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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 28
Copyright 2023 Current Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved. 30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444
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Back to school & no time?
City council mulls property tax relief, other items
What Happened: Hamilton County Councilmember Brad Beaver gave a presentation about a property tax relief resolution. To attain property tax relief, Beaver proposed a gradual rise in the county income tax over four years, resulting in a total increment of 0.5 percent. The increment would align with the corresponding 0.5 percent reduction in the individual income tax rate that Indiana implemented in 2022. The money generated is expected to be $53 million after four years.
What it means: The resolution would provide property tax relief through the form of an increase in the Homestead Deduction. The relief would only be available to homeowners who qualify for the Homestead Deduction, which currently applies to 103,500 properties. To qualify for the homestead credit in Indiana, residents reside in their own home on land not exceeding 1 acre and must have owned the property by March 1 of the current property tax year.
What happened: Westfield Chief of Staff Jeremy Lollar gave a brief presentation on the 2023 Q2 budget review period from April 1, 2023 to June 30, 2023.
What it means: The Q2 budget is about 14 percent under budget for the quarter. It was noted that a couple of departments, Contractual Service for Public Works and Admin Services, were significantly over budget for the quarter because of contracts being paid upfront for portions of expenditures that extended into Quarter 3.
What happened: The Bonterra PUD Amendment 1 was put forward for adoption consideration.
Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Westfield are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
What it means: The amendment to the original Bonterra PUD would add additional land uses to 2.5 acres of real estate in the northwest corner of the Bonterra PUD, about 500 feet east of the Shady Nook Road and Ind. 32 intersection. The original PUD allowed for commercial office space. The amendment includes more restaurants and retail stores. Councilmember Troy Patton motioned to approve the ordinance. The ordinance was passed 5-0.
What’s next: The resolution must be approved by at least 50 percent of the Local Income Tax Council to pass. The LIT Council consists of Hamilton County, Town of Arcadia, Town of Atlanta, City of Carmel, City of FIshers, City of Noblesville, Town of Sheridan and the Town of Westfield. The resolution needs to be decided by Oct. 1 to go into effect for the 2024 tax year.
What happened: A portion of right-of-way along East Street is being vacated from public right-of-way and turned over to the adjacent property owner, Carrington Mortgage Services.
What it means: The land was acquired during construction of East Street between 196th Street and Ind. 38. The road had to be diverted around a water tower that was already in place, and the entrance to Carrington Mortgage Services has to be relocated. During negotiations with Carrington, the city agreed to give back the portion of land when construction was complete. The ordinance fulfills that obligation. Councilmember Cindy Spoljaric motioned to approve the ordinance. The ordinance was passed 5-0
What happened: Sundown Gardens requested approval to have food trucks on-site during its fall festival.
What it means: Sundown Gardens will host a fall festival over a series of Saturdays in late September and early October. Sundown Gardens would like to have food trucks on-site from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 23, Sept. 30, Oct. 7 and Oct. 14. Spoljaric motioned to approve the ordinance. The ordinance passed 5-0.
What happened: Venezuelan Cheat Meal sought approval to have its food truck at 15164 Thatcher Lane to stay in place through November.
What it means. Venezuelan Cheat Meal is attempting to secure a lease on retail space at Carey Road and Ind. 32 but needs to remodel the property to begin operating in the building. In the interim, the business is seeking approval to continue operating from the food truck. The truck is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Councilmembers Jake Gilbert and Spoljaric were concerned about extending the approval because it would be the second time it has been extended. Their concern was related to favoring restaurant owners who operate in brick-andmortar buildings and pay property taxes. Councilmember Troy Patton motioned to approve. The motion carried 4-1 with Gilbert voting no.
Garden provides opportunities to harvest free produce
By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.comThe Wandering Peacock, a pottery studio in Westfield, will soon offer opportunities for the community to learn agricultural skills to apply at home.
NONPROFIT
Erin O’Rear, owner of the Wandering Peacock, and gardeners from the nonprofit Westfield Green Together have cultivated a garden they’ve named the Sharing Garden in the backyard of the Wandering Peacock at 227 Jersey St. in Westfield. Anyone can harvest from the garden and receive lessons about growing food.
O’Rear, who lives near Fishers, provided the land for the garden. She has taught pottery at the Wandering Peacock since 2017. She had always wanted a community garden in downtown Westfield.
O’Rear said the garden was first planted in April of 2022 through a collaboration with Westfield Green Together, a nonprofit sustainable living organization.
“Our giving garden offers our Westfield community the ability to learn and foster skills for the future,” O’Rear said. Anyone can pick produce from the garden at any hour. It grows a variety of fruits and vegetables that vary from season to sea-
Bradley Schildknecht, loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, passed suddenly August 1, 2023, at the age of 62.
Brad was a graduate of Arlington High School and Indiana University. He worked his way from managing restaurants to becoming a business owner and ultimately a mortgage loan officer for Huntington National Bank.
A man of faith and a member of College Park Church, who was known for his kindness, consideration, positive energy and zest for life, which was contagious, he brought enthusiasm to everything he was a part of, whether traveling globally with his wife and enjoying live music, supporting his daughter’s love for music, coaching his son’s baseball team, or hosting get-togethers with friends and family, all of which he cherished. He was passionate about fishing, playing cards and sports, as he was an avid Indianapolis Colts and Chicago Cubs fan.
son. Instead of a monetary exchange, O’Rear asks those who collect from the garden to take time to learn about the process behind growing food.
Westfield Green Together board member Shelly Brown said volunteer opportunities are available at the Sharing Garden each Sunday at 5 p.m.
Brown said next year the Sharing Garden will offer classes once the garden is more developed.
An open house will be hosted at the Sharing Garden at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 27. Tours of the garden will be given where they will be able to pick produce to take home and learn about the garden and volunteer opportunities.
He was always quick to reference his favorite movies and crack a well-timed joke. A man dedicated to his family and friends, he was always open to a meal or a drink to spend quality time with loved ones.
He is survived by his wife, Becky Cage; his daughter, Logan (Walker) Byers; his two sons, Dylan Schildknecht and Joshua Schildknecht; three sisters, Robin Gilmour, Susan (Mike) Weber and Trisha Schildknecht; nieces, Ashley Baker Wethington, Lindsey Weber, Alyssa Stott, and Cheyenne Leahy; stepchildren, Diana (Jeremy) Welch and Spencer Cage. He was predeceased by his mother, Peggy Schildknecht, and father, Claude L. Schildknecht.
A celebration of life ceremony at Flanner Buchanan – Hamilton Memorial Park (Prairie Waters), 4180 Westfield Road is scheduled for September 8th, 2023. Please refer to www.flannerbuchanan.com.
Women speakers to share inspiring stories
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comKatie Vigil learned about “That’s What She Said” when living in Champaign-Urbana, Ill.
Levine said she will discuss what she describes as her “ridiculous path” to motherhood.
EVENT
“It’s women from all walks of life with very inspiring, uplifting stories,” she said.
So, when Vigil moved to Zionsville in 2019, she determined she wanted to bring it to the Indianapolis area.
Vigil is the regional producer of the “That’s What She Said” program, set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show is the first in the Indianapolis area. The program is part of The She Said Project.
Ten speakers will speak for eight to 10 minutes. Part of the proceeds will support Kids Voice Indiana.
“The purpose is to elevate women’s voices,” Vigil said.
Besides Vigil, the speakers are Cara Dalton, Fortville; Kelli Caughman, Fortville; Myra Levine, Noblesvile; Lisa Brandenburg, Westfield; Michelle Derleth, Noblesville; Jennifer Johnson, Cicero; Brandi Bruemmer, Indianapolis: Heather Hughet, Mooresville; and Becca Goldsberry, Greenwood.
The first show was in Champaign-Urbana, Ill., in 2013. Several other cities have held shows through the years.
“I’ll be talking about some of the personal struggles that I’ve had that have led me to where I am today,” Vigil said.
“I feel honored to be in the program and tell a story that means so much to me,” she said. “When I was 10 years old, I accepted that only pretty, thin, blonde girls get to be wives and mothers, and sadly I would have to be satisfied with fabulous wealth. I turned out to be wrong on all counts.”
A former Westfield resident, Levine moved to Noblesville last year. In 2022, she spoke at “Listen to Your Mother,” a Mother’s Day show in Indianapolis.
Brandenburg said she was asked by Vigil if she would share her story.
“When she explained the premise behind the show, I was all in,” Brandenburg said. “Being on stage with so many amazing women was something I didn’t want to pass up. I’m hopeful that by doing so, other women feel empowered to share their stories. I also pray that those in the audience might be inspired to step out in faith and do something that scares them.”
Brandenburg tells the story of moving to Indiana during the pandemic.
“I created a community of women who became friends through events and now support one another because every woman deserves a strong support system,” she said.
Dalton said she loves the concept and mission of The She Said Project.
For more, visit shesaidproject.com. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
2024 SUBARU OUTBACK $319 PER
WESTFIELD
Project: Natalie Wheeler Trail
Location: A section of the Natalie Wheeler Trail between 161st Street and Woodside Drive will be closed until further notice. Please follow detour signage to the Monon Trail during this closure.
CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION
and Oak Road will be closed beginning on or after August 28 for the construction of a roundabout.
Project: 196th Street Closure
Project: Box Culvert replacement on Ind. 32 over Cool Creek
Location: A section of Ind. 32 over Cool Creek between Grassy Branch/Carey Road and Willow Creek Way is closed for an Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) project to replace the box culvert.
Expected completion: Late August
Project: 161st Street and Oak Road
Roundabout
Location: The intersection of 161st Street
Location: A section of 196th Street east of Tomlinson Road is closed and will remain closed to construct the future 196th Street roundabout. The Chester Cemetery will be temporarily accessible through Chatham Villages subdivision during construction.
Project: Academy Sports & Outdoors
Location: Drive in front of the building will close for renovations, while the left turn lane from eastbound Greyhound Pass will be closed to avoid traffic turning into the worksite. Motorists should use Thatcher Lane or Cool Creek Park Road as a detour.
Expected completion: Fall 2023
DISPATCH
Cruise Indy Car Show – The fourth annual Cruise Indy Car Show and Car Cruise will be presented from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Indiana Spine Group parking lot. New this year is a partnership with Cars and Coffee. Participants will start at the Cars and Coffee location at Meridian Mark, 11611 N. Meridian, Carmel. People who just want to show their cars can go directly to Indiana Spine Group. There will be a DJ, Folds of Honor Raffle, food, face painting, Cruise Indy swag and a scavenger hunt for children. To have your vehicle judged, register online at CruiseIndy.com before midnight Aug. 24. The registration fee is $20 and includes registration, T-shirt and dash plaque. Day-of-registration is fee $25. For more, visit CruiseIndy.com or call Sandra at 651-278-0812.
CHS senior golfer sets sights on defending team state title
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comCarmel High School golfer Michaela Headlee is looking to complete her high school career with special memories.
“My goal for my final season is to most importantly enjoy all the time I get to spend with my team, but ultimately, I want to finish the season with an individual and team title,” Headlee said. “Being able to experience the feeling of winning the state title last year has motivated me even more to want to win it again, and I will work as hard as I can to make it happen.”
Headlee finished second individually in the IHSAA state finals as a freshman. She tied for 12th in 2022 as the Greyhounds won the team state title. She tied for 21st her sophomore year.
Headlee said the two aspects of her game she is really focused on improving this season are her chipping and irons.
“Michaela is a talented player and has a
MEET MICHAELA HEADLEE
Favorite athlete: Tiger Woods
Favorite movie: “Elf”
Favorite subject: Health and Wellness
Favorite vacation spot: Florida
competitive drive that is unmatched,” CHS coach Kelly Kluesner said. “She is really fine-tuning her game, focusing on managing her shots based on course conditions, the weather and how she feels her swing is that round. Michaela never gives up. She will fight to the end of every round. My favorite part of Michaela’s game is her mental side.
“While watching her, you wouldn’t know
finish
if she is 6 under or 6 over. She can stay even-keeled, a trait that is hard for so many adults.”
Headlee said she has always had a strong competitive drive in everything she does.
“My dad once asked me if I liked winning,
and my response to him was that ‘I don’t like winning, I just don’t like to lose,’” she said.
Kluesner said Headlee is mentoring the younger players and helping them understand the culture of the team.
“I do want to be a leader this year even more than other years,” she said. “Our team has many new faces this year and I hope to let them experience the great culture on our team before I am gone. It also helps that I have other great senior leaders to set good examples.”
Headlee said she leads by example while fellow senior Claire Swathwood, who has committed to the University of Memphis, is the more vocal leader.
Headlee will play golf for Purdue University next season. She will be joined by her close friend Samantha Brown, a Westfield High School senior. Headlee said she liked the idea of playing with Brown.
“I loved the whole campus and facilities that I’d have access to,” Headlee said.
Headlee said she was impressed with the coaches.
“I think it’s a good fit for me,” said Headlee, who started playing golf at age 3 and began playing tournaments at 6.
‘DESTINATION WESTFIELD’
Westfield Washington Schools addresses growth with layered strategic plan
By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.comWestfield Washington Schools has created a strategic improvement plan that includes upgrades and additions to ensure continued academic excellence, according to district officials.
In the past 20 years, enrollment for WWS has increased with no signs of slowing down, according to WWS officials. School district leaders aim to enhance learning experiences for students and preserve the smalltown charm with Destination Westfield, a project underway to build new schools and make renovations to existing schools.
According to WWS Assistant Supt. for Business and Operations Brian Tomamichel, combined enrollment has increased by 720 students in the past two years.
“That is larger than any of our six elementaries (schools) currently, enrollment-wise,” Tomamichel said.
Tomamichel said growth has been districtwide and has affected all nine WWS schools, putting each near enrollment capacity. He said the district is at a point where it needs to add more space for students.
Supt. of WWS Paul Kaiser said after speaking with educators, parents and administrators, it was decided by the school board that the plan will move the district toward having eight elementary schools, two middle schools, no intermediate schools and one high school. He said the plan will not affect the city’s tax rate.
THE STRATEGIC PLAN INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
• Instead of moving to the Westfield Intermediate School, fifth-graders would stay in the six elementary schools, Kaiser said. A seventh elementary school would be built at 171 St. and Towne Road, and Westfield Intermediate School would be transformed into an eighth elementary school.
“The majority of our educators, both teachers and administrators, would like to bring fifth grade back to elementary,” Kaiser
said. “They feel it’s age appropriate and a sixth, seventh, eighth building provides less transitions.”
• Students in grades six through eight would transition to Westfield Middle School, and an additional middle school would be built at Ind. 32 and Centennial Road.
Kaiser said the plan will allow WWS to better meet the needs of sixth-graders and create more long-term flexibility with the elementary schools.
“We have a lot of work to do, but that’s the consensus, and we feel that’s the direction we’re going to be moving forward,” Kaiser said.
• Another option is to renovate or rebuild Shamrock Springs Elementary School.
“We need to go back and revisit all of the elementary schools,” Kaiser said. “Most of them are 20 years old or getting near there.”
Plans have been discussed with architects about what changes will be made to existing elementary schools and how they will look in the next 10 years. Shamrock Springs Elementary School is among the schools set for improvements.
The plans won’t require a capital referendum, according to Tomamichel.
Schools built in the early 2000s have made it possible to execute the plan without
affecting taxes as their debts are starting to fall off through their operation budgets.
“A lot of that debt is falling off at this time, so we have a lot of debt falling off as we move forward through strategic planning and planning with our budget,” Tomamichel said. “As we bring the debt on, our tax rate will stay flat if not still continue to decrease slightly as we move forward.”
As debts are paid off, room for new construction budgeting would be made. WWS will receive municipal bonds to pay for Destination Westfield.
WWS Director of Communications Joshua Andrews said construction firms are working with architects to establish designs and timelines. When complete, WWS will have estimates of how much the plan will cost.
According to Andrews, construction for the new elementary school and middle school will start this fall and will take about 36 months to complete. Overall, the plan is estimated to be completed by 2027.
“We need to go back and revisit all of the elementary schools. Most of them are 20 years old or getting near there.”
– SUPT. OF WESTFIELD SCHOOLS PAUL KAISERON THE COVER: Westfield Intermediate School would be repurposed into an eighth elementary school. (File photo) Abby Shewmaker, a senior at Westfield High School, plays a game with Eliza Zientk, a second-grader at Shamrock Springs Elementary School. (File photo)
Chamber CEO steps down, looks for new career opportunities
By Kiersten Riedford kiersten@youarecurrent.comSteve Latour, CEO of the Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Association, announced his resignation Aug. 10. His last day will be Sept. 30, three years after he took the role.
of new partners into Westfield and brought together the “community’s best and brightest” to help teach and mentor the city’s growing business community.
CITY NEWS
In a statement to Current, Latour — who joined the chamber in September 2020 — said he looks forward to exploring new career opportunities in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.
“It is never easy to leave a place you’ve come to love,” Latour stated. “Especially a place that has brought so many teachable moments, wonderful people and fantastic experiences into your life.”
Latour said he accepted the chamber position at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and has since welcomed hundreds
“I look forward to doing everything I can to ensure a smooth transition, as the chamber and DWA have important work ahead of them,” Latour stated. “I can confidently say that I am leaving things in excellent hands with a board of directors and professional staff ready to build upon our success and take things to the next level is terrific.”
The Westfield Chamber of Commerce will begin a search as soon as possible for a new CEO, according to the organization. In the meantime, the staff will begin reassigning roles to prepare for Latour’s September departure.
“I cannot say thank you enough for the privilege of serving our great community,” Latour said. “I am honored to have played a small part in our collective success.”
Jeff C. Mantock, CFA Vice President and Portfolio Manager Investment Management A. Ritzler Vice President Private Banking 317-267-1699 M. Ulrey Vice President Personal TrustsEXPERIENCE THE SERVICE AND DEDICATION YOU DESERVE
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Call 317.962.0500 or visit iuhealth.org/heart
Ivy Tech to offer training for trucking industry
By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.comIvy Tech Community College’s Hamilton County campus in Noblesville is partnering with an Indianapolis truck driving school to provide training and career opportunities in the trucking industry.
providing our students with high-quality education and career opportunities in growing sectors. The trucking industry offers stability, excellent earning potential and the chance to play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving.”
EDUCATION
Ivy Tech will collaborate with DriveCo CDL Learning Center, an Indianapolis-based truck driving school that campus officials said will “address the growing demand for skilled truck drivers and empower individuals with the necessary skills for a rewarding career in transportation.”
“Through this partnership, Ivy Tech Hamilton County students will have access to DriveCo CDL Learning Center’s industry-leading commercial driver’s license (CDL) training program,” according to a news release from Ivy Tech.
Instructors from DriveCo CDL Learning Center will provide hands-on training and instruction, which will cover essential driving techniques, safety protocols and industry regulations, according to Ivy Tech, which said that students will also gain proficiency in vehicle inspection, maneuvering and defensive driving skills.
“We are excited to partner with DriveCo CDL Learning Center to offer our students a direct pathway to the thriving trucking industry,” said Rachel Kartz, interim chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College’s Hamilton County campus. “This collaboration aligns with Ivy Tech’s commitment to
Students who complete the CDL training program will receive a certificate of completion from DriveCo CDL Learning Center that will demonstrate their proficiency and readiness for employment, according to Ivy Tech, which said that students will also sit for the state CDL skills test to obtain their CDL.
“Our partnership with Ivy Tech Hamilton County allows us to combine our expertise in CDL training with Ivy Tech’s reputable educational programs,” said Karen Orosz, school director of DriveCo CDL Learning Center. “We are proud to contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce that meets the industry’s demands. Through this collaboration, we are fostering opportunities for career growth and economic prosperity.”
The American Trucking Association said that 8.4 million people were employed throughout the economy in jobs that relate to trucking activity in 2022, according to the Washington, D.C.,-based organization’s website. A total of 3.54 million truck drivers were employed in 2022, an increase of 1.5 percent over the prior year, the organization said.
For more, contact Julie Miller by emailing julie.mitchell@driveco.org or call 317-779-0551.
Discerning when to choose
Commentary by Terry Anker
Art of finding lost friends
Commentary by Dick WolfsieESSAY
We all want to be in control of our own world. We want to be the one making the choices and setting the course. Even if we choose to be someone who refuses to make choices, we still demand that we get our way in choosing not to choose. Whew. The problem with so much choice is the inevitable accountability that goes along with it. For every decision we undertake, we necessarily have omitted countless other options. Although it is terrific to believe that we are the ones in the driver’s seat, it is usually way easier to be a passenger.
Mostly, we find ourselves living a life governed, perhaps even constricted, by our previous decisions. Where we go to school and work, who we marry, if and how many children we might have all become determining factors in the various trajectory of our existence. As we grow from adolescence into adulthood, the gravity of our choices becomes more apparent, as does the frivolity. We learn to invest in the
long-term, appreciating that deferred gratification often leads to better outcomes. We learn that wartime British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was right in positing that, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” While Churchill was confronting perilous military setbacks during World War II, the admonishment is a good reminder for all of us. Each day that we survive to make another, better choice is a good one.
As we extend ourselves into relationships, the choices of our children, parents, spouses and partners all serve to complicate choices. If they defer a decision, does it necessarily fall to us? If they make a bad choice, what is our obligation to pick up the slack? For choosy choosers, what are the legitimate boundaries?
Anatomy of TV series withdrawal
Commentary by Danielle WilsonFriends, it’s the end of an era. After 10 months of dedicated time and energy, I have finally finished “Grey’s Anatomy.” I know!
“I have summited TV’s Mount Everest and am left with a sense of accomplishment, obviously, but also with a mild case of post-achievement depression and a few frostbitten toes.”
It’s very difficult to find friends nowadays. I don’t mean make friends. That’s easy. I mean, find them. Like, where the heck are they?
HUMOR
When I lived just outside of New York City and I wanted to meet a buddy at Grand Central Station, I simply said, “See you under the clock at noon.” This was where everyone met. On some days, several hundred people were crammed under the iconic timepiece looking for friends, lovers and drug dealers.
Everyone knew where the “The clock” was. If you didn’t, there was a good chance you were from another planet. It was like saying, “Now, which Empire State Building do you mean?”
“Which Le Peep should I call?” she asked. “Which one did he go to?”
“Well, if I knew that I wouldn’t be here now.”
I tried his cell again.
“Hello, this is Bob.”
“It’s Dick, where are you?”
“I’m at Le Peep. Where are you?”
“I’m at Le Peep, also,” I told him.
“I don’t see you.”
“I’m at the Le Peep next to Kohl’s.”
“Everyone knew where the “The clock” was. If you didn’t, there was a good chance you were from another planet. It was like saying, “Now, which Empire State Building do you mean?”
– DICK WOLFSIE“Which Kohl’s,” he asked. “The one next to the Walmart or the one next to Kroger?”
“The one next to Kroger.”
“The Kroger near the Monon or the Kroger near CVS?”
“The Kroger near CVS.”
“The CVS across from McDonald’s or the one next to Dairy Queen?”
But things are different now.
I was meeting my friend Bob for coffee the other day at one of my favorite places for breakfast, Le Peep. I told Bob to be there at 9 a.m. sharp because I had a doctor’s appointment at 10:30. It was 9:15. Where was he? He’d never been late before. When I told the waitress that I was waiting for a friend, she suggested he might have gone to a different Le Peep by mistake.
“Does that happen often?” I asked.
We finally determined his location.
“Bob, I’m running late, but I’ll come to the Le Peep where you are. I’ll have to hurry so I can still make my appointment.”
“Should I order for you?”
“No. I’m bringing an omelet with me.”
HUMOR
— DANIELLE WILSONWhat started last October as a fun way to engage with my younger daughter over a beloved series quickly turned into a near obsession as I got sucked into to the trials and tribulations of the young surgeons at Seattle Grace. Before I realized it, I had even surpassed her viewership (which was only through Season 13, the quitter!) and ended up solo watching the longest-running medical drama in history (although between my perimenopausal shenanigans and plethora of alternating joint issues, I could give “Grey’s” a little competition). Now, 420 episodes later, I have summited TV’s Mount Everest and am left with a sense of accomplishment, obviously, but also with a mild case of post-achievement depression and a few frostbitten toes.
I mean, seriously, what am I supposed to do now? For nearly a year, I have filled my evenings and weekends with Meredith and Miranda and Richard and watched doctors and patients grapple with diseases and
trauma and messy relationships. I’ve borne witness to plane crashes and explosions, hospital mergers and personnel changes, medical mysteries and groundbreaking surgeries. And I’m not exaggerating when I say at this point, I could probably perform an emergency trach successfully (although for the life of me, I still don’t understand what a Whipple is). “Ten blade, Bokie!”
I’ve laughed, cried, screamed, contemplated, criticized, empathized — really been in my feelings with this show. And now I have nothing (because “Succession” reeks). Alas, it’s the end of an era. My “Grey’s” era. Peace out.
“Oh yes. Every day. You see, here in Indy, we now have several Le Peep.”
“I told him to meet me at the Le Peep just off 82nd Street.”
“Well, we have a few that are just off 82nd Street. How about an omelet while you wait?”
“Could you call and see if he went to a different Le Peep?” I asked. “He’s not answering his cellphone.”
By the way, in this column I am trying to make a very serious point about the importance of accurate and precise communication. Be exact, leave no room for doubt and you will avoid any confusion. I would be happy to explain this to you in person. Let’s meet at Starbucks tomorrow at 9 a.m. Don’t be late.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.
Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
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Actors bring chemistry to ‘Grumpy Old Men’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comLongtime friends Eddie Curry and Jeff Stockberger have built a strong stage chemistry through the years.
MUSICAL
The Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre regulars will appear in “Grumpy Old Men: The Musical” Aug. 24 to Oct. 1 at the Indianapolis venue. Curry plays John and Stockberger plays Max, who have been feuding for years.
“It’s scary, actually,” Curry said of the chemistry. “We communicate with a mere look and know what the other is thinking. We work off each other well, on and off stage. We read each other. We know when and when not to push, or when or when not to pull, that sort of thing. I always feel on my game when working with Jeff.”
Stockberger said there is no one he trusts more on stage than Curry.
“We weirdly share a brain when it comes to most things, but especially when we are performing together,” he said. “I always know he has my back on stage and will continue the momentum of the show when we take turns performing in scenes.”
Stockberger and Curry met in 1989 while working at Galveston Island Outdoor Musicals.
“We spent two summers in Galveston, then by the mid-1990s we were working together at Beef & Boards and have never really stopped since,” Stockberger said.
The musical is based on the 1993 movie, “Grumpy Old Men,” featuring Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon. Stockberger said he and Curry weren’t very familiar with the show, so they went on a few road trips to see other productions.
“It helped us discover how we wanted to play these roles and the general tone we wanted to set for the show,” Stockberger said.
Stockberger said the cast includes other longtime friends, including Beef &
“Eddie, Ty Stover, Doug Stark and I have known each other for decades, but I believe this will be the first time the four of us will be singing a song together in a show,” Stockberger said. “That’s going to be a blast.”
Curry said cast chemistry is important to how the show plays to its audience.
“The cast that we have put together for this show has that chemistry in buckets,” Curry said. “This is going to be a really fun ride.”
Sarah Hund plays the neighbor, Ariel, who both men are interested in romantically.
“I love Ariel because she sees the positive side of every situation,” Hund said. “She is a free spirit who finds joy and possibility in everyone she meets, and she never hesitates to encourage others in the direction of their dreams. On top of that, she is perceptive, intuitive and well-educated. And she knows how to have a good time.”
Hund has performed in several shows with Curry and Stockberger.
“We’ve had several different working relationships, as fellow actors, stage managers and actors, directors and actors, and so on,” she said. “After working together on so many projects, we understand the rhythm and science of each other’s comedy styles. At this point, we’ve developed a shared language, shortcuts
to communicating that make our jobs infinitely easier. It’s always a pleasure to create characters and tell stories with people you like and admire so much.”
Hund said the “hardest part of being on stage with Jeff Stockburger is keeping a straight face when he’s up to his hilarious antics. But I am always up for the challenge.”
Curry said his character is one of a series of father characters he has had fun playing the last couple of seasons.
“Each one (is) more flawed than the other, yet each one finds his way to some kind of redemption, or at least redeemable act by the end,” Curry said. “John Gustafson, played by Jack Lemmon in the movie, is a great guy, loved by all, except by that one moron that lives across the street. In my case, he sits across the dressing room. The most fun thing for me is going to be sharing this show and the insults with my moron friend, Jeff Stockberger.”
The challenge for Stockberger is to take his character, Max, who could be easily unlikeable, and have people identify with him.
“Max is a good guy,” Stockberger said. “He’s just let his grudge with John add unnecessary negativity to his life. There are a lot of good opportunities for laughs and quite emotional moments with this character that will be fun to explore.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE
One Night of Queen will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 25-26 in the Symphony on the Prairie series at Conner Prairie in Fishers. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Vocalist Adam B. Shapiro’s Made in Indiana show is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
“FOUR OLD BROADS’
“Four Old Broads” runs through Aug. 27 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH
James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCHES
Prog Rock at the Irving Theater — TuNer, featuring King Crimson band members Trey Gunn and Pat Mastelotto, will perform in concert at 8 p.m. Aug. 25 at the Irving Theater. ProgJect, featuring the music of Genesis, Peter Gabriel, ELP, Yes and Rush, is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 27. For more, visit attheirving.com.
Singer lends voice for charity — Singers
Ashley Nicole Soprano and Mary Evans are lending their voices to the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease by performing “Music to Remember” at 7 p.m. Aug. 23 at The Cat in Carmel. Doors open at 6:15 with light refreshments. Tickets are $30 each, and all the proceeds will go to the Indianapolis Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which takes place Sept. 30. For more, visit thecat.biz.
Edwards Twins to return to Feinstein’s — The Edwards Twins, who use state-of-theart makeup to perform a variety show as legendary superstars, returns Oct. 20-21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The Edwards Twins had a sold-out show at Feinstein’s in October 2022. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
Fishers couple’s variety show set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comWhen Ryan and Lauren Ahlwardt decided to put together a variety show, they did some homework.
ENTERTAINMENT
“We’ve been studying clips of ‘Sonny and Cher,’ the Rat Pack, Carol Burnett, etc., to create comedic and musical moments of our own that will fit the nostalgic and classic ambience of Feinstein’s,” Ryan Ahlwardt said.
Ahlwardt’s first variety show Aug. 18 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel was sold out. His second show is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 1.
Ahlwardt, a Fishers resident, said he approached Hotel Carmichael’s staff in early June about creating a regular night of music, storytelling and comedy at Feinstein’s.
“Since I host ‘Indy Now’ on FOX 59, I thought ‘Indy Nights’ would be a perfect name for the new show with Lauren and our friends,” he said.
Ahlwardt, a former Straight No Chaser member, and Lauren Ahlwardt are vocalists. The special guests for the two shows will be singer-songwriter Michael Luginbill of Straight No Chaser and mentalist and magician Jon Mobley. The band for the Sept. 1 show includes Randy Melson, bass; Troye Kinnett, piano; Matt Mellinger, drums; and Stephen Scharbrough, electric guitar.
“Lauren and I knew that we wanted to create something that we would want to watch when we were discussing the initial vision of the show,” Ahlwardt said. “Our friendship began over 20 years ago at IU when we sang in Straight No Chaser and Ladies First. We loved to make each other laugh then and still do now. Every comedic moment that will happen in the shows all came from Lauren. She has a theater degree from IU and was a member of the ComedySportz improv comedy troupe in Indy for several years. She’s created a wheel of celebrities and singers’ faces that audience members will spin for us to impersonate throughout the night.”
Ahlwardt said they will feature some arrangements of songs by Fleetwood Mac, James Taylor, Whitney Houston and some theme songs from 1980s and ‘90s TV shows.
Pentatonix to harmonize Ruoff
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comThere is a reason why Pentatonix vocalists’ voices blend so well together.
CONCERT
“We’ve grown a lot together and we’ve seen each other through so many stages of life,” group member Matt Sallee said. “It just brings you even closer together. It brings richness to the music. It’s a really beautiful journey and we really do love each other.”
Sallee joined the group in 2017 after original member Avi Kaplan left. The other four original members are still part of the a cappella group founded in 2011.
Petantonix will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. Lauren Alaina is joining the tour as a special guest.
Pentatonix won the third season of “The Sing-Off” on NBC in 2011. Sallee said he was inspired by both the show and the group, and his high school group attended a workshop with Pentatonix in 2012.
“It was a full-circle moment,” Sallee said of joining the group. “I was doing a cappella in college and then did it professionally. I thought I would do something like it, but to
join the group was a blessing. I don’t take it for granted.”
Members Kirsten Maldonado, Mitch Grassi and Scott Hoying grew up together and attended the same high school in Texas. Kevin Olusola joined before “The Sing-Off.”
Sallee said they usually sing classic covers like “The Sound of Silence,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Hallelujah.” There is a medley of originals the group performs from its 2021 album, “The Lucky Ones.”
“I really like singing ‘The Sound of Silence’ because I expand from the bass register to my higher tenor register,” Allee said.
Pentatonix released a single called “I Rise” earlier this month.
For more, visit livenation.com.
CHS grad stages volcanic play
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comHaley Glickman had a unique inspiration for her romantic comedy, “That’s Hot.”
PERFORMANCE
The 2016 Carmel High School graduate watched a documentary called “Fire of Love,” about a married couple who traveled around the world studying volcanoes, making films and educating people on volcanology.
“The documentary itself is rather dramatic, but there are moments of levity in it that gave me the idea of a comedy,” Glickman said. “For instance, at one point in the film the husband says he wants to ride down a river of lava in a canoe. It’s absolutely absurd that these brilliant scientists would even consider that, so naturally that little tidbit made it into ‘That’s Hot.’ Of course, ‘That’s Hot’ has a lot of heart to it as well. All of us on the ‘That’s Hot’ team hope that everyone leaves our show uplifted. Laughter is such a medicine in difficult and chaotic times such as these.”
“That’s Hot” was scheduled to have per-
formances Aug. 18-19 and has remaining showings at 9 p.m. Aug. 25; 5:15 p.m. Aug. 26; 9 p.m. Aug. 31; and 3:30 p.m. Sept. 3 at the District Theatre Cabaret in Indianapolis. Glickman, who recently moved from Carmel to Fishers, and Indianapolis resident Matthew Wells play Helena and Ruddier Smith-Schumacher. The couple are going through relationship troubles while filming a documentary in Iceland.
“I’ve always wanted to challenge myself to write something that I could act in, so that was the plan when creating ‘That’s Hot,’” Glickman said. “One of my strengths as an actor is creating multiple characters, so I wrote myself a few very different zany characters to play with. My co-star, Matt Walls, is also great at writing his own jokes and ad-libbing lines that fit him as Rudiger. He’s not afraid to try things in the rehearsal room, and having him on the project has really brought the piece to life.”
Glickman and Walls are the only performers.
“You build a strong rapport when it’s just the two of you,” Glickman said.
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10:55a National Anthem Carmel High School's Select Sound
11:00a - 1:00p The Hippie Dream
1:30 - 3:15p Tim Brickley and the Bleeding Hearts
3:40 - 4:40p Tim Wright
5:00 - 7:00p Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra
7:30 - 10:30p Bluewater Kings Band
10:55a National Anthem Carmel High School's Select Sound 11:00a - 12:30p Kenny Phelps Trio
1:00 - 3:00p Touch of Grass
3:30 - 5:00p Phone Club
Blueprint for Improvement: Kitchen transformation in Zionsville
Commentary by Larry GreeneBuilt in 1997, this home’s kitchen had great bones, but the curved island configuration and impractical desk obstructed the room’s natural flow, necessitating a makeover to improve form and function. A new appliance arrangement, custom cabinetry and updated finishes resulted in a wow-worthy space that is as functional as it is stylish.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The neutral palette brightens the space, while chic gold accents add warmth and elegance to create a timeless appeal.
• Statement lantern pendants provide a touch of style without dominating the visual space.
• Removing the desk and relocating the refrigerator and double ovens provide increased storage space and an improved aesthetic.
• A knife block drawer, charging drawer and hidden microwave keep essential elements out of sight but within arm’s reach.
• The new island provides ample work and gathering space without interrupting the room’s flow.
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.
Said it right, Yoda did
Commentary by Curtis HoneycuttI have to admit, I don’t know much about “Star Wars.” Somehow, I missed the window to watch them during my formative years.
popular laser sword space movies, according to Google, Darth Vader says, “I find your lack of faith disturbing.” In this sentence, “I” is the subject, “find” is the verb, and “lack of faith” is the object.
GRAMMAR GUY
Here’s what I do know about “Star Wars”: Luke and Leia were brother and sister, which made things awkward, especially after they kissed. Darth Vader was Luke’s dad. We pretend “Episode I” never happened (especially Jar Jar). Han Shot first. What shot second. And I don’t know is on third. Also, Yoda is an awesome green Muppet.
But is Yoda’s grammar correct? His sentence structure is certainly odd. He says things like, “When 900 years old you reach, look as good you will not.”
For the most part, English syntax (how we arrange our words) follows the same pattern. In order for a sentence to be complete, it needs a subject and a predicate. The predicate always includes a verb and often includes an object.
Most English sentences follow the subject-verb-object order. In one of these
Yoda’s syntax follows a distinctly different pattern. For the most part, his sentences follow the object-subject-verb pattern. This pattern is only found in 0.3% of the world’s languages. Let’s take this quote from Yoda: “Patience you must have, my young Padowan.” In this sentence, “patience” appears first, serving as the object. This is followed by “you,” the sentence’s subject. Finally, we get the verb, “have.” Object-subject-verb. Therefore, the answer to the question is:Yes, Yoda’s speech pattern is grammatically correct; strange to our ears, it just sounds.
Ketchikan’s totem poles
Commentary by Don KnebelToday, as we end our tour of Alaska, we travel outside Ketchikan, learning about totem poles and the indigenous people who once lived there. The areas around Ketchikan were originally inhabited by three Native peoples, the Tlingit, the Haida and the Tsimshian. Despite their different languages, these groups developed similar styles for their totem poles. Using symbols, often of animals and stylized humans, the poles identified a family or clan and/or memorialized events or people important to them. The poles, usually carved from red cedar, ranged in height from 10 to 60 feet. Some were placed in front of clan houses and others were used to support beams in those houses. The carving styles became more elaborate after the indigenous people began acquiring metal carving tools in the early 19th century. The poles had a life of about 100 years, after which they were allowed to return naturally to the earth.
hiring Native carvers, began restoring and reconstructing deteriorated totem poles recovered from deserted villages near Ketchikan.
TRAVEL
Today, the Ketchikan area includes more standing totem poles than any other place in the world. The 8-acre Totem Bight State Park, on the waterfront site of a Native campground, includes a number of the CCC’s replica poles and a recreated clan house. It also includes a facility where poles are restored or recreated. The Totem Heritage Center includes a large collection of preserved original 19th-century poles, other artifacts found in former villages and works by world-famous Tlingit carver Nathan Jackson. More poles are located in Potlach Park and Saxman Totem Park. When you visit Ketchikan, don’t miss the opportunity to explore its magnificent collection of totem poles.
By the early 20th century, with the dispersal of the Native people, fewer totem poles replaced the ones that had fallen. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps,
8. Give false hope
14. City in Boone County (Asia)
15. City in Steuben County (Africa)
16. Dance class wear
17. Oddball
18. Recurring theme
19. Hosiery mishap
21. Boilermaker, to a Hoosier
22. Worn-down pencil 24. “Semper Fi” org. 26. NHS lab class 29. Tree house 31. “We have the meats” chain
38. Black-and-white snack
39. Intensive care ___
40. City in Miami County (South America)
41. ___ Street Journal
42. Parks of civil rights fame
43. Run off
45. India’s first prime minister
47. Connery or Penn
48. Leak sound
49. Rose-Hulman, e.g.
51.
53.
56.
58.
62.
67.
68.
27. White River transport
28. Cathedral HS athletes, briefly
30. Hopes that one will
32. Thin nails
33. Screams at Hinkle Fieldhouse
34. Shoe bottoms
36. Video game innovator
37. Darfur’s locale
44. Hungry person’s query
46. Reveal
50. Move like a crab
52. Mafia bosses
53. Novel ID
54. Notorious fiddler
55. Actress Cameron
57. ___ sum
59. Photos, informally
60. Delicate fabric
61. Nephew of Cain and Abel
63. Snoring, in comics
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