November 29, 2022 — Westfield

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Noblesville High School student operates successful junk-hauling business

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

If you’re looking to toss out old junk that you longer need, Noblesville teenager Michael Corlew will gladly haul it away.

ENTREPRENEUR

The 17-year-old Noblesville High School junior is seeing much success after launching his own junk-haul ing business, MB Junk Removal, which picks up items people no longer need or want, such as furniture, appliances and more. Cor lew said he got his start as an entrepreneur picking up dog waste in his neighborhood at age 14 and eventually saved enough money to purchase his great-grandfather’s truck.

“At first, I had no idea what I was getting into,” Corlew said.

Corlew said he connected with an indi vidual on Facebook, who suggested that he get into the junk removal business. He landed his first junk hauling job a year ago for his dad’s co-worker, in which he picked up three loads of unwanted items.

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“We took it to the dump, and I was like, ‘You know what? I can turn this into some thing,’” Corlew said.

Corlew decided to create his own Face book page for his business, which he pro moted on the social media platform, and quickly saw the demand for services go up within his own neighborhood. He also increased his overall business presence by creating Facebook ads that resulted in five to six jobs per week, he said.

The creation of his own business also means Corlew is enjoying plenty of financial success, noting that he has earned more than $18,000 since the start of the year. He is also able to set his own schedule and works on Saturday mornings.

Corlew said his prices are lower in com parison to other junk-hauling businesses — he only charges $120 per truckload — and reflected on his prior work in his own neighborhood picking up dog waste.

“What is a job that I could do that no one

else wants to do?” Corlew said. “And when you think of junk removal, a lot of people think it’s nasty, disgusting, (but) it’s really not.”

Corlew has also created weekly video ads to market his services picking up junk that are offered in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and other nearby communities.

“I wanted to stick out from everybody else,” he said.

One benefit of running his own business is the flexibility that comes with it, he added.

“I love creating my own schedule, I love being my own boss,” Corlew said. “What motivates me is having financial freedom down the road.”

Corlew said there is no shortage of items that he has picked up, noting that he’s

hauled away old toilets, mattresses, furni ture and cabinets, among other items. He said his most interesting and memorable find so far has been a tub of 1989 to 1997 Playboy magazines in mint condition, which he eventually sold to someone he knew.

Corlew’s mother, Stacey, is proud of her son’s efforts in launching his business off the ground on his own.

“It’s been so much fun to watch,” she said. “We’re very proud.”

Corlew also encouraged others to take a leap of faith in pursuing their own goals.

“Just (having) confidence is 90 percent of it,” Corlew said. “Just jump into it because failure’s going to be your best friend in it, and you can’t learn without failing. But get out there and do it. The upside is way big ger than the downside.”

Michael Corlew, 17, pauses outside his home in Noblesville Oct. 26. The Noblesville High School student created his own business, MB Junk Removal, that picks up items people no longer want or need such as furniture, appliances and more. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

uwci.org

Holocaust survivor to share story at chamber event

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Steve Rupp understands that time is running out on hearing firsthand stories of Holocaust survivors. That’s why he wants as many people as pos sible to hear Indianapolis resident Frank Grunwald share his story.

Rupp said he asked the chamber board if it would be open to have Grunwald speak.

Grunwald was born in 1932 in Czechoslo vakia, which was invaded by Nazi Germany troops when he was 6 years old. His Jew ish family was taken to Terezín, a concentration camp. He survived being transferred to three addition al concentration camps, including Auschwitz.

“We think this is an important topic and opportunity is fading as survivors are passing (away),” Rupp said. “The door is closing as sad as it is to say, it’s a reality. We want to make sure we have the opportunity to hear from Frank while he is still able to do these presentations.”

Grunwald will speak at a Westfield Cham ber of Commerce special presentation from 11 a.m. to 1 p..m. Dec. 1 at IMMI Conference Center, 18880 B. East St., Westfield.

Grunwald is a friend of Rupp’s father, Jack. “I’ve brought Frank into a couple of my daughters’ schools to speak,” Rupp said. “He spoke to Guerin Catholic as well as West field Intermediate School.”

His mother and brother died in the gas chamber at Auschwitz, but another prisoner pulled Grunwald out of line, saving his life.

“He tells a chilling, haunting story about survival and what he had to witness of his own family being gassed to death,” Rupp said. “He sees it as his responsibility as a survivor to share his story so it isn’t likely to happen again.

“He usually tells it to kids because he can have the biggest impact on them. Most kids study the Holocaust as part of their world history class.”

Tickets are $50 for nonchamber members and $40 for chamber members. For more, visit westfieldchamberindy.com.

Organizations launch program

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Invest Hamilton County and the Hamilton County Leadership Academy have teamed to create a new community ambassador program.

EVENT PROGRAM

The partnership, known as Hamilton Connection, will highlight per sonal stories of HCLA alumni and allow what the groups describe as connectors to help personalize the things that make Hamilton County a great place to live, work, learn and thrive, according to a news release. Fifteen HCLA alumni have signed on as connectors through the first year, according to the partnership.

“Our alumni network is excited to be com munity connectors for those new to Ham ilton County, interested in relocating here, or looking to identify new ways to engage where they reside or work,” said Diana Coyle, executive director of HCLA. “A key part of what makes HCLA a great program is it dives deep into our community, which makes our alumni the perfect group to help

others do the same.”

Those who are interested can access sto ries, experiences and personal snapshots to learn more about the Hamilton County com munity by visiting Invest Hamilton County’s website at investhamiltoncounty.com. Indi viduals can also reach out to connectors on different social media platforms to engage in conversations about topics such as vol unteering, employment and/or community events, according to Hamilton Connection.

“If you Google search any community in our county, you will see amazing articles about the quality of our schools, parks, roads, health and employment,” said Mike Thibideau, president and CEO of Invest Ham ilton County. “What this program does is personalize those accolades, showcase the diversity of experiences that make our com munity great, and provide an opportunity for immediate connection.”

To learn more about the program and to see profiles of HCLA alumni participating, visit investhamiltoncounty.com/work/ hamilton-connection.

MODEL GRAND OPENING

Grunwald

Wanninger to run for council

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The former public works director for the City of Westfield has announced he is run ning for an atlarge seat on the Westfield City Council.

storing confidence, respect, and support among the city council, being transparent and accountable with taxpayers’ dollars, and approaching the city’s imminent growth with intention and strategy.”

GOVERNMENT

Kurt Wanninger, who served in the role from 2002 to 2012, said he is uniquely positioned to run for council because of experience and leadership in the public and private sectors, his commitment to hard work and decades of serving the Westfield community.

“Westfield’s success is important to me,” he said. “I have always put Westfield first and will continue to do so as a city council member. I know in my heart that we have the potential to be an even greater unified city.”

Wanninger said it is his mission to “build trust in our local government and be an advocate for the citizens of Westfield.” If elected, Wanninger said he will focus on “putting Westfield residents first by re

Wanninger cited his experience in the private and public sectors that makes him qualified for the role. As public works director, he was able to develop a vast knowledge of the city’s infrastructure, he said.

Wanninger is a senior project manager with Wessler Engineering. In addition, he worked with Ameri can Water, one of the largest water provid ers in the United States, on the executive team by providing leadership in the opera tions and engineering department.

He has also successfully managed multi-million-dollar projects and “imple mented innovative programs and solutions across multiple states that resulted in in creased efficiencies, reduced costs and cost savings,” he said.

Wanninger serves on the board of di rectors for the Open Doors Food Pantry of Washington Township as vice president.

Community Health Network warns patients about data breach

Community Health Network said it is noti fying patients whose personal and medical information may have been part of a data breach.

SECURITY

The health network said that third-party tracking technologies known as cookies or pixels installed on its website, including the MyChart patient por tal and some of its appointment scheduling pages, transmitted certain patient informa tion to the tracking technology vendors. It did not disclose the number of patients who were affected by the data breach.

“Any individual who visited the Commu nity MyChart patient portal or scheduled an appointment on the eCommunity.com web site since the date we began using these third-party tracking technologies (April 6, 2017), may have been involved. However, because the type of information transmitted through the tracking technologies varied depending on the configurations on the user’s device and the user’s activity on the

Community website and Chart patient por tal, Community cannot determine with cer tainty whose information was transmitted,” according to a statement from Community Health Network.

The health network said that “information potentially transmitted to the third-party tracking technology vendors did not include Society Security number, debit card infor mation, credit card information, or other financial account information.”

The health network also said it has sent out letters but noted that it “does not mean that we know for certain that your information was involved, but simply means that our records indicated that you have engaged with a Community provider or af filiated entity on or after April 6, 2017, which is the date we began implementing these third-party tracking technologies.”

For more, visit ecommunity.com/no tice-third-party-tracking-technology-da ta-breach or call 866-361-5593 between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

news@currentinwestfield.com

Wanninger

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EXCEPTIONAL CARE. SIMPLY DELIVERED.

The Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank received a $10,000 donation from Teachers Credit Union Nov. 16. From left, Angie Wolfe, board secretary with Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, Adam Young, area manager with TCU, Tahanna Jenkins, facilitation manager with TCU, Anita Hagen, exec utive director of Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, Janet Gafkjen, board president with Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank and board member Bob Killmer. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

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Noblesville fullback gets boost from added size, strength

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

At 5-foot-7 and 160 pounds, Noblesville High School junior Logan Shoffner is still an undersized fullback. Shoffner has put on 20 to 25 pounds since his sophomore season.

“I feel like in the off season I got a lot stron ger, and this allowed me to power for some extra yards and allowed me to get a little faster,” Shoffner said. “The hits didn’t hurt quite as much, and it helped me get some extra hard-fought yards. I feel I was playing with more confidence.”

This season, Shoffner rushed for 1,414 yards on 189 carries and nine touchdowns for the Millers (4-7). As a sophomore, he ran for 1,270 yards on 148 attempts with four touchdowns. He set the school single-game rushing record with 347 yards against Mt. Vernon in the opening game of his sopho more year.

“Logan has a drive to be great, not only in football, but also in the classroom,” Millers

MEET LOGAN SHOFFNER

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite athlete: Jonathan Taylor

Favorite types of music: Country and R&B

Favorite movie: “Grown Ups.”

football coach Dave Sharpe said. “He is a model citizen, great leader and incredibly hard worker.”

Sharpe said Shoffner has special qualities as a running back.

“He does not lose speed while making subtle cuts,” Sharpe said. “His vision and processing of information is the best I’ve

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ever seen from the fullback position.

He contortions his body to burst through small running lanes. His balance is un matched. He just doesn’t go down on the first tackle attempt. He always gets that extra yard or two after contact.”

Sharpe said Shoffner is an even better blocker than he is a runner.

“He is definitely a complete football play er and will be our captain and leader as we head into this offseason,” Sharpe said.

Although fullback is his primary position, Shoffner said sometimes when the offense rotates to other formations, he’s a halfback.

“Through elementary school, I was a run ning back,” Shoffner said. “In middle school, I shifted away from running back and played cornerback on defense. But I’m glad I went back to (running back).”

Noblesville improved to 4-7 in 2022 after finishing 2-8 in 2021.

“I feel like we are working on chemistry,” said Shoffner, who wants to play football in college. “We lose some offensive linemen, but we have a lot of returning starters that will help us take that extra step.”

Shoffner also plays baseball for Noblesville.

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Noblesville junior fullback Logan Shoffner rushed for more than 1,000 yards for the sec ond consecutive season. (Photo courtesy of Dave Sharpe)

Shoffner

Organization names new CEO

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Invest Hamilton County has named Mike Thibideau as the organization’s president and CEO.

LEADERSHIP

Thibideau was promoted Nov. 8 by the board of directors for the Hamilton County Economic Development Corp. to the top lead ership position of the organization and began his new role earlier this month. He had served as vice pres ident of workforce strategy since 2021 for Invest Hamilton County, which focuses on workforce development and quality-of-life priorities within the community.

Before joining Invest Hamilton County, Thibideau served as director of Indiana Workforce Recovery at the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Invest Hamilton County is staffed through an operating partnership with Hamilton County Tourism, where he will continue to also serve as vice president of workforce strategy.

The board of directors also updated its

mission and vision for the organization, according to a news release. Its mission will be “to empower the economic vitality of the residents, businesses and communities of Hamilton County by attracting, retaining and supporting talent,” the release said.

The organization’s vision, accord ing to the board, is that “Hamilton County is a community that com petes for top-tier talent on a nation al scale, supports and retains its employers and workforce and ranks as one of the best places to live and work in America.”

Since Thibideau joined the Invest Ham ilton County staff last year, some new programs the organization has introduced include mental health education and re sources for local businesses, facilitation of broadband expansion within the communi ty, a new AI-driven Career Explorer, innova tive research and training programs for the local hospitality industry and the launch of Hamilton County’s new career and technical education district known as The Pursuit Institute.

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Thibideau

Officials hold groundbreaking on 55,000-square-foot Westfield Washington Public Library, trustee’s office

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Cold weather didn’t dampen the spirits of nearly 100 people who attended a ground breaking ceremony for a 55,000-square-foot building that will serve as the new home for the Westfield Washington Public Library and the Westfield Washington Township Trust ee’s Office.

Mayor Andy Cook said during the Nov. 17 event held at the southwest corner of Park and Poplar streets that the city has always dreamed of putting some of its public offic es in the downtown area. The building will be two stories with separate entrances — one for the library and one for the township offices. The new library will provide more parking, an expanded teen area, a communi ty room for capacity up to 200 people and a coffee shop.

In addition, outdoor activity space will also be available, along with study rooms for public use, according to officials. Cook thanked Library Director Sheryl Sollars, her staff and Westfield Washington Township Trustee Danielle Carey Tolan and her board for their work on the project.

“Thank you so much for getting us to this point,” Cook said. “We’re so looking forward to this.”

The library is covering its construction and land costs with a $16.7 million general obligation bond, while the township trust ee’s portion of the project will not exceed $5.2 million, according to officials. The township’s portion will be funded through a build-operate-transfer contract, or BOT, which allows the project to be built without an impact to residents’ tax bills.

Sollars told those in attendance that the project was long overdue and said the “stateof-the-art building will serve as a centerpiece to Westfield.” It will also be a gathering space for the public to enjoy, she added.

The building is expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete and will have out door activity space and study rooms for public use, according to officials. Sollars said the new building will also allow for remote work opportunities and facilitate collaboration.

Steve Latour, CEO of the Westfield Cham ber of Commerce, said the new building will be a benefit to the community.

“This is a historic moment for Westfield,” Latour said.

Sollars thanked current and past library board members, Tolan, Cook and members of the Westfield City Council, among others, for their support. She also thanked the

community for its patience and support throughout the years.

“This is deeply the pinnacle of my career, and I can’t wait to watch (the library) take shape, and it’s long overdue for what’s about to

transpire here,” Sollars said.

ON THE COVER: Westfield Mayor Andy Cook speaks Nov. 17 during a groundbreaking ceremony for a 55,000-square-foot building that will house the Westfield Washington Public Library and Westfield Washington Township Trustee’s Office. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

A rendering of the new building. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Washington Public Library)

Westfield Washington Public Library Sheryl Sollars, Westfield Washington Township Trustee Danielle Carey Tolan and Westfield Mayor Andy Cook prepare to break ground on a 55,000-square-foot building in downtown Westfield. The building, which is expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete, will serve as the new home of the library and the trustee’s office. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

ESSAY

Stating facts

Commentary by Terry Anker

We identify those in the room we believe to be prevaricating and, as if we are honor bound to do it, call them out for their transgression. “Not true,” we exclaim, demanding a fact check — at least one that is confirming. Those who stand accused strike back, pointing the finger of deceptive conduct right back at us. The “facts” — those concrete arbiters of reality — can be surprisingly fickle. Any first-year law student will tell you that whosoever frames the case will eventually win it. Laying claim to data by showing that it supports our point of view is a powerful first-mover advantage. By the more nuanced second year of study, that same would-be attor ney can effectively argue the identical evidence with multiple possible out comes. Could the same data be used to prove diametrically opposed positions? Experience answers with an unequivo cal affirmation.

Now, more than ever, it is easy to find supporting information to prop up our “facts.” The internet delivers study after study dedicated to building — and then destroying — the accepted under standing of what is happening in our world. Some directly use propaganda to lead us down the primrose path. Others, assured in their intellectual superiority, use their position of legitimate or in fluenced authority to prevent disagree ment with their perspective. Many with draw entirely, not thinking, reflecting, or learning past some point of saturation that may have passed decades ago. As such, who is to be believed? And does it really matter?

Most of us hope it does. We innately seek veritas but get fatigued in pursuit. Perhaps our journey to find certainty would be improved with a few simple rules: Don’t intentionally intend to mis lead; don’t assert as truth what is likely an opinion; and don’t use our mouths to tell your lies — asserting your presump tive knowledge of our view.

CURRENTOON

‘Tis the season for tension

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

It’s that time again, friends, when a major holiday throwdown is almost in evitable in my household. Will it be over tinsel? Perhaps, though 2022 is clearly marked as a year for the most glorious sparkly adornment ever created by man. No, my money’s on the tree itself. Real or fake?

Normally, we hold a forced-family out ing to Ace or Lowe’s where we choose the tallest, fattest fir in the lot. My hus band, Doo, will struggle to get it tied to the minivan, and I’ll nearly forget I have it atop the car when I pull into the ga rage, and then we’ll wrangle that sucker into the living room and pray to all that is holy that we won’t be yelling “timber!” or “fire!” anytime soon.

But last December, we headed over seas and decided on scaled-down deco rations, including a 12-foot fake Frazier that came in seven separate parts, each of which folded up like an umbrella. I ba sically assembled it by myself, no fuss, no mess. A veritable Christmas miracle in my book, though everyone else im mediately dubbed it “The Imposter” and accused me of essentially ruining their lives.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

— MAHATMA GANDHI

POLICIES

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I suppose it’s no real surprise then that 5 of 6 Wilsons polled said there is no way on god’s green earth that my perfect plastic tannenbaum will ever see the light of day. I’d argue, of course, that a happy mom is a happy home, and that a little artificial foliage is a small price to pay for Yuletide peace and goodwill.

‘Tis the season for tinsel and tension, with a real-versus-fake tree throwdown clearly on the horizon. We shall see!

Peace out.

info@youarecurrent.com.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at

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

“Where there is love there is life.”

READER’S VIEW

Political lessons

Editor,

The midterm elections should have taught the Republicans a simple yet signif icant lesson. Be conservative, accountable, and transparent, or continue the erosion of the party. As a conservative, I find it inter esting, locally, our R’s are getting more lib eral, because they feel the only way to get re-elected is to borrow more, create more business for donors, be less accountable, be less transparent, and give as much money to special interests so it looks good on a postcard come election time.

Adding business at the expense of those who live here today to create so called tax revenues or diversify the base in a decade and spend $1 more than we brought in is not a Conservative plan. Businesses who want to be part of a special community are welcomed with open arms. If they come only for the tax break, they will quickly leave when someone else gives them a larger one.

This coming May, the retiring mayor has announced he is putting plans together to remove those on the city council who required accountability and transparency, and those who are putting the taxpayers of Westfield first. Why? Because it is much easier to protect those donors when you have no one to answer to. We are seeing Council announcements by lifetime lobby ists, attorneys, and past council members who never asked for any accountability or transparency. It seems as if those in power want to return to the days of handshake agreements.

The taxpayers’s voice should be heard above special interests, outside influencers, and political lifers. Westfield is special and so are the residents who live here. Taxpayer dollars are just that, they belong to the taxpayers. Those dollars do not belong to the city to encumber debt for the lifetime of every resident and their children.

Just putting an R behind your name on a ballot means nothing these days. Please pay close attention and demand accountability from those that you select to represent you. When you elect representatives that are un willing to fight for your interests, your voice is muted and in our case, the erosion of the so-called conservative continues.

Troy Patton is a Westfield resident who also serves on the Westfield City Council.

what I did, until this week. Here’s what I discovered:

•  The turn signal makes a clicking noise when you hit the lever.

HUMOR

This week, I purchased a good pair of hearing aids. My wife has bugged me for a long time to do this. Hearing loss runs in my fam ily. My grandmother was born nearly deaf. When she finally got hearing aids, they did little more than raise the vol ume of sounds. “Don’t speak louder, speak slower” she would say. At dinner, she would constantly ask us to repeat things. But when she said something to annoy my father, he’d whisper under his breath to my mother, “What a pain in the butt Mildred is tonight.” Then Grandma would glare at him and say: “You’re a pain in the butt, too.”

When I give a presentation about humor, I tell this joke: A man reports to his doctor that his wife is in denial about being hard of hearing. The doctor tells him to go home and see how close he has to get to her for her to hear him. That night, he calls from the front door, “I’m home, honey. What’s for dinner?” No re sponse, so he tries calling from every room. “Honey, I’m home. What’s for dinner?” Noth ing. He goes into the kitchen and screams near her ear, “Honey, I’m home. What’s for dinner?”

Wife: “For the fifth time, Edward, pot roast!”

This joke is particularly funny to older women with stubborn hubbies who refuse to face reality about their hearing, claiming the loss is just a part of aging and noth ing can be done about it. That’s kind of

• Leaves do rustle when you step on them.

• At night, rain on the roof can wake you up.

Just joking, of course. My loss was eas ily corrected with the appropriate devices. Severe hearing loss, though, is devastating and life-altering. Helen Keller once said, “If you are blind, you are cut off from things. If you are deaf, you are cut off from people.”

I once did a story about a racecar driver born deaf. He had never experienced the roar of the engines — or the roar of the crowd. After he had a surgical procedure to repair the congenital issue, I took a camera crew to tape his first trip back to the track to watch (and hear) trials at the Indy 500. Oh, the ex pression on his face that afternoon.

I’ve been bragging to everyone about how great my hearing aids are. I took one out of my ear and showed it to my friend Bob.

“What kind is it?” he asked.

“About 4:30,” I told him.

It was a very old joke, but I’ve waited my whole life to find a way to use it.

P.S., did you know bacon makes a sizzling noise when you fry it?

Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker.

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Helen Keller once said, “If you are blind, you are cut off from things. If you are deaf, you are cut off from people.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Should I buy glasses online?

Commentary by Dr. Jeremy Ciano

What is the difference between buying glasses at your local optometrist versus buying them online?

to achieve the most precise prescription possible. Simply put, your prescription needs to be centered perfectly for you to see your best. And the prescription bullseye is not the center of your lenses.

VISION

This is one of my favorite questions to answer, because the answer isn’t obvious — at first.

The single-biggest misconception pa tients have when requesting their prescrip tion is assuming that all the information is in the simple three numbers provided by your doctor, but this baseline only accounts for a portion of your final vision. It’s the equivalent of getting a shoe size only, but not taking into account if you are a tennis player, ballet dancer or in need of hockey skates. These three numbers aren’t all the information you need for an accurate fitting and overall visual experience.

Most online opticals have their own version of how to guesstimate the rest of the information needed to properly fit you. They use combinations of generalized as sumptions and various at-home measuring techniques that are not the most accurate. Your local optician takes very precise and accurate manual and digital measurements

Measurements aside (and they are huge), you also are left to the online retailer’s lens design. This is the equivalent of buying the cheapest tires you can find. Black, round, rubber, they are all the same, right? Not at all! Glasses are customized to your individu al wearing style, visual needs and the frame you select. Choosing off-the-shelf lenses is the equivalent of watching a movie on VHS versus digital Blu-Ray.

So, the next time you are looking for a new pair of glasses, keep in mind that if you want the most accurate prescription, with the best fit and personalized lens design, you should find a trusted local optician to consult with you on the best individualized decisions.

Dr. Jeremy A. Ciano, an international lecturer and published author, is a Current Publishing columnist. For more information or to ask a question, he may be emailed at DrCiano@ Revolution-EYES.com.

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Holiday Porchfest

Orthopedic practice partners with local group

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

OrthoAlliance, one of the nation’s leading orthopedic management services organi zations, announced its partnership with Central Indiana Ortho pedics on Nov. 16. The partnership will allow OrthoAlliance to continue its expansion into the Midwest thanks to Central Indiana Orthopedics.

The partnership added four main loca tions to OrthoAlliance’s network, one of which opened in 2020 at 14300 E. 138th St. in Fishers. Two satellite locations and 26 physicians have also been added to the OrthoAlliance network with the partnership. Central Indiana Orthopedics will continue to provide patient care while OrthoAlliance will deliver administrative and clinical support to central Indiana Orthopedics patients throughout central Indiana.

“For more than 70 years, Central Indiana Orthopedics has been delivering compas sionate and expert care to the residents of Central Indiana,” said Dr. P. Jamieson Kay, a surgeon with Central Indiana Orthopedics.

“Joining OrthoAlliance allows us to further our mission of getting patients back to doing what they love by offering orthopedic services provided by board-certified doctors and licensed specialists.”

In the last few years, OrthoAlliance has grown to nearly 150 physicians and 2,000 employees.

“Aligning with Central Indiana Orthopedics allows us to introduce OrthoAlliance’s net work of like-minded orthopedic and sports medicine experts who are passionate about our mission to provide patients instant access to high-quality and low-cost care to an entirely new market,” OrthoAlliance CEO Andy Blankemeyer stated. “As we continue

Fishers’ new Orthopedic Care Center is thanks to the partnership of OrthoAlliance and Central Indiana Orthopedics. (Photo courtesy of Central Indiana Orthopedics)

to grow and expand through a successful model that includes practices in Ohio, Ken tucky and Indiana, we remain excited about the future of our new partnership and the future of outpatient orthopedic medicine in central Indiana and all of the markets and patients that we serve.”

The partnership will not affect patient care, according to OrthoAlliance.

“With this partnership, and OrthoAlli ance’s proven track record, we will be able to continue growing our organization while focusing on exceptional care and service that our doctors and medical providers bring to every patient we serve,” Kay stated.

DISPATCHES

Initiative benefits truckers — The Indiana Dept. of Transportation’s Trucks Park Here system is a multi-state, regional effort to make interstate travel safer by creating a network of safe, convenient parking areas for truckers with the ability to collect and share real-time parking availability with drivers through dynamic message signs, smartphone applications, and traveler infor mation websites. INDOT has 19 sites in the Trucks Park Here system along Interstates 65, 69 and 70.

Finding at-home jobs — For job seekers wanting to work from home, the internet is full of scams. There are so many spam post ings that it’s tiring to sort through them for legitimate opportunities. Two websites do aIndiana is 8th-most federally dependent state – A recent study by WalletHub, a per sonal finance website, shows that Indiana is the eighth-most federally dependent state in the U.S. WalletHub compared the 50 states across three key metrics: Return on taxes paid to the federal government; federal funding as a share of state revenue; and share of federal jobs. To see full study results, visit wallethub.com.

Source: WalletHub.com

currentnightandday.com

Westfield country singer perseveres despite brain tumor

By Mike Beas editorial@youarecurrent.com

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

“It’s a Wonderful Life” runs through Dec. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianap olis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

LIVE AT THE CENTER

MUSIC

The scenario that sculpted the name James Will Watson has used the past eight years could be mistaken for lyrics to a country song: Young guy in a Corpus Christi bar ordering a drink; attractive young lady serving him doesn’t hear his name cor rectly because of the loud music playing; mispronounces it; and River James it is.

A Dallas native who grew up mostly in Wills Point, Texas, a town of 3,500 tucked away in the state’s northeastern corner, the 32-year-old now resides in Westfield, where he writes and plays country music.

James, who aspires to eventually use his talents on an acoustic guitar to en tertain and inspire larger audiences with his brand of outlaw and folk country, understands the importance of a positive attitude to achieve his objective.

If the past eight months are any indica tion, he’s well on his way.

In March, James was diagnosed with anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocyto ma, a brain tumor that occurs most fre quently in children and teenagers.

“During the scans, they discovered a tumor,” said James, who said the tumor is on the right side of his brain. “I did have the chemotherapy and radiation starting back in July and finished it in August. My dad passed away 17 years ago of a brain tumor. They were on the hunt for his med ical records but have kind of hit a dead end.

“I haven’t once gotten down about it. I’ve got the Big Man upstairs on my side.”

James has lived in Indiana since 2017, his years here carrying a very distinct Hamilton County flavor.

James worked as a barn hand in Sheri dan prior to his chemo treatments, former ly lived in Noblesville and is now in West field. He used to paint houses and perform other tasks to earn a living, all while con tinuing to write and perform music. The latter is a love born from a lifelong love of

country music, and his Uncle Dave’s rather unique instruction.

“When I was 18, he heard me sing ing and said, ‘You need a guitar in your hands,’” James said. “He told me I needed five beers before I would even pick up a guitar. He thought that would keep me loose and from getting frustrated.”

Five Keystones later, James was hooked

on concocting lyrical hooks.

On Oct. 1, the Benefit for River James concert was performed in Carmel, raising approximately $2,000 to help with his medical bills while away from work.

He begins his second round of chemo therapy in early December.

James, who through age and circum stance, admits he has mellowed greatly from the man he was in his shot-glassraising 20s.

At the same time, he wants to musically give Indiana a taste of Texas.

“This has made me a more spiritual per son,” James said. “I have an appreciation for the ground I walk on. I’ve been given a second chance. I have a spark beneath me, and I won’t settle for second. I’ve made some good connections here in In diana, and they’ve helped me get back on my feet.”

James, whose single “Ballad of a Drinkin’ Man” is available on Spotify, is de termined to make the most of it. For more, James’ Facebook page contains covers of other songs.

The Live at the Center series will feature the Marrialle Sellars Band at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 at the Studio Theatre at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $5 for in-person. To register for free livestream, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL’

Civic Theatre presents “A Christmas Story, The Musical” from Dec. 2-24 at The Tarking ton at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.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 CHRISTMAS SPIRIT’

Mud Creek Players will present “The Christ mas Spirit,” a holiday comedy, from Dec. 2-17 at Mud Creek Theater, 9740 E. 86th St., Indianapolis. For more, visit mudcreekplay ers.org.

‘ALL

IS CALM: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914’

“All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914” is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’

The Belfry Theatre presents “The Sound of Music” through Dec. 4 at the Ivy Tech Audi torium, 300 N. 17th St., Noblesville. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com.

“HOLIDAY POPS”

Carmel Symphony Orchestra will hold “Holi day Pops” concerts at 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Palladium at the Center for the Perform ing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmel symphony.org.

‘A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS’

“A Motown Christmas” concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Westfield country singer River James, center, continues to write and perform music after being diagnosed with anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastocytoma, a form of brain tumor that occurs most frequently in children and teenagers, in March. He is set to start his second round of che motherapy in early December. (Photos courtesy of River James)

River James writes and plays country music.

CHS senior gets dream role

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This dream has come true for Allie Hanning.

DANCE

“As a young dancer in the role of a tiny unicorn watching the Sugar Plum Fairy, I knew I wanted to take on that role so badly but never thought my dream would become a reality,” the Carmel High School senior said. “Growing up and watching her perform was always such a magical experience.”

Hanning will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Carmel-based Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s G2 company’s performanc es of “The Nutcracker” at 7 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Pike Performing Arts Center, 6701 Zionsville Rd., Indianapolis. The dancers are from G2, the pre-professional GHDT company for ages 13-19 and students from The Academy of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre.

“The first dancer (Abigail Lessaris) I saw in that role in 2013 is now coaching me on the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, which makes my experience even more special,” Hanning said. “I hope to be that inspiration

Allie Hanning, left, and Leigh ton Metcalfe will perform in Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s G2 company’s presentation of “The Nut cracker.” (Pho to courtesy of GHDT)

to the young dancers as she was to me when I was just a unicorn.”

Hanning has been performing in GHDT’s production of “The Nutcracker” since she was 8 years old.

“My favorite part of this role is getting to play such a delicate part,” Hanning said. “I love feeling like a princess when I’m danc ing, and not only does the costume reflect that, but the movement does as well.”

For more, visit gregoryhancockdancethe atre.org.

Meyer to perform at Feinstein’s

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For more than 13 years, Craig A. Meyer has been portraying Elton John in a tribute show.

Eve with Elton & Me: My Life As Elton John” show. The performances are at 7:45 and 10:45 p.m. Dec. 31.

The 1981 Carmel High School graduate, who is based in At lanta, finally brought the act home in March, appearing at the Palladi um at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

PERFORMANCES

“It’s going to be different than anything I’ve ever done with the show because I won’t be performing as Elton John,” he said. “I’ll be performing as my self, telling my life story with the music of Elton John and a few other people. I’ll be wrapping my story up with those great Elton John songs and how they have impacted my life.”

“The March show was great fun, and it was so great to be back in the arms of such dear friends and play to the hometown crowd,” Meyer said. “It was a lovely evening. I was even more excited when I got a call from Michael Feinstein’s manager, who runs his clubs. He said Mi chael had heard about how well the show had gone at the Palladium and wanted to know if I was interested in performing in some of his clubs.”

Meyer will make his Feinstein’s club debut at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Car michael in Carmel. Meyer will not wear his usual Elton outfits during his “New Year’s

Meyer

Meyer will perform by himself on piano.

“The terror that I felt about that was pret ty high,” he said. “It’s subsiding now that I’ve got a feel for where the project is and how it’s going to pan out and flow.”

Meyer said he’s happy the first appear ance with the format will be in Carmel because his family will be the first ones to see it.

Meyer said there has been a lot of laughs and tears as he worked through the show on his life.

For more, visit feinsteinshc.com. For more about Meyer, visit almosteltonjohn.com.

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BENJ PASEK AND JUSTIN PAUL 12/2-12/24 ACS Ad for The Current.indd 1 11/10/2022 1:33:07 PM

CSO’s ‘Holiday Pops’ to feature variety of performers

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Leah Crane, the Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops” show will be a special showcase.

CONCERTS

“The tunes I’m doing are really great pieces,” said Crane, who is a singer with Pavel & Direct Contact. “I love holiday music. Most people do. I’m just excited to be a part of a show that has so many different artists and a dance group involved, and the Indianapolis Children’s Choir and Josh Kaufman is incred ible. I feel it’s going to be a great revue of Indianapolis talent.”

The CSO “Holiday Pops” performances will be at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Palladi um at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“This will be Leah’s third time with the CSO in a year,” CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes said. “Because she is a crossover artist, meaning she sings classical, pops and Latin music, she has fit into many of our programs. Leah knows many of the oth er artists, which makes for a nice musical experience.”

Crane performed with Pavel & Direct Con tact in a Latin music celebration in a Mas terworks concert in October. She previously performed with CSO at Cedar Creek Winery and Brew Co. in Martinsville in 2021.

For the holiday concert, Crane will sing two songs arranged by Chicago-based arranger/producer Paul Langford.

“He helped me to produce and arrange an album this year, so I got to release my first solo album with him,” Crane said. “He’s a great friend and fabulous arranger.”

Crane will perform arrangements of “O Holy Night” and “The Christmas Song.”

“(Langford arranged ‘The Christmas Song’) specifically for me to do for a couple of years with Anderson Symphony Orchestra, and it has a bossa nova feel to it,” Crane said.

Crane will sing two duets with Kaufman, performing on “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and Stevie Wonder’s “Someday at Christmas,” which she will perform for the first time.

“Josh has such a soulful voice, and he has really incredible range,” Crane said.

Crane said she and Kaufman did some caroling gigs, where the singers dressed in madrigal costumes.

“Before he won ‘The Voice,’ maybe the

Vocalist Leah Crane will perform in the Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops” concert. (Photo courtesy of CSO)

year before is the last time I’ve done any thing with him,” Crane said.

Kaufman was the winner of the sixth sea son of “The Voice” in 2014.

“It’s always great to be backed by a full orchestra and the Carmel Symphony Orches tra is phenomenal,” Kaufman said. “I really like a lot of the slower, softer, traditional carols, too, but for a show like this you tend to want more of the high-energy stuff.”

Kaufman said he likes performing classic soul pieces like Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas” and “Someday at Christmas.”

This is the first time Kaufman has per formed with the CSO.

“I was rooting for him, on ‘The Voice,’” Hymes said. “When I came to work in Car mel, I was happy to learn Josh lived here. I went to the Jazz Kitchen to hear him a few years ago and we met at that time. The rest is history.”

Hymes said each year she tries to pro gram a concert that features Indianapo lis-area talent.

“Often, audiences know these artists and seem to appreciate the collaborative effort,” Hymes said. “Having younger performers, such as NZ TapZ and ICC, is a wonderful way of bringing them onstage to work with professional musicians and also to intro duce them to our audience. I enjoy working with young people and this is often a high light of the concert.”

Hymes said the show usually has a vari ety of new numbers each year.

“We play ‘Sleigh Ride’ every year and that is always a hit,” Hymes said. “When we arrange music especially for a concert, I always enjoy bringing it to life for the first time.”

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

Koz to perform holiday show

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Dave Koz never expected to have a 25th anniversary tour.

Peter White, Keiko Matsui and vocalist Re becca Jade.

Koz said a new album, “Dave Koz & Friends: Christmas Ballads,” is a companion piece to the tour.

CONCERT

“This started out in a very small way, never thinking it would last this long,” Koz said. “We were just doing it in the beginning to go out and play some shows. We’ve managed to be here for a long time. We’ve seen people bring their kids and now their kids bring their kids.”

Dave Koz and Friends 25th Anniversary Christmas Tour concert is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Palladium at the Center for the Per forming Arts in Carmel.

Saxophonist and bandleader Koz has regularly brought his high-energy Christmas show to Carmel.

The show’s opening act will be bass play er Bethany Robinson and vocalist/keyboard ist Sarah Scharbrough McLaughlin. Both are Noblesville residents. Robinson is the jazz band director at Noblesville High School.  Joining Koz will be musicians Rick Braun,

Koz

Koz’s friend David Benoit, a jazz pianist, had the idea for the tour.

“We both lost a parent within a few weeks of each other,” Koz said. “I was interviewing him for a radio show I host. He just said it as an idea to go out and play some Christmas shows and deal with our emotions that way.”

Koz said one thing that keeps the tour fresh is the lineup changes every year.

“You’re not necessarily seeing the same people every year,” Koz said. “It gives people a chance to see different combinations and different artists. The songs we get to play have so much meat on the bones, we can do so much with them.”

Koz said the concert will be a mix of songs from the album and traditional favorites.

“We do a Hanukkah medley every year,” Koz said.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

From our bar to yours. The ready-to- pour St. Elmo Old fashioned is now available! Formally known behind our bars as the “Pop’s Old Fashioned,”

This libation can now be enjoyed in the comfort and convenience of your home or anywhere you choose to indulge. Now available in Indi ana grocery and liquor stores.

To see a video of this drink being mixed, scan this QR code.

(Photo

courtesy of Huse Culinary)

BEHIND BARS: ST. ELMO READY-TO-POUR OLD FASHIONED

Blueprint for Improvement: Modern kitchen makeover

After

Built in 1956 in Indianapolis’ Crooked Creek neighborhood, this kitchen was raising its hand for a glow-up. The space not only needed a cosmetic overhaul, the function and flow also no longer met this family’s needs. The owners sought more room to store, prepare and entertain while also incorporating Mid-centu ry-inspired modern style, honoring the home’s history.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Clean lines throughout the design — from the custom cabinetry to the minimalist hardware and sleek appliances — make all aspects intentionally constructed to make the space feel larger and provide doses of Mid-century style.

• Relocating the appliances improve the room’s flow and function, while the new island adds work and gathering space.

• Removing the soffit makes the room feel open and airy while also creating space to extend the upper cabinets, increasing both the room’s visual height and storage space.

• The statement backsplash provides the perfect accent to the room’s neutral palette, providing bold color pops with modern appeal.

Before

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.

Commentary by Larry Greene

Visiting Keeneland, Claiborne Farms

Commentary by Don Knebel

In our second day in Lexington, Ky., we visit two of the world’s most fa mous thoroughbred racing establishments.

TRAVEL

As we noted last week, in the first half of the 19th century, Henry Clay raised champion thoroughbred horses on his Ashland estate outside Lexington.

Lexington recognizes horse racing’s debt to Clay in the Ashland Stakes, run annually at the Keeneland racecourse, opened in 1936 by Jack Keene, son of a wealthy thorough bred owner. Each year since, Keeneland has hosted some of the nation’s most mem orable races and has become one of the nation’s most recognizable racing venues. Keeneland hosted Queen Elizabeth in 1984, and most of the scenes of the movie “Sea biscuit” were filmed there.

Keeneland is also famous for the four auctions it holds each year, where own ers from around the world bid millions of dollars on horses they hope will become champions. Many of those champions have been bred or raised at Lexington’s Claiborne Farms, established near Lexington in 1910. Its owner imported breeding stock from

Europe and quickly became among the nation’s most successful horse breeders. Claiborne Farms stallions and their progeny have won 22 Kentucky Derbies, 20 Preak nesses and 22 Belmont Stakes. Twenty-two members of racing’s Hall of Fame have been foaled and/or raised at Claiborne Farms. Secretariat, the famous 1973 Triple Crown winner who stood stud at Claiborne Farms, is buried there.

Keeneland and Claiborne Farms offer guided tours of their facilities. The Keene land tour allows visitors to get close to the track, where hopefuls often work out. The Claiborne Farms tour includes a visit to the stallion barns and breeding shed, where mares are bred with Claiborne Farms’ stal lions, with a fee of up to $100,000 or more for a 10-minute encounter.

Today, Lexington is the unquestioned cen ter of the thoroughbred industry in the Unit ed States, with hundreds of horse farms.

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

LEGAL NOTICE OF DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC ELECTRIC VEHICLE FAST CHARGE (EVFC) RATE

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around December 2, 2022, Duke Energy Indiana, in accordance with 170 IAC 4-4.1-10, will submit a request to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (Commission) to update its Electric Vehicle Fast Charge (EVFC) tariff, Rider 28, under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. The tariff revision will be an update to the EVFC rate based on the revised statewide average, as of November 2022, for EVFC charging offered by individual fast charge stations in Indiana that charge a consumption-based fee, are greater than 50KW in charging capacity and are available 24 hours a day. 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

Embracing idea nouns

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

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

GRAMMAR GUY

In elementary school, we learn a noun is a “person, place or thing.” Rabbit. Cere al. Toilet. Especially toilet. Words like “toilet” make Mad Libs a hit with my kids when we take road trips.

However, at some point down the line, we learn that an “idea” is also a noun. I don’t know which governing English lan guage body decided this or at what point it became part of the school curriculum, but I’ll bet it was met with the same backlash as Pluto being relegated to a lower-level planet.

Yes, ideas are nouns, and they’re my favorite types of nouns. These ideas were the ones the Founding Fathers often capi talized, and that the Bible extols: joy, hon esty, freedom, loyalty, wisdom, truth and friendship. Sam the Eagle would be proud. Pride — there’s another one.

The above examples were all positive words (except “pride,” depending on context). What about some negative idea nouns? I’m all too familiar with disap

pointment, failure, misery, sadness and underachievement. I find these negative idea nouns as real mood-lifters in the Mad Libs road trip game: It’s time for your summer failure; don’t forget to pack dis appointment and plenty of misery in your suitcase!

You can’t have idea nouns without “-isms,” which, again, are great Mad Libs head-scratchers: communism, antidis establishmentarianism, totalitarianism, fascism, absolutism, materialism and even patriotism: It’s time for your summer fas cism; don’t forget to pack communism and plenty of materialism in your suitcase!

Although idea nouns can change the trajectory of a Mad Libs game, they do share a common characteristic: Idea nouns aren’t concrete nouns. Idea nouns are abstract nouns. You can’t touch “peace,” but you can experience it.

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

Grave of 1973 Triple Crown winner Secretariat at Claiborne Farms in Lexington, Ky. (Photos by Don Knebel)

ARTS TEACHER

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