“WE
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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XVI, No. 12
BEST PIZZA & BEST ITALIAN!
Township candidates address issues
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
In Fishers, the only contested township board primary race is the Fall Creek Township Democratic primary, with four candidates running for three seats. The candidates are Alex Hunt, Nicholas Musselwhite, Mulalo Rikhotso and Joe Weingarten.
Below are candidate responses to questions about their campaigns.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?
Hunt: I am running for office to enhance the essential services available to residents. This must be done transparently and efficiently. Our taxpayers deserve to feel confident that their elected servant leaders are maximizing assistance to support the community and our neighbors.
Musselwhite: I want to serve our community by ensuring essential services are delivered efficiently while keeping property taxes from rising.
Rikhotso: To serve the community that has been home to my family for more than two decades. As our township grows, we must protect our quality of life, support public safety and ensure residents are heard. I will lead with integrity, transparency and a commitment to our community.
Weingarten: I am an Air Force veteran. I was an elected official and president of an arts organization in Ohio. When I moved to
Indiana, I worked to protect Fall Creek and Geist from Fishers’ annexation. I have more than 50 years with Scouting and am on the AARP National Fraud Team.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENTS?
Hunt: I have documented success managing finances and overseeing four health care service lines with annual revenue exceeding $3.6 million. In addition, my governance knowledge has expanded through the Hamilton County Leadership Academy, where I connect and collaborate with various leaders across central Indiana and Hamilton County.
Musselwhite: I focus on transparency, fiscal responsibility and listening closely to residents to make decisions that benefit everyone. We all deserve a seat at the table.
Rikhotso: What sets me apart is my strong connection to this community and my commitment to putting residents first. Having raised my family here and served in multiple community roles, I strive to understand the needs of our neighbors to ensure that Fall Creek Township remains a safe, supportive place for everyone.
Weingarten: Experience in government and solving complex problems. I look at problems with an engineering mind and figure out simple solutions. When I was selected Democratic chair for Hamilton County, we had a party in name only. When I left, we had a real party and the first elected Democrat in 58 years.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Hunt: I want to strategically enhance the services our township offers to all residents. I want to increase awareness of these services as many people may not even realize all that a township can do. I want to increase transparency and accountability of these services, especially financially.
Musselwhite: Delivering efficient services, keeping property taxes from rising and improving communication with residents.
Rikhotso: Public safety: Keeping families, schools and neighborhoods safe by fully supporting first responders. Fiscal responsibility: Protect resources, keep taxes reasonable and fund what matters most to our community. Quality of life and engagement: Support families, mental health and thriving neighborhoods; empower youth and ensure every resident has a voice.
Weingarten: 1 — Maintain low taxes with a high return of service. 2 — Continue to provide relief to those in need, which is one of the key jobs of the township. 3 — Maintain emergency services. If someone loses their home from a fire, etc., the township puts them up in a hotel.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Hunt: My professional career has revolved around health care and collaborating with executives and businesses in Indiana. I am also a dedicated servant leader. With more than 15 leadership roles over 20 years, I understand the most important voice is not my own, but those that I serve.
Musselwhite: I’m committed to serving with integrity and putting community needs above politics.
Rikhotso: I’ve proudly called Fall Creek Township home for over two decades. As a wife, parent, community volunteer and computer science graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University, I lead with integrity, listen to residents and work to support families, protect seniors and ensure youth grow up safe, engaged and thriving.
Weingarten: I love to solve problems, be it how to design the space shuttle or how to raise money for Scouts — I figure it out. Gov. Braun and President Continued on Page 4
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Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Fishers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
Hunt
Musselwhite
Rikhotso
Weingarten
Continued from Page 3
Biden appointed me to the Indiana Selective Service Board and I am now the chair of the board for Hamilton County.
AMIDST FISHERS’ RAPID DEVELOPMENT, HOW WILL YOU MANAGE THE BUDGET TO KEEP TAXES LOW WHILE MAINTAINING ESSENTIAL SERVICES?
Hunt: Especially with incoming hurdles like potentially decreased municipal funding from recent legislative efforts, this is a great opportunity to dive into our budget to identify calculated options to balance costs with essential services. Our residents still deserve our services; we’ll just have to be strategic.
Musselwhite: I will prioritize careful budgeting, seek efficiencies and collaborate to keep property taxes from rising despite growth.
Rikhotso: I will ensure transparent budgeting to keep the community informed and ensure essential services are adequately funded while keeping taxes reasonable. I believe by reviewing expenditures, finding efficiencies and investing strategically in public safety, parks and community pro-
grams, we can maintain the services residents depend on without overburdening taxpayers.
Weingarten: The growth of Fishers and the areas of the township is resulting in a large increase in residential units. With this growth comes an increase in tax revenue, and this type of growth does not result in a need to increase services.
REGARDING RECENT LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS TO CONSOLIDATE OR ELIMINATE TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENTS, WHAT IS YOUR STANCE ON TOWNSHIP REFORM?
Hunt: I recognize the push for more performance-based metrics like this. We pay tax dollars and these funds should be used efficiently. It is unfortunate that it came to this point but Fall Creek Township is in a great position to continue to operate and support our community.
Musselwhite: Local township government is necessary for responsive, accessible services. I support reforms that improve efficiency but believe Fall Creek Township’s close connection to residents justifies its continued existence.
Rikhotso: Township government is closest to the people. Residents shouldn’t have to navigate a large county system — they need support from someone who knows their community. I support smart reform, keeping our township efficient, accountable and delivering real help to families, seniors and neighbors. Local government must work for the community.
upgrade, or start
Weingarten: The state is trying to move township functions to the cities. What will happen to the services? Might it just vanish and not be taken over effectively? If the township is dissolved, I want to work very hard to make sure our functions are properly transferred and supported by the city.
DISPATCH
Police find stabbing victim — During a March 27 traffic stop on I-69, Fishers Police Department officers encountered a man who said he had been stabbed in neighboring Madison County. According to FPD Major Ryan Jones, medics were called to the scene and FPD contacted the Madison County Sheriff’s Department to report the incident. “(The) subject was transported by medics and MCSD took over the investigation of the stabbing,” Jones stated.
Hamilton Southeastern High School students cut the ribbon for three new computer numerical control machines donated to the precision machining program by SMC Corp. of America. (Photo courtesy of HSE Schools)
Local company donates equipment to HSE
news@currentinfishers.com
Hamilton Southeastern Schools and SMC Corp. of America recently announced a new partnership to expand opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing.
According to the HSE announcement, SMC has donated three computer numerical control machines, valued at more than $155,000, for Hamilton Southeastern High School students to train on industry-grade equipment and develop skills in precision engineering, fabrication and machining.
“At SMC, we believe in investing in the future of our workforce and our community,” stated Kelley Stacy, president and CEO of SMC. “By providing students with modernized CNC equipment, we’re helping them gain handson experience in precision engineering and machining which are skills that are in high demand. Partnerships like this are key to connecting students with real-world opportunities and ensuring our region continues to thrive.”
Three advanced manufacturing companies in the area generate a combined $6.3 billion in annual revenue, but the region faces an increasing need for skilled workers, according to the announcement.
“This partnership is a powerful example of what’s possible when education and industry come together with a shared purpose,” stated Matt Kegley, interim HSE Schools superintendent. “Students are gaining hands-on experience, earning valuable credentials and seeing a clear connection between what they learn in school and the opportunities ahead.”
The CNC machines will be part of HSE’s precision machining program, a
two- to three-year sequence aligned to industry standards. Through the program, students can earn up to 48 college credits through Ivy Tech; obtain industry-recognized certifications, including National Institute for Metal Working Skills and American Welding Society credentials; and participate in a capstone experience with paid internship opportunities at SMC.
SMC Corp. of America, a subsidiary of SMC Corp. in Japan, is headquartered in Noblesville.
SAFETY MEETS STYLE
Fishers man dies in Hancock County accident
news@currentinfishers.com
A 25-year-old Fishers man was struck and killed in the Greenfield area as he was walking across C.R. 300 North at around 10 a.m. March 24.
According to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, Jaden Pelton of Fishers was hit by a 2016 Hyundai Sonata, driven by Michael Davis, 19, of Greenfield. The accident took place on the 755 block of west C.R. 300 North, near the intersection of C.R. 100 West.
“Initial findings indicate Mr. Pelton was not in a vehicle, crossing C.R. 300 North, when he was struck by the Hyundai Sonata,” the Sheriff’s Office reported. “Despite lifesaving measures by officers and arriving medical personnel, Mr. Pelton was pronounced deceased on-scene. His family has been notified. The driver of the Hyundai Sonata, Mr. Davis, was not injured.”
The Sonata was traveling west on C.R. 300 North, possibly passing another westbound vehicle, when it struck Pelton. Davis, the only occupant of the Sonata, stayed on the scene and cooperated with the investigation.
The HCSO reported that drugs and alcohol do not appear to have been a factor, and Davis agreed to a chemical test as routine part of the fatal crash investigation and provided a statement for investigators. The investigation is ongoing.
DISPATCH
Kickoff to May contest — The 500 Festival and STAR Financial Bank have launched the 2026 Kickoff to May contest. The “Racing Through History” challenge offers Hoosiers 18 and older a chance to win a prize pack valued at more than $1,000. It includes Indianapolis 500 Carb Day passes, 500 Festival Parade VIP tickets and a $250 Huse Culinary gift card. To enter, participants must answer three trivia questions at resources.starfinancial.com/star-500-festival by 11 a.m. April 29. The winner will be announced during the free Kickoff to May event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 on Monument Circle. For more, visit 500Festival.com/Kickoff.
Fairgrounds fundraiser opens
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Friends of Hamilton County Extension has launched the public phase of its fundraising campaign to support improvements at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds as part of the Silos @ 37 Hamilton County: 4-H Fairgrounds and Events Center project.
The campaign kickoff coincided with the organization’s “Denim & Diamonds” event March 6 where early donors were honored, including foundation donors Sonny and Glendia Beck and the Beck Foundation; Gary Reynolds and the Reynolds Family; and Charlotte and Forrest Lucas.
Several Seed Gift Partners also were recognized, including Hamilton County Tourism; Riverview Health Foundation; Duke Energy; Hamilton County Farm Bureau; Hamilton County Extension Homemakers; and the Hamilton County Master Gardeners.
“It was a wonderful evening to gather with people who value Extension and want to see it continue to thrive in Hamilton County,” stated David Day, chairman of the Friends of Hamilton County Extension Board. “We’ve made great progress, but there’s more work ahead, and we welcome anyone who wants to be part of this effort.”
Phase 1A of the project — a $15 million investment funded by Hamilton County — was completed last fall. It includes improvements to the exhibition center and llama barn and a new Bicentennial Pavilion.
Future phases of the project include the construction of a new show arena, an expanded educational classroom and the development of additional climate-controlled buildings to support year-round programming. Plans also call for enhanced entrance features and the replacement of aging structures.
To date, the Friends of Hamilton County Extension has raised more than $4 million in donations, grants and pledges to support ongoing improvements. For more, contact friendsofhamcoextension@gmail.com or call 463-254-2022.
INDIANA’S FIRST LADY VISITS HSE HIGH SCHOOL
Indiana’s first lady Maureen Braun was the special guest for the U.S. Department of Education’s “History Rocks! Trail to Independence” event, which took place March 26 at Hamilton Southeastern High School — the only school in Indiana to host the national touring event. Braun spoke briefly and passed out prizes to students who participated in American history quizzes. The “History Rocks!” tour is part of the nation’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. One school in each state has been chosen to host a “History Rocks!” event. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
A public fundraising campaign launched March 6. (Photo courtesy of Tammy Sander)
Candidates vie for Superior Court 4 judge seat
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Trampas Whalin, Chadwick Hill and Angela Swenson are running for judge of Hamilton County Superior Court 4 in the May 5 Republican primary. There are no Democratic challengers.
Whalin is an attorney and owns Whalin Legal. He also is president of the Hamilton County Bar Association. Hill is a Hamilton County senior magistrate, and Swenson is an attorney and small business owner.
The candidates answered the following questions from Current: WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?
Whalin: I’m running because this is where I believe my experience, temperament, common sense and sense of duty can best serve others. Serving as a judge is not about status to me; it is about taking on a serious responsibility and serving
people fairly when the stakes are often very personal.
Hill: This election carries significant consequences. A judge ready on day one; it is not a place for on-the-job training. The community deserves the most qualified candidate with proven judicial temperament. I bring the knowledge and experience necessary to the judicial bench.
Swenson: I am running to serve my community as a fair and impartial judge. I have a longstanding commitment to public service, and I believe in applying the law faithfully, treating all individuals with respect and ensuring equal justice for all.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENTS?
Whalin: I bring broad, real-world legal experience, from interning in a
prosecutor’s office to serving as a public defender to owning my own practice and frequently serving as judge pro tempore. I am in Superior Court 4 daily, giving me unmatched familiarity with its docket and staff from day one.
Hill: My reputation for fairness and impartiality is battle-tested through more than five years on the bench. Attorneys and clients know I listen with compassion, apply the law and provide predictable analysis. Unlike my opponents, I have judicial experience and 27 years in law, ensuring a knowledgeable transition and effective leadership.
Swenson: I offer a broad range of legal experience and a background of military service that has shaped my discipline, work ethic and decision-making. These experiences, combined with my perspective, allow me to approach each case thoughtfully, apply the law fairly and treat all parties with respect and impartiality.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Whalin: Respect for every person in the courtroom, reason grounded in
experience, common sense and the duty to uphold the Constitution and reliability in ensuring the court is prepared, efficient and dependable. Voters deserve a judge who applies the law fairly, treats people well and earns public trust.
Hill: Protection of all residents and businesses in the Hamilton County community, applying a balanced, logic-based application of the law to everyone that appears before me and providing a court that is transparent and accessible to the community.
Swenson: My top priorities are expanding mediation programs to resolve cases efficiently, improving court accessibility for all litigants and ensuring timely case management. I am committed to a court system that is fair, respectful and efficient while reducing unnecessary delays.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Whalin: I want voters to know I’m prepared, even-tempered and com-
Continued on Page 9
Whalin
Hill
Swenson
Continued from Page 8
mitted to service. I’ve built my life and career in Hamilton County, and I understand that every case affects real people. I will approach the bench with humility, independence, sound judgment, common sense and respect for everyone who enters the courtroom.
Hill: I live in Hamilton County, where my wife and I raised our children. My parents — my father, a former Indiana state trooper, lawyer and Superior Court judge — instilled values I’ve passed to my family. As a judicial officer, I’m committed to protecting our community and strengthening trust between the court and the people it serves.
Swenson: I am committed to service, community and family. I served eight years in the Army Reserve as a military police officer and value time with my family while volunteering with the Lions, Girl Scouts and the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
WHAT IS YOUR JUDICIAL PHILOSOPHY REGARDING ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING
PROGRAMS (E.G., DRUG OR VETERANS’ COURTS) FOR NONVIOLENT OFFENDERS?
Whalin: For appropriate non-violent offenders, alternative sentencing programs can address underlying issues, encourage rehabilitation and protect public safety. I support these problem-solving courts when they are consistent with the law, grounded in the facts and accountable. Through my clients, I have seen firsthand the positive difference they can make.
Hill: Managing a busy docket requires deep understanding of court resources, personnel, preparation and respect for those seeking justice. Under my leadership, I will encourage early resolution when appropriate, implement efficient courtroom procedures, better utilize staff and technology, coordinate with attorneys to reduce delays and pursue programs that maximize court resources.
Swenson: Alternative sentencing programs can be effective for nonviolent offenders when they emphasize accountability and rehabilitation. I support their use in ap-
HALF A CENTURY OF
propriate cases, including drug and veterans’ courts, which we have, to address underlying issues and reduce recidivism, while ensuring public safety and applying the law fairly in each individual case.
HOW CAN VOTERS CONTACT YOU?
Whalin: Voters can learn more at whalinforjudge.com, contact the campaign through the website or by phone at 317-967-3145, or follow Trampas Whalin for Judge on Facebook.
Hill: Voters can email me at chadwick@chadwickhillforjudge.com, visit chadwickhillforjudge.com for more information, or follow my Facebook page, Magistrate Chadwick Hill for Judge, for campaign updates and events. I regularly attend community events and welcome conversations about the law and ideas for improving the legal system in Hamilton County.
Swenson: Voters can reach out via email at swensonforjudge@gmail. com, on Facebook at Angela Swenson for Judge or by mail at PO Box 4222, Carmel, IN 46082.
HOME sweet HOME
DISPATCHES
FHS Ensemble Showcase set — Fishers High School’s Performing Arts Department will present its sixth annual Ensemble Showcase — featuring more than 200 student musicians from the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra and Sound and Electrum Choirs — set for 7 p.m. April 29 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. Tickets are on sale at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts box office, 317-843-3800 or thecenterpresents.org/ tickets-events.
‘Jeff’s Day’ to support local family — A music festival and fundraiser honoring former Fishers resident and area musician Jeff Day will help support a Fishers family whose 8-year-old child is battling cancer. “Jeff’s Day” is set for 1 p.m. May 3 at the Rathskeller in Indianapolis, 410 E. Michigan St. Day died from colon cancer in 2024 and his wife, Jessica, hopes to raise awareness and encourage people to get colonoscopies. “The purpose of this event is to bring hope and joy through music, which Jeff really loved,” she stated. For more, visit facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61588407313044.
This year, David Weekley Homes is thrilled to celebrate many incredible milestones, including our 50th anniversary as a company and 15 years of building within the Indianapolis area. It’s been our privilege to bring our Customers’ dream homes to life since 1976, and we can’t wait to create ones for your Clients!
Learn more by scanning the QR code or calling 317-708-1551
Guerin Catholic infielder wants another state title shot
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Guerin Catholic High School junior infielder Ben Canada, the team goal is simply to win the state baseball championship.
The Golden Eagles nearly reached the title game last year, losing to Jasper 5-0 in the IHSAA Class 3A semistate final.
“Getting really close to that state game makes our team incredibly hungry,” Canada said. “We are returning all of our starters from last year. My goals for myself this season are consistency at the plate and (having an) above .980 fielding percentage.”
Canada hit .407 with six home runs for the Golden Eagles last year. He got off to a solid start with two hits in Guerin’s 11-1 romp over Delta March 30 in the season opener.
The Noblesville resident plays second base for Guerin and third base for the Indiana Bulls 17-and-under black travel team.
“Infield has always been my position, whether it’s second, short or third,” he said. “I feel like my biggest strength is
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
MEET BEN CANADA
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite TV show: “Stranger Things”
Favorite song: “Hours In Silence” by Drake
Favorite sports team: Purdue University basketball team
Favorite subject: Math
my in-game hitting and my eye. I hardly ever chase pitches out of the (strike) zone.”
Canada committed to continue his baseball career at Northwestern University on Sept. 1, 2025.
“What attracted me to Northwestern was how much I was wanted there by the coaching staff,” he said. “It’s a great
academic school with amazing facilities and a competitive schedule, so that played a role as well.”
Canada started playing baseball at age 5.
“My dad put the bat in my hand and made me a left-handed hitter,” said Canada, who throws right-handed. Canada played basketball through his
freshman season.
“I quit because I felt like my baseball game had a chance to make the next level, so I quit to focus on (baseball),” he said.
Canada’s father, Brian Canada, is in his second year as a Guerin varsity assistant coach and a coach for the Indiana Bulls. He is a 2001 Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate who played third base for Miami (Ohio) University. He said his son has improved his strength and speed.
“He has really prioritized his nutrition, weightlifting and speed training over the last 24 months,” he said. “He went through a growth spurt, put on about 25 pounds and really focused on power and form with his speed and has shaved off about 0.7 seconds on his (60yard dash) over the last two years.”
The elder Canada said he wants his son to enjoy the moment and journey ahead of ups and downs like any season.
“Guerin really has an amazing group of players, and this team is so special, so we really try to focus the boys on enjoying the grind and journey ahead together as one team,” he said.
WORLD CLASS SPINE CARE RIGHT HERE
IN FISHERS
REFERRALS
Guerin Catholic High School junior infielder Ben Canada has committed to Northwestern University. (Photo courtesy of Canada family)
Purdue-bound Ertel leads Mt.
Vernon to Class 4A state title
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mt. Vernon High School boys basketball coach Joe Bradburn has run out of ways to praise senior guard Luke Ertel.
“I’m amazed and amused by Luke every day,” Bradburn said. “There are so many superlatives I’ve used in the past month. He’s a winner. He’s in the moment. He’s so competitive. You never see any adversity in his play. I love that he finished it off this way. He’s got to be Mr. Basketball.”
The 6-foot-3 Ertel scored 26 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and had six assists in Class 4A No. 4 Mt. Vernon’s 52-50 victory over No. 2 Crown Point in the IHSAA Class 4A state championship game March 28 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. It was the first state basketball title for the Marauders (28-3).
“We beat one of the best teams in the state, and now we can say we’re the best team in the state,” said Ertel, who will play for Purdue University next season. “This senior year has been a dream come true. It’s been awesome.”
Crown Point beat the Marauders 60-56 earlier this season in the Hall of Fame Classic championship game in New Castle.
“We knew they were a great team,” Ertel said, “they put a lot of defensive pressure. That’s one thing that troubled us all year. We struggled in the first half but got a fast start to the second half.”
Crown Point led 30-20 at halftime before Mt. Vernon took the lead in the fourth quarter.
Junior Max Vise scored 12 points, and senior Brady Webber had seven crucial points for the Marauders (28-3).
“I’ve been dreaming of this since I was a little kid,” Webber said. “This is a crazy moment. This makes all the summer conditionings, the morning conditionings worth it. We worked harder than anybody to be here.”
Webber hit two free throws with 11 seconds left to give the Marauders a 5147 lead. After a Crown Point miss, Webber hit the first of two free throws with 3.7 seconds left to make it 52-47. Senior Dikembe Shaw, who scored a team-high 24 points for Crown Point (25-2), hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer.
“I’m a horrible free throw shooter, I can’t lie,” Webber said. “It’s smart for Crown Point to foul me, but I knew this crowd had my back. God had my back and my teammates had my back.”
A 53 percent free throw shooter, Webber made 5 of 6 free throws in the game. He also was named Class 4A Mental Attitude Award winner.
“I marvel at all the things Brady can do,” Bradburn said. “It’s so special. All of our guys have some type of story. Max and Luke are obviously our foundation, but everyone else has taken turns doing something along this whole entire route.”
(Advertorial)
TRAVELING WITH AMBASSADAIR
By Bob Kraft
When Barbara Gentry and I started dating in 2014, she regularly entertained me with stories of her travels around the world. She traveled extensively after her divorce in the 1990’s, often with the original Ambassadair and the new Ambassadair after its merger with Grueninger Travel. My travels up to that time had been limited to family visits and driving vacations with my late wife as well as occasional business trips.
Barb encouraged me to renew my long-expired passport and began sharing travel information with me. Finally, in early 2019 she convinced me to join her at Ambassadair’s presentation about their upcoming cruise from Greece to Turkey through the Greek Isles. I was fascinated by both the itinerary and the opportunity to travel on a four-masted sailboat, and we signed up.
This was the first of ten trips that Barb and I have taken with Ambassadair. Each has been unique, but each has been carefully choreographed and supplemented with knowledgeable local guides. We have travelled in commercial airliners and a single engine prop plane that landed on an airstrip carved out of the center of San Pedro, Belize; on sailboats and tour boats and river cruise ships; on cog railroads; on ski-lifts and cable suspended gondolas; and on a number of motor coaches (which Ambassadair never calls busses).
With Ambassadair we have visited world renowned sites such as the Vatican, the Acropolis, La Scala Opera House, and the Black Forest as well as lesser-known locations identified by the Ambassadair staff. We Hoosier flatlanders have been awed by
the majesty of the Rockies in Glacier National Park, the Alps in Switzerland, Italy and Croatia, and the fiords of Scandinavia. We have enjoyed local cuisine and sampled local beverages including an afternoon at Munich’s Oktoberfest.
Recently, we attended a couple of pre-trip presentations by Ambassadair. We were not among strangers. Many of those in the audience had been with us on one or more of our previous trips. That so many former travelers returned to Ambassadair’s presentation indicates that they share our view that reinforces the value of traveling with an experienced tour guide and following a pre-established itinerary.
Barb and I have already committed to traveling on two more Ambassadair trips. It is exciting that a locally based tour company offers such a variety of travel experiences and that the trips are totally escorted starting in Indianapolis.
Ambassadair offers leisure group travel to destinations all around the world. For more information visit ambassadair.com or call 317-581-1122.
Mt. Vernon basketball players celebrate winning the Class 4A state title. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)
STUDENT PHYSICIANS
Fishers Junior High seventh-graders practice health care skills with simulated hospital program
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Once a year, the Fishers Junior High School library transforms into a hospital, with seventh-graders taking on the responsibility of checking patients in, ordering tests, running the laboratory, researching diseases, making diagnoses, performing surgery and — finally — submitting everything to the billing department.
It’s a hands-on exercise for students to put into practice what they’ve learned in class, said teacher Deborah Kletch, who said she came up with the program because she gets bored doing the same thing over and over — and luckily, her coworkers were happy to help make her idea happen.
“This was something I found in an old workbook — it just had little stories and little pretend codes. And my husband is a science person, so we figured out the lab tests we could run, and I just sort of jumped (on it),” she said. “I was looking for something more interactive than ‘read it and do it.’ It started as five patients and five tests, and we’re up to 12 patients, six tests, three telehealth patients and a surgery center.”
Student Niko Muraoka was in the surgery center, using real laparoscopic tools and a surgery simulation program to remove foreign objects from a “patient.”
“You have to reach into these holes with this piece of equipment, and you have to grab four beads inside of this stretchy tissue,” he said, explaining the process. “You need to learn to be precise and accurate with where you’re putting the tools, and see where you’re looking and being careful, because if you accidentally pop it out, it would just go all over the place.”
Kletch said she likes to add something new to the program each year, and this year it was the surgery center — funded through a grant from the Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation.
“The surgery center came from a TikTok video that we saw, and my department had challenged me,” she said. “I said, ‘Challenge accepted,’ and then the foundation was hugely helpful in get-
ting the money to make it work.”
HSEF Executive Director Justin Hirnisey, who was observing the kids in action, said the foundation invests in district educational programs every year, and they particularly enjoy supporting programs like the annual hospital simulation.
“As you can see … the deep learning that’s happening, the conversations that are happening, Mrs. Clutch’s passion for this project — when we get one of those
applications, and you can kind of feel it on paper, we love to invest in ideas like that, that are innovative,” he said. “I think this project was less than $2,000, but if you’re looking for a return on investment — I’ve been here every day this week and I feel like this is helping her teach. This is helping these guys learn. And who knows? Maybe one of these (students) will wind up going into the profession.”
Interim Superintendent Matt Kegley
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
During the annual Fishers Junior High School seventh-grade hospital simulation program, the student-doctors rotated through various stations at the hospital. They started by interviewing patients — volunteers who video-chatted with the kids and described their symptoms — before ordering tests.
Fishers Junior High School seventh-grade science teacher Deborah Kletch, who organizes the annual program, said the kids then ran lab tests, and based on lab results, they researched and diagnosed the patients.
“We’re a very limited hospital. We don’t handle emergency cases,” she said. “We handle your normal cases, like ane-
mia, asthma, things that we could do so they’ll have to compare the symptoms to the descriptions and then figure out what tests they want to run.”
After all that, students then did what every doctor has to do — submitted the proper codes to the billing department. Kletch said that’s part of the program’s real-world experience.
“With the scientific method, you always have to prove it,” she said. “I thought that billing would be a reason to have to prove it … and if they bill it correctly, then they get full credit. And it also lets me know that they got the right diagnosis.”
also was on hand as students worked their way through the different hospital stations. He said the program is a great example of an innovative idea from a teacher who then is provided with the resources to make it happen. He added that the program directly connects to the curriculum.
“They’re in the middle of viruses and diseases and so, there’s a natural progression with the work they’re doing in the classroom,” he said. “It’s not just, ‘Hey, I’ve got this one-off idea that may not really apply to what we’re doing.’ No — it meshes perfectly with what’s going on in their learning leading up to now, and what they’ll take with them after this.”
Kletch said the hospital simulation — in its ninth year — has inspired some students to focus on health care as they continue their educational journey at HSE Schools and beyond.
“I’ve had several students say they’ve gone into nursing or are trying to pursue something with the medical field after this,” she said. “So, it’s just kind of showing them what’s out there.”
Fishers Junior High School seventh-grade science teacher Deborah Kletch assists students during the school’s annual hospital simulation. (Photo courtesy of HSE Schools)
Fishers Junior High School seventh-grader Brayden Wetzel and teacher Tabitha Lowry work in the simulated lab, testing samples from volunteer patients. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
ON THE COVER: Fishers Junior High School seventh-grader Niko Muraoka performs simulated laparoscopic surgery using real surgical tools. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
COMMUNITY
(Advertorial)
ORTHOPEDIC URGENT CARE: When Pain or Injury Can’t Wait
By Dr. Robert Falender OrthoIndy Urgent Care Physician
Last week, a weekend warrior came into our urgent care center convinced he’d torn his ACL during a pickup basketball game. He’d spent two anxious days icing his knee, wondering if his active lifestyle was over. Within an hour, we’d done X-rays and a physical exam, ruled out the tear and sent him home with a treatment plan for a moderate sprain. He was very relieved.
That’s exactly why OrthoIndy Urgent Care exists.
The Gap Between “It Can Wait” and “Call 911”
Most musculoskeletal injuries fall into an uncomfortable middle ground. Your ankle rolls during a hike. Your shoulder pops out of place. Your back seizes lifting groceries. These aren’t heart attacks, but they’re not minor inconveniences either—and waiting days or weeks for answers can mean unneeded pain, anxiety and sometimes worse outcomes.
Emergency rooms do critical work saving lives, but for a suspected fracture or joint injury, you’ll often wait hours alongside true emergencies, only to be referred to an orthopedic specialist anyway. Your primary care doctor may need to schedule you out weeks.
What We Actually Do
At OrthoIndy Urgent Care, we’ve built something different: walk-in orthopedic evaluation by specialists who diagnose and treat bone, joint and muscle injuries all day, every day.
We see a lot of sports injuries— torn ligaments, dislocations and suspected fractures. Also, acute back and neck pain, sudden joint swelling that won’t resolve, and the “I heard a pop and now I can’t move it” injuries.
Having on-site X-rays mean we can tell you what’s wrong and what to do about it before you leave. Bracing, splinting, pain management strategies, activity modifications— we handle it on-site. Most patients are in and out within two hours with a clear diagnosis from an or-
thopedic specialist instead of waiting numerous hours for an emergency room generalist for treatment.
When You Need More
Not everything resolves with conservative treatment. When you need physical therapy, advanced imaging like an MRI or a surgical consultation, we connect you directly into OrthoIndy’s network of specialists. No starting over, no repeating your story to five different people.
Who Benefits Most?
Honestly; anyone who’s ever injured themselves on a Saturday and spent the weekend in limbo. Student athletes who need to know if they can play Mondaytomorrow. Older adults dealing with sudden mobility issues who can’’t afford to wait. Busy parents who need answers now, not next week or next month.
We have five locations across Central Indiana with extended hours because injuries don’t respect business schedules.
The Bottom Line
If you’re hurt enough to worry but not hurt enough for the ER, we’re here. No appointment needed. Just walk in, get evaluated by people who specialize in exactly what’s wrong and leave with a plan.
OrthoIndy Urgent Care Locations:
Brownsburg | 9070 E. 56th St. Ste. 400 | Brownsburg, IN 46112
Fishers | 10995 N. Allisonville Rd. Ste. 102 | Fishers, IN 46038
Greenwood | 1260 Innovation Pkwy. Ste. 100 | Greenwood, IN 46143
Northwest Indianapolis | 8450 Northwest Blvd. | Indianapolis, IN 46278
Westfield | 288 East 175th St. Ste. 100 | Westfield, IN 46074
Romeo & Juliet
Graeter’s opens second Fishers ice cream shop
grand opening of its second Fishers store March 25 with a ribbon cutting and free ice cream and other sweet treats for visitors.
The new location off 106th Street near Lantern Road is about 3 miles from its first store off 131st Street near Cumberland Road. It’s the fifth Graeter’s to open in Indiana, but it won’t be the last — another store is set to open soon in Zionsville.
Co-owner Chip Graeter attended the opening along with other members of the Graeter family, which has run the business since it was founded in 1870 in Cincinnati.
“I’m part of the fourth generation,” he said. “Third generation is right here with me — and fifth — so yeah, it’s absolutely a labor of love … and been around a long time. We make ice cream pretty uniquely, two gallons at a time, and it’s all done by hand. It’s unique, but we think it makes a great product. And so, we’re just happy to be slowly opening stores in the Indy area.”
His son, Luke Graeter — one of the fifth generation — said the Greater Indianapolis area has a lot of energy and growth, and the family is happy to invest in the rapidly developing metropol-
itan area so close to their home base.
“We want the communities and the families in this area to feel like Graeter’s is their hometown ice cream, and so we want to put it in your community,” he said. “(With) a new store in Fishers, a new store in Westfield, a new store opening in Zionsville — and we’re working on a couple more, as well.”
Graeter’s now has 56 scoop shops in the Midwest and continues to expand. It also sells its products at grocery stores nationally. In addition to ice cream, the company sells doughnuts, pastries, cookies, cakes and chocolates. For more, visit graeters.com.
A new Graeter’s Ice Cream shop opened March 25 off 106th Street near Lantern Road.
Visitors celebrate the opening of the new Graeter’s Ice Cream shop with free ice cream. (Photos
Seeing success on the court
By Dr. Jeremy Ciano
Pickleball has taken our community by storm, and for good reason — it’s social, fast-paced and accessible for all ages. However, as an optometrist and pickleball player, I’ve noticed a growing trend accompanying the sport’s popularity: a rise in pickleball-related eye injuries.
While the ball is lightweight, it can travel at speeds of 50-plus mph, often with opponents standing just 14 feet apart at the “kitchen” line. This leaves very little time for our natural blink reflex to protect us from a direct hit. Most players are surprised to learn a standard pickleball is the perfect size to fit inside the eye socket. Without hitting the surrounding bone, the ball’s full force is delivered directly to the eye, which can lead to serious injuries like corneal abrasions, bleeding inside the eye or even retinal detachment. Most of these injuries are preventable with proper eyewear. Unlike everyday glasses, which can shatter upon impact, dedicated pickleball glasses are made of impact-resistant materials rather
than standard plastics.
Pickleball (and tennis)-specific eyewear isn’t just about safety; it’s also a competitive advantage. In addition to protection, proper tints can make the neon ball “pop” to improve reaction time. Polarization helps block 50 percent of the sun’s glare to reduce squinting, enabling us to see cleaner and make proper line calls. UVA and UVB protection also slow down the progression of cataracts and macular degeneration. And, of course, sports contacts help to improve clarity as well as increased peripheral vision — not all contacts are created equally.
Whether you have perfect vision or require a prescription, consider adding some cool eyewear to your gear bag — it’s the one piece of equipment that looks great and safeguards your vision for life, both on and off the court.
Dr. Jeremy Ciano, an international lecturer and published author, is a Current Publishing columnist. He may be emailed at DrCiano@Revolution-EYES.com.
Have a good night’s sleep
Commentary by Farah Myers
Sleep is one of our most basic human needs — so why does it slip away from us just when we need it most? Many factors can disrupt sleep, but small, consistent habits can make a real difference. Here are practical lifestyle sleep hygiene tips to help you get back on track.
TROUBLE FALLING ASLEEP?
The biggest barrier I see is screens in the bedroom. Your bedroom should be for sleep and intimacy only. When phones or tablets are nearby, your brain stays on alert for notifications and late-night scrolling becomes too tempting. Removing screens helps your mind associate your bedroom with rest—not work, news or social media.
Try putting all screens away at least an hour before bedtime. Use that time to create a calming wind-down routine so your body has space to relax and get sleepy.
TROUBLE STAYING ASLEEP?
If you wake in the night and can’t fall back asleep within about 15 minutes,
get out of bed. Go to another room and choose a quiet, non-stimulating, screen-free activity in dim lighting. When you feel drowsy again, return to bed and keep lights off. This technique may take time, but the goal is to retrain your brain to associate your bed with comfort and sleepiness. With consistency, falling back to sleep becomes easier.
A SOLID SLEEPER—BUT STILL TIRED?
A common pattern I see is sleeping in on weekends. These shifts create “social jet lag,” like forcing your body to jump time zones every Saturday and Sunday. No wonder it feels draining. Try to keep your bed and wake times within about an hour of your usual schedule each day. Staying aligned with your natural circadian rhythm often improves daytime energy.
Farah Myers is a double board-certified nurse practitioner at Cool Creek Family Health. Call or text 317-6639932 for more.
Mandolinist Thile set for solo show
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Chris Thile has toured through the years with his bands Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers. However, his latest venture is solo.
“It’s been so fun,” Thile said. “Playing solo is an interesting way to connect with your audience because without other people on stage. If you are doing your job, it can be a really intimate feeling. You are not looking left and right at the people on stage. You are looking out at the audience for all the communion you are going to get. I’ve really enjoyed it and soaked up every minute of it.”
Thile will perform at 8 p.m. April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It will be his first solo visit to the Allied Solutions Center, but he did perform there with the Punch Brothers in 2012.
The tour is in support of his album “Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas, Vol. 2.” Although the music was designed for the violin, Thile plays it on mandolin.
“The show is pretty rangy,” Thile said. “Certainly, I’ll play a fair amount of Bach over the course of the night, but I also dip into my back catalog in a way that seems related to Bach and can be recontextualized by it. When we listen to Bach, we put our serious ears on. It’s almost like we go into a costume as music lovers. I don’t know if that is always beneficial. Sometimes, you can just kick your feet back and listen to Bach in your comfy clothes.”
Thile said it’s also sometimes beneficial to listen to folk songs with serious ears.
“The basis of the show is you are trying to create a cohesive musical narrative with ostensibly wildly disparate elements,” Thile said.
Thile has toured Europe and the U.S. in support of the album, which was released in November 2025.
“We’re in the homestretch of it now,” Thile said of the Bach tour.
“We’ll be transitioning into Punch Brothers. There is a new record in the works. We’re starting to bring the Bach festivities in for a landing. That’s another reason to soak it up. It’s been my favorite solo experience by far, so far.”
During the Palladium show, Thile said he might perform songs by Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers.
“It can be interesting for me to tackle those alone and see how the music reacts to that,” he said.
Thile enjoys sharing stories with the audience.
“I love talking and I love storytelling,” he said. “I feel it’s a natural extension of my musicianship to rap with people about it.”
Thile hosted a public radio show from 2016 to 2020. He originally replaced Garrison Keillor as host of “A Prairie Home Companion.” Thile had been a guest host during Keillor’s ten-
ure. Thile’s show was later renamed “Live From Here.”
For the past two years, he has collaborated with the Punch Brothers on “The Energy Curfew Music Hour,” which is a collaboration with Audible.
“It’s 100 percent acoustic,” he said. “It’s more focused on collaboration than ‘Live From Here’ was, but it’s equally obsessed with variety.”
Thile’s wife, actress Claire Coffee, is the director and co-writer.
“She is an incredible artist in her own right,” he said.
Thile said the different projects keep him fresh.
“I think a well-lived musical life contains multitudes, at least for me,” he said. “I have a lot of energy. I get done with a thing and I don’t want a break. It makes me want to do something else.”
For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
“Singin’ in the Rain” runs April 9 to May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Velvet Voices: A Crooner Celebration” April 9, followed by Casey Abrams and Hunter April 10-11 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
SOUL ASYLUM
Soul Asylum will perform an acoustic set April 8 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. Corey Glover is the opening performer at 7:15 p.m. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
CARRIE NEWCOMER
Carrie Newcomer performs at 8 p.m. April 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
‘SUITE DREAMS’
Indiana Wind Symphony presents “Suite Dreams” at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Rhett to perform at LIV Golf at Chatham Hills — LIV Golf announced country music star Thomas Rhett will perform at LIV Golf Indianapolis Aug. 21, taking the stage immediately following the conclusion of Round 2 of the League’s Individual Championship event. The after-play concert begins at 5:30 p.m. at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield. Fans in attendance for the second round can enjoy Rhett’s performance as part of their entry alongside world-class golf and immersive fan entertainment as concert access is included with all Friday ticket and hospitality offerings
Chris Thile will perform April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Josh Coleman)
ENTERTAINMENT
Actor ready for ‘Rain’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Evan Michael Vaughan has envisioned himself on the Beef & Boards stage since he was a child.
“Beef & Boards has been on my radar since I first saw ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ as a child with my family,” Vaughan said. “I even auditioned for ‘The Sound of Music’ as a child and it was my first professional audition. I got a call back and that alone made me feel so special. I’m really excited to be performing in my hometown.”
Vaughan enjoys his role as a swing member.
“I have been a swing in other productions before and I love how organized it makes me become,” he said. “As silly as it sounds, I love getting to take all my notes and organize my charts in ways that work for my brain and allow me to remember so many different roles.”
Vaughan has performed on Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
The 2020 Lawrence Central High School graduate will perform as a swing cast member in “Singin’ in the Rain” April 9 through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.
“I have not been in a production of ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ before, but I am so excited to bring this iconic show to the stage,” Vaughan said. “I grew up watching the musical with my grandparents and often would put on my own performances of it for my family when I was young.”
“On Regent, I performed as a singer-dancer in their production cast,” he said. “We had four production shows and they all differed — pop music, country music, rock music, Broadway hits. Throughout the contract, I visited 35 countries and four continents. Some of my favorites were Barcelona, Santorini, Brazil and Antarctica. I am currently still based in the Geist area and am so happy to be back home for a few months after my cruise contract, although later this year I plan to make the move to New York City and continue performing.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
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The Indiana Wind Symphony
Vaughan
ENTERTAINMENT
IWS concert features student musicians
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Wind Symphony has a tradition of performing a side-by-side concert with high school musicians during summertime at the Carmel Gazebo.
IWS Music Director Jay Gephart wanted to make the experience even better.
“I wanted to make this really a special event for the high schoolers,” he said. “I wanted them to have the opportunity to play on the Palladium stage. We’ll introduce them individually. Each one will receive a certificate for being a side-by-side participant.”
Eighteen high school musicians will perform two pieces with the IWS during its “Suite Dreams” concert at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
The high school students will play “The Dam Busters” by Eric Coates and “First Suite in E-Flat for Military Band” in the second half of the concert.
“The title of the concert comes from a composer named Steven Bryant, and the piece was actually commissioned by the Jasper High School band,” Gephart said. “It’s one of a series of compositions that Bryant took concert band themes and actually created a piece using some of that thematic material.
The concert opens with “The Ringmaster’s March” from the suite “The Soul Has Many Motions,” written by John Mackey.
Crown Point High School student Caliel Mosley, the IWS Concerto Competition winner, will perform during the second piece.
Participating students include two from Carmel High School — Simon Nelson, alto saxophone and Connor Sudduth, trumpet — and two from Lawrence North, Sam Katowitz, baritone saxophone and Guillermo Ceja, horn.
Other participants include trumpet players Bryant Buckles, Zionsville Community; and Abe Greenfield, Lawrence Central
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COMMUNITY VOICES
Support ASAP Act
Editor,
In 2017, our lives were turned upside down when my mother, Linda, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It has been an incredibly difficult and emotional journey, and while we can’t reverse time, we can play our part in fighting this wretched disease.
Did you know as many as half of the 121,300 Hoosiers living with Alzheimer’s are not formally diagnosed? While there is currently no cure, identifying symptoms early can significantly improve quality of life and allow for better planning. I know my mom’s journey would have taken a different, more hopeful direction had she been provided with access to treatments in the early stages of the disease.
Thankfully, U.S Rep. Victoria Spartz can accelerate access to blood biomarker tests and earlier detection of Alzheimer’s and other dementia in Indiana and across the nation by cosponsoring the Alzheimer’s Screening and Pre-
vention Act. The bipartisan ASAP Act will not only improve patient care but also help facilitate smoother transitions from primary care to specialists, reducing the burden on health care workers and helping to streamline the health care system.
On behalf of my beautiful mother, Linda, and the 7 million Americans living with this disease — including the 12 million individuals caring for those affected — please join me and the Alzheimer’s Association in encouraging Spartz to support the bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention Act, and visit alzimpact.org to learn more.
Brooke Tichenor, Fishers
COLUMNIST ON THE WEB
This week’s commentary by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker may be read at youarecurrent.com.
LEGAL NOTICE OF LOW INCOME CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR ELECTRIC UTILITY SERVICE FOR ELIGIBLE CUSTOMERS DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC
DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that, on or around May 1, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit tariff language for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines for a low income customer assistance program pursuant to Ind. Code ch. 8-147 to provide financial assistance to eligible residential customers for the payment of monthly electric utility bills. This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing, unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.
By:
LEGAL NOTICE OF DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC’S FILING OF REVISIONS TO TARIFF NO. 6 – RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC SERVICE AND TARIFF NO. 20 – YOUR FIXEDBILL
DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around May 1, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit revisions to its Tariff No. 6, Residential Electric Service, and Tariff No. 20, Your FixedBill, for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. This filing is in accordance with Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7, which requires, pursuant to Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(e)(1), that beginning with the first monthly billing cycle that begins after June 30, 2026, electric utilities apply a levelized billing plan to all active customer accounts that are eligible for, and have applied for, assistance from a home energy assistance program administered under Ind. Code ch. 4-4-33, and to which a levelized billing plan does not already apply. In addition, pursuant to Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(e)(3), electric utilities must, not later than July 1, 2026, amend or design their levelized billing plans to comply with the reconciliation mechanism described in Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(a)(3).
Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers: Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East, Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.
Duke Energy Indiana, LLC
By: Stan Pinegar, President
Fell for a fast-walking woman
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
My wife Mary Ellen walks faster than I do. If I hadn’t broken into a full gallop down the aisle the day we got married, she’d have beaten me to the justice of the peace by a nose. I’ve mentioned this before in this column, but things have gotten much worse and far more embarrassing
When we take a walk around the block, Mary Ellen has to turn around every three or four minutes and walk back around me so that she doesn’t get too far ahead. As embarrassing as this is, I demand that she do it because a 79-year-old man should not be yelling to his wife, “Wait up!,” an expression that I thought I had stopped using in junior high school.
get themselves in trouble. When I saw those lovely limbs, my mind turned to romance, but I should have realized that she’d be walking faster than me for the next 50 years. I knew I was going to marry a woman who was smarter. But faster? That was never the plan.
“ I knew I was going to marry a woman who was smarter. But faster? That was never the plan.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
In fact, during high school and college, I never dated girls who were fast (my mother approved of that).
Sometimes, just to feel loved and wanted, I would hide behind a tree to see if my wife would look for me. Out on a hiking trail, this is OK, but in a residential neighborhood, men behind trees are frowned upon. When you are telling your story to a police officer and he keeps using the word “lurking,” you have a great deal of explaining to do.
What makes this more humiliating is that I have always been a good athlete. I played center field on my high school baseball team and even ran track. My wife is not an athlete. When she tries to run, she doesn’t bend her legs at the knees and she ends up looking like a soldier doing a goose step on too much coffee.
No, she can’t run. But, boy, can she walk.
And I can’t figure out why she walks faster. Let’s see … her legs are longer than mine. And she moves them back and forth faster than I do. OK, I just figured it out.
The great irony in this is that one of the reasons I was attracted to my wife almost 48 years ago was her long, slender legs. This is exactly how men
Now, when we walk around our new neighborhood, she feels like I slow her down, and the sight of her circling me every few minutes has the neighbors talking. Instead, when my wife and I want to walk, we go in different directions around our neighborhood circle. No matter how leisurely I walk, we pass each other at exactly the same time.
I know that was an incredibly stupid thing to say. But don’t try to explain it to me. You know how slow I am.
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.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact
Duke Energy Indiana, LLC
Stan Pinegar, President
16. Speech hesitations
17. Strong strings
18. Home teams’ opponents
20. Victory Field doubleheader pair
22. Spooky
23. Notable 1980 cable
TV debut
25. Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner
29. Salty spots on margar-
ita glasses
30. Lift with effort
32. Aid for a submarine captain
34. Arm bone
35. Prefix for “dynamic” or “nautical”
36. Molten rock
38. Swiss peak
39. Marathon alternative
44. Indiana’s richest person: ___ Cook
46. Fabricated
47. Permission or penalty
51. Nixon’s first veep
52. Cautious
53. Colts QB-to-receiver six-pointer
55. Teller of groan-worthy jokes
56. Change
58. Puccini opera
60. Copycat
64. Stove part
67. “Mayday!”
68. Butler frat letter
69. Actress Seyfried or Plummer
70. Notable 1988 cable
TV debut
71. Simple
72. Knock down a peg DOWN
1. Evansville’s summer hrs.
2. DVR button
3. Straightening
4. Okonori seafood item
5. Free from liability
6. Watch over
7. Pacer foe from Texas, briefly
8. Kimono sash
9. WFYI net.
10. Southernmost Great Lake
11. Phoenix suburb larger than the Illinois city it shares its name with
12. Okonori seafood item
13. Beasts of burden
19. Purdue semester
21. ___-cone
23. Pal
24. French Quarter city, familiarly
26. Okonori seafood item
27. Hang on to
28. Fishers Farmers Market corn unit
31. “Casablanca” pianist
33. ___ de plume
37. Notre Dame’s sports org.
38. Parched
40. Texter’s “Wow!”
41. Neckerchief
42. Notion
43. Vulgar
45. One with “Esq.” on the door
47. Okonori seafood item
48. Many a tenant at The Stutz
49. Russian denial
50. ___ King Cole
51. Take as a given
52. Pants measure
54. Just awful
57. Bring down the house
59. Okonori seafood item
61. Darjeeling export
62. NBA tiebreakers
63. Car czar Skillman
65. Current staffers, briefly
66. “Norma ___” ANSWERS ON PAGE 23
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Book a complimentary in-showroom meeting with our design team.
DISCUSS YOUR DESIGN
Meet your designer and review the space, budget, and style vision.
3
CONFIRM DESIGN & INSTALL
Give your final approval and our team will schedule your install day!
The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.
The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.
Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood finishes.
The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.
The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.
Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood finishes.
back height, silhouette, back pillow and
Custom order yours today!
The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman. Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood finishes.
Custom order yours today!
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RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
KAREN KING, OWNER
KAREN KING, OWNER