April 30, 2024 — Fishers

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Study focuses on needed county services

Affordable housing, child care, transportation, social services and education are common concerns among Hamilton County residents, especially those in the lower income brackets.

That was the takeaway from a monthslong community needs assessment, spearheaded by the Fishers-based Hamilton County Community Foundation — a process that involved community listening sessions, interviews, data analysis and surveys.

The findings were presented April 17 during an event at The Bluffs at Conner Prairie.

Kristen Moreland of Schunk Moreland Strategies, which worked with the foundation to compile the report, talked a little about the methodology that went into creating a 20-page needs assessment. She also gave some highlights of the findings. One disparity she noted is the difference between the northern and southern parts of the county.

“It’s really a tale of two counties, and that came up multiple times,” she said.

For example, the median household income in Atlanta is more than two times lower than Carmel’s — about $57,000 versus about $133,00 — and while child care options are a concern everywhere, that service is particularly difficult to find in northern Hamilton County.

Moreland said the report focused on five key areas identified through the data collection process.

“First, affordable housing is identified as a bedrock for overall well-being,” she said. “Second, education and training are pivotal — it’s not just about gearing up for the job market, but also enriching lives and purpose and offering pathways for personal growth. Third, we can’t overlook the breadth of social services that are needed — ranging from ensuring food security to mental health support and, not to mention, tailored help for those in our community that are most vulnerable. (Fourth), child care solutions are another linchpin, particularly those that help with costs and offer flexibility for working parents. And last but not least, transportation.”

Moreland said that without reliable transportation, residents can’t access other services, such as food pantries or medical appointments, and can find it chal-

lenging to get to and from a job.

The event also included a panel discussion led by Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt, with panelists Yolanda Kincaid of Janus Developmental Services, Andrea Davis of HAND, Inc., Dave Hyatt of Riverview Health and Mike Thibideau of Invest Hamilton County.

Heirbrandt noted that Hamilton County has experienced “explosive” growth in recent years.

“The net increase population creates a lot of challenges for us,” he said. “As county commissioners, we represent the entire county and we’re tackling a lot of tough and very complex, complicated issues, such as affordable housing, education, training, workforce opportunities, the importance of social services that we offer, also child care — you’ve heard a lot about that, and we continue to hear about that. It’s something that needs to be addressed. And then, finally, transportation options that could be available here in our county.”

Hyatt talked about health equity, and said some residents have barriers to health care, including the five needs identified in the report.

“By the time you get to our facilities, we’re going to be spending a lot more time trying to correct those things, where we need to work to be more proactive as a community and really look at how do we address these problems in advance, before they come to our doors, before they end up in the emergency department,” he said.

Thibideau added that while the county’s percentage-of-population numbers are relatively low for certain needs, the actual

number of people in need is high.

“Hamilton County is, I believe, the lowest percentage of our population enrolled in Medicaid in the state of Indiana, but it’s still 43,000 people,” he said. “That’s a lot of people who need additional assistance. But if you just look at as a percentage of our population, our statement of need seems like less,” which can make it difficult to qualify for grants and other assistance.

Davis said there’s simply not enough housing in Hamilton County, which is why costs keep rising. She said about 43 percent of the population is ALICE — asset and limited-income constrained but employed.

“People move here because of our schools and our safety and our health care,” she said. “They’re prioritizing their housing costs over everything else. I can’t think of any other reason why we have more than 50 food pantries in one of the richest counties in the state.”

Kincaid agreed and said the housing issue is worse for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are able to live independently but can’t afford to.

“Definitely a tip of the hat to Hamilton County Community Foundation for looking into this assessment,” she said. “I think that getting the information and data out there for folks to be able to digest is a great first step to being able to create the plan for action going forward.”

Moreland said the study will be used to develop collaborative initiatives to address identified needs.

For more about the foundation, visit hamiltoncountycommunityfoundation.org.

us Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIV, No. 15 Copyright 2023

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A panel discussion about identified needs in Hamilton County featured, from left, Yolanda Kincaid of Janus Developmental Services, Andrea Davis of HAND, Inc., Dave Hyatt of Riverview Health and Mike Thibideau of Invest Hamilton County. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

S U M M E R S U M M E R C A M P

DISPATCHES

Fishers road construction — The following projects are underway and might affect traffic in the Fishers area:

• Allisonville Road remains closed north and south of 146th street. Bridge crews are continuing work on widening the eastbound bridge over the White River. The contractor is continuing to work on the storm sewer installation, subgrade preparation and paving operations. The contractor will begin working within existing pavement areas after the new traffic pattern is implemented. Construction vehicles will be entering and exiting from this work area and drivers are asked to be vigilant. The contractor will occasionally restrict lane use for the delivery of materials in the work area from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. These lane restrictions will take place in the lefthand westbound lane of 146th Street.

SPACE STILLAVAILABLE!

• Construction has started on the 96th Street and Allisonville Road Roundabout Project. The existing Michigan Left intersection was eliminated and will transition to a two-lane roundabout next to the new River Place development. The project is scheduled to be completed at the end of the year, with minor enhancements completed in spring 2025.

• 106th Street between Cumberland Road and Hamilton Pass is closed to all through traffic for a bridge replacement project. The anticipated roadway reopening date is Oct. 18. Local traffic will continue to have access to homes and through traffic should utilize the posted detour route of Cumberland Road, 96th Street and Mollenkopf Road.

Hamilton County vital records available online – Hamilton County has become the fourth county in Indiana to offer an online ordering system for birth and death certificates. Previously, birth and death records were only available in person or via mail-in application. Orders are processed within two business days, excluding weekends and holidays, and customers can choose mail delivery or pick-up. Newborn records may take 10 to 14 days to become available through the Indiana Department of Health’s vital records system. Certified birth and death certificates are $15 per copy, and online orders will incur a nonrefundable $5 service fee. To order, visit the Hamilton County Health Department’s online portal, hamiltoncounty.in.gov/255/Vital-Records.

COMMUNITY
C A M P

HSE board members recognized for service

SCHOOLS

The Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees recently was recognized by the Indiana School Boards Association with an Exemplary Governance Award for 2023.

“This distinguished honor reflects the board’s dedication to professional growth and the success of every student within the district,” an announcement from HSE stated.

Board Members Sarah Donsbach, Sarah Parks-Reese and Suzanne Thomas earned an EGA Level II distinction for their leadership and commitment to excellence, according to the news release. Board Member Dawn Lang was recognized with a Level I distinction, symbolizing her contributions to the board’s mission.

The awards start at Level 1 — commendable — and rise to Level 4 — exemplary, according to the ISBA website. Board members accumulate “points” by attending ISBA events and activities that promote professional learning and development.

“These individuals are leading the way as models who strive for effective school board governance and they should be proud of their accomplishments,” ISBA President Rebecca Gardenour stated.

The HSE board as a whole received a Level I award, which is based on the collective point totals earned by all board members.

“School boards perform a vital public service and members who actively participate in professional learning are better equipped to perform their duties effectively,” ISBA Executive Director Terry Spradlin stated.

Honorees will formally receive their awards during ISBA’s spring regional meetings, which take place in various locations statewide through April 30.

For more about ISBA’s EGA program and the full list of award recipients, visit isba-ind.org/ega.html.

TRAILS AT CONNER PRAIRIE OPENS

5 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com COMMUNITY • Border Security • 2A supporter • Cost of living must come down • Energy Independence • Stop Funding Countries who hate us • Have to fight the squad • We have to stand up to big Pharma • I want to make Healthcare affordable for everyone 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. 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.
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The Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees are, seated from left, Dawn Lang, Tiffanie Pascoe and Sarah Parks-Reese; standing from left, Suzanne Thomas, Ben Orr, Juanita Albright and Sarah Donsbach. (Photo courtesy of HSE) Conner Prairie in Fishers officially opened its new trails system, part of the outdoor museum’s ongoing $40 million Prairie Pathways Campaign. Cutting the ribbon during the April 19 celebration are, from left, Norman Burns, Nancy Ricker, David Hillman, Jay Ricker, Diana Yates, Dan Yates, Andrew Bradford and Brian Timmerman. The new trails system includes a paved ADA-accessible trail and a more rugged gravel trail. Both are about 2 miles long. The trails are self-guided and take visitors through restored prairie and along the White River. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

Senior Showcase exhibit winners picked

SCHOLARSHIPS

More than 20 seniors from Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high schools received scholarships totaling $4,000 during an awards ceremony for the annual Fishers Arts Council’s STAR Senior Showcase exhibit, featuring visual art and poetry.

“The 15th Annual Senior Showcase once again highlighted the impressive artistic talents coming out of the Fishers and HSE school programs,” stated Ross Hilleary, president of Fishers Arts Council. “This year $4,000 in scholarships were given to 23 seniors, ranging from $50-$600 per award, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and art patrons across the city.”

The awards were presented April 12 at the Hub Gallery at the Hamilton County Community Foundation, according to a FAC news release. Hilleary, Fishers City Council president Cecilia Coble and STAR Bank Senior Retail Sales Officer Amanda Rubeck presented the awards. Catherine Snider also presented a special award — “Best Representation of the Written Word” — in memory of her daughter, Jordan D. Snider. Best in Show went to HSE senior Hannah Gao for her painting, “Oasis.” The evening’s other big winner was FHS senior Judian Hunsader for his collection of song lyrics entitled, “Jude’s Lyrics.” He won the Jordan

D. Snider award. More than 80 students participated in the exhibit offering 173 pieces of art along with nine poetry-based submissions.

The exhibit winners are:

• Jordan D. Snider Award for Best Representation of the Written Word: Judian Hunsader (FHS); Honorable Mention: Hannah Gao (HSE)

• Drawing: First place — Evie Bissonette (HSE); second place — Damian Ryan (FHS); third place — Daniel Serrano (HSE); honorable mention —Grace Floyd (FHS)

• Painting: First place — Heather Stutz (HSE); second place — Cruz Jafri (HSE); third place — Clara Hagedorn (FHS); honorable mention — Vaughn Ehrgott (HSE) and Avery Stein (FHS)

• Photography: First place — Kendall Matusiewicz (FHS); second place — Ameera Tai (FHS); third place — Dieter Hamm (FHS); honorable mention — Maddie Beaulieu (FHS)

• Digital Art: First place — Samuel Anderson (FHS); second place — Brooklynn Ferrell (FHS); third place — Mia Noel (FHS); honorable mention — Morgan Wright (FHS)

• 3D Art: First place —Mia Igneri (HSE); second place — Faith Perry (FHS); third place — Olivia Weyer (FHS); honorable mention — Hannah Young (HSE)

6 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com COMMUNITY
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Scholarship winners from Fishers and Hamilton Southeastern high schools. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Arts Council)

City of Fishers grants $30K for three teacher projects

EDUCATION

Three Hamilton Southeastern School District teachers will receive grants totaling $30,000 through the first round of the City of Fishers’ educator innovation grant program.

According to an announcement from the city, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness surprised teachers Lisa Harvey, Robyn Stout and Becky Schroeder in their classrooms April 17.

“It’s vital that we invest in our schools and empower our teachers with the tools to foster curiosity through hands-on learning,” Fadness stated. “This program celebrates the creativity and commitment of our educators and the spirit of innovation that makes Fishers unique.”

The grant program will provide $500,000 this year for innovative education ideas proposed by local educators. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and there is no funding cap on project requests, according to the city. A committee of educators, community entrepreneurs and HSE alumni reviews applications and selects grant recipients.

Schroeder, an 11th-grade teacher at Hamilton Southeastern High School, will receive $22,000 for a pilot program to bring virtual reality to high school students. According to the announcement, the immersive virtual reality platform will allow students to experience a range of educational content in an engaging and interactive way.

“By using VR technology, we can transport our students beyond the walls of our classrooms and provide them with meaningful, real-world experiences,” Schroeder

stated.

Harvey, a third-grade teacher at Fishers Elementary, will receive $4,500 to bring hands-on and experimental STEM learning to the classroom through the LEGO Education SPIKE Program.

Stout, a fifth-grade teacher at Sand Creek Intermediate, was awarded $3,600 to expand the school’s STEM lab and robotics program with pneumatics kits.

“One of the things we truly believe in at Hamilton Southeastern Schools is that schools equal strong communities,” HSE Superintendent Patrick Mapes stated. “We are so happy to have a partnership with the City of Fishers to support our students, teachers and our mission to have a top-quality education program in our community.”

For more about the grant program, visit FishersIN.gov/InnovationGrant.

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HSE Superintendent Patrick Mapes, left, thirdgrade teacher Lisa Harvey and Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Elementary School)

Embracing Mini with a Meaning

Jacob Stelflug can’t physically run on his own, so his father, Brad Stelflug makes certain he has that experience.

500 FESTIVAL

“He gets to experience the cheers and all the support from the crowd, the support from the other runners, the high-fives and the camaraderie,” said Brad, whose family lived in Westfield for 26 years before moving to Noblesville in 2020.

Brad will push Jacob, 27, in a racing chariot as part of the Ainsley’s Angels Indiana team in the 500 Festival One America Mini-Marathon May 4 in Indianapolis. The Mini with a Meaning connects nonprofits with passionate participants of the Mini-Marathon and Delta 500 Festival Dental 5K to raise awareness and funds.

“The Mini with a Meaning program allows us as a nonprofit to use our team as a platform for the needs we have throughout the years,” said Kristy High, a North Central Indiana ambassador for Ainsley’s Angels and senior ambassador director for Ainsley’s Angels of America. “The funds (help) to purchase and maintain our specialty equipment. Our specialty equipment is the special racing chariots (we) have to maintain. Those can be really pricey. It can be anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000. They are specially designed to be pushed by running.”

IMPROVE INVESTMENT RETURNS:

Hamilton County lagged the State fund by 1.35% in 2023 resulting in over $6 million less revenue.

IMPROVE TRANSPARENCY: Post investment composition and returns quarterly.

ESTABLISH A BENCHMARK TO EVALUATE INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE:

Currently, there is no benchmark. Save over $50,000 a year by increasing adoption of e-billing for property tax statements.

Jacob has FG syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes physical and mental delays. Nathan Stelflug, a 25-year-old former Westfield High School track and cross country runner, pushed his brother Jacob in the Boston Marathon April 15. Brad will push Jacob in the Mini-Marathon.

There are 39 teams slated for the Mini-Marathon and four for the 5K event. There is one rider with one or two pushers.

High said Ainsley’s Angels has been involved with the Mini-Marathon since 2017 and will be involved with Mini with a Meaning program for the third year.

“They are from all over the country, but the majority are coming from our North Central area,” said High, who lives in Russiaville.

High said when Ainsley’s Angels was accepted into the Mini with a Meaning program, the national organization made it a destination race.

“We also use the funds to provide dinner with all the participants the night before,

which is a chance for them to make new friends or catch up with old friends because they do come from all over,” High said.

Brad said the Mini-Marathon embraces inclusivity and allows many duo teams to compete. The number of duo competitors is limited to 10 at the Boston Marathon.

“We run the Marine Corps Marathon (in Arlington, Va.) every year and they are very inclusive,” Brad said. “We had 40 chairs running in that one last year. Lots of marathons do it right and Boston just does it wrong.”

Brad, 55, started running marathons in 2002. They began running races in 2015 when Brad adjusted Jacob’s wheelchair. They got a racing chariot two years later.

“When I would finish a marathon, I would grab Jacob and push him across the finish line and let him get the medal,” Brad said. “The crowd would cheer him on. He liked that experience so much. I started pushing him in 5Ks. We just started running races together. It’s kind of our thing.”

To donate, visit donate.ainsleysangels. org/campaign/565160/donate.

8 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com COMMUNITY
Brad Stelflug pushes his son, Jacob, in the Purdue Boilermaker Half-Marathon. (Photo courtesy of Brad Stelflug)
Vote BRAGG for TREASURER on May 7! Lifelong investor, fiscal conservative, graduate of Taylor University, over 30 years service to Hamilton County Learn more at www.facebook.com/ bobbraggfortreasurer.com Paid for by committee to elect Bob Bragg

The following events are scheduled for OneZone members during the month of May:

• Mario Rodriguez, executive director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority, will be the featured speaker during OneZone’s May luncheon, set for 11:30 a.m. May 15 at The Bridgewater Club, 3535 E. 161st St., Carmel. He will discuss updates from Indianapolis International Airport.

• OneZone Chamber’s Eggs & Issues, a monthly morning program dedicated to exploring advocacy topics that shape the community, will feature leaders from Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Indiana Sports Corp. and Visit Indy from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at The Bridgewater Club. Panelists include Mel Raines, president & COO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment; Chris Gahl, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Visit Indy; and Patrick Talty, president of Indiana Sports Corp.

• OneZone’s Morning Brew in northern Hamilton County starts at 9 a.m. May 30 at Greek’s Pizzeria. Registration is required by May 23. It is a free, members-only event. For more about the events listed, visit onezonechamber. com or call 317-436-4653.

TOUCH-A-TRUCK SCHEDULED

Kids can explore Fishers’ fleet of big rigs — including tractors, snowplows, police cars and fire trucks — during the free Touch-A-Truck event set for 4:30-7:30 p.m. May 21 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, 6 Municipal Dr.. There will be live demonstrations from Fishers Department of Public Works, Fishers Health Department, Fishers Fire Department and the Fishers Police Department, including K-9 exercises and road paving, as well as kids’ activities from Fishers Parks and food vendors.

MOTHER’S DAY AT CONNER PRAIRIE

Conner Prairie in Fishers has several opportunities for visitors to celebrate Mother’s Day, including a Forest Therapy session, Yoga on the Prairie and Family Yoga May 11, and Rosé and Roses set for May 10. A family brunch at Conner Prairie is May 12, with seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. For more and to register, visit connerprairie.org.

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Lawrence North shortstop puts up impressive hitting numbers

Lawrence North High School senior shortstop Anna Mauck keeps racking up some impressive hitting accomplishments.

Mauck, who has signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball for the University of Kentucky next season, has a .469 batting average with three homers in the first nine games. She hit .529 with 13 homers and a school-record 70 runs batted in as a junior. She hit .474 with eight homers as a sophomore and .513 with nine homers as a freshman.

Wildcats coach Matt Marino said the four-year starter batted leadoff her first two years but moved into the No. 3 slot last year because of her ability to drive in runs.

Marino said her biggest strength is consistency as her career batting average is .503.

“She is also very strong defensively as

MEET ANNA MAUCK

Favorite athlete: University of Kentucky shortstop Erin Coffel

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite vacation spot: Alys Beach, Fla.

she can play infield or outfield at a high level,” Marino said. “She has a lot of speed. She’s stolen a lot of bases, too.”

Marino said Mauck has developed a better mental understanding of the game.

“This includes knowing game situations offensively and defensively and what needs to be done in those situations,”

Marino said. “Over her career, her improvements have been in team leadership as she has been a team captain for two years.”

Mauck said her biggest improvement has been battling back with two strikes at the plate.

“It’s swinging at every pitch and not being too picky,” she said. “It’s just developing patience and an attack mode of when I need to be less picky and figuring out balls that are close enough to be hit.”

Her goal is to raise her batting average this season.

“I want to break as many school records as possible and maybe make all-state first team,” said Mauck, who was named Class 3A/4A second team all-state last year by the Softball Coaches Association of Indiana.

Mauck plays for a travel softball team, Tennessee Fury Platinum X, which plays in tournaments across the U.S. She plays shortstop and third base on her travel team.

She chose Kentucky for several reasons.

“The campus was beautiful,” said Mauck, who plans to major in business marketing. “The coaching staff was nice and welcoming. The Kentucky coach came to nearly every one of our games in the summer. It was cool to see how persistent and how much they wanted me. I felt they wanted me and would be there for me and it’s not super far from home.”

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Lawrence North shortstop Anna Mauck is hitting .469 through the first nine games. (Photo courtesy of Matt Marino) Mauck

Three HSE graduates in 500 Festival Princess Program

Hannah Mullen has known about the 500 Festival Princess Program her entire life.

TRADITION

“My mom was in the Princess Program in 1999 and she was named queen, so this year will be the 25th year of her crowning, which is really amazing,” Mullen said.

“She has always been my biggest role model. She’s always been so inspiring to me just the way she puts herself out in the community and inspires other people just left a mark on me. Being raised by somebody like that, I have developed a love and passion for helping other people. I’m passionate about working with kids.”

Mullen is one of three Hamilton Southeastern High School graduates among the 33 500 Festival Princesses this year. The others are Kaitlyn Ross and Parmida Nazarloo. Jaslin Martinez, a Noblesville resident, graduated from Fishers High School in 2020.

Mullen, a Ball State University junior majoring in graphic design, said she is passionate about working with children. She looks forward to the May 11 Salesforce & JP Morgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day and Rookie Run and the May 24 Memorial Service.

Ross won the Miss Indiana University title and the Miss Indiana competition in 2023.

“That was my first experience being a titleholder,” Ross said. “I realized I really loved being able to advocate for my community and to get involved. I have an organization called Advocating for the Next Generation of STEMnists, where I go into local classrooms and partner with different Bloomington organizations to discuss what it means to be woman in science and thought this would be a great way to further that initiative as well as to represent Indianapolis and the amazing 500 that we have.”

Ross, who is in her first year at the IU Maurer School of Law in Bloomington, is interested in patent and intellectual property law. She earned her undergraduate degree in biology from IU in 2023.

She also enjoys working with children and is eager for Kids’ Day.

Nazarloo, an Indiana University junior majoring in human biology, became interested in the Princess Program when two members of her Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority were Princesses in 2023.

“They’re both similar to me and we have the same values,” Nazarloo said. “They both recommended me to apply. I’ve never seen an opportunity like the Princess Program. I think it’s cool that we can not only represent the festival but our own hometowns,”

Nazarloo enjoys working with children and plans to go into the medical field, probably pediatrics.

Martinez is majoring in public health at Purdue University.

“My favorite part about this program is being able to get out in the community and make an impact on many individuals, specifically minorities, as well as those in grade schools who have bad homes or financial disparities,” she said. “I have the privilege to be a mentor for these students as well as a tutor after school in the Lafayette community and Indianapolis. I have gained great mentors through the program that I can network with for post-graduate options as I’m graduating this May. I’m also fostering and building friendships with the other Princesses.”

She is applying to schools for their physicians’ assistant programs.

Martinez is eager for the 500 Festival Parade May 25 and seeing the prestigious guests at the Breakfast at the Brickyard.

“I just want to get the experience of being on the float and waving to all the people,” Martinez said.

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES

Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch

Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S.

Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S.

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S.

Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com

Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com

11 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com COMMUNITY
From left, Kaitlyn Ross, Hannah Mullen and Parmida Nazarloo are Hamilton Southeastern High School graduates. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi) Martinez
11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070
Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070 FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070 FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070 FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070 FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S. info@fishersdentalcare.com SINCE 1993 QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION GUARANTEED! SCREEN PORCHES ADDITIONS 317-848-7634 www.centennialremodelers.com SINCE 1993 QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION GUARANTEED! BATHROOMS REMODELERS 317-848-7634 www.centennialremodelers.com Member Central Indiana LICENSED BONDED INSURED SINCE 1993 QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION GUARANTEED! BATHROOMS COMPOSITE DECK & CEDAR PERGOLA REMODELERS 317-848-7634 www.centennialremodelers.com Member LICENSED BONDED INSURED SINCE 1993 QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION GUARANTEED! UP TO 60 MONTHS FINANCING AVAILABLE RIDING LAWN TRACTORS AND ZERO TURNS* ON SELECT SCAN TO LEARN MORE *Offer valid on qualifying new equipment purchases through 4/30/24. Financing pending approval from John Deere Financial. Some residency restrictions may apply. Financing offers & terms vary by model. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars. See your local Reynolds location for full details.

BIG ART

Muralist, basketball pro, both from Fishers, team up to inspire youth

On a bright spring day, a handful of artists applied even brighter colors to one of the outdoor basketball courts at Brooks School Park off 116th Street in Fishers.

Artist Koda Witsken monitored the progress of her design for the north court, which features an astronaut holding a basketball and a galaxy in the background.

“The south court is going to be similarly cosmic-themed,” she said. “Very, very colorful, but with a rocket ship shooting across half of the court and then a black hole with Saturn rings on the other side.”

Although Witsken designed the two murals, the vision came from NBA player Gary Harris of the Orlando Magic. The two are both Fishers natives, and both attended Hamilton Southeastern High School around the same time, although Witsken said they weren’t close friends then.

“A mutual friend connected us because Gary has wanted to give back to Fishers for years — to do basketball court murals — and just hadn’t found the right artist to execute the vision,” she said. “Our mutual friend — we all went to high school (together) — said, ‘Well, have you talked to Koda?’ So, here we are.”

Witsken said Harris’ goal is to inspire the next generation of basketball youth in Indiana, especially those from Fishers, to “reach for the stars.”

“My love of basketball started in Indiana, the basketball state, and specifically in Fishers,” Harris stated in a City of Fishers news release. “Given all that basketball has done for me and my family, I felt strongly about returning some of that love to the Fishers community with vibrant, statement-making basketball courts for the next generation of Indiana basketball talent to enjoy. I’m very excited to partner with Koda and the city on this project to make the vision a reality.”

Witsken’s work is well known throughout the greater Indianapolis area and she has created numerous murals in Fishers, specifically. This project was a little different, she said, because it’s horizontal — on the court — rather than on a vertical wall.

design, one of two that are being in-

COVER STORY

She used a grid to map out the courts, took a drone shot of the courts and superimposed the images so she would know which part of the designs fit into which grid block.

“Once we do the grid, then we do the sketch (on the court),” she said. “Then we fill in the sketch with paint. Because there’s so many colors here — there’s actually 30 — I made a paint-by-number system so that a

team can help me install it.”

The paint has a sandy aggregate mixed in, she said. That makes the surface less slippery for players. Witsken said they’re using the same kind of paint that was originally on the court, which is pretty durable. It should remain bright and shiny for at least a couple of years of normal use.

“It’s not going anywhere in a year, two

TOURNAMENT SET TO CELEBRATE NEW ARTWORK

In honor of the new Brooks School Park basketball murals’ completion, Fishers Parks has scheduled an outdoor 3-on-3, double-elimination tournament for ages 16-plus; and a 3-Point Contest for ages 8-plus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 18, at Brooks School Park, 11565 Brooks School Rd.

The 3-on-3 tournament is for teams of three or four. The fourth player on a four-person team is an alternate player

throughout the tournament, but no substitutions are allowed during any single game.

Teams are charged a fee of $75 for three-person teams and $90 for four-person teams.

The 3-Point contest will group participants by age category — 8 to 13; 14 to 18; and 19-plus. The fee to participate is $15 per person.

For more, visit playfishers.com.

years, but five to seven years from now — the same as you would touch up the courts as they currently exist with just the green and blue paint — they’ll need some loving,” she said. “The Parks Department does have the paint-by-number system we are using, along with all the colors, so they’re able to spot treat as needed until we need to come back and do the whole thing again.”

According to an announcement from the City of Fishers, the murals are part of a commitment to celebrate creativity through public art.

“What an awesome project to kick off the summer,” stated Marissa Deckert, director of Fishers Parks. “Our parks department is so grateful to Gary Harris for teaming up with artist Koda Witsken to make this dream a reality. We can’t wait to share this with the community and celebrate with an event open to all ages. This project brings a winning combination of community and vibrancy to one of our most popular parks.”

Witsken said she’s always loved art and expressed appreciation for a supportive family and her HSE art teacher, Angela Fritz. Witsken said Fritz helped inspire her to become a mural artist.

“She gave us 8-foot boards and said, ‘Paint this,’ and I had never painted something that big and just fell in love,” she said. “It grew from the 8-foot board to painting my bedroom — thanks, Dad — to my first public mural in Fishers when I was 21.”

Witsken graduated from HSE in 2011. Her newest Fishers murals are special, she said.

“I think that it’s really fun and meaningful that Gary wanted to give back to the place he grew up learning the game that’s now his life,” Witsken said. “And now, I get to give back with art to the place that I grew up that taught me about art and made it special to my life.”

Both murals are due for completion in early May.

ON THE COVER: An aerial photo shows the almost-completed mural at one one of two Brooks School Park basketball courts, designed by Fishers native Koda Witsken. (Photo

of Brian Brosmer)

12 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com
Artists work on muralist Koda Witsken’s basketball court stalled at Brooks School Park. (Photo by Leila Kheiry) courtesy Witsken

First eye exam recommendation

As a parent, you might wonder: When is the best age to take my child for their first eye exam?

VISION

We find that many parents think age 9 or 10 is appropriate because that’s when they remember first needing glasses. You might be surprised to know that the best age for kids to have their first comprehensive eye exam is around 3 years old! We, of course, love to see children much sooner if parents or pediatricians have any concerns.

Why is 3 the magic number? A huge part of the development of the visual system happens at an extremely young age. Surprisingly, most children who require glasses at a young age will never give us any external warning signs.

We like to explain it to parents this way: For the same reason that we sing silly songs to teach numbers, colors, letters and language at a very young age, development of the visual system also occurs early in life. We only get two eyes and we have to make sure that system is developing properly.

Thankfully, most children will not need glasses at a young age, and we just get to look at their eyes with special flashlights and instruments to make sure they are healthy. However, some children who are asymptomatic can have very large prescriptions and require glasses.

Kids don’t know what they don’t know and sometimes don’t tell a parent if they can’t see the leaves on the tree. Getting glasses early will teach the brain how to see properly. If we wait until they are 9 or 10 years old, we have lost some of the window of opportunity to help as much as we could have when they were younger.

You might think that your child is too wiggly or doesn’t sit still long enough to be checked yet. Thankfully pediatric optometrists have some incredible tools, toys and games to see the prescriptions and health of the eye for even the wiggliest children!

Dr. Frannie Fiechter is an optometrist at Little Eyes Pediatric Eye Care. You may reach her at DrFiechter@LittleEYES.com.

Therapy can lead to independence

There are numerous reasons your daily life activities may become a challenge. Occupational therapists help you regain your everyday skills and abilities to increase your independence and safety.

TREATMENT

THE FIRST STEP TOWARD INDEPENDENCE

Occupational therapists work with you on functional tasks, increase your upper extremity range of motion, address edema control, cognition and visual deficits, and help you enhance your fine motor skills. Occupational therapy aims to help you gain independence and thrive daily. During your first visit, your occupational therapist will evaluate what you can do and where you might have limitations. You will also be asked questions about your roles at work and at home and your everyday activities.

YOUR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY EVALUATION

Your occupational therapist must establish a baseline to track your progress. You will begin with an assessment of your current abilities and needs.

This individualized assessment may cover the following:

• Self-care activities, such as feeding, grooming, bathing and dressing

• Activities of independent living, like household and financial management and cooking

• Mobility and cognitive ability

• Strength and range of motion

• Vision and sensation

• Coordination and fine motor activities

SETTING YOU UP FOR SUCCESS

After the initial assessment, your occupational therapist will provide suggestions and recommendations for resumed productive lifestyles with current limitations and precautions and ways to improve limitations.

Don’t put off regaining your independence. Visit iuhealth.org to learn more or find an occupational therapist near you.

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Rachel Lower is an occupational therapist and manager of Rehabilitation Services at IU Health North Dr. Lawrence E. Lloyd, DPM Board Certified, American Board of Podiatric Surgery

Balancing the scales of trust

Stephen Covey, author of the seminal “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” is attributed with positing that, “Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.” In the book, which incidentally has sold more than 20 million copies since its first printing in 1989, he argues for character as the human Polaris rather than building or following a cult founded only on personality. There are many more expert Covey readers, but his premise seems iron clad. Trust is essential. Trust is a force multiplier. Trust may not be required but it sure makes life easier.

ESSAY

The form that such confidence might take is nearly limitless. We might trust a child to be responsible, or a caregiver to administer medications, or a taxi driver to deliver us safely, or a soldier to protect our sovereignty, or a teacher to help educate our citizens, or a politician to keep our interests front in their hearts. Each is a

distinct variation of the type. As such, they uniquely hold a corresponding bit of real estate in our conscience and well-being. Therefore, the betrayal of that trust will influence both the mundane and grand elements of our existence. When good faith is lost by a child that didn’t wait to eat their dessert, we can recover by letting them mature a bit before giving them another shot, maybe a day, week or month. If fractured by a grown adult, the repair is more complex and elusive.

What is the obligation of the one who betrayed the trust and of the one harmed? Should we be less trusting or they be more responsible? Should we have been more explicit in the confidence, or they more protective of the information? Trust us, it is complicated.

Time for me to fly

Friends, this month marks my 17th anniversary of writing for Current. 17th! That’s approximately 850 weekly columns sharing my sometimes crazy, often mundane life in suburban Indiana. But an exciting opportunity has developed, and I’ve made the decision to take a break. Alas, this is farewell, at least for now.

HUMOR

In February of 2023, my husband Doo and I listened to a podcast about a young couple who had quit their jobs and traveled for one year. Within 10 minutes, we had hit pause and were seriously discussing doing the same. It was crazy, sure, but we figured there’d never be a better time. So, we pulled the trigger. We leave July 1 for Australia! Then, it’s Indonesia in August, and after that, who knows? Apart from a few bucket list countries, we’ll see where the cheap flights and warm weather takes us.

It won’t be all play. Doo will be digital nomad-ing, I’ll be taking online classes, and we hope to take advantage of work exchanges to stay on budget. But I will not be writing columns. Although I love the process, I don’t want the responsibility. The only thing I want to think about is whether

“Doo

will be digital nomad-ing, I’ll be taking online classes, and we hope to take advantage of work exchanges to stay on budget. But I will not be writing columns.”

Mai Tais are appropriate before noon. So, thank you. Thank you for allowing me to vent about Doo, my kids, mean moms, annoying pets, PTO fundraisers, diaper debacles, Scroogey librarians, the perils of competitive dance, moving, sisterhood, road trips gone awry, 2020, incontinence, my ghostly complexion, tinsel wars, terrible drivers who don’t understand zipper merges, parenting woes and, of course, hillbilly shenanigans involving attic racoons.

It’s been a pleasure, and more importantly, an honor. Peace out.

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

14 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com VIEWS
is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
Terry Anker
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Smoked chicken to gag for

My wife Mary Ellen has been cooking dinner for me almost every night for more than 44 years. I always felt guilty about that, but never guilty enough to do anything about it. There was a short period when I was in charge of the barbecuing. I was old-school then and still used charcoal, but Mary Ellen read somewhere that this was an unhealthy way to prepare food. Of course, the meat alone was enough to raise our LDL, no matter how we cooked it.

HUMOR

Then we got a new Weber Grill. I had trouble mastering exactly how long to cook our carnivorian (if that’s even a word) selections. Medium-rare is OK for steaks, but it’s life-threatening with poultry.

“This chicken is certainly in the pink,” Mary Ellen told me one night when I took our dinner off the grill. This was not intended as a compliment to the chicken. Or to the chef.

After I was barred from cooking on our deck, I decided to give it a go inside with our new air fryer, another appliance I knew nothing about. But how difficult could it be? I mean, frying with air? This sounded like a fool-proof endeavor. Even for me.

My first attempt at using the new fryer was making a recipe I found on a social media website. You view a sped-up video making you think you can cook this masterpiece in 12 seconds. They usually don’t give you written directions and I still haven’t figured out how to save something or print it out. No matter now, when Mary Ellen found out I had a TikTok account, I was cooked. Account closed.

The recipe was for lemon garlic chicken. I placed the cutlets and all the required ingredients in a plastic baggie, gave it a good shake and let it marinate. Then I placed it all in a pan and slid it into the air

“After I was barred from cooking on our deck, I decided to give it a go inside with our new air fryer, another appliance I knew nothing about. But how difficult could it be? I mean, frying with air?”
– DICK WOLFSIE

fryer. But first I slathered the top of the bird with olive oil. That was my own little touch.

Mary Ellen had retreated to the back porch to enjoy her night off. I dozed off in my office easy chair. About five minutes later, I was awakened when smoke came billowing from the kitchen. Fumes filled the entire house. What should I do? Call 911? Or Emeril Lagasse?

The problem was that the directions called for baking the recipe in the oven –not the air fryer. And not with oil. Oops! Mary Ellen was aghast at this mistake.

“Look at those directions again. You did something wrong,” she said.

I tried to confirm that she was correct, but it was hard to see the recipe through all the smoke.

But here’s the good news: The chicken that night was very crispy.

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

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15 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com VIEWS
Dick Wolfsie

Narducci returns to ‘A Little Night Music’ for Indy Opera

Daniel Narducci has a history with Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music,” beginning in 1988 as a junior in Indiana University’s music school.

PERFORMANCES

“It was my first appearance at IU and my first experience performing Sondheim,” Narducci said.

Narducci, who plays Fredrik Egerman in Indianapolis Opera’s production of “A Little Night Music” May 3-5 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. The musical examines the romantic lives of several couples in Sweden in 1900.

Narducci, a Unionville resident, played Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm at IU.

“I did two tours of Lancelot and then eventually ascended to the throne as King Arthur in ‘Camelot’ with Indianapolis Opera,” Narducci said. “I’ve kind of matured into the role of Fredrik versus Carl-Magnus.”

Narducci performed in other Sondheim pieces in concerts through the years and performed in “Sweeney Todd” with the Cleveland Opera.

“What is amazing to me (is) how the music just stuck with me when I listened back intently when preparing the role,” Narducci said. “All of Carl Magnus’ lines came flying back into my mind. It’s almost like it never left. We sing a duet together, so I had to learn the other part.”

His wife sings “Send in the Clowns,” later a huge hit for Judy Collins.

His wife, Heather Hertling Narducci, plays Desiree Armfeldt in the production. The couple plays the two principal lead characters in the musical.

“The joke around the house is she sings the hit song and I have a song as well, and she’ll say, ‘What is your song called again?’” Narducci said. “My song is called ‘Now,’ one of the more challenging in the baritone world because of the expediency of text.”

“It’s been wonderful preparing for this role with (Heather) and digging into (the) backstory of the two characters,” Narducci said.

The Narduccis have a duet album called “Our Broadway Romance.”

fell in love with ‘A Little Night Music’ and it made a profound impact on my musical tastes moving forward. I have admired the genius of Sondheim ever since.”

As director of the University of Indianapolis Opera Theatre, she produced this musical with her students.

“They became better actors and singers through the process,” Hacker said. “They learned the importance of telling a story and how to mine for gold in each phrase. There is no richer teaching vehicle than a Sondheim lyric, and in the meanwhile, they committed an extraordinary musical score to memory.”

Hacker said the production brings everything full circle with the Indianapolis Opera.

“I came to Indianapolis as a young singer to work for the Indianapolis Opera as part of their Outreach Ensemble back in the 1980s and have made Indianapolis my home ever since,” Hacker said. “I am delighted to share in this production at this stage of my life, to be in the hands of such a formidable artistic staff and to create good theater with a truly talented cast.”

Whiteland resident Zoe Lowe plays Fredrika. Lowe, a sophomore homeschool student through Indiana Online via Martinsville High School, is excited to make her Indy Opera debut.

“We’ve appeared in shows together but mostly in concerts,” he said.

Kathleen Hacker, who plays Madam Armfeldt, appeared in “A Little Night Music” way back in the last century, she said jokingly.

”The show was offered by Starlight Musicals, an iconic summer musical series presented for many years in Indianapolis, and I was cast in the repertory ensemble for that summer season,” Hacker said. “I

“I thank my lucky stars every day that I get to be a part of this incredible show and work with some incredible talent,” Lowe said. “This will be my 22nd show that I have been in. Musical theater is my favorite outlet and I always treasure every moment I spend on stage.”

Lowe said the main challenge is fully memorizing her role before going on stage.

“This is a new phenomenon for me, but I think that it has helped grow my discipline as an actress and has encouraged me to continue to work hard in what I do,” she said.

For more, visit indyopera.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

Comedy Night is set for May 2, followed by Don Farrell’s Frank Sinatra tribute May 3 and Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt and Friends May 4 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘ANASTASIA’

Civic Theatre’s production of “Anastasia” runs through May 11 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘FORBIDDEN BROADWAY’

Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “Forbidden Broadway” through May 12 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

’THE DINNER PARTY’

Carmel Community Players presents “The Dinner Party” through May 5 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

DISPATCH

Indianapolis Ballet, ISO collaborate on ‘Romeo and Juliet’ — Indianapolis Ballet and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will collaborate on “Romeo and Juliet” May 3 at Clowes Memorial Hall in Indianapolis. ISO Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly leads the orchestra in the production by renowned choreographer Septime Webre. The original production debuted in 1994 with IB’s founding Artistic Director Victoria Lyras as one of the original Juliets. Since then, the production has evolved and traveled to leading ballet companies worldwide, including The Washington Ballet and Hong Kong Ballet. Indianapolis Ballet and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra last collaborated in 2018.

16 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com currentnightandday.com
Daniel Narducci and Heather Hertling Narducci appear in Indianapolis Opera’s production of “A Little Night Music.” (Photo courtesy of Daniel Narducci) Hacker Lowe

Couple enjoys roles in ‘King & I’

For Nathalie Cruz, the time was right to return to the stage.

MUSICAL

“Since COVID, I took a step back to do what I feel like I missed while doing theater straight for 10 years,” the Carmel resident said. “Three years is a long time to be gone and the calling to be on stage has somewhat become palpable.”

Nathalie is sharing the stage with her husband Ian Cruz in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “The King and I,” which runs through May 19 at the Indianapolis venue.

Nathalie has performed in “Victor/Victoria,” “Drowsy Chaperone” and “West Side Story” with her husband.

“This is another one for the books,” Nathalie said. “It’s a memory that we will both have fun looking back for sure.”

Ian is definitely enjoying it.

“Although we only have one scene together, it’s a gift to me to witness her brilliance in the various roles she’s played, but especially in her role of Lady Thiang in our

Area cast members in “The King and I”, front, Gemma and Calvin Lai, Zionsville; back, from left, are Ian and Nathalie Cruz, Carmel, Willa Cortez, Noblesville, and Sam Tiek, Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

current production when she’s on stage,” said Ian, who plays Kralahome. “I believe it’s been more than a decade, ‘The Drowsy Chaperone,’ since we’ve been together on stage, so it’s always a treat when we get the chance to do so just because it’s fun.”

Carmel High School senior Sam Tiek said he has wanted to return to Beef & Boards for a long time.

“I really enjoy the atmosphere the theater provides, and joining this cast has been such a cool experience,” Tiek said.

Tiek is part of the ensemble. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

17 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com NIGHT & DAY EskenaziHealthFoundation.org Eskenazi Health FoUndation is grateful to St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild for theiR lead gift For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Center’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office at the Palladium, call 317.843.3800 or visit atistage.org.
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A different kind of prom

Senior Izzy Casciani missed the Zionsville Community High School prom to attend a prom of a much different nature.

MUSIC

Casciani performed as a vocalist in two shows of music from “The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends” April 20 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. The performances were part of Discovering Broadway’s incubation process. The monster musical comedy involves three girls who cast an undying love spell to summon their dream dates for prom.

“I was lucky enough to go twice with one of my friends,” Casciani said of the ZCHS prom. “So, I felt like I got the experience, but I’d just say this was maybe 100 times better than prom, so it wasn’t that hard (of a choice).”

Casciani had the opportunity to appear alongside some performers who are already making their mark in the entertainment industry, including Barrett Wilbert Weed (Broadway’s “Mean Girls”), Andrew Durand (Tony Award-winning “War Horse”),

From left, Izzy Casciani and Sadie Cohen participating in concert of “The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends.”

(Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Myha’la (HBO’s “Industry,” Netflix’s “Leave the World Behind”), 2014 Carmel High School graduate Eric Wiegand (Broadway’s “Plaza Suite”, Hulu’s “Tiny Beautiful Things”) and Arica Jackson (“The Book of Mormon”).

Discovering Broadway was founded in 2012 by CHS graduate Joel Kirk, who directed the April 20 performances.

CHS freshman Sadie Cohen was one of the backup vocalists.

“Not knowing any of the music before it was really cool to work with people who are super experienced,” Cohen said. “It was great to get advice and learn about that because I definitely want to do this as my career.

Cheers to summer wines

The month of May is right around the corner, which means I am another year older, race fans will start trickling into town and the unofficial start of summer is almost here.

The consistently warmer temperatures have been luring our family outside more often. We’ve officially set up the back porch so we can relax on these warmer, longer weekend evenings while the kids run around. I love enjoying a refreshing glass of wine on the back porch and recently I got to try some really tasty wines that are perfect for patio sipping.

Ameztoi Rubentis: This wine is called Txakolina (chock-oh-lee-nuh) and comes from the Basque region of Spain. It’s made from red and white indigenous grapes fermented with native yeasts. What makes this wine extra fun is that it’s slightly fizzy. The fermentation vessel is sealed toward the end of fermentation, allowing carbon dioxide to build up and make the wine fizzy and delicious. This light, crisp, and dry wine is served chilled.

Easton Amador County Zinfandel: This classic zinfandel is made with ripe red zinfandel grapes grown in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Amador County, Calif. The wine is light-bodied, fully dry and packed with a variety of flavors. Typically, I would suggest cellar temperatures (55 degrees) for red wines, but this one can be served a bit more chilled.

Laporte Sancerre Terre Des Anges: This name is a bit of a mouthful. Sancerre is a region in the Loire Valley of France where white Sancerre is made from Sauvignon Blanc. I love this particular wine because it’s dry, acidic and refreshing. It’s packed with plenty of lemon and peaches. Serve chilled and thank me later.

Give these wines a try. You can find them at Kahn’s, 21st Amendment in Fishers, and Grapevine Cottage in Zionsville. Cheers to spring and almost summer!

APRIL 26 - MAY 12

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Center’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office at the Palladium, call 317.843.3800 or visit atistage.org

19 April 30, 2024 Current in Fishers currentinfishers.com
NIGHT & DAY
LIBATIONS Upom

Blueprint for Improvement: Outdoor enhancements in Zionsville

Built in Zionsville’s Austin Oaks section in 1999, this home’s owners were looking to make their outdoor space more dynamic. Our design included space for entertaining and protection from the elements while featuring low-maintenance materials that make upkeep a breeze.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The existing raised deck was removed and a screened porch, new deck and ground-level patio were built in its place.

• The new porch provides protection from the sun, rain and insects while the stone fireplace can provide a relaxing ambiance and warmth to extend outdoor enjoyment through the fall.

• An outdoor kitchen and integrated storage were added to make entertaining, meal prep and cleanup a breeze. Trex composite decking provides the look of natural wood with minimal maintenance and added durability.

• Roofing, siding and soffits were carefully crafted to match the home’s façade, ensuring the new porch blends seamlessly into the existing aesthetic.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27TH THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 12TH

Fri & Sat:

10:00am-7:00pm

Sun / Tues /

Wed / Thur:

10:00am-5:00pm

Mon: CLOSED Show

OR SCAN THE QR CODE No parking in the neighborhood. A shuttle will be provided.

Home tour benefits Eskenazi Health

Established in 1961, the Decorators’ Show House & Gardens nonprofit is celebrating its 63rd anniversary with its signature fundraising event with a tour of the historic Sylvan House at Northern Estates on the northwest side of Indianapolis.

EVENT

Built in 1927, the Tudor-style home will be open for tours April 27 through May 12

Presented by the nonprofit St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild, a volunteer organization that raises funds and services for Eskenazi Health, the annual Decorators’ Show House & Gardens is the longest-running show house event in the U.S. It is also the organization’s largest fundraiser for the John & Kathy Ackerman Mental health Professional Development Center at Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health Center.

Mandy Heslin, president of the St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild, said the organization’s fundraising efforts are in the third year of a four-year partnership with Eskenazi Health. The goal is to raise $1 million for

the John and Kathy Ackerman Center for Professional Development at the Sandra Eskenazi Health Center.

Homes chosen for the annual tour, such as the Sylvan House, are selected through a process that includes meeting specific criteria.

“A lot of the homes used for the Show House are typically historical,” Heslin said. “They all have some sort of interesting feature.”

All featured homes must have four or more bedrooms. They also must have a front and back staircase for flow and have between 8,000 to 12,000 square feet of space, with 10,000 square feet being the average. For those reasons, many of the homes that are selected are on Meridian Street, Pennsylvania Street or Washington Boulevard because they meet the criteria.

Besides the home tour, the two-week Decorators’ Show House & Gardens event includes live music, food for purchase and floral arrangement, among other attractions.

For more or to purchase tickets, which start at $35, visit ShowHouseIndy.org.

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House Ticket: $35 • At Door: $40 Credit Card only Tickets: showhouseindy.org

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