January 30, 2024 — Noblesville by Current Publishing

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January 30, 2024

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Election board approves new pay policy By Elissa Maudlin elissa@youarecurrent.com The Hamilton County Election Board unanimously approved a resolution during its Jan. 19 meeting to GOVERNMENT adopt a new proposed pay policy for election workers. The resolution allows absentee board members and part-time positions to be paid up to $19 per hour. Prior to the new policy, absentee board members were paid $100 per day and parttime positions were paid $15 per hour. “If there’s a line at 4:30, and they have to stay open, so they stay open for an hour or two extra, there’s no difference between a three-hour day and a 10-hour day, you got your $100,” said Kathy Kreag Williams, county clerk and secretary of the board. “So, this way, paying them hourly will be fair to them.” Board member Greg Purvis was concerned that some election workers would possibly not earn the same amount of money as others working the same job. Kreag Williams determines how much each person working on the absentee board and in a part-time position are paid. Kreag Williams said the flexibility of the new policy allows experienced election

workers to be paid more than someone in their first year. “I think she has to have the freedom to negotiate that, she’s got a range,” board chairman Ray Adler said. “I think if anybody’s upset, they can appeal to us (the board).” The pay policy will go before the Hamilton County Council Feb. 7 for a final decision. The resolution outlines the following recommendations for pay: PRECINCT-LEVEL POSITIONS • Inspector on Election Day with one to two precincts: $300 plus $25 for training. • Inspector on Election Day with three precincts: $400 plus $25 for training. • Inspector on Election Day with four to five precincts: $500 plus $25 for training. • Inspector on Election Day with six or more precincts: $600 plus $25 for training. • Democrat Judge position, which requires Monday night set up: $160 plus $15 for training and $25 for returning supplies with the Republican Inspector. • Republican Judge position, which requires Monday night set up: $160 plus $15 for training.

• Clerk positions, Republican and Democrat: $130 plus $15 for training. • Sheriff position, if approved by the Election Office: $115 ELECTION DAY WORKERS • Absentee Counters: $120 per diem, paid for a 7-hour shift • Canvass Board: $19 per hour • Election Assistants, meaning supply distribution and election day and evening assistance: $75 per diem EARLY VOTING • Manager at Clerk’s Office Early voting locations: $225 per diem plus $15 per hour for training. • Manager at Fairgrounds Early voting location: $200 per diem plus $15 per hour for training. • Manager at offsite Early voting locations: $175 per diem plus $15 per hour for training. • Early and Satellite workers: up to $19 per hour plus $15 per hour for training. • Absentee Board: $19 per hour plus up to $19 per hour for training. TRAINING • Inspector training: $25 • Judge and clerk training: $15 • Human resource training: $15 per hour

City council approves school, acquiring real estate By Elissa Maudlin elissa@youarecurrent.com The Noblesville City Council approved an amendment during its Jan. 23 meeting that will allow a private school — Eman Schools — to be built at the 14600-14800 block of Boden Road. The council also approved a resolution for the city to acquire real estate for the Federal Hill to Forest Park trail. What happened: The council approved an amendment to an existing zoning ordinance and approved special consideration for an Eman Schools to be built by Alhuda Foundation, Inc. at the 14600-14800 block of Boden Road. What it means: The school will be for pre-K through high school students. Alhuda Foundation is an Indiana nonprofit that, according to its website, represents the largest congregation of Muslims in Indiana. The request affects 17.9 acres of the overall 31-acre site.

What happened: The city council approved a resolution allowing the city to acquire real estate for the Federal Hill to Forest Park trail. What it means: The trail runs from Logan Street, roughly alongside Nixon Street, under the railroad track and into Forest Park. Funds have been budgeted within the engineering department budget, project manager in the engineering department Andrew Rodewald said. The next city council meeting is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 13 at City Hall, 16 S. 10th St.

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Apply for Governor’s Fellowship – Gov. Eric J. Holcomb is accepting applications through Jan. 31 for the 2024–2025 Governor’s Fellowship. The fellowship is highly selective and provides a unique experience in Indiana state government by placing fellows in various state agencies on a rotating basis throughout the year. The

program is open to college graduates who receive their bachelor’s degrees beginning in either summer or fall of 2023 or spring of 2024. Fellows are paid, full-time employees who participate in the day-to-day activities of state government. Learn more at in.gov/gov/ fellowship.htm.

January 30, 2024

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Church to host pageant By Cassie King news@currentnoblesville.com

tants who compete across the state from July to March. Elliott is in his second year serving as director, and the organization Noblesville United Methodist Church will anticipates having approximately 15 conhost the Miss America Opportunity testants, including eight Miss IndiPageant Feb. 4 that will ana and seven Miss Indiana Teen EVENT crown two Miss Indiana title contestants. winners and two Miss The competition includes five Indiana Teen winners. events, including a 10-minute panel The winners will attend the Miss interview with five judges. The othIndiana pageant at Zionsville High er categories are on-stage quesSchool in June, along with other tions, fitness wear, evening wear winners throughout the state. and talent. Bishop Evan Elliott, who began his term Claire Bishop from Pendleton as councilor-at-large for the City of Nobles- is the 2023 Indiana State Fair Queen, and ville Jan. 1, is the local director for the Miss she will compete in her first local pageant America Opportunity Pageant. in the Miss Indiana organization. She is a “It’s less of a beauty pageant now, and freshman at Purdue University. it is more a true scholarship program that The deadline to enter was Jan. 29. The looks for extremely well-rounded individuevent is open to the public at 3:30 p.m. Adals,” Elliott said. mission is $10. Noblesville United Methodist Elliott said there are approximately 35 Church is at 2051 Monument St. Miss Indiana and 32 Indiana Teen contesFor more, visit missindiana.org.

Couple opens coffee shop on Conner Street By Elissa Maudlin elissa@youarecurrent.com Seeking a better life and safety for their family, in August 2016, Luis Martinez and Liscania Romero moved to BUSINESS the United States from Venezuela. Now, they own The Juanes Coffee Shop in Noblesville. The shop opened Dec. 4, 2023, at 2345 Conner St. Romero said it has between 100 and 150 customers each week. “I love my coffee, I love the baker(y),” Romero said. Initially, the family lived in Orlando when it moved the U.S. The family moved to Indiana in July 2022. In Venezuela, Martinez and Romero owned a fast-food restaurant for 16 years called DELI FAST FOOD. Martinez said when he and Romero moved to Indiana, they explored different business options like a mini market, but they loved making cakes and Romero loved coffee. They had the idea for the coffee shop approximately a year ago. The Juanes Coffee Shop sells desserts, cakes, coffee, tea, sandwiches and waffles, as well as coffee. The couple’s favorite coffee is caramel macchiato.

From left, Liscania Romero and Luis Martinez at their coffee shop on Conner Street. (Photo by Elissa Maudlin)

“It’s (a) very good flavor and I like when the flavor of the caramel macchiato (makes people) happy. (That) is very good for me,” Martinez said. “I am exploring the various coffee(s), where (they) grow the coffee. In Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala — (it) is very good coffee.” Baking is Romero’s favorite part of working in the coffee shop. “We love enjoying what we do and serving the community with our delicious desserts, accompanied by a delicious coffee,” Romero said. “(It) makes us feel very lucky.” The Juanes Coffee Shop is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. It is closed on Monday. For more, call 317-766-1074.

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January 30, 2024

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Community First Bank of Indiana welcomes Zach Lundin — Community First Bank of Indiana (CFB) welcomed Zach Lundin as its newest mortgage loan officer serving Hamilton and Marion Counties. He brings 10 years of direct mortgage experience and a background as a loan processor and loan officer where he earned industry awards like the “Above and Beyond Award.” He spent four years in the residential construction industry. “I’m thrilled to join the CFB team,” Lundin stated. “I believe we should lend ourselves to others, to help and to serve, and the bank also shares this value. My goal is to help others reach theirs; to help them buy a house, so they can make it a home.” CFB currently has offices in Fishers, Indianapolis, Kokomo, Noblesville and Westfield.

County veteran service officer – The Hamilton County Commissioners have appointed Tom Logan as the county veteran service officer. Logan, a military veteran, brings 32 years of experience from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, where he most recently served as a captain of the patrol division. Logan has a bachelor’s degree in management from Indiana Wesleyan University. His staff will include two full-time members. Nonprofit pitch contest – Applications are being accepted from nonprofits interested in winning funding by showcasing their innovative ideas at a pitch contest in April. At Propel, human services organizations will pitch their ideas on how to reduce barriers for those from under-resourced communities or asset-limited backgrounds.

The event is open to nonprofits serving residents in Hamilton, Boone, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan or Putnam counties. More than $100,000 in grants will be given out when finalists make their pitches live April 25 at High Alpha in Indianapolis. Interested nonprofits can apply through Feb. 12. For more or to apply, visit uwci.org/ propel. National History Day judges sought – The Indiana Historical Society is looking for 300 volunteers around the state to serve as judges for the 2024 National History Day in Indiana contests. NHDI is a yearlong program dedicated to enhancing history education in Indiana’s schools. The Central Region contest will take place March 16 at Carmel High School.

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January 30, 2024

COMMUNITY NOBLESVILLE SCHOOLS BREAKS GROUND ON HIGH SCHOOL EXPANSION Noblesville Schools broke ground on its academic expansion project at Noblesville High School Jan. 19. The expansion will add space for STEM and performing arts programs. The project includes up to 22 new classrooms, welding and construction labs, enlarged performing arts spaces, an additional café area, a makerspace, room for large group meetings, storage and more. The project is funded through a bond with no tax rate increases and no use of referendum or classroom dollars, Noblesville Schools stated.

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CURRENT FEBRUARY NOBLESVILLE COMMUNITY CALENDAR SCHITT’S CREEK NIGHT Kiln Creations is hosting a Schitt’s Creek Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 3. Admission is $10. There will be silkscreens from the show’s best moments and attendees get a Schitt’s Creek-themed snack, Schitt’s Creek-themed pottery and instructions on how to create an art piece to commemorate the show. Attendees will pay for the piece they pick out the night of. The pieces will be ready for pick up in one week. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. GALENTINE’S DRAGON BRUNCH 2024

From left, NHS students representing STEM and performing arts Ashley Owens, Addie Iverson, Nadia Dyakanoff, Blake Conner, Austin Horne and Gavin Frossard at the groundbreaking. (Photos courtesy of Noblesville Schools)

The Gal’s Guide Library is hosting Galentine’s Dragon Brunch 2024 at Primeval Brewing, 960 Logan St, Suite 100. It is a 21-and-older event and helps raise money for the Gal’s Guide Library. Attendees are encouraged to “(check) into (their) inner dragon warrior because Galentine’s is the day after Lunar New Year. It’s the Year of the Dragon.” The event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 11. Admission is $45. LUNCH BRUNCH The Noblesville Parks & Recreation Department is hosting a lunch brunch from

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 20. The event is in the Forest Park Inn Overlook Room at 701 Cicero Rd. It is for ages 55 and older. For residents, the cost is $20. For nonresidents, it is $23. For more, call 317-776-6350. COUPLES COMEDY NIGHT Northview Church Noblesville Campus is hosting a couple’s comedy night at 1448 Conner St. The event is from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 23 with a catered date night dinner and streamed live show. The headliner will be Ted Cunningham with a featured act from Circle City Bucket Drummers. Tickets are $20 per person or $40 per couple. Child care is not provided. 17TH ANNUAL OUTFITTERS GALA: ‘HAVANA NIGHTS’ The 17th Annual Outfitters Inc. GALA theme is “Havana Nights.” Ticket purchases support clothing for children in Madison County and include a dessert auction, live auction, online auction, dinner and live music. The event starts at 6 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Noblesville Indianapolis Conference Center at 13700 Conference Center Dr.

From left, school board members Joe Forgey, Misti Ray, Secretary Laura Alerding, Vice President Stephanie Lambert and President Christi Crosser.

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THEY BELIEVE: “Health equity is a complex problem. But the simplicity and practicality of this approach makes sense to us. Organizations tend to scale too early, before they’re ready… this is different.” eskenazihealthfoundation.org NHS STEM Department Chair Andy Wilkins speaks at the groundbreaking.

January 30, 2024

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‘Difficult histories’ discussion focuses on racism, injustice By Cassie King news@currentinfishers.com Approximately 35 Hamilton County residents attended a Jan. 13 discussion about difficult histories, focusing on EVENT racism and injustices, at the Hamilton East Public Library in Noblesville. The event, sponsored by Hamilton County Tourism, included guest speaker George Garner of the IU-South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center and other community members. The first half featured Garner’s presentation by Zoom. The second half was a discussion led by Jessica Layman, HEPL’s local history and genealogy librarian. The topic was how to honestly deal with the past. “We all have agendas,” Garner said. “No matter how neutral we feel we are, everyone has an agenda.” Garner spoke about the responsibility people have to deal factually with the past and to “do the work of a good historian.” Garner also gave examples of historical injustices and how language matters when talking about history. “We’ve never finished the work of repairing the harm of our past,” he said, noting that “each of us has an intentional choice to make” when dealing with difficult histories and that “honesty should be the dominant agenda.” Layman led the second half of the event with an overview of the history of the Ku Klux Klan in Indiana. She focused on how best to handle archived materials about sensitive and damaging topics that could negatively affect living relatives and fami-

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

George Garner of the IU-South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center speaks via Zoom during a Jan. 13 presentation about difficult histories, hosted by Hamilton East Public Library. (Photo by Cassie King)

ly members. The talk concluded with an audience discussion. In attendance were Marissa Ulie, training and professional development assistant at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, and Diego Fajardo, collections manager at the Museum of Miniature Houses in Carmel. “We are very interested in being able to share in ways that will have an impact on what history already exists at the places we work,” Fajardo said. Ulie said she was looking for ways to educate herself and other people. “The stories we deal with can be challenging and we are always looking for ways to engage these difficult conversations,” she said, Fajardo added that it was important to learn “how to share these stories without causing more harm.” Those interested in learning more about how to engage with difficult history can visit the Indiana University South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center at crhc.iusb. edu, as well as the Hamilton East Public Library.

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Central Indiana businesses join NBA All-Star fun

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Oishi, Juler’s Row, and Cretia Cakes. Geist Barber Shop in Fishers is among the other participants. The NBA All-Star Game will return to In“We started signing up businesses in dianapolis for the first time since August and launched it to the public 1985, and the in October,” Lopez said. “This is the BASKETBALL improvements in fourth time the NBA has held this, technology since with the last time with Portland, then have created a far different which had 200 different businesses. atmosphere this time around. We have 250 businesses signed up As part of the festivities, the and another 150 Indiana landmarks.” NBA Rewards program is allowing Some of those landmarks are the businesses in Hamilton County and Hoosier Gym in Knightstown, the Lopez Zionsville to be involved as well as Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in others across Indianapolis and the state. New Castle, and the John Wooden statue on “It’s a program to expand the economic Georgia Street in Indianapolis. Points can be impact of NBA All-Stars to local small busiearned by visiting the landmarks. nesses,” said Danny Lopez, Indiana Pacers Lopez said event information about the vice president of external relations and corAll-Star festivities is on the app. porate communications. “Businesses regis“We want people coming downtown,” ter and the NBA sends them a packet that Lopez said. “There will be lots of music and has marketing materials, such as a sign. activities. It will be a party. It’s almost like a Individuals on the NBA Events app check in.” party with a basketball game attached to it.” Lopez said customers can open the app Dan and Nancy Hintz’s Million Meal Moveto earn points for confirming a visit to the ment will benefit from the 14th annual NBA business. Cares All-Star Day of Service. The Carmel “We’ve already had two people earn 500 couple founded the Million Meal Movement points and they have tickets to the NBA Allin 2007. Lopez said the effort will run conStar Game (on Feb. 18),” Lopez said. “There tinuously from 4 p.m., Feb. 15 to 4 p.m. Feb. also are instant rewards, there is merchan16, 2024. Approximately 6,000 volunteers will dise, apparel, NBA Rising Stars Game tickets. pack 1 million meals for Indiana residents The goal is to try to get people to patronize experiencing hunger. The volunteers will do these businesses, and it’s not just central 90-minute shifts. Indiana, it’s statewide.” “The NBA Cares All-Star Day of Service is Pure Green Juice and Smoothie Carmel an incredible opportunity for Hoosiers to is one of the businesses taking part in give back in a big way, with thousands of the promotion. Owner Alisa Jackson said community members coming together in the the store signage about the event creates spirit of volunteerism to pack meals that excitement. will benefit Indiana food banks and food “From my perspective, it’s been great pantries,” stated Nancy Hintz, executive for us to be a Carmel business included in director at Million Meal Movement. “We’re the hype mode,” Jackson said. “I’m thrilled grateful to the NBA and Pacers Sports & to help raise awareness and excitement Entertainment for this opportunity and look around the fact that Indy is hosting one forward to fighting hunger at home with the of the NBA’s biggest events. It’s about to phenomenal fans taking part in NBA All-Star go down and it’s going to be fantastic for 2024 in Indianapolis.” Indiana.” Lopez said NBA Commissioner Adam SilOther Carmel businesses include Hino ver will visit during the closing ceremonies.

Silver Pen Writing Competition – The Stratford is presenting the 11th Annual Senior Living Communities Silver Pen Writing Competition. The senior living community will award cash prizes up to $3,750 to assist three local high school seniors with post-graduate plans. A panel will judge 1,000-word essays exploring the topic of what new subject the author proposes be taught for the rest of the school year. Essays must be submitted by Feb. 15. For the full rules and to submit an essay, visit Silverpen-SLC.com.

January 30, 2024

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NHS set for state competition By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Addie McMillan didn’t know anything about the Distinguished Young Women of Hamilton County ScholACHIEVEMENT arship Program before its director, Jane Sipe, encouraged her to participate. “Jane had found me after I won the talent competition at the 4-H Fair in July,” McMillan said. “She talked to me about the program. She got me ready and signed up. I had no idea what it was all about until I went to the competition. It was really great to be part of at the county level.” The Noblesville High School senior won the 2024 Distinguished Young Woman of Hamilton County title Dec. 17, 2023, at Hamilton Heights High School. McMillan will represent the county at the state competition February 14-17 at Indiana University Kokomo. She will be joined by statewide participants who have won their local competitions. Scholarships totaling $29,000 will be awarded at the state competition for high school seniors. The winner of the state competition will travel to Mobile, Ala., for two weeks in June to compete for the national title and more than $100,000 in college scholarships. McMillan said the county competition included scholastics, extracurricular activities, talent, fitness and interview. “It was a great experience,” she said. “I won the interview and talent portion. I was shocked and excited I got to move on to state. We went to a tea and I got to see all the girls. I’m really excited to go to state. I think it’s going to set me up for my future a lot.” There is a routine the competitors must memorize for the production. “It’s a little more challenging and we have to learn it beforehand so we are ready when we get there,” McMillan said. “We have a talent portion, so we have to be ready for that. During that week, you are going to learn interview skills and different tips that can help you go up on stage and be fully prepared for the competition.” During the county competition, McMillan sang, “I Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” a song that Ella Fitzgerald recorded. “I love Christmas music and jazz, so I was able to portray that though showing emotion through that, and (Fitzgerald) is one of my favorite musical artists,” she said. “Since it’s February, I will do something different. I’ll probably do jazz or musical

NHS senior Addie McMillan displays her Distinguished Young Woman of Hamilton County award. (Photo courtesy of Addie McMillan)

theater.” McMillan is a member of the NHS Singers Mixed Show Choir. She is a NHS Thespian Troupe Officer and is the student director of the school play “Clue” in March. She also serves on the school’s news staff. McMillan has appeared in a combined 13 musicals and eight plays in school, community and youth theater groups. “Originally, I wanted to pursue (musical theater in college) but it’s a very hard career to be successful in,” she said. “It’s a lot of extra work that I feel won’t benefit me in my future.” McMillan said she is considering different majors. “I applied to one school for agriculture,” she said. “I applied to Ball State for education to become a theater teacher and Pace University in New York for communications and media.” McMillan said being a news anchor or reporter would allow her to apply her stage presence and public speaking experience. A 10-year member of 4-H, McMillan has participated in junior leaders and photography. “I’ve done a little bit of everything,” she said. “I’ve done sewing and veterinary science. I did woodworking for one year. I did pottery and got reserve champion in ceramics last year and overall champion in arts and crafts for the scarf I had woven.” In addition, McMillan has been a Conner Prairie youth volunteer and interpreter. She also has performed vocal solos across the county, including the Legacy Keepers Music Courthouse Concert Series. The Class of 2025 program will be held in the fall and those interested can apply at distinguishedyw.org.

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January 30, 2024

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Shamrocks senior guard benefited playing behind Mr. Basketball By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Westfield High School senior guard Trey Buchanan had the great benefit of going against former teammate Braden Smith in practice when Buchanan was a sophomore. Smith, the 2022 Indiana Mr. Basketball winner, is in his second season as Purdue University’s startBuchanan ing point guard. “I definitely learned a lot from both playing against Braden in practice every day and sharing the court with him during games,” Buchanan said. “Just the way he went about himself — pure confidence and a determination to dominate. It also gave me a great feel of where I needed to improve my game in order to succeed both in high school and, now, at the next level, especially when I came in as an inexperienced sophomore.” Through the first 13 games, Buchanan averaged 11.8 points and 2.5 assists per game for the Shamrocks (12-1). “Playing behind Braden was a tremen-

MEET TREY BUCHANAN

Favorite TV show: “The Night Agent” Favorite movie: “Toy Story” Favorite athlete: Damian Lillard Favorite musician: 21 Savage dous opportunity to learn how things are done,” Westfield coach Shane Sumpter said. “That gave him a great person to compete against every day in practice. Trey has just continued to work on getting better.” Buchanan started part of his sophomore season when Smith was injured. “I think I’ve made improvements in being a leader and being able to score on all three levels, not just being a three-point shooter,” Buchanan said.

Trey Buchanan averages nearly 12 points per game for Westfield High School’s basketball team. (Photo courtesy of Trey Buchanan)

Sumpter said Buchanan might have surprised some teams as a junior. “It’s certainly no surprise now,” he said. “He’s a terrific kid and he just works really hard. He’s definitely one of the leaders on our team. He’s always been a tremendous shooter. I challenged him last year to become more of a scorer and finish around

the basket.” Buchanan’s father is Chad Buchanan, the Indiana Pacers general manager. “I’ve been around the game of basketball from basically when I came out of the womb,” Buchanan said. “My dad has always worked in the basketball industry, so I was introduced to the sport at a very young age. I definitely fell in love with it, too, at that young age. I used to live in Oregon, and I played on a fifth-grade team as a second-grader because there weren’t any second- to fourth-grade teams in my area. So, I began to play at the earliest stage of my life that I could.” Buchanan played soccer and baseball growing up. He played soccer until he moved to Indiana late in his sixth-grade year and played baseball until he reached high school. “That was when I gave it up,” Buchanan said. “I just wanted to focus on one sport and put my all into hoops.” Buchanan is considering a preferred walk-on opportunity on the University of Iowa’s basketball team. Other options are Indiana Wesleyan University, University of Saint Francis and Trine University.

COVER STORY

January 30, 2024

Current in Noblesville

GAME ON

currentnoblesville.com

Software company invests in Noblesville teen’s ‘Mysterious Mystery’ video game creation By Elissa Maudlin elissa@youarecurrent.com Walker Sheets, a 19-year-old Noblesville resident, has played video games for virtually his entire life. His passion for gaming inspired him to create a new video game, Mysterious Mystery, that will be released later this year on the PC platform Stream, and possibly others. Sheets said he can’t disclose the name of the software company he signed with until March. “I think the difference between me and someone (else), like the person who executes it versus the one that just has the idea, I just kept having fun with it,” Sheets said. “I kept enjoying what I was doing, and I could spend long hours on something and then not feel like any time passed.” Mysterious Mystery involves two detectives who solve mysteries. They investigate crime scenes, compete against rivals and talk to witnesses, among other tasks. Sheets, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate, initially created a smaller version of Mysterious Mystery for himself and friends. He said he wasn’t planning on making Mysterious Mystery a full game but he eventually did. “Eventually, people played it, and they kept jokingly telling me, ‘When’s the sequel coming out?’” Sheets said. “And this was around right when I was going to graduate and I decided, I was like, ‘You know what? Maybe this is the game I’ll try to make as a full game because this is easier to make, I enjoy doing it and people really like it.’” To make the game bigger, Sheets said he needed to sign with a company to have the budget and time to work on it full time. He vividly recalls the day the company he signed with contacted him. “I remember falling onto my knees, like, ‘Oh, my gosh, it actually happened. What I’ve been working on for (the) past six months is really happening. It’s real,’” Sheets said. Sheets consulted with friends, family and people online to be voice actors and create music for the game. He said authoring a storyline for a mystery game made him rely on his writing skills and he said

(Above) The cover page of the video game Mysterious Mystery. (Photos courtesy of Walker Sheets)

he had to guess what players could figure out on their own. Sheets’ mother, Kelly Hollingsworth, said she and Sheets’ stepfather, Ryan Hollingsworth, were “never going to stop someone from trying to live a dream,” but wanted Sheets to develop an alternate career plan if creating video games didn’t succeed. However, Hollingsworth said she never doubted that her son would succeed. “We’re so proud. We were not shocked at all,” Hollingsworth said. “He taught himself Japanese up in his room, never took a class. So, when you got that kind of dedication, he’ll succeed somewhere.” Sheets wants to create video games as his career. He currently has no plans to

attend college as he pursues his dream. Mysterious Mystery will be presented in two episodes. Players will be able to purchase the episodes separately or a complete version with added content. The first episode is scheduled to come out in late

June. The complete version is scheduled to come out in December. ON THE COVER: Walker Sheets showing his game, Mysterious Mystery. (Photo by Elissa Maudlin)

PLAYER’S PERSPECTIVE Walker Sheets’ favorite thing about playing video games is making decisions as his character. For example, in a horror movie, Sheets said the movie decides what happens, not the audience.

Sheets

However, in a game, the player makes the decisions. Sheets’ favorite type of games are role-playing games, which usually have multiple levels, a character going on quests and are “more adventure-esque,” he said.

“I remember falling onto my knees, like, ‘Oh, my gosh, it actually happened. What I’ve been working on for (the) past six months is really happening. It’s real.’” – WALKER SHEETS

January 30, 2024

VIEWS

Current in Noblesville currentnoblesville.com

Expressions of false narratives Commentary by Terry Anker Like so many expressions in our common manner of speaking, we believe that we know the meaning of a ESSAY word or phrase because of its customary usage. But regional or community differences can bring great distinction between what we think we are saying and what our listener is hearing. Sometimes, our very pronunciation leads to misunderstanding. Many of our fellow good-intentioned Hoosiers hold that one “warshes” a frying pan rather than wash it. Perhaps the “r” came out with the grime. To many of us, “taking the Lord’s name in vain” is code for a profane tirade. We are cursing at those to whom we direct the epithet or the very deity that we believed caused our supposed misfortune. More accurately, we are wrongly or wickedly claiming the authority of the divinity to our own purposes. It is as if we are saying that we lack the power to extract justice, but our big brother will do so — hoping to frighten our nemesis with our powerful

friends. Alas, we all are inclined to do it. We invoke the name of our boss, a powerful political leader, or even our fellow parent to cajole someone into adhering to our will. “I don’t really care if you stay out late, Junior, but your mother wouldn’t like it.” Well, if Mom’s unhappy, she can probably speak for herself, and if Dad doesn’t think the youngster should stay out late, he ought to tell them himself and not blame his opposite parent. It is hard to be entirely responsible, all by our big-kid selves, for our choices and desires. We routinely wrap them in the authority of another without their specific permission. As such, we impugn the claim’s object with our own insecurities and lead others to assume a false narrative about them.

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

A weighty blanket matter Commentary by Danielle Wilson Friends, I’ve done it. I’ve quit my weighted blanket cold turkey. I haven’t slept well in more tha a week, but I am HUMOR committed to recovery. Let’s explore. About four years ago, I bought myself a sumptuous 20-pound quilt with CoolMax technology. My teacher neighbor at the time had sworn by its restorative properties, especially for people like me who were having trouble staying asleep thanks to hormones and unfounded anxiety. The first few nights, I nearly suffocated (probably should have gone with the 15 pounder), but I persevered and soon became a devotee. I couldn’t wait to crawl under that calming swath of premium cotton blend. My devotion morphed quickly into an addiction, however, and when I would travel without my new best friend, I tossed and turned relentlessly. Nevertheless, I have adored my blanket, a true miracle worker. So, why quit now? I suspect that its sheer heaviness might be the culprit behind my current tennis elbow affliction (and possibly my controversial 2020 plantar fasciitis). The strength that it takes to change positions or adjust the covering is simply too great for

“I suspect that its sheer heaviness might be the culprit behind my current tennis elbow affliction (and possibly my controversial 2020 plantar fasciitis). The strength that it takes to change positions or adjust the covering is simply too great for my tiny arm tendons.” – DANIELLE WILSON

my tiny arm tendons. And because I’m not fully conscience of my movement at night, I perpetually reinjure myself. I’ve tried a splint and am doing physical therapy, but I’m making zero improvement. I’d actually argue it’s getting worse. I’m desperate, folks, and am finally willing to take desperate measures. Which, sadly for me, means quitting my weighted blanket. I’m giving myself two weeks to see if it helps. If not, I’m diving headfirst off the wagon. Momma needs her sleep — stupid tennis elbow be darned. Peace out.

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

Time to throw out the towel Commentary by Dick Wolfsie This is the 20th anniversary of my son’s metamorphosis. I was reminded of it when Brett requested new towels HUMOR for Christmas. When he opened the gift, he flashed a big grin. I knew exactly what he was remembering. When Brett started college, we were worried how he would handle his new independence. We had the normal apprehensions any parent would have. But when we visited him that first year, we witnessed something we did not anticipate. Brett had turned green. Mary Ellen and I sat across from Brett at dinner during Parents Week, and we noticed that his skin had a grayish-green tint to it. At first, we were alarmed. We sent Brett to college with the hopes of a good education. We hoped that college would change his perspective — not his color. “Brett, have you noticed that you are turning green?” I asked nonchalantly, trying to hide my concern. My wife, never wanting to seem negative, interrupted my query. “It’s a lovely shade of green, of course,” she said. “But you weren’t that color when you left home.” Brett seemed unnerved by the observation. He looked at his arms and his hands. Then he tightened his face, gritted his teeth and growled, “Don’t make me angry. You won’t like me when I’m angry.” Thinking my son was The Hulk was a bit disconcerting, but if you have ever raised a teenager, you know that few things should surprise you. Brett noticed his change in hue after showering and drying off with the towels we bought him for his dorm. This brought a glare from my wife, who wanted to splurge on plushier accessories but was convinced otherwise by her cheap husband who thought if Amazon.com was good enough for books, it would be good enough for

“Brett noticed his change in hue after showering and drying off with the towels we bought him for his dorm. This brought a glare from my wife, who wanted to splurge on plushier accessories but was convinced otherwise by her cheap husband.” – DICK WOLFSIE

towels. Mary Ellen went into a spasm of laughter, mostly out of relief that Brett did not have a rare tropical disease. Knowing this would end up a column, I tried out all my jokes on Brett like, “You should start a garden now that you have a green thumb.” Then I went into a musical rendition of “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” using my very best Kermit the Frog impersonation. Mary Ellen, at this point, would have laughed at anything, just relieved we weren’t headed to the Mayo Clinic. Back at his dorm, Brett’s roommate, Connor, was practicing his guitar. “Hey, Connor, did you notice that Brett has turned green?” “That’s odd,” said Connor, looking at his arm. “I did notice that I am turning kind of blue, myself.” Sure enough, Connor’s arms had an attractive sky-blue tint, which my wife and I immediately noticed perfectly matched his towels on the shelf. Connor’s dad was probably a tightwad like me. Now, we buy all towels at a higher-quality establishment. Recently, that very company filed for bankruptcy. Unlike my son, Bed Bath & Beyond was not the color of money.

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

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

Issue 17 | WINTER 2024

THERAPEUTIC

JOURNEY

Zionsville resident draws on past for one-woman play

SAME-DAY CARDIOLOGY APPOINTMENTS Call 317.962.0500 to schedule your appointment.

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New Sycamore Reserve resident acclimates quickly

317-492-9569 www.applegate-dillman.com

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

ichael Coffman has only lived in Sycamore Reserve Senior Living for approximately five months, but he is already making an impact for residents. Coffman helped start a men’s group, which meets once a week. Coffman “It’s in its fledgling stage,” Coffman said. “We get anywhere from four to six men. When the women ask what we talk about, we tell them, ‘Stuff.’” Coffman, 82, moved from Warren Township on the east side of Indianapolis to Sycamore Reserve. Coffman’s wife, Kay, died 6 1/2 years ago. They had been married nearly 55 years. “This was the right move to make,” Coffman said of Sycamore Reserve. “The apartments are really nice. I have a patio. The staff here is phenomenal. The amenities are very good. The people that work here are extremely friendly and easy to get along with.” Coffman was in the retail business for 38 years. He was a store manager for Venture Stores for 17 years. Venture Stores closed in 1998. After being semi-retired for a few years, he returned to work in store management for Big Lots in Indianapolis for six years, retiring again in 2012. “I missed working, so I went back to what I knew, which is the retail business,” Coffman said. “I like the excitement of it. I like being able to work with a lot of people. It was a very rewarding business. It was hard. I worked a lot of hours.” Coffman enjoyed hiring and promoting staffers. “Selling wasn’t the important part, it was the people that worked for me, seeing them perform and get promoted,” Coffman said.

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Continued on Page 4 55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

Summer Legs Are Made In The Winter®

Happy feet: Navigating foot health for a stronger stride Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf

Don’t let winter stop you from thinking about warmer weather. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins and want healthier legs this summer, call our office today to schedule your initial consultation. EAST FISHERS: 11876 Olio Road Suite 700 Fishers, IN 46037 WEST CARMEL: 10485 Commerce Drive Suite 100 Carmel, IN 46032

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lot of the foot pain and conditions that we encounter in the aging population can be easily treated and prevented. Westfield Foot and Ankle specializes in keeping you on your feet and moving well into your senior years. One of the most important things you can do for your health is to stay active. Westfield Foot and Ankle staff are experts at formulating treatment plans to help your feet feel young and pain free. As we get older, our feet are more likely to dry out and develop cracks — especially on the soles or heels. Our office recommends a twice-daily moisturizing routine for your feet. If you notice deep cracks on your skin, or if your heels develop fissures, it’s time to come into the office to prevent infection. There are many factors that can contribute to heel pain in the senior population. Years of activity combined with general anatomy changes can put a strain on the plantar fascia. As a result, you’re more likely to develop plantar fasciitis, which can cause pain and inflammation. It is important to stretch and consider custom orthotics, which can help alleviate pain and prevent future injury. Bunions are caused by a deformity at the big toe joint, which can become more prevalent in the senior population. Oftentimes, a bunion can get larger and more painful over time. Conservative care, including wider shoes, additional padding, and anti-inflammatories, can help resolve the pain but, in some cases, surgical intervention is best. The first step in

determining the appropriate treatment plan starts by taking an X-ray and creating a personalized course of action for each patient. The team at Westfield Foot and Ankle prides itself on being a leader in bunion care. Unfortunately, our feet are not immune to developing arthritis. After all, our feet have had to carry us around for years, and our joints have taken a lot of abuse by the time we reach our 50s. Arthritis can attack the cartilage around your joints leaving you with pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Staying active and keeping your joints moving is key for prevention. It is best to address foot and ankle joint pain early as pain can often be eliminated in our office without requiring surgery. Commonly, our arches collapse, and we develop flat feet as we mature. It is not uncommon for our shoe size to increase because of changes in the arches of our feet. Westfield Foot and Ankle can help with pain caused by flat feet and prevent ongoing issues with the use of custom orthotics and a recommendation of proper shoes. Remember, just because you might be aging doesn’t mean you have to live with painful feet! Westfield Foot and Ankle is here to help keep you on your feet well into your golden years!

Continued from Page 3

“I was out of the state for 20-some years and moved back home,” he said. Coffman, who also worked in the Chicago suburb of Country Club Hills, Ill., coached his daughter Lisa’s fastpitch softball team. A self-described huge college basketball fan, Coffman has been a fan of Butler University’s team for 17 years.

Two of Coffman’s daughters, Cathy and Vicki, live in Indianapolis, and his other daughter, Lisa, lives in Plymouth, Minn. He has four grandchildren. A Warren Central High School graduate, Coffman played basketball at the Indianapolis high school and later played recreationally.

Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are both board-certified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.

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WeAreCenterWellIndiana.com We accept Original Medicare in most centers, as well as many Medicare Advantage plans, including Aetna, Anthem, Humana, UnitedHealthcare and Wellcare. We also accept Medicare Supplements and Part D plans. CenterWell does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, age or religion in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. 55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

Choosing right type of tax preparer Submitted by Better Business Bureau

his year, United States taxpayers must file their income tax forms before the April 15 deadline. For many people, major life changes, business ownership, or simply a lack of knowledge about the ever-changing tax laws make finding a trustworthy tax preparer a good idea. That said, not all tax preparers have the same level of experience and training. Here are tips for finding someone you can trust with your finances and sensitive personal information. WHICH TYPE OF PREPARER IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

First, it’s important to understand the different types of tax preparers and their qualifications. Only enrolled agents, certified public accounts, and attorneys may represent their clients to the IRS on matters such as audits, collection issues and appeals. Enrolled Agent: An EA is a tax preparer that has been approved by the IRS to represent taxpayers. An EA must either have prior qualifying employment with the IRS or pass an intensive two-day exam on federal taxation and complete a background check. To maintain EA status, they must complete a specified number of credit hours each year of continuing education

in accounting methods and tax regulations. Certified Public Accountants: CPAs have a college degree (or the equivalent in work experience). They are licensed after passing a state professional qualifying exam. Attorneys: Tax attorneys often charge the highest fees as tax preparers. For taxpayers looking to shelter part of their income legally or for those who need specialized advice on municipal bonds, estate planning, and the like, hiring a tax attorney is a good option.

Get one-on-one help with your Medicare questions. I’m Darrell Blackburn, a licensed sales agent in Boone, Hamilton and Central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Take advantage of my knowledge and experience to: • Take the confusion out of Medicare

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

SPRJ55189

Don’t live with back pain Commentary by Linda Barnes

f you have back pain, physical therapy may be your ticket to relief. Physical therapy can relieve pain, promote healing and restore function and movement. If you get physical therapy when your back problems first begin, you may even be able to avoid surgery. And if you do need surgery, physical therapy can greatly help you recover. GETTING STARTED Some spine specialists recommend physical therapy sooner, particularly if the pain is severe. In general, the goals of physical therapy are to decrease pain, increase function and get the patient on a maintenance program to prevent further recurrences. Depending upon your needs, your physical therapist will come up with a treatment plan to assist you. The first thing they will do is work on treatments to ease your back pain and improve your flexibility including: • Massage: Helps relax your muscles, increases circulation, and eases pain in your soft tissues. • Mobilization: Measured movements to move bones and joints into position helping with flexibility. • Manipulation: Pressure on your body with the hands or a device ranging from gentle to strong, and slow to fast helping improve strength and endurance. Therapy on Wheels is one of the few companies that has physical therapists who specialize in the treatment of back pain in the home. All 1-on-1 therapy is provided in the comfort of your own home with no homebound restrictions. Therapy On Wheels accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare. Therapy On Wheels can help you manage your back pain. For more, call 317-332-9861 or visit therapyonwheelsinc.com.

Linda Barnes is an occupational therapist and owner/president of Therapy On Wheels. For more on Therapy on Wheels services, call 317-332-9861.

Stay Fit. Stay Connected. Stay Inspired. Marquette is a not-for-profit senior living community, giving you the life you want to live. With a wide variety of beautifully designed residential options and maintenance-free living, our community gives you the flexibility and control over everything you do. Spiritually connect with us at 4 p.m. daily for Mass in our beautiful chapel. Our community also offers various dining venues, a state-of-the-art aquatic center, and wellness programs for endless opportunities — and it’s all just steps from your front door. Call (317) 875-9700 or visit MarquetteSeniorLiving.org to schedule a personal appointment.

8140 Township Line Road • Indianapolis, IN 46260 • www.marquetteseniorliving.org

Owned by Retirement Living, Inc., a Not-For-Profit Corporation

55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

ADVERTORIAL

NAVIGATING VACCINES AS AN ADULT By Julia Miller, manager of inpatient pharmacy at IU Health North

accinations aren’t just for the young — they are an essential pillar of health Julia Miller maintenance, particularly as we age. For individuals aged 55 and older, staying up to date with vaccinations can significantly fortify overall well-being. Let’s explore the key vaccines recommended to bolster health in this stage of life. KNOW THE TERMINOLOGY It’s important to understand key terminology when discussing vaccinations with your doctor or pharmacist. A vaccine is a substance that stimulates your body’s natural immune response. Immunity is protection from infectious disease from previous exposure to the disease. This is the basic premise of vaccinations, which is simply the act of introducing a vaccine to produce protection from a disease. ADDRESSING COMMON CONCERNS It’s understandable that many people are nervous to introduce vaccines into their bodies. Two common concerns are safety and vaccine efficacy, or how effective it will be. Most vaccine side effects are quite mild and could include things such as arm pain or a fever. Severe or persisting side effects are rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) constantly monitors vaccine side effects. No vaccine can fully protect you from a disease all the time. This is especially true for vaccines focusing on viruses that change often, such as influenza and COVID-19. Even if you do experience infection, the vaccine should lower the severity of the sickness.

•

• KNOW WHICH VACCINES ARE RECOMMENDED There are several vaccines recommended for adults. They include: • Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Annual flu shots are highly recommended for adults. Influenza can cause severe complications in older adults, and the vaccine helps mitigate these risks. People over 65 years of age should receive a higher dose flu vaccine. • COVID-19 Vaccine: For individuals

55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

•

aged 55 and above, getting vaccinated against COVID-19 remains a critical step in safeguarding against severe illness, hospitalization and complications associated with the virus. Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: A one-time Tdap vaccine booster is suggested for adults who haven’t received it previously, followed by a tetanus-diphtheria (Td) or Tdap booster every ten years. This vaccine guards against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough, offering comprehensive protection. Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccines: All adults born after 1957 without a previous vaccine or laboratory evidence of immunity or disease should be vaccinated with MMR. This is a live vaccine and should not be given if a person is immunocompromised. Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine: Adults with no evidence of immunity to varicella should get this vaccine. Shingles Vaccine: Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can cause a painful rash and long-term nerve pain, especially in older adults. The shingles vaccine, available as Shingrix, is recommended for individuals aged 50 and older. Pneumococcal Vaccine: Pneumococcal disease can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and

bloodstream infections, posing heightened risks for older individuals. The CDC recommends two pneumococcal vaccines for those over 65. • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccines: Adults 60 years and older are recommended to receive a single dose of RSV vaccine if their healthcare provider thinks it would be beneficial. • Hepatitis Vaccines: Multiple two, three and four-dose vaccine series are available for Hepatitis A and B. Adults under 60 are recommended to get one of the series of hepatitis B vaccines. Adults older than 60 with certain risk factors should receive a hepatitis B vaccine. All other adults 60 and older may receive the series. Hepatitis A vaccines are not routinely recommended for most adults. Please ensure you discuss vaccination needs with your healthcare providers. It is important to consider your individual health status, allergies, and potential interactions with existing medications. These conversations help tailor vaccination plans for optimal health benefits. Ask your primary care provider or pharmacist which vaccinations make the most sense for your specific health needs. To find a provider near you, visit iuhealth.org/primarycare.

SAME-DAY CARDIOLOGY APPOINTMENTS If you’ve been told you’re at risk for heart disease, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. From everyday heart care to the most complex procedures, we offer leading-edge medicine that’s personalized for you. Call 317.962.0500.

iuhealth.org/heart

Winter 2023

Zionsville resident draws on past for one-woman play

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

or approximately the past 30 years, Elizabeth Young-Collins has lived her dream of becoming an entertainer. The 68-year-old Zionsville resident not only sings and acts, but in recent years she has become a playwright. Young-Collins created “The Betsy Show,” a one-woman play about her own life. It premiered at the Mixed Blood Theatre in Minneapolis in August 2023, and then was presented during IndyFringe in August and September. “The Betsy Show,” Young-Collins’ fifth play, will be presented at 2 p.m. March 12-13 and 19-20 at the District Theatre, 627 Massachusetts Ave., Indianapolis. The show runs around 90 minutes. “I’ll have more control over the product, and it doesn’t have to be only an hour,” she said. “From the time I was born, I thought I should be doing something that was important and included traveling. I wanted to shine. I watched ‘The Sound of Music’ and Julie Andrews. I thought, that’s it, I want to sing and perform in front of people.” Young-Collins was the sixth of the seven children, and she said it was sometimes hard to be heard. “I got attention by making them laugh,” said Young-Collins, who grew up in Boston. “I’m going to sing. I’m going to make them laugh, and that’s how I’m going to get their attention. My parents were amazing people. My dad went to MIT and was very bright.” Young-Collins said her parents were high-functioning alcoholics, but no one discussed it. Her father was a World War II bomber pilot and flight instructor. “My mother came from a highly educated and high-income family from Minnesota,” she said. “In the ’The Betsy Show,’ I finally tell the truth about some of the trauma-drama that happened in childhood, where little Betsy did not fit in. She was too smart, too isolated, too much of an introvert. She’ll never get married if she doesn’t clean her room. These were some of the things I was told by my mother. It’s the story of a gifted child who survived the ‘50s and avoided the landmines of what I was supposed to be doing. I was supposed to get a man, make him happy. I was supposed to have children. Well, I saw what my mother did to accommodate my father and she didn’t seem very happy

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with the tasks of being a mother.” Young-Collins said her family was featured in Life magazine for remarkable families before she was born. “So, I was born in a perfect family, but I knew something was wrong,” she said. “It was a noisy crowd. I thought it was fun, but I buried a lot of things that happened. It’s not a ‘blamethe-parents’ story. It’s about the resilience of human beings and taking responsibility for your dream.” Young-Collins sang in high school. “I dreamed of becoming a professional singer,” she said. “But it was only a dream because I had no plan. I was too smart for my own good, according to my mother.” Young-Collins majored in French and became a teacher but found she didn’t enjoy the occupation after two years. “I moved to New York City and I took acting classes,” she said. “I got fired from three waitress jobs. I had some success, but I didn’t know what I was doing.” Young-Collins said she occasionally abused alcohol when she was younger. She never became an alcoholic physically. Still, she stopped drinking and underwent therapy. “I found out why I was attracted to handsome, intelligent but alcoholic men who were not emotionally available, and neither was I at the time,” she said. “I got help with Al-Anon.” Going to therapy made her realize it was not her fault. “Disease has taken over these incredible people,” she said. “I grew up thinking there was something terribly wrong with me because no one was talking about the elephant in the kitchen (of her parents’ alcoholism).” Her play shows how Betsy transformed into Elizabeth in her 30s. Continued on Page 11

SINGING THOSE OLD-FASHIONED LOVE SONGS

Continued from Page 10 “It’s really telling the truth that if you follow your gut and really pray or get divine intervention, which happened to me (good things will happen),” said Young-Collins, who married Dan Collins when she was 47. “God put this idea in my head to follow my dream.”

In addition to singing, Young-Collins has given tours through WorldStrides, an educational travel experience, for 17 years. She now only does it in the spring. “If you don’t make it fun, they won’t care about history,” said Young-Collins, who moved to Zionsville in 2016. For more, visit youngsings.com/betsy-show/.

Elizabeth Collins-Young will draw from her repertoire to sing some of her favorites for a Valentine’s eve concert of classic love songs at the Chapel at Hoosier Village in Zionsville. The concert is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 13. She will be accompanied by Charles Manning on piano. “Charles is brilliant. I’m lucky to get him,” Collins-Young said. Some of the songs she plans to perform are “Nice Work If You Can Get It,” “Bewitched, Bothered, And Bewildered,” “Our Love is Here to Stay” and “My Funny Valentine.” During the Christmas holiday, she performs as Singing Ms. Santa. She also has performed tributes to Patsy Cline and Marilyn Monroe. “I have a wide repertoire to sing standards from the 1920s to today,” she said. Young-Collins performed “The Betsy Show” at Hoosier Village last year. “Elizabeth is a buoyant personality whose performance reaches out and touches each individual in the room,” Hoosier Village Life Enrichment Manager Lori Robinson said. “Expect to come away affected.”

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Navigating the latest Financial We invite you to contact us at your earliest Crimes Network convenienceEnforcement for a personal meeting to discuss reporting your particular needs andmandates goals. Commentary by Lisa Dillman

ith the goal of enhancing Let’s talk soon. transparency and reducing

Christopher Blair AsAa sprofessional serving a p r o f e estate s s i o nplanning a l e s t aattorney te the people of Indiana, I can help serve clients in all aspects p l a n nofi estate n g a tplanning t o r n e yand s easset r v i nprotection. g the I am dedicated to helping individuals and families with future planning. I am proud to treat each and p e every o p l ecase o f with I n dthe i a nrespect a , I itc adeserves. n help

serve clients in all aspects of

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h e l pSERVICES i n g i n d i v i d uOFFERED: als and

Asset Protection Trusts • Healthcare Power Living f a m i Trusts l i e s w i t h f u t u r eofpAttorney lanning. Will Plans • Durable Power Probate & Estate of Attorney I a m p r o u d t o t r e a t e a c h a nPlanning d Administration • Medicaid

e v e Contact r y c a sus e for w iat personal h t h e rmeeting e s p e c to t it discuss your particular needs and goals.

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financial crimes, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has unveiled a definitive ruling to enforce the beneficial ownership reporting mandates outlined in the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This final rule marks a pivotal step in reshaping the regulatory landscape, and expands transparency measures to combat money laundering, tax fraud and other illicit financial activities. This legislation, which came into effect Jan. 1, 2024, introduces reporting requirements for Family Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and corporations. The CTA mandates the disclosure of ownership and management details, targeting entities operating within or accessing the U.S. market. For individuals or businesses with an LLC, partnership, or corporation, it’s important to be aware of this new regulation and its requirements. REPORTING DEADLINES AND REQUIREMENTS For Reporting Companies established or registered on or after Jan. 1, 2024, reports must be filed within 30 calendar days of either the entity’s effective registration or the Secretary of State’s public notice. Those created before that date must file reports by Jan. 1, 2025. The required information includes the entity’s full legal name, trade name, current address, jurisdiction and IRS taxpayer identification number. Beneficial owners and company applicants must provide comprehensive details, such as their full legal name, date of birth, residential address, a non-expired U.S. identification document or a foreign passport. WHAT IS CONSIDERED A REPORTING COMPANY? “Reporting Companies” encompasses any domestic entity formed or any foreign entity registered to do business in any state within the United

States – subject to 23 enumerated exemptions, which can be found here: fincen.gov/boi-faqs in section C2. WHO ARE BENEFICIAL OWNERS? Beneficial owners are any individuals who directly or indirectly (a) exercise substantial control of a reporting company or (b) own or control at least 25 percent of the ownership interest in a Reporting Company. The term “substantial control” under the reporting requirements encompasses senior officers and individuals influencing crucial decisions within a Reporting Company. WHO ARE COMPANY APPLICANTS? Company applicants are certain individuals who file or help to prepare the documents that create the reporting company or qualify it to do business. This can include attorneys, accountants and other third-party professionals who may assist in the business formation process. REPORTING PROCESS AND SECURE FILING SYSTEM Entities required to report their beneficial ownership information will do so electronically through FinCEN’s BOI E-Filing website (boiefiling.fincen. gov). Authorized individuals, including employees, owners, or third-party service providers, may file on behalf of Reporting Companies. Filers need to provide basic contact information, such as name and email address or phone number, during the submission process. If you’re unsure about navigating this new regulation, seek out the help of an estate planning attorney. Information was obtained from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network website (fincen.gov/boi-faqs).

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Lisa Dillman is an attorney at Applegate & Dillman Elder Law. The firm has offices in Indianapolis, Carmel and Zionsville. Find out more at applegate-dillman.com.

Pro Ev

Surviving the hard winter months Commentary by Valerie J. Weesner

ren’t January and February just the hardest months of the year? The cold and snow start to settle in, holiday celebrations are over and we barely see the sun. It’s hard to want to go anywhere or do anything. Every year, we try to think of new ways to make it through the cold, Midwest winter. Although we come up with a thing or two that may help, it’s easy to forget them year after year! So, let’s take a few moments to think about what types of things could help lift our spirits this year until the days get longer, the sun is out, and the warm weather and vibrant spring colors and scents arrive. Start by considering what you can do in these different areas of your life: Take care of yourself: Ask yourself these questions: How do I take care of my emotional well-being? Am I engaging in self-care? Do I have support when I need it? Who do I reach for, or call, when I need to feel nurtured and cared for? By asking yourself these questions, you may start to realize you have good strategies or maybe areas where you might need to put more time and effort. Do you need to learn about self-care strategies? Do you need to ask for more help and support when needed? Consider meditation, relaxation, massage, lighting candles or using essential oils, maybe even reading, listening to music or calling friends. Keep your mind active: Are you keeping your mind active? Are you staying curious, learning new things and maybe even teaching others? Consider taking a class, listening to podcasts, reading, playing games, doing puzzles and actively engaging in conversation to keep your mind moving. Spend time with others: Are you spending quality time with others? Are you talking to others, laughing and sharing? If your social network has contracted over time, what are ways to start building new social networks or adding to your current one? Consider what might make your social

Start your Motion 4 Life Fitness members Alice Wessel and Joe Miller work out. (Photo courtesy of Motion 4 Life Fitness)

time feel richer and more meaningful to you. You can even include new and interesting activities in your social time! If you typically go out with friends, stay in with them and play games. If you typically stay in with friends, try walking through a museum together. Shake things up! Keep physically active: There is no surprise in the fact that we all benefit from moving, stretching and building strength. In what ways are you challenging yourself to get movement into your day, and how often do you get to a gym to add training and cardio into your exercise program? What if you could combine some or all of these things to help improve your emotional, social and physical well-being? I’ve personally been spending three to four days at the gym weekly for several years now. I can tell you firsthand that walking through the door at my gym truly makes my day. I enjoy the people, work hard while laughing, and more importantly, I feel cared for and nurtured. The culture of my gym, not just the workout, makes my life so much richer, happier and overall healthier. So, what might be one or two small steps you can take to start feeling better today? Valerie Weesner, Ph.D., HSPP, is a licensed clinical psychologist and advisor to Motion 4 Life Fitness. Contributions by Breanna Koester, health science major at Indiana University Kokomo, intern at Motion 4 Life Fitness

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Attorney has passion for estate planning, motorcycle racing By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

hristopher Blair is passionate about motorcycle racing. The attorney has a passion for his professional career as well. After practicing other forms of law, Blair has found his niche in estate planning. The 1996 Carmel High School graduBlair ate said he primarily works with people in their 50s and 60s. “We create wills and trust plans for people to try to make sure it’s distributed the way you want it to, but we also help them plan for unexpected medical treatments they may need late in life or long-term care by offering them asset protection through some of our trust plans,” Blair said. “We also do probate work if someone passes away.”

Attorney Christopher Blair has raced motorcycles for eight years. (Photo courtesy of Christopher Blair)

Blair, 46, started his own practice, Christopher Blair Law, 1 1/2 years ago. He worked for an estate planning firm for a year before starting his own practice Blair didn’t’ take any estate planning classes in law school. “I remember taking the bar exam and having no idea on an essay question

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about a trust,” Blair said. “I was terrified. It was the only question where I felt like I completely guessed.” In his first job, he litigated in federal court for a year. “I hated it for lots of reasons,” he said. “I’ve been an administrative law judge and worked for the Indiana Supreme Court. I’ve had a handful of other jobs in law that were interesting while it lasted, but I didn’t enjoy it. When I started doing this, I felt this was it for me. I feel like this is what I really wanted to do because a lot of the nastiness that goes with adversarial legal work is not there. You are actually being proactive rather than being reactive to something happening. It’s a lot easier emotionally to get people’s ducks in a row for them and get them peace of mind. A lot of other legal work is the exact opposite of that. It’s very satisfying to feel like you were actually helping people. It’s very satisfying to be an expert about it.” Blair has office hours at zWORKS in Zionsville and at a home office in Broad Ripple. But he often travels to clients’ offices, homes or meets at restaurants. A Purdue University graduate with a degree in communications, Blair had a

lawn-cutting business for several years before he decided to attend the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law in Indianapolis. To challenge himself outside of his law practice, Blair races motorcycles in the lightweight twins class in WERA Motorcycle Road Racing. He said most of the tracks are in the southeast. He has been racing for eight years. He started with four years of track days, which are organized events to help racers prepare for higher levels of competition. “The analogy I use it’s like playing a pickup game of basketball at the YMCA or a playground,” he said of track days. Blair raced bicycles before he started racing motorcycles. He won USA Cycling state championships in 2012, 2014 and 2015 on his time trial bicycle. “Racing a bicycle made me think about going at it in a more focused and professional way,” he said. Blair won the Mid-Central Regional championship in 2021. “I could explain a lot of my success in law school on what I learned from racing bicycles,” he said. “I feel like if I’m going to do it, I have to do it with excellence. I’m either all in or I’m just a casual observer.” Blair played basketball for Carmel schools through ninth grade and then played intramural basketball. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound Blair lost approximately 100 pounds when he started riding bicycles in 2011. He had gained weight during his undergraduate time at Purdue. “I was severely overweight,” he said. “When I went to Purdue, when they gave me a meal card and cable TV, I got really fat. At some point, I became a lot more athletic again.” For more, visit christopherblairlaw. com.

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“I could explain a lot of my success in law school on what I learned from racing bicycle. I feel like if I’m going to do it, I have to do it with excellence. I’m either all in or I’m just a casual observer.” — Christopher Blair

Indy Aquatics Masters provides opportunities for adult swimmers By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

ompetition and recreational swimming aren’t only for the younger set. Middle-aged and senior swimmers can compete in tournament settings, too. Moreover, recreational swimming is an ideal exercise for older adults because it’s a low-impact activity. Indy Aquatic Masters is an award-winning aquatic fitness program that promotes healthy lifestyles through swimming, for beginners up to competitive swimmers. “It is an adult program, and you have to be 18 to join, but we accommodate all levels of swimming, too, from beginners,” Indy Aquatics Masters Executive Director Michelle Harter said. Indy Aquatic Masters is a registered U.S. Masters Swimming Club and is open to all adults 18 and older with all levels of swimming ability and offers a Masters Swim Club and Adult LearnTo-Swim lessons in multiple locations throughout the Indianapolis metro area, including Carmel High School and the Carmel Swim Academy.

“We have a really fantastic mix of different backgrounds in swimming,” Harter said. “We’re not just all old swimmers who competed in high school. We have those, but we others without that background.” Harter said out of about 280 members in the program, 72 live in Hamilton County. That represents a quarter of its total membership. And with more than a dozen swimming coaches throughout the metro area, teaching swimming isn’t a problem. Other benefits are provided for members, such as an online program available to help improve strength. And coaches have chat videos that help educate swimmers on swimming specifics. According to Harter, the majority of masters swimmers range in age from their 40s to 60s and older, including parents and grandparents who want to play in the water with their children and grandchildren. “We also have members in their 80s,” Harter said. For more, visit indyaquaticmasters.com.

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Geist resident stays active in the pool By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

it anymore,” he said. hen asked where he typically O’Connell, who retired as an accounfinishes in his swimming ractant in 2021, said competitors are dies, Kevin O’Connell quickly vided into heats by ability. responds, “Last.” “They take an estimated “My wife says I don’t finish time you think you’ll do an last, but it feels like I finish event in, say, 25 yards in 20 last,” he said. seconds,” he said. “Then they However, the 67-year-old lump everybody that can do Geist-area resident loves the that time together to swim in benefit of swimming. a heat.” “It’s neat because you get O’Connell said some of the the exercise,” said O’Connell, O’Connell competitors are fast in his age a member of U.S. Masters group. Swimming organizaion. “Swimming is a “They might be paired with someone cardiovascular sport. It’s good for your in their 50s or 40s because they are still heart and lungs. Between laps, some that good,” he said. “It’s fun to watch do water aerobics.” from that standpoint what people were O’Connell competes in the 65-69 doing in college without losing too age group in competitions. He usumuch of a step.” ally performs every stroke except the O’Connell began swimming when at backstroke. age 5 but didn’t swim in high school. “That was my favorite stroke when I He started competing in 2016. was in grade school, but I just don’t do

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Young actress gets dream role of Juliet in Civic production By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com For Rebecca Piñero, the role of Juliet Capulet in “Romeo & Juliet” was always one she desired. PLAY “I’ve been a Shakespeare fan since I was in middle school,” she said. “I’ve loved reading his plays, and Juliet was just one that I always knew that I wanted to play. So, I was really honored to be cast in it and it’s been a lot of Van Voorst fun. She’s a dream leading lady, and she’s one of my favorite female roles in Shakespeare.” The North Central High School senior plays Juliet in Civic Theatre’s production set for Feb. 9-24 “I think she’s one of Parks the most well-rounded characters that he’s written,” Piñero said. “She’s got the biggest character arc in a lot of Shakespeare plays. So, she always just seemed like so much fun and she seemed like such an interesting character to explore and to be able to portray.” Piñero said her mother, Angi Parks, was her Shakespeare director in middle school. Parks plays the nurse in the play. Parks said she doesn’t think director Emily Rogge Tzucker knew she was Rebecca’s mother when she cast it because they have different last names. “I haven’t been on the stage in 21 years, so it’s a really fun return for me,” Parks said. “Becca was the one who said, ‘Mom, you need to audition for this,’ and we’re having a really good time doing it together.” Parks, a Carmel High School graduate, is a former professional performing artist in New York City. “That’s where I met my husband and

Kendrell Stiff and Rebecca Piñero star in Civic Theatre’s Romeo & Juliet.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty)

we knew we wanted to raise our kids somewhere that we could actually afford to raise them,” Parks said. “This was just a good move for us.” Piñero said she has been encouraging her mother to return to acting for a few years. “I think that it makes her really happy,” Piñero said. “So, I was really excited when it worked out. And for us to be in roles that parallel a mother-daughter relationship, even though she’s not playing my actual mom, is like really special. We were just really excited to be able to be in this show together.” Parks said she tells people that the nurse’s role is “mostly to love Juliet and that makes it really easy.” While Piñero envisioned herself as Juliet, Indianapolis resident Kendrell Stiff never saw himself as Romeo. “For me, I never knew that Romeo was one of those characters that I’d even

ever get to play,” Stiff said. “I auditioned thinking more like, ‘Why not, what could go wrong’ type of deal.” When he was offered the role of Romeo, he said he was shocked at first. “I didn’t ever think of myself as like a Romeo-type character, but I am so grateful because this has been a very eye-opening experience,” Stiff said. “I’ve learned so much from Emily. She’s literally the best director I’ve had, point blank, period. This so far has been one of my favorite productions and roles I’ve ever played.” Stiff, who graduated from Franklin Central High School three years ago, said he didn’t see himself as a romantic leading character. “I’ve either played like the funny types or the very different drastic type,” Stiff said. For instance, Stiff performed as Angel, the drag queen, in Civic Theatre’s production of “Rent” in 2022. The main challenge is it’s the first Shakespeare play he has ever performed in, but the language has become easier as rehearsals have progressed. Fishers resident Kelsey Van Voorst plays a few roles. “I sort of serve as the storyteller/ narrator,” said Van Voorst, a Carmel High School graduate. “I’m also playing a few servants here in there, the apothecary and Friar John. I’m on stage for a good portion of the play, even when I’m not acting or speaking.” Tzucker, who teaches at Ball State University, said throughout her career as a singer, director and actor, she has either mostly directed Shakespeare plays or musicals. “Before the pandemic, I directed the first Shakespeare play Civic had ever done, ‘Much Ado About Nothing,’” Tzucker said. “The costumes will be contemporary and some in Shakespeare’s time. The story is timeless.” For more, visit civic theatre.org.

‘MENOPAUSE, THE MUSICAL” Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “Menopause, the Musical” through Feb. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com. LIVE AT THE CENTER Classical pianist Clare Longendyke will perform at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31 in the Live at the Center series at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $10 or register for a free livestream. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends is set for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2 at Feinstein’s Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com. ‘ROUTE 66’ Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Route 66” runs Feb. 2-18 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistatge.org. ‘ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS’ The Belfy Theatre will present “One Man, Two Guvnors” Feb. 2-11 at The Switch Theatre at Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishers. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com ‘OCH & OY! A CONSIDERED CABARET’ Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro will share stories and songs in a cabaret show at 8 p.m. Feb. 3 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCHES Heartland films receive 35 Oscar nominations — The 96th Academy Awards will take place March 10. A total of 11 films honored by Heartland Film are nominated for 35 Oscars. The 2023 Heartland International Film Festival showcased “Anatomy of a Fall,” “American Fiction” and “The Holdovers.” The three films each received five nominations, including Best Picture. For more, visit heartlandfilm.org

January 30, 2024

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Actress lands ‘Yonkers’ role By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

have some truly deep sorrows, but they do not keep her from experiencing the fullness of joy. But most of all, Bella is a highly un“Lost in Yonkers” has a familiar feel for Becderestimated character. I love that she finds ca Bartley. the courage to take a stand for herself and “I played Bella become a woman she can PLAY in my final show be proud of.” in high school, Bella plays the aunt of Jay also directed by Jen Otterand Arty Kurnitz. Noblesville man, who was a teacher High School freshman Drake at the time,” said Bartley, a Lockwood, 14, plays Jay. Hamilton Southeastern High Carmel resident Finley Eyers School graduate. “The opporplays Arty. Bartley Johnson tunity to reprise a character “I’m really enjoying it can be unique as is, but I could not because it’s a coming-of age-story,” pass up the chance to share the exLockwood said. “I’m able to get in perience again with Jen. I am honored depth with the level of emotions to be able to recreate this character in the character. I’ve gotten to layered with more nuances and life get a great bond with all the cast experiences from my own journey.” members.” Bartley, a Westfield resident, Carmel resident Thom Johnson Lockwood plays Bella Kurnitz in Main Street plays Louie Kurnitz, uncle and Productions’ performances of Neil Simon’s mobster. “Lost in Yonkers” Feb.8-18 at Basile Westfield “It’s a wonderful role to be in,” he said. I Playhouse. think my character is more comic relief than “There is so much about Bella to love,” the others. I enjoy that. I get to be a hard guy Bartley said. “She has a giant heart, is resilient but then a softie with the boys and his sister.” and is full of energy. Her world paradigm may For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

Comedy is a family affair By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

We can skip all that and just get to the fun part. Plus, everyone in my family is so multifaceted in the things we’re good at. All of “One Man, Two Guvnors” will be a true us have been in so many positions in so family affair for Noblesville resident Andrea many shows, so we can always help each Odle. other out in whatever way we need.” PERFORMANCE “The Odles tend to Mason plays Francis, who tries to keep do theater together,” his two bosses from meeting each other. Andrea said. “This will be “Francis is a fun role,” the first time I have had Mason said. “He is a the pleasure of directing good-natured person just (husband) Mason and trying to make it through (daughter) Rylee on stage the day like most of us. He and having my oldest has a great attitude and is daughter, Lexi Odle, as the a likable character.” producer.” Mason enjoys comedic Andrea Odle Mason Odle The Belfy Theatre will roles. present “One Man, Two Guvnors” “Comedy is all about timing,” Feb. 2-11 at The Switch Theatre at he said. “When you do it right, the Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishfeedback you get from the audiers. Lexi is a 2019 Noblesville High ence is exhilarating, and the cast School graduate and Rylee graduatfeeds off of the audience’s reaced from NHS in 2023. tions. If done poorly, the silence “It is so fun to do all of this can be deafening, so either way, Lexi Odle with my family,” Lexi said. “It also you are getting instant feedback eliminates that awkwardness of having to on whether the audience is enjoying the establish trust and new working relationperformance.” ships with people you’ve never met before. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com.

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THE ULTIMATE Mixed Protein Box Includes Faroe Island Salmon, Amish Chicken Breasts, Old Major Bacon, and USDA PRIME New York Strip Steaks ORDER AT OLDMAJORMARKET.COM

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