December 20, 2022 — Westfield

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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Westfield, IN Vol. XV, No. 46 Copyright 2022. Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved.

30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

December 20, 2022

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Council overrides veto of term limits ordinance

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

it were challenged in court and would be overturned.

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

City leaders in Westfield have voted to override Mayor Andy Cook’s veto of an ordinance establishing term limits for elected officials.

GOVERNMENT

The ordinance, which was originally passed in a 5-2 vote during the council’s Nov. 28 meeting, came back before the council Dec. 12 after Cook vetoed the legislation a week prior. The proposed ordinance was originally introduced in October by City Councilman Troy Patton.

Under the ordinance, council members and the mayor would not be eligible to run for more than two four-year terms, while the clerk-treasurer would not be eligible for election for more than three four-year terms. Cook has been in office since 2008, while Clerk-Treasurer Cindy Gossard was initially appointed in 2001 and has been reelected to four-year terms since 2003.

Concerns have been raised about the

legality of the ordinance because some council members, such as Scott Willis, said it would lead to legal challenges. City Attorney Manny Herceg told the council at its Nov. 28 meeting that he believed the ordinance “would not pass legal muster” if

The ordinance was vetoed Dec. 6 by Cook and went before the council during its latest meeting. The council voted 5-2, with Cindy Spoljaric and Willis against the legislation, which would affect elected positions beginning in January 2024.

Meanwhile, Cook held a press conference at the Westfield City Services Center Dec. 13 to outline his reasons for vetoing the ordinance.

“The reason that I elected to veto was not based on the merits of term limits. It was solely based on the legality of such,” Cook said.

Cook was asked whether the veto had anything to do with his potential plans for another term, but indicated that wasn’t the case.

“I have not even made that decision yet,” Cook said.

Cook added that he was unsure how soon the city could anticipate any possible legal challenges to the ordinance.

Westfield police investigating possible attempted abduction

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Westfield Police Dept. is investigating a possible attempted abduction of a child off his bike on Dec. 7.

County offers help filing Camp Lejeune claims

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Hamilton County Veteran Services Office is offering to help qualifying veterans file for service-connected disabilities related to water contamination at Camp Lejeune.

GOVERNMENT

CRIME

Police say a boy reported that he was riding his bike around 3:45 p.m. near the 700 block of Burgess Hill Pass when a male approached and grabbed his arm. The suspect was described as a white male in his 30s with a slender build who stands 6-foot-2 with a bald head and red goatee, according to police.

Police said the individual was said to be wearing black and gray pants, a black coat, sunglasses and a dangling cross earring. The suspect’s vehicle was described as a dirty, two-door black Dodge Ram between 2009 and 2018 with silver rims and a scrape on the driver’s side door.

Authorities are asking that anyone who lives in the Maple Knoll addition and has outdoor cameras and/or video doorbells to review recordings they may have that would have captured the incident, the suspect and/or the suspect’s vehicle between 3:30 and 4 p.m. on Dec. 7. Anyone with video footage, tips or further information about the incident is asked to contact Westfield Police Det. Adam Zosso by calling 317-804-3238 or email azosso@ westfield.in.gov.

As part of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act passed in August, anyone who was exposed to contaminated water at the U.S. Marine Corps base in North Carolina for at least 30 days between August 1953 and December 1987 can file a claim with Veterans Affairs if they have been diagnosed with one or more of these presumptive conditions:

• Adult leukemia

• Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes

• Bladder cancer

• Kidney cancer

• Liver cancer

• Multiple myeloma

• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

• Parkinson’s disease

If awarded through the VA, the veteran, surviving spouse or helpless child may receive monthly compensation based on the veteran’s health condition and severity. Officials said that if they file through a lawyer, their compensation will be awarded in one-time lump sum.

The Hamilton County Veteran Services Office can help with all VA compensation and pension claims at no charge to the veteran or their family. For more information, visit the Veteran Services Office at 1 Hamilton County Square, Suite 179, Noblesville, or call 317-776-9610.

Mayor Andy Cook speaks at the Dec. 13 Westfield City Services Center during a press conference to discuss his reasons behind vetoing a term limits ordinance. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

Westfield receives $1M through Community Crossings program

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The City of Westfield has been awarded $1 million through a state matching grant program that will be used for road resurfacing.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Westfield is among 229 cities, towns and counties that received a combined $119 million in state matching funds through the Community Crossings program, which are used for local construction projects such as roads and bridges. The cities of Carmel and Noblesville also each received $1 million, according to the Indiana Dept. of Transportation.

“Community Crossings is a tremendous opportunity for towns, cities and counties to enhance local road networks across the state,” Indiana Dept. of Transportation Commissioner Mike Smith said. “INDOT looks forward to partnering with locals to deliver on projects that will have a positive impact on safety and bring business to Indiana. I’m excited to see the progress in these communities throughout the coming year.”

To qualify for funding, local governments must provide local matching funds of 50 percent for larger communities or 25 percent for smaller communities and have an asset management plan for maintaining existing roads and bridges. Applications that were submitted were evaluated based on need and current conditions, as well as impacts to safety and economic development, according to INDOT.

Director of Public Works Johnathon Nail said the city has traditionally used the funding for road resurfacing and is important for maintaining the condition of arterial, collector and neighborhood streets. Exact locations where improvements will be made were not immediately available, but Nail said residents can expect to see work taking place in 2023 once projects are bid out as part of requirements under the Community Crossings grant program.

Gov. Eric Holcomb also said modernizing and improving transportation infrastructure is a key component of driving economic development in the Hoosier state.

“The Community Crossings program continues to help take communities to the next level by providing safe, reliable roads and bridges for residents and visitors alike,” Holcomb stated.

Westfield

From left, Indiana Dept. of Transportation Commissioner Mike Smith, Westfield Mayor Andy Cook, Jeremy Lollar, chief of staff for the city and Westfield Public Works Johnathan Nail display a replica check. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

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: New roundabout

closed through Dec. 12 for the installation of a water lateral and a sewer lateral. Please use detour routes during this time.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

Expected completion: Mid-December

CARMEL

Project: Roundabout, multi-use path construction

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 December

Project: Road Closure

Location: Roosevelt Street will be

Location: The intersection of 106th Street and College Avenue is closed for construction of a roundabout. The multi-use path is under construction along 106th Street from Pennsylvania Parkway to College Avenue.

Expected completion: Road expected to reopen this month, with full and partial closures planned in the spring to finish the project.

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: 1st on Main construction

Location: North Range Line Road is closed just north of Main Street to accommodate construction of the 1st on Main mixed-use development.

Expected completion: The road is expected to reopen in January 2023.

MERIDIAN-KESSLER

ZIONSVILLE

Mt. Vernon senior tight end earns state position award

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Being named the top tight end in Indiana high school football wasn’t on Mt. Vernon senior George Burhenn’s radar before the season.

“I forgot there was even an award at the beginning of the season, but then I saw that this would be pretty cool to win if I perform how I should,” Burhenn said.

Burhenn recently was named the Indiana Football Coaches Association Mr. Football Position Award winner for tight end.

The 6-foot-5, 215-pound Burhenn caught 38 passes for 784 yards and nine touchdowns. He also had 16 carries for 127 yards and one touchdown for Mt. Vernon (6-4).

“He had a huge year for us with the production on the offensive side of the ball and special teams,” Marauders coach Vince Lidy said.

As a junior, Burhenn had 28 receptions for 443 yards for the Marauders (14-1), who

MEET GEORGE BURHENN

Favorite athlete: Taysom Hill

Favorite subject: Science

Favorite movie: “The Wolf of Wolf Street”

Ideal vacation spot: Aruba

won the Class 4A state title in 2021.

Lidy said Burhenn was a difference-maker as a junior, but the team had more offensive weapons. This past season, Lidy said teams prepared to stop Burhenn. In practice, Lidy said they prepared for Burhenn to be double-teamed.

“He was super coachable as we put him

I’M BACK TO LIVING A NORMAL LIFE.

For Jay, the thing that pained him most wasn’t his back, it was living within the limits his back pain set for him. Skipping workouts. Contorting to pick up a shoe. Avoiding playing with Agnes. Now that Goodman Campbell physicians treated not only his pain, but the underlying spine issues that caused it, Jay is back to living the life he loves.

Learn more about Jay and his story at GoodmanCampbell.com.

anywhere from a running back, to a slot back, to tight end to wideout,” Lidy said. “ Burhenn said he has made the most im-

provement with his versatility.

“I improved on all my weaknesses, like blocking and running after the catch,” he said.

Burhenn also played safety, sharing the position with another player.

“Once we started playing the better teams, I was basically playing the whole game,” he said.

Burhenn, a hurdler on the track and field team, averaged 18.9 yards on kickoff returns and 19.5 yards on punt returns last season.

“Returning kicks is always a dream to do, and you don’t see many big guys like me doing it, so it was pretty fun,” he said.

Burhenn said has committed to play football for Purdue University, but with the recent coaching change, he is keeping his options open. Coach Jeff Brohm left Purdue to take the University of Louisville coaching job, and several staff members have left with him. Former University of Illinois defensive coordinator Ryan Walters was named Purdue’s coach Dec. 13.”

“I’ll probably check out Louisville a little bit because the coaches I know are there, but I’ll talk with my family and see what is best for me,” Burhenn said.

”

Jay R., Goodman Campbell Patient

Mt. Vernon tight end George Burhenn, 81, was named the Indiana Football Coaches Association Mr. Football Position Award. (Photo courtesy of Stacy Muffler)

Burhenn

Something Splendid opens in Westfield

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Something Splendid started with three Carmel residents who had a passion for gift giving.

FREE BONUS ROOM — UP TO $34,000 IN SAVINGS!*

NEW BIZ

The business was started online in 2019 by sisters Erynn and Elyse Petruzzi and their longtime friend, Allison Pirtle. The Petruzzi sisters are Carmel High School graduates, while Pirtle is a Hamilton Southeastern graduate.

With the success of the online gift box operation, Something Splendid opened its store Nov. 17 at 217 Mill St. in Westfield.

“We knew we wanted to open a retail shop and having really close ties to Westfield through our parents — and my uncles all own businesses in Westfield — we started looking,” Elyse said. “This is actually a house in the downtown part of Westfield. We knew this would be the perfect location.”

Elyse said when the house became available, the trio purchased it and spent a yearand-a-half renovating it with the garage being built into a warehouse for production.

The business started as creating gift boxes. However, Erynn said while people can come in and buy gifts for any occasion, they can also buy items themselves for home decor.

“We build the store with the premise of just having a gift shop for gifts for any season,” Elyse said. “We have three facets of the gift shop. You can come in and buy one item. We’ve got gift boxes that are already built for many different reasons.”

The business plans to have a grand opening sometime in March 2023.

For more, visit somethingsplendidco.com.

The Central Collection has room to spare! It’s time for the greatest gift you could ever give yourself: a new home in a community that’s packed with things to do! This featured Shafer home has an upstairs bonus room with bedroom and full bath, plus a rear covered patio! Offer available on select to-be-built Central Collection homes (Brookville, Monroe and Shafer floorplans) and select Central Collection inventory homes when you sign a purchase agreement now through 12/31/22 and close.

This special offer makes the Osborne Trails lifestyle even more desirable.

Located at 193rd and Springmill

180 acres with proposed 3 miles of walking/biking trails

An abundance of outdoor living with front and rear covered porches available Stunning clubhouse with soaring 2-story fireplace, lounge area, fitness area, pool and multiple gathering spaces

Full schedule of fun-filled events and activities

Great

*Offer available on select Central Collection floorplans (Brookville, Monroe, Shafer floorplans only) in the Osborne Trails community if

signs and

a purchase agreement between 12/05/22 and 12/31/22 and closes and fully funds on or before the date specified in the purchase agreement. Offer limited to the standard Bonus Room option and upgrade package offered in the specific community in which the home is located (“Standard Bonus Room”), as selected by the purchaser at the time the purchase agreement is fully executed (ARV not to exceed $34,000). Lennar offers other lower level options and upgrades not included in the Standard Bonus Room Package, and purchaser will be obligated to pay for such additional options and upgrades if selected by purchaser. Offers, incentives and seller contributions are subject to certain terms, conditions and restrictions. Certain incentives could affect the loan amount. Lennar reserves the right to change or withdraw any offer at any time. Age restrictions apply to the occupants/owners in this community as permitted under the Fair Housing Act. This means for some communities that a designated percentage of the homes in the community must be occupied by at least one person 55 years or older (80% or 100%, depending on the community). There may also be minimum age requirements for other residents in the home, and/or a certain number of younger residents permitted in the community. These communities publish and adhere to policies and procedures that demonstrate the intent to operate as age 55 or older housing, and comply with HUD’s rules for age verification of residents. In other communities, all residents must be age 62 years or older (with limited exceptions). You are encouraged to review community documents and disclosures for applicable restrictions before purchasing. Please consult with a Lennar New Home Consultant regarding any questions regarding this community’s age policies. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, and designs vary and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Items shown are artist’s renderings and may contain options that are not standard on all models or not included in the purchase price. Availability may vary. Plans to build out this neighborhood as proposed are subject to change without notice. Please see your New Home Consultant and/or home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature. Sq. ft. and acreage are estimated; actual sq. ft. and acreage will differ. Garage/bay sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate or be accessible to all vehicles. Models/lifestyle photos do not reflect racial or ethnic preference. Scenes may be of locations or activities not on a Lennar property. All product and/or company names are trademarks TM or registered trademarks ® of their respective owners, and use of these marks does not imply any sponsorship, endorsement, support, or affiliation between the trademark owners and Lennar. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2022 Lennar Corporation. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Everything’s Included and the Everything’s Included logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. Date 12/22 LNIND1197

From left, Something Splendid owners Elyse Petruzzi, Erynn Petruzzi and Allison Pirtle. (Photo courtesy of Erynn Petruzzii)

Professional eater devours competition

By Rebecca Fending rebecca@youarecurrent.com

Fishers residents may not realize an accomplished major-league eater calls the city home. With several previous wins to his credit, John Gebhard earned another at the ninth annual St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail Eating Contest Dec. 3 on Georgia Street in Indianapolis.

ACHIEVEMENT

A member of Major League Eating, an organization that organizes sanctioned competitive eating events, Gebhard won his head-to-head battle against fellow professional eater Andrew Kogutkiewicz of Racine, Wis. Defending champion Joey Chestnut, ranked No. 1 in the world by Major League Eating, also competed in the event and placed fourth. A Westfield resident, Chestnut is the defending Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest champion and has won that event 15 times.

Gebhard, 45, is an aerospace engineer at Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis. He first dabbled in competitive eating in 2017.

“The first (eating competition) I ever competed in was a hot dog-eating contest at Jellystone Campground at Lake Monroe,” Gebhard said. “I kind of just started doing it to see if I could. I won so easily. Like, (the competition) wasn’t even close.”

The “easy” hotdog eating competition was a catalyst for the rest of Gebhard’s Major League Eating career. Following his triumph at the competition, a co-worker suggested that Gebhard set a goal for himself to continue competing.

John Gebhard celebrates his win over Andrew Kogutkiewicz at the Indianapolis St. Elmo’s Shrimp Cocktail Eating Contest on Dec. 3. (Photo by Dave Plumier)

HAMILTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE BRINGS CHRISTMAS JOY TO CHILDREN

More space. More specialists. Same great care.

Clinic | Imaging | Physical Therapy | Urgent Care

We’ve expanded to offer more services closer to home, including clinic consultations, a more spacious, sunlit physical therapy area and MRIs. Schedule your appointment at 317.802.2000 No referral necessary.

OrthoIndy.com

288 East 175th Street

Santa Claus and employees from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office delivered Christmas gifts to a child in Hamilton County earlier this month. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Community Foundation brought Christmas joy to 40 children who received personalized stockings, toys, Old Navy coats and other items. (Photo courtesy of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Mark Heirbrandt is ending 2022 on a positive note after being named Commissioner of the Year by the Indiana Association of County Commissioners.

The Westfield resident was recognized by the nonprofit organization during its annual conference, which was held Nov. 28-Dec. 1 at the Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing. Heirbrandt was first elected to his county government seat in 2013 and reelected to the office in 2016.

But his position as a Hamilton County Commissioner isn’t one he does for recognition, he said.

“I’m honored to continue serving the residents of Hamilton County, no matter what award I may receive. This job is critical to improving the quality of life for our community,” Heirbrandt said. “Making a difference in the lives of the people that I encounter every day is my top priority.”

Heirbrandt’s role brings him to various cities across Hamilton County for events ranging from fundraisers to community gatherings.

Recently, he attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the $113 million project known as Reimagine Pleasant Street in Noblesville. The first phase includes planned work by Hamilton County to construct a bridge over the White River that is expected to be open to traffic by the end of 2024.

Through Heirbrandt’s work, he said Hamilton County now has taxpayer savings of more than $25 million over 25 years in new energy-efficient initiatives and maintains 600 miles of roads and more than 300 bridges. He has also worked to expand adequate infrastructure projects, such as roads and bridges,as Hamilton County continues to grow.

But Heirbrandt doesn’t take all the credit as he works alongside fellow Hamilton County Commissioners Christine Altman and Steve Dillinger to ensure that the county is at the forefront of positive change. Communication is also an important part of the job, according to Heirbrandt.

“I’ve always communicated consistently and honestly with residents. When people

come together with new ideas and new solutions, we have a greater impact,” Heirbrandt said. “In order for our community to succeed, we need to be proactive about providing the best resources while maintaining fiscal responsibility.”

After being named Commissioner of the Year for 2022, Heirbrandt will also enter 2023 with another title: president of the Indiana Association of County Commissioners. That distinction was given to Heirbrandt after being elected to the post during the

the Year

IACC’s annual conference.

“(Mark) Heirbrandt will be a great spokesperson for our association and is very dedicated to improving local government,” Huntington County Commissioner Tom Wall said.

In Heirbrandt’s role as president, he will represent the elected county commissioners in the 92 counties of Indiana while serving as president of the IACC’s board of directors, who determine policies and legislative goals for the association, which is based in Nashville, Ind.

“I’m humbled that my colleagues have selected me to serve in this new capacity. It’s truly an honor,” Heirbrandt said. “This new position allows me to reach every corner of our great state and I’m hopeful to use the resources at hand to continue to push county government forward not only for the residents of Hamilton County, but for all members of the Hoosier community.”

GET TO KNOW MARK HEIRBRANDT

Family: Married to wife, Gina, and together, they have three sons, Blake, Ethan and Evan

Residency: Has lived in Hamilton County for more than 30 years living in Noblesville, Carmel and now Westfield

Activities: Member of Saint Maria Goretti Parish in Westfield and involved in numerous charities, including Janus Development, Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program, The Cherish Center, Humane Society of Hamilton County, Boys Scouts, Boys & Girls Club and Meals on Wheels.

Contact information: Mark. Heirbrandt@hamiltoncounty.in.gov or call 317-776-8498

Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt named Commissioner of

ON THE COVER: Mark Heirbrandt was named as Commissioner of the Year by the Indiana Association of County Commissioners. The Westfield resident was first elected to his position in 2013. (Photo provided by Coverdale Consulting)

Starting in 2023, Mark Heirbrandt will serve as president of the Indiana Association of County Commissioners, a nonprofit organization based in Nashville, Ind. In his role, he will represent the elected county commissioners in all of Indiana’s 92 counties. (Photo provided by Coverdale Consulting)

ESSAY

Crime and punishment?

Commentary by Terry Anker

While most of us are preparing for “peace on Earth” and “goodwill toward men,” there are others who remain vigilant of the vagrancies of the darker side of our humanity. The Islamic Republic of Iran recently vented its retribution by sentencing 400 of its errant citizens to hard time in prison for their roles in civil disobedience. Better, one can assume, than the fate of Mohsen Shekari, who was put to death this month for impeding traffic while holding a knife. While details from the trial, if there was one, are not clear, he was accused of injuring an Iranian paramilitary officer, but the execution was the result of Shekari’s “waging war against God.”

Shekari and the thousands of others like him protested the regime. They protested living conditions for women and minorities in their nation. And they protested for a voice in their own governance. It is unclear what evidence was used to show his defiance of the ruling class. As far as Western journalists have been able to uncover, even if offended, God has remained largely quiet on the claims.

Some honorable readers will take the side of the caliphate, suggesting that good order leads to a just society. Others will decidedly be aligned with the protesters, fighting to remind us that no one person has a lock on the word or intention of the divine. The equilibrium between freedom and responsibility is perennially swaying. A bit closer to home, the question of riot or police state might be anchored to a different mooring, but the claims of righteousness must likewise be limited. Regardless of one’s personal theories of relativity, can we find balance when the punishments are so great, or the restraint is too little?

CURRENTOON

QUOTE OF THE WEEK POLICIES

CHARLES DICKENS

There will be blood

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

When it comes to blood draws, I am a wimp. A baby. A big fat scaredy cat. For someone who’s birthed four children, undergone extensive hernia repair surgery, and more recently, had cortisone aggressively jabbed into her shoulder socket, you’d think I’d be able to handle a tiny needle prick. But no. If I could, I’d run for the hills every single time, like the chicken I am.

Unfortunately, my one and only primary care physician of 20-plus years retired (Oh. Dr. M, why have you forsaken me?), forcing me to find a replacement. And my new person insisted on a full lab panel since my last workup was literally ancient history: “We can do them right here. You can come in the morning. Remember to fast!”

Ugh. Fine. I returned the next day, overdramatically weak from hunger and nauseous from anxiety, hoping for a stay of execution. Not to be fooled or deterred, the nurse whisked me into a private room where I could lie down and keep an ice pack under my neck. Clearly, there’d be no fainting (or avoiding the scheduled and consensual medical stabbing) on her watch. Curse you, wise woman!

To her credit, it was over quickly, though she missed on her first try and then proceeded to inform me that my veins “really roll.” (Cue gag). And later, the crook of my arm looked like a disturbed copperhead, or “Twilight’s” Edward Cullen had landed a bite. Nonetheless, I survived, without barfing or visibly crying, so I guess that’s a win.

Hi. My name is Danielle. And I’m a coward when it comes to blood draws. Bawk, bawk.

Peace out.

terry@ youarecurrent.com.

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

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

Danielle

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

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.”

–

I’ll never guess what

I got you for Christmas

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

what it is. I’m the one who doesn’t have a clue.”

“It doesn’t seem right to tell you. That’s not in keeping with the spirit of giving, Dick.”

HUMOR

Over the past 20 years, I have written more than a few humor columns about the holiday season. Below is my favorite one and is pretty much exactly what happened. In December of 2016, a UPS truck pulled up to our curb and we were eager to see what was in store for us. Actually, nothing was in a store. We bought everything online that year.

The driver struggled with a carton the size of a big-screen TV. He maneuvered it to the front porch, and I went outside to look at it.

“Who’s it for?” my wife, Mary Ellen, asked.

It was addressed to me, but that could have been misleading. When a delivery is made, we are not sure who ordered it and who the gift is for. If the wrong person opens it, well, there goes the surprise on Christmas morning.

“It’s addressed to me,” I told her. “But I have no recollection of ordering anything so big. Maybe you ordered it?”

My wife thought for a moment, and so began the weirdest conversation in our 34year marriage.

“Dick, I know what it is. It’s that special item I mentioned months ago that I wanted for Christmas. You said you found it in a catalog. Don’t you remember? I’m so excited! Thank you.”

“I have absolutely no idea what it is. Can you give me a hint?”

“No, I can’t. That would ruin the surprise.” “Ruin my surprise? It’s supposed to be your surprise. But you already know

“OK, how about you whisper softly in my ear, and I promise I won’t tell you what you said.”

It scared me a little that for a brief moment this actually made sense to me. It was driving me crazy that I had no memory of what I bought her.

“Is it a high-tech item?” I asked.

“Not really,” Mary Ellen said.

“Do you plug it in?” “No.”

“Is it artwork?”

“No, and I don’t want to play anymore. If you guess it, I’ll have nothing to look forward to on Christmas morning. I want to see the expression on your face when I open it.”

When Mary Ellen went out grocery shopping, I opened the box. It was a really neat present. I don’t think I have ever been happier with something I bought my wife. Before Mary Ellen got home, I resealed it, gift-wrapped it and placed it under the tree.  Of course, now we both knew what was in the package. It will still be a surprise on Christmas morning, so long as we can both keep a secret.

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

I don’t think I have ever been happier with something I bought my wife.

– DICK WOLFSIE

DISPATCHES

Stocks that benefit from rising inflation

— Rising costs can eat into profits for some companies, and that can push up interest rates, which hurts bond prices and tends to pull investors away from stocks, depressing those prices. Cushion the effects of swelling inflation by investing in companies that benefit from global economic expansion and rising prices. Good candidates can be found in the materials and industrial sectors, such as:

• Freeport-McMoRan (FCX), the world’s largest copper miner, will see stronger profits due to a 60% jump since last spring in the price of copper. Recent share price: $24.63.

• Caterpillar (CAT) is a global leader in producing heavy machinery. Rising commodity prices will lead Caterpillar’s customers, ranging from industrial metal-mining firms to agricultural companies, to buy more from Caterpillar. Recent share price: $180.96.

• Cummins (CMI), this century-old company will see demand rise for diesel engines that power big-rig trucks and trains used to haul commodities and other goods. Also, investors are underestimating the profit potential of Cum-

mins’s new “clean–energy” engines that use fuel cells and hydrogen technology. Recent share price: $224.31.

Source: BottomLineInc.

Beware the free tablet — If you switch cellphone carriers, you might be told that you qualify for a free tablet, but you might not be told that it will have its own service plan. That plan could add an extra $10 to $20, or more, per month, to your bill. This little detail is often hidden in the fine print and is easily overlooked.

Source: BottomlineInc.

Cryptocurrency risks — With cryptocurrencies continuing to attract headlines, Indiana Secretary of State Connie Lawson wants to remind Hoosiers to be cautious about such investments. Common cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin. Unlike traditional currency, these have no physical form and are not backed by tangible assets. They are not insured or controlled by any central authority and are subject to very little regulation. As a result, the potential for fraud is high. To learn more, visit IndianaMoneyWise.com.

Community Health Network reinstates mask policy

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Community Health Network has reinstated its mask policy for caregivers, patients and visitors because of a steep rise in COVID-19, flu and RSV patients at its hospitals.

WELLNESS

The mask requirement, which took effect Dec. 12, is being implemented at all sites of care throughout central Indiana, according to the hospital system.

“We are seeing more COVID, flu, and RSV patients in our hospitals. They are filling up with respiratory patients,” said Dr. Robin Ledyard, chief medical officer for Community Health Network. “Because of that, we are reinstating a mask requirement within our hospitals. So, if you do come to visit, you will be asked to wear a mask again in both the hospitals and in the office-based setting.”

The mask mandate comes a week after Community Health Network said that temporary visitor restrictions would take effect

at all its hospitals because of an increase in flu cases across Indiana.

The temporary visitor restrictions at all its hospitals include:

• No visitors with flu-like illness, fever, or cough.

• No visitors under age 18.

• Only an immediate family or partner will be allowed to see patients.

• No more than two visitors at a time per patient.

• Visitors must wear a mask in a patient’s room when requested.

• Those with influenza/respiratory symptoms may not visit.

Ledyard encourages people who are sick to contact their primary care provider for guidance on the best place to seek care.

Community Health Network offers several care options outside of the emergency department, including urgent care at our MedChecks, Community Clinics at Walgreens, primary care providers and virtual care.

For more, visit ecommunity.com/ visitor-guidelines-covid-19-flu.

Westfield currentinwestfield.com

currentnightandday.com

Westfield youth is served in ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

How much fun is Fender Brokamp having while performing in “It’s a Wonderful Life” at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre?

“If you can describe touching a rainbow, that’s how much fun,” he said. “It’s really a great experience.”

Brokamp, 11, is one of three Westfield youngsters in the Beef & Boards’ show, which began Nov. 25 and ends Dec. 23. The others are Allie Stacy, 7, and Greta Shambarger, 10.

This is a new experience for Brokamp, who plays Young Harry and Tommy.

“I’ve never done a nonmusical before,” said Brokamp, a Westfield Intermediate School fifth-grader. “Even if you do get to do the same role twice, a new director would do it differently, and that makes theater really cool. Even if the director does do it the same, you get to perfect it even more than you did last time, and that makes it really cool.”

Prior to getting the part, Brokamp had only seen bits and pieces of the 1946 movie, which the play is based on. When rehearsals started, Brokamp saw the movie.

Brokamp said balancing school with rehearsal can be tough, but it’s worth it.

“The rehearsals are a little longer, so those got a little hairy, but now that we’re in the full swing of shows, it’s smoother,” he said.

Brokamp said he has enjoyed acting with the adults and other younger performers.

“You can learn from anyone,” he said. “Everyone teaches, no matter how small or tall.”

Brokamp has been in two national commercials and several plays for Christian Youth Theater, Civic Theatre and Tipton Community Theatre.

Stacy, a St. Maria Goretti School second-grader, plays Zuzu.

“I like that I have a famous line, ‘Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings,’” she said.

Stacy said the experience has been “really fun because I have made so many

friends and I love being on stage.”

Stacy performed in the Broadway national tour of “Waitress.”

“I take voice lessons and have been in shows at Youth Inspirations Theatre. I take acting classes at Civic (Theatre) and dance classes at Dance Innovations,” Stacy said. “Last summer, I was accepted into the Broadway Artists Alliance in New York City and went there for a summer intensive program. I’ve also been in a short film and two commercials, thanks to Talent Fusion.”

Shambarger, a Shamrock Spring Elementary School fourth-grader, plays Young Violet.

“I like that I get to wear a wig in one scene,” Shambarger said. “I like that I’m in the ensemble also, so I get to wear a lot of costumes. Also, Young Violet is the perfect character for me to play because

I played Veruca (in ‘Willy Wonka Jr.’), Miss Andrew (in ‘Mary Poppins’) and Miss Han-

nigan (in ‘Annie KIDS’), and Violet is kind of similar to those parts.”

Shambarger was only familiar with the movie version.

“But now that I know of it, it’s probably my favorite play,” she said. “I love having friends in the cast to hang with backstage between scenes. Also, I like that I’m on stage more than I originally thought I would be.”

Shambarger has previously acted with several theater groups, including Christian Youth Theater. She has taken classes at Jr. Civic Theatre, and this is her first time with Beef & Boards.

“I’ve only been in one other show with adults, which was ‘Matilda the Musical’ at Tipton Community Theatre, where I played Lavender, Matilda’s best friend,” Shambarger said. “It’s fun to be in a show with adults because it makes me feel more professional.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

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

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL’

Civic Theatre presents “A Christmas Story, The Musical” through Dec. 24 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘HANDEL’S MESSIAH’

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will perform “Handel’s Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCHES

ATI’s ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ to return — Actors Theatre of Indiana has announced the return of “Million Dollar Quartet” June 16-17, 2023 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets went on sale Dec. 19. “Million Dollar Quartet” is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical inspired by the true story of the famed recording session when Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” brought together icons Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley for one unforgettable night. Because of this special event, Actors Theatre of Indiana will postpone its production of “The Mountaintop,” which was scheduled for February 2023. Season subscribers and single-ticket holders who have already purchased their tickets will have the opportunity to exchange them for “Million Dollar Quartet.” For more, visit atistage.org.

Heartland Film adds board members — Heartland Film, a nonprofit arts organization, has added six board members. They are Gabe Connell, founder of HotBox Pizza LLC; Fred Lockett, DJ Lockstar; Kristi Lee, news director & co-host of “The Bob and Tom Show”; Karen Mangia, vice president of customer and market insights, salesforce; Amy Pauszek, producer, publicist, photographer; and Susie Townsend, chief destination experience officer, Visit Indy.

PLAY

From left, Fender Brokamp, Greta Shambarger and Allie Stacy perform in “It’s a Wonderful Life” at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

Where’s Amy?

Where’s Amy attends CSO’s ‘Holiday Pops!’ concert

Where’s Amy attends Marie Osmond concert

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.

From left, Graelyn Welsh (Westfield), CSO percussion musician Keli Welsh (Westfield), Grace (Westfield) and Jim Welsh (Westfield) attend the Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s Dec. 4 “Holiday Pops! 2022” concert with special guests Josh Kaufman and Leah Crane at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The CSO was joined by the Indianapolis Children’s Choir and Expressenz Dance Center. Carmel City Council member Jeff Worrell was the emcee. The concert included holiday favorites, dancing and a surprise visit by Santa. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Dorothy and Ron Conley (Westfield) attend the Dec. 10 “Marie Osmond: A Symphonic Christmas Tour” at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The gold- and platinum-selling recording artist and TV personality won the audience over with her beautiful, powerful voice, flashy diamond-studded wardrobe, and festive Christmas favorites, along with a little bit of country and rock ‘n’ roll hits. For more about upcoming events, visit thecenterpresents.org. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

A savory fish story

three delicious options:

It’s the holidays, which means that we are in peak gnoshing season. In our family, we bust out all sorts of fun foods around Christmas and New Year’s. Sometimes on New Year’s we will get extra fancy with a bit of caviar to go with the sparkling wine. So, what is caviar, you ask? Well, true caviar only comes from sturgeon. The purists would say that it only comes from wild sturgeons, but let’s be honest, that isn’t sustainable. Today, only a small percentage of caviar is harvested from the wild. The majority is farmed around the world, with 70 percent coming from China. Recently, I tasted through three different caviars from Astrea. Astrea Caviar happens to be produced in the Yunan Province of China. Sturgeon from there are raised in a spring-fed lake and live for 10 to 25 years. No chemicals or antibiotics are used, and their processes and techniques for producing high-quality caviar is very cool! When the eggs are extracted, they are washed, salted and aged for 1 to 4 months, which gives them additional complexity. If you’ve never had caviar, now is the time! Here are

Russian Oscietra Hybrid — Acipenser gueldenstaedtii and baerii sturgeon are crossed to make this hybrid sturgeon. The resulting caviar is rich and nutty, with a touch of sea brine. The texture is creamy as well.

Kalluga Hybrid — These sturgeon are a cross between Huso Dauricus and Acipenser Schrenckii sturgeon. The eggs are large, and it has a righteous buttery texture and flavor.

Grand Schrenckii — Also known as Amur Sturgeon, this is a tremendous caviar with great depth and complexity. The eggs are like the kalluga, if not a touch smaller. This caviar has an incredibly rich, nutty, and buttery flavor. Having tasted all three sideby-side, this caviar is mind-blowing.

The folks at Astrea were super cool and gave us a discount code to share. Order directly from them with the code CURRENT and save 15 percent off your order.

Current Publishing is seeking a Zionsville/Special Projects Managing Editor. The person we hire will become immersed in the community, will have flawless execution of grammar, spelling, style and punctuation and will be collaborative with the newsroom director and the art director. Salary is based on experience. Benefits available. Send us a cover letter, resume and your three best clips showing news reporting and feature writing. This position could be full-time or part-time depending on your pace and ability. Please do not apply unless you have two years of newswriting experience.

APPLY TODAY

Email package to: steve@youarecurrent.com

No phone calls. Equal Opportunity Employer.

Managing Editor

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

Commentary by Mark LaFay

For more information or to donate, visit crossroadsbsa.org/govlunch.

Visiting Israel and the Palestinian Territories

Commentary by Don Knebel

With the worst of Indiana winter approaching, today we begin a road trip through Israel and the Palestinian Territories, making a short visit to western Jordan. We will be on this trip for the next few months. Before starting, it is important to understand something about the geography of the land we will be visiting.

TRAVEL

The Judaean Hills in Israel.

The land occupied by Israel and the Palestinian Territories (Israel/Palestine), lying along the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea, is surprisingly small in light of its enormous significance to hundreds of millions of Jews, Christians and Muslims around the world. The entire area is about one-fourth the size of Indiana, with the distance from north to south about 290 miles, and from east to west about 85 miles at the widest spot. The geography and climate are very diverse, ranging from verdant forests in the north to hostile deserts in the south, with the fertile hill country in between.

The shore of the Dead Sea, at almost 1,500 feet below sea level, is the lowest land elevation on earth. Because Indiana and Israel/Palestine are about the same distance from north to south, you can think of Israel/Palestine locations in terms of the eastern quarter of Indiana. The Sea of Galilee would be near Ft. Wayne, Jerusalem would be near New Castle, the Dead Sea would be near Richmond and everything south of Shelbyville would be largely uninhabitable desert. The Palestinian Territories, in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, occupy about the same area as Delaware, Henry, Jay, Randolph and Wayne counties. The total

Dan Spring in Israel.

The Sea of Galilee in Israel.

population of Israel/Palestine is about 14.8 million, about twice that of Indiana.

As we travel, we will go from north to south, stopping along the way at important locations. For each place we visit, we will explore both its history and its religious and spiritual significance.

youarecurrent.com.

Your generosity is preparing central Indiana youth for a lifetime of leadership.

Through your donations of time and money to the 2023 Friends of Scouting Annual Giving Campaign, you helped the Crossroads of America Council raise over $1 million to support Scouting programs in central Indiana.

HOST

Eric Holcomb Governor of Indiana

The Negev desert in southern Israel. (Photo by Don Knebel)

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

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