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Council approves court settlement
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.comfinal report.
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The City of Lawrence Common Council voted unanimously Aug. 16 in favor of a settlement agreement to end a monthslong court case between the council and Mayor Steve Collier’s administration.
A video of that presentation is available for public viewing on the City of Lawrence’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/channel/ UC5m_spz27XNayIy_Tzhg6ag.
LITIGATION
Through the settlement, the council agrees that its investigation of Collier regarding the 2022 budget reversion is complete, and the council will take no further action. In return, Collier agrees to recommend and approve appropriations to pay for the council’s outstanding expenses related to the investigation and the court case.
The appropriations needed to pay the council’s outstanding bills total about $335,000. The funds will go to law firms that provided services to the council during its investigation of the mayor’s administration, and during the litigation process.
At-Large Councilmember Shawn Denney, a Democrat, asked the council’s attorney Kristina Wheeler to clarify whether the investigation into the 2022 budget had resulted in any more findings. Wheeler said the investigation is complete, and a presentation during the June 14 council meeting was the
CollierDistrict 4 Councilmember Marie Rusomaraff said it was the right time to settle the court case. However, she said, the council’s investigation “revealed a concerning pattern of behavior by the administration to operate as the unilateral decision makers in the city.” Rusomaraff, a Democrat, said Collier and his administration ignored the council’s wishes, and worked to spend more in the 2022 budget than the council approved. She said the court case was an attempt to impede the council’s investigation into those actions.
“Knowing these facts and looking ahead at what could be years of costly litigation on this matter, as good stewards of taxpayer dollars it is now in my opinion the right time to put this fight behind us and make sure that we are attending to the work of the city,” she said.
In a statement emailed Aug. 17, Collier said it was unfortunate that Lawrence has the reputation for “political gamesmanship.” He said his position from the start of the investigation was that it was frivolous and
“The truth is that any questions or concerns that any member of the community put forth, including members of the Common Council, could have been answered if simply asked,” he stated. “Gateway DLGF (Department of Local Government Finance), 2022 budget books and the council’s own budget advisor, Baker-Tilly, would have provided that information as well. As to why those resources were not consulted prior to the decision to conduct an ‘investigation’ costing the citizens of Lawrence nearly $500,000, you would need to ask members of the Council Finance Committee.”
Collier said he and his administration cooperated with the investigation, sitting through 18 hours of depositions and providing numerous emails and other documents. He added that he hopes the city’s elected officials can move beyond party membership and work together for the city. Collier, a Republican, has been mayor for 12 years and is not seeking reelection. Most of the council members are Democrats.
At-Large Councilmember Deb Whitfield, a Democrat, emailed a statement Aug. 17. She noted that “it was no longer in the best interest of our taxpayers to bear the cost of further discovery and litigation.”
For more stories on this topic, search for “Lawrence Court Case” at youarecurrent.com.
Ordinance would fund public safety
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.comfees related to litigation over that investigation that the council and mayor have agreed to settle.
GOVERNMENT
An ordinance proposing about $1.1 million primarily to fund public safety needs in the City of Lawrence was introduced during the Lawrence Common Council’s regular Aug. 16 meeting.
The ordinance was referred to the council’s finance committee for review before it comes back for a vote.
According to information included in the council’s meeting packet, the additional appropriation to the 2023 budget was recommended by Mayor Steve Collier. It was sponsored by councilmembers Sherron Freeman (District 3 Democrat), Lauren Russel (District 6 Republican), Tom Shevlot (District 5 Republican) and Deb Whitfield (AtLarge Democrat).
The ordinance calls for spending an additional $480,000 for the Lawrence Police
Repairs to the Lawrence Fire Department’s training tower are among the appropriations in an ordinance introduced Aug. 16. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)
Dept., and about $297,000 for the Lawrence Fire Dept.
Other appropriations in the ordinance would go toward the council’s expenses related to its investigation into Collier’s actions related to the 2022 budget, and legal
Supporting documents show that the fire department needs repairs completed on its training tower, along with personnel costs. The police department funding would go toward overtime and fuel costs, supplies and equipment.
Some of those expenses had been included in a previous proposal that would have paid for them through American Rescue Plan Act funds. That proposal never made it out of committee, however, and the sponsors — Freeman and Shevlot — opted to remove their sponsorship after several months of no action.
If the new ordinance is approved, funding would come from the city’s general fund. The next Lawrence Common Council meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5, a day later than usual because of the Labor Day holiday.
Lawrence celebrates new Fort Ben Library Branch
By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.comAfter 20 years of planning, the new Fort Ben Branch of the Indiana Public Library had a grand-opening celebration Aug. 19 at the branch, 9330 East 56 St., in Lawrence.
GRAND OPENING
Shelby Peak, manager of the IPL Fort Ben branch, said the approximately $14 million library will bridge a service gap between the Lawrence and Warren IPL branches.
“We’re fulfilling a big service need here in the city,” Peak said. “This is a very important service branch that people have wanted here for a very long time.”
The approximately 22,000-square-foot library’s amenities include study rooms, a conference room and a children’s play area. Computers have internet access and some have child safety features. The book selection appeals to various ages, cultures and subjects, according to library officials.
At the grand opening, Lawrence resident Sharon Reese said the new library is an important addition to the community.
“If people want to learn, the possibilities of how the library could be used are endless,” Reese said.
Those possibilities include the Heritage Exhibit. It’s one of the library’s signature
features, according to Peak.
“It’s a nice educational piece for those that might not know a lot about the impact Fort Harrison had on the community when it was active,” Peak said.
The library is also the first in Indiana to become a certified autism center, according to Peak.
“Our staff have received specialized training through the international Board of Credentialing and Continuing Academic Education Standards,” Peak said.
The library’s comfort foom is available for nursing parents or patrons with sensory needs who need a private, quiet area to decompress. The library will also provide programming and activities that are sensory-inclusive.
For more, visit indypl.org/locations/ fort-ben.
Water main flushing set
news@geistcurrent.com
The City of Lawrence’s Utilities Department announced that crews will be flushing water mains during normal business hours between Sept. 5 and Oct. 6.
UTILITIES
“(Water) main flushing is necessary in order to properly maintain the water distribution system and helps to improve water quality and maintain adequate disinfectant levels per regulatory requirements,” according to the announcement.
While the water main flushing is happening, some customers may experience a temporary discoloration of their water and/ or low water pressure.
The discoloration can range from a light yellow to an orange red, according to the announcement. If that occurs, the customer should run a medium stream of cold water
until the water clears.
If a resident has questions, they are asked to contact City of Lawrence Utilities at 317-542-0511. Press 0 to speak with a customer service representative.
Women speakers to share inspiring stories
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comKatie Vigil learned about “That’s What She Said” when living in Champaign-Urbana, Ill.
she spoke at “Listen to Your Mother,” a Mother’s Day show in Indianapolis.
Brandenburg said she was asked by Vigil if she would share her story.
EVENT
“It’s women from all walks of life with very inspiring, uplifting stories,” she said.
So, when Vigil moved to Zionsville in 2019, she determined she wanted to bring it to the Indianapolis area.
Vigil is the regional producer of the “That’s What She Said” program, set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show is the first in the Indianapolis area. The program is part of The She Said Project.
Ten speakers will speak for 8 to 10 minutes. Part of the proceeds will support Kids Voice Indiana.
“The purpose is to elevate women’s voices,” Vigil said.
Besides Vigil, the speakers are Cara Dalton, Fortville; Kelli Caughman, Fortville; Myra Levine, Noblesvile; Lisa Brandenburg, Westfield; Michelle Derleth, Noblesville; Jennifer Johnson, Cicero; Brandi Bruemmer, Indianapolis: Heather Hughet, Mooresville; and Becca Goldsberry, Greenwood.
The first show was in Champaign-Urbana, Ill., in 2013. Several other cities have held shows through the years.
“I’ll be talking about some of the personal struggles that I’ve had that have led me to where I am today,” Vigil said.
Levine said she will discuss what she describes as her “ridiculous path” to motherhood.
“I feel honored to be in the program and tell a story that means so much to me,” she said. “When I was 10 years old, I accepted that only pretty, thin, blonde girls get to be wives and mothers, and sadly I would have to be satisfied with fabulous wealth. I turned out to be wrong on all counts.”
A former Westfield resident, Levine moved to Noblesville last year. In 2022,
“When she explained the premise behind the show, I was all in,” Brandenburg said. “Being on stage with so many amazing women was something I didn’t want to pass up. I’m hopeful that by doing so, other women feel empowered to share their stories. I also pray that those in the audience might be inspired to step out in faith and do something that scares them.”
Brandenburg tells the story of moving to Indiana during the pandemic.
“I created a community of women who became friends through events and now support one another because every woman deserves a strong support system,” she said.
Dalton said she loves the concept and mission of The She Said Project.
“I have attended multiple events in Champaign where the program originated, while living there for 10 years,” Dalton said. “I will be talking about my story of motherhood.
I have never participated in something like this, but I have spoken to groups of women in small settings about the power of faith and how one person can impact thousands.”
Derleth said she wants to share how a positive mindset can change the outcome.
“I was paralyzed from the neck down 22 months ago following a back surgery that triggered an auto-immune response in my body, Guillain-Barré syndrome,” Derleth said. “I have persevered through after a neurologist told me I would likely never walk again. Guillain-Barré syndrome has not kept me down. I am walking today, with the assistance of a cane and a heck of a lot of hard work. I’m on a journey to finding the new me.”
For more, visit shesaidproject.com. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DO FIVE STARS MATTER? NOT IF YOU WANT A ONE-STAR ROOF.
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Competitive drive fuels Hamilton Southeastern setter
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comIn Hamilton Southeastern High School volleyball coach Jason Young’s view, there are several things that make his senior setter Macy Hinshaw special, but one quality stands out.
“She is probably one of the greatest competitors I’ve ever had in our gym,” Young said. “She wants to win, and she knows every drill who wins. She is keeping score.”
Macy said she gets that drive from her mother and two older sisters.
“I am very competitive in everything I do,” Macy said.
Her sisters Kenzie and Makayla were varsity athletes at HSE. Kenzie, a 2017 HSE graduate, then played volleyball at the University of Tennessee Martin.
“I loved watching my sister play and we would always play together at home, too,” Macy said of Kenzie. “It was great having her as a role model.”
MEET MACY HINSHAW
Favorite subject: Science
Favorite athletes: Volleyball players Madison Lilley, Nicklin Hames.
Favorite TV shows: “Gossip Girl,” “One Tree Hill”
Favorite musicians: Morgan Wallen, Zach Bryan
Makayla, a 2022 HSE graduate, played basketball in high school.
“Makayla played volleyball as well until she was a freshman, and then she decided to focus more on basketball, but I think she regrets not playing volleyball, too,” Macy said.
Their mother, Tisha Hinshaw, played basketball at Southern Illinois.
Hamilton Southeastern senior setter Macy Hinshaw helped lead the Royals to the Class 4A state title last year. (Photo courtesy of Macy Hinshaw)
Macy has committed to play volleyball at Santa Clara University, choosing it over Fresno State and Utah State.
Young said Macy has been a strong defender for the team her entire career.
“She’s gotten better over the years with her decision-making,” Young said. “She always made good decisions, but I’ve seen
It become a next-level thing. She’s a great teammate. She is someone the kids respect a great deal. When she speaks, people listen.”
Macy has four teammates who have committed to NCAA Division I programs. They are senior middle hitter Breonna Goss, Duke University; senior outside hitter Lauren Harden; University of Florida; senior middle hitter Tiffany Snook; University of Memphis; and senior libero Sophie Ledbetter, Ball State University.
The Royals are the defending Class 4A state champions.
“It would be amazing to do a repeat, but that isn’t our main goal,” Macy said. “We are focusing on getting better as a team and enjoying our journey instead of worrying about our end goal.”
Hamilton Southeastern uses two setters because of its depth.
“I enjoy being on the court, of course, as much as possible,” Macy said. “However, with the talent we have at HSE, we have figured out what’s best for the team and how to be successful. It worked for us last year, so that’s what we are going to continue to do because it is best for our team.”
COMMUNITY
CURRENT SEPTEMBER LAWRENCE COMMUNITY CALENDAR
CHARITY PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT SET
The Lawrence Fire Department is hosting a pickleball tournament benefiting the Hoosier Burn Camp, scheduled for 10 a.m. Sept. 9 at Lee Road Park, 6200 Lee Rd., in Lawrence. The fee to sign up is $50 per person or $100 per team. There is a 32-team maximum, according to information from the City of Lawrence. Players must provide their own paddles, but balls will be provided for the event. There are cash prizes for the top three teams. Sign up at ccasports.com/ league/61369/details.
LAWRENCE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
Some of the scheduled government meetings coming up for the City of Lawrence and Lawrence Township are:
• Lawrence Common Council, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5 and 20 at Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• Police Merit Commission, 6 p.m. Sept. 11 at Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• Utility Service Board, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 12 and 26 at Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• City Parks Board, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 13 at
Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• Redevelopment Committee, 4 p.m. Sept. 14 at Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• Board of Works, 5 p.m. Sept. 14 and 28 at Lawrence Government Center’s pub lic assembly room.
• Fort Harrison Reuse Authority, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• Board of Zoning Appeals, 6 p.m. Sept. 19 at Lawrence Government Center’s public assembly room.
• Metropolitan School District of Law rence Township School Board, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 11 (work session) and 7 p.m. Sept. 25 (meeting) at the Lawrence Education and Community Center, 6501 Sunnyside Rd.
LAGERS IN LAWRENCE
The annual Octoberfest celebration, includ ing the popular weiner dog races, is set for 2-6 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Fort Ben Cultural Campus, 8920 Otis Ave, Lawrence. For tick ets, visit event.ontaptickets.com.
Greater Lawrence Chamber Candidate’s Forum
Monday, September 25th
6:00pm – 8:00pm
(Candidates arrive at 6pm; Mayoral Forum scheduled 7:00pm – 8:00pm)
Lawrence Central High School
Auditorium • 7300 E. 56th St.
Candidates: Dave Hofmann / Deb Whitfield
The Greater Lawrence Chamber will be holding a Lawrence Mayoral Candidate Forum on the evening of September 25th at 6:00 PM at Lawrence Central High School Auditorium (7300 E. 56th St.).
Moderator: Eric Halvorson (former WISH-TV news anchor / current Public Affairs Manager – Central Division of The Kroger Company.
We encourage residents attending to arrive early so we will be able to start on time.
This forum will include The City of Lawrence Mayoral Candidates David Hofmann / Deb Whitfield. (in alphabetical order)
lawrencein.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/3414
Barnett running for District 1 seat
Compiled by Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Carl Barnett is challenging incumbent Tyrell Giles for the Lawrence Common Council District 1 seat. Barnett, 70, served as the District 1 representative from 2011 to 2015. He had been elected as a Democrat but switched parties in 2015. He is running now as the Republican nominee.
A - I will prioritize inclusivity, transparency and engagement. Through impactful programs like Neighborhood Watch and town hall meetings, I will ensure residents are valued, heard and part of the decision-making process.
ELECTIONS
Barnett, a pastor, is a veteran and a former truck driver. He and his wife, Barbara, have three children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Q - What can you offer to the citizens of Lawrence as an elected official?
A - I bring diverse experience and a commitment to positive change. With skills in human relations, customer service and community leadership, I offer a unique perspective. I’m dedicated to public safety and inclusivity.
Q - How will you ensure residents of Lawrence feel welcome, included and heard?
Q - How do you envision future cooperation between the mayor and Common Council?
A - I will strive to bring a collaborative relationship based on open communication and shared goals. By working together, we’ll address the city’s needs effectively and create positive outcomes.
Q - What is the most important issue facing the City of Lawrence in the next four years?
A - Public safety and neighborhood strength are paramount. I’ll advocate for our public safety departments, support resources and engage residents through Neighborhood Watch. By partnering with law enforcement and the community, we’ll address safety concerns and make Lawrence safer and more vibrant.
The general election is Nov. 7.
Freeman seeks reelection to District 3 seat
Compiled by Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Q - How will you ensure residents feel welcome, included and heard by their elected officials?
A - Stay engaged in the district and accessible to citizens through Crime Watch and youth initiative programs.
ELECTIONS
Sherron Freeman, 67, is a wife, mother and dog lover. She has lived in the City of Lawrence since 1996, representing District 3 on the Lawrence Common Council since 2008.
Freeman, a Democrat, retired from Allstate after 32 years., and worked for the Marion County Assessor’s office for 14 years. She recently graduated from the Lawrence Citizens Academy, a program where citizens get a birds-eye view of a police officer’s daily protocol.
Freeman served on numerous committees including Public Safety, Public Works, Zoning, Code, Parks and Economic Development.
Q - What can you offer to the citizens of Lawrence as an elected official?
A - Resources, knowledge and commitment.
Q - How do you envision future cooperation between the Mayor and Common Council?
A - Regardless of political affiliation, you need to be transparent, negotiate and work together for the residents of Lawrence. Anytime you are reviewing the city’s budget all books should be open.
Q - What do you consider the most important issue facing the City of Lawrence in the next four years and how will you address it?
A - Public Safety. We need to hire more police officers. The City of Lawrence needs to look into a “public safety tax”and increase the percentage we are getting from Indianapolis.
The general election is Nov. 7.
HISTORY UNDERWATER
Presentation to focus on community at the bottom of Geist Reservoir
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.comFor more than 100 years, a small farm community bridged the county line between Hamilton and Marion counties. Founded in the 1830s, families lived and farmed in Germantown until Clarence Geist implemented his plan to create a reservoir that would help supply the water needs of a growing Indianapolis.
Geist, through his Indianapolis Water Co., bought out all the homes and land, and the reservoir — which opened for business in 1943 — flooded the area Germantown once occupied.
Robert Bowling is with the Fishers Historical Society and will co-host a presentation about Germantown at 11 a.m. Sept. 23 at the Fishers Library. He said the event will focus on what life was like for the residents of Germantown before Geist Reservoir, and he hopes descendants of those residents will attend and share their own family stories.
“One of the things that we’re trying to do is make it a little bit more personal, not just kind of retell the history, but see if we can get a human perspective of the people who lived there and what life was really like in Germantown,” he said.
Bowling said Germantown was founded in March 1834 by the Beaver brothers — John, Solomon and George — who moved to the area from Ohio. As far as it’s known, they were not German. Many of the other town residents also were not German, Bowling said. So, why was it called Germantown? He said there are a couple of possible explanations.
“One is that a lot of times towns were named after famous battles,” he said. “The battle of Germantown (in 1777) took place in Pennsylvania. Another plausible explanation is that the Beaver brothers came from Ohio and there was a town called Germantown in Union County, Ohio, and a lot of times when (people founded a) new town, they would name it after a town that they had come from.”
Bowling said there are some myths surrounding Germantown that will be addressed during the library presentation.
“I don’t know how many times I hear people say, ‘Oh, there’s a whole city buried underneath the lake,’” he said. “I’m like, no, not really. There’s not a church steeple poking out of the water.”
Bowling said there might be some foundations buried in the mud, but no buildings remain. In fact, he said, wood from Germantown structures was taken to Fortville and used as building material there.
Another myth is that Germantown was founded by a group of primarily German residents who were upset after an Indigenous Algonquin had been killed in nearby Oaklandon. Bowling said he has been working with a historian for the Indiana German Heritage Society, who told him that doesn’t appear to be plausible.
There is historical evidence about the Beaver brothers as
the town’s founders, though.
The brothers applied for and established the town’s post office in 1837, Bowling said, and in time Germantown had a general store, a blacksmith shop, a shoe repair shop, a flour mill and a sawmill. Bowling said the town lost the post office in 1870, when it moved to Oaklandon.
Bowling said he has applied with the state for a historical marker commemorating Germantown. He’ll find out in September if the marker is approved, and then the Fishers Historical Society will do some fundraising to pay for it. Bowling said they already have a spot picked out at Geist Marina, next to the pier.
According to “A History of Geist Reservoir and Germantown” — an online document compiled by Jennifer Gal — the former Germantown was on Fall Creek’s north bank, with residents in Fall Creek or Lawrence township, depending on which side of the county line their property fell.
“The town consisted of about 20 lots along … Main Street (also known as Germantown Road), now the entrance road to the Geist Sailing Club,” the document states. “The burg (lay) between two bridges, one about a half mile eastward, the other equidistant southward. The former was Fall Creek Township’s first bridge ever to span Fall Creek. It had been built in 1836 by four local residents but was washed away in 1847 by an overflow of the creek. The southern bridge began as a swinging footbridge that the children would cross when walking to Craig School, about a mile south of town.”
Gal’s husband was the owner of Log Cabin Animal Hospital on Fall Creek Road in Fishers. In the document, she explains that the building is the oldest structure in the Geist area and was very close to the former Germantown site. The history intrigued them both, she stated, and they started looking into the history of that community.
The online history compilation, which includes historical photos, can be found at oaklandon.deburger.com.
For more on the library presentation and to register to attend the free event, go to hepl.evanced.info/signup/calendar. Look for the Sept. 23 event called “What’s Lost Beneath Geist Reservoir?”
ON
IF YOU GO
What: “What’s Lost Beneath Geist Reservoir?” a presentation by the Fishers Historical Society about the community of Germantown, which was flooded to create Geist Reservoir
Where: Fishers Library - Fishers Center
When: 11 a.m. Sept. 23
Kids’ vision vital for success
Commentary by Dr. Kennedy NeukamDISPATCHES
The back-to-school list is to keep children happy, healthy and well prepared to excel throughout the next year. This may include visiting the pediatrician, buying school supplies, seeing the dentist and picking out new shoes. Your child’s annual comprehensive eye exam is just as important.
OPTOMETRY
Vision has an enormous impact on social, motor, cognitive and academic achievement. As children’s minds and bodies grow, so do their eyes. Regular eye exams are vital to ensure their prescription, focusing system and neurological pathways are keeping up.
Providing children with all the tools to be successful in school and their extracurricular activities includes maximizing their visual potential. One in every two children whose parents wear visual correction will also need correction. Children with a large difference in prescriptions between their eyes can often focus through their good eye, but this limits their ability to develop depth perception, a skill that is difficult to
gain once a patient reaches adulthood. School vision screenings, although valuable, still miss up to 75 percent of children with vision problems. Children are adaptive to any circumstance, which makes them so remarkable. Their adaptability also allows them to attempt to navigate life without complaints even with visual correction problems. They may not be complaining about poor vision or tracking because they are unaware of the strain on their system. Pediatric eye exams are designed to examine children while doing what they do best: playing, inquiring and learning. A pediatric-based practice will provide a comfortable and comprehensive examination (no pokes or pricks — just some cool flashlights and toys) that will ensure your child is ready for all the growth the next year has to offer. Your child’s future is bright. Make sure they see it, too.
500 Festival opens KidsFit registration — Registration is open for the 10th annual 500 Festival KidsFit Program for the 2023-2024 school year. According to the festival, this free program is available to Indiana schools and groups grades K-6 and teaches youth how to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle through a mix of running and walking, in-class lessons and activities. The program meets the Indiana Department of Education’s Indiana State Academic Standards for Health and Physical Education. Students will complete lessons centered around the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500 and will run or walk a mile each week using the “Start Your Engines” training plan. By the end of the program, students will complete a total of 13.1 miles — the equivalent distance of a half marathon. KidsFit participants are invited to accomplish their final 3.1 miles in their own wave at the Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K on May 4, the same morning as the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon in downtown Indianapolis. Interested teachers and group organizers should register their school or group at IndyMini.com/KidsFit.
MORE OPTIONS FOR ELITE BRAIN AND
Immunization clinic set – The Hamilton County Health Department offers BackTo-School Immunizations as part of a statewide effort to help families easily access school immunizations. The final immunization clinic is 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 30 at the Hamilton County Health Department, 18030 Foundation Dr. in Noblesville. Register at patients.vaxcare.com/registration. Enter code IN15561. There is an $8 administration fee per vaccine for those who are uninsured or underinsured.
Website connects residents to resources – The Hamilton County Community Foundation, Duke Energy, the Hamilton County Trustees Association and Good Samaritan Network have partnered to launch Help4HamiltonCounty.org to provide residents with a one-stop resource for support services. The new resource offers connections in the areas of aging and seniors, food assistance, medical and mental health, youth and families, housing and education and employment.
What’s up with all our stuff?
Commentary by Terry Anker
Bet that’s funny-tasting beer
Commentary by Dick WolfsieESSAY
Recently, newspapers reported the overdose of a 25-year-old film star. He often portrayed a drug user, and it appears that art imitated life. We all invite others, who we will never meet or get to know, into our lives. We learn about them, what they think and how they dress. Whether actor, politician, musician or other, we ride along with them as if we are friends, even feeling great loss at their passing.
When gone, the times that we might have seen them in concert or attended the opening night of their masterwork become the stuff of folklore. Many remember the moment with far greater detail than our own graduations, weddings or the arrival of children! Tony Bennett on the apron of the Palladium singing a cappella, the return of Def Leppard’s drummer after losing an arm in an automobile accident, meeting Darth Vader at the opening of “Star Wars,” or maybe witnessing comedian George Carlin at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas with
eviscerating observations about Americans and our stuff, such as, “Everybody’s got to have a little place for their stuff. That’s all life is about. Trying to find a place for your stuff,” sticks with us.
In the five-minute YouTube Carlin “stuff” clip, he makes a point that is even more poignant today. We have stuff in our garage. We have stuff in our inboxes. We have calendars packed with stuff. We are stuffed with stuff. We might wonder, are we hedging our bets that there might be a catastrophe or reassuring our insecure selves that we matter because of how overwhelmed we are? Is the memory of Carlin just another bit of stuff? Does our stuff define us anymore than the lack thereof would? If life ended today, what would happen to all our stuff? Would it matter that much?
Addicted to subtitles
Commentary by Danielle WilsonHi. My name is Danielle and it’s time to come clean. I’m addicted to closed captioning. When did it start? Hard to say. I suppose like most things, my dependence on subtitles was gradual. I used them infrequently at first, finding excuses like, “It’s just while Andrew’s banging around in the kitchen” and “I’ll turn them off as soon as Doo finishes his phone call.” But then I became so used to their blocky, black-and-white presence covering the bottom quarter of my 58-inch Panasonic that I found myself overwhelmed whenever they weren’t on. “Meredith Grey’s got legs?” Too. Much. Screen.
HUMOR
see comedian Leanne Morgan perform down in Louisville recently. She speaks with a thick Knoxville accent, and from my seat in the balcony of a huge theater, I couldn’t understand roughly 20 percent of her show. My frustration drove me to contact her demanding a refund and/or a promise to install jumbotrons with voice-to-text capabilities for the remainder of her tour. “Your fan base is old, we can’t hear!” Clearly, I’ve lost my gosh darn mind.
Now, I’m to the point that I become enraged when CC isn’t available, and even worse, I’ve noticed myself jonesing for them when I’m not watching television, like when I’m in a faculty meeting or sitting in a crowded restaurant. “What the heck are you people saying?”
Luckily, I think I’ve hit bottom. I went to
It’s been quite the journey, to be sure, but I’m finally working on accepting the things I cannot change and garnering the courage to either learn lip reading or acquire hearing aids. My name is Danielle, and I’m addicted to closed captioning. Peace out.
Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.
I don’t remember the last time I cleaned out the fridge in our basement. It’s kind of my fridge. My wife, Mary Ellen, keeps her distance. It was when I finally removed one of the vegetable bins for a quick hosing that I first set my eyes on it. Now, I know the excitement Louis Leakey must have felt when he gazed upon the skeletal remains of our early human ancestors. There, wedged behind the Hidden Valley Ranch on the bottom shelf, was an unopened bottle of Three Stooges Beer. Moe, Larry and Curly were grinning at me after several years chilling out in the back of our Whirlpool. Yes, gentlemen, there once was a Three Stooges Beer. No longer. No Curly Light or Moe Extra Dry, either. Sorry! The bottle was part of an assortment of exotic brews I received years ago for emceeing a fundraising event. Why didn’t I know about this beer when I was in college? Why would I sprawl out on my dorm room bed with a can of Budweiser when I could have drunk myself stupid with the world’s funniest threesome?
Lewis Chablis. In fact, that’s why most of you men have never even heard of Three Stooges Beer. For years, a dedicated band of women were buying this product and dumping it at chemical waste sites.
HUMOR
When women shop for food, they prefer brand names likes Mrs. Paul’s and Sara Lee. But, honestly ladies, did your Aunt Millie or Mama Mancini ever make you laugh?
So, in my opinion, more food should be named specifically after old-time comedians. Sadly, I don’t think Madison Avenue would take the chance of alienating women shoppers. I asked my wife if she’d ever buy Abbott and Costello Jell-O.
“Not a chance, Dick. I don’t want my food to taste funny. But I would buy Brad Pitt Olives. And I’d love some Idris Elba Macaroni. I already have stocked away 14 bottles of Paul Newman’s Own salad dressing.”
Personally, I’d buy Laurel and Hardy Beef Stew. Doesn’t John Cleese Cream Cheese sound good? And wouldn’t a bottle of Betty White Vinegar look good on your pantry shelf?
So, what happened to Three Stooges Beer? Forgive me, but I blame the ladies. Stranded in the Sahara Desert, mouth parched, near death, no woman would drink a Three Stooges Beer. You know this, of course. We all instinctively recognize that women hate anything that has to do with The Three Stooges. If they won’t laugh at them, they certainly won’t chug them. You might as well offer them a Jerry
I know what you are wondering: “Dick, will you open that rare treasure and guzzle what might be the last bottle of Three Stooges Beer?
I might. But I’ll regret it. And then I’ll smack myself upside the head.
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“There, wedged behind the Hidden Valley Ranch on the bottom shelf, was an unopened bottle of Three Stooges Beer. Moe, Larry and Curly were grinning at me after several years chilling out in the back of our Whirlpool.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
“I’m to the point that I become enraged when CC isn’t available.”
– DANIELLE WILSON
Venson to make area debut in Fishers Blues Fest
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comJackie Venson is eager for her first visit to the Indianapolis area.
‘GRUMPY OLD MEN’
“Grumpy Old Men” runs through Oct. 1 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
LIVE AT THE CENTER
CONCERTS
“I was supposed to (visit) in 2021 but that was the year that touring was really precarious, and the show got canceled,” said Venson, a rhythm and blues and soul artist from Austin, Texas. “I think this will be an excellent way to expose myself to a new audience, and I am excited that it will be my debut Indianapolis show.”
Venson will be the headliner for the first night of the 11th annual Fishers Blues Fest, set for Sept. 1-2 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. Admission is free. Venson will perform from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 1.
“I play blues festivals, but I also play a ton of nongenre-specific festivals and festival-type events,” Venson said. “I enjoy these gigs because I have the potential to be discovered by a ton of people all at once. They usually happen outside, which means the capacity of the venue is always huge. It’s a fun and rewarding experience usually.”
Her set includes several original songs from her albums “Evolution of Joy” and “Love Transcends,” as well as her other two studio albums.
“I will definitely sneak some other selections from other albums into the set as well,” Venson said.
Venson, the youngest of nine siblings, was born and raised in Austin, Texas, and lives there now.
“There’s a very low likelihood that I will leave Austin anytime soon. My whole life is here,” said Venson, whose father, Andrew Venson, was a professional musician for 40 years before retiring.
Cedric Burnside, a blues guitarist and singer-songwriter from Mississippi, will headline the Sept. 2 show with a performance from 8:30 to 10 p.m.
Burnside’s has two Grammy-nominated albums, “Descendants of Hill Country” in 2015 and “Benton County Relic” in 2018 Tickets aren’t required for the shows. Chairs, blankets and coolers are welcome. There is no outside alcohol permitted.
Queen Delphine & The Crown Jewels will perform at 7:15 p.m. Sept.2 at the Fishers Blues Fest. (Photo courtesy of Fish-
There will be food and beverage vendors on-site.
FISHERS BLUES FEST SCHEDULE
Sept. 1
5-6 p.m.: Django Knight
6:30-8 p.m.: Zach Person
8:30-10 p.m.: Jackie Venson.
Sept. 2
Jackie Venson, a rhythm and blues and soul artist from Austin, Texas, will perform from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 1 at the Fishers Blues Fest. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Parks)
The Sean Imboden Trio will perform at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30 in the Live at the Center at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts Center in Carmel. Tickets are $10 or register for livestream option. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE
The Symphony on the Prairie series features Aeromyth: The Ultimate Aerosmith Tribute Experience Sept. 1; Pyromania: The Def Leppard Experience Sept. 2; and Voyage: The Ultimate Journey Tribute Band Sept. 3 at Conner Prairie in Fishers. All concerts begin at 8 p.m. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 1 and Helpling “In the Pocket” at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 2 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
FISHERS BLUES FEST
The Fishers Blues Fest, a free event, is set for 5 to 10 p.m. Sept. 1-2 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater in Fishers.
DISPATCH
5-5:45 p.m.: Scrapper & Skelton
6-7 p.m.: Yates McKendree
7:15-8:15 p.m.: Queen Delphine & The Crown Jewels
8:30-10 p.m.: Cedric Burnside.
Center for the Performing Arts adds to development team — The Carmel-based Center for the Performing Arts has selected Kathy Pataluch, a veteran of central Indiana’s nonprofit arts community, to be its new director of individual development. Pataluch began work this month as a key member of the development team for both the Center and the affiliated Great American Songbook Foundation. Her responsibilities include managing the Annual Fund; planned giving; major gifts and capital campaigns; developing fundraising campaigns focused on individual donors; and building the donor base locally and nationwide. Pataluch had served since 2019 as advancement director for the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Center.
‘Shortcomings’ explores relationships
Commentary by Julianna ChildsAdmit it, you’ve done it. I’ve done it. We’ve all done it. For anyone who’s stalked an ex on social media comes a wickedly funny film, “Shortcomings,” about the crazy ends we’re driven to by love. In his directorial debut, Randall Park turns the awkward moment when you and your partner decide to take a breather from your relationship and spins it into a comedy of errors.
Meet Ben (Justin H. Min), the night manager of a Berkeley movie theater, and his girlfriend Miko (Ally Maki), young urbanities living in the Bay Area. Their relationship is strained because of his pessimistic and pretentious attitude toward life. When Miko gets an internship opportunity in New York, they decide to take a break.
Left to his own devices, Ben pursues excitement with an oddball co-worker, Autumn, and then a grad student, Sasha. When neither fling works out, he shadows Miko on Instagram as she explores her new city. As their communication fades, Ben decides to take matters into his own hands and visit her in N.Y. Little does he know, he’s about to get a crash course in closure, Big Apple style. Surprise, Miko is living her best life with her new beau.
Rejected and obsessed is never a good combination. Still, Ben recruits Alice (Sherry Cola), his expressive lesbian sidekick, to join him in N.Y. and gather intel. The two shadow Miko, lurking through the city streets with enthusiasm and shady decision-making, leading to a series of comic events.
Based on his acclaimed graphic novel, writer Adrian Tomine delivers a dramedy with sharp-witted characters and somehow endears the audience to Ben’s messy and hypercritical personality. In an auspicious directorial debut, Park skillfully weaves together the heartbreaking and heartfelt moments of the story.
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.
Nut, fruit spreads add flavor
Commentary by Mark LaFayThe Indiana State Fair has ended, and I am happy to report back that my team took home third place in the barbeque competition. The top three were close in points and it was an exciting awards ceremony, to say the least!
Our team incorporated several jams into our barbecue glazes, and this got me thinking about an often-overlooked condiment on charcuterie boards: nut and fruit spreads. Often, I think we get hung up on keeping savory with savory and sweet with sweet. In reality, savory components almost always magnify or enhance the sweet.
Here are a few yummy spreads to check out. You can find them in the cheese section of local grocers Joe’s Butcher Shop, Tasteful Times, Cork and Cracker, Old Major Market and other area locations:
• Dalmatia Fig Spread: This is a staple item for every charcuterie board, made with figs from the Dalmatian coast of Croatia. This spread has a smooth texture with pops of crunch from the fig seeds. It is sweet but
not overpowering. It goes great with nuts, crackers, brie, blue cheese, sharp cheddar and more.
• B-Happy Peanut Butter: This crew started in Zionsville, making nut butters with wild flavor combinations. Their joy to the world is honey roasted peanuts, dark chocolate, white chocolate and dried cranberries. Spread it on crackers with apples or pears. They have several other flavor combinations. Browse to find one that suits you best.
• Food For Thought Cherry Habanero: Tim Young started this brand about 25 years ago in Michigan, utilizing local ingredients. This is a tasty sweet cherry jelly that has a kick from habanero and red pepper flakes. It is fantastic with goat cheese, cheddar, brie, prosciutto and mild salami.
RISE Fest to feature eight bands
By
Mike Beas editorial@youarecurrent.comAndy Binford has had Sept. 16 circled in his mind’s calendar for some time now.
FUNDRAISER
The combination of live bands performing for various good causes with a late-summer backdrop is, in Binford’s mind, a visual that needs no touching up.
Hamilton County RISE Fest celebrates its third annual event on the acreage of Spencer Farm Winery in Noblesville.
Eight bands will perform on two different stages beginning at 1 p.m., with the final bands finishing their sets around 9:30 p.m.
The event is free and open to all ages, with donations and proceeds to benefit a selected nonprofit in each of the county’s four largest cities — Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville and Fishers.
“What RISE stands for is rockers impacting and serving everyone,” said Binford, 52, who lives in Westfield. “In late 2020, I hooked up with some local guys, and one of them knew Duke Tumatoe, who was doing some shows to raise money for Duke’s band.
“We ended up saying, ‘Let’s pick a nonprofit from the four major cities.’ ”
This year, proceeds will go to the following nonprofits: Heart and Soul Clinic (Westfield); Children’s TherAplay (Carmel); Hamilton County Veterans Corp (Noblesville); and HopeAnchor & Crew (Fishers).
In 2022, RISE Fest drew approximately 1,000 people and raised approximately $6,000.
Binford, the vice president of IWIS Drive Systems headquartered in Whitestown, id the event’s executive director.
For more, visit millionairefinancialcoach. com/rise-fest-2023.
Pirates always beat snakes
Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt
Let’s talk rivalries. Everyone has an opinion on Coke versus Pepsi. How about werewolves against vampires? Do bears beat Battlestar Galactica? Hufflepuff or Gryffindor? DC versus Marvel? There are so many good matchups to entertain.
GRAMMAR GUY
In this case, we need to think about snakes versus pirates.
Increasingly I’ve heard people throwing around “there is” or “there’s” when they ought to say “there are.” Does this matter? Of course! After all, singular subjects need singular verbs; likewise, plural subjects get plural verbs. This is called subject-verb agreement.
However, with a subject like “there,” how do we know if the subject is singular or plural? Let’s use an example: There is/ are many ways to get to this afternoon’s drum circle. But wait a second: “There” can’t possibly be the subject, can it? No, it’s not. In fact, the subject is “ways,” although it’s not clear when we’re beginning the sentence.
Think of it this way: there are = pirates. Pirates say “ARRRRR!” There is = snake. A snake says “HISSSS!” One snake is singular. Multiple pirates are plural. Let’s substitute “there” with “snake” and then “pirates” into our sentence: Snake is many ways to get to this afternoon’s drum circle. Pirates are many ways to get to this afternoon’s drum circle. Although they both sound ridiculous, “pirates” sounds better.
A snake (which goes HISSSS!) is singular. Pirates (which go ARRRRR!) are plural. There is = singular. There are = plural. In a battle between one snake and a crew of pirates, I’d put my doubloons on the pirates; one snake couldn’t possibly take a whole pirate posse down. Pirates beat snakes. There’s plenty of room for argument here.
Visiting Indiana University’s Lilly Library
Commentary by Don KnebelWith our tour of Alaska over, we will visit often-overlooked places an easy drive from Indianapolis. Today, we explore the Lilly Library in Bloomington.
TRAVEL
Josiah K. Lilly Jr., then president of Eli Lilly & Co., had amassed an extraordinary collection of rare books, manuscripts and works of art. Between 1954 and 1957, he donated thousands of those items to Indiana University, forming the nucleus of the Lilly Library, which opened in 1960 in a limestone building just south of Showalter Fountain. Hundreds of thousands of items have since been added to the collection, many donated by collectors. When the 52,516-square-foot building was reconfigured in 2019 to accommodate its growing collection, murals were added to the reading room.
By 1950,in London in 1623; and Thomas Jefferson’s personal copy of the first printing of the Bill of Rights. The 8.5 million manuscripts include those for “Peter Pan” and “Auld Lang Syne” and two letters written by George Washington, one to Patrick Henry turning down a proposed stock gift and the other accepting the presidency. Sixteen-thousand miniature books, the world’s largest collection, include tiny versions of the Bible and Bhagavad Gita. Many of the 30,000 mechanical puzzles are displayed in the separate Slocum Room, with some available for solving. An eclectic collection of Americana includes two locks of Edgar Allen Poe’s hair — one sent in a letter to a lover just before his death — and four Oscars won by director John Ford.
The Lilly Library is open for research by appointment only. Guided tours are available every Friday at 2 p.m.
The Lilly Library’s 450,000 books include one of only 11 Gutenberg Bibles in the United States; the “Nuremberg Chronicles,” an elaborately illustrated account of the history of the world published in 149; the first printed edition of “Canterbury Tales;” the first folio of Shakespeare’s collected works, published
PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE
Answers to HOOSIER
HODGEPODGE: Elements: CARBON, IRON, OXYGEN, SODIUM, SULFUR, ZINC; Actresses: ANISTON, GARNER, HUDSON, LAWRENCE, LOPEZ; NCAA: NATIONAL, COLLEGIATE, ATHLETIC, ASSOCIATION; Brands: BRONCO, EXPLORER, MUSTANG; Duo: HARRY, IZZY; Word: HOOT
Across
1. Look bad when worn together
6. Sci-fi vehicles
10. Hamilton County appraiser’s map
14. Biathlon need
15. Band mate of Crosby, Stills and Young
16. Wander Indiana
17. Hammerin’ Hank
18. Early Peruvian
19. Mayberry boy
20. Smith’s Jewelers buy
22. Indianapolis Indians, for the Pittsburgh Pirates
24. Architect IM
25. Passion
26. Scrooge’s cry
29. Towel embroidery
31. Indianapolis Opera voice
35. Pacers’ initial league, initially
36. Crackers Comedy Club bit
37. Part of a Classic Cakes cake
38. Chapel with a famous ceiling
40. Alka-___
42. IND luggage attachment
43. Shoe part
44. Shoe width
45. Ogles the Colts cheerleaders
23. Ceiling-hung art
26. Herb
27. Tolerate
28. “___ makes waste”
30. Squeeze (out)
32. Small, medium and large
33. Show disdain
34. Mythical monsters
36. Picture puzzle
39. Herb
40. Distress signal
41. Tribal leader
43. Pearly Gates gatekeeper
46. Decontaminate
49. Kind of cavity
51. Stop from flowing
52. Joe’s Butcher Shop steak choice
53. Computer input
54. Showbiz awards “grand slam”
55. A horseshoe, for the Colts
57. Fiddle sticks?
WE DO
ARMESON LECTRIC LLC
FULL TIME
Fishers area church seeks an experienced person who has servant/leadership qualities, proven organizational skills, and the ability to be open and flexible. This role is a great fit for a flexible, organizational thinker who is self-motivated and can function in a team setting that requires trust, oversight and motivational skills.
Oversight of these areas: Financial, Personnel, Property Management, Daily operations, Policies & Procedures.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with demonstrated high performance. 3-5 years with supervisory experience Interested persons email resume to mainoffice@christthesavior.org. Job summary, job description and application available at christthesavior.org