October 1, 2024 – Lawrence/Geist

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Most people think of fall as football season, or fall foliage season, or the season of pumpkin-spiced everything. For those who work in local government, fall means one thing: budget season!

Last week, I had the honor of presenting to our Lawrence Common Council the City of Lawrence 2025 Proposed Budget, the first annual budget created by my administration.

Developing the municipal budget is the most important responsibility for any mayor. No matter what else is happening around the world, our local government must stay open for business – and our “business” is caring for our residents. Our city’s budget is the planning tool that allows us to do that.

But our budget can also cast a wider vision for the financial and civic health of a community. Budget decisions reflect an administration’s values and priorities; they are the most powerful lever a city government has for improving residents’ quality of life. The City of Lawrence 2025 Proposed Budget details my administration’s plans to prioritize public safety, continue improving our city’s infrastructure, increase walkability and pedestrian safety, and spur economic growth in Lawrence while maintaining healthy fiscal reserves.

Above all, the 2025 Proposed Budget offers a view of the City of Lawrence as a community of opportunity for all, a community that draws strength from its diversity and takes pride in caring for one another no matter our differences. After all, investing in the wellbeing of those who choose to live, work, or play in the City of Lawrence is best investment our government can make!

If you want to view the 2025 City of Lawrence Proposed Budget, find it on the city website at: www.cityoflawrence.org/financial

In service, Mayor Deborah Whitfield

IN 2024 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

October 1, 2024

Current in Lawrence/Geist geistcurrent.com

New stamp to feature Newfields painting

A painting that spent much of the past 40 years in storage at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields in Indianapolis will make its way around the world this holiday season.

The Madonna and Child from the workshop of Italian Baroque painter Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato (1609-1685) and included in the collection at Newfields is the featured artwork on the 2024 United States Postal Service Christmas stamp, a First-Class Forever stamp.

The stamp was unveiled during a special ceremony Sept. 17 at Newfields.

Belinda Tate, who serves as the Melvin & Bren Simon Director of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, said the artwork has not been displayed at the museum since the 1980s. The piece underwent conservation treatment in 2024.

“We recognize the importance of the United States Postal Service and the integral role in shepherding visual and written communication on which we depend every day. This is especially true in the fall and winter season when millions of greetings of love and comfort travel across the United States and the world,” Tate said. “It is an honor for the IMA’s Madonna and Child to be included among the artworks that will accompany these messages in the form of a postage stamp.”

Clowes Conservator of Paintings Roxy Sperber said the painting had not undergone conservation treatment for more than 80 years. Scientific techniques that were not available when the painting was last featured at IMA showed the canvas had previously been torn and restored, leaving markings on the painting that have now been corrected.

“As I began conservation treatment, the quality of the painting really became apparent,” Sperber said. “You can see these beautiful red and blue pigments that started to emerge. The lovely handling of the flesh in the Christ child and the Madonna’s faces really struck me.”

Sperber said analysis of the materials shows the paint was sourced from Afghanistan and imported to Europe, making that paint more valuable than gold at the time.

“This is an indication that the painting is actually very valuable, important work,” Sperber said.

Curatorial assistant Sadie Arft said that while the painting has not been displayed in 40 years, it was at one time a popular piece at IMA. Arft said the painting is more subtle and subdued than some of the artist’s other works, which makes the selection as this year’s stamp unique.

“She is only one of a couple of Madonna’s from (Sassoferrato’s workshop) that are looking out and looking at us, as though she is inviting us into the painting,” Arft said.

Indiana First Lady Janet Holcomb, who assisted with the unveiling of the stamp, said Newfields is one of the most important cultural institutions in the state.

“I love sending and receiving hand-written notes,” Holcomb said. “A stamp can

provide a small expression in the same way art can articulate a story and emotion or a shared history.”

Representatives from Newfields said the U.S. Postal Service keeps the process for how stamp artworks are chosen a secret, but said they were informed earlier this year that the Sassoferrato painting was one of 35 finalists out of 30,000 potential selections.

This is the second Sassoferrato painting to be used as a stamp. A similar painting was the official Christmas stamp in 2009.

Two-hundred million stamps were commissioned, enough to last through 2024 and 2025.

The artwork will be on display at Newfields throughout the holiday season.

3

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Unveiling the 2024 Christmas stamp at Newfields, from left, Jay Bigalke of Linn’s Stamp News, Indianapolis Postmaster Keith Blane, USPS Indiana District Manager Christi Johnson-Kennedy, Indiana First Lady Janet Holcomb, IMA director Belinda Tate, conservator Roxy Sperber and curatorial assistant Sadie Arft. (Photos by Marney Simon)
The 2024 Christmas stamp and original painting are on display at IMA at Newfields.

Lawrence council reviews new police, fire contracts

City of Lawrence police and fire contracts were introduced to the Lawrence Common Council Sept. 18, and, if approved, will provide guaranteed annual pay raises and a revised vacation accrual process.

NEGOTIATIONS

Initially, Council President Betty Robinson (D-at-large) said she would call for a vote on the contracts that night without referring them to a committee for review, but three council members — Tyrell Giles (D-District 1), Rick Wells (D-District 2) and Liza Chavis (D-at-large) — strongly objected.

Chavis said voting without a committee review would be an unprecedented step.

“This is a major contract that needs to be considered along with the budget because it has budget impacts,” she said, noting that Sept. 18 was the first opportunity for the council to receive any information about either contract. “The administration and police and fire have had months to discuss this contract and to negotiate, and to rob any council member of the op-

portunity of a meeting is just — it shouldn’t be stood for, and no one should expect us to do that after allowing everyone to have time to have dialogue. I hope that my fellow councilors have not colluded to make a decision to support this without giving every single councilor and your constituents the opportunity to even hear what’s in it.”

Robinson, who was newly elected in November, thanked the three members — who all served previous terms — for providing that background information. She referred both contracts to a Committee of the Whole for review.

Chief of Staff Zach Brown and representatives from the police and fire unions answered some questions about the contracts that night. Brown said raises included in both are meant to help with recruitment and retention.

“We in the (Mayor Deb) Whitfield administration believe this contract makes positive progress toward remedying this problem in our city and it sets us on a trajectory where we will be able to continue to retain our officers and keep a level of staffing in Lawrence that will serve our city well,” he said of the police contract, specifically.

Lawrence Police Department officers have negotiated a new contract with the City of Lawrence. The contract, along with a new firefighters contract, will be reviewed by the Lawrence Common Council. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)

“This contract grants a pay raise of 5 percent in 2025 with successive 3 percent pay raises in 2026, 2027 and 2028 to our officers in the Lawrence Police Department.”

The change in vacation policy would provide annual vacation time at the start of a calendar year, rather than vacation building up throughout the year. It also would allow unused leave to roll over rather than the current practice of “use it or lose it.”

The fire department contract’s provisions for salary and vacation mirror those of the police contract.

Giles expressed concern about the potential financial liability from the proposed vacation policy change, stating that the city got rid of rollover leave about five years ago because of the large payouts when someone resigned or retired.

An attorney who assisted the city with negotiations said that to reduce that liability, both sides agreed that police and fire personnel could choose to convert some of their vacation into a retirement plan payment, rather than letting it continue to accumulate.

Giles asked for more specific financial information related to the contracts. Controller Humphrey Nagila said his office did make a financial projection out to 2028, but he didn’t bring it to present to the council that night.

The council met as a Committee of the Whole Sept. 24 and approved a favorable recommendation for its next meeting, set for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 7 at Lawrence Government Center, 9001 E. 59th St. Meetings are livestreamed on the city’s Facebook page, facebook.com/cityoflawrencein and YouTube channel, youtube.com/@ visitlawrenceindiana.

Lawrence mayor presents 2025 budget

City of Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield presented her proposed 2025 municipal budget Sept. 18, with estimated general fund expenses at about $28 million, an increase of about $450,000 over 2024.

GOVERNMENT

Whitfield and Controller Humphrey Nagila presented the budget to the Lawrence Common Council for review. The council is scheduled to vote on the proposed spending plan in mid-October.

About 75 percent of the 2025 general fund would go toward public safety expenses — totaling about $21 million — which is a $430,000 decrease compared to 2024. Nagila told the council that some capital expenses previously paid through the general fund, such as public safety vehicles, were shifted to general obligation bonds.

Other proposed 2025 expenses include:

• Mayor’s office, $1.3 million, a $632,000

increase over 2024

• Parks Department, $1.6 million, a $446,000 increase

• Trash collection, $2.53 million, a $27,000 increase

• Public Works, $983.000, a $194,000 decrease

• Common Council,$317,000, a $26,000 decrease

• City Clerk, $121,000, a $2,000 decrease Whitfield told the council that the budget includes 3 percent salary increases for

2024 budget needs $800K in appropriations, transfers

The City of Lawrence needs about $800,000 in additional appropriations and fund transfers to balance its 2024 budget.

GOVERNMENT

The Lawrence Common Council had a first look at the requested budget transfers and appropriations during its Sept. 18 meeting. Documents providing some details were made available to Current on Sept. 23 following several public records requests.

According to the additional appropriation resolution, the city needs $237,500 for “other services and charges” in the 2024 General Fund; and $200,000 to cover pensions for retired city employees. Those appropriations would come from reserves. Requested budget transfers would move funds from one part of the 2024 budget to another and wouldn’t affect reserves. If approved by the council, about $361,000 in transfers from three departments —

city employees.

“The Whitfield administration is a bipartisan group of talented people, some new to Lawrence, some with decades of experience and institutional knowledge, who show up every day to make this city a better place for their neighbors,” she said, noting that the pay raises are meant to help retain those people. “As you review this balanced budget proposal, I hope that you’ll see what I see — a view of the City of Lawrence as a community of opportunity for all, a community that draws strength from its diversity and take pride and care for one another, no matter our differences.”

City revenue comes primarily from property and income taxes, along with charges for fees and services. The proposed budget shows an approximately $1 million increase in local tax revenue over 2024

The council referred the proposed budget to the Committee of the Whole for review. A committee meeting was scheduled for Sept. 25.

For a detailed look at the mayor’s 2025 budget, visit cityoflawrence.org/ financial/2025/2025-proposed-budget.

streets, non-departmental and garage — would go into the administration fund.

The city’s finances have been a topic of discussion starting in early August when Controller Humphrey Nagila gave an update to the council indicating there was a deficit. Specific numbers weren’t provided until the mid-September meeting.

The council referred the budget requests to the Committee of the Whole for review. A committee meeting was scheduled for Sept. 25.

Also up for review by are proposed 3 percent raises for city elected officials. If approved, the new salaries would be:

• Mayor: $102,742

• City clerk: $81,222

• Council president: $19,000

• Council vice president: $17,845

• Council members: $16,763

The city’s 2025 budget includes 3 percent raises for most city staff, as well. Police and firefighters have negotiated a 5 percent increase in 2025, pending council approval.

The Lawrence Common Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed 2025 budget in mid-October. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)
Whitfield

DREAM HOME

Winners picked in Hamilton County Artists exhibit

news@currentinfishers.com

A Carmel artist has won Best in Show in the Fishers Arts Council’s 2024 Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists.

ART

Jerry Mannell’s “Harbinger” was picked from pieces submitted by 35 artists represented in the annual exhibit, which was on display in September at the Art Gallery at City Hall, 1 Municipal Dr., Fishers.

Judge Dan Annarino stated in a news release that Mannell’s piece is thought-provoking and open to interpretation.

“Anyone looking at this painting for the first time needs to think about it,” he stated. “What’s it all about? Might the viewer see a bird — a cardinal, perhaps — and a mailbox? There are so many ways to look at this painting because it has so much depth. The subtle colors work well. The composition/balance is very good because the painting itself is so active. There is lots of movement in this kinetic presentation.”

All the winners except People’s Choice were chosen by Annarino, a West Lafayette-based full-time artist who exhibits paintings throughout the Midwest. An-

narino is also a board member and past president of the Indiana Artists’ Club and a member of the Hoosier Art Salon and the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, as well as an exhibiting artist in many shows throughout the Midwest.

Local artists in the September exhibit hailed from Fishers, Noblesville, Carmel, Westfield, Cicero and the edges of Hamilton County in Indianapolis and McCordsville.

Other awards were:

• Best Abstract: Caroline Hays (Noblesville), “Nature’s Layers”

• Best Landscape: Karissa Rumsey (Fishers), “Pemaquid Lighthouse”

• Best Portrait/Figurative: Deborah Smith (Noblesville), “A Midsummer Day’s Dream”

• Best Floral/Other: Casey Williams (McCordsville), “Garden Goddess”

• People’s Choice Winner: Stephanie Carignan (Fishers), “Weathered & Woven Grassland”

• Merit Award Winners: Brinton Farrand (Cicero), “Curious” and Craig Mullins (Indianapolis), “Big Sky Indiana” Besides his $1,000 Best in Show prize, Mannell will have a solo exhibit with the Fishers Arts Council in early 2025.

Pictured, front from left, are Brinton Farrand, Merit Award; Caroline Hays, Best Abstract; Ailithir McGill, executive director of Noblesville Creates; Karissa Rumsey, Best Landscape; and Craig Mullins, Merit Award. Back, from left, are Ross Hilleary, FAC Board President; Casey Williams, Best Floral/Other; Steve Sanner, Jiffy Lube of Indiana; and Dani and Dan Wasson of Wasson Nursery & Landscape. (Photo courtesy of FAC)

Fishers resident surprised by aviation honor

Dr. Worthe Holt never even thought about being inducted into the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame.

AWARD

“It was really quite a surprise,” said Holt, who was inducted Sept. 21 as the member of Class of 2024 in a ceremony at the 502 East Event Centre in Carmel. “I got a call and I was told someone had submitted my name for the honor and told me about some of the other inductors. I was thrilled to be considered. Quite frankly, it’s a distinguished club. I don’t feel like I deserve it. I certainly don’t deserve to be named alongside people like Wilbur Wright. I learned about how many extraordinary individuals from Indiana have contributed to aviation over the years.”

Holt retired as a major general after 36 years in the Air Force in 2017 and then retired from his full-time job in health care. He still does an occasional emergency care shift for Franciscan Health.

“My last job I had was with the United States Africa command, which is what we call a major command,” Holt said. “I had some oversight command for all the services, including Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, Army and various agencies. I worked with the State Department a lot. That was a really fascinating experience. My anchor has always been in the Air Force as a fighter pilot.”

Holt graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. He had the title of flight surgeon.

Holt, 67, originally from North Carolina, moved to Indianapolis when he was young and graduated from North Central High School and later earned a medical degree. He has lived in Fishers for 38 years.

“A flight surgeon is a physician that specializes in aviation medicine and aviation physiology. It doesn’t necessarily mean that they are a surgeon that cuts,” Holt said. “I’m actually a family physician by trade. A flight surgeon has training in recognizing problems and addressing conditions related to (flying).”

aviation and health care.

“They are sort of parallel careers, but I found a way to intertwine them and I just felt fortunate to do all the things I had to do,” he said. “At various times, they were

full time at one or another and at other points they were combined. It allowed me to do some unique things in aviation and medicine.”

Holt said one thing that made his career unique was participating in development of the pilot physician program in the Air Force for a small number of officers who had both pilot wings and aerospace physician wings.

In addition, Holt participated in the development of the Medical Officer Training Corps.

Holt said those participations likely were factors in his induction.

Holt served as combat pilot in the First Gulf War in 1991 and wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“I was always ready to go where I was tasked to go. I served for 36 years, but it was truly a joy,” Holt said. “I know not everyone has that experience, but for me I would not trade a day of it. Being able to fly as many hours as I did in the F-4 Phantom and F-16 as I did was remarkable. Seeing some of the things I did around the world was fabulous. Then being able to use my health care skills as well.”

Worthe Holt stands in front of an F-16 in the Middle East. (Photo courtesy of Worthe Holt)
Holt
Holt said his life revolved around

Eagles running back’s rushing totals soar higher

Zionsville Community High School football coach Scott Turnquist is impressed with the strides junior running back Sam Manna has made this season.

“Sam has done a great job developing his vision and understanding of the run game and how it fits together,” Turnquist said. “It shows growth when you are able to take the things you’ve seen in the past and implement it into your performance. He worked hard in the offseason to develop in every way.”

Turnquist said the experience and repetition has helped his progression, too.

“He has an understanding of how things fit together if they are done right and done well,” Turnquist said. “If you make your offensive line right, it goes a long way to making them feel great, too.”

In the first five games, the 5-foot-8, 188-pound Manna has rushed for 570 yards

MEET SAM MANNA

Favorite athlete: Nick Chubb

Favorite movie: “Remember the Titans”

Favorite vacation spot: Florida.

Favorite musician: Drake

on 122 carries and six touchdowns.

The Eagles won three of their first five games, matching last season’s win total of 3-7.

“He’s been a huge contributor so far and we have guys around him that have done the same,” Turnquist said. “He’s certainly stepped up in a lot of big situations.”

As a sophomore, Manna gained a teamhigh 392 yards on 112 carries with one touchdown.

“This year I’ve made the most improvement with my vision and hitting the gaps hard once I see them without second guessing and getting positive yards after

contact,” Manna said. “I feel like my vision is just carrying me to the right gap every time and I’ve learned to really trust that I’m seeing the right thing and that the gaps are going to be there. That trust that the gaps will be there all starts upfront. Those guys have been working hard all year and I’m grateful for what they’ve been providing me with this season.”

Manna has always been a running back.

“Since the first day on earth I can remember football has always been a big thing for me in life and I’ve always been naturally gifted to play running back,” he said. “I would describe my running style as an elusive back who can make people miss in open space with speed. I also am able to get downhill and get tough yards when needed.”

While growing up. Manna played several other sports, including basketball, wrestling, swimming, soccer, lacrosse and track. Manna, whose goal is to play college football, is still competing as a sprinter in track and field for the Eagles.

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

Zionsville Community High School junior running back Sam Manna averaged more than 110 yards per game in the first five games. (Photo courtesy of Nolan Adams)
Manna

DISPATCHES

Comedy show scheduled — Lawrence North High School choirs will host a comedy show set for 6 p.m. Oct. 29 at the school auditorium, 7802 Hague Rd. The show will feature headliner Jamahl Keyes with guests Jeff Goltz, Elijah Neveles and Brent Terhune. For more, visit lnchoir.ludus. com/200464590.

Water main flushing — The City of Lawrence Utilities will be flushing water mains during normal business hours through Oct. 18. As a result of this activity, some customers may experience a temporary discoloration of their water and/or a low water pressure condition. Color can range from a light yellow to an orange-red. If this occurs, the customer should run a medium stream of cold water until the water clears. Do not run hot water or wash clothes until the water clears up. The city does not reimburse customers for water used to flush their service lines due to iron discoloration. For more, contact City of Lawrence Utilities at (317) 542-0511.

Chamber networking — The Greater Lawrence Chamber of Commerce has regular networking events scheduled during the month of October. They include Water Cooler Wednesdays, set for 7:45 a.m. Oct. 2 at Meyer Plastics, 5968 Sunnyside Rd.; Chew on This, starting at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 15 at The Garrison, featuring speakers Kimble Richardson and Dr. April Krowel discussing mental health and psychologically healthy workplaces; and Chamber After Hours from 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 24 at Stock Yards Bank & Trust, 6840 Lake Plaza Dr. To register, visit greaterlawrencechamber.org.

Gospel stage play — “When He Pulls the Covers,” a Gospel stage play presented by The Midwest Creative Collective and The Uncut Diamond, is set for Oct. 11 to 13 and 18 to 20 at Arts for Lawrence’s Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave. For more, visit www. artsforlawrence.org.

Trunk or Treat — A festive afternoon of fun and learning, designed to bring together families with special-needs kids and the community organizations that serve them, is set for 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 19 at Ascension St. Vincent, 13861 Olio Rd., Fishers. This free event is open to the public. Activities will include trunk-or-treating, bounce houses, face painting, food vendors, a live DJ, safety and nutritional education, games, a costume contest and visits from Colts and Pacers players.

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Center gets new name

The Center for the Performing Arts and financial services provider Allied Solutions have entered a seven-year sponsorship agreement that will rename the nonprofit arts organization and the three-venue campus it operates at Carmel City Center.

SPONSORSHIP

McDermott

For the newly dubbed Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, the partnership reinforces financial stability and provides a greater pool of resources to sustain and expand programming, Center President/CEO Jeffrey C. McDermott said. Opened in 2011, Allied Solutions Center is known for the annual Center Presents concert season, which features national and international artists in a range of genres, as well as a broad menu of educational and experiential opportunities.

“Allied Solutions has supported the Center from the very beginning and that relationship has provided great value on all sides,” McDermott stated. “We couldn’t be more pleased that such a highly respected national company, headquartered right here in our community, sees the value of taking our partnership to a new level that will prove transformative for the center in the years to come.”

The agreement was announced Sept. 25 during an event at the Palladium. Financial details were not disclosed.

Carmel-based Allied Solutions has sponsored the Center Presents season since 2015.

“We’re invested in creating vibrant communities for our employees, residents and visitors,” Allied Solutions CEO Pete Hilger stated. “Through this partnership, we are supporting some of the most dynamic arts and performance venues in the region and a campus which also serves as a community hub, hosting award-winning cultural events, including Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt.”

McDermott said support from Allied Solutions will provide more flexibility in booking artists for the Center Presents season and enable the continued expansion of educational programs while making them more affordable and accessible.

COVER STORY

MISSION FOCUSED

Lawrence Township Schools officials give annual report to the public

Supporting students and helping them succeed are the primary missions of any educational institution and Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township has made those goals its focus at every level.

MSDLT Superintendent Shawn Smith and other school administrators gave a presentation about the district’s achievements during a Sept. 19 State of the Schools luncheon hosted by the Greater Lawrence Chamber of Commerce.

Smith said when kids are successful, everyone is successful at MSDLT.

“Our job is to make sure we get young people ready for the world,” he said. “We want them to graduate, we want them to go into careers and we do want them to go to college. Every single staff member in this district is focused on that right there.”

Smith noted that the district has grown to more than 16,500 students and 2,500 employees and is now the fifth-largest school district in Indiana.

“Yes, we’re larger than Carmel,” he said. “We love that.”

And, he said, they expect to continue attracting more students. With that growth, MSDLT is working toward expanding classroom space at the former Craig School on Sunnyside Road by moving district offices into a new central office building on Lawrence’s Fort Ben campus.

Smith touted the district’s 95 percent graduation rate in the 2022-23 school year, up from the district’s rate of previous years and better than the state average of 86.6 percent.

“We graduated close to 1,200 students last year,” he said. “That is a beautiful thing that we do in this diverse district with great poverty and wealth — it doesn’t matter. The expectation of this community is that every kid will earn a high school (diploma).”

Chief Academic Officer Troy Knoderer addressed some of the programs that help students move toward graduation, such as the district’s Early Learning Center schools that offer preschool services to help kids get ready for kindergarten and beyond.

“We take the ‘Three-E’ workforce readi-

ness approach and the first E is exposure,” he said. “As our students are learning basic literacy, as our students are learning basic math, we’re also engaging them in STEM — science, technology, engineering (and math) — and exposing students to what’s possible beyond their world, what’s

possible beyond the experiences that they bring to school in terms of what they can do with their life. So, that’s exposure at the early grades.”

Next is exploration in the middle grades and then expertise at the high school level. Knoderer said the goal is for students

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

A major school building renovation project at Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township is celebrating substantial completion this fall at Lawrence Central and Lawrence North high schools.

District Operations Chief Rodger Smith said the $500 million, 10-year project covered every school building in the district, starting with the elementary schools, then the middle schools and finally the high schools.

“You see the fruits of your commitment to us and our commitment to you, to turn these buildings into state-ofthe-art educational facilities,” he said.

“We’ve met our goal. You helped us get there and we’re excited that we have

the best facilities in the state.”

The district has a special dedication ceremony planned at both high schools on Oct. 6. The Lawrence Central dedication is set for 1:30 p.m. at the school, 7300 E. 56th St., followed by an open house. The Lawrence North dedication is 2:30 p.m. at the school, 7802 Hague Rd., also followed by an open house.

While most of the school renovations are complete, the district has two outstanding projects remaining in Phase One — building a new central office building on the Fort Ben campus and then renovating the vacated office space at the Sunnyside Road facility to accommodate more students.

to be ready to attend college or enter a career.

Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Emily Brown told the audience about the district’s bilingual education program, which starts in elementary school and continues through the end of high school. She said families are moving into Lawrence Township because of that program.

“Businesses want bilingual employees and families want bilingualism for their children,” Brown said. “Lawrence is a very special place as the need and request for bilingual education has grown from our families. We met that request and expanded access.”

The district has bilingual programs in seven of its 11 elementary schools and all its middle and high schools. Curriculum is taught in Spanish and English with the goal of producing graduates who are fluent in both languages.

The district’s Chief Financial Officer Matt Miles provided some financial details about what it takes to run the district. He said the annual budget is about $327 million, funded primarily through per-student state funding and property taxes.

“We’re the second-lowest property tax rate in the county — that’s not taken lightly,” he said. “We’ve been able to do wonderful things across the district over many, many years and keep our taxes low. I think that’s welcome news for all of us who live, work and play here.”

The district’s property tax rate is about $1.07 per $100 assessed value. The assessed value of property within the district’s boundaries is about $7.2 billion. Each student in the district provides about $7,600 in state funding.

Miles added that the district is one of the few in Indiana that has not asked voters to approve an operating referendum to help fund programs.

For more about MSDLT, visit ltschools. org.

ON THE COVER: MSD of Lawrence Township Superintendent Shawn Smith gives his annual State of the Schools presentation during a special Greater Lawrence Chamber of Commerce lunch. (Photo courtesy of MSDLT)
Attendees listen to MSDLT Superintendent Shawn Smith during the annual State of the Schools lunch. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

CCP production presents ‘Steel Magnolias’

Elizabeth Ruddell has a past connection to the play “Steel Magnolias.”

The Zionsville resident once played the role of Truvy in a production.

“Now, I finally get to direct this funny and moving show,” Ruddell said. “This play does speak to me because of the strong female characters. On the surface, this show appears to be a comedy, but when you start to look at the backgrounds of the characters, you see why the play is called ‘Steel Magnolias.’”

Carmel Community Players will present “Steel Magnolias” Oct. 4-13 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. Following the death of his sister from diabetes, Robert Harling wrote a short story and then adapted it into play in 1987. It was made into a 1989 movie focusing on the bond between six women in Louisiana.

The story takes place in Truvy’s beauty salon.

“The cast is made up of six women,” Ruddell said. “There are two young, two middle-aged and two that are older. It has been up to us to find common ground and each actress brings something different to the show, not only her character.”

Noblesville resident Emily Haus, making her CCP debut, plays Shelby, who has Type 1 diabetes and needs a kidney transplant.

“I specifically wanted to play Shelby because I can imagine my daughter growing up to be similar to her,” Haus said. “My daughter is medically fragile and has epilepsy, so this role gave me the chance to relate to and represent that part of her life.”

Haus said a challenge was portraying Shelby’s diva wedding.

“Personally, I’m pretty low-maintenance, not fashionable and very easy to please,” Haus said. “But I understood that for Shelby, this wedding was more than just a wedding — it was a dream of normalcy, a fulfillment of happiness and a huge milestone. She knew what she wanted. I approached it from that per-

spective — she wanted it to be perfect, and why not? Don’t we all?”

Tanya Haas plays M’Lynn, Shelby’s mother.

“I relate to M’Lynn as a mother who loves her children and just wants what is best for them and is frustrated when they don’t always listen to her advice,” Haas said. “She knows in her heart that since they are adults, they have to make those decisions for themselves, good or bad, but it’s still difficult to step back and watch that happen. My own six children are all adults now and I experience this in my own life quite often.”

The opening scene takes place on the morning of Shelby’s wedding. Haas’ own daughter got married last month, so she said she knows that feeling.

“M’Lynn is a challenging role to play because she has to face the greatest of joys and the depths of despair all in one show,” Haas said.

Haas said she loves performing in an all-female production.

“I think we have been able to share a lot of our personal stories, especially about being wives and mothers, that men just wouldn’t relate to, or we wouldn’t be comfortable sharing,” Haas said. “All of us have had our joys and struggles and we’ve learned from one another and sup-

ported each other on this very emotional journey of a show.”

Susan Smith, who plays Clairee, has seen “Steel Magnolias” several times on stage and recently rewatched the movie. She enjoys the play more than the movie.

“The play is very well-written and focuses purely on the relationships between the women in the salon,” Smith said. “It never leaves the salon and so the other characters in their lives are described through their stories. In the film, they simply show the stories as various scenes in their homes and ultimately at Shelby’s funeral. It’s entertaining, but I prefer listening to their tales and seeing the reactions of the main characters.”

Smith said Clairee has a lot of depth.

“Her husband of nearly 50 years has died recently and she is struggling to navigate life as a widow,” Smith said. “She uses humor as her way to survive and thus she has some of the best lines in the show. I can relate to Clairee. Like her, I’ve been married for a long time (43 years). I love football. I have a wicked sense of humor and like to laugh, and I have a wonderful group of women friends who gather frequently and support each other. They’ll all be coming to see the show to cheer me on.”

For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

‘MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Million Dollar Quartet” runs through Oct. 6 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Freeform Concert Series presents the Jeremiah Cosner Band with Ben Gage and Melanie Pierce at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 2, and Eric Baker & Friends presents “The Piano Man: A Billy Joel Tribute” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘RIPCORD’

Main Street Productions presents “Ripcord” Oct. 3-13 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘KINKY

BOOTS’

Civic Theatre’s production of “Kinky Boots” is set for Oct. 4-19 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre. org.

‘FANFARE

FOR A NEW ERA’

Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Fanfare for a New Era” season-opening concert is set for 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

‘CELEBRATION: BEETHOVEN & LISZT’ Carmel Symphony Orchestra presents “Celebration: Beethoven & Liszt” with Indy Opera at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Palladium Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

DISPATCH

Center Celebration raises funds — The annual Center Celebration 2024 presented by Ice Miller, which featured a performance by trumpeter Chris Botti, raised more than $588,000 to support the mission of the Center for the Performing Arts. Proceeds from the event will support the Center’s arts and educational programming.

From left, “Steel Magnolias” cast includes, from left, Gabrielle Patterson, Susan Smith,Tanya Haas, Emily Haus, Phoebe Aldridge and Casey Clouser. (Photo courtesy of Samantha Kelly)

Indy Opera joins in CSO concert

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Executive

Director Anne Marie Chastain has made it a priority to collaborate with a variety of arts organizations.

That was music to the ears of Indianapolis Opera General Director David Starkey, who has wanted to partner with CSO for several years.

Soloists Jake Surzyn, Will Upham, Rachel Purvis and Lyndsay Moy will represent Indianapolis Opera in Carmel Symphony’s “Beethoven Symphony No. 9” concert, set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. The soloists will perform “Ode to Joy.”

Damien Geter is the guest conductor. Starkey said Indianapolis Opera has wanted to collaborate with Carmel Symphony for several years.

“Damien is a very substantial bass baritone,” Starkey said. “But he’s also developed three operas that have been premiered. His latest one, ‘Apollo,’ just premiered at Des Moines Opera this past summer and he’s doing conducting.”

Starkey said Geter sang with Indianapolis Opera when he taught at University High School in Carmel.

“It’s great we are able to do a collaborative project with Damien, make our debut with Carmel Symphony with our four soloists, but we are taking it a step further with providing our Opera chorus of 25 professional singers,” Starkey said.

There also will be 25 singers from Ball State University under the direction of Cara Chowning, Indianapolis Opera’s choral director.

Starkey and Geter will take part in a pre-concert talk from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m.

The Opera Cabaret at Union 50 in indianapolis is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 9. The fundraiser features Latin jazz duo Pavel & Direct Contact with Leah Crane and Pavel Polanco-Safadit.

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.and indyopera.org.

Adam Arceneaux, Caroline & Michael Garvey
Chris Botti & band
Photos by Bill Crawford and Sara Crawford
Geter

IWS celebrates ‘New Era’

The Indiana Wind Symphony’s 2024-25 season-opening concert is aptly named “Fanfare for a New Era.”

CONCERT

The concert will begin a new era as Jay S. Gephart takes over as music director from founder Charlies Conrad, who retired after last season.

gramming. I wouldn’t say it’s something for everybody, but based on the way the musicians have responded, I think everyone is going to like this program.”

Gephart said some of the numbers are among his favorite pieces.

“I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to conduct this great ensemble,” Gephart said. “I stood in front of the Indiana Wind Symphony a few times as a guest conductor, but to be able to program my own repertoire and conduct a full program has been for quite a while a dream come true for me.”

The concert, set for 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, will open with Jack Stamp’s “Fanfare for a New Era.”

“I think this program reflects who I am as a conductor and as a wind symphony conductor,’ Gephart said. “I just like to have a wide range of variety in my pro-

Gephart is retiring as director of Purdue University’s All-American Marching Band at the end of the football season. Prior to joining Purdue in 1995, Gephart, 63, was the director of bands at North Central High School. He will remain the Purdue Wind Ensemble director and the Purdue department head for band and orchestra.

One of his favorites is a new piece called “Bamboo Shoots and City Streets” by Benjamin Barker, an American composer who lives in Tokyo.

Guest tubist Patrick Sheridan will perform on Martin Ellerby’s “Tuba Concerto,” “Imagine Rainbows” and “Flight of the Bumblebees.”

“He’s one of the greatest virtuoso tuba players in the world,” Gephart said.

For more, visit indianawindsymphony. org,

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curried salmon. (Photos by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

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Artistic director lauds Heartland’s mix

Heartland International Film Festival

Artistic Director Greg Sorvig expects filmgoers will be pleased with the mix of more than 110 feature films at the 11-day festival.

FILM

The Oct. 10-20 festival includes 28 world/North American/U.S. premieres, 73 regional premieres, 20 special presentations and 10 Indiana Spotlight films.

University fan. Eisenberg’s wife, Anna Strout, grew up in Bloomington.

Sorvig said the film is a heavy favorite to be nominated for Academy Awards for best original screenplay and best supporting actor for Kieran Culkin.

‘’Coming off a couple of years with strikes and other things, the caliber of films is back at a high level, and we have some of the best films of the year,” said Sorvig, a Carmel resident. “I’m thrilled to have this lineup. It’s a great mix.”

Sorvig said Heartland sets the tone with the three Spotlight showings: “A Real Pain” for Opening Night (Oct. 10); “Small Things Like These” (Oct, 16) for Centerpiece Showing; and “Emilia Pérez” for Closing Night (Oct. 20).

Sorvig saw “A Real Pain” at Sundance in January. Jesse Eisenberg plays the lead role and wrote and produced the film.

Sorvig said he connected with Eisenberg at Sundance. Both are 40 years old.

“It was my first and only ask for Opening Night, which usually doesn’t happen,” Sorvig said. “I was absolutely thrilled to get this film that I really connected with in a deep way and someone who has an Indiana connection in a deep way. The funny thing is, Jesse Eisenberg wears an IU hat two/thirds of the way.”

Sorvig said Eisenberg is an avid Indiana

The Centerpiece Screening features Cillian Murphy in “Small Things Like These.” Murphy earned the Oscar for Best Actor for “Oppenheimer” earlier this year.

“It’s based on a true story of a father who fights against abuse in an Irish Catholic convent,” Sorvig said.

The film’s director, Tim Mielants, directed Murphy in several episodes of “Peaky Blinders.”

Closing Night features “Emilia Pérez” from Netflix, starring Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez and Adriana Paz.

The actresses shared Best Actress awards as an ensemble at the Cannes Film Festival. Sorvig said the film has been shown at several major festivals.

“The main character, the real-life actress (Karla Sofía Gascón), is a trans woman, and she plays a cartel leader,” Sorvig said. “She has a sex change and becomes a woman in the film. It’s also a musical and a comedy. There’s a bunch of crossgenre elements. It’s an amazing, audacious film. It’s currently the film predicted to have the most nominations for any film for the Oscars. For Closing Night, we look for an exclamation point, something that will be talked about for months and months leading up to the Oscars.”

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

FREE EVENT POTTER’S BRIDGE FALL FESTIVAL

Feeling strapped for cash but still want to have some fun? Each week, Current helps you find things to do without breaking the bank. Here’s what’s on tap this week:

2 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

Potter’s Bridge Park at 19401 N. Allisonville Rd. will host the 25th Annual Potter’s Bridge Fall Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 5. Listen to live music, visit more than 100 arts, crafts and food booths and see Noblesville’s most scenic park on the White River Greenway Trail.

ALSO CHECK OUT

MUSIC FESTIVAL — The Hand in Hand Music Foundation will host Global Music, United World Festival in Midtown Carmel at 365 Monon Blvd. from 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 5. The event will feature local music and art with global influences. Vendor booths will line the plaza with a mainstage near Sun King where local musicians will play.

Sorvig

Funds available for orthodontic care in Zionsville

news@youarecurrent.com

Dr. Danielle Godley and Godley Family Orthodontics of Zionsville have partnered with the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation to provide orthodontic treatment scholarships to children and teens who would not be able to afford braces otherwise.

ORAL HEALTH

Smile for a Lifetime is a national nonprofit that helps make orthodontic care accessible to children in low-income families and those in special circumstances, such as foster care.

The organization focuses on giving back to the community through scholarships and grants for orthodontic treatment by partnering with local orthodontists to provide care for those individuals who need assistance.

Through the program, accepted applicants pay a total of $500 for care, with the

scholarship covering the remaining costs. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the cost of braces varies but on average is between $3,000 and $7,000. Applicants must be between the ages of 8 and 18 and not currently wear braces; must have good dental hygiene practices; must be enrolled in school with a C average or higher; must have a social impediment or moderate/severe need for braces; and must have a family income of no more than 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

Applicants are welcome from all Indianapolis metropolitan communities.

To apply for an orthodontic scholarship or learn more about Smile For A Lifetime,visit smileforalifetime.org/apply-for-braces. Scholarships are limited and handled through the National Smile for a Lifetime Foundation.

For more on Godley Family Orthodontics, visit godleyfamilyortho.com.

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC’S LEGAL NOTICE OF STANDARD CONTRACT RIDER NO 67 CREDITS ADJUSTMENT

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or about October 24, 2024, Duke Energy Indiana will submit an update to its Standard Contract Rider No. 67, Credits Adjustment (“Standard Contract Rider 67”) to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (“Commission”) for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. Standard Contract Rider 67 provides the rate adjustment to credit the annual amortization of the Investment Tax Credit for the Edwardsport Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Plant. Standard Contract Rider 67 is applicable to all Duke Energy Indiana retail electric customers. This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, Dana Kosco or Lorraine Hitz of the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:

Dr. Danielle Godley, (center), with the staff of Godley Family Orthodontics of Zionsville. (Photo courtesy of Godley Family Orthodontics)

Our guiding principles?

In the United States, the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) has defined the terms LIFO (Last In, First Out) and FIFO (First In, First Out) as appropriate for inventory accounting. For those in the know, the former can deliver significant advantages to a corporation by minimizing taxable income. These are among the scores of acronyms and terms comprising the secret jargon of the informed members of the guild — good for those who figure out and benefit from the rule. Even so, most of us are content to remain among the unwashed masses, deposited upon the craggy shores of blissful ignorance. We pay more than others. We suboptimize our opportunity. If we do consider the advantage of accounting creativity, we might decide the extra effort to be not worth it.

ESSAY

Still, we feel compelled to drive as fast as possible between stoplights, knowing the next will allow those we just vanquished to regain their ground lost. We

push and shove our way to the boarding gate at an airport, only to wait for our group to be called. We jump up as quickly as the train pulls into the station, fight out a stake in the aisle and grab our luggage from overhead. It doesn’t occur to us that we are not decamping until those dozens of others between us and the exit move.

How do we come to measure our desire to gain advantage? Is the investment showing a return? We catch wind of an approach that seems cheaper, faster, better — and undertake to deploy it often with too little consideration of its real value and associated costs. Maybe we just don’t like the idea that someone else is going to get something that we’re not. We don’t want to be first in and last out.

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

It’s the most pumpkiny time

“It’s time again to celebrate that most beloved and versatile fall fruit –the pumpkin.” That’s a sign posted at the Dunkin’ Donuts shop near me. There are similar signs at Trader Joe’s and Starbucks. Every aisle has something Halloweeny or pumpkiny, which are not words, except in September and October. Christmassy pops up in November and December. Thankgivingly never made it. And Easterly only comes up when you are traveling from California to New York.

HUMOR

Now, I’m not a big pumpkin fan. I don’t even like small pumpkins. But here are just a few of the current seasonal options I now see at the stores noted above. You can stop reading the list anytime. You’ll get the point.

Pumpkin pie mix; pumpkin-flavored cinnamon bagels; pumpkin Greek nonfat yogurt; pumpkin cream cheese spread; organic pumpkin cream cold brew; pumpkin spice latte Starbucks; pumpkin cream cheese muffin; pumpkin scones; pumpkin loaf; and pumpkin spice signature latte, to name a few.

Now, let’s wander over to Trader Joe’s. But first, pick up a copy of its in-store publication, Fearless Flyer.

• In its promotion for Sugar Bee Apples, the writer writes, “We take excellent products and cross-pollinate them with fair prices.” I can’t imagine how they did that. But I once saw a Rottweiler/Chihuahua mix.

• Caramelized Onion Goat Cheese Log: “We discover that this dish “creates a synergistic symphony on the palate.” Well, I’ll pass. I don’t want my tongue making any more noise. I’m already bad enough with soup.

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: “This Latte elevates PSL to another level.” I recently got some blood tests back from the lab. I thought they said my PSL was already too high.

• Pumpkin Butter: “It does not actually contain butter,” the Flyer reveals, “but its great flavor is credited to its fruit-to-sugar ratio.” Compared to real butter, whose great taste is primarily credited to cows. Maybe they should place a note on the few perfectly symmetrical organic pumpkins they sell, “I can’t believe it’s not plastic.”

• Pumpkin Bread: “Baking at home can produce a superior product,” the Flyer says, “but time does not always allow for such domestic pleasantries.” I asked my wife Mary Ellen if she could think of any domestic pleasantries. I had never seen her stuck for an answer.

• Joe’s Sandwich Pumpkin Cookies are “twistable, crunchable, crumbleable.”  I’m guessing that they are also inedible, but remember, I’m not a pumpkin partaker.

• Finally, Trader Joe’s Harvest Brunch Turkey, Apple, and Pumpkin Waffle Recipe Dog Treats, the lengthiest named product in America. They are gluten-free for the canine that prefers meat to Wheaties.

Finally, Harpoon Dunkin’ Pumpkin Box O’ Beer? Yes, a box of beer. Somehow, that doesn’t sit quite right with me. I never wanted box-beer abs.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

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

Blueprint for Improvement: Warm and inviting sunroom retreat

When our Jackson’s Grant clients envisioned maximizing their living space, they came to us with the idea of transforming their screened-in porch into a bright, inviting sunroom. Our team embraced the opportunity, designing a seamless extension that not only enhances the home’s natural flow but also creates the perfect space for year-round gatherings.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Continuing the hardwood flooring into the sunroom creates a seamless transition between the kitchen and the newly expanded space, further enhancing the home’s cohesive flow.

• Custom built-ins and floating shelves frame the freshly painted fireplace, creating the perfect space to showcase family photos, cherished keepsakes and décor.

• The addition features windows designed to match the existing structure, flooding the room with natural light and ensuring seamless integration.

• A wood-planked ceiling adds warmth and a touch of organic appeal.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

After

Before

v ntf l

38. Pacers’ extra periods, briefly

39. National Historical Landmark at Madison

42. Baby’s dinner wear

43. Westfield HS English assignment, maybe

44. Jane Austin novel

45. Tic-tac-toe win

46. ‘Vette roof option, once

47. New Deal inits.

48. Director Preminger

50. Follow

52. “Goodness!”

56. Church area

58. Word with suit or time

60. National Historical Landmark at Evansville

64. WTTV network

65. Big name in tractors

66. Biblical hymn

67. Bengals, on a Colts

68. “What a shame!”

69. Rids of rind

70. In the past

1. Entanglement

2. A Kardashian

“Golly!”

Summit

Bird sounds

Oklahoma city

Magic, on a Pacers

Bloomington-to-Fishers

Sore

They may hit the ground

Indianapolis City-County

trial spot

IU Health surgery sites

Pebble Brook ball prop

19. Keep

21. “Monty Python’s Life of ___”

25. Digital image formats

26. Wander

28. Insurance giant

29. NFL six-pointers

31. “Hush!”

33. Beam of light

35. “Silas Marner” author

36. Deliberately impairs

37. Flaming felony

40. Respect

41. Mosque leaders

42. Halloween shout

47. Sewing need

Musical drama

___ nerve 53. Desert plant

Head honcho

Kind of question

Winter coaster

59. Schools of thought 60. Current revenue source 61. “The Matrix” hero 62. Neg., to pos. 63. “Born in the ___” Answers on Page 23

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Ushering in a new era.

For more than a decade, the Center has been a cornerstone for creativity in our community. Welcome to the center for art and culture in Central Indiana. Welcome to the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.

TheCenterPresents.org

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