Tuesday, February 4, 2025
CITYSCAPE
Infrastructure project aims to refresh downtown, lift Noblesville businesses / P11 El Cantarito
City announces proposal for east side community / P3
STAR Bank names market managers / P5
Mexican Grill opens in Noblesville / P7
HAND to self-manage rental properties / P10
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Proposal for east side community announced
news@currentnoblesville.com
The City of Noblesville has announced a proposal by Henke Development Group for a 1,100-acre master-planned community known as Gatewood Lakes.
CITY NEWS
Proposed to be built at the intersection of 146th Street and Olio Road, the plan will be introduced to the Noblesville Common Council at its meeting at 6 p.m. Feb. 11. The location is north of Innovation Mile, and the buildout would span seven to 10 years, with a goal of breaking ground in 2026.
City of Noblesville Communications Director Lexie Rock said Gatewood Lakes would be a golf cart community. It would have single-family homes, townhomes, multifamily homes and 2.5 miles of shoreline along the community’s lake district. It also would have 140 acres of greenspace, marked routes on waterways for recreation, parks, a mini marina with light watercraft options and 20 miles of trails for walking and biking.
“The Gatewood Lakes development (would) offer a unique living environment for current and future residents in Noblesville,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen stated. “The Henke Group has designed a community that (would) provide opportunities to enjoy nature, shoreline and first-class amenities.”
Rock said a signature feature would be Deer Creek Village, a mixed-use hub with shopping and dining options within walking distance of Ruoff Music Center.
Henke Development Group has held the land for investment purposes for years. Rock said Henke took steps to ensure the project would enhance Noblesville’s overall vision for Innovation Mile.
“In times of continuous change and countless opportunities, people seek to spend their time in environments that enhance their quality of life,” stated Steve Henke, owner of Henke Development Group. “There is a growing demand for high-quality de-
velopments with abundant amenities. We are witnessing a shift towards quality and experience. Noblesville has responded to the demand with Innovation Mile and Hyde Park. Gatewood Lakes (would build) upon that response to further establish Noblesville as a desirable place to live with proximity to Ruoff Music Center and Hamilton Town Center.”
For more, visit GatewoodLakes.com.
Event center rebrands, launches website
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Noblesville Event Center has announced it is rebranding to The Arena at Innovation Mile. The Arena at Innovation Mile is a multipurpose sports venue set to open near Ind. 69 this summer. The 123,000-square-foot venue can seat up to 4,200 and will be home to Indiana Pacers Sports & Entertainment’s G League franchise. It also will host various sports, en-
INNOVATION MILE
tertainment, private and corporate events.
“We are thrilled to announce the new branding for The Arena at Innovation Mile,” stated Justin Jordan, general manager of The Arena at Innovation Mile. “The Arena will be a thriving community hub, and we can’t wait to deliver memorable experiences to residents beginning later this year.”
Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said he looks forward to the opening of the facility.
“Its branding pays tribute to our city, recognizes our partnership with Pacers Sports & Entertainment and establishes a strong
identity for The Arena,” Jensen stated.
The Arena at Innovation Mile also announced the launch of its new website arenainnovationmile.com. Residents can visit the website to stay up to date on events and register to receive more information.
Jordan said additional announcements will be made this spring, including the rebranding of the Pacers’ G League franchise. REV Entertainment, a sports and entertainment industry leader, will serve as the venue operator upon completion.
Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 19
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Conceptual map for Gatewood Lakes. (Map courtesy of Lexie Rock)
Southwest corner of 116th & I-69
DISPATCHES
Correction — The traveling nurses’ rental home is near hospitals such as Riverview Health, Ascension St. Vincent Fishers and IU Health Primary Care Nobleville. This information was incorrect in a Feb. 4 story in Current in Noblesville.
HEPL selected to boost literacy — Hamilton East Public Library is among more than 100 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association to increase digital literacy using Digitallearn. org resources, powered by a $2.7 million contribution from AT&T. Hamilton East Public Library is working to bridge the digital divide and offers programs to help build basic technology skills, such as using email, navigating the internet, building cybersecurity awareness, knowing more about using Android/iOS devices and more. Over the next few months, HEPL will increase its computer and technology learning opportunities through the grant. For the first time, HEPL is offering some sessions in languages other than English. For more, visit hamiltoneastpl.org/digitallearn-workshops.
CPCU board announced — The Central Indiana Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters Society Chapter has announced its board of directors for 2025. Serving through Dec. 31 are: President Tyson Vaughn, Gregory & Appel Insurance; Vice President David Paul, Astra Insurance Group; Secretary Rebekah Moore, FCCI Insurance Group; Treasurer Michael Schliesmann, Protective Insurance; Immediate Past President Melissa Droste, Cincinnati Specialty Underwriters; and directors Aaron Dubas, Liberty Mutual Insurance; Amy Howell, Travelers Insurance; John Newlin, FCCI Insurance Group; Seth Payton, Arlington/Roe Insurance; Alicia Peetz, Pekin Insurance; Eric Richmond, Hanover Insurance; Melissa Rightley, Erie Insurance; and Craig Sanford,Church Mutual Insurance.
State commission issues nitrous oxide warning — The Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission has issued notice to Indiana tobacco sellers, warning them against the illegal sale of nitrous oxide, a misdemeanor. The commission stated in a news release that 18 Indiana tobacco certificate holders have already been cited for selling nitrous oxide tanks and employees have been referred for criminal prosecution. The ATC encourages the public to submit anonymous tips or complaints about this matter to Indiana State Excise Police or local law enforcement agencies.
Bank names market managers
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
STAR Bank announced the recent promotions of Jenifer Porter and Alicia Lynch. They will be market managers for branches in Indiana.
“I’m thrilled to roll out the market manager position to both our north and south regions,” Mike Wallace, president of retail banking for STAR Bank, stated in a news release.
“This position will allow for teams to continue to focus on growth while delivering relevant products to our customer base. I have no doubt the individuals selected for the position will see continued success.”
Porter and Lynch are responsible for the overall retail sales within each market, such as daily sales, service and operations for a full-service bank branch, and customer support.
Lynch has been with STAR Bank for more than 22 years, according to Wallace.
She will oversee the bank’s Noblesville, Westfield, Olio Road, 96th Street and Carmel branches.
Lynch said she wants to deepen STAR Bank’s presence in Hamilton County and build stronger relationships with customers and the community.
“This market is growing rapidly, and I look forward to helping individuals and businesses find the right financial solutions to support their success,” Lynch said. “My goal is to create a welcoming and engaging banking experience while continuing to foster STAR’s commitment to exceptional service and community involvement.”
Wallace said Porter has been with STAR Bank for 17 years and most recently served as a training branch manager. For more, visit starfinancial.com.
Fishers-based ‘Gram’ influencer teams up with Current
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Fishers resident Sean Hartwick gained a lot of experience in the real estate business as a child, with his family moving every couple of years for his dad’s work. That early experience led him to a career as a Realtor, which then led to a gig as an Instagram influencer.
COLLABORATION
Hartwick regularly posts videos on his Instagram account, @the317agent, about what’s happening in Fishers and the north Indy area, along with videos specific to the real estate market. He’s gained about 23,000 followers after only a couple of years and now he’s teaming up with Current Publishing to promote local news and events through social media.
Indiana was a repeat stop on his family’s moving adventures, Hartwick said, and the Indianapolis area felt like home base. He
later earned a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University and eventually made his way to Southern California, where he met his wife, Amanda, who had lived in that area her entire life. After about four years in sunny California, he said they chose to move to Fishers about three years ago.
“I brought Amanda back to Indianapolis for a month in February, just to test out if she liked it at the absolute coldest time it could be,” he said. “And she liked it.”
Hartwick said his account is a low-key pitch for his business, with maybe 40 percent of posts focusing on housing and 60 percent about the community in general. He’s made videos about the new Fishers Event Center, for example, and his first collaboration with Current focuses on the Jan. 29 grand opening of the new Kroger store at 116th Street and Allisonville Road.
Hartwick said he’s excited about working with Current.
Hartwick
HSCO eyes illegal immigrant program
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is taking steps to strengthen its ability to detain illegal immigrants who commit certain crimes.
LAW ENFORCEMENT
The HCSO wants to join the federal 287(g) program, which authorizes trained law enforcement officials to hold some illegal immigrants at the Hamilton County Jail longer than currently allowed.
illegally, Lowe’s said, and 77 had an ICE detainer. A detainer is a request by ICE for local law enforcement to hold an individual for 48 hours after his or her scheduled release date so the federal agency can determine whether to take custody of the individual.
Chief Deputy John Lowes oversees the program for HCSO. He said the initiative is aimed at improving public safety by removing violent offenders from the area and that deputies won’t proactively search the community to arrest those here illegally.
“If someone is committing a crime, we’re going to hold them accountable. If they’re here illegally, we’ll work with ICE to have them removed, if that’s the appropriate step,” Lowes said. “But if someone is a victim or a witness of a crime, we want them to report that. We want them to cooperate with us and not have fear that we are going to ask for their papers or immigration status or whatever it may be.”
In 2024, approximately 500 people booked into the Hamilton County Jail self-reported being in the U.S.
“So, if all local charges are satisfied and ICE does not show up, we would have to release that person,” Lowes said. “However, when our officers go through this training (for the 287(g) program), they will be able to sign the detainer, and then that person would become a federal inmate. We would house them until ICE shows up, and then we would be reimbursed for that.”
If HCSO joins the 287(g) program, Lowes said individuals with an ICE detainer will not be held indefinitely.
“And just because they’re detained does not mean automatically they’re deported,” he said. “They have due process.”
Lowes said authorized deputies would be able to identify individuals eligible for removal and could begin the process. The official retainer would still come from ICE.
Lowes said participation in the 287(g) program should improve communication between the agencies.
Learn more at hamiltoncounty.in.gov/1924/Sheriff.
Annual custom home tour set
Old Town Design Group’s 2025 Custom Home Tour will be presented Feb. 15-16 from noon to 5 p.m. both days.
The self-guided annual tour allows attendees to explore six custom homes, including four move-in-ready options, in some of the northside’s most coveted neighborhoods in Hamilton and Boone counties. The homes are in a mix of golf course, equestrian and downtown settings.
The neighborhoods with homes on the tour are Promontory in Zionsville; Holliday Farms in Zionsville; Midland South in Westfield; North End in Carmel; and Sunrise on the Monon in Carmel. Two homes are featured in Holliday Farms.
Featured homes and locations can be found by downloading a map at oldtowndesigngroup.com/event/2025-custom-home-tour/. For more about Old Town Design Group, a leading luxury home builder in central Indiana, visit oldtowndesigngroup.com.
The new Community Clinic at Walgreens in Noblesville will offer convenient care with evening and weekend hours. Whether you need cold and flu care, treatment for minor injuries or help managing chronic conditions, our exceptional care team will be there for you.
Opening soon at 2380 Pleasant Street. Scan the QR code to learn more about this new location. Convenient and easily accessible care is coming soon to Noblesville!
Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 7 pm
Saturday – Sunday, 8:30 am – 5 pm
Old Town Design Group’s self-guided tours are Feb 15-16. (Photo courtesy of Old Town Design Group)
Lowe
El Cantarito now open
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
A family-owned Mexican restaurant operation wants to establish itself in Noblesville.
RESTAURANT
El Cantarito Mexican Grill, whose menu features everything from nachos and tacos to burritos and quesadillas, opened Feb. 1 at 17535 Terry Lee Crossing in Noblesville.
Noblesville residents Pedro and Karina Hernandez started the restaurant 15 years ago in Cloverdale. Now, the married couple are expanding to northern Indiana, with their next location set to open in April in Carmel.
The couple’s daughter, Judith Hernandez, said the family moved to Noblesville from Tennessee last fall to expand the business.
“Ever since our Cloverdale location opened, we’ve lived in Tennessee,” Judith said. “My dad has traveled back and forth, but he really likes Indiana, so he was ready to expand the corporate name.”
The family also owns a Mexican restaurant in Decatur, which opened in November 2024. Judith said the family received an offer for the Noblesville restaurant based
on the success of the Cloverdale and Decatur restaurants.
“We serve basic Mexican food, but before we opened, we went around to see what our competition was like and noticed their food is completely different from ours,” Judith said. “While we offer similar items, it just tastes different. We have a good variety of things on our menu.”
As the business expands, Judith said her parents want to establish a restaurant that each of their three kids can someday operate.
For more, visit facebook.com/p/ El-Cantarito-Mexican-Grill-61571766994554.
Noblesville resident honored
news@youarecurrent.com
McDonald’s of Indiana recently celebrated an alumnus who is making an impact on the stage and in her community.
Westfield McDonald’s honored Noblesville resident Jessica Hopper last month as a “McDonald’s 1 in 8” — a campaign that focuses on the statistic that 1 in 8 Americans has been employed by McDonald’s at some point in their lives.
Hopper said the skills she learned as a McDonald’s employee — including time management, customer service, communication and adaptability — played a role in shaping her journey to become Mrs. United USA 2024. She earned the pageant title in July 2024.
Hopper was recognized last month at McDonald’s in Westfield, where she was presented with a 1 in 8 varsity jacket and sash, officially recognizing her as Mrs. United USA McDonald’s 1 in 8.
“We are thrilled to honor Jessica and celebrate her achievements as part of our 1 in 8 campaign,” McDonald’s Owner/Operator
Present to honor Jessica Hopper of Noblesville as a McDonald’s 1 in 8 Honoree, from left, Outreach Director for the Office of U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz Laura Alerding, McDonald’s owner/ operator Blake Kosanovich, Hopper, McDonald’s owner/operator Alison Kosanovich and McDonald’s Field Operators Consultant Holly Varnes. (Photo courtesy of Westfield McDonald’s)
Alison Kosanovich stated. “Her dedication to her community embodies the values we hold dear at McDonald’s — hard work, compassion and leadership. We are so proud to have played a small part in her journey.”
Hopper is the founder of SAFE Homes, an organization dedicated to child abuse prevention. She uses her pageantry platform to advocate for vulnerable children.
El Cantarito Mexican Grill is at 17535 Terry Lee Crossing in Noblesville. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Death by Chocolate fundraiser returns after 5-year hiatus
By Les Morris news@currentincarmel.com
A sweet fundraiser makes a much-anticipated return Feb. 13 when Cherish Center presents Death by Chocolate. The sampling event begins at 7 p.m. at Iron & Ember at the Brookshire Golf Club in Carmel.
NONPROFIT
The Cherish Center is a Child Advocacy Center that works with children, families, law enforcement and social service professionals to offer a comprehensive, child-focused approach to child abuse cases. The Carmel-based agency, which serves Hamilton and Tipton counties, was founded in 2009. It serves a critical need in helping victims of child abuse and their families with the recovery process. In 2024, the agency’s professionals completed 331 forensic interviews with children.
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted Death by Chocolate after its third iteration in
2019. It hasn’t been held since. The event is Cherish Center’s primary annual fundraiser with a fundraising goal of $30,000 and an expected attendance of 250.
“We’re super excited to be bringing it back, and we have many new vendors coming this year,” said Allison Hackman, event coordinator at Cherish Center. “We’ve had people ask, ‘When is Death by Chocolate coming back?’ So, we’re excited to be able to do it.”
Death by Chocolate will include chocolate samples from businesses such as Cake Me Happy, Cinnaholic, Greek’s Pizzeria, Sweet & Savory, Toast the Host, The Treat Boutique, Upland Brewing Co. and others.
The event also will have golf simulators, raffle baskets, a wine pull, a bourbon pull and a photo wall.
Tickets are limited and sponsorships still available. Individual tickets are $100 with a four-pack selling for $350. For more, visit cherishcac.org/death-by-chocolate.
JUST FOR LAUGHS
indie folk band
‘Jersey Boys’ veteran to guide Beef & Boards show
JUST FOR LAUGHS
Four decades later, stand-up routine still fun for Foxworthy
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jeff Foxworthy has written several books, hosted TV game shows and radio shows, starred in his own sitcom and recorded comedy albums, but stand-up comedy is still the thing he enjoys most.
“It’s funny. When I quit my job at IBM to try this, I secretly hoped I’d be able to get away with it for two or three years,” he said. “It never dawned on me that I could make a lifelong career out of it. Now, I’ve been doing it for 41 years. I love the time on the stage. I am over the airports and hotel rooms. Now when I do a show, I jokingly say the show is free. You are paying me to get on another plane and sleep in another hotel
room.”
Foxworthy will perform at 8 p.m. Feb. 21 at Fishers Event Center. His longtime friend Reno Collier is the opening act. The performance is presented by the Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation.
“I’m big on education because I’m two decisions from drywalling,” Foxworthy said. “It’s amazing to me how you can change people’s lives with education.”
Laughter can change lives. Foxworthy said it often seems like Americans have been yelling at each other for a long time and have forgotten how to laugh at themselves.
“I don’t think laughter makes people’s problems go away, but it is a relief valve that keeps the boiler from exploding,” he said. “It’s a coping mechanism. I think the more we can laugh,
especially laugh at ourselves, the more mentally healthy we are to deal with the rest of life.”
The 66-year-old comedian said he often gets asked why he doesn’t retire.
“Why would I quit doing something I really enjoy doing?” he said. “It's changed so much over the decades of doing it. I think I was fortunate as a comedian that I discovered early on what worked for me. I just figured out if my wife or family member was doing or saying something, other people were thinking, saying and doing the same thing. That’s always the template I’ve come up with ideas for. It’s very rewarding when people come backstage and say, ‘You’ve been in my house.’ It’s been a wonderful way to make a living. I kind of feel like I cheated life.”
Foxworthy said he marvels at the different aspects of his career.
“When you are in the middle of it, you are just trying to be creative,” he said. “You look back and say, ‘I had some pretty productive years.’”
Foxworthy said he has slowed down on some of his activities so he can enjoy more time as a grandparent.
“I paint and draw and do a lot of different things,” he said. “My wife says if I’m not doing something creative, I’ll explode. I found just different creative things. I just wrote a movie with a friend and I’m tinkering around with a novel -- doing some things I thought might be fun but never had the time to do.”
Foxworthy is no stranger to performing in larger arenas. He spent six years on the Blue Collar Comedy Tour with his friends Bill Engvall, Ron White and Larry the Cable Guy.
“We were doing arenas. Financially for me, it was a boon, but it’s a weird show for me as a comic because I’ve always thought comedy is kind of an intimate thing,” he said. “Even to this day, if I’m working on new material, I go back to itty bitty clubs. Some might hold 75 people.”
Foxworthy prefers to perform at a small club on a Monday or Tuesday instead of a weekend because he said he feels he gets a more honest audience reaction.
“I love that intimate environment,” Foxworthy said. “One of the things that has always kept standup interesting to me is you never get to the point that you have it figured out. After four decades, you think I would know what people will laugh at, but I can still be dead wrong. But that makes it fun and interesting.”
Foxworthy’s fame started with his “You Might Be a Redneck ...” routine. He turned it into a joke-a-day calendar.
“We did the first one in 1990, and I remember two or three years after saying to my brother, ‘I don’t know if there are 365 more (redneck jokes) out there,’” he said. “I just finished the calendar for 2026. Thirty-six years later, it’s still one of the bestselling page-a-day calendars. I don’t do it much on stage anymore because I figure people want to hear something on stage they haven’t heard before. I need to go back and see how many I’ve written because it’s got to be close to 10,000 (one-liners).”
For tickets, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
Jeff Foxworthy will perform at 8 p.m. Feb. 21 at Fishers Event Center. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Event Center)
EVENTS CALENDER
‘PRIDE & PREJUDICE’
Through Feb. 22
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. The show is a spirited and refreshing take on the Jane Austen classic.
For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
‘JERSEY BOYS’
Feb. 14 - April 13
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents the fascinating secret of a 40-year friendship that led Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom.
For tickets and showtimes, visit beefandboards.com.
STEVE WARINER
Feb. 21
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
KALANI PE'A
Feb. 22
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
INDIANAPOLIS OPERA: 50TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY GALA CONCERT
March 22
In celebration of 50 years of championing the vocal arts, Indianapolis Opera presents a legacy gala concert at the historic Hilbert Circle Theater in collaboration with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra for the first time in 20 seasons. The event will showcase returning opera stars and worldrenowned alumni from IO’s many decades of artistry in the heart of Indiana, alongside members of the Indianapolis Opera Chorus, in a special evening presentation of opera favorites and classic lyric theater hits. For tickets and showtimes, visit indyopera.com
DON WAS & THE PAN-DETROIT ENSEMBLE
Feb. 28
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
‘AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE’
March 1
Presented by Indiana Wind Symphony at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This special concert will feature a captivating arrangement of Bologne's "Overture to L'Amant Anonyme," alongside other chamber works. For tickets and showtimes, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
CRIME JUNKIE PODCAST LIVE: LIFE RULE #10 TOUR
March 6
‘CAT IN THE HAT’
Feb. 25 - March 6
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
TOM SEGURA: COME TOGETHER TOUR
Feb. 28
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
Award-winning podcasters Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat will present the Crime Junkie Life Rule #10 Tour which is billed as an unforgettable true crime experience. For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
'LIFT EVERY VOICE'
A Celebration of Black History Through Music at the Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Opera star Angela Brown will lend her powerful voice to Indianapolis Wind Symphony’s tribute to Black History Month.
Brown, a soprano who lives in Indianapolis. will perform on three pieces during the Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Lift Every Voice” concert, set for 4 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“She will perform a suite of traditional gospel songs that are in a nontraditional setting,” IWS Music Director Jay S. Gephart said.
The suite is by composer Luigi Zaninelli. In the second half of the concert, Brown will perform two arias by composer Giacomo Puccini.
Gephart said several of the composers featured in the concert are Black. One of those composers is Omar Thomas, who is on the faculty of the University of Texas. The concert will include his piece “Our New Day Begun.”
The concert includes “Kaleidoscope Eyes” by Katahji Copley, a doctoral student at Michigan State University.
Gephart said trumpet player Jim Butz will perform a “beautiful” arrangement to compos-
“Summertime.”
The concert includes a tribute piece, “Salvation is Created,” to Janis Stockhouse, who died in December 2024. She was the Bloomington North High School band director for 38 years before retiring in 2019.
“She was one of the most respected band directors in the country,” Gephart said. “Her Bloomington North jazz band played at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago on three occasions. She won the Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor, which is the highest recognition the Midwest Clinic will give.”
In 2005, Stockhouse received the James B. Calvert Award, given annually to outstanding music educators at an IWS concert.
IWS assistant conductor Evan Cooper will be the guest conductor on “Castles in Europe.”
“We’re also doing a traditional march called ’Steadfast Leadership,’ which was done in honor of the 50th graduating class at West Point,” Gephart said. “The composer is Dwayne Milburn, who was the chief arranger for the United States Army Band for a number of years.”’
For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
Soprano Angela Brown will be guest vocalist at Indiana Wind Symphony's Concert. (File photo) er Dave Wolpe’s
A FRESH SPIN
‘Jersey Boys’ veteran to guide Beef & Boards production
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Candi Boyd will never grow weary of her ties to “Jersey Boys.”
“I love ‘Jersey Boys,’” Boyd said. “I joined the cast of the first national tour in 2009, then the Broadway cast in 2011. I have had the opportunity to perform the show for over 11 years, in New York City, and all over the U.S. -- Las Vegas, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey.”
Boyd is the director/choreographer for Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Jersey Boys,” which runs Feb. 14 to April 13 at the Indianapolis venue. The story is based on the life story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
“I feel so lucky that I have had the privilege to work on one of the best musicals in history for so long,” Boyd said. “I truly don’t tire of it, and now my kids even sing the songs around the house. I’ll happily work on ‘Jersey Boys’ forever.”
Boyd said the best aspect of the show is the brisk pace and momentum.
“Our story never stops, and the audience never gets to come up for air,’ Boyd said. “This translates into the ‘furniture-ography’ of the show, which is as precise as any dance move, and watching the tables and chairs all move perfectly in harmony is thrilling. As far as actual choreography, I adore the joy and sim-
plicity of the choreo of the era. It’s more about shapes and angles than kicking the highest, and the movement all originates from a place of style, bravado and individualism.”
Boyd said the Beef & Boards cast is made up of two categories.
“First are colleagues I have previously worked with on ‘Jersey Boys’ that are the best at what they do, and I begged them to come make me look good,” she said. “Second are the local folks that the theater knows and loves, who make the shows at Beef & Boards successful, no matter what the style. It’s a perfect mix.”
Boyd said because every stage size and cast is different, she said the choreography is different.
“There are definitely scenes, pictures, moments and choreography that are classic to the show and always remind in some form, like the ‘Walk Like a Man’ marches, but I always want to keep my vision fresh and ever changing and improving.”
Two of Boyd’s favorite numbers are “Short Shorts” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry.”
“The reason I like these so much is I’ve given them new and modern spins that they’ve never had in other productions,” Boyd said. “I also love the second act, where the scene work is lots of people leaving Frankie’s life, and between the scenes is a concert of Frankie singing ‘Bye, Bye, Baby.’ It’s such a beautifully written show.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Joseph Leo Bwarie. Candi Boyd and Richard Blake perform a “Jersey Boys” scene at Tony Awards. (Photo courtesy of Candi Boyd)
MALINGO'S RISE
How a solo project became a ‘darling’ indie folk band
By Jennifer A. Haire editorial@youarecurrent.com
Struggling to cope with his mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Jonny Gerber turned memories of his mom into music.
“That was a super therapeutic thing for me,” said Gerber, 38, founder, guitarist, singer and songwriter for the band Malingo. The name was inspired by Eric Clapton’s childhood alter ego, Johnny Malingo, who helped him cope with early life struggles.
Described as the Midwest’s “darling indie folk band,” Malingo’s semi-acoustic sound is a blend of folk, bluegrass and psychedelic blues.
Malingo will perform in the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“Malingo started just as a me thing,” said Gerber, adding that as the fan base grew on streaming platforms, so did requests for live performances.
“People started to reach out about booking us, and there was no us, it was just me,” he said.
Forming a band was a longtime dream for Gerber, a Danville resident who grew up in Avon. Malingo’s drummer, Josh Faudree, is from Fishers.
“I’d been in bands in high school and stuff,
and that was always in the back of my mind, something that I wanted to pursue,” Gerber said. “So, I reached out to some old friends and a couple people that I met online and formed up the band.”
Malingo’s first show was performed in front of a sold-out crowd at McGowan Hall in Indianapolis in January 2023. The five-piece band creates original songs using a unique mix of mandolin, hand percussion, banjo and sometimes a didgeridoo. The Palladium show will feature a 1940s vibraphone.
“If we’re writing something, we don’t necessarily put many limits on it. It just has to feel like a Malingo song,” Gerber said.
Malingo is trying to grow its global fan base and engage with fans on social media.
“We record every performance that we do so that we can release live albums and just put out lots of content,” Gerber said.
The band is developing a behind-the-music podcast where it explores its songwriting process.
Malingo has released new music monthly and about one to two albums per year since 2016. The band’s goal for 2025 is to present at least one show or livestream each month.
Tickets are $10, with free livestream access available during and after the show. To register for the livestream, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Malingo members, from left, Sam Mcguire, John Boyle, Jonny Gerber Josh Faudree and LJ, Aucker. (Photo courtesy of 40FI Creations)
THE STEPCREW
March 7
The Canadian Celtic ensemble StepCrew brings together three dance forms – Ottawa Valley stepdance, Irish stepdance and tap. For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A STEELY DAN TRIBUTE
March 7
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
COUPLES THERAPY: THE THEATRICAL SHOW
March 8
An evening of laughter and entertainment that is a unique and clever combination of theatre, stand-up comedy, and improv. For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
MIXED REP
March 9
Presented by Central Indiana Dance Ensamble at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Featuring an blend of classical, contemporary, and modern repertoire. For tickets and showtimes, visit cidedance. org/current-season.
HANK RUFF AND THE HELLBENDERS
March 11
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
March 14 - 29
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
GUTFELD LIVE '25
March 15
Join Greg Gutfeld and comedian Tom Shillue for an evening filled with laughter, insight and surprises. For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
APPALACHIAN SPRING
March 16
Presented by the Carmel Symphony Orchestra at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT
SWEATS: SOUTH OF HERE TOUR
March 18
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
TEGE HOLT: ALBUM RELEASE PARTY
March 20
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
WELCOME BACK: THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER
March 21
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
MICHAEL JR.'S FUNNY HOW MARRIAGE WORKS
March 22
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS
March 23
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
FORREST FRANK: CHILD OF GOD TOUR
PART 2
March 27
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
LANG LANG
March 28
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
BLAKE SHELTON
March 29
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
EMMYLOU HARRIS
April 3
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
SPRING EQUINOX
April 4 & 5
Presented by Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
A.J. CROCE: HEART OF THE ETERNAL TOUR
April 4
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE
April 5
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
DANCING IN THE STREETS
April 6
Presented by Indiana Wind Symphony at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This spring concert showcases a diverse range of music, from ballet to Broadway. For tickets and showtimes, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
PETER FRAMPTON: ‘LET'S DO IT AGAIN!’
April 11
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN
April 12
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
‘CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES’
April 17 - May 18
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre presents the show that started it all. Times are changing
quickly in 1965, and they'll do all they can to keep things from boiling over below the house of God.
For tickets and showtimes, visit beefandboards.com.
EASTER PARADE IN CARMEL
April 19
Presented by The Carmel Symphony Orchestra at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
MEGAN MORONEY: ‘AM I OK TOUR?’
April 24
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
‘JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT’
April 25 - May 10
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
‘9 TO 5’
April 25 - May 11
Presented by Actors Theatre of Indianapolis at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. 9 to 5 is based on the 1980 movie of
the same name, and features music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre.org.
MICKY DOLENZ OF THE MONKEES: AN EVENING OF SONGS & STORIES
April 11
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
‘WEST SIDE STORY’
May 9 - 11
Indianapolis Opera presents a musical classic, West Side Story! A modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, West Side Story is set in 1950s New York, where growing racial tensions between the Sharks, a gang of first-generation Puerto Rican immigrants, and the Jets, made up of ‘American’ boys, lead to an all-out street fight over territory. For tickets and showtimes, visit indyopera.org.
‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’
May 17 & 18
Presented by Central Indiana Dance Ensamble at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Dancers bring to life the timeless tale of Beauty and the Beast: a story of love and transformation, where Belle's compassion and bravery break the spell cast upon the Beast.
For tickets and showtimes, visit cidedance. org/current-season
‘NOCHES CALIENTES!’
May 18
Presented by Indiana Wind Symphony at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This performance will feature classical and contemporary pieces crafted by acclaimed Latin composers and offers diverse musical genres and styles.
For tickets and showtimes, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
Current Publishing’s audience is known for its affinity for all things entertainment. The average distance one will drive for experiential opportunities is 42.5 miles, according to independent research. Current’s special section, APPLAUSE, will reach 131,191 households in the communities we serve by U.S. Mail. This section provides you with the opportunity to connect with even more arts enthusiasts than you might otherwise be reaching. Take your marketing messaging to center stage with the offerings below, and then take a bow.
Senior guard helps fuel Shamrocks’ success
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Senior Durante Morton went from playing basketball on the “B team” in eighth grade to becoming a varsity starter on the Westfield High School boys team midway through his sophomore year.
“He’s kind of a late bloomer,” WHS coach Shane Sumpter said. “The amount of energy he brings every game (is impressive). He took five charges in his sophomore year in the sectional game against Carmel. He had 10 offensive rebounds (against Brownsburg) in one of our games this season. With Durante, it’s all the intangible things. It’s all the things he brings from a defensive standpoint. He’s not a kid that scores a ton of points for us. It’s the leadership on the floor in practice and floor (that is valuable).”
Morton moved into the starting lineup as a sophomore when a teammate got injured.
“He went in, got his opportunity and just took advantage of it,” said Sumpter, who is helping Morton find the right fit to play college basketball. “He’s a great communi-
DURANTE MORTON
Favorite athlete: Paige Bueckers
Favorite musician: Frank Ocean
Favorite movie: “The Pursuit of Happyness”
Favorite sports team: Los Angeles Lakers
cator on the floor, He’s always talking. He’s a big reason (why we’re) as successful as we’ve been.”
As of Feb. 5, the 6-foot-2 guard was averaging 10.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. As a junior, Morton averaged 5.3 points and 2.4 assists per game.
“He gets so much out of who he is,” Sumpter said. “He’s not a 6-5, 6-7 kid, but
Westfield High School senior Durante Morton has improved throughout his high school career.
(Photo courtesy of Rock Media House)
he certainly plays that way. He’s a kid that had to wait his turn. That says a lot about his character.”
Sumpter said Morton worked hard to improve.
“The big jump was when he went to our freshman team, and I think he’s proved a lot of people wrong,” Sumpter said. Morton credits his hustle and passion for
the game for making the leap from eightgrade “B” team player to varsity starter.
“The more I play this game, the easier it gets to love it,” Morton said. “I started playing basketball as soon as I was able to pick up a ball. I grew up in a basketball family, so it was a given that I was going to become a basketball player. I played football, too, growing up, but I stopped playing in the fourth grade because I just didn’t like it as much as basketball.”
Morton said the key to the team’s success is everyone playing their role.
“There are no egos on our team, and everyone knows what they are on the court for,” Morton said. “What makes me passionate about the game is the amount of people that depend on me to play well. Not letting my teammates, coaches and fans down really drives my passion. Our team’s goal for this postseason is to win the sectional and make a deep run into the postseason. Being in one of the hardest sectionals makes the feeling of winning it 10 times better.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
IndianaSpineGroup.com/Swiatek
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HAND to self-manage properties
news@currentnoblesville.com
HAND, a Hamilton County-based nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable housing options, recently announced it will begin self-managing its 157 rental units by March 31.
HOUSING
Approved by HAND’s board of directors in October 2024, the decision to handle property management in-house marks a transformative moment for the organization, according to Kerri Hubble, HAND’s marketing and fundraising manager. She said HAND is collaborating with local partners and its third-party property manager, Herron Property Management, to ensure a seamless transition.
Andrea Davis, HAND’s executive director, said the change reflects HAND’s commitment to ensuring a high level of responsiveness to resident needs.
“When we build a rental property, we
think about who will live there and what non-housing resources they might need to improve their situations,” Davis stated. “Taking over property management will allow us to close that loop and ensure that residents’ needs are being met in their homes and in the broader community.”
As part of the transition, HAND is expanding its team and is in the process of interviewing candidates for key positions.
Hubble said the new roles will enhance HAND’s ability to bring creative solutions to affordable housing.
The transition process is underway and involves planning and staff training to equip HAND’s team with the tools required to manage its 11 rental communities in Fishers, Carmel, Cicero, Noblesville, Sheridan, Lebanon and Tipton.
“Our residents are at the heart of everything we do,” Davis stated. “We are excited to take this step forward.”
For more, visit handincorporated.org.
HCLA announces 2026 dean
news@currentnoblesville.com
Hamilton County Leadership Academy, whose mission is to inspire and empower participants to drive and amplify community impact through access to knowledge, leaders and organizations, has announced Fishers resident Angela Frazier as dean for the Class of 2026.
LEADERSHIP
philanthropy and collaboration to better serve the Hamilton County community.”
HCLA Executive Director Diana Coyle said the HCLA dean plays a critical role in shaping class culture and connectivity.
Applications for HCLA’s 35th cohort of community leaders will open Feb. 28. Applications will close April 1, and the cohort will be announced in June.
“I am truly honored to be selected as Hamilton County Leadership Academy’s next class dean,” stated Frazier, a business development director at American Structurepoint. “My 2020 HCLA classmates and many other alumni have become like family to me. I look forward to helping the next class foster education, leadership,
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
“HCLA is fortunate to have a legacy of deans who model community leadership and impact,” Coyle stated. “Angela is a perfect addition to that legacy.”
Coyle said Frazier has 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and is passionate about connecting with others to make a difference in Hamilton County.
HCLA will host meetups for prospective applicants to learn more about the program and application process from 5 to 6:30 p.m. March 11 at Songbird Social House in Carmel, 3:30 to 5 p.m. March 18 at Collaboration Hub in Fishers and 8:30 to 10 a.m. March 26 at Westfield Washington Township. For more, visit hcla.net.
Proposed Intersection Improvements at SR 13 and SR 128/296th Street, and at SR 13 and Strawtown Avenue/West 8th Street in Hamilton, Madison, and Tipton Counties
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) will host a public hearing on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, in the auditorium of Lapel High School located at 1850 S. 900 W. Lapel, IN 46051. The hearing presentation will begin at 5:00 PM EST. The purpose of the public hearing is to offer all interested persons an opportunity to comment on current preliminary design plans for the proposed two State Road (SR) 13 intersection improvements: at SR 13 and SR 128/296th Street (DES. 2003081) and at SR 13 and Strawtown Avenue/West 8th Street (DES. 2003082), located in Hamilton, Madison, and Tipton Counties.
The purpose of these projects is to reduce the crash potential and provide a long-term solution to ensure safe operation of the intersections. The need for these projects is due to the high frequency of crash severity, particularly right-angle crashes, at the existing intersections.
The projects propose to convert both existing intersections from two-way stop control into a single lane roundabout. Proposed roadway elements include 12-foot travel lanes with a mix of open and curbed shoulders. A central concrete island and truck apron will be provided, as well as exterior truck aprons to facilitate turning movements. Additionally, drainage improvements will include installation of curb and gutter turnouts, a stormwater system and new roadside ditches. At the SR 13 and SR 128/296th Street intersection stormwater improvements would include an approximately 0.45 acre stormwater detention pond. Utility relocations will be required at the existing intersection, as well as new lighting.
The maintenance of traffic (MOT) plan for the SR 13 and SR 128/296th Street project will require phased closures of SR 13 and SR 128/296th Street. Phase one of the MOT will maintain through traffic on SR 13 and the connection to 296th Street, and closure of SR 128. Phase one detours include: closure of SR 128 (north) utilizing SR 13, SR 28, and SR 9, adding nearly 17 miles of travel; closure of SR 128 (south) utilizing SR 9, SR 32, and SR 13, adding nearly 31 miles of travel. Phase two of the MOT will include a full closure of the intersection of SR 13 and SR 128/296th Street. Phase two detours will include: closure of SR 13 utilizing SR 32, SR 9, and SR 28, adding nearly 33 miles of travel; the same two detours for SR 128 as in Phase one; and lastly, closure of 296th Street, utilizing CR 500S, SR 213 and 281st Street, adding nearly 10 miles of travel. Phase three of the MOT will include closure of the west leg of 296th Street, utilizing the same detour as Phase two.
The MOT plan for the SR 13 and Strawtown Avenue/West 8th Street project will require phased closures of SR 13 and Strawtown
Avenue. Phase one will maintain through traffic on SR 13, and closure of Strawtown Avenue/W 8th Street during construction of the west and east legs of the proposed roundabout. Phase one detour includes Prairie Baptist Road, CR 100 N, Hamilton Road, and College Corner Road, adding nearly 14 miles of travel. Phase two will include a closure of SR 13, during construction of the center of the roundabout and north and south legs, as well as the installation of storm sewers, final surface pavement markings, and signage. Phase two detour will maintain the detours of local roads from Phase one and includes SR 37, SR 38, and SR 32 for traffic on SR 13, adding nearly 19 miles of travel. Phase three will be used for final roadway restoration and demobilization activities, with no detours required.
The detours will remain for the duration of each phase of construction for the projects, which is anticipated to be approximately one construction season combined for all phases. School corporations and emergency services will be notified of closures prior to construction.
The projects will require approximately 3.26 acres of permanent right-of-way (ROW), and approximately 0.55 acre of temporary ROW for DES. 2003081, and approximately 3.42 acres of permanent ROW and no temporary ROW for DES. 2003082. The proposed start of construction is 2026.
The cost associated with these projects is approximately $5,786,486 (DES. 2003081) and $5,695,749 (DES. 2003082), which includes preliminary engineering, ROW acquisition, and construction with both federal and state funds anticipated to be used. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and INDOT have agreed each of these projects falls within the guidelines of a Categorical Exclusion (CE) Level 2 environmental document. Preliminary design plans along with the CE-2 documents for each project are available for review at the following locations:
1. Lapel Branch Public Library, 610 Main Street, Lapel, IN 46051;
2. Elwood Public Library, 1600 Main Street, Elwood, IN 46036
3. INDOT Greenfield District Office, 32 South Broadway, Greenfield, IN 46140;
4. Project webpage: https://bit.ly/SR13Roundabouts
Emergency Situation Guidance: During emergency situations, public viewing locations may be limited or prohibited as part of the Notice of Planned Improvement. Project documents may only be available on-line during emergency situations. The notice must offer the public the opportunity to request project documents be mailed. INDOT and/or the project sponsor will mail project documents upon
request.
Weather Notice: In the event of inclement weather resulting in hazardous driving conditions, please call the Indiana Department of Transportation’s Greenfield District at 1-855-INDOT4U (1-855-4636848) to learn of any postponement of the public hearing. If the public hearing is postponed due to inclement weather, it will be rescheduled for February 26, 2025 in the auditorium of Lapel High School located at 1850 S. 900 W. Lapel, IN 46051 beginning at 5:00 pm and the public comment period would be extended.
A project webpage will be created prior to the public hearing to ensure project information is available on-line via the INDOT Greenfield District page (https://bit.ly/SR13Roundabouts).
Public statements for the record will be taken as part of the public hearing procedure. All verbal statements recorded during the public hearing and all written comments submitted prior to, during and for a period of two (2) weeks following the hearing date, will be evaluated, considered and addressed in subsequent environmental documentation. Written comments may be submitted prior to the public hearing and within the comment period to: Kaskaskia Engineering Group, LLC, 208 E. Main Street, Suite 100, Belleville, IL 62220, by e-mail to: vflynn@kaskaskiaeng.com, or by phone at: 1-855-INDOT4U (1-855-463-6848). INDOT respectfully requests comments be submitted by March 5, 2025.
With advance notice, INDOT will provide accommodations for persons with disabilities with regards to participation and access to project information as part of the hearings process including arranging auxiliary aids, interpretation services for the hearing impaired, services for the sight impaired and other services as needed. In addition, INDOT will provide accommodations for persons of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) requiring auxiliary aids including language interpretation services and document conversion. Should accommodation be required please contact Kimberly Szewczak, INDOT (317-289-3193 and kszewczak@indot.in.gov).
This notice is published in compliance with Code of Federal Regulations, Title 23, Section 771 (CFR 771.111(h)(1) states: “Each State must have procedures approved by the FHWA to carry out a public involvement/public hearing program.” 23 CFR 450.212(a)(7) states: “Public involvement procedures shall provide for periodic review of the effectiveness of the public involvement process to ensure that the process provides full and open access to all and revision of the process as necessary.” approved by the Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation on July 7, 2021.
Frazier
CITYSCAPE
Infrastructure project aims to refresh downtown, lift Noblesville businesses
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
An infrastructure project designed to benefit Noblesville businesses and residents is in the final design stages.
The city recently announced the launch of Embrace Downtown, a project involving critical infrastructure and aesthetic upgrades to the downtown area, such as improved sidewalks, greenspaces and intersections.
The project will focus on the downtown square and approximately one block outside of it. The design of the first phase is set to be finished by the end of the year, and Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said Phase 1 is scheduled to be completed in 2026.
Andrew Rodewald, the city’s engineering project manager, said Jensen initially came to the engineering department five years ago to discuss expanding sidewalks in the downtown area to make it more accessible.
“In 2020, we had a lot of conversations and gathered information on what everybody would like to see,” Rodewald said. “We’ve realized we need to take this opportunity to upgrade and modernize downtown. There’s a lot of infrastructure under those sidewalks that’s more than 100 years old. It’s a great time to get it all done in one project instead of returning year after year.”
Jensen said Embrace Downtown will be funded in part by the Downtown District Fund, which the city established eight years ago to enhance downtown. But the city has not determined a total cost for the project.
“There’s been funds that have been accruing within the downtown district fund that we will bond against to do Phase 1 of the project, but we are still finalizing finances,” Jensen said. “Noblesville has experienced positive growth over the past 30 years, and we are excited to address the city’s needs while adding beautification elements.”
Rodewald agreed, noting it has been more than 30 years since downtown Noblesville’s last major infrastructure project.
“We’re at the point where we need to
make sure we’re taking care of existing infrastructure, updating it as needed and bringing in modern amenities while preserving the downtown character we all love,” Rodewald said.
Noblesville Main Street Executive Director Kate Baker said NMS, a nonprofit, hosts several events to support downtown businesses annually. She said with the increasing number of restaurants and retail shops, it is essential to make room for
Embrace Downtown will initiate critical infrastructure and beautification upgrades in the downtown area.
visitors to enjoy the downtown square.
“When we’ve visited other communities within Indiana who have undergone similar projects, they tend to rave about the pedestrian-friendly navigation of their downtowns,” Baker said. “Communities with larger sidewalks make way for outdoor dining experiences, better accessibility options and safer, more enjoyable shopping strolls.”
Downtown businesses are at the fore-
front of the decisions the city will make throughout the project, according to Jensen.
“This is being done with businesses in mind,” Jensen said. “They are one of the biggest priorities, but I know it won’t be easy. In Noblesville, we’ve shown we can do hard things, and we will support one another through these times.”
As the project moves forward, Rodewald said the design team will communicate with downtown businesses and try to reduce construction impact.
“Construction by nature is impactful because you’re taking up what’s out there that people are walking and driving on, upgrading it and putting it back,” Rodewald said. “There will be impacts with workers and materials, but we’ll stagger the work throughout the process to keep access into businesses, maintain portions of parking and try to keep storefronts as open as possible.”
For more, visit EmbraceDowntownNoblesville.com.
Photography)
DOWTOWN CONSTRUCTION IMPACT
As designs for the Embrace Downtown project are finalized, nonprofits and downtown businesses are learning how they will be affected. Many welcome the project, such as Ailithir McGill, director of Noblesville Creates, a nonprofit art organization at 107 S. 8th St.
“A pedestrian-focused streetscape is a hallmark of a vibrant and forward-thinking community, and we feel that it is vital to the success of the Noblesville Cultural Arts District,” McGill said. “We know (implementing) the plan may be painful in the short term, but we look forward to the huge positive impact it will have on downtown in the long run.”
Lindsey McVey, who owns women’s clothing boutique Just Lagom at 876
Logan St. and is the marketing director for the Indiana Peony Festival, said the project will bring improvements that add to the charm of the square.
“If we (can) improve our pedestrian experience and enhance our square with more beautification and outdoor dining spaces, we’ll be a true destination for all residents and visitors,” McVey said.
Jayson Manship, owner of the Moonshot Games store at 50 N. 9th St., said he also is excited to see investments that enhance walkability and attract visitors.
“We know change can be bumpy,” Manship said. “At first, it feels unfamiliar, but soon you realize it adds depth, excitement and a better experience
for everyone. We’re willing to embrace short-term pain for long-term gain.”
Noblesville Main Street Executive Director Kate Baker said she also welcomes the long-term benefits of the project. NMS, a nonprofit that creates partnerships and programs to connect the Noblesville community, hosts several events on the downtown square each month.
“Noblesville Main Street plans to celebrate the construction as we understand the benefit the finished product has,” Baker said. “I hope the community will see the importance of lifting up our small businesses and making the extra effort to shop locally. We plan to support (them) by keeping our activities as normal as possible.”
ON THE COVER: Embrace Downtown, downtown Noblesville’s first major infrastructure project in 30 years, is in its final design stages. (Photo by Matthew Doudt
(Photo by Matthew Doudt Photography)
Context always matters
Commentary by Terry Anker
Context matters in human interaction. Looking out of the office window and seeing someone running from their car to the front door could be alarming. Are they safe? Is there something wrong? Witness the same when it is raining, and we barely take note. Our minds fill in the story with a plausible and likely narrative. The person is hoping to get less wet by enduring the conditions for a shorter period, thus they run. No stress. No worry. Our brains have evolved to help us understand and use context to protect us and make our lives better.
As we have traveled this long journey from the dawn of Homo sapiens, the pace of change has increased dramatically these past few generations. We learned to communicate first with language and then symbols, absorbing the changes over the millennia. Accelerating, we learned to share our accumulated knowledge through libraries, then even more as we moved from hand copies to ever more efficient methods of print. It
was increasingly possible for us to learn the thoughts of others completely devoid of context. Still, few books were, or are, read without first knowing something of the author. But as broadcast radio, television and now the internet have found ever wider audiences, the receiver of the message finds themselves often far removed from any defining context of the sender. We scratch our heads in wonder about what they could have possibly been thinking as they clicked the send button.
Perhaps they didn’t intend to come across as angry as they did. Perhaps they should have stopped texting after the second glass of wine. Perhaps they hoped we see their sarcasm and not take it all too seriously. Perhaps they meant exactly what they said. It would be terrific to have just a little context.
Spot-on shopping strategy
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
This past week, I did a little shopping to find some warm apparel for our trip to Iceland. I don’t like buying new clothes because I always seem to spill something on them.
HUMOR
If I enjoy my meal at a particular restaurant, I wear the same shirt the next time I am there. When the waiter asks what I’d like for dinner and I have trouble remembering the great choice I made the previous time, I just point to the appropriate spot on my shirt. The server knows exactly what I want.
My wife Mary Ellen also went shopping for our vacation. A woman’s shopping spree lasts longer than a man’s, so I was home for about two hours before Mary Ellen pulled into the driveway. When she walked into the house, I was trying on a pair of pants I had purchased.
“You have a stain on your pants,” Mary Ellen said.
“That’s impossible. I haven’t even worn them yet.”
“They must really know their customers at Macy’s. They pre-stained them for you.”
“Well, I guess I can’t wear those to dinner,” I said, hoping to return them and get my money back.
“I think you should wear them, anyway,” Mary Ellen said. “You’re missing a few food groups in your collection. That may be something new you’ve never spilled.”
Then, I reached into the package and pulled out the flannel shirt I had also bought. This was perfect for our trip.
“That’s another bad choice,” Mary Ellen said.
“Why?”
“It has a smudge under the second button.”
Sure enough, once again I had purchased something brand new that had somehow anticipated its unavoidable destiny to be dripped on.
“When the waiter asks what I’d like for dinner and I have trouble remembering the great choice I made the previous time, I just point to the appropriate spot on my shirt. The server knows exactly what I want.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
“Wait a second, Mary Ellen, my tie will cover the problem.”
“That’s a super idea, Dick, a tie with a flannel shirt. It’s too bad the Mickey Mouse tie you packed also has a stain on both his ears. Not that you need a tie in Iceland. Did you read the dress code for the trip? We’re going to Iceland, not Disneyland. And I know why you like flannel shirts. All the new drippings blend in together.”
On a previous cruise, I ordered shrimp cocktail and effortlessly completed my spillage.
“That needs to be soaked in cold water,” my wife said when we were back in our cabin. So, I threw it overboard.
After we returned home from our vacation, I washed my clothes and tried to remove the soiled areas, but what remained was evidence of some fine Italian wine and a delicious chicken parmigiana dish. Mary Ellen took more than 1,000 photos on that trip to create lasting memories.
I had a better idea. Let’s just say my approach was spot on.
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 oncemonthly 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
Forehead 16. “Evil Woman” grp.
17. The ___ Brothers Band
18. Where to find the mountain gap HOOSIER PASS
20. App with pics, familiarly
22. Weather zones
23. Family room
25. African desert
28. Give a hoot
29. Smiley face in a text, e.g.
The
31. Tehran residents
33. Mideast ruler
34. Company with a crocodile logo
35. Kind of IUPUI prof
37. Snoring, in comics
38. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve trees
42. Sandwich cookie
44. Villain’s look
46. Cowboy movies
50. Metro ___ (local eatery)
51. Naked
52. Grating
54. Colts stats
55. Speaker on a soapbox
57. Big mess
$1256.00
10 AM AT 17110 RIVER RD. NOBLESVILLE
59. Location of the motorsports store
HOOSIER KARTSPORT
62. Delphi
HS mascot
65. Spelling
contest
66. Sam’s Gyros bread
67. Closed one eye quickly
68. Goof
69. Flower part
70. Enthusiastic consent Down
1. Doc bloc
2. Mavericks, on a Pacers scoreboard
3. Home of the pie company
HOOSIER MAMA and the Southern rock band HOOSIER DADDY
4. “___ Yankees”
5. Two-time US Open tennis champ
6. Mr. Claus
7. WTHR network
8. Spanish gold
9. Lava spewer
10. Truant GI 11. Sailor
12. Birch relatives 13. Gaggle member 19. Costa ___
21. Tuna type
23. Sandra or Ruby
24. Jane Austen heroine
26. Site of the restaurant HOOSIER CAFE
27. Tease
30. Eleventh graders at Westfield HS
32. Wedding vow
36. Youngster
37. Zilch
39. Boxing legend
40. Setting for the transportation service HOOSIER RIDE
41. Plant starter
43. Military newbie
45. They have Xings
46. More cautious
47. Pencil end
48. Zionsville HS volleyball match parts
49. 30-Down, next yr.
50. Darlin’
51. Cold molded dessert
53. Ashley Brown’s wintry
56. “My bad!” 58. Boilermakers boosters 60. GPS reading 61. Beatles: “___ the Walrus” 63. Wranglers alternative 64. Current bosses, briefly Answers on Page 15
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