Business, Editorial, Accounting and Circulation Offices: 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175, Carmel, IN 46032.
Call (317) 489-4444 to subscribe.
Periodicals postage paid at Carmel, IN.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current in Fishers, 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175, Carmel, IN 46032.
Contact the editor
Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?
Contact Managing Editor Leila Kheiry at leila@ youarecurrent.com or submit it at youarecurrent. com/newstips. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.
Bank, drive-thru proposed on 116th Street
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A rezone request that would allow a bank with a drive-thru at the former Drive Planning site on East 116th Street was introduced during the Fishers City Council’s July 20 meeting, albeit with hesitation on the part of some councilors.
Citizens State Bank, which has offices in downtown Fishers near the Fishers Municipal Center, has proposed a 4,500-square-foot building with a drive-thru at the rear. The .83-acre lot is next to the Kroger on 116th Street and Olio Road.
Kevin Buchheit of Kreig DeVault, representing the petitioner, told the council that after hearing from neighborhood residents, the architecture was adjusted to a more modern residential look, and the drive-thru was reconfigured.
State Bank on 116th Street near Olio Road call for a drive-thru at the back of the site. (Rendering courtesy of the
up with a strategy for developing “pocket” properties with commercial potential within mostly residential areas. He said he doesn’t have a problem with the business or the building design, but he doesn’t think a drive-thru is the right fit for that location.
Councilor Brad DeReamer disagreed, stating that a bank drive-thru is not going to create the kind of traffic that a fast-food restaurant would. He asked Buchheit if he had any data about drive-thru use at similar banks. Buchheit said “it’s surprisingly lower than what you would expect.”
Other council members asked about a traffic study to show the potential impact.
Delivery questions
To request, update or cancel your home delivery, scan the code below or visit: youarecurrent.com/subscribe
“The original plans … showed the typical wraparound drive-thru going around the east and then south sides of the building,” he said. “Through our discussions with the neighbors, (we) came up with an opportunity to shift the building a little bit to the south, which allowed enough room on the back …
corner for (a) U-turn loop that allows the drive-thru traffic to turn back on itself and enter back through the parking lot to the access point on 116th Street.”
Buchheit said the drive-through is an important part of Citizen State Bank’s business model, providing convenience and security for patrons.
The drive-thru was a point of contention for Councilor Todd Zimmerman, who added that the city hasn’t yet come
Mayor Scott Fadness said the city will complete a thorough traffic analysis for the next meeting.
A public hearing on the proposal is set for the Aug. 5 Fishers Plan Commission meeting before it comes back to the council, potentially on Aug. 17.
The site in question was going to be a new office building for Drive Planning Investment Firm, which was liquidated after the business was tied to a 2024 federal court case related to a $300 million Ponzi scheme.
One Sixteen development planned
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Advertise your business
If you’re interested in reaching the Fishers market (30,645 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Fishers advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.
Follow us
Find us on the social media platforms below @youarecurrent
Opinions
Columnist views are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of this newspaper.
A planned 32-lot residential development on 116th Street east of the Spyglass Hill neighborhood is moving forward after a rezone of the 10.45 acres was introduced July 20 by the Fishers City Council.
The lot is currently zoned as the Legends at Geist Planned Unit Development and has one structure — a church. It would be rezoned as the One Sixteen PUD, which would have high-end single-family, for-sale homes, including eight rear-loading townhouse-style homes along 116th Street and 24 sideload homes on separate lots.
Developer Michael Mercho plans to host a neighborhood meeting sometime in August. A public hearing in front of the Fishers Plan Commission is set for Sept. 2, with a proposed final reading by the council Sept. 21.
Mercho told the council that the price for each custom-built standalone home
The proposed One Sixteen residential development would have eight rear-loading townhouse-style homes along 116th Street and 24 sideload homes on separate lots. (Image courtesy of the City of Fishers)
would start in the $900,000 range and could get up to $1.5 million or more.
Councilor Brad DeReamer expressed concern about the proposed 5-foot setbacks for homes, which he has repeatedly said are too narrow.
Councilor Todd Zimmerman said additional traffic on 116th Street in that
area was a concern. Mayor Scott Fadness responded that the city plans to add a stoplight in 2027 at the Spyglass Falls neighborhood, which is east of Spyglass Hill.
Councilor Tiffanie Ditlevson asked for more recent traffic data on that part of 116th Street, and an update on the city’s housing study. She said an image representing the town homes that would face 116th Street look like Carmel and don’t seem to fit the area.
Mercho said the image is of a Carmel development. He would work with the city on design plans to better fit the neighborhood.
Mercho, an established Indianapolis-area real estate developer, was ordered by a Hamilton County Judge in November 2025 to demolish a multimillion-dollar Geist townhome duplex after losing a civil dispute with the neighborhood’s homeowners association. Mercho has appealed the case to the Indiana Supreme Court, which has not yet ruled on the matter.
Plans for a new Citizens
City of Fishers)
New Meijer opening soon
news@currentinfishers.com
Almost two years after plans were approved for a Meijer Grocery at Southeastern Parkway and Cyntheanne Road, the company has announced that it’s hiring about 200 full- and part-time positions as it gets ready to open the new store.
The 75,000-square-foot store will be the second Meijer Grocery in Indiana — a smaller concept that focuses on groceries, pharmacy, health and beauty and baby and pet supplies. Traditional Meijer supercenters also have clothing, home decor and other items.
According to an announcement from Meijer, the new Meijer Grocery and adjacent Meijer Express gas station will open this fall. A date was not specified. Meijer is a Michigan-based retailer that operates more than 500 supercenters, neighborhood markets, Meijer Grocery and Express stores in Michi-
gan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin.
Meijer opened its first store in Indiana in 1994 and now employs more than 10,000 people at 44 locations statewide — in stores and at its manufacturing facility in Middlebury.
For information about job openings, visit jobs.meijer.com/stores.
MOTW opens new Fishers HQ
news@currentinfishers.com
MOTW Coffee celebrated the grand opening of its first headquarters at 12115 Visionary Way in Fishers with a July 25 block party.
“For all of those that have shown us love and supported us over the years we are doing a block party — Cars and Coffee edition — to celebrate opening the doors to our first headquarters,” the company stated in an online post. “Indiana is where we started, so we are giving back to the state that made us.”
BEHIND STRONG KNEE
is a highly skilled orthopedics team of pre-surgery coordinators orthopedic surgeons nurses post-surgery coordinators physical therapists and rehab specialists WORKING TOGETHER TO GET YOU BACK TO FEELING YOUR BEST.
The event included a DJ, food vendors, tours of the new headquarters and free lattes for the many people who showed up to the event.
MOTW started as the Muslims of the World Instagram page, opening its first coffee shop after the page grew in popularity. It now has locations throughout the United States, including Fishers, Indianapolis, Carmel and Avon. Besides specialty coffee and tea, the stores offer cakes, muffins and sweet or savory pastries.
For more, visit motw.coffee.
Kevin Sonn, MD
A new Meijer on Southeastern Parkway will open this fall. (File image)
MOTW gave free coffee to people who came out July 25 to celebrate the grand opening of its new Fishers headquarters. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Unified 4-H debuts strong
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
In its first year, the Unified 4-H program was a success at the Hamilton County Fair July 16-20, according to organizers.
Unified 4-H is a new program in Hamilton County designed to make 4-H more inclusive for youth in third through 12th grade. The program follows a mentoring model similar to Unified sports programs, pairing youth participants — champions — with experienced 4-H members or trained volunteers.
Champions participated in two fair showcase days, displaying projects ranging from cake decorating, gardening and scrapbooking and showing livestock like rabbits and sheep.
Kathleen Bohde, 4-H youth development extension educator, said the program has been considered for many years.
“We have been researching how other counties have implemented a program similar to this,” Bohde said. “Last year, we were able to do some site visits to Hancock County’s Poss-Abilities program, and we wanted to then bring it back here to Hamilton County. The timing was just right for us to launch this program.”
Twenty-three mentors and 15 champions participated in the program, which is supported by the Love Like Lucy Fund, a memorial fund honoring the life of late 4-H member Lucy Koch, a Westfield resident who died in 2024.
“Lucy Koch was a third-grade, firstyear 4-H member before she passed away,” Bohde said. “We wanted to celebrate her legacy as a 4-H’er by utilizing her memorial funds to be the catalyst
behind the start of the program. It has been a great honor to celebrate and remember her in that special way.”
Chandra Manges, a Unified 4-H committee member, said the program had many successes in its first year. Her daughter, Kendall, was a mentor.
“Kendall is president of Champions Together at Fishers High School, and several of the kids from Champions Together were excited to be part of the Unified 4-H program,” Manges said. “They had come to see Kendall at the fair years prior to support her, so now we got to tell them they were a 4-H’er just like her, and they were so proud to exhibit a project.”
Bohde said plans are underway to expand project offerings and start the program earlier.
“We want to create 4-H opportunities for kids with all abilities to learn and grow so they can thrive in their community,” Bohde said. “Unified 4-H isn’t about changing who someone is. It’s about creating opportunities for every young person to discover what they can become. Adding the program with mentorship alongside youth has enriched our programs and created more culture for us to be accepting to all as we have always been in the past.”
For more, visit extension.purdue. edu/news/county/hamilton/2026/04/ unified-4-h.html.
Unified livestock champions and their mentors. (Photo courtesy of Kathleen Bohde)
COMMUNITY
Westfield developer faces federal wire fraud case
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A federal court case filed in the U.S. District Court Northern District of Indiana sheds some light on a recent FBI raid of Westfield resident and developer James Andrew “Andy” Card.
Card, 62, founded Card & Associates Athletic Facilities, LLC., which developed the Pacers Athletic Center in Westfield, Finch Creek Fieldhouse in Noblesville and the Mishawaka Fieldhouse, among other projects. The raids took place July 16, the same day that the court case was filed — a civil action accusing Card of wire fraud and asking for the forfeiture of Card’s multimillion-dollar Florida home.
disbursements was transferred to an account called “CA Mishawaka Fieldhouse LLC,” which had two authorized signers — Card and his wife.
“The representations in the disbursements request(s) were materially false and made with intent to defraud the City of Mishawaka and others, as Card and the business did not in fact use all the funds disbursed … as payments or reimbursements for legitimate project costs,” the complaint states. “Instead, Card and the business caused certain funds … to be used for Card’s personal use and benefit.”
The Marco Island waterfront home is jointly owned by Card and his wife Martha. The court filing alleges that the Cards purchased the home by redirecting funds meant for the Mishawaka Fieldhouse, which he was developing for the City of Mishawaka, just east of South Bend.
The $38 million fieldhouse was funded through city, state and municipal bonds, with the bond debt paid for through tax increment financing. The project also received a $5.2 million state Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, or READI, grant.
The court filing states that a development agreement was signed in January 2023. In April 2023, a disbursement of about $2.9 million was made to a Card & Associates account for “architectural services, developer services and reimbursements, crossroad engineers and pre-engineered metal building.”
Another disbursement was made in May 2023 of about $2.4 million for similar expenses. On two separate occasions, about $4.3 million of those
The complaint alleges that investigators traced funds meant for the fieldhouse through various accounts, and records show those funds eventually were used to pay for about $2.7 million of the Marco Island home’s $6.625 million purchase price.
Card released an email statement July 18, expressing hope that he will be “vindicated” as the case proceeds.
“Nothing is more important than the health and happiness of my family,” he stated. “I am, however, temporarily relinquishing control of the development division at Card and Associates and will manage operations (as CEO) for current facilities only. My professional reputation is paramount to me. I am hopeful I will be fully vindicated.”
Card & Associates was one of the firms under consideration in 2023 for operation and management of Grand Park in Westfield, but was not selected. In 2022, Card also expressed interest in purchasing Grand Park.
The company also submitted a proposal in 2023 to develop a Noblesville event center and parking garage, losing out to Patch Development. That project became The Arena at Innovation Mile.
Card & Associates’ website and social media are no longer active.
DISPATCH
World Food Championships tickets on sale — The world’s largest live cooking competition will take place Oct. 15 to 18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. Three hundred international chefs, home cooks, pitmasters and culinary teams will compete live across 10 championship categories. The Indianapolis Pizza Festival will take place Oct. 17 in concurrence with the event. A special combo ticket will grant visitors access to both events. For more, visit worldfoodchampionships.com.
Four charged in home burglary case
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Four men face charges following a Fishers Police Department investigation into a July 21 burglary at a home on Eller Creek Drive in Fishers.
The men’s identities could not be verified, according to the probable cause affidavit filed in court. However, one man who online court records show to be in custody at Hamilton County Jail — John Doe #4 — has been tentatively identified as Sebastian Martinez, 25. All four men face charges of burglary, theft and criminal vandalism.
According to the PCA, the homeowners’ son told investigators that the burglary occurred between 10:37 a.m. and 12:24 p.m., when the residents were absent. The suspects entered by cutting a hole through the master bedroom, which was the only room they searched for valuable items.
The homeowners told police that missing items included about $300,000 cash, a Rolex watch, jewelry, designer purses and other items.
Police were able to identify two suspect vehicles and, using Flock camera data, traced one vehicle to Ohio. Police in that state were able to locate and stop the vehicle. The second vehicle was located and stopped in Centerville, Indiana.
“During a search of the vehicle (FPD) was advised that a large amount of cash, expensive brand bags, black clothing and tools — possibly a drill or saw — were located,” the PCA stated, adding that similar items were found by Ohio police in the first vehicle.
Police also found items in one of the vehicles with the names of the Eller Creek Drive homeowners.
One of the two men stopped in Ohio allegedly admitted to committing the Eller Creek Drive burglary and identified the involvement of the other suspects.
Bail for Martinez has been set at $500,000.
Martinez
Posh Picnic goes ‘Outside the Box’
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.
Pirkle said On the Road Again was a great addition last year because it brought in tablescapes depicting areas all around the world.
“We did a lock box raffle last year, and it was a huge success,” she said. “We will be hosting that again this year.”
Janice Trosky and Tina Malone are the event’s co-chairs.
Trosky said silent auction items include 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. “We continue to fund improvements to the mansion and gardens.”
Tickets are $100 per person. Preregistration is required for the event. Parking is available at the Coxhall Mansion parking lot. Transportation to the event tent will be provided. For more, visit coxhallguild.com.
The tablescape, paying homage to popcorn king Orville Redenbacher, won the People’s Choice award in 2025. From left are, Mike Pirkle, Sandra Pirkle, Barry Good, Mary Eckard-Good, Alan Nelson, Audrey Nelson, Anne Ripley, Jody McFarland, Barbara Danquist and Mike Mitchell. (Photo courtesy of Coxhall Guild)
Senior community launches speech therapy program
idents and nonresidents.
A Fishers senior community is offering residents a new speech therapy program for people with Parkinson’s disease and similar neurological disorders.
CarDon & Associates, a Bloomington-based senior living management company, announced in a news release that the program at Hamilton Trace off Cumberland Road and 116th Street was developed by the nonprofit organization Parkinson Voice Project.
The SPEAK OUT! Therapy focuses on helping individuals strengthen their voice, improve clarity, support swallowing function and communicate with greater confidence, the news release stated. It will combine education, individual therapy, home practice and ongoing support to help participants continue building skills. The program will be available to Hamilton Trace res-
“We are proud to be part of this nationwide program and contribute to Parkinson’s disease care on a local level,” Director of LifeSpan Therapy Christy Johnson stated. “CarDon is always looking for new ways to make a positive impact on our communities, and we’re honored by the opportunity to offer SPEAK OUT! Therapy at Hamilton Trace. Our speech-language pathologists are well equipped for this.” Program support also includes:
• An in-service presentation for residents
• Monthly support group opportunities for those who complete the program
• Refresher sessions to assess continued therapy needs
• Community outreach to make the resource available to others in Hamilton County For more, visit cardon.us.
Hamilton Trace Senior Living is a retirement home and assisted living facility in Fishers. (Photo courtesy of CarDon)
Health commissioner visits
news@youarecurrent.com
Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver visited the Hamilton County Health Department earlier this month on the first stop of her statewide tour to visit all 92 Indiana counties.
Hamilton County Health Department staff, representatives from the Indiana Department of Health and local community partner Trinity Free Clinic discussed opportunities to expand access to health care for underserved populations, strengthen community partnerships and address mental health.
“We appreciate the chance to sit down with Dr. Weaver and have an open conversation about the work we’re doing,” stated Jason LeMaster, administrator of the Hamilton County Health Department. “It was a great opportunity to share what’s working, talk through the challenges we’re facing and discuss how we can better serve our community moving forward.”
Some of the challenges discussed included changes in state and federal funding, shifts in legislation and com-
Hamilton County Health Department staff, representatives from the Indiana Department of Health and Trinity Free Clinic representatives visit with Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver, second from left. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County)
munication and collaboration between state and local health departments. Weaver commended the department on its leadership in public health.
“Hamilton County is recognized across Indiana as a leader in public health,” she stated. “Every county has unique challenges, but we all share the same goal of improving the health of our residents. Visits like this help us learn from one another and build stronger public health systems throughout Indiana.”
We know how priceless moments at home are. That’s what sets our approach to home building apart. We have a deeper commitment to making sure the experience – and final result – is everything you imagined. We take care of you the way we’d want to be taken care of so you can live the most rewarding home life. That’s The Weekley Way!
David Weekley Homeowners Wesley & Ashleys Morisette
‘Dream Home’ open to host tours in August
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Buyers in the market for a luxury home can explore a unique option at Holliday Farms.
This month, The Agency, a luxury real estate company, will host tours for The Reverie, a new, 11,366-square-foot custom home at 4430 Elmscott Ridge. It has views of the seventh fairway on the Club at Holliday Farms’ Championship Golf Course.
The three-story home built by Scott Bates Custom Homes and designed by Goldberg Design Group has five bedrooms, six bathrooms and four half-bathrooms. High ceilings are a dominant feature. It has an in-home spa, water circuit, a waterfall that goes into a resort-style pool and a 20-foot entertainment wall.
Traci Garontakos, managing partner for The Agency’s Indianapolis office, and listing agent for the property said an in-home spa is a larger wellness trend for luxury homes and buyers.
“People no longer want to go to a gym,” she said. “They want it in their home.”
The Reverie is this year’s Dream Home by Indianapolis Monthly, an annual event that showcases popular trends and designs in residential home building. And unlike most years, the home is not spoken for.
The Reverie is on the market for $10.975 million
and will be move-in ready in October. It will be fully furnished. Furnishings are by Dare 2 Design. Kitchen appliances are Gaggenau, and the cabinetry is Doca.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a buyer,” Garontakos said.
Outside, there are retractable screens from Zionsville-based Phantom Screens. Landscaping is by P.J.E. Lawn Care & Landscaping.
“All the designers had free reign to show you what they can do,” Garontakos said.
Garontakos said the home is designed for the busy, high net-worth buyers who don’t have time to build a home themselves.
The Agency will use its national and global reach to find buyers. The Agency has 185 locations worldwide.
“We’ve made a name for ourselves in the new construction space,” Garontakos said.
Tours of the 2026 Indianapolis Monthly Dream Home are open this August. Learn more and buy tickets at indianapolismonthly.com/dreamhome.
The Reverie is at 4430 Elmscott Ridge at Holliday Farms. It is more than 11,000 square feet. (Images provided by Scott Bates Custom Homes and Dare 2 Design)
Birdcall eyes franchise locations in Fishers, Westfield, Carmel
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 multi-unit, multi-state 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
restaurant that specializes in chicken. (Photo courtesy of Birdcall)
Livingston, vice president of franchise development. “Nikunj has built an impressive business of his own and shares 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.
DISPATCHES
FHS cheerleader fundraiser set — The fourth annual Fishers High School Cheerleading Golf Outing Fundraiser is set for Aug. 20 at Ironwood Golf Club, 10955 Fall Rd. Funds raised enable the FHS Rally Club to purchase gear, send teams to camps and community events and support the varsity team’s participation in the National Championships. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m., with a shotgun start at 11 a.m.
Beekeepers club — North Central Beekeepers Club meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Cool Creek Nature Center in Westfield, 2000 E. 151st St. Learn more at facebook.com/groups/ncbclub.
Car seat checks — Fishers Police Department offers free car seat checks every other Tuesday morning by appointment, helping parents and caregivers make sure children are riding safely. To schedule an appointment online, visit police.fishersin.gov.
Birdcall is a fast-casual
FULL SERVICE CLEANERS
• Can be used with Sensitive Fabrics
• Removes Oil & Grease
• Aids in removing Water Soluble Soil
• Virtually Odorless
• Compatible with Fabric-Finish Additives
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.
The growth of DF-2000 Fluid has outpaced all of the alternative technologies offered for drycleaning. This is a result of many factors including health, safety and environmental benefits, excellent cleaning performance, proven equipment technology, commercial practicality, and a reduced regulatory burden.
DF-2000 Fluid provides you with the peace of mind that comes from a well-developed, broadly supported technology with a track record of proven performance.
• Proven Cleaning Performance
When used with properly designed processes, additives and equipment, DF-2000 Fluid provides cleaning performance comparable to perchloroethylene.
• Consistent, Premium Quality
DF-2000 Fluid is manufactured and packaged to high standards of consistency and purity to deliver the same high-quality performance time after time. DF-2000 Fluid remains stable through multiple distillation and reclamation cycles.
• Virtually Odorless
Participants at last year’s
Fundraiser to benefit families
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Family Promise of Hamilton County, a Noblesville-based nonprofit that helps families struggling with home insecurity or homelessness, will present its second Foreways For Families golf outing fundraiser Aug. 17 at Fox Prairie Golf Course in Noblesville.
“We held a fundraiser for six years at Top Golf, and we switched it to an actual golf outing last year,” Family Promise of Hamilton County Executive Director Alicia Fleenor said. “We’ve been really successful with making the switch, so we’re excited to keep the ball rolling and, hopefully, have more teams this year.”
Check-in is at 8 a.m., with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Each team will play 18 holes, and lunch is included. Cost is $500 for an individual team, and sponsorship opportunities are available.
Solvents with a higher level of aromatics contain more solvent odor. DF-2000 Fluid has the lowest aromatic content of any HFHC drycleaning solvent.
• Gentle on Dyes, Safer on Trims
The gentle cleaning action of DF-2000 Fluid is safer for most dyes and trims, so you can rely on it to safely clean a wider range of fancy and fragile articles with less risk of dye bleeding.
• Cost Effective
There are no usage, franchise or royalty fees required. In states where a solvent usage tax has been imposed, DF-2000 Fluid is either exempt or the usage tax per gallon is minimal. When coupled with effective processes and additives, labor and production costs are reasonable.
• Proven Equipment Technology
Equipment makers have
• Proven Additive Technologies Detergent and fabric finish additives are essential to provide important
Last year, the organization raised $46,000. Fleenor said this year’s goal is $55,000.
“Our programs support families in preventing evictions, budgeting, education and case management,” Fleenor said. “All of the proceeds go directly toward our programs and assisting families with things like rental assistance, utility assistance and security deposits.”
There will be auction prizes, raffles and giveaways.
“We rely heavily on these fundraising events,” Fleenor said. “The golf outing is our biggest fundraising event of the year, so it really sets the standard and tone for how many families we can serve the following year.”
Registration will close the week prior to the event. For more, visit familypromisehamiltoncountyin.org.
Foreways For Families golf outing fundraiser. (Photo courtesy of Family Promise of Hamilton County)
Local students receive future-educator scholarships
news@youarecurrent.com
Area students studying to become teachers are among the more than 300 recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, a state program that supports future Indiana educators.
The scholarship program was established in 2016 and awards a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 per year — up to $40,000 total — to high-achieving high school and college students who commit to teach in an eligible Indiana school for at least five years.
This year, more than 1,000 students applied, representing more than 300 high schools in 90 of Indiana’s 92 counties, according to a news release.
Local students who were among the scholarship recipients are:
• Claire Huntzinger, Hamilton Southeastern High School
• Claire Roehm, Hamilton Southeastern High School
• Claire Stuber; Fishers High School
• Jeran King, Fishers High School
• Madelyn Miller, Fishers High School
• Sarah Maudlin, Fishers High School
• Hadley Teague, Westfield High School
• Isabella Rangel, Westfield High School
• Julia Brammer, Westfield High School
• Abigail Perkins, Carmel High School
• Kendall Wien, Carmel High School
• Meghan Weishaar, Carmel High School
• Nolan Peterson, Carmel High School
• Addison Thompson, Noblesville High School
• Hallie Martz, Noblesville High School
• Lydia Ertel, Zionsville Community High School
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must graduate in the top 20 percent of their high school class, earn a score in the 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT, or have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship applications for the 2026-27 school year will open in November. For more, visit bit.ly/4fr8xct.
DISPATCHES
Special Olympics plane pull set for Aug. 8 — Special Olympics Indiana will have its 25th annual Plane Pull Challenge Aug. 8 at the Fedex Express World Hub at Indianapolis Airport. The fundraiser for Special Olympics has teams of up to 15 people move an 82-ton Boeing 575. The event is the largest single-day fundraiser for Special Olympics with proceeds benefitting children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The family-friendly event also has music, food, games and other activities throughout the day. The Kids Pull at noon features children ages 12 and younger.
Trivia night to benefit kids — The Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse and Suicide will have a college football-themed trivia night from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 17 at BASH in Carmel. Tickets are $75 and proceeds will support the organization’s prevention education programs with parents, children and youth-organizations and schools. Guests
are encouraged to wear their favorite college team apparel. For tickets, sponsorship information, or to learn more about the center, visit indianaprevention.org.
Grant supports online volunteer hub — United Way of Central Indiana has created a centralized online platform, volunpair.org, where nonprofits can post volunteer opportunities and community members can match their volunteer interests with what’s available. The new website is supported by a $1.3 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.
Concert for a Cure raises funds for Parkinson’s — The third annual Concert for a Cure July 18 raised $105,000, with net proceeds supporting Parkinson’s research through Team Fox and The Michael J. Fox Foundation. This year’s event at Jukebox Cove on Geist Reservoir also marked the foundation’s first boat raffle, sponsored by Indy Boat Co. For more, visit chasingacurepd.org.
A NEW VISION
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A circa-1905 church, one of the oldest remaining churches in Fishers, has been purchased by the City of Fishers for redevelopment.
The approximately 5,000-squarefoot building sits on about .69 acres on Lantern Road off 116th Street, next to the City View development that’s now under construction. Fishers Economic Development Director Megan Baumgartner said the city’s Redevelopment Commission officially acquired the property in January. According to a purchase agreement the commission approved in December 2025, the price was $1.3 million.
Baumgartner said funding came from surplus bond revenue the Fishers City Council allocated to the Redevelopment Commission for land acquisition in the city’s Nickel Plate District. The church’s tenants were given time to move out, she said, noting that the city doesn’t yet have any plans for developing the site.
“Obviously, it’s right next to the City View project, which is really, really big in scale, but adjacent to the District South project,” she said. “Just like with any redevelopment project that we pursue or take on, we want to make sure that it fits the scale and the size and the context, and does something that’s really meaningful for the city.”
There are no plans currently to demolish the church, she said, adding that a new use might even incorporate the existing building.
That would be good news for historian Robert Bowling, who works with the Fishers Historical Society and has written books about Fishers’ history. He said the original 1905 Methodist Episcopal Church building is significant and might be the oldest remaining church in the original city limits of Fishers.
“The Bethlehem church, yes, it is older when you take in all of the City of Fishers (now), but that was its own separate town over there,” he said. “Olio was a town by itself and Olio eventually just got swallowed up.”
Although the ME church building
was completed in 1905, the congregation that built it goes back to Fishers’ founding, he said. Farmer Salathiel Fisher founded the town in 1872, and the ME congregation gathered in Fish-
ers for the first time just two years later, meeting in a schoolhouse and later using the ground floor of a building they shared with the Masonic Lodge.
Bowling said the original 1905 church
THE FISHERS METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
In the 2023 book “Celebrating Hamilton County Indiana: 200 Years of Change,” local historian Robert Bowling wrote that the roots of the Methodist Episcopal Church on Lantern Road can be traced back to 1829 — before Fishers was a town — when services were held in the home of Dorthy Heady.
“(After the town was founded), Reverend D.D. Powell organized an ME church in Fishers, which met in a schoolhouse until 1875,” Bowling wrote. “There were
14 members of the church. The church moved into a two-story building which utilizes the ground floor. The upper floor was used by the local Masonic Lodge as a lodge room.”
Then in 1905, the church moved into its first church building on Lantern Road, which had an auditorium and a Sunday school room. Rev. T.A. Graham was the pastor at the time of the dedication. The congregation later reorganized as a United Methodist Church.
building was a 32-by-50-foot structure with a Sunday-school room.
“It (cost) $3,100 in 1905 and it was dedicated on Feb. 26, 1905,” he said. “In a few years, it was necessary to add two new classrooms and they enlarged the church basement. The colored glass windows were actually donated by members of the church, and then a new dedication was held on July 24, 1927.”
The church bell originally was installed at Fishers Switch High School. Bowling said the Fishers Historical Society was able to facilitate donating the bell to Fishers High School, which has a history display. The city also found buyers for the stained glass windows — some bearing the names of Fishers’ first families, like Fisher, Klepper, Beaver and Castetter.
“We may not be able to save everything, but at least we can save pieces,” Bowling said. “That’s what our goal is — to try to preserve as much as we can.”
Bowling said there was an attempt to get the church listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but the effort didn’t work out. Doing so also wouldn’t necessarily protect the building from potential demolition.
Baumgartner reiterated that the city has no current plans for the building and the city is not in a hurry to develop the site.
“We really are taking our time and wanting to make sure that we’re diligent in what we’re doing and how we fill in this last, kind of critical piece in the transition from the denser, higher or taller buildings of the Nickel Plate District with City View and First Internet Bank down into this village center (area),” she said. “I think that we approach every project and redevelopment within the Nickel Plate District (with) what the overall vision and benefit is to the community, and trying to build or maintain character, if it makes sense, given the context of what that potential use would be.”
ON THE COVER: A circa-1905 church building on Lantern Road close to downtown Fishers has been purchased by the city for redevelopment. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Historic Lantern Road church building slated for redevelopment
(Above) A photo of Fishers Switch High School in 1902 shows the historic bell that was installed at the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1905. (Photos courtesy of the Fishers Historical Society)
(Below)
The bell from the historic church on Lantern Road has been donated to Fishers High School, where it will be displayed.
Apartment complex opening
By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com
A grand opening for Silver Collection at Saxony, a 362-home, resort-style community at 13450 Dockside Dr., is coming up in mid-September as developers finish construction on the apartment complex.
The apartments will have amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness center, resort-style pool, coworking space, pickleball court and steam and sauna facilities. Residents also will have access to a daily complimentary breakfast and events hosted by the complex’s entertainment directors.
In an email to Current, Silver Companies President Spencer B. Silver stated that pricing information was not available, but will be released soon.
“We have set out to deliver the highest-end apartment community coming to the Indianapolis market and we intend to lead that market in both quality and service,” he stated. “Our price points will reflect that caliber of design, hospitality and resort-style living.”
Silver stated that the district and its
values align perfectly.
“The Saxony district is a remarkable community,” he stated. “Republic has done an outstanding job developing the area into a genuine live-work-play environment, with retail, healthcare, entertainment and major industry all in proximity. That kind of thoughtful, long-horizon master planning is exactly what we look for, because it is how we approach our own developments.”
Silver Companies has worked in the Indianapolis area since the 1980s, but the Saxony development is its first apartment complex in Indiana.
“Our hope is that the community loves this one and that they help us find our next location,” Silver stated, adding that the company is serious about being a good corporate citizen. “We believe that wherever we are successful, we owe something back to the community that made that possible. Fishers and northern Indianapolis are already great places to live and work, and our only intent is to add to that.”
A VIP-grand opening is set for Sept. 15-17. For more, visit silvercollectionatsaxony.com.
Area home permits rising
news@youarecurrent.com
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently reported that single-family building permit activity across central Indiana gained momentum through June 2026, defying national trends.
The nine-county region recorded 1,082 permits in June 2026 compared to 952 permits in June 2025, a 14 percent year-over-year increase for the month. Year-to-date totals stand at 5,421 permits compared to 5,256 during the same period last year, a 3 percent overall increase according to a news release.
The National Association of Home Builders reported that 380,130 single-family permits were issued nationwide through May, a 6.1 percent decline compared to the same period in 2025. After tracking nearly even with last year’s pace through May, June’s permit activity pushed the region to a 3 percent year-to-date increase, highlighting continued demand for new housing.
“Central Indiana’s housing market continues to demonstrate resilience
in an increasingly challenging national environment,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock. “While builders across the country continue to navigate affordability concerns, higher construction costs and elevated mortgage rates, our region has maintained steady demand and experienced a strong increase in permit activity heading into the summer.”
As affordability concerns, rising land and material costs and persistent labor shortages continue to pressure builders, BAGI reports that central Indiana’s housing market continues to benefit from strong regional fundamentals, including population growth, a relatively affordable cost of living and sustained demand for homeownership.
By county, June permits totaled:
• Boone: 109
• Hamilton: 366
• Hancock: 103
• Hendricks: 146
• Johnson: 91
• Madison: 26
• Marion: 143
• Morgan: 56
• Shelby: 32
What actually is a stye?
Column by Dr. Kennedy Penny
A stye — also known in medical terms as a hordeolum — is a common, often uncomfortable bump that develops along the eyelid. It occurs when one of the tiny oil glands near the base of your eyelashes becomes blocked and infected.
Although a stye can look alarming, it’s typically harmless and responds well to simple treatments. Still, guidance from an optometrist can make the healing process smoother and help prevent future episodes.
Most people first notice a stye as a tender, red bump that may cause swelling, tearing, itching or a gritty sensation in the eye. In many cases, it resembles a small pimple. Although it can create discomfort, a stye rarely affects your vision. The majority develop externally, at the lash line, but there also are internal styes — on the inner eyelid — that can be more painful and may take longer to heal.
Optometrists play an important role in managing styes. During an eye exam, we evaluate whether the lesion is truly
Community
a stye or another condition that may 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 resolve quickly.
performs 1,000th robotic bronchoscopy
news@currentinfishers.com
Community Heart and Vascular Hospital in north Indianapolis, part of Community Health Network, announced a new milestone in the early detection of lung cancer after performing its 1,000th robotic-assisted bronchoscopy procedure using the Ion Endoluminal System.
Robotic bronchoscopy allows physicians to navigate deep into the lungs with enhanced precision and stability to biopsy small or hard-to-reach nodules, according to the announcement. Earlier and more accurate diagnosis of lung cancer gives patients more options and improves survival rates.
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the dedication of our clinical team and their commitment to detecting lung cancer earlier, when it is most treatable,” stated Dr. Tom Schleeter, vice president, physician executive, CV Product Line. “Each procedure represents a patient who gained access to
Angie Ar-
Program
Dr George Rubeiz, interventional pulmonologist, Dr Walid Hadid, interventional pulmonologist, Stacy Worsham, CHVH surgery manager. (Photo courtesy of Community Health)
advanced diagnostic care at a critical point in their health journey.”
Community Heart and Vascular Hospital is among more than 900 Ion programs across the United States and ranks in the top 50 globally for patient impact and top 10 in the north central region, according to the announcement.
For more, visit eCommunity.com.
Dr. Kennedy Penny works at Little Eyes in Carmel. She earned her Doctor of Optometry from Indiana University in 2023.
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
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.
‘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
‘Weird Al’ concert set
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. 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
COMMUNITY VOICES
Editor,
Beckwith acting against American, Christian values Steinbeck and immigration
In 1936, at the time of the Great Depression, John Steinbeck wanted to know for himself how families who lost everything to dust and drought were treated when they flooded into California for a better life. Some called them “Okies,” while politicians called them “a problem”.
Steinbeck said, “If you want to understand a man’s pain, you have to walk with him in the mud.” So, he disguised himself as a migrant worker living among them, sleeping under the stars, eating scraps and sharing stories.
Each night, he scribbled pieces of dialogue and moments of grace that later became his literary work, “The Grapes of Wrath.” But when it was published in 1939, growers burned the book, politicians called him a liar and churches banned it from shelves. The FBI opened a file on him, calling his work dangerous and un-American.
Steinbeck later won the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize.
Congress has allocated more than $145 billion for ICE operations. It is hardly civil, with razor wire fences, beds on concrete floors, open-air toilets for dozens of people, filthy facilities and limited or spoiled food.
Ninety-five percent of those detained have no criminal conviction or only a minor offense, such as a traffic violation. Americans can hold different views about immigration policy, border security and law enforcement, and all are legitimate matters to debate.
Some Republican leaders claim that America was founded as a Christian nation. Jesus would remind them that every migrant is a human deserving respect and human dignity.
Steinbeck would ask us to understand another man’s pain.
Ron Crawford, Fishers
Editor,
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.
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.
“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.
“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.”
– JANICE ROGER
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 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.
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,
A statement from Mr. Beckwith’s deputy communications director stated, “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
COLUMNISTS ON THE WEB
This week’s commentaries by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker and humorist Dick Wolfsie may be read at youarecurrent.com.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent. com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
14. Mine finds
15. Underwater detection system
16. Colts’ training camp site
18. Prefix with “sound” or “marathon”
19. Streaming delay
20. CTRL-ALT-___
21. A whole bunch
23. Wore away
25. For all of us
26. Blue Jackets’ org.
28. Kind of pool
29. Butler frat letter
30. Chinese “way”
31. Snare
34. At just the right moment
37. Colts’ starting quarterback (barring injury)
39. Ready-made home
41. Heart artery
42. Former Pacer Artest
43. Inactive
45. Dalai ___
49. CPR expert
50. “Gone With the Wind” plantation
51. One who may need technical terms explained
53. “Yer lyin’!”
55. I-465 road sealer
56. Paid player
57. Computer networking giant
58. 16-Across location
61. Like draft beer
62. “Scram!”
63. 317 Charcuterie cheese
64. Flat-topped hill
65. Olden days
66. Part of YMCA DOWN
1. Stereotypical pirate feature
2. Capital of Zimbabwe
3. Fire-breathing monster
4. Indiana tax ID
5. Scooter’s kin
6. Spoken
7. Body of eau
8. Invite to dinner, say
9. Raggedy Ann, for one
10. International pacts
11. Parade honcho
12. Nest egg inits.
15. Bath bubbles
17. JFK’s predecessor
22. Speaker in the Indiana Senate, e.g.
24. Indie Coffee Roasters choice
25. Fashion world exclamation
27. Myrna of “The Thin Man”
29. Indy Fuel playing surface
32. “Wheel of Fortune” purchase
33. Leg bones
35. 37-Across stat
36. Dry and crumbly
37. Drillers and fillers
38. Mayor Hogsett
39. Opposite of post-
40. Lettuce variety
44. Sleepy
46. Electrical measure
47. Large game fish
48. Battery ends
50. Trans Am roof option
51. Geist Coffee order
52. Cartoon bark
54. PU sports org.
55. Romanov ruler
57. Dot follower
59. ___-friendly
60. Letters on an original ThinkPad ANSWERS ON PAGE 23