April 4, 2023 — Noblesville

COMMUNITY

Contact the editor:

Have a news tip? Want to submit a calendar event? Have a photograph to share?

Contact Managing Editor Matthew Kent at matthew@youarecurrent. com or call 317.489.4444 ext. 804. You may also submit information on our website, currentnoblesville.com.

Remember our news deadline is typically eight days prior to publication.

News tips/story ideas: stories@youarecurrent.com

Letters to the editor/ guest columns: letters@youarecurrent.com

Advertise your business:

If you’re interested in reaching virtually 100 percent of the Noblesville market (24,406 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent (subject: Noblesville advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.

Obituaries: obits@youarecurrent.com

Legal advertising: legals@youarecurrent.com

Delivery questions: circulation@youarecurrent.com

Join our community: facebook.com/currentinnoblesville twitter.com/CI_Noblesville instagram.com/youarecurrent

Southwest corner of 116th & I-69

Happy Easter!

City to renovate playground at Forest Park

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville plans to remodel the south playground in Forest Park that will be under construction until the end of May.

RECREATION

The playground renovation will include the addition of new swings, elevated balance pods, an inclusive twister, preschool springers and other surface climbing elements, said Brandon Bennett, parks and recreation director for the City of Noblesville.

“The anchor to the new playground design is Kompan’s custom Giant XL tower connected by a net bridge to the Giant medium sensory tower with a tree and nature theme, allowing users to explore the wonderful world hidden in the forest of trees at Forest Park,” Bennett said. “This is a complete renovation of the entire playground, including the surfacing.”

The new design also adds an adult fitness area outside of the playground so adults or caregivers can exercise while watching their kids on the playground, according to Bennett.

“The surfacing will be updated to Forever Lawn, which is an artificial grass surface with impact attenuation capabilities that will make the playground more accessible and maintenance friendly,” he said. “We are excited to bring this playground to Forest Park and hope that it meets our goal of creating a themed regional destination that serves as a unique play experience for its users and has that ‘wow’ factor.”

Mayor Chris Jensen said the project will be beneficial to the community.

“Playgrounds, trails and other parks amenities are not only an added value to a community but an expectation, which is why Noblesville is dedicated to investing in these quality-of-life areas,” Jensen said. “The new equipment will be for ages 2-12 as well as a new adult fitness aspect to make it a well-rounded playground for all ages.”

The playground design was created by Recreation InSites and features Kompan play equipment. The city is keeping two structures: the Kompan Double Tower that was installed last year as a replacement piece for another structure, and the popular Expression Swing, which allows the user to sit and face and interact with their small child while swinging together.

In the past few years, the parks and recreation department has removed three playground pieces that were determined in need of replacement by certified playground safety inspectors on staff, according to Bennett, who said it was later determined that the overall playground needed to be updated.

“We are remodeling this playground for several reasons, but the main reason is the safety of the older equipment as many components are wearing out and either need replaced or removed,” Bennett said. “Doing this renovation also allows the city to upgrade the surface to a modern and accessible surface that will eliminate many maintenance concerns with the existing safety surface.”

The north playground at Forest Park will remain open during construction. Timing for the south playground remodel was scheduled based on availability of the new equipment and weather conditions conducive for the construction work, according to the city.

DISPATCHES

Send us your stories and photos —

Please email story suggestions on new businesses, interesting residents, upcoming events, news tips and photos to Current in Noblesville Managing Editor Matthew Kent at matthew@youarecurrent.com. For photo submissions, please provide the full names of individuals, along with a short description of the event, location and the date of when it took place.

County mails out tax bills — Hamilton County has begun mailing property tax bills that will be due May 10. Individuals who are seeking specific assessment values for their property or wish to question existing assessed values are asked to call the assessor’s office at 317-776-9617.

Northview Church in Noblesville plans easter egg hunt — Northview Church’s Noblesville campus will host a community easter egg hunt from 10 a.m. to noon April 8. The event, located at 1448 Conner St., is open to the public. For questions, call 317-846-2884.

Noblesville FUMC to host Easter egg hunt — Noblesville First United Methodist Church will welcome everyone in the community for their annual Easter egg hunt from 10:30 a.m. to noon April 8. The free event will take place at Teter Retreat & Farm, 10980 E. 221st Street, Noblesville, and will also feature games, crafts, inflatables, and three egg hunt fields for different age groups.

Mission Possible — Assistance League of Indianapolis will present its Mission Possible fundraiser on April 22 at the Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W. Washington St. in Indianapolis. This marks the first time the annual event has been held in person since before the COVID-19 pandemic. The fundraiser will include dining, a raffle and silent auction, and opportunities to view items in the museum. Learn more at alindy.org/mission-possible.html.

A rendering of the renovated playground in Forest Park in Noblesville. The project will be under construction until the end of May, according to the city. (Rendering courtesy of the City of Noblesville)

VIEWABLE AND a r t DOABLE

Experience the arts in Hamilton County. View a wide variety of creative and free public art throughout the county. Immerse your inner artist in art classes, u-paint shops and festivals. Plus, sing along to your favorite songs with live music—from free to famous. With three recognized state cultural districts, no matter where you go in Hamilton County, experience the arts.

Start exploring at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Art.

Guerin Catholic optimistic after Class 3A state runner-up finish

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Guerin Catholic High School senior Kamea Chandler is optimistic about the Golden Eagles’ future.

be in right now, but again, these guys are class acts and they are going to handle it the right way.”

NorthWood (28-2) scored the game’s first 10 points en route to a 35-27 halftime lead.

BASKETBALL

The Golden Eagles will return the other four starters next season from a team that lost to Class 3A No. 1 NorthWood 66-63 in overtime March 25 in the 3A boys basketball state championship at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Chandler said the returning players will benefit from the experience.

“I hope they use the pain they feel now as motivation for next year, because if you use the pain, you can really achieve anything,” Chandler said. “I hope they go and finish it off next year.”

Chandler said players should feel good about what they accomplished.

“We had a lot of ups and downs and struggles, but we kept our heads high,” he said. “I think we’ll all look on this with good memories that this was truly a special team. It’s not the trophy we want to be holding, but I live by the motto, ‘Don’t be sad that it’s over, just be happy that it happened.’”

Golden Eagles coach Bobby Allen said the effort his team showed in the second half is what his team has been about all season.

“It’s what put us in this place,” Allen said. “We got off to a slow start. We let a couple of their guys get loose and get some open looks, but the fight our guys showed gave an opportunity to win in the end. They made one more play than us. I’m so proud of these guys right here, and I’m so proud of our locker room. This is not a fun spot to

The Golden Eagles (20-9) trailed until Chandler converted a three-point play to tie it at 52-all with 1 minute and 39 seconds left.

“Honestly, I thought we had it once we got momentum, and then it actually came down to one stop. I trusted we were going to get that one stop, which we did, but we just didn’t have enough time at the end,” Chandler said “I felt great at that point. I thought, ‘We’re really going to do this.’”

After neither team scored the rest of regulation, junior Dylan Murans hit one of two free throws to give the Golden Eagles their only lead, 53-52, with 3:44 left in overtime.

The Panthers scored the next seven points, but Guerin Catholic battled back. Trailing 65-63, the Golden Eagles turned the ball over with 2 seconds left.

Chandler led Guerin Catholic with 22 points on 9-of-17 shooting from the field. Junior Jack Cherry contributed 15 points, hitting 4 of 6 shots.

Allen said senior Ty Sanders came off the bench with a strong defensive performance in the second half. NorthWood’s Cade Brenner scored 23 of his 28 points in the first half.

For the season, Robert Sorensen led Guerin Catholic with 14.4 points per game, followed by Chandler at 11.4 ppg, followed by Murans at 8.0 ppg. In addition to Sorensen, Murans and Cherry, the other returning starter is sophomore Bryson Cardinal, who is the son of former Purdue University standout and NBA player Brian Cardinal. Bryson averaged 6.1 ppg.

The Guerin Catholic High School boys basketball team reached the Class 3A state championship game before losing to No. 1 NorthWood. (Photo courtesy of IHSAA)

County selected for veteran initiative

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

DISPATCHES

Hamilton County’s Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition is looking to improve how it identifies military veterans and prevent suicides through a new initiative.

Crisis Intercept Mapping, were designed and developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration on behalf of service members, veteran and their families to help communities strengthen the delivery of evidence-based suicide prevention policies and practices.

GOVERNMENT

County officials say Indiana is home to more than 390,000 veterans but noted that the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs estimates more than half do not receive health care through the VA system.

The coalition, which is made up of city, county and state entities, wants to encourage more health care providers and community organizations to ask, “Have you or a family member ever served in the military?”

“It seems like a simple question, but the conversation isn’t currently happening,” said Kristen Ludeker-Seibert, director of coordination for A Healthier Hamilton County: Systems of Care, and a facilitator of the Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition. “By asking the question, we’re hoping we’ll be able to better identify Hoosier veterans and service members, screen them for medical or mental health issues related to their service, and provide them with the resources and support they need.”

The “Ask the Question” initiative and its sister program,

The program is now up and running in 36 communities throughout the United States. Hamilton County is the first and only Indiana county selected to participate.

The coalition has begun to plan several town hall meetings. Those who chose to participate will be provided staff training, military member resource sheets, access to military culture training, and aggregate data to track effectiveness of the initiative, officials said.

“We started noticing an increase in veteran suicides two years ago,” said Jim Ginder, a health education specialist at the Hamilton County Health Dept. “We’re thrilled to participate as this program has a proven track record of providing a comprehensive and coordinated approach in creating connections and opening doors for our veterans.”

Health care providers and community organizations are asked to email Ludeker-Seibert at kludeker-seibert@ hamiltoncountyphhc.org if they are interested in partnering with the “Ask the Question” initiative.

Breakfast at the Brickyard — Tickets are on sale to the general public for the 500 Festival Breakfast at the Brickyard, set for 9 a.m. May 20, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the Gallagher Pavilion. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett will host and honor more than 70 mayors from across Indiana for their work in advancing Hoosier communities. Guests will enjoy a traditional breakfast and hear from Indianapolis Motor Speedway executives and 500 Festival leaders. Purchase tickets at 500Festival.com/Breakfast.

Parade tickets on sale — Tickets are on sale to the public for the 2023 AES 500 Festival Parade. Parade tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online at 500festival.com/tickets. Proceeds from all 500 Festival ticketed events help support the organization’s free programming and events for Indiana youth and college students. The parade will take place at 11:45 a.m. May 27 in downtown Indianapolis. The grand marshal is Frank Shorter, Olympic gold medalist and the winner of the first OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

Volunteers needed for water availability study — The Hamilton County Surveyor’s Office is seeking volunteers for the county’s three year Water Availability Study. The study is being done by INTERA, the engineering firm employed by the county, and will monitor aquifer levels throughout the county in order to better understand the groundwater availability within the county. If interested, reach out to the Hamilton County Surveyor’s Office at 317-776-8495.

Ludeker-Seibert Ginder

HSHC ‘in crisis’ handling influx of canines

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

An unprecedented number of dogs recently surrendered to the Humane Society for Hamilton County has put the facility “in crisis,” according to President and CEO Rebecca Stevens.

PETS

“We have dogs in every cage, every kennel, every visiting room, every office in our building,” Stevens said during a March 20 report to the Carmel City Council. “It’s certainly not something I expected to see two years into a brand-new facility that offered us a great deal more space.”

HSHC moved into the new Steven J. Cage Foundation Animal Wellness Center in Fishers in April 2021. Stevens said the 40,000-square-foot building was designed to have plenty of space to accommodate surrendered or abandoned dogs through at least 2036, but the recent numbers of dogs coming to HSHC have far surpassed projections.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” she said. “I’ve been doing this for 18 years, and I’ve seen a lot. I’ve never seen this many dogs coming in.”

Stevens said the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to blame, at least in part. Many dogs adopted during lockdowns in 2020 have been brought to HSHC as their owners have gone back to work in person full time or resumed other commitments and can no longer care for the animals.

HSHC has also taken in a growing number of dogs adopted from shelters outside of Hamilton County that have scant screening policies, Stevens said. Pet owners who live in Hamilton County may take the dogs, who are often found not to be a good fit with young family members or previously adopted pets, to HSHC.

Stevens said she’s been in contact with county commissioners to prevent this scenario, but she expects it will take time.

Stevens is encouraging community members to consider adopting or fostering a dog from HSHC to help ease the strain. She said dogs of various sizes, ages and breeds are available.

Learn more at hamiltonhumane.com.

Concrete Cleaning Concrete Sealing

Roof Cleaning Pressure Washing Epoxy Floors

Stevens

ZCHS softball standout has ability to play multiple positions

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

One of Zionsville Community High School senior softball player Sydny Poeck’s biggest strengths is her versatility.

Poeck, who will play for the University of Notre Dame, can play multiple positions — first and third base and outfield, if needed.

“I’d be comfortable if we had to move her to middle infield,” Eagles coach Mike Garrett said. “It has allowed us to build around her. Typically, teams build around a pitcher, so her versatility makes us a better team. She is an amazing softball player with a great skill set that she has worked very hard on for many years. However, she is a better person, leader, teammate and strong young woman, mentally and physically.”

Garrett said she made the most improvement in being a vocal leader. Poeck has started every game of her varsity high school career.

“It can be challenging in the locker room when a freshman or sophomore starts over an upperclassman,” Garrett said. “Syd is

MEET SYDNY POECK

Favorite athlete: Former Florida State third baseman Sydney Sherrill

Favorite subject: English

Favorite movie: “A League of Their Own”

College plans: Major in biology

very humble and such a good teammate. She is a good mentor for our younger players and encourages them often. Ability got her to varsity. Ability, attitude and effort have kept her there. Syd always takes responsibility for her play and demeanor.”

Zionsville Community High School senior softball player Sydny Poeck committed to play for the University of Notre Dame in the fall of junior year. (Photo courtesy of University of Notre Dame sports information office)

Poeck, who hit .468 with three home runs for ZCHS as a junior, said she is excited about the talent the Eagles have this season. As of March 28, Zionsville was 3-0.

“I think we have a lot of new people in the lineup, but they’ve been crushing it so

far, so I can’t wait to see what they can do this season,” Poeck said.

Poeck began playing when she was 5 years old.

“I just remember being my happiest when I was on the field,” Poeck said. “I have wanted to play college softball since middle school. I really tried to push that dream to become a reality when COVID hit, and my freshman season was canceled. I would go to Lions Park, and I would practice with my dad there three or four times a week. I think that’s where I learned to develop my skills.”

Her father, Chad Poeck, played minor league baseball in the Texas Rangers organization and in a professional league in Taiwan. Chad, who played for Baylor University, has coached his daughter’s travel softball teams.

Poeck plays travel softball for the Bombers, who play tournaments across the U.S. Although she can play multiple positions, Poeck said first base is her favorite.

“But I love playing at third because it’s kind of a challenge for me since you get balls hit harder at you,” she said. “It’s the hot corner in softball, so you have to be quick on your feet.”

PATIENT-CENTERED BRAIN AND SPINE CARE—CLOSE

The nation’s most accomplished brain and spine team is right here in Central Indiana. Goodman Campbell physicians, physician specialists, and collaborative care teams deliver exceptional care that keeps you at the center. Learn more at GoodmanCampbell.com

TO YOU.

FORMER COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD PRESIDENT RECOGNIZED

Food bank celebrates volunteers

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank celebrated volunteers countywide and their accomplishments during its annual meeting March 21 at the Delaware Township Community Center in Fishers

Volunteers from food pantries throughout the county attended the event, which had a quilting theme: “The Fabric of Food Insecurity: Stitching together the blocks for a better future.”

The food bank supplements supplies at individual food pantries by collecting and providing staples for distribution. Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank Executive Director Anita Hagen said that through their collective efforts, 120,237 meals were provided in the last year to county residents.

“These were all for families and children in our community. Yet another new oneyear record,” she said,

According to the annual report, there are more than 24,000 food-insecure people in Hamilton County, where the average cost of a meal is $3.59, compared to the statewide average of $2.84.

Hagen said in 2022, they participated in the Hamilton County Community Food Resource Plan, with financial and strategic assistance from the Hamilton County Community Foundation.

The two-year plan, in its second year, has focused on developing strategies to support identified objectives, which are:

• Support a data-driven results that

2023 BICENTENNIAL

APRIL & MAY EVENTS

focus on the countywide coalition of partners.

• Ensure that pantries have access to the food they need to provide healthy food to individuals and families.

• Ensure that food-insecure, school-aged youth in Hamilton County have access to food.

• Ensure that individuals and families can access food-support networks regardless of race, place or identity.

• Build the capacity of food-support networks to connect individuals and families to community resources. For more, visit the nonprofit’s website at hchfoodbank.org.

Celebrating JACKSON TOWNSHIP

HAMILTON COUNTY BICENTENNIAL

WATERCOLORS IN THE INDIANA ROOM

April 8, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Maker Space at Hamilton North Public Library, West Brinton Street, Cicero | FREE Register at hnpl.lib.in.us.

NICKEL PLATE HISTORY EXPRESS

April 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Hobbs Station Forest Park Drive, Noblesville | $20 Tickets selling fast on nickelplateexpress.com.

JACKSON TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL TOUR

OPEN HOUSE

April 15, 2-5 p.m. | Hamilton Heights Student Activity Center, 420 W North St., Arcadia | FREE Maps available online soon! Join us at the Open House on April 15.

HAMILTON HEIGHTS ATHLETIC EVENTS

April 19, 5-8 p.m. | Hamilton Heights High School State Route 19, Arcadia | FREE DAY AT RED BRIDGE PARK

April 21, 7-9 p.m. | Red Bridge Park, Cicero | FREE

ATLANTA’S HISTORY SHOWCASE

April 22 & 23 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. | Atlanta Town Hall East Main Street, Atlanta | FREE

ADAMS TOWNSHIP

FAMILY STORYTELLING

May 4 | Sheridan Public Library, 103 W 1st St. | FREE HAMILTON COUNTY BICENTENNIAL TRAVELING EXHIBIT | FREE

Check out our traveling exhibit calendar online for various Adams Township locations!

FRISBEE GOLF TOURNAMENT AT BIDDLE PARK

May 13, All day | Biddle Memorial Park, East 10th St., Sheridan | Registration required. May be cost to enter the tournament.

signature event

April 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Arcadia Christian Church, 26901 State Rte 19, Arcadia | FREE

As a way to celebrate the end of a month that commemorates all things Jackson Township, the township will organize an event to remember! Bring the family and have your photo professionally taken for free as part of the “Faces and Families of Jackson Township” Collection. Also come for the debut of the Jackson Township Fire Department restored original fire engine, partially funded by Hamilton County Bicentennial funds. A mini-parade will begin at 12 p.m., and there will also be an arts show. Finally, bring your copy of the Hamilton County Bicentennial book to have it signed by students from Hamilton Heights who contributed to the epilogue.

VINTAGE BASEBALL MATCH

April 22, 1-4 p.m. | Bishop’s Park, East 256th St., Arcadia | FREE

JACKSON TOWNSHIP CEMETERY

LANTERN WALK

April 22, 7-9 p.m. | Cicero Cemetery Morse Court, Cicero | FREE

ARCADIA AND THE HOOSIER HOT SHOTS

April 28, 6 a.m.-5 p.m. | Remnant Coffee Shop, West Main Street, Arcadia | FREE

signature event

“WAITING ON THE BUS DOWNTOWN”

MURAL UNVEILING

May 6, unveiling at 3 p.m.; Museum open and activities from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Outside of Spear Studio & Gallery, 325 South Main St., Sheridan | FREE

The Sheridan Historical Society and Sheridan Township

Representative partnered with local artist Melinda SpearHuff to create an 8 feet tall, 7 feet wide mural on the side of her studio. This mural will portray transportation history in Sheridan, specifically the bus line that had a stop right next to the artist’s studio. Come out to see the mural firsthand and enjoy activities including a Model T and antique car show from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and the Sheridan alumni banquet at 5 p.m at Sheridan Elementary School.

Former Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Board President Andrew “Terry” Prather was recently recognized at the department’s administrative office for his service. Hamilton County officials will rename River Road Park in Carmel to Prather Park. Pictured with Prather, from left, are his daughters Andrea and Kim, and his wife Donna. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County)

Three quilts made by the late Carol Bennett of Noblesville were donated to the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank for its fundraising efforts. Those interested in bidding on the quilts can go to bit.ly/3lTgyhi. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

FULL SERVICE CLEANERS

DON’T OVER-PAY ANY LONGER, WE HAVE THE AREA’S LOWEST DRY CLEANING & LAUNDRY PRICES

FISHERS CLEANERS

7253 Fishers Landing Dr. 317-841-9727

CARMEL CLEANERS

SAME DAY SERVICE

MON - FRI @ FISHERS CLEANERS IN BY 8AM - OUT BY 5PM Some restrictions apply. See store for details

ENVIRONMENTALLY

FRIENDLY CLEANING FLUID

126 East Main St. 317-846-8923

IMS unveils 2023

Bronze Badge

By Edward Redd

ADVANTAGES OF DF-2000 FLUID

• Can be used with Sensitive Fabrics

• Removes Oil & Grease

• Aids in removing Water Soluble Soil

• Virtually Odorless

• Compatible with Fabric-Finish Additives

ExxonMobil Chemical Company’s DF-2000™ Fluid for drycleaning was first introduced in 1994 as an alternative to the solvents in common use by drycleaners. Since that time,

QUALITY CLEANING FOR LESS EVERYDAY SPECIALS

DF-2000 Fluid has gained widespread acceptance and today is used in thousands of drycleaning plants in the United States alone.

WE HONOR COMPETITORS’ COUPONS

Some restrictions apply. See store for details.

The growth of DF-2000 Fluid has outpaced all of the alternative technologies offered for drycleaning. This is a result of many factors including health, safety and environmental benefits, excellent cleaning performance, proven equipment technology, commercial practicality, and a reduced regulatory burden.

DF-2000 Fluid provides you with the peace of mind that comes from a well-developed, broadly supported technology with a track record of proven performance.

• Proven Cleaning Performance

When used with properly designed processes, additives and equipment, DF-2000 Fluid provides cleaning performance comparable to perchloroethylene.

• Consistent, Premium Quality

DF-2000 Fluid is manufactured and packaged to high standards of consistency and purity to deliver the same high-quality performance time after time. DF-2000 Fluid remains stable through multiple distillation and reclamation cycles.

• Virtually Odorless

Solvents with a higher level of aromatics contain more solvent odor. DF-2000 Fluid has the lowest aromatic content of any HFHC drycleaning solvent.

• Gentle on Dyes, Safer on Trims

The gentle cleaning action of DF-2000 Fluid is safer for most dyes and trims, so you can rely on it to safely clean a wider range of fancy and fragile articles with less risk of dye bleeding.

• Cost Effective

There are no usage, franchise or royalty fees required. In states where a solvent usage tax has been imposed, DF-2000 Fluid is either exempt or the usage tax per gallon is minimal. When coupled with effective processes and additives, labor and production costs are reasonable.

• Proven Equipment Technology

Equipment makers have more experience with DF-2000 Fluid than any other alternative solvent. Modern filtration, distillation, solvent recovery, water separation and safety technologies are refined and well developed to give you reliable, trouble-free operation.

• Proven Additive Technologies

Detergent and fabric finish additives are essential to provide important enhancements to cleaning performance in any drycleaning system. DF-2000 Fluid is the only alternative solvent technology that is supported by a comprehensive system that includes proven additives and widely available technical support. That means you get cleaning technology you can rely on to perform for now and the future.

THE PRICE BRINGS YOU IN! THE QUALITY BRINGS YOU BACK!

• Friendly Drycleaning systems based on DF-2000 Fluid are so dependable and easy to use, you might say they are friendly to everyone: landlords, owners, operators and customers. It is the one alternative solvent that you can look to for peace of mind.

INDY 500

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway unveiled the 2023 Bronze Badge design during a March 16 event at Stout Field, the Joint Forces Headquarters of the Indiana National Guard, in Indianapolis.

Ed Carpenter, owner-driver in the NTT IndyCar Series and three-time Indianapolis 500 pole winner, unveiled the 2023 Bronze Badge, a traditional keepsake for fans that grants them pit and garage access during certain times in May.

The unveiling of the 2023 Bronze Badge is part of the buildup to the Indy 500 in May, which, according to IndyCar spokesman Dave Furst, is more than just a race.

“It is also closely tied to the military, which we honor on Memorial Day weekend, including those who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” Furst said.

According to IMS President Doug Boles, a Zionsville resident, the Bronze Badge has represented pit and garage access at the track for decades. Its design presents the historic Pagoda during the flyover that has been performed each year by the U.S Air Force Thunderbirds.

The 2023 Bronze Badge can be purchased by fans, giving them access to Gasoline Alley on selected days during the month of May. The badge can be used for gate admission and garage access May 12, May 16 – 22 and May 26 – 27 during public gate hours and as directed by IMS personnel. Race tickets are required on May 13 for the GMR Grand Prix and May 28 for the Indy 500.

Bronze Badges can be purchased at indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/ indy500/buy-tickets/bronze-badge.

IndyCar driver Ed Carpenter with the 2023 Bronze Badge. (Photo by Edward Redd)

Event focuses on workforce

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

An executive with a labor market analytics firm says employers need to focus on attracting workers and help employees build on existing skills.

prompted people 55 and over to retire early. Millennials are working differently than baby boomers did, and the youngest workers are not working, she added.

“Labor force participation needs to improve,” Woodson said.

WORKFORCE

That was the message from Mindi Woodson, senior vice president of Lightcast, a company headquartered in Boston, Mass., and Moscow, Idaho, who spoke during a State of the Workforce Event March 24 at the Bridgewater Club in Westfield. The event provided attendees with an insight into the state of local employment and its projected growth, challenges and how employers can adapt.

Woodson told those in attendance about factors that impacted the labor crisis before and after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Woodson also spoke about the workforce dating back to the 1970s, saying that it doubled as more women sought employment.

“All the competition led to baby boomers going to college to get degrees at a much higher rate than ever before. They worked really hard and made a lot of money,” Woodson said.

However, she said around 2002, the upward trend peaked as many baby boomers retired, while at the same time millennials started entering the workforce in a different way. That resulted in the workforce shrinking faster than it was growing, she added.

“The millennials are the babies of the boomers. The millennials saw their parents working really hard and not spending time at home with their families. The millennial will choose flexibility over money,” Woodson said.

Moreover, Woodson said COVID-19

NOBLESVILLE & NORTH

Project: Pleasant Street

Location: 1.1 miles west of River Road to 10th Street and includes work by Hamilton County for a bridge to be built over the White River.

Today, the U.S labor force is challenged with demand for employment outpacing work population growth, according to Woodson. Since 2011, youth in the labor force has dropped by 9,000 per year, according to Woodson.

“We need to add 2 million additional workers a year to keep up with that demand,” Woodson said.

Woodson said the only way to meet the demands of the workforce is to make intentional changes. To do that, she said employers must attract more workers and suggested that employers create career paths by helping employees build on existing skills.

“Focusing on skills is really important because then inside the organization, they can create programs to make sure that they’re upskilling their employees in ways to actually advance their careers and you can show them they’ll make more money along the way,” Woodson said.

Another suggestion she offered was more flexibility.

“The people want flexibility and there are so many ways to give it. Remote jobs have come up (and) floating start times,” Woodson said.

Woodson said there are 5.3 million more job openings than available workers. The number of missing workers gives her confidence that the state of the workforce can be improved.

“Think about ways you can make it easier to get the people who want a job and cannot get a job,” Woodson said.

streets

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Expected completion: End of 2024

WESTFIELD

Project: Library/township office

construction

Location: Corner of Park and Poplar

Expected completion: Work is expected to continue through the end of the year with the library expected to open in early 2024.

Project: New roundabout

Location: A section of Eagletown Road between 166th Street and Ind. 32 is closed. The closure is for the construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of 171st Street and Eagletown Road.

Expected completion: Expected to open to traffic unknown due to a utility delay

CURRENT Q&A

Getting to know Kelsey Sweet Princess program strives to help develop leadership skills

Kelsey Sweet is a Fishers resident and director of marketing and communications for the Hamilton East Public Library. She grew up in Greensburg, attended college at Indiana State University and moved to Fishers in 2011. She enjoys spending time in the community with her family going to local events, farmers’ markets and exploring parks and trails in Hamilton County.

What is your best habit, and what is your worst?

I think my best habit is that I try to keep a positive attitude. Negativity won’t solve or improve a problem, so I prefer to be positive and work toward a solution. My worst habit is probably procrastination. If I get overwhelmed with daunting tasks, I tend to put them off for as long as possible.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I’m not sure this is really considered a talent, and I’m no expert, but I know enough to get by on a sewing machine. I don’t sew often but I occasionally whip something up. I don’t know how to follow patterns; I just make up my own design. My last project was a superhero pillowcase for my son.

What do you do when you’re creatively stuck?

I like to listen to music when I work or browse online for inspiration. If that doesn’t help, I stop what I’m doing, work on something else, and come back to it later with a fresh mindset.

Is there a book that you recommend to everyone?

“All Good People Here” by Ashley Flowers. Ashley is the founder and co-host of the Crime Junkie podcast, which I’m a big fan of, and love that it’s based out of Indy. This was her first book and I couldn’t put it down.

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

One of the main purposes of the 500 Festival Princess program is to help the Princesses learn leadership skills.

sessions that Princesses and interns can attend. For instance, the National Bank of Indianapolis held a session about building their financial futures.

500 FESTIVAL

Laura Bliss, vice president of operations for the 500 Festival, oversees the leadership development program for the Princesses.

Bliss said all the festival interns and Princesses participate in the program.

“We’re just hoping to expose them to professional and personal development opportunities through those leadership development program sessions,” Bliss said. “So, throughout their time with us, they get a variety of different events or networking opportunities in order to further their professional skills.”

The interns started the first week in January and are with the 500 Festival until the start of June. Bliss said there is a different curriculum for the 12 interns than the Princesses. The Princesses started the leadership development program in late February. The program runs throughout the month of May.

“It’s a cool opportunity for them to be exposed to some of those really successful career people around the Indianapolis area,” Bliss said. “If somebody is studying biology or (is on a) premed track, we have hospital board members who we pair them up with. Somebody who’s studying finance, we have some bankers who will be a natural fit for that as well.”

Bliss said there are several learning

“They talked about credit scores and how, as young professionals, they can set themselves up for success down the line from a financial standpoint,” Bliss said.

Bliss said there is a series with the Simon Property Group about women in business that involves several speakers where Princesses can learn about different career paths.

There also are 500 Festival corporate members events.

“The Princesses can network with all the professionals that are at those events,” Bliss said. “We try and cast a wide net with what the opportunities are for Princesses. They have such diverse backgrounds and future career opportunities.”

Each Princess is paired with one of the board members from the 500 Festival to serve as their mentor. There are 33 Princesses and 33 board members.

Butler University sophomore Grace Worcester, a Guerin Catholic High School graduate from Westfield, is looking forward to the Women in Business Brunch, which is scheduled for April 5.

“I’m excited to hear from (Simon Property Group’s) Rachel Segars, especially,” Worcester said. “I am in a male-dominated major and feel as though I can really relate to her being the only female in her sales field. I also am excited to hear from the other influencers like Lauren Schneider and Carrie Abbott.”

Bliss

WEIGHING IN

Public gets opportunity to view plans, ask questions during Pleasant Street open house

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Members of the public recently got a chance to weigh in and ask questions about a $115 million road improvement project in Noblesville that is expected to improve traffic flow and ease congestion when completed.

The city held an open house March 23 at Noblesville City Hall that drew more than 30 people who came to learn more about the project known as Reimagine Pleasant Street that is being done in several phases. The first phase of the project, which began in November 2022, spans 1.1 miles from River Road to 10th Street and includes work by Hamilton County for a bridge to be built over the White River.

Mayor Chris Jensen told those in attendance that the project was his top priority when he took office in 2020, while City Engineer Alison Krupski said the multiphase project is meant to create what she described as a free-flowing corridor.

“It’s not just vehicular mobility, but pedestrian mobility as well,” Krupski said.

While the first phase remains underway with bridge construction continuing through June, the second phase from 11th to 19th streets will create a four-lane section with a median, and work on the Midland Trace Trail, in addition to a 19th Street roundabout expansion.

The third phase from Ind. 32 to River Road will eventually establish a two-lane section with the potential for expansion, along with connectivity to the Midland Trace Trail at Ind. 32 and Hague Road with pedestrian tunnels being planned, said Mike Maurovich, a project manager on the Pleasant Street project from engineering firm American Structurepoint. Maurovich also noted that it is possible that a full closure of Ind. 32 may be required.

But residents also got an opportunity to meet with officials working on the project to see proposed maps, timelines and ask questions. Among those in attendance was Noblesville resident Mary Rhea, who has lived in the city for 70 years and owns several properties.

Rhea said she isn’t in favor of the Pleas-

ant Street project because of the impact on nearby homes and businesses in the area.

“I hate to see the old homes and businesses disturbed, moved and torn down,” Rhea said.

Still, Rhea said she realizes there’s not much she can do except move forward.

“You’ve got to go with progress. That’s just the way it is,” she said.

Asked if she thought the project would result in improvements in the long run, she said, “Maybe, maybe. I hope so.”

Another resident, Martha Repp, said she decided to attend the open house because she was interested in learning more about the project. She hopes it will eventually alleviate traffic in Noblesville when work is completed.

“If you drive through Noblesville today, you have quite a bit of problems, so hopefully it’ll reroute some of the pressure off that,” Repp said. “Traffic is a horrible issue in this town.”

Krupski said the open house was an opportunity for officials to hear from individuals and incorporate their feedback into final plans. A previous public forum resulted in

feedback from a resident about a pedestrian crossing from the south side of Pleasant Street to the north side, Krupski said.

“If someone hadn’t said something to us, we wouldn’t have necessarily thought about adding an extra measure of safety to do that, so I think (public feedback) is critical,” Krupski said.

Krupski also said safety remains a top priority as part of the Pleasant Street project. While the general public isn’t seeing a lot of work being done, Krupski cautioned that the public can expect to see road work beginning in May, which could result in some closures or detours for motorists.

Krupski suggested that the public use Google Maps or Apple Maps to get where they need to go, while information will also be available on the city’s social media pages on Facebook and Twitter as well. Still, she encouraged people to be patient in the coming months as work begins to ramp up.

“Be patient and it’ll be worth it,” Krupski said. “I’ll be looking forward to hearing from everybody once the project is complete because we’re super confident it’ll be something that the public likes.”

ON THE COVER:

$115

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT REIMAGINE PLEASANT STREET

The first phase, which is underway, includes a new bridge being constructed over the White River that is being funded by Hamilton County and will be open to traffic by the end of 2024. Phase 2 of Reimagine Pleasant Street will involve work from 10th Street to Ind. 37, while the final phase will be from River Road to Hague Road. The entire project is expected to be finished by the fall of 2025, according to the city. For more, visit reimaginepleasantst.com.

Noblesville residents Dan and Deborah Webster attend an open house March 23 at Noblesville City Hall to learn more about a

million road improvement project known as Reimagine Pleasant Street. (Photo by Adam Seif)

Noblesville resident Steven Hight takes a photo during an open house March 23 at Noblesville City Hall. The project gave residents an opportunity to learn more about a $115 million road improvement project known as Reimagine Pleasant Street.

City Engineer Alison Krupski smiles during an open house about the Pleasant Street project March 23 at Noblesville City Hall. (Photos by Adam Seif)

Machine explanations, Part 2

Commentary by Dr. Kim Hall

Let’s continue our series exploring the instruments you may encounter in the pretest room at your optometrist’s office.

VISION

These next two instruments have been around in some form or fashion for years, but they are also evolving.

The visual field is that test where you press a handheld clicker whenever you see the squiggle (frequency change) in your side vision, or an actual light, depending on the machine. Here, we are testing how far out, and at what sensitivity, you can see a visual stimulus without moving your eye.

This is the quintessential test for not only glaucoma, but other conditions such as brain tumors, brain injuries, stroke, medicine toxicity and more. It can be tedious to test, and scary to know what it is looking for, but new advances are making it fun, easier and faster.

You can expect to start running into a super cool yet still super accurate, virtual-reality headset version of this in the near future! It’s a far cry from the old days when we used a giant bowl and the technician

had to stand behind it and manually move a target, requiring tons of time, coordination and skill.

Everyone loves a good snapshot of their eyeballs, right? Retinal cameras have come a long way, but you will still notice a bright camera flash. If you are asked to smash your face against a giant machine, it is called the Optomap. You may not enjoy the quick flash but be thankful for it. Getting that close to the camera face allows a much larger field of view, much like how the closer you get to the keyhole of a door, the more you can see of what is on the other side.

With Optos, we can view up to 200 degrees of the inside of your eye, which is quite impressive! This technology allows a thorough examination without having to use the dreaded dilating drops in most cases. Your day should not be ruined by an annual eye exam!

Dr. Kim Hall is an optometrist at RevolutionEYES. She graduated from Purdue University in 1999 and the Indiana University School of Optometry in 2005.

Are GMOs unsafe? — There’s a lot of hype surrounding GMOs (genetically modified organisms). A team of 50 scientists reviewed more than 900 studie in the 20 years since GMOs were first introduced. They found that GMOs have not caused increases in cancer, obesity, gastrointestinal illnesses, kidney disease, autism, or allergies.

Source: MSN.com

Sudden paranoia — If someone you know has become suddenly paranoid, there are several possible causes. Dementia may be one cause, but there are other, treatable conditions that can cause paranoia. It also can be caused by certain medications. So, if someone begins acting paranoid, urge them to see a doctor quickly to determine the cause.

Source: BottomLineInc.

Fiber to fight diabetes — New research shows that people who are willing to more than double the fiber in their diets from 16 to 37 grams per day can better control diabetes. It needs to be a high amount of diverse types of fibers. Getting

nearly 40 grams may sound like a tall order, but it’s actually not that hard and it could make a radical difference in your blood sugar level by increasing insulin production.

Source: BottomLineHealth.com

Improve your focus — Do you have more trouble concentrating than you used to? Studies show that our attention spans are declining, largely due to the use of technology. We feel we have to respond to every text, alert and call immediately. Instead, try putting the phone on “do not disturb” mode for a few minutes when you need to focus on something else. You may find it easier to concentrate and you probably won’t miss anything truly important.

Source: Cynthia Green, Ph.D.

Bug bite relief — If you need some relief from itchy bug bites but can’t find your anti-itch medicine, try these remedies as a substitute. Rub some mustard on the spot to help relive pain, itch and redness.

Source: BottomLineInc.com

Don Rigo opens on 146th St.

By Rich Brown news@currentincarmel.com

Greenfield restaurant Don Rigo Mexican Bar & Grill has expanded to the Carmel area.

RESTAURANT

The new location at 7299 E. 146th St. opened March 14.

Don Rigo is co-owned by brothers Alfredo and Enrique Melendez. Besides the two Don Rigo locations, they operate 12 other restaurants in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. There is a sister Mexican restaurant in Geist called El Lago, also owned by Alfredo Melendez. The restaurant chain is named for the brothers’ family patriarch — Don Rigo. The Melendez brothers, however, have run it from the beginning.

“We have been busy just about every night, and we really like it here,” Alfredo Melendez said. “We have had surprisingly few challenges.”

Don Rigo’s Greenfield, at 1336 N. State St., has averaged 4 out of 5 stars on Trip Advisor. The Carmel restaurant hasn’t had time to accumulate reviews yet. However, both locations stay busy.

“I’m a sucker for Mexican,” said one lunch visitor, Dalton Pickett. “This is probably my favorite that I’ve had in this part of Indiana.”

“When I went, it was an hour wait for a

Don Rigo Mexican Bar & Grill is now open at 7299 E. 146th St. in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Alfredo Melendez)

table,” Carmel resident Wendy Varvil said. “So, I ordered carryout and had a margarita while I waited. It was great and great service.”

The menu at Don Rigo mirrors that of its Greenfield counterpart, including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, burritos and appetizers.

Alfredo Melendez has his own favorites.

“I like our burritos,” he said. “They are all homemade, everything including the tortillas, and all of the ingredients. They are fantastic. I’d say that even if I was not the owner.”

Dining hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Carry-out is available by calling 317-219-5251.

DISPATCHES

Great stocks for under $10 — Many investors have never heard of these companies because they all have stock prices lingering near or under $10 a share despite compelling potential for growth. But stock-picking expert Hilary Kramer thinks this makes them among the best bargains now in a pricey stock market. Here are 10 of Kramer’s favorite low-priced stocks:

• ACCO Brands (ACCO). This company’s iconic office-and-school-supply brands include Swingline staplers, At-A-Glance planners and Mead notebooks. ACCO’s stock has sunk 36% in the past three years as high-tech products reduced the need for paper supplies and as the pandemic forced schools and offices to shut down. What investors are missing: ACCO Brands could be a big post-pandemic winner as schools and offices restock supplies. Recent share price: $8.09.

• Amneal Pharmaceuticals (AMRX) manufactures more than 250 generic drugs that treat everything from headaches to osteoporosis. The stock has lost 80% of its value since 2018 due to the opioid

crisis. Amneal is expected to pay out $1.2 billion in settlements. What investors are missing: Amneal has focused its attention away from opioids and now is focused on other generic drugs, the sales of which are booming. Net revenue in the third quarter of 2020 increased 37% year over year. Recent share price: $4.81.

• Annaly Capital Management (NLY) occupies an unusual and profitable niche in the real estate industry. It borrows cash to invest in federally guaranteed mortgage-backed securities. The company profits from the spread between the interest it pays on loans and the yield it derives from its investments. In 2020, investors panicked that the value of Annaly’s holdings would fall so much that it would be forced to liquidate assets on the cheap to repay its loans. Annaly’s stock plunged 62% by April. What investors are missing: The Federal Reserve has stepped in to buy mortgage-backed securities to support the market and has indicated it will do so as long as necessary.

LEGAL NOTICE DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC

Public notice is hereby given to affected property owners pursuant to 170 IAC 4-9-4(f) that within two (2) to six (6) weeks of the date of this notice, weather permitting, Duke Energy Indiana, LLC will be performing vegetation management as part of its power line maintenance program in the area described below. As part of this project, one of its qualified contractors will be applying EPA approved and registered herbicides to control vegetation that may interfere with the safe operation and maintenance of power lines. This vegetation management will be performed in/near Anderson, Lapel, Noblesville on or near streets identified below:

Beginning at the substation located near the corner of 13 & E 196th St, to include the areas around & near: N of the substation, E of 213, S of E 296th St, W of N CR 500 W

The date this notice is published initiates the two (2) week period for calculating implied consent by an affected property owner under 170 IAC 4-9. If you have any questions you may contact the Duke Energy Vegetation Management toll free number, 866-385-3675.

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC Vegetation Management Department

Savoring only the tasty parts

Commentary by Terry Anker

SCAN HERE!

ESSAY

Apples and pears are tasty. The latter can be tricky to store because they don’t hold up as long at home on the counter. But we are told that both are good for our bodies. In fact, didn’t someone famous once say something about eating an apple a day? Likewise, oranges hit the spot. They hydrate as well as come inside of their own convenient carrying case. We can peel one open just about anywhere. And short of the occasional spray that might get us, there is little mess. There is no need for water to clean or knife to cut. Even the skin is organic and will quickly return to the earth without further processing.

Still, for reasons unknown to most, some among us don’t partake of the remarkable fruits. They turn their noses and refuse them in nearly every form. Maybe they claim a medical reason, allergy or other sensitivity. Maybe they don’t find an adequate selection at an affordable price and are forced to make other choices despite their preference

for the fruit. Either reason can be measured and determined to some degree of scientific assurance. But what if they simply don’t like them? Is it possible that these poor, uneducated knuckle-draggers simply disagree with well-known and accepted fact? Don’t they see the benefits that we know are there? Didn’t they learn in third grade about the food pyramid and “keeping the doctor away?” Should we regulate and force the resistors to consume? We would all reap the benefit of a healthier society. Besides, it is upsetting to imagine that they are eating bananas and pineapples. Oh, my.

Life is a fruit salad and some of us pick out the parts we don’t like. So what? If others skip the pineapple, doesn’t it leave more for us?

Painfully humorous annual exam

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Let’s talk mammograms, people. Specifically, my most recent not-so-fun experience. And let me be clear – in no way do I wish to discourage women from receiving this potentially lifesaving screening. But I’m going to speak honestly about the process because though it’s occasionally horrible, it’s also objectively hilarious.

HUMOR

I went in for my annual scan, willing myself to disassociate from what was about to happen. Anytime I must stand topless and allow a veritable stranger to aggressively manipulate me between cold metal and hard plastic, I default to self-deprecating apologies (“Sorry, you don’t have a lot to work with!”) and a general sense of numbness. But I made it through relatively unscathed and congratulated myself on prioritizing my health over the expected (and confirmed) discomfort.

Unfortunately, I had to return a week later because the radiologist “saw something.” So not only did I spend six days imagining

– DANIELLE WILSON

the worst (stupid “Grey’s Anatomy!”), I had to endure Round 2 of what politely could be deemed torture. And this time my tech Karen didn’t even pretend to care that she was inflicting pain. She barked orders and maliciously squeezed, oblivious to my tears and cries of “Owww!” She left me in a special waiting room for 25 minutes, shivering in my pink gown and contemplating the appeal of Christian pop rock. And then she had the audacity to send someone else to deliver the news (Really, Karen? After all we’d been through?), which thankfully was a very anticlimactic, “Everything looks fine.”

The point is, mammograms are both important and frequently awful. Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed talking about them at my expense. You’re welcome. Peace out.

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

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

The point is, mammograms are both important and frequently awful. Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed talking about them at my expense. You’re welcome.

I ‘bag-el’ your pardon

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

If you show up at an emergency room with a fishhook in your nose or your fingers super-glued together, there is a good chance you’ll be sitting in the waiting room next to a guy with a bagel injury.

More than 40,000 Americans ended up in an ER last year with a BRI — a Bagel Related Injury. That’s about 10 dozen people a day (in bagel talk), which means 325 million people in the U.S. have avoided these doughy morning mishaps. What are they eating for breakfast? Pop Tarts?

A BRI occurs when cutting the bagel in half before popping it in the toaster. The result can be hand lacerations, gouges or severed digits … all of which, especially the last one, can ruin a lovely Sunday brunch.

I was once a victim of my own bagel boo-boo. My big mistake was using a dull knife to cut a frozen bagel held in the palm of my hand. OK, I guess that’s three mistakes.

Hospitals may have to assign specially trained triage nurses to handle these bleeders arriving at the ER.

“What seems to be the problem, sir?”

“I cut myself while slicing a bagel.”

“Were you cutting it horizontally or vertically?” the nurse might ask.

“I was vertical, of course. It’s not safe to slice a bagel while lying on the couch.”

“You are bleeding pretty badly. I also detect a white ooze in the cut.”

“That’s cream cheese. Can we move on with this? It really hurts.”

“Sir, I need to record all the data. It’s part of the new government program, O’Bagel Care. What kind of bagel was it?”

“It was an Everything Bagel.”

“Oh, I just love those. I can even see the little poppy seeds and specks of onion on your bloody napkin. That explains the burning sensation in your gaping wound. By the way, can you recommend a place to get a good Everything Bagel?”

“Yes, there’s a cute neighborhood shop on 86th Street … wait a second, what are we doing here? I hate to be blunt about this, but can we get me in to see a doctor quickly? And can you confirm my accident is covered by my insurance?”

“You would need to have a bagel medical plan like Blue-Cross, Blue-Berry, with a Sesame Seed supplement. Just kidding. Dr. Cohen, the physician on duty, made up those jokes. It’s just a barrel of laughs working here in the ER.”

A sympathetic nurse may offer some advice while you wait.

“You might want to invest in a contraption specifically designed to cut bagels, so we don’t see you here again. They’re sometimes called Bagel Guillotines. They protect your hands from sharp edges. Doesn’t that sound like a good idea?”

“No, but Pop Tarts are starting to.”

POLICIES

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

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

I was once a victim of my own bagel booboo. My big mistake was using a dull knife to cut a frozen bagel held in the palm of my hand. OK, I guess that’s three mistakes.

– DICK WOLFSIE

Great American Songbook presents Indiana premiere of ‘Music Man’ documentary

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Meredith Willson’s contributions to the Great American Songbook go far beyond his most famous work.

MUSIC

“Today, Meredith Willson is best known for writing ‘The Music Man,’ and if that is all he did, he would be a compelling figure in American music,”

Great American Songbook Foundation Executive Director Chris Lewis said.

“Willson changed the face of Broadway with innovations that last today. But there is so much more to the legacy of Meredith Willson and his vast contributions to American music.”

The Songbook Foundation will hold Indiana premiere screenings of the documentary “Meredith Willson: America’s Music Man” at 7 and 8:30 p.m. April 11 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The later screening was added because of the popularity of the event. The tickets are free and available at thecenterpresents.org.

The documentary premiered in February on an Iowa PBS station. There will be a 6 p.m. discussion before the 7 p.m. screening and one following the 8:30 p.m. show with documentary filmmaker Tyler Brinegar, of Iowa PBS, and guests. The documentary is narrated by Broadway performer Sutton Foster and features interviews with Great American Songbook founder Michael Feinstein.

“(Willson) was a symphonic composer and worked with (Arturo)Toscanini and John Philip Sousa,” Lewis said. “He wrote film scores like ‘The Great Dictator’ with Charlie Chaplin, and he was a star on radio and television. His songs have been performed by everyone from Frank Sinatra to The Beatles. He even wrote the holiday classic, ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.’ There is no denying that Meredith Willson was an important figure in

the Great American Songbook.”

Songbook Academy alumni Olivia Broadwater and Hayden Elefante, both Zionsville Community High School graduates, will sing some rarely heard songs that were cut from “The Music Man.”

Elefante will sing “We’re Engaged (Fireworks)” that was cut from the film version of the musical. Broadwater will sing “You Don’t Have to Kiss Me Goodnight,” which was cut from the Broadway production. Broadwater also will sing one of the most beloved songs from “The Music Man,” “Till There Was You.”

“This song happened to be a favorite of iconic actress and singer Doris Day, as evidenced by a letter she sent to Willson which exists in his collection at the Songbook Foundation,” Lewis said.

Lewis said the Songbook Foundation houses the papers of Willson in its archives facility in Carmel, where it holds the collections of more than 300 songwriters and performers who contributed to the foundational era of popular music.

“When The Music Man Foundation was looking for a home for the collection, there were several organizations vying for the opportunity, including the Library of Congress,” Lewis said. “The Songbook

Foundation was selected because of our commitment and ability to preserve and process the collection and celebrate and share the legacy of Meredith Willson. We continue to do just that by creating exhibits relating to Willson and his work, as well as our work with authors, journalists, musicologists and filmmakers from around the world.”

Brinegar spent one week in Carmel in 2022 researching Willson’s collection.

“However, that was just the start,” Lewis said. “Our Songbook team then worked remotely with Brinegar throughout production, sending him digitized files from the archives,” Lewis said.

Joining Brinegar will be Dominic Broomfield-McHugh from the United Kingdom to participate in a moderated discussion. Broomfield-McHugh has a long history with the Songbook Foundation, Lewis said. His recently published book, “The Big Parade: Meredith Willson’s Musicals from The Music Man to 1491,” was researched in Carmel at the Songbook Foundation.

The conversation with Brinegar and Broomfield-McHugh will be moderated by Cary Peñate, assistant teaching professor of music history at Ball State University. Along with the discussion, there will be an opportunity to view artifacts from the Meredith Willson Collection.

‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’

“An American in Paris” runs through May 14 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

“ILLUMINATION”

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s production of “Illumination” is set for 7 p.m. April 7-8 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org,

KEVIN NEALON

Comedian Kevin Nealon will perform at 8 p.m. April 7 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Josh Kaufman will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 8 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Jazz Brunch: Easter Day with Blair Clark is set for 11 a.m. April 9. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

DISPATCHES

World Voice Day set — The Center for the Performing Arts’ annual World Voice Day is set for 6:30 p.m. April 11 at the Palladium. Registration for tickets is free but recommended at thecenterpresents.org. Singers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to join the piano accompanist and emcee for an open-mic night that is informal, free and open to the public. The performers and audience will sit nightclub-style at tables on the stage with a cash bar. Participation is limited to the first 30 singers who register beginning at 6 p.m. in the Palladium’s west lobby. Each singer may perform one song.

‘Mr. Confidential’ creators to hold event — An opportunity to meet the creators of “Mr. Confidential,” an Actors Theatre of Indiana production, is set for 7 to 9 p.m. April 10 at Sugar Creek Winery, 1111 West Main St., Carmel. The book and lyrics are by Samuel Garza Bernstein, who is also directing the musical. Music and orchestrations are by David Snyder, and Willem Devries is serving as the choreographer. For more, bit.ly/3norzHz.

Actress Doris Day’s letter to Meredith Willson

President John F. Kennedy, right, presents the Big Brother of the Year award to composer and playwright Meredith Willson at the White House in April 1962. (Photos courtesy of Great American Songbook Foundation)

Lewis

ICC event has tropical theme

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir’s Big Fun Event will return to normalcy this year.

ming and financial assistance for singers who need help with participating in the programs.

FUNDRAISER

“Our Indy Voice singers will be performing at the Big Fun Event this year and it is really special for the ICC because this is the first year we are holding this event in person since 2019,” ICC Artistic Director Joshua Pedde said. “The event has been held virtually since the pandemic.

“The Big Fun Event — A Tropical Paradise” is set for 6 to 9 p.m. April 21 at the Indianapolis Yacht Club, 12900 Fall Creek Rd., McCordsville. The goal is to raise $80,000.

“’The Big Fun Event’ will include a dinner, live auction, a giving wall, a wine and whiskey pull,” said Pedde, a Carmel resident. “The event will be filled with big fun with a tropical theme, but will also support the ICC’s high-quality choir programs.”

The spring fundraiser is the ICC’s largest annual fundraiser to support the choir programming, community outreach program-

Pedde said it specifically supports programs that allow ICC to serve the community through ICC Community Connections programs.

The programs, Pedde said, include the financial assistance programs, Music At Play (MAP), a full-year program for pre-school children where ICC partners with schools throughout the community; Preschool Outreach Program (POP!), a one or two-day program ICC takes to community agencies, churches and neighborhoods for preschool-age children; Young Exceptional Singers (YES!), a program for first- through third-graders where they experience the ICC for one day and culminate the day with a performance for their families; and the Neighborhood Choir Academy, an after-school program for elementary, middle school or high school students where ICC collaborates with the school music teachers to create a program that includes participation in an ICC season concert performance. For more, visit iccchoir.org/big-fun-event.

Where’s Amy?

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

Pedde

From left, ATI Lab Series performers Anya Burke (Westfield), Jill Kelly Howe (Indianapolis), Peter Scharbrough (Indianapolis), Andre Garner (Muncie), Matt Branic (Indianapolis) and Jaddy Ciucci (Indianapolis) at the Actors Theatre of Indiana Lab Series and the Carmel Clay Public Library Foundation’s March 25 presentation of A.A. Milne’s musical “Belinda: an April Folly” at Carmel Clay Public Library. Central Indiana actors read from the script for feedback from the audience of more than 130 with a Q&A at the end. For more, visit atistage.org. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Where’s Amy attends ATI’s

an April Folly’

BEHIND BARS: BLUEBERRY BASIL SPRITZ

All the fun without the booze. Meet our Blueberry Basil Spritz zero-proof cocktail: Fresh basil, blueberry puree, lemon and soda.

To see a video of this drink being mixed, scan this QR code.

Be brave, partake in pâté

Commentary by Mark LaFay

When I was a kid, there was a cheese shop in the fashion mall that had an absurd number of cheeses, meats and other gourmet items. Much of it was imported because in the mid-‘80s, there simply wasn’t a large number of domestic producers cranking out stinky cheese, salamis or spreadable meats. My mom used to take us to the cheese shop and we would crush their “Sicilian cheese” samples while she was perusing the case. More often than not, we would go home with a package of pungent cheese, French pâté, and some Walker’s Shortbread cookies (mom’s favorite).

CHARCUTERIE

This early exposure to unique textures and flavors shaped my palate and set my trajectory for food exploration and appreciation. You might be thinking, “Pâté?” Yes, pâté. The French are largely believed to be the originators of pâté (originally ‘patete’). It was developed as a means of preserving meat. Pâté is typically prepared inside a crust, and this is called pâté en croute. If pâté is prepared outside of a crust and just

in a terrine, then it is pâté en terrine. Pâté can be smooth and creamy topped with a gelatinous substance called aspic. It can also be coarse with pieces of chopped, shredded or coarsely ground meat. I think pâté has a sordid reputation because it often, but not always, utilizes organ meat. But this isn’t grandma’s liver and onions. So, leave the expectations at the door. There are countless types and styles of pâté that make its application truly diverse. You can take your pâté sweet or savory, before or after dinner, country-style pork pate with mustard and cornichons, or pâté de fois gras with fig jam and toast. This weekend, be brave and try some spreadable meat. Try a creamy smooth pâté like Olympia Provisions’ Pork Liver Mousse (short for mousseline) or get your country on with Indianapolis’ own Smoking Goose Pig and Fig Terrine!

(Photo courtesy of Huse Culinary)

Blueprint for Improvement: Kitchen makeover on the Monon

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2008, the new owners of this Carmel townhome wanted a kitchen makeover before move-in day, complete with a redesigned floorplan that improves function and flow with an added touch of updated style.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Removing the wall between the kitchen and living room provided an open and airy space with improved flow and plenty of natural light.

• The existing cabinetry was in great shape but needed a slight glow-up, with new paint and sleek new hardware.

• The small island in the kitchen was diagonally positioned, interrupting the room’s flow. The new island streamlines the space and provides more storage and seating, along with a stylish pop of color.

• A gas range replaced the electric stove, and a new wine fridge and custom wine rack were added to the space for a tailored storage solution.

Visiting Bethlehem and Taybeh

Commentary by Don Knebel

Stuck in the middle with you

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

Are you ready for a linguistic adventure that blurs the lines of words and verbal volleyball? Buckle up, buttercup, because things are about to go to a-whole-nother level of morphological creativity.

GRAMMAR GUY

We’ll start with tmesis (pronounced tuh-MEE-siss). In speech or writing, tmesis divides a word into parts to provide emphasis. Tmesis doesn’t change the meaning of the original word being modified. I’ll explain.

Patrick Harris’ character Barney Stinson loves using the word “legendary,” often using tmesis to add to its impact. In one episode, he’s talking with his friends Ted and Marshall. “For the first time ever, the three of us are single at the same time. I’ve dreamed about this, boys, and it’s going to be le-gen-dary.”

Sure, you know about prefixes and suffixes, but what about infixes? An infix inserts another word into the middle of a word not only to add emphasis, but sometimes to change the meaning of the word.

I’ll continue to use Barney Stinson’s multiple deliveries of the word “legendary” to illustrate infixes.

I know many of my fellow word nerds dislike the use of a-whole-nother I wrote in the first paragraph. Like it or not, it’s another example of infixing. If you really don’t like it, puh-leaze don’t send me emails.

TRAVEL

According to the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, Jesus was born in Bethlehem. After Emperor Constantine declared that Christianity was legal in the Roman Empire, he sent his mother Helena to the Middle East to identify Christian sites. She concluded that Jesus had been born in a cave in Bethlehem beneath a temple to Adonis. Constantine demolished the temple and replaced it with a church, dedicated in A.D. 339. Emperor Justinian rebuilt the Church of the Nativity in its current form in A.D. 565, making it the oldest church in the world. A star in the cave beneath the church marks what some believe is the stone where Mary lay while delivering Jesus.

According to traditional English translations of Luke, Jesus was placed in a feed trough (manger) after his birth because there was no room in the inn. A Palestinian house in Taybeh, a few miles from Bethlehem, suggests a different story. The house, similar to those in Jesus’ time, includes a stable and manger in a cave beneath the house. The main floor includes a small guest room, called “kataluma” in Greek. “Kataluma,” translated as “upper room” in the story of Jesus’ Last Supper, is the word translated as “inn” in the story of Jesus’ birth. A growing number of scholars believes Luke reports that Jesus was born in a stable under the house, either because the kataluma upstairs was filled or, more likely, was not considered an appropriate place for a birth. This interpretation aligns with the ancient tradition, reflected in the Church of the Nativity, that Jesus was born in a cave. An unavailable guest room also seems more

likely than an overcrowded inn in first-century Bethlehem, a town much too small to support such a facility.

The word “tmesis” is borrowed (or loaned) directly from Greek, meaning “a cutting.” Sometimes you’ll hear or read someone using tmesis like this: “You didn’t do your homework again? Un-believable.” In this instance, the teacher or parent chides the student by breaking up the word “unbelievable” into separate parts, emphasizing that the student is apparently developing a pattern of shirking her homework duties.

Here’s an example of tmesis from TV. In the show “How I Met Your Mother,” Neil

Star in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. (Photos by Don Knebel)

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

Inside the Church of the Nativity.

Stable under the house in Taybeh, a few miles from Bethlehem.

Church of the Nativity.

movies

64. “Rope-a-dope” boxer

65. Hamilton County appraiser’s map

66. Ultimate purpose

67. Fed. health org.

68. Tennis match segments

69. Not impossible

Down

1. $, for short

2. Regret

3. Covert email letters

4. Throat-clearing sound

5. It means “billionth”

6. Celestial

7. Talking bird

8. Prayer ending

9. A bunch

10. Injure

11. “This Is ___ Tap”

12. Sell one’s wares

13. Began to unravel

21

1

Answers on Page 27

. Hamilton Town Center jeweler 22. Stood in the way 23. IU’s Kelley School deg.

. ___ XING (street sign)

Mecca pilgrimage

grp.

6 Phonetic Alphabet Words 4 Navy Vessels

3 DanceWorks Dances

2 Indy Museums

5 Carpenter’s Tools

Indiana city that is Frech for “The Door”

Stewart's Tree Service

Guitar

Trim/Remove

To-Do-List? Let me help give you more free time!

My name is Melanie Adams-Pyle. I retired over a year ago from Medtronic Neurovascular where I called on physicians and hospitals. I now work with clients to make their lives easier so they can enjoy more free time. My services include but are not limited to the following:

 Errands and chores

 Online shopping, research & gift delivery

 Grocery/supply shopping

 Event & party planning/organization

 Work with home service providers

 Oversee home renovation projects

 Pet care

 Holiday decorating & take down Call or text me at 317-414-7920.

GROUNDHOG STUMP REMOVAL

Professional & Economical

Remove tree stumps, ugly tree roots, stumps in and around chain link or wood fences. We also remove tree stumps that are protruding up onto sidewalks and around sidewalks. We grind them and/or remove. Please Call & Text at 816-778-4690.

STAMPS! COVERS! COLLECTING SUPPLIES!

The Indiana Stamp Club hosts its Spring Stamp Fair, April 15 & 16 at the Lawrence Community Center, 5301 N. Franklin Rd., Lawrence, Ind. Show hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-3. Free admission and ample free parking.

Contact: Tom Chastang (317) 913-9319

Email: tchas5@sbcglobal.net

Website: www.indianastampclub.org

MASKS ARE RECOMMENDED

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment.

The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net.

We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays.

To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net

40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

MR WINDOW

Position involves two main responsibilities: data entry and providing exceptional customer service through phone, email and text interaction. Other responsibilities may include general office tasks, ordering, and scheduling. Part time or Full time hours available, Monday through Friday. Great work environment w/ excellent pay including bonus potential. Two years data entry and/or customer service experience required. Pay negotiable according to experience and skill level

Send resume to mrwindow@mrwindowcompany.com

MATH TEACHER

A math teacher at Midwest Academy will be responsible for teaching all aspects of mathematics, including fundamental and introductory algebra skills, to Middle School and High School students in a progressive environment designed for children with learning differences.

This position is full time and compensation is commensurate with experience. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a child-centered mentality are essential to this position.

To apply please send your resume to careers@mymwa.org

NOW

We are in need of painters with or without experience

Please Call (317) 397-9389 for info

We

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Words: ALPHA, BRAVO, DELTA, ECHO, OSCAR, ROMEO; Tools: CLAMP, DRILL, HAMMER, LEVEL, SAW; Vessels: BATTLESHIP, CRUISER, FRIGATE, GUNBOAT; Dances: BALLET, JAZZ, TAP; Museums:

PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

bigger than a hospital.

Healthy people make our community thrive. That’s why— your focus is our focus.