June 13, 2023 — Lawrence/Geist

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Lawrence town hall meeting focuses on streets, public safety

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Lawrence Mayor Steve Collier and his administration hosted a town hall meeting June 5, his response to the cancellation of the regular Lawrence Common Council meeting.

GOVERNMENT

Council President Tyrrell Giles declined to give a reason for canceling the regularly scheduled meeting. The council will instead have a special meeting June 14.

Collier opened the town hall with a brief comment before turning the microphone over to staff members. He said it’s important to communicate with citizens, and that was the purpose of the event, which focused specifically on streets and public safety.

Chief of Staff Cori Korn said those topics were the primary concerns brought up during an April town hall meeting. Funding related to those departments are part of a proposal submitted in early May by Collier’s administration to the council to appropriate approximately $3 million from the city’s American Rescue Plan Act funds. The council referred the proposal to its finance committee, which has not yet met.

The City of Lawrence received about $11.2 million through the federal ARPA pandemic relief plan. In 2022, the city spent about $5.5 million on sewer and stormwater infrastructure, street paving and other projects. The council decided in early March to move all remaining ARPA funds to the 2024 budget, to be spent on not-yet-identified projects.

Collier’s proposal would amend the ARPA spending plan to fund:

• $1 million to match a state grant for street improvements.

• $280,000 to match a grant for trail development and improvements.

• $1.6 million to replace public safety vehicles.

• About $50,000 for education and training, and facility repairs for the fire department.

• About $95,000 for police cameras, and for the police department’s new-hire and promotions process.

If the council approves the appropriation, it will leave about $2.6 million for 2024 projects.

Lawrence Department of Public Works

Members of the public attend the April town hall meeting at Government Center in Lawrence. The mayor’s office held a second town hall June 5. (Photo courtesy of the City

Director Jim Heneghan told the audience that without the ARPA funds to match the state grant, the city will have to use what’s in the budget, which limits additional street improvements that his department wants to accomplish. If the ARPA funds are provided, though, he said they can take care of much-needed street work in more neighborhoods this year.

Heneghan said some streets with chronic pothole problems need to be strip-patched soon.

Lawrence Fire Department Chief Dino Batalis said the public safety vehicle replacement funding is critical. He noted that there’s a two- to three-year wait for delivery after ordering a new firetruck, and the price keeps going up. And, he said, waiting means ordering more later.

“You don’t ever want to be in a position where you have to replace all of your equipment at one time,” he said. “We want to keep the service at a high scale, and to do that we need the right equipment.”

Batalis made a plea to the council to approve the appropriation soon.

“We’ve got money sitting there while there’s desperate need for use of that money,” he said. “I hate to see the progress stop. And everybody can take the credit and

Also on the list of public safety vehicles are 10 new police cars. Deputy Chief Gary Woodruff said the vehicles are essentially mobile offices for police officers.

“To invest in the fleet and continue to replace that fleet is a critical need,” he said. “Other than our staffing needs, the vehicles are the most critical need.”

Like the fire trucks, Woodruff said the cost of police vehicles is increasing. He said that if the city waits until next year, they’ll cost more and they’ll need 20 instead of 10 to maintain the replacement schedule.

City Controller Tyler Douthit said it makes financial sense to use ARPA funds for the proposed expenses rather than funding them through debt, which would restrict each department’s budget over the long term.

The resolution under consideration by the council was co-sponsored by Councilmember Sherron Freeman, representing District 3, who attended the town hall. She said she hopes it passes.

“I would like everything to go through smoothly,” she said. “We need to get it done. We need to work together to get it done.”

of Lawrence) share in that success (regardless of party affiliation).”

Lawrence police investigate June 4 shooting

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The Lawrence Police Department is investigating a June 4 shooting that injured three people at Lawrence Community Park.

CRIME

LPD Deputy Chief Gary Woodruff said the incident took place at around 10:15 p.m. during a large gathering comprising people in their late teens to early 20s.

“What created the circumstances remains very much under investigation,” he said. “But at some point, someone started firing shots and it resulted in three individuals being struck by gunfire.”

Two had grazing-type wounds, Woodruff said, and were treated on-site. The third, an adult female, was struck in the thigh. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of a non-life-threatening wound.

Woodruff said more than one handgun was involved in the shooting, and more than 100 shots were fired. He asked that anyone with information about the incident call 317-262-TIPS.

He addressed the incident during a June 5 town hall meeting with residents. He said recently appointed LPD Chief Curtis Bigsbee led a command meeting that day and authorized officer overtime to patrol “hot spots” in the community,

Woodruff stressed that Lawrence is very safe, overall.

“What happened in Lawrence Park is disturbing,” he said. “We take it seriously. It is unacceptable that an incident like that visited itself on our community.”

Three people were injured in a June 4 shooting at Lawrence Community Park. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)

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Work-based learning, robotics bills OK’d

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Expanding work-based learning opportunities for high school students and increasing access to robotics are part of two pieces of legislation authored by a Noblesville lawmaker have been approved.

more flexibility in a student’s schedule so they can pursue work-based learning and apprenticeship experiences, according to ISBE officials.

LEGISLATION

House Enrolled Act 1002, which was developed by State Rep. Chuck Goodrich, R-Noblesville, was recently signed into law and is intended to increase high school relevancy by expanding work-based learning opportunities. Goodrich said HEA 1002 creates career scholarship accounts for students that can be used to pay for career training, apprenticeships, certifications and internships.

The new law will also allow quality, work-based learning to count toward high school graduation requirements, according to Goodrich, who is a member of the House Education Committee.

“We know there are employers across the state who are struggling to find qualified candidates for job openings,” Goodrich said. “This is a critical step toward connecting our students with the skills they need for in-demand careers right out of high school.”

The career scholarship accounts can be used by sophomores, juniors and seniors to enroll in earn-and-learn opportunities and can also be used to pay for items such as transportation and uniforms, Goodrich said. The Indiana Department of Education and the Commission for Higher Education will approve available courses and tracks, and accounts will be awarded $5,000 under the state’s next two-year budget, officials said. Goodrich said the legislation incentivizes schools and career centers to partner and bring more experiences to high school students, noting that high schools across the state will host annual career fairs that will allow students and employers to connect with one another. The Indiana State Board of Education will reexamine high school diploma requirements to provide

Goodrich said as part of the legislation, a teacher higher education and industry collaboration grant program and fund will be established that will help teachers engage with colleges and employers to learn about industry needs and employment trends. Goodrich also authored another bill, House Enrolled Act 1382, that creates a grant program to allow schools to establish their own robotics teams and will be supported annually with $4 million in the state’s new two-year budget.

Goodrich said the goal of the new law is to encourage more students to enter STEM careers and stay in Indiana.

“This is an important step toward ensuring young Hoosiers in schools large and small have the ability to explore the innovative and creative world of robotics,” he said.

The Indiana Department of Education will manage the grant fund, which K-12 schools can utilize to create and develop competitive robotics programs, according to Goodrich. Grant funding can be used to pay for a team mentor, supplies, competition costs, in addition to establishing or maintaining teams.

Goodrich also said the grants will help programs provide hands-on learning experiences, foster community partnerships and highlight career opportunities through the use of adult mentors, who will “prioritize a connection to manufacturing and machinery skills.” Goodrich added that Indiana has 3,000 students from 30 percent of school corporations in after-school robotics programs.

He said the bill, which goes into effect July 1, could help grow participation in robotics programs to 18,000 students around the state and noted the legislation was modeled after a similar program in Michigan that saw a 400 percent increase in student population.

Goodrich

“This is an important step toward ensuring young Hoosiers in schools large and small have the ability to explore the innovative and creative world of robotics.”

– CHUCK GOODRICH

Matthew Alcantara

Reva Allam

Ruby Arnold

Nikolai Auclair

Christian Baltz

Paige Banta

Adam Bauer

Ella Boschee

Jackson Bowe

Kahmi Bracey

Curran Brown

Kylie Congdon

Samantha Cooper

Jaclyn Copeland

OF 2023

Liam Coveney

Catherine Dollins

Quinn Dryden

Kelsey DuBois

Justin Francis

Alfonzo Gallanosa

Pierce Garino-Heisey

Andrew Gipson

Francesca Gobbi-Belcredi

Christian Gray

Lyla Gregory

Celeste Hastings

Seth Hogg

Carson Holstine

Jacob Hooker

Cole Jacob

Chloe Kaplan

Saif Khatri

Salma Kherallah

Rémy Lance

Kathleen Lautenbach

Matthew Loynes

Jacob Malinzak

Mena Morcos

Michael Morfas

Abby Murchland

Ashley Ndebele

Peter Ogon

Andre Ozlowski

Sophia Paris

Truman Parker

William Paton

Jordan Patterson

Leyton Paul

Julia Poertner

Benjamin Pollack-Milgate

Audrey Priest

Francys Reder

Ethan Rekeweg

Samuel Ricketts

Jeremiah Robinson

Adam Russell

Leo Rusyniak

Steven Scott

Payton Seay

Christopher Senften

Sofia Shelley

Betty Ann Skinner

Isaiah Smith

Constantine Stefanidis

Vivian Suh

Julia Timmermans

Edward Wang

Karl Wang

Yixu Wang

Eva Warren

Kamryn Washington

Larry Wei

Lily Westerkamm

Molly Wikman

Aya Wiles

Foster Wilson

Amelia Wray

Mitchell Wray

Jinxin Xia

Zikai Zhong

Guerin Catholic girls team wins second straight title

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

It was the same opponent and the same result for the Guerin Catholic girls lacrosse team.

two assists in the loss to Guerin Catholic. Sophomore Elle Tomalia scored twice, and sophomore Breckin Hare had one goal.

LACROSSE

The only difference was, this time it was not quite as close.

The Golden Eagles defeated Carmel 13-8 June 3 in the Indiana High School Lacrosse Association’s Class 2A state championship game at Heritage Christian. In the 2022 state final, Guerin Catholic edged Carmel 7-6.

Joe Bellflower, in his first year as head coach after serving as an assistant last year, said there were three keys to the season,

“First, great leadership from our captains Clare Alic and Caitlin Carter,” Bellflower said of the two seniors. “Second, strong team defense. We allowed only four goals a game. Third, growth of our young players throughout the season. We started five sophomores and they all improved throughout the year, which made us a much better team at the end of the season.”

Guerin Catholic (16-3) graduated three starters, Alic, Carter and Grace Klee.

In the championship game, Alic had four goals and one assist. Carter also had four goals. Junior Alex Soucie contributed three goals and three assists. Katherine Constantino had one goal and three assists.

Bellflower, a Westfield resident, said the players live in Westfield, Carmel, Noblesville and Fishers.

CHS sophomore Sophie Mock and senior Tori Tomalia each scored twice and had

Tori Tomalia, who will play for the University of Connecticut next season, was named Indiana High School Lacrosse Association first team All-State, USA Lacrosse Academic All-American and USA Lacrosse All-American at the end of the season. She also won the Candi Parry award, which is for a player who embodies lacrosse in the state and gives back to the youth. Tori Tomalia finished with 62 goals, 28 assists and 114 draw controls for the Greyhounds (16-3)

“Tori has been an amazing player who has elevated everyone around her,” CHS coach Josh Miller said. “I don’t know anyone that enjoys the game like she does, and I am certain that will continue. Her work ethic is unbelievable, and it shows when you watch her play. You can never replace any seniors that graduate, but you hope to fill some shoes with younger talent. Replacing her skill, tenacity, and will to win is going to be difficult.”

Anna Dumke also was named first team All-State.

Mock had 45 goals, 16 assists and 55 draw controls. Hare had 46 goals and 12 assists, and Elle Tomalia had 35 goals.

“Our success was a result of the team’s work ethic,” Miller said. “They played so hard, played as a team, and they know how to win. We played a tough schedule and learned a lot along the way. It was a disappointing end with the loss to Guerin, but the coaching staff is proud of this team and how they handled challenges throughout the year.”

Guerin Catholic celebrates winning its second straight Indiana High School Lacrosse Association’s Class 2A state title. (Photo courtesy of Joe Bellflower)

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH FOOT PAIN!

DeRolf wins annual award

news@geistcurrent.com

The City of Lawrence Police Department has named Adriene DeRolf the Telecommunicator of the Year for 2022.

AWARD

DeRolf works at the Lawrence Public Safety Communications Center, which receives 911 calls and dispatches first responders, such as police, firefighters and ambulances.

During a ceremony honoring DeRolf, Fishers Fire Department Chief Dino Batalis noted that she has worked for the city six years.

“She has shown her dedication to the 911 Center through consistent effort in the areas of training and policy development,” Batalis said. “Adriene has shown professionalism and patience, whether she was training for months at a time or challenged daily. She succeeded in presenting herself in a professional manner even when faced with extreme adversity. Adriene finished the journey without complaint.”

Batalis said that DeRolf’s efforts at the often-tedious job of revamping and creating new standard operating procedures has not gone unnoticed, and that policy writing is

LAWRENCE

Project: IndyGo Purpleline

Construction

Location: Northbound on Post Road between Pendleton Pike and the CSX Railroad will be closed during IndyGo Purpleline Construction. Southbound will remain open.

Expected completion: August

not an easy task.

“Adriene DeRolf is very good at her job and she goes above and beyond,” he said. “She has a lot of patience, which is a great assist to have for this type of job. Adriene is a good person to talk to about dispatch in general; she has a vast knowledge of it.”

Also there to present DeRolf with her award were Lawrence Mayor Steve Collier, Deputy Mayor Dave Hofmann, Chief of Staff Cori Korn, Deputy Chief Gary Woodruff and Director of 911 Communications LiAnn Wolfe.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Project: Water main replacement Location: 46th Street (between Franklin Road and Shadeland Avenue); Richardt Ave (between 46th and 56th streets); Woodcroft Ave. (between 46th and 47th); Elmhurst Dr. (between 46th and 47th); Kingman Dr (from 47th south to dead end); McGuire Court (46th north to dead end)

Project: Drainage Improvement project

Location: Drainage systems on Rainbow Lane north of Indian Lake are currently under construction.

Expected Completion: August

Expected completion: End of summer

Project: Sewer main replacement

Location: 50th Street between Franklin Road and Normal Avenue

Expected completion: End of June

“Westfield Foot and Ankle is the place

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Adriene DeRolf has been named as the Lawrence Telecommunicator of the Year for 2022. From left are Deputy Mayor Dave Hofmann, Lawrence Mayor Steve Collier, Director of 911 Communications LiAnn Wolfe, DeRolf, Fire Chief Dino Batalis, Deputy Chief Gary Woodruff and Chief of Staff Cori Korn. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)

New fire station, baby box, in northeastern Fishers

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

the baby.”

other local officials attended the event.

SAFETY

The City of Fishers has its first baby box. It’s an anonymous way for a new parent — who for whatever reason can’t keep their newborn — to give the infant to those who can care for the child.

The box is part of the Fishers Fire Department’s newly opened Station 397 at 15109 E. 136th St., which celebrated a ribbon-cutting and a blessing of the baby box May 31.

Fishers Fire Department Public Information Officer John Mehling said the baby box was made possible through a partnership with Safe Haven Baby Boxes, an Indiana-based nonprofit founded by Monica Kelsey, who herself was abandoned as an infant.

“And that inspired her down the road to create these baby boxes,” Mehling said. “Sometimes, these kids are left in places where (the parents) hope they’ll be discovered, but they’re not. Some of them are placed into dumpsters. Some are left out in the woods. And this just provides that opportunity to remain anonymous, but to pass that baby on into arms that will take care of

Mehling said once a baby is placed inside the box, there’s a short delay and then an alarm goes off in the station, at the city’s dispatch center and directly to the phones of several first responders.

“Within minutes, someone will be at that baby’s side and providing whatever medical care is needed,” he said.

Also in the box is a packet of information for the parent to take, he said, because often the mother needs help, too.

Mehling added that in Indiana, any new parent can surrender an infant up to 30 days old, no questions asked, to a firefighter or police officer. But the baby box provides a way to do that with complete anonymity.

He said Carmel has a baby box, as well, and has had several babies safely surrendered through that service.

“There are over 100 boxes in Indiana,” he said. “Indiana is leading the nation with this option.”

NEW FIRE STATION

Fire Station 397 has been in service since Feb. 14, Mehling said, but the department decided to hold off on the ribbon cutting

because many of the northeastern Fishers residents whose homes are served by the station travel out of state during the winter months.

Mehling said it was a great turnout, and everyone who showed up was able to tour the station, see the fire truck and get some swag. They did have to move all the festivities indoors because of a rainstorm, but despite that it went well.

“It was just a great showing by not only the community that lives out there, but our government partners that make all this happen,” he said, noting that Mayor Scott Fadness, Council Member Brad DeReamer and

Mehling said the city has kept a close eye on neighborhood data ever since the Del Webb development went in, and the population numbers eventually got to the point where they justified building a new fire station to provide better and faster service. DeReamer, who represents that district, was a regular advocate for the new station, Mehling said, along with the residents themselves.

“It’s not an inexpensive resource,” he said. “You have to take care of the whole city. And everything is important, but you still have to make decisions about what you can do because, contrary to popular belief, there are no money trees in Fishers.”

It did eventually make sense to build a new station, though. The new $7 million station is staffed by nine firefighters, with at least five on duty at any one time. The city also purchased a new $600,000 fire engine, with about $130,000 worth of equipment for the truck.

Mehling said the new station is Fishers’ seventh. When he first started working as a volunteer with the department in 1990, he said, there was only one.

Lawrence Township’s NAEYC accredited Early Learning Programs are enrolling for 2023-2024. You Asked, We Answered - Beginning in 2023-24, Lawrence Township Early Learning Centers will be open YEAR ROUND!

Fishers Fire Department personnel cut the ribbon for the new Fire Station 397 at 15109 E. 136th St. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

Hindu residents to celebrate

Jagannath Rath Yatra

news@currentinfishers.com

Hindu residents in the greater Indianapolis area, including Fishers, will celebrate the Jagannath Rath Yatra festival starting with a gathering June 18 at the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana.

CULTURE

Organizer Shriya Una said that Rath Yatra is a nine-day festival that celebrates the annual journey of three Hindu deities — Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra — to their aunt’s home in grand chariots. The festival originated in the city of Puri, in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, and is now celebrated at Lord Jagannath temples around the world.

Una said that the Indianapolis temple will be filled with excitement and activities before the deities make their trip to their aunt’s home. Satya Tilusaram, chairman of HTCI, will perform the customary Chhera Pahanra ritual, which involves sweeping around the deities and their chariots. The chariots will be pulled by devotees.

About 400 people are expected to attend the event. Another celebration will mark the end of the festival nine days later.

The celebration includes a cultural program, where participants eat maha prasadam — consecrated food — and watch classical singing, dance and instrument performances from performers of all ages.

“Throughout the event, the local Indian community is introduced to Odisha culture with an art exhibition,” Una said. “Beautiful illustrations depict the Odisha culture with paintings and sketches.”

Hindu residents of central Indiana gather at the Hindu temple. (Photo courtesy of Shriya Una)

COMMUNITY

MYSTERY SNAPSHOT CHALLENGE

Hey there, folks! Take a good look at this zoomed-in image we’ve snagged from a spot in Lawrence. We want you to channel your inner Sherlock and head over to youarecurrent.com/mysterysnapshot to submit your best guess about where this photo was taken. Ready for the challenge? Check back next week for the answer. Below is an example from a popular roundabout sculpture in Carmel.

MYSTERY SNAPSHOT CHALLENGE EXAMPLE

“Morning Sun” by artist Brad Howe is in the roundabout at Range Line Road and Lowe’s Way. In late 2022, the $209,000 sculpture moved two miles north from its original location at Range Line Road and Executive Drive.

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(Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

EVERY KNEE IS STRONG KNEE

Fishers event raises funds for Alzheimer’s Association

By Chris Bavender news@currentinfishers.com

When Pete van Overwalle’s aunt, Pam van Overwalle, moved to Indianapolis to live closer to family, he became her primary caregiver because of her early onset Alzheimer’s disease. While trying to find and select a memory care home, he started to look for support resources to help with his new and challenging responsibility.

“Through an invitation via LinkedIn, I connected with Jennifer Buddenbaum, manager (of) The Longest Day at Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana,” van Overwalle said. “We met for coffee and (she) quickly helped me understand the association’s many resources, from awareness, education and support for people suffering from disease, and those who love and care for them. Jennifer was very personable, professional and engaging, so it did not take long to think about supporting the association. The Longest Day campaign just made sense to me.”

That led to van Overwalle chairing the 2023 Longest Day fundraising campaign. The Longest Day is June 21, the summer solstice — the day with the most sunlight. On that day, people around the world will help fight the “darkness of Alzheimer’s” through fundraising activities.

“When I took on the role of The Longest Day Committee Chair, I knew the best way was to lead by example. I wanted the experience to figure out my event, plan it, host it and make a tangible difference,” he said. “The great thing about The Longest Day is that it’s intended to be based on something you are passionate about. In a busy life with work, family and caregiving, it makes it easier to channel precious time and energy to make it successful.”

So van Overwalle decided to host the first Fishers Pickleball Clinic May 20 at Mashcraft Fishers to help raise funds for the campaign. He set a goal of $3,000 for the firsttime event.

“I was not sure what we could do, but

I also believe you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take. The event was a success in that the 15 people that participated seemed to really enjoy the event,” he said. “And we raised $1,400, which goes directly to the Alzheimer’s Association to fund research and operations to support their vision.”

Ironically, before the Pickleball Clinic, van Overwalle had never touched a pickleball racket.

“It did not take long for everyone attending to get out on the courts and break a sweat. There were plenty of laughs, a bit of ball chasing, but enough of an experience to say, ‘I’ll be back’,” he said. “My Aunt Pam was there too and although she did not play, she really loved the day. Purple is her favorite color. She’s also hoping to stay involved with these events to find a boyfriend!”

While van Overwalle has never raised funds for charity before, he believes there is a “magic formula in life -- when you give, you get back even more in return.”

“I quickly experienced that everyone I spoke to has some personal connection with Alzheimer’s and/or dementia somewhere in life. Mental health and living a quality life are also something most of us care about,” he said. “The association has these simple tools to help, like getting my campaign site set up, linking it to my Facebook, and sending an email invitation to my family, friends and my network. An extra bonus is that I reconnected with a lot of people whom I had not been in touch with for quite a while.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, including about 110,000 Hoosiers. By 2050, that number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million.

The report also found that another 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with dementia, this includes 216,000 in Indiana.

To learn more about the Longest Day or to donate, visit act.alz.org/site/ SPageServer?pagename=the_longest_day.

Overwalle

“I quickly experienced that everyone I spoke to has some personal connection with Alzheimer’s and/or dementia somewhere in life.”

FREEDOM FOR ALL

Arts for Lawrence plans third annual Juneteenth celebration

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Arts For Lawrence is planning its third annual Juneteenth festival in celebration of freedom in the United States.

The festival is set for 4 to 9 p.m. June 17 at the Fort Ben Cultural Campus next to the Arts For Lawrence offices and theater. Organizer Lecia Floyd said there will be 48 vendors offering food and merchandise, art and information. There also will be music and storytellers, and plenty of joy.

“It is definitely a celebration of freedom,” Floyd said. “When the last of the slaves were freed.”

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, marks the anniversary of June 19, 1865, when the last of the enslaved Black Americans were freed in Texas.

Floyd said Juneteenth has recently gained more recognition across the nation.

“In the south, and especially Texas, it’s been celebrated a lot longer than we’re celebrating it here,” she said. “It really is just a celebration of freedom, and everyone finally being free. (Arts For Lawrence’s) spin on it is: This is a celebration of family, history and community. I think it’s really important to know that history, but also celebrate community, which includes everyone.”

Last year’s Juneteenth festival in Lawrence was the first time Floyd celebrated the day.

“We’ve always celebrated July 4, which, I feel is important as well, (but) no one ever really talked about Juneteenth, and talked about (how) on Independence Day, really, not everyone was free,” she said. “This truly celebrates independence for everyone. I think as a community, and even myself as a woman of color, we are still just learning, I think we’re all kind of learning together so that we can share that history and continue to celebrate it.”

Floyd said her mother, a 70-year-old Black woman, didn’t know about Juneteenth until about five years ago.

“So I’m glad organizations like us and, and other organizations, we’re bringing this to light and saying as a community, ‘We see you, and we celebrate you,’” she said.

There are numerous Juneteenth celebrations planned by various schools and or-

Dancers perform during the 2022 Arts for Lawrence Juneteenth festival. (Photo courtesy of Arts for Lawrence)

ganizations in the Indianapolis area. Floyd said that’s why Arts for Lawrence chose to have its festival later in the day. That way, people can attend other events before coming to the festival.

She said the Lawrence event will include performances by Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township elementary, middle and high school students, along with other dance, music and spoken-word artists and groups. Daniel Martin of the

improv comedy group Act A Foo will emcee the main stage, and a DJ will spin tunes in between acts.

The performances, in order of appearance, are:

• 4 p.m., Daniel Martin, emcee

• 4:30 p.m. - The Performing Arts Conservatory

• 5:15 p.m. - Delores Thornton (spoken word)

• 5:45 p.m. - Bashiri Asad (R&B)

• 6:45 p.m. - Iiabada Dance

• 7:30 p.m. - MSD of Lawrence Township school groups

Floyd said there also will be activities hosted by the Fort Benjamin Harrison YMCA, and booths offering health information from Community Health Network and Eskenazi Health. A mobile vaccine clinic hosted by Marion County Health Department will be there, she said, and the Department of Child Services will offer information about resources for families.

Some of the vendors are storytellers, Floyd said, and will host group activities and share stories of Black history.

“Black history is history,” Floyd said. “And we all should celebrate history in general. Especially something as important as independence and freedom.”

For the second consecutive year, Act A Foo improv group will perform for the “after party” in the Arts For Lawrence theater. That ticketed event is for adults and involves audience participation. Floyd said last year’s performance was capped at 100 audience members because of COVID-19 restrictions, but this year they can fill the theater. Tickets can be purchased for $20 at artsforlawrence.org.

ON THE COVER: The third annual Arts for Lawrence Juneteenth celebration is June 17 at the Fort Ben Cultural Campus. (Photo courtesy of Arts for Lawrence)

WHAT’S A FESTIVAL WITHOUT BOOTHS?

The third annual Arts for Lawrence Juneteenth celebration will have close to 50 vendors on site. Booth vendors will be:

• Arts for Lawrence

• Beloved Elderberry & More

• LLC Cafe

• City of Lawrence

• Community Health

• Department of Child Services

• Diluted Mine Arts

• Divas Eyewearz LLC

• Divine Hands By J

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• Yabros Custom Food vendors will be:

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• Chef TLC (the foodbus)

• Chooo Chicken Fish Vegan and More

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• YUMMY!

OneZone merges with Northern Hamilton County Chamber

news@currentinfishers.com

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OneZone Chamber serving Fishers and Carmel, and Northern Hamilton County Chamber serving Arcadia, Atlanta, Cicero and Sheridan, announced June 1 that they will merge.

and the culture of both organizations. We look forward to providing new programming, initiatives and advocacy work for the northern part of the county.”

BUSINESS

Northern Hamilton County Chamber will keep its identity and branding, according to the announcement. OneZone President and CEO Jack Russell will serve as president of both organizations, and OneZone Chamber will hire an executive director to run the day-to-day operations of the Northern Hamilton County Chamber

Northern Hamilton County and OneZone Chamber memberships are now reciprocal, which means members of either can participate in both chambers’ events and services. New programming, marketing and initiatives for the newly combined organization are in the planning process.

“We are excited to welcome Northern Hamilton County to OneZone Chamber as an affiliate,” Russell said. “As we began to discuss what this relationship would look like, it was important to keep the identity

Liz Foley Nelson, past president of the Northern Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce, said the time was right to merge with OneZone.

“The ability to retain our identity while offering our members the wider scope of services OneZone can provide gives our businesses access to more tools to increase their success,” she said. “Add to that the presence of an executive director with offices here locally will further serve the needs of our businesses and the community at large.”

The Northern Hamilton County Chamber executive director position is posted on OneZone Chamber’s job board on its website, onezonechamber.com. A membership survey will be sent to all Northern Hamilton County Chamber members to identify key needs and what they are looking for from their chamber.

OneZone was founded in 2015 when the Carmel and Fishers chambers of commerce merged.

DISPATCHES

Wine, Wags & Whiskers fundraiser planned

— The Humane Society for Hamilton County will host its first major fundraising event of the year, Wine, Wags & Whiskers, on June 16 at the Embassy Suites in Noblesville. The evening will feature hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer tastings, bourbon and spirits, tempting sweets, a Jackpaw Raffle, a silent auction with more than 100 items, and “pawsome” jewelry from Hupp Jewelers. Adoptable dogs and cats will also be in attendance. General admission tickets are $95. Table sponsorships are available starting at $750 for a half table seating four guests, or $1,500 for a full table seating eight guests. Visit WineWagsandWhiskers.com for more information and to purchase tickets. Attendees must be 21 or older.

Eggs & Issues goes on a road trip — OneZone Chamber’s June Eggs & Issues presenter will be Mitch Frazier, CEO of AgriNovus Indiana.

AgriNovus Indiana is a non-profit coalition of leaders across industry, academia and government who are focused on growing Indiana’s agbioscience economy across food, animal health, plant science and agtech. AgriNovus Indiana is part of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership. The event will be 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. June 16 at Beck’s Hybrids in Atlanta. Beck’s is the largest family-owned retail seed company and the third-largest seed brand in the U.S., dedicated to serving farmers throughout the Midwest and Mid-South. Attendees will learn about “Food, Farming and the Future of Agbioscience.” They will learn how Indiana’s $58 billion agbioscience economy is fueling innovation across food, animal health, plant science, agtech and agriculture. Frazier will share new research identifying how the economy is growing and the key trends that will drive the next chapter of this economy.

Russell

Nelson

READERS’ VIEWS

HB 1177 merely sets up training mechanism

Editor,

I’m afraid your article in the May 23 edition of Current about HB 1177 may lead some readers to believe that any school employee in Indiana could theoretically apply for the state funded firearm training that the bill sets up and funds, and perhaps even believe that those employees could then possess a firearm in the school building where they are employed. That is not the case. Indiana law allows school corporations to authorize certain employees to voluntarily possess firearms on school property and has for several years. I’m told that only about three to five school districts in Indiana currently do so. HB 1177 merely sets up a training mechanism and funding to ensure that those employees can get training similar to what new police officers receive. The school districts that have authorized some personnel to possess a firearm on school property are rural school districts that can’t afford resource officers and where it might take as long as 20 minutes for law enforcement officers to respond. In those districts, it only makes sense that those employees have appropriate training.

POLICIES

Letters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to info@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not contain a commercial message.

Concrete Cleaning Concrete Sealing Roof Cleaning

Washing Epoxy Floors

State Rep. Jerry Torr, Carmel

ESKENAZI HEALTH FOUNDATION IS GRATEFUL TO Sandro Franchi & Jan Barnes FOR

THEIR LEAD GIFT

Beyond Barriers is a campaign that through philanthropy and partnerships, addresses health equity in Central Indiana.

Value of blue-chip relationships

Commentary by Terry Anker

eskenazihealthfoundation.org

Meet Current in Lawrence/Geist

Managing Editor

Leila Kheiry from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, July 13 at Launch Fishers, 12175 Visionary Way, Fishers. Suggest story ideas, ask questions and learn more about Current in Lawrence/Geist. For more, email leila@youarecurrent.com

Although the specific attribution may wobble a bit, it is likely that famed turn-ofthe-last-century German-born theoretical physicist and allaround smart guy Albert Einstein said, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it; he who doesn’t, pays it.” As in most things, the crazy-haired thinker was right on target.

cent of the growth. There has been much said about how the benefit of these kinds of returns may not be available to all and that there are countless specifics to be considered. Yet, the math is irrefutable.

ESSAY

If we could have managed in 1993 to put $1,000 into our stock market’s Dow Jones Industrial Average and left it there until today, we would be able to walk up to an ATM and extract almost $14,000, so much that it might take a while to get it all, given the daily automatic teller cash withdraw limits. Still, increasing 14 times is remarkable. Adjusted for inflation, it would still bring $8,600. Incomes, depending on who you ask, during the same period increased between 125 percent and 150 percent. Not adjusting for inflation, 1,400 percent in the market beats what we might have managed in working, which produced less than 1 per-

What other investments might likewise produce outsized benefit? Is it better to own household objects longer, business assets, land or automobiles? The equations may vary, but what of pets, people and institutions? If old friends are indeed the best friends, why? Are long-term relationships like investing in an early retirement plan? Are the dividends beyond what we’d likely find in other forms of income? Is a 40-year marriage more valuable than one of 10 years? Perhaps it depends on the stocks purchased and the investment discipline followed. Are we hanging on to our bluechip relationships or risking a tech bubble?

Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent.com.

Can feel stupid in a Jiffy

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

I hate feeling stupid or, more specifically, being perceived as stupid. Call it vanity. My recent trip to Jiffy Lube is a case in point. I went in for an oil change and came away questioning my cognitive abilities.

HUMOR

First, I misread the hand signals of the guy attempting to direct me into the right spot. I very nearly drove my great white whale of a van into the pit. Next, because I was embarrassed, I struggled to locate the hood pop. Oops, that was the gas tank. Best of all, I tried to take the keys with me into the waiting room. “Ma’am, we’re going to need those.” Ugh. By the time I got to the obligatory, “Would you like to replace your air filter for $29.99?” I was a hot mess. I stood stock-still for probably 30 seconds trying to decide if I really needed a new one or if I was being scammed because I’d come off as an idiot.

This is exactly why I normally let my husband Doo handle the things that are outside my comfort zone — car and tech stuff, for starters, but also the boring big-ticket house items like HVAC, siding and the god-awful plumbing. I want to be seen as a strong, capable, intelligent woman, but whenever I have to talk to the contractor about electrical issues or to the aforementioned automotive people about my transmission, I get nervous and end up sounding like a dodo head. But why do I even care?

I am stupid when it comes to cars. I just don’t want Derek at Jiffy Lube thinking this!

Yep, pure vanity. Peace out.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.

Terry

“This is exactly why I normally let my husband Doo handle the things that are outside my comfort zone.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

How can I get your number

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

at the bank.”

There was a pause on the phone … a long one.

HUMOR

I’m a big “60 Minutes” fan. I remember watching the premier show in 1968. The producer of that show was Don Hewitt, an alumnus of New Rochelle High School where I graduated in 1965. The high school has a list of famous graduates and Don is listed along with 29 other people. I must have been No. 31 because I couldn’t find my name.

Recently, “60 Minutes” did a show about artificial intelligence, and the story focused on how some of these AI programs can mimic someone’s voice and be used to trick people into sending money or giving out personal information over the phone. This freaked out my wife, who is very concerned about having her identity stolen. She is not worried about my identity being stolen because, to quote Mary Ellen, “I don’t think anyone would want to be you.”

She is very paranoid about this kind of stuff. She shreds everything, convinced that people will rifle through our garbage to find vital information.

“Mary Ellen, why are you shredding our junk mail?” I asked her.

“Dick, I don’t want people to know our address.”

“Well, if unsavory people are going through our trash at the curb, they can figure out where we live, because we live right behind the trash.”

Now, because of the “60 Minutes” story, she has heightened concerns about privacy. I called her the other day to ask a question.

“Hi, Mary Ellen, It’s Dick. I need your Social Security number to fill out a form here

“Hmm, when you call you never say, ‘It’s Dick.’ You always say ‘Hi, it’s me.’ Now, who is this?”

“It’s your husband. Now, can you give me the Social Security number, please?”

“I have a couple of questions before I give out this highly sensitive information. What is your brother’s name?”

“Peter, of course.”

“And where were you born?”

“New Rochelle. Look, if this is some kind of an IQ or memory test, you need to make the questions a lot tougher.”

“This is my way of checking if it’s really you. With all the new technology available, a crook could be calling me and making his voice sound like yours.”

“OK, Mary Ellen, you may ask one more question. Make it a good one.”

“OK, Dick — or whoever you are — when we got married, we stayed in a magnificent vacation spot in Big Sur, Calif. You said it was the most romantic, glorious hotel you had ever been in and it was a weekend you would never forget. What was the name of the hotel?”

“I don’t have a clue.”

“Oh, good it’s definitely you! It’s 897-006-0000!”

POLICIES

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

Letters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to info@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.

“Now, because of the ‘60 Minutes’ story, she has heightened concerns about privacy.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Jr. Civic Theatre performers ready to make headlines with ‘Disney’s Newsies Jr.’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Nya Beck, there couldn’t be a better show to end her Jr. Civic Theatre career with than “Newsies.”

‘BEAUTY & THE BEAST’

“Beauty & the Beast” runs through July 9 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY’

MUSICAL

“It’s my all-time favorite show ever,” Beck said. “I grew up as a dancer, so the dancing in every production I see of this show appeals to me. I love the storyline as well.”

Beck, who will be a Fishers High School freshman, plays Katherine, a reporter, in “Disney’s Newsies Jr.” June 23-28 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“I like that she is very spunky,” Beck said. “She’s very intelligent and knows what she wants. She is kind of cunning as well.”

Beck said she enjoys performing “King of New York.” But she enjoys watching the newsies perform “Seize the Day.”

“I’m very thankful (the role) became available,” Beck said. “I would have taken anything to be in this one. I just wanted the opportunity to be in the show, I didn’t care which role.”

Beck is the daughter of Anne Beck, who coordinates Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program. Beck choreographed “Newsies” when Civic presented it in 2019.

The Jr. Civic show is for ages up to 14. The YAP is for high school students. Nya Beck also will appear in YAP’s “Mean Girls” July 27-30.

Andrew Horras plays Jack Kelly, the leader of the newsies.

“He’s very witty,” said Horras, who will be a Hamilton Southeastern High School freshman. “Jack Kelly never backs down from a challenge and wants to keep going and he wants to win. I feel like I can relate to that. I’m a better competitive person. I really enjoy playing him.”

This is the largest role for Horras, who has performed with Jr. Civic for three years.

Horras said “Once and for All” is his favorite number.

“Just standing there and looking powerful with a bunch of the newsies is fun,” he said. “Some songs are challenging.”

Horras said he had never seen the show until it was announced, and then he watched it.

“It’s a very ensemble-heavy show and they’re all enjoying it a lot,” he said.

Director Brent E. Marty said there are 44 performers in the cast.

“I think it’s the largest cast we’ve ever had,” Marty said. “The cast is very skilled. The talent base is improving every year. I think the people will be pleased with what they see if they know the show or don’t know the show.”

Thomas Murray, who will be a Zions-

ville Community High School freshman, plays Davey. Murray played Schwartz in “A Christmas Story: The Musical” in December of last year.

“I’ve always loved the music in ‘Newsies’ more than anything,” Murray said. “The music has such a nice ring to it. It’s very catchy.”

Murray said “Carrying the Banner” is a great way to open the show with the whole cast.”’

Daphne Pinchouck, a 10-year-old Fishers resident, plays Les.

“It’s a fun show,” said Pinchouck, whose favorite song is “King of New York.”  For more, visit civictheatre.org.

Main Street Productions presents “August: Osage County” through June 18 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘GODSPELL’

Carmel Community Players’ Rising Star production of “Godspell” is set for June 16 to 25 at the Ivy Tech Noblesville Auditorium. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Anthony Nunziata: Romance From Italy to Broadway” is set for 7:30 p.m. Jun 16-17 at Feinstein’s cabaret in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinhc.com.

‘SEE HOW THEY RUN’

Red Barn Summer Theatre’s production of “See How They Run” will be presented through June 18 at the Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre. net.

DISPATCH

Summer Shine exhibit showcases individual artists —The Fishers Arts Council features a new community exhibit called “Summer Shine” through June. Bold colors, big statements and love are the aim of the exhibit. “Having 22 artists on display is amazing,” Fishers Art Council Executive Director Les Reinhardt stated. “The only time we have ever had more artists in the gallery is during our annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists.” Artists from Fishers, McCordsville, Noblesville, Carmel, Beech Grove, Indianapolis and Bloomington are represented on the FAC Hub Gallery walls that reside inside the Collaboration Hub at Hamilton County Community Foundation. The exhibit is open for viewing from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Fridays by appointment by contacting the Fishers Arts Council.

From left, Andrew Horras, Sadie Cohen and Nya Beck appear in “Newsies.” (Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)

CCP set for ‘Godspell’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern High School student Nick Lantzer found himself inspired by the music of “Godspell.”

Beer & Wine PARADE SPONSOR

“There is something about the energy of the music that attracted me to it,” Lantzer said.

MUSICAL

Lantzer, who will be a junior this school year, plays Judas and John the Baptist in Carmel Community Players’ Rising Star production of “Godspell,” which is set for June 16 to 25 at the Ivy Tech Noblesville Auditorium.

Lantzer’s favorite number is “All for the Best.”

“It’s a classic song from ‘Godspell’ that has entered pop culture,” Lantzer said. “It’s always a fun song when you get to have choreography with canes.”

The 1971 musical was composed by Stephen Schwartz, who also wrote “Pippin” and “Wicked.” The song “Day by Day” became an international hit.

“There’s not a straight story line,” said Tanya Haas, a Carmel resident who is directing. “It takes pieces of the Gospel ac-

cording to Matthew. The songs and scenes are ways of telling stories from Matthew’s Gospel without using straight biblical languages. It’s told with dancing, jokes and magic. We’ve been working hard on the music. We are trying to make it so all the kids are comfortable singing.

Isabella Bardos, who will be a freshman at Noblesville High School this fall, performed in last year’s CCP Rising Star production of “Medley of Murder.” Bardos plays Anna Maria, one of the disciples.

“I think the biggest challenge is the Prodigal Son parable, which is a long piece of text to try to remember,” Bardos said.  For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

Actor a natural to play Lewis

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

His band is called Jefferson McDonald’s Great Balls of Fire, but that’s only part of the story.

MEDIA SPONSORS

Jefferson McDonald plays

MUSICAL

“There is a common misconception that I am a Jerry Lee Lewis tribute artist,” McDonald said. “I play everything, starting with classical music as a youngster, and it was only during the pandemic that I started playing 1950s rock ‘n’ roll shows under a variety of names. I was going out as Jefferson McDonald and his Rockabilly Buddies for a while. I recorded an album at my cousin’s studio called ‘Memphis.’ Prior to the pandemic, I had penned a musical called ‘Jerry Lee Lewis VS Jerry Lee Lewis.’

“My show that I tour on cruise ships is called Jefferson McDonald’s Great Balls of Fire, but it covers a wide variety of artists, from Ray Price to Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry and, of course, Jerry Lee Lewis.”

Fittingly, McDonald will portray Lewis and serve as music director for the Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Million Dollar

Jerry Lee Lewis in ATI’s production of “Million Dollar Quartet.”

Quartet,” set for 7:30 p.m. June 16-17 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

McDonald has performed productions of “Million Dollar Quartet” at several venues.

“It’s been quite a blessing to do this show, and it’s been a wonderful introduction to some incredible theaters,” he said. “Some of them have brought me back for many productions. When I initially auditioned for ‘Million Dollar Quartet,’ I was intrigued by the role of Jerry Lee Lewis as I thought it was just hilariously written. For more, visit atistage.org.

The cast of “Godspell” at a rehearsal. (Photo courtesy of Tanya Haas)

(Photo courtesy of Hubert Schreibl)

New comedy a winner

Commentary by Julieanna Childs

Writer and director Nicole Holofcener delivers another win in a sharp and perceptive story about our insecurities and the little white lies we tell to protect the people we love. Her newest film, “You Hurt My Feelings,” explores the occasional dilemma facing us in relationships: When is it better to lie than tell the truth? The result is a deliciously entertaining comedy that taps into something recognizably human.

Beth unexpectantly overhears Don confessing that he doesn’t like her new book. He’s supportive and encouraging as he reads over the drafts but doesn’t like any of them.

MOVIE REVIEW

The main story focuses on Beth (played by the lovely Julia Louis-Dreyfus), a semi-successful writer working on her new book. Her previous memoir was a mediocre success, although none of her students have read it. She’s laden with self-doubt and worries that her agent doesn’t think the new book is worth publishing.

Meanwhile, her husband, Don (Tobias Menzies), is a psychotherapist who isn’t helping anybody. Wrestling with aging and uncertainty, he assesses his work’s relevance to his patients.

The bombshell of the film is not an affair but a confession that disrupts their marriage.

Beth is totally devastated. She knows she’s probably an unexceptional writer, and her husband’s a crummy therapist. But the realization that he doesn’t really like her work is a blow to the gut, leaving Beth questioning her trust in him.

Blended with superb pacing by editor Alisa Lepselter, the film delivers a smashingly good adult comedy you rarely see in theaters anymore. Holofcener supplies endless laughs, including cuts of David Cross and Amber Tamblyn as a quarreling couple that Don is treating quite unsuccessfully.

Although there are big problems in the world, “You Hurt My Feelings” has a lesson for all of us: It’s OK to fret over the little intrusive troubles in our lived-in bubbles.

During the past 14 years, Julieanna Childs has worked as a film studio representative, contracting for all the major Hollywood studios. Her film reviews can be found at TheJujuReview.com. She is a Hamilton County resident.

Where’s Amy?

Where’s Amy attended Indiana Ballet Conservatory‘s production of “Fairy Doll” June 3 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It tells the story of a mechanical doll that comes to life. The IBC dancers put on an outstanding show. Save the date of Nov. 25-26 for “The Nutcracker.”

MUSIC BY Alan Menken

BOOK BY Harvey Fierstein LYRICS BY Jack Feldman

WRITTEN BY Bob Tzudiker and Noni White

ORIGINALLY

BY Disney Theatrical Productions

Amy Pauszek is a photographer, award winning film producer and scouting and casting associate for Talent Fusion Agency in Indianapolis. She can be reached at Amy@ youarecurrent.com. To see more of her photos, visit currentnightandday.com.

From left, IBC students Maura Wheeler (Indianapolis), Ryo Matsunami (Fishers), Aurora Ausserer (Indianapolis) and Abigail Kimball (Fishers). (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Blueprint for Improvement: A stylish and spacious culinary haven

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 1978 in the Raintree Place neighborhood of Zionsville, this home’s original kitchen was past its prime. We reworked the room’s footprint to let in more light, maximize space and improve functionality and style.

• Combining the kitchen and dining room increased the room’s footprint, helping open the space, improve flow and let in more natural light.

• Ceiling-height perimeter cabinets provide ample storage and accentuate the ceiling height, and an oversized island means more room for cooking, dining and gathering.

• Functional optimizations include double ovens, a coffee niche, spice drawer and pull-out trash bins.

• The pearlescent finish on the backsplash tile adds an elevated feel with a touch of artisan charm.

THE BLUEPRINT

Presidential words of wisdom

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Have you ever heard of a politician who is short on words? A terse politician is about as common as a dancing potato, and as unelectable as a vampire who wants to raise taxes.

and division. While certainly effective, Adams suggests these messages only do damage to the fabric of the U.S.

GRAMMAR GUY

Surely, presidents of the past have something to say about words, right? As surely as more politicians are announcing their presidential candidacies (with lots of words), voices of the past are echoing through the hallowed halls of government.

For the sake of staying apolitical, I won’t include any presidential quotes from the past 50 years; instead, I’m going to shed light on some of the words about words that have staying power.

In an 1819 letter, John Adams wrote, “Abuse of words has been the great instrument of sophistry and chicanery, of party, faction, and division of society.” In essence, Adams here is railing against the abilities of people, parties and politicians to use words to promote wedges

Speaking to an audience in Oyster Bay, N.Y., in 1915, Theodore Roosevelt said, “I have a perfect horror of words that are not backed up by deeds.” The meaning here is about as plain as it gets. Teddy didn’t mince words, although he gave many speeches throughout his political career. Here Roosevelt basically says, “If you’re going to talk the talk, you’d better walk the walk.” It’s a warning against those who are all talk.

As we enter another presidential campaign cycle, I believe we should heed these words about words from former U.S. presidents. Pay attention to what candidates say and measure them against what they have done.

A visit to Fairbanks, Alaska

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, we begin a tour of Alaska with the first of two stops in Fairbanks, the northern-most city in the United States, about 100 miles south of the Arctic Circle.

TRAVEL

In 1901, E.T. Barnette established Fairbanks as a trading post, trading with the native Athabascan people. After Felix Pedro, an Italian immigrant, found gold in a nearby stream in July 1902, prospectors began coming to Fairbanks, named for Indiana Sen. Charles Fairbanks, later United States vice president. Miners dug 100-foot-deep shafts in the permafrost to reach ancient stream beds and then constructed horizontal drifts along the gold seam. By 1905, the Fairbanks Mining District supported 10,000 prospectors, panning for gold on 1,500 streams.

After a fire in 1906 destroyed most of the town, it was rebuilt with more substantial one- and two-story buildings, many of which survive. By the 1920s, individual miners, called “drifters,” were replaced by dredges that mechanically separated gold from sand and gravel. In the 1950s, most gold-mining operations ceased when

the dredging process became uneconomical. During the building of the 800-mile Trans-Alaska Pipeline system in the 1970s, Fairbanks, located near the mid-point of the pipeline, became a major supply center for workers and materials.

Today, Fairbanks is city of about 30,000 residents, who contend with temperatures as low as 50 degrees below zero in the winter and as high as 100 degrees in the summer. Winter visitors come to see the northern lights. Summer visitors can ride a reconstructed mining train to Goldstream Dredge No. 8, retired in 1959 after producing gold today worth about $15 billion. Visitors are instructed in gold panning techniques and most walk away with a few dollars’ worth of gold flecks. Visitors to the dredge can also observe a section of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline that rises from the ground nearby.

Trans-Alaska Pipeline system in Fairbanks.

Don Knebel is a local resident. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@ youarecurrent.com.

Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.

Gold flecks in a pan in Fairbanks, Alaska.

(Photos by Don Knebel)

Across

1. Crackers stand-up performer

6. Lays down the lawn

10. Speaker’s platform

14. Be of service

15. Hot-and-cold fits

16. First 007 film

17. Old photo tint

18. Irving Theater poetry option

20. Colt or Pacer

21. Darling

23. IND flight info

24. UIndy URL ending

25. Not neg.

26. Pesters

28. PU military org.

30. Palindromic man’s name

33. Canine command

34. ‘60s psychedelic

36. Word attached to “cold” or “lion”

39. Poe’s “eternally”

41. Fishers HS trig class

functions

42. Numero ___

43. Clinton’s veep

44. Understands

46. [Oh, well]

50. Polar region

53. “For ___ a jolly good fellow”

55. IU Health scan

56. Opposite of WNW

57. Provide with food

60. Bic product

61. Candy with a hole in the middle

63. Dog-___ (like some book pages)

65. Tea type

66. Prepared to drive at Crooked Stick

67. Unaccompanied

68. No-goodniks

69. Fashion Mall store, for short

70. Local team found in the puzzle’s circles

Down

1. “The Friendly Ghost”

2. Go

35. ___ Lanka

37. Makes smile

38. Indiana State Senator

Alting

39. Crammed down someone’s throat

40. Chill (out)

41. Mediterranean island

43. Irish tongue

45. Glutton’s serving at the buffet table

47. Off-the-cuff stuff

48. Linton’s county

49. Impede

51. ___ and outs

52. Ex-US Senator from Indiana who was Trump’s Director of National Intelligence

54. Bundle of wheat

58. Eye part

59. Smell bad

62. Some Current staffers, briefly

64. Union Brewing Company brew

5

3

1

Answers on Page 13

2

too far

3. Plan in detail

4. Indianapolis trio?

5. Necklace fastener

6. Most secure

7. Storybook monster

8. Musical pair

9. “Try to ___ my way”

10. HST follower

11. One wearing cuffs in the back of an IMPD cruiser

12. Alternatively

13. “A piece of cake!”

19. Flying geese formation

22. Indiana Basketball Hall of Famer who played at Purdue and coached at ISU (and UCLA)

27. 2022 World Series champs

29. Where hangers hang

31. This and that

32. ‘Neath’s opposite

4 Dairy Products

“Colorful” Indiana Cities

Indy Pro Teams

Kitchen Gadgets

IUPUI Interim Chancellor