October 18, 2022 — Westfield

In honor

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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Westfield, IN Vol. XV, No. 39 Copyright 2022. Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved. 30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

The views of the columnists in Current in Westfield are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd

Think Puccini’s!

Westfield council OKs land as ERA for medical office project

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

according to Kai. If approved, the company would save more than $2 million during the 10-year period, Kai said.

components.

City leaders in Westfield have designated 5 acres as an economic revitalization area tied to the proposed development of a 60,000-square-foot medical office building.

DEVELOPMENT

The Westfield City Council approved a resolution during its Oct. 10 meeting to declare the ERA for the project being developed at 535 Park St. by Nexcore Companies LLC. Kai Chuck, economic development director for the city, told the council that the three-story development is a $34 million investment and would create 32 new jobs with an average wage of $35 per hour.

Nexcore Companies is also seeking a 10year tax abatement for the project, with the first three years abated at 40 percent and the remainder of the term at 30 percent,

The declaration of the ERA is the first step in obtaining a tax abatement. The council is set to consider a confirmatory resolution at its Oct. 24 meeting to finalize the process.

The project by Nexcore Companies was initially presented at the council’s Sept. 12 meeting, when Nedra Moran, a consultant with Indianapolis-based Healthcare4Tomorrow, presented details about the Grand Millennium development.

Moran said the building will feature space for surgeries, a laboratory, a wound care center and a radiology department.

The 60,000-square-foot medical office building, which is expected to be completed by December 2023, is one of several spaces tied to the Grand Millennium project, a mixed-use development with residential, entertainment and multi-family

One of the anchors of the $190 million Grand Millennium development is the new Westfield Washington Public Library, while a four-story apartment building with retail stores on the first floor and several high-end restaurants are also planned. A convention center with several hotels is also targeted for the space.

The entire project is expected to be completed in 2027, according to officials.

Westfield Washington Public Library officials chose Grand Millennium for construction of a new, $16 million library because of pedestrian activity in the area.

WWPL Executive Director Sheryl Sollars said earlier this year that the area was chosen because it will be within walking distance of Grand Junction and restaurant row, adding that library officials felt the area “will soon be exploding with lots of things going on.”

GRAND MILLENNIUM MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING

Schematic Rendering

A rendering of the proposed 60,000-square-foot medical office building. (Photo provided by city of Westfield)

County holds public test of voting machines

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

There appeared to be no issues earlier this month during a public test of voting machines that will be used during the Nov. 8 general election.

Hamilton County works with an election vendor, MicroVote, that oversees the tabu lation of votes on Election Day and provides training to the county, according to Sheller.

COUNTY

The public test, which was con ducted Oct. 7 in the basement of the Hamil ton County Government and Judicial Center, allowed more than a half-dozen members of the public to participate in the process. It also gave the Hamilton County Election Board and the county clerk’s office an op portunity to test voting machines to deter mine if there were any errors or corrections that needed to be addressed leading up to the general election.

Of the county’s 619 total voting machines, 31 machines were randomly selected to be tested, Hamilton County Elections Adminis trator Beth Sheller said. The test is required to be conducted under state law and con firms the integrity of the voting machines, Sheller said.

She said the public test offers transpar ency as well.

“We’ve never had a wrong vote on them,” she said. “Every election, we do this.”

Ray Adler, chairman of the Hamilton Coun ty Election Board, said he has never seen any problems with the voting machines but noted the public test gives officials an op portunity to fix any issues that might come up ahead of Election Day.

“We’ve never had a bug, but if we pro gram something wrong, we want to make sure we correct it before the election,” Adler said.

The voting machines are certified by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, meaning they have gone through rigorous testing, according to Sheller.

An EAC-certified voting system has been tested by a federally accredited test labora tory and has successfully met the require ments of federal voting system standards and/or guidelines, according to its website.

The EAC works with state and local election officials by providing training and other ma terials, the website said.

For more information on voting sites and times, visit hamiltoncounty.in.gov/219/ Election-Office

Mike Miller, president and CEO of MicroVote, goes over instructions with attendees prior to a public test of voting machines that will be used during the Nov. 8 general election. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

Early voting underway

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Early voting is underway at several sites in Hamilton County.

ELECTIONS

To be eligible, voters must bring their identification, which can include a driver’s license, state ID, U.S. passport or U.S. military ID, according to the Hamilton County Election Office.

Early voting sites include:

Judicial Center, One Hamilton County Square, Noblesville

• 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 17-21

• 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 24-28

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 29

• 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 31-Nov. 4

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 5

• 8 a.m. to noon Nov. 7

Hamilton County Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 17-21

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 24-29

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 31-Nov. 5

• 8 a.m. to noon Nov. 7

Other Hamilton County locations

Westfield, Fishers and Carmel locations will have early voting from 2 to 7 p.m. Oct. 26-27; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 28-29; 2 to 7 p.m. Nov. 2-3; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 4-5.

• Westfield City Hall, 130 Penn St., Westfield

• Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E. 151st St., Westfield

• Roy G Holland Memorial Park Building, 1 Park Dr., Fishers

• Billericay Park Building, 12690 Promise Road, Fishers

• Mercy Road Church, 2381 Pointe Parkway, Carmel

• Jill Perelman Pavilion, 3000 W 116th St., Carmel

Individuals wishing to vote absentee by mail must submit an application by midnight Oct. 27. Forms can be submitted electronically by visiting indianavoters.com or call 317-776-8476 for an application over the phone.

Once an individual has voted their absentee ballot, they can return the ballot by mail or return it in person to the Election Office in the Judicial Center, One Hamilton County Square, in Noblesville.

To read profiles on the candidates running in this election visit youarecurrent. com/2022election.

Duke Energy picks Innovation Mile for Site Readiness Program

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Duke Energy Indiana has selected Innovation Mile in Noblesville as one of three sites in Hamilton, Hendricks and Putnam counties for inclusion in its 2022 Site Readiness Program.

DEVELOPMENT

The program prepares high-potential business and industrial sites for economic development investments and markets them nationwide to companies looking to expand or relocate their operations, according to Duke Energy Indiana. Through the program, Duke Energy partners with county officials and local economic development professionals to develop a strategy for getting the sites fully ready to market.

The city of Noblesville recently purchased 77.65 acres near East 141st Street and Olio Road, expanding upon nearly 300 acres of land that has been designated Innovation Mile. Innovation Mile will be a mile-long, master planned innovation district that includes advanced manufacturing (industrial), health technologies, life science innovation, wholesale trade and professional and financial services.

“This is the second Site Readiness Program grant the city of Noblesville has received, and we greatly appreciate Duke Energy’s continued support and partnership in economic development,” said Andrew Murray, economic development director for the City of Noblesville. “The Innovation Mile development will encompass

approximately 300 acres and will be able to serve businesses within our targeted industries. This is going to be a very sought-after location for those seeking new construction, and we appreciate Duke Energy’s help to further market the site and attract new companies to Noblesville.”

In Hendricks County, the Avon Logistics Center was selected for the program. The logistics center, which is adjacent to the Avon Rail Yard, boasts the possibility of up to 14 building sites and more than 5.7 million square feet of warehouse space, according to Duke Energy Indiana.

“Avon Logistics Center is situated in close proximity to several key transportation and retail corridors, making it an attractive site for private development,” said John Taylor, economic development director for the Town of Avon.

The third site selected is the Harrold Farm Site, which is on approximately 100 acres in Putnam County and is north of Greencastle Enterprise Park I.

“Duke Energy has always been there to provide programs that help smaller communities, such as Putnam County, gain that competitive edge to land new jobs and investment,” said Kristin Clary, executive director of the Greencastle/Putnam County Development Center.

After each site’s state of readiness has advanced, Duke Energy’s national business recruitment team strategically markets them nationwide to companies looking to expand or relocate their operations. Duke Energy will award up to $10,000 to each site to help prepare them to attract projects.

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Amputee firefighter to share story

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

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CITY

A firefighter from the Fishers Fire Dept. will speak during a National Disability Awareness Month event hosted by the Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities.

Capt. Brandon Anderson will speak at an event set for from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Grand Park Events Center, 19000 Grand Park Blvd., in Westfield. Anderson, who became an amputee in 2017 after a motorcycle accident, will share his story and how he managed to maintain his position as a firefighter.

The Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities, which was founded earlier this year, exists to “make a positive impact in the lives of people with disabilities in Westfield by promoting inclusion, lifecycle planning, and access in the shortterm and tackling long-term challenges including housing, transportation, and workforce development,” according to the organization.

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“I never realized the struggles that individuals with disabilities have to deal with daily until I became disabled,” Anderson said. “From dressing and bathing, reworking your home or place of employment with the necessary accommodations and modifications, accessing restaurants and buildings to receiving equal opportunities, it has all been a huge wake-up call. I hope by sharing my story, communities will better understand all the issues, like employment, that impact the disability population.”

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The event will also include information about supported employment services, pre-employment transition services and transition programs available in Indiana, while Best Buddies will provide an overview of its job placement program.

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Westfield Washington Schools’ Shamrock Project will present information about its transition program open to students aged 18-22, and success stories from employees and employers from Westfield and surrounding cities will be featured.

For more on the Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities, visit westfieldmcd.com.

Police, fire to square off on ice

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Central Indiana police officers and firefighters will square off on the ice Oct. 21 for the second Battle of the Badges hockey game, which will raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

FUNDRAISER

The puck will drop at 3 p.m. at the Indiana Farmers Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E. 38th St. in Indianapolis. Tickets cost $25 and also include admission to the Indy Fuel season opener that begins at 7 p.m. that evening against the Ft. Wayne Komets.

James Taylor, event commissioner who works for Indianapolis EMS and the Greenwood Fire Dept., said the event was inspired by the 911 Slugfest fundraiser, a charity boxing event featuring local first responders (the next Slugfest is set for Nov. 5 at the Marion County Fairgrounds). Battle of the Badges will allow for some friendly competition of a different kind.

Each team will be comprised of 17 players, with skill levels ranging “across the board,” Taylor said. Most have played on adult recreational hockey teams, although a few have competed at the minor league level.

“You probably wouldn’t be able to pick up a skate tomorrow and a stick and go to practice,” Taylor said. “It would be too fast paced.”

Carmel Fire Dept. firefighter/paramedic Tim Fagin participated in the inaugural event and is looking forward to playing again this year.

“It’s good for civilians to see that we’ll bust chops with the police, and they’ll bust chops with us, but we’re all here for the citizens,” said Fagin, who plays left wing. “It’s fun for us to be competitive. We’ll chirp at each other and have a good time for a good cause. It’s good for the city, and good for us, (as we’re) meeting guys at other agencies.”

The winning team’s biggest prize is bragging rights, Taylor said, although there will also be a trophy and possibly other souvenirs.

The firefighter/EMS team won the 2021 inaugural event, 4-2.

Purchase tickets at fuel.isportstix.com/ order/seats/1652.

COLUMNIST SHARES LAUGHS WITH NEWCOMERS CLUB

From left, columnist Dick Wolfsie joins Newcomers Club of Carmel board members Sally Ulrich, Cindy Garloch and Barbara Needleman at the club’s Sept. 15 luncheon. Wolfsie, whose work appears in Current and is syndicated in other media outlets, spoke to the club about laughter. The Newcomers Club of Car mel is a nonprofit social club open to those living in Carmel and surrounding communi ties, whether they are new to the area or are longtime residents looking to meet new friends. It offers dozens of group activities and holds monthly coffee meetings for prospective members and a monthly luncheon with a fea tured speaker. Learn more at CarmelNewcomers.com. (Photo courtesy of the Newcomers Club of Carmel)

Welcome, William Snyder, DO

Noblesville Family Medicine is pleased to welcome Dr. William Snyder to the team. Dr. Snyder prioritizes having strong doctor-patient relationships with everyone he treats. Due to the often complex nature of medicine, he strives to advocate for his patients so they feel empowered and informed when they make decisions about their health. Dr. Snyder attended medical school at Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is board-certified in family medicine.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy the outdoors, driving all-terrain vehicles and spending time with my family.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Snyder, call 317.773.0002 or visit riverview.org.

The firefighters won the inaugural Battle of the Badges trophy in 2021. (Photo courtesy of James Taylor)

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DISPATCHES

Correction — The city where the Virginia F. Wood Early Learning Center is located was misidentified in a photo caption that appeared in a school referendum story Oct. 11. The early learning center is located in Westfield.

Send us your stories and photos — Email story suggestions on new businesses, in teresting residents, upcoming events, news tips and photos to Current in Westfield Man aging Editor Matthew Kent at matthew@ youarecurrent.com. For photo submissions, provide the full names of individuals, along with a short description of the event, loca tion and the date of when it took place.

Pride of Westfield earns gold at ISSMA competition — The Pride of Westfield marching band earned gold at the Indiana State School Music Association prelims/ open class invitational at Whiteland Com munity High School Oct. 8. The band also received distinctions for music, effect and visuals during the event and will advance to the ISSMA Scholastic Finals at Franklin Central HIgh School, 6215 S. Franklin Rd., Indianapolis, where it will perform at 6:01 p.m. Oct. 22.

Crew Carwash holding fundraiser for YMCA in Westfield — Crew Carwash is part nering with YMCA of Greater Indianapolis to help raise funds for the future Ascension St. Vincent YMCA in Westfield. During the month of October, individuals who visit Crew Car wash in Westfield, 777 E. State Road 32, are asked to consider making a donation to the Y. All proceeds will go directly toward the fundraising campaign to build the new Y Center. For more, visit crewcarwash.com/ westfield-ymca.

Pride of Westfield captures first at band competition — The Pride of Westfield marching band earned first place at the Cavalcade of Champions band competition Oct. 8 at Center Grove High School, where the Noblesville Marching Millers placed second. The Pride of Westfield also received awards for best visual, best effect and best music and was among five bands compet ing in Class A.

Westfield Police Dept. supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month — The Westfield Police Dept. is supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink enam eled badges throughout October. For more, visit nationalbreastcancer.org.

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Rugby Club fosters friendships

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Leo Romero, one of our players and a very well-respected referee in our conference,” White River coach Jeff Russell said.

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For White River Rugby Club member Nick Balentine, rugby is more than just a sport. It has provided him with friend ships and a strong support system.

Russell, a Whitestown resident and Zions ville Community High School graduate, start ed playing for Zionsville Rugby at age 16.

SPORTS

“I moved to Indianapolis right after college and I did not know many people,” the Carmel resident said. “This team, and rugby, in gen eral, consists of social and supportive indi viduals. This is a place where you can find friends that last a lifetime. When I joined this team, I instantly became part of that culture which allows me to not only stay active but gives me a place where I can be myself.”

Balentine said the team, founded in 1999, has members of all ages, backgrounds and skill sets.

“But we all share that camaraderie and passion for the game and the sport’s cul ture,” he said.

The club plays its home matches on the field behind the American Legion Post 155, 852 W. Main St., Carmel.

“We share the pitch with the Carmel High School Rugby Club, which is coached by

“Being accepted unconditionally into my rugby team meant that I stayed out of trou ble and ultimately was set on a path of rel ative success in life,” Russell said. “Keeping the club running requires funding and ad ministrative help. So, even if you don’t play on the pitch, we have a spot where anybody can contribute.”

There are 33 players on the White River Club with 15 playing per side in a match.

“We are rebuilding the team after the (COVID-19) pandemic,” Russell said. “We are in Year 1 of a three-year club development plan. We would like to see the count of our registered players exceed 50 by then.”

Russell said team members reside throughout the Indianapolis area. The club has players who hail from South America, Australia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Dominican Republic, Italy, Ger many and the U.S.

Learn more at whiteriverrugby.com.

HSHC raises $12,500 for program

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

escort as they went on a scenic ride through Hamilton County.

NONPROFIT

The Humane Society for Hamilton County raised $12,500 from its seventh annual Ruff Ride Oct. 1 that will go toward supporting the organization’s Pets Heal ing Vets program.

The event, which is a joint partnership between the humane society, Harley-Da vidison of Indianapolis and Indiana Widows Sons, brought together more than 100 riders and passengers to raise money for veterans and animals waiting to find their homes, according to a news release. Participants in the Ruff Ride also received a tour of the hu mane society and were followed by a police

Rebecca Stevens, president and CEO of the Humane Society for Hamilton County, said the organization was pleased with the turn out for the Ruff Ride. The Pets Healing Vets program pairs Hoosier veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder and/or traumatic brain injury with emotional sup port animals and currently serves more than 35 veterans and their companions.

“The number of participants in our Pets Healing Vets program is growing quickly, which means the cost to fund this life-sav ing program has grown as well. Events like this and individual donations are what make it possible for us to do our part in preventing veteran suicide.”

The White River Rugby Club plays its home games in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Nick Balentine)

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We invite you to drop by the community Welcome Center to experience everything this boutique community will feature. Surrounded by the best of Westfield, Carmel and Zionsville, you’ll have plenty of entertainment, dining, parks and sports destinations just minutes away. Don’t spend another day in an aging home that no longer fits your needs. Live well every day in a new Epcon luxury ranch home that works for you now and for years to come.

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT AT WESTFIELD WASHINGTON SCHOOLS

(Left) Lilly Reier, a sec ond-grade student at Maple Glen Elementary School, smiles as she shows off her engineering skills after creating a net for her kitchen sink to prevent a cereal bowl from breaking. The device was created after Reier’s little brother kept throwing his cereal bowl over the side of the sink. (Below) Fourth-grade student council members at Carey Ridge Ele mentary School gather for a photo. The group created an initiative, Carey Ridge Cares, in which they host a spirit day once a month for $1 with all proceeds donated to founda tions and charities. During the month of September, students raised nearly $650 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand, a non-profit organization that raises mon ey to defeat childhood cancer.

(Photos provided by Westfield Washington Schools)

WESTFIELD

Project: Reconstruction of 151st Street

Location: A section of 151st Street from Towne Road to Buchanan Lane is closed for reconstruction. The intersection of 151st Street and Towne Road will remain open during construction.

Expected completion: Summer

Expected completion: The road will be closed through October.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Project: 156th Street lane restrictions

Project: Boulevard with a roundabout Location: The 191st Street closure from Tomlinson Road to U.S. 31 is converting the road into a boulevard with a roundabout at Chad Hittle Drive.

Expected completion: The road is expected to reopen by Nov. 15.

Project: Raised median

Location: State Road 32 between Oak Ridge Road and Wheeler Road

Expected completion: Lane restrictions will be in place through the end of October. To reduce congestion, traffic from the west should utilize Spring Mill Road to Kinsey Avenue to 181st Street.

Project: Grand Park Boulevard extension

Location: A section of Grand Park Boulevard between Wheeler Road and 186th Street is closed for construction of the future Grand Park Blvd. extension.

Location: There will be periodic lane restrictions on 156th Street near Westfield Boulevard through Oct. 19 for equipment unloading. Traffic flaggers will be present when restrictions are required. Motorists are asked to use caution in the area.

Expected completion: Lane restrictions will be in place through Oct. 19.

Project: New roundabout

Location: A section of Eagletown Road between 166th Street and SR 32 is closed until Jan. 2, 2023. The closure is for the construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of 171st Street and Eagletown Road.

Expected completion: Closed until Jan. 2, 2023

Project: Drainage project

Location: A section of Westfield Park Road where it intersects with the Monon Trail is closed for a drainage project. Access to businesses in this area will remain open. Please note, the Monon Trail crossing will also be closed during this time.

Expected completion: TBD

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ZCHS No. 2 singles player key to Eagles’ postseason success

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Senior Sebastian Lisiak has been a key contributor to the Zionsville Com munity High School tennis team’s success postseason.

“He had some difficult matches early on, and now he is coming into form,” Eagles coach Earl Allen said. “At No. 2 sin gles, he’s rocking it.”

Lisiak took an 18-7 record into the No. 3 Eagles’ (20-2) match against No. 8 North Central Oct. 14 in the state quarterfinals.

“The issues I’ve been having this sea son mainly consist of struggling to finish points,” said Lisiak, who was unbeaten in the sectional, regional and semistate matches. “I would set up a point really well but miss on the last shot. I’ve also been struggling with my forehand crosscourt. I feel like I’m getting better during the post season. The main thing I’ve been working on is hitting the ball as clean as possible and being patient.”

MEET SEBASTIAN LISIAK

Favorite athlete: Roger Federer

Favorite movie: “Parasite”

Favorite TV shows: “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul”

Lisiak was dominant in his 6-2, 6-0 victory over Terre Haute South’s Vatsal Mannepalli Oct. 8 in the semistate at Center Grove.

Allen said Lisiak has improved in many areas, most importantly his mental game.

The 6-foot-1 Lisiak has been on varsity for three years after playing No. 1 singles on the freshman team. Lisiak was 15-2 at No. 2 singles last season before being sidelined

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by a back injury for most of the 2021 postseason.

Lisiak said his back had healed by the summer, but he was slowed by missing so much time.

“It was mainly during winter and early spring that my back was an is sue causing me to not be able to play in many tournaments,” he said. “This made me basically not be as match tough going into the season as I would have hoped. But I haven’t had any inju ries this season.”

Lisiak started playing tennis when he was around 6 years old.

“I also played a good amount of soc cer but stopped sometime in middle school,” he said.

Lisiak plans to go to Purdue Uni versity to study data science or engineering.

“I plan to play tennis just recreation ally,” Lisiak said.

Lisiak enjoys playing other sports, such as volleyball. He said other hobbies include playing video games and watching informative videos on YouTube.

Zionsville Community High School senior Sebastian Lisiak has been a key contributor in the Eagles’ suc cess this season. (Photo courtesy of Rosemary Papa)

Lisiak

Foundation awards $183K to Hamilton County nonprofits

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Hamilton County Community Foun dation has awarded more than $183,000 to several area nonprofits. The grants will support projects and initiatives within the foundation’s three community leadership pillars of mental health, family and youth empowerment and are aligned with its mission “to mobilize people, ideas and investment to make this a community where every individual has an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential–no matter their place, race or identity,” according to the Central Indiana Community Foundation website.

NONPROFITS

tion Foundation, which received $20,000. It plans to use the grant funding to implement a new school counseling app, SCUTA, across the school district that helps staff and so cial workers implement unique support for individual students, according to the foun dation’s website.

Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County, Inc., received $25,224, which will go toward serv ing the county through its Sponsor-A-Meal program that delivers hot, cold and frozen meals for those who are unable to prepare their own meals.

“Our foundation is invested in working alongside community partners to make Hamilton County vibrant, resilient and equi table,” said Tom Kilian, foundation president. “Our responsive grantmaking is one way we do this work. Our latest grants support initiatives, address food insecurity and good mental health in students, connect people with disabilities to opportunity and help create a stronger present and a brighter future for Hamilton County.”

Among the organizations receiving fund ing include the Noblesville Schools Educa

In addition, Janus Developmental Ser vices, Inc., which provides education, em ployment training and independent living to adult individuals with disabilities, received $20,000. The grant will allow 60 individuals and staff to participate in program assess ment and an intensive, skills-based employ ment training program.

The Center for the Performing Arts in Car mel received $15,000. As part of its broader Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative, the center will apply this grant toward des ignated performances, making them more accessible to target audiences that have been historically underrepresented.

For a full list of grant recipients, visit cicf. org/2022/09/27/hamilton-county-communi ty-foundation-awards-183k-in-grants.

DISPATCHES

500 Festival princess program now ac cepting applications — The 500 Festival is accepting applications for the 2023 Festival princess program. Applications are available at 500Festival.com/Princess with the dead line to apply at 11:59 p.m. Jan. 8, 2023.

‘Hocus Pocus’ to be shown at Grand Junc tion Plaza — Westfield Welcome will show the movie “Hocus Pocus” Oct. 28 at Grand Junction Plaza. The movie is free and will begin at dusk. A special screening of “Elf” will be Dec. 2.

LEGAL NOTICE OF DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC’S PROPOSED ALTERNATIVE REGULATORY PLAN

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around Septem ber 26, 2022, Duke Energy Indiana filed a petition with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (the “Com mission”) for approval of a low-income reduced deposit and deferred payment plan, and voluntary opt-in round up program, as an alternate regulatory plan (“ARP”) pursuant to Ind. Code 8-1-2.5-6.

Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St. Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor PNC Center 115 W. Washington St. Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494

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Meals on Wheels event raises more than $42K

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

A Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County Dancing With Our Stars fundraiser in early September brought in more than $42,000 for the organization.

NONPROFIT

The eighth annual event, which was held Sept. 8 at Embassy Suites in Noblesville, is the largest fundraiser of the year for the organization, said Beth Gehlhausen, execu tive director of Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County. The fundraiser is key to the organi zation fulfilling its mission to enhance the quality of life of homebound individuals and seniors in Hamilton County by providing nutritious meals, personal interactions and independence, Gehlhausen said.

THE CENTER FOR THE

“This event has been so important to Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County, but now more than ever,” Gehlhausen said. “We continue to see an increasing need to serve the homebound, whether they are elderly, are recovering from surgery, or are experi encing physical or mental challenges.”

Phil Huang, an orthopedic surgeon with Community Health Network, was named Top Male, while Kris Beck, an OB/GYN with Community Health Network, was named Top Female at the event. Tom Kilian, president of the Hamilton County Community Foundation and IMPACT Central Indiana, was named as the people’s choice during the event, ac cording to officials.

For more on Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County, visit mealsonwheelshc.org.

Phil Huang, an orthopedic surgeon with Community Health Network, was named Top Male at the Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County Dancing With Our Stars fundraiser Sept. 8. (Photo provided by Jennifer Lear)

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

October isn’t just for football and Halloween, as dog own ers and their faithful companions recently enjoyed a day out for a good cause at Barktoberfest at Asa Bales Park in Westfield.

The sixth annual event held Oct. 8 at the park brought a variety of dogs, ranging from pitbulls, corgis, labradoodles, among others, many of which were dressed up in their best Halloween costumes. All proceeds from the event directly benefited the Humane Society for Hamilton County.

Westfield resident Lindsey Lawrence was among those in attendance with her mother, Cathy. She said she has at tended Barktoberfest every year since it started. Lawrence, who brought her dogs Tucker, Caramel and Tinker, said her main reason for coming back is because her pups really enjoy it. She noted that Barktoberfest offers plenty to do for attendees.

“They bring rescue dogs, too, and my sister’s thinking of getting one. They have really good causes here, which is really fun to go to,” Lawrence said.

Westfield Mayor Andy Cook and his wife, Barb, also came to Barktoberfest with their 5-month-old English cream re triever puppy, Willow. Cook said the event, which was host ed by Westfield Welcome, was an opportunity for citizens to enjoy themselves.

Carmel resident Jenny Kindsfather came with her bulldog, Clyde, who was dressed up for the Halloween costume contest. The event also featured more than 20 vendors and agility races. Kindsfather said she was enjoying the weath er, meeting new people and seeing the different dogs in attendance.

Kayla Arnold, director of Westfield Welcome, said the event has typically attracted 500 people and noted there was something for everyone to enjoy, including the dog agility races.

“Dogs are very into it — and some are not,” Arnold said with a smile.

Vendors such as Barbara Grider were also enjoying the opportunity to see the creative dog costumes as visitors walked by. Grider, who co-owns Happy Mutt Pet Bakery with her daughter, Melissa, said the event provided an op portunity to showcase her business while socializing with those in attendance.

“It’s got the feeling of the community and the dog lovers coming together,” she said.

Westfield resident Roberta Jordan, who was in atten dance with her mini goldendoodle, Ruby, said she enjoyed the opportunity to get out and socialize her dog.

“I just love having her interact with people and other dogs, and it’s for a good cause,” Jordan said.

Jamie McIntire, lead volunteer with the Humane Society for Hamilton County, said Barktoberfest raised $3,000 for the organization, which she noted is the only open adop

tion, no-kill animal shelter in Indiana. Funding from events such as Barktoberfest allow the humane society to serve animals that come into its facility, she said.

“There’s something special about everyone coming to gether for the same cause,” McIntire said. “If we didn’t have events like this, we wouldn’t be able to take in as many animals. They’re life-changing.”

She also said the assortment of Halloween costumes on dogs small and large at Barktoberfest is something she enjoys seeing every year.

“You can’t go wrong dressing up a dog,” she said with a smile. “It’s the cutest thing.”

ON THE COVER: Westfield resident Lindsey Lawrence, right, attends Barktoberfest with her mom, Cathy, and their three dogs, Tucker, Caramel and Tinker, on Oct. 8 at Asa Bales Park in Westfield. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

TINSEL & TAILS

The Humane Society for Hamilton County will host its 2022 Tinsel & Tail Holiday Petacular event from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 17 at the 502 East Event Centre, 502 E. Car mel Dr., Carmel. The event will feature a silent auc tion, dinner, a golden ticket raffle and a presentation of the year’s most amazing rescue stories, according to the organization. For more information, visit hamil tonhumane.com/programs/events/tinsel-tails-2.

Annual event at Asa Bales Park benefits Humane Society for Hamilton County

Westfield resident Amber Drlik enjoys Barktoberfest with her dog, Sage, Oct. 8 at Asa Bales Park in Westfield. (Photos by Mat thew Kent)

Carmel resident Jenny Kindsfather and her bulldog, Clyde, were among the attendees at the sixth annual Barktoberfest Oct. 8 at Asa Bales Park in Westfield.

Watch out for wolves

Commentary by Terry Anker

For all of the shortcomings of our mod ern age, we enjoy many benefits. Today rarely finds us beating our clothing upon a rock, hoping to dislodge from it the many mites the garment had accumulat ed since its last annual washing. Most simply walk the aisles of vast super markets to collect nourishment for our bodies rather than hitching oxen to plow and tend to fields hoping to someday eat. And parents are unlikely concerned about wolves lurking as their children venture outside for play.

Comfort and safety bring innumerable pleasures. We relax, resting upon the accomplishments of our forebearers and ourselves, assured that danger is long since eradicated by our own supe rior intelligence and blocking from our collective memory the suffering of the past. We rewrite the narrative to over confidently boast of our triumph over the wolf.

Perhaps we are right in our hubris and deserving of the bragging rights. But could it be that the wolf is still there, lurking in the shadows, waiting for us to lower our guard? Are our chil dren safe from a different but equally dangerous predator? Will a drug dealer in their classroom lure them into the woods? Will socially inspired sloth lead them to miss their potential? Will cir cumstances leave them vulnerable to countless threats, many nearly impossi ble to predict or undo?

Even as we celebrate the eradication of old threats do we overlook the new ones emerging? Do we have an endless affirmative responsibility to identify and shine light upon what we imagine to be developing concerns, or can we stop looking once we’ve overcome the first?

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Freedom of an empty nest

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Well folks, I’m two months into my glorious stint as an empty nester, and I. Am. Thriving. I love it so much I can almost forget the horrors of being a stay-at-home mom for nine years and a working mother for 14. “Horrors” may be a bit strong, but keeping four offspring safe and warm and out of jail was ex hausting – emotionally, physically, and mentally.

With the last one finally away at col lege, that giant weight of constant par enting is gone. Woohoo! This introvert has truly found her happy place.

My husband Doo? Less so. Partly be cause he’s an extravert who has always been energized by interaction with our children, especially as they’ve grown older, but also because he was never as focused on the minutiae of their day-today existence as I was. At any moment I could have told you where everyone was, what they were doing and with whom, and what they would inevitably need. I felt maybe not entirely respon sible but certainly fully aware of all aspects of their lives, from friends and fears to food and footwear.

Doo, on the other hand, was able to maximize the joy of fatherhood while minimizing the stress of it. And now when he arrives home, instead of find ing a son or daughter with whom he can chat and laugh and generally engage, he sees me, perfectly content on the couch playing online Sudoku in beautiful silence until I cheerfully bid goodnight at 8:30 p.m.

POLICIES

— ALEXANDER POPE

Poor Doo. He misses his fun kids, and his boring wife is a poor substitute. But at least one of us is thriving in this empty nest!

Peace out.

Letters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to letters@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.

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

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

To err is human; to forgive, divine.

Snazzy way to nap in airports

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

We had just landed at LAX, excited about our vacation. I saw a man in the termi nal, head slumped over, legs draped over his carry-on bag. What caught my attention was the odd blanket covering his head and chest. Only his nose was visible.

ery while using their product, especially if you feel drowsy — which I thought was the whole reason to wear the thing.

HUMOR

Sacking out in airports has become com monplace. Canceled flights, airlines that won’t spring for ho tels and long delays between connections all contribute to the need to toss and turn right alongside the tarmac.

A web site, sleepinginair ports.net, offers tips for people who get stuck overnight between flights. Apparently, what he was wearing is called The Snazzy Napper (at least, that’s what he told me when I woke him up). This is a solution for travelers who have desperately sought a flattering way to position themselves while sleeping at the airport or in their seats aboard the aircraft. Now, you can scrunch and contort any humiliating which-way. Drool and scratch to your heart’s con tent: the Snazzy Napper will protect your identity.

This colorful piece of cloth fully covers your head and neck like a burqa, admittedly not the most inconspicuous garb at airports nowadays. The Snazzy Napper has one hole for your nose, or, if you have a cold, you can mouth-breathe there. You could place your eye or ear in the aperture, but you might suffocate, a minor design flaw casually referenced on the warning label. It also says not to drive a car or operate machin

When the item was first introduced, it was a big hit. But there were critics. One woman threatened a lawsuit, not because it didn’t work, but because it did. She caught some great zzz’s as her purse, iPhone and carry-on luggage were all stolen during her snoozefest.

One couple tried theirs on in the car be fore they left for the airport. They missed their flight, having lost precious minutes convincing a police officer that they were not on their way to a bank heist. Another guy was annoyed that the product didn’t come with a more complete set of instructions, which is odd: All you have to do is find the hole in the blanket and then stick your nose through it.

– DICK WOLFSIE

Folks who called The Snazzy Napper hotline were surprised that no one an swered. Considering the product they’re hawking, it’s easy to conjure up a good mental image of what was going on in their call center.

Mary Ellen tried to order me a Snazzy Napper, because on our flight home, I snored, drooled and fidgeted in my seat. Luckily, it’s no longer available, so I’ll never have to drape myself in that contraption, but I only avoided it by a nose.

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

LEGAL NOTICE OF RATE LED - UNMETERED OUTDOOR LIGHTING SERVICE DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice of its intention to file a request for expanded offerings under Rider No. 42, Rate LED – Unmetered Lighting service to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission on or around October 21, 2022. This offering provides Duke Energy Indiana’s customers additional pricing options for efficient, unmetered roadway or other outdoor LED lighting service.

This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing, unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or Randall C. Helmen with the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:

Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission - PNC Center 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 Telephone: 317-232-2703

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 Telephone: 317-232-2494

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC By: Stan Pinegar, President

Drool and scratch to your heart’s content: the Snazzy Napper will protect your identity.

Exercise -- I Know I Need To, But

By Valerie J. Weesner, PhD, HSPP

Fact: Regular exercise is beneficial for physical, emotional and mental health.

Fact: Despite our knowledge and good inten tions, we do not always engage in behaviors that support this intent. Why is that? As a clinical psy chologist, I have often addressed the age-old question, “How do we get ourselves to do the things we know we should do, and that we even want to do, but can’t seem to make ourselves do?” Experience has shown me that some, or all, of the following five tips will help you be successful in establishing your exercise program:

For me, I was excited when all those “farmer carries” at the gym allowed me to carry in a bag of water softener salt in each hand. This satisfaction motivated me to continue my exercise program.

Valerie J. Weesner

1. Small, Reasonable Goals. In the psycho logical world we talk about the concept of “building mastery” to improve mood. Mood is not only enhanced just by having fun – we get a surge of positive emotion from setting small, reasonable goals and achieving them.

2. Habit. Habit. Habit. Set a time and place and go exercise because it is on your schedule. The challenge is to not think about what else you could be doing during that time. Remind yourself that this is the time earmarked by you, for you, to take care of you. It makes all the other things on your To Do list easier – you feel better, your mood is better, and you have more energy.

3. Balance. Maintain a good balance of activities in life. Exercise is important, but too much of a good thing is still too much. It is important to include other enjoyable and meaningful activities along with your weekly exercise routine.

4. Support and Accountability. It feels great to exercise in a supportive environment. In my gym, the community of members, staff

and trainers makes me feel important and successful. They expect me to show up and may even feel a little disappointed if I don’t. They call if I don’t show up, or better yet, text before and say “Hey, I’ll be there, are you coming?” In short, they care about my success.

5. Enjoyment. Many of us don’t actually like to exercise. What can we do about that? We can find an environment that we like, with people that we like, and go there. We can find exercise that doesn’t actually feel a whole lot like exercise because it is fun.

Laughing a little, or a lot, while groaning, sweating and moving our bodies just feels good. It dumps stress and puts a smile on our faces.

Behaviorism 101 suggests that the things we get reinforcement for, we do more often. With self-care as my goal, I have a great reinforcer -- walking into Motion 4 Life Fitness, meeting up with people I en joy, working out hard, laughing and goofing around. And, I leave feeling better than when I walked in.

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Oh yeah! We look good! CALL TODAY AND SCHEDULE YOUR FREE 2 WEEK TRIAL! 317.343.2537

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CALL TODAY AND SCHEDULE YOUR FREE 2 WEEK TRIAL!

CALL TODAY AND SCHEDULE YOUR FREE 2 WEEK TRIAL! 317.343.2537

How to tackle turf toe

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

fractures.

Now that football season is back, you may have heard sports commentators talking about turf toe. While it affects football players, turf toe can happen to anyone involved in sports activities. Partici pants in soccer, basketball, wrestling, gym nastics and dance are especially at risk.

PODIATRY

Turf toe is a sprain to the largest joint of the big toe and happens when the big toe joint is overextended. Often, this overexten sion occurs because the toe gets pushed forward too often. This injury can build up gradually over time. It gets worse without treatment, especially when you remain ath letically active. That’s why it’s important to recognize turf toe symptoms.

Turf toe causes pain, and often bruising may be noticeable at the bottom of the big toe. With severe injuries, the toe could even dislocate. It may hurt to walk, and the toe could feel stiff and show signs of limited mobility. Without treatment, symptoms will worsen, and the risk for future injury will increase. Usually diagnosed with a physical exam, an X-ray may be necessary to rule out

We’ll recommend rest and icing. Elevating the foot can reduce swelling and anti-in flammatory medications can offer pain relief. It’s also important to keep the big toe from moving while it heals. We may immobi lize your toe with taping. You’ll also need to change footwear, choosing stiff-soled shoes to prevent too much pressure on your toes.

In rare cases, surgery may be needed. But that’s more likely if the injury extends be yond the big toe joint or affects the plantar plate, which keeps the big toe stable. This is because turf toe and plantar plate inju ries can destabilize the entire foot. We will likely recommend a walking boot so you can stay mobile without hurting your recovery.

Don’t let the fear of downtime keep you from coming in. Instead, remember this: the sooner you come in, the less damage you’ll inflict on your toe.

A board-certified foot surgeon and wound specialist, Dr. David Sullivan is the owner of Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact him at drs@ westfieldfoot.com.

TO SHOP FOR NEW GLASSES?

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Dr.

Hannah Wilson

Become a volunteer today

Riverview Health is looking for volunteers to join its great team. Some of the many volunteer service areas include patient transport, guest services and the gift shop. Shifts are available in the morning or afternoon, at least one day per week, Monday-Friday.

If you’re interested in volunteering at Riverview Health in Noblesville or Westfield, please contact the manager of Volunteer Services, Melinda Nash, at 317.776.7236 or mnash@riverview.org. You can also scan the QR code to download an application.

DISPATCHES

Video game stock growth — The video game industry is booming. The global video game market is likely to double to $300 billion in revenue by 2025, according to tech research firm GlobalData, driven by the expansion of mobile-phone and online gaming. Also, there has been tremendous growth in games played by multiple players over the Internet, such as Fortnite, in which 100 players fight against one another for survival. And rather than buying individual games in stores such as GameStop, players are paying fees for monthly subscriptions to online services that allow them to stream or download games. Two subscription services, Apple Arcade and Google Stadia, were launched last year, but they’ve had lukewarm results, partly because of compe tition from free online video game providers such as Epic Games, the privately. Epic made more than a billion dollars in 2019 by selling optional virtual accessories such as character outfits. Investors should focus on third-party video game publishers with a history of churning out blockbuster games for consoles, PCs and mobile devices. Their stocks can benefit no matter what platform

gamers choose to play on or what business model prevails. Two attractive video game publishers now are:

• Activision Blizzard (ATVI) hits in clude World of Warcraft, which has had $9 billion in revenue since 2004. It part ners with YouTube to stream live broad casts of tournaments for games such as Overwatch and Call of Duty.

• Electronic Arts (EA) makes best-selling games such as the FIFA soccer se ries, Madden NFL and Battlefield

Source: BottomLineInc.co

New car replacement insurance — Typical insurance policies only pay a depreciated value for your car if it’s totaled in an acci dent. Recent ads offering full replacement cost are very common. They don’t, however, tell the whole story. Full replacement cost coverage will increase your premium by at least 15 percent and is only good for a limit ed time period, or specific number of miles. It might not be worth the extra premiums given the chance of totaling your car is less than 1 percent in a year.

Source: BottomLine.com

RIGHT SIZE. RIGHT CARE. RIGHT HERE.

TOM ROUSH MAZDA HOSTS CARBQ EVENT

A Mercury Woodie Wagon was among more than a dozen antique cars on display during a CarBQ event Oct. 8 at the Tom Roush Mazda dealership in Westfield. The event featured free food and giveaways for customers throughout the day. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

currentnightandday.com

GHDT’s ‘There’s No Place Like Home’ returns

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Gregory Hancock often reaches into his repertoire to bring back a favorite.

The Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre executive artistic director doesn’t always bring a production back the following year, but he decided to do so with “There’s No Place Like Home,” which debuted in October 2021. The storyline, with a “Wizard of Oz” theme, is an autobiographical tale of how Hancock was moved by visiting India.

The Carmel-based Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre production is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 28-29 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. One of the main reasons Hancock decided to include it in the 25th season celebration was at the request of two board members.

“(They) were moved by the piece and were fascinated to see India through my eyes and my personal story come to life on stage,” he said. “While the dance is autobiographical, there is the universal struggle to find meaning and understand ing in our journey through life with all its triumphs and tragedies. During the past few years, I have intentionally made my work more personal, but by doing so it also makes me extremely vulnerable. While last year I left some aspects of the work open to the interpretation of the audience, this year I have added more intention and thus made the story more personal and emotional.”

The Carmel resident said the response from audiences and critics last season to “There’s No Place Like Home” was over whelming, so it made sense to give more people an opportunity to see it.

“The energy of each performance is uniquely different, and our work typically has multiple layers to the performance, so each viewing brings a new and fresh experience,” Hancock said. “One of the nice things about presenting repertoire is the ability to continue to enhance the work from the original presentation. These enhancements are usually in the form of contributions to the emotional impact of the narrative of the production. When

dancers repeat pieces, they can inhabit their characters and the choreography in stronger ways. They have a deeper under standing of the emotional aspects of the piece and the intention of the choreogra phy and character.”

Hancock said most dancers are per forming in the same role with some minor changes.

Company dancer Thomas Mason, a Carmel resident, returns in the role of a young Hancock.

“Last year the experience of learning the choreography and hearing the stories

was extremely special,” Mason said. “How ever, what makes this time more special is being able to dig deeper into my character to tell the story even stronger this time.”

Company dancer Abigail Lessaris, Ma son’s fiancee, said the story evokes pow erful emotions. Lessaris plays the roles of Mother India, Mother Ganges, Saraswati, Buddha and Hanuman. The roles all repre sent Hancock’s mother, Florence Hancock, who died in 2014.

“It is truly a journey of finding oneself, and finding your family in this world,” Lessaris said. “It is a timeless story that anyone can relate to in their own personal way.”

Lessaris said one of the biggest chal lenges of the show is the incorporation of different styles of dance. The choreogra phy is influenced by Bollywood, Bhangra, Kathak and many other forms of Indian dance styles, she said.

“The costumes are ornate, the backdrop is stunning, the lighting is fantastic and the choreography is athletic and exciting,” Lessaris said. “The extravagance of this performance is food for your eyes.”

For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

‘THE ADDAMS FAMILY’

“The Addams Family” runs through Nov. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianap olis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘RENT’

Civic Theatre’s production of “Rent” runs through Oct. 22 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘CARELESS LOVE’

Madeleine Peyroux will perform songs from her album “Careless Love” and Paula Cole will perform songs from her album “This Fire” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carm el. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘ONE DARK NIGHT’

Guitarist Nick Zaza will present his show “One Dark Night… A Rock Symphony of the Macabre” at 8 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Car mel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

ANGELIQUE KIDJO

Singer/songwriter Angelique Kidjo will per form at 7 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carm el. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

’TICK, TICK … BOOM’

The Carmel Community Players will present the musical “Tick, Tick … Boom” through Oct. 23 at The Switch Theatre in Fishers. For more, visit carmelplayers.org

‘BILLY STRITCH: CY COLEMAN REVISITED’

ATI Live! Presents “Billy Stritch — Cy Coleman Revisited” is set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more feinsteinshc.com.

‘TIME TO LOVE AGAIN’

Nicole Henry’s performance of “Time to Love Again” is set for 7:30 p.m. Oct. 21-22 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more feinsteinshc.com.

PEANUT BUTTER & JAM: DORIN

The Peanut Butter & Jam series will present pop and indie rock band Dorin at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 22 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Abigail Lessaris performs in “There’s No Place Like Home.” (Photo by Vernon Jones)

Thomas Mason performs the role of a younger Gregory Hancock. (Photo by Joe Phillips)

Third annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists winners honored are, from left, Jerry Mannell, Best in Show winner; Jack Garrett, Fishers Jiffy Lube of Indiana general manag er, and front, from left, Shakila Garugu, third place; Abigail Staffelbach, second place; Laura Villanyi, Fishers Arts Council board president; and Maeve Asano, first place. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Arts Council)

Fishers Arts Council honors county winners

editorial@youarecurrent.com

The Fishers Arts Council honored winners of its third annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists during a Sept. 9 reception. As in the two previous years, Jiffy Lube of Indiana was the art competi tion’s major sponsor, and Fishers Jiffy Lube General Manager Jack Garrett welcomed artists and guests and presented awards.

RECOGNITION

The Jiffy Lube of Indiana Best in Show winner was Carmel resident Jerry Mannell for his painting, “Tremors.” Mannell received an award of $850 and the following com ment from the show’s judge, Terry Lacy: Mannell’s painting “is contemplative and reminds me of reading a poem or listening to a song that crystallizes a relationship between the viewer and the art.”

The first-place winner, Maeve Asano, a former Carmel resident who now lives in Fort Wayne, received an award of $650 for her work “Maude’s Wonder,” which tells an “unfolding story” within the painting. The second-place award of $475 was given to Abigail Staffelbach, Fishers, for her dream like, fairy-tale piece, “Bleeding Heart,” and the third-place finisher was “Eternal Bond” and $350 to Shakila Garugu, Fishers, for her painting of a beautiful child. All winners were selected by Lacy.

There was also stiff competition for the People’s Choice award, with patrons voting on Facebook and in-person in the gallery. The winner was Fishers resident Jeremy Mallov, a Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township art teacher. Malloy’s work “Guadalupe Hills” received the most overall votes and a $100 cash prize.

Candlelight Theatre hosts play

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

productions that use the presidential site to its fullest capacity in presenting salon-style theater.”

PRODUCTION

Since Indianapolis is the Crossroads of America, Candlelight Theatre’s playwright in residence James Trofatter figures the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is a good place for ghosts to converge.

Donna Wing, Candlelight Theatre’s creative director and a Geist-area resident, plays Tabitha, an accused witch from Maine, who leads the audience on a geographical journey stop ping in places such as Philadelphia, San Antonio and Denver in “The Haunted States of America” at the Benjamin Harrison Presi dential Site, 1230 N. Delaware St., Indianapo lis. The play was set to begin Oct. 14-15 and will continue Oct. 21-22 and 28-29.

Noblesville resident Ann Richards, an onair personality at B105.7. plays Lizzie, wife of Dr. William Reddick Whitehead, a battlefield surgeon who might have helped his patients die.

Richards

“I’ve loved getting to be a part of their fall and holiday productions,” Richards said. “I’ve played every thing from the Christmas Spider to the wife of a president, a lady who dressed as a man so that she could fight in the Civil War, and one of the witch es in a scene from ‘MacBeth’ in this show.”

Westfield resident Peter Fowle portrays Dr. Francis Turner, an osteopath in the early 20th century in Savannah, Ga., and owner of The Hamilton-Turner Inn, which is consid ered haunted.

“A fun fact is that each of the 50 states is mentioned in the play in some fashion,” Wing said. “Each Halloween, Candlelight The atre presents a ghostly or macabre produc tion among the ambience and furnishings of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. I like that I have the creativity to design

“I have several minutes where I do not have any lines, so the challenge is to not stand like a statue waiting for my next line but also not to be so busy that I distract from the main action,” he said.

For more, visit bhpsite.org/events/ hauntedstatesofamerica/

Actress reprises role of Morticia

By Edward Redd editorial@youarecurrent.com

Audrey Larkin is eager to return to the stage as one of her favorite characters. Larkin will reprise the role of Morticia in Carmel Apprentice The atre’s production of “The Addams Family” from Oct. 27 to Nov. 13 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. Larkin previously played the role in the acting company’s 2018 production of the musical comedy.

PLAY

“I grew up on ‘The Addams Family.’ Morti cia was always amazing,” Larkin said.

Larkin said she appreciates Morticia’s confidence and that she is proud of who she is and having a partner who loves ev erything about her. Larkin said a lot of love is shown in the Addams family being true to themselves.

Larkin is a Baldwin Wallace University graduate who specialized in writing and theater. Larkin, who is the production man ager for The Cat, grew up in Carmel and lives in Westfield.

“I’ve been involved with the Carmel Ap prentice Theater, which is the program that is all inclusive, since they started,” Larkin

Audrey Larkin, who plays Morticia, and Jonathan “JB” Scoble, who plays Gomez, appear in “The Addams Family: A New Musical.” (Pho to courtesy of Audrey Larkin)

said. “It’s our fifth anniversary. The Cat opened in 2017.”

Indianapolis resident Sarah Gasper, who has Down syndrome, appears in the show. Larkin said Gasper’s favorite show is “The Addams Family.”

“She’s been to probably over a hundred productions,” Larkin said. “I just want peo ple to come to the show and see how joyful she is when she’s dancing as one of the ancestors.”

Larkin said the “The Addams Family” is about embracing yourself, no matter how obscure it is to other people. In doing that, it inspires others, she said.

For more, visit thecat.biz.

Where’s Amy?

PRESENTS

Where’s Amy attends Civic Theatre’s ‘Rent’

From left, Kate West (Carmel), Will Mosier (Carmel) and Hope Keil (Carmel) attend Civic Theatre’s “Rent” Oct. 9 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The talented cast had the audience’s attention from start to finish with a well-deserved standing ovation. The set, lighting, music and choreography were outstanding, and this was one of the best shows I’ve attended. Do not miss this show that runs until Oct. 22. Civic has so many wonderful productions coming up including “A Christmas Story: The Musical” from Dec. 2 to 24. For more, visit civicthe atre.org. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Plenty of chorizo choices

Commentary by Mark LaFay

Let’s talk about chorizo. There are many great chorizos (a type of pork sausage) to be had in the world.

say they are raw and must be cooked. Spain also blessed the world with a dry-cured chorizo. We think of this type of sausage as salami thanks to the ubiquitous nature of Italian culture.

CHARCUTERIE

You may or may not know that the origin of chorizo is Spanish. That is not to say that all chorizo is Spanish. In-fact, there are numerous types of chorizos (whether it is called chorizo or not) that can be found all throughout the new world.

Mexico has several types of regional cho rizos that are red or green. The same goes for Argentina, where it is often found in links on buns covered in chimichurri. Chile has chorizo called “longaniza.” Peru has a chorizo that is fried and crumbled. Hondu ran chorizo is similar to Peruvian in that it uses green pepper and garlic, among other things.

Spanish chorizo and Argentinian chorizo are the most alike because they are pork sausages with paprika, a touch of garlic and maybe some black pepper.

Now, what all of these chorizos have in common is that they are fresh. That is to

Dried Spanish chorizo is a real treat. The best of the best types of Spanish chorizo are made with Iberico pork.

Coro is a delicious salami made by a com pany called Salumi out of Seattle. This is a delicious salami that is made with cocoa, cinnamon, and chipotle peppers. It has a delicious savory, spicy flavor that is bal anced nicely with the richness of the pork and the cocoa.

The next time you dust off your char cuterie platter, included a dry-cured chorizo salami. There are several to choose from, and it’s the exploration of new foods that makes charcuterie so much fun.

Amy Pauszek is a photographer, award-winning film producer and scouting and casting associate for Talent Fusion Agency in Indianapolis. She can be reached at Amy@ youarecurrent.com. To see more of her photos, visit currentnightandday.com.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

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Blueprint for Improvement: Sleek and stylish Carmel living room

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 1992 in downtown Carmel, this home’s owners were ready to transform their dated liv ing room into a modern and sophisticated space.

THE BLUEPRINT

The nondistinctive fireplace now makes a sophisticated statement, with chic floor-toceiling tile and a custom gas insert for easy operation.

• Grass cloth wallpaper pairs perfectly with the sleek fireplace tile, adding texture and modern style.

The first floor flows seamlessly by replacing wall-to-wall carpet with luxury vinyl plank flooring that gives the appearance of wood but with easy upkeep.

• The new island features a unique custom curved support that serves as a stylish transition piece between the living room and kitchen.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

After

Before

A grammar horror story

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

fusion or misinterpretation.

My general rule is: use commas sparingly. Pretend they’re shotgun shells and you’re trying to survive in a zombie apocalypse. Ac cording to AP, “If a comma doesn’t help make clear what is being said, don’t use it.”

GRAMMAR GUY

On days like this, kids in costumes aren’t the only spooky things in the neigh borhood. Did you know commas can save innocent lives? I wanted to avoid controversial sub jects like killing in this column, but here we are discussing the only two certain ties in life: death and punctuation.

In today’s article, I’m going to settle the Oxford comma debate once and for all. How’s that for a bold statement?

Suppose I wanted to list a few (three, to be precise) of my favorite things. I could say: I like eating, children and small ani mals. That was intended to read as a list of three things — not a list of one thing followed by examples (although I’ve heard squirrel bacon is excellent)! Most people think the Oxford comma (a.k.a. the serial, series or Harvard comma) is at odds with the AP Stylebook. I’m not sure if this will come as a trick or a treat to you, but the AP Stylebook actually makes clear that it’s perfectly appropriate to use an Oxford comma when doing so helps to avoid con

Hopefully this nuanced take on the comma controversy provides a diacritical middle ground for the two feuding punc tuation parties. I’m not naive enough to assume I will be able to change anyone’s mind on a polarizing topic such as this; I merely wanted to illustrate how two opposing factions can (theoretically) peacefully coexist. I know, I know, you probably think this is a not-so-subtle way of addressing the age-old rivalry between vampires and werewolves. For the record, you are correct. I believe in a world in which vampires and werewolves can — and do — get along.

Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.

A visit to Harvard University

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, on our return from Cape Cod, we stop by Harvard University, where I studied 50 years ago.

RAKING LEAVES

TRAVEL

In 1636, the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Col ony appropriated £400 to establish “Newe College,” the first institution of higher education in the colonies, with a goal of training Puritan ministers. The college was in Newe Town, a new settlement along the Charles River, now known as Cambridge, about 3 miles northwest of Boston. In 1638, John Harvard, a recent immigrant from England, died childless and left £780, half of his estate, and his 400-volume library to the college, subsequently renamed “Harvard College” in his honor. President Charles W. Eliot, who served between 1869 and 1909, eliminated the Christian orientation of Har vard, creating a modern research university. During Eliot’s term, Harvard dedicated a bronze statue of a seated John Harvard with a book in his lap, his face based on that of a Harvard student.

Since its founding, Harvard graduates have had an important impact on the nation. Eight

Harvard graduates have become presidents of the United States, 21 have become jus tices of the U.S. Supreme Court and 161 have won Nobel Prizes. Harvard living graduates include 188 billionaires, more than twice as many as second-place Stanford.

Today, Harvard University is among the world’s preeminent educational institutions. Its main campus comprises 209 acres in Cambridge. The center of the campus is Har vard Yard, the oldest part of the university, containing most of the first-year dormito ries and Harvard’s most important libraries, collectively including more than 20 million items. The statue of John Harvard now sits in Harvard Yard in front of University Hall. Seeking good luck, visitors rub the toe of his left boot, making it perpetually shiny. Eight million people each year visit nearby Harvard Square, a bustling center of dining, public discourse and culture.

Harvard Square in Cambridge, Mass. (Photo by Don Knebel)

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

TREE

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We are currently seeking for a front and back part-time dental assistant who is energetic friendly and organized for a dental practice in Fishers IN. that provides excellent individualized dental care to all our patients.

Applicants must have strong work ethic, at least a year of experience and X-ray certification.

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IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR SKILLED CARPENTERS!

Looking for job security? Simpson Construction Services has so much work that it must hire five people for residential remodeling NOW. The skilled carpenters we select will have strong abilities in bathroom remodeling, but also with respect to kitchens, decks, basements, wood and tile flooring, doors and windows, interior and exterior painting, drywall, plumbing and electrical, siding and room additions.

Again: Only skilled carpenters need apply. For immediate consideration, call Gary Simpson at 317.703.9575.

HIRING

HIRING

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment.

The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net.

We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays.

To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

A new level of cancer care.

Introducing Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center, a partnership committed to eliminating cancer in the state of Indiana, and beyond.

For almost a decade, Community has been a member of MD Anderson Cancer Network. And this next step in our collaboration makes Community Health Network just the sixth partner in the country and the first partner in the Midwest.

Community MD Anderson combines the exceptional cancer care that Community already offers with better access, greater options, and a more robust connection to one of the nation’s top cancer centers, MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Let’s start the journey together at eCommunity.com/cancer