab isn’t just an ecosystem — it’s a catalyst for meaningful AI adoption and release. Businesses now have the unprecedented opportunity to leverage private and secure powerful AI tools, refine their operations and unlock new growth potential without the financial and technical hurdles typically associated with AI deployment. This democratization of AI tools is designed to encourage innovation across all sectors, from government, health care, nonprofits, and the like.

How to get started

Businesses, developers, and innovators can sign up for free access to the AI Cloud Innovation Lab by clicking this link klaunch.io/contact and putting in their information with AILab in the comments. Once registered, participants will gain immediate access to the KBot Lightning and HumanX ecosystem, along with expert guidance and support to bring their AI-driven ideas to life. For more information, visit klaunch.io.

Dialing in on a lost cellphone

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

After our recent church auction, I couldn’t find my phone at the end of the evening. I panicked. My wife, as always, was a calming influence, explaining that the cell had to be somewhere in the room. I asked my son to call on his phone to see where the device was hiding. No ring was heard, but …

HUMOR

“Hello, this is Amy.”

“Amy, this is Brett Wolfsie, Dick’s son. You were sitting with us all evening tonight. You must have taken my dad’s cellphone home by mistake.”

“I don’t think so, Brett.”

“Well, you’re talking on his cell now. Turn it over and look at the back.”

The back of my cell clearly directs what to do if found. I always debated whether the instructions should read:” If found, call” … or “If lost, call” Both make sense, but my initial mistake was listing my own number to call. That person would just be calling me on my phone, which he had in his hand. What an Einstein I am. But back to the story.

I took Brett’s phone and explained to Amy that she would have to answer my phone that evening and pretend she was my wife, Mary Ellen. Otherwise, people would wonder what I was up to when a mysterious woman answered the phone at 11 p.m. I also told Amy that I get a lot of calls late at night because I have several friends on the West Coast who like to chat before they go to bed at 8 p.m. (their time).

It’s an older crowd.

“Dick, this was an honest mistake I made. I’ll tell whoever calls that I have your phone because we spent the night together.”

“Amy, please rephrase that.”

The next morning, I was lost without a phone. I always check the weather and time before I get out of bed. I asked

“The next morning, I was lost without a phone. I always check the weather and time before I get out of bed.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Alexa twice, but there was no response. The internet was down temporarily, but I knew Mary Ellen was in the kitchen having coffee.

“What time is it?” I screamed out from the bed.

No answer. So, louder this time.

“What time is it!”

No answer again.

Wait, I forgot the most important part. With Alexa, it must be personal to work. I tried again.

“Mary Ellen! What time is it?”

“Good morning, Dick. It’s 8 a.m. Now, leave me alone, please. I’m having my coffee.”

Well, at least she was connected and working.

Later that morning at church, Amy returned my phone and said she only got one call. It was from my sister who was visiting her daughter in California.

“I pretended I was Mary Ellen,” Amy said, “but I’m not sure it worked.”

“ I guess she didn’t recognize your voice?”

“She also didn’t recognize my hair, nose and eyes. She was using FaceTime.”

Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

and

Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker.

23. Mackey or Worthern, e.g.

24. Zionsville-to-Ft. Wayne dir.

25. Cohort of Larry and Curly 28. Fishers HS color 29. Aspirin target 33. IU Health ER sorting process 35. Put on ice

38. Online community and slogan to promote area businesses

43. Dog command

44. Prefix meaning “skin”

45. Family and consumer sciences class, familiarly

48. Indiana House members, briefly

49. “Big Blue”

52. MCL dessert choice: pie ___ mode

53. Thai neighbor

55. Rolling Stones title woman

57. Alternative to drapes

61. Poisonous shrub

64. Mideast ruler

65. “Pop ___ the weasel”

66. Army uniform color

67. Actress Hatcher

68. Art Deco artist

69. Balance sheet plus

71. Not as much Down

1. Slapfish spot for oysters and clams

2. Possible reply to “Where are you?”

3. Twisted and turned

4. Dine at home

5. Auctioneer’s cry

6. “Happily ___ after”

7. Painter Magritte

8. :-(

9. Monon Trail jogger

10. Not new

11. Seek damages in Hamilton County Court

12. Tiny bit

13. Foxy

21. Civil rights org.

22. Colts QB stat

25. Hawaiian island

26. Gaze wantonly

27. White River slitherly fish

70. NASA force unit, for short

30. Butler frat letter

31. Kind of quarters 1

32. Tribal leader

34. The Hoosier State, briefly, and a hint to what can be found in the puzzle’s circles

36. Old stringed instrument

38. Marlboro competitor

39. Austen classic

40. Big foot designation

41. Little devil

42. Type of spray

43. Hornets, on a Pacers scoreboard

46. Evoke

47. Recycle bin item

49. Pay no attention to this clue

50. Upscale bathroom fixtures

51. Slob’s creations

54. Start of a poetic tribute

56. WIBC’s “The Hammer and ___ Show”

57. Waves from a boat on Geist

58. A sign of a kind

59. Electrical line

60. Ship’s jail

61. Jamaican music

62. Sounds of hesitation

63. More, in Mexico Answers on Page 23

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