April 9, 2024 — Noblesville

CONNECTING VETERANS

Countywide groups offer variety of resources, support to those who served / P10

Noblesville school board approves various items / P2

Noblesville prepares for enchanting event / P6

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

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From left, school board member Misti Ray and senior Quinn Conrad at the March 19 school board meeting. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville Schools)

Noblesville School Board approves various items

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees met March 19 at the Educational Services Center, 18025 River Rd., where several items, including school calendars and new school policies, were approved.

EDUCATION

The meeting began with Julie Thacker, executive director of student services, recognizing Sandy Burnette, the director of nursing for Noblesville Schools, who was named the Indiana School Nurse Administrator of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Nurses.

“Sandy’s dedication and excellence to school health services is truly inspiring,” Thacker said. “She makes sure that all of our clinics are supported.”

Several Noblesville students were recognized for their achievements. Quinn Conrad was recognized as a National Merit Scholar finalist, and several students from the Noblesville High School band, jazz band, orchestra and piano programs were acknowledged for their success throughout the school year.

The board also approved calendars for the 2024-25, 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years.

In the first item of business, the board unanimously approved a resolution for the school district to use a more comprehensive

expanded background check for employment, according to board president Christi Crosser.

The resolution brings the district into compliance with a new state law.

“The new law prohibits school corporations from employing or contracting with specified individuals without additional review and approval by the school board,” Crosser said.

The board also unanimously approved a list of course additions to provide more academic opportunities for students in Noblesville Schools. Course additions include sports and entertainment marketing, technical skills development and principles of fashion and textiles, among others.

Noblesville West Middle School Principal Ryan Haughey said the high school is “modernizing course selections by switching traditional courses to career and technical education courses.”

“These pathways are all aligned to provide a more comprehensive career and technical education experience that can lead to workbased learning,” Haughey said.

The board also unanimously adopted a list of new school policies, first presented at the Feb. 20 meeting, including community use of school facilities and animals on school property, among others.

The next school board meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 16.

DISPATCHES

Hamilton County Insights — The Hamilton County Community Foundation will host “Hamilton County Insights: A Report on the Community” from 3 to 5 p.m. April 17 at The Bluffs at Conner Prairie, 13080 Allisonville Rd. The event will share key findings from a recent comprehensive community assessment conducted by the foundation in early 2024. For more, contact kelseys@cicf.org.

Creation Fest — The third annual Indy Creation Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27 at Grace Church Noblesville. Indy Creation Fest is an open-house style celebration that is a collaboration between several local churches. It will feature booths from community nonprofits who are working to care for the earth, kids activities, food trucks and speakers. For more, visit indycreationfest.org.

Author Fair — The Hamilton East Public Library will host its eighth annual local author fair from 1 to 4 p.m. April 20 at the FORUM Events Center, 11313 USA Pkwy. Nearly 60 authors and literary organizations from central Indiana will be on hand to meet the public, sell and sign books, and participate in story times and readings. Genres will range from picture books to science fiction. The event is free and open to all ages.For more, visit hamiltoneastpl.org.

Kindergarten enrollment — Noblesville Schools kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year is open until May 10. Children must be at least five years old on or before Aug. 1. Children who will be five after Aug. 1 but on or before Oct. 1 can be considered for early entrance. Technology support and interpreter services are available by appointment. For more, visit noblesvilleschools.org or call 317-773-3171.

FUN Fest returns

news@currentnoblesville.com

Noblesville is gearing up to present SERVE Noblesville’s FUN Fest, in partnership with the Noblesville Mayor’s Youth Council’s Culture Fair, from 6 to 8 p.m. April 12 at the Noblesville School’s Community Center, 1775 Field Dr.

EVENT

According to Patrick Propst, executive director of SERVE Noblesville, FUN Fest stands for food, unity and neighbors.

“Food, often considered the universal language of community, will take center stage at the festival,” Propst stated. “From traditional dishes passed down from one generation to the next, to cultural dishes shared among the delectable delights offered, attendees will have the opportunity to embark on a culinary journey like no other.”

In addition to food, Propst stated the festival will feature booths representing the different cultures of Noblesville.

“Attendees can expect to immerse themselves in diverse traditions, languages, games and more, fostering a greater sense of community connection and belonging,” Propst stated.

According to Propst, the project was the vision of organizer and Noblesville High School junior Vaibhav Patel when he entered the Mayor’s Youth Council.

“This project does not only represent a project that I’m profoundly passionate about, but this is a legacy from last year that I wanted to expand upon,” Patel stated. “We want to expand our shared sense of belonging and ensure that it includes every individual and every culture within our diverse community. When we are strongly connected, we stand united and (can) work toward our common goal: to keep Noblesville a welcoming place to live.”

Propst stated the event is a unique opportunity to celebrate Noblesville as the population grows.

“We have the opportunity to uphold the roots of this community that have nurtured and sustained us as we simultaneously embrace and cultivate the newer branches that now call Noblesville home,” Propst stated. “This is the space we get to come together to celebrate all things Noblesville and showcase the No. 1 asset that makes our town so undeniably awesome — our people.”

Those interested in hosting a booth or participating in the festival can visit servenoblesville.com.

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news@currentnoblesville.com

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office recently announced its participation in Autism Awareness Month, which runs through April. Some of the officers’ patrol vehicles are covered in multi-colored puzzle piece wraps.

PUBLIC SAFETY

“The initiative stems from a profoundly positive interaction with a young autistic man in our lobby last year,” Deputy Bryan

•

Melton stated in a news release. “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.”

Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush emphasized the collaborative effort between the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and the community in observing Autism Awareness Month throughout April. The joint effort aims to raise awareness about autism and highlight the importance of inclusive practices in law enforcement interactions.

“Our encounter with the young man last year reinforced the significance of empathy and adaptation in our interactions with individuals with autism,” Quakenbush stated. “By participating in Autism Awareness Month, we demonstrate our commitment to fostering a supportive community for all residents of Hamilton County.”

Melton said the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office will continue to engage in educational initiatives, outreach programs and organization visits throughout April to promote autism awareness and acceptance.

For more information, email Melton at bryan.melton@hamiltoncounty.in.gov.

A Hamilton County Sheriff’s patrol car with puzzle pieces for Autism Awareness Month. (Photo courtesy of Bryan Melton)

Choosing the best mower

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Ready or not, the arrival of spring heralds the return of yard work. And as anyone charged with the task knows, mowing grass is among the regular — and most arduous — of those outdoor chores.

YARD WORK

Consequently, choosing the right mower is a critical decision for those tasked with mowing lawns. The staff at Reynolds Farm Equipment, with locations in and around central Indiana, are equipped to help customers choose the right mower, according to CEO Michael Bode.

A Westfield resident, Bode himself debated switching from a push mower to a riding mower for two summers before deciding that a rider was the best option for the .33 acres he has to mow.

“I felt guilty about making the switch because, for one, it is great exercise,” Bode said.

But as Bode notes, when deciding between a rider and a push mower, the decision isn’t always based simply on convenience. Time consideration is also a factor.

For example, Bode began counting how many times he mowed his yard and determined that he did it 34 times a year. By purchasing a riding mower, he cut a half hour from his mowing time.

“(A rider) is a bigger purchase, but it isbasically 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.”

Another consideration when choosing a mower is gas-powered versus electric options. Bode said both options are reliable, and it just comes down to personal preference.

New candidate for 5th District

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Matthew Peiffer doesn’t expect to win the nine-way Republican primary race to represent Indiana’s 5th District in Congress.

ELECTION

But he decided to run for the seat after becoming frustrated with elected officials not addressing problems that impacted his life, such as child abuse and organ donation.

“I was really frustrated that we’re focusing on all these big, mainstream issues that don’t really affect our day-to-day life,” the Muncie resident said. By running for office, Peiffer wants to bring several issues to the forefront of discussion that haven’t typically received much attention.

Peiffer was adopted as a young child and moved to Grant County, where he said his adoptive parents molested and abused him and his two sisters. The children en-

tered foster care, but one of his sisters committed suicide a month after aging out of the system.

These experiences inspired his advocacy work, which has included urging legislators to improve the foster care system and starting a nonprofit, A Voice for Kids, which aims to benefit children in the foster care system and spread awareness around related issues.

In 2022, Peiffer donated a kidney, which is when he learned those who choose to make that sacrifice may be disqualified from certain insurance or medical benefits. It’s another issue he would like lawmakers to address.

“That’s a burden that people don’t think about,” he said.

THE CANDIDATES

Learn more about the nine Republican candidates running for Indiana’s 5th Congressional District by reading a questionnaire they each completed for Current. Find it online at youarecurrent.com/?p=241095.

Reynolds Farm Equipment offers several lawn mower options for customers. (Photo courtesy of Michael Bode)

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starting April 21

Cost: $180 or $20 per session plus $10 for the book

Noblesville prepares for enchanting downtown event

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

On the first Friday of each month, Noblesville Main Street, a nonprofit that connects Noblesville businesses and residents, presents a themed event for the community.

ENTERTAINMENT

May’s theme is “Magic of the Square,” which is returning for its third year. The event will be from 4 to 8 p.m. May 3 in downtown Noblesville.

The event has grown each year, with up to 500 people attending in 2022 and more than 1,200 in 2023.

Josh Cecil, a magician who serves on the board of directors, said “Magic of the Square” has evolved during the past few years from featuring only magicians to becoming a “Harry Potter”-themed night with activities for adults and children.

Magicians will perform street magic, and a “Harry Potter”-themed band will play live music. Other activities, some free and some for a small fee, will include a scavenger hunt downtown, face painting, balloon twisters, an exotic animal show, a “Harry Potter” express ride and other activities.

Cecil said there will also be a costume contest that many attendees go “all out” for.

“The costume contest naturally became a recurring part of the night,” Cecil said. “A lot of people just started showing up in ‘Harry Potter’ costumes. We just herded it into a contest.”

Many downtown shops and restaurants will stay open late for the event, and some will sell themed items.

Kate Baker, executive director for No-

blesville Main Street, said events like “Magic of the Square” engage the community and give people a space to connect.

“We’re trying to give everyone a place to come and have a nice time in a charming historic setting,” Baker said. “We’re always lifting up small businesses, and all of the events that we do put people at the doorsteps of these retail and restaurant shops, which I think is really important.”

Cecil said “Magic of the Square” gives people “a sense of belonging.”

“’Magic of the Square,’ in particular, where there are 1,000-plus people around the square and we’re all transported back to a simpler time, is such an interesting event,” Cecil said. “It is magical, and there is a sense of unity coming together. The magic of it is the community gathering and connecting, when you can really feel the history that our spirit and our square has.”

For more and a list of future First Friday themes, visit noblesvillemainstreet.org or call 317-776-0205.

Children attend “Magic of the Square” in 2023. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville Main Street)

BGCN to host golf tournament

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville will conduct its seventh annual Topgolf Tournament April 11 at Topgolf Fishers, 9200 E. 116th St., on the first day of The Masters, one of the PGA’s four major golf championships.

FUNDRAISER

BGCN Director of Development Nathan Helm said the outing will include food, drinks, giveaways, a silent auction and Topgolf’s TopContender gameplay, while supporting affordable, after-school programming for more than 2,000 local youth and teens.

Teams of six players can participate for $900 per team, or individuals can sign up for $150 and will be placed on a team. Cost includes a lunch buffet, drink tickets, three hours of Topgolf play and more.

“Last year’s Topgolf Tournament was a huge success with over 140 in attendance to support our club kids while taking in the first round of The Masters golf tournament,” Helm said. “The event will help ensure that the club’s memberships remain

affordable to local youth.”

Registration will begin at noon followed by a lunch buffet and open play. Two TopContender team games will follow after 1 p.m.

The event will conclude with an awards ceremony at 4 p.m.

“This outing is a great opportunity to network, give back to the community, enjoy the kickoff to golf season and support our local youth,” Helm said. For more, contact Helm at 317-773-4372 or nhelm@bgcni.org, or register online at bgcni.org.

First Merchants Bank’s booth at last year’s tournament. (Photo courtesy of Nathan Helm)

Brebeuf Jesuit senior guard kept getting better

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School senior guard Evan Haywood’s college recruiting stock has risen throughout his high school basketball career.

“I feel like I made a big jump this summer in my mindset and my work ethic,” said Haywood, a Carmel resident. “Ever since then, I just kept it consistent with my routine and my work ethic through the season (and) that kept me in a mode of consistency. I think I also got smarter and able to read the game better. I started to

MEET EVAN HAYWOOD

Favorite athlete: LeBron James

Favorite subject: English

Favorite TV show: “The Office.”

Favorite musician: Drake

of a teammate as he is a player.”

Glunt, who took the post after Haywood’s sophomore season, said Haywood played behind a talented group of seniors as a sophomore.

“During that time, though, he never wavered in his work ethic and development, so that when he got his opportunity his junior year, he was ready to hit the ground running,” Glunt said. “He went from not being able to get on the floor as a sophomore to leading us in scoring his junior year. Pretty incredible, but the more I’ve gotten to know him these past two years, (it’s) not surprising at all.”

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By Cassie King news@currentinfishers.com

The 2024 Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank annual meeting celebrated accomplishments from the past year and focused on goals moving forward. The meeting was March 19 at the Delaware Township Community Center in Fishers, with the theme “Destination: Food Security.”

PHILANTHROPY

Board President Kathy Young opened the meeting and introduced Executive Director Anita Hagen, who shared highlights from its annual report spanning Nov. 1, 2022, through Oct. 31, 2023.

“We provide food, that’s what we do,” said Hagen, adding that 150,423 meals were provided in 2023 at a cost of $309,438.

“This is a local food bank, and these are all local donors,” Hagen said. “We have a destination of food access for all. Let’s take time to enjoy the journey.”

Other statistics Hagen highlighted include:

• More than 22,370 individuals in Hamilton Country are food insecure. According to the report, many of those individuals are ineligible for federal nutrition assistance.

• Services were provided to 45 local organizations with 32 receiving food, with an average annual cost of $9,679 per pantry or program.

• More than 300 volunteers provided 4,859 service hours, an increase of 17 percent over the previous year.

• Produce and meat distributions increased by 48 percent and 41 percent, respectively.

Former Noblesville Mayor John Ditslear and Pastor Teri Ditslear spoke of their many years of support for the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank through donations, volunteering and advocacy. They urged those in the audience to consider how they can help the mission of lowering food insecurity.

To read the full 2024 annual report and for more information, visit hchfoodbank.org.

Hagen

CONNECTING VETERANS

Countywide groups offer variety of resources, support to those who served

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton County is home to more than 13,000 veterans, dozens of support organizations and many willing volunteers, but sometimes it’s difficult to bring them together.

Bill Doss, secretary of the Hamilton County Veterans Corp., is working to change that. He pens a quarterly newsletter highlighting the work of several local organizations with a shared goal of benefiting veterans in the area. It’s just one initiative of many aimed at getting the word out and growing the network of support.

“We are working to locate veterans in need. Many struggle to return to society,” Doss said.

Founded in 2002, HCVC is committed to supporting veterans and their families. It facilitates donation drives, sends care packages to active-duty members from Hamilton County, provides mobility assistance devices and helps veterans with basic needs, like transportation to medical appointments.

“We have continued to grow a grassroots network that allows us to help connect those wanting to help with those who need the help. A lot of people, veterans and nonveterans, want to help, but they just don’t know how. Sometimes a little compassion/sweat equity goes a lot further than money ever could,” said Lynn Epperson, founding member of the HCVC. Her passion for veterans stems from the loss of her uncle in the Vietnam War.

HCVC holds monthly meetings at 6 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at the Fishers American Legion Post 470 at 9091 E 126th St.

A signature event in connecting veterans and their families to services is HCVC’s Hamilton County Community Resource Fair. Doss took the initiative to organize the first Hamilton County Veterans Resource Fair in July 2023. The next fair is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 20 at the Noblesville Community Center, 1775 Field Dr.

More than 60 booths will include representatives from Federal VA Benefits, Roudebush VA Hospital, Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs and many employment, health care, insurance and local organizations providing resources to veterans and their families.

HCVC isn’t the only local organization committed to supporting and connecting veterans.

As director of coordination for a Healthier Hamilton County Systems of Care and Stronger Veterans Stronger Communities Coalition, Kristen Ludeker-Seibert recognizes the vastness of the task to inform and unite veterans and invites community participation.

“The most meaningful thing to me is that there are a lot of people committed to reducing suicide and to connecting veterans and service members to help, and that they just needed a place to come together and work with one another instead of independently and in silence,” Ludeker-Seibert said.

The first county in Indiana to initiate the Governor’s Challenge on veteran suicide prevention with the IDVA, Hamilton County started the SVSC in 2021.

The coalition works to get the word out about firearms safety and create awareness for the 988 crisis and suicide prevention line with booths at farmers markets and local events, including safety fairs.

“We’re also working to implement the Ask Questions Initiative, which is about changing the way that any organization that interacts with veterans. Instead of, ‘Are you a veteran?’ The question is, ‘Did you or your family members serve in the U.S. military?’” Ludeker-Seibert said.

Ludeker-Seibert said the reframed question helps the group identify children and caregivers of veterans who may qualify for services they aren’t aware of.

“And when it comes to suicide prevention, it’s meeting those different dimensions of wellness as prevention,” Ludeker-Seibert said.

“Our nonprofit (Healthier Hamilton County Systems of Care) leads the initiative to fill in gaps in Hamilton County, and this was a gap that we had,” Ludeker-Seibert said. She worked with the VA and Hamilton County commissioners to launch SVSC. The coalition is made up of veteran service organizations, veterans and members of county government and volunteers.

Coalition meetings take place on the fourth Thursday of each month at noon, offered both in person at the Carmel VFW Post 10003 at 12863 Old Meridian St, Carmel and online. For more, email Kristen seibert@hamiltoncountyphhc. org.

“Connecting veterans with resources and collaborating with the community ensures our ability and capacity to continue their legacy. This year’s initiative is to do everything to stop veteran suicide. Partnering with Hamilton County’s Stronger Veterans initiative, VA and other organizations provides the tools to identify situations and appropriately respond as needed.” said Darin Bibeau, Post 10003 commander.

ON THE COVER: From left, Bill Doss, Ron Wilson, Lynn Epperson and Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt at the May 2021 war memorial rededication ceremony in Crownland Cemetery. (Photo courtesy of Bill Doss)

STAY INFORMED

Bill Doss, secretary of the Hamilton County Veterans Corp., writes a quarterly newsletter to inform the community about the work local veterans service organizations/coalitions are doing.

“The more we all know about the local resources that are available to resolve our problems, the stronger and more connected we will be, and as we reach our neighbors who may feel alone that are not connected, maybe we can save a life along this journey,” Doss said.

For the most recent letter and more information about HCVC, visit hamiltoncountyveterans.com/ hamilton-county-military-veteran-newsletter.

From left, veteran Stewart Goodwin; Monica Kozlowski for U.S. Sen. Todd Young; HCVC President Ron Wilson; Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt; U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz; Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen; and Bill Doss, secretary of HCVC, at the 2023 veterans resource fair. (Photo courtesy of Bill Doss)

Can’t take good movie directions

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

My wife, Mary Ellen, is never late for the movies. She is convinced that there will be traffic, no place to park and the film will be sold out. None of this is ever true, but we leave early and end up sitting in an empty theater for 20 minutes, waiting for the previews.

I hate previews. I can’t give you one logical explanation as to why. I sometimes sneak into a different movie and watch another film for a few minutes while I wait for our film to begin. I even take popcorn.

Last week, my adult son Brett wanted to see the new “Ghostbusters” flick.  My wife thought it would be fun for both of us to go with Brett. Mary Ellen said we should all leave early to ensure we got good seats. I wasn’t falling for it. It was a Tuesday night and I knew the theater would be empty. This was just Mary Ellen’s ruse to see all the previews.

“I’ll meet you there,” I told her. “Keep your cellphone on and you can text me what row you are sitting in when I arrive late.”

“One ticket for ‘Ghostbusters,’ please, the 5 p.m. show,” I told the ticket seller when I

arrived at exactly 5:10 p.m. I had timed this perfectly. The feature would soon be starting. I wouldn’t have to watch previews.

“There’s no ‘Ghostbusters’ at 5 p.m.,” the young man said. “How about the 5:30 movie in 3D?”

I assumed that’s where they were. I grabbed my 3D glasses and walked into the theater. It was more crowded than I thought. I didn’t see my wife or son. I sent a text to Mary Ellen.

“Where r u guys?”

“Eighth row, dead center.”

“I don’t c u.”

“Meet me at the concession stand,” Mary Ellen texted.

I waited and waited. Another text from Mary Ellen. “Where are you?”

“I am at the IMAX in Noblesville. That’s where we usually go.”

“I told you United Artists on 96th Street.”

This was the biggest mix-up in our marriage since our wedding day in Chicago in 1980, when I was at the Ambassador East Hotel having a few drinks and everybody else was at the Ambassador West wondering where I was. I should have read the invitation more carefully.

“This was the biggest mix-up in our marriage since our wedding day in Chicago in 1980, when I was at the Ambassador East Hotel having a few drinks and everybody else was at the Ambassador West wondering where I was.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

The movie had already started, so I had no idea what was going on. It was a “Hobbit” movie. Usually, I lean over and ask my wife or son to explain stuff, but I couldn’t because they were in Indy and I was in Middle Earth. At home, Mary Ellen said she was concerned I was spacier than ever. I vehemently denied that. That night when we got ready for bed, Mary Ellen told me that now was probably a good time to take off my 3D glasses.

A really groovy pratfall

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

It finally happened, friends. I fell off my wobble chair in the middle of class while wearing a dress. You’re welcome.

HUMOR

Our story begins at Wilsonstock, an annual lip sync battle that celebrates the music of the 1960s while teaching U.S. history students about the counterculture movement. Kids are required to take on the role of an artist or band and perform a song in costume. In the spirit of solidarity, I, too, dress up, usually in full flower-child regalia. As a devoted and enthusiastic karaoke fan, this is one of my most favorite lessons of the year.

Rounds 1 and 2 went well: An outstanding Jefferson Airplane number and a deadon Jerry Garcia rendition of “Truckin’” overwhelmingly made up for a rather lackluster Stones performance and the fact that I kept getting hot flashes.

I was in my element by the time fifth period rolled in, excited to hear from Credence Clearwater Revival and Marvin Gaye. I assumed my position at my desk, manning Spotify and the lyrics projector, and cued

“The slick polyester blend of my paisley smock exaggerated the movements and the next thing I knew, I was slow-motion falling onto the floor. I could not save myself.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

the first act, “California Dreamin.’” As I started singing along and grooving on my stool, trying to get the crowd engaged by waving my phone flashlight, I shifted to the right too far, then overcompensated to the left. The slick polyester blend of my paisley smock exaggerated the movements and the next thing I knew, I was slow-motion falling onto the floor. I could not save myself. The ensuing hot flash had nothing to do with hormones. With all eyes on me, I climbed back onto my wobble chair and called for Jimi Hendrix. The show must go on. You’re welcome! Peace out.

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

Sammy Miller and The Congregation to bring joyful jazz to the Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Sammy Miller’s chief objective is to present jazz in a way that will appeal to more people.

“We’re on a mission to spread joy. It doesn’t stop for anything,” Miller said. “It’s bigger than us. Whether it’s an educational thing I’m doing or performing in a concert hall, I feel more motivated than ever and the rest of the guys do, too.”

Sammy Miller and the Congregation will perform at 8 p.m. April 19 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“I’m the drummer, I’m the bandleader, I’m the storyteller,” said Miller, a Los Angeles native who lives in New York. “We do a high-energy interactive show. It’s joyful jazz. It’s going to lift your spirit. We’re the gateway for jazz. We have a lot of access points. There is a theatrical component.”

The band started in 2014 when Miller was in his last year at The Juilliard School.

“We’re in it for life,’ Miller said of the band. “There is enough hardship in life. We want to surround it with beauty.”

The other members of the five-piece band performing at the Palladium will consist of Alphonso Horne, trumpet; Brandon Rose, bass; David Linard, piano; and Artie Black, tenor saxophone. Miller has performed with Horne and Linard, who is from Indianapolis, since he was at Juilliard.

“You might hear a Scott Joplin song like ‘The Entertainer,’” he said. “You might hear a Duke Ellington piece. You might hear an original piece. You really hear a whole canon of American music. It’s high-level entertainment.”

Although this is the band’s first time at the Palladium, it has performed in Indianapolis several times at The Jazz Kitchen.

“We mostly play concert halls, but we’ve always had a good time there,” Miller said. “We’ve heard the Palladium

is really special and a great place for musicians.”

Miller said the setlist is ever changing, also with some staples.

“We are always working on new stuff and playing new arrangements,” he said. “We’re trying to track the lineage of jazz. It’s like putting new wine in an old bottle.”

The band’s most recent digital release is “Live at Lincoln Center. It released “Little Egypt” in 2020.

Performing live is what is most important to the band.

“Live performance is what I’m interested in,” Miller said. “We have enough happening in the digital world. I’m really interested in human experiences. That’s what our core is. There have been years when we have done 250 shows.”

For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org. For more, visit sammymillercongregation. com.

‘THE KING AND I’

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

‘VERDI’S REQUIEM’

The Carmel Symphony Orchestra presents “Verdi’s Requiem” at 7:30 p.m. April 13 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Johnny Folsom 4” is set for April 11, followed by Ari Axelrod April 12 and “Sweet Caroline: The Life and Music of Neil Diamond” April 13 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 April 12 to 23 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

RAY CHEN

Violinist Ray Chen’s concert is set for 8 p.m. April 12 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

CSO pre-concert talk set at 6:15 p.m. — The Carmel Symphony Orchestra and Anderson University choirs will perform “Verdi’s Requiem” at 7:30 p.m. April 13 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Guests should plan to arrive by 6:15 in the Palladium main hall for a pre-concert talk hosted by CSO’s Music Director David Commanday and Cantor Melissa Cohen of Congregation Beth-El Zedeck, Indianapolis. Cantor Melissa Cohen and her daughter Sadie Cohen will open the pre-concert program by singing duets of vocal music composed during the Holocaust. Riverside Junior High School string students will play from 6:30 to 7:15 in the Southwest lobby of the Palladium. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org or thecenterpresents.org.

Sammy Miller and The Congregation band members, Corbin Jones, Alphonso Horne, Sammy Miller, Ben Flocks and David Linard. For the Palladium show, Brandon Rose and Artie Black will appear instead of Flocks and Jones. (Photo courtesy of Sammy Miller)

ICC to host Sing-A-Thon

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indianapolis Children’s Choir Artistic Director Joshua Pedde figures there is no place like home.

MUSIC

For the first time, the ICC Sing-A-Thon will be presented at the ICC Performing Arts Center at 9111 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis.

The Sing-A-Thon will be from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 20. The public is invited to join in person or watch online at icchoir.org or on ICC’s YouTube channel.

Indianapolis. This will be the first time it’ll be in our own space.”

The goal is to raise $40,000.

“It’s so nice to be able to have our own space, not only for our typical weekly rehearsals and events, but for special things like Sing-A-Thon, too,” said Pedde, a Carmel resident. “It’s like inviting the public into our own home to get a real glimpse into what it is that we do here at the ICC. Previously, Sing-A-Thon was held at various locations throughout the city that had performance space — locations like Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel and Broadway United Methodist Church in

“In recent years, we have raised close to $30,000, and this year we are hopeful that emerging from the pandemic and hosting the event in-person will help us reach the ambitious stretch goal of $40,000,” Pedde said, “All of the funds go directly toward all of the important work that we do here at the ICC to provide choir experiences and music education for children in central Indiana.”

The singers have an incentive. If they reach $5,000, Pedde will do a duet with associate artistic director Amy Hughley. The song will be chosen by the students.

“It’s a new incentive this year, and any time singers can see ICC directors doing something funny, they are all for it,” Pedde said. “I’m pretty nervous about what song they might pick for us to sing, but it’ll be worth it no matter the seemingly embarrassing cost.”

For the performance schedule and to donate, visit p2p.onecause.com/singathon24.

‘Moon Over Buffalo’ set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Zoe O’Haillin-Berne and Sean Berne seem a natural fit for their roles.

COMEDY

The couple, who live in Lawrence, star as George and Charlotte Hay in Mud Creek Players’ production of Ken Ludwig’s “Moon Over Buffalo” April 19 to May 4 at the Mud Creek Barn Theater. The play centers on the couple, who are traveling actors.

“I love that this show gives me the opportunity to share the stage with my real-life husband,” Zoe said. “This has been quite a bonding experience. The show also gives us the chance to explore the similarities and differences between us and our characters as a married couple. I think that having a real point of reference has allowed us to find a deeper, more authentic reality behind George and Charlotte’s relationship and love for one another.”

The biggest challenge for Zoe is the physicality of the role.

“This is the most physical role I’ve ever had in a nonmusical,” Zoe said. “I go home from rehearsal each night feeling like I just

performed an entire dance recital. I now know legitimate sword technique.

Sean, who hasn’t acted on stage in about 13 years, said he has been eager to perform in a comedy again for many years.

“So, this has been a great opportunity to get back up on the stage and it feels great to be making my Indianapolis debut, especially with such a great group of actors and production team,” he said. “The biggest challenge I’ve found in the role has been metering the energy George demands. He’s a wild guy to play.”

Fishers resident Kelly Keller is the director.

For more, visit mudcreekplayers.org.

Pedde

Sean Berne and Zoe O’Haillin-Berne perform in Mud Creek Players’ “Moon Over Buffalo.” (Photo courtesy of Zoe O’Haillin-Berne)

Center hosts Concert Truck

editorial@youarecurrent.com

After more than a decade of bringing some of world’s finest classical musicians and orchestras to the Palladium, the Center for the Performing Arts is taking its mission to the streets.

MUSIC

The Concert Truck, a mobile music venue, will deliver performances at 10 Indianapolis-area sites from April 23 to 27. In addition to private concerts for schools and other organizations, the tour will include two outdoor performances open to the general public.

“Our venues are among the finest in the region, but our commitment to accessibility calls for innovative approaches,” stated Jeffrey C. McDermott, the Center’s president and CEO. “The Concert Truck enables us to take high-quality, live classical music directly to people of all ages where they live, work and study.”

The public is invited to attend performances at 6:30 p.m. April 25, at VFW Fort Harrison Post 7119, 6525 N. Lee Road, Indianapolis; and 11 a.m. April 27 at Carmel City Center pedestrian plaza, near The Cake

Each location has parking, food and beverages available nearby. Attendees are encouraged to bring portable chairs.

Other performance locations are Tindley Accelerated School, Edison School of the Arts, KIPP Indy Public Schools, Indiana School for the Blind & Visually Impaired, Midwest Academy in Carmel, Outreach Inc. youth homelessness services, and Hoosier Village Retirement Community.

Launched in 2016 in Columbia, S.C., the Concert Truck is a 16-foot box truck adapted into a mobile concert stage, complete with lights, sound system and grand piano.

Bake Shop, off Range Line Road south of City Center Drive.

The Concert Truck will visit 10 sites throughout the Indianapolis area. (Photo courtesy of the Center for the Performing Arts)

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