November 22, 2022 — Westfield

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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Westfield, IN Vol. XV, No. 43

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.

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

County lights Old Courthouse green

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Old Courthouse in downtown Nobles ville has been lit green as part of a new initiative between the and three organizations meant to show support for veter ans and raise awareness of the challenges they face.

VETERANS

The initiative, known as Operation Green Light, is between Hamilton County, the In diana Association of Counties, the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Offi cers, according to the organization.

Operation Green Light’s mission is to show support for veterans of all military conflicts, as well as raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many vet erans and their families and the resources that are available at the county, state and federal levels to assist them.

“By shining the green light, we’re ex pressing our profound gratitude for the sac rifices and contributions our veterans and their families made on the battle at home,” said Steve Dillinger, president of the Hamil

ton County Commissioners. “At a time when our country is faced with so many issues, we can all agree that those individuals who risked and sacrificed their lives to protect our country and our way of life deserve our support. I encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light.”

County officials encourage the public to participate by simply changing one light bulb in their home to a green bulb, which

An aerial view of the Old Court house in downtown Noblesville, which has been lit green as part of an initiative known as Opera tion Green Light that is meant to show support for veterans and raise awareness of the challenges they face. (Photo courtesy of Hamil ton County)

can be an exterior light that neighbors and those driving by can see, or an interior light inside one’s home. Although Operation Green Light is focused around the week of Veterans Day, the public is encouraged to continue shining the light year-round.

“By shining a green light, we are letting our veterans know that they are seen, ap preciated and supported,” according to a statement from the county.

County encourages COVID-19 boosters

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

From left,

The Hamilton County Health Dept. is en couraging homebound Hoosiers to schedule their COVID-19 boosters, especially as highly con tagious variants threaten a resurgence in new cases this holiday season.

VACCINES

“We’re calling and following up with people who had us out to administer their initial vaccines,” said Melissa Ackerman, head of the Hamilton County Health Dept.’s Homebound Hoosier program. “Our vaccine supply is much better than it once was, so we can now offer patients their choice of vaccine and we can administer to anyone in the home five years of age and older.”

The Indiana State Dept. of Health launched the Homebound Hoosiers Program in March 2021 to provide vaccines to atrisk, hard-to-reach and immobile residents, according to the ISDH. The Hamilton County Health Dept. partnered with paramedics at the Carmel, Noblesville, and Westfield fire departments to complete 410 runs in the first year of the program, vaccinating more

homebound Hoosiers than any other county in the state.

“This program doesn’t happen without the fire departments,” Ackerman said. “They are the boots on the ground. Our nurses prep the vaccines, and the paramedics pick them up twice a week to deliver and admin ister them. It runs like clockwork.”

According to the county, Ackerman worked tirelessly to build a program from scratch on Microsoft Teams that allowed

the health and fire departments to manage calls and share information in real time. That led to the Indiana Immunization Co alition recognizing Ackerman and James Macky, division chief of emergency medical services at the Noblesville Fire Dept. with its High Flyer award.

Homebound residents interested in a COVID-19 vaccine or booster can schedule an in-home vaccination by calling the Hamilton County Health Dept. at 317-776-8500.

Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt, Melissa Ackerman, James Macky, Hamilton County Health Department Administrator Jason LeMaster and Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County)

DISPATCHES

Ice skating tickets available — Tickets for the Ice at Carter Green in Carmel are on sale. The rink will be open Nov. 19 through Feb. 26, 2023. Skate sessions last 90 min utes, unless noted on the skate session calendar. The cost per session on all days is $10 for adults and youth 11 and older, $8 for children 10 and younger. Skates may be rented for $4 per person. Buy tickets and learn more at theiceatcartergreen.com/ tickets.

Student Impact accepting registration for girls basketball league – Student Impact is accepting registration for its girls bas ketball league. The organization has hosted Westfield’s recreational sports program for 7th to 12th grade students for nearly 20 years. Games began Nov. 18 at the Pacers Athletic Center, 200 E. 186th St. Suite A, and will continue Friday evenings through Feb. 17, said Danyele Easterhaus, executive director of Student Impact. The boys league is currently full, but registration is being accepted for the girls’ league. For informa tion on registration and full schedules, visit therockwestfield.org/basketball.

Bicentennial ambassadors needed – High school sophomores and juniors interested in history and community can apply to serve as Hamilton County Bicentennial Am bassadors through a program sponsored by the 2023 Hamilton County Bicentennial Committee. Student ambassadors will serve as a bridge from the past to the future through conversation and public engage ment from January through December 2023. Apply online through Nov. 30 at bit. ly/3D9BypF.

500 Festival launches Living Well Program

– The 500 Festival has launched the Living Well Program, a no-cost, resident-based health initiative for apartment complexes to promote resident wellness and build community. It includes discounted regis tration for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K, training resources and built-in support to reach health goals. It also features headto-head competition against other apart ment complexes for an award for resident participation. Learn more at indymini.com/p/ mini-marathon/register/living-well-program.

Free Trolley

uwci.org

WHS students to host Santa

news@currentinwestfield.com

Llamas, live music, Christmas crafts and an appearance by Santa Claus are in store for this year’s “Cookies with Santa” event Dec. 10 at Westfield High School.

The free event organized by members of Westfield High School Student Government will be from 10 a.m. to noon and is open to the public, said WHS senior Brenna Willis and mem ber of the WHS Student Govern ment executive team. Visitors can expect to see llamas, hear live music and take photos with Santa, Willis said.

In addition, scavenger hunts will also take place, while boun cy houses will be available. There will also be plenty of cookies for attendees to enjoy, according to Willis.

For more, email Willis at brennaarnettwillis@gmail.com.

Llamas will make an appearance during the “Cookies with Santa” event from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 10 in the cafeteria at Westfield High School. The event is hosted by Westfield High School Student Government is free and open to the public.

Children visit with Santa Claus during a previous “Cookies with Santa” event at Westfield High School. This year’s event will be from 10 a.m. to noon in the cafe teria at the high school and is free to attend.

CARMEL SHOWROOM 99 E. Carmel Drive Suite 100 Carmel, IN

MERIDIAN-KESSLER STUDIO 5912 N. College Avenue Indianapolis, IN

ZIONSVILLE STUDIO 117 S. First Street Zionsville,

(Photos provided by Brenna Willis)

Healthcare

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Westfield business owner to run for council seat

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

A Westfield resident who owns several businesses in the community has an nounced he plans to run for Westfield City Council.

POLITICS

Noah Herron, a Republican, said he plans to run for the District 5 seat held by Mike Johns, who has not announced whether he plans to seek reelection. Herron and his wife, Emily, own Urban Vines Win

ery, Urban Farmer Seeds and Urban Apples Cidery in Westfield.

“I want to make a differ ence and make Westfield a better place for all resi dents. Like you, I want to see our city continue to grow and prosper,” Herron said. “Getting involved at the local level of politics is about the desire to improve things like communication, economic vitality, commu

nity identity and effective management of our resources. I believe that public service is a responsibility that we all share, and we should all be willing to contribute our time and proficiencies toward the betterment of the community in which we live.”

Herron said as a businessman and a par ent, not a politician, he intends to bring a “fresh, positive and creative mindset to the council,” and through his work help the city move forward on a better path.

“My commitment is to serve the citizens

of our great city and contribute to its pros perity. With better management of our city’s resources, we can improve our infrastruc ture, public safety and amenities through out Westfield,” Herron said. “Now is the time for change in Westfield, we are growing fast, and we need solid leadership that can give vision for future growth.”

For more on Herron’s campaign, visit noahforwestfield.com or email hello@noah forwestfield.com.

Don’t wait to get the specialty care your child needs

Our specialists are ready to care for your family

Our doctors, nurses and care teams at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital are ready to care for you and your child. It’s important not to put off your child’s essential health needs — from managing a chronic condition to getting emergency care.

Get essential and specialty care

Specialty clinic visits for heart care and diabetes, and essential treatments such as chemotherapy, are critical to your child’s health. If care has been delayed, call to discuss any concerns you have about changes in your child’s health or behavior. We’ll work with your family on a personalized care plan.

Ask about telehealth options

Many specialists are offering virtual visits by phone or video, so your child can get care without leaving home. Call to discuss the best option for your child’s care.

Act quickly in an emergency

If your child has a serious injury or illness, our pediatric emergency rooms are open 24/7, with care that is right for your child and connected to our network of specialists.

If your child is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or dial 911.

Now and always, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital will be here with your family. Get the care you need at GetPeytonManningCare.com.

Specialty care that is right for your child

Delaying medical care could affect your child’s health. Our specialists are ready to provide the personalized care your child needs.

• Cancer care

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• Orthopedics

• Physical medicine and rehabilitation

• Plastic surgery

• Respiratory care

• Sleep medicine

Herron

Guerin Catholic receiver has memorable season

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Guerin Catholic High School senior wide receiver Will Fremion has had a mood swing.

“I’ve always been full on baseball and this season changed it all,” Fremion said. “I’m a lot more focused on foot ball now.”

Fremion had 61 catch es for 1,103 yards and 11 touchdowns for Guerin Catholic (7-5), which lost to Bishop Chatard 49-13 Nov. 4 in the Class 3A Sectional 28 final.

“We were pumped for the year, working all offseason with team bonding stuff,” Fremion said. “We knew we had something special.”

The Carmel resident who had 24 catches as a junior, said he had a huge connection with junior quarterback Ryan Zimmerman during the preseason jamboree.

“Zimmerman and I had a great three (regular) games,” he said. “I think going into Week 4, he was leading the state in passing

MEET WILL FREMION

Favorite athlete: Justin Jefferson

Favorite TV show: “The Office”

Favorite subjects: English litera ture or business management

yards and I was leading in receiving yards. I thought it was funny but really cool.”

Zimmerman was injured in the fourth game and missed the rest of the season.

“Seeing him go down against Brebeuf Je suit was the toughest thing that happened all season,” Fremion said. “What he and I did in those first three games was incredible. I’m never going to forget those. Even on my

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highlight film, half the plays are with him, which I think is hilarious because it’s just three games.”

Fremion said he had confidence in soph omore Malcolm Houze, who became the starter. After a tough two games, Houze was able to turn things around in a 31-30 loss to Chatard in the regular season.

“This year was remarkable,” Fremion said. “From the seniors to the young guys, this was by far my favorite season of all time.”

Fremion said he made the most im provement in speed and strength.

“I got a lot bigger in the offseason and definitely faster than I was the year be fore,” he said.

Fremion gave up basketball after his sophomore season.

“I’ve always taken baseball the most seriously because we come from a base ball family,” Fremion said.

Fremion, a center fielder, hit .330 with 19 runs batted in for Guerin last season.

His older brother, Grant, plays baseball for Saint Louis University.

Fremion is considering playing football or baseball in college.

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Guerin Catholic receiver Will Fremion had 61 catches this past season. (Photo courtesy of Will Fremion)

Fremion

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

WESTFIELD

Project: Road closure

Location: A section of Spring Mill Road

Expected completion: A section of Spring Mill Road between Ind. 32 and 186th Street will be closed until the end of the day Nov. 22 for the installation of a water main and a sanitary sewer main extension. Please use the detour route during this time.

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. Paving has been pushed back due to a utility conflict.

Expected completion: TBD

Project: New roundabout

Location: A section of Eagletown Road between 166th Street and Ind. 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: Late November

CARMEL

Project: Roundabout, multi-use path construction

Location: The intersection of 106th Street and College Avenue is closed for construction of a roundabout. The multiuse path is under construction along 106th Street from Pennsylvania Parkway to College Avenue. 106th Street is not expected to be closed during construction of the path.

Expected completion: November

Project: Culvert reconstruction

Location: The Monon Greenway is closed from north of west Smoky Row Road to the Hagan Burke Trail.

Expected completion: End of the year

Project: Range Line Road reconstruction

Location: 116th Street to Carmel Drive. A roundabout is under construction at 116th Street

Expected completion: Summer

Burton appointed to development role with nonprofit

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

A Westfield resident has been appointed director of de velopment for an Indianapolis nonprofit organization that trains rescue dogs as service animals to assist individuals with disabilities.

Kelsey Burton, a Lafayette native, will serve in the role with Medical Mutts Service Dogs. She previously served as executive director at Paws and Think Inc. and has also worked for organizations such as the American Red Cross and the Family Support Center. In 2020,

she was named the United Way Elevate’s Nonprofit Profes sional of the Year.

Burton, a dog lover who is passionate about small and mid-sized nonprofits, described her role with Medical Mutts as the “perfect fit — a mess of everything I am passionate about.”

Medical Mutts trains rescue dogs as service dogs and promotes collaboration between dogs and people through re search, education and ethical training, according to the or ganization. It works to save dogs, help people and promote

kindness through their service dog training programs.

“I am thrilled about this opportunity and eager to be part of this amazing organization as we work to strengthen our current partnerships while building new ones,” Burton said.

Jennifer Cattet, founder and executive director of Medical Mutts, said Burton will be an asset.

“Kelsey fills the challenging and critical position of lead ing our fundraising strategy. She is exceptionally talented and already a real driving force for Medical Mutts,” Cattet said.

For more, visit medicalmutts.org.

RESCUE DOGS

Burton

Westfield eye doctor recognized

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

A Westfield eye doctor was recently rec ognized by a nonprofit that serves children and adults with devel opmental disabilities and autism.

RECOGNITION

Westfield resident John Abrams was among the honorees for Damar Services Inc.’s Difference Maker awards and was recognized for Abrams Eyecare Associates’ contributions to clients of the organization. Abrams EyeCare Associates was named the Remarkable Corporate Partner by Dam ar during a Nov. 10 event at Newfields in Indianapolis.

Three generations of Abrams have served patients and provided care to Damar clients through Abrams Eyecare. Abrams’ father, J.J. Abrams, started the practice, while his daughter, Leslie, is an ophthalmologist at the practice, according to a news release.

J.J. Abrams began providing eye exams for Damar clients in one of Abrams’ offices, and after retiring, John Abrams decided to honor him by building an eye examination suite at the Damar health center, according to the

Inc.)

release. Of the approximately 150 exams given since 2021, one-third of children have needed glasses, according to John Abrams.

“Poverty is a big issue for a lot of our cli ents, and many haven’t ever had their eyes examined,” said Shawn Collinsworth, presi dent of the Damar Foundation. “Dr. Abrams is the epitome of what this award is about. We’re so honored to have him on our team.”

John Abrams, left, receives his award from Damar President and CEO Jim Dalton during Damar Services Inc’s Difference Maker breakfast Nov. 10 at Newfields in Indianapolis. (Photo provided by JTPR,

New program helps Westfield High School students learn about agriculture

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Students at Westfield High School are learning about the different aspects of agriculture through a new program that launched this school year.

The school’s agricultural science classes are led by long time educator Chris Kaufman, who is in his 22nd year of teaching agriculture sciences and is a native of Cloverdale, which is near Greencastle. Kaufman has taught agriculture in Florida and worked at Cloverdale Community Schools, Whiteland Community High School and Beech Grove City Schools, where Westfield Washington Schools Supt. Paul Kaiser previously served as the district’s top administrator.

At Westfield High School, Kaufman teaches principles to ag riculture, an introductory course intended to expose students to different aspects such as animal science, plant science and other areas. Other courses offered at the high school level in clude animal science and plant and soil science.

Kaufman said he hopes students will gain a better under standing of agriculture and prepare them for careers with major companies such as Elanco, Eli Lilly and others.

“Even though we’re urbanized here, we still have a vast majority of our community involved in agriculture,” Kaufman said. “We have a huge amount of agriculture still happening in an urban environment, and instead of focusing on a pro duction program, what we’re really looking for here is pre paring students for those science jobs that are ag-related.”

Kaufman, who has also worked for the Indiana Dept. of Education overseeing agriculture education, was instru mental in launching what would become a successful pro gram at Beech Grove that became the largest in the state.

Students such as Ava Lee, a junior at Westfield High School, jumped at the opportunity to take advantage of the new agriculture program this school year.

Lee, who has been involved in 4-H for the last five years, said she had considered transferring to a different district so she could take agriculture-related courses.

“When they added this (program), I was super excited,” Lee said. “When people think of agriculture, they think of animals and farming, but it’s so much more than that, and I think it’s a good way for people to learn more about it and explore other interests other than what Westfield has offered in the past.”

Lee encourages classmates to take advantage of the classes, which are electives.

“It’s a super-fun class,” Lee said.

Kaufman said as an educator, he wants to help students realize that careers exist in the agriculture sector. He added that it’s particularly important to have students learn about agriculture since humans interact with plants and food each day.

“I want these kids to know that (agriculture) is a real

option for them to go into,” he said. “What better place to be preparing students for ag science jobs than right here? It’s a fascinating career opportunity that you may not know about until you get into it.”

Kaufman, who is the lone agriculture science teacher at the high school, hopes there is potential for the program’s growth next year. Officials want to build an agriculture center or offer a turf science program at some point in the future, he added.

But for students like Lee, the program is already estab lishing a foundation for a future career in agriculture edu cation. She wants to be a teacher like Kaufman and plans to attend Purdue University.

Lee said she thinks by being enrolled in the agriculture program now, it will help with her curriculum in college, in addition to being prepared for career opportunities as well.

“I think it’ll help me get connections after college to find a job sooner,” she said.

To learn more about agriculture classes being offered at Westfield High School or for businesses who may be interested in speaking with students about agriculture-related careers, email teacher Chris Kaufman at kaufmanc@wws.k12.in.us.

Kaufman is also in charge of the school’s FFA pro gram, which is open to students who are interested in participating.

LEARN MORE

Agriculture science teacher Chris Kaufman talks with sophomore Avery Huggins, left, and sophomore Jackson Davis Nov. 14 during a principles of agriculture class at Westfield High School. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

ON THE COVER: Westfield High School agriculture science teacher Chris Kaufman, left, talks with students in his principles to agriculture class Nov. 4. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

ALL IS CALM: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914

Fri Dec 2 at 8pm

CANADIAN BRASS CHRISTMAS

Sat Dec 3 at 8pm

LUMINARE CHRISTMAS

Thu Dec 8 at 7:30pm

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CHRISTMAS TOUR

Fri Dec 9 at 8pm

MARIE OSMOND: A SYMPHONIC CHRISTMAS TOUR

Sat Dec 10 at 8pm

MICHAEL BOLTON: GREATEST HITS & HOLIDAY FAVORITES

Tue Dec 13 at 7:30pm

CELTIC WOMAN: A CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY TOUR

Thu Dec 15 at 7:30pm

JEFF ALLEN

Sat Jan 7 at 7:30pm

THE MAVERICKS

Fri Jan 27 at 8pm

UGLY DUCKLING

Sat Jan 28 at 11am & 1:30pm

DUBLIN IRISH DANCE:WINGS A CELTIC MUSIC CELEBRATION

Fri Feb 10 at 8pm

BONEY JAMES

Sat Feb 18 at 8pm

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: LINDSAY ZANNO: T. REX RISES

Tue Feb 21 at 7:30pm

LVIV NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA OF UKRAINE

Fri Feb 24 at 8pm

SAMMY MILLER AND THE CONGREGATION

Fri Mar 3 at 8pm

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

Fri Mar 17 at 8pm

PEKING ACROBATS

Sat Mar 18 at 8pm

JIM MESSINA

Wed Mar 22 at 7:30pm

Sun Mar 26 at 7pm

KEVIN NEALON

Fri Apr 7 at 8pm

MARC COHN & SHAWN COLVIN TOGETHER ONSTAGE

Thu Apr 13 at 7:30pm

ABILENE

Sat Apr 15 at 8pm

THE FOUR PHANTOMS IN CONCERT

Fri Apr 21 at 8pm

GRAHAM NASH: AN INTIMATE EVENING OF STORIES & SONGS

Sun April 23 at 7pm

ENSTUDDARD&CLAYAIKEN•Thu

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE:

FILIPE DEANDRADE: UNTAMED

Tue Apr 25 at 7:30pm

GET HAPPY: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN CELEBRATES THE JUDY GARLAND CENTENNIAL

Sat Apr 29 at 8pm

GEORGE HINCHLIFFE’S UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN

Sun Apr 30 at 7pm

EVIL WOMANTHE AMERICAN ELO

Fri May 5 at 8pm

RUBEN STUDDARD & CLAY AIKEN: THE REUNITED TOUR

Thu May 11 at 7:30pm

All Lit Up

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Grand Junction Plaza in Westfield will have plenty of lights and activities for the community to enjoy as the city prepares to usher in the holiday season with its annual Westfield in Lights.

The Dec. 3 Westfield in Lights event, which was created 20 years ago as a small gathering with the lighting of a Christmas tree, has grown in popularity through the years, said Steve Latour, CEO of the Down town Westfield Association, which took over the event about 10 years ago. The City of Westfield took over Westfield in Lights about eight years ago and is now overseen by Westfield Welcome, Latour said.

Latour said the goal of Westfield in Lights, which will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., is to bring people together and watch the tree lighting, which has been a long-standing tradition in Westfield. In 2021, the event was held at Westfield City Hall, but this year will mark its debut at Grand Junction Plaza and will feature some new additions.

Visitors to Grand Junction Plaza can ex pect to see a 36-foot-tall Christmas tree, along with wreaths, garland and snowflake lights.

“The idea is that we want that area to be one giant Christmas winter wonderland of lights, and we want to be inclusive of all the various holidays that happen during the month of December,” Latour said.

A variety of vendors selling food and holiday-related goods, hot chocolate, live performances, reindeer and an appearance by Santa Claus will also be part of the Westfield in Lights. The Westfield Chamber of Commerce plans to sell a Christmas or nament that will commemorate Westfield

Westfield in Lights to make its debut at Grand Junction Plaza

season is Westfield in Lights, he said.

“We want to have some things that are special and unique to us, so I think every great community needs to have that, and this is one of those great traditions that will be there for generations to come,” he said. “I think those are the Hallmark moments we are excited to help cre ate for our community. We’re just as special as anyone else in the county, and having an event like this brings the community to really relish that.”

Latour said Grand Junction Plaza will also provide an opportunity to showcase more lights than ever.

“There will be tons of Instagram moments everywhere, so I think it’ll be fun coupled with the event and the entertainment planned. I think it’ll be a good time for everybody,” he said.

For more, visit westfieldwelcome. com/westfield-in-lights.

in Lights being held at Grand Junction Plaza for the first time, Latour said.

In comparison to other holiday events, Latour said the annually well-attended Westfield in Lights is unique because of its long history.

“I think it’s really about finding those moments to celebrate the holidays, be with friends, family and neighbors and really feel like you’re there as part of the community more than anything else, so we’re really excited to see how this goes this year,” Latour said.

Latour said each community deserves to have an event they are proud of. For West field, that signature event for the holiday

Holiday Traditions

“Going around and looking at neighborhood Christmas lights. It’s not something that happens year-round, so it’s nice to see all of the lights and the houses decorated. It’s something I grew up doing with my parents.”

What makes that memory your favorite? “It makes me feel hap py, seeing all of the lights and decorations.”

“We all go to the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, where they have the ice-skating. We do that every year and I love it.”

What made that tradition come to mind? “I get to be with my fam ily, and I love them so much. We have a really good time.”

Do you have a memory that comes to mind thinking about this tradition? “The first time I went ice-skating was there and that was really funny. It was a fun and new thing to try.”

“Cooking. It’s what I grew up doing.”

What would you guys cook? “The main thing would be ham or turkey. My favorite is turkey. It’s what brings the family together more than anything. It’s what you’re happy about.”

USPS Operation Santa

USPS Operation Santa pairs letters from kids and families with generous people who fulfill their holiday wishes. You can be a part of it — the more letters sent to Santa, the more magic we can deliver.

HOW IT WORKS:

• Letters are written to Santa’s special address and USPS receives them.

• They redact personal information and publish those letters online.

• Generous people “adopt” and fulfill them.

• Adopters ship gifts. Holiday wishes are delivered.

WRITE A LETTER TO SANTA What to include within the letter:

• Tell Santa what type of year you’ve had. Be honest. He knows!

• Requests for clothes and shoes should include preferred size, style and color. For toys, games and

books, include names and titles.

• Return address information with a full name, street address, apartment/unit number (if applicable), city, state and ZIP Code.

ADDRESSING A LETTER TO SANTA Letters to USPS Operation Santa must be postmarked no later than December 12.

1. Write your full name and home mailing address, including apartment number if applicable, in the upper left corner of the envelope.

2. Address the envelope to: Santa Claus, 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888

3. A First-Class Mail postage stamp is required, placed in the upper right corner of the envelope.

For more, visit about.usps.com/ holidaynews/operation-santa.htm

MICHELLE LAWRENCE

REGAN ELSEA

JORDAN DUNLAP

“I like to look at Christmas lights and drink eggnog.”

Why Christmas lights? spirit. I like comparing them and seeing which house has the best lights.”

How do you feel when your light gazing and drinking eggnog? “Really happy and excited for Christmas. It makes me think of being off school for break. It’s calming and entertaining.”

“Every year we have a Saran-Wrapped item and there’s different gifts. You have to play a game to unwrap it, when you have the ov en-mitts on and you have to roll the dice.”

How do you pick the gift? roll doubles it gets passed on. The person who isn’t rolling has to try to unwrap and get as many gifts from the big ball that they can. There’s a bunch of different gifts inside the ball.”

“We love going out to Dull’s Tree Farm. We usually do it after Thanksgiving. We take our dogs and pick out wreaths. They have trees that you can cut on your own. We’ve done it for about 15 years.”

What made you think of that tradition for the answer? something our kids look forward to. We used to live around the cor ner from Dull’s Tree Farm.”

“A couple of days before Christmas, when my family is home and we turn all of the lights off except for the Christmas decoration lights inside my mom’s house and we watched movies.”

Is there a movie you always watched? Christmas Vacation.”

What makes that your favorite memory? feeling.”

“When we rode the Razors in the sand dunes at Thanksgiving. My boyfriend bought us plane tickets so that my wo boys could meet their cousins for the very first time. That’s something I had always wanted to take them to do and he helped me fill that on my bucket list. We went out there to spend Thanksgiving with them. My sisterin-law had already made plans with their friends. They said we’re going to Glamis, Calif., and you’re coming with us.”

“Every Christmas Eve we spend it at my dad’s grandparents’ house. When I was younger, I would build a castle from the pres ents my grandparents would get me in front of the fireplace.”

How do you feel recalling that memory?

LUCY MUNTEL

PAIGE NIKOLOV

MACKENZIE MCCRORY

EVONNE DAVIES

HEATHER SCHILLER

OWEN WILLIAMS

Best Holiday Movie

“A Christmas Story.”

In your own words, what is it about “The joy of Christmas.” Why is that the best movie? “I always watch it.”

HALL

“Elf”

What is it about? “It’s about a man who finds out he’s an elf. He goes to New York and finds his dad, even though Santa warns him his dad is on the bad list. It’s a cute movie.”

What made you pick that for the best movie? “It’s funny.”

What is your favorite scene? “Towards the end when everyone is singing to make the sleigh run.”

LITTON

“‘Bad Santa.’ It’s about drunk mall-Santa.”

Why is that the best holiday movie? “It’s just funny. If you can imagine every mall Santa being like that.”

What’s your favorite scene “I don’t think I can talk about that. That movie is just so funny. It’s so wrong and politically incorrect in so many ways.”

“A Charlie Brown Christmas. I really like Charlie Brown in general and his whole gang. I think the animation style is really cool and I like that they’re all kids. It’s kind of an abstract idea. You’re fol lowing around these little kids and they’re all their own individual characters. “

Why is that the best movie? “It makes you feel good inside.”

Worst Holiday Movie

“One of the sequels to ‘The Santa Clause.’ The third one. It’s pret ty bad.”

What made you pick the third one? “The first one is a classic and they progressively got worse over time. Santa clause became less real. They added little kids in the mix, and he had to get a wife.”

How do the sequels make you feel? “It makes you appreciate the original and make you wonder why they had to make more.”

NICK TACKITT

“‘A Christmas Story.’ I don’t like Ralphie. It’s every year, jammed down your throat. It just becomes too much.”

What scene comes to mind, thinking about that movie? “Ral phie licking the pole.”

PAT GALLAGHER

RHONDA

ERIC

ZACH DAVIS

ADAM KAULAK

Best Holiday Song

“Holy Night” a classic carol written by Placide Cappeau in 1847. It has since been sung by various artists such as Céline Dion and Mariah Carey.

What is it about “The birth of Jesus.”

Why is it your favorite holiday song? “When I first started seeing my husband, I heard him singing it. It was good.”

“Last Christmas by Wham!”

What is it about? “It’s about last Christmas, someone gave someone their heart and then the next day they gave it away. It has a very good vibe to it.”

What kind of vibe? “Love and Christmas. I like sad songs.”

“Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas is You.’”

Why “It’s overplayed and it’s exhausting.”

How do you feel when you hear that song? “Not like want anything merry to happen to anybody.”

Worst Holiday Song

“Anything with Mariah Carey. She made normal music then she came out with a Christmas album 20 or 25 years ago and that’s all she’s done. She’s rode that Christmas album to its grave. All she’s known for is that Christmas album.”

What’s your least favorite Mariah Carey song? “Why Are You So Ob sessed With Me.”

“Mistletoe” by Justin Bieber.”

Why? “It’s overplayed.”

“Silent Night.”

Why that song? “I feel like it’s a downer. It’s very soft and I like my Christmas music to be filled with jolly.”

How do you feel when you hear that song? “Sad.”

JUDY HOLLINGSWORTH

CASSIE BALLONE

MARGARET CANNON

ALAYNA TROHA

T.J. HOLLINGSWORTH

TIM CARROLL

Virtual Silent Auction, Friday Nov. 18 to Tuesday

Nov. 29

Holiday at the Table

“Cheesecake. Every year for Christmas. We have a different one every year.”

What was last year’s flavor? “For our family we made Oreo cheesecake.”

Do you have a favorite? “The favorite one that I’ve made is peanut butter and chocolate cheesecake. It has Reese’s peanut butter pieces on top.”

“Apple pie with vanilla bean ice cream.”

Why apple pie? “Because it’s so good. That or apple crisp.”

How do you feel when you take the first bite? “It’s refreshing.”

“Pumpkin pie. It’s a running argument in my family that if pumpkin pie should be eaten after Thanksgiving. My dad and I say yes and my mom and brother say no. We mainly do it to irritate them.”

Do you put anything on it? “An unholy amount of whipped cream and vanilla ice-cream.”

What do you feel when you take the first bite? “Fantastic.”

Visit Beazer.com for details

BRETT HEWITT

MIKEAL GLIDDEN

TYLER BAUMANN

INDIANA SANTA CLAUS SOCIETY TOY DRIVE

Bring along a toy for the Indiana Santa Claus Society Toy Drive. Toys will be collect ed on-site and donated to those in need!

Cost- General admission $10. Pre-purchase online discount price $5. Children under 12 are free.

Where: 19000 Grand Park Blvd. in Westfield.

Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

When: Nov. 25- Nov. 27

Cost: General admission $10. Pre-purchase online discount price $5. Children under 12 are free.

KISSING CLAUSES AT URBAN VINES

These kissing Clauses will delight you for years to come! Come out and paint this adorable one-piece figurine with us at Urban Vines! For $45, you get a 7-inch-tall, 10-inch-wide one-piece figurine of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus kissing, all the paint and step-by-step instructions, and your first glass of wine or beer Each ticket is for one person to paint one piece. If you are coming with a loved one, you both need a ticket, but we can bring another kissing couple for you. You must email us for this option a week before the event or more.

Where: Urban Vines at 303 E 161st St in Westfield.

When: 6–8 p.m., Dec 20

Cost: $45. Tickets can be bought at ccsa. placefull.com/kissing-clauses-at-urban-vines

WESTFIELD IN LIGHTS

Kick off the holiday season at the annual Westfield in Lights celebration! This FREE Holiday festival will have pictures with San ta, food & retail vendors, a reindeer show, carnival games with prizes, llama walking attraction, live music, and more! Other At tractions include: Reindeer show, Carnival Games with prizes, Llama walking, Carica ture artists and more.

When: 3-7 p.m., Dec 3.

Where: Grand Junction Plaza at 225 S Union St in Westfield.

Cost: Free

DINE IN AN IGLOO AT FIELD BREWING

Enjoy a fun and intimate outdoor winter dining experience inside your very own ig loo on the Field Brewing patio!

Where: Field Brewing at 303 E Main St. in Westfield.

When: 3-9 p.m. Mon-Tues, noon-9 p.m.,

Weds-Thurs., noon-10 p.m., Fri.

Cost: $40. Registration can only be done on line at fieldbrewing.com/bookings-checkout/ igloo-rental/book

IGLOO RENTALS AT URBAN VINES

Indianapolis’s original heated igloos! A snowy day, great friends, great wine and a heated igloo for privacy! Anyone who would like to keep warm but still spend time outdoors with friends and family. The igloo domes seat up to ten people and include a heater and lights. The igloos can be rented any day by online only.

When: Noon- 9 p.m. Mon- Thur., noon10 p.m., Fri-Sat., noon–6 p.m., Sun. Runs through March 31, 2023.

Where: Urban Vines and Brewery at 303 E. 161st St. in Westfield.

Cost: $50 - $100. Booking is available at ur ban-vines.com/igloos/ CHRISTMAS GNOME PLATES

Kiln Creations learned how to make this charming gnome plate at a maker’s confer ence, and they are eager to teach you the techniques! Join them for some great wine or beer and a lesson on paper masking, shading, and snowflaky goodness! For $45 you get: One dinner plate, Step by step guid ance on how to create this great look and your first drink! Tickets are nonrefundable and non-transferable. When you paint, your pieces take a quick dip in a hot kiln and are ready for pick up in one week at Kiln Cre ations, 60 N 9th St in Noblesville.

Where: Urban Vines Winery and Brewery at 303 E. 161st St. in Westfield.

When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., Nov 15

Cost: $45. Tickets can be bought at placefull. com/christmas-gnome-plates-at-urban-vines

MOVIES IN THE PLAZA

Come out to the Plaza with your family and friends to enjoy a free evening of entertain ment on the Great Lawn. Elf starring Will Ferrell, will be playing. Bring blankets and chairs to cozy up on and enjoy the movie! The movie will begin at dusk. More details will be available on the Westfield Wel come Facebook page at facebook.com/ WestfieldWelcome

Where: Grand Junction Plaza at 118 Park St. in Westfield.

When: Starts at Dusk, Dec 2.

Cost: Free and open to the public.

ESSAY

Share the road

Commentary by Terry Anker

Scooting along in traffic, we come to know that some people like to use their brakes more than their accelerator. They are a bit more cautious. They planned ahead and take their time. They are not going to risk their lives, or that of any one else, in making up for “lost time” on the way to the grocery. How can these drivers not be loved?

Still, others — who like to use their accelerator more than their brakes — might argue the reverse. “Don’t these slowpokes have anything better to do?” While they may be taking their time, they are also taking ours, so the argument goes. Productive people don’t waste time plodding along. There is nothing wrong with living a full life. There is nothing wrong with moving a little more deliberately through space. These good people are making the best of every moment. How can they not be loved?

The challenge, of course, is that we all share the same streets. Sometimes, we even share an office, home, or bed with one decidedly in the opposite camp from our own. Sure, we can make it all work. Each of us, in certain conditions, use both the gas and the brake pedals. But mostly, we tend to deploy the one most closely aligned with our perspec tive on life. Are we likely to accelerate into traffic or hold back, reticent be cause of the risk? Even as we make our own choices, are we also imposing our views on those who share the road with us? Are we that certain of our justification?

As a society, we’ve set some bound aries around it all through myriad regulations, codes and enforcement mechanisms. But mostly, we just have to figure out how to share. Accelerator or brakes, do we leave room for others?

CURRENTOON

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Unhappy with happy people

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Sometimes, I don’t like happy peo ple. Sometimes, I want to luxuriate in my own bad mood without chronically joyful folks invading my space. Some times, I just want the world and all its inhabitants, and even Mother Nature, to join me in feeling grumpy. The proverbial misery loves company, you know?

Which is why on a recent morning I found my husband, Doo, so annoying. I came downstairs to him watching a “SNL” recap on his phone, oscillating between grade-school giggles and up roarious laughter. This went on for a solid 15 minutes, and my temperament — which had started at “Blessings, it’s cold and gray outside” — nosedived to, “Ugh, you’re ruining everything!” He was too gosh-darned happy for my pre-cof fee, introverted, already-in-a-funk-self to handle, and of course, in my tactless manner, I told him exactly that. Doo, with a big smile, simply responded, “Deal with it.”

My teaching neighbor, who is school-renowned for her high-energy kindness and spontaneous hugs, is at least aware of her occasional toxic posi tivity (her words, not mine) and can rein in the cheerfulness when necessary. A couple of my kids are like that, too. They can read when the room is gloomy and understand that force-feeding joy is not always the right play. And in fairness to Doo, he’s come a long way in accepting the idea that it’s OK to not constantly be OK.

CHARLIE BROWN

POLICIES

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But on this day, he clearly misread the “Your wife is in a snit; tread care fully” signs. Instead of moving to the kitchen and leaving me to wallow, he in advertently exacerbated my blechtness with his obnoxious delight. So, yeah, sometimes I don’t like happy people.

Peace out.

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.

“What if today, we were just grateful for everything?”

—

Marriage in double ‘Jeopardy!’

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Third night

Mayim: Dick, tell us about the time you had an embarrassing moment on TV with a big Hollywood star.

HUMOR

In last week’s column, I shared personal recollections my wife might discuss during the “chat” portion of the show “Jeopardy!” if she were a contestant. All of Mary Ellen’s responses were true stories. This week is what I would say if I were accepted to be one of the three challengers. Again, all my answers are true.

First night on show

Host Mayim Bialik: So, Dick, I understand you lied to get your first job as a teacher.

Dick: Mayim, it’s true. Arriving for my interview at the high school I had attended four years earlier, I discovered that the En glish position I wanted had been filled. What they needed now was a psychology teacher. The assistant super intendent asked me what I majored in. I said psychology, which wasn’t true. I got the job. Then I taught psychology for 10 years.

Second night

Mayim: Dick, is it true you once made the front page of a tabloid magazine?

Dick: In New York City, I became friendly with exercise guru Richard Simmons. The paparazzi snapped a photo of us jogging together in Central Park. The next week at the supermarket checkout counter, I saw one of those trashy tabloids with a photo of us on the lower left-hand corner of the cover. The headline read: Exercise with your lover. I received calls from friends I hadn’t heard from in years. I thought the whole thing was funny. Richard thought it was hysterical. So did my wife. What about you?

Dick: Mayim, I interviewed Cyd Charisse, the renowned actress and dancer. My pro ducer told me to mention Underalls, a panty hose brand that I assumed was sponsoring her tour. This made sense; the woman had awesome legs. I mentioned Underalls nu merous times until Ms. Charisse corrected me, saying she had nothing to do with Underalls, but she did want to talk about Enderall, her arthritis medicine. This week, 35 years later, I finally got a pair of hearing aids. A little late, to be sure.

Fourth night

Mayim: I’m told you have asked some really dumb questions on your TV shows. What was the dumbest?

Dick: I interviewed a man who had a 6-foot-long alligator pet named Fritz. When I got to his house, his reptilian giant had on a T-shirt that said, “I’m a Dick Wolfsie Fan.” I asked the owner if he had ever gotten in the tank with the gator. “No, Dick, Fritz put that shirt on by himself.”

Fifth night

Who am I kidding? There is no chance I would get to the fifth night. Or the second night, for that matter.

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

Dick Wolfsie

Who am I kidding? There is no chance

I would get to the fifth night. Or the second night, for that matter.

– DICK WOLFSIE

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

currentnightandday.com

The Wright Brothers set for ride into sunset

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

“It’s a Wonderful Life” is set for Nov. 25 through Dec. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beef andboards.com.

CONCERTS

The Wright Brothers were ready for their farewell concert at CarmelFest July 4, 2021. Unfortunately, the sound person got sick and went home and there was no one to run the system.

“The last concert we did at CarmelFest was a disaster and we hated leaving the people with that in their ear,” John Mc Dowell said. “Fifty years is a long time not to have a good finale, if you know what I mean.”

The Wright Brothers will say goodbye with a series of concerts at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The Nov. 25 and 26 shows are sold out at Fein stein’s, which is seating 135 for the show. There are tickets remaining for the Dec. 3 and 9 concerts.

“So, these shows at Feinstein’s will be our apology to the fans that had to endure that outdoor fiasco in 2021,” Carmel resi dent Tim Wright said.

There is a possibility of another show being added in January.

“We’ll keep doing shows until everyone is sick of us,” Tim said jokingly.

The group, which formed in 1971, was originally called Wright Brothers Overland Stage Company with brothers Tom and Tim Wright and Karl Hinkle. McDowell replaced Hinkle a few years later.

“These shows will be like what we performed in showrooms all across the country during the ‘70s and ’80,” Tim said. “There were many hotels, casinos and stand-alone showroom venues where Tom could do stories and do his comedy bits and we could actually put on a show, com pared to outdoor festivals and the private corporate jobs we began playing when we got off the road in 1988. We’ll be playing songs that go back to our very beginnings, some originals and the many covers we redid our way musically.”

The band dressed in Western attire with cowboy hats and had nine singles reach Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart.

“We started as folk or country rock,” Tim said. “It was heavy on vocals. We did more

folk music at first. We’ve always done a variety of music.”

The Wright Brothers will perform one of their biggest hits, “Made in the U.S.A.”

“There will be some Beatles songs and Eagles song,” Tim said. “It will be the stuff we enjoyed listening to and playing.”

The Wright Brothers performed “Shot Down in Hot Blood” and a cover of “Jim Dandy” for the soundtrack of the 1987 mov ie “Overboard,” starring Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

McDowell was in a band called Shiloh Morning when The Wright Brothers began.

“And I would go see The Wright Brothers and The Wright Brothers would come and see us often when we had a chance,” he said. “We were quite popular here in Carm el, along with The Wright Brothers, I got an offer from Tim and Tom Wright to join the band and I accepted in the late ‘70s.”

McDowell has been in Carmel since 1972 when he moved from Texas, with a short stint in Cicero for 10 years.

“The band has had some incredible

experiences over the years, and it’s been quite a journey,” McDowell said. “We are so looking forward to our shows at Fein stein’s, a much better way to close out the years of music.”

Tim said the band was a full-time pur suit with 17 years on the road. When it got off the road in 1988, the members got jobs but kept playing and doing out-of-town shows.

“For the last 10 years, we’ve just been playing locally,” Tim said. “We played at the Palladium five times with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra.”

Tom and McDowell are both 74. Tim is 70. Mark Dodd, from Dodd Technologies, will be running the sound, Tim said.

“We will say our farewell with the best sound man in the business,” he said. “We are so looking forward to these shows, we’re even rehearsing. But after 50 years of playing most of these songs, the ‘call back’ is pretty easy.”

For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

’THE NUTCRACKER’

Indiana Ballet Conservatory will present “The Nutcracker” Nov. 26-27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Car mel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘HOLIDAY & MORE’

Ashley Nicole Soprano’s “Holiday & More” concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’

The Belfry Theatre will present “The Sound of Music” from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4 at the Ivy Tech Auditorium, 300 N. 17th St., Noblesville. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com.

‘AN INTIMATE CHRISTMAS WITH LORIE LINE’

“An Intimate Christmas with Lorie Line” is set for 7 p.m. Nov. 29 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Car mel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Art on Main celebrates anniversary — Art on Main Gallery and Gifts recently celebrat ed five years in the Carmel Arts and Design District. Art includes paintings in oil, acrylic and mixed media; fine art photography, mosaics, pottery, jewelry, glass art, textiles, charcuterie boards, cards, artisan candles and more. Featured artists for November are Sara Bernstein and Tresa Steenberg. December will feature all artists and holiday offerings.

Film premiere set for Kan Kan Cine ma— Indianapolis resident Demetrius Witherspoon, a screenwriter and film di rector, will have the red carpet premiere for “Submerge: Blue Star” Nov. 22 at the Kan Kan Cinema, 1258 Windsor St., India napolis. The movie was filmed at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel, downtown Indianapolis and Monrovia. For tickets, visit goelev ent.com/Kan-KanCinemaandBrasserie/e/ SUBMERGEBLUESTARPREMIERE.

From left, John McDowell, Tim Wright and Tom Wright form The Wright Brothers, who are per forming farewell concerts. (Photo courtesy of Tim Wright)

Noblesville actor lands dream gig

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Benjamin Elliott will finally get his wish.

who is portrayed by Logan Moore.

“I have dreamed of being on the Beef & Boards stage since I first saw Kenny Shepard in ‘A Beef & Boards Christmas’ when I was a young child,” said Elliott, a Nobles ville resident. “Beef & Boards was my first experience with profession al theater, and the people onstage were like celebrities to me. It is humbling to think that a child in the audience could now be inspired by a play that I am a part of.”

THEATER

Elliott will play Harry Bailey in the Beef & Boards’ production of “It’s a Wonderful Life” from Nov. 25 to Dec. 23.

“I have always loved the themes and sentiments of the movie, and this adapted script in particular brings the best moments from the movie to life and makes the char acters stand out in a relatable and emotion al way,” Elliott said.

Elliott said he appreciates the love Harry shows for his older brother, George Bailey,

“I am the youngest of three brothers, and I am lucky to have a good relationship with them,” Elliott said. “I feel like Logan and I, on and off the stage, have crafted a brotherly relationship that is truly indicative of the sentiments of familial love, especially around the holiday sea son. Harry is an honorable man, and despite the luck he inherits at George’s detriment, he never for gets his roots in his hometown.”

A 2018 Noblesville High School graduate, Elliott sang the role of Figaro in “The Marriage of Figaro” at Anderson University in the spring of 2019. He is studying musical theater at Anderson University and will graduate in 2023.

“I am passionate about all stage works,” Elliott said. “There is nothing like the immersion and communication that live theater provides, and I see all stage works as works of important and profound art. I would love to direct modern interpretations of classical works.”

For more on “It’s a Wonderful Life, visit beefandboards.com.

Photo by Daniel Grose Photography

Elliot

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Ralphie Parker hated putting on the pink bunny suit.

Jackson Duncan loves it.

The Zionsville Middle School seventh-grader plays Ralphie in Civic Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story, The Musical” Dec. 2-24 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Per forming Arts in Carmel.

“I try not to laugh when I walk down the stairs in that suit,” Duncan said of his favor ite scene. “I really like the scene where Flick gets stuck to the flagpole. I think that is an iconic scene.”

Duncan said he was somewhat familiar with the movie but had never seen the musical.

“Ralphie is a very funny character,” he said. “He also has the side where he can be serious. He is a character who knows what he wants. He doesn’t wait around for it to come to him, he goes to it.”

Duncan, who has performed several times at Christian Youth Theater, is performing in his first Civic Theatre show. He previously participated in Civic Theatre’s intensive summer camp.

“This is the most fun role I’ve had,” Dun can said. “It’s my first super, super lead role. It’s been fun to work with all the amazing cast and crewmates. Everyone has been super helpful. The adults can be helpful if I’m confused on a term I haven’t heard before or if I don’t understand a part of blocking.”

Evan Cohen, a fifth-grader at Carmel’s Clay Center Elementary School, plays Grover Dill.

“It’s fun I get to play a bully when I’m not actually a bully,” he said.

Cohen said the biggest challenge is tap dancing.

Jackson Duncan wears the pink bunny suit as Ralphie in “A Christmas Story, The Musical” at Civic Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)

dance numbers.

“I’m living my dream to be a Rockette,” she said. “I grew up dancing and singing.”

This is her seventh show with Civic.

“I love doing Christmas shows at Civic. This is my third year,” she said.

Gaudreau performed in “Elf” in 2019 and 2021.

“We would stream the movie in our house almost nonstop,” she said. “We had lines and scenes memorized. They just make me laugh when I think about the movie because it’s such an iconic comedy. It’s a heartwarming story. You see the develop ment of the father and son’s relationship. It’s really touching, along with the comedic aspect of it. It’s attractive to a large range of audience.”

Gaudreau was a figure skater but stopped because of injuries. She has been acting since 2016.

Steve Kruze, a Plainfield resident, por trays Jean Shepherd, who narrates the story.

Cohen

“I like doing shows with adults and kids,” he said. “Doing a show with adults and kids makes it a lot more fun. The adults are able to help us with dancing.”

Cohen performed in Junior Civic Theatre’s production of “The Little Mermaid” during the summer.

Carmel resident Leslie Gaudreau performs in the ensemble, playing a couple of small roles as children’s mothers and different

“I have a real sentimental attachment to a group of friends who saw this movie when it came out,” he said. “It hit us at the right age and stuck with us. It’s not typical for me to work on the holiday shows. but I could not pass up the opportunity to see if they could use me for this.”

Carmel resident Emily Rogge Tzucker, who is directing, said she grew up watching the movie that was made in 1983.

“It’s been a big part of my holiday enjoy ment,” Tzucker said. “It’s 100 percent true to the movie. It has every single big fun thing in the movie that people that are serious about it would want.”

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BENJ PASEK AND JUSTIN PAUL Based on the motion picture A Christmas Story distributed by Warner Bros., written by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown, and Bob Clark, and upon 12/2-12/24 ACS Ad for The Current.indd 1 11/10/2022 1:33:07 PM

In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash written by Jean Shepherd.

Civic Theatre presents iconic Christmas show

Holiday Steals

Drinking in salami cocktails

Commentary by Mark LaFay

There is something really awesome about a well-crafted cocktail. The flavor possibili ties are endless. From the fruity and sweet to the herbal and bitter, there is an ocean of possibilities because of all the different wonderful ingredients that can be found all around the world. Cocktails are a lot like salami: They both can tell the story about a place and its people. They can give you a taste of what a place is about. Cocktails and salami give the artisan the ability to express themselves in culinary form. But what if you took your favorite cocktails and used them as the inspiration for your own salami? That’s what Scot Bridi at Brooklyn Cured did!

CHARCUTERIE

Great with olives and sharp cheeses. Next up is the Brooklyn Cured Pork Salami with Rye Whiskey and Orange Zest. Any guesses? Maybe my favorite cocktail for sitting around a fire, the Old Fashioned. An other delicious salami from Brooklyn Cured. Warm spices pair nicely with the spiciness of rye whiskey. The fresh orange zest brings a vibrant pop of flavor that brings it all together. This pairs nicely with white hard cheeses, mustards, or go sweet with fig jam.

First, let’s take a look at the Brooklyn Cured Pork Salami with Bourbon and Sour Cherries. This is a riff on a classic cocktail, The Manhattan. This salami is made with a touch of bourbon, sour cherries, a touch of black pepper and garlic. This is a great sala mi with subtle oaky flavors and spice with a touch of sour and sweet from the cherries.

Last but not least is the Brooklyn Cured Pork Salami with Mezcal and Lime. Mezcal is an agave-based spirit that is made by fermenting the sugars in agave piñas that have been cooked in wood fires. The species of agave and the smokiness from cooking in a wood fire give the mezcal a smokey flavor. The salami is further flavored with lime zest, coriander and garlic.

sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified

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.

CSO Executive Director Cara Pittenger with husband Rod Pittenger (Noblesville) at the Carmel Sym phony Orchestra Masterworks 2 cconcert with CSO guest artist/violinist Alexi Kenney of Palo Alto, Calif., and CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes Nov. 12 at the Palladium at the Center for the Perform ing Arts in Carmel. Don’t miss CSO’s Holiday Pops featuring guest artists Josh Kaufman and Leah Crane Dec. 4. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

A visit to Lexington’s historic homes

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, we begin a visit to Lexington, Ky., stopping by the homes of two important families.

TRAVEL

In 1797, Henry Clay moved to Lexington, where he developed a thriving law practice, once successful ly defending Aaron Burr against treason charges. He established Ashland, a 672-acre plantation outside town, where, among oth er agricultural innovations, he bred champi on thoroughbred horses. In 1806, Clay built a Federal-style house on the property, which he enlarged as his wife Lucretia bore 11 chil dren. While residing at Ashland, Clay, a slave owner, became known as the “Great Com promiser” for his actions as a United States senator and ran three times for president, losing each time. Among those voting for him was Abraham Lincoln, whose wife Mary Todd grew up in Lexington and knew the Clays. In 1847, Lincoln and his wife visited the Todd house on their way to Washington, D.C. When Henry Clay died in 1852, his son razed Ashland’s house, replacing it with an Italianate-style house using the same foundation and floorplan as the original. In 1866, the Ashland estate became the home of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky, the predecessor of the University of Kentucky.

The Ashland estate has been open to the public since 1950. The 18-room mansion is filled with Clay-family memorabilia. The tree-covered grounds include formal gar dens and reconstructed icehouses that provided cooling water for Henry Clay’s dairy. An outbuilding features the carriage

Clay used for his many trips to and from Washington. In downtown Lexington, about 2 miles from Ashland, is the 14-room Feder al-style house where Mary Todd Lincoln was raised, along with her 15 siblings. The house opened to the public in 1977, the first house museum honoring a first lady. It includes period furnishings, a rare print picturing Lincoln’s assassination and information about how the Civil War divided the Todd family.

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

Icehouses on Henry Clay’s Ashland estate, in Lexington, Ky. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Mansion on Henry Clay’s Ashland estate.

The Todd house in Lexington, Ky.

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