January 30, 2024 — Lawrence/Geist by Current Publishing

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LET IT SNOW Lawrence Streets Department crews prepared for winter road management / P9

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS IN 2024 Get details about these events and more at

VisitLawrenceIndiana.com

Black History Month Celebration February 29, 2024

Hello from Lawrence! I am thrilled and honored to embark on this new journey to serve our city as Mayor. Our first month has been off to an exciting start, with new hires and appointments, as well as the welcoming back of many familiar faces that have served our city for years. During the last year, many of you may have heard me say “It’s time!” To me, that turn of phrase has meant so many things in so many contexts. It means it’s time to bring new, forward-looking leadership to our city. It’s time to take the momentum of the past administrations and move forward to achieve our goals. And of course, it’s time to unite our city and make sure we are connected on a deeper level than ever before. It’s time to offer an example of leadership that understands that the power of elected office, put to its highest and best use, brings more and different people in, instead of keeping them out.

TOTAL ECLIPSE

Total Eclipse 2024 April 8, 2024

FORT BEN 2024

It’s time to demonstrate that power, put to its greatest purpose, empowers others—even, and sometimes especially, when those “others” don’t look like we do, or love like we do, or think or worship or even vote like we do. It’s time to live out the promise of being a welcoming, inclusive community.

Fort Ben Farmer’s Market June 6 - October 3, 2024

With the challenges we face as a city and community, we know one thing for sure—it’s time we come together and work hard to make Lawrence a better place to live, work, and raise our families. I accept that charge as a humble, servant leader, and I promise you I won’t let you down. Here’s to the beginning of a new work in progress—one that will strive to serve all and welcome everyone. I know we can achieve great things when we work together. It’s time.

Lagers in Lawrence September 21, 2024

All the best, rfest

Oktobe

Deborah Whitfield Mayor, City of Lawrence

January 30, 2024

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Students featured in Fishers Arts Council’s ‘Embracing Black Culture’ exhibit By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com It’s rare for junior high students to show their art anywhere other than the walls of the school or their parEXPRESSION ents’ refrigerator. During the month of February, though, Fall Creek Junior High School eighth-graders’ work will cover the walls of the Fishers Arts Council’s Collaboration Hub Gallery, 11810 Technology Dr., for the annual “Embracing Black Culture” exhibit, coinciding with Black History Month. It’s been about six years since the arts council and Fall Creek art teacher Shelley Feeney started collaborating on the exhibit. Feeney said it’s part of an effort to get student art outside of school buildings and in front of the public’s eyes. In previous years, Feeney and her students focused on a single Black artist from the past 100 years, studying their style and techniques and adapting that style to the students’ own artwork. “This year, I did five different artists,” she said: Jean-Michel Basquiat, Faith Ringgold, Norman Lewis, Alma Thomas and Kehinde Wiley. “And the students had to do some research on each of the artists, about the artistic style, movement, how the artwork made them feel — that type of thing. And then they had to kind of relate to one of those artists in terms of style and method that they liked.” After that, students chose a message they wanted to send. “It could be within our community all the way to worldwide — any issues that they see as prevalent or they want to bring attention to,” Feeney said. “It was more of using art as a means of communication and as a way to voice their opinion on something. We really discussed how art is more than just a pretty painting that’s hanging on a wall — It could be something that could be controversial or something that’s often hard to talk about or put into words or maybe to help put the viewer in a perspective of someone else.” Students did not have to focus on Black culture in their individual pieces, but they did study how the five featured Black artists used their art as a means of communication and empowerment. “And we talked about what culture is,” Feeney said, “Some of the students did

“Disguised Racism” by Amelia Ka is a piece inspired by the style of Jean-Michel Basquiat. In her artist statement, Ka said it is about racism experienced by Asians, often excused as “just a joke.” (Photo courtesy of Shelley Feeney)

choose to do artwork about that, not everybody did, but their artwork had to be something that had a voice, to bring attention to something that they felt was important. It ranged from pollution to gender issues, racial issues, dress code, female rights.” Feeney said the pieces include a variety of materials, including yarn, origami and mosaic. How they expressed themselves was their choice, she said, as long as they could explain why they made that choice. “They had complete artistic freedom for this project,” she said. “It was neat to see them think of things and come up with ideas that I would have never thought of. And then, also, I think it’s really important for the community to see what is important to our youth right now. They have a lot of powerful things to talk about and say, and opinions, and this was a great opportunity for them to bring attention to things that might be hard to put in words or talk about in a traditional setting.” FAC Executive Director Les Reinhardt said there will be more than 100 pieces on display for “Embracing Black Culture,” and it will primarily be student artwork. A handful of pieces by adult artists will be included, as space allows, but student art takes precedence for this show. “We do 12 different exhibits a year and two of the exhibits are dedicated to student artists,” she said. “We have one in February and one in April. And, last year’s show with Shelley’s students was just awesome because so many kids came out. They were so excited. They were dressed up, they learned

about pricing their art and showing it off and writing artist statements, and then we interviewed several of them during the reception.” A Second Friday reception takes place for each of the FAC’s exhibits, and the February one is set for 6-8 p.m. Feb. 9 at the gallery. Reinhardt said she plans to again have some of the student artists speak about their pieces. Reinhardt said it’s important to nurture future artists through this kind of exhibit and encourage them to continue expressing themselves. “We try to provide a safe and welcoming space for anyone to express their art,” she said. “And so, to be able to provide an additional space for students whose art is generally inside the school walls — to have a public space where they can do that I think is really empowering for the students.” For more, visit fishersartscouncil.org.

IF YOU GO WHAT: Fishers Arts Council’s “Embracing Black Culture” exhibit featuring the work of Fall Creek Junior High School eighth-graders. WHEN: On display throughout the month of February, with a Second Friday public reception starting at 6 p.m. Feb. 9. WHERE: The FAC Collaboration Hub Gallery, 11810 Technology Dr., Fishers.

January 30, 2024

COMMUNITY

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CURRENT FEBRUARY LAWRENCE/GEIST COMMUNITY CALENDAR CITY OF LAWRENCE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS The following meetings are scheduled during February: • Lawrence Common Council, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 5 and 21, Public Assembly Room, Lawrence Government Center • Board of Public Works, 5 p.m. Feb. 8 and 22, Public Assembly Room, Lawrence Government Center • Utility Service Board, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 13 and 27, Public Assembly Room, Lawrence Government Center

• Parks Board, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 14, Public Assembly Room, Lawrence Government Center • Board of Zoning Appeals, 6 p.m. Feb. 20, Public Assembly Room, Lawrence Government Center MDSLT BOARD MEETINGS Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township Board of Education meets in work session at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 12. The regular board meeting is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 26. MSDLT work sessions and board meetings

are at the Lawrence Education and Community Center, 6501 Sunnyside Rd., and are open to the public. URBAN LINE DANCE CLASSES Arts for Lawrence and Triple Take Productions offer a drop-in urban line dance class from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 13 and 20 at the Arts for Lawrence Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave. Donations accepted. THE AL GREEN SUITE Singer Bashiri Asad presents The Al Green

Suite Feb. 17 at Arts for Lawrence’s Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave. Two performances are scheduled at 6;30 p.m. and 9 p.m. For more, visit artsforlawrence.org/ tickets. INDIANA DRAMA CLUB MEETING The Indiana Drama Club meets the third Wednesday of every month at Arts for Lawrence’s Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave. The club is for students in grades 6-12, and the next meeting is set for 6 pm. Feb. 21.

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January 30, 2024

COMMUNITY

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Lawrence council votes to hire Frost Brown Todd law firm By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com In a split vote Jan. 17, the Lawrence Common Council voted in favor of hiring Frost Brown Todd law firm as GOVERNMENT its new legal counsel. The motion was approved 5-3 with one abstention from Councilmember Carlos Jennings (D-District4). Councilors voting in favor were Tyrrell Giles (D-District 1), Rick Wells (D-District 2), Lisa Chavis (D-at-large), Liz Masur (D-at-large) and Kristie Krone (D-District 6). Councilors Sherron Freeman (D-District 3), Betty Robinson (D-at-large) and Zach Cramer (D-District 5) voted no. An earlier motion to hire Ice Miller law firm failed 3-5, with Freeman, Robinson and Cramer voting in favor. Before the vote, John Gregg of Ice Miller’s Government Affairs and Regulatory Law Group spoke briefly to the council. “I have experience with municipalities,” he said. “I used to work at AIM (Accelerate Indiana Municipalities) before coming to Ice Miller — been at Ice Miller three years, I was at AIM for about four years, where I’ve dealt with municipalities all across the state. And while I’ve been at Ice Miller, I also deal with municipalities across the state as well, ranging from councils to redevelopment commissions, etc.” Giles asked whether Gregg had experience helping cities with energy savings, noting that it is one of the council’s more complicated responsibilities. Gregg said he had not worked on that in Indiana, but he did help cities with federal energy regulations in Georgia. A representative from Frost Brown

The Lawrence Common Council met Jan. 17 at Lawrence Government Center. (Photo courtesy of the City of Lawrence)

Todd spoke to the council at its previous meeting. Only two law firms were up for consideration. The council’s previous attorney was Kristina Wheeler of Bose McKinney & Evans. The council also heard a brief report from Deputy Chief of Staff LeAndre Level, who said Mayor Deb Whitfield made some appointments to the Board of Works and Safety: Jim Perron, former mayor of Elkhart; Barb Lawrence, Marion County treasurer; and Lawrence Chief of Staff Zachary Brown. Level also reported that the sprinkler system in the day room at Fire Station 37 on German Church Road had burst a few days prior but had been fixed. He said he would report back with any expenses not covered by insurance. Wells asked Level whether the mayor’s office would be open to a discussion about establishing enforcement powers for zoning rules. He said without enforcement, businesses can violate zoning regulations and there’s nothing the city can do about it. Level said he would gather more information about that to share with the council. The next Lawrence Common Council meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Feb. 5 at Lawrence Government Center, 9001 E. 59th St.

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January 30, 2024

COMMUNITY

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Geist resident Patrick Malayter files for Congress news@geistcurrent.com

Malayter stated that the country needs creative ideas to solve challenges. Geist-area resident Patrick Malayter “My running for Congress is a ‘callannounced recently that he has filed to ing’ versus some ‘lifetime achievement run in the May award,’” he stated. “I’m focused POLITICS Republican primary on making changes to congressiofor Indiana’s 5th nal terms to have a flow of new Congressional District seat. people and ideas, having repreMalayter has joined a crowded sentatives that are focused on field for the Republican primary, the financial health of the U.S. and with a total of six candidates filed the wellbeing of Americans.” so far. The incumbent, Republican Malaytar stated that while Malayter Victoria Spartz, is not seeking presidents have a role in excess reelection. spending, “The real culprits drivThe filing deadline for candidates is ing our pain are the members of Congress noon Feb. 9. — the government branch that deterDistrict 5 includes Hamilton, Madison, mines how we spend money. We need to Delaware, Grant, and Tipton counties, as send them packing. We must term-limit well as a majority of Howard County. Congress.” In his announcement, Malayter stated He stated that other issues he would that he grew up in Gary. He and his wife, like to address include college cost reEllen, have lived in Geist for 28 years. form, improving public safety, border conThey raised five children who attendtrol and closing tax loopholes. ed the Hamilton Southeastern Schools For more, visit PatrickMforCongress. system. com.

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Peterman Brothers to hold charity showdown By Tirzah Rowland news@youarecurrent.com Peterman Brothers Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electrical invites the community to participate PHILANTHROPY in its fifth Charity Showdown, set to start March 1. Benefiting Indiana charities throughout the state, the annual event is a March Madness-style competition decided by votes on Peterman’s social media sites. “The Charity Showdown has been an important piece of our goal to add value to the communities we serve,” said Chad Peterman, the company’s co-owner and president. “The event continues to raise awareness for a number of worthy causes, while allowing our team and our customers to highlight causes they are passionate about.” Throughout January and February, Peterman Protection Club members nominate their favorite community charities. Nominees must have locations within Peterman’s territories serviced by seven Indiana locations. “There are people in need in the communities we serve. We decided this would be a fun way to get the community involved,” said Erin Anderson, Peterman’s community engagement supervisor. “We welcome nominees big or small. It is a great way for them to receive exposure outside of their communities.” The Peterman team narrows the options to 64 and opens weekly voting rounds to the public. Each week, the field narrows until four charities remain. “People in need are going to win,” Anderson said. Winning charities receive $1.25 each from every service call the Peterman team makes to its Protection Club members. In 2023, the

Representatives from the 2023 winning charities. (Photo Courtesy Peterman Brothers)

nonprofits Meals on Wheels-Indiana, Rosie’s Southside Animal Shelter, Indiana Women in Need and Sketchy Mutts and Underdogs each received $23,162. “The winners are invited to the annual company party in February and presented with their checks,” Anderson said. The event showcases Peterman’s commitment to supporting the needs of the communities it serves through partnerships and continued support, according to the company. Throughout the year, the staff seeks volunteer opportunities, holds food drives and office raffles, with the proceeds benefiting the winning charities. Peterman promotes the charities on social media during the contest, and the “phenomenal four,” as the company calls the winners, receive promotion throughout the year, including a professional charity spotlight produced by the Peterman video coordinator. “The staff is motivated to provide great service and promote the loyalty program, knowing more money goes to the charities,” Anderson said. “These are our neighbors.” To vote or for more information, visit petermanhvac.com/ or facebook.com/ PetermanHVACIndianapolis/

DISPATCH Hamilton Trace parent company ranks high — Senior living management company CarDon & Associates announced its inclusion in U.S. News & World Report’s annual ranking of the best senior care communities in the country. For its 2023-2024 rankings, U.S. News evaluated more than 15,000 communities throughout the nation. Of the 521 in Indiana, 24 received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 or “high performing,” and three are CarDon communities — Bell Trace Health and Living in Bloomington, Brookside Village in Jasper and Hamilton Trace at 11851 Cumberland Rd. in Fishers. To be recognized as one of the best, a community must receive a rating of “high performing” in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care or both, according to the announcement.

January 30, 2024

COMMUNITY

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FHS plans annual Silver Spotlight Show Choir Invitational By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com High school show choirs from around central Indiana will gather at Fishers High School Feb. 3 for the COMPETITION school’s annual Silver Spotlight Show Choir Invitational. Performances will run from 8 a.m. through late evening during the event hosted at the school, 13000 Promise Rd. FHS Show Choir booster and parent Allen McCaskill said performances will include groups from Lawrence, Noblesville, Franklin, Center Grove, Riverside, Pendleton Heights and, of course, Fishers. Leilani Alberty is the Silver Spotlight 2024 Coordinator. She said this year’s event is the 14th Silver Spotlight hosted by the school, and will feature 20 show choir groups from eight different schools. “Show choir encourages a community of teenagers who love to perform, creates lasting friendships and motivates students to grow and explore outside their comfort zones,” she said. “Although winning is an aspect, more than winning, students thrive for synchrony and to demonstrate the best version of their yearlong efforts, memorizing, perfecting, synchronizing, sweat and dedication.” Senior Hannah DeCaudin is co-president of Electrum, FHS’s large mixed show choir. She has been in show choir four years and said this is her fourth and final Silver Spotlight. “The biggest difference between Spotlight and other competitions mainly is that we host different choirs and are not actually competing,” she said. “Spotlight serves as an exhibition for both Sound (univoice) and Electrum, so we can get feedback and get a run at our home stage with a lot of support from the community before we go out and compete.” Senior Claire McCaskill is co-president of Sound, the school’s large univoice show choir. Like DeCaudin, she also has been in show choir since her freshman year. “I have participated in many Silver Spotlights,” she said. “This event is different than other performances because it’s our first time we are able to showcase our set for the year. I don’t want to give it away, so I won’t say much, but we have a very special performance planned that has been one

Fishers High School will host the annual Silver Spotlight show choir competition Feb, 3. (Photo courtesy of Leilani Alberty)

of my favorites to take part in.” McCaskill said the event also is one of the first opportunities to see what other schools have prepared for the season. As the host school, FHS students are in charge of coordinating all the other schools, making sure everyone gets to where they need to be and running concessions, DeCaudin said. She said she loves the sense of community she gets from participating in show choir, and the opportunity it provided to grow as a person. “I have been able to watch myself grow up from a little 14-year-old freshman to the 18-year-old woman I am now within the walls of that choir room,” she said. “Within choir, I have been able to grow so much confidence and leadership skills that will be able to help me immensely in the future. If my little freshman self-found out she was president of her show choir senior year, she would’ve never believed it. Show choir isn’t just about singing and dancing and having a good time. Show choir helps you find yourself and who you are meant to be.” McCaskill added that singing and dancing is a passion of hers, and she looks forward to the event because she’ll be surrounded by others who feel the same way. “I believe the community and friendships I have made will last me forever,” she said, “It is such a unique experience, and I am so grateful to be a part of it.” Awards will be given for different categories including Grand Champion, 1st and 2nd Runner-Up, Best Vocals, Best Visuals, Best Band. Overall Best Costume and Overall Best Stage Crew. All-day passes to the event are $15 each. For more, visit fhschoirs.com/ silver-spotlight.

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January 30, 2024

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Shamrocks senior guard benefited playing behind Mr. Basketball By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Westfield High School senior guard Trey Buchanan had the great benefit of going against former teammate Braden Smith in practice when Buchanan was a sophomore. Smith, the 2022 Indiana Mr. Basketball winner, is in his second season as Purdue University’s startBuchanan ing point guard. “I definitely learned a lot from both playing against Braden in practice every day and sharing the court with him during games,” Buchanan said. “Just the way he went about himself — pure confidence and a determination to dominate. It also gave me a great feel of where I needed to improve my game in order to succeed both in high school and, now, at the next level, especially when I came in as an inexperienced sophomore.” Through the first 13 games, Buchanan averaged 11.8 points and 2.5 assists per game for the Shamrocks (12-1). “Playing behind Braden was a tremen-

MEET TREY BUCHANAN

Favorite TV show: “The Night Agent” Favorite movie: “Toy Story” Favorite athlete: Damian Lillard Favorite musician: 21 Savage dous opportunity to learn how things are done,” Westfield coach Shane Sumpter said. “That gave him a great person to compete against every day in practice. Trey has just continued to work on getting better.” Buchanan started part of his sophomore season when Smith was injured. “I think I’ve made improvements in being a leader and being able to score on all three levels, not just being a three-point shooter,” Buchanan said.

Trey Buchanan averages nearly 12 points per game for Westfield High School’s basketball team. (Photo courtesy of Trey Buchanan)

Sumpter said Buchanan might have surprised some teams as a junior. “It’s certainly no surprise now,” he said. “He’s a terrific kid and he just works really hard. He’s definitely one of the leaders on our team. He’s always been a tremendous shooter. I challenged him last year to become more of a scorer and finish around

the basket.” Buchanan’s father is Chad Buchanan, the Indiana Pacers general manager. “I’ve been around the game of basketball from basically when I came out of the womb,” Buchanan said. “My dad has always worked in the basketball industry, so I was introduced to the sport at a very young age. I definitely fell in love with it, too, at that young age. I used to live in Oregon, and I played on a fifth-grade team as a second-grader because there weren’t any second- to fourth-grade teams in my area. So, I began to play at the earliest stage of my life that I could.” Buchanan played soccer and baseball growing up. He played soccer until he moved to Indiana late in his sixth-grade year and played baseball until he reached high school. “That was when I gave it up,” Buchanan said. “I just wanted to focus on one sport and put my all into hoops.” Buchanan is considering a preferred walk-on opportunity on the University of Iowa’s basketball team. Other options are Indiana Wesleyan University, University of Saint Francis and Trine University.

January 30, 2024

COVER STORY

LET IT SNOW

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Lawrence Streets Department crews prepared for winter road management By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com The day before a forecasted 2- to 4-inch snowfall, Lawrence Public Works Streets Department crews were preparing for the worst. Stanley Socks, Ronnie Benslay, Howard Lewis and Larry Jones busied themselves getting trucks ready to apply brine to the streets, which helps create a barrier that makes it easier to scoop up snow. Large tanks of brine at the department’s maintenance facility hold about 6,000 gallons, and Lawrence Public Works Director Jim Heneghan said it’s nontoxic — just salt, water and — oddly — beet juice. “What beet juice does, it makes it stick to the roads,” he explained. “They used to use molasses but that got expensive.” Brining roads is part of the pre-snow work. After the snowfall begins, there’s more work to be done. To that end, the department has large snowplows for the main roads, trucks with plow attachments for side streets and neighborhoods, loaders to move mounds of snow, about 10,000 tons of road salt to keep the roads free of ice, and seven drivers who hold Commercial Driver’s License certification. An eighth is working on her CDL certification, Heneghan said, and is the first Black woman working at the Streets Department. How big of a response the department ends up providing naturally depends on how much snow Mother Nature decides to send. While forecasts have gotten better, it’s still pretty unpredictable. So, they’re ready for anything. “We salt 2 inches and we plow 3,” Heneghan said. “You can control 2 inches of snow with salt for traffic purposes, but once it gets above 2 inches, like 3, 4, you know, 10, you have to remove it before you can salt.” When there’s a major snow event, he said, they get a little help from City of Lawrence Utilities crews, which adds 14 CDL drivers and a bunch of smaller trucks to the mix. Salting the city takes about four hours, Heneghan said. Plowing — well, how long that takes depends on many factors, including the cooperation of city residents. Heneghan, who has worked for the city 38 years, said the biggest headache for snow-

(Below) Howard Lewis of the Lawrence Streets Department stands next to the department’s new loader.

(Above) From left, Lawrence street maintenance crew members Stanley Socks, Ronnie Benslay, Howard Lewis and Larry Jones prepare to apply brine to the city’s streets before a forecasted snowfall. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

plow drivers is cars parked on the street. “There’s one neighborhood here that we can’t even get down the road because they park on both sides of the street so we can’t plow it,” he said. “And it’s not fair to the other neighbors that don’t park in the street.” It also impedes mail delivery, he said, because when a car is parked too close to a mailbox, the plow can’t clear snow to allow a postal worker access. “We get calls: ‘I can’t get my mail because you didn’t plow here,’” he said. “Yes, we did plow — your neighbor left his car out there and we can’t get underneath your mailboxes.” Heneghan added that street crews don’t usually return to plow after cars have moved, because by then the snow has frozen into a solid mass that can’t be budged. He stressed the importance of parking in driveways when snow is predicted. Another way residents can help mitigate snow-related frustration for themselves is to either wait until the plows come through before shoveling their drives or leave a couple feet unshoveled at the end closest to

the street. “The way our snowplows work, everything offloads off the right,” Heneghan said. “So, if it finds an empty void, guess what happens? All that snow we bring from the center of the street empties right in your driveway. If you’ll leave that (buffer), it won’t

empty itself there,” making it easier for a resident to clear their drive with a hand shovel. Benslay, who has worked for the Streets Department 25 years, said traffic is another obstacle to plowing snow. Traffic can work in their favor, too, though, helping to grind the road salt in and melt the snow through friction. “We like to come in at night. lay our salt down right before rush hour in the morning so traffic can work it in, and then we’re good to go,” he said. “That’s what we like, but it never happens that way.” Benslay said plowing can be tedious, especially during big snowfalls that require long hours in the truck. He stays alert with lots of caffeine, listening to the radio, rolling the window down for the occasional blast of cold air and stopping briefly to step out of the truck and stretch his legs. “It gets to the point where, you know, you catch your second wind and you catch your third wind and then it’s just that fourth one, you hit a brick wall — you just can’t do it,” he said. But when the first shift gets tired, Heneghan said, they’re able to call in the second shift to take over, making sure the city’s streets remain clear for residents to get where they need to go. ON THE COVER: Lawrence Public Works Director Jim Heneghan stands in front of a pile of road salt in one of the city’s two large salt barns. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

THE BIG ONE Lawrence Public Works Director Jim Heneghan recalled that the biggest snow event he’s responded during his 38 years with the city was in the mid- to late-‘90s. “We had one that came in as a 10-inch snowfall on a Wednesday,” he said. “We clocked in on a Wednesday. We worked all Wednesday, all Thursday. Got another snowfall Thursday evening. And I believe we ended up clocking out late Saturday night.” The 10 inches on that first night was followed by 4 to 5 the next, he said, and

at least a couple more later on. Heneghan added that, through the years, he’s helped several expectant moms get to the hospital in time. “I’ve had the great honor of … helping assist with three babies being delivered in the City of Lawrence, because the ambulance — one of the 10-inch falls I was talking about — the ambulance couldn’t get in the neighborhood because we hadn’t got there yet,” he said. “I had to plow them in and plow them out so they get to the hospital. I’ve done that three times. It’s pretty cool.”

January 30, 2024

VIEWS

Current in Lawrence/Geist geistcurrent.com

Expressions of false narratives Commentary by Terry Anker Like so many expressions in our common manner of speaking, we believe that we know the meaning of a ESSAY word or phrase because of its customary usage. But regional or community differences can bring great distinction between what we think we are saying and what our listener is hearing. Sometimes, our very pronunciation leads to misunderstanding. Many of our fellow good-intentioned Hoosiers hold that one “warshes” a frying pan rather than wash it. Perhaps the “r” came out with the grime. To many of us, “taking the Lord’s name in vain” is code for a profane tirade. We are cursing at those to whom we direct the epithet or the very deity that we believed caused our supposed misfortune. More accurately, we are wrongly or wickedly claiming the authority of the divinity to our own purposes. It is as if we are saying that we lack the power to extract justice, but our big brother will do so — hoping to frighten our nemesis with our powerful

friends. Alas, we all are inclined to do it. We invoke the name of our boss, a powerful political leader, or even our fellow parent to cajole someone into adhering to our will. “I don’t really care if you stay out late, Junior, but your mother wouldn’t like it.” Well, if Mom’s unhappy, she can probably speak for herself, and if Dad doesn’t think the youngster should stay out late, he ought to tell them himself and not blame his opposite parent. It is hard to be entirely responsible, all by our big-kid selves, for our choices and desires. We routinely wrap them in the authority of another without their specific permission. As such, we impugn the claim’s object with our own insecurities and lead others to assume a false narrative about them.

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

A weighty blanket matter Commentary by Danielle Wilson Friends, I’ve done it. I’ve quit my weighted blanket cold turkey. I haven’t slept well in more tha a week, but I am HUMOR committed to recovery. Let’s explore. About four years ago, I bought myself a sumptuous 20-pound quilt with CoolMax technology. My teacher neighbor at the time had sworn by its restorative properties, especially for people like me who were having trouble staying asleep thanks to hormones and unfounded anxiety. The first few nights, I nearly suffocated (probably should have gone with the 15 pounder), but I persevered and soon became a devotee. I couldn’t wait to crawl under that calming swath of premium cotton blend. My devotion morphed quickly into an addiction, however, and when I would travel without my new best friend, I tossed and turned relentlessly. Nevertheless, I have adored my blanket, a true miracle worker. So, why quit now? I suspect that its sheer heaviness might be the culprit behind my current tennis elbow affliction (and possibly my controversial 2020 plantar fasciitis). The strength that it takes to change positions or adjust the covering is simply too great for

“I suspect that its sheer heaviness might be the culprit behind my current tennis elbow affliction (and possibly my controversial 2020 plantar fasciitis). The strength that it takes to change positions or adjust the covering is simply too great for my tiny arm tendons.” – DANIELLE WILSON

my tiny arm tendons. And because I’m not fully conscience of my movement at night, I perpetually reinjure myself. I’ve tried a splint and am doing physical therapy, but I’m making zero improvement. I’d actually argue it’s getting worse. I’m desperate, folks, and am finally willing to take desperate measures. Which, sadly for me, means quitting my weighted blanket. I’m giving myself two weeks to see if it helps. If not, I’m diving headfirst off the wagon. Momma needs her sleep — stupid tennis elbow be darned. Peace out.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.

Time to throw out the towel Commentary by Dick Wolfsie This is the 20th anniversary of my son’s metamorphosis. I was reminded of it when Brett requested new towels HUMOR for Christmas. When he opened the gift, he flashed a big grin. I knew exactly what he was remembering. When Brett started college, we were worried how he would handle his new independence. We had the normal apprehensions any parent would have. But when we visited him that first year, we witnessed something we did not anticipate. Brett had turned green. Mary Ellen and I sat across from Brett at dinner during Parents Week, and we noticed that his skin had a grayish-green tint to it. At first, we were alarmed. We sent Brett to college with the hopes of a good education. We hoped that college would change his perspective — not his color. “Brett, have you noticed that you are turning green?” I asked nonchalantly, trying to hide my concern. My wife, never wanting to seem negative, interrupted my query. “It’s a lovely shade of green, of course,” she said. “But you weren’t that color when you left home.” Brett seemed unnerved by the observation. He looked at his arms and his hands. Then he tightened his face, gritted his teeth and growled, “Don’t make me angry. You won’t like me when I’m angry.” Thinking my son was The Hulk was a bit disconcerting, but if you have ever raised a teenager, you know that few things should surprise you. Brett noticed his change in hue after showering and drying off with the towels we bought him for his dorm. This brought a glare from my wife, who wanted to splurge on plushier accessories but was convinced otherwise by her cheap husband who thought if Amazon.com was good enough for books, it would be good enough for

“Brett noticed his change in hue after showering and drying off with the towels we bought him for his dorm. This brought a glare from my wife, who wanted to splurge on plushier accessories but was convinced otherwise by her cheap husband.” – DICK WOLFSIE

towels. Mary Ellen went into a spasm of laughter, mostly out of relief that Brett did not have a rare tropical disease. Knowing this would end up a column, I tried out all my jokes on Brett like, “You should start a garden now that you have a green thumb.” Then I went into a musical rendition of “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” using my very best Kermit the Frog impersonation. Mary Ellen, at this point, would have laughed at anything, just relieved we weren’t headed to the Mayo Clinic. Back at his dorm, Brett’s roommate, Connor, was practicing his guitar. “Hey, Connor, did you notice that Brett has turned green?” “That’s odd,” said Connor, looking at his arm. “I did notice that I am turning kind of blue, myself.” Sure enough, Connor’s arms had an attractive sky-blue tint, which my wife and I immediately noticed perfectly matched his towels on the shelf. Connor’s dad was probably a tightwad like me. Now, we buy all towels at a higher-quality establishment. Recently, that very company filed for bankruptcy. Unlike my son, Bed Bath & Beyond was not the color of money.

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

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.

Issue 17 | WINTER 2024

THERAPEUTIC

JOURNEY

Zionsville resident draws on past for one-woman play

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

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New Sycamore Reserve resident acclimates quickly

317-492-9569 www.applegate-dillman.com

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

ichael Coffman has only lived in Sycamore Reserve Senior Living for approximately five months, but he is already making an impact for residents. Coffman helped start a men’s group, which meets once a week. Coffman “It’s in its fledgling stage,” Coffman said. “We get anywhere from four to six men. When the women ask what we talk about, we tell them, ‘Stuff.’” Coffman, 82, moved from Warren Township on the east side of Indianapolis to Sycamore Reserve. Coffman’s wife, Kay, died 6 1/2 years ago. They had been married nearly 55 years. “This was the right move to make,” Coffman said of Sycamore Reserve. “The apartments are really nice. I have a patio. The staff here is phenomenal. The amenities are very good. The people that work here are extremely friendly and easy to get along with.” Coffman was in the retail business for 38 years. He was a store manager for Venture Stores for 17 years. Venture Stores closed in 1998. After being semi-retired for a few years, he returned to work in store management for Big Lots in Indianapolis for six years, retiring again in 2012. “I missed working, so I went back to what I knew, which is the retail business,” Coffman said. “I like the excitement of it. I like being able to work with a lot of people. It was a very rewarding business. It was hard. I worked a lot of hours.” Coffman enjoyed hiring and promoting staffers. “Selling wasn’t the important part, it was the people that worked for me, seeing them perform and get promoted,” Coffman said.

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Continued on Page 4 55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

Summer Legs Are Made In The Winter®

Happy feet: Navigating foot health for a stronger stride Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf

Don’t let winter stop you from thinking about warmer weather. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins and want healthier legs this summer, call our office today to schedule your initial consultation. EAST FISHERS: 11876 Olio Road Suite 700 Fishers, IN 46037 WEST CARMEL: 10485 Commerce Drive Suite 100 Carmel, IN 46032

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

lot of the foot pain and conditions that we encounter in the aging population can be easily treated and prevented. Westfield Foot and Ankle specializes in keeping you on your feet and moving well into your senior years. One of the most important things you can do for your health is to stay active. Westfield Foot and Ankle staff are experts at formulating treatment plans to help your feet feel young and pain free. As we get older, our feet are more likely to dry out and develop cracks — especially on the soles or heels. Our office recommends a twice-daily moisturizing routine for your feet. If you notice deep cracks on your skin, or if your heels develop fissures, it’s time to come into the office to prevent infection. There are many factors that can contribute to heel pain in the senior population. Years of activity combined with general anatomy changes can put a strain on the plantar fascia. As a result, you’re more likely to develop plantar fasciitis, which can cause pain and inflammation. It is important to stretch and consider custom orthotics, which can help alleviate pain and prevent future injury. Bunions are caused by a deformity at the big toe joint, which can become more prevalent in the senior population. Oftentimes, a bunion can get larger and more painful over time. Conservative care, including wider shoes, additional padding, and anti-inflammatories, can help resolve the pain but, in some cases, surgical intervention is best. The first step in

determining the appropriate treatment plan starts by taking an X-ray and creating a personalized course of action for each patient. The team at Westfield Foot and Ankle prides itself on being a leader in bunion care. Unfortunately, our feet are not immune to developing arthritis. After all, our feet have had to carry us around for years, and our joints have taken a lot of abuse by the time we reach our 50s. Arthritis can attack the cartilage around your joints leaving you with pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Staying active and keeping your joints moving is key for prevention. It is best to address foot and ankle joint pain early as pain can often be eliminated in our office without requiring surgery. Commonly, our arches collapse, and we develop flat feet as we mature. It is not uncommon for our shoe size to increase because of changes in the arches of our feet. Westfield Foot and Ankle can help with pain caused by flat feet and prevent ongoing issues with the use of custom orthotics and a recommendation of proper shoes. Remember, just because you might be aging doesn’t mean you have to live with painful feet! Westfield Foot and Ankle is here to help keep you on your feet well into your golden years!

Continued from Page 3

“I was out of the state for 20-some years and moved back home,” he said. Coffman, who also worked in the Chicago suburb of Country Club Hills, Ill., coached his daughter Lisa’s fastpitch softball team. A self-described huge college basketball fan, Coffman has been a fan of Butler University’s team for 17 years.

Two of Coffman’s daughters, Cathy and Vicki, live in Indianapolis, and his other daughter, Lisa, lives in Plymouth, Minn. He has four grandchildren. A Warren Central High School graduate, Coffman played basketball at the Indianapolis high school and later played recreationally.

Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are both board-certified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.

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WeAreCenterWellIndiana.com We accept Original Medicare in most centers, as well as many Medicare Advantage plans, including Aetna, Anthem, Humana, UnitedHealthcare and Wellcare. We also accept Medicare Supplements and Part D plans. CenterWell does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, age or religion in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. 55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

Choosing right type of tax preparer Submitted by Better Business Bureau

his year, United States taxpayers must file their income tax forms before the April 15 deadline. For many people, major life changes, business ownership, or simply a lack of knowledge about the ever-changing tax laws make finding a trustworthy tax preparer a good idea. That said, not all tax preparers have the same level of experience and training. Here are tips for finding someone you can trust with your finances and sensitive personal information. WHICH TYPE OF PREPARER IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

First, it’s important to understand the different types of tax preparers and their qualifications. Only enrolled agents, certified public accounts, and attorneys may represent their clients to the IRS on matters such as audits, collection issues and appeals. Enrolled Agent: An EA is a tax preparer that has been approved by the IRS to represent taxpayers. An EA must either have prior qualifying employment with the IRS or pass an intensive two-day exam on federal taxation and complete a background check. To maintain EA status, they must complete a specified number of credit hours each year of continuing education

in accounting methods and tax regulations. Certified Public Accountants: CPAs have a college degree (or the equivalent in work experience). They are licensed after passing a state professional qualifying exam. Attorneys: Tax attorneys often charge the highest fees as tax preparers. For taxpayers looking to shelter part of their income legally or for those who need specialized advice on municipal bonds, estate planning, and the like, hiring a tax attorney is a good option.

Get one-on-one help with your Medicare questions. I’m Darrell Blackburn, a licensed sales agent in Boone, Hamilton and Central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Take advantage of my knowledge and experience to: • Take the confusion out of Medicare

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

SPRJ55189

Don’t live with back pain Commentary by Linda Barnes

f you have back pain, physical therapy may be your ticket to relief. Physical therapy can relieve pain, promote healing and restore function and movement. If you get physical therapy when your back problems first begin, you may even be able to avoid surgery. And if you do need surgery, physical therapy can greatly help you recover. GETTING STARTED Some spine specialists recommend physical therapy sooner, particularly if the pain is severe. In general, the goals of physical therapy are to decrease pain, increase function and get the patient on a maintenance program to prevent further recurrences. Depending upon your needs, your physical therapist will come up with a treatment plan to assist you. The first thing they will do is work on treatments to ease your back pain and improve your flexibility including: • Massage: Helps relax your muscles, increases circulation, and eases pain in your soft tissues. • Mobilization: Measured movements to move bones and joints into position helping with flexibility. • Manipulation: Pressure on your body with the hands or a device ranging from gentle to strong, and slow to fast helping improve strength and endurance. Therapy on Wheels is one of the few companies that has physical therapists who specialize in the treatment of back pain in the home. All 1-on-1 therapy is provided in the comfort of your own home with no homebound restrictions. Therapy On Wheels accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare. Therapy On Wheels can help you manage your back pain. For more, call 317-332-9861 or visit therapyonwheelsinc.com.

Linda Barnes is an occupational therapist and owner/president of Therapy On Wheels. For more on Therapy on Wheels services, call 317-332-9861.

Stay Fit. Stay Connected. Stay Inspired. Marquette is a not-for-profit senior living community, giving you the life you want to live. With a wide variety of beautifully designed residential options and maintenance-free living, our community gives you the flexibility and control over everything you do. Spiritually connect with us at 4 p.m. daily for Mass in our beautiful chapel. Our community also offers various dining venues, a state-of-the-art aquatic center, and wellness programs for endless opportunities — and it’s all just steps from your front door. Call (317) 875-9700 or visit MarquetteSeniorLiving.org to schedule a personal appointment.

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Owned by Retirement Living, Inc., a Not-For-Profit Corporation

55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

ADVERTORIAL

NAVIGATING VACCINES AS AN ADULT By Julia Miller, manager of inpatient pharmacy at IU Health North

accinations aren’t just for the young — they are an essential pillar of health Julia Miller maintenance, particularly as we age. For individuals aged 55 and older, staying up to date with vaccinations can significantly fortify overall well-being. Let’s explore the key vaccines recommended to bolster health in this stage of life. KNOW THE TERMINOLOGY It’s important to understand key terminology when discussing vaccinations with your doctor or pharmacist. A vaccine is a substance that stimulates your body’s natural immune response. Immunity is protection from infectious disease from previous exposure to the disease. This is the basic premise of vaccinations, which is simply the act of introducing a vaccine to produce protection from a disease. ADDRESSING COMMON CONCERNS It’s understandable that many people are nervous to introduce vaccines into their bodies. Two common concerns are safety and vaccine efficacy, or how effective it will be. Most vaccine side effects are quite mild and could include things such as arm pain or a fever. Severe or persisting side effects are rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) constantly monitors vaccine side effects. No vaccine can fully protect you from a disease all the time. This is especially true for vaccines focusing on viruses that change often, such as influenza and COVID-19. Even if you do experience infection, the vaccine should lower the severity of the sickness.

•

• KNOW WHICH VACCINES ARE RECOMMENDED There are several vaccines recommended for adults. They include: • Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Annual flu shots are highly recommended for adults. Influenza can cause severe complications in older adults, and the vaccine helps mitigate these risks. People over 65 years of age should receive a higher dose flu vaccine. • COVID-19 Vaccine: For individuals

55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

•

aged 55 and above, getting vaccinated against COVID-19 remains a critical step in safeguarding against severe illness, hospitalization and complications associated with the virus. Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: A one-time Tdap vaccine booster is suggested for adults who haven’t received it previously, followed by a tetanus-diphtheria (Td) or Tdap booster every ten years. This vaccine guards against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough, offering comprehensive protection. Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccines: All adults born after 1957 without a previous vaccine or laboratory evidence of immunity or disease should be vaccinated with MMR. This is a live vaccine and should not be given if a person is immunocompromised. Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine: Adults with no evidence of immunity to varicella should get this vaccine. Shingles Vaccine: Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can cause a painful rash and long-term nerve pain, especially in older adults. The shingles vaccine, available as Shingrix, is recommended for individuals aged 50 and older. Pneumococcal Vaccine: Pneumococcal disease can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and

bloodstream infections, posing heightened risks for older individuals. The CDC recommends two pneumococcal vaccines for those over 65. • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccines: Adults 60 years and older are recommended to receive a single dose of RSV vaccine if their healthcare provider thinks it would be beneficial. • Hepatitis Vaccines: Multiple two, three and four-dose vaccine series are available for Hepatitis A and B. Adults under 60 are recommended to get one of the series of hepatitis B vaccines. Adults older than 60 with certain risk factors should receive a hepatitis B vaccine. All other adults 60 and older may receive the series. Hepatitis A vaccines are not routinely recommended for most adults. Please ensure you discuss vaccination needs with your healthcare providers. It is important to consider your individual health status, allergies, and potential interactions with existing medications. These conversations help tailor vaccination plans for optimal health benefits. Ask your primary care provider or pharmacist which vaccinations make the most sense for your specific health needs. To find a provider near you, visit iuhealth.org/primarycare.

SAME-DAY CARDIOLOGY APPOINTMENTS If you’ve been told you’re at risk for heart disease, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. From everyday heart care to the most complex procedures, we offer leading-edge medicine that’s personalized for you. Call 317.962.0500.

iuhealth.org/heart

Winter 2023

Zionsville resident draws on past for one-woman play

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

or approximately the past 30 years, Elizabeth Young-Collins has lived her dream of becoming an entertainer. The 68-year-old Zionsville resident not only sings and acts, but in recent years she has become a playwright. Young-Collins created “The Betsy Show,” a one-woman play about her own life. It premiered at the Mixed Blood Theatre in Minneapolis in August 2023, and then was presented during IndyFringe in August and September. “The Betsy Show,” Young-Collins’ fifth play, will be presented at 2 p.m. March 12-13 and 19-20 at the District Theatre, 627 Massachusetts Ave., Indianapolis. The show runs around 90 minutes. “I’ll have more control over the product, and it doesn’t have to be only an hour,” she said. “From the time I was born, I thought I should be doing something that was important and included traveling. I wanted to shine. I watched ‘The Sound of Music’ and Julie Andrews. I thought, that’s it, I want to sing and perform in front of people.” Young-Collins was the sixth of the seven children, and she said it was sometimes hard to be heard. “I got attention by making them laugh,” said Young-Collins, who grew up in Boston. “I’m going to sing. I’m going to make them laugh, and that’s how I’m going to get their attention. My parents were amazing people. My dad went to MIT and was very bright.” Young-Collins said her parents were high-functioning alcoholics, but no one discussed it. Her father was a World War II bomber pilot and flight instructor. “My mother came from a highly educated and high-income family from Minnesota,” she said. “In the ’The Betsy Show,’ I finally tell the truth about some of the trauma-drama that happened in childhood, where little Betsy did not fit in. She was too smart, too isolated, too much of an introvert. She’ll never get married if she doesn’t clean her room. These were some of the things I was told by my mother. It’s the story of a gifted child who survived the ‘50s and avoided the landmines of what I was supposed to be doing. I was supposed to get a man, make him happy. I was supposed to have children. Well, I saw what my mother did to accommodate my father and she didn’t seem very happy

55 AND BETTER Winter 2023

with the tasks of being a mother.” Young-Collins said her family was featured in Life magazine for remarkable families before she was born. “So, I was born in a perfect family, but I knew something was wrong,” she said. “It was a noisy crowd. I thought it was fun, but I buried a lot of things that happened. It’s not a ‘blamethe-parents’ story. It’s about the resilience of human beings and taking responsibility for your dream.” Young-Collins sang in high school. “I dreamed of becoming a professional singer,” she said. “But it was only a dream because I had no plan. I was too smart for my own good, according to my mother.” Young-Collins majored in French and became a teacher but found she didn’t enjoy the occupation after two years. “I moved to New York City and I took acting classes,” she said. “I got fired from three waitress jobs. I had some success, but I didn’t know what I was doing.” Young-Collins said she occasionally abused alcohol when she was younger. She never became an alcoholic physically. Still, she stopped drinking and underwent therapy. “I found out why I was attracted to handsome, intelligent but alcoholic men who were not emotionally available, and neither was I at the time,” she said. “I got help with Al-Anon.” Going to therapy made her realize it was not her fault. “Disease has taken over these incredible people,” she said. “I grew up thinking there was something terribly wrong with me because no one was talking about the elephant in the kitchen (of her parents’ alcoholism).” Her play shows how Betsy transformed into Elizabeth in her 30s. Continued on Page 11

SINGING THOSE OLD-FASHIONED LOVE SONGS

Continued from Page 10 “It’s really telling the truth that if you follow your gut and really pray or get divine intervention, which happened to me (good things will happen),” said Young-Collins, who married Dan Collins when she was 47. “God put this idea in my head to follow my dream.”

In addition to singing, Young-Collins has given tours through WorldStrides, an educational travel experience, for 17 years. She now only does it in the spring. “If you don’t make it fun, they won’t care about history,” said Young-Collins, who moved to Zionsville in 2016. For more, visit youngsings.com/betsy-show/.

Elizabeth Collins-Young will draw from her repertoire to sing some of her favorites for a Valentine’s eve concert of classic love songs at the Chapel at Hoosier Village in Zionsville. The concert is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 13. She will be accompanied by Charles Manning on piano. “Charles is brilliant. I’m lucky to get him,” Collins-Young said. Some of the songs she plans to perform are “Nice Work If You Can Get It,” “Bewitched, Bothered, And Bewildered,” “Our Love is Here to Stay” and “My Funny Valentine.” During the Christmas holiday, she performs as Singing Ms. Santa. She also has performed tributes to Patsy Cline and Marilyn Monroe. “I have a wide repertoire to sing standards from the 1920s to today,” she said. Young-Collins performed “The Betsy Show” at Hoosier Village last year. “Elizabeth is a buoyant personality whose performance reaches out and touches each individual in the room,” Hoosier Village Life Enrichment Manager Lori Robinson said. “Expect to come away affected.”

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Navigating the latest Financial We invite you to contact us at your earliest Crimes Network convenienceEnforcement for a personal meeting to discuss reporting your particular needs andmandates goals. Commentary by Lisa Dillman

ith the goal of enhancing Let’s talk soon. transparency and reducing

Christopher Blair AsAa sprofessional serving a p r o f e estate s s i o nplanning a l e s t aattorney te the people of Indiana, I can help serve clients in all aspects p l a n nofi estate n g a tplanning t o r n e yand s easset r v i nprotection. g the I am dedicated to helping individuals and families with future planning. I am proud to treat each and p e every o p l ecase o f with I n dthe i a nrespect a , I itc adeserves. n help

serve clients in all aspects of

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protection. I am dedicated to • • • •

h e l pSERVICES i n g i n d i v i d uOFFERED: als and

Asset Protection Trusts • Healthcare Power Living f a m i Trusts l i e s w i t h f u t u r eofpAttorney lanning. Will Plans • Durable Power Probate & Estate of Attorney I a m p r o u d t o t r e a t e a c h a nPlanning d Administration • Medicaid

e v e Contact r y c a sus e for w iat personal h t h e rmeeting e s p e c to t it discuss your particular needs and goals.

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financial crimes, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has unveiled a definitive ruling to enforce the beneficial ownership reporting mandates outlined in the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This final rule marks a pivotal step in reshaping the regulatory landscape, and expands transparency measures to combat money laundering, tax fraud and other illicit financial activities. This legislation, which came into effect Jan. 1, 2024, introduces reporting requirements for Family Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and corporations. The CTA mandates the disclosure of ownership and management details, targeting entities operating within or accessing the U.S. market. For individuals or businesses with an LLC, partnership, or corporation, it’s important to be aware of this new regulation and its requirements. REPORTING DEADLINES AND REQUIREMENTS For Reporting Companies established or registered on or after Jan. 1, 2024, reports must be filed within 30 calendar days of either the entity’s effective registration or the Secretary of State’s public notice. Those created before that date must file reports by Jan. 1, 2025. The required information includes the entity’s full legal name, trade name, current address, jurisdiction and IRS taxpayer identification number. Beneficial owners and company applicants must provide comprehensive details, such as their full legal name, date of birth, residential address, a non-expired U.S. identification document or a foreign passport. WHAT IS CONSIDERED A REPORTING COMPANY? “Reporting Companies” encompasses any domestic entity formed or any foreign entity registered to do business in any state within the United

States – subject to 23 enumerated exemptions, which can be found here: fincen.gov/boi-faqs in section C2. WHO ARE BENEFICIAL OWNERS? Beneficial owners are any individuals who directly or indirectly (a) exercise substantial control of a reporting company or (b) own or control at least 25 percent of the ownership interest in a Reporting Company. The term “substantial control” under the reporting requirements encompasses senior officers and individuals influencing crucial decisions within a Reporting Company. WHO ARE COMPANY APPLICANTS? Company applicants are certain individuals who file or help to prepare the documents that create the reporting company or qualify it to do business. This can include attorneys, accountants and other third-party professionals who may assist in the business formation process. REPORTING PROCESS AND SECURE FILING SYSTEM Entities required to report their beneficial ownership information will do so electronically through FinCEN’s BOI E-Filing website (boiefiling.fincen. gov). Authorized individuals, including employees, owners, or third-party service providers, may file on behalf of Reporting Companies. Filers need to provide basic contact information, such as name and email address or phone number, during the submission process. If you’re unsure about navigating this new regulation, seek out the help of an estate planning attorney. Information was obtained from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network website (fincen.gov/boi-faqs).

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Lisa Dillman is an attorney at Applegate & Dillman Elder Law. The firm has offices in Indianapolis, Carmel and Zionsville. Find out more at applegate-dillman.com.

Pro Ev

Surviving the hard winter months Commentary by Valerie J. Weesner

ren’t January and February just the hardest months of the year? The cold and snow start to settle in, holiday celebrations are over and we barely see the sun. It’s hard to want to go anywhere or do anything. Every year, we try to think of new ways to make it through the cold, Midwest winter. Although we come up with a thing or two that may help, it’s easy to forget them year after year! So, let’s take a few moments to think about what types of things could help lift our spirits this year until the days get longer, the sun is out, and the warm weather and vibrant spring colors and scents arrive. Start by considering what you can do in these different areas of your life: Take care of yourself: Ask yourself these questions: How do I take care of my emotional well-being? Am I engaging in self-care? Do I have support when I need it? Who do I reach for, or call, when I need to feel nurtured and cared for? By asking yourself these questions, you may start to realize you have good strategies or maybe areas where you might need to put more time and effort. Do you need to learn about self-care strategies? Do you need to ask for more help and support when needed? Consider meditation, relaxation, massage, lighting candles or using essential oils, maybe even reading, listening to music or calling friends. Keep your mind active: Are you keeping your mind active? Are you staying curious, learning new things and maybe even teaching others? Consider taking a class, listening to podcasts, reading, playing games, doing puzzles and actively engaging in conversation to keep your mind moving. Spend time with others: Are you spending quality time with others? Are you talking to others, laughing and sharing? If your social network has contracted over time, what are ways to start building new social networks or adding to your current one? Consider what might make your social

Start your Motion 4 Life Fitness members Alice Wessel and Joe Miller work out. (Photo courtesy of Motion 4 Life Fitness)

time feel richer and more meaningful to you. You can even include new and interesting activities in your social time! If you typically go out with friends, stay in with them and play games. If you typically stay in with friends, try walking through a museum together. Shake things up! Keep physically active: There is no surprise in the fact that we all benefit from moving, stretching and building strength. In what ways are you challenging yourself to get movement into your day, and how often do you get to a gym to add training and cardio into your exercise program? What if you could combine some or all of these things to help improve your emotional, social and physical well-being? I’ve personally been spending three to four days at the gym weekly for several years now. I can tell you firsthand that walking through the door at my gym truly makes my day. I enjoy the people, work hard while laughing, and more importantly, I feel cared for and nurtured. The culture of my gym, not just the workout, makes my life so much richer, happier and overall healthier. So, what might be one or two small steps you can take to start feeling better today? Valerie Weesner, Ph.D., HSPP, is a licensed clinical psychologist and advisor to Motion 4 Life Fitness. Contributions by Breanna Koester, health science major at Indiana University Kokomo, intern at Motion 4 Life Fitness

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Attorney has passion for estate planning, motorcycle racing By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

hristopher Blair is passionate about motorcycle racing. The attorney has a passion for his professional career as well. After practicing other forms of law, Blair has found his niche in estate planning. The 1996 Carmel High School graduBlair ate said he primarily works with people in their 50s and 60s. “We create wills and trust plans for people to try to make sure it’s distributed the way you want it to, but we also help them plan for unexpected medical treatments they may need late in life or long-term care by offering them asset protection through some of our trust plans,” Blair said. “We also do probate work if someone passes away.”

Attorney Christopher Blair has raced motorcycles for eight years. (Photo courtesy of Christopher Blair)

Blair, 46, started his own practice, Christopher Blair Law, 1 1/2 years ago. He worked for an estate planning firm for a year before starting his own practice Blair didn’t’ take any estate planning classes in law school. “I remember taking the bar exam and having no idea on an essay question

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about a trust,” Blair said. “I was terrified. It was the only question where I felt like I completely guessed.” In his first job, he litigated in federal court for a year. “I hated it for lots of reasons,” he said. “I’ve been an administrative law judge and worked for the Indiana Supreme Court. I’ve had a handful of other jobs in law that were interesting while it lasted, but I didn’t enjoy it. When I started doing this, I felt this was it for me. I feel like this is what I really wanted to do because a lot of the nastiness that goes with adversarial legal work is not there. You are actually being proactive rather than being reactive to something happening. It’s a lot easier emotionally to get people’s ducks in a row for them and get them peace of mind. A lot of other legal work is the exact opposite of that. It’s very satisfying to feel like you were actually helping people. It’s very satisfying to be an expert about it.” Blair has office hours at zWORKS in Zionsville and at a home office in Broad Ripple. But he often travels to clients’ offices, homes or meets at restaurants. A Purdue University graduate with a degree in communications, Blair had a

lawn-cutting business for several years before he decided to attend the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law in Indianapolis. To challenge himself outside of his law practice, Blair races motorcycles in the lightweight twins class in WERA Motorcycle Road Racing. He said most of the tracks are in the southeast. He has been racing for eight years. He started with four years of track days, which are organized events to help racers prepare for higher levels of competition. “The analogy I use it’s like playing a pickup game of basketball at the YMCA or a playground,” he said of track days. Blair raced bicycles before he started racing motorcycles. He won USA Cycling state championships in 2012, 2014 and 2015 on his time trial bicycle. “Racing a bicycle made me think about going at it in a more focused and professional way,” he said. Blair won the Mid-Central Regional championship in 2021. “I could explain a lot of my success in law school on what I learned from racing bicycles,” he said. “I feel like if I’m going to do it, I have to do it with excellence. I’m either all in or I’m just a casual observer.” Blair played basketball for Carmel schools through ninth grade and then played intramural basketball. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound Blair lost approximately 100 pounds when he started riding bicycles in 2011. He had gained weight during his undergraduate time at Purdue. “I was severely overweight,” he said. “When I went to Purdue, when they gave me a meal card and cable TV, I got really fat. At some point, I became a lot more athletic again.” For more, visit christopherblairlaw. com.

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“I could explain a lot of my success in law school on what I learned from racing bicycle. I feel like if I’m going to do it, I have to do it with excellence. I’m either all in or I’m just a casual observer.” — Christopher Blair

Indy Aquatics Masters provides opportunities for adult swimmers By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

ompetition and recreational swimming aren’t only for the younger set. Middle-aged and senior swimmers can compete in tournament settings, too. Moreover, recreational swimming is an ideal exercise for older adults because it’s a low-impact activity. Indy Aquatic Masters is an award-winning aquatic fitness program that promotes healthy lifestyles through swimming, for beginners up to competitive swimmers. “It is an adult program, and you have to be 18 to join, but we accommodate all levels of swimming, too, from beginners,” Indy Aquatics Masters Executive Director Michelle Harter said. Indy Aquatic Masters is a registered U.S. Masters Swimming Club and is open to all adults 18 and older with all levels of swimming ability and offers a Masters Swim Club and Adult LearnTo-Swim lessons in multiple locations throughout the Indianapolis metro area, including Carmel High School and the Carmel Swim Academy.

“We have a really fantastic mix of different backgrounds in swimming,” Harter said. “We’re not just all old swimmers who competed in high school. We have those, but we others without that background.” Harter said out of about 280 members in the program, 72 live in Hamilton County. That represents a quarter of its total membership. And with more than a dozen swimming coaches throughout the metro area, teaching swimming isn’t a problem. Other benefits are provided for members, such as an online program available to help improve strength. And coaches have chat videos that help educate swimmers on swimming specifics. According to Harter, the majority of masters swimmers range in age from their 40s to 60s and older, including parents and grandparents who want to play in the water with their children and grandchildren. “We also have members in their 80s,” Harter said. For more, visit indyaquaticmasters.com.

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Geist resident stays active in the pool By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

it anymore,” he said. hen asked where he typically O’Connell, who retired as an accounfinishes in his swimming ractant in 2021, said competitors are dies, Kevin O’Connell quickly vided into heats by ability. responds, “Last.” “They take an estimated “My wife says I don’t finish time you think you’ll do an last, but it feels like I finish event in, say, 25 yards in 20 last,” he said. seconds,” he said. “Then they However, the 67-year-old lump everybody that can do Geist-area resident loves the that time together to swim in benefit of swimming. a heat.” “It’s neat because you get O’Connell said some of the the exercise,” said O’Connell, O’Connell competitors are fast in his age a member of U.S. Masters group. Swimming organizaion. “Swimming is a “They might be paired with someone cardiovascular sport. It’s good for your in their 50s or 40s because they are still heart and lungs. Between laps, some that good,” he said. “It’s fun to watch do water aerobics.” from that standpoint what people were O’Connell competes in the 65-69 doing in college without losing too age group in competitions. He usumuch of a step.” ally performs every stroke except the O’Connell began swimming when at backstroke. age 5 but didn’t swim in high school. “That was my favorite stroke when I He started competing in 2016. was in grade school, but I just don’t do

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Young actress gets dream role of Juliet in Civic production By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com For Rebecca Piñero, the role of Juliet Capulet in “Romeo & Juliet” was always one she desired. PLAY “I’ve been a Shakespeare fan since I was in middle school,” she said. “I’ve loved reading his plays, and Juliet was just one that I always knew that I wanted to play. So, I was really honored to be cast in it and it’s been a lot of Van Voorst fun. She’s a dream leading lady, and she’s one of my favorite female roles in Shakespeare.” The North Central High School senior plays Juliet in Civic Theatre’s production set for Feb. 9-24 “I think she’s one of Parks the most well-rounded characters that he’s written,” Piñero said. “She’s got the biggest character arc in a lot of Shakespeare plays. So, she always just seemed like so much fun and she seemed like such an interesting character to explore and to be able to portray.” Piñero said her mother, Angi Parks, was her Shakespeare director in middle school. Parks plays the nurse in the play. Parks said she doesn’t think director Emily Rogge Tzucker knew she was Rebecca’s mother when she cast it because they have different last names. “I haven’t been on the stage in 21 years, so it’s a really fun return for me,” Parks said. “Becca was the one who said, ‘Mom, you need to audition for this,’ and we’re having a really good time doing it together.” Parks, a Carmel High School graduate, is a former professional performing artist in New York City. “That’s where I met my husband and

Kendrell Stiff and Rebecca Piñero star in Civic Theatre’s Romeo & Juliet.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty)

we knew we wanted to raise our kids somewhere that we could actually afford to raise them,” Parks said. “This was just a good move for us.” Piñero said she has been encouraging her mother to return to acting for a few years. “I think that it makes her really happy,” Piñero said. “So, I was really excited when it worked out. And for us to be in roles that parallel a mother-daughter relationship, even though she’s not playing my actual mom, is like really special. We were just really excited to be able to be in this show together.” Parks said she tells people that the nurse’s role is “mostly to love Juliet and that makes it really easy.” While Piñero envisioned herself as Juliet, Indianapolis resident Kendrell Stiff never saw himself as Romeo. “For me, I never knew that Romeo was one of those characters that I’d even

ever get to play,” Stiff said. “I auditioned thinking more like, ‘Why not, what could go wrong’ type of deal.” When he was offered the role of Romeo, he said he was shocked at first. “I didn’t ever think of myself as like a Romeo-type character, but I am so grateful because this has been a very eye-opening experience,” Stiff said. “I’ve learned so much from Emily. She’s literally the best director I’ve had, point blank, period. This so far has been one of my favorite productions and roles I’ve ever played.” Stiff, who graduated from Franklin Central High School three years ago, said he didn’t see himself as a romantic leading character. “I’ve either played like the funny types or the very different drastic type,” Stiff said. For instance, Stiff performed as Angel, the drag queen, in Civic Theatre’s production of “Rent” in 2022. The main challenge is it’s the first Shakespeare play he has ever performed in, but the language has become easier as rehearsals have progressed. Fishers resident Kelsey Van Voorst plays a few roles. “I sort of serve as the storyteller/ narrator,” said Van Voorst, a Carmel High School graduate. “I’m also playing a few servants here in there, the apothecary and Friar John. I’m on stage for a good portion of the play, even when I’m not acting or speaking.” Tzucker, who teaches at Ball State University, said throughout her career as a singer, director and actor, she has either mostly directed Shakespeare plays or musicals. “Before the pandemic, I directed the first Shakespeare play Civic had ever done, ‘Much Ado About Nothing,’” Tzucker said. “The costumes will be contemporary and some in Shakespeare’s time. The story is timeless.” For more, visit civic theatre.org.

‘MENOPAUSE, THE MUSICAL” Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “Menopause, the Musical” through Feb. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com. LIVE AT THE CENTER Classical pianist Clare Longendyke will perform at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31 in the Live at the Center series at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $10 or register for a free livestream. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends is set for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2 at Feinstein’s Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com. ‘ROUTE 66’ Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Route 66” runs Feb. 2-18 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistatge.org. ‘ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS’ The Belfy Theatre will present “One Man, Two Guvnors” Feb. 2-11 at The Switch Theatre at Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishers. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com ‘OCH & OY! A CONSIDERED CABARET’ Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro will share stories and songs in a cabaret show at 8 p.m. Feb. 3 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCHES Heartland films receive 35 Oscar nominations — The 96th Academy Awards will take place March 10. A total of 11 films honored by Heartland Film are nominated for 35 Oscars. The 2023 Heartland International Film Festival showcased “Anatomy of a Fall,” “American Fiction” and “The Holdovers.” The three films each received five nominations, including Best Picture. For more, visit heartlandfilm.org

January 30, 2024

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Actress lands ‘Yonkers’ role By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

have some truly deep sorrows, but they do not keep her from experiencing the fullness of joy. But most of all, Bella is a highly un“Lost in Yonkers” has a familiar feel for Becderestimated character. I love that she finds ca Bartley. the courage to take a stand for herself and “I played Bella become a woman she can PLAY in my final show be proud of.” in high school, Bella plays the aunt of Jay also directed by Jen Otterand Arty Kurnitz. Noblesville man, who was a teacher High School freshman Drake at the time,” said Bartley, a Lockwood, 14, plays Jay. Hamilton Southeastern High Carmel resident Finley Eyers School graduate. “The opporplays Arty. Bartley Johnson tunity to reprise a character “I’m really enjoying it can be unique as is, but I could not because it’s a coming-of age-story,” pass up the chance to share the exLockwood said. “I’m able to get in perience again with Jen. I am honored depth with the level of emotions to be able to recreate this character in the character. I’ve gotten to layered with more nuances and life get a great bond with all the cast experiences from my own journey.” members.” Bartley, a Westfield resident, Carmel resident Thom Johnson Lockwood plays Bella Kurnitz in Main Street plays Louie Kurnitz, uncle and Productions’ performances of Neil Simon’s mobster. “Lost in Yonkers” Feb.8-18 at Basile Westfield “It’s a wonderful role to be in,” he said. I Playhouse. think my character is more comic relief than “There is so much about Bella to love,” the others. I enjoy that. I get to be a hard guy Bartley said. “She has a giant heart, is resilient but then a softie with the boys and his sister.” and is full of energy. Her world paradigm may For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

Comedy is a family affair By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

We can skip all that and just get to the fun part. Plus, everyone in my family is so multifaceted in the things we’re good at. All of “One Man, Two Guvnors” will be a true us have been in so many positions in so family affair for Noblesville resident Andrea many shows, so we can always help each Odle. other out in whatever way we need.” PERFORMANCE “The Odles tend to Mason plays Francis, who tries to keep do theater together,” his two bosses from meeting each other. Andrea said. “This will be “Francis is a fun role,” the first time I have had Mason said. “He is a the pleasure of directing good-natured person just (husband) Mason and trying to make it through (daughter) Rylee on stage the day like most of us. He and having my oldest has a great attitude and is daughter, Lexi Odle, as the a likable character.” producer.” Mason enjoys comedic Andrea Odle Mason Odle The Belfy Theatre will roles. present “One Man, Two Guvnors” “Comedy is all about timing,” Feb. 2-11 at The Switch Theatre at he said. “When you do it right, the Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishfeedback you get from the audiers. Lexi is a 2019 Noblesville High ence is exhilarating, and the cast School graduate and Rylee graduatfeeds off of the audience’s reaced from NHS in 2023. tions. If done poorly, the silence “It is so fun to do all of this can be deafening, so either way, Lexi Odle with my family,” Lexi said. “It also you are getting instant feedback eliminates that awkwardness of having to on whether the audience is enjoying the establish trust and new working relationperformance.” ships with people you’ve never met before. For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com.

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Are you looking for a change in 2024? We invite you to attend our In-Person church services on February 4 & February 11 and connect with others who share your faith in God. REVIVAL TEMPLE CHRISTIAN CHURCH OUTREACH MINISTRIES

GHDT pays tribute to westerns By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre is ready to take aim again at old TV and movie Westerns. DANCE “The Wild Wild West” returns Feb. 10-25 at The Florence, the black-box cabaret at GHDT, 329 Gradle Dr., Carmel. The show premiered in 2019. Executive Artistic Director Gregory Hancock said the music comes from a variety of old Western films, such as “The Big Country,” “Indio Black,” “Navajo Joe,” “The Commancheros” and a collection of spaghetti Westerns. “The dancers always enjoy storytelling with their dancing,” Hancock said. “Bringing a character to life and finding nuances in the characters is always fun and rewarding for the dancers. This piece is naïve, nostalgic, charming, comic, fun and entertaining. Even though there is challenging dancing in the production, the dancers enjoy the freedom to simply have fun, become lost in the story and entertain the audience. In addition to being wonderful dancers, the dancers of GHDT are talented actors and

Camden Lancaster performs in Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s “The Wild Wild West.” (Photo by Lydia Moody)

can convey a story remarkably well. Hancock said nothing has changed since the premiere performance. “However, when pieces are repeated, we are allowed the opportunity to delve further into character and story development,” Hancock said. “Of course, the story and characters were in place from the first presentation. But with an encore presentation, the choreography does not have to be created, but taught, restaged and rehearsed.” Hancock said one new addition for this winter show is an early performance time on Saturdays at 5 p.m. The Sunday shows are at 3 p.m. The show is also a fundraiser for GHDT. For more, gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.