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Opinions
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COMMUNITY
CCPL StoryWalk signage faces online criticism from immigration reform group
By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com
Carmel Clay Public Library’s StoryWalk signage at Meadowlark Park has been the subject of online criticism because of Arabic translations displayed at the foot of each sign.
The story titled “Listen, Listen” was displayed in the park from July 1 through July 27. It included English, Spanish and Arabic translations of the text.
On July 14, Save Heritage Indiana made a post on X expressing its displeasure with the Arabic translation. The original post did not comment on the Spanish translation.
Save Heritage Indiana is a non-profit group co-founded by Daniel Poynter and Nathan Roberts. The group’s mission is to preserve Indiana’s heritage by “reversing mass migration” through “mobilizing the grassroots to enact effective state and local level policy changes … paired with relentless public pressure and media,” according to its website.
The group’s original post cited anti-immigration sentiments expressed by past U.S. presidents to make its opinion clear, stating, “Complaining on X is not good enough. There are 100 people in Indiana who get paid full-time to expand immigration. Our side has 0.”
Save Heritage Indiana frequently replies to commenters who share its views asking them to speak at city council meetings. Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam replied to one such comment from her official account encouraging those who take issue to seek outlets other than the mayor’s office.
“Suggest you contact the library board and parks board if you have concerns,” Finkam’s response on X stated. “Mayor and city council do not oversee operations of libraries or parks.”
Finkam declined to elaborate on her social media response.
The Save Heritage Indiana X account shared Finkam’s comment to its feed, along with the date, time and location of the next CCPL Board meeting and Carmel Parks Board meeting. The post also states that its followers should not attend either meeting on their behalf without working on a script with the group.
Michael Klitzing, director of Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation, stated in an email to Current that CCPR has not received any commentary regarding StoryWalk.
“To my knowledge, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) has not received comments regarding the current StoryWalk in Meadowlark Park. In the many years we have partnered with Carmel Clay Public Library on this program, CCPR has only received positive feedback that our two organizations are working together to promote an appreciation for reading and nature.”
The CCPL Board meeting took place July 27 in the Main Library Board Room. Despite comments made on social media, no members of Save Heritage Indiana spoke at the meeting, although the agenda was amended at the start of the meeting to allow time for public comments.
In an email to Current, CPPL Director Bob Swanay stated that Save Heritage Indiana has neither contacted him nor
the library. In an attached statement, he expressed the library’s support for their multilingual patrons.
“The library offers StoryWalks to promote early literacy, physical activity, and family time together in nature,” Swanay stated. “All of our StoryWalks are presented in English. Occasionally, we offer StoryWalks that also include the text in one or two additional languages. These multilingual StoryWalks help families who are learning English and support literacy development for members of our diverse community. Including additional languages alongside English expands access to library resources while ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the StoryWalk in English… Our StoryWalks and World Languages collection support our mission to inspire lifelong discovery, facilitate collaboration, and connect people with resources. We are committed to supporting all residents in our community to the best of our ability.”
Carmel Clay Public Library’s StoryWalk signage at Meadowlark Park featured a story titled “Listen, Listen” with English, Spanish and Arabic translations of the text. The signs were posted from July 1 through July 27. (Photo courtesy of Bob Swaney)
Hampstead PUD proposal receives pushback
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Developers of the proposed Hampstead neighborhood near the Village of WestClay have a lot of work to do before the next public meeting to discuss the project.
That’s because members of the Carmel Plan Commission expressed a variety of concerns at their July 21 meeting, including about density, tree preservation and compatibility with the surrounding area.
Their remarks came after nearly a dozen people who live near the site of the proposed neighborhood remonstrated against it.
Hampstead is set to include 36 luxury homes on 9 acres north of W. Main Street and west of Dumbarton Street. The site is surrounded by the sprawling Village of WestClay neighborhood but is not planned to be incorporated in it.
The proposed 3- and 4-story dwellings, built by Christopher Scott Homes, are expected to sell for $1.5 million to $2 million. They would replace two homes currently on the site.
“The goal is to provide an ultra-luxury, low-maintenance community that currently does not exist in Carmel to better serve the needs of a specific segment of the population,” said Jon Dobosiewicz, a land use professional speaking on behalf of the developer. “The inclusion of three- and four-bedroom options, elevator access, rooftop terraces and three- or four-car garages ensures a diverse range of housing options. Longtime Carmel residents seeking to right-size without leaving the community will be provided a luxury option, including adequate garage space, walkable environments, and modern layouts.”
The developer is requesting a zoning change from S-1 Residential to a
planned unit development, meaning development guidelines would be specific to the site.
Multiple plan commissioners said they liked the aesthetics of the neighborhood but felt it doesn’t align with the surrounding area.
“I think the design is beautiful, but not in this location,” commissioner Dubbie Buckler said. “It’s a gorgeous-looking property. It’s just like you’re taking a grid and placing it in a curved area. It looks out of place to me.”
Plan commission President Christine Zoccola agreed, saying Hampstead looked more like a development that would fit in Carmel’s dense urban core than near a single-family neighborhood.
Several residents expressed similar concerns about density and compatibility, and others said they expect Hampstead to make Main Street even busier during rush hour and lead to drivers doing U-turns in their neighborhood.
Heidi Snyder said she is concerned about the project’s impact on Elliott Creek and the wooded corridor that separates her backyard from the proposed Hampstead site.
“I understand that Carmel will continue to grow, and I support responsible growth,” she said. “But I also believe that we have a responsibility to preserve the natural features that make our communities special whenever that is possible. Once mature trees are removed and a natural wildlife corridor is fragmented, those resources cannot simply be recreated. It takes decades, often generations, for mature woodlands and the ecosystem it supports to recover, if it truly ever can.”
Dobosiewicz said developers will take feedback gathered from the plan commission meeting and elsewhere to modify the proposal before it is discussed by a plan commission committee, likely Sept. 1.
DISPATCHES
Correction — A July 28 story on the Indianapolis Monthly Dream Home in Zionsville should have read the cabinetry is by Doca and that The Agency, the real estate agency selling the home, has 185 locations worldwide.
Back 2 School Bash — Clay Terrace will host its annual Back 2 School Bash from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 8. The event will include Touch-a-Truck vehicles, Silly Safaris Animal shows, giveaways, face painting, special guests and more. The bash will take place at the shopping center’s Village Green at 14390 Clay Terrace Blvd. in Carmel.
AUGUST E VENTS
Calendar brought to you by
CARMEL FARMERS MARKET
Every Saturday, 8 - 11:30 a.m. Carter Green CarmelFarmersMarket.com
MOVIES AT MIDTOWN Tuesdays, 6 p.m. Thursdays, noon & 6 p.m. Midtown Plaza MidtownPlazaCarmel.com
GAZEBO CONCERT SERIES
Every Wednesday, 7 - 9 p.m. City Hall Gazebo CarmelGazeboConcerts.org
PUBLIC SAFETY DAY
August 15, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 11611 N. Meridian Street
LATE NIGHT ON MAIN
August 15, 6 – 11 p.m. Main Street CarmelPorchFest.org
DIA DE LA FAMILIA
August 16, 2 – 6 p.m. Carter Green
NEIGHBORHOOD POP-UP SERIES | DISTRICT 4
August 26, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Parks at Springmill Parking Lot
COFFEE ON THE MONON August 28, 6:30 – 9 a.m. Midtown Plaza
CARMEL ON CANVAS
August 28 – 29
Registration begins at 8 a.m. at Fire Department Headquarters
ARTOMOBILIA
August 29, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Carmel Arts & Design District Artomobilia.org
August 14–21
Case dismissal upheld
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Court of Appeals upheld a Hamilton County ruling July 27 that Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam did not defame the former board chair of Carmel Christkindlmarkt, Inc. Appeals court Judge Nancy Vaidik wrote in her opinion that comments Finkam made in a public meeting about Sue McDermott and the nonprofit board failing to provide requested financial information did not rise to defamation.
accuse anyone of misconduct.
“It does not say why the records were incomplete, does not attribute fault to any particular person, and does not suggest that the omission was wrongful or improper as opposed to merely mistaken or incompetent,” Vaidik wrote.
McDermott filed a lawsuit against Finkam last year about the mayor’s comments in two public meetings in 2024.
Finkam said at one meeting the city had requested financial records from McDermott and two others and only received some information, calling it “problematic.” At another meeting, Finkam said McDermott did give some information but not all and that the city was waiting on the rest.
Vaidik ruled the comments did not
McDermott said in a statement she is disappointed in the ruling.
“My goal through all of this has been to cause the truth to come out about how Mayor Finkam treated the Christkindlmarkt board and the true motivations behind her actions,” she stated. “Unfortunately, that will now not occur through this litigation.”
Hamilton County Judge Jonathan Brown dismissed the case Nov. 14, 2025, ruling Finkam’s statements did not meet the threshold of being defamatory. Brown stated the comments were not an accusation of “outright misconduct” and could be interpreted that McDermott made a mistake or behaved incompetently. McDermott appealed the case late last year.
McDermott
COMMUNITY
Carmel Democrat joins commissioner race
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
For the last couple of years, Ti’Gre McNear had been considering a bid for political office.
So, when the Hamilton County Democratic Party was looking for candidates to run in several races that had unopposed Republicans in the May primary, she was ready to step up.
McNear, a Carmel resident, was selected through a caucus process to run for Hamilton County commissioner in District 1. She will face off against longtime incumbent Christine Altman in the Nov. 3 general election.
County and ensuring tax dollars are spent responsibly.
“Even though we’re the most prosperous (city), anything can happen,” McNear said. “How can we enhance what’s already been done well? I want to ask the questions, the whats, the whys, who it has impacted, who does it benefit.”
McNear, who is married and has an adult daughter, owns a consulting firm, 3T Outreach, that reviews processes and procedures for organizations. She’s also worked as a substitute teacher, a case manager with social safety net programs and as a retail store administrator.
“We didn’t start in the beginning with everybody else, but we’re here now and ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work,” she said of candidates selected in the caucus.
McNear, who grew up in Gary, said her top campaign priorities are expanding access to mental health resources, improving awareness of youth programs and initiatives in Hamilton
These experiences, combined with a master’s degree in organizational leadership, make her a good fit for the role of county commissioner, McNear said. But that’s not what she believes makes her most qualified.
“I have a servant’s heart,” McNear said. “I am concerned about what matters most to people.”
Learn more about McNear’s campaign at votemcnear.com.
Hollowell announces bid for Hamilton County sheriff
news@youarecurrent.com
Democrat Charles Hollowell has announced his candidacy for Hamilton County sheriff.
The announcement follows the Hamilton County Democratic Party’s precinct chair meeting July 1, where precinct chairs voted to give the party’s chairman the authority to appoint candidates to fill ballot vacancies.
variety of leadership roles dedicated to protecting the community, supporting fellow officers and building strong relationships with the public.
Hollowell, a Fishers resident, will face Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Dustin Dixon, a Republican, in the November general election.
Hollowell has more than 25 years of law enforcement experience and is a lieutenant with the Westfield Police Department. According to his campaign announcement, he has served in a
Hollowell said he is running to provide experienced, transparent and community-focused leadership for the sheriff’s office.
“Serving this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Hollowell stated.
“I’m running for sheriff because Hamilton County deserves experienced, steady leadership that puts people first. I’ll lead a sheriff’s office committed to professionalism, accountability and treating every person with dignity and respect. Together, we’ll continue to maintain a safe, strong community. My commitment is simple: Protecting All. Serving All.”
McNear
Hollowell
CDBG plan approved
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Commissioners approved the 2026 Community Development Block Grant action plan and tabled updates to a memorandum of understanding at their July 27 meeting. The next meeting is at 2 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Hamilton County Judicial Center.
WHAT HAPPENED: The Hamilton County Emergency Management department received a grant from Duke Energy Foundation.
WHAT IT MEANS: The department received $9,875, which will be used to purchase additional voltage detectors for first responders and volunteers working in the field after storms. There also are plans to purchase extendable barriers that can be placed between cones to cordon off hazardous areas.
WHAT’S NEXT: The department will go before the county council at a future meeting to appropriate the funding.
WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners approved the 2026 Community Development Block Grant action plan.
WHAT IT MEANS: The commissioners reviewed the plan at their June 13 meeting. Plans include allocating $400,000 to Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield for public infrastructure improvements; $543,372.80 for affordable housing initiatives; and $235,843.20 for administration and fair housing initiatives.
WHAT’S NEXT: The total funding available for 2026 is just more than $2.54 million. For this year’s phase of the plan, the top priority is expanding and sustaining affordable housing development across the region.
CHS Class of 2016 reunion – The Carmel High School Class of 2016 will hold a 10-year reunion at 6 p.m. Aug. 15 at the Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W. Washington St. in Indianapolis. Learn more and get tickets at chs16reunion.com/tickets.
Vinatieri set for Pro Football Hall of Fame induction
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For former Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri, this has been quite the memorable year.
“It’s been an incredible year with the Hall of Fame knocking on the door right before the Super Bowl, and then, obviously, now with the Colts Ring of Honor, that’s an incredible honor as well,” Vinatieri said.
The Zionsville resident will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Aug. 8 in Canton, Ohio. Following that, he will become the 21st member of the Colts Ring of Honor Oct. 18 when they host the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium.
ily has meant so much to me. They’ve done so much for me and my family. I still feel like I’m a big part of the Colts organization, even though I’m not playing anymore. It just felt like the more I thought about it, the clearer that decision was. I’m really proud of how she took over the team and what she’s doing, and I’m happy to be her first inductee into the Hall.”
Vinatieri, who played 10 seasons with the New England Patriots before playing 14 seasons with the Colts, is the NFL’s alltime leading scorer with 2,673 points. He holds NFL records for field goals made with 599 and postseason points with 238. He was on three Super Bowl-winning teams with the Patriots and one with the Colts.
Former Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri will be inducted Aug. 8 into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. (Photo courtesy of Indianapolis Colts)
Carmel High School.
Vinatieri works with special teams during practices.
“I’m just trying to bring some football knowledge to the program,” he said. “I’m doing a bunch of public speaking, particularly this year. I’ve had a lot of opportunities to do some meet-and-greets and I have a great time doing those things. I still do quite a bit of stuff with the Colts when I get a chance as well.”
Vinatieri, 53, asked Colts CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon to introduce him at the Hall of Fame ceremony. She became owner of the Colts with her two sisters after their father Jim Irsay died in May 2025.
“I know when Jim was alive, he was my first and only choice,” Vinatieri said. “Then I chose Carlie because her fam-
He will be the third full-time placekicker inducted in the Hall of Fame, joining Morten Andersen and Jan Stenerud. Fittingly, Andersen — who attended Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis — delivered the news to Vinatieri.
“It was the perfect choice to come knock on my door,” said Vinatieri, who
lived in Carmel before moving to Zionsville six years ago. “He was always a hero of mine when I was growing up as a kid, and I was fortunate enough to play against him a handful of times. I admired and respected the heck out of him. I can’t tell you how excited I was when we got the knock and I opened it up and saw him in a gold jacket.”
Vinatieri is helping coach football at Zionsville Community High School, where his youngest son, Gabriel, is a junior safety and backup kicker. He previously helped coach when his older son, A.J., played his final two seasons with the Eagles after transferring from
Vinatieri said Gabriel would rather play a position than strictly kick.
“We have a really good senior kicker right now, so (Gabriel) is kind of the backup if something goes awry,” Vinatieri said. “But he really, really loves playing defense, and I told him, ‘Hey, man, you don’t have to follow in my footsteps. If you want to do something different than your old man, that’s OK. You don’t have to do what I did.’”
A.J. was the punter last season for Lindenwood University, a Football Championship subdivision school in St. Charles, Mo. A.J. entered the transfer portal and has one year of college eligibility left.
Vinatieri
Former CHS baseball player has memorable summer
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
JD Stein has had quite the eventful summer.
First, following a successful freshman season at shortstop for the Wake Forest University baseball team,the 2025 Carmel High School graduate transferred to University of South Carolina. Then he was selected to the USA Collegiate National Team roster, which played four games in the World Collegiate Championship in Taichung City, Taiwan.
Stein was selected to the 28-player roster from a group of 55 players who competed in eight exhibition games in Cary, N.C. He was one of five players who had finished their freshman season.
“Before my freshman season started, I wrote my goals on Post-it notes, and one of my goals was to make the (USA) team,” he said. “I knew it was kind of a long shot, but I knew I could do it. It’s nice to see I did it. Next year I want to be back on the team. I’m going to have a bigger role next year, and I’m going to make sure that we win gold.”
Stein had a pinch-hit inside-the-park home run in a 10-0 rout over Korea. His two-run homer ended the game in the seventh inning due to a 10-run rule.
“That was fun, that was my first atbat,” he said.
Stein played in two of the games in Taiwan, playing second and third base. The team won three games before losing to Japan 6-3 in 11 innings in the July 15 championship.
The best part was getting to know all the players, Stein said.
“The first day we got rained out, so we had a bunch of time to just get to know each other,” he said. “About eight of us went to this dumpling place in the bottom of a mall and we just hung out. It was super fun.”
Stein said he and his roommate, Rett Johnson, explored a lot and visited several different restaurants.
Stein played two weeks in the Cape Cod League before going to the national team camp.
Stein has a .266 batting average with five home runs and 41 runs batted in for Wake Forest. Hitting five home runs was one of his goals before the season,
but Stein said his other goals were to hit for a higher average and to have 20 stolen bases. He finished with 13 in 15 stolen base attempts.
“I struggled at the start, but I learned a lot about myself,” he said. “I’m excited for the next season coming up.”
Stein decided to transfer to South Carolina when Bill Cilento left his position as Wake Forest associate head coach to become South Carolina’s associate head coach.
“That was the main reason behind it,” Stein said. “There were a couple other pros to (transferring), but it was a super hard decision. I didn’t want to leave initially. If Billy had stayed, I would have stayed.”
The 5-foot-8, 182-pound Stein gained 10 pounds during his freshman season.
“The weight room was a great help for me,” he said. “I just want to get a little stronger, produce a little more slugging.”
JD Stein, a 2025 Carmel High School graduate, played for the USA Collegiate National Team in the World Collegiate Championship. (Photo courtesy of USA Baseball)
Carmel FC makes history
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Charlize Knott figures her Carmel FC soccer team has discovered the right formula for success.
“We’re able to laugh at funny moments but also (are) able to lock in and play good games,” said the Carmel Middle School seventh grader, who has been with the program for six years.
The girls team, which includes players born in 2013, in May became the first Carmel FC team to win the Indiana State Cup.
“We had never done that before for boys or girls,” said Matt Mahar, a cocoach with fellow Carmel resident Tracey Blackmore.
Mahar played soccer for West Virginia University. Blackmore played for the Clemson University’s women’s team
The state title earned the team a place in last month’s United States Youth Soccer National Championships in Smyrna, Tenn., where it played the state champions from North Carolina, Tennessee and New Jersey. The team won the match against New Jersey but did not qualify for the quarterfinals, placing 11th overall.
The team also played in the United States Youth Soccer National League, which included teams from the Ohio Valley (Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana). It won its league championship and advanced to the National League Regional Competition in Virginia. Carmel FC won that regional tournament, which sent it to the National League Finals in St Louis, where it finished second in early July.
Carmel Middle School eighth grader Pele Zeller has been with Carmel FC for more than a year.
“We know how much it means to all of us and we care about it a lot,” she said.
Clay Middle School eighth grader Ava Loy said the team has developed strong chemistry in her four years.
“We’ve connected really well and we play well together,” she said.
Clay Middle School seventh grader Paisley Neal said training during the season and offseason have been crucial to the team’s success. In addition, it has strengthened its bond during hotel stays during tournaments.
“We have one night when we all get together, have little groups and have a dance (contest),” she said.
Orchard School eighth grader Norah Weiper, a Carmel resident, said her favorite memory was winning the State Cup.
“That was a huge thing for us,” she said. “We all rushed on to the field, cheering and so happy for each other.”
Creekside Middle School eighth grader Lauren Mahar agreed winning the State Cup was the highlight for her.
“We accomplished so much to be there. It was really cool to win it,” she said. “
Clay Middle School seventh grader Ellery Blackmore, the co-coach’s daughter, tore her right ACL in the spring season.
“I wasn’t able to play any games but I was able to cheer my teammates on,” she said. “It was fun to be that close to the game I love, but it was hard because I was a hand reach away from being on the field.”
Blackmore said she is becoming another coach on the field.
“I’m able to talk to the girls and give them tips and stuff, but I’m also getting better knowledge when I get back on the field when I play,” she said.
Other players from Carmel include Clara Patterson, Addie Thurgood, Allie Pohlman and Emma Martin.
LUNCH + BEER
Carmel FC team was 11th in the Youth Soccer National Championships in Smyrna, Tenn., in July. (Photo courtesy of Carmel FC)
GO FRAMELESS
CHS wins MaxPreps award
Carmel High School was named the top performing sports program in the nation for the 2025-26 school year by MaxPreps.
CHS won the MaxPreps Cup, a competition that awards high schools points for state championships, runner-up finishes and national rankings based on size of state, popularity of the sport, size of school and number of teams in each playoff division. MaxPreps is a website that covers high school sports.
The Greyhounds won a combined eight state championships last school year in boys tennis, boys soccer, girls cross county, boys and girls swimming, girls tennis, girls track and boys lacrosse.
“The recognition from MaxPreps is truly a testament to the partnership between our community and the school district,” Carmel Athletic Director Jim Inskeep stated. “The City of Carmel has a tradition of setting out to reach the highest of goals in everything that we do as a community. The student-athletes and coaches embrace this same philosophy. There are so many terrific athletic programs across the country and to be in the MaxPreps Cup conversation with them for the top spot is an honor.”
CHS led the MaxPreps Cup race wire to wire this school year. It’s the second Cup the school has won. The first one was in 2019-20.
St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., came in second place this year.
DISPATCH
Beekeepers club meeting — North Central Beekeepers Club meets the third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000 E. 151st St. in Westfield. Meetings are free to attend by all levels of beekeepers, including those interested in becoming beekeepers. The topics for the Aug. 19 meeting are Mite Dynamics and Consolidating Hives. Learn more at facebook.com/ groups/ncbclub.
COMMUNITY
Scott Hester, right, and his wife, Brandi, shortly before relocating plants in the right-of-way July 15. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
Code violation uproots Rohrer Road flower beds
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
For the last several years, Scott Hester has worked to beautify the front edge of his property with flowers, plants and landscaping for those walking the path along Rohrer Road or the Monon Trail, which is on the other side of the street.
The longtime Carmel resident said he frequently receives compliments on the area and that it has been used as a backdrop for photo shoots.
But on July 15, with the heat index hovering near 100 degrees, Hester and his wife, Brandi, scrambled to relocate all of the plants between the road and pathway to other areas on the property.
“We both were lightheaded. We both were suffering from being overheated, but we proceeded no matter how we felt,” Hester said. “We both had severe headaches that night. It wasn’t pretty.”
That’s because, earlier that day, Hester had received notification from the City of Carmel that crews would arrive the next morning to clear that area so it could be replaced with sod or grass seed.
Hester wasn’t happy. But he didn’t have a choice.
Local ordinances allow the city to remove improvements in an easement or right-of-way at the expense of the property owner or responsible party. Exceptions exist if the Carmel Board of Public Works has issued a permit or the city approves encroachment in certain circumstances.
“While community members often landscape areas adjacent to the street, private improvements placed within the right-of-way are always subject to removal and, if they cause damage to public facilities, may result in the responsible party being liable for repairs,”
City of Carmel spokesperson Kate Lustig said. “If private encroachments cause damage to public facilities, the responsible party may be held liable for cost of repairs.”
Lustig said the city has seen an increase in private encroachments in the public right-of-way since the Rohrer Road path was installed in 2024.
“As these encroachments have become more common, they have generated complaints from the public and created challenges for maintenance and consistent administration of the public right-of-way,” Lustig said. “Encroachments can also create challenges for drivers and those using the trail.”
Property owners can determine their right-of-way boundaries by checking the plat map provided in their home closing documents or by requesting a copy on file with the county recorder’s office, Lustig said. The city’s GIS mapping tool online outlines general boundaries, and licensed land surveyors can provide more precise ones.
Hester acknowledged that the flowers were in the right-of-way, but he said he spoke with a city employee (he couldn’t recall the name) before the path was installed and that the city agreed to align the path around the flower beds. Lustig refuted that claim.
“The path was not designed or intentionally aligned around the flower bed,” she said.
Although he doesn’t agree with the city’s decision, Hester said the end result benefited the rest of his property.
“It looks even better than before,” he said.
Editor’s note: Hester was given 30 days notice to remove the flower beds, followed by a two- to three-week extension, according to Erin Murphy, the City of Carmel’s director of marketing and community relations.
Acts of Kindness Day includes many ways to give
By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com
Carmel residents will have the opportunity to give back to the community Aug. 5 by participating in the Jim Irsay 1976 Acts of Kindness Day. Organizers want to complete more than 1,976 acts of kindness.
The initiative celebrates Carmel’s 50th anniversary as a city while honoring late Carmel resident and Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. It is organized by the Rotary Club of Carmel and Kiwanis Club of Carmel with support from the Indianapolis Colts.
Dozens of nonprofits, churches, businesses and other organizations have already begun contributing donations and coordinating volunteer efforts.
“There are no wrong answers,” said Rick Markoff, a Rotary Club of Carmel member and co-organizer of the event. “Every act of kindness is important.”
Projects range from food drives to educational programs, giving residents multiple ways to participate.
Nancy Heck, president of the Rotary Club of Carmel and another co-organizer of the event, hopes community members continue serving after the day
more, visit the Rotary Club of
Catholic Church are collaborating with the Carmel Police Department to fill a police cruiser with donations collected at Kroger.
Items donated will go to local children fighting food insecurity through Merciful Help Center’s Carmel BackSacks program.
John Pecchia, the former chief financial officer and vice president of business affairs at Marist University, will lead a faculty of around 20 in teaching six free classes on topics including leadership, wealth management, marketing, arts and community engagement.
Rotary Interact Club students will lead a service event through the Seeds of Caring nonprofit organization for Horizon House in Indianapolis. Other volunteers will fill 1,000 bags decorated by local children with hygiene products for Indy Hygiene Hub.
Hundreds of kids decorated paper bags ahead of Jim Irsay 1976 Acts of Kindness Day. The bags will be packed on Aug. 5 with hygiene products for Indy Hygiene Hub. (Photo courtesy of Rick Markoff)
Member of city’s first council reflects on growth
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
When Jim Garrettson landed an interview to become a teacher at Carmel High School in 1964, he wasn’t sure where the small town even was.
He accepted the job, and 12 years later he was on the first city council to take office. He served until 1988, and since then has volunteered elsewhere in the city, including on the Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation board and the Carmel Clay Public Library board.
He answered the following questions from Current about how the city has changed in 50 years.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE CARMEL IN 1976?
We knew we were growing. We didn’t have any vision that it would grow like it did. When I arrived in ‘64, we didn’t have Keystone (Parkway) yet, and basically Keystone was our eastern boundary and (U.S.) 31 was our western boundary, and there wasn’t much beyond those two boundaries. Carmel was in between. The growth started when Keystone was finished in ‘65.
WHAT WAS YOUR VISION FOR THE CITY WHEN YOU BECAME A CITY COUNCILOR?
We knew there was going to be growth, and the concentration was on how we would have that growth. There were those who favored a lot of business growth. (The town manager) proposed that between 116th (Street) and Carmel Drive, and from College (Avenue) to Meridian (Street), there’d be a smokeless industrial park there. That was the first really big nonresidential growth we had.
LOOKING BACK, WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT HOW CARMEL HAS DEVELOPED SINCE THAT TIME?
It was during the 28 years that Jim Brainard was mayor. You have to give Jim either the blame or the credit for that growth, but I think it was controlled. A master plan was developed sensibly, businesses went where they weren’t going to mix with the residential areas, they were going to be set in place, I thought that was good.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT LIVING IN CARMEL?
The school system. I was a teacher, and I thought we developed a really fine school system. To me, the most beautiful (is) the city center, you have the master fire station, the police station, the court and City Hall were done very well, and I was instrumental in finding that property. … I don’t take any credit for this at all, but that Japanese garden (south of Carmel City Hall) is probably the most beautiful spot in all of Clay Township.
DISPATCHES
New boot mug revealed – The Carmel Christkindlmarkt announced the newest color in its collectible glühwein boot mug series will be royal purple. The limited-edition mugs are available exclusively at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt during its open season. The 2026 Carmel Christkindlmarkt opens Nov. 21. Admission and parking are free, as are all on-site activities and entertainment, with the exception of ice skating. The purple collectible boot mug will be available for $8 per mug while supplies last. Learn more at carmelchristkindlmarkt.com.
Former Carmel City Councilor Jim Garretson, left, meets with U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar in 1977. Both men had been first elected to their political offices the previous year. (Photo courtesy of the Carmel Clay Historical Society)
FULL SERVICE CLEANERS
CFD builds on years of success
Commentary by David Haboush
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Fluid for drycleaning was first introduced in 1994 as an alternative to the solvents in common use by drycleaners. Since that time, DF-2000 Fluid has gained widespread acceptance and today is used in thousands of drycleaning plants in the United States alone.
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Over the last 50 years, the Carmel Clay Fire Department has experienced tremendous growth and opportunity alongside this community. In 2025, CFD celebrated its 125th anniversary of existence.
Starting in 1900 as a very small volunteer organization, CFD has become a worldclass organization with more than 175 career firefighters/EMT/paramedics protecting this wonderful community.
In 1950, the first CFD headquarters was built by hand by volunteer firefighters. They pooled their own money together to buy the materials to create the first permanent fire station at 210 Veterans Way, now home to the new CFD headquarters, Fire Buffs Museum and SAFE house (Stay Alive Family Education).
CFD has experienced tremendous growth over the last 50 years to meet the needs of the community through six strategically placed fire stations, as well as a maintenance and training facility. As the community continues to grow, so will the need for more public safety personnel and fire stations.
Solvents with a higher level of aromatics contain more solvent odor. DF-2000 Fluid has the lowest aromatic content of any HFHC drycleaning solvent.
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In 1995, CFD was the first Hamilton County fire department to take over our own ambulance transport service providing paramedic services exclusively by CFD firefighters. Previously Riverview Hospital provided paramedic service. CFD was the first public safety agency in Hamilton County to house a Safe Haven Baby box program.
In recent years, CFD partnered with several agencies to place AED Save stations along the Monon Greenway. CFD and Carmel Clay Schools partnered to place a bleeding control kit in every single classroom.
David Haboush is a Carmel resident and retired CFD chief.
Posh Picnic adds category
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Posh Picnic always features unique concepts.
Fittingly, the latest category to encourage creativity is called Outside the Box, said Sandra Pirkle, who handles publicity for the Coxhall Guild.
The eighth annual Posh Picnic is set from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Aug. 29 at the Coxhall Gardens Cripe Pavilion tent at 11677 Towne Rd. in Carmel. The event, for adults only, is a fundraiser to benefit the Coxhall property and Hamilton County Parks and Recreation.
The challenge is for the guests at each table to design their own tablescape to be judged. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner, whether casual or elegant, along with drinks of their choice. The early setup period is 2 to 4 p.m. Music will be provided by MGS DJs.
The other three judged categories are People’s Choice, On the Road Again and Most Posh.
Janice Trosky and Tina Malone are the event’s co-chairs.
Trosky said silent auction items in-
WHY BUY A MATTRESS ANYWHERE ELSE???
clude two tickets and a parking pass for the Indiana University football team’s Sept. 5 season opener; an annual pass to the Indianapolis Zoo for two adults and dependents; a foursome of golf at Westfield’s Wood Wind Golf Course; two nights in the Pullman car at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown Indianapolis; and an Indiana Fever jersey signed by Caitlin Clark.
Trosky said proceeds will go toward several projects.
“We are hoping to contribute to replacing the playhouses in the Children’s Garden,” Trosky said.
For more, visit coxhallguild.com.
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The tablescape, paying homage to popcorn king Orville Redenbacher, won the People’s Choice award in 2025. (Photo courtesy of Coxhall Guild)
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Six authors will be featured at the Carmel Clay Public Library Foundation’s 22nd annual Guilded Leaf Book and Author Events, set for Oct. 21 and 22 at Ritz Charles, 12156 N. Meridian St. in Carmel.
They are:
• Emily Franklin, a historical fiction author whose most recent work is “Love and Other Monsters”
• Kristy Woodson Harvey, author of “Falling for Peachtree Bluff,” who has been described by Cosmopolitan as “Queen of the beach read”
• John Kenney, a copywriter and author of “I See You’ve Called in Dead”
• Stephen P. Kiernan, author of “Pollack’s Last Lover,” a novel that alternates between the 1960s and the 2000s
• Zibby Owens, an author, podcaster and book-fluencer whose recent book, “Between Chapters,” reflects on her life and career journey
• Brad Taylor, a former special forc-
es officer and author of the Pike Logan thriller series
The Book & Author Evening is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 21, where the authors will speak about their work as guests enjoy appetizers and drinks. The event will also include book signings and a silent auction. A VIP reception begins at 5 p.m.
The Book & Author Luncheon will begin at 11:15 a.m. Oct. 22. The authors will discuss their latest books and more as attendees enjoy lunch. The event also includes a silent auction, book signings, a raffle and more.
“Guests come to Guilded Leaf for an unforgettable literary experience, but they also play an important role in strengthening library services for our entire community,” stated CCPL Foundation Director Jaime Medley in a press release. “Their support helps us provide engaging programs and opportunities that inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection for all ages.”
Tickets for the Oct. 21 event are $100 to $175. Tickets for the luncheon are $80. Learn more at carmelclaylibrary. org/guilded-leaf.
COMMUNITY
Carmel family gives back after Indiana Wish trip
By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com
Lifelong Carmel resident Grace Bruinsma was in sixth grade watching TV when a Disney World holiday special came across the screen. Her parents used the moment to share that Indiana Wish had granted their family a trip to the Florida theme park the next week.
Grace has the second-most common chromosomal disorder, 22q, which can lead to numerous complications. She was diagnosed at birth and has an associated heart condition that required surgery at 6 months old, a compromised immune system and developmental conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
“No two cases are alike,” Grace’s mother, Rosalyn Bruinsma, said. “There are 180 different challenges or systems that the disorder might affect. Nobody has all of them, but there is an array of different things that can be affected.”
Rosalyn Bruinsma applied for the wish in March 2020 but did not find out it was going to be granted until June 2021. The all-inclusive trip included a limo ride to the airport, lodging at the Give Kids the World Village, priority access to attractions and more.
“I think it was probably one of the first real vacations we ever got to take as a family, where we weren’t worried about 200 other things going on,” she said. “I think it was the first time we all got to really go and just exhale and relax.”
Indiana Wish is a nonprofit that has granted more than 3,500 wishes to Indiana residents ages 3 to 18 since 1984. Its mission is to give children diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses the opportunity to enjoy cost-free, quality time with their families.
J’Lynn Edwards began volunteering for Indiana Wish in 1992 before becoming the event coordinator in 2015 and the executive director in 2019.
The organization also has a Beyond the Wish program that connects families with resources for financial assistance, emotional support and educational scholarships.
“Once you become part of the wish family, you never leave,” Edwards said. “We’ve got wish kids that are (in their 40s). We granted their wishes, and they
are here volunteering, giving back and being active with our wish families.”
Indiana Wish’s annual Bourbon, Bling & Bowties Gala raises approximately $250,000 to $300,000 each year to help grant wishes. This year’s event is set for Sept. 19 at Marriott North, 3645 River Crossing Pkwy. in Indianapolis. It will have a “Speakeasy Soiree” theme and feature bourbon tastings, a cigar lounge, live music, auctions and more.
Rosalyn Bruinsma works in the wine and spirits industry and is using her expertise to secure products for the auction.
“I know I’m a person that’s never going to be able to write a big check with a lot of zeros to make a donation for something, but I can do the work to make things happen,” she said. “Our family was granted a wish, and it was enough to say, ‘I have to help make this happen for other families as well.’”
For more, visit indianawish.org.
From left, Tucker, Rosalyn, Troy and Grace Bruinsma on Grace’s Indiana Wish trip to Disney World in December 2021. (Photo courtesy of Rosalyn Bruinsma)
BLUE SCHOOL AT RISK COMMUNITY
By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com
For more than a century, the Blue School has stood as a reminder of Carmel’s rural beginnings. Now, as the city’s last remaining historic schoolhouse sits vacant, community leaders are working to determine its future.
106th Street has been home to schoolhouses for 186 years, with schools being built on the corners of Lasalle and Haverstick Roads. For the past two years, the property on Haverstick on which the Blue School sits has remained mostly unused despite being owned by St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church.
Preservation advocates and Carmel officials have been communicating with the church to discuss options for preserving the building. Discussions have centered on relocating the schoolhouse to Gray Road Park and repurposing it for the Clay Township Military Museum or, if no alternative can be found, demolishing it.
Delaware Township School No. 6 was built on Lasalle Road in 1857 to replace the log schoolhouse that was built about 20 years earlier. The nickname “Blue School” stems from the exterior of the one-room schoolhouse being painted blue. The building was replaced between 1903 and 1904 with the two-room red brick building until another was built in its place in 1922 on Haverstick Road.
“It’s the last of the country schoolhouses in the Carmel area, and it’s a historic building,” said Fred Swift, a member of the Carmel Historic Preservation Commission. “It offers people an idea of how education has progressed all these years.”
The schoolhouse was sold at auction in 1941 and renovated into a barn and used for about 15 years. It was sold again in 1957 and renovated into a residence the following year. The building was bought by St. Elizabeth Seton in 2024.
The future of the Blue School largely depends on funding and coordination among the organizations involved.
St. Elizabeth Seton did not respond to requests for comment. However, members of the church have attended meetings held by the Carmel Historic
Preservation Commission, where the schoolhouse’s future was discussed. According to Swift, the church no longer has a planned use for the building.
Mark Dollase, Indiana Landmarks’ vice president of preservation services, was contracted by the Carmel Historic Preservation Commission about 12 to 18 months ago to discuss his recommendations on the building’s potential future uses.
“The assumption is that eventually it might be lost,” he said. “It’s standing empty right now, and it is not a good thing to leave a building that age standing vacant.”
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation has offered assistance to the city in the relo-
The Blue School, located on the corner of 106th Street and Haverstick Road, is owned by St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church and has been vacant for two years. (Photo by Piper Bailey)
BLUE SCHOOL’S HISTORY
• 1837 — James Farley donates the corner of 106th Street for the construction of a log schoolhouse for first through 12th grades.
• 1857 — Log schoolhouse is torn down and replaced with a oneroom schoolhouse with a blue exterior nicknamed “Blue School”.
• 1904 — Delaware Township replaces the building with a tworoom red brick building.
cation but has not received confirmation that the city will fund the project. CCPR remains ready to help if needed, but has not been included in recent planning.
Andy Wright, a lifelong Carmel resident and the Carmel Clay History Museum’s collections manager, wants to see the building saved from demolition.
“I feel strongly that the building should be preserved and hope that it will continue to memorialize the neighborhood community it served more than a century ago,” he stated.
ON THE COVER: Children in 1908 outside the Blue School, Carmel’s oldest remaining schoolhouse. (Photos courtesy of Carmel Clay Historical Society)
• 1922 — The school building referred to as “Old North” for grades 1-12 is built and Blue School is no longer in use.
• 1929 — Former students held reunions every summer from 1929 to at least 1971.
• 1941 — Blue School is sold at auction to Paul Fisher and turned into a barn.
• 1957 — Building is purchased by Charlie and Norma Jean Bamberger and converted into a residence.
• 2024 — St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church purchases the property and inherits Blue School.
Preservation advocates work to find a future for Carmel’s last historic schoolhouse
The two-room red brick schoolhouse was built in 1922 and was renovated in 1941 to become a barn. It was transformed into a home in 1958. (Photo courtesy of Carmel Clay Historical Society)
BUSINESS LOCAL
Birdcall eyes franchises in Fishers, Westfield, Carmel
news@youarecurrent.com
Colorado-based fast-casual restaurant chain Birdcall is expanding into the Greater Indianapolis area, with site selection in process in the Carmel-Fishers-Westfield corridor.
According to Birdcall, a multi-unit franchise agreement for five restaurants has been signed for the Indy metro area.
“Leading the development is Nikunj Patel, an experienced franchise operator and owner of multiple Nekter Juice Bar locations in the Chicagoland area,” a news release stated. “He is partnering with an accomplished multiunit, multistate restaurant group with a proven track record of successfully developing and operating dozens of franchise locations across the Midwest.”
In addition to Hamilton County, areas in the southern part of the metro area are under consideration.
“This partnership represents exactly where Birdcall is headed,” stated Justin Livingston, vice president of franchise development. “Nikunj has built an impressive business of his own and shares
SINCE
our passion for operational excellence and thoughtful growth.”
The restaurants will feature Birdcall’s signature atmosphere, with modern design, artwork, family-friendly dining spaces and self-order kiosks, according to the news release.
The menu features chicken sandwiches, hand-cut tenders, gluten-free nuggets and salads, alongside a variety of sides, specialty milkshakes and house-made sauces and dressings. The franchises also will offer draft beer and house-made margaritas.
Birdcall’s expansion into Indianapolis is part of the company’s plans to open nearly 100 restaurants in the Midwest over the next five years. Initial growth efforts will focus on Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin, with Indianapolis representing its first franchise development agreement in the region.
Birdcall operates a combined 17 restaurants in Colorado, Arizona, and Texas, with more than 20 additional locations in development nationwide.
For more, visit eatbirdcall.com.
Birdcall is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in chicken. (Photo courtesy of Birdcall)
New owners renovate Prairie View amenities
By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com
Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel has undergone significant changes under new ownership, including new food selections, family focused additions and range renovations.
“When we bought it, we really felt the area was a great area to be in, great community, wonderful golf course,” General Manager Dennis Stankovic said. “We thought there was a lot of potential to bring in our food and beverage experience and provide a unique golfing experience that the market’s never seen before.”
The club at 7000 Longest Dr. has a full-service restaurant, a bar with beers on tap and an ice cream counter. Menu items include hand-tossed pizza baked in a handcrafted Marra pizza oven and barbecue prepared in-house in an Ole Hickory Pit Smoker.
The ice cream counter has selections from Graeter’s, Cappannari’s and Mayday.
“We don’t want to just be known as a golf course, but we also want to be everybody’s favorite local bar and restaurant,” Stankovic said. “(We want to offer) stuff that people would want to come out, eat, enjoy, and we have a beautiful view at a beautiful venue, and so it just makes sense to have
top-quality food and a top dining experience to go along with the top golfing experience.”
Another renovation is the Kids Zone area. The clubhouse-style space includes beanbags, large TV screens and video game consoles for kids ages 5 and older to play Thursday through Sundays after 5 p.m. Children are checked in and out and monitored by an attendant.
“If you just focus on the top percentage of the golfers in the community, then you’re missing out on coaching a lot of people,” Stankovic said. “Golf is doing great right now, but it’s also gone through some hard times, so we feel by making it more of a family-friendly environment, we’re exposing more people to the great game.”
For more, visit prairieviewgc.com.
A full-service restaurant and bar are focal points of the renovations at Prairie View Golf Club. The menu includes hand-tossed pizza and smoked barbecue. (Photos courtesy of Dennis Stankovic)
Prairie View Golf Club added a Kids Zone as part of its recent renovations. The area is open for kids aged 5 and older Thursday through Sundays after 5 p.m.
Commentary by Larry Greene
Along Ironwood Golf Club in Fishers, this kitchen was reworked with brighter finishes, smarter storage, and a more inviting everyday layout.
THE BLUEPRINT
• White cabinetry and quartz surfaces brighten the room while preserving a timeless, tailored look.
• A large green island adds contrast, seating and generous workspace at the center of the kitchen.
• Relocated appliances and expanded cabinetry improve function, storage and movement throughout the space.
• Patterned tile, open shelving and dark hardware bring warmth and personality.
• The refreshed layout now feels cohesive, comfortable and better suited for daily cooking and gathering.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
Quaint kitchen refresh near Ironwood Golf Club
What actually is a stye?
look similar, such as a chalazion, cyst or even an eyelid infection requiring urgent care. We also assess underlying issues like eyelid inflammation or gland dysfunction, both of which can increase the likelihood of a stye reoccurring. Treatment usually begins with warm compresses that are applied for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. This helps soften the blocked oil and encourages natural drainage. Your optometrist also may recommend gentle lid hygiene techniques, such as using a warm, diluted cleanser designed for the eyelids. In some cases — especially when the stye is persistent, unusually painful or accompanied by spreading redness — antibiotics may be prescribed. There is good news — with proper care and early attention, most styes re-
Dr. Kennedy Penny works at Little Eyes in Carmel. She earned her Doctor of Optometry from Indiana University in 2023.
Men’s mental health organization opens BAR Coffee Club
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Building a Refuge, a Hamilton County-based men’s mental health and suicide prevention nonprofit, is finding new ways to break mental health stigmas and create spaces where the conversation is welcome.
The organization was founded in 2018 by Erik Robinson, who now lives in Colorado, and Carmel resident Brandon Leum. Leum and Robinson, who met in the late 1990s, created the organization because they have been impacted by suicide.
“I lost my brother in 2015 to suicide, and Erik’s was actually an attempt on his own life,” Leum said. “We would hang out at a coffee shop talking with another friend of ours who had lost his daughter to suicide, and share with one another what was going on in our lives. It dawned on us that nobody was doing anything like this.”
The organization has evloved from informal coffee shop meetings to producing podcasts where men, including IndyCar drivers, veterans and those struggling with addiction, share their life stories.
Recently, the organization opened BAR Coffee Club at 293 S. 8th St. in downtown Noblesville.
“Quite honestly, this coffee house opportunity came our way through one of our outreaches at the Noblesville American Legion,” Leum said. “We did a hog roast for them to help them raise some money, and
that’s how we found this building. They’ve given us a really amazing opportunity to settle in here.”
Leum said BAR Coffee Club is less like a retail coffee shop and more of a space that offers coffee and connection. Joe Shoemaker, owner of Dry Heat Coffee, roasts his beans in-house to supply the shop.
“Building a Refuge is doing incredibly important work around men’s mental health and suicide prevention, and if a really good cup of coffee makes it a little easier for someone to sit down, start a conversation
or realize they aren’t alone, that’s a pretty remarkable thing,” Shoemaker said.
Leum said the shop will offer self-serve coffee.
“People can walk in, grab a cup and all we ask for is a donation,” Leum said. “If you don’t have the money for a donation, we don’t expect it. But it’s how we stay in business. Additionally, the beans that Joe roasts here will be available for sale.”
Leum said as operations get underway, more drinks will be introduced. Building a Refuge also will hold its mental wellness meetings and film podcasts.
“We really don’t set any expectations at the meetings,” Leum said. “We typically frame it up as come out, hang out, network and then we will talk about things like divorce, addiction and financial stresses. Really, any topic is open for discussion. We don’t try to put a box around anything that we do from a discussion standpoint.”
Dakota King, who lost his best friend to suicide, has been to several meetings and events. He said it isn’t simply a mental health group, but a foundation for creating a family of strangers.
“One of the biggest things to me is that Building a Refuge and all of the people who are a part of it are so genuine and loving,” King said. “Opening up a chapter of yourself that you’ve tried so hard to bury is one of the hardest things to do for a person but somehow Building a Refuge has really created a space that takes all of the uncomfortable and creates beauty from it.”
Building a Refuge co-founder Brandon Leum at BAR Coffee Club. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd keeps the music going
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Rickey Medlocke gets tremendous joy when he looks out over “Skynyrd Nation.”
“Our fan base is usually (age) 8 to 80,” he said. “They come to hear ‘Simple Man,’ ‘What’s Your Name” or ‘Tuesday’s Gone,’ ’Sweet Home Alabama’ and ‘Free Bird,’” Medlocke said. “Every night, the songs take on a little bit of a change to keep it fresh. I just love entertaining the audience and making them feel great.”
Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner are co-headliners on the “Double Trouble Double Vision” tour, which lands at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 7 at Noblesville’s Ruoff Music Center. Six Gun Sally is the opener.
“We go last every night,” Medlocke said. “They wanted it that way. (Foreigner) didn’t want to follow ‘Free Bird.’”
Medlocke, 76, played drums with Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1971-72 and left to rejoin his group Blackfoot. He returned to Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1996 as a guitarist at the urging of original member Gary Rossington, who died at age 71 in 2023.
“I love to see the audience feeling good and being happy about it,” Medlocke said. “I have often said this, if it wasn’t for the fans, we might be digging ditches or doing whatever else.”
Medlocke said the music Lynyrd Skynyrd created in the mid-1970s was remarkable. Lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, one of the primary songwriters, was killed in a 1977 plane crash along with two other band members Steve Gaines and sister Cassie Gaines, two pilots and the band’s road manager. Rossington and other band members Allen Collins, Leon Wilkeson, Billy Powell and Artimus Pyle were seriously injured.
“I always called Ronnie a Southern poet. He just had that gift,” Medlocke said. “Ronnie could paint a picture in front of you that you could see with words and he was just a genius in my book.”
Johnny Van Zant, Ronnie’s younger brother, has been the band’s lead singer since 1987.
Medlocke rejects any talk of Lynyrd Skynyrd being called a cover band.
“Johnny and I feel we are Lynyrd Skynyrd and we can lay claim to that,” he said. “We’ve talked about it and we’d like to take it on to another three to five years, and then after that, you never know. As long as everyone keeps their health and does what they need to do, we’ll keep going forward.”
Medlocke said he has excellent physicians.
“I’ve adopted a certain protocol for eating, taking care of myself and getting as much rest as I can,” he said. “I can’t stand being idle. I have to be doing something, creating music on the side and writing songs for soundtracks. Then my other passion is the sports world. I’m heavy into fishing and that keeps me going.”
PERFECT FIT
It seems natural that Six Gun Sally would open for Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner.
The band, which formed in 1992, draws inspiration from Southern rock and classic rock of the 1970s.
“It’s a great opportunity to showcase
Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Rickey Medlocke began his second stint with the band in 1996. (Photo courtesy of Vector Tour Marketing)
our music and our band,” said Dave Barbe, the bandleader and drummer. “I’ve loved Lynyrd Skynyrd since I was a kid and still love them now. Our music fits well. The audience is receptive to us.”
Aimee Jane Williams, the lead singer, joined the band in 2024.
“I feel so blessed,” she said. “I wasn’t there for the hard, hard work that the guys put in to get to the place we are now. I think our music is better than ever. It felt like a dream come true to join in with these guys after many years.”
Barbe said Williams has a threepronged attack.
“She sings well, looks well and writes well,” he said.
Six Gun Sally’s set includes some original songs and covers, such as the Allman Brothers’ “Ramblin’ Man” and Jefferson Airplane’s “Somebody to Love.”
“We love the way Aimee does Janis Joplin’s ‘Piece of my Heart,’” Barbe said.
The band opens its set with its latest single “Sittin’ Pretty.”
“It’s the perfect song to come out to, it’s just fun,” Williams said. “Sometimes, some of the best songs are written so quickly and we’re laughing the whole time.”
‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’ “The Play That Goes Wrong” runs through Aug. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Eric Baker & Friends present a Huey Lewis tribute Aug. 7 and “Sweet Caroline, The Life and Music of Neil Diamond” Aug. 8 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘NATIVE GARDENS’
Carmel Community Players will present “Native Gardens” Aug. 7 to 16 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
GLADYS KNIGHT
Gladys Knight’s concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 8 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
‘Sylvia’ wins Indy Shorts honor — The 2026 Indy Shorts Film Festival concluded July 26, with a record number of filmmakers in attendance (350), world premieres (37) and short film programs (40). The Indy Shorts presented more than $35,000 in cash prizes to filmmakers at the July 25 Awards Brunch. The Indiana Spotlight Documentary Audience Choice Award and a $500 cash prize was awarded to “Sylvia,” directed by Carmel filmmaker Ashton Gleckman. The Indiana Spotlight Narrative Award and a $1,000 cash prize were presented to director Bella Ray Rosales for the film “Lottie Baby.” The Hoodox Indiana Spotlight Documentary Award and a $1,000 cash prize were awarded to director Jason Whalen for the film “Finding A Way: Revitalizing Nature in America’s Heartland.”
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Bigger and Weirder’ set for Ruoff Music Center
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Alfred “Weird Al” Yankovic had no idea his career would have the staying power it has.
“Nobody really thought that when I was first starting out because it was very difficult for me to get signed to a record deal because the conventional wisdom was, ‘Oh, you do novelty music. You’ll be lucky to last six months,’” Yankovic said. “So, that’s sort of like the big irony of my life and career is that I started out in the early ‘80s, and a lot of the acts that were huge back then are not really around today. On the other hand, I still am.”
Yankovic brings his “Bigger and Weirder” tour to Noblesville’s Ruoff Music Center for a 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6 concert.
His previous tour was “The Ridiculously Self-Indulgent Vanity Tour.”
“It was a scaled-down version of our show where we sat on stools and sang our songs,” he said. “This is the exact polar opposite of that. We doubled the size of the band. It’s back to the costumes, props and LED screens. It’s an arena show. We did 75 cities last year and we’re doing 90 cities this year. It’s kind of a greatest hits show. We have a few deep cuts for the hardcore fans, but it’s really kind of a big-tent show that hopefully everyone can enjoy.”
Yankovic said he strives to make every tour different. For example, on one tour he performed with a full symphony orchestra. He has done various tour versions because he is no longer on a cycle of supporting a new album with a tour.
“I stopped doing albums 12 years ago, so now I’m trying to make every tour special in its own way,” he said.
The concert will include parodies, original songs and his polka medleys, “We probably feature the parodies a bit more because those tend to be the big hits,” he said. “Sometimes people don’t need to hear the whole song, but if they hear a verse and a chorus, then they kind of feel like they’ve heard it. We do kind of a mega medley in the middle.”
Yankovic has released several new singles, along with other projects.
“We’re putting together a Broadway
musical and we did a biopic a couple years ago, so there have been a lot of different projects,” he said.
“Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” was written by Yankovic and Eric Appel.
“It was based on a ‘Funny or Die’ video Appel had done in 2010, making fun of biopics,” Yankovic said. “It was very popular with my fans, and for 10 years people were saying it should be a real movie.”
Yankovic said it was meant to be a short skit and he didn’t think it was appropriate to make it into a movie.
“They were all these biopics, like ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ that came out where they played fast and loose with the facts,” he said. “I thought if they are going to do that, maybe I should do a Weird Al biopic where I throw all the facts out the window.”
Yankovic has performed parodies of songs by several huge artists, such as Michael Jackson, The Kinks, the Backstreet Boys, Nirvana and Madonna.
Yankovic said he has always gotten permission from artists before doing a parody,
“I just think that’s the best way to do business,” he said. “I respect their work and I respect them, and I don’t want to do anything that would ruffle their feathers or that they’d be offended by, and I don’t think that my parodies are offensive.”
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MEYROSE $10 ADMISSION - KIDS 10 AND UNDER FREE $25.00 VIP ENTRANCE 1 HOUR EARLY ENTRANCE BOTH DAYS VIP TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR OR ONLINE. FRIDAY VIP 11AM-12PM EST — FRIDAY SHOW 12PM-7PM EST SATURDAY VIP 9AM-10AM EST — SATURDAY SHOW 10AM-5PM
Weird Al Yankovic will perform at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6 at Ruoff Music Center. (Photo courtesy of Rosie Boyd)
ENTERTAINMENT
HEADLINE PERFORMANCE
BACON BROTHERS
Thoughtful comedy set for CCP
By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com
Carmel Community Players is not afraid to make a statement with its next production.
“Native Gardens” by Karen Zacarías is a comedy focused on two married couples who live on either side of a shared fence. The show tackles heavy issues like class, race and immigration in a light-hearted manner, encouraging the audience to enjoy the humor as well as reflect on the issues presented.
“This is very character-driven and they hit on diversity. Just about everything gets in there, but somehow no one’s really offended,” director Lori Raffel said. “I read it, and I just fell in love with it. It’s very funny (and) it touches everything that’s going on today..”
The play runs Aug. 7-16 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel.
The show is performed by four lead actors playing the Butleys, an older couple who have lived in their house for quite some time; and the Del Valles, a younger Latino couple who have just moved to the area. There are also two extras playing landscapers who come on during vignettes in between scenes.
Oscar Otero portrays Pablo Del Valle, an immigrant who grew up affluent, who states that he only became a minority after his move to the U.S..
“I’ve never played a Latino on stage before, and to do a show that’s very centric on Latino roots and background and identity really made me want to do the show,” Otero said.
For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
From left, Larry Adams, Vickie Phipps, Yolanda Valdivia and Oscar Otero will perform in “Native Gardens” with Carmel Community Players from Aug. 7-16. (Photo courtesy of Rich Phipps)
Alcohol & Tobacco Commission
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Alcohol Beverage Board of Hamilton County, will hold a public hearing at 9:00 am on August 11, 2026 at the Hamilton Co. Judicial Center, Commissioner's Room, 1 Hamilton Square in the city of Noblesville, to investigate the propriety of holding an alcoholic beverage permit by the applicants listed herein.
To watch the hearing, visit https://www.in.gov/atc/public-meetings/local-board-h earings
Appointed Board Members:
3 MICHAEL L COLBY 01/14/2019
2 Jay Dorman 12/03/2012
1 Aaron E Batt 07/09/2024
Members serve for one year and until a successor is appointed and qualified.
Board member one is appointed by the county commissioners.
Board member two is appointed by the largest city or town’s executive.
MELANIE K LUKER 9 COLDBROOK DR Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2988062 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC. 1421 S Rangeline Road Carmel IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #8674
LINDA M CIMBRON 45 BRIDGE STREET Warren, Secretary
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE Kingston, President
KIMBERLY DESOUSA 28 LARCHWOOD DR Cumberland, Secretary
DL2904904 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC. 950 S Peru Street Cicero IN D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #6574
MELANIE LUKER 9 COLDBROOK DR Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE Kingston, President
DL2929873 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 367 W 116th Street Carmel IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #10173
LINDA M CIMBRON 45 BRIDGE STREET Warren, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE Kingston, President
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
KIMBERLY DESOUSA 28 LARCHWOOD DR Cumberland, Secretary
RR2934356 Beer & Wine Retailer - Restaurant
RENEWAL
FD Carmel, Inc 840 W Main Street Carmel IN
D/B/A Fat Dan's Deli
RR2938220 Beer Wine & Liquor - Restaurant (210)
RENEWAL
Danny Boy Beer Works LLC 902 W Main Street Carmel IN
D/B/A American Prost
DL2934140 Beer & Wine Dealer - Grocery Store
RENEWAL
Meijer Stores Limited Partnership 1426 West Carmel Drive Carmel IN
D/B/A Meijer Express #130
Richard Keyes, III 1300 ROYAL COUNTY DOWN Grand Rapids, President
RH2930404 Beer Wine & Liquor - Hotel RENEWAL
Penn St Hotel Partners, LLC 11355 N Meridian
Street Carmel IN
D/B/A Homewood Suites Carmel
RR2943980 Beer Wine & Liquor - River & Lake
NEW
Ash & Elm Cider Company, LLC 525 N End Drive
Suite 190 Carmel IN
D/B/A Ash & Elm Cider Co.
RR2944173 Beer & Wine Retailer - Restaurant
RR2943980 Beer Wine & Liquor - River & Lake
Ash & Elm Cider Company, LLC 525 N End Drive Suite 190 Carmel IN
D/B/A Ash & Elm Cider Co.
RR2944173 Beer & Wine Retailer - Restaurant TRANSFER
3rd Avenue Partners LLC 1040 3rd Avenue SW Carmel IN
D/B/A Carmel Ice Skadium
Alcohol & Tobacco Commission
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Alcohol Beverage Board of Hamilton County, will hold a public hearing at 9:00 am on August 11, 2026 at the Hamilton Co. Judicial Center, Commissioner's Room, 1 Hamilton Square in the city of Noblesville, to investigate the propriety of holding an alcoholic beverage permit by the applicants listed herein. To watch the hearing, visit https://www.in.gov/atc/public-meetings/loca-board-h earings
Appointed Board Members:
3 MICHAEL L COLBY 01/14/2019
1 Aaron E Batt 07/09/2024
2 Allen K Billingsley 06/29/2026
Members serve for one year and until a successor is appointed and qualified.
Board member one is appointed by the county commissioners.
Board member two is appointed by the largest city or town’s executive.
DL2997224 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx LLC 10580 E 96th Street Fishers IN D/B/A CVS/Pharmacy #4649
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR Cranston,
Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2920043 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 13098 Publishers Drive Fishers IN D/B/A CVS/Pharmacy #4982
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
DL2922129 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC. 11591 Olio Road Fishers IN D/B/A CVS/Pharmacy #1138
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2919950 Beer & Wine Dealer - Grocery Store
RENEWAL
Mac's Convenience Stores, LLC 8924 E 116th Street Fishers IN
D/B/A Circle K #4702284
DL2998146 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 8295 E 116th Street Fishers IN D/B/A CVS Pharmacy 38649
LINDA M CIMBRON 45 BRIDGE STREET Warren, Secretary
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
KIMBERLY DESOUSA 28 LARCHWOOD DR
Cumberland, Secretary
DL2988047 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 11588 Allisonville Road Fishers IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #6602
LINDA M CIMBRON 45 BRIDGE STREET Warren, Secretary
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
KIMBERLY DESOUSA 28 LARCHWOOD DR
Cumberland, Secretary
RR2936491 Beer & Wine Retailer - Restaurant
RENEWAL
Manley and Company Inc 7262 Fishers Crossings Drive Fishers IN
D/B/A Tiger Lily 2 Restaurant
MELANIE K LUKER
SUSAN DR Cranston,
Secretary THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
KIMBERLY DESOUSA 28 LARCHWOOD DR
Cumberland, Secretary
RR2936491 Beer & Wine Retailer - Restaurant
RENEWAL
Manley and Company Inc 7262 Fishers Crossings Drive Fishers IN D/B/A Tiger Lily 2 Restaurant
MANLEY J WONG 8466 Lynhaven Pl Indianapolis, Secretary MANLEY J WONG 8466 Lynhaven Pl Indianapolis, President
Get & Go, LLC Location Pending Fishers IN D/B/A Pending Location
DL2934270 Beer Wine & Liquor - Package Store
RENEWAL
Indy Liquors LLC 11640 Brooks School Road, Suite 500 Fishers IN D/B/A Indy Liquors
Alcohol & Tobacco Commission
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Alcohol Beverage Board of Hamilton County, will hold a public hearing at 9:00 am on August 11, 2026 at the Hamilton Co. Judicial Center, Commissioner's Room,1 Hamilton Square in the city of Noblesville, to investigate the propriety of holding an alcoholic beverage permit by the applicants listed herein. To watch the hearing, visit https://www.in.gov/atc/public-meetings/local-board-h earings
Appointed Board Members:
3 MICHAEL L COLBY 01/14/2019
2 Bradley E Oliver 05/24/2017
1 Aaron E Batt 07/09/2024
Members serve for one year and until a successor is appointed and qualified.
Board member one is appointed by the county commissioners.
Board member two is appointed by the largest city or town’s executive.
DL2920076 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 3280 State Road 32 E Westfield IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #5206
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
DL2931212 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 1447 S Waterleaf Drive Westfield IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #10983
THOMAS MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
MELANIE LUKER 9 COLDBROOK DR Cranston, Secretary
RR2937723 Beer Wine & Liquor - Restaurant (210)
RENEWAL
West Fork Food & Beverage-Westfield, LLC 10 E 191st Street Westfield IN
D/B/A West Fork Whiskey Co
RR2938905 Beer Wine & Liquor - Restaurant (210)
RENEWAL
Sangrita Holdings, LLC Location Pending Westfield IN
D/B/A
DL2930722 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx LLC 730 E State Road 32 Westfield IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #11411
DL2933480 Beer & Wine Dealer - Grocery Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 16088 Spring Mill Station Drive Westfield IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #10591
THOMAS MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
MELANIE LUKER 45 SUSAN DRIVE Cranston, Secretary
DL2932823 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Giant Eagle Inc 744 E Tournament Trail Westfield IN
D/B/A 6552
Gregory S Baker 1225 Resaca Place Pittsburgh, Secretary
Kingston, President
MELANIE LUKER 45 SUSAN DRIVE Cranston, Secretary
DL2932823 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Giant Eagle Inc 744 E Tournament Trail Westfield IN
D/B/A 6552
Gregory S Baker 1225 Resaca Place Pittsburgh, Secretary
WILLIAM ARTMAN 3042 BERKELEY PL Stow, President
RR2942503 Beer Wine & Liquor - River & Lake
RENEWAL
Crate Escapes, LLC 18595 Carousel Lane Westfield IN
D/B/A Dog Park Bar
DL2934481 Beer Wine & Liquor-Westfield Drug Store NEW
KROGER LIMITED PARTNERSHIP 1 14855 Towne Road Westfield IN
D/B/A
RR2944130 Beer Wine & Liquor - Restaurant (210) TRANSFER
Stick and Hack Grand Park, LLC 10 E 191st Street Westfield IN
D/B/A Parkside Bar & Grill
Alcohol & Tobacco Commission
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Alcohol Beverage Board of Hamilton County, will hold a public hearing at 9:00 am on August 11, 2026 at the Hamilton Co. Judicial Center, Commissioner's Room, 1 Hamilton Square in the city of Noblesville, to investigate the propriety of holding an alcoholic beverage permit by the applicants listed herein. To watch the hearing, visit https://www.in.gov/atc/public-meetings/local-board-h earings
Appointed Board Members:
3 MICHAEL L COLBY 01/14/2019
1 Aaron E Batt 07/09/2024
2 PATRICK W LONG 03/01/2009
Members serve for one year and until a successor is appointed and qualified.
Board member one is appointed by the county commissioners.
Board member two is appointed by the largest city or town’s executive.
DL2988046 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC. 2550 E Connor Street
Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #6566
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2915149 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx LLC 111 Lakeview Drive Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #4634
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMSTEAD CIRCLE Kingston, President
DL2922662 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 14835 Sunny Dell Lane Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #1078
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2924062 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 5865 Promenade Shops Boulevard Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy No. 4375
MELANIE K LUKER 45 susan dr Cranston, Secretary
THOMASS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2925421 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 13085 Tegler Drive Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #6840
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2925754 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
TRANSFER
3rd Avenue Partners LLC 1040 3rd Avenue SW Carmel IN
D/B/A Carmel Ice Skadium
MANLEY J WONG 8466 Lynhaven Pl Indianapolis,
Secretary
MANLEY J WONG 8466 Lynhaven Pl Indianapolis,
President
WILLIAM ARTMAN 3042 BERKELEY PL Stow, President
RR2942503 Beer Wine & Liquor - River & Lake
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 14575 Mundy Drive Noblesville
IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #8904
LINDA M CIMBRON 45 BRIDGE STREET Warren,
Secretary
DL2925421
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 13085 Tegler Drive Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #6840
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD CIRCLE
Kingston, President
DL2925754 Beer Wine & Liquor - Drug Store
RENEWAL
Hook-Superx, LLC 14575 Mundy Drive Noblesville IN
D/B/A CVS Pharmacy #8904
LINDA M CIMBRON 45 BRIDGE STREET Warren, Secretary
MELANIE K LUKER 45 SUSAN DR. Cranston, Secretary
THOMAS S MOFFATT 29 HOMESTEAD ST. Kingston, President
KIMBERLY DESOUSA 28 LARCHWOOD DR Cumberland, Secretary
RH2929956 Beer Wine & Liquor - Hotel RENEWAL
Saxon Hotel SPE LLC 13500 Tegler Drive Noblesville IN
D/B/A Wyndham Noblesville
RR2932468 Beer Wine & Liquor - River & Lake
RENEWAL
Clancy's Inc 550 Westfield Road Noblesville IN
D/B/A Michaelangelo's
PERRY M FOGELSONG 1293 EAST CONNER ST. Noblesville, President
RR2937662 Beer & Wine Retailer - Restaurant
RENEWAL
Kyoto Ramen of Noblesville LLC 13398 Tegler Drive #100 Noblesville IN
D/B/A Kyoto Ramen
ORDINANCE NO. D-2827--26 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA, ADDING CHAPTER 6, ARTICLE 5 SECTION 6-85 TO THE CARMEL CITY CODE AND AMENDING CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE 2, SECTION 3-58.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Indiana Code Sections 36-1-3-4 and 36-1-3-6, the City of Carmel, Indiana (“City”) is authorized and entitled to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, and to exercise its police powers—Indiana Code § 9-21-1-3 also provides authority for the City to regulate standing or parking of vehicles, to regulate traffic, and to regulate or prohibit processions or assemblages on the highways; and
WHEREAS, the City has been notified of numerous instances where slow moving or parked motor vehicles would intentionally rev engines to create excessive, unnecessary, or unusually loud noise near places of high concentration of residents and visitors, including Midtown, City Centre, and Main Street; and
WHEREAS, the City Council hereby finds and declares that the emission of such noise through the intentional revving of engines, the use of modified exhaust systems, and aggressive acceleration constitutes a public nuisance, in that it interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of life and property by a significant number of residents and visitors; and WHEREAS, modern engine modifications and intentional driving behaviors create noise levels that exceed standard manufacturing specifications and serve no legitimate transportation purpose.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, as follows:
Section 1. The foregoing Recitals are fully incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 2. The City Council specifically declares that any motor vehicle noise that is excessively loud or unnecessary, and which is generated in a manner prohibited by this Ordinance, is a public nuisance. Such noise is deemed detrimental to the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens and shall be subject to abatement and the penalties set forth herein.
Section 3. Chapter 6, Article 5, Section 6-85 is hereby added to the Carmel City Code, and shall read as follows:
Ҥ 6-85 Excessive Noise Caused by Motor VehiclesProhibited.
• Definitions.
(1) “Excessive Engine Revving” means the repetitive or sustained revving of a stationary or moving vehicle's engine that produces loud, piercing, or explosive sounds.
(2) “Aggressive Acceleration” means accelerating at a rate that causes the exhaust system to emit a noise level significantly higher than normal operating conditions for that speed zone or
Section 3. Chapter 6, Article 5, Section 6-85 is hereby added to the Carmel City Code, and shall read as follows:
Ҥ 6-85 Excessive Noise Caused by Motor VehiclesProhibited.
• Definitions.
(1) “Excessive Engine Revving” means the repetitive or sustained revving of a stationary or moving vehicle's engine that produces loud, piercing, or explosive sounds.
(2) “Aggressive Acceleration” means accelerating at a rate that causes the exhaust system to emit a noise level significantly higher than normal operating conditions for that speed zone or otherwise operating a vehicle in a manner that causes a sudden, loud increase in engine RPMs, often accompanied by tire squeal or exhaust "popping," which is unnecessary for the safe flow of traffic.
(3) "Plainly Audible" means any sound that can be detected by the human ear.
(4) “Excessive Vehicle Noise” includes, but is not limited to: Excessive Engine Revving and Aggressive Acceleration, or any other unreasonable or excessive engine noise.
(b) No person shall operate or cause to be operated a motor vehicle on any public street, alley, parking lot, or public property in a manner that creates Excessive Vehicle Noise plainly audible to a person of normal hearing at thirty (30) feet or more from the vehicle's location.
(c) This Section does not apply to: 1. Authorized emergency, utility, law enforcement, government agency, public safety, or City-owned vehicles; 2. Vehicles participating in a City permitted event; 3. Normal engine warm-up procedures during extreme cold not to exceed five (5) minutes.
(d) Any person who violates this Section shall be subject to a civil penalty in the following amounts: 1. First offense: One Hundred Dollars ($100.00); 2. Second and each subsequent offence: Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00). Violations of this Section shall be processed and paid to the Carmel Ordinance Violation Bureau.”
Section 4. Chapter 3, Article 2, Section 3-58, Subsection (c)(4) is hereby added to the Carmel City Code, and shall read as follows: “ (4) All excessive vehicle noise violations described in § 6-85 and subject to the schedule of fines contained in § 6-85(d)”
Section 5. The remaining provisions of Carmel City Code are not affected by this Ordinance and shall remain in full force and effect.
Section 6. All prior ordinances or parts thereof inconsistent with any provision of this Ordinance are hereby repealed, to the extent of such inconsistency only, as of the effective date of this Ordinance, such repeal to have prospective effect only.
Section 7. If any portion of this Ordinance is for any reason declared to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance so long as enforcement of same can be given the same effect.
Section 8. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after the date of its passage and signing by the Mayor and such publication as required by law.
PASSED by the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, this ____15th____ day of _____June______, 2026, by a vote of __9___ ayes and ___0__ nays.
COMMON COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF CARMEL
Matthew Snyder, President Ryan Locke, Vice-President________________________
Rich Taylor Anthony Green
Jeff Worrell Teresa Ayers
Shannon Minnaar Adam Aasen
Anita Joshi
ATTEST:
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Presented by me to the Mayor of the City of Carmel, Indiana this ____16th____ day of ___________June______________ 2026, at _____10:00 A..M.
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Approved by me, Mayor of the City of Carmel, Indiana, this ____16th____ day of _________June_______________ 2026, at ______10:15 A.M.
ATTEST:
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Sue Finkam, Mayor
ORDINANCE NO. D-2826-26
AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA, AMENDING, CHAPTER 8, ARTICLE 65, SECTION 8-65 OF THE CARMEL CITY CODE
Synopsis: Ordinance amending excavation and right-of-way disturbance permit, maintenance and restoration requirements, as well as amending penalties for violations WHEREAS, the City of Carmel (the “City”) within the reasonable exercise of its police power, has the power to regulate the use of public ways and rights-of-way within its jurisdiction; and WHEREAS, the Common Council previously enacted Ordinances to regulate excavations of the City’s streets, alleys, sidewalks, and other rights-of-way and providing for permits, regulations and restrictions on such excavations; and WHEREAS, with the City's rapid growth has come a significant increase in excavations, cuts, and other disturbances to public rights-of-way by private owners, contractors, and utilities. This has created a heightened need for right-of-way patching, repair, and restoration. Therefore, the Common Council finds it to be in the best interest of the health, safety, and general welfare of City residents to enact more comprehensive regulations for these activities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, as follows:
Section 1. The foregoing Recitals are fully incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 2. The following subsections of Carmel City Code Section 8-65 are hereby amended and shall read as follows:
Ҥ 8-65 Excavations, Cuts, and Other Disturbances in Rights-of-Way and City EasementsРPermits and Regulations.
• Permit.
• Prior to beginning any work described herein, a Right-of-Way Permit from the City is required for any person, business, or entity wishing to cut, excavate, tunnel under, undermine, install a construction entrance or other facility, or in any manner damage or interfere with (collectively "right-of-way disturbance") a roadway, alley, street, sewer, sidewalk, multi-use path, buried facilities, City-owned easement area, swale, drainage system or other right-of-way (collectively "rights-of-way"), or to place equipment or materials that interfere with rights-of-way or other City infrastructure’s free and unobstructed use.
• Permit Application. Right-of-Way Permit application shall be submitted to the City's Engineering Department, signed by a person or an authorized representative of an entity wishing to make a right-of-way disturbance. The application shall state the name and address of the applicant; the nature, location and purpose of the right-of-way disturbance; the date of requested commencement and completion of the work, and the list of contractors/subcontractors hired to perform the work. Additionally, the applicant shall provide the following information at the request of the Engineering Department:
• Proof of licensure (when applicable);
• Proof of insurance;
• Proof of participation in Gold Shovel Standard or similar program;
• Proof of training for executives, management, and crews;
• Indiana Proactive training (or approved equivalent) for executives, managers and Subcontracting principals; and
• Indiana 811 Online excavation training for all supervisors, subcontractors and crews.
If, in the opinion of the Engineering Department, the proposed right-of-way disturbance is expected to affect the use of abutting or adjoining properties, the Engineering Department Director or his/her designee may require the applicant, at the applicant's sole expense, to notify the affected property owners or tenants of the proposed work via letter, signs, or other means, as well as provide contact information of a representative to answer questions about the work. The notice issued by the Right-of-Way Permit holder must also identify the utility or entity that hired the Right-of-Way Permit holder to perform the work.
The terms "applicant" and “Right-of-Way Permit holder” refer to both the person or entity applying for the Right-of- Way Permit, as well as the person or entity who owns the facility or installation for which
Engineering Department Director or his/her designee may require the applicant, at the applicant's sole expense, to notify the affected property owners or tenants of the proposed work via letter, signs, or other means, as well as provide contact information of a representative to answer questions about the work. The notice issued by the Right-of-Way Permit holder must also identify the utility or entity that hired the Right-of-Way Permit holder to perform the work.
The terms "applicant" and “Right-of-Way Permit holder” refer to both the person or entity applying for the Right-of- Way Permit, as well as the person or entity who owns the facility or installation for which the Permit is issued.
The Right-of- Way Permit holder is responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and requirements.
The Engineering Department may impose reasonable conditions on the Right-of-Way Permit and the applicant's work. These conditions protect public health, safety, and welfare; preserve the structural integrity of the rights-of-way; and minimize disruption to the traveling public.
(3) Permit Commencement and Expiration. Unless an extension has been requested at least 48 hours prior to the requested start date, work outlined in the application must commence on the date indicated on the permit; otherwise, the permit will automatically terminate. Unless an extension is formally obtained, every permit issued will expire at the end of the period specified within the permit. Engineering Department may extend the Permit’s commencement or expiration date due to emergencies, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.
(43) Permit Fees. Before the Right-of-Way Permit is issued, the applicant must pay a non-refundable permit and review fee. The fee varies by the type of right-of-way disturbance as follows:
Application fee: $50.00
Street/roadway excavation/cut fee:
$500.00 per cut
Path/Sidewalk excavation/cut fee:
$200.00 per cut
Utility potholing utilizing the “Utilicor” or other approved process per the City’s standards is exempt from the permit fees outlined herein.
• Right-of-Way Holder’s Liability and Indemnification. Except in cases of gross negligence by the City, its officers, or its employees, neither the City nor any of its personnel will be held responsible for any damages to persons or property caused by any work under the Permit. The Right-of-Way Permit holder shall be solely liable for any damage or loss occasioned by any act or omission connected with the permitted work. By obtaining a Right-of-Way Permit, the Right-of-Way Permit holder agrees to fully indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the City, its officers, and employees from and against any and all suits, actions, judgments, losses, costs, demands, claims, expenses (including attorney’s fees), damages, and liabilities of every kind. This includes any and all claims to which the City, its officers, or employees may be subjected for any type of personal injury, death, or property damage arising from or connected with any such act or omission.
• Bond. Applicants must provide the following to obtain a Right-of-Way Permit:
(1) Before a permit is issued, every applicant must post a performance security with the Engineering Department. This security may be either an individual or blanket bond, naming the City as the obligee, or an irrevocable letter of credit from a bank, naming the City as the sole beneficiary, to be honored upon presentment. The required security amount is as follows:
a) Blanket Bond – public utility work ($25,000)
b) Individual permit Bond - all other disturbances ($5,000)
c) Custom amount - special circumstances based on project’s scope
Depending on the type of work, the security’s effective term shall be as follows:
a) Three (3) years for right-of-way excavations, cuts, or push/bores, starting from the date of work’s approval.
b) One (1) year for all other types of right-of-way disturbances.
The security will be released by the Engineering Department at the end of the required period upon the Right-of-Way Permit holder's request.
The security will only be released after the work is completed, inspected, and accepted by the Engineering Department, at the expiration of the required term. The approval is contingent upon the City's disturbed property being restored to a condition that is as good as or better than its state prior to work commencement, in compliance with all City standards and the conditions of the
Right-of-Way Permit.
The security will be released by the Engineering Department at the end of the required period upon the Right-of-Way Permit holder's request.
The security will only be released after the work is completed, inspected, and accepted by the Engineering Department, at the expiration of the required term. The approval is contingent upon the City's disturbed property being restored to a condition that is as good as or better than its state prior to work commencement, in compliance with all City standards and the conditions of the Right-of-Way Permit.
• Worksite Maintenance and Inspection. The Right-of-Way Permit holder is required to post a clearly visible sign, barricade, or other device that includes the Right-of-Way Permit holder's name and contact information. A copy of the approved permit must be on site and able to be presented during all active work. During all work, the Right-of-Way Permit holder must maintain a clean worksite and ensure that no debris or construction materials affect surrounding areas. If traffic control is necessary, the Right-of-Way Permit holder must maintain it in accordance with the latest edition of the Indiana Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and all other applicable local, state, and federal laws. An alternate route for pedestrians must be provided and must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Right-of-Way Permit holder shall secure all open right-of-way disturbances and at a minimum shall implement the following measures:
• All soft surface right-of-way disturbances shall be covered or fenced.
• Roadway, alley, and street pavement disturbances shall be steel plated and secured.
(3) All sidewalk and multiuse path disturbances shall be temporarily compacted with stone backfill. The City reserves the right to actively monitor and inspect work performed pursuant to the Right-of-Way Permit. Such inspection may include, but is not limited to,: spot inspections, documentation review, verification with vacuum excavation of projects, and all such other investigations as are appropriate for the work performed.
• Underground Utility Location. All underground utility locates must be examined and crossings confirmed (pursuant to I.C. 8-1-26), via hand digging, vacuum excavation, or any such method contemplated by the statute.
• Restoration of Right-of-Way.
(1) Restoration of surface. All work and right-of-way restoration must be completed within the dates specified on the Right-of-Way Permit. For work performed between November 1st and March 1st, the restoration of vegetation may be delayed until weather conditions are favorable, but it must begin no later than April 1st. Subject to adverse weather conditions, all restoration work shall be completed within 14 business days after the completion of the work; however, excavation backfill after any below surface work shall be completed within 24 hours. The Right-of-Way Permit holder shall not leave any open holes or trenches after excavation backfill. The Right-of-Way Permit holder is responsible for restoring the work area and surrounding right-of-way, including trench backfill and paving, to a condition that is as good as, or better than, the original state. Following completion, the Right-of-Way Permit holder must inspect the work area and maintain this condition for an applicable security period, with the exception of natural wear. All materials and restoration methods must comply with current Indiana Department of Transportation Standard Specifications, as well as any applicable City ordinances, policies, or regulations. All waste generated during the work must be disposed of in accordance with all applicable City, federal, and state statutes, rules and regulations. Debris or construction materials must never be left in the right-of-way.
(2) Failure to Restore. If the Right-of-Way Permit holder fails to restore the right-of-way as required, the City Engineer or his/her designee will notify the Right-of-Way Permit holder of any such deficiencies. The Right-of-Way Permit holder must then correct the restoration work within a reasonable timeframe, not to exceed thirty (30) days. Should the Right-of-Way Permit holder fail to meet this standard or timeframe, the Board of Public Works and Safety may authorize the Street Department or an independent contractor to perform the necessary restoration. In this instance, the Right-of-Way Permit holder will be billed for all costs incurred by the City and must reimburse the City within thirty (30) days of receiving the invoice. The City may pursue legal action in a court of competent jurisdiction to collect any unreimbursed amount, including reasonable attorney fees, court costs, and other costs of collection.
Should the Right-of-Way Permit holder fail to meet this standard or timeframe, the Board of Public Works and Safety may authorize the Street Department or an independent contractor to perform the necessary restoration. In this instance, the Right-of-Way Permit holder will be billed for all costs incurred by the City and must reimburse the City within thirty (30) days of receiving the invoice. The City may pursue legal action in a court of competent jurisdiction to collect any unreimbursed amount, including reasonable attorney fees, court costs, and other costs of collection.
(3) The City, through its Code Enforcement Department, and at the direction of the City Engineer or his/her designee, has the authority to order an immediate stoppage of work. This may occur if the Right-of-Way Permit holder violates any Right-of-Way Permit conditions or if the continuation of work poses a serious threat to the life, health, safety, or well-being of the public. All work must cease immediately upon a work stoppage order and cannot resume until the specified issues are resolved and the City provides explicit permission to proceed.
(4) Steel Plates Requirements. Steel plates may only be used for temporary pavement cuts during emergency repairs or for excavations in paved areas expected to last more than one workday week. When a plate is used, the City’s Engineering Department must be notified. Each plate must be clearly marked with the owner's name or another visible identifier. Plates must be tacked down on all four corners with hot mix asphalt, and a one-foot-long asphalt ramp must be provided to reduce the transition from the pavement. Any plate remaining in the roadway for more than seven (7) days must be countersunk to allow for a smooth transition. However, from December 1st to April 1st, all plates must be countersunk regardless of the duration of the work.
• Public utilities. Utilities owned and operated by the City of Carmel shall not be required to post bond or other security pursuant to this section, but are required to comply with all other requirements of this section. The City may require public utilities performing work within the right-of-way to provide supervision of such work if it is located within densely populated or urban environments, or near transmission or distribution facilities of public utilities. (Ord. D-107, 1-17-77)
• Street damage addressed. Section 6-51 of this Code addresses damage to streets.
• Adverse Weather Conditions. Except in cases of an emergency as outlined in this section or with approval from the Engineering Department, no work shall be performed when adverse weather conditions exist. This includes any conditions that would make the work unsafe for any person or would cause damage or degradation to the right-of-way or surrounding property that would not normally occur under typical conditions. The Right-of-Way Permit holder is responsible for assessing and halting work when such conditions, including but not limited to, heavy rain, deep freezing temperatures, or high winds, are present.
• Noise, Dust, Trash and Debris. The Right-of-Way Permit holder must take all appropriate measures to reduce noise, dust, and debris to the fullest extent possible. All work must be carried out in compliance with applicable noise and nuisance ordinances. Except in emergency situations, work is not permitted between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. during weekdays and 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. during weekends and City-recognized holidays unless express written permission has been obtained from the Board of Public Works and Safety. All trash, debris, and waste materials must be properly disposed of and in accordance with all relevant City, federal, and state statutes.
• Emergency Conditions. In the event of an emergency, such as a burst pipe, broken conduit, failure of transmission, or distribution facilities or other critical utility infrastructure that immediately endangers the public, the facility owner may take immediate, proper measures to remedy the situation without first obtaining a Right-of-Way Permit. Such persons or entities must, however, retroactively apply for a permit and comply with all other requirements no later than the end of the next business day. Furthermore, the facility owner must notify an authorized City representative as soon as practicable, leaving a voicemail if the representative is unavailable or if the emergency occurs outside of regular business hours. This notification must include the caller's name and contact information, the nature and exact location of the emergency, details on any necessary street closures or affected traffic, the scope of expected repairs, contact information for the facility owner, and contact information for the contractor hired to fix the issue,
persons or entities must, however, retroactively apply for a permit and comply with all other requirements no later than the end of the next business day. Furthermore, the facility owner must notify an authorized City representative as soon as practicable, leaving a voicemail if the representative is unavailable or if the emergency occurs outside of regular business hours. This notification must include the caller's name and contact information, the nature and exact location of the emergency, details on any necessary street closures or affected traffic, the scope of expected repairs, contact information for the facility owner, and contact information for the contractor hired to fix the issue, as well as the approximate time required for repairs. The City reserves the right to take any action it deems necessary to respond to the emergency, and the cost of such action will be borne by the owner of the facilities that caused the emergency.
• Denial of Right-of-Way Permit. Except in cases of an emergency or when required by law, the Engineering Department may deny a permit if the applicant has failed to comply with the requirements of this chapter in the past twelve (12) months or is currently not in full compliance. A permit may also be denied if there are existing grounds for its revocation, or if its issuance for the particular date or time would cause a conflict or interfere with other work being performed or a scheduled public event. The Engineering Department may also deny a permit to protect the public health, safety, and welfare; to prevent interference with travel; or to protect the rights-of-way or its users. In its discretion, the Engineering Department may consider various factors, including the capacity of the rights-of-way, the availability of other locations, the degree of disruption to surrounding property and businesses, the condition and age of the rights-of-way, and whether the area is scheduled for reconstruction or replacement.
• Right-of-Way Permit Revocation. The City reserves the right to revoke any Right-of-Way Permit without a refund of the permit fee in the event of a substantial breach of Permit’s terms and conditions. A substantial breach includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:
(1) Failure to Adhere to Work Plan: The Right-of-Way Permit holder performs work that is outside the scope of the approved Permit, including unapproved locations, methods, or materials.
(2) Restoration Deficiencies: The Right-of-Way Permit holder fails to restore the right-of-way to the specified standards or within the required timeframe after a notification of non-compliance.
(3) Safety Violations: The Right-of-Way Permit holder fails to establish and maintain adequate traffic control and worksite safety standards, posing a risk to the public.
(4) Misrepresentation: The Right-of-Way Permit holder provides false or misleading information in the Permit application, either intentionally or unintentionally.
(5) Financial Non-Compliance: The Right-of-Way Permit holder fails to pay any fees, provide required security, or penalties due to the City in a timely manner.
(6) Immediate Threat to Public Safety: The work is determined by the City Engineer to pose an immediate threat to public safety, health, or welfare. If the Engineering Department determines a substantial breach has occurred, it will issue a written demand to the Right-of-Way Permit holder to remedy the violation. This demand, which may be sent via email or other electronic communication, will state that continued violations could lead to Permit revocation. The Department may also place additional or revised conditions on the Permit. The Right-of-Way Permit holder must contact the Department with an acceptable plan for correction within forty-eight (48) hours of receiving the notification. Failure to submit or implement an acceptable plan will be cause for immediate Permit revocation. If Permit is revoked, the Right-of-Way Permit holder will be responsible for reimbursing the City for all reasonable costs incurred in connection with the revocation, including restoration costs, collection costs, and, if authorized by law, attorney's fees.
• Penalties for non-compliance. Right-of-Way Permit holder or authorized subcontractor shall be subject to applicable penalties for the following violations:
• Failure to provide 24-hour advanced notice of starting permitted work
• Closure or restriction of traffic without advanced notification to the Engineering Department.
• Failure to provide proper traffic control
• Work completed without required inspections
• Failure to secure open right-of-way disturbances
• Failure to restore right-of-way Fine schedule for non-compliance
• Failure to provide 24-hour advanced notice of starting permitted work
• Closure or restriction of traffic without advanced notification to the Engineering Department.
• Failure to provide proper traffic control
• Work completed without required inspections
• Failure to secure open right-of-way disturbances
• Failure to restore right-of-way Fine schedule for non-compliance
First violation: $250.00
Second violation: $500.00
Third and any subsequent violation: $1,000.00
Each day of noncompliance constitutes a separate violation.
• Penalties for Work Done Without a Permit or Notification to the City. Any person, business, or entity that performs work in a right-of-way without first obtaining a valid Right-of-Way Permit or, in case of emergencies, notifying the City, will be in violation of this Chapter. Such a party will be required to take the following actions to come into compliance and will be subject to applicable penalties:
(1) Retroactively Obtain a Permit: Immediately apply for and secure the required Right-of-Way Permit.
(2) Pay Fees and Fines: Pay all applicable permit fees as well as any fines as outlined in City ordinances.
(3) Restore Damage: Correct any damage to the right-of-way in accordance with the standards for work completion and restoration detailed in this document.
• Provide Security: Post all required bonds or other acceptable forms of security.
• Comply with Regulations: Adhere to all other requirements and conditions specified in this document and other applicable City regulations.
Fine schedule for performing work without a permit per day:
First violation: $250.00
Second violation: $750.00
Third and any subsequent violation: $1,500.00
Each day constitutes a separate violation. Applicants with outstanding violations must pay these fines prior to obtaining another Permit. Work performed without a Permit on a different project would count as a subsequent violation.
• Appeal Process for Violations. Any person or entity found to be in violation of the provisions of this section has the right to appeal that determination. The appeal must be submitted to the Board of Public Works and Safety, which will hear all such appeals at its next regularly scheduled meeting. After the hearing, the Board may confirm, reverse, or modify the original decision or action. The order issued by the Board will be considered final, and any further appeal must be made to a court of competent jurisdiction within thirty (30) days from the date the Board's order is issued.
Section 5. All prior ordinances or parts thereof inconsistent with any provision of this Ordinance are hereby repealed, to the extent of such inconsistency only, as of the effective date of this Ordinance, such repeal to have prospective effect only. However, the repeal or amendment by this Ordinance of any other ordinance does not affect any rights or liabilities accrued, penalties incurred or proceedings begun prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. Those rights, liabilities and proceedings are continued and penalties shall be imposed and enforced under such repealed or amended ordinance as if this Ordinance had not been adopted.
Section 6. If any portion of this Ordinance is for any reason declared to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance so long as enforcement of same can be given the same effect.
Section 7. The remaining portions of Carmel City Code Section 8-65 are not affected by this Ordinance upon its passage.
Section 8. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from October 1, 2026 and signing by the Mayor and such publication as required by law. PASSED by the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, this ___15th_____ day of ____June_______, 2026, by a vote of __9___ ayes and ___0__ nays.
$750.00
$1,500.00
Third and any subsequent violation:
Each day constitutes a separate violation. Applicants with outstanding violations must pay these fines prior to obtaining another Permit. Work performed without a Permit on a different project would count as a subsequent violation.
Editor,
• Appeal Process for Violations. Any person or entity found to be in violation of the provisions of this section has the right to appeal that determination. The appeal must be submitted to the Board of Public Works and Safety, which will hear all such appeals at its next regularly scheduled meeting. After the hearing, the Board may confirm, reverse, or modify the original decision or action. The order issued by the Board will be considered final, and any further appeal must be made to a court of competent jurisdiction within thirty (30) days from the date the Board's order is issued.
Beckwith acting against American, Christian values
As a clergyperson serving the Jewish community in Indiana and working alongside other faith communities in our state, it is painful to see Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith’s call to ban the public Islamic call to prayer for several reasons.
Section 5. All prior ordinances or parts thereof inconsistent with any provision of this Ordinance are hereby repealed, to the extent of such inconsistency only, as of the effective date of this Ordinance, such repeal to have prospective effect only. However, the repeal or amendment by this Ordinance of any other ordinance does not affect any rights or liabilities accrued, penalties incurred or proceedings begun prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. Those rights, liabilities and proceedings are continued and penalties shall be imposed and enforced under such repealed or amended ordinance as if this Ordinance had not been adopted.
First, such a ban runs contrary to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which guarantees the right of all religious groups to freely exercise their faith. The call to prayer is part of Muslim practice and has been for centuries.
Section 6. If any portion of this Ordinance is for any reason declared to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance so long as enforcement of same can be given the same effect.
Section 7. The remaining portions of Carmel City Code Section 8-65 are not affected by this Ordinance upon its passage.
great; there is no god but God; Mohammed is the messenger of God; hasten to prayer.” These are central tenets of Islam. There is no mention of sharia law in these words.
NOTICE TO BIDDERS:
Board of Public Works and Safety
One Civic Square City of Carmel, Indiana 46032
Project: 2027 Rock Salt for Drinking Water Softening IFB-2026-010
“Lt. Gov. Beckwith will always stand up for American values and refuses to apologize for saying sharia law has no place in this country and that America is now and always should be one nation under God.” American values guarantee freedom of religion; Christian values urge followers to “love their neighbor.”
Mr. Beckwith’s call to ban an Islamic practice goes against these values. I am embarrassed by the actions of our lieutenant governor and hope that our legislature will not enact such a ban — ever!
Janice Roger, Carmel, cantor emerita, Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Secondly, Mr. Beckwith is fueling the fires of fear that plague our country. The divisiveness that already exists is made worse by his misrepresentation of what the call to prayer actually says. It does not translate as words of death and destruction; it means, “Allah is
Section 8. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from October 1, 2026 and signing by the Mayor and such publication as required by law.
PASSED by the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, this ___15th_____ day of ____June_______, 2026, by a vote of __9___ ayes and ___0__ nays.
COMMON COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF CARMEL
Matthew Snyder, President Ryan Locke, Vice-President
Rich Taylor Anthony Green
Jeff Worrell Teresa Ayers
Shannon Minnaar Adam Aasen
Anita Joshi
ATTEST:
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Presented by me to the Mayor of the City of Carmel, Indiana this __16th______ day of ____________June_____________ 2026, at ______10:00 A.M.
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Approved by me, Mayor of the City of Carmel, Indiana, this ____16th____ day of _____________June___________ 2026, at ____10:15 A.M.
Sue Finkam, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
NOTICE TO BIDDERS: Board of Public Works and Safety One Civic Square City of Carmel, Indiana 46032
Project: 2027 Rock Salt for Drinking Water Softening
IFB-2026-010
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Public Works and Safety for the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, will receive sealed bids for the above-described “2027 Rock Salt for Drinking Water Softening” via the City’s e-Procurement Portal, https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/carmelin, until 9:00 am on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 and commencing as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers of City Hall. No late bids will be accepted. All bids and proposals shall be properly and completely executed on the proposal forms provided with the plans and specifications, which will include the non-collusion affidavit as required by the State of Indiana.
A bid bond or certified check in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount bid must be submitted with each bid. A one hundred percent (100%) performance and payment bond will also be required of the successful bidder. It is intended that actual construction of all work divisions shall be
Finally, because Mr. Beckwith presents himself as a man of God, I find it difficult to understand why he disrespects his Muslim neighbors. “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” is a foundational ethical principle of Christianity, found in Leviticus 19:18 and Matthew 22:39. In Malachi 2:10 we read, “Have we not all one father? Hath not one God created us all?” While we differ in important theological ways, we share a belief in one God and a moral obligation to treat one another with dignity and respect.
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Public Works and Safety for the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, will receive sealed bids for the above-described “2027 Rock Salt for Drinking Water Softening” via the City’s e-Procurement Portal, https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/carmelin, until 9:00 am on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 and commencing as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers of City Hall. No late bids will be accepted.
A statement from Mr. Beckwith’s deputy communications director stated,
All bids and proposals shall be properly and completely executed on the proposal forms provided with the plans and specifications, which will include the non-collusion affidavit as required by the State of Indiana.
A bid bond or certified check in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount bid must be submitted with each bid. A one hundred percent (100%) performance and payment bond will also be required of the successful bidder. It is intended that actual construction of all work divisions shall be started as soon as practicable, and each bidder shall be prepared to enter promptly into a construction contract, furnish a performance bond, and begin work without delay in the event the award is made to the bidder.
The Project consists of, but is not necessarily limited to, the following: Rock Salt for use in drinking water softening – 8,000 tons more or less of Coarse Southern United States Rock Salt.
The Rock Salt must meet American Water Works Association (AWWA) specification.
B200-22 and be NSF60 compliant; clean and free of dirt and debris.
Contract Documents and drawings for the Project can be found in this solicitation and the attachments section.
Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets of drawings and Contract Documents and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets of drawings and Contract Documents. This Project will be funded by the City of Carmel. For accommodations needed by persons with disabilities planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please call or notify the City of Carmel,Utilities, at (317) 571-2400 at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.
No bidder may withdraw any bid or proposal within a period of sixty (60) days following the date set for receiving bids or proposals. The Carmel Board of Public Works and Safety reserves the right to hold any or all bids or proposals for a period of not more than sixty (60) days and said bids or proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said period.
The City of Carmel reserves the right to reject and/or cancel any and all bids, solicitations and/or offers in whole or in part as specified in the solicitations when it is not in the best interests of the governmental body as determined by the purchasing agency in accordance with IC 36-1-12. Contract will be awarded to the lowest and responsive and responsible bidder.
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