March 16, 2010 by Current Publishing

WILSON: SOMETIMES IT'S HARD NOT TO PROTEST AT CHURCH / P5

WESTFIELD READY TO 'ROCK THE FOURTH' / P7

CITY GEARS UP FOR UNDERGROUND RAILROAD RUN / P7

Tuesday March 16, 2010 FREE

Rejuvenate Special Section Inside

During the summers, Adam Fernung (back) and his lawn care business Greenview Mowing has the upper hand over Andrew Cornelius' AMC Outdoor Services, but the already slim gap between the two is narrowing.

battle b of the bLdes

Westfield High School juniors Adam Fernung and Andrew Cornelius are best friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and competitors in the local lawn care market. / P2

You can make it fit. Find out how at MakeItFitNow.com.

Photo by CW Photography

b battle of the bLdes

Westfield High School juniors Adam Fernung and Andrew Cornelius are best friends – and competitors in the local lawn care market.

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Both Adam Fernung’s Greenview Mowing and Andrew Cornelius’ AMC Outdoor Services are always seeking new clients. While both businesses focus in lawn care, they also perform other services, taking on just about any job. Fernung can be contacted at 317-508-2489, and Cornelius can be reached at 317-605-7222.

By Kevin Kane Current in Westfield Nothing can split up best friends Adam Fernung and Andrew Cornelius – except maybe business. The Westfield High School juniors have been best friends since second grade and mowing grass for money since fourth. Now they’re running separate lawn care businesses in the same market; Fernung runs Greenview Mowing and Cornelius heads AMC Outdoor Services. The two businesses essentially offer the same services at similar prices, and the friends admit that they even use the same sales pitch to prospective clients. But while it may seem like the two would be better off working together, Fernung and Cornelius argue that it can’t be done. They’ve tried a partnership several times but agree they’re destined to be competitors. It’s their drastically different personalities and varying views on business plans that keeps them apart. WHS business teacher Laurie Russo said the pair reminds her of “The Odd Couple.” Fernung, she said, is the more serious of the two, dressing in sweater vests like a man many years older, whereas Cornelius is far more playful. When it comes to business, though, they both take it seriously and share a competitive spirit. “Many businesses will split ownership 51 and 49 percent,”

Fernung and Cornelius operate their own one-man businesses, but they occasionally employ some of their friends as well. For help with mowing or large jobs such as mulching, the two will regularly hire friends to help with the work. Sometimes, Fernung will hire Cornelius to pitch in on a larger job and vice versa.

Cornelius said. “I know I’m not going to give up that one percent ownership and I know he’s not going to either.” A few years ago, when the two did do some work together, details like that didn’t matter. They were young, inexperienced and simply looking for a summer source of income, not necessarily a business. Fernung said he personally wasn’t tracking his expenses or even recording the names and contact information of his customers. He said he “just wanted 20 bucks” and wasn’t concerned about growing his operation until everything “clicked” one day and his mentality changed. “I think it first hit me last year when I thought, ‘Wow, this is a legitimate thing,’” he said. Fernung went on to start Greenview, and Cornelius began AMC soon after. They’d worked together periodically prior to that point, but the kickoff of their respective companies, they said, ended any chance of a partnership. It’s nothing personal, but after four years of accumulating clients and investing thousands into equipment and advertising, the friends aren’t willing to pile that progress into a joint effort, especially for a company that would have owners going in different directions. Cornelius said he plans to graduate early next year, and – while he will be taking some college courses – he will dedi-

cate most of his time to expanding his business throughout Central Indiana and, with any luck, the entire state. Fernung, on the other hand, said he likely won’t continue his business upon enrolling in college. At that point, he plans to sell his client list and equipment, but won’t necessarily give it to Cornelius if a better offer comes along. For Fernung, the next few summers are all about making as much money before college as possible, but Cornelius has identical plans serving the same area. Currently, Fernung edges out his friendly competition in revenue during the summer, but Cornelius, who started his business later, is catching up with more year-round services. The two may be competing for the same clients and said they’ve even had disputes regarding mowing that have lasted weeks, but the business isn’t enough to dissolve the friendship of these young entrepreneurs. Many times one comes to the aid of the other when mower problems halt the completion of a job, and both agreed that will still be done when necessary. Personal and business differences may prevent them from being partners in the lawn care market, but the competition won’t change their relationship. “Seven years is a pretty hard friendship to break,” Cornelius said.

Photo by CW Photography

2 | March 16, 2010

Current in Westfield

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317.489.4444 Publisher – Brian Kelly brian@currentincarmel.com / 414.7879 General Manager – Steve Greenberg steve@currentincarmel.com / 847.5022 Content Editor – Bryan Unruh bryan@currentincarmel.com / 308.0124 Assignment Editor – Kevin Kane kkane@currentincarmel.com / 496-0020 Associate Editor – Terry Anker terry@currentincarmel.com Art Director – Zachary Ross zross@ss-times.com / 787-3291 Associate Artist – Lerin Morkal lerin@currentincarmel.com / 523.2956 Senior Reporter – Brandie Bohney bbthegrammarguru@gmail.com /260.750.4266

OUR VIEWS

It is our position that the longer days and sprouting flowers can only mean one thing: Spring is upon us. While we are eager to welcome the return of blue skies and green grass to displace the dingy grey that follows Indiana winter, we are also reminded that higher temperatures and March Madness indicate we must be vigilant for kids darting out into the streets and lanes of our fine community. Cooped up for many long months (we’re talking about the parents and kids alike), many youngsters are breaking out the bicycles even before all the snow is gone. Spring break is just around the corner, and yard sale-signs are again dotting the landscape. And yet as we send our kids out to burn off some winter-stored calories, many of these children have forgotten the basics of traffic safety. Parents, now is the time for a refresher course on the outdoor rules. It is amazing how quickly we forget them. And also, please remember to watch out for those children who are all too rushed to see the sun. With a little attention, we should all make the happy transition without incident.

Mail it in

It is our position that a recent request by the U.S. Postal Service to eliminate Saturday delivery and dramatically change the way it interacts with its customers (all of us) is worthy of consideration. While letter delivery is sacred to many, we believe the onslaught of other more efficient (and often effective) methods of communication have proven themselves capable to justify a serious assessment of the cost and benefit associated with the convenience and service provided by 6-day delivery. We are pleased that this quasi-governmental business is looking at all possibilities (in addition to price increases) to provide its services. We urge those in leadership at the USPS to continue to expand their thinking into all areas of the massive organization while looking for appropriate ways to contain costs. Are labor and management costs in line with the earnings of the operation? In these economic times, many of us are looking for solutions that do not involve pushing our costs to the customers. Decisions to prepay retirement health benefits will grab a staggering $5.5 billion from the coffers this year alone. Is it necessary? The USPS must consider all alternatives before cutting service and hiking rates.

Advertising Sales Executive – Dennis O’Malia dennis@currentincarmel.com / 370.0749 Sales Executive – Lara Acton lara@currentincarmel.com / 409.1418 Indianapolis Sales Consultant – Kevin Messmer kevin@currentincarmel.com / 513.4359

Business Office Bookkeeper - Deb Vlasich deb@currentincarmel.com / 489.4444 The views of the columnists in Current In Westfield are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

strange laws

CONSTITUTION CLOSEUP

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Our nation has all sorts of arcane, nonsensical laws on the books. Each week, we’ll share one with you. In Colorado, a pet cat, if loose, must have a tail light. Source: Weird Laws (iPhone application)

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Every week, we will print a portion of the U.S. Constitution, followed by a portion of the Indiana Constitution. We encourage you to benchmark government policies against these bedrock documents. Today: the U.S. Constitution.. Article. IV. Section. 1. Full Faith and Credit shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State. And the Congress may by general Laws prescribe the Manner in which such Acts, Records and Proceedings shall be proved, and the Effect thereof. Section. 2. The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and

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Immunities of Citizens in the several States. A Person charged in any State with Treason, Felony, or other Crime, who shall flee from Justice, and be found in another State, shall on Demand of the executive Authority of the State from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the State having Jurisdiction of the Crime. No Person held to Service or Labour in one State, under the Laws thereof, escaping into another, shall, in Consequence of any Law or Regulation therein, be discharged from such Service or Labour, but shall be delivered up on Claim of the Party to whom such Service or Labour may be due [Modified by Amendment XIII].

March 16, 2010 | 3

From the backshop Dems heading for a fall in the fall? A report in left-handed The New York Times, no less, summarized ObamaCare thusly: The White House privately believes it only has a 51 percent chance to ram this bill down the throats of the American people. “That 49 percent chance of failure could devastate (Barack) Obama’s presidency, weaken Democrats heading into the fall midterm elections and trigger an even fiercer, more debilitating round of finger-pointing inside the administration,” the report said. … On a semirelated front, we’re wondering if you still are laughing at Obama’s executive order for setting up an 18-member, bipartisan commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform? We’ll save him the trouble and solve it right here, right now: IT’S THE SPENDING, STUPID! ••• We were incredibly proud to help sponsor Ben Vereen’s recent appearance at Carmel High School on behalf of Carmel Community Players, but we thought there might have been a larger crowd to see the legendary stage, screen and TV actor and vocalist. The chance to see Vereen brought back memories and also created new ones for those in attendance. CCP did a wonderful job of acquiring the

Brian Kelly & Steve Greenberg Brooklyn-born and terrifically funny Vereen for the evening, and we hope the fundraiser was a big success. Vereen won’t be the last big-name entertainer to come through these parts, by any stretch, but if Hamilton County is going to be the “Arts Capital of Indiana” – as so often is discussed - we all need to commit to participating whenever possible. The Oscars telecast could have been a drain on attendance, but there is a bigger picture. This was a perfect opportunity for parents to expose their children to wholesome and awesome talent at a modest price. Either we, as a community, support the arts as best we can, or we sit at home and wait for the next nailbiting installment of American Idol to begin.

Counseling the arts COMMENTARY By Terry Anker As is the nature of being a good citizen, we should all find ourselves routinely in the company of our fellow would-be philanthropists. I have spent time in equal measure with the charities necessitated by bringing children into the world (school, scouts, sports), those most affiliated with my personal interests (the underprivileged, neighborhood boards), and those that support the arts and culture of our community (museums, music). At a recent benefit for a number of small local arts groups, it was clear from demeanor and word that political statement was on the agenda next to pleas for cash. Attacking tradition and pushing others to think is admirable, certainly tolerable. But singling out those with differing views to ridicule and humiliate is not. From the hall one could hear, “If anyone in this room liked Sarah Palin, they are in the wrong expletive place.” I’m not sure I’m a fan of Ms. Palin, but

I am certain that all willing to assist these struggling arts groups should be welcomed. Sadly, many chose to substitute profanity and ridicule for open-mindedness. Too many of us have allowed ourselves to become expensively educated and thoughtlessly liberal folk whose minds are so open that they have become closed again. Shunning intellect, we imagine ourselves above reproach but in fact are dangerously close to becoming little more than rude hipsters dressed in the costume of the self-offended children of the wealthy. Or are we errant intellectuals whose lives have not turned out as we expected – therefore it must be the fault of the establishment! As we preach tolerance, are we really tolerant? Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may e-mail him at terry@ currentincarmell.com.

Too many of us have allowed ourselves to become expensively educated and thoughtlessly liberal folk whose minds are so open that they have become closed again.

Antique Appraisal Fair Wednesday, March 24th 1:30pm-3:30pm Come out to Riverwalk Commons for our Antique Appraisal Fair and find out what your antiques, small collectibles, jewelry and other valuables are really worth! Appraiser, Darin Lawson with Wickliff Auctioneers of Carmel will be available to provide expert advice and appraisals! While you are here, enjoy appetizers and enter to WIN one of four Cracker Barrel gift cards when you tour our Assisted Living Apartments! All first time visitors will receive a welcome gift and be entered to win a $100 Visa gift card! We hope to see you here!

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March 16, 2010 | 5

Sometimes it's hard not to protest at church

DISPATCHES » Easter celebration – Jump start your Easter celebration with Epiphany Lutheran LCM March 20 at 10a.m. at Maple Glen Elementary (171st Street and Ditch Road in Westfield). Help your children make memorable Easter crafts, enjoy refreshments, learn about the Easter story and finish with an egg hunt. The event is free and open to all children ages 0-12 and will be held rain or shine. » Life in the ‘40s – Come to the Westfield Washington Public Library for “Life in the ‘40s” March 24 at 2 p.m. Join Marie Albertson, Don Seal, Dottsie Grins and others as they share their recollections of life in the ‘40s and their experiences during World War II. The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required. Call 317-8969391 for additional information. » True Blue party – The Hamilton County Democratic Party is having a meet your candidates and fundraiser party March 20 at 4 p.m. The True Blue Saturday Party will be held at the Hamilton County Party Headquarters on the second floor of the Old Mill Building in Noblesville. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for kids 12 and under. For more information, e-mail sarann@indy.rr.com. » Volleyball tournament – The annual Relay for Life staff volleyball tournament will be held March 23 at 6 p.m. at Westfield High School.

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Commentary By Danielle Wilson I was sitting in church the other day when the priest said something I completely disagreed with. As his homily continued, I became more and more irritated. I felt the sudden urge to stand up in the middle of the congregation and challenge his argument, like Amy Madigan did in “Field of Dreams” (“At least he’s not a book burner, you Nazi cow!”) I quickly realized, though, that it was neither the time nor the place to channel my radical ‘60s vibe, so I remained seated and silent. But I did strongly consider walking out. Problem was, I had three of my kids with me. Marching the four of us straight out the back door would have been emotionally satisfying, for certain, but also incredibly rude, especially because we were near the front. As I sat in the pew fidgeting and frowning, letting my anger simmer but not boil over, I glanced over at my little Catholics. It was hard to tell if they were paying attention at all. One most certainly wasn’t, as her concentration was completely centered on the small hole in her leggings. The oldest might have been, and he was the one I was most concerned about. I didn’t want him thinking I agreed with the sermon, but I also didn’t want to call attention to the topic if my son wasn’t listening in the first place. I wondered whether I should say something later or simply pray he was spacing out. Then I remembered a similar experience I’d had a few years back – on Mother’s Day, actually. A different priest had gone on a rant about how Muslims were taking over the world and if we weren’t careful, there’d be a mosque on every corner by 2012. The entire speech was all very hellfire and brimstone-ish, and it totally disgusted me. I was alone then, and did walk out, though unfortunately I was already toward the back, so my exit didn’t quite

have the dramatic effect I’d hoped for. But that was OK. I had a clear conscience afterward and felt like I’d done my part to stem intolerance. This time around, though, I decided to do nothing. I continued to listen and try and understand what the priest was trying to teach me, but concluded he was being a hypocrite, at least on this particular topic. I’m 95 percent certain none of my children heard anything he said, and if they did, they probably didn’t understand it anyway. I’m not proud of my complacency, and I still may e-mail my priest to see if he can enlighten me, but given the circumstances, I think I did the right thing. And don’t get me wrong. I like being Catholic. It’s just that I want to be a tolerant Catholic and be respectful of different faiths and lifestyles, even if that goes against the Church’s teachings. More importantly, I want my kids to be the same. Walking out wouldn’t have accomplished anything but making me look like an ass, and that’s assuming people would have understood I was protesting. Most would have just thought that we were taking a family trip to the restroom! But now that I’ve had some time to mull it over, I think that the next time I disagree with the homily, I will encourage my children to really listen and then take the opportunity to discuss it afterwards. Or we’ll leave in a huff. Defying the establishment is extremely satisfying! Especially if you can legitimately call someone a Nazi cow. Peace out.

Danielle Wilson is a Carmel resident and contributing columnist. You may e-mail her at danielle@ currentincarmel.com.

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Westfield ready to ‘Rock the Fourth’ days including its own By Kevin Kane fireworks and music Current in Westfield competitions. However, Fireworks are coming Lorenz said many in back to Westfield this Westfield prefer local Fourth of July in a big events, and consequently, way. the DWNA is confident The first-annual that its celebration will July 4 celebration enkeep the city’s residents titled Westfield Rocks close to home. the Fourth will be held “The people of this year through a joint Westfield have been tellventure between the ing us that they prefer not Downtown Westfield to go to Carmel,” Lorenz Neighborhood Association said, “They prefer to stay and the City of Westfield. in Westfield if possible.” The all-day event will take Submitted Photo Lorenz said the place at Asa Bales Park and Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio will be the DWNA has organized Westfield High School and headlining musical act at the first-annual Westfield Rocks the Fourth celebration. For more information, an event that will be will feature music, food, visit www.WestfieldRocksthe4th.com. enjoyable for residents fireworks and more. of any city. Up to 150 cars and motorcycles are Darlene Lorenz, events coordinator for the DWNA, said the sprouted from a meeting a local expected for the event’s car show, and auditions in June will narrow down six band for the Battle youth pastor, who came to the organization seekof the Bands competition. Concluding the muing help in starting a Battle of the Bands compesical performances of the evening will be local tition in Westfield. Lorenz said the DWNA liked band Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio, who that idea but wanted to expand upon it. make regular appearances on area radio stations. “We thought that we could do that on the Fireworks will follow immediately after, and fourth and that would be a great way to bring the entire day will feature the creations of many fireworks back to Westfield,” she said. Westfield Rocks the Fourth will be competing local restaurants and merchants. “I think it’s going to be a really fun day,” with Carmel’s already popular July 4 celebration Lorenz said. CarmelFest, which features events on multiple

Westfield gears up for annual Underground Railroad Run By Brandie Bohney Current in Westfield On March 27, the Westfield Washington Education Development Foundation will host the 12th Annual Underground Railroad Run. The run/walk is the foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, bringing in an average of $25,000 each year to provide scholarships for Westfield High School graduates and grants for classroom enrichment projects. Jan Skinner, executive director of the foundation, explains that in addition to the run/walk, food and awards, there will also be a free community health fair in conjunction with the run. “The nurses from the school district are actually the ones who set up the health fair, and there are 40-50 heath, safety, and fitness related booths,” she said. “One neat thing this year that’s new is the visiting nurse service and the Hamilton County Health department are going to be providing free H1N1 vaccinations with no age restrictions.” The vaccinations will be first-come, firstserved, and vaccination forms are available on the school system’s Web site, cms.wws.k12. in.us/education-foundation. Also available on the Web site are the registration forms and online registration; runners and walkers may also register the morning of the event. Registration and T-shirts are purchased

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individually, and T-shirts ordered by this Friday, March 19, are guaranteed. After Friday, T-shirts will be available at the event on a first-come first-served basis. The run and walk routes start and end at Westfield High School, and both routes pass by the Anti-Slavery Friends Cemetery and Asa Bales Park. Most of the scholarships provided by the run are based on financial need and/or academic performance. But at the event, ten $350 scholarships will be announced from a random drawing. Any WHS senior who will be attending school after graduating is entered once, and those students participating in the walk or run are entered four more times. In addition to the run/walk, next Saturday is also the date of the foundation’s dinner dance and silent auction at The Bridgewater Club. This annual event raises around $8,000 for the same fund. Tickets are $60 each and may be reserved by calling 317-867-8085. Skinner notes that the events would not be possible without the financial and volunteer support of many local businesses and individuals. “It’s a large collaborative effort by a lot of people,” she said. Anyone interested in volunteering may call Skinner at 317-867-8085.

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14299 Clay Terrace Blvd. Carmel March 16, 2010 | 7

An amazing tale of lost and found

City/school partnership yields valuable results Commentary By Ken Kingshill Something fairly unique to Westfield happened recently that you might not know about. The city council and school board held a joint meeting to discuss topics of mutual concern. These annual meetings started about 10 years ago and have been held pretty regularly since. The purpose of the joint meetings has been to foster an atmosphere of cooperation between the school corporation and the city in an effort ultimately to save taxpayer dollars. I believe there aren’t many other examples in Indiana of such cooperation between city and school. Below are a few examples of this city/school partnership in no particular order. Both entities have vehicle fleets. The school operates buses and property maintenance vehicles. The city owns public safety vehicles, snow plows and other public works trucks. Rather than purchasing fuel separately, we take advantage of economies of scale and purchase fuel together. Additionally, the mechanics at the school bus depot perform all the preventative maintenance work on city vehicles. Road salt is another example. The city purchases salt in conjunction with other municipalities in the county. The school requires far less road salt and would pay much more for it if it purchased it separately. So when the school needs salt, they simply purchase it from the city

8 | March 16, 2010

at the city’s cost, essentially getting it at a wholesale rather than a resale price. Land transfers are another area in which the city and school cooperate. For instance, the new fire station that will be built this year will be located on land owned by the school. Instead of selling the land to the city at fair-market value, the school has essentially donated the land to the city. After all, it’s all taxpayer money, so why go through the motions and associated costs of a real estate sale and purchase? Finally, a more subtle cost savings involves Westfield’s Youth Assistance Program. The school and police department identify young people who appear to be headed down the wrong path. These youths are referred to the Youth Assistance Program for counseling, mentoring and similar special programming designed to positively influence them before they wind up in the criminal justice system. Although difficult to quantify, this program should save taxpayer dollars over time. If only some of the other governmental bodies that wield the power to tax us would take notice. City Councilor Ken Kingshill is a Westfield resident and Realtor. You may e-mail him at kkingshill@ westfield.in.gov.

COMMENTARY By Robin Chaddock “The human being who lives only for himself finally reaps nothing but unhappiness. Selfishness corrodes. Unselfishness ennobles, satisfies. Don’t put off the joy derivable from doing helpful, kindly things for others.” - B.C. Forbes What I’m about to tell you is a true story related to me by one of our city’s residents. What a great example of caring and follow-through. It seems one of our community members came back from a trip and landed at Indianapolis International Airport. When she got home to Westfield, she discovered the carrying bag in which she packs her medications and jewelry was missing. She was sure she had taken it off the plane. Nobody remembered seeing it. Calls to airport lost and found turned up nothing. A couple days later, this woman got a phone call from another community member. The caller said she had found the missing bag on the back of a wheelchair in the airport parking garage. She had opened it, discovered the contents, and was sure somebody would be missing it. So she pulled out one of the medication

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bottles, did a little research, and found out the owner lived – get this – right down the street from her! The next thing the finder did was ring the doorbell of the woman who had lost the bag. The two of them were astounded by the fact that this situation had turned out as it did. They each now have a new friend in Westfield, too. Life goes by at a break-neck speed for most of us. There doesn’t seem to be much discretionary time. In this pace, it’s easy to relegate kindness and going the extra mile to others around us – all of whom are going at the same break-neck speed. The finder of the bag was a busy woman with a family and hustling out of the airport herself. Yet she was aware of her surroundings, saw a need, took extra steps to be extraordinarily helpful, and replenished the faith of the bag owner’s family and friends. As the teller of the story said, “Westfield folks are fantastic!” Robin Chaddock is the executive director of the Downtown Westfield Neighborhood Association. She welcomes comments and can be reached at RobinCoaches@aol.com.

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DISPATCHES » Free remodeling seminar –Join Case Handyman & Remodeling for a free seminar on kitchen and bath remodeling. The 90-minute session will provide the basic building blocks plus all the latest styles. The seminar will be March 20 from 9-10:30 a.m. at 108 W. Carmel Dr. Call 317-846-2600 to RSVP. » Cactus magic – Use nature to ward off any fears about the possible links between cancer and electromagnetic fields. Research has shown that employees who used to suffer from headaches and fatigue felt better after two years of working with a cactus next to their computers. The science behind this is cloudy, but why not give it a try? -Quick & Simple » Organize your gardening tools – Make room on your garage or shed wall to hang a clear plastic shoe bag. It’s a great way to keep your gardening tools and gloves in one place. You can also use an old rolling golf bag to store rakes, spades and hoes. When you decide to use your garden tools, what better way to drag them around than a golf bag? -Household Magic

Carmel band optimistic about its future By Haley Vannarsdall Current in Westfield Carmel-based rock band Permacrush has already experienced notable success with a recent single. Now on the verge of releasing its first album, the band is optimistic about its future while remaining realistic about the likelihood of making it big in music. Currently, Permacrush gets airplay on college radios across the country as well as local stations such as X103. Its single, “Only Friend” was rated high enough to beat out tens of thousands of bands on slicethepie.com and receive the spot as a featured band on the Web site. The song will be included on the band’s debut album Snake Oil, but even if the album doesn’t match the success of the single, lead vocalist and songwriter Chris Crush said he’s proud of what the band’s accomplished. “I’d rather be a one-hit wonder than a no-hit wonder,” he said. “I have been doing this long enough to be realistic. With no high expectations there’s no room for let down...It’s always been a struggle here in Indy.” Some of the struggles have included simply maintaining a full band. Awhile back, Crush found himself searching for a new drummer and bass player. He found Chris Elberfeld and Chris Caudill to fill those respective positions and the band’s continued without missing a beat. “It was like the stars aligned and everything

Submitted photo

Permacrush lead singer Chris Crush (front left) had to replace the band's bass player and drummer. Now all three band members share the same first name, as Chris Caudill plays bass and Chris Elberfeld drums.

fell into place, we all even have the same first name, Chris,” Crush said. Last month, Permacrush entered the Verizon Wireless National Battle of the Bands and was selected as one of three finalists with a chance to open for Gym Class Heroes in New Hampshire

in April. Fans can go online and vote for Permacrush at Verizon Wireless’ careers page. On March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, Permacrush will be playing at the Brockway Pub from 7 to10 p.m.This May, the band will release Snake Oil in Fountain Square.

PICK OF THE WEEK

name change What: An exhibition highlighting 35 years of the career of artist Ed McGowin When: March 10 through April 17 Where: Eleanor Prest Reese and Robert B. Berkshire Galleries, Herron School of Art and Design, 735 West New York St., Indianapolis Info: www.herron.iupui.edu Details: Ed McGowin began “Name Change” in 1970 to explore his theory about the way in which art history would evolve in the future. Instead of looking at an artists’ career as a series of linear events and logical developments, he proposed a trajectory that was more comprehensive in which the artist simultaneously explores multiple paths of artistic exploration.

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March 16, 2010 | 9

Fooled on St. Patrick's Day? COMMENTARY By Chef Michael Vlasich Christian or not, most of us will be raising a pint to toast the saint who converted the Irish to Christianity and drove the snakes out of Ireland. Funny enough, he wasn’t Irish; he was actually Scottish from the town of Dumbarton. With his triumphs came the three-leaf clover, a metaphor for the Irish, but really of the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). What, you may ask, does this have to do with the cost of potatoes in Yorkshire? Well, it all helps in deciphering the influences of the foods that make up the cuisine of this parcel of Great Britain. For centuries, Ireland has been invaded. Early on, it was the Vikings and Romans, then later the German, French, and Russians settled, and the trade routes helped influence the cuisine. For example, we all equate potatoes with Ireland, but the truth is potatoes, known in Gaelic as “praties,” came to Ireland, in the early 1600s by way of South America. According to Irish food experts, milk and potatoes are all the human body needs in a diet to survive. Then there’s Irish stew, the second most well-known food item from Ireland. Like most countries’ favorites, it started as a peasant’s dish made from the cheapest and readily available ingredients. Sheep, being abundant, were raised not only for food but wool, clothing, milk for consumption and cheese. Include root vegetables, which thrive in that climate region, add in the stout dark beer made from the localgrown barley and wheat, and cook for a couple hours, accompanied by a loaf of soda bread. The next thing you know, you’ve got a great hearty meal. The most celebrated dish from Ireland is what everyone thinks is Irish corned beef and cabbage, which actually is not. While there may be some truth to it, generally very few in the coun-

unique soda bread Ingredients: • 4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup granulated sugar • 1 tsp. baking soda • 2 tsp. baking powder • ½ tsp. salt • 3 eggs • 1 pint sour cream • 1 cup golden raisins • ½ cup black walnuts pieces Directions: Mix the dry ingredients including salt; add the eggs and sour cream, then raisins and nuts. Mix until combined. Distribute batter between two each greased 8X4 loaf pans. Place in a preheated oven of 325 degrees for 1 hour; use the skewer test if in doubt.

try could afford beef; however, up until the early 1800s, it was one of the major exports for the country. The term “corned” came because to make it you place it in a large pot and cover the beef with large rock-like kernels of salt, also referred to as “corns of salt,” which preserve the meat. However, very few Irish men ever tasted corned beef, cabbage and potatoes in their lives, let alone every Saint Patrick’s Day. We all think of soda bread as dry as cow food, but included is a great soda bread recipe in case you are tempted to try it on the holiday. Chef Michael R. Vlasich, CEC, AAC, is a Carmel resident and the executive chef at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. You may e-mail him at chefmichael@ currentincarmel.com

Where I Dine

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Dustin Foreman

mellow mushroom

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573 Westfield Rd. | Noblesville, IN | 317-773-2002

10 | March 16, 2010

2340 East 116th Street, Carmel (317) 846-2400 Carmel.mellowmushroom.com

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Carmel’s Mellow Mushroom brings a new taste to pizza. The chain restaurant features over 100 locations in over 18 states. Each Mellow Mushroom location has a different “vibe.” They want to make sure each location has the same great taste, without sacrificing the creative atmosphere they are known for. Mellow Mushroom was started on a college campus and geared toward the college diet: pizza and beer. The Carmel location offers draft beers such as Bells Two Hearted, Stella Artois, Smithwicks and many more. Their menu offers many unique pizzas and the option to build your own as well as an additional selection of calzones and hoagies. Mellow Mushroom offers a delivery and carry out. If you’re in a rush, they also have an option to order online. Mellow Mushroom is a great alternative to the average pizza experience.

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THEATRE

‘Carousel’

The hauntingly poignant Rodgers and Hammerstein classic “Carousel” takes a ride at the Indianapolis Civic Theatre, playing March 12 through March 28. Show times are Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Prices are $25 (Thursday) and $32 (Friday-Sunday). Go to www.civictheatre.org for tickets and details.

‘Sunlight’

The Phoenix Theatre of Indianapolis announced the National New Play Network (NNPN) Rolling World Premiere of “Sunlight.” Written by Sharr White, this play starts Feb. 25 and runs through March 20 on the Phoenix Mainstage. For more information on tickets and show times call 317-635-PLAY or visit www.phoenixtheatre.org.

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s Pyramid Players presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr., the stage adaptation of the popular Disney movie as their first Live Theatre for Kids series, weekends through March 20, then April 10, 17 and 23-24 These one-hour shows take place on Fridays at 10 a.m. and again on Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Adam Crowe, formerly of Noblesville, plays the Sultan. The audience has the opportunity to meet the cast after each show for pictures and autographs. All tickets are $12.50 and include a snack. For reservations, contact the box office at (317) 872-9664.

LIVE MUSIC Mickey’s Irish Pub

The following musical acts will be playing live at Mickey’s Irish Pub,13644 N Meridian, Carmel. For more information, call 317-573-9746: March 19: Endless Summer Band March 20: Daniel Joseph Band

The following musical acts will be playing live at Mo’s Irish Pub, 13193 Levinson Lane in the Hamilton Town Center, Noblesville. For more information, call (317) 770-9020. St. Patrick’s Day, March 17: Lemon Wheels (inside) and Flying Toasters (outside).

Bar Louie

March 17 - Barometer Soup, 7 p.m.-11 p.m. No cover. (Smokeless show). 14299 Clay Terrace Blvd., Carmel. For more information and reservations, call 843-1200.

e s n e s n u

“HOLD ON TO YOUR HABIT!” All Wed. & Thur. Night Performances only $20!

Actors Theatre of Indiana will present “Nunsense” March 3-28 at the Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace. All Wednesday and Thursday night performances are only $20. For details on tickets and specific show times, call 317-669-7983.

Mo’s Irish Pub

Disney’s Aladdin Jr.

presents

‘Nunsense’

PERFORMANCE ‘An Evening with the Ambassadors’

The nationally ranked Carmel High School Ambassadors Show Choir, with their special guests The Accents and The Ambassador Brass, will present “An Evening with the Ambassadors” March 25 and 26, at 7:30 p.m. in the Dale E. Graham Auditorium. Tickets are on sale at the Carmel High School Bookstore during regular school hours and will also be available at the door. Ticket prices are $15, $12 and $10.

Purdue Varsity Glee Club

The acclaimed Purdue Varsity Glee Club, which has wowed audiences around the world and has performed at five presidential inaugurations and Carnegie Hall, among other notable venues, will perform in Carmel April 24 at 7:30 p.m. Reserved seats are $15. For tickets, call 317-582-0127.

COMEDY Morty's

This non-smoking venue features six shows each weekend: 7:30 p.m. shows Thursday through Sunday with a second, 10 p.m. show on Fridays and Saturdays. This week the lineup is headlined by Tom Mabe with co-features Troy Davis and Chris Bowers. All tickets are $10. Call 848-5500 for reservations, which are recommended but not required.

a musical comedy by Dan Goggin

“Delightful high-spirited entertainment. A hail of fun and frolic. Wacky and outrageous with a hysterical anything-goes sense of fun!”

-Stephen Holden New York Times

March 3 - 28, 2010 • Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace

Tickets on sale now! (317) 669-7983

Tickets $32.00 Senior, Student and Group Discounts Available Wednesdays-Saturdays 8pm, Sundays 6pm | Saturday March 6th 4pm and 8pm

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Current in Westfield

March 16, 2010 | 11

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Legendary, Tony Award-winning performer Ben Vereen came to Carmel on March 7 for An Evening with Ben Vereen, a musical recollection of his life and times in show business. After the performance, Vereen came to the Carmel Community Playhouse for a VIP reception. (above) Cindy Collins from Actors Theater of Indiana re-introduces herself to Ben Vereen. Collins danced with Vereen in Florida in 1991. (left) Ben Vereen with his personal chef Doug Gifford at VIP reception at the Carmel Community Playhouse. Submitted photos

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From Big Hoffa’s Barbeque (800 E. Main St. in Westfield) Ingredients: • 40 medium shrimp, cleaned, no tail • 1 bunch fresh cilantro • 5 medium tomatoes • 1 small red onion • 1 medium cucumber • 1 medium avocado • 1 cup ketchup • 3 tbsp. Frank’s Red Hot sauce • 5 limes

12 | March 16, 2010

• 1 cup cold water • Saltine crackers Directions: Chop cilantro, tomatoes, onion, cucumber and avocado into very small chunks and put in bowl. Add cold shrimp, hot sauce, ketchup, cold water and squeeze in lime juice. Add a dash of fresh pepper and mix together. Serve in a martini glass with saltine crackers on the side. Makes a wonderful cold soup any time of the year.

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DISPATCHES » Community ranked among top health networks – Community Health Network is proud to announce its ranking of 19 in the SDI IHN 100, a report rating the nation’s top 100 health care networks on performance. Community is one of only two health care organizations in Indiana to make the top-100 list, and the only one in the Indianapolis area. » Buck to provide free assessments to infants – Erin Buck of Busby Eye Care is one of 7,600 optometrists nationwide participating in InfantSEE, a no-cost public health program developed to provide professional eye care for infants. Buck will provide a one-time, comprehensive eye assessment to infants in the first year of their lives. » A helping hand - When a cancer diagnosis turns your life upside-down, even the practical issues can be hard to deal with. How do you tell your boss you’re sick? Can you get assistance with things like paying for gas to drive to appointments? CancerCare, a nonprofit organization, offers free counseling to cancer patients and their families. The tollfree number is 800-813-4673 -Quick & Simple

Skin looking old? Maybe it’s time for rejuvenation COMMENTARY BY Brooke Tetrault Skin rejuvenation is a general term used in the aesthetics industry to describe a number of available treatments – usually used in combination – that revitalize the skin. These treatments have become increasingly popular in the last decade, and with science ever-evolving, results are very effective and fit a range of budgets. According to Dictionary.com, rejuvenation, by definition, means, “to restore to a former state; to make fresh or new again.” The natural aging process, sun exposure and environmental factors – such as pollution and even stress – all play a role in the deterioration of the health of our skin. Over time, our skin becomes lax, uneven and dull. Wrinkles, age spots, acne and veins can make us feel insecure. Many people find the mirror does not reflect how good they feel on the inside. Healthy, youthful-looking skin is part of feeling confident. A variety of skin rejuvenation treatments are available to restore your skin’s health, ranging from at-home skincare regimens to injectable treatments like Botox or dermal fillers to lasers or plastic surgery. Regular facials, chemi-

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cal peels and other exfoliating treatments like Vibradermabrasion can be beneficial as well. Lasers have been used for decades and are safe and effective when used by licensed practitioners. These procedures can reduce sun damage, wrinkles, pigment and veins. They can also stimulate your own natural collagen and tighten the skin. The number of options and types of procedures on the market can be overwhelming, and no two patients are alike. Scheduling a consultation with a physician trained in medical aesthetics or a dermatologist is a great place to start. These professionals will help you build a treatment program based on your skin condition, concerns and budget. If you are bothered by your skin’s imperfections, perhaps it’s time to consider skin rejuvenation. Treat yourself this season to the healthy skin you deserve.

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March 16, 2010 | 13

A shining example of smart design – right in our back yard COMMENTARY By Randy Sorrell Smart design is always critical, but it is especially critical when real estate is at a premium. This curious 20’ x 32’ project squeezed behind our office on Range Line Road has fueled several redesigns. Balancing traffic flow and creating multiple living spaces were the primary objectives, while taking into consideration a considerable drainage issue. Thoughtful privacy strategies were also necessary with neighbors in whispering distance. It resulted in an edgy outdoor living space we love and often use to entertain. A custom cedar privacy panel at the end of the drive not only helps with privacy, but also serves to stimulate intrigue and causes visitors to lean around, anticipating the space where they are greeted by a nicely textured, multi-stem riverbirch. The two subtle rough-sawn cedar pergolas offer additional privacy, dappled shade and planting opportunities. A creamy blue slate transparent stain stimulates a definite sense of an outdoor room. Stepping off the crushed stone drive and onto the rescued paver connection walk heightens the intrigue with textural differences. The curved path leads to both a rectangular deck off of the back door and the primary brick patio living space. Our team installed Azek – a favorite virgin synthetic decking material – on the slightly elevated structure and crafted a wrap bench for space-saving seating. The contrasting color on the deck and bench face suggests a modern touch on this 1950s house and calls attention to the single riser step. Nice, simple, clean and very usable. My favorite part of the back yard is accessible through a functioning dry creek bed that accepts runoff during rains and empties into a sub-surface rain barrel we employ when it’s time to water the

many cobalt-blue pots used for color and fragrance. The rippled brick patio easily houses a formal bench and a handful of tall bar stools. It’s enveloped by an 18” natural limestone wall that retains the higher elevation and provides additional informal, yet painful, seating. A simple circulating antique bird bath attracts a gigabyte of birds and our occasional fox friend (have you seen him lately?). Incredible outdoor living does not have to be complicated, vulgarly expensive or mammoth to change how you live, entertain and relax. It just has to be … yours. Randy Sorrell is president of SURROUNDINGS by NatureWorks+, a Carmel home improvement firm. He may be reached at 317-679-2565, randy@choosesurroundings. com or www.choosesurroundings.com.

Parents are invited to attend an information coffee concerning

Ballroom Dancing Social graceS • m• annerS igth g SOCIAL DANCING • G•ENDER MANAGEMENT MANNERSfor FORSixth SIXTH, ,SSeventh EVENTH anD AND e EIGHTH GraDe RADE SStuDentS TUDENTS

hursday March 18, TTHURSDAY , S, EPTEMBER 10,2010 2009 7:00-8:30PpM 7:00-8:30 .M. T r c he

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14 | March 16, 2010

Please call for a reservation, 844-8320. There is no charge for this coffee. Please visit www.rebeccascotillion.com for more information. Current in Westfield www.youarecurrent.com Classes begin in October 2009.

For the sake of vanity … COMMENTARY By Brandie Bohney Have you ever had a boss who thought he was more important than he actually was (or is)? Even if you haven’t, you probably know the type: He values his own opinion above those of all others, he considers certain tasks simply beneath him, and he wants his job title capitalized all the time. He, by the way, could just as easily be a she. This shoe comes in peep-toe pumps, too. As much as this person might annoy you, there is really only one thing you can do: Stop capitalizing his (or her) job title. In fact, with the information I am about to give you, you could stop capitalizing his job title almost all the time with just an adjustment to where it falls in the sentence. Bwa-ha-ha-ha! That’s a maniacal grammarian’s laugh. Use your imagination. Seriously, though, there are only a few times when job titles should be capitalized. Most of the time, they shouldn’t. And when someone insists that his (or her) job title be capitalized all the time, we grammarians refer to it as vanity capitalization. Capitalizing your job title when it doesn’t require capitalization is like laughing at your own joke. Only in this case, the joke is really lame. It’s an attempt to make something appear more important than it really is.

So when do you capitalize a job title? When it precedes the persons’s name, essentially becoming a part of the name. Executive Vice President Michelle Williams will attend. Please forward all correspondence to Chancellor McAdams. All poo patrol volunteers should report to Head Poop Scooper Pam. And even if the title precedes the name, if the title is preceded by an article (a, an, the), the title does not get capitalized. The head of mechanical engineering, Bob Cotterpin, is a nice guy. Now, there are a few exceptions to these rules, but they are few and far between and not necessarily widely agreed-upon. So stick with this as your basic guide. If you need a more in-depth analysis, drop me a line, and I’ll try to help you out. Oh, and if you want to make sure you never have to capitalize your boss’s title, just make sure it always follows his (or her) name. Unless it’s part of the signature line of a letter – that’s one of those exceptions.

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BLUE W/BLACK LEATHER AND ONLY 17K MILES! 10488A.................................. $

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29,995

SILVER W/GRAY AND ONLY 37K MILES! 10480A............................................................ $

TOM WOOD

www.youarecurrent.com

Current in Westfield

4610 E. 96th St. | Indianapolis (888) 774-7738 www.tomwoodlexus.com March 16, 2010 | 15

MONEY MATTERS What's your primary method of payment?

"Usually I use cash. It's just convenient." Kyle Frye Westfield

"I do cash and bank cards. I used to use just debit though." Joanna Mahan Westfield

"Debit cards usually. That way people don't rob me." Surena Saiter Westfield

DISPATCHES » White joins Krieg DeVault – Krieg DeVault recently announced Charles P. White has joined the firm in an of counsel capacity. White joins Krieg DeVault with several years of legal expeWhite rience and local political involvement. » Sotheby's honored again – Encore Sotheby's International Reality, a luxury real estate firm based in Indianapolis, recently won Franchise Business Review's Best in Category for Real Estate Franchisee Satisfaction award for the third year in a row. » Two stocks for the long haul 1. SunPower (SPWRA) - Demand will pick up eventually for solar energy companies as the global economy crawls toward recovery. 2. Goldcorp (GG) – This mining company might be a good buy, as the 10-year trend is toward gold as a hedge against increasingly devalued currencies. - moneycentral.msn.com

16 | March 16, 2010

WHAT’S IT WORTH

Don’t climb rickety ladders

MY OPINION

440K

Type: Traditional Age: Built in 1997 Location: Near 146th Street and Carey Road Neighborhood: Foster Estates offers a swimming pool, clubhouse and easy access to the Monon Trail and Clay Terrace. Square footage: 4,410, including 1,100 in the finished basement Rooms: This four-bedroom custom built home has a large kitchen with center island, four full bathrooms, family room, formal living and dining rooms, main-floor office, finished basement and three-car garage. Strengths: This home has an attractive curb appeal and is situated on a wooded lot. Currently, there is approximately five months of inventory in this price range in Carmel, which means it is in demand. A balanced housing market between buyer and seller is often considered to be six months of inventory. Challenges: Many of the homes in this price range will have granite countertops, and although the countertops are neutral, they are laminate.

John Pacilio and his team specialize in Hamilton County real estate with RE/MAX Ability Plus. Contact him at 216.8500 or John@JohnPacilio.com.

COMMENTARY By David Knall One of the major issues that makes this period so very unique for fixed-income investors is the “almost zero” level of interest rates. Bill Gross from PIMCO calculated it would take 6,932 years to double your money in a money market fund at 0.06 percent. The collateral damage of this zero-percent rate situation is that it invariably leads to a misallocation of resources and wild boom and bust cycles. Zero rates distort investment decisions, causing investors to place funds in vehicles never contemplated when rates were higher (in the good old days). Another consequence of “forcing” the public to stretch for yield (and take more risk) is that these desperate individuals may really feel it when, inevitably, their bonds go down in price from credit downgrades and/or interest rates going up. The Federal Reserve has driven rates to levels where banks can earn a very nice interest margin, therefore “saving” them. There is no question that we need a healthy banking system, thus, the steep yield curve. Unfortunately, the “responsible” individual who has saved their money for a rainy day is earning a horrible rate on those dollars. Do we now change our stripes and buy lower-quality bonds with longer maturities for our clients? Do we stretch for yield? We don’t think so. We view our bond accounts as “dry powder” for tomorrow’s opportunities, which enables us to sleep at night in years like 2008. We are not sure what we will do with this dry powder, but the point is that we will have options. When will rates go higher? When will stock prices give us better opportunity? That is the end of the story. David Knall is a Senior Vice President/Investments and Managing Director with the Knall Cohen Group at Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, Member SIPC & NYSE, and can be contacted in the Indianapolis office at (800) 382-4353.

Value is all about perception COMMENTARY By David Cain What makes something have value? What makes one thing worth more than another? Why is one house worth more than another house? Is it the location? Is it the amenities? The answer is easy. It’s neither. Sure, the location and the amenities are critical. But the more correct answer is it’s the perception of the buyer. It’s what the collective buyers think it’s worth. Value is set by relevant buyers’ perception of what is offered and their ability to act on that perception (i.e., can they afford it?). There are no inherent values in sticks and stones; value is created and maintained by perception. Don’t believe it? Imagine a 4,000-square-foot house with an in-ground pool, five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a swanky basement and a four-car garage. What’s that package worth in Carmel? What’s it worth in Martinsville? What’s it worth in Boston, in San Francisco? The number will change drastically, but it’s the same house. Why the change? It’s what people believe the different locations are worth. It’s their perception of value. There are probably more buyers in Boston and San Francisco, so there is more demand, and with more demand comes a higher perception of value. The same is true of brands. What makes a

name brand worth more than an off-brand? Again, it’s the perception of what the most likely buyer thinks that product or brand is worth. What makes a Lexus sell for more than a Camry? Certain buyers think the Lexus is better. Those who don’t buy the Camry. You can argue about amenities, but the reality is value is set by what buyers are willing to pay. And amenities are only worth as much as the relevant buyers believe them to be worth. Like the house, a brand has value if buyers think it does. Brands don’t just sit on a shelf. Brands exist in the hearts and minds of people. A brand is the sum total of perceptions about your product or service in the heads of your relevant audience, more affectionately known as your buyers or your market. And, if your market doesn’t perceive value with your brand, you have a problem. To avoid being substituted for the generic equivalent, you have to create the perception of value. When people hear the name of your product or service, they must think value. Otherwise, you are just a commodity.

Current in Westfield

David Cain works at MediaSauce, a digital media and online marketing company in Carmel. David welcomes your questions or comments at David.Cain@MediaSauce.com.

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DISPATCHES » Adopt a pet – reTails will hold its next pet adoption event March 28 from 11 a.m.to 5 p.m. at Circle City Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital, 9650 Mayflower Park Drive in Carmel. » Stop the shake – When bathing your dog, you probably get wet when he shakes the water from his fur. To stop him from shaking, watch his nose. When you see the nose start to shake, gently but quickly grab his nose to stop the shake. Also, dogs tend not to shake until their heads are wet, so wash and towel dry everything else first, then try to get the head and neck separately. -Household Magic » Pit Bull Awareness Day – Join the Hamilton County Humane Society March 20 from 12-4:30 p.m. at the shelter (1721 Pleasant St. in Noblesville) for Pit Bull Awareness Day. Activities include a free pit bull education seminar and the chance to meet Chris Denari, announcer of the Indiana Pacers, and his beloved pit bull Bailey. Fernando Pastran, a dog trainer and bully-breed advocate, will be discussing dog safety and conducting a pack demonstration.

Bert goes to the dermatologist COMMENTARY By Dr. Mary Marcotte Today I took my beloved 5-year-old dog Bert to see Dr. Lori Thompson, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist for intradermal allergy testing. Bert Doodle suffers from severe allergies that have been unresponsive to just about every treatment option available for the general practitioner. Bert has been on special diets, shampoos, steroids, antihistamines, dietary supplements, cyclosporine, topical sprays and a “desensitization treatment” via allergy injections. The injections he was given were based on a serum allergy test. This is a blood test that can be performed by your regular veterinarian. The limitation of the blood test is that it is not as accurate as the skin testing, which I witnessed today via Bert’s results. Bert was put under heavy sedation and a patch of skin was shaved on his side. Eighty-one allergens were injected into the skin marked by a grid (see photo). After a few minutes, the test areas were measured for skin reaction and graded on a scale from 1 to 4 (4 being the most severe). When I compare the blood testing results to the intra-dermal testing, I find that there are

multiple discrepancies as outlined in the chart below: Allergen Positive on Positive Positive on serum only on both skin only Molds 2 0 2 Trees 0 2 1 Grasses 6 2 1 Insects 1 1 2 Weeds 2 1 1 Cat Neg Pos Human Neg Pos I was shocked to find out Bert is allergic to people! He received his first desensitization injection today, and is on an every-other-day schedule. I will follow up with his progress in the next article. As of right now, he is laying by my feet exhausted from his day! Dr. Mary Marcotte is a Carmel veterinarian. You may reach her at info@currentincarmel.com.

PETS OF THE WEEK Pacer is a 2-year-old male tri-color hound/ shepherd mix. Pacer is yet another dog that was surrendered to the shelter because his previous family could not afford to care for him. Pacer did nothing wrong: He got along well with other dogs and he got along well with the children. Pacer doesn't understand why he no longer has a home, why he no longer has a family or what is going to happen next. So it's not surprising that he was a bit protective of his food during his temperament test; however, he wasn't protective of toys. Pacer can learn not to protect his food. Larry is a 3-year-old gray and white male DSH. Larry arrived at the shelter with his brother Hendrix when their owner passed away and no family or friends could take them. They both miss their home, and Larry seems to be having a harder time with the situation. He isn’t comfortable in the shelter and is shy around strangers, so he will need a patient person to help adjust to a new home. For more information on these and other animals at the Humane Society, call 317-773-4974 or go to www.hamiltonhumane.com.

Please, support local area non-profits with a donation of a live or silent auction item to be auctioned at this year’s

“Dreams Do ComeMayor’s True” Ball Janus Developmental Services, Inc.... is a non-profit organization with the mission of providing individuals living with disabilities the opportunity to become participating and contributing members of our community. We are one of three local area non-profit organizations that have been chosen as beneficiaries of this year’s Noblesville Mayor’s Ball. The other non-profit organizations benefiting from the ball are Promising Futures of Indiana formerly Hamilton Centers Youth Service Bureau, Inc. and the Noblesville Firefighter’s Food and Toy Drive. The theme for this year’s ball is “Dreams Do Come True in Noblesville”. It is only through the generous support of community members that such an event can be successful. Make dreams come true by giving to the heart our community. With over 500 citizens attending this event, we are honored to have the opportunity to recognize your commitment to the community and those living within it. To be included in the program, please contact Teresa Steege by April 30, 2010. Items that could be raffled include gift certificates, themed baskets, autographed sports memorabilia, spa packages, and theater tickets, etc. To donate a live or silent auction item, please contact Teresa Steege, Vice President of Operations at Janus Developmental Services, Inc. 317-773-8781 ext. 120 or e-mail at teresa@janus-inc.org

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Current in Westfield

March 16, 2010 | 17

13 16

29 32

35 39

42 44

43 45

18 20

Indiana Wordsmith Challenge

Hoosier Hodgepodge

Across 1. Put an edge on, like an appetite 5. Warp 9. Indy’s “The CW” station 13. IU Dental School gas: nitrous ___ 14. Oven at Creative Escape Pottery 15. Tortoise racer 16. Type of lemur at the Indianapolis Zoo 18. Double-reed woodwind of the ISO 19. Goes in 20. Set down 21. Indiana Beach roller coaster feature 22. Colorado ski resort 24. Hardly haute cuisine 25. Carmel pet groomer: Platinum ___ 29. Got out of bed at Jameson Inn 31. Unpaid debt at Indiana Mortgage Co. 34. Subscribes to Indianapolis Monthly again 38. Carmel autism group: ___ Star Center 39. Intense angers 41. James Cameron flick 43. Type of gun at Conner Prairie (2 wds.) 44. Take a dog home from the Hamilton Co. Humane Society 46. Pacers player Murphy

47. Practice for the Indiana Golden Gloves 50. Fills up 53. Swindle 54. Indy Youth Hockey: Pee ___ League 55. Lilongwe is its capital 60. DC Comics supervillianess 61. Third person of the Trinity at Our Lady of Grace 63. While lead-in 64. 1/500 of the Indianapolis 500 65. The Current and The Star, e.g. 66. Indy’s PBS station 67. Blurt 68. Slangy assent Down 1. Indy’s FOX affiliate 2. Help for the stumped (It starts with H.) 3. Former Colts RB James, briefly 4. PetSmart fish 5. Go downhill at Paoli Peaks 6. Indiana prisoner on death row, usually 7. Local artist Wesch 8. Indy’s Channel 23 9. Nick Nolte film: “___ Stop the Rain” 10. It’s a no-no 11. Westfield Brownies group 12. Dan Quayle, e.g. 13. Miner’s load

Build the words

17. Long-eared beast 23. Mas’ mates 24. Barnes & Noble variety 25. Indy cop’s grp. for kids 26. Indianapolis Opera highlight 27. “The Bachelor” airer in Indy 28. ___ good example (2 wds.) 30. Stitched at Carmel Tailoring 32. Part of St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church 33. Go through volumes at the

Hamilton East Public Library 35. Direction of 116th Street in Fishers 36. Indy station for Leno 37. “Get outta here!” 40. Indiana State Fair hog haven 42. Perfume ingredient (2 wds.) 43. Giant slugger Mel 45. Dish at El Bodegon Tapas 47. Winter accessory from Claire’s Boutique

48. Cerebral ___ 49. Valuable violin 51. Type widths 52. Insincerely emotional 53. Indy restaurant: John’s Famous ___ 54. Formerly Channel 40, now on digital Channel 16 in Indy 56. Old Italian money

A.M. REAL ESTATE Brookside Subdivision

• • • • • • •

What a way to welcome Spring! Come experience how your guests will feel being welcomed by the grandest of entries. Granite kitchen countertops, lavish baths and closets, home theater. With over 6,000 sq. ft, there’s plenty of space for pool table and workout area in the lower level. Located in the prestigious Brookside subdivision just north of Bridgewater Country Club. Proudly offered by A. M. Home Rentals for a monthly rental in the 3’s. Contact Jim Canull for a private viewing. 507-4431.

18 | March 16, 2010

57. Westfield HS geometry class calculation 58. Indy station with the slogan “Your 24-Hour News Source” 59. TGIF part 62. “Are we there ___?”

Solutions on page 22

Individual & Family Burial Space Estate Lots Individual & Family Cremation Space Cremation Inurnment Niche Mausoleums Monuments Memorials

Serving Carmel and surrounding communities since 1833

Carmel Cemetery Association 1000 N. Rangeline Rd. Carmel, Indiana

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DISPATCHES » Get framed – Thick-framed glasses are back. If you’re thinking of buying a pair for yourself, here are a few before-you-buy tips: • We're talking about substantial plastic frames here, not wire-thin Donald Rumsfeld glasses. You will get noticed, and people will comment. So be prepared. • If you're buying your first pair of glasses, go for reasonably slim frames. Once you've established that yes, you wear glasses now, you can go the chunky Woody Allen route. • Even the smartest frames don't look great on every face. Only buy off the Internet if you've tried the glasses on first. - gq.com » Hair trends 2010 – Sun-kissed highlights always in, but platinum one-process hair color has made a comeback and will continue to do so. We’ll also be seeing more cyber '80s dos with touches of wild pinks, blues, greens, and black in unexpected places, as well as luxe all-over color – think richer reds, deeper browns, and glistening blacks. - elle.com

Rules were made to be followed COMMENTARY By Vicky Earley When the adage “rules were made to be broken” was first uttered, it was not by a designer. Yes, rules can be broken, but only with planning and vision will the room be a design success. Principles are the rules, formulas and evaluations about interior decorating that are the unchanging guides to good design. When the rules are ignored, you will most likely feel there is something amiss with a space. You might not be able to verbalize just what the problem is, but it is almost certain a rule has been broken. The basic design principles are balance, focus, harmony, proportion and rhythm. Balance: You will most likely feel if a room is unbalanced. Balance simply refers to the visual equilibrium of a room, which is achieved by the placement of objects within a room according to visual weight. Shape, color and texture all help to determine their visual weight, which is merely how much space objects takes up within a room. Try to distribute various objects throughout a room to maintain balance. Focus: This refers to the direction the eye

travels and remains as it first enters a space. A multitude of focal points in a room make it quite uncomfortable, as there is no place for the eye to rest. A room with a fireplace, television and large window featured on separate walls is an example of a collection of focal points. When colorful art, strong furnishings and complex patterns are added to the mix, it becomes a visual cacophony. Harmony: This is achieved when the elements of a room work together to form a visually pleasing cohesiveness with the proper balance of variety and unity. Harmony in design is similarity of components or objects looking like they belong together. This unity can be defined as a design thread that tells a story from one element to another. Color harmony may be achieved using complementary or analogous colors. Proportion: Ah, proportion and his best friend scale. This is something the real estate agent fails to mention when showing you a home with a two-story great room. Technically, proportion refers to how the elements within an object relate to the object as a whole, while scale relates to the size of an object compared to the space in which it is located. In other words, a sofa that appeared gargantuan in a family room

with eight-foot ceilings will look like it was custom made for the Lilliputians when moved to the large room with high ceilings. Rhythm: The rhythm of a room controls the visual flow around a room. Rhythm allows the eyes to move around from one object to another and creates a harmonious atmosphere in a room. It is created through repetition of line, form, texture and color. It can also be created by progression, which is simply a gradual increasing or decreasing in size, direction or color. Whether purchasing new home or planning a redo of an existing home, just being aware of the elements and principles of design will help to ensure a successful outcome. The elements within a room are not unlike the paints an artist uses in the creation of a breathtaking work of art: Each color and brushstroke plays off another color within the guidelines of design principle. Vicky Earley is the principal designer for Artichoke Designs in downtown Carmel. If you have an interior design question, please contact artichokedesigns@aol.com.

Whether purchasing new home or planning a redo of an existing home, just being aware of the elements and principles of design will help to ensure a successful outcome.

HAMILTON 16 IMAX

CURRENT Westfield Washington TUESDAY Dinner MARCH 16 Dance & Silent Auction

N o b l e s v i l l e / C a r m e l / We s t f i e l d

ED U C ATI O N DEV E L O P M E N T FO U N D A T I O N

317-708-3600 I69 at 146th St. by the Verizon Music Center

Online Ticketing www.GQTI.com

You’re Invited KEEP SAME SIZE

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$5.75

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Saturday, March 27, 2010

DAILY 4:00-6:00 PM

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Social Hour 6-7pm

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Dinner, Dance & Silent Auction 7-11pm

20OZ.DRINK

with $3.50 purchase of 46oz. bag of buttery popcorn one per ad @ Hamilton 16 IMAX

Exp. MAR. 30,

2010

The Bridgewater Club 3535 E. 161st Street • Carmel

"CUR"

Tickets $60 each, reservations required Evening includes dinner, dancing, auction, and door prizes. Suggested attire is semi-formal