March 26, 2024 — North Indy

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elements, their extensive paint offerings cater to diverse tastes and functional needs. Additionally, their expertise extends beyond mere paint application; they assist customers in selecting the ideal colors and finishes to achieve desired aesthetics while providing expert guidance on maintenance and care. With a steadfast commitment to professionalism and customer satisfaction, CertaPro Painters of Indianapolis stands poised to transform spaces into showcases of beauty and durability, offering tailored solutions that elevate properties and exceed expectations.

• Professional painters - We arrive on time. We work around your needs and schedule. We take pride in serving the Indianapolis community neighborhoods we live in, too!

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CertaPro Painters ® of Indianapolis has been dedicated to serving the community for over 25 years, offering top-notch painting services. With their wealth of experience, skilled painters, and commitment to quality, they have become a trusted name in the region. Whether it’s residential or commercial projects, CertaPro Painters ensures customer satisfaction through professionalism and attention to detail.

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CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis stands as a trusted name in the realm of professional painting services, offering a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of residential and commercial clients alike. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, they provide a spectrum of services encompassing interior and exterior painting, staining, power washing, and full carpentry services. Their team of skilled professionals utilizes industry-leading techniques and top-quality paints to deliver flawless finishes that enhance the aesthetic appeal and longevity of any space. Whether revitalizing a home’s facade, transforming interior walls with a fresh coat of paint, or enhancing the appearance of a commercial property, CertaPro Painters of Indianapolis combines precision craftsmanship with personalized attention to detail, ensuring each project exceeds expectations.

At CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis, customers can expect access to a wide selection of premium paints and finishes, including eco-friendly options, to suit various preferences and requirements. Whether seeking vibrant hues to invigorate a room’s atmosphere or durable coatings to withstand the

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Youth learn to lead on court and beyond

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Indiana and basketball go hand in hand. But one nonprofit organization has taken that Hoosier love for hoops to the next level this month, mixing lessons on the court with life lessons on leadership and teamwork.

EMPOWERMENT

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S.L.E.D. is an acronym for Saving Lives Every Day. The organization, which was formed in 2021 in Lawrence Township, assists those who are underserved, marginalized or recently released from incarceration.

S.L.E.D. focuses on empowerment, mental health and wellness, functional family therapy, substance use disorder, affordable housing, life skills development and job training, as well as working with those they serve to create opportunities, reduce recidivism and eradicate inequities.

This month, the organization branched out into youth outreach, hosting “From March Madness to Competitive Greatness” at Competitive Greatness basketball training facility in Carmel.

S.L.E.D. President Charleston L. Bowles said the program is a collaboration between S.L.E.D., Major Fundamentals youth development program and Competitive Greatness to create a four-week workshop to inspire and embolden youth leaders in a sports atmosphere — specifically basketball. Participants spend their Sundays in March performing basketball drills and receiving training, followed by activities and discussions around the themes of teamwork, resilience, strategic thinking and goal setting. The sessions aimed to help participants be successful both on and off the court.

“At S.L.E.D., we usually work with the adult population, but we thought it would be neat to have a youth program for the month of March,” Bowles said. “We talk about instilling leadership, empowerment, and emboldening our young men through basketball. It’s been a great opportunity.”

Bowles said the program averages about 20 participants each week. Following some intense instruction on basketball fundamen-

tals, the kids gather for a leadership workshop with different speakers each week.

Bowles said participants come from all across the Indianapolis area, including Carmel, Lawrence Township, Indianapolis and Avon, and also come from varying backgrounds.

“I think what’s most beneficial first and foremost is to have community leaders, community role models and parents to show that they care,” Bowles said. “I think that really drives home the message to all the young participants here. I think also they really love to see and hear the stories from the programming that we’re sharing with them.”

Bowles said presenters at the sessions are people who have been able to turn a bad situation around and teach the youth

the importance of how to make good decisions, how to think before they act and how to take off the mask that hides their frustrations and anxiety.

“At the end of the day, I think they most appreciate seeing people who care, seeing people who want to meet them where they are, seeing leaders and role models who want to give back to their well-being and development,” Bowles said.

Besides services, S.L.E.D. also operates Corey’s House, an upcoming sober-living facility in Lawrence Township. S.L.E.D. works with the City of Lawrence, the City of Indianapolis, the Salvation Army and the Fort Ben YMCA on programming for those members who will stay at Corey’s House.

Learn more about S.L.E.D. and its initiatives at wesled4u.org.

Youth participate in basketball drills and a pickup game.

(Photos by Marney Simon)

Cheri Gable, a life coach and founder of Beautifully Broken in Indianapolis, speaks to participants on the importance of hearing perspectives from other people.

GOP governor candidates debate

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Six candidates vying for the Republican nomination for Indiana governor espoused strong conservative values during a March 11 debate at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

POLITICS

The primary election is May 7, with early in-person voting starting April 9.

An audience of more than 500 listened to about 90 minutes of questions and answers with candidates Mike Braun, Brad Chambers, Suzanne Crouch, Eric Doden, Curtis Hill and Jamie Reitenour.

The first question from moderator Ann Marie Shambaugh, managing editor of Current in Carmel, focused on whether the candidates would support changing the state constitution to allow citizen-led ballot iniatives.

For the most part, the candidates agreed that the existing system is best for Indiana. Hill said ballot initiatives work in other states, but not Indiana. He said initiatives tend to be led by emotions, rather than rational debate, and he doesn’t support provisions for citizen initiatives.

Crouch, who is the lieutenant governor in Gov. Eric Holcomb’s administration, said elected representatives make the decisions in Indiana and she supports that process. However, she said, if the General Assembly approved a ballot initiative bill and it came to her as governor to sign, she would support it.

Braun, Chambers and Doden said they, too, would consider approving an initiative bill passed by the Legislature.

However, Braun — who is completing his first term as a U.S. senator — said he would be concerned about outside money influencing the vote for ballot initiatives; Cham-

bers stressed the need for a governor to get to know the state’s “customers” — the citizens; and Doden said he prefers Indiana’s representative form of government.

Reitenour, a political newcomer who said that God called her to run for governor, said that when government operates the way it should, there’s no need for citizen initiatives, but when there’s government overreach, she could see where it could be necessary.

The candidates also discussed state laws that preempt local ordinances — such as a recent bill that rolled back some municipal regulations around commercial dog breeding. They all said they preferred local control and bottom-up government, rather than top-down, although there was some spirited disagreement over the need for LEAP — a state economic development project in Boone County — with Chambers vigorously defending it.

The candidates also all supported a recent bill that limits a governor’s emergency powers.

To watch the 90-minute debate, visit youarecurrentcom/2024republicandebate.

From left, Eric Doden, Brad Chambers, U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Curtis Hill, and Jamie Reitenour participate in the first gubernatorial debate ahead of the 2024 primary election. (Photo by Adam Seif)

PurpleStride walk to return

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Indiana residents can join 59 other communities nationwide April 27 for the PanCAN PurpleStride, a walk dedicated to ending pancreatic cancer.

CANCER

More than 1,000 local pancreatic cancer survivors, caregivers, families, researchers and supporters are expected to attend the event, according to PanCAN Communication Chair Joan Nicolet. The event will take place at White River State Park, 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis.

Nicolet said the goal is to raise $290,000.

“We have teams from all over the state come to this because it is the only pancreatic cancer fundraiser event in the state,” Nicolet said. “Right now, we’re hoping for about 1,200 people.”

Nicolet said funds raised from the event play a crucial role in advancing pancreatic cancer research and supporting patient services, making every contribution significant.

“Not only does the money go to research, but it also is used for patient services,” Nicolet said. “Individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer can utilize patient ser-

Jenny Bivans, a Zionsville resident and chair member of PanCAN’s Indianapolis affiliate, said there is a critical need for more awareness and research for pancreatic cancer.

“We can make a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients nationally by taking action locally,” Bivans stated.

Registration for PurpleStride is available at purplestride.org/indianapolis. In-person registration will begin at 8 a.m. the day of the event, before the 10 a.m. opening ceremony and 10:30 a.m. start time.

The PurpleStride walk is set for April 27 in Indianapolis. (Photo courtesy of PanCAN PurpleStride) vices for information on clinical trials and connecting with other people going through the same thing.”

What is a HELOC?

Commentary by Slater Young Mortgage Loan Officer, NMLS# 2104170

You’ve probably heard of a HELOC, or home equity line of credit, but you may not realize the impact this powerful tool can have on the journey of homeownership.

First, many misinterpret this loan as not a mortgage, when in fact it is. It is typically a second lien, behind your first mortgage. The important thing about this loan is that it does not impact your payment with your primary mortgage. This can be a great tool to use for home renovation, debt consolidation or other creative uses that do not get rid of your low interest rate on your primary mortgage.

The way it works is simple. We take 89.9 percent of the current value of your home, subtract your outstanding mortgage balance, and the remaining equity becomes available for future use. The nice thing about a HELOC is that similar to a credit card, if you do not have a balance, no payment is due.

Each HELOC can look different based on the financial profile of the homeowner,

which can result in different interest rates and draw lengths available. A bonus to the HELOC is that the costs to put one in place are typically a fraction of those associated with a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Once in place, you can draw up and pay down the balance as you see fit. A caution to many prospective borrowers is the lack of repayment on this loan can result in a balloon payment due at the end of the term.

Contact Community First Bank of Indiana for more information regarding mortgage products and your eligibility. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans must satisfy bank underwriting guidelines. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, NMLS #614034.

(Stock photo)

A timely termination leads to 111-year-old flooring business

By Mary Farucci news@youarecurrent.com

EF Marburger Fine Flooring on Allisonville Road in Fishers prides itself on providing all types of flooring for residential and commercial needs. Variety includes hardwood, carpet, tile, vinyl, glass and marble, among others.

A locally owned and family-operated business since its founding in 1913, EF Marburger Fine Flooring also has cabinet options, countertops and other home-related items in its showroom for customers interested in remodeling their kitchen, bathroom or basement.

“My great-grandfather Eli Franklin (Marburger), who the company is named after, worked at the flooring department at Blocks Department store in downtown Indianapolis,” said Kelly Marburger Novak, who now operates as the president and co-owner, along with her sister, Kimberly. They are the great-granddaughters of Eli Franklin Marburger.

“As the story goes, he was fired after returning back to the store five minutes late on his lunch break when he decided to start his own flooring business,” Marburger Novak said.

The rest is EF Marburger Fine Flooring family history.

“Originally, it was called The Guarentee Rug Company,” Marburger Novak said.

“Later, he changed it to EF Marburger. But he wanted to start a company that just helped and took care of customers. That was instilled in my grandfather and then my dad. That’s always been the most important thing. We want to make it easy

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EF Marburger Fine Flooring operates a showroom at 9999 Allisonville Rd. in Fishers. (Photos by Mary Farucci)

From left, Kimberly Marburger and Kelly Marburger Novak.

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for the customers and we want to make sure that they’re happy. That’s the backbone of the company.”

In 2018, Marburger Novak and her sister were officially handed the reins of the business by their father when he decided to retire.

The store, which has moved several times since its founding, has been at 9999 Allisonville Rd. since 1990.

“Literally, it’s the perfect place because we’re so centrally located to Carmel and Geist and Noblesville, Westfield,” Marburger Novak said. “It really is like your neighborhood flooring store. We love the local feel.”

For more, visit efmarburger.com.

Communication, efficiency inspires ‘un-corporate’ service business

By Tirzah Rowland news@youarecurrent.com

Sam Elsts started his family-owned pressure washing business, My Guy Services, 12 years ago to make extra money while studying business at IUPUI. The 2017 graduate now strives to be the go-to-guy for exterior home cleaning in the greater Indianapolis area.

“We’re not a corporation. We want to extend a helping hand to the people in the city we call home,” Elsts said.

rate and exact pricing for all of our services,” Elsts said. “And the price is shown as what the price is. The only time that is changed is if the price goes down.”

There is a service minimum of $299 for a basic house wash with an 18-month warranty against the return of algae.

My Guy Services provides power washing, pressure washing, concrete sealing, gutter cleaning, gutter guard installation and exterior window cleaning.

Core values for Elsts and his team are communication, efficiency and professionalism. He said they differentiate themselves by retaining a team yearround and providing timely booking windows.

The company’s website allows for service quotes within 30 seconds and convenient online scheduling.

“Since we’ve been in business so long, we know what things cost, and a few key indicators on the size of your home and what you’re wanting will give you accu-

“The average ticket for clients is right around $550 because they’re typically getting more than one service from us. They’re not just having us wash the house,” Elsts said.

The company provides discounts for bundled services.

Service hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Online quotes and the call center are available seven days a week.

The team also provides corporate and residential Christmas light installation beginning in October and snow plowing services as needed. The average cost for My Guy Services residential Christmas light installation is $1,200.

Elsts and his team were hired by the Indianapolis Zoo to wrap 50 trees for its lights display and contracted with the city to branch wrap 40 trees around Monument Circle.

For a quote or more information, visit myguyservicesllc.com.

Elsts

My Guy Services provides concrete sealing, pressure washing and other services. (Photo courtsey of Sam Elsts)

JOHN KIRK

Representing some of the world’s most revered brands, the 120,000-square-foot showroom brilliantly displays sophisticated, stylish and timeless designs. We are the largest Stickley dealer in Indiana. Whether you are looking for a unique single piece in our accessories store, or an entire roomful of furniture, our showroom has it all and more.

Some of the many brands we carry:

Enhancing the value of your home

Commentary by Robbin Edwards

There is no shortage of options when it comes to spending money on your home. There are plenty of lists on the internet about which of those options will add value. But those lists assume unlimited space and money, and they are not tuned to your market. Not everyone has the ability to add a bathroom, or the budget to totally remodel a kitchen. And sometimes something as simple as paint color can make a huge difference in the marketability of a home.

There are various factors to consider before tackling improvements, and often, they are market-specific and can change depending on the area in which the home is located, interest rates and price points. Depending on these factors, certain improvements will be more appealing to buyers and net more return on investment than others. It may pay to consult with a real estate professional about current and projected market trends and buyer preferences if your intent in making home renovations is to increase the value of your home.

For example, adding a bathroom or pantry traditionally enhances the value of a home. But, with current work-fromhome trends, it may be better and less expensive to convert that space into an office. Similarly, open floor plans are no longer universally desirable, given the need for privacy while working from home; so you might want to think twice before knocking down that wall.

Finishes also vary by market and price point. While gold fixtures may be making the rounds of high-end homes currently, they are not universally desirable and do not fit every home style.

While kitchens and primary bathrooms consistently rank high in providing a substantial return on investment, that doesn’t mean that everyone should run out and renovate these spaces. It depends on other factors and the overall condition of your home. A great kitchen in a home with deferred maintenance is not a good use of your money. You might be better off replacing the roof, the HVAC system, the siding or the windows before a

A real estate professional can help homeowners determine which projects add the most value to a home. (Photos courtsey of Robbin Edwards)

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kitchen renovation. Maintenance items can deplete a buyer’s cash quickly, so a well-maintained house is often more appealing than a home with a single, fabulous, updated space.

It is a good idea to make a list of the enhancements your home needs and those you want before tackling any project. We often do two different consults for clients. One is for the homeowner who plans to stay in their current home and is contemplating a bigger renovation. They want our input on space considerations and material choices based on current market trends. This homeowner wants to enjoy the result of their renovations while ensuring that the design and materials they chose will be appealing if they choose to sell.

The second consult is for the homeowner who wants to sell and knows that the home needs some improvements but is unsure of which direction to take. Often, these improvements are condition and maintenance related. Replacing carpet, painting and a professional deep clean can instantly change the look and feel of your home, making it more desirable for a buyer.

If you are considering a renovation and unsure about the direction, or you are thinking about selling your home, but you don’t know where to begin with getting your house ready, it is a good idea to get the advice of a real estate professional. They can give you feedback on how certain changes may fit your market and be perceived by potential buyers.

Enjoy your outdoor area year-round. Rain, shine, hot or cold.

Robbin Edwards is the founding member of Edwards Realty Group. You can contact her at robbin. edwards@encoresir.com.

ABOUT US

At The Heartland Builders, our mission is simple: Change the narrative of what it means to be a contractor. Our team has been carefully selected based on their overall experience and their dedication to treating our customers and their properties with respect. More than that, we complete work efficiently to minimize the disruption to your home life or business activities, and we do this without sacrificing on the superior quality that we instill in everything we do.

OUR SERVICES

• ROOFING & INSURANCE CLAIMS

• INTERIOR REMODELING

• HARDIE & VINYL SIDING

• GUTTERS & GUTTER GUARDS

• CONCRETE

• INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

• DOORS & WINDOWS

• & MORE

TESTIMONIAL

“I can’t say enough about the team of The Heartland Builders. Their communication, project management, workmanship, craftsmanship, and work ethic are top notch. For our kitchen remodel, each day the team showed up early, left around dinner, and worked the entire time. The team delivers on their word and obligations discussed through the sales process (a rare feat in any industry).

I’m already looking forward to our next project with The Heartland Builders.”

— Matt & Sarah Lang, Carmel

At Timber Ridge Fence Co., we believe in delivering speedy installations using high-quality wood, vinyl, and aluminum for all residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis. Choosing the perfect fence is not easy, but we’re here to help every step of the way - and we provide FREE ESTIMATES.

the

Changing colors, automation among outdoor lighting trends

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

When it comes to outdoor lighting, many homeowners are looking to add some new hues to their house.

Whether it’s green for St. Patrick’s Day or orange at Halloween, color-changing systems have been in high demand of late, according to John DeWaal, president of Carmel-based The Lampliter.

“They can set them for different holidays,” DeWaal said.

Automation is another trend, he said, which uses smart controls to program bulbs to switch on and off, dim or change color. The Lampliter will install and set up the system so the homeowner can control it from anywhere through a smart phone app.

“It’s good for people who are away from home for a while, who go away for the winter or who are on vacation,” DeWaal said. “They can monitor and control lighting if they want to make it look like they are home by turning the lights on and off a couple times a night. They could do it manually or program it.”

The Lampliter, which DeWaal co-found-

ed in 2018, works with homeowners to determine which lighting products and designs will best meet their needs. The company offers free consultations to get started.

“We’ll get an idea of what kind of lighting they like, what kind of style they like, what kind of finish they want on the lighting and also look at their house and the architecture,” DeWaal said.

The Lampliter aims to simplify the process as much as possible for clients, whether it’s for an indoor or outdoor project.

“Our goal is to make (the project) as simple and turnkey as possible. Then they can avoid having to go to a big box store and get overwhelmed by looking at the options and trying to understand what’s right for their home,” DeWaal said. “(Through online retailers), there are thousands and thousands of options when it comes to lighting. Our process helps narrow that down and make it a much easier and simplified process. They tell us what they want, and we bring it and we

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A landscape lighting installation by The Lampliter. (Photos courtesy of John DeWaal)

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put it up.”

DeWaal said outdoor lighting upgrades can provide several benefits for homeowners, such as increased security by discouraging intruders.

“They don’t want to be seen, so if they look at a well-lit house, they are probably going to pass it and go find a darker house where they can hide,” he said.

Outdoor lighting also improves safety for homeowners and guests, DeWaal said, as it allows them to see more clearly as they approach during dark hours.

Another benefit is improved aesthetics and the ability to customize the look to the homeowner’s taste.

“For us, outdoor lighting — or lighting in general — is the jewelry of a house,” DeWaal said. “A lot of times the simple process of updating lighting on the exterior of a house can really change the complexion of it for the better in many ways. And of all the things you can do to upgrade your house, it’s one of the more affordable ways to do it.”

Learn more at TheLampliter.com.

We are a full-service, licensed, bonded and insured roofing company serving Indy and surrounding areas for over 15 years. Let our trained roofing technicians inspect your roof free of charge so you know if your home is protected!

Air duct cleaning grows in popularity

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mite-E-Ducts Air Duct Cleaning General Manager Clay Winters has seen the growth of his business through the years.

“I think the knowledge and understanding of air duct cleaning and the importance of indoor air quality has increased,” Winters said. “People are more aware of the benefits of better indoor air quality. In addition to that, our technology has gotten better. The way we did it 30 years ago compared to how we do it now, it’s just more efficient. There’s better tools and technology than there used to be.”

Winters said the COVID-19 pandemic made people more aware of the importance of indoor air quality. He has been working in the Zionsville business since May 2000. His father, Alan Winters, is the owner and started the business in 1995 for his father, Ted Winters, who had some duct cleaning experience. The late Ted Winters retired in 2001.

“So, the main reasons why people are

“People are more aware of the benefits of better indoor air quality. In addition to that, our technology has gotten better. The way we did it 30 years ago compared to how we do it now, it’s just more efficient.

– CLAY WINTERS

having it done are to help remove any dust or allergens in the duct system, pet hair, pet dander,” he said. “We have a whole list of customers with allergies or asthma who are having it done on a regular basis to basically just help with the air quality in their home.”

Winters said it is recommended every three to five years to have the air ducts cleaned in your home.

“Our customers that have bad allergies

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A before and after of air duct cleaning.

(Photo courtesy of Mite-E-Ducts)

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or asthma tend to lean more towards that three-year mark and have it done a little bit more often,” he said.

Someone who doesn’t have as many allergies might go closer to the five-year mark.

Another reason to have duct cleaning is moving into a brand-new home, because there is often construction debris and drywall dust.

“Drywall dust is almost like soot. People will have moved into a home and notice there is this thin layer of drywall dust all over everything,” Winters said. “So, we do duct cleaning on brand-new homes and homes that have had a major remodel.”

Winters said some custom home builders perform the duct cleaning before the owners take possession.’

Another reason for duct cleaning, Winters said, is for smoke or fire damage.

Winters said the pricing often depends on if there is one or two furnaces in the home. The square footage of the home and number of vents are factors as well.

Winters said consumers need to be aware of scams from some duct cleaning businesses.

“It’s one of the lower-level costs because you can’t get into the business for under $10,000,” he said. “The problem with that is anybody can say they do (it).”

The National Air Duct Cleaning Association is the governing body and Winters said Mite-E-Ducts technicians are certified.

“The problem is they can’t regulate all these guys that come out of the woodwork and try to claim to be air duct cleaners,” he said.

For example, Winters said some companies might offer coupons for $99 or $49 duct cleaning.

“I tell people the average duct cleaning takes three to five hours for one system,” Winters said.

So, he asks potential customers if they think a company can come into the house for three to five hours and truly do the proper work for $99.

Winters said 90 percent of those companies come out and then start raising the cost, often targeting elderly people.

“When people call us, we give them upfront pricing,” he said.

Winters said his business primarily uses truck-mounted equipment, which serves as a giant vacuum.

“So, none of the dust and debris is being refiltered inside the home,” he said.

For more, visit airduct.info.

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Closets are a large part of Closets by Design’s business, of course, but the Indianapolis-area franchise offers space-saving design solutions throughout the home, including garages, bedrooms, pantries, laundry rooms and entertainment centers.

Franchise owner Anthony Rund, who lives in Carmel, said his team can help figure out storage options or upgrades for pretty much anywhere in the home.

“Our team here takes care of the process, start to finish — everything from a designer coming out and meeting with customers in their home, listening to what they need and then coming up with a custom design for their space and taking the measurements and all that, to the team at the shop here that does the engineering work and manufacturing,” he said. “And then our install crew goes out and puts it in.”

Rund has owned the franchise for two years, but the business has had an Indianapolis presence for about six years at 1810 S. Lynhurst Dr. He said he previously worked with Caterpillar.

“I started looking at different opportunities and saw this business and really liked it,” he said. “And with four kids, I saw

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the value in some of the systems (for) keeping things organized.”

He said the team can optimize storage for all kinds of spaces, including small closets. In fact, he said, small spaces probably benefit the most from custom organizing.

Rund added that homeowners these days are looking to add more drawers to their closet designs, reducing or eliminating the need for bedroom dressers.

“Almost every job we’re doing some element of drawers and essentially moving a dresser-type space into the closet,” he said.

Rund said his team offers a personalized experience for homeowners.

“The time we spend up front — we’re listening to what customers’ needs are, coming up with that custom solution and then the capability we have right here in Indianapolis to build the product, manufacture it and then go out and install it,” he said, adding that a custom closet can fill a homeowner’s needs better than something standardized from a big-box store.

Learn more at indianapolis. closetsbydesign.com

HELLO, DALI

Newfields exhibit celebrates surrealist artist’s work and life

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Surrealism has taken over the fourth floor of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, with a new multisensory, immersive exhibit celebrating all things Dali, including four paintings that have been in storage for decades.

The LUME Indianapolis featuring “Dali Alive” opened in early March and runs through spring 2025. The exhibit’s floor-toceiling projectors with moving images from Salvador Dali’s life and artwork, accompanied by music and a piped-in scent, provide an all-encompassing experience for people walking through the main 30,000-squarefoot space.

Jonathan Berger, vice president of marketing and external affairs, was on hand for a recent media preview of the exhibit. He said the exhibit shows the evolution of Dali’s artwork, from earlier pieces that are more impressionist than surreal to his better-known work featuring melting clocks and elephants with long, stick-thin legs.

“It kind of tells the story of, OK, this is how we started — kind of a traditional artist — and then evolved into these dreamscapes and, really — in the literal sense of the word — fantastic images,” he said.

The exhibit includes four original watercolors by Dali — who usually worked in oils — that have never been publicly displayed before now. The paintings were created when Dali was commissioned to design the set of the 1961-1962 production of the opera “The Spanish Lady and the Roman Cavalier.”

Berger said it was exciting when the paintings were brought out for the exhibit, and he’s happy the public will have a chance to see them up close before they go back into storage to preserve their watercolor paint, which easily fades.

“Any time out in any light, no matter how UV-protected it is, it’s always a risk (with watercolors),” he said. “They’ll go back in dark storage and rest for several years.

That’s another exciting part about this is that they’re out — let’s drink it in while we still can.”

In addition to drinking in Dali’s surrealism, exhibit visitors can create some of

their own. Through an interactive art-generating artificial-intelligence program, visitors choose colors, subjects and descriptions they want for their Dali-esque image, and the program uses those prompts to create a unique image. Visitors can have the image emailed to them, to keep and/or share on social media. There also are Dali selfie stations to take photos surrounded by melting clocks and other iconic Dali imagery.

The LUME cafe and bar also are part of the immersive experience and were remodeled to accompany the surrealist theme of the exhibit.

The cafe offers a menu of Spanish cheese, olives and other snacks in honor of Dali’s Spanish heritage, as well as specialty cocktails. Bartender Caleb Gwin made what he called the Canvasnova — an updated version of the Casanova, a cocktail featured in a cookbook Dali published.

“It’s an herbal, bittery, fiery little blend,” Gwin said of the orange-hued drink. “We’ve got a nice brandy; we’ve got fresh ginger, fresh orange juice, as well as a pair of herbal liqueurs … and then we have a little sprinkling of cayenne pepper. It’s herbalicious; it’s temperamental — really unique

and complex.”

Kind of like Dali.

For more about the exhibit, visit discovernewfields.org.

ON THE COVER: A woman takes a photo during the “Dali Alive” exhibit at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. (Photo by

THE LIFE OF DALI

Salvador Felipe Jacinto Dali was born in 1904 in Figueres, Spain. At the age of 10, he painted one of his earliest known works, a green-hued landscape that is on display at The Salvador Dali Museum.

According to the museum’s website, Dali attended a drawing school at age 12 where he was introduced to impressionism, and he had his first public exhibition when he was 15.

After meeting his future wife, Gala, in 1929 — who at the time was married to a surrealist poet — Dali joined the Surrealist movement, according to the Dali Museum.

Melting clocks appeared in his work in the early 1930s.

Dali fled Europe during World War II, spending most of the 1940s in the United States. During that time, he had a retrospective at the New York MOMA, and worked with Alfred Hitchcock and Walt Disney on some films.

According to the museum’s website, Dali’s “classical period” began in the 1950s, featuring more religious, historical and scientific themes in his work.

Dali was badly injured in a fire in 1984. He moved back to his home town of Figueres, where he died of heart failure in 1989. He was 84 years old.

For more, visit thedali.org.

Leila Kheiry)

Dali

Four original watercolors by Salvador Dali are part of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields’ new “Dali Alive” exhibit. This is the first time they have been displayed publicly. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

Newfields bartender Caleb Gwin with the Canvasnova — an updated version of the Casanova, a cocktail featured in a cookbook Salvador Dali published.

Jonathan Berger, vice president of marketing and external affairs for the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, leads a media tour of the new immersive exhibit “Dali Alive.”

CARMEL

MERIDIAN-KESSLER

ZIONSVILLE

Director quite familiar with ‘The King and I’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Brian Jose has a long history with “The King and I,” having acted in the musical three times.

MUSICAL

Jose

So naturally, he has some ideas about the production as he is directing the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic for Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Performances are April 4 to May 19.

“There is only so much you can do with altering the words and music for your productions as per performance rights,” Jose said. “The words are the words. So, you have to think of other ways you can impact the story told as a director. It was imperative to me that we cast a mixed Anglo-Indian woman as Anna Leonowens. Historians have pointed out that Anna was of Anglo-Indian descent, something that has eluded the casting of this role for most productions. For me, that slight shift makes all the difference. Instead of a story that can easily be seen as a white savior-colonialism story, we get a more complex story about a woman who has had to suppress her culture in order to advance in society to provide for her children as a single mother. And on top of that, (is) invited to a foreign country where she then decides to scold them for behavior not accepted in the more modern Western world. (It’s a) way more fascinating conundrum than simply a white woman intrigued by an exotic land.”

Jose said there is a reason the Thai government has banned the show in its coun-

“Having ‘The King and I’ be my professional directorial debut feels very much like a fullcircle moment for me.”

– BRIAN JOSE

try since its inception.

“It’s based on source material that is questioned for its accuracy and honesty,” Jose said. “I don’t think the book, nor the musical, ever claimed to be either.

The musical was based on the book, “Anna and the King of Siam.”

This is the first time Jose had directed at Beef & Boards, although the 1992 Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School graduate acted as Bun Foo in the 2007 production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”

Previously, Jose acted as the Interpreter in “The King and I” while studying theater during his undergraduate years at Indiana University. He then played the role of Lun Tha/Angel George for a production at a theater in Long Island when he first moved to New York City about 25 years ago. In the summer of 2022, he played the lead role of the King in a show in Meredith, N.H.

“It’s been very special to have ‘The King and I’ be a part of my theatrical journey for three very different and significant parts of my life,” he said. “So, having ‘The King and I’ be my professional directorial debut feels very much like a full-circle moment for me.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

DISPATCH

Nick Carter set for Palladium concert — In the wake of the Backstreet Boys’ successful world tour, Nick Carter will bring his solo “Who I Am” world tour to the Center for the Performing Arts this fall. The show is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26, at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets starting at $35 and went on sale March 22 at thecenterpresents.org. The concert, part of the Printing Partners Encore Series, is the first to be announced from the 2024-25 Center Presents Season, presented in partnership with Allied Solutions. The full season, with more than 50 performances in a range of genres, will be announced May 21. Carter’s solo career has produced three albums, along with singles including last year’s “Hurts to Love You,” which topped charts in the U.S. and Canada. His TV and film work has included his own VH1 series, “I Heart Nick Carter” and finalist runs on “The Masked Singer” and “Dancing with the Stars.” The Who I Am tour is his first solo outing in seven years.

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre features world premiere of ‘Golem’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Gregory Hancock’s latest creation uses a folklore tale to address the rise of antisemitism.

PERFORMANCE

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s production of “Fables and Folklore” features the world premiere of “Golem” and the return of “Pinocchio.” The performances are set for 7 p.m. April 5-6 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Hancock, GHDT executive artistic director, said “Golem” is a story from folklore of a rabbi who creates a creature out of mud to protect the Jewish ghetto of Prague from persecution.

“I draw elements of this story into the piece, but it really is addressing the rise in antisemitism and current conflicts throughout the world,” Hancock said. “It is a timely piece that draws inspiration from the past to direct a voice to the present.”

Hancock said Prague is one of his favorite cities, and he has visited several times.

“The story of the golem of Prague has always intrigued me and I thought it should be used in a dance piece in some way,” Hancock said. “The piece was planned over a year and a half ago. Even at that time, I wanted to find a metaphoric way to represent the light being overshadowed by darkness. I had thought about a solar eclipse to represent this but was not sure how to create that on stage. At the time of planning, the upcoming solar eclipse was not on my radar, so the timing just seemed to work out serendipitously. The creation of new pieces often requires a good deal of time simply because they are new, which means new costumes and props need to be created. With ‘Golem,’ a film of an eclipse is being created that will be projected on the cyc, and I have also been constructing a 9-foot golem.”

“Golem” is presented in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of Indianapolis. “Pinocchio” was last presented in 2013 at The Tarkington.

In “Pinocchio,” the main roles are Gepetto, The Cricket, the Blue Fairy and Pinocchio, along with an array of steampunk puppets. Abigail Lessaris is reprising her role as The Cricket, but all the other roles are being performed by new dancers.

Hancock said the two dances, “Golem”

and “Pinocchio,” are interesting paired together.

“While the storylines and the music are vastly different, the common thread of a man creating a puppet or golem tie the program together,” Hancock said.

Lessaris said Hancock always finds a way to take a classic story and add an element that will enthrall an audience.

“This piece will not disappoint.,” she said. “‘Pinocchio’ is a piece returning to the stage after 10 years. I am honored to be reprising the role of Geppetto’s Cricket. I first performed this part 10 years ago when I was a senior in high school. It’s incredibly rewarding to return to this piece with the maturity and artistry of a seasoned dancer.”

Thomas Mason said the process of building and creating a new work is always exciting.

“The opportunity to experience the creation of the golem is something our audience will not want to miss,” Mason said.

Mason will perform as Geppetto.

“This is a part unlike anything I’ve danced before,” Mason said. “In our version of the story, Geppetto is bound to a wheelchair. It has been challenging to find a new way of dancing within the wheelchair. I have loved every second of working in a new way. Not to mention the joy of working with our wonderful student Vincent Kitchen. He will bring to life the character of Pinocchio. This talented 12-year-old will amaze you.”

For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

(Left) Josie Moody dresses up as the Blue Fairy from “Pinocchio.” (Right) Abigail Lessaris performs as the Cricket in “Pinocchio” (Photos by Lydia Moody)

Blueprint for Improvement: Contemporary Indy Kitchen

Commentary by Larry Greene

From dark and dated to stylish and sleek, the kitchen in this Normandy Farms subdivision home hadn’t been updated since it was built in 1989. The new owners wanted a more open space to amp up the room’s functionality and improve the overall aesthetic.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Bright white custom cabinets add light to the space, while indigo shades on the island and backsplash provide a touch of depth and modern style.

• A wall dividing the kitchen and dining room was removed, opening the space and improving the room’s flow and function.

• The original bar-height island that interrupted the line of sight was replaced with a counter-height island, making entertaining and serving a breeze.

• Honey-bronze finishes and wood shelving bring warmth and classic style with a pristine modern touch.

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.

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