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
October 29, 2024
Current in Lawrence/Geist geistcurrent.com
MSDLT board discusses class sizes, teacher working conditions
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
It wasn’t part of the meeting agenda, but the topics of class sizes, teacher working conditions and administrator costs were discussed during the Oct. 14 Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township school board meeting.
EDUCATION
Amanda Rose is co-president of the Lawrence Education Association, the union representing teachers, and she expressed concerns about teacher retention in the school district, stating that 19 educators had resigned so far this year and that there were 45 open teaching positions at MSDLT.
“We’ve heard from multiple teachers that working conditions are far more important than money, but due to state statute, we cannot bargain working conditions,” Rose said. “Teachers’ greatest concerns are class sizes, the loss of prep time and the untenable workload associated with LSI Marzano.”
Learning Sciences International’s Marzano Center is an educational model that provides teaching and evaluation strategies for districts. Rose said that through that model, MSDLT teachers attend at least three meetings a week on top of their regular workloads, compared to one meeting a week plus one a month at a neighboring district that doesn’t follow that model. She questioned the costs associated with the Marzano program, particularly since it was the top complaint among teachers in the district.
Rose also noted that on the board’s agenda were claims of more than $8,000 for one month’s worth of newspaper subscriptions, meals and other expenses for administrators.
“I would like to encourage the board to become more active in the financial aspects of our district,” she said. “In addition, I would like to see the board continue to advocate for our teachers in terms of a board policy for addressing class sizes and teacher prep time. … Please understand that if the district does not give teachers back their voices and their time, they will continue to express their needs and displeasure by continuing to leave the district, further exacerbating our current teacher shortage situation.”
Board President Wendy Muston said the board appreciates district teachers’ commitment to their work.
“We acknowledge that, as per state statute, the collective bargaining process does not encompass discussions on working conditions,” she said. “Recognizing the importance of addressing these matters, we are formally announcing the formation of a task force dedicated to gathering feedback from our teaching staff and developing recommendations to enhance the working environment. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting our educators beyond the scope of collective bargaining.”
There was some back-and-forth between Board Members Crystal Puckett and Marta Lawrence regarding district salaries and other topics. Puckett noted that teachers have had an average increase of about 21.77 percent over five years compared to the average administrator receiving raises of about 20.75 percent over the same time period.
Lawrence countered that the district’s pay gap between teachers and administrators was large, and MSDLT administrators make more than other Marion County districts, which is why she has previously voted against or abstained from voting on administrator raises.
In a social media post, Lawrence stated more specifically that teachers’ average salaries of $64,854 rank below Washington, Wayne, Speedway and Perry township schools, but Lawrence administrators are paid higher than their peers in those same districts.
She cited publicly available data showing that the superintendent of Lawrence Town-
Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township school board members are, front from left, Jessica Dunn, Superintendent Shawn Smith and Wendy Muston; back from left, Marta Lawrence, Crystal Puckett and Amy Norman. (Photo courtesy of MSDLT)
ship is contractually paid about $340,000 annually, followed by Washington Township at $316,000; Wayne at $314,000, Speedway at $214,000 and Perry at $184,000.
Lawrence stated that other MSDLT administrators also are paid more than the other comparable Marion County districts.
Puckett questioned the appropriateness of the social media post by Lawrence, which stated support of teacher pay raises before the matter came before the board.
The district and teachers’ union have reached a tentative agreement for a new teacher contract. The board will have a public hearing on the agreement during a special Nov. 4 meeting, with a vote scheduled for later that month.
In a letter dated Oct. 15 – the day after the board meeting – Superintendent Shawn Smith sent a letter to district administrators assuring them that he and the majority of the board don’t agree with Lawrence’s views regarding the salary structure.
“Regarding compensation, I want to assure you that I remain firmly committed to ensuring that administrators, as well as teachers, receive fair and competitive salaries,” he wrote. “This includes advocating for appropriate raises that reflect both your contributions and the economic realities of our district.”
In the letter, Smith noted that the district is in the middle of a board election and collective bargaining for teachers, “which have led to heightened tensions and misinformation.” He didn’t indicate any specific misinformation.
The MSDLT board has one contested seat open — Puckett has been challenged by Eric Young, who Lawrence has endorsed.
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One of my favorite things about living in Lawrence is watching our many “green” spaces glow with the colors of fall—red, yellow, orange, and purple
That’s right, purple! This year, in addition to Mother Nature’s annual display of reds, yellows, and oranges, big swathes of Lawrence have been decked out in purple this fall to welcome IndyGo’s Purple Line.
As part of IndyGo’s Bus Rapid Transit system, the Purple Line promises Lawrence residents quicker and easier connectivity to educational, employment, and cultural opportunities in downtown Indianapolis and beyond. Just as importantly, it provides fast, efficient transportation for Indianapolis residents into Lawrence, to explore our diverse offerings—from delicious food to vibrant artistic and cultural events, all thanks to our thriving small business community.
This winter, we’re excited to introduce a new opportunity for local vendors to showcase their crafts, creations, and delicious goods at the Fort Ben Winter Market! The market will take place from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Community Center in Lawrence Community Park on Nov. 7 & 21, Dec. 12 & 19, Jan. 16 & 30, Feb. 13 & 27.
Our city’s young entrepreneurs will shine through our Sprouts program! Sprouts vendors will get the chance to run their own business for a day, on four select Saturdays, showcasing their creativity by selling handmade crafts. More information about the Fort Ben Winter Market, the Sprouts program, and vendor applications, visit www.cityoflawrence.org.
Add a splash of Christmas to your Thanksgiving weekend with A Lawrence Christmas at Civic Plaza on Saturday, November 30. Dancing, singing, holiday carol singalongs, the opening of our unique all-weather ice-skating rink, and a holiday parade that culminates in the lighting of the Lawrence Christmas tree as we kick off Winterfest 2024!
If you miss Winterfest kickoff, don’t worry! Winterfest continues at Civic Plaza every Saturday through December, so you’ll have plenty of chances to join the fun.
This holiday season, let’s celebrate the gift we can all give and receive: the gift of great neighbors, good times, and community pride in the City of Lawrence!
Lawrence Council OKs 2025 city budget
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
While expressing reservations, the Lawrence Common Council voted unanimously Oct. 16 to approve the city’s 2025 budget in time for it to be submitted to the state by the Nov. 1 deadline, but Council President Betty Robinson said the council is not done working on the spending plan.
GOVERNMENT
“Given the timing constraints, I want to note for the record that the council has intentions to amend the budget later,” she said. “Due to some remaining questions relating to the departmental budget, the council would like to spend the time necessary to be thoughtful to address those questions and ensure departments are included in those conversations.”
She said those amendments could include budget cuts and other measures to “ensure long-term fiscal sustainability.”
In a related matter, the council also voted unanimously to hire Stone Municipal Group, an Indianapolis-based municipal budget and financial consulting firm. According to the terms listed in the engagement letter, the firm will help the council review the 2025 budget, council budget policies and monthly financial reports; and will help with budget forecasting and ways to improve the budget process for 2026. The firm will be paid $25,000 through the end of 2024.
In a statement emailed by her office after the meeting, Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield said, “On behalf of my adminis-
tration, I want to express my gratitude to the Lawrence Common Council for their patience and diligence as we’ve navigated the challenges of the 2025 budget adoption process. I also want to thank our City of Lawrence residents for the trust they continue to place in me as mayor. The 2025 budget is the first annual budget developed entirely by members of my administration and I’m confident the lessons learned this year will yield a more efficient process in future years. Moving forward, I pledge to continue working with the Lawrence Common Council and the Lawrence community to provide consistent, transparent leadership in all City of Lawrence financial matters.”
The city’s finances have been an ongoing topic during public meetings for the past few months, with numerous concerns raised and questions left unanswered or partially answered. For more news reports on that topic, visit youarecurrent.com and click the “Lawrence/Geist” tab.
In other matters, the council voted Oct. 16 in favor of new contracts with the police and firefighter unions, providing 5 percent raises for first responders in 2025 and 3 percent raises each year after that through 2028.
The council also approved 3 percent raises for other city employees but rejected an ordinance to increase salaries for elected officials.
The next Lawrence Common Council meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Nov. 4 at Lawrence Government Center, 9001 E. 59th St. Meetings are streamed live on the city’s Facebook page, facebook.com/ cityoflawrencein.
Robinson
The Lawrence Common Council has hired an independent consultant to help the council review the adopted 2025 city budget and other financial matters. (File photo)
If you’re searching for a spot that’s all about community, friendliness and respect for one another, Colonnade Townhomes in McCordsville, IN, has a small-town atmosphere to rave about.
Envision quiet weekend mornings meandering along walking trails dotted with wide open spaces and a shimmering pond. When you’re ready for a day out, head to nearby Fishers and Fortville, and mark your calendars for the upcoming McCord Square Downtown District! Your favorite artist might just come to the planned outdoor amphitheater.
DISPATCHES
Trick or Treat hours – The City of Lawrence has announced that the official recommended hours for trick-or-treating are 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 31.
Superintendent to receive national award — Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township Superintendent Shawn Smith has been selected to receive the 2024 NNELL Award for his support of early second language learning. Smith will receive this national award at the Nov. 22-24 American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages conference in Philadelphia, Penn. NNELL — the National Network of Early Language Learning — advocates for and supports early language teaching and learning. Its vision is that every child deserves the opportunity to learn another language.
Golden Hour Game Days launched — The City of Lawrence is hosting a new social opportunity for the community’s seniors with games and activities every Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon at Lawrence Community Park’s community center, 5301 N. Franklin Rd. Activities will include card
games, board games and perhaps some lunch-and-learn sessions and group exercise classes.
Fort Ben Winter Market — A new Fort Ben Winter Market will kick off Nov. 7 for local vendors to showcase crafts, creations and delicious goods this winter. The biweekly Winter Market will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 7 and 21, Dec. 12 and 19, Jan. 16 and 30, and Feb. 13 and 27, with all the markets taking place at Lawrence Community Park’s community center. 5301 N. Franklin Rd. Interested vendors can apply at bit.ly/3NrJM0E.
500 Festival Miler Series dates announced — Registration is open for the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, through Feb. 2. The series, held at Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis, includes three races designed to help participants train for the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. The Miler Series kicks off with a 3-Miler Feb. 8, followed by a 6-Miler March 8, and concludes with a 10-Miler on April 5. For more, visit IndyMini. com/Challenges.
Comment period open for second draft of Indiana diploma requirement proposal
news@youarecurrent.com
The comment period is open through Nov. 8 on the second draft of the Indiana Department of Education’s proposal to redesign diplomas for Hoosier high school students starting with the Class of 2029.
EDUCATION
The revised proposal reflects public feedback of the first draft, according to a news release from IDOE.
The release of the second draft Oct. 11 was accompanied by a statutorily-required public comment period. Parents, educators, community members and other stakeholders can provide written feedback online. The comment period will close Nov. 8. Feedback will be reviewed prior to publication of the final draft.
An initial draft of the new diploma rule was first presented in March. That draft received more than 8,000 online comments and hours of testimony from residents across the state. The IDOE stated that
feedback centered on the need to balance flexibility and student choice while ensuring a well rounded education; ensuring diploma requirements are rigorous and attainable and prepare every student for success regardless of their post-high school plans; elevating the importance of experiential learning opportunities; and providing sufficient resources needed for school corporations to implement this work statewide.
While the first draft proposal included two diploma options, the revised proposal includes one base diploma with minimum requirements for every student, as well as the opportunity for students to earn readiness seals aligned with their unique path. The proposed base diploma includes increased flexibility and course options for earning credits in core content areas, such as English, math, science, social studies, physical education and health, according to the IDOE. In addition to core content areas, students will take personalized electives which can include a variety of
courses, such as career and technical education, performing or fine arts and/or world languages.
Students will have the option to earn readiness seals in enrollment, employment and/or enlistment. The readiness seals were developed to provide students and parents with a better understanding of a blueprint for success in whatever path a student may choose.
Seals will be available at two levels of readiness — honors and honors plus.
Enrollment seals were developed by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, in conjunction with colleges and universities.
Employment seals were developed with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and insights from Ascend Indiana’s work with employers, in conjunction with the business representatives across multiple industries.
Enlistment seals were developed with the Indiana National Guard, in conjunction with representatives from each military
branch and public safety officials.
Under the proposal, students who earn a readiness seal will automatically fulfill all graduation pathways requirements.
Indiana’s current graduation requirements will sunset Oct. 1, 2028, making final requirements effective for all students beginning with the class of 2029. As proposed, schools may opt in beginning with the 2025-26 school year.
Indiana also will continue to offer the federally-required alternate diploma, which is designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.
The IDOE and the State Board of Education will hold a public hearing at 10 a.m. Nov. 8 at the Indiana Government Center South Conference Room B, 402 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. The purpose of the hearing is to provide any member of the public an opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas on the diploma rule.
Learn more and provide written feedback at in.gov/doe under the “second draft” link near the top of the page.
LAWRENCE/GEIST NOVEMBER EVENTS
BLACK MEN IN WHITE COATS
Lawrence North High School will host the Indiana summit for Black Men in White Coats, set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 2. The day will include mentorship, medical exposure and networking. Students in grades three and up, parents, educators, health care professionals and community leaders are welcome. Black Men in White Coats works with medical schools, high schools and physicians to provide inspiration and mentorship to youth who may be interested in health care as a profession. The event is free and while registration is recommended, it is not required. To register, visit bit.ly/3Nrees0.
SUPER CYBER MUSICAL
Indiana Drama Club students will bring the full stage production of “Super Cyber Battle Rangers,” a musical theater production, to the Arts for Lawrence stage at 7 p.m. Nov. 15 and 16; and 2 p.m. Nov. 16 and 17. For more, visit artsforlawrence.org.
LAWRENCE NORTH FALL PLAY
Lawrence North High School will present its fall play, “The Edgar Allen Poe Afterlife Radio Show,” at 7 p.m. Nov. 15 and 16 at the school’s auditorium. For ticket information, visit lnt.ludus.com/200467103.
CHAMBER ANNUAL LUNCH
The Greater Lawrence Chamber of Commerce will host its annual membership luncheon set for 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 18 at The Garrison, 6002 N. Post Rd., featuring speaker Daniel Elliott, Indiana’s state treasurer. Elliott was elected as the 56th Indiana treasurer in 2022. In this role, he serves as chair of the Indiana Bond Bank, the Statewide E-911 Board, the Indiana Education Savings Authority, the ABLE Authority, and the trustee of the State Police Pension
Trust, among other positions. As the state’s chief investment officer, he oversees the management of more than $13 billion on a daily basis. The luncheon also will include elections of chamber board members and a year-in-review presentation. To register, visit greaterlawrencechamber.org.
‘NUTCRACKER’
A shortened version of the classic holiday ballet featuring dancers between the ages of 5 and 17 will return to the Arts for Lawrence stage for matinee performances starting at 2 p.m. Nov. 23 and 24. For more, visit artsforlawrence.org.
NOVEMBER GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
The following Lawrence government meetings are scheduled during the month of November. Unless otherwise noted, all meetings take place at Lawrence Government Center, 9001 E. 59th St.
• Lawrence Common Council — 6 p.m. Nov. 4 and 20
• Police Merit Commission — 6 p.m. Nov. 18
• Utility Service Board — 5:30 p.m. Nov. 12 and 26
• Parks Board — 5:30 p.m. Nov. 13
• Board of Public Works — 5 p.m. Nov. 14 and 26
• Board of Zoning Appeals — 6 p.m. Nov. 19
• Redevelopment Commission — 3:30 p.m. Nov. 21
• Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township — 5:30 p.m. Nov. 4, special meeting for a public hearing on the new teacher contract; Nov. 11, work session; and 7 p.m. Nov. 25 and 27, board meetings, all at Lawrence Education and Community Center, 6501 Sunnyside Rd.
DISPATCHES
Lawrence firm licensed in seven states
— Lawrence-based law firm Craig, Kelley & Faultless has attorneys licensed to practice law in seven states after attorney Sidney Lewellen was admitted into the Tennessee bar in early October. Craig, Kelley & Faultless has 10 attorneys.
Blessing Basket campaign begins — A local businesswoman is organizing a Blessing Basket campaign to help families in need have a happy Thanksgiving. Blessing baskets are laundry baskets filled with non-perishable ingredients for a family to make into a Thanksgiving meal.
Realtor Jennifer Rice partnered with Lawrence Township Schools for this year’s campaign, with a goal of 100 baskets that can be dropped off Nov. 20 at Lawrence North High School parking lot. To sign up, visit. bit.ly/3Bmip5o.
Trivia Night fundraiser set — Daniel’s Vineyard, 9061N. 700 W., McCordsville, will host a trivia night benefiting Kids’ Chance of Indiana from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 14. The cost is $40 per person or $250 per group table. For more, visit kidschancein.org/ trivia-night-with-kids-chance-of-indiana.
Fishers woman faces federal fraud, forgery charges
A 51-year-old Fishers woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of wire fraud and forging the signature of a federal judge.
According to a news release from the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Christi Lee Dodd allegedly created and forged a judicial order in 2023 absolving her of debts as the result of a bankruptcy petition and emailed the document to a financial institution as proof that she was eligible for a line of credit.
Court documents state that in 2019, Dodd filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but later asked to have the case dismissed. A judge agreed to dismiss the case in 2022, and the court did not issue a discharge order, which means none of Dodd’s unpaid debts were resolved.
The 2023 emailed document allegedly was created using a discharge order from an earlier bankruptcy petition and included the forged signature of the judge who issued that 2015 discharge order.
“Protecting the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system is an important priority of the Department of Justice,” stated Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office is committed to working closely with our partners at the U.S. Trustee Program to uphold the law and protect the interests of debtors and creditors.”
“The filing of a fraudulent court order containing the forged signature of a bankruptcy judge strikes at the very core of the integrity of the bankruptcy system and will not be tolerated,” stated Nancy J. Gargula, United States trustee for Indiana and the Central and Southern Districts of Illinois. “We are grateful for U.S. Attorney Myers and our law enforcement partners for their commitment to protect the integrity of the bankruptcy process in the Southern District of Indiana, as demonstrated by this indictment.”
The indictment is not a conviction, which means the case is ongoing. FBI and U.S. Trustee’s Office continue to investigate.
DREAM HOME
Two men charged with auto theft, resisting arrest
officers found Patrick Alexander hiding in a nearby dumpster and took him into custody as well.
Two Indianapolis men were arrested Oct. 16 by Fishers Police Department officers and charged with auto theft, along with other felony and misdemeanor charges, following a brief pursuit by vehicle and on foot.
According to an Oct. 18 news release posted on social media, on Oct. 16, FPD officers located a suspected stolen vehicle and then confirmed that the black GMC Yukon had been stolen.
“Officers attempted to pull the vehicle over. The driver of the stolen vehicle failed to stop for officers and a pursuit began,” the news release stated. “After a few minutes, the suspects exited the vehicle and fled on foot.”
Officers pursued the suspects on foot and quickly apprehended Lee Flegal. Later,
According to the news release, officers found drug paraphernalia, including syringes and glass pipes, in the vehicle.
Alexander faces felony charges of conversion — using a vehicle to commit a crime — auto theft, illegal drug possession, unlawful possession of a syringe and resisting law enforcement in a vehicle; and misdemeanor charges of criminal trespass, unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle, reckless driving and resisting law enforcement, according to Hamilton County Court records.
According to court records, Flegal faces felony charges of unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle and unlawful possession of a syringe; and one misdemeanor charge of resisting law enforcement.
Flegal Alexander
Sun King lager honors Keady
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Former Purdue University men’s basketball coach Gene Keady employed a number of favorite sayings, but chief among them was, “Play hard.”
BEVERAGE
In fact, his coaching mantra has often been emblazoned on the back of Purdue basketball warmup shorts.
So, when Sun King Brewery decided to craft a beer in Keady’s honor, Play Hard Lager seemed to be the perfect name. The official debut was at a private party, which Keady attended Oct. 11 at Harry’s Chocolate Shop, a longtime Purdue University bar.
Dave Colt, Sun King Brewery co-founder and brewmaster, said State Sen. Ron Alting (R-Lafayette) suggested the beer’s name.
“He’s one of Coach Keady’s longtime friends and he asked us if we would like to make a beer for Coach and, of course, we said yes,” Colt said. “We presented Coach Keady and his wife and friends with a couple of art directions to go in.”
Keady retired after 25 years as Purdue’s coach in 2005, with his former player Matt Painter taking over as head coach. Keady, 88, was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023
“We wanted to create a beer that reflects the passion and hard work that Coach Keady brought to the court,” Colt said.
Colt also said Play Hard Lager will be available at least through the NCAA Tournament.
Four-packs of Play Hard Lager are available at Sun King tap rooms, including Carmel, Fishers and Indianapolis, and starting Oct. 18 will be available at retailers and liquor stores in Indiana.
DISPATCHES
Operation Christmas Child dropoff event – Volunteers will collect donations for Operation Christmas Child throughout the region Nov. 18-25. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, a project of the nondenominational evangelical Christian organization Samaritan’s Purse, has collected and delivered gift-filled shoeboxes to children including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster. Operation Christmas Child hopes to reach another 12 million children in 2024. Shoe box gifts can be dropped off at Crossroads Church of Westfield, 19201 Grassy Branch Rd. in Westfield; Grace Church, 12450 Olio Rd. in Fishers; and Heritage Christian School, 6401 E. 75th St. in Indianapolis. Learn more at samaritanspurse.org.
DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice of its intention to file a request for expanded offerings under Rider No. 42, Rate LED – Unmetered Lighting service to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission on or around November 1, 2024. This offering provides Duke Energy Indiana’s customers additional pricing options for efficient, unmetered roadway or other outdoor LED lighting service. 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, or Randall C. Helmen with the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission PNC Center 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 Telephone: 317-232-2703
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
From left, Sun King Brewery co-founder Dave Colt, former Purdue coach Gene Keady and Sun King Vice President of Sales Operations Scott Sipley examine beer cans. (Photo courtesy of Sun King Brewery)
DISPATCHES
Free smoke detectors — The City of Lawrence Fire Department, in partnership with Koorsen Fire Protection, is offering free smoke detectors to households that don’t currently have one, while supplies last. After a request is received, the LFD Fire Marshal’s office will get in touch to arrange a convenient delivery time. To apply, visit cityoflawrence.org/ smoke-detector-request.
United Way young philanthropists event – Nominations are open for ELEVATE, United Way of Central Indiana’s annual awards event recognizing the region’s top young philanthropists, advocates and volunteers. The awards recognize six people or groups who serve as an example of the leadership, philanthropy and ingenuity needed to move the community forward on important social causes. The event also serves as a fundraiser for United Way. Winners will be announced during the event Feb. 22 at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. Nominees must be ages 21 to 41 and live or work in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Henricks, Marion, Morgan or Putnam counties. Nominations close Dec. 3. Submit nomination at uwci.org/elevate.
Energy assistance program – Applications are open for winter utility bill assistance from the Indiana Energy Assistance Program. EAP applicants should gather their last three months of income for the application process. While review can take several weeks, EAP approval leads to financial assistance applied to natural gas and electric utility bills and temporary protection from utility disconnection for nonpayment. Citizens Energy Group customers who qualify for EAP automatically receive a 10 to 25 percent discount on natural gas bills and a wastewater bill credit. Applications close April 14, 2025. Eligibility requirements and the application can be found at in.gov/ihcda under the “homeowners and renters” tab.
IPL hosts rhymes challenge — The Indianapolis Public Library’s African American History Committee is hosting its annual Slammin’ Rhymes Challenge, open to students in grades 6-12. IPL has two branches in Lawrence. The deadline for entry into the 2024 Slammin’ Rhymes Challenge is Oct. 31. Every student who submits work will receive a gift card, and 10 students will be selected to present their pieces at the Fall Fest/Slammin’ Rhymes Challenge event on Nov. 16. For more, visit spirit.indypl.org/ slammin.
New Lee Road Trail part of larger trail plan
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The City of Lawrence celebrated the official opening of the Lee Road Trail with a ribbon cutting Oct. 17.
INFRASTRUCTURE
The 1.2-mile segment of paved trail next to Lee Road Park in Lawrence, paid for through a $1.7 million Next Level Trails grant, will eventually connect to the Fall Creek Greenway extension.
When completed, the new approximately 2-mile section of the Fall Creek Greenway trail will run from 63rd Street and Lee Road to 71st Street and Fall Creek Parkway, including the Upper Fall Creek Loop Trail.
Nicole Kalck of Resolution Group, an Indianapolis engineering firm that’s working on the Fall Creek Greenway project, recently gave a presentation to the Lawrence Parks Board, updating members on the project. She noted that the $5 million Next Level Trails Grant was awarded to the city in late 2023, but planners already had started some of the preliminary work, including environmental impact reviews.
“That’s one of our biggest challenges with this project, is just getting through the environmental permitting due to the nature of the project and where it’s located,” Kalck said. “We’re going to be starting at Lee and 63rd — we’re going to be connecting to that piece. We’re going to proceed north along the west side of Lee Road and we’re trying to maintain as much
distance as possible with this trail from the roadway for safety and then for more of a feel with nature, too. So, we’re going to be kind of dipping into the trees a little bit along Lee Road.”
Kalck said once the trail gets to Fall Creek Road, the path will go further into the woods along that roadway and will include some boardwalk sections, because it is in a floodplain.
“This is where we get into the permitting issues,” she said. “Any kind of fill material, that’s going to impact the floodplain. So, to kind of help with that, we’re putting in boardwalk so it’s less of an impact. We’re going to have kind of nice little lookout areas, as well. So, it really is just going to be really in nature and really, really beautiful.”
The new trail will connect to existing trails. To the west, the existing Fall Creek Greenway runs about 14 miles from downtown Indianapolis to Fort Harrison State Park, and another section connects to Forest Glen Elementary School and residential areas in Lawrence.
For more, visit cityoflawrence.org/news/ 2024/04/24/fall-creek-greenway-extension.
City of Lawrence officials and guests cut the ribbon Oct. 17 to officially open the 1.2-mile Lee Road Trail. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)
ZCHS athlete excels in juggling three sports, academics
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Community High School senior Caroline Sampson likes her role as an athlete for all seasons.
“For me, it actually hasn’t been too horribly hard to juggle three sports because I have been playing multiple sports my entire life,” said Sampson, who plays soccer, basketball and lacrosse for the Eagles. “I thrive when I constantly have something to do. I think that playing three sports has helped me prevent injury because I am constantly cross training and training different muscles in each. I would say the hardest part is the first couple of weeks of each season where I kind of have to shake the rust off from not playing that sport in a couple of weeks and get in the right mindset for the sport I am about to be playing.”
Sampson, the seventh of 10 siblings, has had strong athletic role models. Five of her six older siblings played three sports at ZCHS. However, they didn’t play any of the sports Sampson plays. Courtney, Cally and Cassidy competed in swimming, cross country and track. Alex participated in swim-
CAROLINE SAMPSON
Favorite athlete: Tyrese
Haliburton
Favorite subject: Anatomy
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite musicians: Drake and SZA
ming, track and football. Jack competed in cross country, track and diving.
The 6-foot Sampson played forward for the soccer team, which finished its season in the sectional. She is a power forward on the basketball team and a defender in lacrosse.
“An additional challenge for this year of athletics, however, is that I have three new
head coaches for each sport,” Sampson said. “So far, the transition with these new coaches has been very smooth and exciting, and I think they each continue to help me and my teams represent our school well.”
Eagles girls soccer coach Rob Klatte enjoyed working with Sampson. “Caroline is a very strong and competitive athlete. She works hard, is mobile off the ball and is a good target player who can hold play up in moments of transition,”
Klatte said. “But even more so, she has proven to be a wonderful teammate and leader for our soccer program. She is attentive and does the small things consistently well, trains with a smile on her face, pushes and encourages others while still striving to be her best. Driven on the field and in the classroom, Caroline epitomizes the term student-athlete.”
Sampson said she has received some interest from colleges to play either lacrosse or basketball at the next level.
“So, I am keeping my options pretty open towards my future,” she said. “I have been pretty consistent in narrowing down my choices in that I want to stay closer to home, just because my family is so important to me.”
Sampson has a 5.0 GPA on a weighted 4.0 scale. She plans to major in pre-med in college.
Sampson started playing soccer first when she was young, then basketball and began lacrosse as a freshman in high school.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
Zionsville Community High School senior Caroline Sampson is a three-sport athlete. (Photo courtesy of Caroline Sampson)
COVER STORY
PURPLE PARTY
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
New rapid transit line between Indy and Lawrence officially opens
Purple balloons, purple pom poms, purple T-shirts and even purple cookies were part of a big celebration Oct. 18, marking the official opening of the IndyGo Purple Line, a new 15-mile rapid transit route between Indianapolis and Lawrence.
The event kicked off with a purple parade, featuring City of Lawrence officials, students and residents from Indy’s eastside and IndyGo officials. Speakers from Indianapolis, Lawrence and Washington, D.C., took turns praising the project and its potential to connect people with opportunities.
Jennifer Pyrz is president and CEO of IndyGo. She thanked everyone involved in the project, which has been under construction for about two years and planned for much longer.
“Today marks such a special day, not only for IndyGo, but the cities of Indianapolis and Lawrence as we mark the grand opening of the long-awaited Purple Line,” she said. “The project has been years in the making and so today we celebrate the ingenuity and innovation of our teammates and the metamorphosis of this community. I stand here today with such profound excitement and gratitude because we can now say the Purple Line is officially open for business.”
Pyrz noted that the new route runs within walking distance of 60,000 residents and 130,000 jobs, adding that the $188 million project involved much more than the bus route. More than half the budget went toward infrastructure improvements along the route, she said, including sidewalks, street repaving and improved drainage.
“It’s had other impacts and benefits as well, including unprecedented economic growth and overall increased access to life’s essentials,” she said. “A prime example of that is (the) block at Arlington and Sheridan before the Purple Line, the block was pretty bare, with little to no thriving businesses. Now, more than $80 million has been poured into three new developments.”
Those include a new Eskenazi health
center and the Indie Fresh Market, providing health care and access to groceries in what was a food desert.
“To say the Purple Line is simply important, I think is an understatement,” she said. “It represents progress, access, equity and opportunity.”
The project received about $81 million in federal funding and Federal Transportation Administration Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool was present to speak about the importance of investing in public transportation infrastructure.
“Under this administration, we’re seeing what’s possible when we build from the
ground up, or in this case, from the bus lane up,” she said. “I want to thank you all and congratulate you on this big achievement, this big milestone.”
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg sent a recorded video message for the event, noting his service as the former mayor of South Bend and stating that quality transit service isn’t just for densely populated coastal areas, but also makes sense for the nation’s Midwest.
“Today, IndyGo is demonstrating once again what it looks like to move forward and solve problems, unlocking the enormous potential of transit to help people
NEXT UP: BLUE LINE
The Blue Line is the last of three rapid transit projects planned by IndyGo.
According to the IndyGo website, the project reached the 100-percent design phase in September and is awaiting Federal Transportation Administration grant approval. Construction is expected to begin in early 2025, with a tenta-
tive opening date of 2027-28.
The Blue Line will serve Washington Street between Cumberland Road and the airport.
The Red Line was the first rapid transit project completed by IndyGo. It runs 13 miles through the heart of Indianapolis.
get where they need to be reliably, affordably and efficiently,” he said. “So, this is a ribbon cutting for the Purple Line and a lot more — it’s a milestone and remarkable progress for better, faster public transportation in Indianapolis.”
State Sen. La Keisha Jackson, who represents Indy’s eastside and parts of Lawrence, said she remembers when advocates worked to convince public officials that a rapid transit line was needed.
“It started at home on the local level,” she said. “And on the local level, we had to tell our peers across the aisle, we had to talk to the administration and we had to talk to the tax base, the taxpayers, and explain the critical needs of why the funding support for infrastructure, funding for IndyGo, needed to happen … for hospitality, for workforce development, for economic development, for infrastructure and what people don’t think about is tourism.”
Jackson said visitors to Indianapolis also can ride the new buses and get around more easily and economically.
Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield thanked everyone involved in providing a better connection between Lawrence and Indianapolis.
“Today is a thrilling day for the Lawrence community, not only because the Purple Line offers Lawrence residents a new connectivity to educational, employment, cultural opportunities in downtown Indianapolis and around the city, but because it gives the rest of Indianapolis fast, efficient, reliable transportation into Lawrence to enjoy the great, breathtaking diversity of the artistic and cultural events taking place in Lawrence, along with the chance to enjoy food from every corner of the world, thanks to our thriving small business communities,” she said. “If it’s been a while since you have visited Lawrence, I hope you take a ride on the Purple Line and come see what you’ve been missing.”
For more, visit indygo.net.
ON THE COVER: City of Lawrence officials participate in a mini parade kicking off the IndyGo Purple Line grand opening celebration Oct. 18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
(Above) The new IndyGo Purple Line will feature extended electric buses. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)
(Below) City of Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield speaks during the IndyGo Purple Line grand opening celebration Oct. 18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
Saxophonist James keeps honing craft as success grows
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Saxophonist-composer Boney James has a definite reason for the name of his latest album.
“Slow Burn,” his 19th album, was released Oct. 18. Two of his most successful albums were his previous two — “Solid” in 2020 and “Detour” in 2022.
“Things have been trending upwards,” James said. “That’s one of the reasons I’m calling my new record ‘Slow Burn,’ because even though it’s my 19th record, I feel I’m just hitting my stride. I feel like I’m getting better every day. I’m still dedicated to being a better musician, a better saxophone player, a better songwriter and producer. I’m really in love with the new music I’m making and thankfully the fans are still there as well and growing.”
James will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 2 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. This will be James’ fourth Palladium visit, having previously performed there in 2016, 2018 and 2023.
“It’s one of our favorite places to play. It’s a beautiful building,” James said. “The last time we played the Palladium, it was completely sold out, even those seats behind the stage. It was one of the greatest shows we ever had. The band and I still talk about it. Hopefully, we can recreate that experience.”
James, 63, said he plans to perform four songs from “Slow Burn.”
“It’s always a challenging thing to drop things from the show that we’ve been playing and people are enjoying,” James said. “This is my 19th record now, so it’s getting more and more challenging to squeeze in new material. There are songs from my earlier records that people would be disappointed if we didn’t play. That stuff never gets old to me.”
James loves to see the audience’s reaction to all his music.
“That’s what made me want to become
a musician in the first place is that feeling of being on stage and the communal spirit you get with the band,” he said.
“It’s something I find I can’t experience anywhere else. I only discovered I enjoyed writing songs and making records.
The joy and passion I have for playing live has not diminished at all over the years.”
James, a four-time Grammy Award nominee, also plays Keyboards on the album.
“Sometimes, I’ll replace myself on the record who is a better keyboardist than I am, which is just about everybody,” he said.
James started out playing the clarinet but switched to saxophone when his teacher recommended he give it a try.
“I didn’t want to change. (The saxophone had) a much heavier case that I was going to have to carry to school,” James said. “As soon as I picked it up, I just loved it. When I was a kid in the ‘70s, there was an awful lot of sax on pop radio. There were a lot of sax solos you could hear, and bands with horn sections. That was something that I could all of a
sudden participate in and I just got excited by it. For me, it’s still my favorite thing to do is to play that saxophone.”
James said he loved rhythm and blues music, so he would hear sax on a Marvin Gaye song. He said Earth, Wind & Fire was a horn-driven band, along with Tower of Power.
“I heard Grover Washington Jr. in about 1975 when I had been playing for three or four years,” James said. “He was the first solo artist who was playing saxophone as the lead instrument with the funky R&B groove behind him. That is still sort of the tradition I am carrying on today.”
James said he still practices the saxophone every day.
“I feel like I’m making progress and more connected to the horn,” he said. “I’m more expressive and have ideas of things to do. The songs on this record are really special. I’m crazy in love with the record. I try not to let anyone hear anything until I realize it’s possibly the best it can be. It’s ready to be born.”
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and boneyjames.com.
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” runs through Nov. 24 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Dinner with Divas,” a drag performance, is set for 7:30 p.m. Nov. 2 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three concerts are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
LIVE AT THE CENTER
The Live at the Center series features Chad Mills Band at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $10 or register for the free livestream at thecenterpresents.org.
‘SHE LOVES ME’
Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “She Loves Me” from Nov. 1-17 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
ZAKIR HUSSAIN AND RAHUL SHARMA
The duo of Zakir Hussain and Rahul Sharma will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 1 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
CSO fundraising brunch set — The Carmel Symphony Orchestra League’s Musical Morning brunch is set for 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 6 at Woodland Country Club in Carmel. There will be a short concert by Melanie Mashner, CSO principal harpist, and Layne Anspach, horn and visiting lecturer in chamber music at Indiana University. A panel discussion, “Harmony in Action,” will feature Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam, Carmel City Councilmember Shannon Minnaar and CSO Executive Director Anne Marie Chastain. The fundraiser will support the CSO’s music programs for families and young artists. For information and special requests, call 317-800-8322.
Saxophonist Boney James will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 2 at the Palladium in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Boney James)
‘Looney’ version of ‘Barber’ set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Gabriel Preisser will make his first appearance with the Indianapolis Opera, but he is no stranger to “The Barber of Seville.”
INDY OPERA
Preisser, a baritone based in Orlando, Fla., said he has appeared in the classic opera five or six times, each time in the lead role of Figaro.
The Indianapolis Opera’s production of “The Barber of Seville” runs Nov. 15-17 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“It’s one of the greatest roles in the repertoire and has one of the most iconic arias, thanks to Bugs Bunny,” Preisser said.
Figaro gets to break the fourth wall and kind of be the instigator and the puppet master in many ways and gets to have fun on the stage.”
Preisser said the first time he played Firgaro was in 2010.
The Looney Tunes cartoon features the music from the classic opera in an episode called “Rabbit of Seville.”
“It’s fun music, the slapstick element of the comedy, the beautiful (Gioachino) Rossini music,” Preisser said. “It’s a pleasure to get to do it. It’s one of my favorite roles.
“You try to keep him youthful. They’re all young characters,” Preisser said.
Director Jessica Burton said she embraces the Looney Tunes spirit of the production.
“People will get that reminiscence of childhood of the first time seeing opera on the tiny little TV screen,” she said.
Preisser said he has seen productions that feed off that wackiness.
“I saw one production where they replicated the Bugs Bunny set from that script,” he said. “All the productions I’ve been in are more on the traditional side. But there is nothing wrong with either one. Anything we can do to make opera more accessible or relevant, I’m all for it.”
For more, visit indyopera.org.
‘La Cocina’ wins grand prize
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Heartland International Film Festival grand prize winners had different routes to the major cash prizes.
HEARTLAND
“La Cocina,” directed by Alonso Ruizpalacios, re ceived the $20,000 Narrative Feature Grand Prize, and “Porcelain War,” directed by Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev, earned the $20,000 Documentary Feature Grand Prize at the 11-day festival, which concluded Oct. 20.
it has been selected to play at.”
Sorvig said it was surprising an independent documentary, “Champions of the Golden Valley,” won the Overall Audience Choice Award, beating out every other film in voting, including major Oscar contenders and dramas.
“There’s a wide range of movies, styles and topics every year and the burden is really with our juries when it comes to the Grand Prizes,” said Heartland Film Artistic Director Greg Sorvig, a Carmel resident. “‘La Cocina’ premiered in Berlin and we were the first major festival award that it has won, whereas our documentary winner ‘Porcelain War,’ about artists in Ukraine, has taken the festival circuit by storm since premiering at Sundance and continues to win awards at nearly every festival
“Of the big Oscar contenders, ‘September 5’ won the Narrative Special Presentation Audience Choice Award, which is the first festival award for the film that premiered at Venice and then played Telluride,” Sorvig said. “Richard D. Propes Social Impact Documentary Winner ‘Zurawski v Texas,’ featuring Hoosier natives Amanda and Joshua Zurawski, who attended their first screening, also won our Documentary Audience Choice Award.”
Actor Craig T. Nelson attended the Awards Presentation to accept the Pioneering Spirit Award: Lifetime Achievement Award. Nelson stars in “Green and Gold,” which had its World Premiere at Heartland and won the Jimmy Stewart Legacy Award.
Sorvig said the world premiere of Noblesville filmmaker Rocky Walls’ “Dirty Laundry” was sold out and electric.
Preisser
Burton
Sorvig
RAKING LEAVES IS A DRAG!
Speak for yourself?
Commentary by Terry Anker
Alexander Meigs Haig Jr. was noted for his long and illustrious military career, including the distinction of becoming the youngest fourstar general in the history of the United States Army, followed by terms as secretary of state and as chief of staff under two U.S. presidents. He earned the Distinguished Service Cross, a Purple Heart and other commendations for merit in American conflicts in Korea and Vietnam. In the late 1970s, he served as NATO’s supreme allied commander.
ESSAY
Despite his many accolades, Haig is often remembered for a statement made in the aftermath of the near assassination of President Ronald Reagan. As Reagan was undergoing emergency surgery at George Washington University Hospital, Haig announced, “I am in control here, in the White House.” The U.S. Constitution outlines that, in the event of incapacitation or death of the president, the vice president becomes “acting” in that role, followed by the speaker of the House of Representatives, the
president pro tempore of the Senate and then the secretary of state (Haig’s job at the time).
Eventually, Reagan recovered, and Haig attempted to explain that he was only endeavoring to show that the government was secure and not to initiate a coup d’etat. But the damage was done, and the late-night comedians had a field day. Haig did not have the authority to speak for Reagan or the U.S. government. His intentions, good or bad, did not matter.
Many fall into the trap. We assume that we know what to say and presume that we are the ones to say it. What makes us think that we have the authority to speak for others? And who believes that they have it for us? Do they take our voice from us against our will or do we blithely relinquish it?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
Puzzling election predictions
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
Who will win the election Nov. 5? I don’t know. Nor do you. Jeremiah Farrell, a former professor of mathematics at Butler University and creator of what is considered by many to be the greatest crossword puzzle ever, didn’t know back in 1996 either, so he hedged his bet.
HUMOR
Jerry passed away in 2022, but he left behind what Hoosier Will Shortz called his favorite crossword puzzle of all time. This is quite a compliment from a man who edited and created thousands of these brain teasers.
The puzzle appeared in the New York Times on Election Day in November 1996, the day of the Bob Dole and Bill Clinton presidential matchup.
Professor Farrell, puzzle solver and creator, had done several Sunday puzzles for The New York Times. All Times’ puzzles are carefully edited.
That’s why Jerry’s entry caused quite a stir. One of the clues (39 across) read: Lead story in tomorrow’s newspaper. It was a prediction of who would win. The uproar came from both sides. It seemed like intentional bias.
BOBDOLE or CLINTON. Note that both answers had seven letters. But how could they both work? That’s where Jerry’s genius was evident. All the down clues were designed so that two different solutions would work. Shortz called it an “amazing feat, possibly the most creative crossword ever.”
Here are the clues and the alternatives:
39 Down: Black Halloween animal (Could be Cat or Bat)
40 Down: French word (Lui or Oui)
41 Down: Provider of support (IRA or Bra, and that’s my favorite)
23 Down: Sewing shop purchase (Yarn or Yard)
“BOBDOLE or CLINTON. Note that both answers had seven letters. But how could they both work? That’s where Jerry’s genius was evident.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
27 Down: Short writings (Bits or Bios)
35 Down: Trumpet (Boast or Blast)
42 Down: Much debated political initials (NRA or ERA)
Professor Farrell found seven such clues, but most people who did the puzzle did not realize there were alternative answers that could spell BOBDOLE_ELECTED or CLINTON_ELECTED. As noted, many complained that this was an inappropriate clue, showing favoritism by the puzzle creator and The Times.
I manufactured something similar with DTRUMP and HARRIS. Here’s what I came up with.
Show of disapproval: Hiss or Diss
Body part: Arm or Toe
Informer: Rat (I only need one solution here)
A sports judge (Abbreviation): Ref or Ump
Type of group: Ilk or Mob
A close relative (Slang): Sis or Pop
How’d I do? Notice how the alternative spelling can give us both candidates: HARRIS or DTRUMP. Of course, I would also have to create the entire puzzle, but I’m 77, so I’m not sure I have the time.
So, who will win the election? I don’t have a clue.
I have six.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
READERS’ VIEWS
Expressing voter regret
Editor,
As part of my weekend wind-down, I sat down to read the Oct. 15 issue of Current in Lawrence/Geist. Well, reading the first few articles had the exact opposite result.
The first article was about how Mayor Deb Whitfield’s administration lacks financial transparency with the 2025 proposed budget.
The second article echoed the same issue, from a slightly different angle. The third article was about how a Boy Scout’s proposal to plant native flowers in a certain location was altered because “the Mayor does not like milkweed.” Thankfully, voter regrets can be resolved at the ballot box.
Nancy Norman, Lawrence
Blueprint for Improvement: Bright and beautiful Zionsville kitchen
Commentary by Larry Greene
Built in 1998, this kitchen in Zionsville’s Austin Oakes neighborhood needed a refresh. Through modern aesthetics and efficient functionality, the outcome is an inviting and practical space that radiates brightness and beauty, significantly elevating the homeowners’ everyday living experience.
THE BLUEPRINT
• White perimeter cabinetry offers timeless style, complemented by warm wood tones on the island and bar for a touch of organic warmth.
• The reimagined appliance layout enables the inclusion of a statement double range with custom hood, establishing a functional focal point.
• Smart storage solutions, including a knife block drawer, tiered utility drawers, utensil pull-outs and roll-out shelves keep essentials close at hand while maintaining a clutter-free appearance.
• The integrated quartz counter and backsplash provide the sophisticated appeal of natural stone without the upkeep.
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.
46. Challenged
48. IND safety org.
49. The “P” of USPS
52. DVD forerunner
53. Jazz Kitchen genre
55. Inane
58. Fishers YMCA workout site
60. Mystical glow
61. Burn a bit
64. PC alternative
67. Replies to an evite
71. Cherished starting position at the Indy 500
72. Fuzzy fruit
73. Wicker material
74. Years and years
75. 20-20 or 50-50
76. Some tomatoes at the Zionsville Farmers’ Market Down
1. CD precursors 2. Tennis do-over 3. Toothpaste tube inits. 4. Unknowing
5. WNAP classic tune
Knucklehead
Hamilton Town Center map phrase: You ___ Here
Spasm 9. Job safety org.
Kind of eclipse 11. Indianapolis Bridge Center card
12. Camera type, for short
___ Paulo, Brazil
21. USN rank 23. ATM button array 24. Jamaican music 25. Bewilder 26. Owed for drinks at Mill Tavern 27. Historic London prison
Certain Scot
Frighten
Astronomical distances
“___ will be done...”
Actress West
CTRL-___-DEL
Unkempt
41. Indiana Fertility Institute lab eggs
43. Monument Circle musical grp.
44. Loch ___ monster
45. Handicapper’s hangout, briefly
47. IU Health personnel
50. Advil rival
51. Baton Rouge school (Abbr.)
54. Fairy tale monsters
56. Victory Field fielding statistic
57. Rodeo rope
59. Sen. Braun
61. Tax pro
62. Boone County Fair critter
63. Union Brewing Company brew
65. Roman 1004
66. Astound
68. Vigor’s partner
69. Green shade
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