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Current in Noblesville currentnoblesville.com
About us
Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 4
Fall into Puccini’s!
Senior living project raises council concerns
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Concerns were raised regarding an amended plan for 16 duplex patio homes within the Prairie Lakes Trilogy development at the Noblesville Common Council’s September meeting.
CITY NEWS
An ordinance for the development was adopted in 2008. In 2020, Trilogy Health Services, a senior living community, proposed adding 16 duplexes for 32 independent living units to its health campus at 9730 Prairie Lakes Blvd. in Noblesville.
Noblesville Senior Planner Amy Steffens said the project was stalled. Trilogy Health Services Director of Development Joseph Nawrocki said changes were made to Trilogy’s prototype in 2021.
“The big change in our design was (moving) the garages forward thus reducing down the depth of the driveways,” Nawrocki said. “Parking was a concern by planning and we agreed to ten additional public parking spaces for overflow such as visiting family or friends. These changes were significant enough to force us to a
Health Services)
(major amendment) and starting over with our new prototype and site layout. The appetite wasn’t there in fall of 2021 to continue, but now it is back.”
Nawrocki declined to give a total project cost pending approval of the proposal.
A significant concern the council expressed regarded Trilogy’s request for vinyl siding for the units, a plastic exterior used for decoration and weatherproofing.
“The planning department has a ban on vinyl siding, and this project requested to waive that,” Noblesville Common Council
President Darren Peterson said. “We approved it with Hardie Plank (fiber cement siding), which it was originally. I believe
the applicant is still going to approach the plan commission and ultimately the council for that waiver.”
Noblesville City Attorney John Hughes said vinyl siding does not meet the city’s aesthetic standards. Previous projects requesting vinyl have been turned down by the council in the past, according to Hughes.
“In general, we have some residences prior to that aesthetic standard changing that allowed vinyl, and since then, we have not approved projects with vinyl in Noblesville,” Hughes said.
Nawrocki said Trilogy has had success with vinyl siding on other properties.
“We prefer it because we have a track record of having to repaint the cement board type of siding that you might be looking to do on this project on average every five to seven years,” Nawrocki said. “With (vinyl) siding, we don’t.”
Nawrocki said vinyl siding has the same architectural look as Hardie Plank and has a 50-year warranty.
The project is scheduled to go before the Noblesville Plan Commission at its Oct. 28 meeting.
Council considers new recreational facility
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
An indoor recreational facility, Contenders Wrestling Academy, is under special consideration within Washington Business Park off 151st Street in Noblesville.
DEVELOPMENT
The special consideration, which is an allowance for a different property use than contemplated in original zoning approval, was introduced to the Noblesville Common Council last month.
Senior Planner Amy Steffens said approval of the project would permit indoor recreational use in the corporate campus planned development zoning district.
“Indoor recreational uses are special
considerations in certain land-type uses within the (corporate campus planned development),” Steffens said.
A 24,000-square-foot commercial building with multiple tenants, constructed in 2023, is on the site. Steffens said Contend-
ers Wrestling Academy would occupy the remaining 4,500 square feet.
Contenders Wrestling Academy provides athletes ages 4 through 18 with the training necessary to become successful in wrestling, according to owner Ryan Parrish. Hours of operation would begin after 5 p.m. when the other two businesses in the building, YOO Direct Health and a distribution warehouse, are closed.
“Because of the size of the proposed wrestling academy and the hours of operation, this would be an appropriate use and could be approvable within the last tenant space,” Steffens said.
The plan commission recommended approval of the project. The common council will review the special consideration again at a later date for approval or denial.
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Rendering of the proposed duplex units for Trilogy Health Services. (Rendering courtesy of Trilogy
Site map for Contenders Wrestling Academy. (Map courtesy of Noblesville Common Council)
(Photo by Matt Werner)
County requests funds for affordable housing initiative
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton County has submitted a proposal request for $6,955,084 from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which has $100 million in grants available through its Pathways to Removing Obstacles, or PRO, housing program.
GRANTS
A grant proposal request was submitted to HUD Oct. 3. It has yet to be announced when grants will be awarded.
PRO Housing supports communities that are taking steps to remove barriers to affordable housing, such as gaps in available resources for development, deteriorating or inadequate infrastructure and lack of neighborhood amenities.
Hamilton County Community Development Program Manager Michelle Westermier told the Hamilton County Commissioners last month that any grant money received would go toward affordable housing initiatives over the next five years.
The grant proposal covers all of Hamilton County, with particular attention given to
Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield as the cities grow.
If the county receives the grant, funds will focus on four areas:
• Policy: Analyzing and proposing updates to land use and development strategies in each community as well as countywide.
• People: Increasing the organizational capacity of new and existing entities for the development of affordable housing and preservation of existing affordable units.
• Production: Addressing funding barriers and land-cost challenges to build a pipeline for the development of affordable units.
• Promotion: Engaging and informing the community about the urgent need for affordable housing and its benefits.
Westermier said sources of local and federal funds will be leveraged as part of the effort, including $5 million of Hamilton County’s federal ARPA award, which the county allocated to fund an affordable housing “demonstration project.”
County hires IT security expert
COUNTY NEWS news@currentnoblesville.com
Hamilton County’s Information Systems Services Department has hired Timothy Renick as its chief information security officer with the goal of enhancing the county’s cybersecurity.
Renick brings extensive experience from his previous roles as head of technology for the City of Carmel and Madison County, Ill., according to Hamilton County Communications Director Tammy Sander.
but it’s crucial to have someone overseeing the entire landscape to identify any potential gaps. The reality is that cyber threats are not going away; we must be proactive in protecting our community’s resources.”
• Community designed for making connections
• Convenient location near friends and family
• Guests welcome to join activities
• Event spaces available for gatherings
• Scenic trails to explore together
• More free time without home maintenance
Sander said the establishment of the cybersecurity role is in response to increased cyber threats affecting municipalities across Indiana and nationwide. Additional funds were allocated in Hamilton County’s 2024 budget to secure the expertise required for the position.
“Having a dedicated CISO is essential for Hamilton County,” stated Chris Mertens, director of the ISS Department. “We have various cybersecurity measures in place,
Renick will oversee the establishment and execution of security strategies, policies and standards, including those related to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, according to Sander. He also will work to safeguard the county’s information assets, conduct risk assessments, manage compliance issues and coordinate incident response plans to ensure critical services remain operational.
“The recent surge in cyberattacks has highlighted the necessity of being prepared,” Mertens stated. “With the vast amount of data we manage, this is the right time to strengthen our defenses and ensure consistency in our security practices across all departments. Having someone solely dedicated to cybersecurity is a significant and positive step.”
Renick
Career Fair — Noblesville High School will host its annual Freshmen Career Fair from 9:35 a.m. to noon Oct. 9. NHS is looking for businesses to participate in the event. Each participant will have their own table to speak with students one-on-one or as a small group. Visual aids or handouts that may help students understand more about your profession are encouraged. Register at tinyurl.com/28h2kyz9
Scam alert — Indiana State Police has received an increase in reports of a common email extortion scam. These scam attempts target a victim by including the person’s name, address and sometimes a photograph of their home. In the email, the scammer claims to have installed Pegasus spyware on the victim’s phone and at-
tempts to extort money from them. Report cybercrimes like this by visiting ic3.gov. More information about cybersecurity is available at in.gov/cybersecurity.
Recognition —Hamilton County was recognized by the Center for Digital Government at its 2024 Government Experience Awards. The Information Systems Services Dept. tied for fifth place in the Overall County Government Experience category for its work on the county’s Parks Finder program. Developed by Hamilton County’s GIS/ISS Dept. with input from various parks departments and support from Cultivate Geospatial Solutions, the Parks Finder site allows residents to easily access information about city and county parks, including amenities like playgrounds, shelters and tennis courts. View
the Parks Finder tool at gis1.hamiltoncounty.in.gov/ parkfinder.
Frights at Forest — Noblesville Parks and Recreation is looking for interested businesses to participate in its inaugural Frights at Forest event. The free Halloween party will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 25 at Forest Park. Area businesses are invited to participate in the Trick-or-Treat Trail with a Halloween-decorated booth that includes candy or free giveaways. Businesses interested in participating must register online at forms. office.com/g/Ly4m1rkXyP. The cost is $25 to participate. Prizes will be awarded to the business voted as the crowd favorite at the event. For more, visit noblesvilleparks.org or call 317-776-6350.
County commissioners consider Baker’s Corner development
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A crossroads of Hamilton County north of Westfield and east of Sheridan has been eyed by Hamilton County Commissioners for a housing development opportunity.
COUNTY NEWS
County Commissioners Mark Heirbrandt, Christine Altman and Steve Dillinger discussed the potential development during a town hall meeting last month at Sheridan High School.
Heirbrandt said the housing development is part of the county’s comprehensive plan, specifically development of the U.S. 31 corridor.
Planning for a housing development at Baker’s Corner — a small residential area at 236th Street and Dunbar Road — began when the county allocated $65 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds to extend water and sewer to the area. Commissioners said the groundwater was contaminated and several septic systems in the area
had failed, which prompted the infrastructure project. An additional $30 million provided by the state of Indiana was used to extend those improvements further to the Indiana National Guard Armory in Kokomo.
Commissioners said the housing proposal on 67 acres of county-owned property is in response to growth.
“The land costs have escalated, they continue to escalate and we’re at a point where your kids, my kids, when they leave and come back because they want good school systems, cannot afford housing,” Altman said. “We either have to figure out how to pay these support staff more, or figure out a housing solution where they can live in the same county where they work.”
Altman said the new housing would target residents such as teachers, health care workers and law enforcement. Commissioners said it would not be government subsidized, but would be affordable.
County Commissioners said they would vote against the housing project if the majority of Sheridan residents opposed it.
Ivy Tech receives donation
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Noblesville Rotary Club recently donated $26,000 to Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County for the Ivy Tech Hamilton County Scholarship Fund.
Director of Marketing and Communication for ITHC Me-Me Pruitt said funds were raised during the club’s eighth annual BrewBQ in August. The club presented the check Sept. 24.
The BrewBQ featured 28 sponsors and 17 grill teams for a day of barbecue tastings, adult beverages and live music from local bands. Pruitt said proceeds will directly benefit scholarships for Ivy Tech Hamilton County students to help support their educational pursuits.
“It’s always inspiring to witness the community come together for a cause as important as education,” stated Rachel Kartz, chancellor of Ivy Tech Hamilton County. “We are incredibly grateful to the Noblesville Rotary Club for their continued commitment to supporting our students.”
In recognition of their dedication, Ivy Tech Hamilton County named the Noblesville Rotary Club as the 2024 Benefactor of the Year. The award honors the rotary club’s service and philanthropy, which Pruitt said has significantly impacted Ivy Tech students and the Hamilton County community.
The rotary club was honored at the Ivy Tech Foundation’s Benefactor of the Year event Sept. 27 in Indianapolis.
For more, visit ivytech.edu/locations/ hamilton-county.
From left, Carrie Dixon, Jeff Derda, Rachel Kartz, Kelly Wallace and Emily Cullen with the $26,000 check. (Photo courtesy of Me-Me Pruitt)
Trunk-or-Treat event returns Noblesville Creates announces award winners
news@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville Creates honored several artists at its 12th Anniversary Gala Sept. 19.
“We are deeply moved by our community’s commitment to supporting and growing the creative economy,” Noblesville Creates Director Ailithir McGill stated in a news release.
The Gala raised more than $73,223 for Noblesville Creates. The total is 21 percent more than last year’s.
Proceeds from ticket sales and a silent auction will go toward Noblesville Creates’ mission of developing the creative economy, which aims to make an economic impact in the Noblesville region through arts and culture, according to McGill.
Award winners include:
• Artist of the Year: Boxx The Artist
• Emerging Artist of the Year: Laura McCormick
• Artist Leader of the Year: Executive Director of Gal’s Guide Library, Riwo
• Arts Advocate of the Year: Pat Grabill
• Arts Patron of the Year: Brenda Myers
• Corporate Arts Partner of the Year: Star Bank
A Board Emeritus Award was given to Gino Johnson, who recently retired from the Noblesville Creates board. It recognizes what Johnson has done for Noblesville Creates and the overall arts community during his time on the board. For more, visit noblesvillecreates.org.
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
October ushers in several Halloween festivities to Hamilton County, and Noblesville’s Best After School and Summer Camp’s annual Trunkor-Treat aims to get the community in the spirit.
RECREATION
Noblesville’s Best After School and Summer Camp is a sports-based program for kindergarten through fifth-grade children. Camp owner Andrew Steinman said the free event from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 19 at First Christian Church, 16377 Herriman Blvd., provides a safe, fun opportunity for the community to get together and trick-or-treat.
“With (the pandemic) in 2020, a lot of events and live stuff wasn’t able to be held. So, a lot of our students were looking for a community event,” Steinman said. “We wanted this to serve as a structured activity for families to bring their kids to but also something where everybody can have a good time.”
Steinman said the event also allows
local small businesses to connect with the community.
“We are always seeking out opportunities to connect with families and people that might be interested in client building,” Steinman said. “We also wanted to do it to have businesses give out information. It’s a good opportunity for businesses to connect with the families they serve.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to visit vehicles with decorated trunks, from which families and businesses will hand out candy.
To pre-register or sign up to host a trunk, visit trunkortreatnoblesville.com.
Janaé, Breast Cancer Survivor
In January of 2021, Janaé was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks to a routine mammogram, Janaé’s care team at Community Health Network was able to detect her cancer early, and by May of that year, she was cancer-free.
Janaé often wonders what she might have missed had she not had her annual mammogram, including the births of her seven grandkids. It’s simple, it’s convenient and it can save your life.
Schedule your annual mammogram today at eCommunity.com/mammogram
A previous Trunk-or-Treat event. (Photo by Daniel Grose)
Boxx The Artist won the Artist of the Year Award. (Photo courtesy of Lydia Cheesman)
Demand for new homes remains strong
news@youarecurrent.com
Permits for new homes increased by 20 percent in August 2024 over 2023, according to a report from the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis.
REAL ESTATE
The City of Westfield continues to outpace other Hamilton County municipalities with new home permits at a rate of two- to five-times more than its counterparts.
Total new home permits issued in August include:
• Westfield — 128
• Noblesville — 56
• Fishers — 22
• Carmel/Clay — 21
• Zionsville -— 22
• Whitestown — 45
• Lawrence — 5
• Indianapolis — 238
The breakdown of permits shows the housing market remains robust, driven by strong demand for new homes.
“The recent permit increases in central Indiana signal a healthy housing market,” BAGI CEO Steve Lains stated. “Although home prices remain high, inflationary pressures are easing and that’s a positive sign for builders and buyers. Interest rates are higher than many would prefer even amidst this recent decrease, but with inflation being tamed, we expect to see a stable, resilient housing market moving forward.”
According to BAGI, housing prices in central Indiana remain steady, reflecting the nationwide trend of persistent demand outpacing supply. In September, the Federal Reserve dropped interest rates by a halfpoint. BAGI anticipates that decrease will encourage some homeowners to dive back into the market.
The limited supply of existing homes continues to drive the demand for new construction.
“Many homeowners remain locked into low mortgage rates, reducing available inventory. This has created a need for new homes, which is why construction continues to surge in central Indiana,” Lains stated.
The latest permit breakdown report can be viewed at BAGI.com/Permits.
New postage stamp to feature Newfields painting
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A painting that spent much of the past 40 years in storage at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields in Indianapolis will make its way around the world this holiday season.
The Madonna and Child from the workshop of Italian Baroque painter Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato (1609-1685) and included in the collection at Newfields is the featured artwork on the 2024 United States Postal Service Christmas stamp, a First-Class Forever stamp.
The stamp was unveiled during a special ceremony Sept. 17 at Newfields.
Belinda Tate, who serves as the Melvin & Bren Simon Director of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, said the artwork has not been displayed at the museum since the 1980s. The piece underwent conservation treatment in 2024.
Unveiling the
and curatorial assistant Sadie Arft. (Photos by Marney Simon)
“We recognize the importance of the United States Postal Service and the integral role in shepherding visual and written communication on which we depend every day. This is especially true in the fall and winter season when millions of greetings of love and comfort travel across the United States and the world,” Tate said. “It is an honor for the IMA’s Madonna and Child to be included among the artworks that
will accompany these messages in the form of a postage stamp.”
Clowes Conservator of Paintings Roxy Sperber said the painting had not undergone conservation treatment for more than 80 years. Scientific techniques that were
not available when the painting was last featured at IMA showed the canvas had previously been torn and restored, leaving markings on the painting that have now been corrected.
“As I began conservation treatment, the quality of the painting really became apparent,” Sperber said. “You can see these beautiful red and blue pigments that started to emerge. The lovely handling of the flesh in the Christ child and the Madonna’s faces really struck me.”
Sperber said analysis of the materials shows the paint was sourced from Afghanistan and imported to Europe, making that paint more valuable than gold at the time.
“This is an indication that the painting is actually very valuable, important work,” Sperber said.
Curatorial assistant Sadie Arft said that while the painting has not been displayed in 40 years, it was at one time a popular piece at IMA. Arft said the painting is more subtle and subdued than some of the artist’s other works, which makes the selection as this year’s stamp unique.
The artwork will be on display at Newfields throughout the holiday season.
2024 Christmas stamp at Newfields, from left, Jay Bigalke of Linn’s Stamp News, Indianapolis Postmaster Keith Blane, USPS Indiana District Manager Christi Johnson-Kennedy, Indiana First Lady Janet Holcomb, IMA director Belinda Tate, conservator Roxy Sperber
DISPATCHES
Correction — An incorrect phone number was listed for Hamilton County in the Indiana Voters Guide inserted into Current Newspapers on September 26th. If you are a Hamilton County resident and need assistance, please call 317-776-8476.
Harvest Festival — Calvary Apostolic Church at 16400 Cumberland Rd. in Noblesville will hold a free Harvest Festival from 2 to 7 p.m. Oct. 13. The event will feature live music, bounce houses, outdoor games, face painting and more. Two food trucks will be onsite with food for purchase.
Noblesville Schools — The Standard & Poors global credit ratings agency has increased its financial rating for Noblesville Schools for the second time in two years, boosting its previous AA- rating to AA. The increase establishes Noblesville Schools as one of the top four school districts in the state for financial management, with the same rating as Carmel Clay Schools, Zionsville Community Schools and Hamilton Southeastern Schools. S&P noted that the increased rating reflected Noblesville Schools’ track record of delivering consis-
tently strong financial operations, while simultaneously lowering the tax rate annually for the past six years.
Food inspection map available — The Hamilton County Health Department recently launched an interactive food inspection map on its website. The map allows residents to access and review food inspection reports for more than 1,200 food service establishments, including restaurants and stores operating within the county. Users can enter their location, view nearby establishments and click on specific restaurants to access detailed inspection reports. The map is available under the Food Inspections tab at hamiltoncounty.in.gov/1925/Health-Department.
Applications for ISP — The Indiana State Police is accepting applications for the 87th Recruit Academy for traditional and lateral applicants. Probationary troopers who graduate from the academy and successfully complete field training receive a $5,000 cash bonus. Interested individuals must apply online at IndianaTrooper.com by 11:59 p.m. Oct. 13.
Nonprofit to honor families impacted by child loss
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Selah’s Grace Ministries, a Cicero-based nonprofit that supports families who have been impacted by infant loss, will hold its second International Wave of Light event from 6:15 to 8 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Angel of Hope memorial in Forest Park in Noblesville, 701 Cicero Rd.
EVENT
The International Wave of Light is an international event where people light candles at 7 p.m. in their time zone, and at 8 p.m., they extinguish their flames, thereby creating a wave of light around the world.
Founder of Selah’s Grace Ministries, Emma Ping, said the organization took over care of the Angel of Hope memorial last year.
“The Angel of Hope is a memorial where anyone who has lost a child can purchase a brick and have it engraved with their child’s name on it and placed out at the memorial,” Ping said. “It’s a very peaceful
and beautiful place that families can go to remember the child they’ve lost.”
Event attendees can walk to the memorial to remember the children they’ve lost. The children’s names will be spoken, and a candle will be lit in their honor. There also will be an opportunity to create a luminary and memorial rock. Candles will be extinguished at 8 p.m.
Selah’s Grace Ministries has partnered with Hamilton County to have the courthouse lit pink and blue during the night of the event.
“We’re working with some of the parks in Hamilton County to try and get some other lights turned pink and blue that evening,” Ping said. “This is another symbol of honoring and remembering. The county as a whole has really helped us with this too.”
To learn more about the International Wave of Light, visit awarenessdays.com/.../ global-wave-of-light-2024. Anyone who cannot attend but would like their child’s name read at the ceremony can fill out a form at forms.gle/3vCfevFVJMvEKqBj9.
DONATION
Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville Executive Director Becky Terry, left, recently accepted a $6,000 check from The Nesst of Noblesville owner Sladan Stanisic from proceeds of The Nesst’s Whiskey & Wine charitable tasting event in August. More than 100 BGCN supporters and Nesst regulars attended to sample dozens of wines, bourbons and food options. Funds will support BGCN’s affordable after-school and out-of-school programs that focus on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy and active lifestyles. (Photo courtesy of Nathan Helm)
DISPATCHES
U-Haul — U-Haul Co. of Indiana, Inc. recently announced Schwartz Bait & Tackle joined U-Haul as a neighborhood dealer serving the Noblesville community. Schwartz Bait & Tackle at 118 Cicero Rd. will provide essential services such as U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment, pretow inspection, in-store pickup for boxes and moving supplies. Normal business hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. To reserve U-Haul products at this location call 317-776-1355 or visit uhaul.com/ Locations/Truck-Rentals-near-NoblesvilleIN-46060/044682.
Internships — Applications to intern with Indiana House Republicans for the 2025 legislative session are now open, according to area lawmakers. State Rep. Chuck Goodrich said interns are also eligible to apply for a competitive $3,000 scholarship to use toward undergraduate and graduate expenses. Applications are due Oct. 31. To apply, visit indianahouserepublicans.com/ internship.
Quilt guild show — The Mudsock Quilters Guild Quilt Show will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 9 at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, 13450 E. 116th St. in Fishers. The event will include quilts to view, a raffle, vendors and a booth offering gently used quilting supplies at low prices. The guild has nearly 250 members who reside in Carmel, Fishers and Noblesville. Guild members have created more than 300 quilts for hospital patients to receive on Christmas.
CROP Hunger Walk — First Christian Church of Noblesville will host a local CROP Hunger Walk at 16377 Herriman Blvd. in Noblesville Oct. 13 as part of the Greater Indianapolis CROP Walk. The CROP Walk is a national movement sponsored by Church World Service to raise funds to end hunger and poverty in the U.S. and around the world. This year will be the 55th anniversary of the CROP Walk and every $1 raised provides 10 meals through local partners in the U.S. Participants will receive lunch and a T-shirt. Lunch is at 1 p.m. and the walk begins at 1:30 p.m. Anyone interested in participating can be involved by joining the First Christian Church team, organizing a team of their own, walking as an individual or by making an online donation at events.crophungerwalk.org/cropwalks/ teams?event=indianapolisin. For more, contact Brooks Barrice at reved2@hotmail.com.
Greyhounds senior golfer cards most consistent season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School senior Sophie Mock is headed to the University of California/ Berkeley to play lacrosse, but she still managed to have her best golf season.
“Sophie has become a more consistent player over her high school career,” Greyhounds girls golf coach Kelly Kluesner said. “Her ball striking has improved but overall, her course management and course strategy have improved the most. She is an incredible athlete with so much raw talent, she has really just had to work on fine-tuning her game.”
Kluesner said Mock’s mental toughness has always been a strong asset.
“She has led the team by example, offering support through her past experiences and runs practices with different drills and fun contests,” Kluesner said. “She is a natural leader, a hard one to replace.”
Mock was low scorer for the Greyhounds with a 77 in the IHSAA Regional Sept. 28 at Battle Ground Golf Club near Lafayette. Carmel finished third in the regional to qualify for the IHSAA State Finals, which
MEET SOPHIE MOCK
Favorite athlete: Michael Jordan
Favorite subject: English
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite music genre: Country
was scheduled for Oct. 4-5 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. Mock placed third with a 72 in the Sept. 23 sectional at Pebble Brook Golf Club in Noblesville.
Mock agreed with her coach that consistency has been key, “I definitely had the most improvement in course management, which has reflected in my scoring,” Mock said. “Trying to avoid big numbers by playing smart has
helped my game immensely.”
Mock finished tied for 10th in the state individual standings in 2022 and tied for 22nd in 2023.
The Greyhounds repeated as the state
golf champions in 2023. Then Carmel captured the Indiana High School Lacrosse Association 2A state title this spring.
“Winning both state titles in golf and lacrosse my junior year is a memory I will cherish the rest of my life,” Mock said. “It was always my dream to win state titles in both sports, and to be able to accomplish that meant the world to me.”
Mock said the 10th-ranked Greyhounds didn’t score as well as the previous two seasons because they lost three top players to graduation from last year’s team.
“But the team has demonstrated a high amount of work ethic and an ability to deal with adversity this season,” she said.
Mock, who was named all-state in golf as a sophomore, was named USA Lacrosse All-American last season.
“It can be very difficult juggling two very demanding sports; however, both of my coaches have been incredibly supportive of my goals which has made managing both golf and lacrosse much easier,” said Mock, who started playing both sports in sixth grade.
Mock said she plans to major in business or economics in college.
•
•
Carmel High School senior Sophie Mock is a two-sport standout. (Photo courtesy of Mike Navarro/Live Action Sports)
Interchange project coming to U.S. 31 and I-465
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Planning is underway for a major overhaul of the I-465/U.S. 31 interchange.
CONSTRUCTION
INDOT hosted an informational meeting Sept. 26 in Carmel to introduce the Level Up 31 project — a plan to address regional growth and traffic congestion that affects efficiency at the Meridian Street/U.S. 31 interchange.
INDOT officials said adjustments to the interchange are a direct result of growth in Hamilton County. Since 2015, the population of Carmel has increased nearly 13 percent, while the population of Westfield has exploded by nearly 60 percent — representing more than 20,000 new residents. That growth has rendered previous future traffic estimations moot. In 2015, INDOT estimated that by 2035, traffic counts though the interchange would total 92,930 vehicles per day. However, as of 2023, that daily count had already exceeded 83,000.
The new forecast predicts 112,910 vehicles per day by next year, and 155,520 by 2045.
INDOT is planning an overhaul of the interchange at I-465 and U.S. 31/Meridian Street. (Photo courtesy of INDOT)
One of the biggest proposed changes to the interchange is access to 106th Street. Rather than using the ramps onto northbound U.S. 31, travelers on I-465 would exit the interstate then reenter U.S. 31 via Meridian.
“What we’re proposing is, you would actually come down to the traffic signals (on Meridian) and access that way,” said Jason Littleton, roadway engineer with WSP, the
professional services firm working with INDOT on planning. “There will be two lanes west to north, two lanes east to north, and then three lanes of Meridian. The 106th Street traffic will go under (I-465) and will already be on the right side to exit.”
Joe Mattick of Carmel attended the meeting specifically to see the proposed changes to the 106th Street exit.
“Based on what they’re saying, for the
people like us who want to exit onto 106th, this does sound better,” Mattick said. “We’d have to stop at a light (but) on the current ramp you have to get across traffic and there’s a concrete wall right there that you can’t see around to see if any traffic is coming. It’s very difficult, there’s a very short merge area once you get past that wall. So, it’s not a good situation now but this looks like it will be better. I always think, ‘Let’s wait and see.’ But I’m optimistic.”
Littleton said the exit ramp and flyover ramp from I-465 will each be widened to two lanes. However, fixing the backups caused by cars queuing into the U.S. 31 exit is not part of the Level Up 31 planning. That falls under the I-465 Northwest Improvements Project, which kicked off in 2022 and aims to make improvements along the I-465 mainline from 86th Street to U.S. 31, including at the interchanges with I-865, Michigan Road and U.S. 31/Meridian.
Planning for that project has been slowed while the U.S. 31/Meridian Street interchange is adjusted.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2025. Learn more about the project at levelup31.com.
Noblesville Diversity Coalition seeks students
news@youarecurrent.com
The Noblesville Diversity Coalition has created two new student advisory board positions for the 2024-25 school year.
ADVISORY BOARD
The roles are open to high school students in grades nine through 12 who live in or attend school in Noblesville, including public, private or homeschool students. NDC President Dana Randall said the NDC is seeking young leaders passionate about fostering a more inclusive and welcoming community in Noblesville.
Randall said selected student board members will provide fresh insights into youth-related issues, help shape the NDC’s programming and serve as advocates for the coalition’s mission.
“Noblesville’s youth are integral to our community’s future,” Randall stated. “By welcoming student voices to our advisory board, we’re giving them a platform to advocate for the changes they want to see
while also giving them invaluable leader-
experience.”
Application materials include a completed application form, a letter of interest to the selection committee, a recommendation letter and a signed commitment agreement from the student and their parent/guardian. Students interested in applying must submit applications by Oct. 30. For more, visit noblesvillediversitycoalition.org or email info@noblesvillediversitycoalition.org.
Library to host genealogy event
news@currentnoblesville.com
Family historians, genealogists and enthusiasts will gather for the first annual Family History Day Genealogy Conference from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at 1 Library Plaza in Noblesville.
HISTORY
Hosted by the Crossroads Discovery Center, the event will offer opportunities for individuals passionate about uncovering their family’s history to connect, learn and share experiences.
The conference will feature educational sessions, presentations and discussions on censuses, newspapers, DNA, cemeteries, land records and more. Attendees can network with historians and genealogy enthusiasts.
“The Crossroads Discovery Center staff are thrilled to offer this free genealogy conference right here at the Noblesville Library,” Crossroads Discovery Center Assistant Manager Ann Grilliot stated. “Learn from top-notch speakers. Connect with fellow researchers and discover more about local history and genealogy groups. Whatever the stage of your genealogy research, you’ll find new ways to uncover
family history.”
Juliana Szucs, a genealogy research expert who works with Ancestry.com, will headline the event. Additional featured speakers include:
• JaKobi Burton, Indiana African American Genealogy Group
• Nancy Massey, County genealogist
• Kamia Jackson, Program Committee Chair of Indiana African American Genealogy Group
• Lauren Peightel, manager of engagement at Indiana Historical Society
• Amber Oldenburg, One Branch at a Time Genealogy
• Glory-June Greiff, historian at-large The conference will include sessions designed for all skill levels. Topics include:
• Tuning into the DNA of your ancestors
• Navigating federal census records
• Genealogy next steps: Digging deeper
• Breaking the silence: Understanding one man’s naval experience in WWII
• Land for the landless: Homestead records and how to use them
• Sermons in stones: The symbolism of grave markers and cemetery art For more, visit hamiltoneastpl.org.
From left, Noblesville Diversity Coalition board members Jill Walls, Bryan Glover, Jeremy Hawk and Dana Randall. (Photo courtesy of Dana Randall)
ship
ARTIST’S TOUCH
Noblesville-based creative’s work draws national attention
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
From serving in the U.S. Marines to working as a stuntman in feature films to becoming a successful artist, Carmel resident Gavin Goode has worked hard to establish his career.
Goode, 48, is a full-time artist who operates his business, SemperFly Studios, out of LDR Studios, a creative production company in Noblesville. He recently had the opportunity to create a painting to honor victims of the World Trade Center terrorist attacks.
“The (National Guard) reached out to me and asked me if I would do a commemorative piece for the victims of the World Trade Center,” Goode said. “We figured we would do a 10-foot sheet of copper like how the Statue of Liberty is copper. We unveiled it in New York (on) Sept. 11. After that, we hopped on a train to Washington, D.C., and hung it in the National Guard Museum at 1 Massachusetts Ave. So, that’s where it’s going to live forever.”
Goode said it took 450 hours to paint the piece, which is titled “Liberty.”
“(The 450 hours) doesn’t take into consideration the logistics of shipping, loading, creating the design, time, the framing and buying all the materials,” Goode said.
Goode said the painting was one of his favorite pieces. His work has been noticed nationwide, including by celebrities such as American singer-songwriter Usher and actor Mark Wahlberg. He also has worked with several charities.
“Because I’m a former Marine, the fact that the government reached out to me to do something again just smashes all the celebrity stuff I do,” Goode said. “Nothing is going to touch that for quite some time.”
Goode attended the Academy of Art and Design in Tampa, Fla., and began his artistic career by working in interior design. He launched SemperFly Studios in 2006 and he has been operating out of LDR studios since 2021.
“Things were going good beforehand, but once I came to Noblesville and LDR, that’s when it really, really started showing some promise,” Goode said.
Clark Crosser, founder of LDR Studios,
said having Goode in the space has benefited the business.
“For 18 months, I came in here and I was by myself doing things on my own,” Crosser said. “Gavin and I just hit it off because we’re always trying to figure out how to scale up a project. It just has added to this community. And we’re building a community, for sure.”
Goode specializes in fine art and is
known for hand painting on surfaces like stainless steel, copper and canvas.
“I think with my acting background and knowing how and who to talk to helped with the arts and the entertainment, and then partnering up with charities,” Goode said. “SemperFly Studios does a ton of work with local and international charities.”
Goode works only on commission and doesn’t sell pieces. He said he has several projects on the horizon but is taking a break this month after a busy summer.
“I am wrapping up some huge projects. I did five events in five weeks,” Goode said. “I worked three-and-a-half months straight without taking a day off on the New York piece. I am doing a piece for the band Motörhead. They lost their lead singer a while back, and we’re going to fly that out to LA and give it to them. I’ve got a lot of things coming up and a couple of little business ventures I am starting.”
Goode wants to work with more charities and local artists. He has created contract pieces for some charities and has also donated pieces.
“Whatever charity comes across my desk, or whoever comes and knocks on
the door, I’ll work with them,” Goode said. “I don’t turn away from charities. I definitely want to do more with philanthropy and more with charities. I want to spread my wings a little bit with what has been learned from this last year and see what kind of impact I can make nationally. I have some international things in the works, so I just want to sort of capitalize on this year’s success and see what happens from that.” Goode said LDR Studios has helped him get his business off the ground.
“Once I brought the company to Noblesville and met creatives in this area, it really helped with not only business but the impact I could have,” Goode said. “It’s just tough to put it into words. I’m just super thankful to be out here.”
For more, visit ldrstudios.com or semperflystudios.com.
FINDING HIS PASSION
Gavin
has always had a passion for art, and he now enjoys being his own boss. He said he has recently realized the impact his charity work can have.
“I’ve started to be more mindful about what I’m doing,” Goode said.
“It’s not just selfies and popping champagne. At the end of some events, kids have to go back to less-than-perfect conditions with disabilities.”
Goode credits his military background for staying focused.
“I don’t look at it as a free-thinking artist when coming into things. It’s definitely sort of a business mindset,” Goode said. “Once we can get all of that out of the way and get going, it’s mandatory. I have to create. There’s no way I could just stop and turn that off. So, where does that come from? Maybe practice, maybe something else, I don’t know.”
ON THE COVER: Gavin Goode unveils his 9/11 memorial piece in New York. (Photo courtesy of Gavin Goode) Noblesville artist
Goode
Mark Wahlberg signs a piece of art Gavin Goode painted for him. (Photo courtesy of Gavin Goode)
Gavin Goode paints finishing touches on his memorial piece to honor victims of the World Trade Center terrorist attacks. (Photo courtesy of Gavin Goode)
currentnightandday.com
Comedic moms bring show to the Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley try to find humor in the most trying moments of motherhood. The comedians will present their “#IMOMSOHARD: Ladies Night” show at 8 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It’s the fourth national tour for the friends.
PERFORMANCE
“It’s a two-person standup tour,” Hensley said. “Jen and I just hit all the topics that resonate with women and moms. We talk about stuff that would normally make us cry. We try to make it funny, so everyone feels a little better about the hard stuff.”
The friends began by producing videos online, which built a following.
“When we started, we had babies at home. They were like little, tiny people, and that provided its own material,” Hensley said. “Now, we have these teens and tweens and we have all new material to write about. It’s evolved over the course of the four tours.”
The comedians’ web-series, “#IMOMSOHARD,” started out in 2016.
“Our first video, Jen forgot her daughter’s name and that’s when the videos took off,” Hensley said. “It was a lightning strike in the right direction, ‘Oh, wow. Women like this.’ They like seeing our friendship and what we have to say. We’re not trying to teach them anything or try to show them how to do anything better. We did really sexy videos about hemorrhoids, body hair and the coup de grace we did was our swimsuit video. That one went globally viral and did not garner one modeling contract.”
From there, Hensley said the act became a television pilot, a bestselling book, a children’s book, a podcast and a wine line.
“It’s just been this boulder rolling downhill that we’ve been really happy to be a part of,” Hensley said.
After the series took off, Hensley and Smedley realized they needed to have a
live comedy tour.
“We had to go see these women that are commenting on (us) and see them face to face,” Hensley said. “Jen and I are both comedians. We were like, ‘Let’s put this on the stage in front of thousands of women,’ and it’s been a blast.”
Hensley and Smedley grew up in Nebraska but didn’t know each other there.
“We separately moved to Los Angeles to pursue (careers),” Smedley said. “We finally met after a show in Los Angeles.”
Smedley was doing a comedy show and Hensley was encouraged to attend by a friend with offers of free beer.
“We were drinking beers in the parking lot afterwards because we’re both from Nebraska and we like tailgating,” Hensley said. “A friend said, ‘Did you know you’re both from Nebraska?’ The number of names we started dropping and how high we went in pitch started to break glass because we had all the same friends and knew all the same people but had never run into each other. We became fast friends and the rest is history.”
The comedians’ videos are on Facebook and YouTube,
“When social media really took off eight or nine years ago, everyone was talking to women on how to do a better job of what they were already doing,” Smedley said. “Or scaring us with stories
Kristin Hensley, left, and Jen Smedley will bring their comedy show to the
ladium. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
of here is what can happen if you don’t do things the right way. We were like there is nothing for a mom who is up late at night that will just make her laugh. We get messages from mothers and grandmothers of, ‘Where were you when I was a mom? I needed someone to voice what I was feeling in a lighthearted way and make me laugh about it.’ I think it was a realization that cavewomen dealt with what we’re dealing with but just without iPads.”
Hensley said they love when women bring their husbands to the shows.
“They’re usually terrified when they show up,” Hensley said. “We like it that way. We also know some women who decided they are going to buy themselves a ticket and go and they end up with 10 new friends.”
Smedley said life creates an array of new material.
“There are a lot of hormonal changes from parents and kids,” Smedley said.
The comedians, who each have two children, often take questions from the audience. But they don’t share advice, just laughs
“When we’re home, you can pretty much be sure we’re on a soccer field somewhere,” Hensley said.
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and imomsohard.com
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” runs Oct. 10 to Nov. 24 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
OPERA CABARET AT UNION 50
Leah Crane and Pavel Polanco-Safadit will perform Oct. 9 at Union 50 in Indianapolis. The fundraiser begins at 6 p.m. with a three-course dinner. For more, visit indyopera.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Lee DeWyze will perform Oct. 10, followed by Paul Hughes Oct. 11 and Richard Cortez Oct. 12 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three concerts are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’
Carmel Community Players presents “Steel Magnolias” through Oct. 13 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
‘RIPCORD’
Main Street Productions presents “Ripcord” through Oct. 13 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse. org.
‘KINKY BOOTS’
Civic Theatre’s production of “Kinky Boots” runs through Oct. 19 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘PAPER
AIRPLANES REQUEST’ TOUR
Ben Folds’ “Paper Airplanes Request” tour is set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
Shelton concert set at Fishers Event Center — Country star Blake Shelton will perform March 29, 2025, at the new Fishers Event Center. Tickets are on sale at FishersEventCenter.com.
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RIVERVIEW.ORG/24GALA
Scan the QR Code or go to riverview.org/24gala
Sponsored in part by
Beef & Boards owner returns to role in ‘Fiddler’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Doug Stark was a young man the first time he played Tevye in “The Fiddler on the Roof.”
MUSICAL
The 75-year-old Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre owner first played Tevye in 1973 or 1974 at Enchanted Hills Playhouse in Syracuse, which he owned and operated with his friend and business partner, Bob Zehr.
He will now portray Tevye for the eighth time at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre from Oct. 10 to Nov. 24 at the Indianapolis venue. Tevye is a poor milkman who wants to find good husbands for his five daughters.
“Thinking about it, it’s like ‘Sunrise, Sunset,’” Stark said. “When I first played it, it was the beginning of my career, and now it’s at the end of my career.”
Stark said Tevye was his favorite role from the first time the played it.
“I have always felt Tevye was a part of me, and I am a part of him — ask any father,” said Stark, who has three children: Nick, Elizabeth and Josh. “It fits on all levels — especially family and Tevye’s relationship to God.”
Stark previously portrayed Tevye at Beef & Boards in 1981, 1985, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004 and 2014.
Time has given Stark more perspective on the role.
“As I experience more of life, I am able to bring that knowledge to the role,” he said. “It is much easier today to act tired, hurt, angry, centered on the family and loss, because I have experienced all of it.”
Stark also has learned to appreciate small things about the role.
“I enjoy sitting down a lot more,” he said. “Like when I sit on the milk can — I enjoy it a lot more.”
Stark said “today more than ever” the musical resonates with audiences.
“It’s about family, tradition and relationship to God,” Stark said. “It’s about people finding happiness in the face of adversity and the ability to survive.”
Stark said his favorite song is “Far From The Home I Love.”
“It’s not Tevye’s (song), but it touches me every night,” he said. “It’s universal.” For tickets, visit beefandboards.com
FREE EVENT PIONEER FALL FEST
Feeling strapped for cash but still want to have some fun? Each week, Current helps you find things to do without breaking the bank. Here’s what’s on tap this week:
The Taylor Center of Natural History will host a day of pioneer fun from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at 12308 E. Strawtown Ave., Noblesville. Join the quilting bee, make a corn husk doll, try fresh butter and learn about pioneer plants with herbalist Greg Monzel. Attendees can also enjoy music by Hamilton County’s The Pickle Stompers.
ALSO CHECK OUT
ARTS IN AUTUMN — The Arts in Autumn in Midtown Plaza in Carmel will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 12. Midtown Plaza will feature trickor-treating, arts and crafts merchants, free balloon art, a strolling magician and glitter tattoos. Attendees and their pets are invited to dress up in their favorite costumes.
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre owner Doug Stark portrays Tevye for the eighth time at the Indianapolis venue. (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)
Grand Funk stops at Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Grand Funk Railroad burst on the music scene in 1969. In 1971, it sold out Shea Stadium in New York City in 72 hours, breaking the box office record of The Beatles.
CONCERT
Now, more than 50 years later, the band is still going.
“I never dreamed I would be doing it in my 70s with grandkids,” said Don Brewer, one of two original members still with the band along with bassist Mel Schacher. “I feel blessed. It’s been an amazing life. I get out on stage and start singing ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ and I look at the audience and sometimes it’s grandchildren, children, parents and grandparents and they are all singing along to the song.”
Grand Funk Railroad will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The band is using the tour to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its Gold-selling single, “The Loco-Motion.” Brewer, 76, is a drummer/vocalist.
“It’s the love of doing it,” he said. “What
(Photo courtesy of Gregg Roth)
else am I going to do at this particular time in my life? If I can do what I’ve loved doing all my life, that’s what I’m going to do.”
The band typically plays concert halls and casinos, but sometimes appears before much larger crowds at festivals.
“We do three or four shows a month usually,” Brewer said. “We’re not like the guys that get on the bus and do 100 shows. We’re kind of weekend warriors. We fly out, play Friday and Saturday, and fly home.”
Brewer wrote “We’re an American Band,” the band’s No. 1 single in 1973. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘The Waiting Game’ set to debut
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Michael Husain grew up watching the Indiana Pacers in the American Basketball Association.
FILM
“The ABA was a bit of a renegade league that broke barriers,” said Husain, a Zionsville resident. “I didn’t realize those ABA players were struggling.”
p.m. Oct. 19 at Living Room Theatres.
Husain served as director, producer, narrator, writer and interviewer. Geist resident Amy Pauszek and Indianapolis resident Bryan Boyd were co-producers.
Dr. John Abrams, a Carmel ophthalmologist, and attorney Scott Tarter co-founded The Dropping Dimes Foundation to help struggling ABA players financially and to help get them proper recognition.
“When I heard about Dropping Dimes and the work they were doing, it became important to me to follow that story,” Husain said.
The result is “The Waiting Game,” a 90-minute documentary that will have its world premiere at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Heartland International Film Festival at The Tobias Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. There will be a second showing at 12:15
The NBA agreed to pay $24.5 million in July 2022 to former ABA players.
Four ABA teams — the Pacers, San Antonio Spurs, New York (now Brooklyn) Nets and Denver Nugget — joined the NBA in 1976. The other teams disbanded.
Husain said after recounting Dropping Dimes’ mission, the documentary tells the story of why the ABA was so impactful and worthy of recognition. The ABA was founded in 1967.
Former Pacers players Bob Netolicky and Darnell Hillman are among those interviewed in the documentary. Other featured interviews are Bob Costas, Julius Erving and sociologist Harry Edwards. Indianapolis filmmaker Ted Green, who was involved with Dropping Dimes, was interviewed as well.
For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.
From left, Grand Funk Railroad members Max Carl (vocals), Mel Schacher (bass guitar), Don Brewer (drummer), Mark Chatfield (guitar), Tim Cashion (keyboardist)).
Husain
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Understanding breast cancer risks
Commentary by Ashley Dunkerly
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual observation dedicated to the education and early detection of breast cancer.
AWARENESS
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. However, it can also occur in men. Several types of breast cancer can develop in different areas of the breast. It is typically found by a mammogram or felt as a lump.
Recently, breast density has emerged as an important factor in assessing a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.
tial abnormalities, increasing the risk of missed diagnoses.
Women with dense breasts are four to five times more likely to develop breast cancer than those with lower breast density.
EARLY DETECTION IS KEY
BREAST DENSITY CAN BE A RISK FACTOR
Breast density refers to the proportion of fibrous and glandular tissue compared to fatty tissue in a woman’s breasts, as seen on a mammogram.
Women with higher breast density have more fibrous and glandular tissue, which can make it more challenging to detect cancer on a mammogram because dense tissue and tumors appear white on the imaging. This overlap can mask poten-
IU Health offers advanced screening options specifically tailored for women with dense breasts, such as a whole breast ultrasound, breast MRI and Fast MR. Screening modalities can be ordered by OB/GYN or primary care providers on a routine basis, and patients do not have to see a breast specialist to do so. These modalities are particularly valuable because most breast cancers cannot be felt during physical examinations, and symptoms often do not appear until the cancer is more advanced. These additional screening tools are essential for catching cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
Community Health launches new identity verification
Community Health Network recently announced a new partnership with CLEAR, a secure identity platform, with a goal of streamlining password reset processes and improving identity verification.
Health care service desks are frequently targeted by individuals pretending to be employees or patients in attempts to reset passwords and gain unauthorized access to information, according to the announcement. To combat these threats, Community is moving away from multifactor authentication, which verifies devices, to CLEAR Verified, which verifies the individual.
“We are taking an important step to secure our network by ensuring that both employees and patients are exactly who they claim to be when accessing sensitive systems,” stated Rick Copple, senior vice president and chief information officer.
The rollout of CLEAR at Community be-
gan in September, starting with Community employees, eventually expanding to patients and visitors. Initial enrollment is a quick process — users take a selfie and upload a photo ID, such as a driver’s license. Once enrolled, identity verification can be completed by taking a selfie.
Community Health has facilities in various communities in central Indiana, including Avon, Carmel, Fishers, Lawrence Township and Noblesville.
For more, visit ecommunity.com.
Community Health Network’s Community Hospital North is in Lawrence Township on Indianapolis’ north side. (Photo courtesy of Community Health Network)
Ashley Dunkerly is a breast surgery nurse practitioner at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Emma Packard)
Fishers couple takes ownership of Noble Coffee & Tea Co.
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Fishers couple Amy and Mason McDonald recently announced they have purchased Noble Coffee & Tea Co. at 933 Logan St. in Noblesville.
OWNERSHIP
Mason said he and his wife had been “praying for what was next” for their growing family when he heard the business was for sale.
“It just seemed to fit. It checked all the boxes we were looking at,” Mason said. “We love coffee. I’m a home barista, and now I am a professional barista. But historically, I have been a home barista, and we just love it.”
The couple, who have three children and one on the way, said previous owners Robyn Wilson and Mark Littler have been helpful in the transition.
“A lot of stuff goes on behind the scenes, and Mark and Robyn are awesome,” Mason said. “They’ve been fun to work with and go through the process with. (The business) has been a huge part of their life for a long time. It was an honor to have those
conversations.”
Mason said no significant changes are anticipated for the business.
“The reality is, what’s already happening is working, and it’s working really well,” Mason said. “It’s been around for a long time. It is already what it is, right where it’s at, and it’s a part of so many people in the community’s history and their memories. Nobody would buy something without wanting to grow it. So, there’ll be stuff that comes up over the years to do, but nothing major.”
Noble Coffee & Tea Co. is open during the transition.
IU Health announced as sponsor
500 FESTIVAL editorial@youarecurrent.com
The 500 Festival has announced Indiana University Health as the new title sponsor of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. This partnership leverages IU Health’s commitment to community wellness and its longstanding support of the 500 Festival and its events. The two organizations’ aim is to enhance the positive impact on health, wellness and fitness among Hoosiers statewide. OneAmerica previously served as the sponsor.
“We are thrilled to welcome IU Health as the title sponsor for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon,” stated Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Their commitment to health and wellness has been instrumental in the growth and success of our events. We look forward to collectively expanding our initiatives to inspire fitness and active living across Indiana for all Hoosiers.”
IU Health has supported the Mini-Mara-
thon in prior years, providing wellness services to runners throughout the race. As the presenting sponsor for the 500 Festival Education Program since 2014, the organization has impacted more than 274,000 students, promoting health and fitness amongst younger generations. More than 700 IU Health employees have participated in the 500 Festival Employee Wellness Challenge, and more than 100 volunteer annually for the Mini-Marathon and 5K.
Riley Hospital for Children, part of the IU Health network, welcomes the 500 Festival Princesses to its annual Indy 500 party, strengthening community ties. Many princesses choose to complete their outreach events at IU Health locations statewide. A child life specialist from IU Health also contributes to the selection process for the Princess Program, underscoring the deep integration of IU Health in the festival’s initiatives.
The IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is scheduled for May 3, 2025.
From left, new owners Amy and Mason McDonald outside Noble Coffee & Tea Co. (Photo courtesy of the McDonald family)
Is it worth the hustle?
ESSAY Commentary by Terry Anker
On the streets of New Delhi, one can expect to be approached countless times by its many citizens offering a variety of services. With a burgeoning population of nearly 35 million, the crowded sidewalks demand direct interface with all who pass by. Shoes could be shined, directions given, drinking water offered or street food suggested. Each encounter carries an expectation of remuneration. Some travelers grow weary of the open hand and shun the interactions. Enterprising locals will often conceal their immediate intent with promises to “only be helping” and not seeking a tip or compensation. The ruse doesn’t last too long as the desire for payment quickly becomes apparent. Apart from the occasionally overly persistent, it is all pleasant enough. Isn’t it right and good to admire the resourcefulness suggested? We might need guidance, and they are willing to provide it. Like any metropolis of this scale, there are those unhoused masses
who are unable or unwilling to join the hustle. Certainly, there is no judgment or blame to be cast. The streets are a hot and steaming place with daytime temperatures often reaching the upper 90s, with corresponding humidity levels. The air is laden with the incumbent pollution of such density and emerging spending power. But for those able, street life is vibrant and engaged — so much so, that one is left with a general sense of admiration for the motivation.
In our everyday lives, we are constantly calculating the value of our time against the benefit to be gained by some action. Is it worth doing this or that task? From the simple domestic duty of cleaning the dishes or pressing a shirt to the more elevated moves to enroll in a university or finish our epic novel, are we in the hustle or watching it pass?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
More pain at the pump
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
There are two filling stations near me where prices sometimes vary by as much as 40 cents per gallon. These two establishments are right across the street from each other. I wouldn’t drive downtown to save four bucks on a new car, but I sure would venture 300 yards to save a few dollars on a tank of gas. I want a job pointing out to people who drive into the more expensive gas station how they can save some good money. I’d charge them three cents a gallon. I told my wife Mary Ellen I’d find a good-paying hobby when I retired. By the way, they are no longer called gas or filling stations. Oil companies prefer the term convenience store. A real gas station, including someone to pump your gas, is only a distant memory for baby boomers like me. Back in New York, when I was young and virile and could pump my own gas, an attendant did it for me. Sixty years later, I have two bad knees, a sore elbow and a bad back. Now, I’m supposed to do it myself. This was abysmal planning on everyone’s part.
HUMOR
I still don’t know what side of the vehicle my gas tank is on. I drive into the station and try to look in my sideview mirror, but I can’t see the gas cap. So, I take a chance and pull up to the pump. Wrong side. Then I return to the car and drive completely around the pump to the other side. Wrong side again. OMG, someone stole my gas tank. I thought the little arrow on my dashboard was telling me where to look out the window.
Now, how about that gas pump. It’s always asking me questions:
Do you want to pay inside? No!
Do you want a car wash? No!
Do you want a receipt? No, no!
Do you want a Krispy Kreme doughnut?
Let me think about that one.
Do you want us to turn off that stupid
“I still don’t know what side of the vehicle my gas tank is on. I drive into the station and try to look in my sideview mirror, but I can’t see the gas cap. So, I take a chance and pull up to the pump. Wrong side.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
music video? Yes!!!!
Do you want to know why the gas price went up while you were pumping the gas? Oh, yes!
Inside a service center, milk costs are not quite so erratic, but be prepared for this as you enter for a future fill-up:
• Whole milk: $2.39 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• 2 percent milk: $2.34 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• 1 percent milk: $2.28 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• Half-percent milk: $2.17 and 9/10 cents per gallon
• White-colored water: $1.02 and 9/10 cents per gallon
I figured out last night that mouthwash would cost about $150 a gallon and computer ink would cost and about $4,000 per gallon.
I hope that makes you feel better about gas prices.
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.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
LIFESTYLE
37. University that plays at Scheumann Stadium
40. ___/her pronouns
43. Noblesville HS swimming competition
44. Fill-in worker
46. “A Fish Called ___”
48. Part of IMPD (Abbr.)
50. Gov. Holcomb
53. Heavenly spirits
55. Ray Skillman Northeast Kia model
56. Nixed, at NASA
57. Pacers foe
59. Fills
61. “Terrible” czar
62. “And others,” in Latin
64. Haberdasher’s item
65. Tax assessment
66. College that plays at Little Giant Stadium
67. Half and half
68. Angers
69. Begins
70. Wood Wind Golf Club standard Down
1. Herb and Mel
2. Man’s jewelry item
3. Pesto ingredient
4. Revise a story for Current
5. Seafood restaurant offering 6. Hamilton County Court do-over
7. Scot’s refusal
8. Clothes
9. Like some Oliver Winery reds
10. Less certain 11. Inventor
12. College that plays at Darrell Beane Stadium
13. Sights in the western
21. High muck-a-muck
23. Speak from memory
26. Small kitchen appliance
30. Batting avg., e.g.
33. El Toro Bravo menu item
35. One who might needle you?
38. Played the first card
39. Change
40. Kenyan language
41. College that plays at Alumni Stadium
42. Make a lasting impression
45. Crooked Stick Golf Club store
47. Home of the Grand Slam breakfast
49. Support column
51. Large lizard
52. Whirlybird, for short 54. Crockpot concoctions
58. Colts’ fig.
60. Oohs and ___
63. Barnes & Thornburg attorneys’ org. Answers on Page 23
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Ushering in a new era.
For more than a decade, the Center has been a cornerstone for creativity in our community. Welcome to the center for art and culture in Central Indiana. Welcome to the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
TheCenterPresents.org
