December 22, 2009

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I won’t be home for Christmas While most are opening gifts and enjoying a day off with family, the rest will be working on Dec. 25

By Kevin Kane Current in Carmel For some people, Christmas is just anot her day.

While most of the country visits with family, opens gifts and celebrates one of the year’s biggest holidays, men and wom en in the health and service fields are on the clock. In their professions, the calendar’s irrelevant, but that doesn’t mean Christm as isn’t celebrated. Each individual finds a way to work around the challenge of work ing on Christmas.

Mark Wooldridge Front Desk Agent, Comfort Suites, Westfield Mark Wooldridge of Carmel has worked six consecutive Christmases at Comfort Suites, and this year will make seven. However, he still finds time to celebrate with his seven-year-old brother – at the expense of sleep.

“I normally get up at 5 a.m.to open presents, go to bed for a little while, then come in later to work that night,” he said.

Aside from opening gifts before dawn, Wooldridge said his typical Christmas includes working a double shift at the hotel and sleeping through breakfast.

“It’s not something I look forward to,” he said. “The only reason I do it is because I’ll make time and a half plus holiday pay.”

e Sergeant John Towl rtment pa Carmel Police De d he’s known for sai e wl Sgt. John To would be working about a year that he but that isn’t new. on Christmas Day, out three years since He said it’s been ab , and while his sehe’s had the day off m uld have allowed hi niority probably co g vin ha year, he said to change that this portant as it used im as ’t the day off isn anymore,” he to be. er it’s not a big deal old are ys bo y m at “Now th just hang out in anyways. They’ll ep sle lly ua us ey said. “Th eet up at wherever en I get off we’ll m wh d an y da e th g durin they’re at.” working on younger, Towle said w When his kids were eps that in mind no e difficult, so he ke Christmas was mor during scheduling. tle kids, running d it when they’re lit un aro g in be iss m “You d. “Some of us will ought them,” he sai br a nt Sa g at wh see out to older. It’s somethin lidays if our kids are ho rk wo es m eti m so s.” ys with younger kid nice to do for the gu

Emily Agness Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurse, Clarian North Medical Center At Clarian North, the nurses are on a rotating, three-year holiday schedule. Among the group scheduled to work this Christmas, is Emily Agness of the NICU. Because of the rotating schedule, Agness said she doesn’t have a normal Christmas tradition with either her family or the Clarian staff when it’s her time to work on Christmas.

She traveled to her home town of Fort Wayne last weekend to see her family, but she’ll miss out on the family’s regular celebration while she’s working her 12-hour shift.

There may not be traditional means of celebrating at the hospital, but Agness said there will be a pitch-in to help make the day a little more special.

“We’ll try to make the difficult situation a little bit better,” she said.

Lieutenant Steve Edwards Carmel Fire Department Lt. Steve Edwards of the Carmel Fire Dept. is the father of a nineyear-old boy and five-year-old girl.

He’ll be working a 24-hour shift on Christmas, unable to spend the day with them, but he said he’s rectified the situation.

“We made an agreement with Santa,” he said. “He knows that he has to come a day earlier because daddy has to work on Christmas.”

The agreement goes way back, as Edwards has years of experience working on Christmas Day. After he opens gifts with his family on Christmas Eve, he’ll come into the station at 7 a.m. for what he hopes is an easy day. One highlight, though, will be a good Christmas dinner. Edwards said the 12-person crew will enjoy steaks that evening, and with it being a holiday, they may be willing to share with the neighboring police department.

Dusty Ramer Registered Nurse, St. Vincent Carmel Hospital When Dusty Ramer of Kokomo isn’t taking care of the sick and injured as an RN at St. Vincent Carmel Hospital, he’s saving lives with the Kokomo Fire Department.

With 18 years’ experience as a firefighter and six as a nurse, he said he’s accustomed to coming in on holidays. nailed with a “Whether it’s this job or that job, I get to happen. g goin it’s lot of holidays,” he said. “I know ?’” work I will ay holid It’s just a matter of ‘Which make just to ed learn he’s s year Ramer said over the staff day’s the ent, Vinc St. At . tion the most of the situa and s, -in item often brings in a ham and other pitch l, everyone can mea p grou a for time no s e’ ther though ughout the thro l find some free time to enjoy the mea shift. ” he said.

“You just have to have a positive attitude, day.” that “Someone has to work Photos by Kevin Kane

2 | December 22, 2009

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Snow days Founded Oct. 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. IV, No. 7 Copyright 2009. Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved.

1 South Range Line Road, Suite 220 Carmel, IN 46032

317.489.4444 Publisher – Brian Kelly brian@currentincarmel.com / 414.7879 General Manager – Steve Greenberg steve@currentincarmel.com / 847.5022 Content Editor – Bryan Unruh bryan@currentincarmel.com / 308.0124 Assignment Editor – Kevin Kane kkane@currentincarmel.com / 496-0020 Associate Editor – Terry Anker terry@currentincarmel.com Art Director – Zachary Ross zross@ss-times.com / 787-3291 Associate Artist – Stefanie Lorenz stefanie@currentincarmel.com / 340.1836 Senior Reporter – Brandie Bohney bbthegrammarguru@gmail.com /260.750.4266 Cartoonist – Tim Campbell tim@currentincarmel.com

OUR VIEWS

It is our position that restrictions on school snow days should be considered with great caution. Believing kids need 180 days of instruction per year to achieve best results, the Indiana Department of Education recently made changes to the school instructional days policies, saying all schools must make up all snow days taken throughout the year, with no waivers accepted from schools in excess of “make-up” days built into many school calendars.

Carmel schools, like many others, have a few built-in calendar placeholders to accommodate these snow days, but we are not prepared to confront the exceptional year. In fact, in the event of a lengthy winter emergency, we could find schools in session well into the summer months and facing enormous budgetary challenges.

School and city leaders must coordinate road crews – accommodating for unusual or difficult topography – and those routes with large boundaries and a scattered population. In light of the new state rules, careful planning and cooperation must occur now before we face the challenge.

Alternatives to a longer year, like a lengthened day, might be considered. But regardless, concerns about extending the school year cannot lead to decisions based in economics or convenience rather than safety.

Tiger by the tail

It is our opinion that we in the media must remain mindful of the higher calling and value of professional journalism and work to avoid the salacious reporting of grocery-store tabloids. With more constant and thorough reporting on the death of Anna Nicole Smith, most Americans know more about her than Nancy Pelosi. And the recent maelstrom launched from Tiger Wood’s mansion has us mistaking the marital crisis of a philandering golf legend as “late breaking news.”

Is such info truly relevant, or have we simply substituted thoughtful consideration of issues with a voyeuristic tendency to celebrate another’s fall from grace?

Woods and others have made themselves and their families, homes and habits into a product. And Woods makes hundreds of millions selling a lifestyle – his lifestyle. Do we have right to know if the “product” works? Perhaps. Even so, we must demand a higher standard – of ourselves and for our readers. Is the price of modern celebrity shared by even innocents in their families? Do we have a right to demand access to the private lives of public figures? Can we lurk in hospitals and stalk loved ones to get an up-close photo of tears? We think not.

Advertising Carmel Sales Executive – Dennis O’Malia dennis@currentincarmel.com / 370.0749 Carmel Sales Executive – Lara Acton lara@currentincarmel.com / 409.1418 Indianapolis Sales Consultant – Kevin Messmer kevin@currentincarmel.com / 513.4359

Business Office Bookkeeper - Deb Vlasich deb@currentincarmel.com / 489.4444 The views of the columnists in Current In Carmel are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

strange laws

CONSTITUTION CLOSEUP

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Our nation has all sorts of arcane, nonsensical laws on the books. Each week, we’ll share one with you.

In California, it is illegal to set a mousetrap without a valid hunting license.

Source: Weird Laws (iPhone application)

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Every week, we will print a portion of the U.S. Constitution, followed by a portion of the Indiana Constitution. We encourage you to benchmark government policies against these bedrock documents. Today: the U.S. Constitution..

Section 8. Continued To establish a uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform laws on the subject of bankruptcies throughout the United States; To coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coin, and fix the standard of weights and measures; To provide for the punishment of counterfeiting the securities and cur-

Current in Carmel

rent coin of the United States; To establish post offices and post roads; To promote the progress of science and useful arts, by securing for limited times to authors and inventors the exclusive right to their respective writings and discoveries; To constitute tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court; To define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high seas, and offenses against the law of nations; To declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make rules concerning captures on land and water;

December 22, 2009 | 3

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Just do it COMMENTARY

By Terry Anker This week, I had occasion to attend the Indiana Humanities Council’s Governor’s Awards for Tomorrow’s Leaders. Each year, the council selects a group of 12 outstanding young (20-something) Hoosier business, political and philanthropic go-getters to recognize (and boost) their considerable commitment to our state and its communities.

As the evening news is filled with stories of kids who will be “tried as adults,” these folks are faith-restoring. Among them are all manner and sort of leader, innovator and entrepreneur. I cannot figure out when these young men and women find time to sleep.

Yet even as others show their tremendous capacity to give, I am considering a reduction in some of the community investments I am making. Earning a living and providing jobs is never particularly easy (and this year has been especially challenging). My own kids desire (and deserve) more of my attention. And it seems to take increasing effort with each passing year to

From the backshop

ensure my pants still fit.

But even as I struggle to juggle the obligations, I hang on to a few guilty pleasures. Is it wrong to reserve time to watch Godzilla movies on Saturday morning in hole-filled college sweat pants when there are open work shifts at the local soup kitchen? Is it better to focus on ourselves and someday leave an enormous estate to charity; or is the more ethical to spend our time and dollars along the way?

Recently, I enjoyed lunch with a good friend (and senior development officer for my alma mater), and we pondered these question questions. Being a wise man and all-around good guy, he responded that either gift is good. “Give as you can … give as you choose,” he said. If you can give more, do. If you can give less, do.

Just give. Good point.

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may e-mail him at terry@ currentincarmell.com.

READERS’ VIEWS

We’re gonna amp it up in 2010!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Hamilton County’s Best Weekly Newspapers™.

It has been a wonderful year here, thanks to all our loyal readers, advertisers and hardworking staff. We’ve grown as an organization, we’ve become more involved in our communities and we’re looking at (being urged is more truthful) expansion into possibly two more markets in 2010. Ideas for future coverage are bouncing around this joint like atoms in a blender. As you may know, our content is research-based, all of it centered on what the readers have told us they want in their own newspaper. So we’re prepared to amp it up even more in the new year. First, we shall take a nap. Enjoy your holidays, be safe, get rested and be well. (We really do mean that.)

••• Remember this next April 15: IRS statistics from 2008 detailing the amount of money federal workers failed to pay the government in taxes showed $3.04 billion is owed by federal employees and retirees from dozens of agencies. Maybe they were too busy counting the generous raises they get every year. Also, according to The Washington Times, some members of Congress splurged with taxpayer money

Brian Kelly & Steve Greenberg on extravagant meals - including a $5,380 dinner enjoyed by House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.) at a Maryland banquet hall.

The newspaper, citing a newly released report by watchdog.org, reported last week that Guam Delegate Madeleine Z. Bordallo racked up the most expensive tab - $6,090 - for a single meal with members of the House Natural Resources Committee. We have to assume grapes had something to do with that tab.

••• CORRECTION: Sen. Harry Reid (D) represents Nevada. An editing error in the Backshop column in Dec. 15 editions resulted in aligning him with another state. We sincerely apologize to all the good folks out in Utah.

Education needed on texting while driving Editor: You did a disservice to all of us in the editorial regarding the law prohibiting teens from texting (“Driving us crazy,” Nov. 10). Your argument seems to be that common sense should lead all of us to not text while driving, so why do we need another law stating the obvious?

If people were self-governing using common sense, we’d need very few laws. You also question targeting teenagers, stating, “We are not convinced texting while driving is of particular risk to those folks.” Of course not. Texting while driving is a danger to all of us. This law was a compromise to get something on the books. I hope to testify to have it further extended.

My husband, George “Terry” Rossman, was

killed in Carmel in 2008 by the actions of two poor drivers (both of whom were middle-aged).

One of the drivers was texting on his Blackberry while driving. Had he not been texting, my husband’s death might have been prevented.

Hood’s lawyer argued texting is no worse than glancing at a billboard. Clearly a lot of education is needed.

If you want to tackle this subject, you need to provide in-depth background, not a toss-off editorial complaining about another law. The use of cell phones in a car, texting or not, hands-free or not, is a danger to us all.

Kathleen Soens Carmel

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and left in recent years. Instead, we received some of the most damaging political policy to ever grace our country.

The mere thought of using this “made-up” money for anything is a guaranteed debt sentence for decades to come. The money should simply be returned to the Treasury and burned. If not, our dollar will continue to weaken, and the foreign ownership of U.S. debt will grow at such a rapid pace that we might never recover.

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December 22, 2009 | 5

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Splitting the holidays – a remedy to family-related stress

DISPATCHES » Christmas Eve services – King of Glory Lutheran Church will hold three different services Dec. 24. The church will hold a family worship at 4 p.m., contemporary candlelight service at 7 p.m. and a traditional candlelight service at 9 p.m.

Woodland gives back – This holiday season, Woodland’s Christmas Club’s 270 volunteers have adopted a total of 226 Hamilton County area families, which include 610 children. The 270 volunteers are giving their time to shop, wrap and deliver all the gifts and food to the families. This is the club’s 24th year.

Candelight service on Christmas Eve – Celebrate the Good News at Carmel Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The candlelight service will feature scripture, song, message and communion. Service begins at 6 p.m. and is geared towards all ages.

Jingle Jump raises $1,000 – On Dec. 8, kindergartners at Primrose School at WestClay jumped at the chance to help their senior friends at The Stratford at WestClay. They tied jingle bells to their shoelaces and jumped to “Jingle Bell Rock” to raise just over $1,000 for arthritis research and education.

Cub Scouts donate to USO – On Dec. 10, Cub Scout Pack 123 donated $1,500 worth of Trails End popcorn to the Indianapolis United Service Organization (USO).

Commentary

By Danielle Wilson Sometimes I am jealous of friends and family who have both sets of parents in town. They get more free babysitting, a stronger showing at Grandparents Day and greater moral support when their 5-year-old takes a header off the monkey bars. My in-laws live here, but my mom and dad are two hours away. And while they’re close enough for weekend visits, they certainly aren’t any good for spontaneous date nights, soccer games or emergency-room runs. Tear.

That being said, I am thrilled that I only have one family nearby around the holidays! I can’t tell you how many people I know who completely stress out come mid-November, not because of the financial strain of presents and parties or the frenzy to find the perfect scarf for their son’s music teacher, but rather because they can’t take the emotional toll that comes from trying to please two sets of parents and siblings.

My husband and I will be enjoying (or perhaps suffering through – only time will tell!) our 14th Christmas as a married couple next week, and we’ve never once had to shuttle back and forth between families during the 48-hour extravaganza that is Christmas Eve and Christmas.

But had my parents lived in the metro-Indy area, we’d have been screwed. Fights over where to spend Christmas Eve (my family is legendary for our post-feast skits, while my husband’s biggest tradition is Brandy Alexanders while reading “The Night Before Christmas”), arguments over which grandparents get to see the kids first on Christmas morning even though they’re running on too little sleep and too much sugar and won’t make for good company anyway (the children that is, not the grandparents), and finally, snide comments about which family is enjoying more quality time with us and which is being shafted (“We just spent eight hours with your stupid brother, and my sister is only in town for another

day! It’s NOT fair!”).

Nope, none of that. We decided long ago to alternate our holidays. If Thanksgiving was to be spent in Indianapolis, than Christmas would be in Louisville, and vice versa the following year.

When our children became too numerous and their gifts too cumbersome to haul (I mean when Santa’s Alzheimer’s kicked in and he couldn’t remember which chimney was Mamaw and Judge’s), we issued an official Wilson proclamation that all Turkey Days would be spent down south (except when one or more parties is in the Caribbean) and all Baby Jesus birthdays celebrated at home.

So this will be my sixth Christmas without my parents and sisters. Does it suck not partaking in Christmas Eve shopping, latenight movie re-enactments and my British brother-in-law's famous roast beef and Yorkshire pudding dinner? Yes. But I wouldn't have it any other way. I get to celebrate Christmas in Kentucky either the weekend before or after Dec. 25, focusing solely on my family, and the kids get an extended gift-giving session. On the real Christmas Day, my husband and I can spend quality time with our kids and his family, knowing our longest commute is the seven minutes to Pops and Grams'.

So good luck to all of you splitting your Holly Days! If at all possible, consider Dec. 24 with one side and the 25th with the other.

Your internal barometric pressure with thank you for it. And a quick note to all you doting grandparents out there: Allow your kids do what’s best for their family and keep the guilt-laden fruit cake stashed in the cellar. Nobody likes that stuff anyway. Peace out!

Danielle Wilson is a Carmel resident and contributing columnist. You may e-mail her at danielle@ currentincarmel.com.

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Carmel Clay Schools names Swensson new superintendent

By Jordan Fischer Current in Carmel Stuart “Jeff” Swensson was named the new superintendent of Carmel Clay Schools Thursday night at a special meeting of the board of education.

Swensson, who has worked as assistant superintendent for the district for two years, will succeed retiring superintendent Barbara Underwood.

“I could not be more pleased,” Underwood said. “He’ll be a phenomenal leader for Carmel Clay Schools, and I’m excited to see it happen.”

Board president Andrew Klein noted that Swensson was chosen from a pool of more than 30 candidates.

“I’m very humbled to be selected, and honored to serve,” Swensson said.

Acknowledging difficulties ahead with budget cuts due to a reduction in state funding, and reaching a contract agreement with the teachers union, Swensson nevertheless maintained a positive stance, citing his goal of creating a “future of consequence for each and every student.”

“I believe that our students are capable of all kinds of great things,” Swensson said. “A future of consequence means having a positive impact, making great decisions and being engaged with our community and nation. Every young person has a future of consequence in them. It’s our job to help bring it out of them.”

Swensson pointed to a The Search for a replacement possible referendum as a means of making up the difference in lost funds 30 candidates applied to be the new head of Carmel Clay from the state.

Schools. Applications came from 13 different states, and of “What the state that group of hopefuls, 12 were interviewed. The field was then has done has dramatinarrowed to six semi-finalists before being reduced to a final cally affected the revenue three: Swensson, Valparaiso Community Schools superintendent streams for schools,” Dr. Michael P. Benway and a third candidate, who withdrew from consideration following a family emergency. he said. “To ensure the preeminence of Carmel Clay Schools, we have to shoulder some of that burden.”

Swensson reaffirmed the academic successes of the school district in the past, and pointed to districts like Newton, Massachusetts, and the New Trier schools north of Chicago as possible waypoints for the future.

“It’s time for us to measure up to schools across the nation,” Swensson said. “I think we have the chops to make it happen.”

Swensson has nearly twenty years of experience in K-12 education. He joined the school district in 2007 as assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and assessment.

Prior to that, he spent fourteen years in the Metropolitan School District of Warren Township in Indianapolis. Swensson holds a Master’s degree in secondary education from Northwestern University and a Ph.D. in social studies education from Indiana University.

Photo by Jordan Fischer

Current Carmel Clay Schools superintendent Barbara Underwood with her successor, Jeff Swensson.

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Carmel student runs to national success

Submitted Photo

Chris Walden, a Carmel High School junior, finished 11th at the 2009 Footlocker Cross Country Championships in San Diego. Walden competed as one of the nation’s 40 best runners.

By Jordan Fischer Current in Carmel Carmel High School has a new AllAmerican athlete in runner Chris Walden.

The seventeen-year-old son of Mark and Kathy Walden finished 11th at the 2009 Foot Locker Cross Country Championships in San Diego. He competed against the top 40 high school runners from across the nation.

“This is probably one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had,” Walden said.

The course was 5 km, or 3.1 mi., and during the race the runners were hit with a rain shower uncharacteristic of the California city.

“It probably helped me, maybe got to some of my competitors’ heads a little bit,” Walden said. “I just know it’s the same for everyone else, not to get too bent out of shape for it.”

Walden was joined in San Diego by his father Mark and his assistant coach, Tito Downer.

“With about 800 yards to go I was starting to die,” Walden said. “(Downer) told me, ‘Gut check! This is the moment you’ve been training for since July!’ He pulled me out of a rut.”

Walden, a junior, has only been running cross country for three years, and has only been on the varsity team since his sopho-

more year, when the team won state. He was encouraged to join the team by former coach Chuck Koeppen. Walden said he’d never gotten a first-place finish, but that didn’t stop him from excelling at the national competition.

“It’s good to know you’re pushing your limits,” Walden said. “At the end of the day, when you put in that work and you do well, it’s a good self-achievement.”

There was only one other runner from Indiana at the national competition.

Nevertheless, Walden said he met people who

may be lifelong friends.

“This is a great thing,” he said. “You come here and you meet 40 other people who are just like you, who have that competitive drive.”

According to Walden, who is also an Eagle Scout, cross country has dominated his time.

He has no regrets, though.

“It’s a struggle sometimes trying to balance it and school,” he said. “It would definitely go back and do it all again though if I had the chance.”

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Clarian North hosts breast cancer survivor celebration

By Kevin Kane Current in Carmel Clarian North brought together breast cancer survivors and their families from all over the state on Dec. 15, but it wasn’t just a gathering.

It was a celebration.

“It’s a really neat event,” said Bonnie Kiefer of Fishers. After undergoing treatment at Clarian, Kiefer said she’s been cancer-free for six months. “(The event) affirms that everything is OK. Sometimes you have those moments where you worry, and I think it’s KENNEDY important to know other people who have gone through it.”

The celebration was the first of its kind for Clarian North, and Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Joy Davis estimated there would be up to 200 total participants during the two-hour event. Dr. Patricia Ray Kennedy, who started the breast cancer treatment program at Clarian in 2005, said getting current patients and survivors together was never even considered until recently.

“After we started having a lot of survivors, we thought ‘Why don’t we get them together to celebrate?’” she said. “This is why I do what I do.

This is why it’s so rewarding.”

Shop Talk Jason “Hogjawz” Peek recalls the chatter from the Main Street Barber Shop

“The novelty’s gone. Now they’re just creepy”

Photo by Kevin Kane

At 6:45 exactly, breast cancer survivors began an unannounced, choreographed dance to the song “I will survive”

At exactly 6:45, the live band stopped playing in lieu of a recording of the song “I will survive.” A few survivors suddenly began a planned, choreographed dance, and about 30 seconds later, the number of in-sync dancers was up to nearly thirty. The “flash-mob” dance was something practiced by the survivors to help celebrate their collective good news.

“The thing about breast cancer survivors is that they lose all inhibitions,” Davis said.

The dance was more than just an expression of joy, though. It was also meant as a message to the attendees who were still undergoing treatment.

“There’s light at the end of the tunnel,” Kiefer said.

COMMENTARY

By Jason “Hogjawz” Peek The latest conversation in the barber shop has been about the statues around the Arts & Design District. I heard people of all ages and towns around us talk about the new statues.

The first thing I hear almost every time is “Well, they were nice at first.” Then it’s followed by “How much did they cost?” and “Where does the money come from?”

Even though the money comes from a special fund people still believe it’s from their tax money. Others say the statues are “creepy” and after you see them they become annoying.

People are most annoyed by the dad pushing his daughter on the bike that makes them slam their breaks or the new police officer that’s always making people stop.

All of people I talked to said the money could have been spent towards something better.

I know they say that the statues can be

resold, but the artist made more than just one, and no one is going to buy a used statue for the price of a new one. Another comment I heard was “Why is the old lady in front of Joe’s Butcher Shop caring bags from stores that aren’t even in Carmel?” The overall consensus of my customers was that there are too many of these statues. I wonder if they know about the others that are stored away and already purchased.

Jason Peek is the owner of the Main Street Barber Shop. Want to tell him what you think? Stop in for a haircut or e-mail him at hogjawz@sbcglobal.net.

Local performers join together to help in Carmel resident’s battle with cancer COMMENTARY By jeff Worrell Last weekend, Carmel resident John Anderson received a treatment aimed at helping him feel better during his battle with cancer. The treatment, not mentioned in any medical textbook or cancer technique seminar, was declared a huge success.

No blood tests or MRI were necessary to interpret the results. John’s smiling face was the proof.

The cancer-fighting, blues-eliminating dose of hope was carefully administered by the talented and compassionate local recording artist Heather Ramsey. Along with a full concert’s worth of performer friends, Ramsey organized Hope For the Holidays to not only help John Anderson feel better, but to help pay for his growing medical expenses.

Friends Helping Friends, a local charity that watches out for those in need, sponsored the afternoon benefit concert. Blair Clark, founder of Friends Helping Friends, performed several holiday favorites, including crowd pleaser “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” as a duet with Heather.

Although John’s illness continues to take a serious toll, he still coaches hard-case drug and alcohol addicts and their families towards recovery. A musician and performer himself, John volunteers his time playing his guitar and ukulele for young children.

Each of the performers held some connec-

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tion to John. Coro Hispano, a Spanish-speaking musical group from Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, showed up in force. John used to volunteer his time playing with the group, and this was their opportunity to support him.

Directed by Rex Rund, John joined in with the group to sing their last number, Eres Tu. As John described it, for him, the song is a musical prayer to God. The number created a lasting memory for many in the audience.

Heather took the lead, but she had lots of help. The Monika Herzig Trio, LemonWheel and Cathy Rund also provided heartfelt performances that delighted the crowd. Working behind the scenes and providing the volunteer energy were Daris Reno, Michelle Krcmery, Christine McKay, April Lyn Ault, Paul Renner and Cheryl and Emma Brewer.

Yes, John is suffering with a disease that is challenging him beyond his imagination. But his spirit is not broken. He offers hope to those around him. It is a lifetime of his special spirit that moved his friends to join together and give an afternoon of hope. Everyone left with a gift.

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Jeff Worrell is a local business owner. He recognizes volunteers on “Connecting with Carmel” on cable channel 16. Contact him at jworrell@advantagemedical.com

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December 22, 2009 | 9

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DISPATCHES » Fair isle sweaters – These sweaters have horizontal bands of geometric patterns, which can be quite intricate. The style originated on a small remote Scottish island of that name, and it has been widely copied. Like many fashion trends, these knits were popularized by the Duke of Windsor. They can be quite charming.

They certainly aren’t macho, having a tweedy, English-schoolboy provenance, but they are popular among well-dressed ski bums and have been worn by rockers over the years.

- www.gq.com » Keeping the peace – Sometimes the best statement you can make at holiday get-togethers is one that keeps the peace.

Regardless of how much you dislike certain co-workers, acquaintances, or relatives, resolve to be the bigger person and put your differences aside for the season. Tell yourself that any and all touchy subjects are off limits. Don’t ignore someone who brings up a touchy subject; just respond neutrally, and then change the subject. Remember your audience, and you can be the hero of the party.

- living.health.com » Hostess gifts – Looking for the best gifts for party hosts? Harper’s Bazaar has put together a list of trendy, tasteful, haute hostess gifts. From Jean Rouget Notecards ($24.95 for 25) to a Dean & Deluca spice rack ($165) to Edwina Hunt carved eggs ($220 - $340), there are stylish gifts for nearly any price range.

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'Who let the dogs out?' Decorating around Fido COMMENTARY

By Vicky Earley I only wish all my clients would come running with such intense enthusiasm that they crash into the door when I ring the bell. I look forward to the day they will cry out for me to hurry up and come in when they see me through the window.

Alas, only the family dog provides such a greeting.

These prepackaged bundles of unconditional love, energy and unadulterated dirt are a mixed blessing. I am, however, a believer that you can live happily ever after with a pet – and have a lovely home, too.

Flooring is probably the first decorating element to consider. How will the material hold up to scratches from nails? How easy is it to clean and maintain? Will the material attract dog hair and odor?

Wood and ceramic tiles are my first line of defense when pets are in the home. Regular cleaning and vacuuming takes care of nearly all the requirements. Of course, wood floors scratch, but a few scratches can provide a warm, stately look in a room! Also, scratches are eliminated when wood is refinished.

When just the ordinary won’t factor.” do...

Another consideration is the “slide Older dogs and dogs with incredible energy are likely to bite the dust with frequency on hard surface flooring. Area rugs can help break the tumble.

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Wool area rugs are excellent choices, because they hide dirt, repel moisture and handle the ongoing abuse of muddy paws. A pattern provides an additional layer of defense by concealing a multitude of doggy sins.

For wall-to-wall carpet, a dense, cut pile, rather than a loop carpet, is best if “Buddy” has long nails. Berber carpet can be a disaster if just one fiber gets loose.

If you’re not willing to trade your golden retriever for a Mexican hairless, furry indiscre-

tions may be your biggest dilemma. If your best friend has nails like needles, a tough textile is in order!

Tight weave blends provide the best defense from a canine assault. I do my own version of a textile stress test in which I scratch, poke and dig at a fabric. Rarely do I chew. If a fabric can withstand this endurance test, it can probably stand up to the worst “Basil” can dish out.

Silk and loose weave textiles are a no-no unless “Barkly” is trained to stay off the furniture and always does as he is told!

Leather is an exceptional choice and works beautifully if fur and dirt are the main concerns.

Leather is easy to clean and disinfect with a mild detergent solution, but it really won’t stand up to sharp nails.

Regardless of material, pattern is the great disguise in the world of pet-friendly upholstery fabrics. If pet hair is an issue, select a fabric color that is close to the shade of Fuffy’s highlights.

Keep these suggestions in mind when making design decisions, and your best friend will be out of the doghouse and into the comfort of your home!

Vicky Earley is the principal designer for Artichoke Designs in downtown Carmel. If you have an interior design question, please contact artichokedesigns@aol.com.

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10 | December 22, 2009

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Christmas vs. Xmas – Maybe the latter isn’t as secular as you thought COMMENTARY

By Brandie Bohney I came across the topic for today’s column when I was baking cookies with some friends. Cookie Day is an annual Christmas tradition for us, and we chat about all sorts of things. This year, I asked for some suggestions for a Christmasspecific grammar column. One friend suggested I write about the use of Xmas instead of Christmas. Another friend explained that X, the Greek letter chi, was used as an abbreviation for Christ dating back to the printing press.

Yeah, my friends are as geeky as I am.

Still, I wasn’t aware of the Greek alphabet argument for Xmas, so I’ve done some digging.

I know some people may believe that a secular world attacking Christian ideals might use such a tactic to remove the religious aspect of the holiday, but the truth is, my friend with a background in Greek was right: X has been used as an abbreviation for Christ for centuries.

In Greek, Christ’s name begins with chi, a letter that looks like the modern English X. Christ in Greek is written cristoV. With the advent (no pun intended) of the printing press, abbreviations in print were fairly common in order to save time and money. Typesetting was a tedious and expensive process, and several

sources indicate that the abbreviation X was regularly used by the church in place of Christ to cut down on printing cost. Xmas, then, became a common way to abbreviate Christmas. At the same time, Xtian became a regular abbreviation for Christian.

So I’d like to set the record straight: While there are probably people or institutions out there who write Xmas instead of Christmas as a way to slight Christians and our beliefs, the abbreviation has a long history beginning with the church itself. So those people are actually carrying on a sort of Christian tradition. Sure, some businesses might use Xmas instead of Christmas in order to use larger letters on the same size of sign or publication, but Christians shouldn’t feel slighted.

And whether it’s written as Xmas or Christmas, the pronunciation should be the same: kris-muhs, not ex-muhs.

Regardless of how you write it, I wish you a blessed Christmas!

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Brandie Bohney is a grammar enthusiast and former English teacher. If you have a grammarrelated question, please email her at bbthegrammarguru@gmail.com.

May the spirit be with you COMMENTARY

By Becky Kapsalis Spirituality is universal and lives within each of our hearts. Religions are territorial. I’ve come to realize religion is our teacher; how we live out our religion is our spirituality.

One definition of religion is to become a believer or join a religious organization and, usually, start to lead a life that follows its teachings.

There is nothing in the definition of religion that distinguishes our spirit (somebody or something that is a divine, inspiring or animating influence).

It moves my spirit to recognize that we are one Universe connected through our hearts.

Our divine influence blessed us with a heart. An organ that none of us could exist without, therefore a divine spiritual connection for all of us to share. We are one Universe. We are one spirit.

The wonderment of all of our spiritual holidays begins with the love within us, from our first heartbeat.

We are taught a religion, but without a heartbeat, we cannot learn. We choose to live a religious life, but without a heart, we cannot

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choose. It is not the intention of our divine influences to divide us, cause wars, pit one religion over another. It is, as I believe, the intent to live amongst one another in peace, teaching our children to believe there comes a greater good from our spiritual influences and that fighting the forces of evil (notice the word evil in devil) as we know exists, is to place spirituality at a higher level for goodness to prevail.

In wishing you a Merry Christmas, I am sharing my heart and my spirit of peace and love with you above and beyond what my religion has taught me. I believe we are of one God, one Universe, one heart, one spirit for justice, peace, freedom and love. May your heart reflect the love, peace and joy of your religious teachings during this spiritual season and throughout the New Year! Merry Christmas!

Hugs!

Becky Kapsalis. aka YiaYia (pronounced Ya-Ya.) is a certified parenting advocate and child behavior coach. You may reach her at 317-848-7979 or e-mail becky@ askyiayia.biz.

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1-888-800-7916 December 22, 2009 | 11

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DISPATCHES » Peppermint Mocha Trio – Want a warm drink to liven up your holiday party? Steam some fresh milk to 150 degrees.

Put 2 tbsp. of bittersweet chocolate syrup and 1½ tbsp of frosted mint syrup in a mug. Add 2 shots of espresso, and mix well. Then add the steamed milk, leaving ½ inch of space at the top of the mug. Top with whipped cream. Leave out the espresso for a minty hot cocoa.

- editors.familyfeatures.com

» Hate gift tags? – If you dislike gift tags or trying to sort through the gifts to find which belongs to whom, consider colorcoding your gift wrapping. Each family member gets packages wrapped in a certain color or wrap. No tags are necessary, and it will be easy to determine who gets which gift.

- www.marthastewart.com

» Pop the cork – You don’t have to pop expensive champagne to enjoy the celebration. Consider instead one of these bargain bubblies: • Segura Viudas NV Brut Reserva, Spain ($9) • Gruet Brut NV, New Mexico ($14) • Paul Cheneau "Lady of Spain" Cava, Spain ($15) • Zonin Prosecco, Italy ($12) • Mionetto Prosecco Brut, Italy ($13) - www.delish.com

12 | December 22, 2009

Miniatures museum displays ‘Scenes for Dreams’

By Arika Herron Current in Carmel The holidays are fast approaching, but it isn’t too late to have a little holiday fun in the Carmel Arts and Design district.

The Museum of Miniature Houses and other Collections has a special holiday display up as part of its winter collections.

The museum, which exhibits miniature houses, room boxes, vignettes and other small collectibles throughout the year has several seasonal collections. This winter they are “Scenes for Dreams,” a collection of bedroom room boxes and vignettes and Christmas displays, including stained glass miniatures.

The addition of a large room on the Main Street side of the museum did put the Christmas decorating behind schedule, but board member Marilyn Schaefer said there is still plenty of holiday spirit.

“There’s a gingerbread house in the front window and two or three room boxes or houses that are decorated for Christmas,” Schaefer said. “We’ve just been able to get into the new addition so we haven’t been able to get out as much as we will next year.

“But no one has missed how many Christmas houses there are. I don’t think anyone would be disappointed or think it isn’t ‘holiday’ enough.”

In fact, the whole museum has been decorated for Christmas in preparation for the Candlelight tour, which was held Dec. 12. The museum had close to 80 guests for the event, and was able to show off the new addition.

The new space will mostly act as a large display room with rotating exhibits, but the main space will be left open, Schafer said, to allow the museum room for special events like the candlelight tour, board meetings and their Girl Scout program.

“The museum hasn’t been able to handle [large groups] well until now,” she said.

Photo by Arika Herron

The recent addition to the museum, shown above, displays a miniature gingerbread house in the window.

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Views | Community | Panache | Education | Diversions | Dough | Anti-Aging | In Spirit | Relationships | Toys | Laughs | Inside & Out | Classifieds Where I Dine

Vito L. Ruggieri Co-owner of Italia Mia Ristorante Where do you like to eat?

Maneki Neko What do you eat there? The Spicy Tuna Roll or the regular sushi rolls What do you like about Maneki Neko? They're very friendly. It's comfortable, and the prices are fair.

Maneki Neko 2009 E. Greyhound Pass, Suite 8 Carmel, IN 46033 317-844-0702

RESTaurant

Charleston's

There are only 12 Charleston’s locations nationwide, and two of them are in Indiana – Castleton and Westfield. As a chain of restaurants within a privately owned company, Charleston’s is able to offer its customers the quality and service of a small, local restaurant while keeping prices consistent with larger national franchises.

The restaurant prides itself on offering madefrom-scratch American favorites, using fresh ingredients. Menu prices range to fit any budget, but the taste and quality of the food is consistently good throughout. With unique sandwiches and trademark soups, Charleston’s is a popular stop for a quick, quality lunch, but the specialty entrée items including baby back ribs, hardwood-grilled steaks and fresh-caught fish keep patrons coming back for dinner as well.

One other noticeable difference between these restaurants and their casual dining competitors is the atmosphere. While others have random room décor, loud music and wall-to-wall TVs, Charleston’s uses candlelight, soft music and a fireplace for a dining experience that truly is casual.

14636 US Highway 31, Carmel, 46032 Phone: (317) 846-5965 Hours: Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

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Sometimes I come close

COMMENTARY

By Chef Michael R. Vlasich Down to the wire, hustle here and bustle there. Like most, I run around for last-minute Christmas needs to complete the list and make loved ones happy.

We particularly agonize over our spouse, knowing one wrong item will make us pay dearly far into spring. This year, my beloved spouse is away for the holidays on a cruise with her parents.

Over the years, she has impressed upon me that gifts with “meaning” are the real desire of every fair maiden. This year, I believe I finally got what she meant. Her favorite bath amenities are a blend using lemon verbena. So why not get her some travel-sized items for her trip – and dedicate this column to lemon verbena? How is that for “meaning?”

Lemon Verbena originated in Argentina and Chile, and it was brought to Europe and America in the 1700s by Spanish explorers. It was originally imported for the lemon scent and as a landscape shrub that was easily shaped into decorative foliage. It was fully embraced in the colonial Deep South, traditionally on plantations for its beauty and aroma; however, it can not survive winters and so was less common in the north.

The entire plant has use – the leaves, stems, and flowers all make a variety of products like teas, medicines and fragrances found in bath amenities and home cleaning supplies.

Currently, popularity is at a peak. I know one homeopathic-type granola-head who swears by using it in breads and teas, homemade soap and laundry detergent.

So tell me, is there a better gift to my wife than the full line of bath amenities with knowledge of its origin and uses? Knowing the answer, I formulated a back-up plan and purchased a piece of art I knew would heighten her appre-

lemon verbena granita

ciation of “meaning.”

Hope you fare well this holiday season in your choices of gifts. Included is a great recipe for lemon verbena granita.

Chef Michael R. Vlasich, CEC, AAC, is a Carmel resident and the executive chef at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. You may e-mail him at chefmichael@ currentincarmel.com

Ingredients: • 2 cups lemon verbena leaves (rinse and pat dry) • 1 cup fine cane sugar (not granulated) • 1 large lemon washed, zest the rind (save on the side) • 1 tbsp. lemon vodka Directions: In a Cuisinart, blend the leaves with sugar and half the lemon zest until a fine powder. Place in a freezer-proof glass bowl, squeeze all the juice from the lemon and add the vodka, stir until blended. Next, add 2 ½ cups warm water, stir until the sugar is dissolved, place the covered bowl in a refrigerator for three hours. Remove from the refrigerator and strain the mixture. Place the bowl of liquid in the freezer, remove every hour, and use a fork to scrape the side, mixing vigorously from the outside in (mixing and in cooperating air). Repeat the process until fully frozen like an icy (approximately 10 times, depending on the freezer). Ice-cream maker could be used to produce sorbet.

Cocktail

mojito Ingredients: • 12 whole mint leaves, plus a few extra for garnish • 1 1/4 oz. Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum • 1 tsp. sugar • 1/2 oz. lime juice • 2 oz. soda water Directions: 1. Place mint leaves in bottom of glass.

2. Add crushed ice, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, sugar and lime juice, and muddle.

3. Add soda water, and garnish with mint leaves.

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Current Publishing Holiday Party

On Dec. 10, Current Publishing held its annual Christmas party. This year, the event was held at Loon Lake Lodge in Castleton and was attended by staff, advertisers and other friends.

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1/3/10

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1. Sue Finkam of Clarian and John Pacilio of ReMax. 2. Tim Wright. 3. Roger Huntzinger, publisher of The Southside Times, Current Publishing's Brian Kelly and Currentoonist Tim Campbell. 4. Gary Frey of American Insurance Solutions, Jeff and Shari Worrell of Advantage Medical. 5. Alex and Alla Morozov of Swan Software Solutions. Photos by Karl Ahlrichs.

14 | December 22, 2009

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Christmas at the Ankers’

Up in the Air

‘Up in the Air’ and its star Clooney top critics list COMMENTARY

By Christopher Lloyd The Indiana Film Journalists Association, an organization of journalists dedicated to promoting quality film criticism in the Hoosier State, named “Up in the Air” as Best Film of 2009 in its first-ever annual film awards.

The group of nine regional film critics also tabbed “Up in the Air” as Best Screenplay and Best Actor for George Clooney.

Winners were declared in 12 categories, with a runner-up in 11 categories. In addition, 10 movies (including the winner and runner-up) were recognized as finalists for the top prize, Best Film of the Year.

“Where the Wild Things Are” received two awards, Best Director Spike Jonze and the Original Vision Award. The Original Vision Award recognizes a film that is especially innovative or original.

Carey Mulligan was named Best Actress for “An Education.”

“Fantastic Mr. Fox” was named Best Animated Film, “The Cove” Best Documentary and “Sin Nombre” Best Foreign Language Film.

1 Fantastic Mr. Fox Doug Jones, Morgan Mead and David Hamilton were honored with The Hoosier Award for their work on “My Name Is Jerry,” a film shot in and around Muncie and partially funded by Ball State University. The award recognizes a significant cinematic contribution by a person or persons with Indiana roots To be eligible, a film must have played theatrically in Indiana during the 2009 calendar year, screened to state critics in advance of a 2010 general release date, or play in a Hoosier State film festival such as Indianapolis International Film Festival or Heartland Film Festival.

Christopher Lloyd is a member of the Indiana Film Journalists Association and a weekly contributor to the Current in Noblesville.

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FIlms honored by the Indiana film Journalists Association Best Film of the Year Winner: “Up in the Air” Runner-up: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” Best Animated Film Winner: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” Runner-up: “Up” Best Foreign Language Film Winner: “Sin Nombre” Runner-up: “Welcome” Best Documentary Winner: “The Cove” Runner-up: “Anvil! The Story of Anvil” Best Screenplay Winner: Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner, “Up in the Air” Best Director Winner: Spike Jonze, “Where the Wild Things Are”

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Best Actress Winner: Carey Mulligan, “An Education” Best Supporting Actress Winner: Mo’Nique, “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Best Actor Winner: George Clooney, “Up in the Air” Best Supporting Actor Winner: Christoph Waltz, “Inglourious Basterds” Original Vision Award Winner: “Where the Wild Things Are” The Hoosier Award Winner: Actor Doug Jones, director Morgan Mead and screenwriter David Hamilton for “My Name Is Jerry”

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5 1. An overhead shot of the Dec. 12 Christmas Party hosted by Terry and Carolyn Anker. 2. Cameron and Lisa McGuire, Ellen Rosenthal and Ted Logan. 3. Carolyn Anker, Art Fisher and Kodie Bonebrake. 4. Erica and David Leazenby, Barbara and Ron Carter. 5. Vicky and Chris Talle, Terry Anker and Mayor Jim Brainard.

Photos by Karl Ahlrichs.

Current in Carmel

December 22, 2009 | 15

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THEATRE

MUSIC Musical grand opening

‘The Wizard of Oz’

Indianapolis Civic Theatre’s signature holiday extravaganza “The Wizard of OZ” returns to the stage for the holidays through Jan. 3. Directed by Civic Director of Music & Education Brent E. Marty and choreographed by Rory D. Shivers, the show will feature more than 40 munchkins, lavish sets, amazing special effects and all of the well-loved songs from the film. This year marks the 70th Anniversary of the popular MGM movie that made Judy Garland famous.

For more information, visit www.civictheatre.org.

‘A Christmas Carol’ at the IRT

The IRT brings “A Christmas Carol” back to the main stage for the 14th consecutive year. The play runs through Dec. 27. Tickets for this St. Vincent Health-sponsored event start at $25. Call 317-635-5252 for details.

A Beef and Boards Christmas

LIVE MUSIC

Anna Lasbury, 12, a seventh-grader at Carmel Middle School, is the featured young performer in A Beef & Boards Christmas 2009 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. On stage through New Year's Eve, the performance features singing, dancing, a salute to the military, a live Nativity, and a special segment for children. Call 317-872-9664 for ticket information.

Lambert's Lowrey Organ Center will hold a musical grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 7 to celebrate the move to Noblesville Square Shopping Center. Artist Lori Graves will perform mini-concerts at 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m. All are welcome. For more information call 317-773-2002.

ART

Mickey’s Irish Pub

The following musical acts will be playing live at Mickey’s Irish Pub,13644 N Meridian, Carmel. For more information, call 317-573-9746: Dec. 26: Toy Factory Dec. 31: Bunny Brothers Jan. 2: C.W. & The Working Class Trio Jan. 8: Pack of Chihuahuas Jan. 9: Twisted Gold Jan. 15: Endless Summer Band Jan. 16: Soul Street Jan. 22: Living Proof

Mo’s Irish Pub

Native contemporary art

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art will present its biennial Eiteljorg Fellowship for Native American Fine Art through Jan. 18. The sixth cycle of the initiative features an exhibition of artwork, called Art Quantum.

The following musical acts will play live at Mo’s Irish Pub, 13193 Levinson Lane in the Hamilton Town Center, Noblesville. For more information, call 317-770-9020.

Dec. 26: Aberdeen Project Dec. 31: TBA

My Kid Can Paint That!

Magdalena Gallery of Art in Carmel is presenting this art show, displaying artwork by local kids. Opening night was Nov. 21. All artwork is available for sale, ranging from $100 to $150. Call 317-8440005 for details.

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Ten percent (10%) down, 24-month term, 750 credit score to qualify. In-stock units only. See dealer for complete details.

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Views | Community | Panache | Education | Diversions | Dough | Anti-Aging | In Spirit | Relationships | Toys | Laughs | Inside & Out | Classifieds Book OF THE WEEK

RECIPE

The Girls’ Guide to Hunting & Fishing

GARLIC AND HERB ROASTED PRIME RIB

By Melissa Bank

Ingredients: • 1 prime rib, no less than 4#, de-boned and tied • Paste uses …

• 2 tbsp. fresh ground black pepper • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary • 3 tbsp. granulated garlic • 3 tbsp. kosher salt Directions: • Let prime rib come to room temperature for an hour.

• Make paste using above ingredients.

• Rub paste onto meat.

• Bake at 500 degrees for 5 minutes • Turn heat down to 325 • Cook for 20 minutes per pound for rare to medium rare. If the roast is over 6 lbs., cook for 25 minutes per pound.

Allison Campbell is the executive chef at Harvest Fresh Market.

You may e-mail her at allison@ theharvestfreshmarket.com.

A series of tightly interlinked stories follows Jane Rosenal through several failed love affairs, a career crisis in publishing and the death of a loved one. The reader first meets Jane as a precocious teenager observing her brother’s relationships. After a few failed relationships of her own, Jane decides that she can’t trust her own wisdom and instead buys the guidebook, “How to Meet and Marry Mr. Right.” But when she does meet Mr. Right, following the book’s advice produces all the wrong results.

Bank’s debut collection is a warm, funny read. Readers will be quickly drawn in by Jane’s wit and charm and will root for her throughout. “A Girls’ Guide to Hunting and Fishing” is a fun, quickly paced book that would make a good beach read. But it can also be appreciated for its deeper insights on life, maturity and relationships.

Reviewed by Katie Buck CCPL Readers’ Advisory Librarian Visit the Carmel Clay Public Library’s Web site at www.carmel.lib.in.us for more book reviews.

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December 22, 2009 | 17

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Ricotta, lemon give holiday pancakes a delicious twist

By Molly Herner Current in Noblesville Christmas morning is such a special and unique time for each family. My family traditionally had a huge Christmas breakfast with baked cheese grits, pancakes or waffles, bacon, sausage and plenty of strong coffee.

Now that I have a family of my own, however, I am going to start our own Christmas breakfast tradition this year.

My daughter loves cake of any variety, so I think fluffy ricotta pancakes with plenty of syrup and bacon sounds like the perfect Christmas morning breakfast for her.

This is a great pancake recipe for any morning occasion or especially on Christmas morning.

Start with a basic pancake mixture and add ricotta cheese and fresh lemon zest for a delicious twist on an everyday pancake.

Molly Herner, is the baker/pastry chef at Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano. You may email her at odette05@aol.com.

Ricotta and lemon pancakes Directions: 1. Sift together flour and baking soda in a bowl 2. Whip 3 eggs, 1/2 cup sugar and almond extract in a separate bowl with hand-mixer or tabletop mixer together until light and fluffy.

3. Grate the zest of 1 lemon using a microplane or fine grate cheese grater. Add the zest into the egg-sugar mixture. (Omit this step if you don’t like lemon).

4. Slowly sift the flour and baking soda mixture into the egg-sugar mixture. The batter should thicken a bit, it should be pourable at this point.

5. Add about a 1/4 up of heavy cream or whole milk or buttermilk -- whatever you prefer.

Reduced-fat or skim milk can be used, too, but it will make the batter very thing.

6. Add a hefty spoonful of ricotta cheese and a pinch of salt and blend thoroughly.

7. Set your griddle or pan to medium heat and melt butter or use vegetable oil.

Remember butter burns very quickly so use a lower heat with it. The first pancake is always the practice one to make sure your heat is precise. Adjust your heat up or down after the first pancake and remember to re-oil your pan before each pancake.

Ingredients: • 1 cup flour • 1/2 cup of sugar • 1 tsp baking soda • Pinch of salt • 3 eggs • Heavy cream or whole milk • 1/4 tsp of almond extract • The zest of 1 lemon • 1 hefty spoonful of ricotta cheese

Get outta town

DOn’t lOse yOur health BenefIts!

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Getting there: Take I-69 north to I-75, then north to Exit 136, then east and north on Mich. 54 and Mich. 83. About 312 miles, 5 hours.

Info: www.frankenmuth.com, (800) 386-8696.

What: They say that “No Town Wears Winter Like Frankenmuth,” and warmhearted Frankenmuth residents and more than 150,000 visitors seem to support that claim when they check out the annual Zehnder’s Snowfest. At the center of the five-day event Jan. 21-26 is snow sculpting and ice carving competition, with teams ranging from local amateurs to international experts competing for cash prizes. Kids can get in on the snow sculpting, and there’ s also a play area and petting zoo. Michigan’s “Little Bavaria” was founded in 1845 by a group of German Lutheran missionaries seeking to teach Christianity to the Chippewa Indians.

Nearly 5,000 people live there, preserving the German heritage in Bavarian-style homes and farmhouses. Town shops sell fudge, cheeses, sausages, jams and jellies, clocks, beads, Michigan wine and wool

18 | December 22, 2009

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Ice sculptures by international carvers highlight the annual Zehnder’s Snowfest in Frankenmuth, Mich.

and leather goods. The most famous shop is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, featuring more than 50,000 ornaments, trees, Nativity scenes, collectibles and a half-mile, lightfilled Christmas Lane.

Current in Carmel

Busby eye Care Kathleen I. Busby, O.D. 16409 Southpark Drive Westfield, IN 46074 (317) 896-5005

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Five tips from the kitchen

DISPATCHES » Income tax planning for women – Susan of Somerset CPAs will present the basics of individual income taxes with particular focus on income and adjustments, Jan. 14 from 8:15 to 10 a.m. at the Somerset Conference Center, 3925 River Crossing Parkway in Indianapolis. » Carmel Chamber Look Award – On Dec. 9, the Carmel Chamber presented the Look Award to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church for New Construction and Chateau Design Centre for Renovation. The award is presented to organizations that improve the overall look of the community. » 10 strangest mutual funds 1. Congressional Effect Fund (CEFFX) 2. StockCar Stocks Index Fund (SCARX) 3. The Blue Chip Winery Fund 4. Herzfeld Caribbean Basin Fund (CUBA) 5. Marketocracy Masters 100 Fund (MOFQX) 6. Vice Fund (VICEX) 7. Monetta Young Investor Fund (MYIFX) 8. Timothy Plan Aggressive Growth Fund (TAAGX) 9. Adaptive Allocation Fund (AAXCX) 10. The Women’s Leadership Fund -moneycentral.msn.com

• • • • • • •

COMMENTARY

By David Cain It’s the holiday week for many. As I reflect on entertaining the family, I think some lessons from the kitchen will transfer to your professional life. When it comes to marketing, consider these five lessons from the heart of the house and their relationship to a business.

1. Get a recipe. You can’t make a sterling meal without a plan.

I’m a big fan of ad-libbing, but I also know the true secret to a good meal is a plan, even if you like to pretend you just came up with it.

2. Try new things and cook for your guests. While a recipe is a great starting point, it should be that – a place to start.

Don’t be afraid to explore. I substitute red things with other red things and green things with other green things. I leave out what I don’t like and replace it with things I do like.

And it usually tastes better. I also ask my guests if there are things they don’t like. There’s nothing worse than trying to serve meat to a vegetarian or filling the entree with onions for a group that hates those layered tear-makers.

3. Don’t have too many chefs. Not everything has to be solitary, but at the end of it all, someone has to take responsibility. I can hear my aunt now, “This is my kitchen, so if you are going to help, you’ll do what I say.” Nothing beats the sounds

of collaboration when they are doing what you want.

4. Buy good ingredients. The old adage holds true in the kitchen: You get what you pay for. The ingredients are foundational to the outcome. If you buy cheap things, your outcome will disappoint. I’m not suggesting, however, that more expensive things are always better, or that you shouldn’t be frugal. But I have found that when you buy your steaks from a farmer, they taste better.

5. Serve an experience. There are more senses than just taste.

Be sure you hit as many as you can – the smell, the appearance, the sounds – it’s all important. You are providing an experience for your guests, not just a meal. Turn off the television and put on some music. Create an escape. Create an experience … for them.

Marketing is a lot like entertaining; it’s best with a loose plan mixed with a lot of spirit (and sometimes spirits help too). As you entertain and engage this holiday season, reflect on how your hospitality might serve your business well too.

David Cain works at MediaSauce, a digital media and online marketing company in Carmel. David welcomes your questions or comments at David.Cain@MediaSauce. com.

Marketing is a lot like entertaining; it’s best with a loose plan mixed with a lot of spirit (and sometimes spirits help too).

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“John tailored a plan that works for me and continually coaches and encourages me to stay on the program. I crawled in after 12 years of no exercise with the goal of losing a few pounds and maybe improving my overall fitness. I have type 2 diabetes and a family history of heart disease. Suffice to say John is a life saver. I have been in the gym 3x week with John doing cross training, cardio and core and weight training. My wife says my energy level is up 20X :) my blood sugar is normal, my meds are being reduced and I have lost 4 inches, had to get my suits redone!” -Josh “My results have been more than I expected. During my first 6 weeks, I lost 16 pounds, 10 inches and a good percentage of body fat. I feel better and look better. I would recommend Paradise Personal Training to anyone looking to lose weight and improve their health!” -Valerie

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December 22, 2009 | 19

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MONEY MATTERS At what age did you get your first bank account?

“I think I was probably around 16. It was a savings account.”

Jennifer Derksen Carmel

“I think I was 17. I got a checking account for college.”

Joann Ogle Carmel

“I was 18, because it was when I was going off to college. I opened a checking account.”

Kevin Ballard Carmel

NOW OPEN

WHAT’S IT WORTH

Prosthetic denistry north

MY OPINION

Dr. Carmen Y. Páez de Mendoza can do more than the average dentist. She went through an additional three years of schooling to become a specialist in cosmetic dentistry. After years of teaching others the trade at the Indiana University School of Dentistry at Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis, she decided to open her own practice in mid-August.

At Prosthetic Dentistry North, patients can come in for essentially any dental needs. Not only are Páez de Mendoza’s specialty services ofPáez de Mendoza fered, such as veneers, crowns, bridges and implants, but she also performs routine cleanings and the standard services available at any other practice. In a new office, located around 157th St. and Gray Rd., Páez de Mendoza is able to assist each of her patients using the latest technologies.

But just because the board-certified doctor can do many things doesn’t mean that her patients get lost in the shuffle.

“I’m a specialist,” she said. “I don’t like bulk. I like to be able to get to know my patients.”

Owner: Dr. Carmen Y. Páez de Mendoza, DDS, MSD, FACP Address: 4728 Limerick Drive Suite A Phone: 317-581-1280

$

650K

Type: Traditional Age: Built in 2001 Location: 14015 Brookstone Dr. in Carmel Square footage: 5,972 Rooms: Five bedrooms, four Full and one half baths, great room, dining room, kitchen, nook, den, hearth room, home-theater area, four-car garage Strengths: Great neighborhood, walk-out lower level, tree-lined backyard, in-ground pool Weaknesses: Not as much privacy in the winter due to fallen leaves, needs some minor updating

Keith Albrecht is a Carmel resident and realtor with RE/MAX Real Estate Groups. Contact him at 317-819-3388 or Keith@ KeithsHomes.com.

1-866-815-1000 20 | December 22, 2009

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DISPATCHES » Clarian North resumes normal visitation – Effective Dec. 11, Clarian North resumed normal visitation hours, after restricting them in October to prevent the spread of H1N1. All hospital units, with the exception of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), are again open to visitors around the clock. Visitors will continue to be screened for signs and symptoms of illness according to hospital visitation policy. » Alcohol and pain relief - In general, the safest pain reliever for older adults is acetaminophen, or Tylenol. However, acetaminophen carries a warning against taking it while drinking more than three alcoholic drinks a day. This is because excessive alcohol consumption damages the liver, and acetaminophen may not be safe for those whose livers are impaired.

Unfortunately, aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are not necessarily any safer.

In short, level with your doctor about your alcohol intake when discussing pain relievers.

- health.msn.com » Clarian's Smirz appointed to licensing board – Clarian North's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lynda Smirz, was appointed to the Indiana Medical Licensing Board by Governor Mitch Daniels on Dec. 14. She is the SMIRZ first female in Indiana to sit on the board since the 1980s.

Proper procedures key in cosmetic surgery COMMENTARY

By Dr. Barry Eppley Some may have read the recent story of a 38-year-old ex-Miss Argentina who died from complications after undergoing plastic surgery on her buttocks. Solange Magnano, who won the crown in 1994, died of a pulmonary embolism three days after having buttock augmentation in Buenos Aires.

For many, this tragic story points to the inherent dangers of cosmetic surgery. There is some truth to that perception. Surgery of any kind always involves some risk. The potential for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolus has become a big prevention emphasis in any kind of surgery.

But Magnano did not die from a vein-clot related pulmonary embolism. Closer inspection of this story shows that she died from a lung embolus, which resulted directly from what was injected into her.

When I first read this story, I thought she

www.youarecurrent.com

Almost every one of these tragic stories ends up showing some breach of the known standards of care. Whether how the surgery was performed, by whom, or in what type of setting and circumstance, violating established methods and standards of care can have catastrophic results.

Cosmetic surgery is real surgery, and there are no shortcuts. Sacrificing safety for what appears to be easy and quick has not proven to be a good tradeoff.

Outside the United States, there are few rules governing what “cosmetic doctors” do. In the United States, the plethora of regulations and training requirements for plastic surgeons, while certainly contributing to costs, go a long way toward a much safer experience.

Dr. Barry Eppley is a certified plastic surgeon at Ology Medical Spa in Carmel. You may reach him at info@ currentincarmel.com.

Cosmetic surgery is real surgery, and there are no shortcuts. Sacrificing safety for what appears to be easy and quick has not proven to be a good tradeoff.

Fine Lines, Inc. Terry

aliSSa

BeTH

» Indulge – Up to 97% of women experience cravings, and chocolate is the most common and “intensely” craved food, according to a recent study. Having an occasional small serving of a favorite treat is better than depriving yourself, which may lead to a binge. Dark varieties are more satisfying than milk chocolate, say scientists at the University of Copenhagen, but measure your portion, and be mindful when you eat. Slowly savoring one or two squares of a high-quality dark chocolate bar will satisfy a craving more than wolfing down M&Ms in front of the TV. - www.prevention.com

died from a fat embolus from having had buttock enlargement by fat injections. It is rare, but fat emboli have been reported to occur from liposuction and fat injections. But when pictures showed how thin she was, it became obvious that she did not have enough fat to use.

What was not printed was that a liquid filling material containing tiny beads was used. Such a material is used here in the United States for facial injection purposes, but never anywhere else in the body. With thousands of beads and clumps of beads injected, it would be very easy for some of them to get into the larger veins in the buttock – and to be transported through the heart and into the lungs. Such a risk does not exist in the face, where such materials were developed and intended for use.

What does this story tells us about the risks of cosmetic surgery? Does it indicate cosmetic surgery is inherently dangerous? The answer is no – when done under the proper circumstances with good medical judgment.

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Carmel Chamber of Commerce members can receive special members-only discounts on Health Insurance. Contact Wharton Insurance for more information.

Scott M. Wharton, LUTCF 3091 E. 98th St., Suite 150 Indianapolis, Indiana 46280 (317) 663-4138 www.wifsinc.com

Scott Wharton is a registered representative with and securities are offered through LPL Financial, 9785 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, CA, 92121-1968, USA (800) 877-7210. Member FINRA/SIPC...

Wharton Insurance and Financial Services, Inc., and LPL Financial are independently owned and operated. The information set forth herein has been derived from sources believed to be reliable, but it is not guaranteed as to accuracy and does not purport to be complete analysis of the securities, companies or industries involved. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of LPL Financial. Additional information is available upon request.

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December 22, 2009 | 21

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Dealing with sun spots on the skin COMMENTARY

By Dr. Jodie R. Harper and Dr. Angela Corea Age spots, liver spots, sun spots, solar lentigenes. If you have neglected sunscreen and worshiped the sun instead, you may have a few of these sun spots on your face, neck and hands.

These spots are the result of over activity of pigment-manufacturing cells (melanocytes), usually caused by sun damage decades ago.

Some people have extra melanocytes and a greater occurrence of problematic pigmentation.

Exposure to the sun, heat, trauma and hormonal shifts contribute to the production of melanin in disorders such as pigmented scars, melasma or sun damage.

Hydroquinone, which has been used in cosmetics for more than 40 years, is the most effective topical solution. It does not “bleach” the skin, but prevents the production of extra melanin. It is deemed safe under the supervision of a physician at the strengths necessary to fade these problem pigmented spots.

Using sunscreen every day and avoiding unnecessary sun exposure will prevent further damage and also allow your skin to repair itself.

Be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Your skincare specialist can suggest the most effective products on the market.

Solely using topical products to fade these spots and sun damage can take quite some time to correct, so complementing topical treatment

with procedures like chemical peels and lasers can be dramatic. Cutera Limelight/IPL, Pearl and Pearl Fractional treatments can have extraordinary effects on pigment disorders in just one or a few treatments.

Forming an individualized treatment plan is most important, as each patient’s pigment disorders and extent of sun damage is quite unique.

Winter is the perfect time to treat. See your skincare specialist for a plan that works for you!

Dr. Jodie R. Harper is boardcertified in internal medicine, geriatrics and wound care. Dr. Angela Corea is board certified in internal medicine. They are the medical directors at ClarityMD. They can be reached at info@claritymd.com or 317-571-8900.

High-protein harm?

Head off your headache When you’re stressed or anxious, you subconsciously clench your jaw and teeth; this strains the muscle that connects your jaw to your temples and can trigger a tension headache. A solution: “Put a pencil between your teeth but don’t bite,” says Fred Sheftell, M.D., director of the New England Center for Headache in Stamford, Conn. You automatically relax your jaw muscle to do this, which can prevent the pain.

- www.prevention.com

Back in 1983, researchers first discovered that eating more protein increases the amount of blood your kidneys are filtering per minute. From this finding, many scientists made the leap that a higher GFR places your kidneys under greater stress. Dutch researchers found a few years later that protein-rich meals didn't have an adverse effect on overall kidney function. In fact, there's zero published research showing that downing hefty amounts of protein damages healthy kidneys. As a rule of thumb, shoot to eat your target body weight in grams of protein daily.

- www.menshealth.com

Massage therapy isn’t just for sore muscles

with a complete new patient exam, appropriate cleaning, and xrays.

Aileen C. Helton DDS • total health dental care • friendly and comfortable environment • invisalign® (invisible braces) • cosmetic smile makeovers • sedation dentistry for fearful patients • most insurances accepted

Call 317.575.8993

Remember to use your dental benefits before the end of the year.

890 East 116th Street Suite 210 Carmel, IN 46032 At the corner of 116th Str. and Guilford Ave. at the 116th Str. Centre.

116th St.

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ment to important areas • Reduces stress • Lowers blood pressure • Helps in releasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers Go, fight (and) win back your health.

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22 | December 22, 2009

FREE WHITENING

US 31

COMMENTARY

By Sally Feldman Did you know you have more stress in one year than your grandparents had in a lifetime?

When you have stress, you feel it all over; every cell in your body is involved. Your blood pressure goes up, and you elevate your levels of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol.

Riding home from work with your teeth clenched may not only catch up with you this flu season, but it might contribute to the heart attack you can look forward to in 2013.

Massage therapy is one way of combating this phenomenon of the 21st century. A regimen of massage not only calms you, but it also attends to the lymphatic and immune systems.

The stimulation of lymph nodes removes toxins, fights nasty microorganisms and keeps the body healthy and strong. Add some essential oils in the mix and you have a great cocktail for defense.

Is massage therapy just for sore muscles?

What do you think?

• Among other benefits, massage …

• Increases circulation, which can speed healing and recovery • Enhances the mind/body connection • Aids in the fight against bacteria and infection.

• Improves the body’s ability to get nourish-

www.dentistryon116.com Sally Feldman is a certified massage therapist and a member of Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. For more information, e-mail her at sfeld427@gmail.com

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Christmas spirit, heavenly peace, Part 4 COMMENTARY

By Bob Walters I like to wake up in my own bed Christmas morning.

My parents were resolute in having Christmas at home, and I’m that way with my own family.

In fact, I like the peace of knowing I don’t have to go much of anywhere between about noon on Christmas Eve until whenever I decide to go do something on Dec. 26. I’ll certainly go see family or a shut-in (or maybe a good movie Christmas afternoon), but I like to be home.

One enthusiastic exception is church on Christmas Eve. It was a beautiful and reverent “Midnight Mass” when I was an Episcopal kid.

Now it’s a heartfelt evening worship and vigil in the Evangelical community.

The first Roman Catholic mass I attended was on a Christmas Eve in college. I was astounded by its similarity with the Episcopalian Eucharist and Holy Communion I had come to know so well as an altar boy.

I’ve only actually attended a church service on Christmas Day once that I clearly remember, in 2005 when Dec. 25 was a Sunday.

Mostly, Christmas is not a go-to-church day.

It’s a lazy stay-home day, or a visit with close family day. Or it might be (horrors!) a climactic, stressful and tiring Iditarod of multiple stops and logistical finesse – a Christmas dash modeled after Santa and his reindeer. No, thanks.

The Connor Prairie pioneer living museum says that in 1836 children would attend school on Christmas – the holiday was no big deal.

Our culture has turned Christmas into a big deal, but our traditions really aren’t that old … often not much older than we are.

What we should feel at Christmas – what puts the Christ in Christmas – is a personal and community grounding in something far larger, eternally older, and immensely more meaningful than idiosyncratic, habitual, nostalgic personal practices that harmonize our common rhythms of worldly celebration.

The Christmas spirit and the gift of heavenly peace reside where Christ resides … alive in our hearts and in our love for each other; not in displays or trees or presents or traditions.

It’s the time of year we should take and treasure the opportunity to focus on Emmanuel – God with us; the Christ in us. Our Savior.

Glorious light. It’s what the season is built for.

That is God’s gift.

Use it wisely, enjoy it intimately, and share it freely. Most of all, accept it.

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CARMEL’S LOWEST-PRICE CLEANER Fine-Tune your Sharp image For The holidayS We’re happy to clean your suits, dresses, sweaters, and other holiday finery.

Bob Walters (www.believerbob. blogspot.com or rlwcom@aol. com) is unruffled by Christmas commercialism … Christ isn’t for sale; He’s forever. John 1:14.

COLTS PLAYOFF TICKETS Buy and Sel l Renny Harrison • 876-3338 • www.fanfaretix.com

A. M. Feature Home for the Holidays What a way to welcome the new decade!

Come experience how your guests will feel being welcomed by the grandest of entries.

Granite kitchen countertops, lavish baths and closets, home theater. With over 6,000 sq. ft, there’s plenty of space for pool table and workout area in the lower level. Located in the prestigious Brookside subdivision just north of Bridgewater Country Club.

Proudly offered by A. M. Home Rentals for a monthly rental in the 3’s. Contact Jim Canull for a private viewing. 507-4431.

www.youarecurrent.com

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December 22, 2009 | 23

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The importance of pursuit and commitment, Part 3 COMMENTARY

By Rachael Noble Men, a woman feeling secure in the relationship is of the utmost importance! This means no running away at the first sign of a problem.

Keep in mind women will test you to see if you’re going to run away and to see what sense of commitment they’re dealing with. At the point of her feeling secure with your relationship and your feelings for her, she will reciprocate by giving you 100 percent, wanting only the best for you (encouraging you to go spend time with your friends or go relax in front of the TV, for example), making her brag to her friends that her man is the man of all men and her boasting of blissful happiness.

(Now remember, this practice of pursuit and commitment is only successful with a gal who likes the guy back – any indication from her that she is not interested should be reason to drop the pursuit.)

Let’s talk scenarios. Boy meets girl. After getting to know one another, they decide they like each other. Now, this could go one way or another.

Scenario one: He’s used to playing games and does the whole not calling her thing for a week, etc. She wonders what she has done wrong and why he goes MIA every now and then.

Eventually, she feels insecure about his feelings

for her, ends up trying to analyze too much and starts to play games with him too.

Scenario two: After dating a few times and deciding they like each other, he pursues her. He calls to let her know he’s thinking of her, is reliable with his pursuit (doesn’t go MIA, she can count on him calling and asking her out, etc.).

Eventually, he stops seeing other people, spends time with her when he can, continues to wine and dine her, is honest and is committed to getting to know her.

He doesn’t back out with the first argument or imperfections in her personality. He verbally tells her and shows her how he feels about her.

When problems arise, he tells her something like what I must quote my best friend’s boyfriend as saying (oh, if only we could clone him, ladies): “We are committed to working through things. We have made the decision to MAKE THIS WORK.” Remember this, men: Nothing makes a woman feel more beautiful than being committed to and being pursued!

Rachael Noble is a single Carmel resident and contributing columnist. She can be reached at nobleadvice@yahoo.com.

Do You Know Your Name?

Christmas

Eve Services

Saturday

Casual Worship 5:01pm

Sunday

Classic Worship 8:00 & 11:00am Praise Worship 9:30am Sunday School 9:30am (all ages)

Thursday, December 24th 4, 7, and 9 pm

SERVED WITH:

Nursery Available Community Preschool

2201 E. 106th at Keystone • Carmel (317) 846-1555 • www.kogcarmel.org

blesville No

Free candle with gift card purchase of $50 or more.*

Every second should feel like this

*One candle per gift card purchase, while supplies last.

24 | December 22, 2009

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DISPATCHES » Addicted to the Internet? – Rehab is now available for addiction to social networking and online gaming. For only $14,500, Internet addicts can spend 45 days kicking the habit at the first U.S. Internet addiction rehab center, Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, Wash. If you don't happen to have $14,500 handy to help you swear off Facebook and/or World of Warcraft permanently, maybe you could just move to an obscure corner of the US where wi-fi has not yet arrived.

- www.popgadget.net » Mark the spot – Lately Verizon has gotten pretty bold with their ads, specifically targeting AT&T’s poor coverage. Rather than complain about Verizon picking on them, they’re trying to actually fix the core issue. iPhone users can now download the free ‘AT&T Mark the Spot’ app, which will let them report to the phone giant whenever they have connection issues. AT&T will then take the information and use it to determine what parts of their network are in need of an upgrade.

- www.ohgizmo.com

Should you upgrade or replace your computer?

COMMENTARY

By Gary Hubbatd Far too many people are opting to buy a new computer without understanding what is causing their existing computer to be slow. This often leads to the same situation a few months after buying a new computer: It’s slow again, because the human behavior causing the slowdown wasn’t changed.

There are so many malicious programs traversing the Internet that anyone who is online on a daily basis can’t help but pick up some of this “grime,” regardless of how careful they are.

And it’s even worse for careless users (especially teenagers!).

Before you assume your old computer is too slow, make sure you understand what is making it slow. Start by rebooting your computer and checking the number of running processes in the Task Manager (Ctrl-Alt-Del, then look in the lower left corner of the Task Manager window).

For desktop computers, a cleaned-up machine should have 30-40 processes, laptops generally 35-45. The higher this number is, the more likely that getting the operating system cleaned up will return your computer to its old glory.

While you have the Task Manager open, click over to the “performance” tab to see if your CPU Usage meter is jumping up and down or is running at a level higher than 10 percent. This is generally another clear indicator of malicious

or unnecessary software operating behind the scenes on your computer.

If the computer was fast enough two years ago and you are essentially using the same programs, the computer’s hardware is likely not the problem. If you have no interest in adding any new programs that require additional “horsepower” (gaming, video editing, etc.), and pretty much live your life on the Internet, paying to clean up your operating system and adding a little extra RAM will likely be the “best bang for the buck.”

If your computer has few running processes, isn’t exhibiting strange CPU usage (via the meter) and is just too slow for your needs, getting a new computer is likely your best option.

The reality of the computer world is that everything gets faster and cheaper over time, so the longer you can postpone your next computer purchase, the more you will get for the same money.

While we are on the subject of new computers, let’s make sure you are completely aware of all of the issues surrounding the migration and actual costs should you decide to go the new computer route.

Retailers and manufacturers routinely generate ads to make it look like computers only cost $200 to $300, but if you spend any time looking into these “deals,” you’ll likely realize you will end up spending 2-3 times that amount for a reasonable performing properly configured

system.

The practice of Installing “trialware,” charging to remove unnecessary programs that shouldn’t have been installed in the first place or “starter” batteries on low-end laptops are just a couple of the hidden cost tricks played on really cheap computers.

In addition, think about what it’s going to take to get your new computer to look and act like your old computer. Programs and their associated data must be installed and imported from your old computer, along with your address book, favorites, desktop images, screen savers, printer and scanner drivers, photo download and editing systems, network settings and a host of other items most folks don’t take into consideration up front.

Be sure to calculate the additional expense for having the migration work done for you if you are not capable or willing to spend the time to do it yourself.

Cleaning up and updating your old system eliminates all these migration issues and costs, so make sure you understand everything involved in both scenarios before you make your decision.

Gary Hubbard is the owner of Data Doctors Computer Services - www.datadoctors.com. Have a technology question? Send it to CurrentInCarmel@datadoctors.com

It’s well worth ” the investment. “

Scott M. Wharton,

» Tech for germophobes – The Keystick collapsible keyboard concept looks like it was designed with portability in mind, but its true purpose is actually rooted more in swine flu than road warrior.

Indeed, designers Yoonsang Kim and Eunsung Park designed this keyboard with true paranoia in mind. They even slapped a "None Bacteria Project" label on there so there's no confusion about the design's true purpose. Bring this Japanese fan of a keyboard around with you, and never have to touch a filthy public terminal ever again. Or something.

- www.gizmodo.com

www.youarecurrent.com

owner

Wharton Insurance & Financial Services Inc.

489.4444 Current in Carmel

“

December 22, 2009 | 25

It’s well

in

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They have a Tiger by the tail, and I wish they’d let it go

COMMENTARY

By Mike Redmond I believe I speak for many of us when I say I now know more than I ever wanted to about Tiger Woods.

Every day, when I sit down to the computer to begin a long day of goofing off, it seems the first thing I see is another Shocking Revelation about Tiger Woods’ love life and marital strife.

Shocking? Please. It’s only shocking if you care. And I cannot recall ever wasting a single minute wondering about the state of Tiger Woods’ home life.

Unfortunately, it’s the perfect story for our celebrity-crazed times.

We are awash with celebrities, folks. The current rate seems to be about one celebrity for every 10 households. You see them on TV. They’re in the newspapers and magazines –and not just the trashy ones at the checkout counter.

They’re all over computers and Blackberries.

And for most of them, their only discernable means of employment, their only talent, is … being a celebrity.

(Case in point: The Kardashian sisters.

What exactly do they DO, other than being Kardashians?)

Anyway, back to ol’ Tiger. Now, I’m not suggesting we ignore the fact that Tiger pranged the Family Battlewagon during a late night/ early morning excursion, or that his wife had to get him out of the wreckage with a seven iron (not her best club; she duck-hooked it). I’m not even saying we should ignore the revelation that Tiger may have had one or more extra caddies toting his tour bag.

What I AM saying is it’s being blown WAY out of proportion. It knocked all sorts of real news out of the headlines, and that’s just stupid.

Or, to use my preferred spelling, S-P-Triple O-P-I-D. Stoopid. Because you have to stoop

pretty low for this kind of stuff.

Personally, I don’t care what Tiger does in his spare time. If it’s true, I feel sorry for his wife and kids, and for him, too, for being so messed up. Not that it matters to any of them.

But I also feel sorry for us, because the world we live in has really important stuff going on, and we’re missing it by pandering to those who obsess over Tiger, the Kardashians, Real Housewives of Various Cities, et al.

Of course, somewhere in the discussion someone invariably trots out the old “But he’s a role model for our youth!” argument, which is a bunch of hooey. I don’t buy it. The athleteas-role-model began to die off when Curt Flood (rightly) challenged the Reserve Clause and baseball free agency was born. Role model devotion takes time to build, and you can’t very well make a role model out of Joe Shlabotnik if he’s playing in your city one year, Cleveland the next and Denver the year after that. Besides which, given the general lowering of the behavioral standards and the speed with which we find out about celebrity transgressions. Anyone who encourages a kid to take an athlete as a role model these days is just asking for trouble.

So where does this leave Tiger in the Pantheon of American Golfers? The top, as usual. American Husbands? That’s none of my business. American Role Models? Behind the real ones – teachers, doctors, soldiers, sailors, public servants, volunteers … it’s a long list.

He’s at the back of the pack and not likely to make the cut. Which should not be shocking at all.

Mike Redmond is an author, journalist, humorist and speaker. Write him at mike@ mikeredmondonline.com or P.O. Box 44385, Indianapolis, IN 46244.

Role model devotion takes time to build, and you can’t very well make a role model out of Joe Shlabotnik if he’s playing in your city one year, Cleveland the next and Denver the year after that.

26 | December 22, 2009

10% off

any repair with a copy of this ad thru Jan. 9, 2009

Join the Email List for Upcoming Events & Monthly Chef Specials

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Call for Private Parties & In-Home Catering

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Changing clothes twice per night COMMENTARY

By Dick Wolfsie We were ready to leave the restaurant last Thursday night, but Mary Ellen was stalling.

She had been fussing with her purse and made a couple of extra trips to the ladies’ room.

“Let’s go,” I said. “I want get home by 8:45 so we don’t miss ‘The Office.’”

“Dick, we can’t leave just yet. If we go back to the house now, we’ll be in the gray zone. You know how I hate the gray zone.”

On most evenings, Mary Ellen pulls into our driveway about 6:30, enters the house, turns on the network news and plays with the cat.

She then takes off her professional business apparel – clearly not suitable for a three-hour stint of TV crime dramas – and slings on an old pair of jeans or sweats along with a flannel shirt. By 10 p.m., a good night’s sleep is on the radar, requiring a change into her cuddly PJs. She may watch a re-run of “Law and Order” in her sleeping garb before getting into bed with a good book.

That’s the routine. It seldom varies. But wait!

On that particular evening we were going to arrive home from the restaurant somewhere between 8:30 and 9. Yes, that is the gray zone she was fretting about. The question: Is it worth going through the second clothing change or does one get directly into sleep attire? It’s not as sticky an issue as establishing peace in the Middle East, but it does pose a quandary.

I never face this predicament. Unlike my wife, whose career requires dressing like a grownup, I spend most of the day working in my basement home office, snapping the elastic band on my gray sweat pants and wiping mustard stains off my Bill Belichick pullover.

Nevertheless, I’m tempted to get “sleep ready” way before my wife arrives home. “Why are you dressed for bed?” Mary Ellen will inquire when she walks in the house.

“I just got ready a little early.”

“I’d feel a lot better if you put your jeans back on. Otherwise, when we sit down for dinner, I’ll feel like I’m visiting you at the assisted living facility. I’m not ready to start thinking about that yet.”

“Why don’t you put on your pajamas, too, Mary Ellen?”

“What if someone rang the doorbell, Dick?

What would the neighbors say about us if they thought we got ready for bed before ‘Wheel of Fortune’? We might as well head out to MCL in our slippers.”

She had a point. Lounging around in a robe

Build the words

Hoosier Hodge Podge

Carmelku

Solutions can be found on page 31

at dinnertime may have made Hugh Hefner an icon, but it was going to wreck my reputation in the cul de sac. I did wonder who else wrestled with this issue. I called my friend Bob last night, in the middle of the gray zone, about 8 p.m.

“Bob, this is Dick. What are you wearing?”

“Wow, you get weirder every day, don’t you?”

Bob didn’t really relate to this problem. Nor

did most of my friends who I tried to explain it to. I did a little Googling. Not even one support group. There’s a lot of denial out there.

Right now, I have to wrap up this column.

Mary Ellen is on her way home, and I don’t want her to know I’ve been in my pajamas all day. I’m going to put on my jeans, so I can put my pajamas back on in a couple of hours. This

is more stress than a high-powered job. Maybe we should all retire early.

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

Mary Ellen is on her way home, and I don’t want her to know I’ve been in my pajamas all day.

I’m going to put on my jeans, so I can put my pajamas back on in a couple of hours. www.youarecurrent.com

Current in Carmel

December 22, 2009 | 27

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Need somewhere to store“ Fantastic the Christmas haul? “ Fantastic Exposure.

COMMENTARY

By Randy Sorrell Oh, the joys of small children and the fun volume of toys that seems to accumulate, especially after Christmas. While I love the toys and the joys they produce, I am not as jazzed about the corresponding gigabyte of accessories that accompany them. Barbie shoes, doll dresses and hair gizmos surface in the some of the wildest places and inappropriate times – often causing a good laugh.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a dedicated area for your kids’ toys (yours too) that would miraculously contain the pieces/parts of the Wii or the other latest craze? Of course, it could just as easily be a multi-purpose area dedicated for crafting, gift wrapping or your favorite hobby.

Exposure.

We have had nothing but compliments and DREAMY LOWER-LEVEL PLAY AREA This project’s custom-built exposed storage shelves are ideal for praise our a kids’ play area. The durablefrom laminate counter was intentionally craft appropriate and budget friendly and could easily be upgrad” ed to granite, whose price is suddenly amazingly attractive. agents.

Our carpenters installed rich crown and base molding, which

both formalized S i J othehspace n s oand n ,echoed the trim in the remainder of this dreamy, lower-level remodeled space. Tracks allowed for V i cshelves, e P and r e the sid e nback t / lighting, accomplished self adjusting subtle with hidden rope lights, offered a touch R e a l t o r / M a n a g eofrmulti-color playfulness. The face and sides were finished with drywall and paint in an effort C to ablend r m ewith l F.the C adjoining . Tu c k eopen r Ofloor f f i cplan. e Most basements have a non-finished area where utility shelves can be built using simple 2”x4”s and plywood or more formalized mesh panels. They are often hidden behind classic six-panel doors and simply do not have to look pretty, just be functional to store Christmas decorations, old brokerage statements and awkward

489.4444

“ Fantastic

Si Johnson, Vice President/Realtor/Manager C a r m e l F. C . Tu c k e r O f f i c e

gizmos we can’t seem to part with. More organized … sounds like a New Year’s resolution.

It’s these fantastic spaces that allow us to accumulate and store treasures our memory can recapture later when needed. Joys, toys, memories and miracles.

Merry Christmas … a Child is born!

489.4444

Si Johnson, Vice President/Realtor/Manager C a r m e l F. C . Tu c k e r O f f i c e

Randy Sorrell is president of SURROUNDINGS by NatureWorks+, a Carmel home improvement firm. He may be reached at 317-679-2565, randy@choosesurroundings. com or www.choosesurroundings.com.

Fantastic Exposure. “

Exposure.

We have had nothing but compliments and praise from our agents.”

489.4444

We have had nothing but compliments and praise from our agents.”

Named “TOP ALL STAR AGENT” by IBJ 2009

We have had nothing but compliments and praise from our agents.”

HONEST. LOYAL. DEPENDABLE. Si Johnson, Vice President/ Realtor/Manager

C a r m e l F. C . Tu c k e r O f f i c e

489.4444

(and so is the dog)

RE/MAX Ability Plus

(317) 216-8500 | John@JohnPacilio.com 28 | December 22, 2009

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Hunting for a real bargain this season?

During the holidays, everyone’s searching for a deal. So, for the month of December, Shapiro’s is offering our famous beef brisket sandwich for just six bucks! Now that’s a“Real Deal.”

Photo courtesy of Carmel Clay Historical Society.

Pleasant Grove Church (106th Street and College Avenue) at the turn of the 20th century.

24485 S r 13 n $1,300,000 MlS# 2930404

Fabulous 47 acre estate with private pond. 11 ft ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/custom cabinets and granite tops. Walk-out basement and huge heated outbldg. angEla raab, 735-9610

9785 HEronS CovE #33 $179,900 MlS# 2955168

Enjoy maintenance free living close to shopping, golf & the Monon. Spacious 3 bed, 2 full bath condo with tons of upgrades! Private wooded view.

SuSan van dEn HEuvEl, 508-1276

www.youarecurrent.com

4877 MorganS CrEEk Ct $699,900 MlS# 2945735

4BR/3.5BA new construction, hdwd flrs, grmt kit w/granite cntrs, main flr mstr, huge LL w/wet bar & media rm, wooded cul-de-sac lot, incrdbl attn to detail. SPEnCEr klinE, 753-7282

12315 SCHoolHouSE road $175,000 MlS# 2951161

Charming fenced 3BR/2+BA. Security system, cozy frplc. Vaulted ceilings, Walk-in closets & dual vanities, pantry.

2nd-floor laundry. Nice patio for entertaining. 2-car gar. angEla raab, 735-9610

4830 MorganS CrEEk Ct $699,900 MlS# 2945734

5BR 4.5BA w/incrdbl quality & attention to detail! Hdwd flrs, gourmt kitchen, LL w/wet bar & Media rm, huge BRs w/walk-in clsts, prof landscpng, cul-de-sac, a must see!

SPEnCEr klinE, 753-7282

1218/1222 turnEr dr $155,900 MlS# 2948762

One-year-old 4BR/2+BA home. Vinyl/brick townhome w/private master suite, huge foyer. Walk-in closets, 2nd-floor laundry. Two-car garage, mature trees. angEla raab, 735-9610

© 2009 Shapiro’s. All rights reserved.

$6

Roast Beef Brisket Sandwich One per customer, Dine-in Mon-Fri in December at Carmel location only.

Not valid with other offers. This offer is not valid on holidays.

Downtown

808 S. Meridian Street Phone: 317-631-4041 Fax: 317-631-3958

14455 wavErly dr $259,900 MlS# 2952854

Beautiful 3,883 sq ft Estridge home. 4bdrms, 4baths Formal LR DR & FR Den Sunroom. Finished bsmt. 2level wood deck, mstr suite w/ sitting rm or nursery A-1 wow!

PaMala trEStrail, 846-4328

3148 E Fall CrEEk Pkwy $115,000 MlS# 2938652

Gorgeous 4B 2BA historic home close to downtown. A little polish will return this home to its former glory. Great value! angEla raab, 735-9610

Current in Carmel

Carmel

NOW at the Airport!

918 S. Rangeline Rd. Phone: 317-573-DELI (3354) Fax: 317-573-3355 deli@shapiros.com www.shapiros.com

13758 langlEy $200,000 MlS# 2931960

Fabulous 4 bed 2.5 bath home with full fenced back yard in wonderful neighborhood within walking distance to Monon Trail.

SuSan van dEn HEuvEl, 508-1276

Indianapolis International Airport Located near gate B-15 Phone: 317-241-0645

632 SunSEt bvld $185,000 MlS# 2952366

4BR includes all appliances & Home Warranty.

Hardwood floors & chair moldings throughout.

Basement. Deck. Updates: roof, siding & appliances. angEla raab, 735-9610

16947 Fulton Pl $112,900 MlS# 2952268

Bright & immaculate 2BR 2.5BA. New carpet & paint, large BRs, loft area, all appliances stay.

2car garage. Washer & dryer included.

Maintenance free, move-in ready.

SPEnCEr klinE, 753-7282

December 22, 2009 | 29

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30 | December 22, 2009

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VISA, MasterCard accepted Reach 62,719 homes weekly

SERVICES

Classifieds

489.4444 ext. 202

SERVICES

SERVICES

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

SN PAINTING INC.

INTERIOR – EXTERIOR Quality Workmanship Over 25 Years Experience Reasonable Prices & References Free Estimates Insured Call Steve 317-773-1834

Do you know three reasons you should consider living in THE NEW YORKER APARTMENTS located at 3707 – 3715 N. Meridian Street in Downtown Indianapolis.

• You will save time & money • You will meet new people and new friends • You will have access to public transportation, to churches, schools, entertainment and shopping You work hard, so by living at The New Yorker Apartments you will have time to enjoy your life … and to have all the convenience of living downtown.

Come on in and visit The New Yorker Apartments. Call - 784-5899 or 435-8618 and make an appointment. You might be surprised at the pleasant, large apartments that are available at such affordable prices.

IT’S TRUE: Schedule an appointment to just come and see how much time and money you can save.

STUDIOS, 1-2 BEDROOMS - FENCED PARKING LOT Professionally Managed by: MOYNAHAN-WILLIAMS Call Debbie – 317-435-8618

RENTALS

RENTALS

FOR SALE

For Rent 1321 Brookton Ct

All New KING PILLOW TOP Mattress Set. $175 still in bag Can Deliver (317) 223-9301

FOR SALE

All New QUEEN PILLOW TOP Mattress Set. $125 still in bag Can Deliver (317) 223-9301

FOR SALE

All New FULL MATTRESS SET $100 still in bag Can Deliver (317) 223-9301

Guitar Lessons With Baker Scott

Beginners thru Advanced All styles Electric-Acoustic-Bass Private Lessons Parent-Child Lessons near Carey Road & 146th Carmel 317-

910-6990

.com

Have Something to sell?

3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1650 sq ft home, Washington township schools, Brick exterior, NO GAS BILL! Huge yard, Attached garage, Stove, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Microwave. Available Now. $1,095 per month. Call 253-1533

Wanted to buy I BUY: Jewelry, Gold, Silver, Platinum, Rolex, Diamonds, Old Coins, Bullion Coins, silverware, Old watches, estate items and anything of value. Call 317-4965581 or visit us today at www. indyestatebuyer.com

Call Dennis O'Malia 489.4444 ext. 202

Answers to the puzzles from page 27 Answers to BUILD THE WORDS: SANTA CLAUS, JOHN MELLENCAMP, DISNEY WORLD, HAMILTON COUNTY, COPENHAGEN Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Reindeer: BLITZEN, COMET, DANCER, DASHER, PRANCER, VIXEN; Shades: BURGUNDY, CRIMSON, MAROON, PINK, SCARLET; Decorations: LIGHTS, ORNAMENTS, STAR, TINSEL; Coaches: CALDWELL, DUNGY, MORA; Sites: INDIANAPOLIS, WEST LAFAYETTE; Tree: TULIP

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Current in Carmel

December 22, 2009 | 31

A journey to better health takes strong support.

ACallToChange.org Surgical weight loss isn’t just about losing weight - it’s about regaining your health.

Reaching your goals requires a strong will - as well as support from those around you.

Learning about the Bariatric process and determining a support person are the essential first steps. Visit ACallToChange.org to browse a blog with insights from former patients or to sign up for a free weight loss surgery seminar with dedicated medical professionals. Find the support and encouragement you need on your journey to better health at ACallToChange.org

32 | December 22, 2009

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