July 11, 2023 — Noblesville

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Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XIV, No. 44

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Southwest corner of 116th & I-69

Dive in to Delicious!

County plans to build women’s shelter

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

the facility will be and how much it will cost haven’t been determined, according to Dillinger.

GOVERNMENT

Hamilton County plans to build a women’s shelter for domestic violence victims and their children off Ind. 38 in Noblesville next year.

The facility was one of several projects discussed during the State of the County address June 28 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, where Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger highlighted various projects taking place. The county recently purchased 9 acres of land off Ind. 38 for $550,000 for the shelter, Dillinger said.

Construction on another project is also set to begin next year on a county emergency operation and 911 center off Ind. 37 in Noblesville that will include a child care facility. The project, behind Home Depot in Noblesville, is needed because ofHamilton County’s growth and a lack of space in its current location at 18100 Cumberland Rd., said Mike Hubbs, director of the county’s 911 communications center.

Dillinger

Officials plan to work with Prevail, Inc., a Noblesville-based organization that works with victims of crime and abuse, regarding the planned facility. Details of how large

Hubbs said officials are still working through details regarding how large the new facility will be.

“We’re in the scoping phase right now,” Hubbs said. “We definitely need the space.”

Dillinger’s State of the County address also highlighted other county projects currently taking place, including an inter-

change project at 146th Street and Allisonville Road, that is set to be completed in the summer of 2025. The $44 million project on the border of Noblesville and Fishers will convert the intersection into a grade-separated interchange with 146th Street going over a roundabout on Allisonville Road.

Construction on the interchange project began in March and is expected to improve traffic flow through the corridor when it is finished.

“We had to do something with this intersection,” Dillinger said.

Work is also nearing completion tied to the first phase of a county wastewater treatment plant at U.S. 31 and 236th Street. The first phase carries a price tag of $45 million, with the county using $25 million from American Rescue Plan Act funding, according to Dillinger, who said the second phase of the project will cost $20 million.

BrewBQ fundraiser set for Aug. 19

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

students in technical fields of study.

“We are passionate about providing opportunities in these fields, especially with Noblesville’s focus on economic development,” she said.

The Bier Brewery, Chapman’s Brewing Co. and Primeval Brewing in Noblesville will also be available.

EVENT

The smell of barbecue will fill the air at Federal Hill Commons next month as part of a fundraiser to benefit scholarship funds for students at Ivy Tech Community College’s Hamilton County campus in Noblesville.

The BrewBQ event hosted by the Noblesville Rotary Club will be from 4 to 10 p.m. Aug. 19 and will feature barbecue, beer, wine and live music, said Carrie Dixon, president of the Noblesville Rotary Club. This will be the seventh year for the rain-or-shine event, which is open to individuals ages 21 and older.

“This is a fun charitable event that allows the community to come together to support a great cause, while also sharing their love of barbecue and beer,” Dixon said.

Dixon said proceeds will support local students who attend Ivy Tech’s campus in Noblesville with scholarship funds, noting that there are not many scholarships available to

Stacy Atkinson, chancellor for Ivy Tech’s Hamilton County campus, said the community college is thankful for its partnership with the Noblesville Rotary Club and is grateful for the organization’s support.

“The BrewBQ is a great event to support their efforts of providing scholarships for local students to attend Ivy Tech,” Atkinson said.” We are thankful for the long-standing relationship that the Noblesville Rotary has experienced with Ivy Tech and look forward to many continued years.”

The public will also have an opportunity to participate in a barbecue-tasting contest featuring a variety of recipes from pitmasters, who will be from Noblesville and other cities in Indiana. In addition, live music from That’s What She Said will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. during BrewBQ, while beer from

“We love being part of the community and are super excited to be able to serve beer this year at the Rotary Club’s BrewBQ,” said Tim Palmer, owner of Primeval Brewing. “Beer and barbecue pair so well together that this will be a wonderful combination to bring together.”

Wine will also be available from Sheridan-based Blackhawk Winery and Vineyard, in addition to Spencer Farms Winery, which will also return this year. Advance tickets are available for $55 each, while designated driver tickets are available for $40 each.

Tickets will also be available for $65 at the gate on the day of the event that include unlimited beer, wine and barbecue. The designated driver ticket features water and soda, according to Dixon.

For tickets, visit event.ontaptickets.com/ events/noblesville-brewbq-2023-8-19-2023.

TENDERLOIN TUESDAY

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HCLA names 2023 graduates

news@youarecurrent.com

Thirty-four community leaders are among the latest graduates from the Hamilton County Leadership Academy.

• John Mann (Noblesville Police Department)

• Harley McCorkle (Duke Energy)

• Kathryn McLaughlin (Community Health Network)

LEADERSHIP

The HCLA is a 10-month program for professional and community leaders who live or work in Hamilton County with class sessions focusing on topics that affect the operations of the county.

The following individuals were named as recent graduates of the HCLA’s Class of 2023:

• Ramona Adams (The Center for the Performing Arts)

• Ali Alvey (Beaver Gravel)

• Stephanie Amick (Agape Therapeutic Riding)

• Ed Bukovac (Citizens Energy Group)

• Jamar Cobb-Dennard (Indiana Business Advisors)

• Todd Crosby (Eli Lilly and Company)

• Christi Crosser (Nova 29, LLC)

• John DeLucia (Citizens State Bank)

• Dustin Dixon (Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

• Laurie Dyer (T&T Sales and Promotions, Inc.)

• Brad Fruth (Beck’s Hybrids)

• Roz Harris (Fit Chicks)

• John Helling (Hamilton East Public Library)

• Taylor Hollenbeck (Indiana Office of Technology)

• Sam Hughes (Church Church Hittle + Antrim)

• Dave Hyatt (Riverview Health)

• Travis Lovett (Krieg DeVault LLP)

• Brian Millis (ADVISA)

• Jennifer Neher Sommers (Conner Prairie)

• Kathy Pelletier (The Children’s TherAplay Foundation, Inc.)

• Jennifer Penix (Carmel Education Foundation)

• Stephanie Perry (City of Fishers)

• Julie Pettypool (Browning)

• Anita Rogers (Hamilton County Community Foundation)

• Steven Rushforth (Hamilton County Government)

• Jack Russell (OneZone Chamber of Commerce)

• Jen Sacheck (Dentons Bingham Greenbaum LLP)

• Sarah Shields (Hamilton Superior Court)

• Bailey Spitznagle (City of Westfield)

• Dr. Jennifer Wheat Townsend (Noblesville Schools)

• Leah York (Talbott Talent)

Graduates of the program have a deeper knowledge and understanding of Hamilton County, create meaningful, lifelong connections with their peers, HCLA alumni and community leaders and gain clarity around how to lead and make an impact in their backyard, according to the HCLA.

Preparation for the HCLA Class of 2024 is in motion with a formal announcement of the next cohort planned this month, according to Diana Coyle, executive director of the HCLA. For more, visit hcla.net.

Colts set training camp dates

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

IMMERSE YOUR INNER ARTIST while exploring both doable and viewable art. Put your skills to the test at a u-paint class and enjoy art events throughout the county. With three recognized state cultural districts, no matter where you go in Hamilton County you will experience the arts.

July 29

August 5

August 11–12

August 25–26

Brews on the Boulevard, Carmel Art Fair on the Square Carmel Jazz Fest, Carmel GreekFest 2023, Carmel

The sounds of summer have arrived and that’s music to our ears! Find a full list of live music and concerts, from free to famous, happening around Hamilton County by scanning the QR code below.

Westfield Mayor Andy Cook is frequently asked what the most exciting thing is about hosting the Indianapolis Colts training camp at Westfield’s Grand Park.

Events Center. “When you see these little kids with their eyes as big as saucers when they get to see Colts City and get to see their first real live NFL player, they’re thrilled, absolutely thrilled.”

SPORTS

Cook said most people believe he’ll say that it is meeting all the players and coaches.

“The greatest thrill to me is to watch the hundreds, if not thousands, of families, especially children, many of which would never get a chance to see a real NFL player, to see cheerleaders and, yes, maybe to see Blue,” Cook said at the camp dates announcement June 27 at the Grand Park

This is the fifth season the Colts have conducted training camp at Grand Park. There will be 13 open training camp practices at Grand Park, starting July 26 and ending Aug. 17. The highlight will be two 6 p.m. joint practices Aug. 16-17 with the Chicago Bears before the teams’ preseason game Aug. 19 at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Some special days include Kids Day, July 28; Back Together Weekend, July 29; Salute to Service, Aug. 1; Youth Sports Day, Aug. 3; Give Back Sunday, Aug. 6; Fan Appreciation, Aug. 10; and Thirsty Thursday, Aug. 17.

RIGHT SIZE. RIGHT CARE. RIGHT HERE. NOBLESVILLE / WESTFIELD / CARMEL / CICERO / FISHERS / SHERIDAN / ZIONSVILLE

“They know me, they support me and they care for me.”

With advanced technology and expert care, we’ll get you back to what you love.

COMMUNITY

DISPATCHES

Extension Homemakers to host pie contest – The Hamilton County Extension Homemakers will host a homemade pie contest during the Hamilton County 4-H Fair. Entries will be accepted from 1 to 2 p.m. July 22 in the Exhibition Center Hall B at the fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville. Individuals are asked to submit a homemade pie from a recipe handed down through generations and include the recipe with directions. No pies needing refrigeration will be accepted, while entries must also include 50 to 100 words telling how the pie became part of your family history. Judging will begin at 2 p.m. with prizes awarded to the winner. For more, call 317-776-0854.

Golf tournament fundraiser – The fifth annual Evan R Hansen Legacy Foundation Golf Tournament is set for July 29 on both 18-hole courses at Pebble Brook Golf Club in Noblesville. The foundation plans to use the proceeds to begin sponsoring nationally known mental health speaker presentations at local high schools as well as other causes related to its mission. For more, visit erh32.org.

Chamber seeking award nominations –

The Noblesville Chamber of Commerce and Women in Noblesville (WIN Network) are seeking nominations for the Women of Impact award for 2023. The award recognizes a woman who lives or works in Noblesville and is making a positive impact in the community through stewardship, service, leadership, and compassion. Applications will be received until July 16 with the award winner being announced at the annual WIN Leadership luncheon Aug. 23 at Mustard Seeds in Noblesville. To make a nomination, visit the chamber’s website at www.noblesvillechamber.com.

Website connects residents to resources

– The Hamilton County Community Foundation, Duke Energy, the Hamilton County Trustees Association and Good Samaritan Network have partnered to launch Help4HamiltonCounty.org to provide residents with a one-stop resource for support services. The new resource offers connection in the areas of aging and seniors, food assistance, medical and mental health, youth and families, housing and education and employment.

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.

Expected completion: End of 2024

Project: Pleasant Street

Location: Various locations; Eighth Street and Pleasant Street will be closed after Memorial Day (motorists are advised to use detour routes or visit reimaginepleasantst.com for more information)

Expected completion: Work will be ongoing

Project: Stony Creek pedestrian trail

Location: Under Ind. 37

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Expected completion: Construction will continue this year with the trail expected to open by early summer.

Project: Roundabout construction

Location: Ind. 32 and River Road

Expected completion: End of summer

Project: Nickel Plate Trail

Location: The city of Noblesville will construct its portion of the Nickel Plate Trail from 146th Street to Pleasant Street. Trail will be 12 feet wide and include the reha-

bilitation of two existing railroad bridges and conversion to pedestrian facilities

Expected completion: By Thanksgiving

WESTFIELD

Project: Library/township office construction

Location: Corner of Park and Poplar streets

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 new roundabout at the intersection of 171st Street and Eagletown Road is now open. However, there will be periodic lane restrictions in the coming weeks due to utility relocation and pavement striping. Please use caution in the area.

Project: Academy Sports & Outdoors

Location: Drive in front of the building will close for renovations, while the left turn lane from eastbound Greyhound Pass will be closed to avoid traffic turning into the worksite. Motorists should use Thatcher Lane or Cool Creek Park Road as a detour.

Expected completion: Fall 2023

Start a conversation with an OB-GYN

We listen to understand you and your preferences

You and your baby (or babies!) deserve maternity care that’s personalized to both of you. The OB-GYNs at Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent — Fishers Women’s Health listen to understand your preferences. Choosing to have your baby at Fishers Birthing Center means having a spacious room for labor, delivery and postpartum, 24/7 lactation support and a Level II nursery where we can provide special care for moms and babies — all close to home. You may even choose to work with a birth designer from the very beginning of your pregnancy to create a personalized care plan for delivery day.

Ascension Medical Group

St. Vincent Fishers Women’s Health 13914 Southeastern Parkway, Suite 110 Fishers, IN 46037

To schedule your appointment today or to chat with a care navigator for help with scheduling, call 463-240-3022 or visit ascension.org

© Ascension 2023. All rights reserved.

Amy Dodson, DO OB-GYN

Jessica Ebinger, MD OB-GYN

MYSTERY SNAPSHOT

CHALLENGE

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

(Advertorial)

Tom Wood Subaru supports Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital

Tom Wood Subaru, in its continued commitment to making a positive impact in our community, recently made a heartwarming donation of blankets and craft kits to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. The gesture aims to provide comfort, warmth and fun to young patients during their hospital stays, bringing a touch of cheer to their healing journey.

Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, renowned for its exceptional pediatric care, was thrilled to receive the generous donation from Tom Wood Subaru. The blankets, known for their cozy and high-quality material, are a symbol of care and support for the brave children undergoing treatment.

Tom Wood Subaru’s commitment to giving back to the community aligns perfectly with the hospital’s mission of providing exceptional healthcare services to children in need. By creating a comfortable environment, the blankets not only offer physical warmth but also contribute to the emotional well-being of the young patients and their families.

“We are incredibly grateful to Tom Wood Subaru for their thoughtful donation,” expressed Laura Keefe; Certified Child Life Specialist at Peyton Manning. “The blankets bring smiles and comfort to our young patients during their time at the hospital. This act of kindness showcases the compassion and dedication that Tom Wood Subaru has for our community. Everyone has been so grateful for comfort and distraction!”

This initiative is part of Tom Wood Subaru’s larger philanthropic efforts under the Subaru Love Promise, a commitment to making a positive impact in areas such as healthcare, education, animal welfare, and the environment.

Tom Wood Subaru, along with Annabeth Stem from the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society, were honored to support Peyton Manning

Children’s Hospital and contribute to the wellbeing of the children in their care. Together, they strive to create a brighter future for the community they serve.

You may ask, “How can I help?” Well, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital is in great need of the following: Infant toys, colored pencils, markers, coloring books (regular and adult), puzzle books (word search, sudoku, etc.), and infant board books (new packaged items only please). They solely rely on donations around the holidays, so during this time of year, they are really running low on these items!

If you would like to donate to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, please bring donations inside door 4, the main entrance of the children’s hospital, during normal business hours; Monday through Friday. If you have questions, please contact Laura Keefe at laura.mcilrath@ascension.org or by phone at 317-338-8835.

As the blankets wrap the young patients in warmth and comfort, Tom Wood Subaru, The Leukemia/Lymphoma Society and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, will continue to inspire hope and healing, reminding us all of the power of compassion and the difference we can make when we come together.

From left: Anna Stover, Julie Janssen, Laura Keefe, Scott Reckley, Peyton Dorsey, Shannon Cook and Hunter Radke.

The City of Noblesville logo can be found outside Noblesville City Hall. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

MYSTERY SNAPSHOT CHALLENGE JUNE 27 SOLUTION

City OKs changes to facade grant program

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville has approved changes to its residential facade improvement grant program, which provides funding to homeowners living in historic districts.

The grant program, which was established by the city in 2022, provides grants to homeowners in National Register Historic Districts within the city limits. City officials worked with Noblesville’s legal department regarding some of the amendments before bringing it back to the Noblesville Common Council for further consideration, said Aaron Head, community engagement manager with the city.

Some of the changes involved looking at scenarios such as if contractors didn’t get paid by a homeowner for a particular project, Head said.

According to the city, the purpose of the residential facade improvement grant program is “to stimulate investment, maintenance and revitalization through preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of

residential buildings by offering financial and limited technical assistance for facade improvements,” according to the ordinance, which was recently approved by the Noblesville Common Council. Eligible homes under the grant program must be within one of the city’s four historic districts: Catherine Street, Conner Street, Plum Prairie and South 9th Street.

“The meat of the ordinance changed really in two respects,” City Attorney Jonathan Hughes said.

Hughes said one of the amendments tied to the grant program document, describing it as one “that is more bound in time we made a little more flexible.” He added that Noblesville has the ability to make changes for individual circumstances if needed while taking steps such as reserving the right to put a lien on a particular property if someone doesn’t get work done correctly.

In addition, Hughes said it could also include lien waivers if the city thought it would help someone to get a contractor involved as well. Hughes added that other changes tied to payment have also been implemented.

“It requires that when we give the grant

to the grantee that money gets immediately transferred to the contractor and we get immediate assurance of that,” he said.

Hughes said if that isn’t done, the city has the right to recoup all of that money back.

“And so that’s the ultimate goal is to give some surety that we can either put a lien on the property or get the money back through other means and that’s how we amended the program to, I think, make the program work a little more fluid and consistent with what the council was concerned about, which is ‘How do we make sure our money’s being used for the right thing?’” Hughes said.

Under the residential facade grant program, work must be completed first with the city paying the money to the homeown-

er, who would then give those funds to a contractor, according to Hughes. The threeway agreement essentially means that the city would meet with the contractor and homeowner while encouraging the contractor to do the work with the understanding that the city is financially behind the project, Hughes added.

A total of $25,000 annually has been allocated for each of the four historic districts this year and in 2024 with funding available on a first-come, first-served basis. Homes within the Plum Prairie Historic District are eligible for 75 percent reimbursement of approved project costs up to $5,000 per building, while all homes located in the three other historic districts are eligible for 50% reimbursement of approved project costs up to $5,000, according to the city.

“It requires that when we give the grant to the grantee that money gets immediately transferred to the contractor and we get immediate assurance of that.”

– CITY ATTORNEY JONATHAN HUGHES

Attendees listen to a speaker June 28 at Grand Park (Photo by Kiersten Riedford)

Eid al-Adha celebration brings unity to community

By Kiersten Riedford news@youarecurrent.com

Eid al-Adha, one of two main Islamic holidays, was celebrated by Muslims from throughout the greater Indianapolis area June 28 at the Grand Park indoor complex in Westfield.

Sen. Fady Qaddoura, a Democrat serving District 30, which encompasses the north side of Indianapolis including portions of Washington, Pike and Lawrence Townships. He said the celebration unites all faiths and all communities together.

RELIGION

The celebration brought together more than 5,000 participants to commemorate the story of Abraham — a prophet in the Quran and in religious texts of Judaism and Christianity — who was willing to sacrifice his son to prove his devotion to Allah, the Arabic word for God.

The Alhuda Foundation, located in Fishers, organized the event alongside the Ahikmah Islamic Center, Al Salam Foundation, Masjid Al Mumineen, Masjid Al-Fajir and Masjid Al-Taqwa.

Ahmed Alamine is the imam — a person who leads prayers in a mosque — and director of Religious Affairs for the Indianapolis Muslim Community Association. He said his sermon focused on the importance of coming together and sacrifice.

“As (the) Muslim community and greater Indianapolis community, we have been going through a lot of challenges, whether it is homicide issues, drug overdose issues, Islamophobia issues,” Alamine said. “We have to come together to address all these issues.”

Alamine said Muslims strongly believe in the importance of family structure to build a strong community.

“(The) Muslim community and beyond (is) calling everyone to join in unity,” Alamine said. “This is not just a show, it is something that we believe in deeply because it’s part of our faith to be united.”

The message of Eid al-Adha is of hope, courage and sacrifices, according to State

“It is not just the religious celebration,” Qaddoura said. “We have many of the faith communities come together and actually celebrate our unity and utilize the values that inspire the celebration to unite us. The desired outcomes of hope of love and compassion and unity are the things that bring us all collectively together.”

Alamine said Islam is the only one of the three Abrahamic faiths that celebrates Eid al-Adha, despite all three acknowledging the story of Abraham in their religious texts. He said there are more connections between the faiths than many people realize, and he encourages people to educate themselves about Islam and the connections between the Abrahamic faiths.

“In learning Islam, I encourage people to read the Quran,” Alamine said. “We tell people Islam is an extension to Christianity and Judaism. So, talk to your neighbors, talk to your coworker. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You will never be able to offend a Muslim by asking questions.”

Alamine said he hopes to see the celebration develop into an interfaith event. Qaddoura said he hopes to see the space become more diverse.

“The more that we are inclusive, the more that we support one another,” Qaddoura said. “The more that we love and respect one another, the more that we act in a kind way towards our neighbors and our friends, the stronger our communities will be.”

To learn more about Eid al-Adha and Islamic celebrations, go to alhudafoundation.org.

TRAFFIC TANGLE

Residents have differing views about ongoing Pleasant Street construction project

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Some Noblesville residents living near the Pleasant Street construction project are questioning whether the planned improvements will be a benefit to the city and say the work has created inconveniences in their neighborhoods.

The $115 million road construction project in Noblesville is expected to improve traffic flow and ease congestion when completed, according to the city. The entire project is expected to be finished by the fall of 2025.

Among the most visible work underway is the construction of two new roundabouts on Eighth Street that began June 8, which has led to detours for motorists traveling through the area.

The work has resulted in a 150-day closure of Eighth Street between Washington Street and Mulberry Street that began the first week of June. In addition, Pleasant Street between Sixth Street and Ninth Street, which includes the alley between Eighth and Ninth Street at Pleasant Street, is also temporarily closed, according to the city.

But not all homeowners are in favor of the work. Noblesville resident Mary McClain, whose home on Washington Street is adjacent to nearby construction on Eighth Street, said it won’t be beneficial when it is completed.

McClain, who has lived in Noblesville for 39 years, said she has concerns about the dust being created that has affected her allergies and asthma. She added that she often walks to get to places in Noblesville, saying it now takes her longer because of road closures.

Another resident living on Fifth Street, who declined to be identified, also expressed concerns about emergency medical services personnel being able to access the area. She said in one instance, an ambulance that recently had to come toward Fifth Street on a call ended up traveling on Ninth Street to reach its destination because of construction.

“That’s a very big factor of safety (in) the neighborhood,” the homeowner said. “We’ve dealt with the dirt and the dust. The

dump trucks have gotten better, but they did fly by here going more than 20 miles an hour.”

Area motorists have been required to take detours established by the city because of construction, which has resulted in increased traffic in the area during peak hours, according to the Fifth Street homeowner, who said that she now must travel eight or nine blocks to arrive at her mother’s home, which is less than three blocks away from her residence.

Other residents such as Jeff Bradfield, who has lived in Noblesville his entire life,

say they don’t have any concerns about the work taking place. He recently rode his motorcycle near Eighth and Washington streets where construction is currently taking place.

“It’ll be a good thing,” Bradfield said.

But city officials contend that the closure of Eighth Street for 150 days was necessary due to the construction of the two roundabouts, which are being built at the same time.

“And because we’re doing a full closure, they will be able to construct it faster than if we would have phased it … and we

thought it would be best to get the work in and get in and out this year,” City Engineer Alison Krupski said.

Krupski said although Eighth Street is temporarily closed, 10th Street remains open for motorists to use. Detour routes are in place, including temporary signals at Eighth and Hannibal streets, as well as 10th and Hannibal streets that are intended to allow traffic to flow more efficiently through the detour, she added.

“The goal of this is that we want as many travelers (as possible) to take this detour route so there’s less people in neighborhoods,” Krupski said.

Krupski also encouraged the public to contact the city if there are issues or concerns, noting that officials will look at making possible adjustments to the temporary signals if necessary.

Construction along Eighth Street in Noblesville has resulted in a 150-day closure tied to the Pleasant Street project. The city is building two new roundabouts on Eighth Street that has resulted in motorists being required to take detours through the area. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT UPCOMING PLEASANT STREET PHASES

The second phase of the project that will span from 11th to 19th streets will create a four-lane section with a median, 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.

For more, visit reimaginepleasantst.com/.

Construction crew workers are seen working on Eighth Street June 27 in Noblesville. The city closed Eighth and other streets during the first week of June for 150 days as part of planned improvements tied to the Pleasant Street construction project, which is being done in several phases. (Photos by Matthew Kent)

A construction crew worker lifts a piece of equipment on Pleasant Street June 27 in Noblesville. The city has closed several streets in the area because of ongoing work tied to the Pleasant Street construction project that has raised concerns by residents living nearby about whether the improvements will be beneficial when completed.

Breaking down municpal financing, bond issuance and ratings: How it could impact you

Commentary by Oscar Gutierrez

Local Labor Market 2023 Midyear Review

Unique Open Positons – Hamilton County

Municipal financing is complicated and difficult to understand to the average taxpayer and, as a result, often ignored and misunderstood. However, there are direct correlations between municipal financing, bond rating and cost to taxpayers which make it extremely important to both the local government entity and its residents.

OPINION

Basically, local governments and school districts issue municipal bonds for development projects, such as road projects, new schools, construction projects and community enhancements. These can be described as “loans” investors make to fund projects. Interest paid on these bonds is often tax free, which is a huge benefit to local schools and governments.

The amount of interest paid on bonds is based on a municipal bond rating. In simple terms, a municipal bond rating measures the creditworthiness of a bond, which ultimately impacts the overall cost of borrowing for the municipality. Understanding municipal bond ratings is very similar to your individual credit score. If you have a car loan, mortgage or credit cards, you are familiar or have at least seen your credit report at one time or another. Personal credit scores are rated primarily by three agencies — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Bond ratings also have three primary rating agencies — Standard and Poor’s (S&P), Moody’s and Fitch. Personal credit scores and bond credit ratings have a direct impact on the interest that will be paid on any financing; the higher the rating/score leads to lower risk, thus lower interest rates.

Here is a relatable example: For those

who recently purchased a home, and had a mortgage prior to 2022, their interest rate made a significant impact on their affordability, and their credit mattered more than ever. For a municipality assuming a $20,000,000 bond issue, a small change of a quarter of a percent is the difference of $305,000 in interest costs. Deviations like this is why the credit rating of government entities is more important today than two years ago when we lived in a 2 percent interest rate world. Since the housing crisis of 2008, finance professionals and elected officials have had the luxury of low rates, and credit worthiness was not a costly factor. We have an entire generation of finance professionals and elected officials who didn’t have to worry about the credit worthiness of their municipal entity.

While the idea of municipal financing, bonds, bond ratings and property tax descriptions and breakdowns might be intimidating, it is important to the pocketbook of local residents and should not be ignored. If you’re interested in learning more about your local city, town or school district as it relates to municipal financing, I would encourage you to contact your local city/town council representative or your local school board members for details. As local elections are in full swing, it is vital to understand the priorities of candidates in terms of financial stability because it truly does impact us as residents. Stay engaged, it matters.

Mike Thibideau, President/CEO, Invest Hamilton County

Amid the fears of recession, impacts of inflation and the tumultuous nature of consumer spending in our economy comes very real impacts on what is still a very hot (but cooling) labor market. Talent is still in very short supply and more expensive than ever before with over 26,000 open positions so far in 2023 and median wages for open roles up to $23.45/hour. Local unemployment was 2.8% in May.

Compared to the peaks of 17,000+ open positions per months in May 2021 and 2022 the 11,724 open positions in May shows how the labor market is loosening slightly and puts the local labor market right about where we were in May 2019 (which was not a contracting or shrinking economy), except far more expensive with wages up 33-40% depending on experience and education. This past month the median wage for open positions requiring a high school level of education in Hamilton County was $19.02.

With the notable exceptions of Tractor-Trailer Drivers and Registered Nurses most high-demand occupations have now seen multiple consecutive months with more hires than new postings, which is in sharp contrast to employers hiring experiences since mid-2018. Overall, while compared to 2021 and 2022 the market is cooling it is our hope we’re entering back into a

period of more predictable and resilient growth.

At Invest Hamilton County, we love where data, stories and impact intersect. Currently, in partnership with our education, economic development, philanthropic, and business community leaders we are performing a labor market forecasting project going all the way out to the year 2030 focused on our resident and employer occupation makeup. After the data launch this fall, we’ll update it every summer and use it to develop tools and empower impactful collaboration across communities and stakeholder groups.

Please reach out (investhamilton county.com) if you would like to learn more about the local labor market, have any questions we can help answer, or would like to share your story.

Sources: Hoosierdata.in.gov; Invest Hamilton County via Lightcast; June 2023

(Chart: Unique open positions June 2018-June 2023, Hamilton Co, IN; Source: Invest Hamilton County via Lightcast June 2023)

Oscar Gutierrez is president and founder of Bondry Consulting.

“While the idea of municipal financing, bonds, bond ratings and property tax descriptions and breakdowns might be intimidating, it is important to the pocketbook of local residents and should not be ignored.”

– OSCAR GUTIERREZ

Growing wiser with age?

Commentary by Terry Anker

We’re all prone to cast the aspersion. No matter how mature we have become or imagine ourselves to be, we feel the need, from time to time, to label our fellow humans as idiots. They cut us off in traffic. They go through the 12-items-or-less line with 27 items. They say something on their social media feeds that is so disturbingly inconsistent with our own studied and thoughtful views that we know that there must be something wrong with them. Perhaps they write an entirely incomprehensible column that we wonder who, in their right minds, would have conferred a doctorate upon the writer. We determine them to be idiots, each and every!

ESSAY

Definitionally, an idiot is medically determined to be one suffering from an intellectual disability. Yet, we probably intend it as a pejorative. “Those folks are just plain stupid.” So far, stupid has not been defined as a protected class of Americans, so we evaluate applicability individually, based upon

circumstance. Math would dictate that half of the people in any room are smarter than the other half. But most of us are brighter sometimes and not-so-bright at other times. Experience, prudence and education all enter the equation. The hubris of youth can lead to an abundance of kidiotic behavior. With each passing year, the expectations increase but we are likely to tolerate imprudence from youngsters while expecting more from those of us a bit longer in the tooth. Sure, I.Q. is a weighty variable on our preferences and actions. But is it the most important? Does it ever seem not to matter? If we all make suboptimal choices from time to time, is carelessness, disregard, immaturity or aggression to blame? Are we doomed to grow from kidiot to idiot? If not, how do we avoid it?

An unhealthy airport exercise

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, I’ve always considered myself a “fit” person. I work out regularly and take geriatric vitamins. But my recent experience with Delta Airlines suggests that I’m not in as good a shape as I thought. Here’s the skinny.

large purse. I arrived as the last person was being checked in under the final boarding call — unable to breathe, let alone talk, and with a now-defunct boarding pass. Bless the attendant who quickly assessed my situation and got me on the plane.

HUMOR

My 6 a.m. flight from Mobile, Ala., to Atlanta was delayed 25 minutes because of, per the pilot, “a series of unfortunate events.” This was problematic because I had a tight layover, but I didn’t sweat it. The ATL-IND route runs every two hours. If I missed my original, I’d just catch a later one.

But Delta had no faith in me and automatically bumped me to another flight — the following morning. Umm, no. Unacceptable. There was still time! I’d have to navigate a crowded jetway, 30 B gates, several escalators, a stupid train and the majority of Terminal A, but it could be done. So, off I raced, sprinting and speed-walking, trying not to pee my pants, dragging a carry-on and

As I collapsed in my seat, though, I was a hot mess. I could not slow my heart rate, and my blood pressure was through the roof. What was happening? I should be able to hurry through an airport without suffering a cardiac episode, but apparently not. “Ma’am? You’re in the wrong seat.” Oh, lord.

Despite exercise and old people supplements, friends, I’m not in as good a shape as I thought!

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.

“As I collapsed in my seat, though, I was a hot mess. I could not slow my heart rate, and my blood pressure was through the roof.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

Seventh-inning snooze

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

I love baseball, and now with a few rule changes, the games are faster and even more exciting. I knew it would be fruitless, but I was hoping to entice my wife, Mary Ellen, to enjoy the sport so we could watch a few games together. So, one day in the car, I attempted to pique her interest.

HUMOR

“Would you watch a baseball game with me one night?” I asked.

“How long does a game last?”

“Well, no one knows exactly.”

“How could that be? Haven’t they been playing baseball for over a hundred years? Can’t somebody time it?

“It’s not like football or basketball. Theoretically, the game can go on forever.”

“Maybe it just seems that way?”

“Let’s try again. Ask me any questions you might have about baseball.”

“OK, why do they call it a strike when the guy doesn’t hit it, but in bowling it’s a strike when he does?”

“Again, I have no clue.”

“And why four balls and only three strikes?”

“I don’t know that, either.”

“Maybe my questions are too hard, Dick. Here’s an easy one: When is the World Series?”

“They don’t play those games until November, after each baseball team has played 162 games in the regular season.”

“Then when is the Super Bowl?”

“That’s in February after each football team has played 17 games. Again, in the regular season.

“That sounds like an easier job than 162 games. Maybe it’s hard to find guys willing to work every Sunday. Dick, is your favorite team in the National Group or American Group?”

“They are not groups. They are called leagues, the American League and the National League.

“What’s the difference?”

“I couldn’t really answer most of Mary Ellen’s questions. As I continued talking about baseball, I glanced over, and she looked like she was nodding off. We pulled over and I drove.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

“Again, you have stumped me. It’s a hard question to answer.”

“Why is that a difficult question? Nordstrom and Kohl’s are in different leagues. Any fan of shopping knows that.”

“OK, here’s one difference. The American League has a DH, a designated hitter. The pitcher does not bat. Someone bats for him.”

“That doesn’t seem very fair to the pitcher.”

“The pitcher doesn’t care.”

“Well, if he doesn’t care, he shouldn’t be playing.”

“By the way, Mary Ellen, there was a perfect game a few nights ago.”

“What does that mean?”

“The pitcher allowed no hits, no runs, no walks. Not a single person reached base. Everything was perfect.”

“Sounds perfectly boring. Why would anyone go to a game like that?”

I couldn’t really answer most of Mary Ellen’s questions. As I continued talking about baseball, I glanced over, and she looked like she was nodding off. We pulled over and I drove.

That night we watched a game together. I explained to her the fascinating intricacies of baseball. It was a close one between the archrival Cubs and Dodgers. I don’t know the final score. I fell asleep in the seventh inning.

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.

Carmel Jazz Fest to feature blues and soul singer Robinson

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Tad Robinson is thrilled to be part of the inaugural edition of the Carmel Jazz Fest.

“It looks to be a nice eclectic group of musicians,” the Greencastle resident said. “I think they are doing a beautiful job organizing it.”

The Tad Robinson Band will perform from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 11 and 1:30 to 3 p.m. Aug. 12, with both shows on the Gazebo stage.

Robinson sings and plays harmonica. The band consists of Paul Holdman, guitar/ vocals; Brian Yarde, drums/vocals; Harlan Terson, bass guitar; and Kevin Anker, keyboards.

Terson is from Chicago and the others are from the Indianapolis area.

Carmel Jazz Fest is set for Aug. 11-12 at six different venues throughout the city.

“It’s always good to play in that community because there are a lot of people who love roots music, Americana, blues and jazz,” Robinson said. “I think the festival is doing a great job in representing those music (genres).”

Robinson said many of the groups performing in the Carmel Jazz Fest make great music.

“We’ll be playing some new tunes that will be on the upcoming album, plus doing our usual set of blues and soul,” said Robinson, whose band’s setlists are mostly his original songs.

Robinson has seven albums on the Seven label and Delmar Records. He is working on a new album and expects to make an announcement of a release later this summer.

Robinson, who has played in more than 20 countries, did three tours outside the U.S. in 2022.

During last year’s busy schedule, Robinson performed Aug. 31 in the Live at Center Series at the Palladium, then a few days later he performed at the inaugural All In Music and Arts Festival at the Indiana

State Fairgrounds.

“I got to perform with the Allman Brothers Dreamset, which was a really nice experience,” he said. “I think the idea of the dreamsets is unique and a nice idea. All the guys couldn’t have been nicer. I enjoyed that festival a lot. I’d love to return.”

Robinson, who is originally from New York City, lived in Chicago for a decade before moving to Greencastle. He has 10 Blues Music Award nominations, which are considered the Grammys for blues music.

Robinson has already spent 10 days in Sweden this season.

“Later in the year, I’ll also be on the West Coast with some touring in Southern

California,” he said. “It’s been a good year.”

At 67, Robinson shows no signs of slowing down.

“We’re just beginning,” he said. “In the world of roots music, jazz and blues, I don’t think they hold age against you as much as in pop music. I think sometimes people see it as an asset. You get rid of your bad habits, and you know how to communicate more musically at that level when you are a little bit more experienced. Doors seem to be opening, so I’m happy to go through them.”

For more, visit tadrobinson.com. For festival tickets and the schedule, visit carmeljazzfest.com.

‘SOPHISTICATED LADIES’

“Sophisticated Ladies” is set to run July 14 through Aug. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Liberace and Liza: A Tribute” is set for 7:30 p.m. July 14-15 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinhc.com.

LOBSTER PALOOZA

Indianapolis Opera’s annual fundraiser, Lobster Palooza, is set for 6 to 10 p.m. July 15 at the Basile Opera Center, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis. For more, visit indyopera.org.

‘CURTAINS’

Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “Curtains” through July 16 at the Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.

‘MUSIC OF ABBA’

“Arrival from Sweden, the Music of Abba” will be featured at 8 p.m. July 14-15 in the Symphony on the Prairie series at Conner Prairie in Fishers. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.

DISPATCH

Three win CarmelFest Has Talent titles — Westfield resident Spenser Johns won first place in the 17-and-old division in the CarmelFest Has Talent competition July 3 at the Carmel Gazebo stage. Rachel Dwaram, Fishers, finished second and Jenna and Jacey Green, Columbus, Ind., third. In the ages 13-16 category, Vivian Vreeman, Carmel, took first place. John Paul Pack, Carmel, finished second and Jackson Mullen, Fishers, third.

In the 12-and-under class, Azalia Davidson, Noblesville, was victorious, followed by Liv Keslin, Zionsville, in second and Leah Dwaram, Fishers, in third. First place paid $300, second place $200 and third place $100 in all three categories.

MUSIC

Tad Robinson will perform twice during the Aug. 11-12 Carmel Jazz Fest on the Gazebo Stage. (Photo courtesy of Michael Mark)

Musical plays tribute to Ellington

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Serving as musical director of “Sophisticated Ladies” has a special meaning to Tenéh Karimu.

olis since the 1980s.

“So, for me, and quite a few people, this will be our first time experiencing this,” said Karimu, who is leading an eight-person orchestra.

SONGBOOK ACADEMY IN CONCERT*

Sat Jul 22 at 7pm

DAUGHTRY: BARE BONES TOUR*

Wed Aug 9 at 7:30pm

SPYRO GYRA*

Sat Aug 12 at 8pm

BEN HARPER*

Tue Aug 15 at 7:30pm

LIFE WITH THE AFTERLIFE: TRUE TALES OF THE PARANORMAL WITH GHOST HUNTER

AMY BRUNI

Sat Sep 16 at 8pm

UPTOWN: MOTOWN REMIXED

Thu Sep 28 at 7:30pm

ANIMANIACS: IN CONCERT

Thu Oct 5 at 7:30pm

HARRY CHAPIN AT 80: A RETROSPECTIVE, FEATURING THE CHAPIN FAMILY

Fri Oct 20 at 8pm

BILL FRISELL FIVE AND AMBROSE AKINMUSIRE’S OWL SONG

Sat Oct 21 at 8pm

ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS CHAMBER ENSEMBLE

Sat Oct 28 at 8pm

AN EVENING WITH BRUCE COCKBURN

Wed Nov 1 at 7:30pm

BÉLA FLECK, ZAKIR HUSSAIN, EDGAR MEYER WITH RAKESH CHAURASIA

Thu Nov 2 at 7:30pm

GRACE POTTER

Fri Nov 3 at 8pm

ETTA MAY

CANDACE BUSHNELL: TRUE TALES OF SEX, SUCCESS AND SEX AND THE CITY

Sun Nov 12 at 7pm

ANNE SOFIE VON OTTER & BROOKLYN RIDER SONGS OF LOVE AND DEATH

Fri Nov 17 at 8pm

MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO

Sat Nov 18 at 8pm

THE BLACK MARKET TRUST

Sun Nov 19 at 7pm

VIENNA BOYS CHOIR: CHRISTMAS IN VIENNA

Fri Nov 24 at 2pm

JIM BRICKMAN: A JOYFUL CHRISTMAS

Thu Nov 30 at 7:30pm

THE MIDTOWN MEN: HOLIDAY HITS

ALAN CUMMING & ARI SHAPIRO: OCH & OY! A CONSIDERED CABARET

Sat Feb 3 at 8pm

MARIACHI HERENCIA DE MÉXICO: HEREDEROS

Fri Feb 9 at 8pm

SOFIA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Fri Feb 23 at 8pm

ARETHA’S GOLD: CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE TRIBUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN

Fri Feb 24 at 8pm

THE IRISH TENORS

Fri Mar 8 at 8pm

CARRIE NEWCOMER WITH PIANIST GARY WALTERS & STRING QUARTET

Sat Mar 9 at 8pm

BRUCE HORNSBY WITH YMUSIC

PRODUCTION

“Sophisticated Ladies,” which will be presented July 14 to Aug. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theater in Indianapolis, features the music of Duke Ellington.

“I grew up listening to jazz, especially Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan and Dianne Reeves,” Karimu said. “I stole my mom’s Duke cassette tape, which this show has so many of the songs on, and (I) would listen to it pretty much every night. Jazz is such an integral part of the fabric of this country because it comes directly from the songs and lives of members of the African Diaspora, specifically survivors of American chattel slavery. I am so honored to be a part of this production with this inimitable cast and team.”

The Indianapolis resident has never seen the show. Karimu said this is the first time the show has been performed in Indianap-

This is the 100th anniversary of when Ellington moved to New York City to perform. Act I examines Ellington’s early days at the Cotton Club through his widening acceptance abroad, while Act II explores the private man as captured in his music

“We have a smaller ensemble than other productions, but that simply gives all of our folks more time to shine and bless us with their gifts,” Karimu said. “I’ll be on the keys and conducting. I took a bit of a break between my last show (‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’) and this one, but I plan on this production being a springboard of sorts for more performing, for me, as well as the rest of the team.”

Karimu’s previous Beef & Boards’ experience was performing in the Live Theatre for Kids productions in 2017 as Dr. Wink in “Pinkalicious.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS: BILL MEDLEY & BUCKY HEARD

Fri Oct 6 at 8pm

THE TALLEST MAN ON EARTH*

Sun Oct 8 at 7pm

THE ROBERT CRAY BAND

Wed Oct 11 at 7:30pm

WISH YOU WERE HERE: THE SIGHT & SOUND OF PINK FLOYD

Sat Oct 14 at 8pm

STEWART COPELAND: POLICE DERANGED FOR ORCHESTRA

Thu Oct 19 at 7:30pm

Fri Nov 3 at 7:30pm

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE

Sat Nov 4 at 8pm

TRES SOULS

Sat Nov 4 at 8pm

THE LITTLE MERMEN: THE ULTIMATE DISNEY TRIBUTE BAND

Sun Nov 5 at 3pm & 7pm

EASTON CORBIN

Thu Nov 9 at 7:30pm

GREGORIAN: PURE CHANTS

Fri Nov 10 at 8pm

Fri Dec 1 at 8pm

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS  CHRISTMAS TOUR 2023

Tue Dec 5 at 7:30pm

JON MCLAUGHLIN: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Fri Dec 8 at 8pm

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND HOLIDAY SHOW

Sat Dec 9 at 8pm

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD & SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY

Wed Dec 13 at 7:30pm

AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS

Fri Jan 26 at 8pm

Sat Mar 9 at 8pm

IMAGINATION MOVERS

Sun Mar 10 at 1pm & 4pm

JESSE COOK

Sun Apr 7 at 7pm

RAY CHEN

Fri Apr 12 at 8pm

SAMMY MILLER AND THE CONGREGATION

Fri Apr 19 at 8pm

RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE

Sat Apr 20 at 8pm

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN & SPECIAL GUEST

Fri May 17 at 8pm

BEN HARPER GRACE POTTER ROBERT CRAY DAVE KOZ

KATHERINE MCPHEE

Tenéh Karimu is the musical director of “Sophisticated Ladies.” (Photo courtesy of Tenéh Karimu)

Filmmaker enjoys sharing stories

By Jeff Decker editorial@youarecurrent.com

A local documentary filmmaker often tells others he has the best job in the world.

ming from gun violence but didn’t feel right about including it in the film, Walls said.

INDY SHORTS

Rocky Walls, co-founder of 12 Stars Media in Noblesville, enjoys meeting interesting people, hearing their stories and working with other creative types to share those stories.

“To top it off, we tell stories that inspire positive change, so there’s inherently a lot of fulfillment that comes from our work,” Walls said.

Two of Walls’ stories, “Gun Control” and “Fleeing Silesia,” will be told during the Indiana Spotlight 2 program, part of the Indy Shorts International Film Festival. Walls’ documentary shorts will be shown July 18 at Living Room Theaters, 745 E. Ninth St., Indianapolis, and July 22 at The Toby at Newfields, 4000 N. Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. They also will be available online from July 18 through 23 at watch. eventive.org/indyshorts.

In “Gun Control” (11 minutes), Indianapolis artist, designer and furniture maker Brian Presnell addresses gun-related childhood trauma through art therapy. The short is a follow-up to a feature-length documentary, “IMBPREZ,” released by 12 Stars Media in 2021. During the filming of that documentary, Presnell mentioned his trauma stem-

“Six months later, Brian reached a more peaceful acceptance of these experiences through a form of art therapy, and we produced ‘Gun Control’ to tell that story,” Walls said.

“Fleeing Silesia” (28 minutes) tells the story of one family’s escape from Silesia, a state in Eastern Germany, after World War II. The Lachmann family of central Indiana and a family friend, Joel Wittman, had previously filmed footage hoping to preserve the family’s story but hadn’t been able to piece it together. Peter Max Wendrich Lachmann, son of Peter Franz Joseph Lachmann, whose story is told in the short, approached 12 Stars Media after seeing one of its films.

“The first time we heard the story, directly from Peter over a cup of coffee, we were hooked and ready to help them get it across the finish line,” Walls said.

Walls is also co-founder of Hoodox, a streaming service exclusively for Indiana-focused films and shows. Hoodox is partnering with Indy Shorts to offer PitchDox, a festival contest in which Hoosier filmmakers can submit their unfinished documentaries to a panel of filmmakers in the hopes of winning $10,000 to complete their project.

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org/ indyshorts.

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Walls

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Windermere home featured a spacious master bath with good bones but an outdated style. Thanks to a few functional upgrades and an elevated mix of materials, this bathroom makes each day feel like a spa day.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A luxurious soaking tub replaced the original deck-style tub, and wall-to-wall carpeting that made the room feel dated and drab and was replaced with stunning porcelain tile.

• Built-in shelving featuring beautiful sconces surrounds the tub nook, providing additional storage and display space as well as privacy.

• The shower was upgraded with a frameless glass enclosure and features Calacatta Gold marble and brushed gold fixtures, giving the shower space an upgraded spa-like feel.

• Tonal wallpaper, butcherblock counters stained in a rich tone and brushed gold fixtures complete the bathroom’s elevated aesthetic.

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.

Capital offense a tiny violation

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

As soon as I wrote a column on Caps Lock, the lowercase -- a.k.a., “minuscule” letters -- demanded an essay of its own. The irony is that both of my Apple keyboards have decapitalized the command keys, leaving Caps Lock in a minor key.

he didn’t always employ that style. The trend of his name appearing in small letters started in the 1960s, when book cover designers decided to opt for this style. After that, the “e.e. cummings” format stuck.

GRAMMAR GUY

I’m sure the first topic that comes to mind is the American poet E.E. Cummings. Edward Estlin Cummings (you can see why he went with “E.E.”) often wrote in all lowercase letters, played with spacing and challenged traditional punctuation rules. Cummings took full advantage of his poetic license but didn’t always write exclusively in lowercase. Contrary to popular belief, Cummings didn’t even write his own name in all lowercase letters. His signature clearly featured two capital “E”s with periods after each one, and a capital “C” followed by an apostrophe and a lowercase “s.” How’s that for a John Hancock?

Cummings’ poetry did feature entire poems in lowercase letters, although

Fast forward to today, when we find many areas of no caps. Texting has led to shorthand typing that often lacks proper capitalization or punctuation. I don’t fault people for this method, as they are simply eking out a brief communiqué. The person receiving the message gets the point without needing the formal style we’re used to seeing in books, newspapers and magazines.

In these other forms of communication, the rules aren’t as important as the perceived urgency to communicate. After all, telegraphs never discriminated between uppercase and lowercase.

From Anchorage to Seward

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, in our continuing tour of Alaska, we first visit Anchorage and then take a scenic highway on to Seward. In 1914, a site at the end of Cook Inlet in Southcentral Alaska was selected for unloading materials for building the Alaska Railroad. A tent city sprang up, which was incorporated as Anchorage in 1920. The city grew rapidly, first because of the railroad, then because of military installations, and finally because of oil discovered at Prudhoe Bay. Today, Anchorage, with a population of nearly 300,000, is by far the largest city in Alaska. About 40 percent of all Alaskans live there. Covering 1,706 square miles, about five times the size of Indianapolis, Anchorage is the United States’ fourth-largest city by area. The modern and vibrant city includes a number of important statewide cultural institutions, including the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts and the 170,000 squarefoot Anchorage Museum.

TRAVEL

ning along the Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet, the highway passes the picturesque and glacier-covered Chugach Mountains and offers numerous places to stop for hiking, whale watching, moose and bear sightings, kayaking and the like. The City of Seward, named for former U.S. Secretary of State William Seward, who arranged for the purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million in 1867, is between the mountains and the Gulf of Alaska.

With fewer than 3,000 permanent residents, the number of people in Seward swells dramatically during the summer with the arrival of large cruise ships. Seward is the site of an important annual salmon run in July and August. It is also the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where more than 40 flowing glaciers have created some of the most spectacular fjords in the country.

The 127-mile Seward Highway, connecting Anchorage and Seward, provides some of the most scenic views in the country. Run-

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

Seward Harbor in Seward, Alaska. (Photos by Don Knebel)

A cruise ship in Seward Harbor.

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

Across

1. Brickyard 400 sponsor

4. WTTV spot seller

9. Gomer Pyle’s org.

13. Nest egg choice

14. Sharp flavors

15. White River angler’s basket

16. US Senator who attended ISU

18. The “U” of UHF

19. Gets older 20. Split hairs

22. ___ Friday’s

23. One lacking in pigment

25. Defunct IND carrier 26. Abound 27. Prefix with natal 28. Santa ___, Calif.

30. Underwater explorers

32. Shapiro’s, for one 34. Rid of weaponry

37. US House of Representa-

tive who attended Indiana Wesleyan

41. Temporary vehicle from Tom Wood

42. Wyo. neighbor

45. Grow every which way

48. Grissom, e.g., initially

51. Fair Oaks Farms cow chow

52. Place to dock

53. Bedwear, briefly 56. Bill of ___

58. Art museum vase

59. Persian ruler

60. Butler frat letter

61. Florida tourist attraction

63. US Vice President who attended IUPUI

67. Similar

68. Odds opposite

69. Fire

70. Some sneakers

71. Like Indiana Dunes

72. IU Health trauma ctrs. Down

1. Bro or sis

2. Three, up front

3. Mathematical curve

4. Daughter of Zeus

5.

33. Decorative filling

35. Word with bag or cream

36. Poet Teasdale

38. Stock market index name

39. Indiana Gov. Gates

40. “Impossible!”

43. Pecan, e.g.

44. Colts stats

45. Mouse’s sound

46. University of Evansville school color

47. Far from fresh

49. “My ___ Flicka”

50. Tissue analysis

54. Edgerrin in the Colts Ring of Honor

55. Hindu deity

57. Old AT&T rival

59. Sault ___ Marie

62. Approves

64. Need an attorney? “1-800 Call ___”

65. I-69 sight

Applies lightly, as perfume

6. Genetic letters

7. Sphinx site

8. “Fiddlesticks!”

9. Web address 10. Parlor piece

11. Wall Street news

12. Anthem department 15. Snip

17. Cinematic FX 21. IMPD speed checker 23. Hide-___-seek 24. Director Spike 26. Marge Simpson or Carol Brady

29. Yemeni port 31. 1040 grp.

Pies 4 Gift Wrapping Needs 3 Synonyms of Sad 2 Indiana U.S. Senators

Indiana “P” Towns

Local Pro Soccer Team

66. USN rank Answers on Page 18