December 3, 2024 — Zionsville by Current Publishing

THE LEO SOFA

BARTOLA END TABLE 18”x24”x20”

ALLIE SWIVEL CHAIR

BERNIE SWIVEL CHAIR

Village Dance Studio presents ‘Nutcracker Short & Suite’

news@youarecurrent.com

Dancers from the Village Dance Studio will bring to life excerpts from the beloved holiday classic “The Nutcracker” this month in Zionsville.

PERFORMANCE

The performance — “Nutcracker Short & Suite” — is a condensed version of the classic ballet and features some of the most loved dances of the traditional ballet. The performance also includes tapping toy soldiers, jumping and jazzy candy canes, and hip-hop street rats.

“We designed this production to be friendly for all families, as ‘The Nutcracker’ ballet is a magical part of the holiday season and should be enjoyed by everyone,” Village Dance Studio director Traci Broman stated.

The performance includes narration so that younger audience members will understand what is happening on stage, according to the studio.

“’The Nutcracker’ is a tradition for so many families, but with a typical length of well over two hours, it can be difficult for every member of the family to truly enjoy,” Broman stated. “Our one-hour production fits the perfect length for wiggly little ones and even restless spouses or grandparents.”

Each year, Village Dance Studio includes a community service aspect in their ‘Nutcracker’ production. This year, the studio is partnering with the Humane Society for Boone County to bring attention to the shelter and adoptable pets.

Village Dance Studio, with photography by Jon Ellegood, has produced “Muttcracker” cards, featuring photographs of the dancers with adoptable animals from the Humane Society for Boone County. Profits from the card sales will be donated to the organization.

All dancers are students from the Zionsville area. Rehearsals began in August.

Performances are at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 8 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center at Zionsville Community High School, 1000 Mulberry St.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for youth ages 3 to 12, and all tickets are general admission seating. They can be purchased at villagedancestudio.com.

December 3, 2024

Current in Zionsville currentzionsville.com

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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIII, No. 35

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Katelynne Rance as the Holly Berry Doll and Audrey Schnitzer as the Harlequin doll. (Photos courtesy of Jon Ellegood)

Emilee Miller as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

McKenna Martin as the Snow Queen and Leah Engebretsen as Snowflake.

Heidi Stumpf as the Street Rat Captain.

Zionsville Cultural District unveils new branding

news@youarecurrent.com

The Zionsville Cultural District recently introduced a colorful new logo and branding theme — “Where Culture Meets Community.”

NONPROFIT

Established in 2013, the nonprofit Zionsville Cultural District was designed to enrich the lives of residents and visitors by promoting and celebrating Zionsville’s arts, history and culture. The volunteer board of directors oversees ZCD’s signature projects, including the summer concert series and its public art program which commissioned installations such as the Abraham Lincoln mural on First Street and the “Dahlias and Smiles” mural on Main Street.

“Our new logo and branding theme line better represent the ZCD’s mission statement as we continue to involve our organization in communicating and enhancing all areas of Zionsville’s growing cultural environment,” Zionsville Cultural District board member Candace Ulmer stated.

Zionsville Cultural District recently rebranded with a new logo. (Image courtesy of Zionsville Cultural District)

The Zionsville Cultural District markets initiatives that benefit the community as a whole. Comprised of a 12-member board, the district has specific goals, including:

• Promote Zionsville’s art and culture history and its community assets to enhance tourism and stimulate economic development.

• Coordinate artistic, history-based and cultural experiences within the community to improve and enrich experiences for residents, local businesses and visitors. Learn more at zvillecd.org.

CELEBRATE WITH EPCON COMMUNITIES DURING THE

Democrats will not seek recount in Cash-Stoner race

news@youarecurrent.com

The Indiana Democratic Party won’t seek a recount in the Indiana House District 25 race. Incumbent Republican Becky Cash was certified the winner Nov. 17 against challenger Democrat Tiffany Stoner.

ELECTION

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alone in some of the egregious errors committed… While we will not seek a recount in this election, we do believe the public deserves more transparency, so we ensure that every vote is counted accurately and every Hoosier’s voice is heard in every election.”

The Democratic party announced Nov. 22 — the last day to file a recount or challenge petition — that the results will not be contested despite what Democrats called “widespread issues” that resulted in Cash’s win by 64 votes.

“Our intent since polls closed on Election Day was to investigate systemic and widespread issues with the administration of early, vote-by-mail and Election Day voting in Hendricks County,” Indiana Democratic Party Chair Mike Schmuhl stated in a news release. “They were not alone in having challenges with getting people to staff the polls, but they stand very much

Democrats claimed several errors were uncovered in Hendricks County in the weeks following the election, particularly surrounding rejected absentee ballots.

“Let us be very clear — these errors in the administration of the election disenfranchised voters,” Schmuhl stated. “The Republican Party in Indiana is constantly talking about election integrity but stands by while dozens of voters in the suburbs of Indianapolis aren’t able to vote.”

House District 25 came down to just over 60 votes, with Cash earning 18,793 votes and Stoner collecting 18,729 votes. House District 25 includes Boone and Hendricks County, including Zionsville and Whitestown.

Smith sworn in as

District

24 representative

POLITICS news@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville native and former Indianapolis Colts punter Hunter Smith took the oath of office Nov. 21 as the new state representative for Indiana House District 24.

Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush administered the oath to all House lawmakers during a swearing-in ceremony in the House Chamber at the Statehouse during Organization Day, which marked the formal start to the 2025 legislative session.

“I’m humbled by the opportunity to serve my community at the state level,” Smith stated. “My goal is to represent the voices and values of House District 24 while supporting agricultural and environmental policies that make our state the best place to work and call home.”

Smith owns WonderTree Farm in Zionsville, where he lives with his wife, Jen, and

Hunter Smith takes the oath of office at the Statehouse Nov. 21. (Photo courtesy of Indiana House Republicans)

their four children. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

Smith defeated Democratic challenger Josh Lowry Nov. 5 with 56 percent of the vote. District 24 includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties, including Zionsville, Westfield, Carmel and Sheridan.

Constituents can reach Smith at in.gov/ h24.

Stoner

Lingg moves to communications role in Zionsville

news@youarecurrent.com

Alexa Lingg, formerly the executive assistant to Zionsville Mayor John Stehr, has transitioned to a new role at Zionsville Town Hall.

TOWN NEWS

Lingg is the town’s communications manager. In the new position, she will oversee all internal and external communications for the town. She began the role Nov. 18.

“Communication is a crucial part of everything we do in municipal government,” Stehr stated. “Alexa gets it and understands the importance of clear, consistent messaging to our employees and our constituents. Our town is fortunate to have someone with her background and skill set leading our communications efforts.”

In addition to her work as the mayor’s

executive assistant, Lingg’s experience includes customer service and ticket sales for the Indianapolis Colts and Cincinnati Bengals. Her professional background also includes roles in marketing, hospitality and event planning in Whitestown, Fishers and Westfield.

“Community collaboration has always been a passion of mine, especially through my work in events,” Lingg stated. “This role provides an incredible opportunity to further that passion by fostering connections and ensuring the town’s initiatives and stories are communicated effectively and thoughtfully to our residents.”

Lingg joined Stehr’s staff in January 2024. She is a 2017 graduate of Indiana University and has a degree in sports marketing and management with minors in business and marketing.

Lingg

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

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Stipends

Image: Aren Straiger

Whiskerfest to benefit Humane Society for Boone County

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The Whiskerfest Holiday Craft Show and pet photos with Santa returns from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Indianapolis Car Exchange, 5161 S. Indianapolis Rd., Whitestown.

FUNDRAISER

More than 50 vendors will offer craft creations and festive merchandise for sale. A booth hosted by the Humane Society for Boone County also will be on-site with items for sale to benefit the shelter.

Santa will greet people for photos with or without their pets from noon until 4 p.m. Photos are $20 for a print as well as a digital image. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society for Boone County and The Arc of Greater Boone County.

“If you enjoy shopping, then Whiskerfest is the event for you,” Humane Society for Boone County Executive Director Kristen Pulice stated. “You will be shopping for a great cause.”

Santa with a puppy during Whiskerfest in 2023. (Photo courtesy of Humane Society for Boone County)

Volunteers will assist visitors who wish to meet cats and kittens available for adoption.

This is the 10th year for the event. Admission and parking are free.

Located at 5366 S. Indianapolis Rd. in Whitestown, the Humane Society for Boone County is a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to the animal welfare, rescue and education in Boone County. The shelter operates through donations, volunteers and foster families.

Learn more at hsforbc.org.

CD SPECIALS

This Week’s Market Magic!

Special Events

Dec. 4, 4:30-9 p.m., Christkind ChoralFest

Dec. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Sankt Nikolaustag

Dec. 7, 12:30-3 p.m., KulturFest

Werkstatt

Dec. 4-8, Falk Bauer & Katrin Zapf, Lauscha Glassblowers

Kinderecke

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., String Art Craft

Dec. 6, 4-9 p.m., Dry Snow Globes Craft

Spielhaus

Dec. 4, 4-9 p.m., Market Magic Show

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., Storytelling & Music

Dec. 8, 12-6 p.m., Santa

Entertainment

Dec. 5, 4:30-6 p.m., Matt Tolentino Trio

Dec. 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio

Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m., Alex Meixner

Dec. 7, 6:30-9 p.m., Alex Meixner

Dec. 8, 1-3 p.m., Alex Meixner

November 23 - December 24

Westfield High School senior improves her post presence

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

In her first year as a starter, Westfield High School senior Samantha Price has made a significant impact on the girls basketball team.

“She has good size and athleticism inside and we want to get the ball into her when we can,” Shamrocks coach Kelsey Steele said. “Sam can run the floor well for us and put pressure on the defense in those ways.”

Price saw limited action as a sophomore. As a junior, she averaged 3.7 points and 3.4 rebounds per game for the Shamrocks, who finished 13-11 last season. She sank 61 percent of her shots and was 36 percent from the free throw line.

Prior to the Nov. 26 game at Pike, the 6-foot-1 Price was averaging team-highs of 14 points on 65 percent shooting and 8.7 rebounds per game for the Shamrocks (2-3).

“Sam has made the most improvement in her post game at the rim. We are continuing to work on this with her but we are proud of the growth we have seen so far,” Steele said.

SAMANTHA PRICE

Favorite TV show: “Outer Banks”

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

Favorite subject: Math

Price said she has become more comfortable with the ball in the post.

“I’ve had to step up more and lead more than I did last year,” Price said.

Steele said Price is growing as a vocal leader and growing her game.

“Sam does so much more than just score,” Steele said. “An underrated part of her game is her ability to affect the game on the defensive end. She has incredible

instincts around the ball and impacts the game in so many ways.”

Westfield graduated three starters, Ellie Kelleher, Kiki Loveless and Reagan Lorenzen, from last season’s team. All three are playing college basketball. Kelleher is at Indiana Wesleyan, Lovelace is at Indiana Tech and Lorenzen is at Rose-Hulman.

Price’s goal for the season is “to win sectionals and make it to state.”

Price will play basketball for Mount St. Joseph University, an NCAA Division III pro-

gram in Cincinnati.

“I just felt the most comfortable and at home there,” she said. “Everyone was really nice and welcoming.”

Price started playing basketball in recreation leagues in second grade.

“(I) started playing competitively in ninth grade,” said Price, who also played softball growing up.

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.

Westfield High School senior Samantha Price has become a solid scorer in her first year as a starter. (Photo courtesy of Samantha Price)

DISPATCHES

Holiday volunteers sought — The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce is seeking community volunteers for the month-long Christmas in the Village festival. Santa House helpers are needed Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22. Sign up for shifts at tinyurl.com/yuxrse8v. Learn more about Christmas in the Village events and activities at zionsvillechamber.org/ christmas-in-the-village.

Advent flute concert — The Indy Winds Flute Choir will present a free 30 minute concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 4 as part of Christ Lutheran Church’s Advent meditations and music services at the church, 600 N. Ford Rd. in Zionsville. A cookies and punch reception in the church’s narthex will immediately follow the concert. All are welcome to attend.

Holiday decorating contest — The Zionsville Village Residents’ Association hosts the 2024 Holiday Decorating Contest Dec. 15. All private residencies or businesses within the Village are invited to participate. Awards will be given for first, second and third place for those entries that best demonstrate unique design; creative use of lights and decorations; display and placement of decorations; and overall presentation. Entries are due Dec. 12. Submit applications at surveymonkey.com/r/ ZVRAHoliday2024.

Comprehensive plan survey — An online survey is open for Zionsville residents to state their opinions on development and growth. The Town of Zionsville is conducting the survey as part of the comprehensive planning process. HWC Engineering is developing the plan, which will replace the town’s previous plan from 2003 prior to the inclusion of Perry and Union townships within the town’s borders. A comprehensive plan is a nonbinding strategic plan that municipalities use to guide decisions on growth and planning, including business, residential, recreational, zoning and safety issues. Learn more and take the survey at uniquelyzionsville.com.

Santa’s workshop — The Town of Whitestown will host Santa’s Workshop at Main Street Park each Saturday after Thanksgiving leading up to the Christmas holiday. Santa, the Grinch and the Coca-Cola Bear will make special appearances for photos. The event runs from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 7; Dec. 14; and Dec. 21. Learn more at whitestown.in.gov under the community tab.

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Zionsville allocates remaining ARPA funds

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

The Town of Zionsville will allocate the remainder of its American Rescue Plan Act funds for two projects.

TOWN NEWS

Mayor John Stehr gave an overview of the plan to the Zionsville Town Council Nov. 18. The allocation is an amendment to the town’s ordinance that approved ARPA fund allocations in 2023.

“This is an amendment to the plan that was passed by the previous council,” Stehr said. “All the money that was passed by the previous council has been used as allocated, but a few items came in under budget.”

Stehr said the result of the previous ARPA spending plan was a surplus of $167,751. ARPA funds must be spent by the end of 2024 or they expire, which means that money must be allocated by Dec. 31.

The town will allocate $92,751 for vehicle purchases for the department of public works and $75,000 for a memorial sign at Zionsville Town Hall.

6-feet high and 8-feet wide,” Stehr said. “This was part of the original plan when the town hall was constructed. At the end of the town hall construction there were a few things that were cut due to financial reasons. So, this is just fulfilling that promise that existed in the original plan for the town hall building.”

ed. That means a similar amount within the budget can be moved to benefit pathways projects throughout the town’s sidewalks and trails network.

The council suspended the rules and unanimously approved the amendment on first reading.

“We’re looking at a sign that is about

Stehr said the funds allocated to the department of public works will apply to purchases that have already been budget-

ARPA funds were allocated to state, local, territorial, and tribal governments to address the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

ARPA funds will be used to erect a memorial sign at Zionsville Town Hall. (File photo)

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

The Town of Zionsville is considering a major utility rate hike for municipal customers — a proposed increase of 27.75 percent above current rates. The proposal would increase the monthly flat-rate residential bill from $44.50 to $56.85.

An ordinance for the proposed rate increase was expected to be introduced to the Zionsville Town Council Dec. 2.

The town’s last rate increase went into effect Oct. 1, 2010.

“It’s been 14 years since the town has contemplated adjusting its residential or its monthly sewer rates,” Zionsville Director of Public Works Lance Lantz told the town council Nov. 18 during a discussion on the proposal. “The philosophy — or perhaps, the reluctance — of past administrations was just to avoid this at all costs because they are not pleasant. But you can only kick things so far down the road before you absolutely need to modernize your operations and pay for your expenses. So, here we are.”

RATE HIKE?

Zionsville to consider 27.75 percent utility bill increase

An implementation of the capital improvement plan — anticipated to be tiered over a 10-year time frame — would increase the plant’s dry weather capacity to 2.5 million gallons per day, an increase of 500,000 gallons per day.

Lantz said rates at a minimum should be looked at every two to four years, which would incrementally increase revenue that can be earmarked for those wastewater needs. As proposed, the increase would bump up the town’s annual revenues for sewage works by more than $890,000.

“Not only are costs increasing since 2010 — our employee costs, our supplies, materials, the things necessary to run the plant — part of the rate is predicated on a $21.5 million capital improvement plan,” Lantz said.

That price point is the result of a 2023 preliminary design study by Commonwealth Engineering that identified improvements needed at the wastewater treatment plant to accommodate growth in Zionsville. Lantz said some of the equipment at the plant is obsolete, dating back to 1985, with replacement parts nearly impossible to find.

“This is like trying to hook up your Atari to a smart TV right now,” he said. “They don’t even make some of these connections anymore for some of this equipment to talk to each other.”

“More important, perhaps, is the increase in capacity for wet weather flows — which is currently 4 million gallons per day — to 7 million gallons per day,” Lantz said.

Several members of the council noted that although the capital improvement plan is necessary, the scale of the rate hike is troubling.

“What I worry about is a 27.75 percent increase in one year,” Councilor Tim McElderry said. “Understanding that it’s been since 2010 that we had a rate increase, is there the possibility that we could look at stag-

gering that over four years — getting us to the exact same point but having it such that the increases happen each year at a much lower rate?”

Jennifer Wilson of Crowe, the town’s rate consultant and municipal advisor for sewage works, said although revenues continue to exceed expenses for sewage works, the overage is not enough to cover capital improvements. Annual operations and maintenance are currently estimated at $2.4 million.

“Unfortunately, where you guys are standing right now, your operating expenses are meeting your operating income and your current debt service with a little extra,” Wilson said. “So, in order to issue new debt, we would need this rate increase put into effect. There’s not much opportunity to slightly phase it in unless you want to do it over a couple of months period (which) can be difficult for the billing office.”

UTILITY BILLS BY THE NUMBERS

The Town of Zionsville’s accounting consultant, Crowe, recently completed an evaluation and rate recommendation for the utility rate, recommending a flat rate increase of $12.35 per month per user, from the current rate of $44.50 to a proposed rate of $56.85 per month.

Crowe reported to the town council Nov. 18 that although the overall in-

crease is 27.75 percent, it equates to an annual rate increase of 1.76 percent over the last 14 years, the last time the Town of Zionsville implemented a rate hike. Comparatively, monthly flat rates in other municipalities in the Indianapolis region include $62.14 in Whitestown; $53.28 in Noblesville; $54,33 in Lebanon; $47.44 in Westfield; and $42.37 in Carmel.

Councilor Sarah Sampson said her concerns are with her constituents and their needs.

“Going door-to-door, people have told me that their wallets are tight. They’ve asked me to watch how their money is being spent,” she said. “So, it’s hard for me to look at all the requests for increases — we’ve increased trash (rates) — it’s just a consideration. I just want to be mindful of the people who have asked me to watch the increases that we make.”

Councilor Brad Burke suggested the possibility of utilizing some of the town’s reserves for capital improvements.

“Why would we not consider spending some of the reserve balances and build that into the thought process now to help pay for this gap, so we’re not speculating if we’re going to have to have another bond or are we going to have to have increases again?” Burke said. “This is a significant expenditure and investment in the community. I would think this might be something worth considering. It seems there are some dollars available there to make up that gap.” However, Lantz said utility improvements at the plant are required by law to be rate driven. He added that the increase is not driven solely by new development. He also said existing homes within the municipality that are not tapped into the system or that are on properties being expanded or upgraded need updated services to their homes.

Mayor John Stehr said the proposed increase is not a tax.

“Our previous town leaders have kicked this can down the road for far too long. We are at an inflection point with our wastewater treatment plant and simply have no choice but to modernize and improve operations,” Stehr said. “It would be irresponsible to do nothing. This is a matter of public health and that must always be the focus of our town leaders. No one wants to see a rate increase, but this is the right thing to do. We need to improve and enhance our wastewater plant before it’s too late. Failure is not an option.”

ON THE COVER: The Town of Zionsville will consider a utility rate hike of more than $12 per month for municipal customers. (Photo by Marney Simon)

Stehr

Lantz

Zionsville’s wastewater treatment plant includes equipment that dates to 1985. Treated clean water discharges into Eagle Creek. (Photos by Marney Simon)

Zionsville has not had a utility rate hike since 2010.

Holiday Porchfest

MIDTOWN PLAZA

Join us at Holiday PorchFest, a free holiday event in Midtown Carmel with performers singing our favorite Holiday songs. Vendors will be onsite o ering warm beverages and snacks.

2:00 p.m. Bach to Rock Band

3:00 p.m. Carmel PorchFest Grant Presentations

3:10 p.m. School of Rock Band

Midtown Plaza is a Trolley Stop for the Carmel Holiday Trolley.

‘WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen’ set for Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Steve Perry’s group originally started out as a punk rock/ska band.

“Our first music was swing music, so we’ve really been playing swing music from the beginning along with the other stuff,” Perry said.

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will perform its “WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5.

“We’re basically known for being a swing band, which is a large amount of 20th century popular jazz,” Perry said. “We run the gamut from ragtime to hot jazz to all the way to 1961 with the Rat Pack and Frank Sinatra vibes. We touch on all of these subgenres of music that swings. It’s very danceable and very 20th century.”

Perry calls the “Xmas Canteen” concert a swing spectacular

“We ended up playing in Hawaii as part of Pearl Harbor celebrations on Dec. 7 and started doing this 1940s music,” Perry said. Perry said the night before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, there was a battle of the bands between U.S. Navy ships.

“Different ships sent their bands to compete in it and I’m sure it was a wild night,” he said. “They were probably hung over and then Dec. 7 hit.”

The concert will include 1940s classics. The band’s latest album, “At the Pink Rat,” focuses on the golden era of swing music of the 1940s highlighted by Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman.

“The biggest job is to be a popularizer of this kind of music because it kind of fell out of favor in the early 1960s,” Perry said. “After The Beatles came, it was pretty much gone forever. This last record I tackled that as well. I hadn’t really written in that style, which means big band (music) with major chords. We also have our own music, which is very danceable and upbeat.”

One of the original songs is “Brown Flight Jacket,” which is about a dying grandfather who bequeaths his jacket to his grandson who works at a Starbucks

“The kid hangs (it on) his closet door and stares at it, thinking about his own life compared to his grandfather, who dealt with life and death situations (in World War II),” Perry said. “It’s a modern take on old music.”

The musical setting is a military canteen during the holidays in Hawaii or the Pacific Theater from 1941-45.

“It’s Christmas, it’s 90 degrees and they are in the middle of the war,’ Perry said. “It’s a way for us to address the golden era of swing in our way. There will be fun Christmas songs you can dance to as well, such as ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’ and ‘Roll ‘Em.’ We hit a few different eras even though it’s a 1940s theme for the most part. It’s very upbeat and fun.”

Perry said the band plays the late-Steve Allen’s song “Cool Yule.”

“We recorded that for a movie,” Perry said. “I asked him if I could change a chord and he tongue-lashed me like you wouldn’t believe and he said, ‘If every note I wrote cannot be played, there will be no symphony.’”

Perry founded the band in Eugene, Ore., in late 1988.

“We have a lot of material and could have three different bands with all the material we have,” Perry said. “It’s a project that’s never been completed quite to my satisfaction until this era. I’m 61 and I’m finally getting it to touch on all the things I want to touch on. In the next couple of years, I’ll finally reach the goals I’ve set for myself.”

Two other members, bassist Dan Schmid and trumpeter Dana Heitman, have been part of the band for the entire time and several members have been a part of it for several years.

“We caught fire in Southern California, where there is a huge retro music appreciation,” Perry said.

The band’s first compilation album of its first three studio albums, called “Zoot Suit Riot: The Swingin’ Hits of Cherry Poppin’ Daddies.’” was released in 1997 and enjoyed commercial success.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and daddies.com.

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical” runs through Jan. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Holiday Blues at the Club with Zach Day is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, and Indiana Christmas with Ahlwardts is set for 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 7 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.

‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’

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

‘ANY KIND OF CHRISTMAS’

Home Free’s “Any Kind of Christmas” tour stops are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FOUR PHANTOMS

The Four Phantoms Holiday Show is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.

‘A SWINGIN’

LITTLE CHRISTMAS’

Jane Lynch’s “A Swingin’ Little Christmas” concert is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘ENJOY THE HOLLY DAYS’

Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Enjoy the Holly Days” concert is set for 4 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

ALABAMA

Alabama’s Roll On II North America Tour stops at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Fishers Event Center. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.

MUSIC

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will perform its “WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Cherry Poppin’ Daddies)

IWS features holiday favorites

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Wind Symphony’s holiday concert should evoke many memories.

CONCERT

“We’re doing a combination of works that will appeal to children in the audience as well as the adults,” IWS Music Director Jay Gephart said. “We’re doing a medley of music from ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas.’”

and orchestras. “She is top-notch. She has performed with my ensembles on three different occasions. My Purdue world absolutely adores Twana. She really made a connection with my Purdue audiences.”

That is just part of the 70-minute show set for Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Enjoy the Holly Days” concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Twana Harris is the special guest and will perform “O Holy Night.” The North Central High School graduate is a pastor and music director at a church in Detroit.

“She sings more a gospel style than a classical opera style, but I think she will be well-received by the Indiana Wind Symphony community,” said Gephart, who is a chair of the Purdue University bands

Harris will be accompanied on piano for “Some Children See Him.”

“Santa has committed to being there in his busy schedule,” Gephart said. “So will Mrs. Claus, who narrates ‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas.’”

There also will be Christmas music from various Broadway shows and a performance of late jazz composer and arranger Sammy Nestico’s “Good Swing Wenceslas.”

Gephart said more serious work is a transcription by H. Robert Reynolds of Morten Lauridsen’s “O magnum mysterium.”

“It was originally written for chorus by Morten Lauridsen and then transcribed by H. Robert Reynolds, who was the former director of bands from University of Michigan,” Gephart said.

For more, visit indianawindsymphony. org.

GHDT presents ‘Winter Fest’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Gregory Hancock felt it was time for a holiday change.

DANCE

So, he created “Winter Fest,” which debuts Dec. 7-8 and 13-15 at The Florence at The Academy of the Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre in Carmel.

“We decided to retire our contemporary production of ‘The Nutcracker’ to the GHDT vaults for a while in order to present another holiday option for entertainment,” said Hancock, GHDT’s executive artistic director. “Our production of ‘The Nutcracker’ had an extremely global feel with all the international variations, and we have maintained this same feeling by celebrating the global holidays of the season, including Ukrainian St. Nicholas Day, Kwanzaa, Diwali, St. Lucia Day, Las Posadas, Winter Solstice, Hanukkah and Christmas.

“In addition to new choreography created by myself, this production features unique choreographic voices by company dancers Thomas Mason and Olivia Payton.” Hancock said the students and pro-

From left, Abigail Lessaris, Olivia Payton and Josie Moody perform in “Winter Fest.” (Photo courtesy of Lydia Moody)

fessional dancers are enjoying learning and refining all the new choreography for “Winter Fest,” along with learning about global traditions of all the holidays being celebrated.

“The company has occasionally presented a holiday production in addition to ‘The Nutcracker,’ but this season we have combined the professional dancers of GHDT and the students at The Academy in one holiday production,” Hancock said.

Fifteen dancers from the student ensemble will be featured in the production.

For times and tickets, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

Harris

Koz’s holiday show returns

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This is the 27th year saxophonist-composer Dave Koz has taken his Christmas show on the road.

CONCERT

Koz said a stop in Carmel has become a given the last several years.

“The Palladium is one of my personal favorite venues in the entire United States, maybe even the world,” Koz said. “It’s a spectacular place to play. I love the way the staff makes you feel. I love the way the audience wraps fully around you and you are immersed in the audience. It’s a gorgeously sounding room. The audience that comes to see us is so full of love and energy and warmth. We love (going) there. It’s a very special part of this tour.”

Jade.

“Jonathan is like my musical brother, partner, especially at Christmastime,” Koz said. “We love making music any time, but at Christmas, it’s very special. He brings all that emotion, all that heart and soul from his background.”

Ingala and Hawley are new to the tour while Jade is making her fourth appearance.

The Dave Koz & Friends Christmas show is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show will feature Jonathan Butler with special guests Vincent Ingala, Adam Hawley and Rebecca

“Adam Hawley is a young guitar player and the future of contemporary jazz guitar,” Koz said. “We have a single together that is moving up the (Billboard smooth jazz) charts now called ‘Automatic.’ Vincent Ingala is an incredible saxophone player, singer and guitar player. He’s an all-around entertainer. He’s been doing a competing Christmas tour for the last (several) years. This is the first year he’s been able to do our tour and bring all of his good vibes with us. We have a lot of new (performers) and a lot of veterans to bring a heartfelt, highly energetic and fun show, which I think we really need right now.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Dancers set for sweet debuts

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This will be Westfield resident Maddie Neff’s 11th appearance in Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker,” and this one is extra special.

PERFORMANCE

“I’ve had many different ‘Nutcracker’ roles, but I’ve never danced the role of Sugar Plum before,” said Neff, who recently graduated early from Westfield High School.

Neff shares the role of Sugar Plum Fairy with Carmel High School senior Claire Barbour. Neff will perform as the Sugar Plum at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14. Barbour will take over as Sugar Plum at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15. All performances are at STAR Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.

“This role has always been a dream of mine,” said Neff, who also plays Candy Cane. “It’s always been my favorite part to watch, and I am so excited to finally get to dance it.”

This is Barbour’s first time as the Sugar

Plum, too. She also plays Arabian.

“What I enjoy most about the classic role is having the freedom to perform it as my own,” said Barbour, who has attended CIDE for seven years. “Most of the time I will either be by myself or with my partner on stage, so I won’t have to prioritize matching other dancers around me as much as I have had to in previous ‘Nutcrackers.’ Fishers High School senior Ella McNeely is enjoying her role as Snow Queen.

“The music for the Snow pas de deux has always been one of my favorites, so I am very grateful to be able to dance to it this year,” McNeely said.

For more, visit cidedance.org.

From left, CIDE performers Maddie Neff, Claire Barbour and Ella McNeely have key roles in “The Nutcracker.” (Photo courtesy of Paul Rezlaff)

KLaunch announces free access to new AI Cloud Innovation Lab

news@youarecurrent.com

KLaunch, a leader in omni-channel conversational AI technologies, has officially opened its cutting-edge AI Cloud Innovation Lab, and in a groundbreaking move, it’s entirely free. The initiative allows businesses, entrepreneurs, startups and innovators to experiment, prototype and deploy AI-driven solutions without the usual financial barriers.

TECHNOLOGY

As a result, KLaunch aims to accelerate technological advancement, making AI innovation accessible to everyone.

The AI Cloud Innovation Lab is equipped with world-class resources, a team of AI experts, and sophisticated conversational AI frameworks like KBot Lightning and HumanX, along with all other major LLM’s that can integrate into the ecosystem. This will empower users with the tools they need to tackle real-world concepts with AI, unlock new growth avenues, and transform industries.

By offering free access, KLaunch is breaking down financial barriers, inviting organizations of all sizes to explore and deploy AI solutions that can enhance customer experiences, drive operational efficiency, improve workforce productivity and scale innovation.

Key Features of the KLaunch AI Cloud Innovation Lab

• Free AI prototyping and experimentation: Users can bring their ideas to life with powerful prototyping tools, data analytics, and model training resources, enabling rapid iteration and validation of AI concepts with zero upfront costs. Users can build out their prototypes, once finalized, and can launch their real-world environments from the same ecosystem.

• Access to advanced AI models and tools: The lab includes access to KBot Lightning and HumanX, pre-trained models, use case templates, state-ofthe-art machine learning frameworks, and an intuitive interface, making it accessible for both AI experts and beginners.

• Collaborative environment with expert support: Participants will have

direct access to KLaunch’s AI specialists for guidance and support, fostering a collaborative space where ideas can evolve into actionable solutions.

• Ethics and governance tools: KLaunch’s commitment to responsible AI is evident in the lab and production environments, where integrated tools ensure projects align with ethical standards, security and compliance, with special infuses on data privacy, transparency, and fairness in AI applications.

• Real-world application testing and launch from ecosystem: The lab provides capabilities to test prototypes in simulated real-world environments, helping businesses measure effectiveness before deploying at scale and also has built in tools to launch live when ready.

• Lab participants own IP on what they build/design: While KLaunch facilitates the underlying technology and owns the rights and use of their AI engines and protocols, anything built in the lab is the intellectual property of the lab participant. What it means for businesses and innovators

The KLaunch AI Cloud Innovation Lab isn’t just an ecosystem —it’s a catalyst for meaningful AI adoption and release. Businesses now have the unprecedented opportunity to leverage private and secure powerful AI tools, refine their operations, and unlock new growth potential without the financial and technical hurdles typically associated with AI deployment. This democratization of AI tools is designed to encourage innovation across all sectors, from government, health care, nonprofits, and the like. How to get started Businesses, developers, and innovators can sign up for free access to the AI Cloud Innovation Lab by clicking this link klaunch.io/contact and putting in their information with AILab in the comments. Once registered, participants will gain immediate access to the KBot Lightning and HumanX ecosystem, along with expert guidance and support to bring their AI-driven ideas to life.

For more information, visit klaunch.io.

JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS SAT DEC 7 AT 8PM THE PALLADIUM

MATTEO BOCELLI: A NIGHT WITH MATTEO THU DEC 12 AT 7:30PM THE PALLADIUM

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 FRI DEC 13 AT 8PM THE PALLADIUM

JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS SAT DEC 14 AT 8PM THE PALLADIUM

Leave well enough alone?

Commentary by Terry Anker

We have all been tempted to take the little shortcuts that make life easier. From time to time, we swing by the drive-thru window rather than bust out a pan to feed the kids. At least they got dinner, right? The world is driven to provide us with easier, faster and, presumably, better things with each iteration. The task of laundering our clothing has never, in the history of all humanity, been more convenient, safe and, largely, better for us. With the advent of artificial intelligence and the hopefulness for its potential, one can imagine countless more labor-intensive tasks that will become quickly forgotten as new solutions emerge.

ESSAY

Our ovens are self-cleaning. Our meals are ready in minutes. Even our cocktails are premixed and ready to pour. Whew. Somewhere when we were off doing things, new technology seems to have surpassed our need to do them. When we are young, we lack the context to understand that which came before us.

We assume that the music we are hearing is the best music ever heard. Then as we mature, we listen to other types and time periods until we can best judge our taste with some degree of perspective. We might consider that which is done for us now in the same fashion. What have we gained and what do we lose?

A quick drive-thru is faster, but are we sacrificing the time spent teaching the children their way around the kitchen? Even if the treadmill makes it easier to run, do the benefits of movement outweigh any potential for gain one might get by running on the road? Most of what we leave behind deserves to be. Progress is good. Still, can we set aside the rose-colored glasses and see that some things were better off unchanged — or unimproved?

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

Dialing in on a lost cellphone

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

After our recent church auction, I couldn’t find my phone at the end of the evening. I panicked. My wife, as always, was a calming influence, explaining that the cell had to be somewhere in the room. I asked my son to call on his phone to see where the device was hiding. No ring was heard, but …

HUMOR

“Hello, this is Amy.”

“Amy, this is Brett Wolfsie, Dick’s son. You were sitting with us all evening tonight. You must have taken my dad’s cellphone home by mistake.”

“I don’t think so, Brett.”

“Well, you’re talking on his cell now. Turn it over and look at the back.”

The back of my cell clearly directs what to do if found. I always debated whether the instructions should read:” If found, call” … or “If lost, call” Both make sense, but my initial mistake was listing my own number to call. That person would just be calling me on my phone, which he had in his hand. What an Einstein I am. But back to the story.

I took Brett’s phone and explained to Amy that she would have to answer my phone that evening and pretend she was my wife, Mary Ellen. Otherwise, people would wonder what I was up to when a mysterious woman answered the phone at 11 p.m. I also told Amy that I get a lot of calls late at night because I have several friends on the West Coast who like to chat before they go to bed at 8 p.m. (their time).

It’s an older crowd.

“Dick, this was an honest mistake I made. I’ll tell whoever calls that I have your phone because we spent the night together.”

“Amy, please rephrase that.”

The next morning, I was lost without a phone. I always check the weather and time before I get out of bed. I asked

“The next morning, I was lost without a phone. I always check the weather and time before I get out of bed.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Alexa twice, but there was no response. The internet was down temporarily, but I knew Mary Ellen was in the kitchen having coffee.

“What time is it?” I screamed out from the bed.

No answer. So, louder this time.

“What time is it!”

No answer again.

Wait, I forgot the most important part. With Alexa, it must be personal to work. I tried again.

“Mary Ellen! What time is it?”

“Good morning, Dick. It’s 8 a.m. Now, leave me alone, please. I’m having my coffee.”

Well, at least she was connected and working.

Later that morning at church, Amy returned my phone and said she only got one call. It was from my sister who was visiting her daughter in California.

“I pretended I was Mary Ellen,” Amy said, “but I’m not sure it worked.”

“ I guess she didn’t recognize your voice?”

“She also didn’t recognize my hair, nose and eyes. She was using FaceTime.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

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.

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

LIFESTYLE

1. Get up

Across

5. Feudal worker

9. Becomes oxidized

14. Palindromic girl’s name

15. ___ the hump

16. Customary

17. One of the five Ws for a Current reporter

18. Former Letterman rival

19. Destitute

20. Old rhyming slogan from Blockbuster

23. Mackey or Worthern, e.g.

24. Zionsville-to-Ft. Wayne dir.

25. Cohort of Larry and

Curly

28. Fishers HS color

29. Aspirin target

33. IU Health ER sorting process

35. Put on ice

37. ___ and void

38. Online community and slogan to promote area

businesses

43. Dog command

44. Prefix meaning “skin”

45. Family and consumer sciences class, familiarly

48. Indiana House members, briefly

49. “Big Blue”

52. MCL dessert choice: pie ___ mode

53. Thai neighbor

55. Rolling Stones title woman

57. Alternative to drapes

61. Poisonous shrub

64. Mideast ruler

65. “Pop ___ the weasel”

66. Army uniform color

67. Actress Hatcher

68. Art Deco artist

69. Balance sheet plus

70. NASA force unit, for short

71. Not as much Down

1. Slapfish spot for oysters and clams

2. Possible reply to “Where are you?”

3. Twisted and turned

4. Dine at home

5. Auctioneer’s cry

6. “Happily ___ after”

7. Painter Magritte

8. :-(

9. Monon Trail jogger

10. Not new

11. Seek damages in Hamilton County Court

12. Tiny bit

Foxy

21. Civil rights org.

22. Colts QB stat

25. Hawaiian island

26. Gaze wantonly

27. White River slitherly fish

30. Butler frat letter

31. Kind of quarters

32. Tribal leader

34. The Hoosier State, briefly, and a hint to what can be found in the puzzle’s circles

36. Old stringed instrument

38. Marlboro competitor

39. Austen

Evoke 47. Recycle bin item 49. Pay no attention to this clue

50. Upscale bathroom fixtures

51. Slob’s creations

54. Start of a poetic tribute

56. WIBC’s “The Hammer and ___ Show”

57. Waves from a boat on Geist

58. A sign of a kind

59. Electrical line

60. Ship’s jail

61. Jamaican music

62. Sounds of hesitation

63. More, in Mexico Answers on Page 23

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