March 26, 2024 — Noblesville

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Developments introduced to council

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville City Council met March 12 at City Hall, where three proposed development plans were introduced. The next council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 26.

What happened: The council heard introductory information regarding a preliminary development plan for The Courtyards of Hazel Dell, a single-family neighborhood on the east side of Hazel Dell Road north of 169th Street.

What it means: Matt Skelton, an attorney with Hamilton County-based law firm Church Church Hittle + Antrim, presented the project. According to the developer, EPCON Communities, the development “will feature 110 of Epcon’s classic courtyard homes on the property.” Skelton said home values would range from $450,000 to $1 million. Each home would have EPCON’s signature courtyard space. Skelton said the neighborhood would also include amenities like pickleball, community gardens and improvements to the Midland Trace Trail that runs through the property.

What’s next: A neighborhood meeting was held March 20 at Hazel Dell Elementary School to discuss the project. The development plan will be submitted to the city’s plan commission for a recommendation that will eventually be sent to the city council.

for-sale townhomes known as The Village at Trail Crossing.

What it means: Jim Shinaver with the law firm Nelson & Frankenberger presented the project to the council. The subject site consists of approximately 19 acres, and townhomes would range in square footage from 1,500 sq. ft. to 1,800 sq. ft. Townhomes would primarily consist of two-bedroom homes, possibly three-bedroom homes. The developer, MI Homes of Indiana, stated, “average sale prices may range from $325,000 to $370,000 depending on home size and buyer amenity selections.” The developer also anticipates that the “overall investment in the community may be $70 million.” Shinaver said the proposed development has a large central green area for community residents to gather. He also said there would be a dog park, and all townhomes would have an attached two-car garage.

What’s next: A neighborhood meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. April 4 at Grace Community Church. The development plan will then be presented to the plan commission April 15 for a recommendation that will eventually be sent to the city council.

What happened: The council heard introductory information about a mixed-use development that includes a Kroger Marketplace, a Kroger fuel station, eight commercial lots and 98 single-family homes.

What it means: The project, Star Brick Village, will sit on approximately 71 acres at the northeast corner of Howe Road and East 146th Street. Skelton presented the development for LOR Corp., Southeastern, The Kroger Co. and David Weekley Homes. The Kroger Marketplace and commercial buildings are proposed to be built on the southern half of the site, while the David Weekley Homes neighborhood would be constructed on the north half.

What’s next: A neighborhood meeting was held March 18, and the development plan is set to go before the plan commission for a recommendation that will eventually come back to the city council. If the project is approved, construction would begin this summer.

DISPATCHES

Hamilton County Tourism announces grant recipients — Hamilton County Tourism has given $95,000 in grants to more than 30 Hamilton County nonprofit organizations through the 2024 Tourism Gives program. The program launched in 2006 and has provided more than $15 million in grants and special project support. Each grant in 2024 centered around the planet, prosperity, people or place. Noblesville grant recipients include:

• Noblesville Cultural Arts District

• The Nickel Plate District

• SERVE Noblesville

• Noblesville Main Street

• Hamilton County Artist Association

• Noblesville Creates

• Noblesville Cultural Arts Commission (NCAC)

• Noblesville Preservation Alliance

• Noblesville Parks

• Lights Over Morse

• Indiana Peony Festival

• Noblesville Porchfest

• Hamilton County Parks

County cities encourage residents to prepare for eclipse — Hamilton County cities and towns are encouraging residents to prepare for the Total Solar Eclipse April 8. The astronomical event won’t happen again for 816 years in Hamilton County. The partial eclipse will begin at 1:50 p.m. with totality starting promptly at 3:06 p.m. and will last three or more minutes depending on location. The partial eclipse ends at 4:23 p.m. Traffic will surge starting at 3 p.m., so the county encourages residents to consider working from home if possible. The county also encourages residents to know where the closest landline is and consider carrying a weather radio to receive essential updates in case Internet and cell phone service is slow or unavailable; wear proper eye protection which have ISO 12312-2 standard labeling; stock up on necessities.

What happened: The council heard introductory information regarding a preliminary development plan west of Hazel Dell Road and south of the Midland Trace Trail to construct 180

APRIL COMMUNITY CALENDAR

PRECLIPSE PARTY

The City of Noblesville and Noblesville Parks & Recreation are hosting a free pre-total solar eclipse party at Federal Hill Commons from 1 to 5 p.m. April 6. The event at 175 Logan St. in Noblesville will feature live music, eclipse expert and Noblesville resident Keith Turner, free eclipse glasses while supplies last, food and beverage trucks, balloon artists and more.

ARTCLIPSE FESTIVAL

Noblesville Creates will host an Artclipse Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 7. The free festival on Noblesville’s Courthouse Square, 839 Conner St., will celebrate the total eclipse, feature artwork by local artists and allow opportunities to create art with community members.

MOON MARKET

The Taylor Center of Natural History will host a Moon Market in celebration of the total solar eclipse from noon to 5 p.m. April 8 at 12308 Strawtown Ave. in Noblesville. All registered attendees will receive approved eclipse-viewing safety glasses. The Moon Market will be held in and around the Taylor Center with optimal viewing on the “little sledding hill” to the west of the Taylor Farmhouse. Food will be available for purchase and there will be merchandise and crafts. Tickets are $5 for Hamilton County residents and $10 for out-of-county guests. Register at hamiltoncounty. in.gov/1868/2024-Solar-Eclipse.

BRUNCH EXPRESS

Board the Nickel Plate Express to enjoy a 90-minute train ride while dining on brunch food throughout April. The brunch train is available at 10:30 a.m. April 13, 14 and 20. Coffee, orange juice and other beverages including mimosas and a few other cocktails will be available on-board to purchase. For tickets, visit nickelplateexpress. com.

CHARITY MARKET

Explore an array of indoor and outdoor vendors, food trucks and a live DJ at the Spring Charity Market. The Spring Charity Market is from 1 to 6 p.m. April 28 at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St. in Noblesville. There will also be hourly door prizes and free giveaways. Tickets are $4 and proceeds go to the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank. For more, visit spoonermarkets.com.

The Piper to celebrate one year Noblesville Schools nurse earns statewide recognition

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Piper, a neighborhood bar and grill at 5855 E. 211th St. in Noblesville, will celebrate its first anniversary this summer.

BAR & GRILL

The Piper opened in July 2023, and co-owner Matt Vaught said it has been “well received” by the community.

Vaught and his co-owner, Bau Bricker, began leasing the space previously known as The Sandpiper in April 2023. It had been vacant for about a year before The Piper opened.

This summer, the bar and grill will hold a three-day celebration of one year of operation July 26, 27 and 28.

“We are having an anniversary party that will last all weekend,” Vaught said. “We have two or three different live bands lined up. One of them is Rich Hardesty, and another is Steve Smith.”

The Piper has live music four to six times monthly, mostly on weekends. Since opening, Vaught said the bar has sold more than 5,000 smash burgers, its most popu-

lar menu item, along with wings.

“There’s a divider that separates the bar area from the family dining area,” Vaught said. “It’s a bar before a restaurant, but good food has been the driving factor since we reopened. And, of course, we have almost 100 different premium beers of all kinds. We have really enhanced the offerings.”

The Piper is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., with the kitchen closing at 10 p.m. For more information and updates about the anniversary weekend, visit thepiper211.com.

news@currentnoblesville.com

Noblesville Schools recently announced that its director of nursing, Sandy Burnette, has been named the Indiana School Nurse Administrator of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Nurses.

EDUCATION

According to Marnie Cooke, executive director of marketing and communications for Noblesville Schools, Burnette has been with the district for 12 years. She served as a school nurse at Noblesville East Middle School and Noblesville High School before being named the director of nursing in 2021.

Julie Thacker, executive director of student services for Noblesville Schools, stated the school corporation is “fortunate” to have Burnette.

“Sandy exemplifies compassion and excellence (in) leading our nursing program at Noblesville Schools,” Thacker stated. “Her strong commitment and leadership mean that our nurses offer the highest quality of care to students and that students are,

therefore, best able to focus on learning.”

According to Cooke, Burnette supervises 16 school nurses who manage approximately 50,000 student visits each school year.”

“Burnette and her team oversee a variety of care including emergency services, chronic health management, preventive screenings and more,” Cooke stated.

Burnette will be recognized at a state awards luncheon and represent Indiana at the national school nurse conference this summer.

Behind the bar at The Piper. (Photo courtesy of Matt Vaught)

From left, Superintendent Dr. Dan Hile, Scott Showen with Community Health, Sandy Burnette, Deb Rabarge with Indiana Association of School Nurses and Noblesville Schools Executive Director of Student Services Julie Thacker. (Photo courtesy of Marnie Cooke)

Lawrence Central senior baseball player has all the right stuff

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Lawrence Central High School senior center fielder Ahmaad Duff might be small but his talent is huge.

“He has all the tools you want in a player — the speed, the average hitting, the glove, the arm and baseball IQ,” Lawrence Central’s firstyear coach Tim Bragg said. “He does everything valuable to make a team go offensively and defensively.”

In his first three prep years, the 5-foot-5, 150-pound Duff, who has signed a National Letter of Intent with the University of Alabama, has a three-year batting average of .399 with 10 doubles, six triples, six home runs, 41 stolen bases and 36 runs batted in.

“His No. 1 strength is his plate discipline,” Bragg said. “He does not swing at pitches that are not in the strike zone. It’s hard to find a high school kid with that type of plate discipline — he has a great eye at the plate.”

MEET AHMAAD DUFF

Favorite athlete: Russell Westbrook

Favorite subject: Digital marketing

Favorite movie: “Avatar: The Last Airbender”

Favorite musical artist: Rod Wave

Bragg said Duff has good power despite his smaller frame.

“I kind of liken him to Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros,” Bragg said. “He’s a very strong kid. He’s well-built. He uses his speed to his advantage. He can beat out ground balls and turn singles into doubles and doubles into triples.”

Bragg said Lawrence Central’s new baseball field will be beneficial to his speed with

the larger field dimensions, with 375 feet in the gap and 395 feet to center field. Duff said he is hoping the team can turn

it around after winning just one game last season.

“This being our last season with me playing with my boys I’ve grown up with, I want to enjoy a lot of the moments for myself and my team,” Duff said. “I want to have fun with it. I have some personal numbers I have in the back of my head.”

Duff played wide receiver for the Bears football team, becoming a starter at the end of his freshman year.

“Football is my No. 1, but not what my future holds for me,” he said. “So, I had to accept that and understand it. But baseball is not far from it. I’d go with 1A for football and 1B for baseball. I just have a different passion for football.”

Duff committed to Alabama before his sophomore season. He drew scouts’ attention with his speed during that summer playing for the Indiana Bulls. He said he began to build a good rapport with the Crimson Tide coaching staff.

“It really felt like that place became home and I can’t wait to get down there to Tuscaloosa,” he said.

Duff will report to Alabama’s campus two weeks after graduation in June.

Barrier: Language

Barriers to health care aren’t always apparent. For this young man and his family, overcoming the first barrier —the language barrier — enabled them to access vaccines, nutritious food, primary care and education.

Lawrence Central High School senior Ahmaad Duff will play for the University of Alabama next season. (Photo courtesy of Ahmaad Duff)

Duff

orthopedic

From left, Maureen Lindley, Flanner Buchanan’s vice president of marketing, Autumn Ginn with Community Home Health & Hospice, Ginn’s grandson, and fourth-generation owner/CEO of Flanner Buchanan Funeral Centers Bruce Buchanan after Ginn, a Noblesville resident, was named the Flanner Buchanan 2023 Caregiver of the Year. The awards were presented by Lindley at an event March 5. The Community Home Health & Hospice team stated, “Autumn is honest, trustworthy,

caregiver of the year.” (Photo courtesy of Maureen Lindley)

Noblesville hosts joint fire academy graduation

news@currentnoblesville.com

The Noblesville Fire Department recently hosted a joint fire academy graduation for the recruit class of August 2023 that included 23 firefighters from the Noblesville, Lebanon and Zionsville fire departments.

PUBLIC SAFETY

According to Trevor Hash, NFD division chief for prevention and public relations, the ceremony included a badge pinning by the graduates’ family members; prayers by NFD Pastor Fritz Good; remarks from recruit class August 2023 representative Aaron Adams; and the oath of office administered by Noblesville Public Safety Director Chad Knecht.

NFD recruits were Aaron Adams, Heather Baker, Ryan Barnett, Josh Bickell, Josh Clark, Antonio Cortes, Craig Costlow, Nicholas Golab, Andrew Haskell, Joseph Izbicki, Tayler Kerr, Levi Lyons, Grant Meyers, Jacob Mills, Jack Parker, Mathew Pirrone, Brantley Springmeyer, Jordan Vlaskamp and Shelbie Whitaker.

Noblesville Mayor Chris Jenson stated public safety is a “top priority” for the city.

“Continuing to grow our outstanding fire and police departments is imperative to ensure our residents and businesses are as safe as possible,” Jensen stated. “We are excited to have these new firefighters as part of our Noblesville community and wish them long and successful careers.”

Hash stated Noblesville’s recruits have completed all training and moved into their assigned shifts March 18 to begin their probationary year.

New county Democratic Party chair optimistic about 2024

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The new chair for Hamilton County’s Democratic Party is optimistic about the political future for local Democrats, with more people from a variety of backgrounds moving into the traditionally Republican county.

POLITICS

Jocelyn Vare, who served one term on the Fishers City Council, was elected in February to a 13-month term to lead the county’s Democratic Party. She is finishing out the term of previous chair Dayna Colbert, who left to become the new executive director of the Indiana Democratic Party.

an elected official.”

Vare said the Democratic voting base in Hamilton County is growing and motivated. She said she wanted to be a part of it and to help Democrats get elected up and down the ballot, especially for this big election year.

“Overall, though, thinking big is also growing our local Democratic Party and elevating our Democratic Party profile,” she said. “I really want to strengthen our Democratic voters. What that means to me is making sure Democratic voters are voting every chance they get in every primary as a Democrat.”

“We know that elected officials don’t stay elected officials forever,” said Vare, who narrowly lost her bid for reelection to the council in November. “I wanted to figure out how to best present and contribute my experiences and … the knowledge I had gained over the years being a candidate and being

Vare noted that during the 2023 primary, 47 percent of Fishers voters chose the Democratic ballot.

That said, Vare encourages everyone who can vote to participate in every election, regardless of party affiliation.

To participate in the upcoming May 7 primary, voters must be registered by April 8. Early in-person voting begins April 9.

Noblesville Fire Department recruits at their recent fire academy graduation. (Photo courtesy of Trevor Hash)

Vare

Mental health and substance abuse care facility to open soon

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Center for Recovery will host a community open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. April 1 at its new access to community care center, 14555 Hazel Dell Pkwy., Suite 140 in Carmel. Tours and light refreshments will be available.

COMING SOON

The center will offer outpatient services for substance abuse and mental health but will add services as needs become apparent.

“People can come to us and whether they stay with us for (intensive outpatient therapy) groups and individual therapy or not, we will still help connect them with a partner within the community,” said Hayley Dorsett, director of outpatient services and access to community care for Indiana Center for Recovery.

The staff will provide free assessments to anyone and help them find a path to

the care they need.

Indiana Center for Recovery will open an access to community care center at 14555

Hazel Dell Pkwy., Suite 140 in Carmel.

(Photo courtesy of Rob Bartlett)

The Carmel location will be open to ages 18 and up with plans to add an adolescent program.

Starting April 1 hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday with intensive outpatient therapy classes from 9 a.m. to noon on select days. Free Narcan and fentanyl testing strips will be provided on request.

Indiana Center for Recovery has three impatient and four outpatient facilities throughout the state.

For more, visit treatmentindiana.com.

Hamilton County Republicans focusing on voter engagement

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton County Republicans are focused this year on voter engagement and communicating their message with newer residents moving into the county from other states.

POLITICS

Massillamany

“Sometimes, the people get tuned out due to the fact that, you know, Hamilton County — Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield — is so great,” Hamilton County GOP Chair Mario Massillamany said. “They forget that Republican leadership led them to top rankings in US News and World Report — best places to live, best place to raise a family, best place to retire.”

He said the county party’s job is to maintain that Republican leadership moving forward.

“We’re the fastest-growing county in the state of Indiana,” Massillamany said. “We’re getting people from California, Chicago, New York — from all areas of the United States moving to Hamilton County because of the amenities — the school systems and even the job opportunities here in Hamilton County. The goal is to try and make sure that people understand their Republican leadership built Hamilton County and that, without Republican leadership, you could easily be like Chicago, San Francisco, even just looking down south of 96th Street in Indianapolis.”

Massillamany said part of the focus this election year will be a continued campaign encouraging Republican voters to vote early.

“You need to change the mentality of Republicans and Hoosiers in general from just going to vote on Election Day,” he said. “Indiana has now become an election month, with absentee ballots and early voting.”

“This was a great opportunity for me to be able to articulate the American dream story that my life had, and then also to try and bring more diversity to our party,” he said, noting that he has reached out to the Sikh temple, Jewish temples and the

mosque.

ON THE MONEY

Noblesville Schools Education Foundation raises $130,000 at annual fundraiser

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

On March 15, community members and leaders 21 and older met at the Embassy Suites in Noblesville for Miller-Palooza, the Noblesville Schools Education Foundation’s sold-out night of food stations, spirits and auctions.

NSEF was created in 1987 to support Noblesville Schools by investing in academic excellence. Throughout each school year, the NSEF funds multiple initiatives for all 10 Noblesville schools.

Noblesville Schools Director of Marketing and Communications Marnie Cooke said the annual fundraiser began about 10 years ago.

“The Noblesville Education Foundation has been around for a long time, and they’ve done different fundraisers, but the actual name Miller-Palooza and the current iteration of it started within the last seven or eight years,” Cooke said.

Cooke said the fundraiser’s name has historical significance.

“Back in 1925, the Noblesville Milling Company offered to purchase all the uniforms for our athletes in exchange for having our athletic teams be called the Millers,” Cooke said. “We’ve been the Millers ever since.”

Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen was the master of ceremonies for this year’s event, which raised $130,000. NSEF Executive Director Adriann Young and other volunteers were delighted to exceed last year’s total of $90,000 to support Noblesville Schools.

“We are beyond grateful for the turnout and support at the Miller-Palooza fundraising event,” Young said. “This event has grown over the years and has proven to be a fantastic celebration of our beloved Noblesville Schools. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to every donor, volunteer and supporter who made Miller-Palooza a resounding success.”

All proceeds go directly to the school corporation.

“Miller-Palooza is NSEF’s signature fundraiser, but they’re doing fundraising, events and activities throughout the entire year,” Cooke said. “All of the money they earn through fundraising efforts goes back to teachers for classroom enrichment grants, student scholarships and more. They provide extra resources to enhance all the learning happening in Noblesville Schools.”

Cooke said the fundraiser annually features new auction items and events.

“We did some small, new things for the first time this year, such as a dessert dash,” Cooke said. “Depending on how much money each table raised, they got to go first to pick out their desserts. This year, they also had a new auctioneer who led the live auction events.”

The fundraiser also featured returning favorites.

“It was expected that our superintendent and mayor would be doing another musical duet like last year,” Cooke

said. “When people donated enough money, they got up and sang a song together.”

The silent auction featured various items, including riding to school in a firetruck, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Carb Day tickets and Indiana State Fair tickets.

“Some of the biggest items people were bidding on were the experience with Ninth Street Bistro and the Savannah Bananas trickster baseball group coming in the spring,” Cooke said.

NSEF provides classroom grants throughout the year and recently completed a few significant initiatives to improve Noblesville Schools.

“In the last year, they funded our steam museum for science, technology, engineering, art and math,” Cooke said. “All our elementary kids at Noblesville Schools go through a special STEAM class now, regularly. The foundation funded a pretty major enhancement to the museum with hands-on exhibits related to STEAM for kids to experience. Another small thing recently was that they bought eclipse glasses for all our students and staff that we’re sending home so that everybody can watch (the eclipse) safely.”

Another initiative the NSEF recently funded is a new teacher mentor program.

“The program helps educators that are new to Noblesville Schools have a smooth and successful transition,” Cooke said. “Veteran educators are selected as mentors and receive a stipend from NSEF to provide ongoing coaching and support to new educators. This helps us recruit and retain strong teachers for our students.”

Cooke said the NSEF is a “huge benefit” to all Noblesville schools, and she looks forward to watching the foundation continue to provide for the corporation.

“The education foundation is out every day creating events and opportunities with community partners to raise money to help support our students and teachers,” Cooke said. “Doing these activities helps create a culture within Noblesville schools where people want to work and stay here. It gives a lot of additional opportunities to our students and teachers. They’re a key partner in helping us create a great school district.”

For more about NSEF, visit noblesvilleschoolseducationfoundation.org.

ON THE COVER: Superintendent Dan Hile singing “Don’t Stop Believing” at Miller-Palooza. (Photo courtesy of Marnie Cooke)

MORE ABOUT NSEF GRANTS

The Noblesville Schools Education Foundation awards Miller Grants for several innovative experiences. Miller Grants are “a great resource for educators with project ideas that enhance student achievement and motivation to learn,” according to the NSEF. Grant applications are reviewed and considered based on criteria including “innovation, creativity, educational value, student impact and the ability to leverage community support or funding.”

According to NSEF’s website:

• Funding is only available to projects impacting Noblesville Schools, staff or students. Projects must be submitted and led by a Noblesville Schools

employee.

• There is no limit on the number of proposals or awards a staff member may submit or receive.

• No exceptions will be made for requests that fall outside of application deadlines.

• All grant applications must be approved by the school principal and/or direct supervisor.

• If the project is funded, NSEF will require a final report 90 days after the project is completed. Failure to complete a final report will impact any future requests for funding.

• Any unused funds will be returned to NSEF.

School resource officer and coach Jason Shonkwiler entering Miller-Palooza. (Photo courtesy of Marnie Cooke)

The cat that snored

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

My wife, Mary Ellen, recently said, “Dick, I know that the snoring is not intentional. But it has some devastating effects on our health and well-being.”

“I’ll call the vet,” I said.

Yes, we have a pet that snores. But it’s not a dog. We have a cat that snores. A cat named Angel.

We have had two dogs over the years that snored. Both Barney and my second beagle, Toby, were snorers. It wasn’t the occasional snort that kept us awake; it was a full-blown, get-out-of-my-way foghorn. Both dogs woke themselves up every night, which made them cranky the next day. Dogs need their 18 hours.

I specifically remember the first onset of Toby’s snoring. Knee surgery had slowed him down a bit, resulting in a modest weight gain, a factor in snoring. I had observed no increase in smoking or alcohol consumption in the hound, another common cause. I Googled pets and snoring. Apparently, there’s a real epidemic of sleep disorders in the canine world: narcolepsy, jet lag, insomnia, night terrors and restless paw syndrome.

But cats?

The first thing I learned was those animals with short, flat faces — like bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese — are more apt to snore. If your human partner has a short, flat face, you just better accept it. Or trade your significant other for a horse.

The site also noted that when pets sleep on their backs, snoring is more apt to occur. The best solution is to roust them out of a deep sleep, then abruptly flip them over on their stomachs. Mary Ellen thought this sounded like a good idea because that method worked temporarily on me several years ago.

But I still snore. Just like the cat.

“Yes, we have a pet that snores. But it’s not a dog. We have a cat that snores. A cat named Angel.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

One pet owner suggested gluing a tennis ball on a leather belt and wrapping it around the cat’s torso, so the bulge on his back would prevent him from rolling over. I tried this with Toby and Barney years ago. Both were pretty adept at twisting themselves into a knot, snatching the ball from the strap, and then dropping it on my head at two in the morning so we could play fetch.

I saw that one woman recommended nasal strips, but sticking one of those on a beagle’s nose is like trying to keep a bandage on a peeled banana. Another idea was giving your pet a nice foam cushioning to prop his head up at night, thus opening the nasal airway. Angel had no interest in this. But both beagles loved the pillows. Every bite of them.

Apparently, there’s not much you can do to stop a cat from snoring. A vet on the site suggested having the cat sleep in the basement. My wife quickly rejected that solution, but that did give her another thought. Now, she’s calling my doctor to see if he would advise her to do the same thing with me.

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

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The worst of graphic design

Commentary by Terry Anker

In the 1951 film “A Streetcar Named Desire,” the lead actor, Marlon Brando, sported a simple white T-shirt as outerwear. That rebellion against the then-dominant fashion soon became a fad. By the 1958 U.S. presidential campaign, supporters of candidate Dwight D. Eisenhower added a slogan “I Like Ike” to T-shirts, and the notion of “graphic design” printed itself onto American, then global, culture. In their original form, the mottos emblazoned were only “graphic” in that they were artistic interpretations of some intended message (imagine the yellow smiley face of the 1970s). But now, much of the clothing has become graphic in the other definition of the word, namely obscene, profane, violent or intentionally disturbing.

ESSAY

Airports, sporting events and sidewalks are opportune for those eager to share with us their view on some subject via a personal billboard. Maybe it is to share news of one’s support for the local soccer team or assert brand loyalty to an expensive luxury-goods manufacturer. We have become

so inundated by the messages that many go noticed only subconsciously. So, those craving an audience turn up the intensity of their communication.

A fit-enough middle-aged human sauntered along, working to ensure that others could not pass him in the long hallway. His pace guaranteed that each would be presented with his personal ideology presented on both the back and front of his attire. “No f***s given” proclaimed the bright design on a dark cloth. Is his endeavoring with such great vigor that all know that he does not care prove the very contrary? Is the profane message proclaiming: Please give me your attention for it is desperately needed? If we really didn’t care, why would we bother to tell anyone? Profanity, vulgarity, counter-cultural iconography — are they all secret messages saying, “ Please look at me?”

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

Time to get a move on

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Sold! Friends, our beloved home of 14 years went on the market on Valentine’s Day and was under contract less than 48 hours later. The housing market is definitely back.

HUMOR

And so is my anxiety. I thought it was stressful getting ready to sell, but I had no idea how crazy it would get once we actually had to pack up and get out. For some reason, the multiple mini-purges and yard sales and Goodwill runs that I had naively assumed would make the final push a piece of cake failed miserably in preventing a full-on last-minute panic. And it didn’t help that we still have no place to move to and we filled our first storage unit with various-size boxes, brick-a-brack, and three huge Tupperware containers of Barbie Dreamhouse accessories before we’d even gotten to the big stuff. That sectional ain’t gonna fit!

The even-larger storage unit No. 2 is now busting at the seams, too, as is my in-law’s spare garage bay. What the hello? How and when did we accumulate all this stuff? Even as I type, our kitchen isn’t completely empty. We have several end tables and a weighsa-ton ice chest that the movers forgot, and

“Even as I type, our kitchen isn’t completely empty. We have several end tables and a weighs-a-ton ice chest that the movers forgot, and there are three area rugs and the contents of our garage to haul somewhere.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

there are three area rugs and the contents of our garage to haul somewhere. Did I mention closing is three days away? Gulp!

So, yeah, I’m sweating meatballs. I’d also like to Clorox the bathrooms and Swiffer the floors, if only to avoid being deemed “filthy” by the new owners. But there simply may not be time. And that’s OK. I’ll harness my anxiety and focus on the positive: We sold our house! Peace out.

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

currentnightandday.com

Actor, director finally reach ‘That Championship Season’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

During a breakfast several years ago, Jim Simmons was asked a question by his friend, Lori Raffel.

“She said, ‘If I ever get the rights to ‘That Championship Season,’ will you audition for me?’ And I said, ‘OK,’’’ Simmons said. “Then years passed, literally, and I saw the audition notice. I think it might have surprised her when I showed up.”

Simmons, a Fishers resident, plays the role of the coach in Main Street Productions’ presentation of “That Championship Season,” set for April 4 to 14 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. Raffel, the director, said directing the show is a bucket list item for her.

“That Championship Season” won the 1973 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play.

Jason Miller’s play centers on the 20th anniversary of a high school championship team, with the coach meeting four of his five top players.

“One of the players is the mayor of the town and his principal financier,” Simmons said. “One of the guys hasn’t been there for a couple of years because he’s an alcoholic and has been traveling around the country and been kind of destitute. As they start to talk about the campaign for mayor and get a little more drunk, secrets start to come out. Everybody has a secret the other doesn’t know about and it starts to come close to destroying their relationship.”

Simmons said the coach has two long soliloquy speeches.

“They will be fun to do because he really gets emotional about it,” Simmons said. “The toughest part is he’s a real throwback and he’s racist. He keeps trying to draw them back to when they played for him because that keeps his influence on them.”

Simmons said it’s difficult to present something likable about the coach with his views about Black and Jewish people.

Noblesville resident Adrian Blackwell

plays Tom, the youngest member of the team.

“The process has been wonderful,” Blackwell said. “It’s challenging for me because it’s a much more dramatic part. Usually, I play a bumbling, comedic relief character where I get some laughs and then go off stage.”

Blackwell said he is on stage for the full 90 minutes.

“It’s just a much bigger role than I’ve usually played and it’s very exciting and challenging to try to live up to that,” Blackwell said.

Earl Campbell, a Noblesville resident, plays the role of the mayor.

“We realize that our lives have really gone nowhere we thought they would go and finding that out in middle age,” he said.

Campbell said he read the play several years ago and it didn’t resonate with him until he was older.

“There is a quote that great art makes society take a look at itself,” Campbell said.

“I feel this is a good reflection on a lot of the mindsets there are out there today and a lot of challenges we still have as a society. There are a lot of towns that are still operating in corruption.”

Campbell said one of the other players, Phil Romano, might not support the mayor’s campaign, instead supporting a younger, more progressive opponent. Campbell said that is a major drama of the reunion.

Campbell’s character gets drunk during the reunion and his speech becomes slovenly.

“I’ve never played completely lit up on stage and there is a challenge of overdoing that,” he said.

Ken Kingshill, from Whitestown, plays Phil. Indianapolis resident Mark Kamish plays James, Tom’s older brother. The fifth player never returns to the reunions because he felt the championship wasn’t won fairly for reasons that are revealed during the play.

For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘BEAUTIFUL”

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “Beautiful — The Carole King Musical” through March 30 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘DRIVING MISS DAISY’

Civic Theatre’s “Driving Miss Daisy” runs through March 30 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

The Freeform concert series will feature Otnes with Melanie Pierce at 7:30 p.m. March 27 and Georgette Jones at 7:30 p.m. March 30 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael. For more, feinsteinshc.com

‘FABLES AND FOLKLORE’

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre presents “Fables and Folklore,” at 7 p.m. April 5-6 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

‘CROCE PLAYS CROCE’

Croce Plays Croce’s 50th Anniversary Tour is set for 8 p.m. March 30 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

LIVE AT THE CENTER

The Live at the Center series features Bullet Points at 7:30 p.m. March 27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG”

“The Play That Goes Wrong” is set to run through March 31 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

DISPATCH

Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets starting at $35 and went on sale March 22, at thecenterpresents.org.

From left, “That Championship Season” cast members are Earl Campbell, Adrian Blackwell, Jim Simmons, Ken Kingshill and Mark Kamish. (Photo by Lori Raffel)

Nick Carter set for Palladium concert — In the wake of the Backstreet Boys’ successful world tour, Nick Carter will bring his solo “Who I Am” world tour to the Center for the Performing Arts this fall. The show is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Palladium at the Center for the

On April 8, get ready to be mesmerized by a celestial masterpiece as the communities of Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the Northern Towns become the perfect stage for the Total Solar Eclipse, when the moon gracefully dances in front of the sun and casts its shadow across the landscape.

Witness the magic of the cosmos with friends and family at official viewing locations like Carmel Civic Square, Conner Prairie, Cool Creek Park, Grand Park Sports Campus, Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center and Strawtown Koteewi Park.

Grab your Eclipse glasses, set up your cameras and join Hamilton County in this celestial celebration— it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!

1 CARMEL CIVIC SQUARE

2 CONNER PRAIRIE

3 COOL CREEK PARK

4

#VISITHC

THE SKY WILL BEGIN TO CHANGE AROUND 1:50 P.M. WITH TOTALITY AT 3:06 P.M.

Hamilton County is in the narrow path of totality for the Total Solar Eclipse. These communities will be some of the best places to experience prime views of the epic event.

Arcadia 3m 6s

Atlanta 2m 56s

Carmel 3m 29s

Cicero 3m 15s

Fishers 3m 39s

Noblesville 3m 27s

Sheridan 2m 51s

Westfield 3m 19s

What is a HELOC?

Commentary by Slater Young Mortgage Loan Officer, NMLS# 2104170

You’ve probably heard of a HELOC, or home equity line of credit, but you may not realize the impact this powerful tool can have on the journey of homeownership.

First, many misinterpret this loan as not a mortgage, when in fact it is. It is typically a second lien, behind your first mortgage. The important thing about this loan is that it does not impact your payment with your primary mortgage. This can be a great tool to use for home renovation, debt consolidation or other creative uses that do not get rid of your low interest rate on your primary mortgage.

The way it works is simple. We take 89.9 percent of the current value of your home, subtract your outstanding mortgage balance, and the remaining equity becomes available for future use. The nice thing about a HELOC is that similar to a credit card, if you do not have a balance, no payment is due.

Each HELOC can look different based on the financial profile of the homeowner,

which can result in different interest rates and draw lengths available. A bonus to the HELOC is that the costs to put one in place are typically a fraction of those associated with a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Once in place, you can draw up and pay down the balance as you see fit. A caution to many prospective borrowers is the lack of repayment on this loan can result in a balloon payment due at the end of the term.

Contact Community First Bank of Indiana for more information regarding mortgage products and your eligibility. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans must satisfy bank underwriting guidelines. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, NMLS #614034.

(Stock photo)

A timely termination leads to 111-year-old flooring business

By Mary Farucci news@youarecurrent.com

EF Marburger Fine Flooring on Allisonville Road in Fishers prides itself on providing all types of flooring for residential and commercial needs. Variety includes hardwood, carpet, tile, vinyl, glass and marble, among others.

A locally owned and family-operated business since its founding in 1913, EF Marburger Fine Flooring also has cabinet options, countertops and other home-related items in its showroom for customers interested in remodeling their kitchen, bathroom or basement.

“My great-grandfather Eli Franklin (Marburger), who the company is named after, worked at the flooring department at Blocks Department store in downtown Indianapolis,” said Kelly Marburger Novak, who now operates as the president and co-owner, along with her sister, Kimberly. They are the great-granddaughters of Eli Franklin Marburger.

“As the story goes, he was fired after returning back to the store five minutes late on his lunch break when he decided to start his own flooring business,” Marburger Novak said.

The rest is EF Marburger Fine Flooring family history.

“Originally, it was called The Guarentee Rug Company,” Marburger Novak said.

“Later, he changed it to EF Marburger. But he wanted to start a company that just helped and took care of customers. That was instilled in my grandfather and then my dad. That’s always been the most important thing. We want to make it easy

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EF Marburger Fine Flooring operates a showroom at 9999 Allisonville Rd. in Fishers. (Photos by Mary Farucci)

From left, Kimberly Marburger and Kelly Marburger Novak.

Continued from Page 4

for the customers and we want to make sure that they’re happy. That’s the backbone of the company.”

In 2018, Marburger Novak and her sister were officially handed the reins of the business by their father when he decided to retire.

The store, which has moved several times since its founding, has been at 9999 Allisonville Rd. since 1990.

“Literally, it’s the perfect place because we’re so centrally located to Carmel and Geist and Noblesville, Westfield,” Marburger Novak said. “It really is like your neighborhood flooring store. We love the local feel.”

For more, visit efmarburger.com.

Communication, efficiency inspires ‘un-corporate’ service business

By Tirzah Rowland news@youarecurrent.com

Sam Elsts started his family-owned pressure washing business, My Guy Services, 12 years ago to make extra money while studying business at IUPUI. The 2017 graduate now strives to be the go-to-guy for exterior home cleaning in the greater Indianapolis area.

“We’re not a corporation. We want to extend a helping hand to the people in the city we call home,” Elsts said.

rate and exact pricing for all of our services,” Elsts said. “And the price is shown as what the price is. The only time that is changed is if the price goes down.”

There is a service minimum of $299 for a basic house wash with an 18-month warranty against the return of algae.

My Guy Services provides power washing, pressure washing, concrete sealing, gutter cleaning, gutter guard installation and exterior window cleaning.

Core values for Elsts and his team are communication, efficiency and professionalism. He said they differentiate themselves by retaining a team yearround and providing timely booking windows.

The company’s website allows for service quotes within 30 seconds and convenient online scheduling.

“Since we’ve been in business so long, we know what things cost, and a few key indicators on the size of your home and what you’re wanting will give you accu-

“The average ticket for clients is right around $550 because they’re typically getting more than one service from us. They’re not just having us wash the house,” Elsts said.

The company provides discounts for bundled services.

Service hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Online quotes and the call center are available seven days a week.

The team also provides corporate and residential Christmas light installation beginning in October and snow plowing services as needed. The average cost for My Guy Services residential Christmas light installation is $1,200.

Elsts and his team were hired by the Indianapolis Zoo to wrap 50 trees for its lights display and contracted with the city to branch wrap 40 trees around Monument Circle.

For a quote or more information, visit myguyservicesllc.com.

Elsts

My Guy Services provides concrete sealing, pressure washing and other services. (Photo courtsey of Sam Elsts)

JOHN KIRK

Representing some of the world’s most revered brands, the 120,000-square-foot showroom brilliantly displays sophisticated, stylish and timeless designs. We are the largest Stickley dealer in Indiana. Whether you are looking for a unique single piece in our accessories store, or an entire roomful of furniture, our showroom has it all and more.

Some of the many brands we carry:

Enhancing the value of your home

Commentary by Robbin Edwards

There is no shortage of options when it comes to spending money on your home. There are plenty of lists on the internet about which of those options will add value. But those lists assume unlimited space and money, and they are not tuned to your market. Not everyone has the ability to add a bathroom, or the budget to totally remodel a kitchen. And sometimes something as simple as paint color can make a huge difference in the marketability of a home.

There are various factors to consider before tackling improvements, and often, they are market-specific and can change depending on the area in which the home is located, interest rates and price points. Depending on these factors, certain improvements will be more appealing to buyers and net more return on investment than others. It may pay to consult with a real estate professional about current and projected market trends and buyer preferences if your intent in making home renovations is to increase the value of your home.

For example, adding a bathroom or pantry traditionally enhances the value of a home. But, with current work-fromhome trends, it may be better and less expensive to convert that space into an office. Similarly, open floor plans are no longer universally desirable, given the need for privacy while working from home; so you might want to think twice before knocking down that wall.

Finishes also vary by market and price point. While gold fixtures may be making the rounds of high-end homes currently, they are not universally desirable and do not fit every home style.

While kitchens and primary bathrooms consistently rank high in providing a substantial return on investment, that doesn’t mean that everyone should run out and renovate these spaces. It depends on other factors and the overall condition of your home. A great kitchen in a home with deferred maintenance is not a good use of your money. You might be better off replacing the roof, the HVAC system, the siding or the windows before a

A real estate professional can help homeowners determine which projects add the most value to a home. (Photos courtsey of Robbin Edwards)

Continued from Page 4

kitchen renovation. Maintenance items can deplete a buyer’s cash quickly, so a well-maintained house is often more appealing than a home with a single, fabulous, updated space.

It is a good idea to make a list of the enhancements your home needs and those you want before tackling any project. We often do two different consults for clients. One is for the homeowner who plans to stay in their current home and is contemplating a bigger renovation. They want our input on space considerations and material choices based on current market trends. This homeowner wants to enjoy the result of their renovations while ensuring that the design and materials they chose will be appealing if they choose to sell.

The second consult is for the homeowner who wants to sell and knows that the home needs some improvements but is unsure of which direction to take. Often, these improvements are condition and maintenance related. Replacing carpet, painting and a professional deep clean can instantly change the look and feel of your home, making it more desirable for a buyer.

If you are considering a renovation and unsure about the direction, or you are thinking about selling your home, but you don’t know where to begin with getting your house ready, it is a good idea to get the advice of a real estate professional. They can give you feedback on how certain changes may fit your market and be perceived by potential buyers.

Enjoy your outdoor area year-round. Rain, shine, hot or cold.

Robbin Edwards is the founding member of Edwards Realty Group. You can contact her at robbin. edwards@encoresir.com.

ABOUT US

At The Heartland Builders, our mission is simple: Change the narrative of what it means to be a contractor. Our team has been carefully selected based on their overall experience and their dedication to treating our customers and their properties with respect. More than that, we complete work efficiently to minimize the disruption to your home life or business activities, and we do this without sacrificing on the superior quality that we instill in everything we do.

OUR SERVICES

• ROOFING & INSURANCE CLAIMS

• INTERIOR REMODELING

• HARDIE & VINYL SIDING

• GUTTERS & GUTTER GUARDS

• CONCRETE

• INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

• DOORS & WINDOWS

• & MORE

TESTIMONIAL

“I can’t say enough about the team of The Heartland Builders. Their communication, project management, workmanship, craftsmanship, and work ethic are top notch. For our kitchen remodel, each day the team showed up early, left around dinner, and worked the entire time. The team delivers on their word and obligations discussed through the sales process (a rare feat in any industry).

I’m already looking forward to our next project with The Heartland Builders.”

— Matt & Sarah Lang, Carmel

At Timber Ridge Fence Co., we believe in delivering speedy installations using high-quality wood, vinyl, and aluminum for all residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis. Choosing the perfect fence is not easy, but we’re here to help every step of the way - and we provide FREE ESTIMATES.

the

Changing colors, automation among outdoor lighting trends

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

When it comes to outdoor lighting, many homeowners are looking to add some new hues to their house.

Whether it’s green for St. Patrick’s Day or orange at Halloween, color-changing systems have been in high demand of late, according to John DeWaal, president of Carmel-based The Lampliter.

“They can set them for different holidays,” DeWaal said.

Automation is another trend, he said, which uses smart controls to program bulbs to switch on and off, dim or change color. The Lampliter will install and set up the system so the homeowner can control it from anywhere through a smart phone app.

“It’s good for people who are away from home for a while, who go away for the winter or who are on vacation,” DeWaal said. “They can monitor and control lighting if they want to make it look like they are home by turning the lights on and off a couple times a night. They could do it manually or program it.”

The Lampliter, which DeWaal co-found-

ed in 2018, works with homeowners to determine which lighting products and designs will best meet their needs. The company offers free consultations to get started.

“We’ll get an idea of what kind of lighting they like, what kind of style they like, what kind of finish they want on the lighting and also look at their house and the architecture,” DeWaal said.

The Lampliter aims to simplify the process as much as possible for clients, whether it’s for an indoor or outdoor project.

“Our goal is to make (the project) as simple and turnkey as possible. Then they can avoid having to go to a big box store and get overwhelmed by looking at the options and trying to understand what’s right for their home,” DeWaal said. “(Through online retailers), there are thousands and thousands of options when it comes to lighting. Our process helps narrow that down and make it a much easier and simplified process. They tell us what they want, and we bring it and we

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A landscape lighting installation by The Lampliter. (Photos courtesy of John DeWaal)

Continued from Page 12

put it up.”

DeWaal said outdoor lighting upgrades can provide several benefits for homeowners, such as increased security by discouraging intruders.

“They don’t want to be seen, so if they look at a well-lit house, they are probably going to pass it and go find a darker house where they can hide,” he said.

Outdoor lighting also improves safety for homeowners and guests, DeWaal said, as it allows them to see more clearly as they approach during dark hours.

Another benefit is improved aesthetics and the ability to customize the look to the homeowner’s taste.

“For us, outdoor lighting — or lighting in general — is the jewelry of a house,” DeWaal said. “A lot of times the simple process of updating lighting on the exterior of a house can really change the complexion of it for the better in many ways. And of all the things you can do to upgrade your house, it’s one of the more affordable ways to do it.”

Learn more at TheLampliter.com.

We are a full-service, licensed, bonded and insured roofing company serving Indy and surrounding areas for over 15 years. Let our trained roofing technicians inspect your roof free of charge so you know if your home is protected!

Air duct cleaning grows in popularity

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mite-E-Ducts Air Duct Cleaning General Manager Clay Winters has seen the growth of his business through the years.

“I think the knowledge and understanding of air duct cleaning and the importance of indoor air quality has increased,” Winters said. “People are more aware of the benefits of better indoor air quality. In addition to that, our technology has gotten better. The way we did it 30 years ago compared to how we do it now, it’s just more efficient. There’s better tools and technology than there used to be.”

Winters said the COVID-19 pandemic made people more aware of the importance of indoor air quality. He has been working in the Zionsville business since May 2000. His father, Alan Winters, is the owner and started the business in 1995 for his father, Ted Winters, who had some duct cleaning experience. The late Ted Winters retired in 2001.

“So, the main reasons why people are

“People are more aware of the benefits of better indoor air quality. In addition to that, our technology has gotten better. The way we did it 30 years ago compared to how we do it now, it’s just more efficient.

– CLAY WINTERS

having it done are to help remove any dust or allergens in the duct system, pet hair, pet dander,” he said. “We have a whole list of customers with allergies or asthma who are having it done on a regular basis to basically just help with the air quality in their home.”

Winters said it is recommended every three to five years to have the air ducts cleaned in your home.

“Our customers that have bad allergies

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A before and after of air duct cleaning.

(Photo courtesy of Mite-E-Ducts)

Continued from Page 14

or asthma tend to lean more towards that three-year mark and have it done a little bit more often,” he said.

Someone who doesn’t have as many allergies might go closer to the five-year mark.

Another reason to have duct cleaning is moving into a brand-new home, because there is often construction debris and drywall dust.

“Drywall dust is almost like soot. People will have moved into a home and notice there is this thin layer of drywall dust all over everything,” Winters said. “So, we do duct cleaning on brand-new homes and homes that have had a major remodel.”

Winters said some custom home builders perform the duct cleaning before the owners take possession.’

Another reason for duct cleaning, Winters said, is for smoke or fire damage.

Winters said the pricing often depends on if there is one or two furnaces in the home. The square footage of the home and number of vents are factors as well.

Winters said consumers need to be aware of scams from some duct cleaning businesses.

“It’s one of the lower-level costs because you can’t get into the business for under $10,000,” he said. “The problem with that is anybody can say they do (it).”

The National Air Duct Cleaning Association is the governing body and Winters said Mite-E-Ducts technicians are certified.

“The problem is they can’t regulate all these guys that come out of the woodwork and try to claim to be air duct cleaners,” he said.

For example, Winters said some companies might offer coupons for $99 or $49 duct cleaning.

“I tell people the average duct cleaning takes three to five hours for one system,” Winters said.

So, he asks potential customers if they think a company can come into the house for three to five hours and truly do the proper work for $99.

Winters said 90 percent of those companies come out and then start raising the cost, often targeting elderly people.

“When people call us, we give them upfront pricing,” he said.

Winters said his business primarily uses truck-mounted equipment, which serves as a giant vacuum.

“So, none of the dust and debris is being refiltered inside the home,” he said.

For more, visit airduct.info.

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Closets are a large part of Closets by Design’s business, of course, but the Indianapolis-area franchise offers space-saving design solutions throughout the home, including garages, bedrooms, pantries, laundry rooms and entertainment centers.

Franchise owner Anthony Rund, who lives in Carmel, said his team can help figure out storage options or upgrades for pretty much anywhere in the home.

“Our team here takes care of the process, start to finish — everything from a designer coming out and meeting with customers in their home, listening to what they need and then coming up with a custom design for their space and taking the measurements and all that, to the team at the shop here that does the engineering work and manufacturing,” he said. “And then our install crew goes out and puts it in.”

Rund has owned the franchise for two years, but the business has had an Indianapolis presence for about six years at 1810 S. Lynhurst Dr. He said he previously worked with Caterpillar.

“I started looking at different opportunities and saw this business and really liked it,” he said. “And with four kids, I saw

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Continued from Page 16

the value in some of the systems (for) keeping things organized.”

He said the team can optimize storage for all kinds of spaces, including small closets. In fact, he said, small spaces probably benefit the most from custom organizing.

Rund added that homeowners these days are looking to add more drawers to their closet designs, reducing or eliminating the need for bedroom dressers.

“Almost every job we’re doing some element of drawers and essentially moving a dresser-type space into the closet,” he said.

Rund said his team offers a personalized experience for homeowners.

“The time we spend up front — we’re listening to what customers’ needs are, coming up with that custom solution and then the capability we have right here in Indianapolis to build the product, manufacture it and then go out and install it,” he said, adding that a custom closet can fill a homeowner’s needs better than something standardized from a big-box store.

Learn more at indianapolis. closetsbydesign.com

SAFETY TIPS

Eye safety is very important! Make sure everyone has access to the eye protection. Have small children practice wearing the Eclipse glasses BEFORE the day of the event. Avoid bringing pets outside or to viewing locations, their eye safety is important too!

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE DETAILS.

RV PARKING

Looking for convenient RV parking close to Eclipse events in Hamilton County? We’ve got you covered with convenient parking options!

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE DETAILS.

SOUVENIRS

Commemorate this rare celestial event with unique items tailored to Eclipse enthusiasts. Visitors can find an array of memorabilia capturing the essence of this momentous occasion, ranging from Eclipse-themed t-shirts adorned with whimsical designs to intricately crafted keepsakes featuring the celestial alignment itself.

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE DETAILS.

Director familiar with ‘The King and I’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Brian Jose has a long history with “The King and I,” having acted in the musical three times.

MUSICAL

So naturally, he has some ideas about the production as he is directing the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic for Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Performances are April 4 to May 19.

“There is only so much you can do with altering the words and music for your productions as per performance rights,” Jose said. “The words are the words. So, you have to think of other ways you can impact the story told as a director. It was imperative to me that we cast a mixed Anglo-Indian woman as Anna Leonowens. Historians have pointed out that Anna was of Anglo-Indian descent, something that has eluded the casting of this role for most productions. For me, that slight shift makes all the difference. Instead of a story that can easily be seen as a white savior-colonialism story, we get

a more complex story about a woman who has had to suppress her culture in order to advance in society to provide for her children as a single mother. And on top of that, (is) invited to a foreign country where she then decides to scold them for behavior not accepted in the more modern Western world. (It’s a) way more fascinating conundrum than simply a white woman intrigued by an exotic land.”

Jose said there is a reason the Thai government has banned the show in its country since its inception.

“It’s based on source material that is questioned for its accuracy and honesty,” Jose said. “I don’t think the book, nor the musical, ever claimed to be either.”

The musical was based on the book, “Anna and the King of Siam.”

This is the first time Jose has directed at Beef & Boards, although the 1992 Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School graduate acted as Bun Foo in the 2007 production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘Golem’ world premiere set

By Mark Ambrogi

mark@youarecurrent.com

Gregory Hancock’s latest creation uses a folklore tale to address the rise of antisemitism.

PERFORMANCE

Gregory Hancock

Dance Theatre’s production of “Fables and Folklore” features the world premiere of “Golem” and the return of “Pinocchio.” The performances are set for 7 p.m. April 5-6 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Hancock, GHDT executive artistic director, said “Golem” is a story from folklore of a rabbi who creates a creature out of mud to protect the Jewish ghetto of Prague from persecution.

“I draw elements of this story into the piece, but it really is addressing the rise in antisemitism and current conflicts throughout the world,” Hancock said. “It is a timely piece that draws inspiration from the past to direct a voice to the present.”

Hancock said Prague is one of his favorite cities and he has visited several times.

“Golem” is presented in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of Indianapo-

Josie Moody dresses up as the Blue Fairy from “Pinocchio.” (Photo by Lydia Moody)

lis. “Pinocchio” was last presented in 2013 at The Tarkington.

In “Pinocchio,” the main roles are Gepetto, The Cricket, the Blue Fairy and Pinocchio, along with an array of steampunk puppets. Abigail Lessaris is reprising her role as The Cricket, but all the other roles are being performed by new dancers.

Hancock said the two dances, “Golem” and “Pinocchio,” are interesting paired together.

“While the storylines and the music are vastly different, the common thread of a man creating a puppet or golem tie the program together,” Hancock said.

For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org

Jose

CROCE PLAYS CROCE: 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Bullet Points set to perform

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

Local talent will be on display at 7:30 p.m. March 27 when alternative rock band Bullet Points plays its original music as part of the Live at the Center series at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

CONCERT

The Indianapolis band, fronted by co-founder and lead singer David Hazel and featuring bass player and co-founder David Barajas, guitarist T.J. Briggs and drummer Matt Beaumont, has been together since 2016. All are veterans of the Indy music scene.

GREGORIAN: PURE CHANTS

Thu Apr 18 at 7:30pm

RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE

Sat Apr 20 at 8pm

music videos. They also toured the Midwest and have performed live on WTTS-FM and on the show “All Indiana” on WISH-TV.

Sat Mar 30 at 8pm RAY CHEN

Fri Apr 12 at 8pm

SAMMY MILLER AND THE

Fri Apr 19 at 8pm

MICHAEL

Fri May 17 at

“I have about 24 years of history with at least one of the other guys,” Hazel said. “We have played with different bands during that time.”

Hazel played for the seminal alternative band The Lemonheads for a brief period in Europe. All four still call the Indianapolis metro area home.

After releasing their first EP, “Business Card,” the band went to work on their first full-length album, “Paso Doble,” released in October 2020, along with two self-made

Bullet Points original songs include “Blood Dreams,” “Erase Me” and “Just Like You.”

Hazel said anything can influence a song, but he is influenced by relationships.

And there could be a new album, possibly in 2025. Hazel has written several songs, and the band plans to showcase them along with its older tunes at the Palladium.

Tickets are $10 or register for the free livestream at thecenterpresents.org/ BulletPoints.

‘DRIVING MISS DAISY’ LANDS AT STUDIO THEATER

“Driving Miss Daisy” opened March 15 to a nearly sold-out audience. The Civic Theatre’s production was a short drive through an “evolving relationship … that extends beyond the confines of a car ride,” according to Michael Lasley’s director’s note. The show explores the relationships between a Jewish widow, Miss Daisy Werthan, her son, Boolie Werthan, and a Black chauffeur, Hoke Colburn. The performances brought many laughs along with softer moments. The show runs through March 30 at the Studio Theater in Carmel.

From left, Bullet Points members are Matt Beaumont, David Hazel, David Barajas, T.J. Briggs. (Photo courtesy of Bullet Points)

A birthday gift from their children, Bob and Sylvia Coma, Zionsville, attend “Driving Miss Daisy.”

Carmel residents Bob and Pam Alonzo attend the show.

(Photos by Jennifer Haire)

LIFESTYLE

A visit to Karnak

Commentary by Don Knebel

In our continuing tour of Egypt, we begin a visit to Luxor at Karnak, Egypt’s second-most visited site.

Karnak is a complex erected between 1970 B.C. and 30 B.C. by about 30 pharaohs, each adding shrines and temples. Encompassing about 900 acres, Karnak is the world’s second-largest temple complex. Most of what remains was built beginning in 1550 B.C., when Thebes (now Luxor) became Egypt’s capital.

Major projects were begun by Pharaoh Thutmoses I and continued by his daughter Hatshepsut, Egypt’s only female pharaoh. Hatshepsut erected two 97-foot-tall granite obelisks in front of a restored temple to the goddess Mut, the wife of Amun-Ra, the area’s primary god at the time. One of them is the world’s second-tallest standing obelisk. Hatshepsut also built the Red Chapel, reconstructed in 1997 from its original materials.

In about 1450 B.C, Pharaoh Thutmoses III built the Sacred Lake near the temple honoring Amun-Ra. Stone steps around the lake lead into the water, which symbolized the primeval waters of creation. Priests purified

themselves in the lake before performing religious rituals. Religious scholars believe the Sacred Lake was probably the origin of water purification rituals in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The great hypostyle hall, honoring Amun-Ra, was completed by Pharaohs Seti I and his son, Ramses II, often considered the pharaoh of the Exodus. The hall, the largest in the world, occupies 1.2 acres and includes 134 columns arranged in 16 rows, with the two taller rows in the middle each including six 80-foot-high columns having a diameter of 10 feet. All the columns and surrounding walls are covered with hieroglyphic reliefs honoring Amun-Ra, Seti I and Ramses II.

By about 350 B.C., a 2,000-meter-long avenue flanked by 600 sphinxes connected the Luxor Temple to Karnak. Some of those ram-headed sphinxes still lead to the main entrance of Karnak.

Inside the hypostyle hall at the Karnak complex in Luxor, Egypt. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Hypostyle hall and obelisks at Karnak.

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

Across

1. Mazda sports car

6. Drug cops, for short

11. Squealer

14. Injured in the bullring

15. Best possible

16. Purdue’s Ross-___ Stadium

17. Local Italian restaurant

19. WIPX network

20. Part of NBA, briefly

21. Examined closely

23. Stay out of sight

25. Marion County community

27. IU women’s basketball coach Moren

30. Poem of praise

31. Sis’ sib

32. “Sleepless in Seattle” director Nora

34. ___ Indianapolis (illfated ship)

35. Little litter members

38. Bag on the Victory Field mound

39. Local Italian restaurant

41. Regions

44. Top mark at Fishers HS

45. Cook in fat

48. Ballroom dance

50. Sault ___ Marie

51. Meadow

52. Roman robe

53. “Shoo!”

56. Femme fatale

57. Card game

59. Vaper’s device

61. Earth Day mo.

63. Local Italian restaurant

67. Guy’s date

68. Indy Zoo primate

69. Debonair

70. Big name in ice cream

71. Aggressive sort

72. So far

Down

1. British sports car

2. Debtor’s letters

3. Video game parlors

4. Make fun of

5. Puts two and two together

6. Pen point

7. Competent

8. Copy, for short

9. Gangster who supposedly hung out in Hobart

10. Neatnik’s opposite

11. Indiana Jones flick: “___ of the Lost Ark”

12. Commotion

13. Big ___ Conference

18. Snug bug’s place

22. Belief system

23. Rockets, on a Pacers scoreboard

24. Broad Ripple bouncers check them

26. Line dance

28. Financial performance measure, initially

29. Brown County lodging

31. Full of chutzpah

33. Writing style

36. Reward for a Convivio Italian waiter

37. Chip dip

39. Asian gambling mecca

40. Pumpkin pie spice

41. Perform with the Mud Creek Players

42. Butler frat letter

43. With enthusiasm

45. June 14 celebration

46. Sleep stage

47. Pound sound

49. ___ Furniture

54. Pinch

55. Variety show

56. Computer woe

58. Manning or Luck

60. Spanish house

6 Fabric Patterns

4 ISO Sections

3 Dog Sounds

5 -xy Words

61. Go gray, say

2 Eiteljorg Museum Tribes

1 Indiana’s “Maple City”

62. Bachelor’s abode

64. Indianapolis Indians pitching stat

65 Wife without in-laws?

66 Westfield HS volleyball court divider

Answers on Page 23

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PUZZLE ANSWERS

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