August 22, 2023 — Noblesville

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Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XIV, No. 48

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The views of the columnists in Current in Noblesville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

news@youarecurrent.com

Elissa Maudlin, a lifelong Noblesville resident, has been named managing editor of Current in Noblesville. She brings to Current a wide array of talents. Most recently, she served as an investigative Pulliam Fellow at IndyStar, where she wrote breaking news and provided long-form coverage of various subjects.

for The Ball State Daily News, for which she also covered a variety of topics, on and off deadline; managed the paper’s staff; and was responsible for planning coverage.

LOCAL

An award-winning Ball State University graduate, Maudlin served as editor-in-chief

“We’re excited to have Elissa on our team,” Ben Weir, Current Publishing president and publisher, said. “Her knowledge of her hometown and her enthusiasm for community news will serve our audience very well.”

Maudlin can be reached at elissa@ youarecurrent.com.

HEPL board to discuss book review policy following Hoosier author’s complaints

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

and deem hundreds of books — including mine — inappropriate to be shelved as Young Adult literature.”

Books containing any of those themes are moved to the adult section of the library.

LIBRARY

The Hamilton East Public Library Board plans to discuss its collections review policy following national media attention after Indiana author John Green called them out in social media posts about his young-adult novel, “The Fault In Our Stars,” It had been moved from the teen section to the adult/ general section of the Fishers and Noblesville libraries.

Staff at both HEPL libraries have been reviewing thousands of books to determine whether, under the policy, they can stay in the children or teen sections. Books that contain certain references are moved to the adult section.

Green, who lives in Indianapolis, wrote Aug. 9 on Twitter that his book was written for — and about — teenagers. He posted a copy of a letter he sent to each board member, stating that he is “absolutely horrified by the decision of some members of your board to override a huge body of expertise

He called it “political theater of the lowest and most embarrassing order, and it’s an awful way to have Fishers and Noblesville make national news.”

In an email statement sent Aug. 13, HEPL Board President Laura Alerding said Green’s book should not have been moved out of the teen section.

“Upon reviewing the page(s) of ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ book that were the basis of the (Library) Director and review staff’s reason to move the book out of the Teen section, I believe there was an error in implementing the Collection Development Policy and that this book should be moved back to the Teen section immediately,” she wrote. “The Board of Trustees will discuss further what went wrong with the review process at the next public board meeting.”

The collections review policy reviews content for things such as nudity, substance use, repeated use of profanity, depictions or incitement of violence and sexual activity.

According to information in the July 27 HEPL board meeting packet, of the approximately 2,500 books reviewed so far from the teen/high school section of both libraries, 1,385 have been moved to the adult/general collection. About 75 percent of the teen collection still needs to be reviewed.

Implementing the policy was estimated in May to take about 8,000 hours of staff time and was expected to cost more than $300,000. That’s all staffing costs, because all the books need to be read carefully to determine whether their content requires them to be moved.

During the July 27 HEPL board meeting, board member Ray Maddalone complained about the slow pace of the review process and suggested ways to speed it up. Library Director Edra Waterman said it takes time to thoroughly read the thousands of books in the children and teen collections, and the entire review will take about a year.

The next HEPL board meeting is set for Aug. 24 at the Noblesville Library.

Elissa Maudlin is the new managing editor for Current in Noblesville. (Photo by Zach Ross)

Front Porch Music Festival set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Front Porch Music Festival keeps growing.

MUSIC

“The first year we planned it in about six weeks,” said Jason Pearson, a co-producer of Noblesville Front Porch Musical, along with Ken Bubp. “We estimated 700 people, and we had 10 bands. Last year, we had 12 bands and we conservatively estimate we had 4,000 people show up.”

Pearson said 18 to 20 bands are expected for the third edition, set for 2 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 26 on Logan Street between 10th Street and 14th Street. There will be 12 different porches. Admission is free.

“We’re hoping to get 6,000 people at minimum,” Pearson said.

Pearson got the idea for the event in 2019.

“My wife and I went to Evansville for a weekend and stumbled across a Catholic church there (that) put (one) on as a fundraiser,” Pearson said. “On the way home, I said, ‘This is something we need to do in Noblesville.’”

The Noblesville Front Porch Music Festival is set for 2 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 26 on Logan Street between 10th Street and 14th Street.

Pearson later discovered it was going on across the U.S. He didn’t know Bubp before the event, but it was suggested he speak with him. They quickly formed a plan.

Pearson said the first year most of the performers were singer/songwriters.

“Now, we’ve expanded to where we have a jazz band,” he said. “We have a New Orleans brass band, a soul band, a 1940s Americana band. We have singer/songwriters both male and female. We’re trying to get a wide variety of genres to expose people to a variety of music.”

For more, visit noblesvilleporchfest.com.

MORE OPTIONS FOR ELITE BRAIN AND SPINE CARE

Black raspberry pie take first place in contest

A pie contest was held at the Hamilton County 4-H Fair and organized by the Hamilton County Extension Homemakers. Participants were required to present a pie that they had crafted at home using a recipe that had been passed down

through their family’s generations. Additionally, they had to provide an essay narrating the journey of the pie as it became intertwined with their family’s heritage. The winner was Noblesville resident Joani Lawson, who claimed first-place prize with a black raspberry pie. Kathy Bray was runner-up, also with a black raspberry pie.

(Photo courtesy of Jason Pearson)

Front, from left, Joani Lawson, Valerie Carson and Kathy Bray. Back, from left, Phil Anderson (history judge) and Janet Hobson (culinary judge). (Photo courtesy of the Hamilton County Extension Homemakers)

Noblesville resident Joani Lawson’s winning pie. (Photo courtesy of the Hamilton County Extension Homemakers)

Vincent Alentado, MD Neurosurgeon John J. DePowell, MD Neurosurgeon

Board appoints Kenley

By Elissa Maudlin elissa@youarecurrent.com

who supported Kenley’s appointment decided to revert to a past practice of appointing an educator to the HEPL board.

LIBRARY

The Noblesville School Board appointed Noblesville High School teacher Bill Kenley to the Hamilton East Public Library board in a 3-2 vote during its Aug. 15 meeting. The board did not re-appoint Laura Alerding, who had been an advocate of the library’s policy of relocating certain books from the young adult section to the adult section.

School board member Misti Ray and Alerding voted against appointing Kenley.

“Noblesville Schools has the authority to appoint to the Hamilton East Public Library board because we are an important academic institution in the community,” Marnie Cook, executive director of marketing and communications at Noblesville Schools, stated in an email to Current. “These appointments have traditionally been filled by educators and it is unusual for a board member to hold one of the seats.”

Although board members typically rotate committee assignments, Cook said those

Kenley has been a writing and literature teacher for more than 25 years, is a published author and the founder of a community literary magazine. Twenty-six people spoke during the public comment period: Fourteen people supported Alerding or the library’s book policy, and 12 wanted a new appointee or were against the book policy.

One of the speakers, Scott Perry, a 2006 Noblesville High School graduate, supported the library’s policy.

“I think the statement is, yes, we need to protect our freedom of choice, but we also need to protect our freedom of innocence,” said Perry.

Many speakers like Laura Mongon, who did not support Alerding complained about the library policy.

“My feelings and my thoughts about what I need to do and what morality should be should not overarch everybody’s thoughts and everybody’s role,” Mongon said.

The next school board meeting is Sept. 19 in the Educational Services Center Board Room.

Kenley

COMMUNITY

Women speakers to share inspiring stories

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Katie Vigil learned about “That’s What She Said” when living in Champaign-Urbana, Ill.

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Levine said she will discuss what she describes as her “ridiculous path” to motherhood.

EVENT

“It’s women from all walks of life with very inspiring, uplifting stories,” she said.

So, when Vigil moved to Zionsville in 2019, she determined she wanted to bring it to the Indianapolis area.

Vigil is the regional producer of the “That’s What She Said” program, set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show is the first in the Indianapolis area. The program is part of The She Said Project.

Ten speakers will speak for eight to 10 minutes. Part of the proceeds will support Kids Voice Indiana.

“The purpose is to elevate women’s voices,” Vigil said.

Besides Vigil, the speakers are Cara Dalton, Fortville; Kelli Caughman, Fortville; Myra Levine, Noblesvile; Lisa Brandenburg, Westfield; Michelle Derleth, Noblesville; Jennifer Johnson, Cicero; Brandi Bruemmer, Indianapolis: Heather Hughet, Mooresville; and Becca Goldsberry, Greenwood.

The first show was in Champaign-Urbana, Ill., in 2013. Several other cities have held shows through the years.

“I’ll be talking about some of the personal struggles that I’ve had that have led me to where I am today,” Vigil said.

“I feel honored to be in the program and tell a story that means so much to me,” she said. “When I was 10 years old, I accepted that only pretty, thin, blonde girls get to be wives and mothers, and sadly I would have to be satisfied with fabulous wealth. I turned out to be wrong on all counts.”

A former Westfield resident, Levine moved to Noblesville last year. In 2022, she spoke at “Listen to Your Mother,” a Mother’s Day show in Indianapolis.

Brandenburg said she was asked by Vigil if she would share her story.

“When she explained the premise behind the show, I was all in,” Brandenburg said. “Being on stage with so many amazing women was something I didn’t want to pass up. I’m hopeful that by doing so, other women feel empowered to share their stories. I also pray that those in the audience might be inspired to step out in faith and do something that scares them.”

Brandenburg tells the story of moving to Indiana during the pandemic.

“I created a community of women who became friends through events and now support one another because every woman deserves a strong support system,” she said.

Dalton said she loves the concept and mission of The She Said Project.

For more, visit shesaidproject.com. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.

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Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE:

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CHAEL RAY;

Derleth

Levine

Longtime Carmel resident relishes chance to connect

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

For more than 30 years, Kenny Newell has been bringing smiles to local grocery customers with a friendly greeting, attentive service and often a pun.

PROFILE

He began working at O’Malia Food Market on 116th Street in September 1989. The Carmel resident worked at various O’Malia locations until 2017, when the closure of its parent company shuttered the last remaining location in Brookshire Village Shoppes at 126th Street and Gray Road.

He ended up working at Goodwill and missing his former industry when he learned Needler’s would be opening a grocery store in the final O’Malia’s space — and they wanted to hire him. So, he returned to the shopping center as an employee when Needler’s opened in August 2021.

Newell, who has suffered from depth perception issues (that prevent him from driving) since being hit by a car at age 2,

will celebrate his 60th birthday Aug. 21. He recently spoke with Current about his job. What do you most enjoy about working in grocery stores?

I love being able to bag groceries and carry them out. I wish there were more people (to carry out groceries for). Some people will want me to carry their groceries out to the car, and that’s what I really miss — I got to know them more.

DISPATCHES

Cruise Indy Car Show – The fourth annual Cruise Indy Car Show and Car Cruise will be presented from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Indiana Spine Group parking lot. New this year is a partnership with Cars and Coffee. Participants will start at the Cars and Coffee location at Meridian Mark, 11611 N. Meridian, Carmel. People who just want to show their cars can go directly to Indiana Spine Group. There will be a DJ, Folds of Honor Raffle, food, face painting, Cruise Indy swag and a scavenger hunt for children. To have your vehicle judged,

register online at CruiseIndy.com before midnight Aug. 24. The registration fee is $20 and includes registration, T-shirt and dash plaque. Day-of-registration is fee $25. For more, visit CruiseIndy.com or call Sandra at 651-278-0812.

Bake sale — The Noblesville Senior Citizens Organization will hold its annual bake sale from 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 26 at the Farmers Market at Federal Hills Commons. Homemade breads, cookies, candy and other items will be available for purchase.

317-848-7634

Kenny Newell bags groceries at Needler’s in Carmel. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

NEW DIGS

American Legion Post 45’s move provides more space in a prime spot

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville American Legion Post 45 Commander John Morris understands the value of Post 45’s new home.

The new Frank E. Huntzinger Post 45 opened July 1 at 273 S. 8th St. Morris said 8th Street will be the main thoroughfare into downtown Noblesville when the Pleasant Street bypass is completed.

“We’ve put ourselves in a very good spot from the public eye moving forward into the future,” he said.

Morris said Post 45 sold its former property at 1094 Conner St, with the proceeds being more than enough to purchase the new property.

“Plus, we had enough money to remodel all this property and we still have about $100,000 in the bank,” Morris said. “We were in a very unique position to transition. Our last property was very visibly close to the Noblesville Square, which made our property very valuable.”

Morris said the new home has much more functionality than the post’s previous home.

“We had a large space, but the second floor was unusable,” he said. “The basement was not inviting by any stretch of the imagination, so we actually had about 3,000 square feet of actual usable space.”

The new property includes three buildings and a storage garage. Morris said it has approximately 11,000 square feet of usable space. The remodeling started in January.

The main building was a Victorian-style house built in the 1860s for R.L. Wilson, a wealthy Noblesville resident. William Conner, one of the founders of Noblesville, once had a small house on the property.

“Our property in Hamilton County goes back about as far as Hamilton County, which is one of the appeals of the property,” Morris said. “The American Legion in Noblesville goes back 100 years, so to be tied to a property is important to the tradition.”

The post celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019.

Morris said they left every piece of history they could in the post.

The main building there has a main bar, a lounge, a computer lab, conference room and additional storage.

The building that borders 8th Street is the gaming facility. It has a satellite bar that is mainly open on Friday and Saturday

nights, Morris said.

The lounge at the Noblesville Frank Huntzinger American Legion Post 45 features a memory wall of former members. (Photos by Zach Ross)

proximately 50 people.

“In the future, we’ll be looking for event rentals from members and the public,” Morris said. “There is a large side yard that is very private that comes along with the building. If someone wants to use that in the warmer months, they can have an outdoor wedding and then do food service and gifts inside.”

Morris, a 53-year-old U.S. Navy veteran, said in the last several months the post has been working on getting younger members.

“When I became an officer five or six years ago, I was the youngest officer,” said Morris, a former Noblesville resident who now lives in the Geist area. “Now, my entire officer team is younger than I am. We have really made a conscious effort to start bringing in and empowering young veterans and getting them involved, which is how this place is going to survive.”

Morris said the post has approximately 300 veterans and 120 auxiliary members, which are daughters or spouses of veterans, and 100 Sons of the American Legion, who are sons or grandsons of veterans.

“It’s accessible seven days a week, but just manned with a bartender two days a week,” he said.

The event building has a large commercial kitchen and a dining room that holds ap-

RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS

Post 45 Service Officer Jordan Kinkead said the post welcomes visitors to see the new buildings on days it is open to the public. There are regular updates on the Facebook page when there are events or open days.

“The move and relocation represent a new beginning, a shift in perspective and more opportunities to do great things for our veterans, their families and prospective members,” Kinkead said. “We now have three buildings that have different appeals and serve different purposes — an event center near the rear for meetings with a kitchen. In the front is our gaming building, which many often mistake as the only building. This building has a pool table, electronic dart boards and shuffleboard tables. The main building has a much different vibe than our former location.”

Kinkead said Post 45 is always looking for more members to get involved.

“When veterans complete their service, we still need a place to feel like we belong, a mission, another opportunity to serve and to be a part of something greater than ourselves,” he said.

“The Noblesville American Legion can be that for (them).”

Post 45 Commander John Morris said the post typically gets one or two new members a year but has added 15 since July 1.

“People are blown away when they come here,” Morris said. “It’s definitely generated a buzz. We’ve had members from Carmel, Fishers and Cicero who have transferred their membership into the Noblesville post.”

Morris said Post 45 has formed a partnership with a veterans Esports platform.

“We’re going to start running these online eTournaments out of our computer lab,” he said. “That’s another way to bring in younger veterans who are big on eGaming and online stuff.”

For more, visit noblesvilleamericanlegionpost45.com.

ON THE COVER: Bob Baldwin sits at the bar inside the new Noblesville Frank Huntzinger American Legion Post 45 at 273 S. 8th St. (Photo by Zach Ross)

A computer lab on the second floor of the main building.

CHS senior golfer sets sights on defending team state title

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School golfer Michaela Headlee is looking to complete her high school career with special memories.

“My goal for my final season is to most importantly enjoy all the time I get to spend with my team, but ultimately, I want to finish the season with an individual and team title,” Headlee said. “Being able to experience the feeling of winning the state title last year has motivated me even more to want to win it again, and I will work as hard as I can to make it happen.”

Headlee finished second individually in the IHSAA state finals as a freshman. She tied for 12th in 2022 as the Greyhounds won the team state title. She tied for 21st her sophomore year.

Headlee said the two aspects of her game she is really focused on improving this season are her chipping and irons.

“Michaela is a talented player and has a

MEET MICHAELA HEADLEE

Favorite athlete: Tiger Woods

Favorite movie: “Elf”

Favorite subject: Health and Wellness

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

competitive drive that is unmatched,” CHS coach Kelly Kluesner said. “She is really fine-tuning her game, focusing on managing her shots based on course conditions, the weather and how she feels her swing is that round. Michaela never gives up. She will fight to the end of every round. My favorite part of Michaela’s game is her mental side.

“While watching her, you wouldn’t know

is seeking

strong finish

if she is 6 under or 6 over. She can stay even-keeled, a trait that is hard for so many adults.”

Headlee said she has always had a strong competitive drive in everything she does.

“My dad once asked me if I liked winning,

and my response to him was that ‘I don’t like winning, I just don’t like to lose,’” she said.

Kluesner said Headlee is mentoring the younger players and helping them understand the culture of the team.

“I do want to be a leader this year even more than other years,” she said. “Our team has many new faces this year and I hope to let them experience the great culture on our team before I am gone. It also helps that I have other great senior leaders to set good examples.”

Headlee said she leads by example while fellow senior Claire Swathwood, who has committed to the University of Memphis, is the more vocal leader.

Headlee will play golf for Purdue University next season. She will be joined by her close friend Samantha Brown, a Westfield High School senior. Headlee said she liked the idea of playing with Brown.

“I loved the whole campus and facilities that I’d have access to,” Headlee said.

Headlee said she was impressed with the coaches.

“I think it’s a good fit for me,” said Headlee, who started playing golf at age 3 and began playing tournaments at 6.

Michaela Headlee

a

to her Carmel High School golf career. (Photo courtesy of Michael Hoffbauer Photography)

Headlee

Discerning when to choose

Commentary by Terry Anker

Art of finding lost friends

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

ESSAY

We all want to be in control of our own world. We want to be the one making the choices and setting the course. Even if we choose to be someone who refuses to make choices, we still demand that we get our way in choosing not to choose. Whew. The problem with so much choice is the inevitable accountability that goes along with it. For every decision we undertake, we necessarily have omitted countless other options. Although it is terrific to believe that we are the ones in the driver’s seat, it is usually way easier to be a passenger.

Mostly, we find ourselves living a life governed, perhaps even constricted, by our previous decisions. Where we go to school and work, who we marry, if and how many children we might have all become determining factors in the various trajectory of our existence. As we grow from adolescence into adulthood, the gravity of our choices becomes more apparent, as does the frivolity. We learn to invest in the

long-term, appreciating that deferred gratification often leads to better outcomes. We learn that wartime British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was right in positing that, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” While Churchill was confronting perilous military setbacks during World War II, the admonishment is a good reminder for all of us. Each day that we survive to make another, better choice is a good one. As we extend ourselves into relationships, the choices of our children, parents, spouses and partners all serve to complicate choices. If they defer a decision, does it necessarily fall to us? If they make a bad choice, what is our obligation to pick up the slack? For choosy choosers, what are the legitimate boundaries?

Anatomy of TV series withdrawal

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, it’s the end of an era. After 10 months of dedicated time and energy, I have finally finished “Grey’s Anatomy.” I know!

“I have summited TV’s Mount Everest and am left with a sense of accomplishment, obviously, but also with a mild case of post-achievement depression and a few frostbitten toes.”

It’s very difficult to find friends nowadays. I don’t mean make friends. That’s easy. I mean, find them. Like, where the heck are they?

HUMOR

When I lived just outside of New York City and I wanted to meet a buddy at Grand Central Station, I simply said, “See you under the clock at noon.” This was where everyone met. On some days, several hundred people were crammed under the iconic timepiece looking for friends, lovers and drug dealers.

Everyone knew where the “The clock” was. If you didn’t, there was a good chance you were from another planet. It was like saying, “Now, which Empire State Building do you mean?”

“Which Le Peep should I call?” she asked. “Which one did he go to?”

“Well, if I knew that I wouldn’t be here now.”

I tried his cell again.

“Hello, this is Bob.”

“It’s Dick, where are you?”

“I’m at Le Peep. Where are you?”

“I’m at Le Peep, also,” I told him.

“I don’t see you.”

“I’m at the Le Peep next to Kohl’s.”

“Everyone knew where the “The clock” was. If you didn’t, there was a good chance you were from another planet. It was like saying, “Now, which Empire State Building do you mean?”

– DICK WOLFSIE

“Which Kohl’s,” he asked. “The one next to the Walmart or the one next to Kroger?”

“The one next to Kroger.”

“The Kroger near the Monon or the Kroger near CVS?”

“The Kroger near CVS.”

“The CVS across from McDonald’s or the one next to Dairy Queen?”

But things are different now.

I was meeting my friend Bob for coffee the other day at one of my favorite places for breakfast, Le Peep. I told Bob to be there at 9 a.m. sharp because I had a doctor’s appointment at 10:30. It was 9:15. Where was he? He’d never been late before. When I told the waitress that I was waiting for a friend, she suggested he might have gone to a different Le Peep by mistake.

“Does that happen often?” I asked.

We finally determined his location.

“Bob, I’m running late, but I’ll come to the Le Peep where you are. I’ll have to hurry so I can still make my appointment.”

“Should I order for you?”

“No. I’m bringing an omelet with me.”

HUMOR

— DANIELLE WILSON

What started last October as a fun way to engage with my younger daughter over a beloved series quickly turned into a near obsession as I got sucked into to the trials and tribulations of the young surgeons at Seattle Grace. Before I realized it, I had even surpassed her viewership (which was only through Season 13, the quitter!) and ended up solo watching the longest-running medical drama in history (although between my perimenopausal shenanigans and plethora of alternating joint issues, I could give “Grey’s” a little competition). Now, 420 episodes later, I have summited TV’s Mount Everest and am left with a sense of accomplishment, obviously, but also with a mild case of post-achievement depression and a few frostbitten toes.

I mean, seriously, what am I supposed to do now? For nearly a year, I have filled my evenings and weekends with Meredith and Miranda and Richard and watched doctors and patients grapple with diseases and

trauma and messy relationships. I’ve borne witness to plane crashes and explosions, hospital mergers and personnel changes, medical mysteries and groundbreaking surgeries. And I’m not exaggerating when I say at this point, I could probably perform an emergency trach successfully (although for the life of me, I still don’t understand what a Whipple is). “Ten blade, Bokie!”

I’ve laughed, cried, screamed, contemplated, criticized, empathized — really been in my feelings with this show. And now I have nothing (because “Succession” reeks). Alas, it’s the end of an era. My “Grey’s” era. Peace out.

“Oh yes. Every day. You see, here in Indy, we now have several Le Peep.”

“I told him to meet me at the Le Peep just off 82nd Street.”

“Well, we have a few that are just off 82nd Street. How about an omelet while you wait?”

“Could you call and see if he went to a different Le Peep?” I asked. “He’s not answering  his cellphone.”

By the way, in this column I am trying to make a very serious point about the importance of accurate and precise communication. Be exact, leave no room for doubt and you will avoid any confusion. I would be happy to explain this to you in person.  Let’s meet at Starbucks tomorrow at 9 a.m. Don’t be late.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

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

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

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

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

Actors bring chemistry to ‘Grumpy Old Men’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Longtime friends Eddie Curry and Jeff Stockberger have built a strong stage chemistry through the years.

MUSICAL

The Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre regulars will appear in “Grumpy Old Men: The Musical” Aug. 24 to Oct. 1 at the Indianapolis venue. Curry plays John and Stockberger plays Max, who have been feuding for years.

“It’s scary, actually,” Curry said of the chemistry. “We communicate with a mere look and know what the other is thinking. We work off each other well, on and off stage. We read each other. We know when and when not to push, or when or when not to pull, that sort of thing. I always feel on my game when working with Jeff.”

Stockberger said there is no one he trusts more on stage than Curry.

“We weirdly share a brain when it comes to most things, but especially when we are performing together,” he said. “I always know he has my back on stage and will continue the momentum of the show when we take turns performing in scenes.”

Stockberger and Curry met in 1989 while working at Galveston Island Outdoor Musicals.

“We spent two summers in Galveston, then by the mid-1990s we were working together at Beef & Boards and have never really stopped since,” Stockberger said.

The musical is based on the 1993 movie, “Grumpy Old Men,” featuring Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon. Stockberger said he and Curry weren’t very familiar with the show, so they went on a few road trips to see other productions.

“It helped us discover how we wanted to play these roles and the general tone we wanted to set for the show,” Stockberger said.

Stockberger said the cast includes other longtime friends, including Beef &

“Eddie, Ty Stover, Doug Stark and I have known each other for decades, but I believe this will be the first time the four of us will be singing a song together in a show,” Stockberger said. “That’s going to be a blast.”

Curry said cast chemistry is important to how the show plays to its audience.

“The cast that we have put together for this show has that chemistry in buckets,” Curry said. “This is going to be a really fun ride.”

Sarah Hund plays the neighbor, Ariel, who both men are interested in romantically.

“I love Ariel because she sees the positive side of every situation,” Hund said. “She is a free spirit who finds joy and possibility in everyone she meets, and she never hesitates to encourage others in the direction of their dreams. On top of that, she is perceptive, intuitive and well-educated. And she knows how to have a good time.”

Hund has performed in several shows with Curry and Stockberger.

“We’ve had several different working relationships, as fellow actors, stage managers and actors, directors and actors, and so on,” she said. “After working together on so many projects, we understand the rhythm and science of each other’s comedy styles. At this point, we’ve developed a shared language, shortcuts

to communicating that make our jobs infinitely easier. It’s always a pleasure to create characters and tell stories with people you like and admire so much.”

Hund said the “hardest part of being on stage with Jeff Stockburger is keeping a straight face when he’s up to his hilarious antics. But I am always up for the challenge.”

Curry said his character is one of a series of father characters he has had fun playing the last couple of seasons.

“Each one (is) more flawed than the other, yet each one finds his way to some kind of redemption, or at least redeemable act by the end,” Curry said. “John Gustafson, played by Jack Lemmon in the movie, is a great guy, loved by all, except by that one moron that lives across the street. In my case, he sits across the dressing room. The most fun thing for me is going to be sharing this show and the insults with my moron friend, Jeff Stockberger.”

The challenge for Stockberger is to take his character, Max, who could be easily unlikeable, and have people identify with him.

“Max is a good guy,” Stockberger said. “He’s just let his grudge with John add unnecessary negativity to his life. There are a lot of good opportunities for laughs and quite emotional moments with this character that will be fun to explore.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE

One Night of Queen will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 25-26 in the Symphony on the Prairie series at Conner Prairie in Fishers. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Vocalist Adam B. Shapiro’s Made in Indiana show is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

“FOUR OLD BROADS’

“Four Old Broads” runs through Aug. 27 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH

James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCHES

Prog Rock at the Irving Theater — TuNer, featuring King Crimson band members Trey Gunn and Pat Mastelotto, will perform in concert at 8 p.m. Aug. 25 at the Irving Theater. ProgJect, featuring the music of Genesis, Peter Gabriel, ELP, Yes and Rush, is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 27. For more, visit attheirving.com.

Singer lends voice for charity — Singers

Ashley Nicole Soprano and Mary Evans are lending their voices to the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease by performing “Music to Remember” at 7 p.m. Aug. 23 at The Cat in Carmel. Doors open at 6:15 with light refreshments. Tickets are $30 each, and all the proceeds will go to the Indianapolis Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which takes place Sept. 30. For more, visit thecat.biz.

Edwards Twins to return to Feinstein’s

— The Edwards Twins, who use state-of-theart makeup to perform a variety show as legendary superstars, returns Oct. 20-21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The Edwards Twins had a sold-out show at Feinstein’s in October 2022. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

Boards owner Doug Stark

Eddie Curry, left, and Jeff Stockberger appear in a previous production of “The Odd Couple.” (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

Hund

Fishers couple’s variety show set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

When Ryan and Lauren Ahlwardt decided to put together a variety show, they did some homework.

ENTERTAINMENT

“We’ve been studying clips of ‘Sonny and Cher,’ the Rat Pack, Carol Burnett, etc., to create comedic and musical moments of our own that will fit the nostalgic and classic ambience of Feinstein’s,” Ryan Ahlwardt said.

Ahlwardt’s first variety show Aug. 18 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel was sold out. His second show is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 1.

Ahlwardt, a Fishers resident, said he approached Hotel Carmichael’s staff in early June about creating a regular night of music, storytelling and comedy at Feinstein’s.

“Since I host ‘Indy Now’ on FOX 59, I thought ‘Indy Nights’ would be a perfect name for the new show with Lauren and our friends,” he said.

Ahlwardt, a former Straight No Chaser member, and Lauren Ahlwardt are vocalists. The special guests for the two shows will be singer-songwriter Michael Luginbill of Straight No Chaser and mentalist and magician Jon Mobley. The band for the Sept. 1 show includes Randy Melson, bass; Troye Kinnett, piano; Matt Mellinger, drums; and Stephen Scharbrough, electric guitar.

“Lauren and I knew that we wanted to create something that we would want to watch when we were discussing the initial vision of the show,” Ahlwardt said. “Our friendship began over 20 years ago at IU when we sang in Straight No Chaser and Ladies First. We loved to make each other laugh then and still do now. Every comedic moment that will happen in the shows all came from Lauren. She has a theater degree from IU and was a member of the ComedySportz improv comedy troupe in Indy for several years. She’s created a wheel of celebrities and singers’ faces that audience members will spin for us to impersonate throughout the night.”

Ahlwardt said they will feature some arrangements of songs by Fleetwood Mac, James Taylor, Whitney Houston and some theme songs from 1980s and ‘90s TV shows.

Ahlwardt

Pentatonix to harmonize Ruoff

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

There is a reason why Pentatonix vocalists’ voices blend so well together.

CONCERT

“We’ve grown a lot together and we’ve seen each other through so many stages of life,” group member Matt Sallee said. “It just brings you even closer together. It brings richness to the music. It’s a really beautiful journey and we really do love each other.”

Sallee joined the group in 2017 after original member Avi Kaplan left. The other four original members are still part of the a cappella group founded in 2011.

Petantonix will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. Lauren Alaina is joining the tour as a special guest.

Pentatonix won the third season of “The Sing-Off” on NBC in 2011. Sallee said he was inspired by both the show and the group, and his high school group attended a workshop with Pentatonix in 2012.

“It was a full-circle moment,” Sallee said of joining the group. “I was doing a cappella in college and then did it professionally. I thought I would do something like it, but to

join the group was a blessing. I don’t take it for granted.”

Members Kirsten Maldonado, Mitch Grassi and Scott Hoying grew up together and attended the same high school in Texas. Kevin Olusola joined before “The Sing-Off.”

Sallee said they usually sing classic covers like “The Sound of Silence,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Hallelujah.” There is a medley of originals the group performs from its 2021 album, “The Lucky Ones.”

“I really like singing ‘The Sound of Silence’ because I expand from the bass register to my higher tenor register,” Allee said.

Pentatonix released a single called “I Rise” earlier this month.

For more, visit livenation.com.

ALL THAT JAZZ

Pentatonix is set to perform Aug. 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Live Nation)

Left, Dysfunktion Brass, from Indianapolis, performs Aug. 12 at the Carmel Gazebo.

The inaugural Carmel Jazz Fest was presented at six different sites Aug. 11-12 around Carmel. (Photos by Adam Seif)

Right, Tim Cunningham plays the saxophone Aug. 12 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts.

Blueprint for Improvement: Kitchen transformation in Zionsville

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 1997, this home’s kitchen had great bones, but the curved island configuration and impractical desk obstructed the room’s natural flow, necessitating a makeover to improve form and function. A new appliance arrangement, custom cabinetry and updated finishes resulted in a wow-worthy space that is as functional as it is stylish.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The neutral palette brightens the space, while chic gold accents add warmth and elegance to create a timeless appeal.

• Statement lantern pendants provide a touch of style without dominating the visual space.

• Removing the desk and relocating the refrigerator and double ovens provide increased storage space and an improved aesthetic.

• A knife block drawer, charging drawer and hidden microwave keep essential elements out of sight but within arm’s reach.

• The new island provides ample work and gathering space without interrupting the room’s flow.

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.

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Said it right, Yoda did

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

I have to admit, I don’t know much about “Star Wars.” Somehow, I missed the window to watch them during my formative years.

popular laser sword space movies, according to Google, Darth Vader says, “I find your lack of faith disturbing.” In this sentence, “I” is the subject, “find” is the verb, and “lack of faith” is the object.

GRAMMAR GUY

Here’s what I do know about “Star Wars”: Luke and Leia were brother and sister, which made things awkward, especially after they kissed. Darth Vader was Luke’s dad. We pretend “Episode I” never happened (especially Jar Jar). Han Shot first. What shot second. And I don’t know is on third. Also, Yoda is an awesome green Muppet.

But is Yoda’s grammar correct? His sentence structure is certainly odd. He says things like, “When 900 years old you reach, look as good you will not.”

For the most part, English syntax (how we arrange our words) follows the same pattern. In order for a sentence to be complete, it needs a subject and a predicate. The predicate always includes a verb and often includes an object.

Most English sentences follow the subject-verb-object order. In one of these

Yoda’s syntax follows a distinctly different pattern. For the most part, his sentences follow the object-subject-verb pattern. This pattern is only found in 0.3% of the world’s languages. Let’s take this quote from Yoda: “Patience you must have, my young Padowan.” In this sentence, “patience” appears first, serving as the object. This is followed by “you,” the sentence’s subject. Finally, we get the verb, “have.” Object-subject-verb. Therefore, the answer to the question is:Yes, Yoda’s speech pattern is grammatically correct; strange to our ears, it just sounds.

Ketchikan’s totem poles

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, as we end our tour of Alaska, we travel outside Ketchikan, learning about totem poles and the indigenous people who once lived there. The areas around Ketchikan were originally inhabited by three Native peoples, the Tlingit, the Haida and the Tsimshian. Despite their different languages, these groups developed similar styles for their totem poles. Using symbols, often of animals and stylized humans, the poles identified a family or clan and/or memorialized events or people important to them. The poles, usually carved from red cedar, ranged in height from 10 to 60 feet. Some were placed in front of clan houses and others were used to support beams in those houses. The carving styles became more elaborate after the indigenous people began acquiring metal carving tools in the early 19th century. The poles had a life of about 100 years, after which they were allowed to return naturally to the earth.

hiring Native carvers, began restoring and reconstructing deteriorated totem poles recovered from deserted villages near Ketchikan.

TRAVEL

Today, the Ketchikan area includes more standing totem poles than any other place in the world. The 8-acre Totem Bight State Park, on the waterfront site of a Native campground, includes a number of the CCC’s replica poles and a recreated clan house. It also includes a facility where poles are restored or recreated. The Totem Heritage Center includes a large collection of preserved original 19th-century poles, other artifacts found in former villages and works by world-famous Tlingit carver Nathan Jackson. More poles are located in Potlach Park and Saxman Totem Park. When you visit Ketchikan, don’t miss the opportunity to explore its magnificent collection of totem poles.

By the early 20th century, with the dispersal of the Native people, fewer totem poles replaced the ones that had fallen. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps,

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

Totem Bight State Park.

A totem pole in Ketchikan, Alaska. (Photos by Don Knebel)

8. Give false hope

14. City in Boone County (Asia)

15. City in Steuben County (Africa)

16. Dance class wear

17. Oddball

18. Recurring theme

19. Hosiery mishap

21. Boilermaker, to a Hoosier

22. Worn-down pencil

24. “Semper Fi” org. 26. NHS lab class 29. Tree house 31. “We have the meats” chain

35. Pets on perches

38. Black-and-white snack

39. Intensive care ___

40. City in Miami County (South America)

41. ___ Street Journal

42. Parks of civil rights fame

43. Run off

45. India’s first prime minister

47. Connery or Penn

48. Leak sound

49. Rose-Hulman, e.g.

51.

53.

56.

58.

62. Captured

64.

67.

68.

69.

27. White River transport

28. Cathedral HS athletes, briefly

30. Hopes that one will

32. Thin nails

33. Screams at Hinkle

Fieldhouse

34. Shoe bottoms

36. Video game innovator

37. Darfur’s locale

44. Hungry person’s query

46. Reveal

50. Move like a crab

52. Mafia bosses

53. Novel ID

54. Notorious fiddler

55. Actress Cameron

57. ___ sum

59. Photos, informally

60. Delicate fabric

61. Nephew of Cain and Abel

63. Snoring, in comics

(Abbr.)

Big Apple letters

Ill. neighbor

ISO stringed instrument

Syrup flavor

Like a perfect world

66. City in Clay County (South America)

Town in Newton County (Africa)

Gas pump part

Equipment used to print

1. Zionsville Farmers’ Market fruit

2. Nevada gambling spot

3. Some final words

4. Foreign language taught at Carmel HS

5. Bummed

6. “___ he’s a jolly...”

7. Colts linemen

8. Buddhist monks

9. Baffling problem

10. Rokita and Hill, initially 11. Tip, as a hat

12. Fishers N-S road

13. Ex-Pacers coach Bjorkgren

20. Pecan or walnut, e.g. 23. Notification sounds

25. Victory Field spectators 26. Reject

Indy Library Genres

WFMS Radio Station (99.5 FM) Format

65. Raptors, on a Pacers scoreboard Answers on Page 6

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