Tuesday, January 28, 2025
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Noblesville couple fulfills dream of opening bake shop / P12
Noblesville nonprofit hosts inaugural State of Noblesville Main Street / P3
Noblesville Meijer teams with nonprofit to feed local families / P5
Social media influencer collaborates with Current / P7
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Noblesville nonprofit hosts inaugural State of Noblesville Main Street
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville Main Street hosted its inaugural State of Noblesville Main Street for local business leaders Jan. 16 at Mill Top Banquet and Conference Center in Noblesville, where it previewed how the nonprofit will operate in 2025.
CITY NEWS
Executive Director of NMS Kate Baker said in November 2023 that Main Street America, which leads a movement dedicated to reenergizing and strengthening older and historic downtowns, conducted a citywide survey to assess Noblesville’s needs and address how NMS can help.
Baker said the three transformation strategies the NMS board of directors adopted and will consider are:
• Inspired growth: “Are we growing our community, bringing foot traffic to our downtown district and connecting with our businesses to increase their foot traffic and sales,” Baker said.
• Empowered business: “Noblesville Main Street is doubling down on this strategy this year by bringing education and data resources to help strengthen downtown businesses,” she said.
• Enhanced life: “Is Noblesville a place for everyone? Is downtown accessible and mindful of sensory needs? Are we a place for all ages, genders and socio-economic levels,” she said.
Baker also discussed the nonprofit’s vision and goals for 2025, which are to amplify efforts to support businesses within the district through marketing, events and education; embrace the growth of the community through opportunities and experiences; build relationships; provide quality events; continue to set a solid foundation for the future of NMS; and create an inclusive environment for the community. NMS will continue to operate on a four-point approach in 2025 as part of its
revitalization strategy, according to Baker. She said the strategy is from Main Street America and has been in NMS’s structure since 1990.
The four points are:
• Organization: Focuses on fundraising for organizational stability and volunteer management for event execution. NMS publishes a quarterly newsletter and helps share the downtown story with sponsors. Anne Turk is the committee chair and is seeking sponsorships and more volunteer opportunities.
• Promotion: Focuses on mission-based event planning and execution and strategizes ways to bring more people to downtown Noblesville for engagement. NMS welcomes downtown stakeholders to join the committee to help shape downtown events.
• Design: What physically defines Noblesville’s historic district? NMS participates in the city’s Downtown District
Committee to answer this question and help maintain the preservation of historic buildings and the beautification of downtown Noblesville.
• Economic vitality: Focuses on business support and impact analysis and is responsible for business data collection. Baker said this is a good committee for district business leaders. The nonprofit also will implement changes to a popular event this year in response to feedback from local businesses. Baker said First Friday will look different this year.
“In the past, each month had themed events every First Friday,” Baker said. “Merchant feedback reflects that some events are amazing, and some events seem to be a waste of time and energy. With Noblesville’s current setup, with (a) DORA in place, more residents downtown and more restaurants than ever before, First Fridays can stand alone without a theme.”
For more, visit noblesvillemainstreet.org.
Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 17
Copyright 2023
Current Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
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Executive Director of Noblesville Main Street Kate Baker presents at the first State of Noblesville Main Street Jan. 16. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville Main Street)
Noblesville nonprofits SERVE Noblesville and International Disaster Emergency Service partnered to host a meal-packing event on Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 20. All packaged meals will be sent to Ukraine to feed anywhere from 30,000 to 40,000 people in need. Volunteers packed meals, and each $10 donation funded 40 meals. Donations covered the cost of ingredients, packaging and transportation. In the morning, 66 volunteers packed 13,248 meals and 68 volunteers packed 17,856 meals in the afternoon for a total of 31,104 meals.
Volunteers pack meals Jan. 20. (Photos by Jessica Todd)
Volunteers seal 14-ounce bags of food for people in Ukraine facing hardship.
City of Noblesville Communications Manager Robert Herrington and his family prepare meals.
Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen and his family and team prepare meals.
Meijer teams with nonprofit
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Noblesville Meijer grocery at 5956 Promenade Shops Blvd. has partnered with Angels’ Attic, an Arcadia food bank and donated goods ministry, through the retailer’s Simply Give program, which provides relief to local families facing food insecurity.
DONATION
Customers are encouraged to purchase $10 donation cards at checkout during the Simply Give campaign. Donations are converted into Meijer food-only gift cards and given directly to the local food pantry selected by the store.
Angels’ Attic will be the recipient of donation cards from Meijer through March 29.
The Simply Give program began in 2008 and runs year-round to help keep local food pantries stocked. Food pantries that receive donations are rotated throughout the year.
“One of our goals is to build relationships with local food banks and food
pantries so we can enrich the lives in the communities we serve,” Noblesville Meijer Store Director Travis Bernath said. “It is rewarding to be part of an organization that is bringing more good to life every day, and we look forward to continuing to build and grow these local partnerships right here in our community.”
Angels’ Attic Executive Director Kimberly Beaver said this is the first time Angels’ Attic, which primarily services the Hamilton Heights school district, has been selected for the program.
“The partnership means around an additional $10,000 in our food budget,” Beaver said. “With any excess, we want to fund our monthly Angel Meals program. Through the program, we give every family that comes through a full crockpot recipe with all ingredients.”
Beaver said any additional money left on the gift cards will be used to buy fresh produce.
For more, visit meijercommunity.com/ simply-give.
NOBLESVILLE FEBRUARY EVENTS
CANDLEMAS & WONDERS OF LIGHT
Although it is still winter, Candlemas, also known as Imbolk or St. Brigid’s Day in Gaelic culture, represents the halfway mark between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. For many, it marks the beginning of spring. Celebrate the occasion with a bonfire, lantern-making and candle-dipping for $5 from 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Taylor Center of Natural History at Strawtown Koteewi Park in Noblesville, 12308 Strawtown Ave. Register at hamiltoncounty.in.gov/ Calendar.aspx?EID=6131.
DISCOVER DOWNTOWN
Join Noblesville Main Street in exploring downtown Noblesville at its First Friday event from 4 to 8 p.m. Feb. 7 through Feb. 9. Shop, dine and enjoy experiences like live music and art. Attendees can participate in a giveaway by supporting local businesses, taking a selfie and posting and tagging Noblesville Main Street and the businesses you are supporting with the hashtag #DiscoverDowntownNoblesville. Those who do will be entered into a drawing for a variety of gift cards to local establishments. For more, visit facebook. com/events/1760169237893666.
VALENTINE’S EXPRESS
Nickel Plate Express will have a Valen-
tine’s Day Express excursion from 6 to 7 p.m. Feb. 14 and Feb. 15. Attendees will experience a 90-minute ride through Hamilton County. Families in the platinum and standard seating will enjoy a themed treat and drink and adults in the diamond class car will enjoy a ride in the dining car. Each adult ticket includes a charcuterie box and glass of champagne. For more, visit nickelplateexpress.com/train-rides/ valentines-day-express.
PALENTINE’S DAY
Teens have the opportunity to celebrate with friends from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Noblesville Library, One Library Plaza. Teens will vote on a movie to watch while making a craft and eating pizza and snacks. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required at hepl.libnet.info/ events.
FUNDRAISER
The Noblesville Band Bingo Night featuring bingo, door prizes and raffle baskets will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Noblesville Moose Lodge, 950 Field Dr. All proceeds go toward the Noblesville Band Student Financial Assistance Fund which provides essential financial assistance to help students participate in band and ensemble activities. For tickets, visit noblesvilleband. org/bingo.
ATHLETICX BRACE
Don’t Let Pain Slow You Down
County employee retires
news@currentnoblesville.com
Executive Director of Hamilton County Community Corrections Ralph Watson retired Jan. 17 after 35 years of public service.
EMPLOYMENT
Watson has been the agency’s executive director since its inception in 1990. Tammy Sander, the county’s communications director, said under his leadership, the agency has developed a reputation for excellence in managing residential and community-based correctional programs that help rehabilitate offenders and support public safety.
Watson began his career with the Hamilton County Probation Department as a juvenile probation officer in 1984. He said his decision to retire comes at a time when the county is “poised for new opportunities.”
“It’s a good time for me to step back,” Watson stated. “The county has a lot of new possibilities ahead of it, and I’m
confident that the agency will continue to thrive. Hamilton County has always been proactive in looking toward the future and wanting to try new things. It’s been a great place to grow and make a difference.”
Kevin Mulroony, the agency’s director of administration since 2014, will step into the role of executive director.
Sander said Mulroony has worked closely with Watson for many years and brings “a wealth of experience” to the position.
Before joining Hamilton County Community Corrections, Mulroony served in various roles with the Indiana Department of Corrections.
“The Hamilton County Community Corrections Department is at the forefront of changing lives and improving public safety, and I look forward to building on Ralph’s legacy,” Mulroony stated. “This agency wouldn’t be where it is today without Ralph’s leadership, and my goal is to continue expanding our services to meet the growing needs of the county.”
Man charged with sex crimes
news@currentnoblesville.com
A Noblesville man has been charged with more than a dozen charges for sex crimes involving a minor.
CRIME
Simeon Kenneth Wayne Gordon, 42, is being held in the Hamilton County Jail on a $200,000 bond after being charged with seven counts of child molesting, dissemination of matter harmful to minors and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, according to a probable cause affidavit from the Hamilton County Clerk’s Office. An initial court hearing was held Jan. 15 in Hamilton Superior Court 2. Court records state that the crimes, which were allegedly committed against a relative, date to December 2023 but came to light months later.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office received a report of suspected child abuse on July 17, 2024, allegedly involving a 13-year-old relative, according to the probable cause affidavit filed by Hamilton County Det. Mitch Corry Jan. 13.
The affidavit states that the victim and Gordon were working together to renovate the victim’s grandmother’s Noblesville home. In an Aug. 1, 2024, interview, the victim said she and the accused would work on the house, drink alcohol and have inappropriate conversations.
The victim disclosed that the accused first touched her sexually on Dec. 9, 2023, while she was under the influence of alcohol and a vape pen.
The victim stated the accused later called and apologized and said it would not happen again. However, another instance occurred in the following months, according to the affidavit.
She disclosed she has not been to the accused’s house in five months since the second incident occurred.
In a Sept. 4, 2024, interview with the accused, the affidavit states he denied all abuse allegations and denied providing drugs to the victim.
A pretrial hearing is set for March 27.
Gordon
Watson Mulroony
Social media influencer teams with Current
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Michelle Baxter likes to wander. A native of the southeast side of Indianapolis, Baxter met her husband Ben at Ball State University, where she graduated in 2009. The couple and their two children, Braden, 16, and Kendall, 12, have lived in Westfield for 10 years.
COLLABORATION
Baxter was a few months into a new job as a court videographer in 2020 when COVID-19 closures pushed her to seek out a new endeavor — helping friends and neighbors find things to do locally.
What followed was the creation of her social media pages — “Wandering Westfield” — on Instagram and Facebook. In the past five years, Baxter — who now collaborates with Current — has amassed more than 48,000 combined followers on those platforms.
“Everybody was looking for something to do. I just thought about this concept because I was new in Hamilton County once (and) without knowing people or knowing what’s going on, you really have to kind of search for it,” she said. “So, I thought, what if I made a page that kind of encompassed all of the things?”
At the beginning, with COVID-19 restrictions still in place, Baxter began by sharing what the community could still enjoy that wasn’t closed, like hiking at Cool Creek Park.
“I just thought it’d be an informative page,” she said. “I initially was going to do it anonymously because I was embarrassed by the whole thing, but it took me about one week and then I showed my face and my personality because I just couldn’t help it. And it became a source and, honestly, a way to help small businesses at the time, to let people know what’s going on.”
Her brand has since expanded to include Hamilton County and beyond. Unlike international influencers, Baxter focuses on what’s available in everyone’s backyard, from date-night inspiration and local pumpkin patches to partnerships with cafés, restaurants and even the Indianapolis 500. Baxter’s latest collaboration is with Current. She will serve as a social media partner, adding her special brand of social
media connections to stories and events in Hamilton, Boone and Marion counties.
“Partnering with someone who’s local, who has the audience, just kind of marries the two together,” she said. “I just add to the social media, my flair, my videos, the way I edit. (Current) is obviously a very known publication and it’s local, and that’s what I want to do. I definitely get reached out to by national brands too, but I also want to keep sharing about what my audience wants to see, which is local content.”
The first collaboration will highlight Dink House pickleball facility in Carmel.
Baxter said although she is an influencer, she’s also authentic — showing her daily life and having a little fun. She said her ultimate goal is to promote what’s accessible locally.
“Indianapolis is still not a huge city,” she said. “If you live in Westfield, you’re still going to travel downtown. You still want to go to the Indy 500. We’re in proximity to so many awesome things that you still want to know about.”
Initially, Baxter wasn’t comfortable being called “an influencer.” But now, she embraces the distinction.
“I resisted the term influencer for the longest time because it had such a negative connotation,” she said. “But then I decided I’m influencing for good. It’s not always a bad word. So, once I started to embrace that more and realize I’m providing a service, that’s when I took it more seriously on the small business side. But it always remains that I want to help people.”
Follow Baxter on Facebook and Instagram at @WanderingWestfield.
Michelle Baxter’s “Wandering Westfield” social media accounts have more than 48,000 followers. (Photo courtesy of Michelle Baxter)
Zionsville senior guard fulfilling hoop dreams
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Community High School senior guard Maguire Mitchell knows what drives his passion for basketball.
“I would say it’s looking back at my younger self in my driveway, watching college basketball and dreaming to be on TV one day,” Mitchell said. “I can’t let that little kid down.”
Mitchell, who was averaging 20.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game prior to Jan. 24, has signed a National Letter of Intent to play basketball for Indiana University Indianapolis next season. The 6-foot-6 Mitchell averaged 20.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game as a junior.
Eagles coach J.R. Howell said Mitchell has always been an accurate shooter and dynamic scorer.
“He has the ability to change a game by his natural ability to score,” Howell said. “Also, his defensive ability and understanding of the game make him a nice two-way player. This year, Maguire has taken a big step forward in trusting his teammates. As a natural scorer, his mindset is to be
MAGUIRE MITCHELL
Favorite athlete: Kevin Durant
Favorite TV show: “Attack on Titan”
Favorite sports team: Indiana Pacers
Favorite vacation spot: Naples, Fla.
a scorer. However, over the last couple of years, he has been open and willing to understand what is given and not force the issue.”
Mitchell said he has a lot of trust in his teammates.
“I’ve seen the work they all have put in during the offseason and would be dumb
to not,” he said.
Zionsville senior guard Maguire Mitchell is the team’s top scorer and rebounder. (Photo courtesy of Maguire Mitchell)
NCAA Division I offer.
“I was thinking about waiting until November to see what other offers I would get to commit, but (IU Indianapolis) coach (Paul) Corsaro and (assistant) coach (Mike) Burris showed how much they wanted me and the commitment they had toward me, so I made the decision to commit early,” Mitchell said.
Corsaro said Mitchell is a versatile player.
“He can score it, defend, shoot it well and passes the ball well,” Corsaro stated. “He plays with some toughness that’s going to fit in well with our returning guys.”.
Mitchell played with his twin brother, Maddox, until high school.
Mitchell was shooting 49 percent overall from the field, and 41 percent from 3-point range, as of Jan. 24.
“My shot has developed the most in the offseason,” he said. ‘I think it is the best it’s ever looked and (I) look to keep improving it.”
Mitchell said IU Indianapolis was his first
“He quit and is now a manager for us,” said Mitchell, who was a wide receiver on the Eagles’ football team until his sophomore year.
Mitchell played AAU with Indiana Elite, helping the team to an Adidas 3Stripes Select Basketball national runner-up finish in the summer of 2024.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
Peter Swiatek, MD is a fellowship-trained Spine Surgeon who specializes in the comprehensive care of spine surgery. Dr. Swiatek tailors his treatment plans to the needs of each of his patients, with a focus on non-operative management whenever possible. Dr. Swiatek achieved magna cum laude status from Harvard University. He graduated from medical school with honors from the University of Michigan and completed his residency at Northwestern in Chicago, IL. After his residency, Dr. Swiatek completed spine surgery fellowship at the world-renowned Rothman Institute and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA.
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• Experienced, Compassionate, Fellowship-trained Spine Surgeon
Organization supports local nonprofits through fundraising
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Altrusa International might not be as well-known as Rotary, but the historically women’s service organization has been around nearly as long — and has a strong connection with Indianapolis.
GIVING BACK
Altrusa was founded in 1917, offering a service organization that women could join — at that time, many service clubs were only for men. The first Altrusa club was in Nashville, Tennessee, and the second was established that same year in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis also hosted the first Altrusa convention in 1918 and the organization grew from there. Now, there are numerous clubs, primarily in the United States, with a few international chapters — including some as far away as New Zealand.
Altrusa Indianapolis has members in Noblesville, Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Whitestown, Indianapolis and McCordsville.
Geist-area resident Lisa Poole is a local Altrusa member who joined after retirement. She said that for her and other retirees, it’s important to have an outlet for socializing and doing something useful for society.
“Many studies are constantly saying giving back to your community and becoming involved is good for your mental health as well as your physical health,” she said, adding that the club also offers a way to make new friends.
Club member Cara DeBuysser-Lyons of Indianapolis, although not retired, agreed that the organization is a fun way to give back and socialize, even for those who are busy with jobs and families.
“I liked that there were a variety of different activities, different ways to be
involved. It can fit different schedules,” she said. “We have a number of service projects that we tend to do for long periods of time — certain organizations that we have worked with for years and years.”
One of those organizations is Coburn Place, a local shelter for individuals and families that are escaping domestic violence. Altrusa Indianapolis members raise funds for Coburn Place, but also help in more hands-on ways, such as an annual fall festival, which includes pumpkin decorating.
“We also donate pajamas and socks or pajamas and underwear, depending on what they have the greater need for, every year for the kids that are part of their program,” DeBuysser-Lyons said. “One of our contacts at Coburn will write us a list of the first names and the ages and the sizes of all the children that are in their program, and we’ll buy pajamas and socks or underwear for each child and wrap it up, and
that will be part of their holiday events.”
For more about Coburn Place, visit coburnplace.org.
Another ongoing project led by Altrusa members is a Learning Garden at Lakeside Elementary School, part of the Warren Township school district.
“It was just vegetables. Now, we have some flowers too,” Poole said. “Because it’s in a food desert — (the kids learn) more about where food comes from and then they could take some of the food home, or just taste it.”
The Learning Garden is now in its fourth year.
An international project that various Altrusa chapters support, including the Indy club, is a partnership with Days for Girls. That nonprofit provides reusable menstruation supplies that are sent to countries where those items are difficult or impossible to find.
Other service projects Altrusa Indianapolis members participate in include volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul food pantry, offering scholarships for nontraditional students and collecting diaper and menstruation items to donate locally. The club accomplishes all that and more with just 25 members, Poole said, adding that they would love to do more.
For more about Altrusa Indianapolis, visit districtsix.altrusa.org/indianapolis or the group’s Facebook page, facebook.com/ altrusaindy.
Altrusa members volunteer at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Indianapolis Council’s food pantry, one of many service projects the organization has throughout the year. (Photo courtesy of Altrusa)
Summer Summer Camp Camp Get Movin’ Series
Registration Begins February 3 at 8:00 am
ENROLL & SUBMIT PAYMENT
Online at noblesvilleparks.org
By phone 317.776.6350 if payment by debit/credit card.
In person at Forest Park Inn
PARKER IRWIN Camp Director
ALIYA STATLER Assistant Camp Director
The all-new Get Movin' Series runs from Monday, June 2, to Friday, July 25. This 8-week adventure will introduce young campers to an exciting world of activities and exploration at Mojo Up Sports Complex and Finch Creek Park!
Each week, campers will have the chance to explore a variety of activities designed to keep them active and engaged, all while having fun. With access to top-notch facilities, kids will get hands-on experience trying new games and movements, building teamwork skills, and discovering their favorite ways to stay active.
What’s included?
Daily lunch is provided by Mojo Up’s commercial kitchen, ensuring campers are fueled for fun every day.
Morning and afternoon snacks to keep them energized. Sunscreen to help keep everyone safe.
5 camp t-shirts, one for each day of the week! Campers are required to wear their camp T-shirts daily, helping build a sense of team spirit.
Weekly field trips allow campers to explore new environments, learn something new, and have a blast outside the regular camp setting.
Special 3-day camp week during the week of July 4th so families can enjoy the holiday while still experiencing camp fun.
Cost: The weekly rate is $225 for the Rookies and Majors Series. The three-day camp from June 30 to July 2 is $150.
AND BETTER
FIGHTING PARKINSON’S
Stratford program designed to slow progression of disease for residents
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Proper footwear important in snow and ice
Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf
As winter descends, the enchanting beauty of snowflakes and ice can quickly turn treacherous. While many embrace the season’s charm, the hidden dangers of slippery surfaces pose a significant risk to our feet and overall stability. Proper footwear is essential for navigating these conditions safely, and seeking guidance from a podiatrist can help you make informed choices.
The right shoes can make all the difference when it comes to winter safety. Look for footwear designed with features specifically tailored for snow and ice. Key attributes include slip-resistant soles, waterproof materials and adequate insulation. Shoes with deep treads provide better traction, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls. Additionally, a snug fit allows for warmth without compromising movement and helping to prevent frostbite.
Ignoring the need for appropriate footwear can lead to serious consequences. Slip-and-fall accidents can result in sprains, fractures or even chronic pain, leading to long-term mobility issues. Furthermore, inadequate support can exacerbate existing foot conditions, contributing to discomfort and pain. This is where a podiatrist can provide invaluable assistance.
Podiatrists specialize in foot health and can recommend the best types of footwear for your specific needs and activities. They can also assess your foot structure and biomechanics, ensuring you choose shoes that provide optimal support and stability. If you experience pain or discomfort while walking in winter conditions, it’s crucial to consult a podiatrist. They can diagnose underlying issues and suggest tailored solutions, such as orthotics or specialized footwear.
Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are both board-certified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.
Why don’t we keep our New Year’s resolutions?
Commentary by Valerie J. Weesner.
The New Year begins, and the gyms are filled with people who will be there maybe once, twice or possibly even for a month or two, despite signing on for a year’s membership. Why do we make New Year’s resolutions and why don’t we follow through?
My thought is that we make our resolutions based on the idea that we want to start fresh. We have high hopes of being healthy, being fit, possibly getting stronger, steadier on our feet, or maybe we have an event to go to and we want to look and feel better in our clothes.
All worthwhile goals. So, why don’t we follow up on our resolutions? This question seems to have a lot of answers — likely having to do not with the goals, but how we choose to execute them. We set a goal to exercise and get healthier. We walk into a gym, which seems OK, or someone told us good things about it, and we sign up. And then we go to work out. Here is what often happens: We don’t know what to do, we don’t feel comfortable, we’re embarrassed, we don’t know anyone, and we end up wandering around, leaving without wanting to return. Or we get a workout in, feel somewhat OK about it, and plan to go back. Possibly, we get injured or at least very sore, because we didn’t know how to manage our time and our work-
outs for the best outcome.
The next time we plan to go, we end up having a harder time convincing ourselves to go, maybe we understand why, and maybe we don’t quite know what the barrier is, but we still don’t return, or we go less frequently. And being there less frequently means we
never really get more comfortable with being there. OK, so let’s back up. We have great goals, but we need to think hard about how we want to execute them. We want to go to a gym, get exercise, feel more fit, maybe lose some weight. How do we do that so that the process we choose is sustainable? How do we set ourselves up for success?
Here are some thoughts:
• Find a gym that is inviting, where you feel safe and comfortable walking in.
• Find a gym that gives you the opportunity to work out safely, with guidance to get the right kind of workout for where you are physically, as well as mentally and emotionally.
• Find a clean, comfortable environment that is inviting to you – with people who greet you, know you and reach out when you are missing.
When we find the right fit and the right way to go about putting our goals into action, we are much more likely to follow through and feel great about having made those resolutions.
Motion 4 Life Fitness member Joe Miller works out. (Photo courtesy of Motion 4 Life)
Valerie J. Weesner is a Ph.D., HSPP and is a staff consultant for Motion 4 Life Fitness.
Retired couple finds home
By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com
It took a few years and a few moves, but Jim Saucunas and his wife Betty finally found the place where they wanted to live in Indianapolis in May 2024.
Jim and Betty are residents of the Sycamore Reserve Senior Living in Indianapolis. Jim said they are delighted with their new home.
“We moved to Indianapolis 15 years ago,” Jim said. “We had a few places, including a duplex on Ditch Road, but when we heard about Sycamore, it sounded interesting, so we went to visit.”
Jim has not regretted it.
“Since we’ve moved here, we’re very happy,” Jim said. “It’s a beautiful place and the management is friendly and helpful, and they offer so many activities. We want this to be our final move.”
The couple is from Chicago and have been married for 33 years. Betty is a retired nurse, and Jim was a printer for more than 30 years before retiring.
Jim Saucu nas and his wife Betty moved to Sycamore Reserve in May 2024. (Photo courtesy of Sycamore Reserve)
Jim, 77, didn’t think about settling in Indianapolis until his daughter Pamela moved to Indianapolis 20 years ago.
“When Pamela moved here, we used to come down and visit her a couple of times a year,” Saucunas said. “As the years went on, we didn’t have any relatives left there and also started knowing less and less people in Chicago, and things were getting expensive.”
That’s when they decided to move. Saucunas used to dabble in photography but spends most of his time simply enjoying retirement.
For more, visit sycamorereserve.com.
Don’t let winter stop you from thinking about warmer weather. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins and want healthier legs this summer, call our office today to schedule your initial consultation.
WHEN TO SEE A CARDIOLOGIST
TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR HEART HEALTH
By Dr. Nathan Lambert, medical director of Cardiology at IU Health North and Saxony hospitals
Aquestion I am commonly asked by patients, friends and family is,
“When is it appropriate to see a cardiologist?” What I hear is people don’t want to “bother” the cardiologist if their symptoms aren’t actually heart related. I also hear that they don’t want to spend time in an emergency room for a “false alarm.” These can be fatal mistakes. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States and in Indiana. Proactively addressing your heart health can help prevent serious cardiovascular issues.
HEART DISEASE RISK
We want to think of ourselves as healthy, and we should. However, at the same time, we cannot be in denial about our own underlying cardiovascular risk. Much of our risk is modifiable, such as smoking status, blood pressure, weight and diabetes control. But important components are not. We can’t control our age, and we can’t control our genetics. As we get older, our risk increases, even if we have a very healthy lifestyle. Likewise, if heart disease runs strongly in either side of the family, our risk is elevated.
ASYMPTOMATIC
PATIENTS
Let’s start with asymptomatic patients. These are patients experiencing no discomfort in the chest, no difficulty breathing and no abnormal heartbeats. These patients should see a cardiologist if their cardiac risk is determined to be elevated, even in the absence of symptoms. Probably the two simplest but most powerful screening tests to establish baseline risk are the LDL cholesterol (fasting blood draw) and the calcium score as determined by a heart scan (low dose CT scan). Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is a type of cholesterol that’s often called “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can increase your risk of stroke and heart disease. Some folks with a relatively high LDL cholesterol will have an excellent heart scan result and may not need medication. On
the other hand, some folks with what appears to be a reasonably good LDL cholesterol will have an abnormal heart scan and may need medication.
LOWERING “BAD” CHOLESTEROL
There is a lot on the Internet about cholesterol. Simply put, for someone with any degree of elevated cardiac risk, LDL cholesterol is bad. Do not be misled or persuaded otherwise; that can be a serious mistake. The next question is how to lower the LDL cholesterol. After diet and exercise, statins, a specific group of medications, are the mainstay. And again, there’s a lot of misleading information out there. Statins reduce inflammation inside our coronary arteries, which is a powerful way to stabilize plaque and prevent heart attacks. However, we now have several non-statin alternatives. Which medication to use for lowering LDL cholesterol (when medication is needed) is certainly something to discuss with a cardiologist.
SYMPTOMATIC PATIENTS
Next, let’s consider patients with symptoms. Symptoms can be very noticeable, such as heavy pressure in the chest, which may (or may not) radiate down either arm, to the jaw or to the back. Symptoms can also be more subtle, including a shortness of breath or fatigue with activities that used to be easy to perform. Again, none of us want to think we may have a heart problem, but if your chest discomfort only occurs when you walk briskly or otherwise exert yourself, you should not just presume this is acid reflux or sore muscles. Any exertional symptoms that are new or different, and that include any sort of discomfort or tension in the chest, feeling of labored breathing or excessive fatigue, are very appropriate reasons to see a cardiologist. Two old adages apply here: “it’s better to be safe than sorry” and “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” If there is any question of heart risk or heart symptoms, come see the cardiologist – you’re not bothering us! To learn more about heart health, visit iuhealth.org/heart.
Nathan Lambert
Kasie Keyes, wellness associate at The Stratford, works with Jeff Klindera in an emPowerD class. (Photo courtesy of The Stratford)
disease,” he said.
Klindera, who moved to Carmel from Rockford, Ill., had surgery in 2010, when doctors put electrodes in his brain to treat neurological conditions. He worked in computer software but had to retire at age 59 because of the disease.
“When you utilize the research and all the sources that are out there, you can live a very high-quality life for a long time,” The Stratford lifestyle advisor Neal Miller said. “It’s more about being the person in charge rather than allowing the disease to be in charge.”
Miller said exercise, socialization and support groups help people with Parkinson’s live at a very high level for as long as possible and slows the progression of the disease.
The one-hour emPowerD exercise program is conducted twice a week. Klindera works on the boxing bag, along with other strengthening and balancing exercises.
“Walking backwards is my kryptonite. I tend to fall if I walk backwards,” he said, referring to the fictional material that slows Superman. “I haven’t fallen in a year-and-a-half. I get the most out of the balancing (exercises).”
The exercises have given Klindera more confidence.
“I know the disease is getting worse because I can’t talk as well as I used to,” said Klindera, who works on communicating exercises.
Klindera said he also receives help from a chair yoga class and a strength and balancing class.
ATHLETIC MINDSET
The Stratford Wellness Director Heather Mairn said Klindera benefits from the fact he was an athlete when he was younger. He was a gymnast at Rock Valley College, a community college in Illinois.
“The strength he had prior helps him today and we build upon that,” Mairn said. “He’s still doing strict pull-ups and he’s doing pushups. It’s hard because it’s an illness that is never going to go away. What we are trying to do is just fight these symptoms with everything we have and every ability we have, so they can live longer and without the symptoms. I’ve seen him progress but really stay healthy.”
Klindera takes frequent walks and keeps moving.
Stratford program designed to slow progression of disease for residents
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jeff Klindera has been able to slow the progression of his Parkinson’s disease as a resident of The Stratford in Carmel.
The senior living center started a program called emPowerD to work with residents with Parkinson’s, which is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system. Symptoms often start slowly, with hand tremors being one of the first signs.
Klindera, 62, has lived at the senior living center for 2 1/2 years. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 39.
“I was living by myself, and I was stumbling and falling down a bit,” he said. “My daughter said to ‘come live near me’ (in Carmel). Part of the reason I came here was because they were starting this program. It’s been helpful to me to get to a community where people knew what I was going through.”
Klindera can compare notes with other residents with Parkinson’s.
“We can talk about advancements in treating the
“Maintenance is successful for just the normal aging person,” Mairn said. “Maintenance for somebody living with Parkinson’s disease is an incredible achievement as they age.”
Mairn said she was instructed to train Parkinson’s patients like athletes.
“For our residents, their game is independence,” Mairn said. “Their game is being able to live life to the fullest. Now, somebody with Parkinson’s diagnosis, you have to train like an athlete. You have to up their program. They have to have the mentality of an athlete because their game is life and keeping those symptoms away.”
ON THE COVER: Jeff Klindera works out on a boxing bag during the emPowerD class for residents with Parkinson’s disease. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi).
How to choose an executor of estate
Commentary by Brad Owen
You want to make sure your children get their inheritance without delays or family conflict. But who will handle the paperwork, manage debts and distribute your assets the way you intended? Choosing the right executor is a decision that could directly impact your family’s financial well-being. It’s more than just naming someone in your will — it’s selecting someone who will honor your legacy responsibly. Let’s look at some of the basics and what you should consider when choosing an executor.
What does an executor do?
An executor is the person responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will after you pass away. Their key duties include:
• Managing and valuing your assets.
• Paying off any outstanding debts and taxes.
• Distributing assets to your beneficiaries as specified in your will.
• Handling probate court proceedings and legal filings.
• Resolving disputes among beneficiaries or creditors, if necessary. What to look for in an executor When considering who to name as your executor, prioritize these qualities:
• Trustworthiness: Your executor should be someone you can rely on to follow your wishes honestly.
• Financial competence: Handling taxes, debts, and asset management requires a solid understanding of finances.
• Organizational skills: An executor must manage deadlines, paperwork, and communication effectively.
• Availability: Ensure the person has the time and capacity to take on the responsibilities involved.
• Conflict resolution ability: In case of disagreements, the executor should remain calm and impartial.
Other Considerations
When Choosing an Executor
You may want to also think about:
• Family dynamics: Will your choice minimize or contribute to conflict among heirs?
• Location: Choosing someone who resides nearby can simplify
Choosing the right executor and creating a well-rounded estate plan can provide lasting peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Don’t leave important decisions to chance.
— Brad Owen
logistics.
• Age and health: An ideal executor should be healthy and likely to outlive you.
You can also consider professional executors like estate planning attorneys or trust companies for impartial management of your estate. How our firm can help
Selecting an executor is only one part of a holistic estate plan. At Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law, we guide families through the entire process to make sure each decision fits your unique needs. Our comprehensive services include:
• Drafting clear, legally sound wills and trusts.
• Providing guidance on choosing an executor and other key life-planning roles.
• Offering resources for professional executor services, if needed.
Choosing the right executor and creating a well-rounded estate plan can provide lasting peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Don’t leave important decisions to chance. Take control of your future and ensure your wishes are honored by working with experienced professionals who can help you navigate every step of the process.
At Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law, we are committed to helping you build a legacy that reflects your values and safeguards your family’s future. Contact us to schedule a consultation and start planning for a secure tomorrow.
Let Meridian Audiology Speak at Your Next Club Meeting!
Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S. after working together in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
In stark contrast to the medical audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend whatever time their patients need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.
“We want our patients to know that we are here for them, and we will not rush them out the door so we can get on to the next patient. We love to get to know our patients, and we feel we treat them like we would treat our own family,” VonBlon said. “We’ve had many patients find and follow us to Meridian Audiology and that is a testament to our relationships with them.”
The Meridian Audiology Audiologists pride themselves on keeping up with, and
offering the top-of-the-line newest technology in hearing aids, tinnitus and auditory processing disorder. Beyond comprehensive hearing evaluations and hearing aid sales, service and maintenance, Meridian Audiology also offers the LACE AI (Listening for Communication Enhancement) program which improves comprehension of speech, tinnitus management consultations, hearing protection options and auditory processing disorder evaluation and management. We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss.
Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email, or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals. Hours are 9am4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only.
VonBlon
Wyss
Brad Owen is an attorney with Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law.
IVascular practice rebrands, opens new office
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
ndiana Vein Specialists has a new name and new location.
The practice has rebranded to Indiana Vein & Lymphatic. The final day for the west Carmel and Fishers locations will be Feb. 13. They are merging into a larger Carmel location at 11590 N. Meridian St., Suite 270, which will open Feb. 19.
The new name reflects expanded service lines for lymphatic disorders, according to the practice’s owner, Dr. Jeffery Schoonover.
fied lymphatic therapists.
The providers are Schoonover and two nurse practitioners.
The new office is approximately 7,000 square feet.
“We are combining the staff and have the providers in one unified location,” Schoonover said.
Schoonover said there are more than 20 employees with three providers; four ultrasound technologists; and two certi-
CARMEL (317) 660-5132
FORTVILLE (317) 572-7088
PLAINFIELD (317) 660-5122
“The lymphatic therapy component is one of the reasons why we are choosing to move to this facility because it’s such a needed service for people that are dealing with lower limb swelling and skin issues related to it,” Schoonover said. “There is a definite ergonomic benefit from patient flow (in the new office). It does mean we have some room for updated different aspects of the technology. We feel it’s even better for patient parking and access.”
Schoonover said he likes that the new office is across the street from IU Health North.
“We usually work with interventional radiologists that are also relatively close by to the new office,” Schoonover said. Schoonover said finding a new loca-
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Schoonover
Continued from Page 10
tion had been on the radar for about six months.
Although Schoonover said the practice has patients in their 30s and 40s, there also are patients dealing with chronic swelling in the 55-and-over age group.
“Some of the challenges we’ve seen
in the post-COVID environment, whether it’s people working at home more or people not moving as much, that’s also been a part of this as well,” he said. “Venous and lymphatic insufficiency are chronic conditions, and the best way to take care of folks is with a continuity-based model.”
For more, call 1-317-348-3020 or 1-888-534-8346.
Volunteers essential for Westfield events
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The City of Westfield has a huge need for volunteers, especially since the Indianapolis Colts training camp moved to Grand Park in 2018.
Other events requiring volunteers include Westfield Rocks the 4th, the Westfield Farmers Market, Touch-a-Truck and Shamrock Drop, among others.
“Volunteers are vital to the success of all the city’s events,” said Logan Charlesworth, communications specialist for the city. “We would not be able to host community events of the scale and caliber our residents have grown
accustomed to enjoying without added support from our incredible volunteer base.”
During weekend day events, Charlesworth said part-time and retired volunteers are essential to successful events because of their flexible schedules.
“It’s difficult to put an exact number on how many 55-and-older volunteers we had on any given date, but I would estimate at least 60 percent of our Colts Training Camp volunteers are 55 or older,” Charlesworth said. “This number jumps during weekday practices.”
Anyone interested in volunteering can visit westfield.in/volunteer.
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Forest Park Camps
Join us at Forest Park for a summer of excitement and exploration with the Ultimate Adventures Series and Preschool Camp!
From Monday, June 2nd to Friday, July 25th, this 8-week program at Forest Park will immerse young adventurers in creative activities, outdoor fun, and the wonders of nature.
Each week, campers will enjoy hands-on experiences in nature, arts, and teamwork-focused games designed to keep them active and engaged.
What’s New This Year?
Weekly Special Sessions! We’ve partnered with local experts to offer campers specialized, hands-on activities in areas like creative arts, science, sports, and more. These special sessions will bring fresh excitement and new skills each week!
Daily Snacks Provided: Campers will enjoy morning and afternoon snacks to stay energized and ready for a full day of fun and exploration.
Sunscreen: To ensure campers stay safe while playing outdoors, we’re providing sunscreen every day to protect them under the summer sun.
Campers will be busy with outdoor adventures, creative projects, and exciting challenges all summer.
Cost: The weekly rate is $160 for all summer camp options at Forest Park. The three-day camp from June 30 to July 2 is $100.
A TASTY BUSINESS
Noblesville couple fulfills dream of opening bake shop
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
By opening their new restaurant, Fluff Bake Shop, Noblesville couple Neal and Angie Fine are continuing to live their “mom-and-pop” dream of running their own business.
The Fines, who have been married for 27 years, opened Fluff Bake Shop Jan. 2 in the former Rebellion Doughnuts building at 17677 Cumberland Rd. in Noblesville.
As the business grows, the Fines look forward to offering live music and art classes in partnership with local businesses and be a place for customers to relax and try new foods and drinks.
“This (restaurant) is our dream that we didn’t know we had until four months ago, but we sort of always wanted to be able to do something that is just ours,” Angie said. “It is our new baby.”
Prior to opening Fluff Bake Shop, the Fines owned and operated Wheelers Cafe and Market in Noblesville for six years. The couple, who are in their 50s, grew up near Arcadia, and Angie has worked in the restaurant business since high school. Neal worked in construction prior to opening Wheelers, which he said came in handy as they prepared to open the restaurant.
“We were still (at Wheelers) until Nov. 30, 2024,” Angie said. “It’s been a journey, but we’re finally to the point where we can hone into what we do while tweaking all the new stuff. There’s a whole new excitement about this.”
The couple brought the Wheelers menu to Fluff Bake Shop.
“Our Wheelers menu has developed a pretty good following,” Angie said. “Customers love our chicken salad, homemade soups and coffee drinks. We use Dark Side Roasters for our coffee and have been with them for six years. The beans are locally roasted in Cicero, and we love their passion.”
The couple is keeping doughnuts on the menu. Neal said he learned to make them in-house through the help of YouTube and friends. The menu also features items like biscuits and gravy and coffee drinks like a cinnamon toast latte. Angie said they will announce new menu items as the year goes on.
“We have sweet rolls, bread pudding, cookies, rum cakes and cupcakes,” Angie said. “We’ll roll out gelato and real fruit smoothies in the spring.”
The Fines’ daughter Anna Fine, who is the special events coordinator for Fluff Bake Shop, looks forward to creating new opportunities for the restaurant.
“We have so many unreleased products, ideas and events in the near future,” Anna said. “I simply cannot wait for the future of Fluff Bake Shop.”
As business picks up, the Fines want to expand store hours. Fluff Bake Shop is open Thursday through Sunday,
and Angie said it has been a large undertaking to combine their former clientele with the clientele that Rebellion Doughnuts established before closing in July 2024.
She said the biggest challenge is acclimating to a new space.
“We’re not new to the business, we’re just new to the space,” Angie said. “We want to make sure everything is efficient and where it needs to be, and that the team feels comfortable when we get a rush in the door. Other than that, Rebellion left us some good bones to work with, so we appreciate what they did to improve the space. They created a draw and a need for this kind of place on this side of town.”
The business wants to partner with other small businesses to host events in 2025.
“We would love to have some live music, and even some 21 and older events where we pair cocktails with doughnuts,” Angie said. “We want to have bingo and trivia and possibly partner with businesses like Caravan Classes to paint or decorate a donut. The sky is the limit.”
House-made baked goods are among the menu items.
(Photo courtesy of Angie
WHY “FLUFF?”
Fluff Bake Shop co-owner Angie Fine said the business’s name came to her randomly. She hopes people associate the name with somewhere to build community and friendships.
“Fluff is sort of frivolous, but it’s more than that,” Angie said. “It is taking time out of your busy life to share a moment, share a coffee and sit and talk with someone. It is about going somewhere new and trying something you’ve never tried. That’s the fluff of life — putting yourself out there and experiencing destination spots.”
For more, visit bit.ly/4asvhEI.
ON THE COVER: Fluff Bake Shop owners Neal and Angie Fine. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
The Fluff Bake Shop menu features breakfast and lunch options like doughnuts and chicken salad sandwiches. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Fluff Bake Shop uses beans from Dark Side Roasters in Cicero for its coffee drinks. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
(Left) Fluff Bake Shop owners Neal and Angie Fine. (Photo by Jessica Todd) (Right)
Fine)
currentnightandday.com
CHS graduate gets dream role in ‘Pride and Prejudice’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Carly Kirby, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Kirby plays Lizzy Bennet in Civic Theatre’s Feb. 7-22 production of “Pride and Prejudice” at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“It’s one of my dream roles that I’ve (always) wanted to play just because she’s iconic and it’s one of my favorite movies,” said Kirby, a Westfield resident and 2015 Carmel High School graduate. “So, being able to live that out onstage is really nice and awesome.”
Kirby said her biggest challenge is mastering comedic timing.
“It has to be fast and has to be quick,” Kirby said. “There’s a lot of words and you have to say them fast and quick, but also with meaning.”
In 2021, she wore a mask on stage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It did help me hide my smile when I was laughing on stage because of how funny it was, so I’ll have to try not to smile,” she said.
This was Kirby’s third appearance in “Pride and Prejudice.” She played Jane in Civic Theatre’s 2021 production of “Pride & Prejudice,” livestreamed because of social distancing during the pandemic. She played Miss Bingley in Ball State University’s production in 2017.
“I worked my way up,” she said. “I was the villain, then the nice sister and now the leading lady,” Kirby said.
Emily Tzucker is directing “Pride & Prejudice” again after directing the Civic livestream. A former Ball State faculty member, Tzucker, a Carmel resident, was the acting coach for the 2017 production.
Tzucker said all the actors deliver lines in British accents.
“It’s faithful to the time period and the place,” she said. “The costumes will be beautiful. It’s a really fun, fast romantic date night or girls night out.”
Carmel resident Tanner Brunson plays Mr. Darcy.
“I actually didn’t see anything related to ‘Pride and Prejudice’ until I got cast and then I watched the 2005 movie,” said Brunson, a Carmel resident.
Brunson originally intended to audition for Mr. Collins.
“Then when I learned the direction of Mr. Collins was less villainous and more silly,” he said. “I kind of switched my thought process to thinking I’d be happier to be Mr. Darcy than Mr. Collins.”
Brunson said there are two main challenges.
“There are the expectations, but not emulating, but aspiring to the Colin Firth version (in the 1995 British mini series) or the Matthew Macfayden one (in the 2005 movie),” Brunson said. “Then there is being unapologetically correct without being snarky.”
Brunson has acted at Civic for 10 years, with Mr. Darcy being one of his larger roles.
Carmel resident Susan Smith plays Lady Catherine, Mr. Darcy’s aunt.
“She is the resident villain in the show,” Smith said. “She is an aristocrat. She wants
him to marry her daughter and keep the money in the family. She is anti-Miss Lizzy, and she is there for comedic effect.”
Smith enjoys playing a villain.
“You get to say things you don’t get to say in polite society,” she said. “It’s just pure fun.”
Smith said “Pride and Prejudice” is the ultimate rom-com.
“I love Jane Austen, and this particular script is very farcical and very tongue-incheek,” she said.
Smith said the script doesn’t take the storyline as seriously as the book or movie versions.
Smith previously played Mrs. Bennett in an independent production in the Storefront Theatre of Indianapolis. The last time she performed at Civic Theatre, she also played a villain — Miss Andrew in “Mary Poppins.”
There are 13 performers with only one minor character, where the actor plays two roles.
“When we did it during the pandemic, we double-cast a lot of roles,” Tzucker said of the 2021 cast of eight.
For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’
“Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express” runs through Feb. 9 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘THE KINGS OF QUEEN’
“The Kings of Queen: Tribute to Queen” is set for 8 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘WHODUNIT’
The Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “Whodunit … The Musical” Jan. 31 through Feb. 16 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
The Bronte Fall and Friends concert is set for Jan. 30, followed by “Murder Mystery Night: Death of a Gangster” Feb. 1 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, feinsteinshc.com.
DISPATCHES
DeVoe to perform at Palladium — Jennie DeVoe will appear in the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Palladium in the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. DeVoe is a soul-blues-Americana singer-songwriter and a longtime regular of Indiana’s original music scene. She has released several studio and live albums on her own Rubin the Cat Records label, including three produced by John Parrish.
Frampton concert set for Palladium — Grammy-winning guitarist and singer-songwriter Peter Frampton will perform at 8 p.m. April 11 at the Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are on sale at thecenterpresents.org, by phone at 1-317-843-3800, or in person at the Palladium’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office. Frampton, was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2024.
Tanner Brunson and Carly Kirby perform in Civic Theatre’s presentation of “Pride & Prejudice.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty Photography)
ATI presents ‘Whodunit’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Julie Lyn Barber enjoyed her “Whodunit” experience so much she is directing the show again.
MUSICAL
Barber, who directed the musical a few summers ago at a summer stock theater in Hagerstown, is directing Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Whodunit … The Musical” Jan. 31 to Feb. 15 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
well-known because that way audiences can really enjoy the mystery part of the musical murder mystery without spoilers,” Barber said.
Barber
“I thought it was great when I read it, but it was even funnier and more fun to work on once we got into the rehearsal room and started getting it on its feet,” Barber said. “There were many moments where we were crying from laughing just putting it together and audiences loved it and were doing the same.”
Barber had never seen the musical before she directed it.
“I think it’s a rare advantage to be able to produce a musical that doesn’t have a readily available cast recording and isn’t
Barber said the show contains many elements of farce with a feminine twist.
The story takes place in a possibly haunted mansion in 1931, so there are moments where it recalls Agatha Christie novels, classic movie musicals and mystery dramas. But the central characters are a wealthy socialite and her maid.
ATI co-founder and Artistic Director Judy Fitzgerald plays Carrie Innes, a wealthy socialite who, while trying to enjoy a relaxing time in a spacious summer rental in Connecticut, ends up surrounded by dead bodies and a mystery.
Cynthia Collins, also an ATI co-founder, plays Liddy Allen.
“(She’s) a no-nonsense lady’s maid, always armed with a telescope and a mature beverage,” Collins said.
The other four performers are Eric Olson, John Vessels, Jacob Butler and Logan Hill. For more, visit atistage.org.
Vocal coach shares expertise
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Deke Sharon is recognized as a pioneer of contemporary a cappella music. Sharon has served as music director, arranger and coach of America’s first a cappella reality show, “The Sing Off.” He was the music director and arranger and sang in the film “Pitch Perfect.” He also was involved in the movie’s two sequels.
barbershop and doo-wop, a cappella has always been there, and it’s best without microphones. It’s best when you’re in the room with people. There’s that sense of connection that you get. So, for instance, when the holidays roll around, everybody wants vocal harmony because nothing makes you feel more connected to those warm fuzzies.”
Sharon
“I love making movies,” said Sharon, who is based in San Francisco. “I love making television shows. But honestly, for me, the true joy is to get in a room with people and create harmony.”
Sharon visited Carmel Jan. 16 to share his expertise with One Voice Indy, a Sweet Adelines choir from central Indiana.
“If you look throughout human history, the roots of so many musical traditions are a cappella,” Sharon said. “(When) you go back to work songs and field hollers, madrigals and sea shanties and
Noblesville member Sue Pelley said One Voice Indy has members from across central Indiana, although most are from Carmel, Noblesville and Fishers. For more, visit onevoiceindy.org. A CAPPELLA
Music Director Molly Huffman said One Voice Indy was honored to have Sharon visit.
“His passion for a cappella music and for the authentic emotional impact that our music can have on the world was right in line with the vision of our ensemble,” Huffman said. “We are forever changed by Deke’s talent and wisdom as we continue to share our mission of sharing music through learning, laughter and love.”
call
State of generational conflicts
Commentary by Terry Anker
Our vices are OK, but others’ vices are really annoying. On this same week 117 years ago, New York City enacted an ordinance making it illegal for women to smoke tobacco in public. Alderman Timothy “Little Tim” Sullivan found the sight to be so offensive that he felt moved to institute the restriction on the previously held freedom. While there is little evidence to show that others shared his view, there must have been some, at least enough to vote along with him. Understandably, there was considerable resistance mounted by those who preferred to light up in the company of other Gothamites. The unfair nature of gender application is clear. Still, there was dispute about how the disparity should be rectified. Some argued that all should be prohibited from exercising their right. Others felt that women should be allowed to make their own decisions about smoking as they had before. Prohibition or not, the majority understood that we should all
ESSAY
benefit, or suffer, together.
A century later, lawmakers continue to wrangle with the most effective ways to implement their points of view. A trend in tobacco regulation is to take the rights of any human born from 2004 forward, while allowing the older folks to keep their freedoms. If some of us have a choice, should we all, or none? Can the boomers require Gen X to spend more time visiting them? Can Gen X rule that the millennials provide unlimited and free tech support? And the millennials would love to pass a law requiring the younger Gen Z to stop referring to the over 30 crowd as “old.” Will we one day come to imagine that all matters of social policy could be implemented solely based upon one’s years on the planet? Fair or not, free tech support would be terrific!
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
Doesn’t anyone want change?
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
As a kid, I saved my small allowance in a jar. The thrill of this incremental approach never wore off for me. Well, not until recently. That container in my office has held the nest egg of the past 18 months, about $200, I estimated, which translated into a nice infusion of cash for the vacation my wife and I are planning for our upcoming trip to Iceland.
HUMOR
“I started waving my arms in the air like Jerry Seinfeld when he was informed that the rental company did not have a car for him even though he had a reservation.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
I took the sealed jar into my bank, hugging it tightly. I assumed the friendly teller would toss my hard-earned change into a high-tech coin counter and then sweeten my bank account with this windfall. Instead, I got the bad news: “Sorry, Dick, we no longer count change that way.”
“Whatya mean you don’t count change that way?” I said. “You’re a bank. How could you not count my money?”
Then I started waving my arms in the air like Jerry Seinfeld when he was informed that the rental company did not have a car for him even though he had a reservation.
I went to another bank.
“Mr. Wolfsie, we can count this for you, but we’ll have to subtract 3 percent from your deposit for administrative costs.,” the teller said. “You know, wear and tear on our counting machine.”
“Wait a second. You’re going to charge customers to count their own money that they will put in your bank. Are your customers that dumb?”
“Apparently. That’s why it’s called chump change.”
I told my wife Mary Ellen about the problem, and she suggested that we have the young man across the street count it, put it in rolls and we’d give him 2 percent of the total, a savings of several dollars over the bank’s fee. OK, a couple of dollars.
“They’re not going to take the word of just some kid in our neighborhood,” Mary Ellen said.
“Well, they don’t know what an honest young man he is. His mom said he got an A in math and citizenship.”
At this point, I just dumped the money on the carpet and started adding it all up. An hour later, I’d calculated a total of $232.50. Still, nobody wanted my change. Of course, Kroger would take it, but its machine has a 7 percent charge. And it’s right next to the lottery ticket machine. Need I say more?
Then, I wondered if I could sell the money on Craigslist or eBay. But how would I word the ad?
FOR SALE: ABOUT 200 DOLLARS IN CHANGE $178.00 or Best Offer. Some scratches, but worth every penny. Hand counted.
(CASH ONLY PLEASE, NO COINS) I spent the better part of one afternoon investigating several other bank branches. It was a lost cause, and I was tired of toting around a 20-pound jar of coins. And to make matters worse, I got a parking ticket. The meter had expired.
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Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
Across
1. Ignore the limit on I-69
6. St. Vincent Hospital patient’s record
11. Letters on a Cardinals cap
14. Indy Fuel goalies’ gear
15. Measuring stick
16. “The Raven” writer
17. Central Canal attraction
20. Condition treated with Ritalin, briefly
21. Numerical prefix
22. Computer shortcut
23. Regret
24. Floral necklaces
25. Put on weight
26. Fashion Mall shopping binge
28. O’er there
29. They have Xings 30. Debacles
34. IndyGo vehicle
PUBLIC NOTICE
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37. “Mayday!”
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45. Roma’s nazione
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50. Chairman of China
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54. Central Canal attraction
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58. Snitch
59. Like some expectations
60. Walker, for short 61. Tantrums
62. Hamilton County Court jury makeup
Crown Castle is proposing to install a 46.3foot telecommunications utility structure at the following site: 1564 Sheridan Road, Noblesville, Hamilton County, IN 46062. Lat: 40-3-25.48; Long: -86-2-37.39. The structure will be in the public right-of-way in the 1500 Block of Sheridan Road. Crown Castle invites comments from any interested party on the impact of the proposed action on any districts, sites, buildings, structures or objects significant in American history, archaeology, engineering or culture that are listed or determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or specific reason the proposed action may have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. Specific information regarding the project is available by contacting Charles Hotchkiss, c.hotchkiss@trileaf. com, (314) 997-6111 during normal business hours. Comments must be received at 1515 Des Peres Road, Suite 200, St. Louis, MO 63131 within 30 days of publication of this notice.
Down
1. Fingerpaints
2. Settled a debt
3. Swimmer turned actress Williams
4. ___ out a living
5. ISP option
6. Spring flowers
7. Causes pain
8. Pond growth
9. Sleep acronym 10. 33rd US President
11. Full range, as of colors 12. Band members, often 13. Defective cars
18. Mayor Hogsett
19. Posed
24. “Star Wars” princess
25. “All That Jazz” director
27. Young newts
28. Part of BYOB
31. Courtyards
32. “I ___ to recall...”
33. Nashville awards org.
34. Chums
35. Supposed
36. Son of Seth
37. Satisfy fully
39. Blunder
40. River Glen golfers’ headgear
42. Words after “Hi, honey!”
43. Breadwinner
44. Awakens
46. Cyber chuckle
47. “Can we turn on the A/C?”
48. Speckled horses
49. Believer’s suffix
52. Start of a Mud Creek Players play
53. Fork prong
55. Colts supporter
56. Young dog
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