Page 20
IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT
Judge dismisses case against man accused of murder plot
Page 3
BZA OKs variances for Irsay family’s private ice rink
Page 4
Page 9 Shop sustainably at CGI’s Dec. 4
Green Gift Shop
CHS grad, runner to join legendary father in HOF Carmel Christkindlmarkt returns with new offerings, traditional favorites
Page 15
Dear Friends,
I’m taking this opportunity to share some of the things you may not know about the Humane Society for Hamilton County (HSHC). Did you know that HSHC fully funds and facilitates nationally recognized programs like the Survivor Program and Pets Healing Vets ? From pairing Hoosier veterans with emotional support pets, to our Youth Education and Scout Programs, HSHC’s impact and mission goes far beyond pet adoption.
Even though HSHC has served as both the Humane Society and Animal Control Facility for more than 20 years, I often meet Hamilton County residents who have no idea that:
• HSHC is one of the only open-admission, municipal shelters in the nation that embraces a no-kill philosophy of giving every animal a chance regardless of age, breed, disability, special medical needs, time or space.
• As such, we receive the hardest-to-save-and-place animals imaginable from Hamilton County residents and our law enforcement agencies.
• HSHC saves the lives of nearly 4,000 animals each year, including hundreds of Marion County animals found at risk of starvation, hypothermia, or unthinkable abuse.
• It’s important to understand that “no-kill” is not literal. There are animals who succumb to lifethreatening injuries and illnesses, as well as dogs who are deemed unsafe for adoption.
• Still, approximately 98% of the animals who arrive each year have been adopted or rescued since 2014.
Whatever it takes.
Animals arrive 24-7 from our local law enforcement agencies, and both strays and owned pets are surrendered by their families 365 days a year. It takes 81 full-time employees and nearly 1,000 volunteers to provide general care, enrichment, and life-saving medical care to between 450 to 650 animals on a daily basis.
The people who work here are cut from a resilient and compassionate cloth. The emotional toll it takes on our team to see the growing number of surrendered, abandoned, and neglected animals arriving faster than we can find open cages, kennels, or offices is crushing. Our marketing and fundraising efforts literally never stop to ensure our $5.6 million annual operating budget is met. Taxpayer dollars fund 21% of that budget through our contract to also serve as the animal control facility for the county and each of its municipalities. The remaining 79% is funded by individual donations, special events, corporate support and grants in that order.
The rest is up to you.
While our team certainly does whatever it takes every day, and we believe this is one of the best shelters on the planet, it’s not a home. Dog adoptions began to decline in 2022, reaching all-time lows since then. The length of stay for dogs has increased to an average of 96 days, with some waiting well more than one year for a family to love.
While many cite COVID as the culprit, the truth is that the business of breeding and pet store puppies is booming. U.S. consumers are adding pets to their families at a rate that would empty out most shelters if only a small percentage were adopted instead.
COMMUNITY
Judge dismisses case against man
accused
of plotting to kill his wife
Wife claims husband is innocent, CPD ‘misled’ her during investigation
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The wife of a Carmel man arrested in May for plotting to murder her is claiming her husband is innocent and that police mishandled the initial investigation.
A Hamilton County judge on Nov. 18 dismissed the case against Darshan Soni because it was filed in the improper venue. His attorney, Mario Massillamany, told Current he does not believe it will be refiled because the original allegations were not supported by additional investigation.
“They took (Soni’s) phones. They took all his electronics. They never found thallium or anything like that in his internet searches, communications, anything,” Massillamany said. “That was all speculative. And we don’t arrest people and charge people over speculation.”
A spokesperson in the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office told Current that the matter is under review and that it has not been determined if the case will be refiled.
During the initial investigation in May, Darshan Soni’s wife, Aparna Soni, told investigators from the Carmel Police Department that she believed her husband had tried to poison her.
She no longer believes that to be the case.
“I want to make clear that the allegations suggesting my husband planned to poison or harm me were based entirely on false information provided by a convicted murderer who was later found to be attempting to take over my husband’s business,” Aparna Soni stated. “I was misled by the Carmel Police Department into believing I was in danger, but after six months of investigation, no evidence of any plan or poisoning was found. My husband is innocent, and I have always fully supported him.”
Current contacted CPD for comment on Aparna Soni’s statement Nov. 22 but did not receive a response.
Darshan Soni was arrested May 16 after CPD received a tip from the Indi-
anapolis Metropolitan Police Department that he intended to kill his wife at their home, according to the probable cause affidavit.
The tipster, who was not identified in the affidavit, was Dempsey Nolan, according to Massillamany. Nolan had worked as a contractor at a business owned by Soni.
Nolan pleaded guilty in Marion County to murder in 2003, according to court records. He fatally shot two men before setting their bodies on fire inside the King Cole building in downtown Indianapolis in 1997, according to a 1998 local news report.
The report also states that Nolan was imprisoned for robbery in California when the Marion County prosecutor’s office filed the murder charges. California sent him to Indiana in 1999 to be tried for murder.
Online records show Nolan was eligible for release from prison in 2021.
The probable cause affidavit stated that Darshan Soni had spoken to at least two people in the previous year about wanting to kill his wife, including an employee other than Nolan.
According to a court brief Massillamany drafted and planned to submit before the case was dismissed, CPD
intercepted the employee outside of a Lowe’s store May 12 and detained and questioned him for more than 90 minutes without reading him his Miranda rights or honoring his request for an attorney. The brief accuses CPD of violating the employee’s Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights.
Massillamany told Current he believes CPD made a “rush to judgment” in arresting Darshan Soni.
CPD Chief Drake Sterling issued a statement Nov. 20 in response to questions from Current about the matter.
“The dismissal due to a change of venue in no way distracts from the deliberate and expert police work done to present a thorough and strong case,” Sterling stated. “We praise our investigations team for their hard work.”
The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges against Soni May 20 and requested a special prosecutor for the case the following day.
“When the charges were filed, we had probable cause to believe that there was conspiracy to commit murder with a target date of May 16, 2025,” stated Joshua Kocher, an attorney in the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office. “Our office filed charges at the time that we did because waiting any longer would have created an unacceptable risk to public safety. Prosecutors have a responsibility not only to evaluate evidence but to act decisively when there is a danger to the community.”
The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office petitioned for a special prosecutor because Darshan Soni had contributed to Kocher’s 2026 election campaign. Kocher said he immediately returned the donation.
Matthew Kubacki, an attorney in the Johnson County Prosecutor’s Office, was appointed special prosecutor in the case. Kubacki did not respond to a request for comment.
Aparna Soni stated that her family faced six months of a “forced and abrupt separation” and is “happy to finally be reunited.”
“We were and are disappointed by the false rumors about our family that have been circulating since May,” she stated. “But we are grateful for our friends’ and family’s immense support during this ordeal and look forward to taking time now to reconnect as a family.”
About us
Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XX, No. 8 Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved. 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444
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Darshan and Aparna Soni. (Photo courtesy of Aparna Soni)
BZA OKs Irsay family private ice rink variances
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals approved variances Nov. 24 that will allow a private indoor ice rink owned by the daughter of late Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay to continue operating independently of the estate to which it was previously attached.
The rink, which was built in 2018, is on an acre lot at 1705 W. 116th St. that was not included in the recent sale of an adjacent larger estate that includes a mansion, tennis court and other amenities. Irsay died May 21 at age 65. Since then, various properties he owned in Carmel have been sold.
James Irsay Arena LLC, which formed in September, owns the rink.
Casey Irsay Foyt, Jim Irsay’s daughter and co-owner of the Colts, formed the LLC so the family — primarily her children — can continue using the rink.
Foyt told the BZA that her father built the rink out of his love for her children. She said it has not and will not be used for any commercial purposes.
“This is for my children, and one day,
who knows, our grandchildren,” Foyt said. “We’re not trying to do anything other than what we’ve been doing for the last five, six years.”
Because the parcel containing the ice rink split from the rest of the estate, it now requires a special use variance to be a permitted use. Foyt also requested a lot coverage variance to allow a new driveway connection directly to 116th Street.
Ed Hourigan, who lives on the prop-
erty next to the rink, spoke in opposition to the variance requests. He said the size of the estate allowed the rink, which is approximately 10 feet from his property, to be constructed without a public hearing. He also said he believes construction of the rink has led to drainage issues on his land.
“I want drainage corrected, and I want my property back the way it was supposed to be,” Hourigan said. “I just feel a huge injustice has gone on for
seven years, and for this board to continue on and allow this to happen is not what Carmel is all about. I have a right to protection of my property as much as they have the right to protection of their property.”
Joe Calderon, an attorney representing the petitioner, said Foyt would commit to making any needed upgrades to the drainage system identified by the city’s engineering department, which is actively reviewing the situation. However, he believes the system is working as intended and is not impacting Hourigan’s property.
BZA member Kevin “Woody” Rider said the variances before the board did not include drainage issues. He said the engineering department can override the BZA’s approvals if it discovers significant drainage problems.
“(The rink) is there. We’re not going to tear it down. It’s going to be used for the same purpose it was used before, it’s just owned on a different piece of property on its own, instead of with the estate,” Rider said to Hourigan. “If you have an issue outside of that, it would be with engineering or a civil issue.”
No Gimmicks, Just Growth
The late Jim Irsay’s private indoor ice rink was not included with the sale of the rest of his estate. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County GIS)
CHS to get video scoreboard
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The Carmel Clay Schools Board of Trustees met Nov. 24 to award a bid for a new video scoreboard at the Carmel High School football stadium, set its 2026 meeting schedule and adjust a policy about use of school facilities.
WHAT HAPPENED: The board awarded a bid of $634,500 to James Babcock, Inc. to install a new scoreboard at the Carmel High School football stadium.
WHAT IT MEANS: The district awarded the bid separately from the rest of the work to renovate the bleachers, press box and other amenities at the stadium. CCS Superintendent Dr. Thomas Oestreich said the video scoreboard will be similar to those at high school stadiums in Westfield, Brownsburg, Lawrence and North Central. The project is funded with 2024 lease rental bonds.
WHAT HAPPENED: The board approved 2026 meeting dates.
WHAT IT MEANS:The biggest change is moving school board meetings from Mondays to Wednesdays. Workshop meetings will generally be scheduled for the second Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m., with regular meetings held the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. This will allow board members more time to review material before meeting, according to school board member Kristina Wheeler.
WHAT’S NEXT The board’s first Wednesday meeting is set for Jan. 14, 2026, with its reorganizational meeting scheduled for Jan. 28.
WHAT HAPPENED: The board approved changes to a policy about use of school facilities.
WHAT IT MEANS: The update states that rent will be charged to for-profit and adult nonprofit organizations as well as organizations that do not have a facility in Carmel. Rent will not be charged if the use is entirely for the benefit of children residing in Carmel.
Month of December HolidaysInCarmel.com
CHRISTKINDLMARKT
December 3 - 24
Check website for schedule Carter Green CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com
SANTA SOIREE
December 6; 4 - 6 p.m.
Clay Terrace: Village Green (East of Dick's Sporting Goods) ClayTerrace.com
SANTA SATURDAYS
December 6, 13, 20; 2 - 5 p.m.
ICE AT CARTER GREEN
December 3 - 24 & 26 - 31
Check website for schedule Carter Green TheIceAtCarterGreen.com
HOLIDAY TROLLEY
December 5 - 6, 12 - 13, 19 - 20 Fridays 5 - 9 p.m. Saturdays 2 - 9 p.m. HolidaysInCarmel.com
Indiana Design Center HolidaysInCarmel.com
LETTERS TO SANTA MAILBOXES
Ends December 14
Check website for locations HolidaysInCarmel.com
PUPS & PINTS: HOLIDAY EDITION
December 14; 3 - 6 p.m.
Clay Terrace: Village Green (East of Dick's Sporting Goods) ClayTerrace.com
Fox Hollow remains ID’d
news@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Coroner announced Nov. 4 that human remains discovered 30 years ago at the Westfield home of suspected serial killer Herb Baumeister have been identified as those of Roger Goodlet.
Goodlet is believed to be one of Baumeister’s victims. Goodlet was reported missing from Indianapolis in 1994.
“Today’s confirmation provides an opportunity for continued closure to the family and loved ones of Roger Goodlet,” Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison said. “While this case has affected our community for decades, advancements in forensic science has finally allowed us to restore names to the victims.”
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
Former city councilor dies – Sue Potasnik, who served on the Carmel City Council from 1980 to 1988, died Nov. 21. During her time in office, her name was Sue McMullen. She served as city council president in 1983 and was a member of the Carmel Plan Commission from 1980 to 1991.
According to the coroner’s office, the identification was confirmed through advanced forensic and DNA analysis conducted by the University of Texas Center for Human Identification. It is part of the ongoing review of evidence recovered from Fox Hollow Farm.
The DNA confirmation supports an initial identification made in 1996 via dental records.
More than 10,000 remains were discovered at Baumeister’s Fox Hollow estate on 156th Street in 1996, shortly after a criminal investigation was launched.
Baumeister died by suicide in 1996 after an investigation by law enforcement and an excavation of the wooded area behind his Fox Hollow estate performed by the University of Indianapolis Anthropology and Archaeology Department revealed the remains on his property, ranging from long bones to fragments as small as fingernails. After the discovery, eight victims were identified. All the original victims went missing after leaving gay bars in downtown Indianapolis.
After the excavation of remains at Fox Hollow, the case was shelved until Jellison reopened the investigation in 2022 at the request of one of the victim’s family members. Since 2022, six new victim profiles have been discovered. Two of those victims have been positively identified.
MOMS AT SEA TRAVEL Award-winning cruise travel planning
• Cruises are a fantastic multigenerational vacation options with dining, Broadway shows, entertainment, and Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island!
• There’s a ship and itinerary for everyone, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or both.
• Cabin options suit families of any size, from solo staterooms to multi-bedroom suites. Connecting cabins are great for those not ready for separate rooms.
Enjoy family time, but also take advantage of nurseries, kids’ clubs and teen clubs for a spa day or date night.
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam stated Potasnik was a “true pioneer for the City of Carmel” who “helped shape the foundational values and character of the community we see today.”
Mention Current in Carmel
Moms at Sea Travel is proud to be based in Carmel!
Moms at Sea Travel was fantastic! As a first-time travel agency user, I appreciated their expertise and communication. They found great deals, kept me updated on upgrades and answered all my questions. I highly recommend them and will book with them again!
- Lynette Samek
Hamilton County Planning Department warns of scam — The Hamilton County Planning Department has issued a scam alert after reports surfaced of an individual impersonating the department to collect fees for a supposed variance request. The department announced that this activity is fraudulent and emphasized that it does not use third-party companies, wire transfers, or outside payment services to collect fees. Official communications regarding fees will only come from specific county email addresses or by phone. Residents who are in doubt should contact the department directly at 317-776-8490 to verify requests.
Home Home Tour — The Carmel Clay Historical Society will present the Holiday Home Tour from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 (VIP night) and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6 (public tour) in Carmel’s Thornhurst Addition neighborhood. The tour will feature mid-century modern homes designed by Carmel native Avriel Shull. Visit carmelclayhistory.org/event/dec-56-holiday-home-tour to purchase tickets and learn more.
OneZone Honors Award Winners –OneZone Chamber recently announced 2026 Honors Award Winners, a distinction that celebrates long-standing members of the organization and their commitment to helping businesses and communities thrive. Recipients are A.K Burns Corporation, Aspire Indiana, Carmel Clay Schools, Carmel Dads’ Club, Carmel Racquet Club, Clay Township Trustee, Delello & Sons Asphalt Paving, Gradex, H.J. Spier Company, Hamilton County Community Foundation, Holiday Inn Indianapolis/Carmel, Indiana American Water Company, Noble, Inc., St. Louis De Montfort Church and Vivaldi Capital Management.
Goodlet
COMMUNITY
HCSA celebrates 20 years of events, growth
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton County is home to some of the region’s most popular sports venues, and that’s not by accident. For the past two decades, Hamilton County Sports Authority, part of Hamilton County Tourism, has been working — mostly behind the scenes — to promote the infrastructure needed to attract events and fans.
Karen Radcliff, Hamilton County Tourism president and CEO, said the organization is always looking for new ways to bring visitors and the related economic boost into the county.
“A couple of decades ago, our hoteliers were telling us that they had a really strong corporate market and that helped fill their hotel rooms Monday through Thursday, and they really needed some weekend business,” she said. “And so, we started strategizing around, why would people want to come to Hamilton County on the weekends?”
Among the ideas that came up was filling a demand for youth sports facilities.
“A lot of our parks departments were getting a lot of phone calls from parents, coaches, clubs — they were looking for places to practice soccer, baseball, those kinds of things,” she said. “And a lot of our parks were passive parks and did not have competition fields.”
Quality youth sports facilities lead to locally hosted youth sports tournaments, which lead to teams, parents and others traveling to the county and staying in local hotels.
“That’s where it all started, is this idea that we need to focus on sport as a market driver for tourism,” Radcliff said.
It took some planning, organizing and research, but after a couple years Hamilton County Tourism hired its first Sports Authority director and started helping local facilities, communities and organizations build and expand.
Some of the Sports Authority’s support takes the form of assisting with master planning and research — Grand Park is one example. While the City of Westfield led the project, Radcliff said the Sports Authority provided feasibility studies, market studies and some funding to help with startup construc-
tion costs.
Carl Daniels, Hamilton County Sports Authority director, came on board a little after the COVID-19 pandemic and was tasked with helping local sports tourism recover after the related shutdown. That meant developing a strategic plan for the sports sector.
“If you look at even the latest developments — there’s a new natatorium in Carmel, there’s a new professional event center in Noblesville, there’s a relatively new event center in Fishers, not to mention Grand Park,” he said. “It’s the facilities that set us apart from a lot of people around the country, but also, here in central Indiana, (we’re) known for being able to host big events.”
The August 2025 LIV golf tournament in Westfield’s Chatham Hills is one example, he said, noting that it set a record for attendance, which led to LIV Golf announcing a return in 2026. Another example is the February 2025 Professional Volleyball Federation AllStar match hosted at the Fishers Event Center.
Although it’s seen a lot of success, the Hamilton County Sports Authority doesn’t plan to tread water. Daniels said he will continue to reach out, attend conferences and make the necessary connections to bring more sporting events into the county, such as a gymnastics event at Grand Park in 2026, a potential FIFA World Cup partnership, talks of hosting another volleyball allstars at the Fishers Event Center and, in 2028, the U.S. Senior Open golf tournament at Crooked Stick.
Grand Park in Westfield hosted the World Fitness Project tour in May 2025. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County Tourism)
SCounty awards $175,820 in opioid settlement funds
The Hamilton County Council on Alcohol and Other Drugs, in partnership with the Hamilton County Commissioners, has announced the fourth and final round of HOPE for Hamilton County opioid settlement funding, awarding more than $175,000 to local organizations focused on prevention, treatment, recovery and harm reduction.
The funds come from the National Opioid Settlement reached with distributors McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen, as well as manufacturer Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and its parent company Johnson & Johnson. The funds have supported local efforts to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic through evidence-based programming and community partnerships.
In the past year, the HCCOAOD has distributed $500,000 in opioid settlement dollars to local programs throughout Hamilton County. Programs approved for funding include:
• Indiana Association Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Jail-Based Program – $25,000: Assists inmates with recovery and provides employment skill development.
• Hamilton County Problem Solving Courts – $25,000: Funds skill-building, positive reward incentives and training opportunities for participants in recovery-based court programs.
• Ignite Transform – $20,000: Provides fitness and mental health therapy for women incarcerated at the Hamilton County Jail.
• Parent Project – $20,000: Offers parenting skills development alongside substance use recovery programming for incarcerated parents.
• Juvenile Detention Program –$20,000: Provides coordination and supplies for prevention programs for youth residing at the Hamilton County Juvenile Services Center.
• The Cooper House – $20,000: Provides supplies for reunification and recovery programs.
Green Gift Shop set for Dec. 4
Commentary by Amanda Cross
You are invited to visit the Green Gift Shop, which returns from 1:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Carmel Clay Public Library.
Featuring more than 30 local vendors, the Green Gift Shop is a showcase of high-quality, environmentally friendly gifts.
Many vendors find creative ways to recycle common goods into something beautiful and useful.
– AMANDA CROSS
Vendors include skilled craftspeople. Wooden items worked from reclaimed wood, reworked vintage jewelry and stationery sets made from recycled paper make unique and thoughtful gifts.
“My husband and I have gone to the Carmel Green Gift Shop the last few years. We both find unique and eclectic products, and the vendors are super friendly,” said Chris Kirk, a Carmel resident.
Many vendors find creative ways to recycle common goods into something beautiful and useful. You will find a local poultry farmer who uses feathers to make wreaths and ornaments, a crafter who has reclaimed fleece for handmade pet toys and even a creative tailor who has found a way to make stylish purses out of neckties. Food items are on the menu as well.
Of course, no Green Gift Shop would be complete without a selection of handcrafted soaps, candles, jewelry, textiles and holiday decor.
The Green Gift Shop is free to attend and organized by the Carmel Green Initiative and the Carmel Clay Public Library. For a complete list of vendors, visit carmelgreen.org.
Amanda Cross is a member of Carmel Green Initiative.
Pantries, businesses partner
By Brittney Dial Testin news@youarecurrent.com
In Hamilton County, roughly 10 percent of the population faces food insecurity, according to Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. Several local food pantries rely on partnerships with local businesses to help meet the need.
For nearly two decades, Meijer stores in the Midwest have partnered with local nonprofits through its B2B program and Simply Give Campaign, which has generated more than $100 million for local food pantries and more than 900 million meals. Carmel beneficiaries include food pantries at Merciful HELP Center and Carmel United Methodist Church.
Meijer’s Simply Give Campaign will double match donations Dec. 13. It will match donations through Dec. 27.
“At the Carmel Meijer store, they split those campaigns between giving gift cards to Carmel United Methodist Food Pantry and Merciful HELP,” said Cindy Muse, CUMC food pantry coordinator. “They are just a fantastic partner, very generous and wonderful.”
CUMC, 621 S. Range Line Rd., also relies on food donations from Niemann Harvest Market, Panera Bread, Einstein Bagels and Fresh Market, Muse said. Muse said local pantries are feeling the effects of Senate Enrolled Act 1, which has led to reduced grant funding from some government sources. The new law lowers Hoosier property taxes and cuts the amount of property tax revenue municipalities receive.
Muse said CUMC received a $33,000 grant this year from the Hamilton County Health Department, but she expects the total may drop in 2026 because of SEA 1.
Jon Herron, a volunteer at the Carmel United Methodist Church food pantry, assists a client. (Photo courtesy of Cindy Muse)
COMMUNITY
Food drive breaks record
news@youarecurrent.com
The Hindu and Jain communities across Indiana joined together this fall to donate a record 11,642 pounds of food through the Sewa Diwali Food Drive to support local families experiencing food insecurity.
Organizations that received donations through the drive include Great Harvest Food Pantry, Fueled for School, Welcome Basket, Boys and Girls Club of Indianapolis, Meals on Wheels, Love Chapel, Crooked Creek Food Pantry and the Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center.
Several groups participated in the food drive, including:
• HSS Shakha from Carmel, Greenwood, Columbus and Bloomington
• HTCI Balagokulam
• Samskrutha Bharath
• Kerala Hindus of North America
• Chinmaya Mission Balvihar
• Indiana Jain community - SRLC
• Gujarati Samaj of Indianapolis
• Indy Garjna
Volunteers of all ages collected, sorted, packed and delivered food items, embodying the shared values of com-
This Week’s Market Magic!
passion, service and community uplift that anchor the Sewa Diwali movement. Youth groups played an active role, helping prepare donations for partner organizations.
This is the fourth consecutive year the Indiana Sewa Diwali effort has surpassed the 10,000-pound milestone. During the food drive, organizers delivered 2,300 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to immigrant families.
Same-day appointments are always available, well visits scheduled within 1–2 weeks, and you’ll always reach a live person when you call. With physiciancovered call hours and 24/7 physician availability, your family’s care is never out of reach.
The Market will be open December 3-7 this week, with holiday fun the whole family can enjoy. Free to attend, free parking, no tickets required.
Werkstatt (Workshop)
Meet our German artisans while they work!
• Dec. 3-7, Falk & Katrin Zapf — from the historic glassblowing community of Lauscha Kinderecke (Kids Corner)
Enjoy crafts for all ages!
• Dec. 3, Cookie Decorating
• Dec. 6, 4-8 p.m., Sankt Nikolaustag Boot
• Dec. 7, Lucky Horseshoe Spielhaus (Play House)
Meet-and-greets and magical shows.
• Dec. 3, 4-9 p.m., Story Time with Santa
• Dec. 4, 4-6 p.m. & Dec. 5, 3-5 p.m., Story Teller Deb
• Dec. 4, 6-9 p.m., Copper Z Creative Wellness
Winter Pavilion
Experience authentic German entertainment.
• Dec. 4, 7-9 p.m., Duke Tumatoe & the Power Trio
• Dec. 5 & 6, 7-9 p.m., Johnny Koenig Band
Special Events
• Dec. 3, 4:30-9 p.m., Christkind Choralfest
• Dec. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Sankt Nikolaustag
November 22 - December 24
Quinn Bensi Jaime McKeever Alicyn Robb Wendy Schulte
The Sewa Diwali Food Drive collected nearly 12,000 pounds of food for Indiana organizations that work to address food insecurity. (Photo courtesy of JR Sandadi)
Rental registration opens – In support of an ordinance approved by the Carmel City Council that establishes a mandatory registration and permitting system for all residential rental dwellings in the city, residents can begin registering their dwellings Dec. 1. The ordinance limits the number of rentals within a development of single-family homes or townhomes to 10 percent. The ordinance included a provision for legacy dwellings — rental properties existing prior to the enforcement date of Jan. 1, 2026. This means that dwellings registered by Dec. 31, 2025 will be issued a permit, regardless of whether they are in a subdivision with more than 10 percent rentals. Register at forms.carmel.in.gov/Forms/rentals.
Favorite Things fundraiser — Create What You Crave, a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying the voices of creatives and building vibrant artistic communities, will present a Favorite Things fundraiser from 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 13 at CoHatch, 38 W. Main St. in Carmel. The event will include TEDx-style talks, art demonstrations, announcements about 2026, a silent auction and a raffle. Tickets cost $25. Learn more at CreateWhatYouCrave.org.
Register for Donut 5K – The Donut 5K will begin at 9 a.m. Dec. 13 in Clay Terrace, 14455 Clay Terrace Blvd. The event will include Jack’s Donuts along the route and at the finish line, age group awards, finisher medals and an after party at Upland Brewing.
Learn more and register at tinyurl.com/56ht9vhv.
Holiday Drive for Riley Cheer Guild — Worthington Design & Remodeling is collecting new, unwrapped donations for the Riley Cheer Guild at Riley Hospital for Children. The Riley Cheer Guild provides comfort items, toys and activities to children and families at the hospital. Donations of small toys, art supplies and games for all ages will be accepted Dec. 1–12 at the Worthington showroom, 99 E. Carmel Dr., Suite 100, Carmel, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Food, candy, latex and handmade items cannot be accepted. View full guidelines at RileyCheerGuild.org. Contact Worthington at 317-846-2600.
Every pregnancy is unique — and when questions arise, getting answers quickly can bring peace of mind. At Ascension St. Vincent Women and Infants Hospital, our experienced maternal-fetal medicine specialists are ready to see you sooner, combining advanced imaging technology with compassionate support. Because you deserve to feel confident about your care — and your baby’s future.
Find a specialist at ascension.org/IndianaMFM or scan the QR code to learn more.
Legacie, 34 weeks
Legacie, 10 months
DAR maintains vets’ headstones
Commentary by Cynthia Sequin
Members of the Daughters of the American Revolution Jonathan Jennings Chapter — a group with members from Carmel and Westfield — gathered several times in recent months at the Farley Cemetery in Carmel to honor veterans and their families by cleaning headstones.
“It’s part of the DAR mission to preserve history,” said Beth Breisch, a regular volunteer. “It’s an honor to do this for veterans. These are mostly men who left their homes and families not knowing if they would return, but who believed it was worth it.”
The volunteers never met the veterans whose headstones they have cleaned over the years, but they do not forget their service to America.
Upon arriving at the cemetery, volunteers pull wagons of supplies up a steep hill to begin their work.
There are more than 500 graves – including 27 identified as veterans — in the 3-acre cemetery.
Several graves are unidentified because of unreadable or broken head-
of the
stones, but the volunteers keep looking. Others buried in the plots are recognized as well.
“Based on the names, we believe these are mostly family members. In a sense, the families fought the wars too,” volunteer Michele Kerr. “By finding and taking care of these graves, we let them know that they are part of our state and that they matter.”
For more, visit darindiana.org/ chapter.
White Chapel Church welcomes you to attend Wreaths Across America.
We will be placing wreaths at the graves of our fallen soldiers.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 AT 12:00PM
5155 E. 116th Street
Across from the flowing well
Veterans are welcome to wear their honor awards and uniforms.
Wreaths Across America happens every year in December, before Christmas. This event happens across the country at over 4,000 locations. Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization that brings communities together to remember our fallen heroes, honor their sacrifices, and teach future generations about the cost of freedom.
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Cynthia Sequin is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution Jonathan Jennings Chapter.
Daughters
American Revolution member, Beth Breisch works to spruce up a headstone. (Photo courtesy of Cynthia Sequin)
Butler-bound guard wants to finish strong for Millers
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville High School senior guard Baron Walker wants to make sure he appreciates all the final memories of his high school basketball career.
“I’m just excited with it being my last high school season to take in all the memories and experiences with the teammates each and every game,” said Walker, who has signed to play for Butler University for the 2026-27 season.
“(I’m) not taking it for granted knowing how priceless it is to play the game of basketball for my city that I’ve been born and raised in. Hopefully, we can win as much as we can, be successful and show growth as a team.”
Walker said he wants to focus on leadership.
“Helping the guys and just setting the standard, not only just for this year, but for next season,” he said. “Everyone has the end goal of making it to the state championship, and that’s one of my goals.’
Millers coach Scott McClelland said Walker’s leadership is essential.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
BARON WALKER
Favorite athlete: LeBron James
Favorite TV show: “Starting 5”
Favorite movie: “Remember the Titans”
Favorite musician: Drake
Favorite subject: English
“He’s got to provide solid, sound leadership every day in practice and games,” McClelland said. “Then we are going to need him to play well and he’s going to play in multiple positions. He’s going to be called on to guard, if not the other team’s best players, one of their two best players.”
The 6-foot-3 Walker averaged 15.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists per
Noblesville High School senior guard Baron Walker has signed to play for Butler next season. (Photo courtesy of Millers Sports Media)
game last season. He shot 50 percent from the field and 40 percent from the 3-point line.
Walker moved into the starting lineup as a sophomore after a teammate was injured.
“While it was unfortunate how I got the starting spot, it did help my confidence and I was able to embrace a bigger role,” he said.
Walker said each year he’s worked on getting stronger and improving his speed.
“He had a really good junior year and really came into his own last spring and summer in AAU,” McClelland said.
“People have been keeping an eye on him through his junior high school season, and he got named (a) Junior AllStar. Then in the summer, he played on a really good team (Grand Park Premier) that played really well and he’s benefited from that.”
When Butler coach Thad Matta offered a scholarship in late summer, Walker quickly accepted.
“In talking with my parents, it was too good an opportunity to pass up,” he said. “It’s one of the great basketball places to play in the state of Indiana. Some even call it the basketball cathedral of Indiana. It’s just very historic from a basketball perspective, and from a school perspective, I can go there and get a great education and set myself up after because basketball has to stop one day.”
Not surprisingly, Walker said there is the perk of being 30 minutes from home, so family can watch him play.
“Playing in the Big East (Conference) is going to be awesome,” he said. “It’s some place where I see myself being able to exceed my maximum potential on and off the court.”
CHS grad to join Track and Field Hall of Fame
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
For many young athletes, running is often viewed as a form of punishment. From wind sprints after practice to various forms of conditioning during and before the season, not many view it as a sport.
That is, unless you are the namesake of National Federation of State High School Associations National High School Hall of Fame inductee and the most successful track and cross-country coach in state history, Chuck Koeppen.
Koeppen’s son, Charlie, a 2004 Carmel High School grad, won six IHSAA state titles and helped the Greyhounds clinch their first-ever team state championship. More than 20 years later, he will be enshrined in the hall of fame beside his father on June 20, 2026.
“With me, running was a way of life,” Koeppen said. “Everything was centered around running. I thought about it every single day. So, not only was (my father) a legendary coach, but he also indoctrinated me with that being a form of life.”
Charlie Koeppen is a six time IHSAA state champion. (Photo courtesy of Charlie Koeppen
Despite struggling when he first started running, Koeppen persevered and ended up running collegiately at Northern Arizona University and Indiana University.
During his collegiate career, Koeppen ran in four cross country champion ships, earning the sixth-best finish amongst his Hoosier teammates in 2008.
While growing up as the son of a leg endary coach can diminish the joy of sport for some, the contrast proved true for the Koeppens.
never did those classic mistakes that a lot of parent coaches do. He just let me find myself in it.”
Koeppen wanted to continue his running career after college, but injuries altered his plans.
“I was trying to focus on marathon (training) and the possibility of running the Olympic trials, but I was always getting injured,” he said. “I didn’t really ever give up on the dream, but it was just setback after setback.”
Koeppen, 43, serves in the U.S. Army and is stationed in the Middle East as a staff sergeant in the 38th Infantry Division out of Indianapolis.
“It wasn’t overbearing. He never pushed me into it,” Koeppen said. “He
Koeppen’s deployment comes after nearly 15 years in the long-range surveillance unit in Seymour, where he was in the sniper section for roughly 12 years. He is now on a radar surveillance team monitoring air traffic.
Despite not running much anymore, Koeppen is proud of his Hall of Fame induction.
“It is just a huge honor,” he said. “Something (I) worked toward for a good part of my young life, and to get recognition for it always feels good.”
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Octogenarian tennis player earns another ITF medal
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
At 89 years old, Jerald “J.B.” Hayes still plays tennis twice a week.
The Carmel resident was on the U.S. bronze medal-winning squad in the International Tennis Federation’s 85-and-over World Team Championships held Oct. 11 to 18
Hayes, who plays at Carmel Racquet Club, has been selected for eight teams since he turned 75. His teams won seven medals, five gold, one silver and now bronze. His team won three consecutive gold
In January 2025, Hayes and his doubles partner, Wilbur Jones, Shawnee, Kan., were ranked No. 1 in the world.
“We won 35 or 36 matches in a row,” he said. “We never lost a match until I went to National Clay Courts courts in West Palm Beach (Fla.) in November and got beat in the finals.”
Hayes
“We should have gotten gold this year, but our No. 1 singles player (Bob Quall) pulled a groin in the semifinals and we lost,” said Hayes, who lives at The Stratford with his wife, Anne. “We played for third place, and we had to forfeit his position, but we ended up
At this point, Hayes said he is leaning against playing in the 90-and-older team competition.
“In the 90s (age division), there are only five or six playing in a tournament, and it cost us $2,000 to go to the national tournaments with hotel and travel,” he said.
The first national tournament is in May 2026 in California.
Hayes said he often gets asked if he has tried pickleball.
“I always say I’ve got an appointment with a pro when I’m 100 years old,” he said.
COMMUNITY
By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a gray divorce is one “that occurs later in life, usually at age 50 or beyond.” Often, those getting divorced at that stage in life are ending a long-term relationship that spanned years or even decades. Such was the case for Carmel resident Maryjane Sweet. She was stunned when her 26-year marriage ended in divorce, but instead of letting it weigh on her, she turned her career path toward helping other women of gray divorce through her company, AfterUs.
Sweet credits her diverse background and knowledge of areas such as psychology, organizational behavior, emotional well-being and human transformation for providing the tools she needed to get through her divorce and help others walking a similar path.
“I was able to lean on those and get through that and fare maybe a little more quickly than others,” she said. “I’d been volunteering, facilitating divorce groups and I just saw a need.”
Sweet founded AfterUs, a nine-week program that combines private coaching, a digital course and a daily integration workbook. AfterUs helps clients through a combination of neuroscience and soul work. Ultimately, Sweet hopes her clients are stronger and wiser and are able to process loss, regulate their emotions and rebuild their lives.
In October, Sweet appeared on “The Oprah Podcast” to share about gray divorce and the tools she provides through AfterUs. She learned about the opportunity after seeing an ad on social media and applying.
Learn more at AfterUsDivorce.com.
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From left, Maryjane Sweet, Oprah Winfrey and Sweet’s daughter, Kayla, in New York City for a podcast taping. (Photo courtesy of Maryjane Sweet).
IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT
Carmel Christkindlmarkt returns with new offerings, traditional
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Holiday spirit has returned to Carter Green with the opening of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, a German-inspired market that runs through Dec. 24.
Traditional favorites, such as the pungent raclette sandwiches and flavored mulled wines are back, as well as some new offerings.
For the first time, guests can try handbrot, a baked roll stuffed with a vegetable or cheese and meat filling. And for dessert, käsekuchen, a German cheesecake made with quark, has debuted. Since launching in 2017, the Christkindlmarkt has aimed for authenticity. Most of the gift vendors sell items imported from Germany, such as candle arches and pewter steins, and the fresh food offerings aim to recreate delicacies sold overseas. Many of Carmel’s vendors have visited holiday markets and businesses in Europe for inspiration.
“We take immense pride in our vendor selection. Each year we try to blend ‘new’ concepts with familiar favorites, all with the goal of creating an authentic experience that you won’t find anywhere else in America,” stated Michael Nahmias, vice president of operations for the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. “Most of our visitors will never have the opportunity to visit Germany, so we aim to enrich lives by bringing a ‘real German market’ to them as best as we can.”
Another new offering this year is a free shuttle service that aims to ease parking for guests. On Saturdays and Sundays, ADA-accessible shuttle buses will run between the market and the CNO Financial Center campus at 550 College Dr. Young visitors can make crafts and enjoy special performances at the Kindereke, a space on the northeast side of the market dedicated to children. In addition, artisans will demonstrate making their creations in that area.
Throughout Carter Green, guests can learn about German culture.
“We really want it to be the real deal,” said Julia Davis, acting CEO of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. “We know a lot of people don’t care about the authenticity, but that’s really our niche, and we want to stick with it and then sneak attack people with culture and education as they’re wandering around and experiencing (the market). That’s so far what has set us apart, and we hope will continue to set us apart.”
Learn more at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com.
Marie Shambaugh)
favorites
CHRISTKINDLMARKT HOURS
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt will be open through Dec. 24. General hours are:
• Monday and Tuesday — Closed
• Wednesday and Thursday — 4 - 9 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday — Noon - 9 p.m.
• Sunday — Noon - 8 p.m.
Dates with special hours are:
• Nov. 26 — Noon - 9 p.m.
• Dec. 15 and 16 — 4 - 9 p.m.
• Dec. 22 and 23 — Noon - 9 p.m.
• Dec. 24 — Noon - 4 p.m.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Christkind ChoralFest (Dec. 3) — Features rotating performances from choirs of all ages
Sankt Nikolaustag (Dec. 6) — Kids can meet St. Nikolaus and participate in craftmaking in the Kindereke German Sing-Along and Ornament Exchange (Dec. 10) — Sing German carols and swap ornaments with other visitors Glühwein Gallop 5K (Dec. 20) — A festive 5K race that starts and finishes at the market, complete with a costume contest Military Appreciation Day (Dec. 21) — A special ceremony honoring active and retired military members
MARKET HIGHLIGHTS
Chalet – Voted the best food vendor by visitors in 2023 and 2024, a hut serving traditional Swiss German raclette sandwiches with melted cheese scraped over fresh bread.
Frankenmuth Clock Co. – A vendor showcasing legendary Black Forest cuckoo clocks from Hönes, Trenkle and Schneider.
Perlkönig – A renowned German manufacturer of high-quality and affordable fashion jewelry, sold nowhere else in the U.S.
Das Pretzel Haus – Authentic Ditsch German pretzels and Jotünn, a Germanic giant pretzel.
Christkindlmarkt Souvenirs – Including the 2025 edition of the Christkindlmarkt’s collectible boot mug, designed by a local 12 year old.
Knödel & Champignons – A vendor selling German comfort food, including dumplings, sauteed mushrooms with creamy garlic sauce, red cabbage and frikadellen (a German meat dish).
Glühwein Pyramid – Under the first 33-foot-tall
Glühwein Pyramid in the U.S., visitors can warm up with glühwein (mulled wine), select German beers or kinderpunsch (nonalcoholic mulled punch).
*Source: Carmel Christkindlmarkt
THE COVER: The Glühwein pyramid is a central feature of the market and features a variety of mulled wines and other drinks. (Photo by Ann
Raclette
Handbrot, a roll stuffed with meat or vegetables, is among new offerings at this year’s Carmel Christkindlmarkt. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
The Raclette Chalet serves pungent melted cheese on warm bread. The popular dish is “No. 1 in your hearts, No. 100 in your nose,” according to Julia Davis, acting CEO of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
HEALTH
Prevent need for glasses
Commentary by Dr. Katherine Schuetz
The past decade has seen an unprecedented rise in myopia — nearsightedness — for children worldwide.
Myopia has increased at such a high rate, it cannot be explained by genetics alone. There is an environmental/ behavioral reason as well. It’s easy to point to the increased use of technology as the culprit, and while increased time spent on screens is certainly a significant factor, it’s not the only issue.
Researchers believe that too much near work, along with less outdoor time and long-distance viewing, is the main reason for the huge jump in myopia for this generation of children. Simply put, kids don’t spend enough time outside for normal eye growth and spend too much time indoors, often using a device.
In our office, we measure the axial length of the eye, which is the distance from the front of the eyeball to the retina. In kids that are farsighted or have no prescription, axial length is growing throughout childhood, but at a much slower pace than our nearsighted pa-
tients. We have tools now to slow the rate of growth for nearsighted kids, but even better is for kids not to develop myopia at all.
I give my patients three recommendations to help keep their eyes independent of glasses.
• Go outside for two hours a day.
• Near work, whether a book or a device, needs to be at least bellybutton or elbow distance from your eyes. The eye stretches to meet the near focal point, so the closer an object is, the more the eye elongates, which makes it prone to stay that way and actually become myopic.
• Take a five-minute break for every 20 minutes of near work. Kids’ eyes need a five-minute break while looking at things far away to get back to the resting state.
SELLERS MARKET
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam, center, cuts the ribbon Nov. 4 to commemorate the rebranding of Rupenthal Dentistry to Mouchaham Dentistry. The business name changed after Drs. Nick and Laura Mouchaham bought it following the retirement of Dr. Kurt Rupenthal and his wife, Kathy. “(The Rupenthals) have been in the community for the past 40 years, and now it’s our turn to be in the community for the next 40 years,” Laura Mouchaham said. “It’s our honor to get to continue on that legacy.” Mouchaham Dentistry is at 5790 E. Main St, Suite 110. Learn more at dentistsincarmel.com. (Photo by Brittney Dial Testin)
Dave Koz & Friends continue holiday tradition at Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Saxophonist Dave Koz has the distinction of being the concert performer with the second-most appearances at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Koz, 62, has performed at the Palladium 12 times, including 11 times with his holiday show. The only performer with more appearances at the Palladium, which opened in 2011, is Michael Feinstein, the Allied Solutions Center’s artistic director.
The Koz & Friends holiday show will make its 12th appearance at 8 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Palladium.
“This is our 28th annual holiday show, and it’s nice to know that we’ve been at the Palladium for a good chunk of those 28 at the Palladium,” Koz said. “I love playing there. It’s one of the most beautiful venues in the country.”
Singer-songwriter Jonathan Butler returns with Koz as one of the friends.
“He’s kind of my right-hand guy,” Koz said. “We’ve been doing this as partners for probably 15 of those 28 years. He’s just full of heart and soul. When he opens his mouth to sing, it’s the truth. It’s very authentic.”
Koz said it’s special when they are side by side on stage.
“We come from such different backgrounds and life experiences, and yet we’re doing this music and united in the cause of bringing people together,” Koz said. “A few years ago, we started an initiative to introduce new artists. So, this year we have three younger artists.”
Those artists are pianist Kayla Waters, whose father is saxophonist Kim Waters; bass-vocalist Casey Abrams; and vocalist Haley Reinhart.
“Haley is easily the most famous person on the stage if you go by Spotify metrics,” Koz said. “Her version of Elvis (Presley’s) song ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ has over a half-billion streams.”
Reinhart placed third and Abrams sixth on “American Idol” in 2011.
“The five of us know each other very well,” Koz said. “But we’ve never done a tour together, so it should be really fun and very inspiring for the audience because you’re going to see a lot of incredible music from beautiful artists.”
Koz said holiday songs are meaningful to the audience, citing Butler’s version of ‘O Holy Night’ as an example.
“I guarantee people come to the Palladium every year just to hear that song,” Koz said. “Then there are some people who come just to hear me play the Hanukkah song (‘Eight Candles’). So, there are certain tent poles that we have to continue to do because they’re nostalgic and people have got very attached to them. At the same time as musicians, we want to push the enve-
lope a little bit and try new things.”
One non-Christmas song Koz will perform is “New Hope” from his album with Bob James, “Just Us,” which has been nominated for a Grammy for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.
Koz said many people have had a difficult year with the economic realities.
“We want to put together an evening that takes people on a beautiful, heartfelt journey of bringing people together whatever way we can,” Koz said. “I’m continually humbled by the power of music to bring people together to find bridges, even if it’s just for one song.”
Koz said he never expected the tradition of holiday shows to last so long.
“It’s been such a magic carpet ride,” he said. “It started out humbly with probably six or seven shows.”
The idea was born when pianist David Benoit and Koz were doing a radio interview.
“We had both lost a parent within two weeks of each other,” Koz said. “This was in the spring and David said, ‘Why don’t we go out this holiday season and make some music for our folks?’ Neither of us thought it would be going on this long. The DNA of this tour is about family.”
Benoit rejoined the tour for the 25th anniversary.
“If we get to the 30th anniversary, I hope to have the original cast members back, David Benoit, Rick Braun and Peter White, along with Jonathan Butler and myself,” Koz said.
Butler wasn’t an original cast member but has been with Koz for about half the years.
“I think if we make it to 30, that will be our final Christmas tour,” he said. “Let someone else do it for a while. We had an amazing run, so these last few years we are going to make it as special as we can.”
For tickets, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘A BEEF & BOARDS CHRISTMAS!’
“A Beef & Boards Christmas!” runs through Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt and XNC will perform at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and “A Sinatra Christmas” is set for 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘MERRY MOVIE NIGHTS’
Heartland International Film Festival will hold “Merry Movie Nights” Dec. 4-7 and Dec. 11 with six festive films in The Basile Event Center at the Heartland Film HQ and the Fishers City Hall Theater. Tickets start at $7. For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.
‘JINGLE & SWING’
The Fishers Community Chorus and Mudsock Jazz Combo will perform at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at Fishers Art Center Theater. For more, visit fisherschorus. org.
‘A
CHRISTMAS STORY’
Civic Theatre’s “A Christmas Story: The Musical” is set for Dec. 5 to 27 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org
‘BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT’
Carmel Apprentice Theatre’s “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!” runs through Dec. 7 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
‘SLEIGH BELLS AND SNOWFLAKES’
Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Sleigh Bells and Snowflakes” concert is set for 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
The Dave Koz & Friends concert is set for Dec. 12 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Colin Peck Photography)
Butler
ENTERTAINMENT
CIDE to present ‘Nutcracker’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Natalie Keyser, this is the ultimate role.
The Noblesville resident and Carmel Latin School senior will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” Dec. 12-14 at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center at Zionsville Community High School.
“It has been my dream ever since I first started dancing,” said Keyser, who has been with CIDE since age 3. “My favorite part about ‘Nutcracker’ is getting to watch all of the scenes come together after all of the months of hard work and preparation.”
Keyser will also perform as Lead Marzipan and a Snowflake.
Katie Fuhrmann, a Park Tudor School junior and Carmel resident, plays the Snow Queen, Snow Maiden and Arabian.
“I love being given the opportunity to both practice and perform pas de deux in the roles of Snow Queen and Arabian because it is not something that I usually get to perform,” Fuhrmann said.
Fuhrmann has been with CIDE since age 2.
“My favorite part about ‘Nutcracker’ is both the excitement and nervousness I get right before going on stage,” she said. “Although I get a bit nervous, it is such a rewarding experience, and the feeling of being on stage is a feeling that can’t be beat. ”
Fishers High School senior Molly Clarke plays the Lead Russian and Spanish Corps roles.
Caroline Ringenberg, a Carmel resident and sophomore at Connections Academy online school, performs as Snow Queen, Snow Maiden and Arabian.
“I love these roles because they are each so fun and challenging in their own ways,” she said.
For more, visit cidedance.org.
Holiday Pops: Spirit of the Season
Presented by IU Health
Guest Conductor Kelly Kuo
December 14
2 p.m. matinee and 7 p.m. concert at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
Take a break from your busy holiday preparations and celebrate the Spirit of the Season with Carmel Symphony Orchestra. Carmel favorite Don Farrell will narate The Snowman, Harold Blake’s score from the beloved silent film, as well as sing holiday favorites at our evening performance.
The one hour family matinee will delight young audiences and includes fun activities, instrument caroling, and a visit from jolly ole St. Nick! Learn more at CarmelSymphony,org.
December
The Snowman
Music from Frozen
Chanukah Festival Overture
Selections from The Nutcracker
Sleigh Ride and other Holiday Classics
Fuhrmann Ringenberg
Don Farrell Narrator & Vocalist
TICKETS MAKE
Nunziata to perform
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jazz-pop vocalist Anthony Nunziata enjoys sharing music that brings people together.
“There’s something about holiday concerts that just feel different,” Nunziata said. “I love celebrating with people and creating moments they’ll hopefully remember long after I sing my final note.”
he always loves to include, such as “O Holy Night” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of Year.”
“I also enjoy sharing some of my own holiday originals,” he said. “I like to mix the traditional songs with ones that maybe people haven’t heard before. It keeps the concert feeling fresh and joyful.”
Nunziata will be joined by Ashley Nicole Soprano, an Actors Theatre of Indiana trio and the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus in a concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 13 at Broadway United Methodist Church, 609 E. 29th St., Indianapolis.
Nunziata has built a big following in recent years performing at Feinstein’s cabaret in Carmel.
“I’ve been so lucky to connect with audiences in Indianapolis and Carmel over the years,” he said. “Every time I come back, it feels like I’m visiting friends and family.”
Nunziata said there are a few classics
Nunziata hasn’t previously performed with Actors Theatre of Indiana members.
ATI Artistic Director Judy Fitzgerald leads the trio.
“I’ll be performing with my fellow co-founder and partner-incrime, Cynthia Collins, along with the incredible Terry Woods on the 88s (piano),” Fitzgerald said. “It will be just the three of us for a fun number in the first act and a lovely holiday carol mash-up in the second.”
Fitzgerald said the organizations benefiting from the evening of holiday classics are ATI, Kids Dance Outreach and the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus.
For more, visit brownpapertickets. com/event/6612656.
Nunziata
ENTERTAINMENT
IWS holiday concert set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Indiana Wind Symphony Music Director Jay Gephart figures the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts campus is the perfect setting for a holiday concert.
“It’s a win-win for everybody,” Gephart said. “Everybody can experience the holidays with the music, the Christkindlmarkt, the ice-skating rink and the beautiful redecorations that are part of that whole area of Carmel.”
“It’s meant to be a family concert, so it’s for kids young and old,” Gephart said. “We will close the program with a Christmas singalong and a very traditional holiday favorite called ’Sleigh Bells’ by Leroy Anderson.”
Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Sleigh Bells and Snowflakes” concert is set for 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center.
The guest vocalist is Cherresa Lawson, who will be featured on “O Holy Night.” Lawson, who performed with IWS last year, is the director of choirs at Kokomo High School; is the lead vocalist for the Caribbean Consort Steele Band; and frequently is the featured vocalist with the Kokomo Park Band.
The singalong will be a medley of tunes with lyrics printed in the program.
There will be a visit by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, played by Gephart’s wife Jana.
“We’re doing a medley of light holiday tunes that the kids will enjoy, and the arranger is the great jazz arranger Sammy Nestico, who is famous for doing a lot of original compositions for the Count Basie band,” Gephart said.
Gephart said a new piece to the holiday repertoire is Ennio Morricone’s “Gabriel’s Oboe.” Another piece is Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Sleepers Awake.”
Gephart said he enjoys mixing up the set list.
For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
Nunziata
Lawson
Vocalist joins holiday show
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Morgan James has not previously performed with Jon McLaughlin, but they share the same manager.
James, a former Broadway performer, will be one of the guest vocalists for the “Jon McLaughlin and Friends: Home for the Holidays” concert at 8 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“I’m just a big fan and I’m so excited to be joining him,” James said. “I love touring during the holidays, and to let somebody else do the heavy lifting sounds fun to me. We’re going to two or three songs each and we’re going to join him on some songs. Jon, in addition to being so talented, he’s so charming. He’s a great storyteller and he just puts on a great show.”
James, who is based in New York City, is a self-described “Christmas music freak.”
“I’m going to be performing a couple of my favorite songs and Jon was nice enough to let me choose,” she said.
James performed at Feinstein’s cabaret at Carmel’s Hotel Carmichael in 2023.
Earlier this year, she released her sixth album, “Soul Remains the Same,” a soul and R&B with covers of classic rock songs from the 1980s and 1990s.
“I put them through a soul lens, and the way I like to describe it is if Aretha Franklin got in the studio with AC/DC,” she said.
James said the album has been especially well-received.
For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
Upcoming Show Dates
Morgan James will perform with Jon McLaughlin Dec. 5 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Grace Stockdale)
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NOTICE OF SALE
City of Carmel, Indiana
Department: Board of Public Works and Safety, One Civic Square, City of Carmel, IN 46032
Sale: FARO Focus S350 with GITZO Tri-Pod “AS-IS”
Notice is hereby given that the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, is selling the following FARO Focus S350 with GITZO Tri-Pod “AS-IS”:
• FARO Focus S350
• Serial# LLS082118537
• Manufactured 06/2021
• GITZO Carbon Exact G-Lock Ultra Carbon Fiber Tri-Pod with FARO head
The sale will be via online public auction held on www.GovDeals.com. The deadline to submit a bid is Monday, December 22, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The FARO Focus S350 with GITZO Tri-Pod 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, December 15, 2025, 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 a utility easement abutting the Petitioner’s Property at 12213 N. Meridian St., Carmel, IN 46032. 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, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana 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 November 21, 2025
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Simply put, not enough people are choosing to adopt first. So why?
“Shelters only have pit bulls.” Pit bull is a generic, catch-all term created to describe dogs with similar physical traits—big, boxy heads, muscular bodies and often cropped ears. The reality is that these dogs, referred to as “bully breeds,” actually are American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, Boxers, Bull Mastiffs, Boston Terriers, to name a few, plus mixes therein. And yes, there are more bully breeds in shelters than any other dog. It’s not because they’re bad or have committed crimes. It’s because backyard breeders are out of control. It’s because of breed restrictions that often prevent good owners who want these dogs from having these dogs. It’s decades of misperception perpetuated by skewed media reports and bogus bite statistics websites. So, these dogs wait longer than any others for homes, which leads to their disproportionate representation in animal shelters.
“Shelters don’t have puppies or small breed dogs”. Wrong-a-mundo! While they may get adopted quickly, small-breed dogs, puppies, and even small-breed puppies like Nino have become commonplace at the shelter.
Our hope is that if you’re considering a new pet, you will visit HSHC first. There is an animal in this building that would give anything to love you, and that’s a kind of love you simply can’t buy.
With hope,
i President & CEO
HSHC PROGRAMS
Our Pets Healing Vets program pairs shelter dogs and cats with qualifying Hoosier veterans suffering from PTSD or traumatic brain injury at no cost to the veteran for the life of the pet. This program, fully funded and facilitated by HSHC, currently serves 41 Hoosier veterans.
For more information, please visit: petshealingvets.com.
The Survivor Program funds all life-saving medical care for thousands of animals each year. From emergency surgeries and hospitalization, to every medication we provide, the Survivor Program makes it possible. This program is 100 percent funded by your generous donations. To help us save lives, please visit: hamiltonhumane.com/survivor
How can you help?
They're counting on us. So we're counting on you.
1. CASH DONATIONS
Single gifts and monthly recurring donations set up as an automatic deduction are the primary funding sources for our daily operation. Without your generous, taxdeductible donations– there are no second chances. Please donate online at www.HamiltonHumane.com or scan the QR Code below!
2. GIFTS OF STOCK
Avoid capital gains through a gift of highly appreciated stock while taking a full value deduction on your tax return.
3. IRA DIRECT ROLLOVER GIFTS
Individuals age 70 1/2 and older may make a contribution up to $108,000 (or up to $216,000 for married couples with separate IRAs) directly to HSHC, tax-free. The contribution also counts toward your applicable required minimum distribution.
4. EMPLOYER MATCHED GIFTS
Some employers match a percentage, and sometimes 100 percent or more, of their employees' charitable contributions. This is a fantastic way to maximize your impact! Check with your HR Department to see if this is an option, and contact accounting@hamiltonhumane.com to process any required paperwork on our end.
5. LEAVE A LEGACY
We are honored anytime someone includes us in their estate plan. As the only humane society and animal control facility supporting Hamilton County's animals, we depend greatly on the generous bequests received each year to save lives. Remembering HSHC in your will not only helps sustain our daily operation, but it also makes all the difference in securing our future as Indiana's only openadmission, truly no-kill shelter.
6. ADOPT
Right now, hundreds of dogs and cats of all ages, breeds, and sizes are waiting for someone like you. Animals adopted from HSHC are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and temperament tested. See our adoptable pets at www.HamiltonHumane.com.
7. VOLUNTEER
HSHC relies on its volunteers to help with everything from laundry, dishes and general cleaning to dog walking, kitty loving, and marketing event support.
8. FOSTER
Because the shelter is always operating at capacity, and we have no areas in our facility for the frightened, injured or seriously ill to recover in peace, foster homes are critical. Foster homes also are the only chance for us to save highly adoptable animals from outside our county who are at risk for euthanasia. There is no cost to foster a shelter animal, and the time commitment depends on the situation.
9. SUPPORT OUR EVENTS
Wine, Wags & Whiskers, Woofstock, Tinsel & Tails and more! Whether you attend, become a sponsor, or both, you will always leave our events with a full cup. To learn more, please contact Jennifer Dant at eventsmanager@hamiltonhumane.com.
10. PICK US
Consider making HSHC the beneficiary of your company’s annual charitable fundraising events or campaigns. We know there are so many incredible organization who need support, so we hope you’ll consider us for that critical support. To collaborate with us on a corporate/employee-driven fundraiser, please contact Emma Nobbe at 317- 647-0645 or communityengagement@hamiltonhumane.com.
