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Tuesday, December 16, 2025 youarecurrent.com

Community-focused bank eyes expansion Page 2

Commissioners address shelter concerns Page 3

Bulldogs senior reflects on football win Page 4

AUTO CORRECT Couple to open car repair shop with a mission of faith, service Page 12

Local nonprofit uses fitness to fight Parkinson’s Page 5

Cheers! Huse Culinary offers limited-release specialty bourbon Page 13

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Tuesday, December 16, 2025

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Tammy Williams, center, founder of Elderberry Everything, with a replica $20,000 Elevate Small Business Grant from Hoosier Heartland State Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis to help expand her elderberry lemonade line. (Photo provided by Hoosier Heartland State Bank)

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Hoosier Heartland State Bank eyes growth while deepening local roots By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com Hoosier Heartland State Bank, the only bank headquartered in Montgomery County, is expanding its reach in central Indiana while maintaining the community-first mission that has defined it for 125 years, according to bank officials. The employee-owned institution — where every staff member holds a stake in the bank — wants to establish its presence in Hendricks County. Lacey Rogers, director of marketing for Hoosier Heartland State Bank, said they’re preparing to take a significant next step. “We’re thinking about opening up a loan production office this next year and trying to get our name out there a little bit,” she said. For now, she added, the outreach has been highly personal. “This year was a lot of boots on the ground efforts to see what the future holds.” Rogers said the bank’s ownership model drives its service-oriented culture. “We are an employee-owned bank, so the success of everyone is dependent on our success,” she said. That philosophy extends to the bank’s

longstanding commitment to community giving, which includes donating 10 percent of its net income annually to nonprofits, schools and local causes. “Of course, many people have mortgage loans, but with us, it’s more about the service we provide,” Rogers said. “I truly believe we’re just a different breed of community banks. We give back 10 percent of our income annually, so the more money we make the more we can give.” Since 2013, the bank has given nonprofits more than $2 million in donations. Service, she said, remains HHSB’s defining feature. That starts with handling all loans locally. “We service everything in house,” Rogers said. “That’s a big thing for us. Everything is serviced in house. You always get to talk to us and the same people.” She recalled that her own experience as a customer drew her toward the bank. “You can apply online, access all your documents with instant updates and we’re available any time you need us,” she said. Borrowers also find unexpected benefits. Customers who close a mortgage loan with the bank get access to a mov-

ing truck. “We’re always flexible and convenient. One of the biggest draws is the in-house service, as well as our competitive rates and closing costs,” Rogers said. “Rates matter, but the bank emphasizes relationships. We’re always fighting rates. We might not always have the lowest rate, but we’re all about the service we provide.” The bank’s charitable culture includes monthly employee birthday donations and its annual Shared Values Awards. “There are a lot of different ways we choose to give back,” Rogers said. “Each employee has a birthday donation that we hand deliver and we get to know those nonprofits.” The Shared Values Awards, which returns for its 11th year in April 2026, is among the bank’s largest community events. “We end up giving back $75,000 in one night,” Rogers said. “All in all, between team awards and shared values, it’s very cool to be a part of.” Nearly $400,000 has been awarded through the program since it began in 2015. Hoosier Heartland State Bank has seven branches serving nine counties in west central Indiana.

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The Hendricks County Animal Control Shelter in Danville is being evaluated after recent heating failures and ongoing facility concerns. (File photo)

County responds to shelter issues, rumors By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com Hendricks County officials plan to restructure oversight of the county’s animal control operations beginning in 2026, following weeks of public concern over conditions inside the Hendricks County Animal Control Shelter and the dismissal of its former manager. During the Dec. 9 Hendricks County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Dennis Dawes announced that the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office will assume responsibility for animal control at the start of the new year, while the commissioners will retain oversight of the shelter itself. Dawes also said the county will reestablish an advisory group to guide improvements. Community members packed the meeting, seeking answers to a range of concerns involving temperature control, capacity issues and reports of mold inside the Danville shelter. Those worries intensified after a heating failure the day after Thanksgiving, which left the building without heat for three days because of what county officials said was a faulty valve and a breakdown in communication. “The heat is on in the Animal Shelter and has been on since the Facilities Department was notified,” commissioners said in a written statement, acknowledging the response “was not as quick as it should have been.” Questions surrounding the firing of

the shelter’s former manager earlier this month also dominated public comment. Dawes addressed rumors circulating online. “It’s not true that the animal shelter supervisor was terminated for failing to carry out a mass euthanasia order from the commissioners,” he said. A county spokesperson said more information will be released. In a detailed statement, commissioners outlined several steps underway to address both operational concerns and public criticism. A contractor, Garmong’s Dan Zuerner, has been hired to evaluate the building’s physical needs and propose improvements. An interim supervisor has been appointed, and the county is accepting applications for a permanent shelter supervisor. The county has also met with local animal welfare organizations — including the Hendricks County Humane Society, Friends of the Shelter and Misty Eyes — to gather feedback. Commissioners said they are open to proposals from nonprofits interested in operating the shelter in the future. The board reiterated several denials, stating it is false that they have withheld funding, “skimmed money” from the shelter or changed meeting times to limit resident participation. The Dec. 9 meeting also included a presentation from Hendricks County Friends of the Shelter representative Raven Gerbick as the county continues evaluating next steps for the facility.

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Brownsburg High School senior Eli Richardson with 2025 regional, semistate and state championship trophies. (Photo courtesy of Eli Richardson)

Bulldogs senior fulfills goal, reflects on win By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Brownsburg High School senior middle linebacker Eli Richardson was determined to play in this year’s state championship game. “I tore my ACL in my left knee in November last year in the practice before our semistate (game) with Center Grove,” Richardson said. “I was leading the team in tackles. I wasn’t able to participate in that game but that wasn’t God’s plan, but I was grateful to be part of that scene and win that championship.” Richardson had surgery in December 2024. A patellar tendon graft was taken from his right knee to repair the torn ACL. He rehabbed both knees and was cleared by his doctors to practice during drills in June. On the first practice, he suffered a partially torn patellar tendon in his right knee when it was first thought to be tendonitis. “I missed the first six games and had ended up playing on that partially torn patella tendon,” he said. “I was playing through a lot of pain, but I was willing to do that.”

When he first returned, he was on a snap restriction. He managed to have five tackles in Brownsburg’s 38-31 victory over Westfield Nov. 29 in the IHSAA Class 6A state championship. “He found the toughness to lead us on the field and play full time in the state championship,” Bulldogs coach John Hart said. “There’s not very many like him.” Richardson said there were a lot of ups and downs through the rehab process. “I just had to stay the course and trust God that I was going to get back out,” he said. Richardson said during the offseason he repeatedly told his teammates they had to get back to the game. “I got to play in the game this time and sure enough we did (win),” he said. “I always wanted to bring Brownsburg a championship since I’ve been playing Brownsburg football since second grade. Being able to do it twice is just a blessing. All the work I put in my life was to play in that game.” Richardson said he wants to play football for an NCAA Division III or NAIA program.

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Nonprofit helps fight Parkinson’s with fitness By Melissa Gibson melissa@youarecurrent.com Fight Back Fitness in Brownsburg, formerly known as Rock Steady Boxing, is working to empower individuals with Parkinson’s disease by pairing community support with evidence-based exercise programs. The gym, at 1531 E. Northfield Dr., Unit 800, helps participants manage symptoms and maintain independence. Rock Steady is a no-contact fitness program featuring speed bags, heavy bags, calisthenics and other strength-building activities. The Brownsburg location has offered the program since 2014, focusing on high-intensity exercise shown to reduce chronic Parkinson’s symptoms and improve overall mobility. When the gym added a second program — Pedaling for Parkinson’s, a structured cycle class specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s — leaders changed the name to Fight Back Fitness to better reflect the full range of services. Pedaling for Parkinson’s is offered twice per week and typ-

Indianapolis native Scott Newman founded Rock Steady Boxing in 2006. (Photo Courtesy of Rock Steady Boxing)

ically decreases Parkinson’s symptoms by about 30 percent.

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vary widely, but remaining active is one of the most means of managing them. “When you think of Parkinson’s, you think of tremors,” Ross said. “But that’s only 10 to 15 percent of what they’re dealing with. When your mind doesn’t want to connect with movement, it affects intestines, vocal cords — anything that has to do with moving your body.” At Fight Back Fitness, group workouts not only support balance, core strength and flexibility, they also build a sense of community among participants who understand one another’s challenges. “It’s hard to work out by yourself for anyone but when you know you’re going to have buddies in the class who understand what you’re going through, you can’t get that anywhere else,” Ross said. Ross said the organization welcomes volunteers and hosts special events throughout the year. As a nonprofit, Fight Back Fitness also accepts donations online to help sustain its mission and expand programming. For more, visit fightbackfitness.org/.

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The most recent conceptual plan for Hawk’s Landing includes an entrance/exit along County Road 800. (Photo Courtesy of the Town of Brownsburg)

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Commission to revist Hawk’s Landing project By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com The proposed Hawk’s Landing housing development will return to the Brownsburg Advisory Plan Commission Dec. 17 as town officials review updated materials and residents continue to raise concerns about traffic, zoning commitments and impacts to nearby properties. The 72.39-acre development, planned by David Weekley Homes, calls for 106 single-family homes, walking trails and passive green space. The developer is seeking to rezone 5.6 acres at 6985 E. C.R. 800 N. from agricultural to R-3 residential to create an access point into the neighborhood, which sits less than a mile from Oinking Acres Farm Rescue & Sanctuary. Olivia Head, founder of Oinking Acres, said the proposed entrance along the east side of her property would “completely disrupt these vulnerable animals” and argued the area is already “saturated with traffic.” Traffic concerns dominated the Oct. 27 commission meeting. Commissioners noted that the development’s 2023–24 traffic counts were taken on Tuesdays and did not reflect heavier weekend activity tied to nearby Connection Pointe Christian Church. They

requested an updated study including Thursday and Sunday data. Amanda Hurvitz, senior communications coordinator for David Weekley Homes, said the company is working with the town to address those concerns. “Hawk’s Landing is an exciting new community planned for Brownsburg, designed to offer thoughtfully crafted homes and family-friendly amenities,” she said. Hurvitz added that the project remains aligned with the site’s existing R-3 zoning approved in 2021. Commissioners also noted that earlier zoning commitments from 2021 required all lots west of White Lick Creek to be under 90 feet wide — a condition not currently met. Head has requested the Dec. 17 hearing be postponed, citing that holiday travel conflicts could limit resident participation. “An earlier petition to annex and conditionally rezone an additional 5.5 acres was withdrawn, and developers now plan only a roadway connection there, which will be voluntarily annexed once completed. Hurvitz said the company remains committed to working “collaboratively with the Town of Brownsburg and the community” as the project progresses.”

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Brushing up creativity By Melissa Gibson mellissa@youarecurrent.com Board and Brush at 434 E. Main St. in Brownsburg has become a staple for residents seeking a hands-on creative experience, offering do-it-yourself wood workshops for more than a decade. Customers choose their design ahead of time on the Board and Brush online platform and show up individually or with a date or with a group of friends to find a blank piece of wood and an instructor that walks them through the process of turning a blank do-it-yourself project into something to display in their home or gift to a loved one. Guests learn woodworking techniques, including distressing, sanding and staining. Instructors guide participants step-by-step. Meg Trapp, owner of the Brownsburg Board and Brush location, said aside from the projects people create, the experience is more about trying something new, tapping into creativity and enjoying time together. “Our standard class is a workshop where you pick your own project but it’s

Guests at Board and Brush learn how to prepare their wood pieces for the final product. (Photo courtesy of Board and Brush)

also great for private events like corporate holiday parties and bridal parties if you have six or more,” Trapp said. “You’re welcome to bring in food and drinks and we’ve received a lot of great feedback for the overall experience.” New designs are introduced monthly, and Board and Brush also offer DIY Home Kits, which allow customers to complete similar projects on their own schedule. Visit boardandbrush.com/brownsburg for more information.

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Following a two-year hiatus, organizers of Coffee, Donuts & Love are bringing back the popular Christmas Day event at a new location — Faith Church at 9125 N. College Ave. John Hobelman, who owned the former Neidhammer Coffee and event center near downtown Indianapolis, said the annual event started in 2018, inspired by a similar venture on the other side of the globe. “I saw this Facebook story about this couple in England, an Indian couple, and it’s just the husband and wife with the sign saying that on Christmas, they didn’t want anybody to be lonely, so they were opening up their little news shop to give away mince pies and create some community,” he said. “It was probably late November, early December, and I really thought about it like, ‘Man, we could do something like that.’” Hobelman said he and his business partner — now fiancée — Elli Jones talked with their employees and four staff members, all college students, didn’t have anything else to do that day. “I kind of put it out there. I’m like, ‘You guys want to try to do something like this? I mean, we’ve got the space. We’ve got the coffee,’” he said. “They were enthusiastic, (so) we raised a little bit of money, bought, I think, 30 dozen donuts that year from Jack’s Donuts and filled the shop.” Hobelman said that in the first year, about 150 people stopped in for free coffee and donuts after hearing about the event through a local TV news segment. He said almost everyone who came would otherwise have been alone on the holiday. Someone dressed as Santa also tended to show up and pass out small presents, he said, along with area musicians who brought their instruments and added to the festive cheer. “We had some (Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra) people that were alone and just came and brought a violin or a guitar and just played for a couple of hours,” he said. In 2020, when COVID-19 hit, they couldn’t hold the event as usual, but Hobelman said they still wanted to do

The former Niedhammer Coffee Shop in downtown Indianapolis hosts a previous year’s Coffee, Donuts & Love event on Christmas Day. (Photo courtesy of John Hobelman)

something. So, they set up large tables in the event center for an assembly line, and a group of masked volunteers bagged up donuts and small gifts to hand out with to-go cups of coffee. In early 2023, Hobelman said they sold the business and couldn’t host the event for various reasons. In 2024, they chose to take another year off and see how they felt. “Because we knew if we step back into it, we can’t jump in and jump out,” he said. “This is going to be something that we continue for as long as we’re able to.” He said that he and Jones agreed they missed organizing the annual event and decided to restart it this year. They reached out to Faith Church, which they attend, to see if they could host the event in that space, but he stressed that it’s not a religious event — anyone is welcome. Hobelman said he understands what it’s like to feel lonely, especially during the holidays, which makes hosting the event meaningful to him. “When you’ve got these routines — especially as a divorced parent — where the routines that you’ve had for years get upended and you’re suddenly not welcome at the table,” he said. “That’s my own personal story but being able to touch that nerve in others has been an enormous blessing.” For more, visit the Coffee, Donuts & Love Facebook page or email john@ committedtogether.com.

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$1.1M awarded for road, bridge improvements

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By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com Communities in Senate District 24 will receive more than $1.1 million to upgrade local roads and bridges through Indiana’s Community Crossings Matching Grant Program, State Sen. Brett Clark (R-Avon) announced Tuesday. The program, created by the Indiana General Assembly in 2016, is designed to support local infrastructure projects, strengthen transportation networks and improve road and bridge conditions statewide. Since its launch, Community Crossings has awarded more than $2 billion in state matching funds for local construction and repair work. Three communities in Clark’s district were selected for the latest round of funding. Amo will receive $42,536.80, Avon will receive $999,958.50, and Danville will receive $91,980.87. “Local infrastructure projects improve travel for both those who live in the community and those who visit,” Clark said. “I am pleased to see communities take advantage of the opportunities the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program provides, and I look forward to seeing the impacts these funds make on our roads and bridges.” Under the program, the Indiana Department of Transportation matches up to $1 million each year for local units of government that invest in road and bridge improvements. The size of the local match depends on the population. Counties with fewer than 55,000 residents and cities or towns with fewer than 10,000 residents qualify for an 80/20 state-to-local funding match. Larger counties, cities and towns receive a 50/50 match. State officials said the program is intended to help local governments address long-term infrastructure needs without placing the full financial burden on local taxpayers. Funding can be used for a range of projects, including road resurfacing, bridge rehabilitation and sidewalk or drainage upgrades associated with roadway improvements.

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DISPATCHES  Chamber Day at the Statehouse set — The Indiana Chamber of Commerce will host the 2026 Chamber Day at the Statehouse Jan. 26, 2026, in partnership with the Indiana Chamber Executives Association. The gathering will be followed by the Chamber Day Reception at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. Chamber Day includes a welcome breakfast at the Indiana Statehouse, various networking and informational opportunities, a panel discussion and the Best in Business Awards luncheon. Registration is available online at indianachamber.com/conferences.  Annual father-daughter dance tickets on sale — Tickets are on sale for the annual Father-Daughter Dance, set for Feb. 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Connection Pointe Church, 1800 N. Green St. This year’s event features a new “somewhere over the rainbow” theme with live music, a photo booth, crafts and raffle prizes. Light refreshments, snacks and sweet treats will be provided. Tickets cost $25 per person and are available at brownsburgparks.com.

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 Parks department seeks weed wrangle volunteers — The Brownsburg Parks Department is seeking volunteers for Weed Wrangle, a national effort to remove invasive plants from public spaces. Participants should be comfortable using hand tools and herbicides. Volunteers ages 13 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Work gloves are recommended, and all other safety gear will be provided for volunteers. The event takes place Dec. 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Williams Park.Those interested can sign up to volunteer at brownsburgparks.com.

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Holiday co-parenting tips Commentary by Julieanna Childs The holidays can bring magic, memories -- and misunderstandings. When parenting time gets messy, a little structure goes a long way. For separated or divorced parents, peace is a plan, not a miracle. Here are five mediation-tested strategies that consistently help my clients navigate the season with less stress and more cooperation. LOCK IN THE CALENDAR EARLY Confirm holiday schedules in advance. Send one clear message with your proposed dates and a deadline for response. Example: “I propose we confirm by Nov. 15. Does that work for you?” Shared digital calendars, such as Google Calendar or the Cozi app, help both parents stay organized and maintain consistent routines for the children. USE BIFF TEXTING Holiday communication should be BIFF: Brief, Informative, Friendly, and Firm. Keep messages simple and focused. Example: “Pick up at 10 a.m.

at Grandma’s. Please confirm by noon. Thank you.” COORDINATE GIFTS Avoid duplicate gifts and overspending by creating a shared gift list. Agree on a budget and decide whether you’ll purchase gifts together or separately. PLAN FOR MAKEUP TIME If travel delays or illness interfere with scheduled parenting time, trade days — not jabs. Agree on makeup dates and add them to your shared calendar so expectations stay clear. KEEP EXCHANGES PEACEFUL Children thrive when transitions between homes are calm and predictable. Be punctual, skip the adult drama, and choose a neutral location if tension is high.

Julieanna Childs is a registered divorce mediator serving Hamilton County and surrounding areas. Learn more at jchildsmediation.com.

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AUTO CORRECT 12.16.25 • youarecurrent.com

Couple to open car repair shop with a mission of faith, service

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com When Kelsey and Andy Stevens talk about their new business, they rarely start with brake pads, diagnostic equipment or service bays. They start with people. The couple plan to open Christian Brothers Automotive Dec. 15 on the west side of Brownsburg. However, they said the shop is far less about mechanics and far more about calling — a way to serve their neighbors through a business model rooted in trust, hospitality and giving. “This is so much more than opening a repair shop,” Kelsey said. “We genuinely feel like God created Andy for this. It’s been a really long journey to get here, and we’re just very grateful and thankful to finally be in this position.” Andy spent the last 16 years working on offshore drill ships for ExxonMobil, often spending a month at sea followed by a month at home. During the COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions became strict. The company began requiring crews to quarantine for two weeks in a Houston hotel before heading to fiveweek rotations offshore. “It very much went from the classic, ‘You’re part of a corporation, we care about you,’ to, ‘You’re a personnel number and here’s your option,’” Andy said. “I didn’t really want to be the second one.” Still, he didn’t know what was next. Then a co-worker mentioned Christian Brothers Automotive, a Texas-based franchise known for its guest-first model and community focus. “He came back from looking at franchises and said, ‘It’s not for me, but this is literally meant for you,’” Andy said. Andy brushed it off at first. A year later, still quarantining and still frustrated, he looked again. “I was just thinking it’s time to do something,” he said. “So, I went on their website, and they were looking to expand on the west side of Indy and we live in Avon.” The application and vetting process took years. The Stevens were granted their franchise in August 2022, and construction on the Brownsburg shop stretched through permitting and land-split delays. “It was sort of a slow process, but nothing went wrong and Brownsburg has been wonderful and pro-business the whole way,” Andy said. Christian Brothers Automotive now has more than 275 shops across 30 states. The Brownsburg shop was built to reflect the brand’s hallmark: a repair experience that feels nothing like the traditional one. “When you walk in, you should think, ‘That’s a nice building,’” Andy said. “Auto repair is expensive. Outside of buying a house or car, it’s probably one of

Kelsey, right, and Andy Stevens, owners of the new Christian Brothers Automotive in Brownsburg, said their shop is built on transparency, hospitality and a calling to serve the community. (Photo by Alicia Kelly)

the most expensive things you’ll do. Why should it be a bad experience where you’re uncomfortable and spending a lot of money?” The lobby is bright, clean and furnished intentionally. Even the bathroom was designed to exceed expectations. There is a courtesy shuttle, a Christmas tree decorated with Hot Wheels for kids waiting in the lobby and small touches the Stevens say are meant simply to make guests feel human and welcome. The shop includes nine service bays, an alignment rack and equipment capable of programming vehicle modules and calibrating advanced driver-assistance systems. “We can do everything the dealers can do electronically,” Andy said. “We pride ourselves on not telling people no.” Even the shop’s repair philosophy is built around completeness. “We don’t do half repairs,” he said. “Everything comes with a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty, whichever benefits you more.” The Stevens emphasize they are not trying to be the cheapest shop in town. They are trying to be the most honest and the most complete. “This industry often does it wrong,” Andy said. “We just do what you would expect when you’re spending a large sum of money. If we say you’ll hear from us by 3, you’ll hear from us by 3.” But for the couple, the heart of the business lies in what they can give. Long before opening a franchise, Andy and friends repaired vehicles for families in need and occasionally gave away cars. Christian

Brothers Automotive supports and amplifies that work through its culture of service. The company hosts a National Day of Service, the only Saturday of the year most locations open, partnering with churches or nonprofits to provide free oil changes and maintenance for single parents, low-income families or individuals in crisis, all with vendor-donated parts. “That’s the part that gets me emotional,” Kelsey said. “It’s an opportunity to love our community in such a deep and impactful way.” As their shop grows, the Stevens plan to expand their own giving, refurbishing donated vehicles and returning them to families who need reliable transportation. “It’s just such a gift,” Kelsey said. “Being able to serve others outside our home and now throughout the community is surreal.” The shop will hold a ribbon-cutting with the Brownsburg Chamber of Commerce the week before opening. A larger community grand-opening event with family activities is planned for the spring. The Stevens say they already feel embraced by Brownsburg’s tight-knit network of small businesses. “It feels like a family here,” Kelsey said. “We love how intentional Brownsburg is with its small businesses. It’s really cool to finally be a part of that.” ON THE COVER: Christian Brothers Automotive Brownsburg stands ready for its Dec. 15 opening. The new nine-bay shop features dealer-level diagnostic technology, a courtesy shuttle and a lobby designed to feel welcoming and comfortable. (Photo by Alicia Kelly)

“WHAT MAKES CHRISTIAN BROTHERS DIFFERENT?” • • • •

Three-year/36,000-mile warranty Digital vehicle inspections Courtesy shuttle and guest-focused amenities Dealer-level programming and ADAS calibration capabilities • No “half repairs” policy

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Cheers! Huse Culinary offers limited-release specialty bourbon news@youarecurrent.com

HENDRICKS SYMPHONY

Earlier this month, Huse Culinary, Inc., — the ownership group behind St. Elmo Steak House in downtown Indianapolis — began offering its new limited-release bourbon, Rare Saint Trinity of Port. Available for purchase at select Indiana retailers, Rare Saint Trinity of Port is a blend of four whiskeys aged a minimum of five years and finished individually in ruby, tawny and white port barrels. Only 834 bottles were released. Prices range between $79.99 and $89.99 per bottle. Rare Saint Trinity of Port can be purchased at all Total Wine & Spirit locations and select Noble Wine & Spirits and 21st Amendment Wine & Spirits stores. It also is featured across Huse Culinary restaurants, including St. Elmo Steak House, Harry & Izzy’s, HC Tavern + Kitchen, 1933 Lounge and HC Tavern by St. Elmo locations. Bryn Jones, vice president of marketing and sales for Huse Culinary, Inc., answered the following questions from Current about Rare Saint Trinity of Port.

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CURRENT: Rare Saint Trinity of Port is described as capturing the “warmth and camaraderie” of a St. Elmo Steak House evening. Can you tell us how you managed to translate the specific atmosphere of a legendary dinner service into a whiskey profile? JONES: Rare Saint was inspired by the feeling you get during a great night at St. Elmo — when the room is buzzing, the food is memorable and the company is even better. We wanted the whiskey to capture that same warmth and connection. The blend has a richness and generosity to it that makes you want to share it with someone, which is exactly what hospitality is all about. CURRENT: Finishing whiskey in port wine barrels isn’t new, but using a blend of ruby, tawny and white port is very unique. What does that specific combination of three different ports add to the flavor that a standard finish wouldn’t achieve? JONES: Using ruby, tawny and white port give this whiskey a flavor story instead of a single note. Ruby brings bright, juicy fruit. Tawny adds that deeper caramel, nutty character; and white port lifts everything with a touch of lightness and subtle floral or stone-fruit notes. Blending all three gives the whiskey layers to explore. It stays sweet and full, but never flat. CURRENT: The tasting notes mention rich flavors like butterscotch, caramelized butter pecan and toasted cedar. For someone who isn’t a master sommelier, what is the first thing they are going to notice when they take that first sip?

‘A BEEF & BOARDS CHRISTMAS!’ “A Beef & Boards Christmas!” runs through Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com. JONES: The first thing most people notice is the sweetness and smoothness — something like caramel or soft butterscotch right up front. The port influence gives it a round, warm feel with some toasted, nutty notes as it settles in. You don’t need a trained palate to enjoy it; it’s a really welcoming first sip. CURRENT: This release is bottled at barrel strength. General consumers often assume high proof implies “the burn,” yet this has won awards for its drinkability. How did you balance that high-proof intensity with the smooth, sweet notes of the port finish? JONES: Even though it’s barrel strength, the port finish really helps soften the edges. The wine-soaked barrels add body and sweetness, which naturally cuts down the burn people expect from higher-proof whiskey. We bottle it strong so people can enjoy it however they like—neat, with a little water, or over ice. That flexibility is part of the hospitality behind the brand. CURRENT: You recently took home “Blended Whiskey of the Year,” along with a Double Gold rating. What does that level of industry recognition mean for the team, specifically for a limited release like this? JONES: Winning “Blended Whiskey of the Year” and Double Gold means a lot to our team. We put a lot of pride into our tasting panel and barrel selection process, so having that work recognized on a big stage feels like a real win. It reinforces why we created Rare Saint in the first place: To craft whiskey our team is proud to make and our guests are excited to drink. CURRENT: Given your roots in the culinary world, how do you recommend people enjoy Trinity of Port? JONES:Coming from the culinary world, we never want to tell people how to enjoy something great — but we do love it after a steak dinner or shared with good company. It’s a whiskey meant for slow sipping and good conversation.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ “A Christmas Carol” runs through Dec. 22 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com. ‘HANDEL’S MESSIAH’ Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’ “Handel’s Messiah” is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘FESTIVAL OF CAROLS’ Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s “Festival of Carols” is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 19 and 3 p.m. Dec. 20-21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’ Civic Theatre’s presentation of “A Christmas Story” runs through Dec. 27 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET “All The Way Frank, A Sinatra Tribute” is set for Dec. 18, followed by “Human Jukebox with the Ahlwardts” Dec. 19, “Dueling Pianos” Dec. 20 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN BROWNSBURG 12.16.25 • youarecurrent.com

Songbook Academy alums return Addie McMillan has a special bond with other Songbook Academy alums. A 2024 Noblesville High School graduate, McMillan participated in the intensive summer program for vocalists in 2024. McMillan is one of 35 Songbook Academy alums expected to perform in “Songbook Academy Sings Songs of the Season” concerts. They are set for 4 and 7 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. In previous years, the Songbook holiday concert was held in the Studio Theater. “It’s really great to keep those connections alive, even if seeing them once a year,” said McMillan, a Ball State University sophomore. McMillan, who performed in the Songbook holiday concert last year, isn’t certain what solo song she’ll perform. “We all send in a few options for holiday songs and then they choose based on the availability and if someone else chose them or the length of the song,” she said. “They have to make sure the accompanist is good with the song as well.” McMillan said she still reflects on how special her

Songbook Academy experience was. “It was such a transformative, inspiring and motivational week because everyone there is so incredibly kind and supportive of one another,” she said. “They were passionate about making sure that you were OK as a person before you had to perform, and I really appreciate that. It inspired me to continue to perform and keep doing that when I have the chance. I really appreciate the opportunities that they give to alums because I don’t get any opportunities in college to really perform.” A marketing major, McMillan is a resident assistant and is an executive board member for two organizations. She wants to develop her critical skills. “I want to continue to sing and perform but can do that after college,” she said. Songbook Academy Executive Director Christopher Lewis said the holiday concert has become a favorite tradition. “What I love most is how many of our Songbook Academy alums jump at the chance to come back,” he said. “It says so much about the community they’ve built and how the bonds they form during that one week in the summer truly last.” Tickets are $15 for Choral Terrace seating and $25 for VIP Onstage seating. Both areas are general admission. Tickets are available online at TheSongbook.org/SAHoliday25 or by phone at 1-317-843-3800 or 1-877-909-2787.

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CURRENT IN BROWNSBURG 12.16.25 • youarecurrent.com

It’s time to celebrate! Best Of Suburban North Indy shines a spotlight on the amazing local businesses that make our communities thrive. From your favorite restaurants and shops to hidden gems in the arts and entertainment scene, we want to honor the best of the best. Help us find this year’s winners!

NOMINATIONS

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LEARN MORE AT YOUARECURRENT.COM/BESTOF2026 Nominations are open December 15 through January 9. After Nominations close, voting will be open from January 28 through February 10, with winners announced on March 17.

In its inaugural 2025 release, Rare Saint Trinity of Port earned Double Gold and a 96-point rating from the USA Spirits Ratings, along with the title of Blended Whiskey of the Year. Trinity of Port is a truly unique spirit and stands as a defining moment in Rare Saint’s pursuit of perfection.

Rare Saint is the whiskey embodiment of the steakhouse experience - lavish, indulgent, and memorable. It boasts an expert tasting panel with decades of experience finding and sourcing the best barrels of whiskey in the world. In every 100 barrels of whiskey, there is always one Rare Saint.