December 5, 2023 — Fishers by Current Publishing

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

BEST THANKSGIVING Fishers Marching Tigers perform in annual Macy’s parade in NYC / P14

HEPL programs celebrate ‘Season of Giving’ / P3

Fishers officer honored for 20 years of service / P7

County Commissioners award nonprofit grants / P11

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December 5, 2023

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December 5, 2023

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HEPL programs celebrate ‘Season of Giving’ By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Hamilton East Public Library is celebrating the “Season of Giving”— a two-monthlong initiative that encourLIBRARY ages people to give back to the community in a variety of ways through the holiday season, such as donations drives and letter-writing campaigns. “HEPL’s ‘Season of Gratitude’ was launched in 2019 as a way to focus on gratitude and thankfulness for our loved ones, the community and self,” said Kelsey Sweet, director of marketing and communications. “Both HEPL and the community enjoyed the ‘Season of Gratitude’ for a few years before the initiative was rebranded as the ‘Season of Giving’ in 2022. The focus was then shifted to the spirit of giving back to our community and connecting patrons with local giving opportunities, where we hope to make a positive impact on our neighbors.” Among the programs that run through the end of December are several donation drives in partnership with area organizations. One drive is collecting socks, winter hats and gloves for distribution to those in need. Items donated through the Fishers Library will go to the Delaware Township Trustee’s office for distribution, and those donated through the Noblesville Library will go to the Noblesville Township Trustee’s office. Another HEPL donation drive is collecting period products for HamCo Love, an organization that helps people in need have access to pads, tampons or period underwear. According to hamcolove.com, people without easy access to these products improvise or use pads and tampons longer than they should, which can affect health. Students without easy access to period products can experience stress that affects their mental health and education. The library also is collecting diapers for the Indiana Diaper Bank, helping to provide that important product to low-income families. All sizes are accepted, including opened or partial packages. Through Dec. 15, the library’s two locations are hosting a letter-writing campaign, encouraging people to write letters of kindness and cheer for residents of area assisted-living facilities. Letters can be written at the library or dropped off — unsealed — at their “Season of Giving” letter stations.

Hamilton East Public Library has a variety of programs planned for the holiday season. (Photos courtesy of HEPL)

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Donation boxes at Hamilton East Public Library’s locations in Fishers and Noblesville are accepting donations of winter socks, hats and gloves; diapers; and period products.

Sweet said feedback from the community has been positive. “Patrons are thankful that HEPL has organized opportunities for them to give back, making it easy for them to make an impact in their community,” she said. “The crafting programs are also a big hit, providing opportunities to make handmade and thoughtful gifts for loved ones.” Other “Season of Giving” events include: • Maker-in-Residence: Making Holiday Gifts, set for Dec. 7 and 9 at the Ignite Studio. In these holiday-themed workshops, participants create a zine to give to a loved one for the holidays. They will learn different construction methods, create rough drafts to iron out the details and get started on the final product. To register for either day, visit hepl.libnet.info/events. • Drop-In Activity: Stenciled Gift Tags, available daily through Dec. 17 at the Ignite Studio. Participants ages 5 and

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up can create personalized gift tags using ink and stencils. Step-by-step instruction sheets will help in this self-guided activity. Materials provided while supplies last. A community blood drive, Dec. 7 at the Noblesville Library. Appointments are highly recommended and can be made at donate.indiana.versiti.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/161783. Walkins will be processed if time allows. Bring a photo ID and eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Each donor will receive free HEPL swag and a free book. A (Cookie) Bar Crawl, set for Dec. 9 at the Fishers Library. HEPL and local bakers share favorite recipes, cookie bars, brownies and other bite-size treats. Bakers will submit their baked goods to the competition and judges will do a (cookie) bar crawl to sample each and crown a baking winner. Registration is required. Bakers can register at hepl.libnet.info/event/9396044; and judges can register at hepl.libnet. info/event/9395753. Crafty Teens: Felted Ornaments, set for Dec. 11 at the Noblesville Library and Dec. 13 at the Fishers Library. Using just a needle and wool, participants will create their own miniature felted ornaments. For teens only. All supplies provided. For registration information, go to visit hepl.libnet. info/events. A virtual guided meditation presented by Fred May with Kadampa Meditation Center Indianapolis is set for 7 p.m. Dec. 18. There will be two guided meditations along with a talk and Q&A. No experience necessary. To register, visit hepl.libnet.info/event/9451735.

December 5, 2023

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Spotlight on Art raises $50K By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

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For the second consecutive year, Spotlight on Art Benefiting Children raised funds for three area GIVING BACK nonprofits at an open house-style event held Nov. 9 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Local artists sold their work and donated half of the proceeds to Prevail, the Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville and Children’s TherAplay, three nonprofits that provide assistance for children. Event organizer Esther Lakes said more than 200 guests attended and helped raise approximately $50,000. “My passion is helping children,” Lakes said. “I personally enjoy art, and this was something different that’s not done locally. I thought it would be a little different and attract more people to come, rather than a typical fundraiser.” Former Hamilton County Superior Court Judge Steve Nation spoke during the event and said he was amazed by what the local community does to support children. “It’s just really nice that in Hamilton

Event organizer Esther Lakes, center, with Noble Crossing Elementary students Griffin Cothern, left, and David Sparks, right. (Photo by Edward Redd)

County we have a lot of people that will go and find needs and find resolutions for those needs,” Nation said. Local artists included children as young as 6 from five local schools, including Saint Matthew School, Harrison Parkway Elementary and Noble Crossing Elementary.

December 5, 2023

COMMUNITY

From left, Alaric Plett, Bradley Schiesser, Michael Etter and Issac Mervis. The group, SYNC’ed UP, sang “Bye, Bye, Bye” by NSYNC. (Photo by Edward Redd)

Karaoke raises $17K for education By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com The Vogue Theatre in Indianapolis took a trip back to the 90s and early 2000s as groups and soloists UNITED WAY participated in karaoke competitions to raise money for United Way Central Indiana, a nonprofit that addresses poverty in local communities. Singers performed hits by popular artists like NSYNC and The Fray. Margaret Matray, communications manager for UWCI, said “Care-oke” is a karaoke-themed fundraiser. It began in 2021 to raise funds for UWCI’s ReadUp program. “ReadUp is a literacy initiative that addresses reading literacy in the third grade,” Matray said. “ReadUp sends volunteers into elementary schools to read with students to help them get up to grade-level literacy.” During the 2022-23 school year, 294 volunteers worked with more than 300 students at 22 schools in seven counties, including Boone and Hamilton. Matray said the event raised more than $17,000. The money will help stock school libraries, purchase supplies, and deliver books to students. Matray said the ReadUP program welcomes anyone who wants to help children. “We are always looking for volunteers for our ReadUP program,” Matray said. “Anyone interested in volunteering can go to our website.” For more about UWIC’s ReadUP program, visit uwci.org/readup.

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December 5, 2023

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AAA HOOSIER MOTOR CLUB NAMES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO National search identifies internal candidate with proven track record INDIANAPOLIS - The Board of Directors of AAA Hoosier Motor Club has selected insurance industry expert Matt Goins to serve as President and CEO. Goins is the club's seventh president following the retirement of his predecessor, Kirk Hendrix, in March. Goins celebrates a distinguished 20+ year career in the insurance business, rising through the ranks at American Family Insurance until he was tapped to run the insurance business of AAA Hoosier Motor Club in 2017. Since arriving, Goins implemented a complete overhaul and transformation of the motor club's insurance business. He continues to grow the critical metrics of the club - policies, premiums, and people. A critical factor in the selection of Goins to lead the more than 100 year-old motor club is his ability to bring innovative ideas and solutions to serve members and policyholders. Among these recent innovations is a new agency digital app designed to support self-service, align strategically with partners to provide better products and pricing for our valued members, and offer a groundbreaking partnership to bring embedded insurance to Hoosier Motor Club. "While the process was long and deliberate, the final decision to hire Matt was arrived at with full Board consensus," said AAA Hoosier Motor Club board chair Steven Walker. "His knowledge of the business, particularly as it relates to our key stakeholders, associates, and members, will help us develop long-term partnerships that will aid in the growth of our club. His drive for success, rooted in metric-based criteria, will ensure we constantly measure our outcomes and adjust as needed. Also, his transparency and desire to collaborate with the Board will help elevate efforts to serve our members and strengthen communication statewide." A lifelong learner passionate about creating a solid work environment, Goins' priorities will include growing the club's core products, membership, travel, and insurance, providing exemplary service and bringing awareness to various ancillary products. "At AAA Hoosier, I want to create an organization that the employees can thrive in, where the buy-in is high, but they control their environment," said Goins. "I want to build a culture around our member experience by hiring people that always want to do their best - when I set a goal, it becomes more than a goal. It becomes a passion."

To learn more about AAA Hoosier Motor Club, visit www.hoosier.aaa.com.

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December 5, 2023

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Fishers police officer honored for 20 years of service By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Major Mike Janes of the Fishers Police Department was honored during the Nov. 20 Fishers City Council RECOGNITION meeting for his 20 years as a Fishers law enforcement officer. Police Chief Ed Gebhart told the council that he had been thinking about what word encapsulates Janes’ two decades of service, “and to me, it’s ‘truth.’” Gebhart said Janes, who started with FPD in 2003, is always honest and puts the community first when making decisions. As a patrolman, Janes became the department’s first certified paramedic police officer, a certification he continues to hold. “Mike is an instructor of our department’s CPR, first aid and other leadership topics,” Gebhart said. “Mike also was a field training officer for our department for several years, grooming our new officers that came up the rank and file. In 2007, he took his first post as a sergeant, and in 2014, he became a lieutenant of an entire watch where he led for several years.” Gebhart said Janes attended special training to learn about command leadership and returned to help the department create professional standards for internal affairs and other administrative improvements. Janes also is a member of the FPD’s dive team and teaches dive skills. “We thought that he was overdue for promotion to major,” Gebhart said. “So in 2022, we promoted him to a major, leading a division that has our civilian staff, background hire recruitment, public information, our (school resource officers) and our traf-

Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness, left, Fishers Police Department Major Mike Janes and Police Chief Ed Gebhart following a presentation Nov. 20 honoring Janes for his 20 years with the FPD. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

fic unit.” Gebhart added that Janes has won three distinguished medals during his career and two lifesaving medals. Council members and those in the audience applauded Janes following Gebhart’s presentation. Fishers City Council President John Weingardt (R-South Central District), thanked Janes for his service to the community. “And also thanks to your family — you’re all here tonight and thank you very much for being a part of our community,” Weingardt said, “We not only appreciate your service, but also your friendship.”

DISPATCHES Pickleball Tournaments — Grand National Racquet Center will host pickleball tournaments at Grand Park Event Center in Westfield through at least 2028. It begins with a Holiday Pickleball Festival this month. For more, visit holidaypickleballfestival.com. It will be followed by the APP National Collegiate Pickleball tournament Jan. 2-7, 2024. For more, email John Moorin at jmorrin@ gmail.com. Grand National Racquet Center is nearing completion on the infrastructure on 191st Street directly north of the Grand Park Event Center. The facility will house

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indoor pickleball, tennis, squash, and other racquet sports, expected to open in late 2024 to early 2025. Holiday Lights Map — The City of Fishers has brought back its holiday lights map, an online Google map that shows where people can view business and residential light displays. Those who want to be added to the map can complete an online form at bit.ly/47HK5wC. That’s also where people can view the map, which will be updated as new locations are submitted.

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December 5, 2023

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Nonprofit: ‘Respect’ is the right call for sports officials By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com

S M G T R N R I A A N W E E T H V E HA R T OU Y for . w offer o r nt to ro has f he n re n t tow qua i f l n S rse Dow ile u yo ing nAM d h n Fi eryt Tha ev ore

The Hamilton County Sports Authority has partnered with Officially Human, a nonprofit that aims to SPORTSMANSHIP restore respect to sports officials. The HCSA website offers people involved in area sports access to a free video about sportsmanship and respecting officials. “We want to raise awareness throughout the community regarding the difficult jobs officials have and how to increase respect for them, no matter what sport,” Hamilton County Sports Authority Director Carl Daniels said. “Sport is a microcosm of life. You learn all kinds of lessons. You learn how to get along with people.” Big Ten Senior Director of Officiating Brenda Hilton founded Officially Human in 2019. “Elevate Respect,” an approximately 20-minute video, is part of the organization’s efforts to educate and encourage those involved in the sporting community that officials should be treated as authority figures on and off the field. According to Hilton, HCSA is the first sports authority to partner with Officially Human. A division of Hamilton County Tourism, HCSA team members seek to attract and support area sports by assisting with site selection, event staging, publicity and more. “The goal of the HCSA is to promote hospitality through sport,” Daniels said. “Obviously, we do a lot at Grand Park.” United Umpires is an organization that schedules baseball umpires for Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield. “We are thrilled that Hamilton County Sports Authority is partnering with the Offi-

Carl Daniels was named director of Hamilton County Sports Authority in August. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County Sports Authority)

cially Human team and look forward to seeing them around Hamilton County and Grand Park as we all work together to solve the shortage, retention and treatment of sports officials,” said Alex Skandalis, United’s CEO. Daniels stressed that most officials enjoy the competition, they enjoy the physical activity and they want to give back to the community. In fact, Daniels intends to do just that by applying to be a volleyball official. “They’re doing the best they can,” Daniels said. “It gives you a different perspective once you put yourself in their position.” Daniels’ first call to action is for everyone to go to visithamiltoncounty.com/sports, watch the video and share it with coaches, teammates and fellow spectators. “This is just the beginning of our partnership,” Daniels said.

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December 5, 2023

COMMUNITY

Sporting goods drive benefits county youth news@currentinfishers.com The City of Westfield’s Grand Park Sports Campus holiday sporting goods drive is underway and COLLECTION is collecting sports equipment through Dec. 13 to provide essential gear to local youth sports organizations in Hamilton County. Grand Park Director Matt Trnian said the effort demonstrates the positive Trnian impact the sports campus can have beyond youth sports. “Our team is passionate about the impact we can have on sport and the overall community,” Trnian stated. “We encourage visitors to Grand Park to share in our passion and help give back to those in need.” The following new or gently used items are needed: baseball and softball equipment, basketballs, cleats, dance attire, equipment bags, helmets, lacrosse gear and wrestling gear. Westfield Youth Sports, Inc., Executive Director Molly Wright said WYSI is excited to benefit from the Grand Park sporting good drive. “Many of our local youth don’t have the opportunity or equipment to participate in sports,” Wright said. “We don’t want that to be a barrier. WYSI offers participation scholarships and gift cards for equipment if needed. Kids learn many great life lessons through sports, and we hope to help provide that for them.” Other benefiting organizations include Hamilton County Youth Assistance Programs, Sheridan School District and Indy RBI. Items can be dropped off sports items at the following locations in Westfield: Grand Park Event Center at 19000 Grand Park Blvd., Grand Park Baseball Building at 711 E. 191st St., Pacers Athletic Center at 200 E. 186th St., Pro X Athletic Development at 651 E. 191st St., Westfield YMCA at 851 E. 181st St. and the Westfield Police Department at 17535 Dartown Rd. For more, contact gpadmin@westfield.in.gov. To donate directly to a Westfield Youth scholarship athlete, visit donate.stripe. com/8wM9Bu83t83j49ycMM.

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December 5, 2023

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U.S. Sen. Todd Young, left, and Todd Clevenger. (Photo courtesy of the Committee to Elect Todd Clevenger)

Clevenger joins county auditor’s race news@currentinfishers.com

Good Luck 20 SEPTEMBER

Todd Clevenger, Hamilton County grant administrator, has entered the race for Hamilton County auditor, ELECTION he stated Nov. 21 in a press release. “Public service at the local level is extremely fulfilling because I get to see the impact daily,” Clevenger stated. “It is inherently meaningful because it is directly related to building and improving our communities, as well as improving the lives of our family, friends, neighbors and community members. Public service is my passion. I take the responsibility — and the honor of serving — very seriously.” Clevenger has worked for the county since March 2018. His previous roles included serving as legislative chief of staff for Alaska State Rep. Cheri Davis, being a nonprofit administrator and being a partner in a marketing and communications consulting firm. Clevenger has an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University and graduated from the National Associations of Counties High Performance Leadership Academy, a 12week online leadership program for county government professionals. He and his wife have lived in Hamilton County for almost 30 years, residing in Carmel and Cicero. “The position of county auditor can’t rely upon on-the-job training. The position is too important and too complex,” Clevenger stated. “Based on my six years of experience working with the auditor’s office, I am the only candidate ready to do the work on day one.” For more, visit Clevenger4Auditor.com.

December 5, 2023

COMMUNITY

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County awards grants to local nonprofits Elissa Maudlin elissa@youarecurrent.com The Hamilton County Commissioners and the Hamilton County Council have awarded 23 nonprofits with more FUNDING than $864,000 in grants for 2024, county officials announced Nov. 15. “The county is proud to be able to support many of our not-for-profit organizations,” Hamilton County Councilor Sue Maki stated. “While we could not fund all organizations or always fund to the amount requested, we do believe we used the taxpayers’ money to make the greatest impact on Hamilton County residents.” The largest grant was $180,000, awarded to Prevail, Inc. in Noblesville. Prevail serves victims of crime and abuse in the county. “We’re incredibly appreciative of the county just recognizing the services and the thoughtful programming that we offer on behalf of victims of crime and abuse and that they recognize us, recognize that our funding from the county is pretty much invaluable to our operations, and it really does allow us to meet the needs of victims and survivors of crime and abuse,” said Tami Wanninger, Prevail’s executive director. Wanniger said the nonprofit typically applies annually for a grant or multiple grants from Hamilton County. Prevail has received $180,000 the last couple of years, Wanninger said. This year’s grant will go towards the 24/7 crisis line support, providing assistance for filing protective orders, support groups and general advocacy and referral as needed, Wanniger said. She said Prevail typically has

three to five walk-ins and eight to 10 crisis calls per day. Because Prevail anticipates funding cuts of 25 to 40 percent this year for the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Crime Victims Fund, Wanninger said this year’s grant was particularly helpful. The fund was created by Congress in 1984 and amended in 1988, and provides funding for assistance and compensation programs offering support to victims of violent crime, according to the Office of Victims of Crime. Grant applications for 2025 are due June 3, 2024. For more, visit hamiltoncounty. in.gov/1682/Non-profit-Grant-Application. Other grant recipients include: • PrimeLife Enrichment, Inc ($100,000) • Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County ($100,000) • Good Samaritan Network of Hamilton County ($99,000) • Trinity Free Clinic ($53,230) • Family Promise of Hamilton County ($47,250) • The Cooper House ($45,000) • Heart & Soul Clinic ($36,000) • Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse & Suicide ($30,000) • IGNITE.TRANSFORM ($25,000) • HOPE Family Care Center ($20,000) • Teter Organic Farm ($15,499) • Meals on Wheels Hamilton County ($15,000) • Low Cost Spay Neuter Clinic ($15,000) • Same As U ($14,000) • Carmel Education Foundation (Mental Health Initiative) ($10,000) • Hamilton Heights Educational Foundation (Mental Health Initiative) ( $10,000) • Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation (Mental Health) ($10,000)

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COMMUNITY

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WHS offensive tackle helped pave way for Shamrocks’ success By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Westfield High School senior offensive tackle Ryan Barker made his presence felt throughout his two years as a starter. “He has protected two different styles of (quarterbacks) the last two years as we have a 19-6 record with Ryan as our left tackle,” Shamrocks Barker football coach Jake Gilbert said. “He is great in pass protection and is a very good athlete. Ryan is physical and plays with a chip on his shoulder.” Barker protected senior quarterback Jackson Gilbert, Gilbert’s son, this past season. In 2022, Cole Ballard, now a University of Kansas freshman quarterback, was the Shamrocks’ starter. “They were fairly similar in how they played, but Cole was a little more of a runner,” Barker said. “Both were great leaders and great players.” The 6-foot-5, 245-pound Barker, who has a grade point average above 4.0, has offers

MEET RYAN BARKER

Favorite athlete: Quenton Nelson Favorite subject: Math Favorite movie: “Untold: Swamp Kings,” docuseries on the University of Florida football team Favorite musician: Tory Lanez from NCAA Division 1-A Football Championship Subdivision schools Butler University and University of Dayton. Those schools don’t offer athletic scholarships, but Barker wants to keep playing. Run blocking is Barker’s favorite part of his position. “That’s where you get to truly dominate the person across from you,” he said. “Pass protection is more of a dance. But I enjoy

Westfield senior offensive lineman Ryan Barker lifts receiver Gabe Aramboles after a touchdown. (Courtesy of Marci Yochum Photography)

doing both.” Barker said he worked on his footwork because he is lighter than many of his opponents. He said Hamilton Southeastern’s outside linebacker Evan Sherrill was the toughest opponent to block.

GIFT CARDS

Barker said his biggest improvement this season was in developing his leadership skills. “I have always been a guy that led by example,” he said. “I challenged myself to lead more. I think it helped out the team.” The Shamrocks finished 11-2, losing 38-31 in double overtime to Crown Point Nov. 17 in the Class 6A semistate. Crown Point (13-1) lost to Ben Davis in the state championship. Westfield’s other loss was against Brownsburg (9-1), which lost to Ben Davis in the sectional opener. “I don’t know if I’ll ever get over the disappointment that we could have gone back to the state (final),” Barker said. “It took a couple days to sink in that we actually lost and weren’t practicing on Monday.” On the freshman team, Barker played on the offensive and defensive lines before being switched full-time to the offensive line after that season. Barker played on the junior varsity his sophomore season, which was cut short by a concussion. Mostly healthy the past two seasons, Barker said he wants to add weight to play in college. He plans to major in business.

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December 5, 2023

COMMUNITY

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Jazzy steakhouse and bourbon lounge to open By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com A new steakhouse is coming to Fishers that strives to offer a jazz-like atmosphere. Cooper & Cow RESTAURANT Steakhouse & Bourbon Lounge will open early this month at 8626 E. 116th St. The menu includes prime USDA steaks, fresh seafood and a variety of drinks, according to manager Matt Bauer. “We have a fantastic lobster-tail cocktail that our chef has created,” Bauer said. “It’s served alongside an urban cocktail sauce.” Adult beverage options include bourbon and whisky, innovative cocktails and curated wines. Bauer said the restaurant will distinguish itself from other steakhouses with a laid-back atmosphere. “The atmosphere we’re looking for is a cool jazz, speakeasy vibe,” Bauer said. “We have booth sitting, we have table sitting and soft sitting in the lounge area for a more relaxed drinking and small-plate experience.” The 4,200-square-foot restaurant will

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Cooper & Cow Steakhouse & Bourbon Lounge aims to provide a relaxing atmosphere for guests. (Photos courtesy of Brian Brosmer Photography)

Cooper & Cow Steakhouse & Bourbon Lounge will open early this month at 8626 E. 116th St. in Fishers.

offer both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating up to approximately 110 guests at a time. There will be event space on the top of the building for cocktail parties and receptions. Bauer said Cooper & Cow Steakhouse & Bourbon Lounge will partner with the Hu-

mane Society for Hamilton County during its grand opening, which has not yet been scheduled. “Being involved in the community is important to us,” Bauer said. “So, we will be inviting our business neighbors to raise money for the community.”

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December 5, 2023

COVER STORY

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Fishers Marching Tigers perform in annual Macy’s parade in NYC

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com The Fishers High School Marching Tiger Band capped off a successful season with the honor of performing Nov. 23 in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The band not only marched in that traditional start to the Christmas season, it landed the coveted “Santa Band” spot, performing just ahead of the float carrying Santa Claus. During a media event about a week before the parade, Band Director Chad Kohler said they were one of only six bands chosen for the honor of marching in the iconic parade — six out of about 1,000 that applied. They learned they’d been chosen in April, and Kohler said the band’s show for this year’s season was holiday-themed on purpose. “The great thing about it is, the kids have been working on the same music since June,” he said, adding that performing in the Thanksgiving Day Parade is an honor. “I mean, they’ve been at the Disney parade, they’ve been in the Hollywood Christmas parade, Philadelphia parade, but the Macy’s Parade is like the parade to be accepted. To be accepted to that parade is a complete blessing.” Kohler said the music, although holiday-themed, has a jazz base. “A lot of these students hadn’t had that training,” he said. “And in fact, of our 260-piece band that’s going, 71 of them are juniors and seniors (and) 190-plus students are sophomore and below, and we actually have about 24 eighth-graders that are involved in the junior high. So, it’s great training for the future.” Those 260 students and their chaperones boarded six buses Nov. 19 for the trip to New York City. Another 140 supporters joined the group through a separate “family and friends” tour, bringing the Fishers contingent to about 450. Todd Zimmerman and members of his family were among the families and friends that attended. He went to watch his son, Eli, a senior who plays bass clarinet. Zimmerman said his son has been part of marching band throughout high school. “What was cool is my wife actually

(Left) The Fishers High School Marching Tigers learned in April that they were among the six marching bands chosen to perform in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The Fishers High School Marching Tigers performed right before the appearance of Santa Claus in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 23. (Photos by Kevin McCormick, www.GroupPhotos.com)

marched for Carmel back in high school,” he said. “But she never got to go to Macy’s. So, this was a big deal for our family.” Zimmerman said they were able to get spots near the end of the parade close to the Macy’s store where a stage was set up for cameras. “We got to see them up close from the front row,” he said. “It was amazing weather. I think it was like 50 degrees and sunny, so it was chilly, but considering the time of the year and where we were, we were really blessed with that weather.” Drum Major Hannah Schulz, 18, a senior, said the whole group woke up at 3 a.m. that morning to eat breakfast before heading to the parade’s starting point. “Marching in the parade was unlike any other parade we’ve marched in,” she said a few days after getting back. “Knowing you’re on such a big stage really gets you going. The parade itself had amazing weather, but it was still pretty cold. That didn’t stop us from performing our very best, though. My favorite part of the parade was getting to wave at everyone around me while walking through the tall buildings of Manhattan.” Zimmerman, who also is a member of the

Fishers City Council, said marching in the parade was not only great for the kids and their families but the whole community, noting that he’s learned a new appreciation for the importance of the arts. “Just the pride for our city to be represented (and) how the kids responded was amazing,” he said. “They really had an energy and they brought an energy to the point where when they were chosen as the Santa Band, it was because of the energy they

had. It was because of the excitement and their performance.” He said the final lineup was established after a rehearsal before the big day, and that’s when the Fishers band was chosen to precede Santa Claus. While the parade was the main event, Kohler said the group also attended performances of The Lion King and the Rockettes, and went to the Oculus, the American Experience, the 911 Memorial and other sights and sounds of New York City. “The coolest thing that I’m most looking forward to is Thanksgiving dinner,” Kohler said during the pre-trip event. “We’ll be on a dinner boat cruise out on the water overlooking the New York skyline with 450 of our closest family and friends.” Shulz said the cruise offered great views of the city throughout dinner and the dancing that followed. “We all jumped and danced around for over an hour together on the top floor in our suits and dresses, knowing it was our last night there,” she said. And at the end of the dinner cruise, Zimmerman said the students sang an a cappella rendition of “Auld Lang Syne,” with the glittering lights of New York City in the background. ON THE COVER: The Fishers High School

Marching Tigers performed Nov. 23 in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. (Photo by Kevin McCormick, www. GroupPhotos.com)

HOW DID THE MACY’S PARADE BECOME A TRADITION? The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was Nov. 27, 1924, according to the History Channel website, but it was billed at that time as a Christmas parade. It was a long parade in terms of distance — 6 miles as opposed to the present-day’s 2 1/2-mile route — but short in terms of length — two blocks’ worth of floats. According to the website, the floats matched the nursery-rhyme theme of that year’s Macy’s holiday window displays, with characters from Mother

Goose rhymes. It also featured people in various costumes, animals from the Central Park Zoo, four bands and, of course, Santa Claus. The parade was enough of a success that Macy’s decided to do it again the following year, although the zoo animals were replaced with character balloons, which are less messy and more cooperative. And it’s been a holiday tradition ever since. For more, visit history.com/news/ the-first-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade.

December 5, 2023

HEALTH

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DISPATCHES Cancer agency fundraiser successful — On Nov. 16, Little Red Door Cancer Agency hosted its 16th annual Face of Hope Breakfast at the Expo Hall at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Starting at 7:30 a.m., this event featured impactful stories from Little Red Door clients, staff, and Board members. The Face of Hope Breakfast is Little Red Door’s largest fundraising event of the year which supports critical client services for cancer patients, survivors and their caregivers. This year, more than a thousand people participated and raised $452,153 for services for medically underserved Hoosiers along the cancer continuum, including transportation to and from cancer treatment, nutritional supplements and meals, and wellness programming. For more information, visit littlereddoor.org or call (317) 925-5595. Kroger launches Holiday Hunger Campaign — Kroger Central Division and the Kroger Co. Zero Hunger, Zero Waste Foundation have launched the annual Holiday Hunger Campaign to provide meals to local families in need. According to Kroger, the campaign runs through Dec. 30, and customers shopping in stores and online in Indiana will be

encouraged to donate $1, $5 or $10 or round up their purchase to assist Kroger’s local food-bank partners. CDC announces recommended fall vaccines — Immunizations are available this fall and winter to help protect against three major respiratory diseases: COVID-19, flu and RSV. According to the Centers for Disease Control, immunization against these viruses remains the best protection for reducing the risk of serious illness, hospitalizations, long-term health impacts and death. Updated flu vaccines for 2023-24 are available, including flu shots and a nasal spray flu vaccine. There are many flu vaccine options available this season for everyone ages 6 months and older. Updated COVID-19 vaccines are available for 2023-2024. The CDC recommends that everyone 5 and older get one dose of the updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to be up to date and protect against serious illness from COVID-19. Children aged 6 months to 4 years need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccine, including at least one dose of the updated vaccine. An RSV vaccine for older adults, pregnant people and babies also is available. For more, visit cdc.gov.

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December 5, 2023

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At the table with Mark Commentary by Mark LaFay WHERE TO GO: LE MACARON

Season’s greetings in a bite news@currentinfishers.com Elevate your holiday table with a delectable blend of sharp cheddar and St. Elmo Creamy Horseradish in this festive mac & cheese. WHITE CHEDDAR MAC & CHEESE Ingredients: • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter • 1 1/2 cups whole milk • 1 cup half & half • 3/4 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded • 3/4 box of your favorite mac & cheese pasta (we used elbow mac) • 4-6 tablespoons St. Elmo Creamy Horseradish • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for top)

• 1 tbsp. kosher salt • 1 tbsp. St. Elmo Coarse-Cut Horseradish • Breadcrumbs (optional) Directions: Preheat oven to 400. In large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk. Let roux simmer while stirring for 4-5 minutes. Do not brown. Prepare noodles by following cooking instructions on package. Cook noodles al dente. While stirring the roux, incorporate milk and half & half. Simmer on low heat until sauce begins to thicken, approximately 10 minutes. Stir frequently. Add sharp white cheddar, cheddar, salt and St. Elmo Creamy Horseradish to roux. Add noodles to sauce and mix until noodles are completely coated. Pour mac & cheese mixture in casserole dish and top with remaining cheese. If using breadcrumbs – top cheese with breadcrumbs. Bake at 400° for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and garnish with St. Elmo Coarse-Cut Horseradish. FRISKY WHISKEY news@currentinfishers.com

Make this Frisky Whiskey Cocktail recipe using St. Elmo Steak House Old Fashioned ready-to-pour cocktail. Ingredients: • 1 1/2 ounces St. Elmo Old Fashioned • Ginger Ale Directions: 1. Fill highball glass with ice 2. Add St. Elmo Old Fashioned 3. Top with ginger ale

Address: 8710 E 116th St., Fishers What to Get: Pistachio Macaron Mark’s Take: I’m not much of a sweets guy, but that didn’t stop me from sampling a smattering of items from Le Macaron in Fishers. Proprietor Christi Parker, a former theatrical costume designer, retired her fabric and threaded needles to open this delightful French café and patisserie in December 2022. “I love the authenticity of what we do,” Parker said. “All of our pastries are made with imported French Ingredients by French chefs.” Le Macaron is a national chain founded and owned by a French couple that now lives in Florida. While the local ownership may not necessarily be French, they have bought into the French culture that is foundational to le Macaron. You might be wondering what to try when you visit La Macaron. Call me “Capt. Obvious,” but the macarons ($3) are very delicious. I sampled the Pistachio, Gran Marnier and Belgian Chocolate Macarons. All were winners but would have only been better had I enjoyed them with a hot cup of coffee and a newspaper. Le Macaron also carries a nice selection of Ghyslain chocolates. I enjoyed the Hot Chili Truffle ($2.75). It wasn’t all that spicy, but it was very luxurious! Sit and enjoy some coffee or tea with your selections, bring

Boxed gift options at Le Macaron in Fishers. (Photo courtesy of Christi Parker)

the family for board-game night, or enjoy one of their monthly wine tastings. Wine tastings are hosted by a sommelier and French culture aficionado that will walk you through wine and pastry pairings so good they will make you go, “Oui, oui!” If you are looking for a great host or hostess gift, consider one of their gift bundles. They vary in price from $10 to $130. The higher-end boxes can include wine pairings and tickets to their monthly wine tasting. Keep in mind that the macaron’s do not have preservatives. Keep them refrigerated and eat within three days of purchasing to enjoy them at peak freshness. If you have last-minute guests or if you forgot a gift, you could get sameday delivery via Doordash. Macaron is definitely a place for you to put on your “must try” list. Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite 19, Indianapolis

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December 5, 2023

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December 5, 2023

VIEWS

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Lyrical truth in lyrics Commentary by Terry Anker We owe a great debt to the many songwriters, musicians and singers who brought together our shared ESSAY story in the liturgy of the Great American Songbook. Sure, we related to the narrative of the human condition, of love found and lost, and of the joy and sadness in everyday living. But often, there would be simple lessons imbued in the catchy tunes and sultry deliveries. In moving a rubber tree plant, a little ant reminded us of what could be accomplished if we refused to surrender. And our hearts could find solace when circumstances separated us from the ones that we loved, if we could hold our memories of times together for a white Christmas, even if “only in our dreams.” Perhaps since the beginning of spoken language, we have committed our mood, history and social customs to song. Somehow, it manages to instruct and persuade us even as it entertains. The so-called Rat

Pack brought a hip post-war edge to our instruction. Taking note that gambling is likely pointless without a good measure of Lady Luck standing at our side, singer Frank Sinatra admonished her to remember that he needed the support and not to “blow on some other guy’s dice.” Unwisely, he seemed to believe that she owed him loyalty. Like so much of what we believe, there is little if any underpinning knowledge of its origin or thought about its application. If we sing it, we mostly believe it. Should we challenge, or at least consider, more than the sentiment behind popular music? Did the gambler have a right to expect his date to bring good fortune to his, and only his, dice?

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

Seasonal stress is here Commentary by Danielle Wilson

months’ worth of thoughtfully purchased gifts; a tinsel war that left my husband and ‘Tis the season, friends. But the real I noncommunicative for days; and multiple question is, the season for what? Will this dinner parties where no one should have be a month of joy and childlike been allowed to open that seventh bottle HUMOR delight or one of hellfire and of wine (seriously, what were we thinkemotional ing?). No way around it, exhaustion? For me, at the holidays are stressleast, it could go either ful. There are simply too “While reflecting on Decembers way. many variables in play to past, I can vividly recall bouts of Obviously, I’m hoping ensure a net positive. the flu ravaging our humble abode, for the former. I want Although for your fully decorated Christmas trees my kids to get along. reading pleasure, I suptoppling perilously close to children, I want our extended pose a month filled with and a particular personal cryfest family gatherings to be Yuletide hijinks would in a Chick-fil-A drive-thru after a disastrous Kohl’s run.” drama-free. I want good prove fruitful. I do have – DANIELLE WILSON weather and on-time a knack for transcribing Amazon deliveries. Mostmy pain and suffering ly, I want everyone to be healthy and happy into fun columns (you’re welcome!). For and appreciate what a relatively decent me and my sanity, however, I’m keeping year 2023 has been (for once, I’d be OK with my fingers crossed for less hellfire and toxic positivity!). But really, what are the emotional exhaustion and more joy and odds? childlike delight. If history tells us anything, not good. Peace out. While reflecting on Decembers past, I can vividly recall bouts of the flu ravaging our humble abode, fully decorated Christmas Danielle Wilson is a contributing trees toppling perilously close to children, columnist. You may email her at and a particular personal cryfest in a Chickinfo@youarecurrent.com. fil-A drive-thru after a disastrous Kohl’s run. I’ve had a basement flood destroy

How do you like them apples? Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

At the time, nothing like this had ever happened before. Never had the clerk at The other day my wife and I stopped at Staples said, “Sorry, but we’re out of, um, a Panera’s for a quick bowl of soup. “Do staples.” Never had the woman at Barnes you want an apple with that & Noble ever said, “I’m sorry, sir, we have HUMOR or an apple?” the cashier said. no books today, but we are printing up I was confused, but the some fresh ones even as we speak.” And a cashier explained that they were out of Panera’s would never run out of bread. Or rolls, and that little so I thought. joke seemed to amuse “Do you only make the customers. I was one pot at a time?” I not amused. You can’t asked the Starbucks dunk an apple in your barista. last drop of creamy “Yes, that’s our new tomato soup. I wanted approach to delicious a hunk of sourdough coffee. We brew it fresh bread. Minutes later, a when we need it. And manager came over and because of you, we said they just found need it.” a piece. I should have “OK, I don’t have a asked exactly where brain like Einstein’s they found it. I’m not (although they ran out into gluten-free, but I’m of coffee, once, too), but a big fan of germ-free. it seems to me if the Once, many years ago one pot is getting low, at a Starbucks, I walked you could start another in and asked for a cup pot so when people of coffee. The clerk – DICK WOLFSIE like me come in and looked a little sheepish desperately need an and said, “I’m sorry for over-priced libation, it’s the inconvenience, but we are presently ready to go.” out of coffee.” “Not a bad idea, sir. Let me check our There was a glimmer of hope in the new employee manual about that. In the word “presently,” suggesting that this meantime, would you like a scone?” was not a permanent state of affairs. I’m “Were they baked today?” no Wharton School MBA, but being out of “Oh, I’m not sure, but the good news is java could impact profits. that they can’t get any harder than when He stared at me for about six seconds, they are fresh.” which in the world of high-octane caffeine Well, that’s it for this week. I’m a writer, is a creepy amount of time to have eye and guess what? I am out of words. contact. He explained that they needed to make a fresh pot, which would have been a totally acceptable justification if I had Dick Wolfsie is an author, stopped at June Cleaver’s unexpectedly columnist and speaker. Contact before the Beave got home from school. him at wolfsie@aol.com. The grumpy old man in me started to percolate.

“Once, many years ago at a Starbucks, I walked in and asked for a cup of coffee. The clerk looked a little sheepish and said, ‘I’m sorry for the inconvenience, but we are presently out of coffee.’”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

December 5, 2023

VIEWS

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Cyclist says ‘thanks’ Editor: With cooler temperatures, the outdoor cycling season for many bicycle riders is drawing to a close (at least for this cyclist). I want to express my thanks to the drivers with whom I share the road. The main part of my morning bike route takes me north on Lantern Road, east on 126th Street, north on Southeastern Parkway to the roundabout at 136th Street and back. I usually wait until rush hour has passed, but there is still considerable traffic. I am thankful to the drivers who give me plenty of clearance — many even moving into the passing lane to go around me. I especially want to thank the HSE bus drivers on 126th Street for always giving me room. I have a couple of pointed comments to make. To the guy who (twice) yelled at me angrily to “get on the sidewalk,” you must know that cyclists have a right to ride in the street. In fact, a Fishers police officer once told me that there is an ordinance against riding on the sidewalk. I assume that is directed at road cyclists who ride at a faster pace, not youngsters. Also, when you speed up to an intersection through which I am about to ride, it scares the bejeebers out of me because it appears that you are not going to stop. I keep a wary eye on you. If you approach with caution, I often acknowledge with a nod or a quick wave. Thousands of vehicles have gone around me this riding season. Although I know that there have been accidents involving bicycles and cars, and I know all it takes is one driver not paying attention for an accident to happen, I have felt safe pursuing my favorite mode of exercise. Thank you. John Flora, Fishers

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Broadway performer set for Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops shows By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Broadway performer Ben Davis is eager for his debut with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra. CONCERTS Davis, a 1993 Lawrence North High School graduate, last performed in the Indianapolis area in a tour with “The Sound of Music” in 2017. Davis will appear in the Holiday Pops concerts at 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 10 Davis at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concerts feature Amelia Wray, who grew up in Carmel, as a guest vocalist. The Indiana Ballet Conservatory and Second Presbyterian Church Choir will join the performances. Davis will have several family and friends at the performances. “My little brother, Jeff, lives in Carmel, right down the street from the Palladium,” Davis said. “My mom, Jeanne, lives in Fishers, so it’s going to be a lot of fun. I’ve been to the Palladium but never sang in it.” Davis has appeared in several TV shows as well, including three episodes of “Law and Order: SVU” in 2019-20. Davis, who is based in New York City, performed in a Broadway show “New York, New York,” which closed in August. He recently concluded a stint in a George Bernard Shaw play, “Arms and the Man,” at an off-Broadway theater. He has been performing with a lot of symphonies, including in Milan, Italy, in September “I do another New York show in January, then back to Italy in February,” Davis said. “Hopefully, I’ll do more TV now that the writers and actors strikes are over.” Davis competed in football, basketball and track and field at Lawrence North. He quit basketball his junior year, and his mother suggested he audition for the school musical, “West Side Story.”

‘WHITE CHRISTMAS” Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “White Christmas” through Dec. 31 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com. ‘ELF’ Civic Theatre presents “Elf” through Dec. 24 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org. ‘INSPECTING CAROL’ Main Street Productions presents “Inspecting Carol” through Dec. 10 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org. ‘MOON OVER BUFFALO’ Carmel Community Players’ production of “Moon Over Buffalo” is set for Dec. 8-17 at The Cat in Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

Vocalist Amelia Wray will join Ben Davis for a duet at Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concert. (Photo courtesy of Wray family)

“I did choir my senior year and it all snowballed from there,” said Davis, who was an all-state high jumper. Davis’ first voice teacher was late-Carmel resident Jo Read Trakimas, and then his Butler University voice teacher was Steven Stolen. “I had these people come at the right time and make some magic with me,” he said. “Twenty-six years later in this business, it’s amazing to see what’s happened.” Davis enjoys all facets of performing. “There’s nothing like standing on a stage with an orchestra behind you,” Davis said. “It’s like a big wave of sound. They kind of lift you up and carry you forward. There’s nothing like walking in a Broadway stage door and having the audience stand and applaud at the end, and there’s nothing like seeing a final product of a TV show or a film. To see it edited is magic in itself. That’s what I wanted was to have my hand in every area of business that I can because of a little help, a lot of work, it’s all starting to come to fruition.” His break came when he auditioned and earned a role in “Les Misérables” on a na-

tional tour in 1997. Davis will sing a medley of Christmas songs and a duet with Wray. Wray, a Belmont University freshman and University High School graduate, had a regular role on Disney’s “Sydney to the Max” from 2019 to 2021. Wray also will sing two solo songs, “Mary, Did you Know?” and “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” along with the duet song, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” “I feel honored to be performing with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra,” Wray said. “I’ve always looked up to them. They’re so incredibly talented, so the fact I get to be singing in front of them is crazy. I’m excited to get in the holiday spirit and see everyone’s faces in the crowd. I’m just excited to be on the stage again. Any chance I get to perform in my hometown of Carmel is always so special.” Paul Langford, a Chicago-based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor, will serve as the guest conductor. At the 7 p.m. performance, Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard will join the orchestra, playing the French horn on select pieces. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS’ Jon McLaughlin & Friends present “Home for the Holidays” at 8 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘CREOLE CHRISTMAS’ Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s “Creole Christmas” concert is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Palladium. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH Merry Movie Nights set — Heartland Film Festival’s Merry Movie Nights, presented by Edward Jones, is set for Dec. 7-10 at the Arts for Lawrence’s Theater at the Fort. Tickets for adults are $7 and $5 for children and students. The four-day series will feature six films. Each screening includes a merry activation like wine and chocolate before “The Holiday” and Twinkies with “Die Hard.” For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

December 5, 2023

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TICKETS MAKE

Great Gifts!

S E A S O N P AR T NE R

JON MCLAUGHLIN: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Fri Dec 8 at 8pm

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Sat Dec 9 at 8pm

‘Moon Over Buffalo’ set By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Following an 18-year hiatus from the stage, Jason Creighton has the acting bug again. COMEDY In his first production for Carmel Community Players, the Carmel resident plays George Hay in Carmel Community Players’ production of Ken Ludwig’s “Moon Over Buffalo” Dec. 8-17 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. Hay and his wife, Charlotte, are former Broadway stars who have taken their run-down touring company to Buffalo. “The physicality of the comedy and quick pace are what drew me to the role,” said Creighton, who is in his fifth production since performing again. “I spend most of the second act drunk, which is, perhaps, more challenging than one might expect. It’s great fun, though, and I’m lucky to have the opportunity.” Tonya Rave said she enjoys portraying Charlotte Hay because the character is dynamic in many ways. “Although she initially appears to be a typical actress, she also offers a glimpse into the more human and vulnerable aspects

The “Moon Over Buffalo” cast, standing, from left, Wendy Brown, Jason Creighton), Tonya Rave; seated, from left, Brian Sprayue, Nicole Sherlock, Natalie Piggush, Mac Wright and Grant Bowen. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Ruddell.)

of her character,” Rave said. “Because this show is a farce, it involves a great deal of physical comedy — much of which has required extensive work on its corresponding choreography. Rave has viewed snippets of the Broadway production in which Carol Burnett portrayed Charlotte. “I have deliberately not seen this play performed in its entirety, as I wanted to bring my own unique interpretation of Charlotte to this production,” said Rave, a Lawrence Township resident and dramatics director for Lawrence North High School, her alma mater. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

Where’s Amy? BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD & SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY Wed Dec 13 at 7:30pm

Amy Pauszek is a photographer, award winning film producer and scouting and casting associate for Talent Fusion Agency in Indianapolis. She can be reached at Amy@ youarecurrent.com. To see more of her photos, visit currentnightandday.com.

BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS

Where’s Amy attended the Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” Nov. 25 at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. IBC’s production of “The Phantom of the Opera” is set to start May 25, 2024. For more, visit Indianaballetconservatory.org.

Thu Jan 18 at 7:30pm

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Fri Jan 26 at 8pm

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Where’s Amy attends IBC’s ’Nutcracker’

These activities made possible in part with support from the Indiana Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

Dave and Kim Wilcutts (Fishers) with son Thomas Wilcutts. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

December 5, 2023

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Dancers make ‘Nutcracker’ debut By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy Artistic Director Jane PERFORMANCES Hachiya-Weiner understands how important the Be an Angel program can be for a dancer’s development. “There is nothing more effective in helping a young dancer understand what ballet is all about than to let them experience being on stage under the lights,” Hachiya-Weiner said. “We designed this program so that a young novice dancWetnight er’s time on stage is as stress-free and as enjoyable as possible.” The academy’s youngest dancers will perform in “The Nutcracker” Dec. 15-17 at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. Zionsville resident Frankie Wetnight’s daughters, Cecilia, 8, and Claudia, 5, are BTCA students. The Be An Angel is an eightweek program for ages 5-8.

“Cecilia’s first ballet with BTCA was May of 2022 and ‘The Nutcracker’ will be her fourth (show),” Wetnight said. “This is Claudia’s first. Being part of a full-length ballet with the older dancers whom they idolize is magical for them. Performing after months of rehearsals gives them a feeling of accomplishment and pride, and as a parent, you couldn’t ask for more. They get so much joy from BTCA, everything from the friendships they form to performing.” Cardinal Ritter High School sophomore Miriam Danek was a part of the Be An Angel program when she was younger and now shares the role of Sugar Danek Plum Fairy. Danek said her favorite memory of being an angel was experiencing “The Nutcracker” at such a young age. “I was able to watch the older dancers as they inspired me to work harder and harder, so I could be like them,” Danek said. For more, visit ballettheatreofcarmel.org.

Powers celebrates Sinatra By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

pick the right songs. I want to do some of the Sinatra Christmas songs. Sinatra and Christmas are not synonymous. If Veteran singer/actor/comedian Wayne you think of Christmas, you don’t think of Powers was given a green light by Actors Frank Sinatra. If you think of a singer, you Theatre of Indiana to crethink of Bing Crosby or that sort of thing. CONCERTS ate his own concert. But Sinatra recorded some wonderful “I want to incorChristmas tunes, about maybe 20 porate the holidays, Christmas and of them in his career.” the Great American Songbook in Powers said he will incorporate the shows,” he said. some of those songs and some of In addition, Powers plans to celSinatra’s most familiar songs, the ebrate what would be Frank Sinasaloon songs and swing tunes. tra’s 108th birthday Dec. 12. “I’m excited about that because “That’s a special day, especially it’s the music I grew up with and Powers for my kind of music,” Powers said. the music that pulsates in my “It’s pretty much a potpourri or, in Brookbody,” he said. “I come alive with that mulyn terms, a hodgepodge of an evening sic. It’s going to have my thumbprint all with Wayne Powers.” over it.” Powers and his All-Star Jazz Trio will Powers said he is still narrowing the perform at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13-14 as part of setlist. ATI’s “Celebrate the Holidays” at the Studio “There are so many songs I want to do,” Theater at the Center for the Performing he said. “Another time I’m going to do a Arts in Carmel. Katy Gentry will perform complete Sinatra concert.” Dec. 15-17. The trio includes pianist Ken Fary, bass “Frank Sinatra recorded over 1,200 songs player Fred Withrow and drummer Chelsea in his career,” Powers said. “It’s a lot of Hughey music. The toughest thing for me is to For more, visit atistage.org.

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James Whitcomb Riley statue. (Photos by Don Knebel)

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In our continuing visits to sites within driving distance of Indianapolis, we stop in Greenfield, at the boyhood TRAVEL home of Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley. Reuben Riley. a Greenfield lawyer, was elected to the Indiana legislature in 1848. At the time, he and his wife Elizabeth lived with their two children in a Greenfield cabin along the National Road, now U.S. Highway 40. On Oct. 7, 1849, a third child was born, named in honor of Indiana Gov. James Whitcomb. Rueben, a skilled craftsman, soon began building a much larger house next door to accommodate his growing family. The two-story frame house, completed in three years, included a winding stairway, made from materials taken from the cabin. The front porch originally had two doors, one leading to the parlor and one to Reuben’s law office, where he and his partner shared a large desk separated by bookshelves. During the Civil War, Reuben organized a Greenfield militia. While he was away, Elizabeth received help from 12-year-old Mary

Alice Smith, an orphan who inspired “Little Orphan Annie,” one of James Whitcomb Riley’s best-known poems. Other visitors inspired other poems. Reuben Riley returned from the war paralyzed and not able to resume his law practice. Unable to pay expenses, the family sold the house in 1870, a year after 20-year-old James Whitcomb Riley, an indifferent student, had finally completed eighth grade. James Whitcomb Riley’s poems eventually made him rich and famous. In 1893, earning about $1,000 a week, he bought his boyhood home and allowed his brother John and his wife to live in it while he continued living in Indianapolis. The City of Greenfield purchased the house in 1936 and created the Riley Old Home Society to restore and operate it. Today, the Riley Birthplace and Museum, a National Historic Landmark, is open from April through November.

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

December 5, 2023

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Across 1. Fishers Farmers Market fruit 6. Ruoff Music Center ticket portion 10. PNC Bank machines 14. Kevin Gregory forecast word 15. Choice of two 16. Cheer for the Colts 17. Indiana US Vice President 19. Indiana US Vice President 21. Comfort 22. KFC piece 23. Word aptly hidden in “onboard” 24. Secret agents 26. Blue hut 28. Piercing tool 31. $, for short 32. 56-Down sounds 34. Do some fleecing 36. ___ Paulo, Brazil 37. It’s retractable at Lucas

Oil Stadium 41. Indiana US Senator 44. Indiana US Senator 46. “___, Brute?” 47. French king 48. Labors 49. Top-billed role at Theater at the Fort 51. Texter’s “I think” 53. Usual day for an IU football game 54. “Delicious!” 57. Subject of finger-pointing 59. Palindromic girl’s name 60. Internet messages 63. Computer programming command 67. Indiana governor 69. Indiana governor 71. Chooses 72. Run away 73. Artifact 74. Footnote abbr.

Your

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75. Firecracker cord 76. Fashion sense Down 1. Pine or pain 2. Hamilton County Court declaration 3. Pigs’ digs 4. Stows cargo 5. Mess up 6. Divine 7. Quick puffs 8. Celestial bear 9. Backyard cookouts, briefly 10. Palindromic boy’s name 11. “Happy birthday ___!” 12. Tooth type 13. Cubic meter 18. Wading bird 20. The Beehive State 25. Cat sound 27. Swashbuckler who left his mark 28. Winner of Indy’s 1976 pro

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tennis tourney 29. ___ your appetite 30. It starts on Ash Wednesday 32. Possesses 33. ___ and aah 35. Newfields ticket category 36. Skim the surface of Geist Reservoir, in a way 38. Redding of R&B 39. Tex. neighbor 40. End of Oktober? 42. 401(k) kin 43. Cape ___, Mass. 45. Molecule part 50. Observer 51. “Let me check” 52. Halloween cover-up 54. Nevada lake 55. Skilled 56. Mr. Claus 57. Monon Trail transports 58. Wading bird

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66. A single time 68. Broadband letters 70. EMT destinations Answers on Page 23

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Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment. The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net. We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays. To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

FIREWOOD SALE Topping – Removal Deadwooding – Landscaping Stump Grinding – Gutter Cleaning INSURED – FREE ESTIMATES Administrative Assistant CALL STEVEAdministrative Assistant St. PiusChurch X Catholic Church St. Pius X Catholic 317-932-2115

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December 5, 2023

Classifieds

VISA, MasterCard accepted. Reach 132,206 homes weekly

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Body Parts: EYE, FIN, GILLS, MOUTH, SCALES, TAIL; Supplies: NEEDLE, PIN, SCISSORS, THIMBLE, THREAD; Cities: ANDERSON, BLOOMINGTON, EVANSVILLE, FISHERS; Stooges: CURLY, LARRY, MOE; Classes: PILATES, YOGA; Building: SALESFORCE TOWER

in Fishers L.L.C. Contemporary WindowCurrent Cleaning 27 currentinfishers.com Residential & Commercial Trash Can Sanitizing Pressure Washing Gutter Cleaning

St. Pius X Catholic Church 7200 Sarto Drive Indianapolis, IN 46240 ksweeney@spxparish.org

St. Pius X is looking for a full-time to joincourtesy, the St. Pius X is looking Administrative for a full-timeAssistant Adminisspeed, accuracyand and patience. Some speed, accuracy patience. Some parish Asstaff. the point of “firstother tasks include: NOW HIRING trative Assistant to join the staff. parish As the other tasks include: contact,” this position is vital point of “first contact,” this position is vital to to •the Work independently with minimal su• Work independently and withaminimal integrity & professionalism the integrity & professionalism of the Parish of the pervision. Self-motivated, sense of supervision. Self-motivated, and a It is critical Offices. It is criticalParish that Offices. this position sup-that this discretion. sense of discretion. positionefficient supportsoperation the goal of ensuring ports the goal of ensuring • Computer proficiency (MS Office • Excel Computer proficiency (MS Office of the Parish of the Parish Offices. efficient It is alsooperation important that Word, and Outlook). Long Term Substitute Word, Exceland andwritten Outlook). Offices. and It is also important employee understands supports the that•this Excellent verbal communiA long term substitutethis teacher at • skills. Excellent verbal and written understands and supports cation Mission and purposeemployee of the Roman Catholic Midwest Academy will collaborate with communication skills. the Mission and purpose of the Roman Church and St. Pius X Parish and be able to • Maintains office record filing system. the counseling team and teachers to record and filingprofesCatholic Church St. Pius X Parish participate fully in the practice of theand Roman • Able• toMaintains maintainoffice a friendly support the needs of all students. The system. in person, on telephone, and be able to participate fully in the Catholic Faith. sional presence Long Term Substitute Teacher will Ablewritten to maintain a friendly and practice of the Roman Catholic Faith. email• and correspondence. professional in person, perform a variety of support The services basic job functions opening This position will presence need to be flexible as Theinclude basic jobdaily functions include • on telephone, and written including substitute teaching, lunch of parish administration and closing office. Renew tasks come up.email Perform auxiliary daily opening and closing of parish correspondence. duty/recess duty, potential before ceiving and placing telephone calls.office. Greeting administration Receiving and duties for the parish as requested. • This position will need to be flexible care responsibilities andguests one toand oneparishioners to thetelephone parish office. placing calls.This Greeting guests as new tasks come up. Perform people and remediation teachingperson in Mathshould have excellent and parishioners to theorgaparish office. auxiliary duties for the parish as the ability to multi-task: and English.nizational skills with This person should have excellentFor immediate consideration email: requested. Handle awill high volumepeople of telephone calls withskills with parish@spxparish.org QUALIFICATIONS: A candidate and organizational the ability to multi-task: Handle a high For immediate consideration preferability have a minimum of a volume of telephone calls with courtesy, Bachelor’s degree in a field related to email: parish@spxparish.org education, psychology or social work, along with experience with children with learning differences. An ideal candidate will have strong communication skills and the ability to be flexible and attend to a variety of needs. Please submit your resume to careers@mymwa.org.

YOUR CLASSIFIED AD HERE! Call Dennis O’Malia 317-370-0749

December 5, 2023

Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com

Celebrating ﬁve years of caring for the Westﬁeld community!

Riverview Health Westﬁeld Hospital:

Committed to providing care to the individuals, families and businesses in the city of Westfield and across Hamilton County for over five years—and we will continue to expand our services and offerings to respond to the needs of all we serve. We are proud to provide the only combined ER and Urgent Care facility in the area which offers a single access point where you’ll be guided to the quality care you need and at a cost which is appropriate. Our Westfield Hospital also houses an inpatient unit, surgery suites, imaging services, a bone and breast center, physician offices, a pharmacy, orthopedic and sports medicine services, and an employer-based health center.

To learn more, visit riverview.org/westﬁeldhospital.

RIGHT SIZE. RIGHT CARE. RIGHT HERE. NOBLESVILLE / WESTFIELD / CARMEL / CICERO / FISHERS / SHERIDAN / ZIONSVILLE