Township tax could be long-term solution for parks funding
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Mayor explains why city doesn’t offer loose leaf pickup
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County prosecutor to retire to focus on health, family
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Page 13 Carmel Salt Caves donates sauna to firefighters Page 14
Hot yoga studio plans opening on Carmel Dr.
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Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XX, No. 9
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Township tax could be long-sought funding solution for Carmel parks
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
A new Clay Township tax could be the key to solving Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s looming financial deficit.
For two decades, CCPR has received approximately $2 million to $3 million in local income taxes tied to a $55 million bond the township issued in 2004 to develop Central Park. Those funds are drying up — and set to disappear in 2027 — as the bond is paid off.
CCPR, a semi-autonomous organization with governance and financial ties to the township and City of Carmel, has been exploring replacement funding options for years. Last month, the city and township approved an amendment to their interlocal agreement transferring which entity has the authority to implement a park district special benefit tax.
Previously, the City of Carmel had the authority but had never implemented the tax, which would give the CCPR board bonding capacity of up to one-third of 2 percent of the certified assessed value in the district. Now, Clay Township has that authority.
“It actually grants the township basically its only truly viable existing mechanism to be able to provide capital funding for parks,” CCPR Director Michael Klitzing said at the Nov. 17 city council meeting.
Because the city and township boundaries are nearly identical, state law allows either one — but not both — to charge the tax.
Clay Township Trustee Paul Hensel said the township does not have plans to implement the tax at this time. However, it gives the township another option for continuing its support for CCPR in the future.
“Over the past 10 years Clay Township has spent over $50 million on Carmel Clay parks projects,” Hensel said. “This could be another source of funding that could help Carmel Clay parks maintain their current status.”
Klitzing told Current he expects the township to “seriously consider” implementing the tax at some point, especially as municipalities work to address financial limitations caused by Senate Enrolled Act 1. The new law cuts property taxes for Hoosiers while reducing property tax revenues for local governments.
Implementing a new tax would be a last resort, Klitzing said, after CCPR explores whether projects could be covered through the general fund, park impact fees, CCPR’s self-generated revenue or other sources.
“Projects that are determined to be a priority by CCPR and the township that do not have other means to fund could be considered for the special benefits tax, but this would ultimately require approval by the township trustee and board,” Klitzing said.
Approvals would be made in a public meeting through the budget process, he added. State law would dictate procedures for issuing bonds tied to the tax.
Officials have ruled out several other long-term funding ideas for Carmel parks, including a referendum, which would require state legislature approval.
“Pretty much every option was either not really an option because it wasn’t politically feasible or there’s not a state statute that allows it to happen, or it’s something that’s not available because of where the city and the township are with regard to their maximum levies,” Klitzing said.
MAYOR: PARKS SHOULD BE A CITY DEPARTMENT
Since its founding in 1991, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation has had ties to the City of Carmel and Clay Township but is governed by its own board. Most parks departments are operated directly by cities or counties, making CCPR’s semiautonomous position somewhat unique.
that’s an opportunity to save taxpayer dollars by someday combining those.”
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam said she supports changing that structure in the future. She would eventually like CCPR to become a city department.
“I think it’s more efficient,” Finkam said. “Right now, the township, the city and the parks have separate legal, separate marketing, separate HR, separate financial consultants. I think
CCPR Director Michael Klitzing said he sees benefits to the existing system, which allows his organization to focus all of its efforts on parks. However, he acknowledged that future legislation could change that.
“If that happens when I’m director, I will work to make sure we’re successful in whatever structure we’re in,” he said. “But I do personally feel that the model that we have in place today has worked very well for us, and as long as we can keep it in place, and we have two viable funding partners, there is a logic in keeping it there.”
Klitzing Hensel
Finkam
COMMUNITY
Why isn’t loose leaf collection offered in Carmel?
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
For Carmel residents, the backbreaking annual task of bagging autumn leaves isn’t going away anytime soon.
Some Hoosier cities, such as Noblesville, use trucks with a specialized attachments to pick up residents’ loose leaves at the curb. But it’s not feasible to offer the service in Carmel, according to Mayor Sue Finkam, at least for the time being.
Finkam said she was interested in bringing loose leaf collection to Carmel even before she became mayor in 2024.
“I looked into the cost of that last year, because as a city councilor, I always wanted to do it,” she said. “I was always told that the challenges are twofold: Cost and that it wasn’t very effective for some of our stormwater needs.”
Finkam described the cost as “significant.” When asked how much the service would cost the city, spokesperson Kate Lustig didn’t provide a specific amount but stated that it would require the city to acquire additional equipment and hire and train a “large, dedicated team.”
“Based on preliminary assessments, implementing a citywide curbside leaf collection program would represent a significant cost to initialize the service and acquire equipment, and ongoing staffing and maintenance cost, all that current revenues can’t support,” Lustig stated.
Noblesville spends approximately $300,000 per year to offer the service, according to Street Commissioner Patty Johnson. Residents are not charged an extra fee to use it.
Johnson said Noblesville has offered
curbside loose leaf pickup for the 35 years she has worked at the city, adding that she’s not sure when it began. Employees of Noblesville’s street department pick up the loose leaves, as well as bagged leaves.
Loose leaf collection would likely cost more in Carmel, as the city has a population of more than 100,000, compared to Noblesville’s 75,000.
Plus, with Hoosier municipalities working to cut costs because of property tax revenue drops tied to the implementation of Senate Enrolled Act 1 earlier this year, Finkam said it doesn’t make sense to add the new service “for the foreseeable future.”
Another concern is loose leaves and other yard debris falling into the city’s stormwater system, which has openings along many of the same curbs that would serve as collection areas.
“It can create an issue, because you have all this loose material in a windy time of year, and you’ve pushed it all to the street – huge amounts – and that’s where the storm drains are,” Carmel Chief of Staff Nick Weber said. “Homeowners are generally supposed to clear them in their area, and then they’re pushing however many cubic yards of leaves right up to them, (which) generally creates problems.”
Finkam said she’d be willing to consider adding loose leaf pickup in the future if the finances make sense and the stormwater system isn’t negatively impacted.
“I would think that’s something we can continue to look at, but we’ll have to find significant new revenue opportunities before we can do that,” Finkam said. “But no, I wouldn’t rule it out.”
Orthopedic Urgent Care directly from the specialistsit doesn’t get better than that. And because life happens after hours, we accept walk-ins with no appointment necessary and provide extended hours for evenings and weekends.
Lawn and leaf bags stacked along a curb in Carmel await pickup. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
Carmel man charged in Fishers shooting
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Maclean Murt, a 31-year-old Carmel man, has been charged with murder in the Dec. 1 shooting death of Justin Burton, 30, of Noblesville, inside Britton Tavern, 14005 Mundy Dr., off 141st Street.
Murt
The Fishers Police Department stated in a news release that officers arrived at the business after a 2:45 a.m. call reporting a shooting.
“Officers located a male, approximately 30 years old, inside the bar with injuries consistent with a single gunshot wound,” the news release stated. “Officers and medics attempted lifesaving measures but were unsuccessful. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The suspect, Maclean Murt, a 31-year-old male, was still on scene and taken into custody.” Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison publicy identified the victim later that day after family members were notified.
According to Hamilton County Jail online records, Murt remains in custody awaiting a preliminary hearing. He faces a single felony charge of murder.
DISPATCHES
Rental registration deadline extended – An online system opened Dec. 1 for residents to register their rental properties. Carmel is limiting the number of rentals within a development of single-family homes or townhomes to 10 percent. Legacy dwellings — rental properties existing prior to the enforcement date of Feb. 1, 2026 (a month later than previously approved) will not county toward this cap. This means that dwellings registered by Jan. 31, 2026, 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.
Mail letters to Santa – The City of Carmel has installed four custom-made mailboxes across town, offering a direct, express delivery service straight to Santa and his elves at the North Pole. Children are encouraged to write their letters, include a name and return address and drop them into one of the special mailboxes to guarantee Santa receives their message before Christmas. The mailboxes will be available until Sunday, Dec. 14. The mailboxes are in the Arts & Design District next to The Carmel Arts Council Children’s Art Gallery (40 W. Main St.), Midtown Plaza (351 Monon Blvd.), City Center north of the Veterans Way/Hanover Place stop sign, and Indiana Design Center (200 S. Range Line Rd.).
Skate with Santa – The Ice Skating Club of Indianapolis will present Skate with Santa from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Carmel Ice Skadium, 1040 3rd Ave. SW. Tickets include admission, skate rental, hot chocolate and cookies. Tickets are $30 per family (up to four people) or $12 per person. Purchase tickets at ice-skate-club-of-indianapolis.square. site/s/shop.
Planetarium holiday show – The Carmel High School planetarium, 520 E. Main St., will present “Season of Light” at 4 p.m. Dec. 13. The 45-minute show celebrates holiday customs and provides information about changing seasons, winter constellations and more. Tickets cost $6 for adults and $4 for children. Learn more and purchase a ticket at tinyurl.com/jumuydap.
Hamilton County Sports Authority excited about future
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Sports Authority, a division of Hamilton County Tourism that promotes sports events and development in Hamilton County, is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
The organization presented its annual HCSA Sports Summit Nov. 18 at The Arena at Innovation Mile in Noblesville, where HCSA Senior Sports Development Manager Gabe Amick discussed 2025 achievements.
In the last year, there were 47 HSCA-supported events, 159 days of competition in 28 Hamilton County venues across five communities and 89,119 hotel room nights requested, which led to more than $70 million in economic activity.
“That was a 7 percent increase from what we saw in 2024,” Amick said. “A lot of that has to do with some of our big international events that we were able to bring in this year, but also a lot of it has to do with events that have been here for years that are continuing to grow.”
Amick noted several key events the county hosted this year, including the Pro Volleyball Foundation All-Star Match; Chipotle Nationals; USA Wrestling Women’s National Team Duals; The World Fitness Project; LIV Golf; and The World Aquatics Swimming World Cup.
In 2026, the estimated economic activity is expected to grow to more than $73 million, with 50 HSCA-supported events expected to take place in 29 Hamilton County venues. Sheridan also will be a host community.
“Our friends at Skylake Theme Park (will) be opening Phase 1 in Sheridan,” Amick said. “In 2026, we’ll be utilizing their 6-acre lake and 120acre space to bring some events into that space as well.”
For more, visit visithamiltoncounty.com/ sports-authority.
USA GYMNASTICS COMING SOON
Katelyn Ohashi, a UCLA graduate, a six-time All-American and four-time member of USA Gymnastics’ Junior National Team, spoke at the Hamilton County Sports Authority Sports Summit in celebration of USA Gymnastics’ recent announcement that its headquarters will relocate to Noblesville.
“What this means for our communities is we will literally have the world’s best gymnasts practicing (and) training in Noblesville — enjoying what we as residents, cities and communities have built,” HCSA Senior Sports Development Manager Gabe Amick said.
After a video of Ohashi’s perfect 10 score floor routine at the 2019 Collegiate Challenge went viral on social media, she said she understood what success meant to her and that she hopes to be a role model for young gymnasts.
“It’s always the first question when you do gymnastics, ‘Are you going to the Olympics?’” Ohashi said. “And what people don’t realize is that there are five, sometimes four, girls every four years (that go to the Olympics). It’s not reality for a lot of gymnasts. I decided to go to college, and to achieve the level of success that I have kind of made a more tangible goal for little girls growing up to realize that the Olympics doesn’t have to be the end all be all.”
Ohashi said she is excited to see the new facility.
“Let me tell you, when I was on the national team, we had nothing like that,” Ohashi said.
The right choice for specialized care.
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From left, Hamilton County Sports Authority Director Carl Daniels and U.S. gymnast Katelyn Ohashi speak Nov. 18 at the HCSA Sports Summit. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Prosecutor announces retirement
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton County Prosecuting At torney Greg Garrison has announced his retirement, effective Dec. 20, citing a desire to focus on his health and family.
The news was an nounced Dec. 2 by Hamilton County GOP Chairman Mario Massillamany.
“While the news is bittersweet, it gives us the opportu nity to pause and say a heartfelt thank you for his extraordinary service to our community,” Massillamany stated.
“For decades, Greg has been the steady, principled voice of justice in Indiana. From the courtroom to the community, he has prosecuted crime with tenacity, protected victims with compassion and mentored generations of prosecutors who now carry his commitment forward. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, courage and an unwavering belief that the rule of law must be applied fairly and firmly.”
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Massillamany stated that Chief Deputy Prosecutor Josh Kocher will serve in the role as interim prosecuting attorney while a new county prosecutor is selected. Kocher kicked off a campaign in late 2024 to run as a Republican for the county prosecutor position.
Garrison, a former talk show host, was elected Hamilton County prosecuting attorney in 2022 after beating the Republican incumbent in the spring primary and then the Democratic candidate in the November general election. He served previously as a deputy prosecutor in Marion County.
A response to a message seeking comment from Garrison was not received in time for publication of this report.
“He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, courage and an unwavering belief that the rule of law must be applied fairly and firmly.”
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• 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.
Suspect in Gramercy shooting case pleads guilty
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
One of the four teens involved in an August shooting at Carmel’s Gramercy apartments has pleaded guilty.
Malachi Hoffman pleaded guilty Nov. 19 to armed robbery, a Level 3 felony. He agreed to a 10-year sentence, with five years executed, and two years of probation, according to the plea agreement. He must also testify in the pending cases against the other suspects.
Initial charges against Hoffman were two counts of armed robbery, robbery resulting in serious bodily injury and intimidation.
Sentencing in Hoffman’s case is set for Jan. 8, 2026.
The Aug. 9 shooting seriously injured a man in the apartment complex parking lot after Hoffman and Dalen Peden, Jalen Peden and Beau Chanley, all 17 years old at the time, attempted to rob him.
Hoffman shot the victim with a Glock 17 BB gun during the encounter, according to a probable cause affidavit. He told police the BB gun discharged when the victim tried to reverse his vehicle and struck a nearby SUV, with Hoffman’s hand also striking the SUV.
Shanley told police Dalen Peden also fired his weapon and struck the victim.
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The victim told police during an interview at the hospital that the suspects stole $1,200 and a box of weed pens.
A jury trial for Dalen Peden, Jalen Peden and Shanley is set for March 2, 2026.
– MARIO MASSILLAMANY 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/ynttpmmx.
COMMUNITY
Music4All members, from left, Rey Ribeka, Oliver Conrad, Bailey Workman, Jackson Reymer, Prudence Peng, Julia Herstein, Alex Herstein, Mikhaela Starnino, Savannah Reymer, Charlotte Pryor and Brooklynn Reymer at an October concert at The Barrington in Carmel. (Photo
Music4All keeps growing
By Sara Palmer editorial@youarecurrent.com
Four students who once studied under the same piano teacher reconnected through a shared passion for music and a mission to bring kindness and joy to the community, one song at a time.
The idea began with Prudence Peng, 14, whose longtime dedication to community service shaped the musical group’s foundation. After performing solo at Brookdale Senior Living in Carmel in August 2023, Peng, now a Carmel High School student, said she was struck by how her music lifted the residents’ spirits.
Founding members Leo Salerno, 15, Alessandro Salerno, 16, and Julia Herstein, 15, joined Peng in forming the musical group. The Salerno brothers are University High School students from Carmel while Herstein attends Noblesville High School.
“Seeing how my music made people swing, hum, tap and smile made me immediately fall in love with performing for them,” Peng said. “That experience inspired me to form a group. I even wrote a business plan before asking my childhood friends — Alessandro, Julia
and Leo — to join me.”
The four friends met the day after Thanksgiving in 2023, and with the support of their parents, presented their first two concerts that December. What started as a small idea has since grown into Music4All, a student-led volunteer ensemble that now includes nearly 20 young musicians performing mostly at senior living communities and the Carmel Clay Public Library.
Since their first concerts in December 2023, Music4All has grown in both size and organization. The four founders coordinate performances, select music and manage communication among members — all while balancing school, rehearsals and other extracurriculars.
Although Music4All now has nearly 20 members, not everyone performs at every event. Alessandro said the group typically features smaller ensembles — duets, trios or quartets — depending on the music and which instruments are needed.
Follow @music4all_indiana on Instagram for updates and upcoming performances.
“Music brings people together,” Herstein said. “And that’s exactly what we want to do.”
OBITUARY
Eleanor M.Taylor, 91 of Indianapolis, passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025. Eleanor was born June 11, 1934 In Pasadena, CA to the late Ragnar and Myrtle Johnson. She attended the University of Southern California and was a member of the Delta Gamma Sorority and President of the Dean of Students.
Eleanor, in 1953, was named a Rose Princess in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses. In 1978, with her daughter having the same privilege of also being named a Rose Princess,
makes them both still, the only mother/ daughter duo to achieve the title in the tournament’s history. Eleanor ‘s favorite hobby was photography, especially capturing ocean scenery and sunsets.
Private family services will be held.
Eleanor was the widow of Eugene “Gene” Taylor of La Canada, California. She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen A. (husband, Tom) Dusing; granddaughters, Megan Dusing and Lauren Dusing.
courtesy of Ada Yeung)
COMMUNITY
SDISPATCHES
Military academy nomination — U.S. Sen. Todd Young announced his nominations for U.S. service academy appointments, including Carmel High School student Taylor Zhang (U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy). Applications were received from 150 Hoosier students, and a select group of students was interviewed by an advisory board that was chosen by Young. Out of 80 offered interviews, 44 applicants from across Indiana received a nomination to at least one service academy.
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 blend TEDx-style talks, art demonstrations, announcements about 2026, silent auction and raffle. Tickets cost $25. Learn more at CreateWhatYouCrave.org.
Tab Christmas service — Tabernacle Presbyterian Church will celebrate its 47th annual Christmas worship service telecast at 7 p.m. Dec. 24 on WNDY-TV and 11 a.m. Dec. 25 on WISH-TV. The one-hour broadcast will be available on all Indianapolis and surrounding county cable systems and online at wishtv.com during the telecasts. The service will include national and local singers, the Tabernacle choir and Indianapolis-area instrumentalists. Rev. Steve Smith will deliver a message, “Shady Shepherds.” The Christmas service has been televised since 1979, becoming a holiday tradition for many Hoosiers.
Recycle holiday lights — Carmel residents can recycle holiday lights at White’s Ace Hardware & Garden Center at 731 S. Range Line Rd. starting through Jan. 9, 2026. The recycling drive is sponsored by Carmel Clay Schools’ Green Teams, Carmel Utilities, the City of Carmel, Technology Recyclers and White’s Ace Hardware & Garden Center. Since the start of the collaborative program in 2011, more than 19 tons of holiday lights have been recycled. Recycling inoperable or inefficient holiday lights keeps those items out of landfills, which reduces the long-term carbon impact on the environment.
COMMUNITY
Enjoy a holiday adventure
news@youarecurrent.com
Visit Indy and Visit Hamilton County’s Holiday Adventure Pass is a guide for residents and visitors to experience holiday attractions throughout Marion and Hamilton counties. The free pass is available through Dec. 31.
“The Holiday Adventure Pass is a fun, easy way for residents and visitors to make memories while exploring attractions across both counties,” stated Chris Gahl, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Visit Indy.
To earn points, users must check in via a QR code found at the following participating locations:
• Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt
• Carmel Christkindlmarkt
• Children’s Museum: WinterFaire
• Civic Theatre: “A Christmas Story The Musical”
• Conner Prairie: A Merry Prairie Holiday
• Eiteljorg Museum: Jingle Rails
• Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza
• Ice skating at Carter Green (at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt)
• Ice skating at Elevance Health Rink
(at Morris Bicentennial Plaza)
• Ice skating at Holliday Park
• Ice skating at Noblesville Ice Plaza (at Federal Hill Commons)
• Indiana Historical Society: Festival of Trees
• Indiana Repertory Theatre: A Christmas Carol
• Indiana State Museum: Celebration Crossing
• Indiana State Fairgrounds: Christmas Nights of Lights
• Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration
• Indianapolis Zoo: Christmas at the Zoo
• Monument Circle: Spark Holidays on the Circle
• Newfields: Winterlights presented by Bank of America
• The Payne & Mencias Palladium Visiting a participating venue allows users to accumulate points, which can be redeemed for holiday-themed prizes. For more, visit visitindy.com/events/ holidays/holidays-adventure-pass.
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
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. Veterans are welcome to wear their honor awards and uniforms.
Shamrocks senior guard gets lift from basketball family
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Drew Haffner has reaped the benefits of coming from a basketball family.
His father, Scott Haffner, was an Indiana All-Star at Noblesville High School and played one season at the University of Illinois and three seasons at the University of Evansville. A second-round draft pick of the NBA’s Miami Heat, Scott Haffner played 43 games for Miami in the 1989-90 season and then seven games for the Charlotte Hornets the following season.
“My dad playing definitely has had an impact on my IQ in the game. He’s coached me from a really young age, and I have always grown up around basketball,” Drew Haffner said.
He learned from his brother, as well. A 2022 Westfield High School graduate, Cam Haffner played one season for Eastern Illinois University, two seasons at Evansville and is now at Western Kentucky University.
“My older brother had a really big impact on my game. Just competing with him every day since I was young
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
DREW HAFFNER
Favorite athlete: Jayson Tatum
Favorite vacation spot: Florida
Favorite TV show: “Breaking Bad”
Favorite movie: “Mission Impossible”
has definitely improved my mental toughness,” Drew Haffner said.
A 6-foot-4 shooting guard, Haffner averaged 12.4 points per game last season, shooting 48 percent from 3-point range and 46 percent overall. He helped the Shamrocks to an 18-4 record.
“I feel like I’ve made a really big improvement in my ball handling and being able to get downhill more efficiently,” said Haffner, who averaged 3.8 points as a sophomore.
He scored 20 points in a Nov. 25 season-opening victory against Scecina.
“Some goals I have is to win the sectional championship and make the Indiana All-Star Team,” he said.
Shamrocks coach Shane Sumpter said Haffner should have been selected as one of the Indiana Junior All-Stars.
“He’s a kid that had a terrific year and we expect him to do the same again this year,” Sumpter said. “Every year he’s been in our program, he’s improved. I thought he had a breakout year last season. I think he has a good chance to be an Indiana All-Star if he has a good year and our team has a good year. He’s probably one of the best shooters in the state and one of the best I’ve coached. He’s been a great kid to coach.”
Haffner, who has played with the Grand Park Premier club team since fourth grade, recently signed with Abilene (Texas) Christian University, an NCAA Division I program.
“The key in my decision to go to Abilene Christian was the coaches and the environment,” he said, “I love the way they coach, and it just felt like home for me ever since I visited.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
Westfield High School senior guard Drew Haffner averaged 12.4 points per game last season. (Photo courtesy of Quincy Spangler)
Wreath ceremony to honor vets
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Westfield’s Osborne Trails Veterans Organization will host its first Wreaths Across America ceremony at 11 a.m. Dec. 13 inside the Prairie Waters Event Center at Hamilton Memorial Park, 4180 Westfield Rd.
Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit founded in 1992 by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester, who owned Worcester Wreath Co., to lay donated wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery.
This will be the first time the Osborne Trails Veterans Organization will host a Wreaths Across America ceremony. Joe Revell, a member of the organization and a retired U.S. Army officer, helped organize the event.
“Our veterans group at Osborne Trails was looking for something to do for our community. I suggested that we ought to try Wreaths Across America,” said Revell, who attended a Wreaths Across America event in Lapel a decade ago.
Revell said Osborne Trails wanted
to try to have a ceremony in 2024 but didn’t have sponsors lined up.
“We wanted to do it right. We started in earnest in May and solicited funds from corporate donors and individuals,” said Revell, who noted that the contributions helped pay for wreaths for approximately 300 veterans at Hamilton Memorial Park.
According to Revell, each wreath costs $17 and is paid for via donations.
Wreaths for the ceremony were obtained through direct donations to Wreaths Across America as well as corporate sponsorship and individual donations.
Revell said the ceremony inside the Prairie Waters Event Center will last about 45 minutes and those who want to stay and place the wreaths on graves can do so. Veterans and others from throughout Hamilton County are encouraged to attend.
Those interested in volunteering for Wreaths Across America or sponsoring a wreath for Hamilton Memorial Park can visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/ IN0224.
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
Vending machines allow donors to directly support local charities
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Carmel Christkindlmarkt visitors have the opportunity to spread holiday cheer locally and beyond through a Light the World Giving Machine officially unveiled Dec. 2.
The vending machine, on the Monon Greenway between the Payne & Mencias Palladium and Hotel Carmichael at Carmel City Center, allows users to donate to a variety of preselected charities.
“The Giving Machine fits perfectly into what makes Carmel special during the holidays,” Light the World Indy Co-Chair Bob Petersen stated. “Visitors come for the holiday market, the lights, the atmosphere — and now they can also experience the joy of giving to someone in need with the press of a button.”
The Giving Machine debuted in Carmel in 2023 at Clay Terrace. This is the first year the initiative has expanded in the city beyond the shopping center.
Charities receive 100 percent of donations made through a Giving Machine. The program is run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which covers operational expenses.
Representatives from the church, various charities and local and state government gathered at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael for an hourlong ceremony before unveiling Carmel’s newest machines.
“In a polarized world, we are grateful to have a place where people can come together and set aside differences, to follow the admonition of Jesus Christ to love one another as he loved us, and to show that love and light the world by giving,” said David Kinard, area authority elder for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam said the city is proud to be part of an expanding “network of giving.”
“Carmel gets recognized for a lot of things: The amazing buildings we build, amazing architecture, our park system, our road network. But that’s not how our impact is going to be over time,” she said. “Our legacy is going to be the
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints launched the Light the World Giving Machine initiative in 2017. The machines are available in 126 cities in 21 nations and have received more than 490,000 donations.
Learn more at GivingMachine.org.
memories we allow our residents, visitors to make and the lives we change. And this allows us to do this.”
Andrew Howerton, chief operating officer of HATCH for Hunger, said Giving Machine donations help families in need know that they matter. The Carmel-based nonprofit connects animal protein from farms directly to hunger relief organizations.
“These Giving Machines are more than just a fun way to donate; they’re acts of compassion sent directly into kitchens, backpacks and dinner tables across America,” Howerton said.
“When you choose to give a meal, you’re not just filling a belly, you’re fueling potential, and together, we can ensure more families feel seen, supported and nourished when it matters most.”
Nearly 23,000 Hoosiers have donated 13,000 items and services worth more than $400,000 at Giving Machines since 2023.
The Clay Terrace Giving Machine will be available through Jan. 4, 2026, with the Carmel City Center machine available through Dec. 24. A third machine in Indiana in Bloomington’s Fountain Square will be available through Dec. 10.
Donations to the following charities may be made at the Carmel City Center Light the World Giving Machine:
• Make-A-Wish Foundation of Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana
• HATCH for Hunger
• Brightlane Learning
• Dove Recovery House for Women
• Carmel Youth Assistance Program
• Hoosier Hills Food Bank
• Lifting Hands International
• Right to Play
The Light the World Giving Machines are unveiled Dec. 2 at Carmel City Center. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
From right, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun addresses attendees at the unveiling ceremony as Indiana State Treasurer Daniel Elliott, Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and David Kinard, area authority elder for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, look on. (Photo courtesy of John Gough)
THE COVER: Indianapolis Colts offensive tackle Blake Freeland makes a donation after the unveiling of the Light the World Giving Machine at Carmel City Center. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
Firefighters get sauna
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
A Carmel Fire Department station’s response to a carbon monoxide alarm at Carmel Salt Caves provided benefits for the first responders.
“Firehouse 345 is right across the street, but they were out on a call, so Station 341 responded instead,” Carmel Salt Caves & Spa owner Skye Winslow said. “After everything was cleared, they took a tour of the caves. One of the firefighters saw the sauna and mentioned they’d been trying to purchase one for their firehouse because of how healing they are.”
Winslow said she already had been planning to remove the infrared four-person sauna to make room for the Halo Pet Spa.
“It just felt right to donate it to them,” she said. “When they came to pick it up, the firefighters from across the street came over to help. They also shared how much they wished they had a sauna — and I felt terrible that
Holiday Donation Drive
Donate new, unopened items to bring joy to kids spending their holidays in the hospital Thank you for supporting local children
I didn’t have another to give. That’s when I decided to fundraise for them. I called Clearlight to ask about their best price and explained the situation — and that’s when they offered to donate a (three-person) sauna.”
Clearlight produces the infrared saunas. Clearlight also donated two HALO ONE Salt Therapy devices. Winslow said she wants to continue the momentum and fundraise to pur chase red light therapy systems for both firehouses.
Spot signs of fraud
Commentary by Matthew Darrah
Hamilton County businesses run on speed and trust. That’s exactly why account-takeover attempts increasingly probe owners juggling payroll, payables and growth. The good news: clear warning signs and smart habits help you spot and stop fraud early.
RED FLAGS APPEAR QUIETLY
Unfamiliar password-reset emails. Login alerts you didn’t trigger. Messages asking you to “confirm” a one-time code you never requested. Contact information changed without your action. A transfer or bill payment you don’t recognize. Any one of these deserves immediate attention.
HOW A BREACH BECOMES A BREAK-IN
A common vulnerability is reusing the same password for shopping, email, and banking. After a retailer’s data breach, criminals test stolen credentials across bank logins. If they get in, they change the phone and email in the profile, lock the owner out, and queue transfers. Often the takeover isn’t discovered until a routine payment fails — turning
minutes of preparation into hours of recovery.
WORK WITH YOUR BANK EARLY
Modern defenses are layered: multi factor authentication with authentica tor-app support; risk-based “step-up” checks for unusual locations, devices, and behavior; and out-of-band verifica tion before sensitive changes take effect. When systems see a high-risk combo — say, a profile change followed by a firsttime external transfer — they can pause the action, send alerts, and require extra confirmation.
REAL TIME CONTROL
Mobile tools — like our Online and Mobile Banking for Business — let you lock a card instantly, set transaction and login alerts, and tailor limits on certain activity. These controls help catch small anomalies before they become big losses.
Requested Items:
Crayola pencils/markers (10–12 ct)
Uno card decks
Small puzzles (24–48 pcs)
Play-Doh tubs
Collection Dates:
Location:
Worthington Carmel Office 99 E Carmel Dr Carmel, IN 46032 Dec 1-12
Matthew Darrah is the Hamilton County market president at 1st Source Bank. Learn more at 1stsource.com/business.
Carmel Salt Caves donated its sauna to a Carmel fire station and helped coordinate a donation of another sauna from its producer. (Photo courtesy of Tim Griffin)
Vanquish Shower Mold!
Carmel couple to open yoga and wellness space
By Sara Palmer news@youarecurrent.com
Longtime Carmel residents Krista and Joe Wanko believe yoga’s influence extends far beyond the mat. To them, it’s a path to wellness, connection and community service, values they’re bringing to life through Noble Hot Yoga and Wellness, a meditation refuge and learning environment focused on mindfulness and sustainability.
The studio at 815 W. Carmel Dr. is set to open Jan. 1, 2026.
The grand opening will honor Krista’s late stepfather, Mike Richardson, on what would have been his 80th birthday.
“It’s such a beautiful day for new beginnings,” Krista said. “My stepdad was a teacher who dedicated his life to helping others. This studio is a continuation of that spirit.”
The studio’s layout reflects the couple’s philosophy of balance and accessibility. Noble will include three practice spaces: a heated studio for hot yoga, a bright indoor space for restorative, family and specialty classes, and an outdoor platform overlooking the pond for daily sessions and evening gatherings.
“The most important thing about No-
ble is that it’s a wellness space,” Krista said. “It’s about becoming the best version of yourself and taking care of your community while you do it.”
For co-owner Joe Wanko, yoga began as a last resort for chronic back pain that lingered for nearly seven years.
“I was ready to go under the knife,” he said. “Then yoga actually fixed my back.”
What started as a physical remedy became a source of calm and confidence, inspiring him and Krista to share that same sense of renewal through Noble Hot Yoga and Wellness.
Noble’s class schedule will include a variety of yoga styles, from traditional hot sequences and vinyasa to unheated practices like Yin and gentle restorative. Besides movement, the studio offers wellness services such as salt and light therapy, massage and craniosacral therapy. A meditation-only membership provides access to indoor and outdoor quiet spaces, along with a cozy reading nook for tea and reflection.
The studio’s boutique will feature sustainable and locally crafted wellness products, reflecting the Wankos’ commitment to supporting artisans and promoting mindful consumption.
For more, visit noblehotyoga.com.
The area behind Noble Hot Yoga will host programs and provide a quiet space to meditate.
(Photo courtesy of Krista Wanko)
Not-so-scary doctor visits
Commentary by Carrie Starnes
For some kids, a trip to the doctor can be scary. A little preparation can go a long way in easing their fears before a routine check-up, vaccination or something more involved, like a blood draw. Here are a few tips that aim to ease medical visits for the youngest patients.
BE HONEST
For a child, honesty is the best policy in building trust and allowing them to confront the realities of the medical setting. If your child has concerns about blood draws or injections, call the office to see if there are options to make them more comfortable. Give your child honest answers if they have questions about a medical visit. If you know they will get a needle poke but tell them they won’t, this can keep them from feeling safe in a medical environment.
PLAY CAN EASE FEARS
Play allows kids to explore their emotions and what they might experience during a medical visit. One approach is role-play. Let your child be the “doctor”
for a favorite stuffed animal. Pretend to give the stuffed animal a check-up or a shot. This helps kids process emotions that may arise during a medical visit and allows you to find ways to ease your child’s fears during medical visits.
BRING DISTRACTIONS
Bring a favorite book, toy or even a tablet for games or videos during the appointment. Focusing on something fun can make procedures feel less overwhelming.
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR
Visit the hospital or doctor’s office online if available. Show your child pictures of the lobby, exam rooms and even the people who work there. Seeing the environment ahead of time can reduce the fear of the unknown.
Carrie Starnes is a Carmel resident and child life specialist at Innovative Hematology and the Indiana Hemophilia & Thrombosis Center in Indianapolis.
Submit some positive feedback VIEWS
Editor,
At this year’s State of the City address, Mayor Sue Finkam announced the new Carmel 311 app, a simple way for residents to report potholes, streetlights, code issues and more. One feature especially stood out to me: the option to submit positive feedback.
Carmel is often ranked among the best places to live, but those awards do not happen by chance. They come from the everyday work of people who care about our city. Using the positive feedback feature is one small way we can show appreciation to the snowplow drivers, parks staff and volunteers who help keep Carmel running smoothly. When residents use this app to share gratitude, it changes the tone of civic life. It reminds us that technology can build connections, not just complaints. Families can even use the app together. Parents can help their kids post thank yous. It is a simple way to teach civic pride and gratitude.
Let’s start a new Carmel habit. For every one issue we report, let’s share two words of thanks. A little appreciation can go a long way for the people who serve our city and for each of us as well. Gratitude multiplies when shared.
Brandon Wenger, Carmel
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.
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Pebble Brook home in Noblesville underwent a dramatic basement transformation, turning a basic lower level into a polished entertainment center with a custom bar.
THE BLUEPRINT
• A new semi-custom bar, painted Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn, creates a dramatic focal point.
• Cambria quartz countertops and a round BLANCO sink combine durability with elevated style.
• Mirrored geometric tile adds sparkle and depth, while glass shelving keeps the bar open and refined.
• Updated lighting and new LVP flooring complete the transformation, turning the basement into a polished, entertainment-ready retreat.
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.
Noblesville basement becomes luxe lounge
Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s ‘Festival of Carols’ returns to Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Indianapolis Symphonic Choir Artistic Director Eric Stark, this truly is the most wonderful time of the year.
The choir’s “Festival of Carols” has become an annual tradition in Carmel. The performances are set for 8 p.m. Dec. 19 and 3 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. There also is a 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 performance at Schrott Center for the Arts on the Butler University campus in Indianapolis.
“The holidays are always a great time for folks to gather together for the community, kind of the extended family,” Stark said. “We try to give people a wide variety of things to enjoy in the concert. So, they’ll hear some traditional carols. They’ll hear ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ and ‘Away in a Manger,’ but they’ll also hear some new things, some uptempo numbers, a couple of gospel-style numbers that will be a lot of fun. We like to laugh at these concerts, also, so we’ve got some moments of audience participation and some surprises.”
carol they want and Duncan will improvise a brand-new composition on the spot.
Stark said it is special, especially later in December, to gather with friends and family.
“Sometimes our audience members are hosting family members from out of town who come in for the Christmas holiday, so they come to one of the concerts just a few days before, and there’s just a nice, warm feeling of sharing and fellowship when we can all get together like that,” he said.
There are approximately 130 ISC members.
The performances feature guest vocalist Bruno Sandes alongside the full Indianapolis Symphonic Choir and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Sandes was the guest soloist last year as well.
“The audience loved hearing him sing and interacting with him,” Stark said. “He’ll be singing a mix of things, some familiar, like, ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,’ the great Andy Williams tune. We’ve got a Spanish carol he’s singing, and a kind of an Andrews take on ‘Jingle Bells’ that’s really kind of fun.”
There will be an interactive “Battle of the Carols” segment led by ISC keyboard artist David Duncan, who invites audience members to vote on which
“Some are in the choir for the first time this year and some have been in there for decades, 20 or 30 years or more,” Stark said.
The spotlight choir is from Mt. Vernon High School.
“This is part of our outreach program,” Stark said. “Each year, we like to share our stage with a talented and promising group of young musicians from one of the local high schools.”
The Dec. 21 and 22 performances will include American Sign Language interpretation by Chuck Daube,
“‘Festival of Carols’ has become one of our most meaningful traditions because it reflects who we are as a city,” stated Jennifer Cooper, the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s executive director. “This choir is about more than mu-
The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will perform “Festival of Carols” Dec. 19-21 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of ISC)
sic; it’s about belonging. Each performance is a reminder that the simple act of gathering and singing together has the power to restore hope, strengthen community and remind us of the good that still binds us.”
The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir also will perform “Handel’s Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at the Payne & Mencias Palladium.
“We enjoy performing with lots of the great groups in town,” Stark said.
Before the Dec. 19 and 21 shows, audiences are invited to experience a new pre-concert opportunity: “A Holiday Walk & Talk with Sampson Levingston,” through the platform Through2Eyes.
Levingston, who is known for immersive walking tours, will guide viewers through a storytelling experience that connects the “Festival of Carols” to the broader cultural landscape of Indianapolis, offering new insights and perspectives before the first note is sung.
“It’s a unique perspective behindthe-scenes as we’re getting ready to open the show on those days,” Stark said. “I think people who tune in will get a glimpse into something that regular audience members don’t normally see.”
To register for the free Walk & Talk, visit eventbrite.com/e/festival-of-carols-walk-talks-tickets-1975306553074. Tickets for “Festival of Carols” are available at indychoir.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.
‘SHAKE ‘EM ON DOWN’
Samantha Fish, Cedric Burnside and Jon Spencer will perform on the “Shake ‘Em On Down” tour at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny: Comedy Night” is set for Dec. 11, followed by Franc D’Ambrosio Dec. 13-14 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘DAVE
KOZ & FRIENDS’
“Dave Koz & Friends” is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘THE NUTCRACKER’
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” is set for Dec. 12-14 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. For more, visit cidedance.org.
CHRIS ISAAK
Chris Isaak will perform at 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘HOLIDAY POPS WITH THE CSO’ Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops with the CSO: Spirit of the Season” concert is set for 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.
Stark
ENTERTAINMENT
Sisters set for ‘Nutcracker’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Aubrey and Reagan Caudill began training at Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana in 2021.
However, her training was interrupted when the family moved to China in 2023 for two years before returning in July
“It was nothing this intense in China,” Aubrey said. “We were part of a dance studio over there. Now, we dance six days a week, and over there it was only two days a week.”
“I’ve always loved ‘The Nutcracker.’ I think it’s because ever since I was a kid, I’ve gone to see it or I’ve been a part of it,” Reagan said. “‘The Nutcracker’ holds a special place in my heart. Even though I’ve done different roles, I kind of have a journey of my own with the role. I play the villain (Mouse Queen) but also one of the sweet characters. I can add that to my toolbox of multiple different characters.”
Zionsville Middle School eighth-grader Quinn Smith plays Clara in two performances.
The Zionsville siblings are still regaining their stamina but are prepared for Metropolitan Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. The performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20 and 2 p.m. Dec. 21.
Reagan plays the Mouse Queen, Snowflake and Flower for all the performances. She is Spanish lead for two shows and Party Mom for two presentations.
Sanuki Sumanasinghe, a sophomore at Carmel High School, plays Clara in the other two performances. She also learned from being a stepsister in “Cinderella.”
“‘Cinderella’ is a very funny ballet, so the stepsisters are funny characters,” she said. “Clara is a different kind of acting, so it’s been difficult to switch over from being overboard to immerse myself in Clara’s character.”
For more, visit my-ballet.org.
ICC holiday concerts set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir will celebrate its 40th anniversary concert season with holiday performances that focus on its history.
“This year’s theme of ‘Holiday Memories’ is special because we get to pull out some of our favorite pieces from past ICC holiday concerts,” ICC Executive Artistic Director Joshua Pedde said. “It’s fun to reintroduce the classic songs to the next generation of singers. Plus, it’s delightful for audiences to hear some fan favorites.”
mance, “Angels Sing,” will feature advanced and high school choirs. The 4 p.m. Dec. 14 concert is “Sounds of the Season” with intermediate choirs, the ICC Alumni Choir and advanced choirs.
“Our singers take a lot of pride in the work they put into them, and also keeping up this important tradition for the Indianapolis community that’s been happening for so many years,” Pedde said. Pedde said there are several pieces this year that he enjoys.
Pedde
There will be four performances of “Holiday Memories” concerts at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis.
At 7 p.m. Dec. 12, “Angels Sing” will feature advanced and high school choirs. There will be two performances Dec. 13 with the 3 p.m. “Celebrate the Season” concert featuring beginning level singers and high school singers, and the 7 p.m. candlelight perfor-
“I have some fond memories especially of ‘Somewhere in My Memory’ from ‘Home Alone,’ because it brings me back to my own vivid holiday memory of seeing the movie for the first time when I was a kid,” he said. “‘Night of Silence’ transports me to a special memory of my daughter Annabelle’s first outing after being released from the NICU as a baby. ICC singers sang the song to her, and it was incredibly special. Overall, holiday music as a whole is some of my favorite music, in general.”
For tickets, visit icchoir.org/tickets.
This Week’s Market Magic!
The Market will be open December 10-24 (hours vary), 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. 10-14, Seiffen School Students — See students make wooden toys in real time
Kinderecke (Kids Corner)
Enjoy crafts for all ages!
• Dec. 11, Button Tree Ornaments
• Dec. 14, Paper Straw Wreaths with Hanukkah colors available Spielhaus (Play House)
Meet-and-greets and magical shows.
• Dec. 12, 12-3 p.m., Singing Mrs. Claus
• Dec. 13, 5-7 p.m., Bongo Boy Music School
• Dec. 14, 12-5:30 p.m., Santa
Winter Pavilion
Experience authentic German entertainment.
• Dec. 12, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Indy Polkamotion
• Dec. 14, 12-1:30 p.m., The Mike Schneider Band
Special Events
• Dec. 10, 7:30-9 p.m., Ornament Exchange & German Sing-Along
• Dec. 14, 5-5:45 p.m., Menorah Aflame
November 22 - December 24
Sumanasinghe
ENTERTAINMENT
CSO to play Holiday Pops
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Carmel Symphony Orchestra guest conductor Kelly Kuo, holiday concerts are always special.
“I love watching kids attend performances — some of them are there for the first time,” Kuo said. “Hearing a live orchestra is such a rare experience I find for younger children these days, regardless of what music is being performed, obviously with more festive music in this particular case. It always takes me back to my childhood and hearing orchestras for the first time, and I think that’s just magical.”
diana, will narrate “The Snowman” during the matinee.
Kuo said he suggested “The Snowman” because it requires imagination.
“It was originally a symphonic poem that was written to accompany a film made out of a wordless children’s picture book,” Kuo said.
Kuo will guide Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops Spirit of the Season” concerts at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
The 2 p.m. matinee is for younger audiences.
Westfield resident Don Farrell, a co-founder of Actors Theatre of In-
The narration will substitute for the film, allowing the audience to imagine the pictures.
“We will have a child soloist singing ‘Walking on Air,’ which is originally from ‘The Snowman,’” Kuo said.
Farrell will sing a few numbers during the evening performance, including “The Christmas Song,” “White Christmas” and “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”
There will be music from “Frozen” and selections from “The Nutcracker.” In addition, the “Chanukah Festival Overture” will be performed.
Kuo is the music director of the Reno Chamber Orchestra and associate artistic director of American Lyric Theater in New York.
For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.
Musical takes shape
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Zoe Sarnak watched her music come to life during Discovering Broadway’s incubation process.
Sarnak wrote the music for “A Beautiful Mind,” which was performed in a concert Nov. 21 at the Tobias Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis. The story is based on the book and movie about John Forbes Nash, a renowned mathematician who suffered from schizophrenia.
“It was so joyful for so many reasons,” Sarnak said of the concert. “When you write a musical, you spend a lot of time hearing it in your head. There’s a lot of time alone, it’s me and the piano or the guitar. The collection of artists was amazing. So, it’s like a holiday gift opening I’ve been waiting for, just to see these songs with life breathed into them.”
Sarnak said as a writer seeing the development is important.
“You can take in the energy of the audience and learn from it,” she said.
Sarnak said there are things you can’t know until you see the audience’s reaction, whether it’s an unexpected laugh or how they react to the beat.
In the concert, Derek Klena sang the role of Nash and Krysta Rodriguez sang Alicia’s part.
“I think everybody who does a step in the development in a musical’s life, their voice gets baked into the show, because in that moment, the shape of their voice impacts the way it gets written,” she said. “In some cases, they could stay with it the whole way, or in other cases they could book a Marvel movie and not be available. They still became part of the tapestry.”
Sarnar wrote the music and lyrics. Sarah Treem wrote the book for the
Sarnak met Nash when she was younger. Her father, Peter Sarnak, is a math professor at Princeton University and was a colleague of Nash, who died at 86 with his wife in 2015 in a car accident.
Kuo
Sarnak
Stocking material
“Love Letters in the Sand” singer: Pat ___
15. Butler building wall cover
16. “You Light Up My Life” singer: Debby ___ 17. Stand by 18. Moyer Fine Jewelers
sparkler
19. Name with Nixon on old bumper stickers
20. Wrong
22. Most cunning 23. Tiny crawler
24. Thailand neighbor
25. Not neg.
26. Paperback ID
27. Hamilton County Court order
28. Braying beast
31. Shock
34. “Yikes!”
36. Planet’s path
38. Right on an Indiana map
39. Frontiersman Daniel
41. Where a Carmel Sesquicentennial license plate from 1987 sold for $7
42. Star, Times and Current, collectively
44. Rude look
45. Like some excuses
46. US 31 road sealer
47. King topper
49. “Arrivederci!”
51. Help
52. Often-lost laundry item
53. School org.
56. Firmly plants
59. They make assertions
61. Taste of Westfield vendor’s stall
62. Also
63. Deserve
64. Family name with three generations of Major League Baseball all-stars
65. Snoopy or Scooby-Doo
66. I-865’s county
67. Wander
68. Snoop
69. Rent collector DOWN
1. Name with Biden on old bumper stickers
2. Kind of situation
3. Sunrise Cafe side
4. “Don’t bet ___!”
5. Flower parts
6. Compartmentalize
7. Levels
8. Noblesville HS basketball game site
9. Emblem attached to a Pacers jersey
10. Meditation mentors
11. Single
12. Singles
13. Former Speaker Gingrich
21. Skewered fare
22. Massage Envy, e.g.
26. Colts QB stats
27. IU Health services:
Obstetrics & ___
28. “Dancing Queen” group
29. “The King and I” setting
30. Eyelid affliction
31. Fisher’s Harvest Fest mo.
32. “Gone With the Wind” estate
33. Addict
35. A Stooge
37. Move, in Realtor lingo
40. The unmarried woman in “An Unmarried Woman”
43. Greeted, informally
48. PNC Bank offerings
50. With hands on hips
51. Blue Cross Blue Shield rival
52. Ice cream serving
53. “Evita” name
54. Angola university
55. Fall bloomer
56. Recedes
57. Pointless
58. Party pooper
60. Catty remark
62. Colts QB stats
ANSWERS ON PAGE 23
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We do one thing only and we do it better than anyone else. We provide exceptional care. Come join us. That’s why Clarity Care Givers is Trusted, Requested – Preferred.
Rare Saint is the whiskey embodiment of the steakhouse experience - lavish, indulgent, and memorable. It boasts an expert tasting panel with decades of experience finding and sourcing the best barrels of whiskey in the world. In every 100 barrels of whiskey, there is always one Rare Saint.
In its inaugural 2025 release, Rare Saint Trinity of Port earned Double Gold and a 96-point rating from the USA Spirits Ratings, along with the title of Blended Whiskey of the Year. Trinity of Port is a truly unique spirit and stands as a defining moment in Rare Saint’s pursuit of perfection.
