December 23, 2025 — Current in Carmel

Tuesday, December 23, 2025 youarecurrent.com

Library evacuated after exam-week student fight Page 3

School board member to resign at year’s end Page 4

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Fight closes library after ‘massive influx’ of students during finals week

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com Officials at the Carmel Clay Public Library expect to be busier than normal the week of final exams, as many students from across the street at Carmel High School finish their tests around noon but don’t catch a bus home until 4 p.m.

The library turns its meeting rooms into study areas during ACE week — which stands for Assessments and Culminating Experiences — and assigns staff members to be on site to monitor the “massive influx” of teens, according to CCPL Director Bob Swanay.

But Dec. 16, CCPL officials called in police reinforcements after they — and a library security guard — were unable to stop a fight that broke out at 3:45 p.m. between a small group of students.

“It was just a handful actually involved in the fighting, maybe five or six, but they were persistent,” Swanay said.

“Several fights broke out. Carmel police gave the order to evacuate the library, and we complied.”

According to CPD, 500 to 1,000 people were crowded around the disturbance.

Police charged three juveniles involved in the incident and released them to their parents. Only minor injuries were reported, and no library property was damaged.

CCS Superintendent Thomas Oestreich said he is disappointed with the actions of the three students.

“Their behavior does not reflect the expectations we hold for our students, and it is unfortunate that the actions of a few can jeopardize a strong partnership with the library and bring negative attention to our community,” he said.

After the evacuation, the library remained closed for the remainder of the day. It reopened Dec. 17 with an increased police presence as CCPL officials prepared for another afternoon

3

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Police vehicles park behind the Carmel Clay Public Library Dec. 17, one day after a fight caused the library to be evacuated and close early. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

rush of high school students.

“We’re getting ready to have thousands of teens that are here in the area, but they don’t really have anything to do, and it’s going to be hours before they have a ride home,” Swanay said.

“That’s part of what set up the conditions (that led to the fight).”

Swanay said that on Dec. 9, one week before the fight, the library had 584 recorded visits between noon and 4 p.m.

During that same time period the following week, CCPL had 2,438 visitors.

Most were high schoolers, he said.

Swanay said he has previously had discussions with CCS about the exam-week schedule’s impact on the library.

“We’ve expressed these concerns, and they’ve offered some personnel,” he said. “But I don’t think any of us have enough of a handle on the safety and security, so I would anticipate future conversations for sure.”

Oestreich told Current that students

have options after completing their exams.

“They may remain at school in supervised study areas, go home if they have transportation or choose to study at community locations such as the library,” he said. “The vast majority of our students use this flexibility responsibly.”

According to ACE week info on the CHS website, parents who want their CHS students to remain on campus the full day must opt in by completing a Google form. This allows CCS to prepare for lunch service and “appropriate supervision.” Students leaving campus for the afternoon do not need to complete a form.

Oestreich said he appreciates the district’s partnerships with CPD and CCPL. “The library is an important community asset, and we want our students to value and respect spaces that provide positive environments for learning and preparation for finals,” he said.

If you’re interested in reaching the Carmel market (35,089 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Carmel advertising) or by calling 317.847.5022.

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COMMUNITY

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12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

School board member to step down

2 admins appointed

Beresford as CCS superintendent among her highlights from her time on the school board.

Oestreich thanked Nelson-Williams for her For Jennifer Nelson-Williams, stepping down years of “dedicated service.” from the Carmel Clay Schools board of trustees at “Jennifer is a deeply service-oriented leader the end of this year was a “very difficult and emowho consistently placed students at the center of tional decision.” every decision,” he stated. “Her thoughtShe still has a passion for public educaful leadership, commitment to our comtion, but she also wants to be more availmunity and unwavering focus on what able for her family, which recently grew. is best for children have made a lasting Nelson-Williams got married less than a impact on our district.” month ago, and she is committed to helpThe school board will appoint a new ing her husband raise his school-age son. member to fill Nelson-Williams’ vacant Plus, she wants to dedicate more time to seat. The board will accept applications Nelson-Williams her own adult children: A daughter in Calfor the position through Dec. 31. A public ifornia and a son getting married next year. interview of the finalists is set for Jan. 14, 2026.

“I certainly have always believed that a person Applicants must live within the District 2 can have it all,” said Nelson-Williams, CEO of boundaries, which stretches across central CarAaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home. “I just am mel between 116th and Main streets and also a firm believer they can’t necessarily have everyincludes the area north of Main Street and west of thing all at once.”

Ditch Road. They must also be a registered voter The board vice president, Nelson-Williams’ in Hamilton County and be at least 21 years old. four-year term runs through the end of 2026.

State law requires school board members to She has represented District 2 since October 2021 interview at least three of the candidates in a pubwhen the board unanimously selected her to fill lic meeting and appoint a replacement within 30 the seat after the retirement of Pam Knowles the days of the seat becoming vacant. previous month.

Learn more and apply for the open position at Nelson-Williams cited the July 2024 selection of bit.ly/3L8WS5t.

Thomas Oestreich to succeed the retiring Michael

Carmel Clay Schools has made appointments to two administrative positions at Mohawk Trails and Clay Center elementary schools. Both leaders will step into the roles next month when the second semester of the school year begins.

At Mohawk Trails, Jennifer Hamilton has been named assistant principal. She previously served as the instructional coach at West Clay Elementary and interim assistant Hamilton principal at Smoky Row Elementary.

Hamilton has a doctorate in communication from Ball State University and has completed the school’s Educational Leadership Program. In addition, she is a certified School Safety Specialist.

Kristen Cannady is the new interim assistant principal at Clay Center Elementary.

Cannady She has taught several grade levels at Smoky Row and Carmel elementary schools and has worked as a reading and multilingual learner interventionist.

Cannady has a master’s degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education, a master’s degree in curriculum development from Ball State University and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Purdue University.

Cannady is a previous Teacher of the Year at Smoky Row.

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

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Election software approved

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com Hamilton County Commissioners recognized longtime employees at their Dec. 8 meeting.

The commissioners also discussed bridge rehabilitation projects and a new election management system.  WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners approved an agreement regarding election management software for poll workers.  WHAT IT MEANS: Hamilton County Clerk Kathy Williams said the current software was created in-house and needs to be replaced.  WHAT’S NEXT: The new system, Integra, will be used to assign poll workers and do their claims, among other items.

 WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners honored employees who have been with the county for 30, 35, 40 and 45 years.  WHAT IT MEANS: Each employee received a pin at the meeting. Lynette Duvall (45 years) was the longest-serving employee honored.

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 WHAT HAPPENED: The county reviewed two bridge rehabilitation projects.  WHAT IT MEANS: The commissioners planned to review bid openings for rehabilitation projects on the bridge on Hazel Dell Parkway over Cool Creek in Clay Township and the bridge on Cumberland Road over Mud Creek in Fall Creek and Delaware Townships. However, neither project has received a bid. Hamilton County Highway Director Brad Davis said the jobs are small and a combined project, and he expected at least three bids. He said the time of year could play a factor.  WHAT’S NEXT: Davis said the highway department will contact contractors to see if they can move the projects forward.

FAA administrator questioned over Republic stock the OGE letter states. “Upon OGE following up, Department of Transportation ethics officials expressed confusion The leader of the Federal Aviation regarding the status of the amendment Administration is facing scrutiny from request and informed OGE that Mr. U.S. officials for not fully divestBedford requested stock certifing his stock in Carmel-based icates on December, 1, 2025, so Republic Airways within 90 days that he could divest.” of beginning the role.

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell FAA Administrator Bryan (D-Wash.), ranking member of Bedford served as CEO of Rethe committee, sent Bedford public Airways before his July a letter Dec. 9 questioning his U.S. Senate confirmation for delay in divesting his Republic Bedford the federal position. In June, stock, which she stated was Bedford stated in a letter to federal ofworth between $6 million and $30 milficials that he would divest his stock in lion at the time of his nomination.

Republic Airways within 90 days of his She also questioned the financial imconfirmation. pact of Republic’s merger with Mesa Air On Dec. 8, the U.S. Office of GovernGroup, which was announced Nov. 25. ment Ethics alerted the U.S. Senate A spokesperson for the FAA told Committee on Commerce, Science Current that the agency would respond and Transportation that Bedford had directly to Cantwell. The spokesperson not met the deadline and that he had did not provide comment or any addirequested an amendment to his ethics tional information about the matter. agreement to extend it.

Republic Airways did not respond to a “The request to OGE did not meet the request for comment. standard for granting an amendment,”

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

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Retiring CCHS director thankful for collaboration which was delayed in large part because of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the transition period, CCHS had office The director of the Carmel Clay Hisspace in a Carmel Fire Department torical Society will retire at the end of building, storage space in a Carmel the year.

Clay Schools facility and meetDebbie Gangstad has served ing space at the Carmel Clay in the role since 2018, when she Public Library. accepted it on an interim basis.

“My favorite memory of this She had been volunteering with project will always be amazing the nonprofit for several years cooperation throughout our and became a board member in community,” Gangstad said.

2015.

“We still use the library as our Gangstad Much changed during Gangmodel for inclusivity of all stad’s tenure, including the construcages.” tion of the long-awaited Carmel Clay The City of Carmel donated money History Museum, which now houses for fabricating museum exhibits, and the CCHS headquarters. some of the furniture came from the Gangstad said she is grateful for the mayor’s office. Private donors funded work of those who served with the non- other aspects of the museum. Since profit before her. opening in November 2024, the muse“In 1975, some wonderful, forum has offered free admission and welward-thinking CCHS members purcomed more than 20,000 guests. chased the land where the building is Gangstad is a recipient of the Rotary today,” she said. “It would have been Club’s Outstanding Service award and too expensive for us to purchase at curwas recently inducted into the Carmel rent value.”

High School Hall of Fame. She is eager Clay Township funded much of the to have more free time but intends to construction of the new building, remain involved with the organization

By Shelly Gattlieb news@youarecurrent.com

OBITUARY Robert C. Scherer, 85, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away on December 6, 2025.

Bob was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Charles and Betty Scherer. He graduated from St. Rita’s High School and St. Thomas College, where he earned a degree in accounting. He began his career as an accountant with Whiteway Signs in Chicago before transferring to Indianapolis in 1974 with Federal Sign Company.

In 1985, Bob followed his entrepreneurial spirit and opened his own sign company, The Sign Group, Inc. Over the next 38 years, the signs he created and manufactured became fixtures throughout the United States. He was widely respected in the sign industry—an admiration reflected in the company’s remarkable employee retention. The Sign Group operated as a true family business, shaped by the culture Bob built: one grounded in loyalty, integrity, and genuine care for the people who worked alongside him.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was an avid sailor, golfer, and hockey enthusiast. Bob played roller hockey for the Harvey Auto Glass Wings, a semi-pro team, and the Chicago Titans in Chicago

during the 1960’s. His love of the sport led him to become a passionate fan of the Florida Panthers, the NHL’s current Stanley Cup Champions. Bob embraced adventure with enthusiasm, whether navigating the ice rink, lakes, oceans or a 4-inch putt. He treasured the friendships and memories made along the way. Known for his infectious smile, quick wit, and easygoing personality, Bob brought warmth and joy to every gathering.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; daughters Tracy (Jack) Barkley and Danielle Wills; and grandchildren Taylor Price, Brooke Barkley, and Kayla Mortimer. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A calling and Mass was held on December 18, 2025, at St. Pius Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank-you to Marquette Manor, where Bob spent the last few months of his life. Their care, compassion, and support will be remembered always.

Bob will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

as a volunteer.

“I have always treasured Carmel people’s teamwork to get things done,” she said. “The Carmel Clay Historical Museum is a standing testament of it.”

Before working at CCHS, Gangstad taught in CCS schools for nearly 30 years. She is a 1971 CHS graduate and daughter of CHS boys basketball coach Eric Clark, who led the 1977 team to a single-class IHSAA state title.

Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam said Gangstad has made a “tremendous”

impact on the city.

“From her teaching career to her role on the board of the Carmel Clay Historical Society, followed by her service as interim director and then director, Debbie’s life has been one of service and the Carmel community is forever grateful,” Finkam stated.

To donate to the Deborah Clark Gangstad Endowment Fund to provide long-term, sustainable support for the museum’s mission, visit carmelclayhistory.org/ways-to-give.

Roundabout art featured in game expansion

By Mark Ambrogi mark@yourarecurrent.com Carmel High School senior Franklin Vrtis invented the Roundabouts card game during his freshman year.

In 2024, he felt it was time for an update, so he created an expansion pack that adds nine roundabout statue cards.

“It’s original art by me and gives players bonus points if it has a statue in their roundabout, so there’s a little more incentive for players to play it,” he said. “There are extra wild cards as well. The expansion game can be played by itself, so if you don’t have the original Roundabouts game, you can still play the expansion with two people. If you have the base game, you can play with up to four.”

Vrtis said he’s received positive feedback on the expansion.

“It’s funny to hear the comments talking about the statutes,” he said.

Vrtis is the lead designer at visionmonster games.

“Illustrating is one of my passions, and wherever I go to college, I’m looking to double major in graphic design and business,” he said.

The roundabout statues, including “Morning Sun” by California artist Brad Howe, are particularly popular, Vrtis said.

Vrtis has developed some 18-card pocket-size games and some larger-scale three-dimensional games. He also started the board game design club at CHS. “I’m helping a group of 10 to 12 kids

Carmel High School senior Franklin Vrtis with the card games he created. (Photo courtesy of Franklin Vrtis)

make their own card game,” he said.

“This is the second year of us doing it, and the kids just love doing it. It allows me to mix my love of board games to help other people create their own as well.”

His father, Matt Vrtis, helped get visionmonster registered as a limited liability company.

“My dad is a big help in creating ideas,” Vrtis said.

The original Roundabouts game is available at Silver in the City in Carmel. The game and expansion are available at shop.visionmonster.com.

COMMUNITY

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12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

CHS senior earns state’s top linebacker award

By Mark Ambrogi mark@yourarecurrent.com

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“I have said multiple times his presence in practice from the time he got here he helped us change our culture,” Wright said. “He practices like he plays, with extreme intensity and passion and helps make the guys around him better.”

Bathurst had training sessions with former Indianapolis Colts defensive end/linebacker Robert Mathis in the offseason.

“He gave me the skills I needed to dominate football at this level,” Bathhurst said.

Bathurst visited Purdue University, Vanderbilt University and Oklahoma.

He said he chose the Sooners because the program gave him the best change to make it to the NFL. “I thought it was the best fit for me and my family and position-wise,” said Bathurst, who is graduating early and enrolled at Oklahoma for the spring semester.

Anthony Coellner will play for Boston College next season. Drake Coellner already has several college offers, including Oklahoma.

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Carmel High School senior Dane Bathurst won the Mr. Football Position Award at linebacker.

(Photo courtesy of CHS athletics)

Ditch Rd.

Senior Dane Bathurst made his one season for the Carmel High School football team impactful.

Bathurst transferred to Carmel after playing for Tampa (Fla.) Plant High School. He joined his cousins, senior quarterback Anthony Coellner and junior safety Drake Coellner, on the Greyhounds.

The 6-foot-4, 235-pound Bathurst, who is headed to the University of Oklahoma, was named the Indiana Mr. Football Position Award winner for linebacker.

“I felt like Dane was able to focus on becoming an elite pass rusher as well as someone who could drop into coverage giving us a lot of flexibility,” CHS coach Kevin Wright said.

Bathurst finished with 65 tackles, including seven sacks, for the Greyhounds (9-2), who lost to Westfield 23-20 in overtime in the Class 6A regional.

“It was everything and more,” Bathurst said of his one season. “I had a great time. It taught me a lot of things about football I needed to know and created me as a player and a man who I am today. It was a blessing to be able to be coached by Coach Wright. It was a really fun season. It’s sad it came out the way it did. We should have won it all.”

Bathurst had originally committed to Duke University but changed his commitment to Oklahoma.

“He started to draw more attention as the season progressed and his senior tape was being watched by recruiters,” Wright said. “There is a big difference in both his technical and physical skill from his junior year tape.”

Wright said Bathurst was deserving of the award.

DISPATCHES  Correction — In the Dec. 2 edition of Current in Carmel, a story about former Carmel High School athlete Charlie Koeppen misstated his year of graduation. He graduated in 2001. In addition, Koeppen ran in six state championship events but did not win six events.

 Christkindlmarkt tops list — The Carmel Christkindlmarkt has been named the No. 1 holiday market on USA Today’s 10Best list. This is the fifth time the annual Carmel event has topped the ranking. Selected through a national public vote, the event stood out for its authentic German-style experience. Learn more at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com.

From left, Steve Schutz, Stan Schutz and Scott Schutz

Building Carmel since 1967

8

COMMUNITY

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12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

HSE senior girls basketball player keeps growing game

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurent.com Hamilton Southeastern High School senior basketball player Kayla Stidham was faced with a difficult decision.

The 6-foot Stidham chose to transfer from the New Palestine school system to HSE in eighth grade.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without HSE,” she said. “It has helped me grow as a person and player. It was also one of the hardest decisions leaving everything I knew to start something brand new, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

Stidham, who will play for Bowling Green State University next season, is averaging 14.9 points and a teamhigh 7.1 rebounds per game through 11 games for the Royals (9-2). She averaged 10.5 ppg last season and 11.9 ppg as a sophomore.

“My individual goals are to continue doing the little things like rebounding and diving for loose balls,” Stidham said. “As a team, I hope we are able to make another run. We have a lot of young girls who all work super hard and

Hamilton Southeastern High School senior basketball player Kayla Stidham will play for Bowling Green State University next season. (Photo courtesy of Brian Bosmer)

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK KAYLA STIDHAM Favorite movie: “The Notebook” Favorite subject: Anatomy Favorite athlete: Aja Wilson Favorite musician: Summer Walker deserve a good run in the tournament.”

The Royals were 27-1 last season, losing in the Class 4A semistate final to Warsaw.

HSE coach Brian Satterfield said Stidham has improved in several areas throughout her high school career.

“She has become a more well-rounded player,” he said. “When she first joined the program, she was mainly an offensive threat. This year, she leads the team in rebounds and has recorded four

double-doubles so far. Her improvement defensively has also been a huge plus for our team.”

Stidham is shooting 38 percent from the field, including 31 percent from 3-point range. She shot 43 percent overall and 40 percent on 3-pointers last season. Satterfield said opponents are focusing more on Stidham and Kennedy Holman this season with the graduation of top scorer Maya Makulusky, the 2025 Indiana Miss Basketball.

“In the past, the defense would focus on Maya, and that allowed Kayla to get better quality looks,” he said. “Kayla

has begun to get a better feel for this and has slowly been bringing up her percentages. She hasn’t settled for just jump shots and has been aggressive going to the rim and the basket. With these improvements, she made it more challenging for someone to guard her.”

Stidham said her biggest improvement has been in becoming a more complete player, not simply a shooter.

“I’ve been working on being more physical and getting to the basket while also working on the defensive end,” she said.

Her leadership ability has grown as well.

“Helping the underclassmen work through the struggles and stresses that come in high school has been a big point — not just on the court, but also off the court,” she said.

Stidham’s mother, Lisa Shepherd-Stidham, was the 1997 Indiana Miss Basketball from Richmond High School. The former Penn State University player was inducted into Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023.

Stidham said she always had a goal of being an Indiana All-Star.

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A CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT Miss Indiana Volunteer 2026 shares heart for service

By Samantha Kupiainen news@currentincarmel.com By day, Caroline Betty Trennepohl works full-time for Herff Jones as a marketing manager for its Greek, college and commercial divisions. In her spare time and on the weekends, the Carmel resident fulfills obligations as Miss Indiana Volunteer 2026 AtLarge. She won the title last month.

Miss Indiana Volunteer is a preliminary event for the national Miss Volunteer America pageant, in which Trennepohl Trennepohl will compete in June 2026 in Jackson, Tenn. The organizations aim to promote community service, scholarship and personal development for teens and young women.

“Caroline embodies the spirit of volunteerism and leadership that our organization champions,” the Miss Indiana Volunteer organization stated in announcing Trennephol’s selection. “Caroline brings a wealth of experience and passion to her new role.”

Growing up, Trennepohl was interested in competing in pageants but didn’t seriously pursue opportunities. That changed when she was in graduate school and needed a way to pay for her studies. She also wanted to showcase her performance skills.

“I sing classical opera, so I wanted another platform to be able to continue to sing,” she said.

So, she competed in the Miss Ohio competition for two years, placing second runner up both times.

“My first year I had no preparation,” Trennepohl said. “My dress was hemmed wrong, all the things. It was a fun experience to see what it was all about. I fell in love with the organization, how you really do have women who all have platforms, and they’re working toward something. Maybe it’s not the same thing as you, but this just really inspires young women to participate in something in their community.”

Around that time, Trennepohl relocated to Carmel at her mother’s suggestion. Trennepohl was living in Seattle, working remotely, and wanted to move back to the Midwest. However, she wasn’t sold on moving home to Cincinnati.

“My mom was like, ‘You should check out this suburb called Carmel,’ and I fell in love with it,” she said.

“I eventually moved, and my parents ended up moving here as well. We all love the area.”

Trennepohl first learned about Miss Indiana Volunteer from Miss Ohio Volunteer. This is her final year of eligibility, as the maximum age to participate is 26.

To compete, Trennepohl sent in an application, resume and information about her talent and past experience. The competition included four phases, each worth 25 percent of overall scores: Talent, fitness and wellness, evening gown and a private interview with the judges.

Caroline Betty Trennepohl speaks to a group of women about her nonprofit, Girls CAN Mentoring. (Photo courtesy of Caroline Betty Trennepohl)

As Miss Indiana Volunteer 2026, Trennepohl will appear at community events, galas and charity programs, where she will promote her platform of service, education and leadership for young women.

“Singing at organizations, that’s really what I love,” she said. “I love going to nursing homes, just being able to sing and share my love of singing to the community.

Also, we partner with St. Jude hospitals and the Salvation Army. I’m just trying to get as involved as possible in that, along with going to as many schools as possible and sharing my platform, which is a nonprofit I started in 2021.”

Trennepohl’s nonprofit, Girls CAN Mentoring, pairs students with mentors in a career path they find inter-

esting (CAN stands for Career Awareness Network).

Participants can choose their mentors, and the entire mentorship is virtual.

“It’s a free mentorship nonprofit that serves girls in all 50 states,” she said. “I speak in schools about mentorship, career development, and women in corporate leadership.”

Learn more about the nonprofit at girlscanmentoring.com. More information about Miss Volunteer America is available at missvolunteeramerica.net.

THE COVER: Caroline Betty Trennepohl at a City of Lawrence Christmas event. (Photo courtesy of Caroline Betty Trennepohl)

A MARKETING SPECIALIST Caroline Betty Trennepohl has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Thomas Moore University in Cincinnati and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Cincinnati.

Before landing her job as a marketing manager at Herff Jones, Trennepohl worked as a marketing

manager for Chick-Fil-A and was a corporate giving specialist for Total Quality Logistics.

After her year as Miss Indiana Volunteer, Trennepohl wants to pursue her doctorate and become a professor with a specialty in marketing.

10

INSIDE & OUT

CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

BLUEPRINT FOR IMPROVEMENT: Commentary by Larry Greene Located in west Carmel’s High Grove neighborhood, this primary bathroom remodel transformed a dated space into a serene, spa-like retreat designed for everyday comfort and timeless style.

West Carmel spa-inspired primary bath remodel AFTER

THE BLUEPRINT • A freestanding soaking tub is positioned beneath expansive windows, creating a calming focal point.

• Warm wood vanities add richness and contrast against light, airy finishes.

• The walk-in shower features floor-toceiling porcelain tile, built-in niches and elegant brass fixtures.

• A framed tile inlay at the center of the floor subtly defines the space and adds a refined, custom detail.

• Soft neutral tones and thoughtful detailing enhance the space’s overall sense of balance and relaxation.

BEFORE

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.

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CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

11

Sensory Shoppe now open

By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com The Sensory Shoppe, a retailer aiming to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for neurodivergent children and adults, celebrated its grand opening Dec 1.

The shop at 99 E. Carmel Dr. features a variety of sensory-friendly products, adaptive tools, motor skills toys, educational toys, calming supports, fidgets and more. The store also has a station where shoppers can test products before purchase.

“It was our hope to create something for people to try (the products), because it is really hard to see them in person, touch them, feel them, and all of that is important,” owner Emily Hawthorne said. “You can’t really do that online.”

Hawthorne looked for compassionate and understanding employees to staff the store.

“Even if they didn’t know exactly what that family was going through or exactly what that therapist needed at the moment, they would be listening, welcoming and understanding of what-

The Sensory Shoppe features sensory-friendly products and motor skills toys among other products.

(Photo courtesy of Emily Hawthorne)

ever journey (the family or therapist) was going through,” she said.

Hawthorne developed the concept for the store after her daughter, who has autism spectrum disorder, became overwhelmed while shopping and had to be removed from the situation to regulate. Hawthorne said she perceived judgmental glances from employees and shoppers. “(The Sensory Shoppe) is a place where (neurodivergent people) are not different, they are the norm, and I think that is so important,” she said.

Learn more at sensoryshoppecarmel. com.

Gym operators switch gears

By Brittney Dial Testin news@youarecurrent.com Tint World Carmel celebrated its grand opening last month.

Owners Ron Huling and Barney Storrs, who previously operated Planet Fitness centers, aim to bring high-end automotive styling, tinting and detailing to the area.

“After selling the (Planet Fitness) franchises, we started looking for the next best opportunity and settled on Tint World,” Storrs said. “We felt Tint World gave us the best opportunity to be successful. We spoke with other Tint World franchises that had positive experiences.”

The shop, which is at 9700 Lakeshore Dr. E, also offers ceramic coatings, paint protection film, remote starts and alarms, detailing, vinyl wraps, dash cams and more.

Huling and Storrs purchased the rights to three Tint World franchises: Carmel, Zionsville and the Fishers/Noblesville area.

“We envision being very connected

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A Tint World technician applies paint protection film to a vehicle. (Photo courtesy of Tint World)

to the automotive community,” Storrs said. “We will be present at the car club meets and host car meets of our own.

We have built relationships with some of the dealerships that surround us and hope to continue to build more relationships in the near future.”

Learn more at tintworld.com/ locations/in/carmel-150.

3300 E 96th St. Indianapolis, IN 46240 TomWoodSubaru.com 317.805.7775

12

CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

Your source for local arts & entertainment and upcoming events • youarecurrent.com

Award-winning Carmel musician stays busy with songwriting, performing

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Singer-songwriter Tay Bronson likes to have fun with his songs.

The 54-year-old Carmel resident, who describes his style as traditional country, released a new single Nov. 19 called “Golf Cart” that is available on all streaming platforms. The song is a tongue-in-cheek ode to a rolling neighborhood parade of golf carts. There is a music video on Bronson’s YouTube channel.

Bronson’s song idea came from visiting his girlfriend’s permanent campsite at Indian Lakes in northern Indiana.

“It’s more like Indian ponds because they are tiny little lakes,” he said. “It’s like glamping and people are driving around on golf carts. Having my cynical sense of humor, I got up one morning and I didn’t want to use the toy hauler bathroom, so I went to the bathroom and there’s a lot of golf carts lined up with dads doing the same thing I was doing.”

Bronson sent a text message to his girlfriend about his situation and the different types of golf carts. Then he decided to turn it into a song.

“The song killed it at the campground, so I had to make a video that is just as funny as the song,” Bronson said, Bronson had friends from the campground follow him around.

“I was acting like a goofball on the back of the golf cart playing the song,” he said.

Besides the recent release, Bronson’s 2024 album, “Bad Apple,” was named the Male Album of the Year in August at the International Singer-Songwriter Association Awards ceremony in Atlanta.

“It’s kind of like the minor leagues to the Country Music Awards or Grammys,” he said. “I was tickled pink to have my album recognized as Album of

‘A BEEF & BOARDS CHRISTMAS!’ “A Beef & Boards Christmas!” runs through Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘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

Singer-songwriter Tay Bronson performs solo concerts and also with his band, The Tackle Box. (Photo courtesy of Tay Bronson)

the Year. There are 35,000 members in the organization.”

Bronson’s band is called Tay Bronson and the Tackle Box. The band includes keyboardist Jason Barth and drummer Matt DeVore, both Carmel residents, who were previously Push Down & Turn with Bronson.

Bronson, Barth and DeVore own Carmel-based Premier Group, a home automation company, which they started in 1999.

“We were thinking if we start our own business, we can work four days a week and still have gigs on the weekend with Push Down & Turn,” Bronson said.

Bronson was the primary songwriter and bassist for Push Down & Turn, an alternative rock band.

“We formed the band (in 1991) when we were at school at DePauw University,” he said. “We had a run of like 10 years. We had a bus and we would load up and keep rolling. We sounded like Matchbox Twenty and Counting Crows or something like that.”

Bronson compared touring life to being in the Army.

“We would go to the gig, and they would feed us and give us beer and you weren’t spending money,” he said.

Band members would return to their homes and realize they weren’t making that much money.

Push Down & Turn was on the HORDE — Horizons of Rock Developing Everywhere — Tour in 1997.

“We won a spot through a Battle of Bands and we got five dates on the tour,” Bronson said. “There were different bands, but the main headliner was Neil Young and Crazy Horse.”

The Push Down & Turn hasn’t played regularly since 2003, but it performed a reunion show at The Vogue Theatre in Indianapolis in 2016. ‘“We were going to try to do a reunion show every few years, but that got put on the back burner,” he said.

The Tackle Box also includes bassist Scott Nelson and pedal steel player Joe Alterio. Bronson also performs smaller singer-songwriter concerts.

Bronson’s debut album was “Drinks & Memories,” which features 12 songs built on his life experiences.

For more, visit taybronson.com

“A Sinatra Christmas” is set for 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23, followed by “The Magic of David Ranalli” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 27 and “Murder Mystery Night: The Most Wonderful Night of the Year” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 28 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

DISPATCH  Elton John tribute artist returns to Feinstein’s — Craig A. Meyer’s “Remember When Rock was Young: The Elton John Experience” returns Dec. 31 to Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. This is the fourth consecutive year the 1981 Carmel High School graduate will perform at Feinstein’s on New Year’s Eve. Performances are set for 7:30 and 10:45 p.m. The late show features a complimentary champagne toast. Meyer has been involved in theater, film, television and music. On Broadway, he created the role of Clinton Badger in “Meet Me in St Louis” and toured nationally in “Cats” as Skimbleshanks. Meyer worked with Alan Menken on Disney’s “Aladdin” and with Tim Rice and Elton John on “The Lion King.” He also has toured internationally and recorded with music legends Barry Manilow and Frankie Valli. For tickets, visit feinsteinshc.com/events.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

Parkinson’s doesn’t deter Westfield musician

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Joe Stemnock doesn’t let Parkinson’s disease keep him from pursuing his passion for making music.

“I think the most beneficial effect of making music is that it challenges me cognitively and keeps my mind active,” Stemnock said. “I write, play and record everything solo, so it’s a very involved process.”

Stemnock said although there’s no clinical evidence to support the assumption that music slows the progression of Parkinson’s, he definitely Joe Stemnock, who records under the name Stemmy, recently believes it helps. released “Popstar Overdose.” (File photo) “I encourage anyone kinson’s in 2017. who has a diagnosis to not quit,” he “I had been having symptoms for a said. “There’s still life to be lived.” few years before then,” he said. “It’s Stemnock, who performs under the been a long journey with lots of ups and name Stemmy, recently released “Popdowns. Thankfully, I have a wonderful star Overdose.” wife (Kelly) who supports me.”

“I play and sing everything on that Stemnock was a teacher for 35 years. track except for the drums, which I’m In 2018, he retired from Westfield Midsure my wife is grateful for,” he said. dle School, where he taught English.

Stemnock said he has written too He and his wife moved from Carmel to many songs to count.

Westfield in 2021.

“Most are thrown out,” he said. “I am “We generally spend part of the winmuch more careful than I used to be. I ter somewhere warmer,” he said. really try to release songs that I think Stemnock’s songs are available on are worthwhile.” most major streaming platforms.

Stemnock was diagnosed with Par-

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CARMEL

13

14

VIEWS

CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

I

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COMM UNI TY VO I CES

Students’ ornaments still bring joy 47 years later Editor, The following is a little Christmas story, and we just wanted to say thank you and merry Christmas to the people that made this story possible.

Every year at Christmas when we decorate our tree, we think back to 47 years ago when as newlyweds we barely had any ornaments for our first Christms tree or the money to buy them.

My husband, Ron, was a teacher at Carmel High School and the sponsor of the class of 1979. Eleven members of the student congress and the four senior class officers, along with Sharon Terry, planned a surprise dinner party for us.

After the dinner, each of the students gave us an ornament to decorate our first Christmas tree.

We were so touched and remain so thankful still until this day. We would like those students to know that every year we still think of each one of them as we decorate our tree with their ornaments.

Ornaments made by class of 1979 Carmel High School students. (Photo courtesy of Barb Diehm)

We would like to wish them all a merry Christmas and personally thank Sharon Terry, Dave, Mary, Stacy, Mike, Beth, Jane, John, Jim, Libby, Bari, Gloria, Ron, Jim, Bob and Jeff.

Barb Diehm, Carmel

Fear of letting go?

Commentary by Terry Anker Why is it that some of us clean the kitchen before the last bite is taken, while others still have dishes from Thanksgiving in the sink, waiting, one can suppose, for the cleaning fairies to do the work overnight? We all share the same number of hours in the day. And most of us will, on average, manage to get close to our averages on life expectancy, so why do we look at the world around us so differently?

Why do we wait while others act? Our mantra must be, “Let’s save it for later because we never know what we might need.” OK, but isn’t there a limit? When does a healthy desire to be frugal bump into an overblown instinct to hoard? Is one ounce of turkey gravy barely covering the bottom of a vintage Tupperware container worth the effort? Even so, how long do we hang on to it hoping that someone in the family will make good use of it in the days (hopefully, not weeks) that it has been stashed in back-of-the-refrigerator stasis?

The garage is filled with jars of lose screws. A few might make sense, but do we need hundreds scattered, awaiting a call to duty? The left front drawer in the kitchen is burdened with too many keys to count. Most of them, one might imagine, once or still unlock some treasure. The problem is that we don’t know which. We fish around for our spare house key through left-over parts from an IKEA assembly project. Somehow, we kept the spare parts longer than the furniture. What sentimentality drives our obsession? Even with relationships, we promise let’s get together “soon,” knowing that we’ve tossed the acquaintance into the junk drawer. We don’t let go, but we don’t act, either. What is it that we fear?

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

VIEWS

CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • youarecurrent.com

A year of memories, Part 1 Commentary by Dick Wolfsie It’s a tradition I have followed for 25 years. Every December, I look back at the previous 12 months and give thanks to those who made this weekly exercise in humor possible. It’s the only exercise I really enjoy. I try to get in about 100 yuks a week.

Thanks to the Swedish food company that recalled 17,000 portions of beef lasagna because it contained one percent pork, which the company admitted meant the product was not 100 percent kosher. Or as my rabbi would say, “Not kosher.” The bottom line is that even though the manufacturer is pulling the pork-tainted casserole off the shelves, the entrée remains a favorite among many consumers. After all, who doesn’t like pulled pork?

Thanks to a well-known manufacturer of yoga pants that had to include a disclaimer on the label stating, “In some cases, you may experience extreme sheerness.” In other words, the pants might be see-through. When your clothing choices come with potential side effects, you might want to reconsider your wardrobe.

Thanks to the radiologist who was performing a lung biopsy on me. The doctor told me that while I was under partial anesthesia, I kept making jokes.

I asked him if they were funny. He said, “No, that’s why I never read your column.”

Thanks to all the older men in my neighborhood who know I lack handyman skills. Over one week this summer, they helped me fix my lawnmower, smoke alarms and a broken lamp. I also received help with my tax returns, changing a tire and assembling an IKEA futon. They were happy to help

because they are all retired and looking for something to do. I hope they realize how lucky they are to have me living in the neighborhood.

Thanks to the mega hardware store where I bought a new toilet. Some toilets were labeled “smart.” They had several buttons and a remote control, but what they remotely control is still a mystery. I didn’t want a smart toilet that answers the phone, connects to Bluetooth or gives me a weather report.

I don’t want my bottom warmed or scented. I simply want my toilet to sit there. And I plan to do likewise.

Thanks to my wife for suggesting that we go out for the evening and pretend it was a blind date. Honestly, we didn’t hit it off, but there must have been something brewing because despite a dismal first encounter, we both ended up back at my place.

To the neurologist who said his research showed that being confused about what day of the week it is might be a sign of dementia: I’m not confused.

I’m retired. Who cares what day it is?

Except when it’s Tuesday and I have to put out the trash. Or is that Monday?

To the father of nine in Utah who intentionally left the computer on his lap for two days because he read that prolonged heat exposure in this area could potentially cause infertility. This method was more affordable than a vasectomy. Update: Nine months later, his wife downloaded twins.

Several more for next time.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker.

Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

L ET T ER TO TH E E D I TO R POL I C I E S Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature.

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

15

Value of ‘murmuration’ Commentary by JR Sandadi At the recent Power of Women in Faith high tea hosted by the Center for Interfaith Cooperation, a single word from a poetry reading stayed with me: murmuration. I had heard it before, but something about encountering it in a room filled with courage, vulnerability and spiritual wisdom made it echo long after the event ended.

That evening, I revisited the word and discovered a powerful metaphor for community. A murmuration is the breathtaking movement of thousands of starlings sweeping across the sky — shifting, flowing, rising — without commands, hierarchy or chaos. Scientists say each bird follows just a few rules: Stay connected to nearby neighbors, move in sync and maintain a healthy distance.

Yet, from these simple principles emerges extraordinary harmony.

But there is another, deeper truth that struck me: The bird at the front faces the strongest headwinds. It takes on the most resistance, shielding others behind it. And when that bird tires, another seamlessly moves forward to take its place. Leadership in nature is rotational, shared and rooted in service — not dominance.

In the same formation, the weakest or youngest birds are often protected in the center, where the airflow is gentler and the risk lower.

The flock instinctively lifts its most vulnerable members by placing them where they can grow stronger.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Common Council, on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Carmel City Hall Council Chambers, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana, 46032, will hold a Public Hearing to consider proposed Petition which would vacate certain public way abutting the Petitioners’ Property at 310 2nd St NE. The public way to be vacated is located entirely within the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana.

A copy of the proposed Petition is on file and open to inspection in the Office of the Clerk, City of Carmel, 1000 S. Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 All interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed Petition will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. The hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.

Jacob Quinn, Clerk December 8, 2025

What a powerful template for our interfaith community.

Imagine if our leadership also rotated naturally — each person stepping forward when needed, stepping back when it is time for another voice to rise. Imagine if our communities instinctively sheltered those facing hardship, giving them room to heal while still keeping them within the circle.

In our shared work across mandirs, churches, mosques, synagogues, gurdwaras and community centers, even small shifts matter. A single gesture of kindness, a question asked with humility or a story shared honestly can ripple across the entire “flock.”

JR Sandadi is a Carmel resident and Center for Interfaith Cooperation board member.

NOTICE OF SALE City of Carmel, Indiana Department: Board of Public Works and Safety, One Civic Square, City of Carmel, IN 46032 Sale: 2017 SCBAS / Eagle Air, Harrier Trailer “AS-IS” Notice is hereby given that the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, is selling the following 2017 SCBAS / Eagle Air, Harrier Trailer “AS-IS”: 2017 SCBAS / Eagle Air, Harrier Trailer VIN: 75307401 The sale will be via online public auction held on www.GovDeals.com. The deadline to submit a bid is Monday, February 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The 2017 SCBAS / Eagle Air, Harrier Trailer is sold “AS-IS” and subject to the terms of GovDeals. com.

Jacob Quinn, City Clerk NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Common Council, on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Carmel City Hall Council Chambers, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana, 46032, will hold a Public Hearing to consider proposed Petition which would vacate an easement on the Petitioners’ Property at 751 Oswego Road. The easement to be vacated is located entirely within the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana.

A copy of the proposed Petition is on file and open to inspection in the Office of the Clerk, City of Carmel, 1000 S. Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032.

All interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed Petition will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. The hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.

Jacob Quinn, Clerk December 11, 2025

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CURRENT IN CARMEL

12.23.25 • 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

NOW OPEN

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.

PUZZLES 1

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17. Like the food and beverages served at the holiday event in the puzzle’s circles 18. Word with phone or ring

19. Utter disorder 20. Be a kvetch 21. With 74-Down, golfer known as “The Big Easy” 23. Murat Shriners’ headgear 6 Board Games

25. “Calvin and Hobbes” girl 26. Firmly embedded 29. Convivio rice dish 31. Moving about 33. “Sister Act” extra 34. Commotion 37. Crooked 39. Mail letters 43. Poultry buy 45. Three, to Caesar 46. Scolding sound 48. Entirely (Latin) 50. ___-cone 52. Discontinue 53. Short run 54. One running a stud farm 57. Since 1/1 58. Tech exec 59. Archaeological find 61. Jungle knife 65. Comparable 69. Sporty Toyota 70. Mangy mutt 72. Sao ___ 73. Commendation 75. Congregation Beth Shalom leader 78. I-69 semi 79. Where to find the holiday event in the puzzle’s circles 80. Frequently 81. White House nickname 82. Changes 83. Got zapped by a wasp 4 Indiana Motto Words

3 Christmas-Related Items 5 Synonyms for “Norm”

2 Marian University Colors

1 US State that Rhymes with “Indiana”

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5 4 2 1 6 8 5 7 3 4 5 5 6 7 84. Lions, on a Colts scoreboard DOWN 1. Articles of faith 2. Chicago airport 3. Tolerated 4. Never-ending 5. Cry from Homer Simpson 6. IND datum 7. Starting from 8. Last place team in the Hoosier Crossroads Conference 9. Sheepskin boot brand 10. Human being 11. White River catch 12. “Allow me” 13. Big name in electronics 14. Leg joint 22. MashCraft brew inits.

24. Penny metal 27. UFO crew 28. Kind of bar or torch 30. Bird-feeder food 32. Bring up 34. Battery fluid 35. Vermillion County town where Pulitzer Prize winner Ernie Pyle was born

36. Chooses 38. Colt’s West Coast foe, briefly 39. Luau strings 40. Canine command 41. “Hey! Over here.”

42. List of games for the Indy Ignite, for short 44. ___ and aah 47. Being frugal 49. Off-Broadway award 51. Praiseful poems 55. PU military org.

56. Col. Lilly 58. Part of a boilermaker 60. KGB counterpart 61. ArtWorks Westfield wall work 62. In pieces 63. Unlawful activity 64. Milan money 66. Ghastly 67. How “great minds think” 68. Thesaurus man 69. Pet protection org.

71. Huck Finn’s transport 74. See 21-Across 76. A/C measure 77. Pacers’ Sheppard ANSWERS ON PAGE 19

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CURRENT IN CARMEL

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Classifieds

VISA, MasterCard accepted.

Reach 126,986 homes weekly

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customer-related aspects of prjcts to develop & launch EPAS. Requires Bachelor’s in Mechanical or Mechatronics Eng or closely rel fld & 2 yrs exp in auto envmnt. Up to 30% U.S. and/or int’l travel req’d. Position may telecommute from home office location w/in reasonable commuting distance of Fishers, IN up to 2 days per wk. Mail resume to thyssenkrupp Presta North America, LLC, Attn: J. Linn, 1597 East Industrial Drive, Terre Haute, IN 47802 or email resume to john.linn@thyssenkrupp-automotive.com Reference 543467

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CURRENT IN CARMEL

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Tom Roush Lincoln Family owned since 1972

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Offers end December 31, 2025.

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