April 16, 2024 — Fishers

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Fishers man charged in separate shootings

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

A 34-year-old man faces multiple felonies following a complex Fishers Police Department investigation that allegedly links a road-rage shooting in 2023 to a home shooting incident in 2022.

CRIME

Noblesville resident Anthony Mikalani Medeiros was booked into Hamilton County Jail March 22, according to the jail website. He was charged with four felonies — criminal recklessness, shooting a firearm into an inhabited building; criminal recklessness, committed with a deadly weapon; aggravated battery, posing a substantial risk of death to a person under age 14; and aggravated battery, posing a substantial risk of death. He also faces one misdemeanor charge of criminal mischief.

inside the house and out through the back side of the house. It appeared their residence had been intentionally targeted and that damage to other residences was caused by bullets which had passed through the (victims’) residence.” Four people were in the home at the time, including two children. Police recovered bullet casings from the home and were told by the victims that the wife had previously experienced problems with Medeiros, whose last known address at the time was in Carmel.

Police made multiple attempts to locate Medeiros at the time but were unsuccessful.

ed that the driver yelled at him three times and continued to follow him through the neighborhood.”

The victim was able to lose the other driver and park in his garage. Police recovered a bullet from the victim’s vehicle that was similar to those collected earlier and got a description of the suspect and the suspect’s vehicle.

With the help of traffic camera data, police were able to identify a vehicle in the area at that time belonging to Medeiros and a Noblesville address for the suspect about three miles from both shooting scenes.

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The investigation started in August 2022, when FPD officers responded to reports of a shooting at Veon Drive in Fishers, according to the affidavit for probable cause filed by FPD Detective Sgt. Robbie Ruble. Multiple houses had been hit, but one home appeared to be the main target.

“The residence sustained damage to the general area of the front door and to two vehicles parked in the driveway,” Ruble stated. “All the aforementioned damage appeared to have been caused by bullet strikes. The damage was more pervasive inside, where it appeared the bullets fired had traveled through multiple surfaces

About seven months later on March 20, 2023, Ruble stated that police were called to Gilbert Lane close to the Van Buren Place intersection for a report of gunshots. They found shell casings in the area similar to those found at the Veon Drive home and interviewed a resident of the area who reported that someone had shot at him during a road rage incident.

The victim said he had missed the turn into his housing addition and braked quickly, and the driver behind him responded aggressively.

“(The victim) stated that he heard a loud pop but didn’t know it was a shot,” Ruble stated. “(He) stated he turned off of Promise Road onto Chandler Way into his housing addition. The vehicle followed him onto Chandler Way. (He) stated he heard three gunshots and saw the driver of the vehicle waving a gun out of the window. (He) stat-

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Woman arrested following shooting incident — Fishers Police Department announced April 8 that officers arrested 20-year-old Amaria Janae Butler of Fishers in connection with an April 6 shooting in the Meadows Drive area. According to the announcement, Butler faces a level-six felony charge of criminal recklessness. “On the night of the incident, several neighbors called 911 to report shots fired,” the announcement stated. “FPD officers and detectives quickly investigated the incident and detained two subjects for questioning. Search warrants were obtained for the residence and DNA. While officers were there to serve the search warrant, Butler admitted to firing a gun outside the house.” Butler was taken into custody at that time.

Breakfast at the Brickyard with Mario Andretti — Mario Andretti, the 1969 Indianapolis 500 winner and four-time IndyCar Series champion, will be the featured guest at the 2024 500 Festival Breakfast at the Brickyard, presented by Midwestern Engineers, Inc. The event will take place at 9 a.m., May 18 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Tickets are on sale to the public, with individual tickets priced at $100 each and Preferred Corporate Tables at $1,200. For more, visit 500Festival.com/ Breakfast.

Scholarships available — The Indiana Chapter of the Association of the United States Army is offering scholarships of up to $2,000 each to students who are members or children of an AUSA member

Through a search warrant, police found various firearms and ammunition in his possession. Among the items found were bullets that allegedly match casings found at both shooting sites.

In May 2023, FPD learned that lab results had matched a gun seized from Medeiros’ vehicle to shell casings found at both shootings.

A second search warrant to seize electronics was served in late August 2023. Ruble stated that police seized three cell phones, an iPad and a desktop computer. Investigators examined the data on the devices and allegedly found various conversations predicting Medeiros’ arrest following the search warrants, along with older messages related to the victims from the August 2022 shooting — including more than 200 phone calls along with numerous text messages to the wife’s phone number.

Medeiros’ next scheduled hearing is a pretrial conference 9 a.m. May 6 in Hamilton County Superior Court. A trial is tentatively set for June 10.

pursuing an undergraduate degree. Applicants must be high school seniors, college freshmen, sophomores or juniors and must attend a regionally or nationally accredited institution. Documentation must be received by the Indiana Chapter AUSA no later than 11:59 p.m. April 30. For more, contact indianachapterausa@gmail.com.

Ramaswamy to speak to county GOP — Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will be the featured speaker at the Hamilton County Republican Lincoln Day Dinner on May 2 at Embassy Suites in Noblesville. A VIP reception will begin at 5 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Learn more and purchase tickets at hamiltoncountygop.org.

Medeiros

The City of Fishers Stormwater Program manages stormwater sewers and floodplains within the community and oversees the stormwater grant program, which helps property owners improve drainage. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

Fishers sends out annual stormwater utility bills

Fishers residents should receive their annual stormwater utility bills in the mail this month, with payments due April 23.

According to the City of Fishers website, the stormwater utility is part of the city’s Water Quality Division and manages stormwater runoff and floodplains within the community. That includes managing and maintaining about 17,000 storm sewer pipes, which are separate from sanitary sewers; inspections and reviews for construction projects; street sweeping; stream restorations, drainages, floodplain permits and more.

The stormwater utility and billing regulations were created in 2007. The ordinance includes various rates depending on the type of residence. Most homeowners pay about $80 a year, while condo owners pay about $50.

The full bill is the responsibility of whoever owned a property as of Jan. 1 of each year. Those who have sold their homes midyear should check with the title company to see whether the stormwater bill was included in closing costs, according to the city’s website.

Stormwater is water runoff from rain or watering systems.

The City of Fishers Stormwater Program manages other programs for residents, including the free rain barrel program, a stormwater grant program to help residents improve drainage at their properties and clean-up efforts at White River and Geist.

For more about the city’s Stormwater Program, visit bit.ly/4cMuU8Q.

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The Hindu festival Holi, celebrating the arrival of spring, was celebrated March 31 at Roy Holland Park in Fishers with singing, drumming, dancing and brightly colored powder that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The event was organized by the local chapter of Sewa International, a faith-based Hindu nonprofit organization. According to Sewa, “Holi is a time for people to come together in celebration, forget their differences and enjoy life.” (Photo courtesy of Sewa)

CITY OF FISHERS

HOAs and neighborhood groups within city limits can apply.

Funding for innovative ideas to make Fishers a more vibrant place to live, from entrance landscaping to community spaces and playgrounds.

Grant provides an 80% match up to $25K, with applicants providing 20% of the total project cost.

Applications accepted on a rolling basis with funds distributed quarterly.

Nearly $400K awarded to 28 neighborhoods in first quarter of 2024.

HSE hockey player overcomes health issues to follow passion

SPORTS By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern High School senior Anthony Russell admits his quest to follow his passion for playing hockey has been terrifying at times.

Russell started experiencing dizziness and shortness of breath during his hockey tryouts his sophomore year. The condition persisted and grew worse when Russell started passing out during games, practices and then even in class.

“Passing out is an incredibly scary thing because you never know when you are going to pass out,” Russell said. “Part of it feels like you are trapped in a nightmare because everything goes dark and you can’t see.”

“When we were finally able to pinpoint what was going on with me, it gave me a sense of relief,” Russell said.

Russell’s mother, Michelle Haweit, a nurse practitioner, said he saw multiple specialists, cardiologists and pulmonologists before it was discovered.

Finally, he was diagnosed with neurocardiogenic syncope early in the fall of 2023, a condition that can cause fainting episodes with a drop in blood flow to the brain. He then was diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, known as POTS, in December 2023. The condition involves a fast heartbeat, dizziness and

“It’s been a journey of medical emergencies and the constant fear of my condition impacting my ability to play the sport I love,” said Russell, who said he typically passes out once or twice a month. “It’s like walking on a tightrope every day never knowing when the next episode might

Russell said he was able to play as much as possible but often had to sit out practice and games. He said he tried to make the most of his final season with HSE hockey, which ended in February.

Russell didn’t play as a freshman, sitting out the 2020-21 season amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Then as a sophomore, he felt like he couldn’t breathe during tryouts and conditioning.

“We thought that maybe I had anemia,” Russell said. “I had tests on every part of my body to figure out what was going on with me. Initially, my mother blamed it on me being out of shape. I have asthma, too, which makes the problem worse.”

At first, he was told as a sophomore he couldn’t play because of the results of a heart test, but then he was cleared when it was discovered that was a machine error.

“He’s gone through testing a couple different times to get clearance to play because there is a risk of sudden cardiac arrest in youth sports,” she said. “It was very nerve-racking. There were a couple of other parents in the medical field who volunteered to go to practice because he had to go with supervision. He was taken to the emergency room once this year from hockey when he was passed out for longer than normal.”

Haweit said there are days he tells his coach he can’t participate fully.

“It’s embarrassing for him,” she said. “If it was me, I would have quit a long time ago.”

Russell helped coach in the Learn to Play hockey program in the Indiana Youth Hockey Association this past season.

“Coaching allows me to pass down my love for hockey and inspire the next group of players,” said Russell, who started playing hockey at age 6.

Russell isn’t sure if his days of competitive hockey are over.

“There are definitely moments of uncertainty but the love that I have for hockey fuels my determination to continue playing,” said Russell, who wants to pursue pediatric nursing in college. “The condition doesn’t go away and as far as my endurance goes, my doctor said this is the peak I’ll be at, so it’s kind of use it or lose it.

My biggest goal is to inspire athletes who might face similar obstacles. I want them to know no matter how scary the odds might seem, you are capable of achieving your dreams and defying expectations.”

Hamilton Southeastern High School senior Anthony Russell with his hockey poster.

(Photo courtesy of Anthony Russell)

Carmel Democrat files for Congress

By Ann Marie Shambaugh

AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

As a Democratic candidate to represent Indiana’s 5th District in Congress, Deborah Pickett believes she has the right background to understand how local issues intersect with national policy.

ELECTION

The Carmel resident has spent the last several years as a community volunteer with multiple local organizations, including her homeowners association, a strategic planning committee for Carmel Clay Schools and the board of a nursing home. But before that, she was involved in organizations with a national focus, serving in the U.S. Army Reserves and working for the Hudson Institute, a public policy research organization.

“As a congresswoman, I need to have a full understanding of the issues that are near and dear to the heart of my constituents, and that comes as a result of my volunteer commitments over the years,” Pickett said. “Then there is the world of Congress. (I will consider) how do I take this knowledge and make sure that I am advocating on their behalf for policies that are important at the federal level?”

Among Pickett’s campaign goals are protecting democracy and ensuring that fairness and justice prevail, fighting for personal rights and liberties, and working toward a federal government that delivers efficient and effective services.

“One of my priorities in Congress would be to make sure that (government) agencies are adequately funded, that they are adequately staffed with people who have expertise, so that when you call the IRS you don’t have to wait for 40 minutes to get an answer,” she said.

Pickett is facing Ryan Pfenninger, a tech entrepreneur from Carmel, in the May 7 Democratic primary. The winner will face one of nine candidates vying for the Republican nomination. The seat is held by Victoria Spartz, a Republican who is seeking reelection.

Learn more about Pickett’s campaign at PickettforCongress.com.

The installation takes as little as a day. The joy it brings lasts a lifetime.

Pickett

Primary candidate Q&A: House District 88

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

ELECTIONS

Two candidates have filed to run for the Democratic nomination for State House District 88 — Stephanie Jo Yocum and Starr Joy Hairston.

The district, currently represented by Republican Chris Jeter of Fishers, includes portions of Hamilton and Marion Counties in the Geist area. Jeter is running unopposed in the Republican primary.

critical because homeownership is the foundation of family economic stability. We have to cap property tax increases, make known resources like assessment appeals and provide immediate relief in the form of tax credits.

Current attempted to reach out to both Democratic candidates with questions about their campaigns but was not able to reach Hairston via email or phone, and she does not appear to have a campaign website. Yocum’s responses are below. Why do you want to run for this office?

I am running because I have a vision of what Indiana can be. Our current Statehouse does not reflect the people of our state. Indiana can be a place where people and businesses want to be and stay, where all people feel valued and represented. What sets you apart from your opponent(s)?

Twenty years ago, I served in the AmeriCorps and my commitment to public service hasn’t waned since. My life and career is dedicated to public service. I’ve successfully led large nonprofit organizations in the education and health care fields and I am the chair of Indiana’s commission on service and volunteerism.

What top three issues are your campaign focused on?

Education: Access to preschool and kindergarten for all kids, fully funded public schools, supporting educators.

Health care costs continue to rise sharply in Indiana — how would you propose reining them in?

While we need to continue cost-cutting strategies like capping drug costs and addressing the high costs of hospital stays, we must invest in doing more to improve the health of Hoosiers. Indiana ranks 35th for overall health and 45th in public health funding.

Half of the state’s budget pays for education, and we’re seeing the impact of learning loss suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic in student assessment scores and anecdotally. How can the Legislature address this issue without increasing education funding?

Public funds should pay for public education. Funding may seem high, but it’s not all going to public schools. Taxpayers are funding a private school voucher system. Last year, 64 percent of vouchers went to families already paying for private school tuition, leaving an inequitable and inadequate amount for low-income families.

We live in an increasingly polarized and politically divided state and nation. How will you work to lead and better all Hoosiers – regardless of whether they support you?

Economy: The living wage crisis — anyone working full time should earn enough to care for themselves and their family.

Health care: The rising costs of healthcare, reproductive rights.

Rising assessed values are quickly increasing property tax bills, making it more unaffordable to move here (or stay here). How do you plan to address this?

I am a homeowner. I’ve experienced this myself. Addressing this issue is

My parents, a Republican and a Democrat, are my models of civility. I am grateful for their teachings. I enjoy listening to and learning from others. I know, if we respectfully engage one another, we can find common ground. I commit to making that time and space for all Hoosiers. What do you most want voters to know about you?

A Hoosier, born and raised, I spent half my life in a small Indiana town and now proudly call Indianapolis home. I am running for office because I believe we can do better for all Hoosiers, from our farms to our cities and everywhere in between.

The primary election is May 7. Early voting has begun statewide.

Yocum

Exhibit showcases student work

news@currentinfishers.com

The Fishers Arts Council, in partnership with STAR Bank, is presenting the annual Senior Showcase exhibit, featuring artwork by seniors in the Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high schools’ visual arts and writing programs.

EXHIBIT

The exhibit is on display through April 26 at the Collaboration Hub Gallery, 11810 Technology Dr., Fishers.

According to an announcement from the arts council, visual arts teachers from both schools have been working with students all year to help them hone their skills, create new projects and learn and appreciate more about the arts.

The exhibit includes 126 pieces of 2D artwork, 47 pieces of 3D artwork and nine poems. Shannon Bennett and Alex Moore — both from the Indy Art Center — judged the exhibit, which is made up of artwork selected by the visual arts teachers from both high schools, based on the HSE district art show in March.

Winners received scholarships totaling

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more than $4,200 in the categories of drawing, photography, painting/mixed media, digital art and 3D. Each year, a student also is presented the Jordan D. Snider Award for Artwork Best Reflecting the Written Word, sponsored by Catherine Snider. Honorable Mention winners are sponsored by Laura and Ed Villanyi.

The gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays by appointment. To make an appointment, contact Fishers Arts Council at info@fishersartscouncil.org.

OBITUARY

Linda Lawson, 82 years, a resident of Bradenton, Florida, and former resident of Noblesville, Indiana, died unexpectedly February 9, 2024, at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, Florida. She was born October 12, 1941, in New Castle, Indiana to the late Walter Fowler and Caroline (Peyton) Fowler-Campbell.

After spending most of her youth in New Castle, her family moved to Knightstown, Indiana where she graduated from Knightstown High School in 1960. She attended Ball State University and would later marry Charles Lawson on January 23, 1963. They recently celebrated their 61st year of marriage. She worked for Indiana National Bank in Indianapolis, but her favorite job was being the family’s “Domestic Engineer” being a stay-at-home mother. She was a volunteer for Connor Prairie where she worked in the “Apple Store”. Upon Charles retirement in 1999, Chuck and Linda moved to lake of the Ozarks Missouri, where they spent over 15 years enjoying retirement, and boating with many of their longtime friends. Together Charles and Linda would eventually move to Naples, Florida where she was active member of the Wesley United Methodist

Church in Marco Island where she served on the hospitality Committee. She and Charles worked together for Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, Florida.

Linda enjoyed traveling, shopping, floral designing, interior decorating, but especially enjoyed spending time with her family and was a devoted friend.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Charles Lawson, daughter, Janis Lawson, son, Jason (Amanda) Lawson, brother, Larry (Tina) Fowler, 6 grandchildren, Justin, Chandler, Matthew, Chase, Morgan, Mason, 4 great grandchildren, Skylar, Katelyn, Aiden, Beckett, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service was held Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Stillinger Family Funeral Home in Greenfield with burial following at Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Wesley United Methodist Church, 350 S. Barfield Drive, Marco Island, FL 34145, or the Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, 11145 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34113.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.stillingerfamily.com

The April Fishers Arts Council exhibit features selections of artwork by Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high school seniors. (Photo courtesy of FAC)

The morel of the story

Commentary by Mark LaFay

2024 SUBARU FORESTER

FOOD

Spring season is finally upon us. But let’s be honest, while the vernal equinox may have come and gone, the threat of snow never ends until May and the sound of racecars can be heard faintly in the distance. Indiana’s tormenting weather patterns aside, the warmer average temperatures do mean that we are officially at the beginning of morel season. I am an avid outdoorsman and, in addition to spring turkey hunting, you will find me and my boys walking the woods in search of the ever-elusive morel.

Morel mushrooms are very finicky and very hard to cultivate commercially. They appear only in the spring and once the temps get warm enough, they stop fruiting and lay dormant until another trip around the sun has been completed.

If you’ve never been mushroom hunting, morels are a great mushroom to get started on. They are very easy to identify accurately, they taste amazing and when you find where they are growing, they will almost always continue growing there as long as you harvest responsibly.

Here are some tips for morel hunting:

• Morels will start to pop up when average soil temps are between 45 and 50 degrees and air temps are above 60 degrees. You can check soil temps online. There are several websites that track this.

• Look for elm trees. You can identify an elm tree by its bark. Morels will grow in the ground, not on wood, around elm trees where their bark, sticks, leaves, etc., fall and decay.

• Harvest responsibly. Pinch the morel off at the base, leaving the root in the

ground. Mushrooms are organisms that live and grow under the surface, so they can grow back. The mushroom that you pick is the fruit and is responsible for spreading spores, which grow more mushrooms. That means you should carry your mushrooms in a netted bag so that spores can be spread as you move through the woods. A word about safety. There is only one mushroom that remotely resembles the morel, and it is called a false morel. They are similar but very different in appearance. If you have any doubt in your mind, false morels are solid. Real morels are hollow. Cut it open and look.

Lastly, morel honey holes are top secret. If you know other people who hunt morels, don’t ask them where they go. They will, at best, lie to you and, at worst, get angry with you for asking. That means you must find the spots yourself. When you head out around Boone or Hamilton counties looking for these delectable fungi, try public parks, like Cool Creek. It is legal to take mushrooms from Indiana DNR-managed property. Dormant spores could come back to life after construction and other agitation of the soil, so walking the wooded edges of a cornfield conversion is another good option. When you stumble upon one morel, don’t move, look around to see where there may be more and pick carefully. Then promptly email me your GPS coordinates. Happy hunting!

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite 19, Indianapolis

Morel mushroom season has begun.

(Creative Commons image)

Princess Program develops leaders

By Mark Ambrogi

mark@youarecurrrent.com

The 500 Festival Princess Program has continued developing since it started as a pageant in 1959,

500 FESTIVAL

“Throughout its 65-year history, the program has evolved into an ambassador program,” said Laura Bliss, 500 Festival director of operations. “The sashes and tiaras are part of tradition, but today’s program’s focus has shifted to commitment to service, effective communication, strong leadership, academic excellence and professionalism. The 2024 Princesses who represent the 500 Festival in their hometowns and communities around the state are 33 of Indiana’s most impressive college leaders and achievers.”

the state of Indiana serve as 500 Festival Princesses who represent the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500 throughout their communities. Princesses participate in community outreach events around Indiana. They visit elementary school classrooms, nursing homes, community events, and everything in between, to bring the spirit of the 500 Festival and Indy 500 to these audiences. It’s a way to bring the fun and festivities of the month of May and Indy 500 to everyone — whether you’re attending the Indy 500 or not.”

The program is sponsored by The National Bank of Indianapolis.

“Each 500 Festival Princess is paired with a member of the 500 Festival’s Board of Directors, who serves as her mentor throughout her time as a Princess and beyond,” Bliss said. “The Princesses and Bliss

• Border Security

• 2A supporter

• Cost of living must come down

“

Like many women, Rainey’s health routine was disrupted by the pandemic. Before she knew it, three years had passed without an annual mammogram. After getting back on track with this key screening, she was able to catch and treat her breast cancer early. And thanks to a simple mammogram and her care team at Community Health Network, Rainey is now cancer-free.

It’s simple, it’s convenient and it can save your life. Schedule your annual mammogram today at eCommunity.com/mammogram

• Energy Independence

• Have to fight the squad

• Stop Funding Countries who hate us

• We have to stand up to big Pharma

• I want to make Healthcare affordable for everyone

I am Married and have 3 Children

Retired from the Department of Corrections 27yrs

I have 4 Beagle Shih Tzu mix dogs. I love Golf, Football and baseball

I WANT TO SERVE THE 5TH DISTRICT AND SERVE AMERICA

IT’S TIME TO REPRESENT THE POOR AND MIDDLE CLASS AGAIN. MAGA!

Paid for by: The Committee To Elect Larry L. Savage Jr.

Carmel High School shortstop off to fast start

By Mark Ambrogi

mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School junior shortstop JD Stein’s team goal for the baseball season is a lofty one.

He wants to win the IHSAA Class 4A state title, which would be the first in program history.

“To do that, we have to get out of our sectional, which is pretty hard,” Stein said. “Our goal is show to everybody who we are in sectional and then make a little run and get there.”

Stein is off to a strong start in pursuit of his personal goals.

“I like to be a tough out, keep (my) batting average above .450 and hit a couple bombs,” Stein said. “I’m not going to try to do anything (special), just stick to my game.

In the first six games, Stein hit .500 with three doubles and two triples. CHS coach Ty Neal said Stein, who bats leadoff, is a disciplined hitter. He had seven walks and zero strikeouts in those five games.

“He’s a very talented player,” Neal said. “He’s a young man that works really hard on his craft. He’s a great teammate and

MEET JD STEIN

Favorite athlete: New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe

Favorite subject: Biology

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite TV viewing: MLB Network

very coachable. His strength is going to increase each year. He’s a very good runner. He plays the game aggressively.”

The 5-foot-9, 175-pound Stein primarily played third base last season but played shortstop as a freshman.

“He is showing that he continues to play shortstop at levels above this (high school),” he said.

Stein said he changed his approach this

season to hit more line drives.

Stein also played shortstop for the Indiana Bulls travel team.

“I like to play short the most. I get more range and can show off my arm a little more,” he said.

Stein originally committed to the University of Louisville but has reopened his recruitment. He said he is still considering Louisville.

“I’ll probably pick a place in two or three months,” Stein said. “I’m kind of seeing what comes to me first and then take it from there.”

Stein’s father, Mike Stein, a 1986 CHS graduate, played baseball at Northwestern University.

“His dad does a lot to help JD. He’s hitting him ground balls and throwing batting practice to him,” Neal said. “It’s a great baseball family.”

Carmel High School junior shortstop JD Stein has hit .500 in his first six games. (Photo courtesy of JD Stein)

MEET THE AUTHOR

Hamilton East Public Library to host all-ages book fair

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Book lovers of all ages will be in their element during the Hamilton East Public Library’s annual author fair, set for 1 to 4 p.m. April 20 at the Forum Events Center, 11313 USA Pkwy. in Fishers.

The author fair will include about 60 booths featuring mostly individual authors and a handful of literary organizations, said Danielle Acton, HEPL adult program coordinator. This year marks the eighth author fair, she said, and the third as a spring event at the Forum Events Center.

“Prior to ’22, we had it in the fall,” she said. “It was called Oktoberfest and it was at the library and it was a lot smaller. When we brought it back post-pandemic (we expanded) because we’ve had such an interest — we get a lot of requests from local folks that say, ‘Hey, I’ve written a book. Can I donate a copy to the collection? Can I do a reading? Can I do a story time?’”

While they’d love to accommodate all those requests, she said, if they did, they wouldn’t have time for much else.

“That’s why we do the author fair once a year to showcase as many of those as we can all at one time,” Acton said.

Most of the featured authors are local, she said, including writers from Fishers, Noblesville and other communities in the greater Indianapolis area. More than 100 authors applied to participate.

“Our committee went through and scored everybody against the rubric and that’s how we know who could receive an invite,” she said. “It’s grown to be bigger and bigger, which is great, and that’s why we’re holding it off site.”

Among the authors featured at the fair this year is Fishers resident Tasha Jun, who will have copies of her first book, “Tell Me the Dream Again.” Jun said the book is a memoir of her experiences as a biracial Korean American.

“It’s essentially a lot of essays or vignettes from my upbringing and also from my mom’s life,” she said. “And so, kind of weaving between stories of her upbringing as a Korean immigrant and our relationship and then my own journey with embracing and then rejecting and then coming back to embrace my Koreaness, and how that

impacts all facets of my life.”

Jun said that coming from two different heritages seemed normal when she was a kid, but later she felt as though she didn’t fit into either world.

“I think that started to change how I interpreted my normal,” she said “Wherever we went, whether it was in the U.S. or when we had traveled to Korea and — as a kid thinking, ‘Oh, I’m Korean,’ but then realizing while I’m there that I’m not seen as Korean, and so just kind of feeling like, ‘Gosh, I belong nowhere.’”

Jun said she wanted to illuminate that

experience for others, noting that people of mixed heritage are among the fastest-growing demographics in the United States. She also hopes that people with similar backgrounds will be able to relate to her stories.

This is Jun’s first HEPL author fair, and she said she’s looking forward to it.

“I’m excited to do something with a library, and the library that I frequent the most with my kids,” she said.

For more about Jun, visit tashajun.com.

This year will mark comic-book author Jason Funk’s second time at the fair. Funk,

HEPL OFFERS WRITING WORKSHOPS

On the same day as the Hamilton East Public Library Author Fair, HEPL will host three free writing workshops at the Fishers Library, 5 Municipal Dr. According to the HEPL website, the workshops are 10-11:30 a.m. April 20. They are free to attend, but registration is required and space is limited.

Workshops are:

• Writing is Rewriting: Fixing a First Draft with Myra Levine

• Turning the Tangible into the Intangible with John Hinton

• Character Creation

To register, visit hepl.libnet.info/events and click on April 20 on the calendar.

an 18-year-old Fishers resident, has written three published comics, the first completed when he was 15. That book, called “The Bus Seat,” has a character with autism, much like Funk himself.

Funk’s second comic is “The Merchant of Misfortune,” and his third and newest book is called “Burger Quest.”

“It’s about Matthew Tobias, a young adult who wants to get a hamburger from a hamburger place,” Funk said. “But the hamburger place is all out. So, he goes on a quest to the mystical Burger Gardens to find a hamburger. He goes in the burger gardens (where) hamburgers grow on trees. Along the way, Matthew has to face a bunch of different obstacles such as, you know, mountains, volcanoes, goblins, trolls and even, like, a giant squid.”

Funk said having autism simply means that he’s different, but everyone is different in their own way.

“Everyone has different strengths and challenges, but you can overcome your challenges,” he said. “The same goes for being an author — you might have challenges doing it but those challenges are meant to be overcome.”

Funk’s writing process starts with hand-drawing his comic panels, which he then transfers to a computer and uses an illustrator program to digitally copy the artwork. Funk said he worked with an illustrator for his first two books, but “Burger Quest” is all his own and he’s excited to share it with readers during the author fair.

For more about Funk, visit funkworldhq. com.

Acton said the fair will be an open-house style with tables set up in the foyer and inside the main event space. Visitors can talk with various authors, learn about their writing journeys and about getting published, and of course buy books. New this year will be a series of author readings in a side room.

For more, visit hamiltoneastpl.org/ hepl-local-author-fair-2024-coming-soon.

ON THE COVER:

Hamilton East Public Library hosts an annual author fair featuring primarily Hoosier writers. (Photo courtesy of HEPL)

Author Mary Coons, seated at right, speaks with visitors during the 2023 Hamilton East Public Library author fair. The 2024 event is coming up on April 20. (Photo courtesy of HEPL)

Funk Jun

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office raising awareness of autism

news@currentinfishers.com

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office recently announced that it is participating in Autism Awareness Month throughout April.

EDUCATION

“As part of our commitment to fostering understanding and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you may have noticed some of our patrol vehicles adorned with multi-colored puzzle piece wraps,” the announcement stated. “The initiative stems from a profoundly positive interaction with a young autistic man in our lobby last year. During his visit, our deputies engaged with him using simple sentences, positioning themselves at his seated level and utilizing the Autism Emergency Communication Board — a newly acquired communication tool at the time. Witnessing the compassionate and effective communication firsthand, the young man’s father was deeply impressed with our deputies and their training.”

As part of the month’s activities, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has collaborated with community members to raise awareness about autism, promote understanding and highlight the importance of inclusive practices in law enforcement interactions, according to the announcement.

For more, contact Public Information Officer Deputy Bryan Melton at 317-776-4140 or bryan.melton@hamiltoncounty.in.gov.

Riley opens new pediatric clinic

news@currentinfishers.com

Riley Children’s Health opened its first pediatric primary care office in Fishers April 1, celebrating with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the clinic, 11530 Allisonville Rd., Suite 190, just south of 116th Street.

HEALTHCARE

According to an announcement from Riley, pediatricians Thomas Freije and Kristen Anderson are accepting new patients in the space. They will provide routine primary care, including well-child visits, sick visits, immunizations, sports physicals and more. Two more pediatricians are expected to join the office later this year.

“Ensuring that all children have access to excellent care has always been the mission of Riley, and that starts with stateof-the-art primary care,” stated Elaine Cox, chief physician executive for Riley Children’s Health. “We are excited to expand our services for Fishers families.”

This is the first Riley Children’s pediatric primary care office in Fishers, according to the announcement. It builds on a commitment to the community after Riley spe-

cialists began seeing patients at IU Health Saxony Hospital — soon to be IU Health Fishers.

As part of IU Health’s Fishers Community Impact Project, construction is underway to build a Riley Children’s pediatric emergency department on the hospital campus.

Riley Pediatric Primary Care in Fishers office provides 24/7 online scheduling, virtual visits, same-day and next-day appointments, extended hours on select weekdays and appointments on varying Saturdays.

For more, visit rileychildrens.org/practice-location/ riley-pediatric-primary-care-fishers.

Multi-colored puzzle piece vinyl wraps on some Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office vehicles are part of the department’s Autism Awareness Month celebration during the month of April. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

Staff at the Riley Children’s Health clinic on Allisonville Road in Fishers cut the ribbon April 1 to celebrate the newly opened office. (Photo courtesy of Riley Children’s Health)

Dr. Lawrence E. Lloyd, DPM Board Certified, American Board of Podiatric Surgery

Choosing the correct lawn mower for you

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

With spring’s arrival comes the return of yard work, and employees at Reynolds Farm Equipment are ensuring customers know which lawn mower is best for them.

YARD WORK

Michael Bode, CEO of Reynolds Farm Equipment and a Westfield resident, debated switching from a push mower to a riding mower for two summers.

“I felt guilty about making the switch because, for one, it is great exercise, and I felt lazy making the switch,” Bode said. Bode began counting how many times he mowed his yard for two years and found that he mowed 34 times a year. Once he bought a riding mower, it saved him half an hour each time.

“With a riding mower, I got 17 hours of my summer back,” Bode said. “That’s 17 hours of golf I get to play or 17 hours of family time. I mean, that’s two full vacation days off work. When customers switch, they get a cool product, but they’re also

buying part of their personal life back.”

According to Bode, customers can determine when to make the switch based on time, money and exercise.

“It is a bigger purchase, but it is basically a lifetime purchase,” Bode said. “I don’t put as many hours on it as I did with a push mower, so it will last me literally the rest of my life. Time can also outweigh the financial decision if someone has a busy family life.”

Bode said it is all a matter of personal preference for a gas versus an electric lawn mower. He said it “does not cost that much to charge an electric mower compared to the gas you would use to fill up a gas-powered mower.”

“You don’t have to keep running to the gas station to make sure you have gas and oil and things like that every time you mow with an electric mower, so there are benefits to that,” Bode said. “If you’re charging, you’re putting in some electric use in your household. It is, however, a lower-maintenance option because you’re not having to maintain an engine,” Bode said.

DISPATCH

State chamber of commerce plans HR conference — The Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s 60th annual Indiana HR Conference and Expo will take place April 30 to May 2 at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis. The conference offers a variety of workshops and sessions for HR professionals, and will showcase top industry services and products at the market expo. The three-day program, sponsored by Frost Brown Todd, includes a morning keynote on May 1 featuring workforce thought leader Cara Silletto of Magnet Culture, discussing how to reduce “us vs. them” conflicts in the workplace. The closing keynote that day will be HRD CEO Andrea Butcher speaking on HR’s role in partnering with executive teams to move businesses forward. For more and to register, visit indianahrconf.com.

Reynolds Farm Equipment offers several lawn mower options for customers.

(Photo courtesy of Michael Bode)

READERS’ VIEWS

Start with a mirror

dismiss our overly broad objections to culture because, after all, they’re stuck in the same circular projection we are.

Culturally broad focus is too much for one person or group. We feel falsely content with our vice, provided we see bigger vice on display in the news, in the movies, even in a neighbor ...then protest loudly, sometimes with T-shirts.

What does this do? (It) subtly kicks the can down the road on cleaning up our own internal baggage. The garbage piles up, then begins to stink and radiate so others smell it, allowing them to easily

Someone once mentioned pulling the plank out of my eye in order to see the speck in my brother’s eye — what was his name again? He made a lot of uncomfortable sense, as I recall.

Judging is fine, but we should start with the mirror — the sphere around us will follow and expand naturally. Such is the fabric of reality.

Thank you again for putting thoughtfulness to print so consistently. Dare I say the sphere around you is expanding!

Jacob Johnston, Fishers

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE:

Sharp as a razor

Commentary by Terry Anker

Even before the disposable variety, there was Ockham’s razor. Granted, they are very different kinds of devices. The former removes unwanted body hair, and the other is an intellectual device in philosophy that pares off the doubtful to focus one’s attention on the more likely. In the 14th century, William Ockham is attributed with formalizing some earlier thinking into his notion that in the absence of evidence to the contrary, whatever is most likely the cause can be assumed to be it. While the outraged conspiracy theorists among us may advance innumerable alternatives, Ockham would have suggested that we stay with the simplest probable causation.

phy’s Law (namely, that if anything can go wrong, it will).

HUMOR ESSAY

The term “razor” to define the thinking came in the 19th century from Irish academic William Rowan Hamilton. Now, the expression is used in a variety of mostly scientific, philosophical or economics concepts. It is all very highbrow. But in 1980, comedic writer Robert J. Hanlon compiled a joke book centered on the notion of Mur-

In a clever riff on Murphy, Hanlon took the notion that “we’d better be prepared because it is tough out there” to a new level, asserting, “Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.” Like Ockham’s, Hanlon’s razor attempts to walk we humans back from our all-too-eager willingness to imagine conspiracy where a more simple but less dramatic cause is probably the root. Evolution has brought us to be curious, unrelenting and suspicious. Caution has kept us alive. Still, the principle can go too far. We imagine all manners and sort of slight, insult and intrigue. Most people act through ignorance, incompetence or disinterest — not malice. Knowing it could improve our relationships and calm our anxieties, a sharp razor reduces the burn.

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

Life on the move

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Update: After selling our house much faster than we anticipated and then temporarily living with my in-laws, my husband Doo and I are now settling into our eldest’s new home, a cute little bungalow in the disputed territory of either Meridian Kessler or South Broad Ripple, depending on your reading of the boundary line. He still has another two months on his current apartment lease and we wanted our own space, so win-win for the Wilson clan.

The cool thing is that we’re only a mile from where Doo and I lived when we first became parents. I’m not sure if this is irony or some circle of life nonsense, but I do know we have majorly downsized. When I said “cute” above, I actually meant “tiny.” Like, TINE-EY.

It also means we’ve had to fill and unfill two storage units and a garage bay in the span of three weeks. My arms look amazing and my lower back aches nonstop. Doo’s body is in full-scale rebellion despite daily Aleve-IPA dosing. He nearly stroked out trying to get a king mattress up the narrowest set of stairs I’ve ever

“My arms look amazing and my lower back aches nonstop. Doo’s body is in full-scale rebellion despite daily Aleve-IPA dosing.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

seen. I have to both duck and turn slightly sideways to avoid getting stuck or hitting my head, and I’m not that big of a person. For our broad-shouldered, 6-foot-3 son, the journey to the second floor is both comical and perilous. The threat of accidental decapitation is real! Doo and I are both so tired at night that dinners consist of Jif peanut butter straight from the jar and a few stale pretzels.

Anyhoo, the housing saga continues. Where will we be in June? Stay tuned! Peace out.

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

Cold truth about lost coat

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Nippy temps will soon be over. This past cold season, I faced the winter chill without any substantial outerwear whenever possible. It’s not that I’m particularly hardy; I’m simply looking at things realistically. I’m tired of losing my coat. I lost three during the COVID-19 pandemic and we never left the house.

HUMOR

I’m going to explain my problem, but you must read this carefully, or you’ll be lost -- like my coat usually is.

I never liked wearing winter coats, especially in the car. I don’t want to be all bundled up and feel like the Pillsbury Doughboy at the wheel. I get too warm when the car heats up, but I can’t undo my buttons or unzip because of the seat belts. Then when I exit the car, I’m soon in a warm place, like a movie theater or Lucas Oil Stadium, and have to immediately take off my heavy jacket and stuff it under my seat, which is a great way to add mustard stains and sticky pieces of popcorn to my apparel.

Since I seldom wear a coat, I am accustomed to leaving places without one. And so, when I occasionally do take along a jacket, I often leave it behind because I’m not used to wearing it in the first place. Are you following me? If you are following me, please tap me on the shoulder and remind me that I just left my coat at Beef & Boards.

It’s even crazier for my wife, Mary Ellen, to get bundled up in the winter because she asks me to warm up the car before we leave the house. Then she asks me to drop her off in front of the restaurant. Then she asks me to pick her up at the door when we leave. We drive home in a heated car and get out inside our heated garage. Why does she even need a coat?

For many years, this was a typical phone conversation on any given morning after

“I never liked wearing winter coats, especially in the car. I don’t want to be all bundled up and feel like the Pillsbury Doughboy at the wheel. I get too warm when the car heats up, but I can’t undo my buttons or unzip because of the seat belts.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

Mary Ellen and I went out and I made the mistake of bringing a coat.

“Hello, this is Dick Wolfsie. I was at your movie theater last night and may have left my brown winter coat there. Could you please check your lost and found?”

“Let me see. We have a pair of glasses, an iPhone and a credit card.”

“Yes, all that is mine. Not only did I forget that stuff, I forgot that I forgot it. But about the coat?”

“Here’s a brown coat. How could you leave it, sir? Once you got outside, didn’t the bitter cold remind you of your coat?”

“I can’t explain this. Read my column. Look, I’ll get the coat tomorrow when it’s not raining.”

“Don’t you have an umbrella? “

“I left it at Starbucks.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

Fishers actress embraces role in Civic Theatre’s ‘Anastasia’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Jill O’Malia is acting her age, or in fact, a little older.

MUSICAL

“I’ve been fortunate over the years to be cast as someone much younger than I was,” O’Malia said. “So, this is nice I don’t have to worry about the wrinkles. I’m a grandma.”

O’Malia, who was crowned Miss Indiana in 1969, portrays Dowager Empress Maria Fyodorovna in Civic Theatre’s production of “Anastasia” April 26 to May 11 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Empress Maria is supposed to be around 80 years old and is Anastasia’s grandmother.

“It was thought through history she was the only surviving Romanov,” O’Malia said of Empress Maria.

Tsar Nicholas II and his family were executed in 1918 following the Russian Revolution of 1917.

“She was a very kind and pleasant person until the time her family was murdered, and then she became very stubborn and outspoken and her heart was broken,” said O”Malia, a Fishers resident. “So, the solo I sing is at a point where she is so broken, it’s kind of sad.”

This is the first time O’Malia has performed in a Civic Theatre show since “Into the Woods” in 2013.

“It’s great to be back. It’s a wonderful organization,” said O’Malia, who regularly acts for several community theater organizations.

O’Malia said she gets to sing a part of “Once Upon a December” with Young Anastasia at the end of the show. Young Anastasia is played by Westfield High School senior Keegan Connor.

Isabella Agresta plays Anya, or Anastasia. Agresta, a 2022 Franklin Central High

School graduate, said she would have been happy with any role but wanted to play the title role.

“I’ve done a few community theater roles where I’ve played the lead, but this is probably one of my favorites,” Agresta said. “It’s grown to be one of my favorite musicals. I always liked the music, and that’s what led me to audition.”

Agresta said “In my Dreams” is one of her favorite songs to perform.

“I also really love ‘In a Crowd of Thousands,’” Agresta said. “I think it’s a really important one in the show. It’s a big moment when she finally realizes she is Anastasia.”

Agresta said it’s an emotional role.

“I’m a really emotional person and I cry really easily,” Agresta said. “I’m afraid I might shed some tears during the show.”

This is Agresta’s second show with Civic Theatre. She performed in “Elf” in 2023.

Indianapolis resident Troy Bridges plays Dimitry in his Civic Theatre debut.

From left, Troy Bridges, Isabella Agresta and Steve Kruze appear in Civic Theatre’s production of “Anastasia.”

(Photo by Joshua Hasty Photography)

“I didn’t know much about the musical beforehand, but it’s become a favorite of mine,” Bridges said. “I think I’ve acclimated pretty well to the role.”

Bridges said he researched the musical quite a bit after getting the role.

“I’ve been enjoying getting to know (Dmitry) a little bit,” he said.

Renée La Schiazza, a 2012 Carmel High School graduate and Carmel resident, plays Tatiana Romanov and various roles in the ensemble.

“I always liked the movie, but I think what intrigued me about auditioning is none of us has had the chance to do the show because it’s the regional premiere,” La Schiazza said. “The score is beautiful and there are a lot of wonderful dance numbers. It was really a great opportunity to be part of a new cast and do a show with just a lot of dynamic musical numbers.”

La Schiazza, the director of programs for the Great American Songbook Foundation, performed in Civic Theatre’s “The Sound of Music” In 2023.

Fishers resident Anne Beck is the director and choreographer. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘THE KING AND I’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “The King and I” runs through May 19 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Deceptions: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for April 17, followed by Summer Nights: The Music of “Grease” April 18 and Storm Large April 19-20 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘SYLVIA’

“Sylvia,” a play by A.R. Gurney, runs through April 23 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

WORLD VOICE DAY

World Voice Day is set for 6:30 p.m. April 16 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Singers of all ages are encouraged to sign up for the free performance. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

SAMMY MILLER AND THE CONGREGATION

Sammy Miller and The Congregation’s concert is set for 8 p.m. April 19 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE’

“Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute” concert is set for 8 p.m. April 20 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

Bennett to serve as Carmel Jazz Festival headliner — Jazz vocalist Antonia Bennett, the late Tony Bennett’s daughter, has been invited to headline the Carmel Jazz Festival Aug. 9 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. However, due to this opportunity, the Carmel Symphony Orchestra is postponing its April 21 concert, which featured Bennett. Those tickets will be honored at the Aug. 9 concert or a refund can be requested by calling 317-8449717. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

La Schiazza O’Malia

Heartland’s Cinemania starts strong

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Heartland International Film Festival’s Cinemania is a box office hit.

FUNDRAISER

The 650 tickets for the April 19 fundraiser at the Crane Bay Event Center in Indianapolis sold out quickly. The inaugural theme for the signature fundraiser is “A Tribute to The Beatles in Film”

“It really shows the support behind our events,” said Jessica Chapman, director of marketing and communications for Heartland Film. “Every year, this event is going to have a different theme. Cinemania is a one-night celebration of iconic films.”

This year’s event will include an appearance by BritBeat, a Beatles tribute band.

Chapman said there was room for more than 650 people, but officials wanted to make sure there was space for visitors to enjoy interactive experiences.

“One of the themes is ‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,’ and we’re going to have an aerialist pouring champagne,” Chapman said. “All the different areas are

based on classic Beatles songs.”

Other themed areas include “Strawberry Fields Forever,” featuring strawberry margaritas, and “Yellow Submarine.”

“BritBeat will take us through the different years of The Beatles with costume changes,” Chapman said.

There also will be performances by DJ Lockstar, jazz singer Rebecca Rafla, soul singer Bashiri Asad and the DysFUNKtion Brass Band.

Chapman said BritBeat will be on the main stage and the other performers will be in the Jimmy Stewart VIP Lounge.  For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

Adana kebab great for grilling

Commentary by Mark LaFay

April is a bustling month for us at the shop as we finalize preparations for the summer farmers market season. We’re assembling and training our team, gathering and repairing gear, scheduling, planning and building up inventory for the grilling season. I’m a grill enthusiast who doesn’t need anything fancy — a Weber kettle grill with hardwood charcoal suits me perfectly.

FOOD

This week, we’re introducing a Turkish lamb sausage named after Adana, a town in Turkey. Having spent time in Turkey, I can attest to the fantastic nature of Turkish cuisine, with döner sandwiches and Adana kebab ranking high among my favorite dishes.

Adana kebab consists of spicy minced lamb sausage skewered and grilled over charcoal, traditionally seasoned with cumin seeds, Urfa pepper flakes and sumac. Cumin adds an earthy flavor. Urfa pepper contributes a mild spiciness, and sumac provides a slight bitterness, combining to create a memorable taste. For those interested in trying Adana kebab, you can

sample ours or make your own. Here’s a recipe to consider:

• Approximately 1.2 pounds ground lamb

• Kosher salt (approx. 10 grams)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon ground sumac

• 1 tablespoon ground Urfa pepper flakes

• 2 tablespoons ice-cold water

Mix all ingredients by hand for 3-5 minutes, chill overnight, then form around skewers to make them flat and thin. Grill over charcoal for optimal browning and crisping. Serve on grilled pita or a crispy fluffy baguette. Top with thinly sliced red onion, fresh ripe tomato, parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Optionally, add yogurt, fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing twist, or elevate it with some fine hummus.

Here’s to the grilling season!

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite 19, Indianapolis

BritBeat will perform at Heartland International Film Festival’s Cinemania. (Photo courtesy of BrttBeat)

Fishers resident participates in Disability Film Challenge

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

Movie making isn’t only for Hollywood filmmakers.

COMEDY

A team of deaf filmmakers from Indianapolis is participating in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge for the second consecutive year.

baum, Aaron Margolis-Greenbaum, Cullen Shade, Rydrea Walker, Justin Perez and Carlina Fucarino.

Their film, “Sugar Buddy,” is a buddy comedy.

One of the producers, Fishers resident Allison Friedman, was a finalist last year in the category of Best Public Awareness Campaign. She and her team are hoping for a repeat as a finalist.

“Our film challenge begins (soon), then we will have to wait until the films upload to all social media outlets,” Friedman said. “We will begin the awareness campaign, which runs from April 13-21, so we will need support to spread our disability film to get more attention in Indiana.”

Besides Friedman, the other members on the movie team are Sarah Margolis-Green-

The team wrote the script and filmed and edited the movie in five days.

Should “Sugar Buddy” win, the team will receive $2,000 grants as category winners and will have a chance to access a $15,000 seed fund/film finishing grant provided by the Adobe Foundation. Other prizes, like a Dell Technologies computer and one-year membership to Internet Movie Database Pro, further incentivize participation. In addition, organizations such as the Heartland International Film Festival, HollyShorts Film Festival and NewFilmmakers could take notice and elevate the film and possibly provide invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration within the industry. For more, visit disabilityfilmchallenge. com.

Sky inspires Fishers artist

Commentary by Randy Sorrell

Feeling a little stale and need a shot of inspiration? We all have periods of low energy or lack of enthusiasm, don’t we? The challenge is how we push through them. If you’re a “creative” or entrepreneur, this anti-staleness strategy can have a major impact on your livelihood.

ART

Martin Fitzgerald, a Fishers resident and acrylic artist, gets inspiration from the sky, where all true colors reside! I dig that! His father was an artist, which is where Fitzgerald received his inspiration and training.

One of his inspiring techniques is to pair his paintings with a song that is best enjoyed while viewing. Check out Fitzgerald’s Facebook page for his art/music pairings.

Marilyn Wilson, an inspiring 80-yearyoung Zionsville resident has several strategies to “get her creative on” that most of us will appreciate. And they are really mechanisms to avoid boredom, which she has a low tolerance for.

She loves her iPhone photography while out walking when unusual things catch her eye. Recently, a grove of flowering dog-

wood trees in Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis were subjects. She will employ them in greeting cards with a personal poem or note to uplift someone.

So, how do you get your creative on?

Send me an email and tell me your story.

Let’s help unclog the stale energy in someone who may appreciate it.

Randy Sorrell, a Carmel artist, can be reached at 317-6792565, rsorrellart@gmail.com or rsorrellart.com.

Martin Fitzgerald’s painting is named for Jimmy Buffett’s “A Pirate Looks at 40.” (Photo courtesy of Martin Fitzgerald)

Friedman

Commentary by Larry Greene

Constructed in 1992 in Carmel’s Orchard Estates neighborhood, this home featured a well-designed and functional kitchen layout that was ready for a modern-style refresh. The homeowners were looking for a light and contemporary style while also increasing storage.

THE BLUEPRINT

• New maple cabinets extend to the ceiling, increasing storage space and extending the perceived ceiling height.

• A modern green shade on the lower cabinets add a sophisticated color pop that perfectly accents the wood tones throughout the open-concept space.

• The curved lines of the statement range hood provide a striking contrast to the clean lines on the cabinetry and backsplash, while the light wood tone adds a touch of natural warmth and nuance.

• The glossy artisan tile backsplash in tonal neutral adds texture to the overall aesthetic, while the hardware’s rich gold tones add a touch of classic style.

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Parents of Ball State Students

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, good-natured work environment. The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@ integrityautomotive.net. We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays. To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net . 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

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HUNT CLUB BOARDING KENNEL

SEEKS Part-Time Kennel Assistant responsible for the daily care of dogs, kennel maintenance, and other duties, as assigned. Exceptional customer service and good communication skills via in-person interaction.

Team Member availability includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Interested candidates submit resume to: huntclubkennel@gmail.com.