Tuesday, February 11, 2025
THE BEST OF WESTFIELD
41st annual Lantern Awards honor local leaders, businesses, servants / P11
Duke rate hike not as hefty as proprosed / P3
Westfield vibrancy grants available / P5
Westfield Pickleball Association holds first meeting / P6
JANUARY & FEBRUARY DINE IN DEALS!
Duke rate hike not as hefty as proposed
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission issued its final decision on the Duke Energy rate case Jan. 29. Although it was not the outcome Westfield Mayor Scott Willis wanted, he said the result is better for city residents than the initial proposal.
ENERGY
Westfield joined the IURC rate case in June 2024, three months after Duke Energy submitted a rate request to Indiana utility regulators seeking an overall 16 percent tiered increase to take effect in 2025 and 2026.
Although the IURC sided with Duke Energy on many issues, Duke did not receive the full rate increase it requested. Duke’s original request was a revenue increase of $491.5 million. According to findings updated by the IURC Feb. 3, Duke Energy was authorized to place into effect base rates and charges for retail electric utility service including an annual increase to its rates and charges of $295 million. The change will result in a lower-than-anticipated rate hike for customers across the state.
The ruling on Duke’s Return on Equity — profit margins — reduced Duke’s request from 10.8 percent to 9.75 percent. Willis said the profit margin reduction is a win Willis
for Westfield and other ratepayers concerned about affordability.
“We remain committed to ensuring affordable utility rates for all residents of Westfield,” Willis stated in a news release following the ruling. “While this ruling may not have addressed every concern we raised, the IURC’s decision to lower Duke’s profit margin is a positive step forward. We will continue to fight for fair utility rates and policies that protect consumers.”
The IURC did not approve creating a new low-income rate, one of the requests of the City of Westfield and other advocates. Rates will be implemented in phases. Phase 1 is expected to take effect later this month, with Phase 2 in March 2026.
Westfield mayor proposes youth council
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said creating a youth council is one of his initiatives for 2025. He discussed the initial plans during a town hall meeting last month at Westfield High School.
CITY NEWS
“We spend a lot of energy in our community talking about politics, especially at the national level,” Willis said. “It so divides us as neighbors and as residents and as Shamrocks and as Americans. But the thing that impacts you more is not the President of the United States — it’s the mayor; it’s your council men and women; it’s your township trustee; it’s the local level that impacts you day-in and day-out. And most of our kids don’t know anything about it. I want to educate them. I want to create energy among our youth to get engaged in our community and learn about the government that serves them.”
Willis said he is working with Westfield Washington Schools on an application process for students. The goal is to create
the youth council effective at the start of the 2025-26 academic year. The students will create their own version of the city council and work on student-led initiatives for the City of Westfield.
“Each school year they are going to create a project, be it a planned unit development, ordinance or resolution — whatever applies — and they will make a proposal for the city,” Willis said. “(The students)
Students at Westfield Washington Schools will get the chance to apply for the Westfield Youth Council in the 202526 academic year to learn how local government works. (File photo)
will learn how the government works, how you get a project approved and we’ll let them see the impact of their hard work. I think it will be very powerful.”
Willis anticipates a stipend of $5,000 to $10,000 to support the youth council. An announcement on the development of the youth council and how to apply will be made once details are firmed up.
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West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd
DISPATCHES
Home repair program returns to Hamilton County — CrossRoads Church at Westfield is accepting applications for free home repairs in Hamilton County. The program will be offered to more than 25 homeowners in need in June. More than 200 adults and high schoolers from around the county will assist with the repairs, which will be paid for by CrossRoads Church at Westfield, the Central Indiana Community Foundation and private donors. Applications must be submitted by March 1. Apply at ForOurNeighbor.Life.
Get organized at Westfield Washington Township building — Westfield Washington Township will host a home organization workshop for those seeking strategies to tackle clutter. Cindy Garloch, a professional home organizer serving Westfield and surrounding areas, will lead an interactive session on practical solutions for household organization at 10 a.m. March 22 at the township building, 17400 Westfield Blvd. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to create a more functional and peaceful home environment. Registration is $17 per person and seating is limited. Register at westfieldwashingtontwp.us under the “informational” category.
New leadership at OrthoIndy — Indianapolis-based OrthoIndy, a leading orthopedic practice specializing in bone, joint, spine and muscle care, recently announced a leadership transition. Dr. Edward Hellman stepped down following four years as president. During his tenure, Hellman — a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who joined OrthoIndy in 1999 — played a pivotal role in launching PELTO Health Partners, an innovative platform supporting independent physician practices such as OrthoIndy. He also co-founded the Indiana Physicians Health Alliance and oversaw OrthoIndy’s expansion across Indiana. Dr. Matthew Lavery, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist who most recently served as vice president, assumed the role of president Jan. 27. Learn more about OrthoIndy’s services and team of physicians at orthoindy.com.
Hellman
Lavery
Vibrancy grants available
news@youarecurrent.com
The City of Westfield recently launched a program to support beautification efforts within the community.
GRANTS
The Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant program is a 2-to-1 matching grant providing up to $10,000 for qualifying projects that support unique and innovative ideas that make Westfield a more vibrant place to live while having a positive impact on the quality of life throughout the city.
Funding will be awarded two times per calendar year, with applications accepted on a rolling basis.
Homeowners associations and neighborhood groups within Westfield city limits are encouraged to apply.
Eligible projects will offer visible community improvements and significant neighborhood benefits. Potential projects range from environmental and landscape enhancements to recreation and neighborhood amenities, such as the butterfly gardens, wildlife habitat corridors, rain gardens, community gardens and tree mitigation efforts.
Recreation projects will also be considered, including trail repairs, park improvements and solar lighting. Projects that improve neighborhood connectivity or enhance alternative transportation infrastructure also are eligible for funding.
Applicants must meet specific requirements, including a completed application, detailed information about the project and its budget and anticipated timeline.
The NVG committee will evaluate applications by considering factors such as the neighborhood’s age, the sustainability and innovation of the proposed project and its overall visibility and potential impact.
Recommendations will be forwarded to the Board of Public Works for final approval.
For the first round, applications will be accepted through March 1, with awards announced on April 1.
If funds remain, the second round of applications will run from May 1 to July 1, with awards announced Aug. 1.
Learn more at westfieldin.gov/ neighborhoodgrant.
news@youarecurrent.com
A Westfield father and son were honored last month by the Westfield City Council for heroism.
RECOGNITION
David Fisher and his son Felix Fisher were presented the Lifesaving Citizen Award for courageous actions in rescuing a 19-year-old man and a dog who had fallen into icy waters in December.
The rescue began when Felix Fisher heard a man yelling for help and alerted his father. The pair rushed into action, using ropes to pull the man and his dog to safety. The Fishers then took the man and canine into their home to warm up while they waited for first responders to arrive at the scene.
“I’ve always known that Westfield is filled with brave, kind-hearted people, but what David and Felix did is absolutely remarkable,” Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said. “Their courageous actions are the definition of what it looks like to care
for your neighbor. We are proud to honor them with this well-deserved award.”
Westfield Fire Department Chief Rob Gaylor said similar stories often do not have a positive outcome, but the quick actions of the Fishers saved two lives that day.
“My department and I are extremely grateful to David and Felix for their quick-thinking and selfless actions that day,” Gaylor said.
David and Felix Fisher were recently honored by the Westfield City Council for courageous actions by a citizen. From left, Mayor Scott Willis, David Fisher, Felix Fisher and Westfield Fire Department Chief Rob Gaylor. (Photo courtesy City of Westfield)
Westfield McDonald’s celebrates 1 in 8 honoree
news@youarecurrent.com
McDonald’s of Indiana recently celebrated an alumnus who is making an impact on the stage and in her community.
RECOGNITION
Westfield McDonald’s honored Noblesville resident Jessica Hopper last month as a “McDonald’s 1 in 8” — a campaign that focuses on the statistic that 1 in 8 Americans has been employed by McDonald’s at some point in their lives.
Hopper said the skills she learned as a McDonaLd’s employee — including time management, customer service, communication and adaptability — played a role in shaping her journey to become Mrs. United USA 2024. She earned the pageant title in July 2024.
Hopper was recognized last month at McDonald’s in Westfield, where she was presented with a 1 in 8 varsity jacket and sash, officially recognizing her as Mrs. United USA McDonald’s 1 in 8.
“We are thrilled to honor Jessica and celebrate her achievements as part of our 1 in 8 campaign,” McDonald’s Owner/Operator
(Photo
Alison Kosanovich stated. “Her dedication to her community embodies the values we hold dear at McDonald’s — hard work, compassion, and leadership. We are so proud to have played a small part in her journey.” Hopper is the founder of SAFE Homes, an organization dedicated to child abuse prevention. She uses her pageantry platform to advocate for vulnerable children.
Westfield Pickleball Association holds first meeting
RECREATION news@youarecurrent.com
The newly formed Westfield Pickleball Association recently held its inaugural membership meeting. The group met Jan. 23 at the Westfield Washington Township building.
The WPA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is “to promote the sport of pickleball within the greater Westfield community as a healthy recreational activity by providing accessible and inclusive year-round playing opportunities for all ages and skill levels.”
Dave Gilreath, franchise co-owner of The Picklr indoor pickleball facility at Keystone Crossing, attended the meeting. WPA membership is open to all pickleball enthusiasts aged 18 and older in the Westfield area. For more on membership, contact Westfieldpickleballassoc@gmail. com.
Present to honor Jessica Hopper of Noblesville as a McDonald’s 1 in 8 Honoree, from left, Outreach Director for the Office of U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz Laura Alerding, McDonald’s owner/ operator Blake Kosanovich, Hopper, McDonalds’ owner/operator Alison Kosanovich and McDonald’s Field Operators Consultant Holly Varnes.
courtesy of Westfield McDonald’s)
Members of the Westfield Pickball Association are, from left, vice president Diane Roy, board member Lisa Pawlak, secretary Vicky Hime, board member Donna Van Huis, President Patrick May, The Picklr co-owner Dave Gilreath and treasurer Marlene Weatherwax. Board members not pictured are Christine Best, Cindy Kinney and Linda May. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Pickleball Association)
County resident to lead 2026 HCLA class
news@currentinfishers.com
Hamilton County Leadership Academy, whose mission is to inspire and empower participants to drive and amplify community impact through access to knowledge, leaders and organizations, has announced Fishers resident Angela Frazier as dean for the Class of 2026.
LEADERSHIP
sistently brings connectivity, wisdom and passion for Hamilton County and we are excited to see her share those gifts with the Class of 2026.”
Applications for HCLA’s 35th cohort of community leaders will open Feb. 28. Applications will close April 1, and the cohort will be announced in June.
“I am truly honored to be selected as Hamilton County Leadership Academy’s next class dean,” stated Frazier, a business development director at American Structurepoint. “My 2020 HCLA classmates and many other alumni have become like family to me. I am fortunate to be part of such an outstanding group of leaders, and I look forward to helping the next class foster education, leadership, philanthropy and collaboration to better serve the Hamilton County community.”
HCLA Executive Director Diana Coyle said the HCLA dean plays a critical role in shaping class culture and connectivity, serves as an ambassador for the program and works closely with the executive director and board to create an engaging and thought-provoking learning environment.
“HCLA is fortunate to have a legacy of deans who model community leadership and impact,” Coyle stated. “Angela is a perfect addition to that legacy. As an HCLA volunteer and class day speaker, she con-
Frazier has 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. She serves on the Hamilton County Community Corrections Advisory Board, Fishers Arts and Culture Commission, Fishers Advisory Plan Commission and the Accelerate Indiana Municipalities Corporate Member Advisory Council. She also is a Hamilton County Connector through the HCLA and Invest Hamilton County partnership.
At American Structurepoint, Frazier serves as a liaison between the company’s technical professionals and local governments and public service providers in Indiana. She frequently collaborates with elected and appointed officials, advising on planning, engineering and architectural services.
Before joining American Structurepoint, Frazier gained leadership experience working for former City of Westfield Mayor Andy Cook as director of Westfield Welcome and assistant director of the Westfield Public Works Department and Grand Park Sports Campus.
HCLA will host meetups for prospective applicants to learn more about the program and application process from 5 to 6:30 p.m. March 11 at Songbird Social House in Carmel, 3:30 to 5 p.m. March 18 at Collaboration Hub in Fishers and 8:30 to 10 a.m. March 26 at Westfield Washington Township.
For more, visit hcla.net.
DISPATCHES
IPL, nonprofits to mark KKK trial anniversary — The Indianapolis Public Library and local civic organizations have teamed up to reflect on the 100-year anniversary of the 1925 trial of D.C. Stephenson, a Ku Klux Klan leader convicted of the rape and murder of Indianapolis resident Madge Oberholtzer. The trial, conducted in Noblesville, marked the decline of the Indiana KKK, which wielded significant political and social power in the 1920s. To view the events schedule, visit indypl.org/ stephenson-trial-anniversary.
Happy Little (Virtual) registration open – The Indiana DNR and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation will host the third annual Happy Little (Virtual) 5K event April 19-27, 2025, to benefit state park programs. Registrants can complete the 5K anywhere outdoors on foot, bike, skate or paddle during the race window, which encompasses Earth Day on April 22 and Arbor Day on April 25. Registration is $36 and includes a t-shirt, commemorative bib number and a Bob Ross-inspired finisher’s medal. Register at tinyurl.com/4ket8eew.
Fraizer
Old Town Design Group’s 2025 Custom Home Tour will be presented Feb. 15-16 from noon to 5 p.m. both days. The self-guided annual tour allows attendees to explore six custom homes, including four move-inready options, in some of the northside’s most coveted neighborhoods in Hamilton and Boone counties. The homes are in a mix of golf course, equestrian and downtown settings.
The neighborhoods with homes on the tour are Promontory in Zionsville; Holliday Farms in Zionsville; Midland South in Westfield; North End in Carmel; and Sunrise on the Monon in Carmel. Two homes are featured in Holliday Farms.
Featured homes and locations can be found by downloading a map at oldtowndesigngroup.com/ event/2025-custom-home-tour/.
For more about Old Town Design Group, a leading luxury home builder in central Indiana, visit oldtowndesigngroup.com.
DISPATCHES
Rector takes over as BAGI president — The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently announced Christian Rector has assumed the role of president for 2025. Rector is the Division President of Arbor and Silverthorne Homes, a large-volume builder in Indianapolis. BAGI is dedicated to promoting, educating and serving its members and the housing industry in the Indianapolis area, actively supporting the ongoing growth in building permits and housing market activity. Learn more at bagi.com.
Tax prep assistance — AARP Tax-Aide is offering free tax preparation and electronic filing to low and moderate taxpayers of all ages at the Westfield Washington Public Library in Westfield on Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. through April 10. AARP membership is not required for assistance. Appointments are required. Schedule an appointment at 317-896-9391.
Westfield Winter Market — Westfield Welcome hosts the Westfield Winter Market — an indoor market featuring more than 50 vendors — every Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon through March 29, excluding March 1 at West Fork Whiskey Co., 10 E. 191st St. Weekly vendor lineups are available at westfieldwelcome.com.
Missing Children’s Day poster contest
— The Indiana State Police and the U.S. Department of Justice will sponsor the 2025 National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest. The contest provides an opportunity for schools, law enforcement, and parents to discuss and promote child safety. Established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, the day is dedicated to encouraging the community to make child safety a priority. The contest is open to Hoosier students in fifth grade, with a limit of one submission per child. Artwork should reflect the theme “Bringing Our Missing Children Home.” Contest rules can be found at tinyurl.com/ bdfwdbsthere. Submission deadline is Feb. 21, 2025.
Old Town Design Group’s self-guided tours are Feb 15-16. (Photo courtesy of Old Town Design Group)
Rector
JUST FOR LAUGHS
indie folk band
‘Jersey Boys’ veteran to guide Beef & Boards show
JUST FOR LAUGHS
Four decades later, stand-up routine still fun for Foxworthy
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jeff Foxworthy has written several books, hosted TV game shows and radio shows, starred in his own sitcom and recorded comedy albums, but stand-up comedy is still the thing he enjoys most.
“It’s funny. When I quit my job at IBM to try this, I secretly hoped I’d be able to get away with it for two or three years,” he said. “It never dawned on me that I could make a lifelong career out of it. Now, I’ve been doing it for 41 years. I love the time on the stage. I am over the airports and hotel rooms. Now when I do a show, I jokingly say the show is free. You are paying me to get on another plane and sleep in another hotel
room.”
Foxworthy will perform at 8 p.m. Feb. 21 at Fishers Event Center. His longtime friend Reno Collier is the opening act. The performance is presented by the Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation.
“I’m big on education because I’m two decisions from drywalling,” Foxworthy said. “It’s amazing to me how you can change people’s lives with education.”
Laughter can change lives. Foxworthy said it often seems like Americans have been yelling at each other for a long time and have forgotten how to laugh at themselves.
“I don’t think laughter makes people’s problems go away, but it is a relief valve that keeps the boiler from exploding,” he said. “It’s a coping mechanism. I think the more we can laugh,
especially laugh at ourselves, the more mentally healthy we are to deal with the rest of life.”
The 66-year-old comedian said he often gets asked why he doesn’t retire.
“Why would I quit doing something I really enjoy doing?” he said. “It's changed so much over the decades of doing it. I think I was fortunate as a comedian that I discovered early on what worked for me. I just figured out if my wife or family member was doing or saying something, other people were thinking, saying and doing the same thing. That’s always the template I’ve come up with ideas for. It’s very rewarding when people come backstage and say, ‘You’ve been in my house.’ It’s been a wonderful way to make a living. I kind of feel like I cheated life.”
Foxworthy said he marvels at the different aspects of his career.
“When you are in the middle of it, you are just trying to be creative,” he said. “You look back and say, ‘I had some pretty productive years.’”
Foxworthy said he has slowed down on some of his activities so he can enjoy more time as a grandparent.
“I paint and draw and do a lot of different things,” he said. “My wife says if I’m not doing something creative, I’ll explode. I found just different creative things. I just wrote a movie with a friend and I’m tinkering around with a novel -- doing some things I thought might be fun but never had the time to do.”
Foxworthy is no stranger to performing in larger arenas. He spent six years on the Blue Collar Comedy Tour with his friends Bill Engvall, Ron White and Larry the Cable Guy.
“We were doing arenas. Financially for me, it was a boon, but it’s a weird show for me as a comic because I’ve always thought comedy is kind of an intimate thing,” he said. “Even to this day, if I’m working on new material, I go back to itty bitty clubs. Some might hold 75 people.”
Foxworthy prefers to perform at a small club on a Monday or Tuesday instead of a weekend because he said he feels he gets a more honest audience reaction.
“I love that intimate environment,” Foxworthy said. “One of the things that has always kept standup interesting to me is you never get to the point that you have it figured out. After four decades, you think I would know what people will laugh at, but I can still be dead wrong. But that makes it fun and interesting.”
Foxworthy’s fame started with his “You Might Be a Redneck ...” routine. He turned it into a joke-a-day calendar.
“We did the first one in 1990, and I remember two or three years after saying to my brother, ‘I don’t know if there are 365 more (redneck jokes) out there,’” he said. “I just finished the calendar for 2026. Thirty-six years later, it’s still one of the bestselling page-a-day calendars. I don’t do it much on stage anymore because I figure people want to hear something on stage they haven’t heard before. I need to go back and see how many I’ve written because it’s got to be close to 10,000 (one-liners).”
For tickets, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
Jeff Foxworthy will perform at 8 p.m. Feb. 21 at Fishers Event Center. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Event Center)
EVENTS CALENDER
‘PRIDE & PREJUDICE’
Through Feb. 22
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. The show is a spirited and refreshing take on the Jane Austen classic.
For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
‘JERSEY BOYS’
Feb. 14 - April 13
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents the fascinating secret of a 40-year friendship that led Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom.
For tickets and showtimes, visit beefandboards.com.
STEVE WARINER
Feb. 21
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
KALANI PE'A
Feb. 22
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
INDIANAPOLIS OPERA: 50TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY GALA CONCERT
March 22
In celebration of 50 years of championing the vocal arts, Indianapolis Opera presents a legacy gala concert at the historic Hilbert Circle Theater in collaboration with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra for the first time in 20 seasons. The event will showcase returning opera stars and worldrenowned alumni from IO’s many decades of artistry in the heart of Indiana, alongside members of the Indianapolis Opera Chorus, in a special evening presentation of opera favorites and classic lyric theater hits. For tickets and showtimes, visit indyopera.com
DON WAS & THE PAN-DETROIT ENSEMBLE
Feb. 28
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
‘AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE’
March 1
Presented by Indiana Wind Symphony at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This special concert will feature a captivating arrangement of Bologne's "Overture to L'Amant Anonyme," alongside other chamber works. For tickets and showtimes, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
CRIME JUNKIE PODCAST LIVE: LIFE RULE #10 TOUR
March 6
‘CAT IN THE HAT’
Feb. 25 - March 6
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
TOM SEGURA: COME TOGETHER TOUR
Feb. 28
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
Award-winning podcasters Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat will present the Crime Junkie Life Rule #10 Tour which is billed as an unforgettable true crime experience. For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
'LIFT EVERY VOICE'
A Celebration of Black History Through Music at the Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Opera star Angela Brown will lend her powerful voice to Indianapolis Wind Symphony’s tribute to Black History Month.
Brown, a soprano who lives in Indianapolis. will perform on three pieces during the Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Lift Every Voice” concert, set for 4 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“She will perform a suite of traditional gospel songs that are in a nontraditional setting,” IWS Music Director Jay S. Gephart said.
The suite is by composer Luigi Zaninelli. In the second half of the concert, Brown will perform two arias by composer Giacomo Puccini.
Gephart said several of the composers featured in the concert are Black. One of those composers is Omar Thomas, who is on the faculty of the University of Texas. The concert will include his piece “Our New Day Begun.”
The concert includes “Kaleidoscope Eyes” by Katahji Copley, a doctoral student at Michigan State University.
Gephart said trumpet player Jim Butz will perform a “beautiful” arrangement to compos-
“Summertime.”
The concert includes a tribute piece, “Salvation is Created,” to Janis Stockhouse, who died in December 2024. She was the Bloomington North High School band director for 38 years before retiring in 2019.
“She was one of the most respected band directors in the country,” Gephart said. “Her Bloomington North jazz band played at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago on three occasions. She won the Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor, which is the highest recognition the Midwest Clinic will give.”
In 2005, Stockhouse received the James B. Calvert Award, given annually to outstanding music educators at an IWS concert.
IWS assistant conductor Evan Cooper will be the guest conductor on “Castles in Europe.”
“We’re also doing a traditional march called ’Steadfast Leadership,’ which was done in honor of the 50th graduating class at West Point,” Gephart said. “The composer is Dwayne Milburn, who was the chief arranger for the United States Army Band for a number of years.”’
For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
Soprano Angela Brown will be guest vocalist at Indiana Wind Symphony's Concert. (File photo) er Dave Wolpe’s
A FRESH SPIN
‘Jersey Boys’ veteran to guide Beef & Boards production
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Candi Boyd will never grow weary of her ties to “Jersey Boys.”
“I love ‘Jersey Boys,’” Boyd said. “I joined the cast of the first national tour in 2009, then the Broadway cast in 2011. I have had the opportunity to perform the show for over 11 years, in New York City, and all over the U.S. -- Las Vegas, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey.”
Boyd is the director/choreographer for Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Jersey Boys,” which runs Feb. 14 to April 13 at the Indianapolis venue. The story is based on the life story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
“I feel so lucky that I have had the privilege to work on one of the best musicals in history for so long,” Boyd said. “I truly don’t tire of it, and now my kids even sing the songs around the house. I’ll happily work on ‘Jersey Boys’ forever.”
Boyd said the best aspect of the show is the brisk pace and momentum.
“Our story never stops, and the audience never gets to come up for air,’ Boyd said. “This translates into the ‘furniture-ography’ of the show, which is as precise as any dance move, and watching the tables and chairs all move perfectly in harmony is thrilling. As far as actual choreography, I adore the joy and sim-
plicity of the choreo of the era. It’s more about shapes and angles than kicking the highest, and the movement all originates from a place of style, bravado and individualism.”
Boyd said the Beef & Boards cast is made up of two categories.
“First are colleagues I have previously worked with on ‘Jersey Boys’ that are the best at what they do, and I begged them to come make me look good,” she said. “Second are the local folks that the theater knows and loves, who make the shows at Beef & Boards successful, no matter what the style. It’s a perfect mix.”
Boyd said because every stage size and cast is different, she said the choreography is different.
“There are definitely scenes, pictures, moments and choreography that are classic to the show and always remind in some form, like the ‘Walk Like a Man’ marches, but I always want to keep my vision fresh and ever changing and improving.”
Two of Boyd’s favorite numbers are “Short Shorts” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry.”
“The reason I like these so much is I’ve given them new and modern spins that they’ve never had in other productions,” Boyd said. “I also love the second act, where the scene work is lots of people leaving Frankie’s life, and between the scenes is a concert of Frankie singing ‘Bye, Bye, Baby.’ It’s such a beautifully written show.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Joseph Leo Bwarie. Candi Boyd and Richard Blake perform a “Jersey Boys” scene at Tony Awards. (Photo courtesy of Candi Boyd)
MALINGO'S RISE
How a solo project became a ‘darling’ indie folk band
By Jennifer A. Haire editorial@youarecurrent.com
Struggling to cope with his mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Jonny Gerber turned memories of his mom into music.
“That was a super therapeutic thing for me,” said Gerber, 38, founder, guitarist, singer and songwriter for the band Malingo. The name was inspired by Eric Clapton’s childhood alter ego, Johnny Malingo, who helped him cope with early life struggles.
Described as the Midwest’s “darling indie folk band,” Malingo’s semi-acoustic sound is a blend of folk, bluegrass and psychedelic blues.
Malingo will perform in the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“Malingo started just as a me thing,” said Gerber, adding that as the fan base grew on streaming platforms, so did requests for live performances.
“People started to reach out about booking us, and there was no us, it was just me,” he said.
Forming a band was a longtime dream for Gerber, a Danville resident who grew up in Avon. Malingo’s drummer, Josh Faudree, is from Fishers.
“I’d been in bands in high school and stuff,
and that was always in the back of my mind, something that I wanted to pursue,” Gerber said. “So, I reached out to some old friends and a couple people that I met online and formed up the band.”
Malingo’s first show was performed in front of a sold-out crowd at McGowan Hall in Indianapolis in January 2023. The five-piece band creates original songs using a unique mix of mandolin, hand percussion, banjo and sometimes a didgeridoo. The Palladium show will feature a 1940s vibraphone.
“If we’re writing something, we don’t necessarily put many limits on it. It just has to feel like a Malingo song,” Gerber said.
Malingo is trying to grow its global fan base and engage with fans on social media.
“We record every performance that we do so that we can release live albums and just put out lots of content,” Gerber said.
The band is developing a behind-the-music podcast where it explores its songwriting process.
Malingo has released new music monthly and about one to two albums per year since 2016. The band’s goal for 2025 is to present at least one show or livestream each month.
Tickets are $10, with free livestream access available during and after the show. To register for the livestream, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Malingo members, from left, Sam Mcguire, John Boyle, Jonny Gerber Josh Faudree and LJ, Aucker. (Photo courtesy of 40FI Creations)
THE STEPCREW
March 7
The Canadian Celtic ensemble StepCrew brings together three dance forms – Ottawa Valley stepdance, Irish stepdance and tap. For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A STEELY DAN TRIBUTE
March 7
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
COUPLES THERAPY: THE THEATRICAL SHOW
March 8
An evening of laughter and entertainment that is a unique and clever combination of theatre, stand-up comedy, and improv. For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
MIXED REP
March 9
Presented by Central Indiana Dance Ensamble at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Featuring an blend of classical, contemporary, and modern repertoire. For tickets and showtimes, visit cidedance. org/current-season.
HANK RUFF AND THE HELLBENDERS
March 11
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
March 14 - 29
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
GUTFELD LIVE '25
March 15
Join Greg Gutfeld and comedian Tom Shillue for an evening filled with laughter, insight and surprises. For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
APPALACHIAN SPRING
March 16
Presented by the Carmel Symphony Orchestra at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT
SWEATS: SOUTH OF HERE TOUR
March 18
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
TEGE HOLT: ALBUM RELEASE PARTY
March 20
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
WELCOME BACK: THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER
March 21
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
MICHAEL JR.'S FUNNY HOW MARRIAGE WORKS
March 22
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS
March 23
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
FORREST FRANK: CHILD OF GOD TOUR
PART 2
March 27
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
LANG LANG
March 28
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
BLAKE SHELTON
March 29
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
EMMYLOU HARRIS
April 3
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
SPRING EQUINOX
April 4 & 5
Presented by Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
A.J. CROCE: HEART OF THE ETERNAL TOUR
April 4
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE
April 5
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
DANCING IN THE STREETS
April 6
Presented by Indiana Wind Symphony at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This spring concert showcases a diverse range of music, from ballet to Broadway. For tickets and showtimes, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
PETER FRAMPTON: ‘LET'S DO IT AGAIN!’
April 11
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN
April 12
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
‘CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES’
April 17 - May 18
Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre presents the show that started it all. Times are changing
quickly in 1965, and they'll do all they can to keep things from boiling over below the house of God.
For tickets and showtimes, visit beefandboards.com.
EASTER PARADE IN CARMEL
April 19
Presented by The Carmel Symphony Orchestra at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
MEGAN MORONEY: ‘AM I OK TOUR?’
April 24
For tickets and showtimes, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
‘JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT’
April 25 - May 10
Presented by Civic Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre. org.
‘9 TO 5’
April 25 - May 11
Presented by Actors Theatre of Indianapolis at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. 9 to 5 is based on the 1980 movie of
the same name, and features music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. For tickets and showtimes, visit civictheatre.org.
MICKY DOLENZ OF THE MONKEES: AN EVENING OF SONGS & STORIES
April 11
For tickets and showtimes, visit thecenterpresents.com
‘WEST SIDE STORY’
May 9 - 11
Indianapolis Opera presents a musical classic, West Side Story! A modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, West Side Story is set in 1950s New York, where growing racial tensions between the Sharks, a gang of first-generation Puerto Rican immigrants, and the Jets, made up of ‘American’ boys, lead to an all-out street fight over territory. For tickets and showtimes, visit indyopera.org.
‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’
May 17 & 18
Presented by Central Indiana Dance Ensamble at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Dancers bring to life the timeless tale of Beauty and the Beast: a story of love and transformation, where Belle's compassion and bravery break the spell cast upon the Beast.
For tickets and showtimes, visit cidedance. org/current-season
‘NOCHES CALIENTES!’
May 18
Presented by Indiana Wind Symphony at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. This performance will feature classical and contemporary pieces crafted by acclaimed Latin composers and offers diverse musical genres and styles.
For tickets and showtimes, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
Current Publishing’s audience is known for its affinity for all things entertainment. The average distance one will drive for experiential opportunities is 42.5 miles, according to independent research. Current’s special section, APPLAUSE, will reach 131,191 households in the communities we serve by U.S. Mail. This section provides you with the opportunity to connect with even more arts enthusiasts than you might otherwise be reaching. Take your marketing messaging to center stage with the offerings below, and then take a bow.
Senior guard helps fuel Shamrocks’ success
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Senior Durante Morton went from playing basketball on the “B team” in eighth grade to becoming a varsity starter on the Westfield High School boys team midway through his sophomore year.
“He’s kind of a late bloomer,” WHS coach Shane Sumpter said. “The amount of energy he brings every game (is impressive). He took five charges in his sophomore year in the sectional game against Carmel. He had 10 offensive rebounds (against Brownsburg) in one of our games this season. With Durante, it’s all the intangible things. It’s all the things he brings from a defensive standpoint. He’s not a kid that scores a ton of points for us. It’s the leadership on the floor in practice and floor (that is valuable).”
Morton moved into the starting lineup as a sophomore when a teammate got injured.
“He went in, got his opportunity and just took advantage of it,” said Sumpter, who is helping Morton find the right fit to play college basketball. “He’s a great communi-
DURANTE MORTON
Favorite athlete: Paige Bueckers
Favorite musician: Frank Ocean
Favorite movie: “The Pursuit of Happyness”
Favorite sports team: Los Angeles Lakers
cator on the floor, He’s always talking. He’s a big reason (why we’re) as successful as we’ve been.”
As of Feb. 5, the 6-foot-2 guard was averaging 10.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. As a junior, Morton averaged 5.3 points and 2.4 assists per game.
“He gets so much out of who he is,” Sumpter said. “He’s not a 6-5, 6-7 kid, but
Westfield High School senior Durante Morton has improved throughout his high school career.
(Photo courtesy of Rock Media House)
he certainly plays that way. He’s a kid that had to wait his turn. That says a lot about his character.”
Sumpter said Morton worked hard to improve.
“The big jump was when he went to our freshman team, and I think he’s proved a lot of people wrong,” Sumpter said. Morton credits his hustle and passion for
the game for making the leap from eighthgrade “B” team player to varsity starter.
“The more I play this game, the easier it gets to love it,” Morton said. “I started playing basketball as soon as I was able to pick up a ball. I grew up in a basketball family, so it was a given that I was going to become a basketball player. I played football, too, growing up, but I stopped playing in the fourth grade because I just didn’t like it as much as basketball.”
Morton said the key to the team’s success is everyone playing their role.
“There are no egos on our team, and everyone knows what they are on the court for,” Morton said. “What makes me passionate about the game is the amount of people that depend on me to play well. Not letting my teammates, coaches and fans down really drives my passion. Our team’s goal for this postseason is to win the sectional and make a deep run into the postseason. Being in one of the hardest sectionals makes the feeling of winning it 10 times better.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
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Fishers-based influencer teams with Current
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Fishers resident Sean Hartwick gained a lot of experience in the real estate business as a child, with his family moving every couple of years for his dad’s work. That early experience led him to a career as a Realtor, which then led to a gig as an Instagram influencer.
COLLABORATION
Hartwick regularly posts videos on his Instagram account, @the317agent, about what’s happening in Fishers and the north Indy area, along with videos specific to the real estate market. He’s gained about 23,000 followers after only a couple of years and now he’s teaming up with Current Publishing to promote local news and events through social media.
Indiana was a repeat stop on his family’s moving adventures, Hartwick said, and the Indianapolis area felt like home base. He later earned a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University and eventually made his way to Southern California, where he met his wife, Amanda, who had lived in that area her whole life. After about
Sean Hartwick, whose Instagram handle is @ the317agent, with his dog Scout.
(Photo courtesy of Sean Hartwick)
four years in sunny, warm California, he said they chose to move to Fishers about three years ago.
“I brought Amanda back to Indianapolis for a month in February, just to test out if she liked it at the absolute coldest time it could be,” he said. “And she liked it.”
Hartwick started working in the local real estate business and said he wanted to find a different way to generate leads for home sales. He said he doesn’t like some of the traditional methods, like cold-calling people, which is how he ended up on Instagram.
“I wanted something where I could have
people come to me … rather than the other way around,” he said. “I don’t know if I would have made this Instagram (account) if I wasn’t a real estate agent, to be quite honest, but I did and I’m enjoying it. There’s a lot of benefits that come from the Instagram side of business, too — just meeting a lot of good people in the community and then shining a light on a lot of local establishments.”
He said his account is a low-key pitch for his business, with maybe 40 percent of posts focusing on housing and 60 percent about the community in general. He’s made videos about the new Fishers Event Center, for example, and his first collaboration with Current focuses on the Jan. 29 grand opening of the new Kroger store at 116th Street and Allisonville Road.
Hartwick said he’s excited about working with Current.
“Living here, we get the Current every single week, and it’s an awesome publication and I enjoy it,” he said. “I probably throw away most mail, and I keep the Current every time and I bring it inside.”
Follow Hartwick on Instagram at @the 317agent.
DISPATCHES
Rock strong – The Rock Strong Award presented by the Westfield Education Foundation is a quarterly award given to school and operations employees for the great work they do for Westfield Washington Schools and the Westfield community. Each quarter, all schools and operations will review nominations from staff, students, families and the community and select someone who represents its values and culture to receive the Rock Strong Award and a special gift. Nominate a WWS employee at tinyurl.com/kcex4w63.
Information at your fingertips – Did you know you can view various project proposals currently undergoing required approval processes in Westfield? The city’s official website provides residents with a quick glance into proposed projects that are slated to come before the city for various stages of planning through the Community Development tab. To view items, log on to www.westfield.in.gov and click on Government.
THE BEST OF WESTFIELD
41st annual Lantern Awards honor local leaders, businesses, servants
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Celebrating the best that Westfield has to offer was the theme of the 41st annual Lantern Awards Jan. 30, sponsored by The Farmers Bank and hosted by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce.
The tradition began in 1982 as Community Night. The celebration was redesigned in 2007 as the Lantern Awards. The lantern represents Westfield’s history and ties to the Underground Railroad. The awards symbolize a beacon of leadership, hope and possibility that exists in Westfield.
Nominations were submitted by members of the public. Honorees serve the community in a variety of ways, including as business owners, school district employees and civil servants.
Becky the Bakester was honored as the Small Business of the Year.
Owner Becky Lane started her business in her home kitchen in September 2020. She opened her Jersey Street bakery in 2024, offering homemade cake pops, pies, specialty marshmallows and cookies. Since her early beginnings, she’s baked sweet treats to support local organizations such as Westfield Washington Schools bands.
Lane thanked the chamber for their support in helping her small business succeed.
“The City of Westfield has been amazing,” she said. “I look out into the crowd and see so many (people) in the City of Westfield who we’ve worked with. I just want to say thank you, and I’m so happy to be in Westfield.”
Westfield Deputy Mayor Danielly Carey-Tolan was honored as Westfield Citizen of the Year. She is a former Westfield Washington Township trustee and helped create the Women of Westfield organization, where she served as the founding president and assisted in its efforts to achieve nonprofit status.
“Westfield is a great place to be,” she said. “Everybody in this room also deserves this award, because we can’t serve and commit to this community as one (person). It’s a group effort.”
The Healthcare Award of Distinction was awarded to The Cabin Counseling and Resource Center. The Cabin is a nonprofit counseling center founded in Zionsville 25
years ago. The organization expanded to Westfield six years ago.
“When we came to Westfield, I can honestly tell you that the reception and everything we received from the chamber, from businesses, from organizations has been superior,” executive director Laura Weaver said. “It’s been a warm welcome for us for the last six years and we’ll hopefully be here for many more.”
Westfield Police Department Chief Shawn
Keen presented the First Responders Award of Distinction to Det. Leeann Carter. Keen said Carter displays a commitment to victim advocacy, particularly in her investigative work with children.
“She often goes above and beyond in her fundamental role in ensuring their safety and well-being while bringing justice and comfort to those who are in the most vulnerable situations,” he said.
Carter said her role in the special investi-
41ST ANNUAL LANTERN AWARDS HONOREES
Community Volunteer
Award of Distinction
Community First Bank of Indiana
Westfield Washington
Schools Award of Distinction
Jean Jackson
Healthcare Award of Distinction
The Cabin Counseling and Resource Center
First Responders
Award of Distinction
Westfield Police Department
Detective Leeann Carter
Community Event of the Year
Total Solar Eclipse at Grand Park, Westfield Welcome
Young Professional of the Year
Kristen Mix, Westfield Welcome
City of Westfield Employee Award of Distinction
Jenell Fairman, Director of Economic Development Westfield Citizen of the Year
Danielle Carey-Tolan, Westfield Deputy Mayor Westfield Chamber
Lifetime Achievement Award
Birch Dalton, Edgerock Development
Outstanding Service Organization of the Year
Humane Society for Hamilton County New Partner of the Year
HNTB
Large Business of the Year
Church Church Hittle + Antrim Midsize Business of the Year
Bondry Consulting Small Business of the Year
Becky the Bakester
gators unit at WPD is one that comes easy.
“It’s hard work and it’s exhausting, but I get to go to work and smile and laugh every day because I work with the most selfless group of people,” she said. “I’m thankful to be in this city and get to work with this police department.”
Westfield Washington Schools Superintendent Paul Kaiser presented the WWS Award of Distinction — the oldest award given by the chamber — to Jean Jackson. The award is given to an employee or former employee of WWS who makes a significant contribution to the school district. An 18-year employee of WWS, Jackson has served as custodian, supply courier and internal mail carrier.
“She’s everywhere and she has a kind soul and a caring heart,” Kaiser said. “It was such an easy nomination because there’s no better person to represent the heart and soul of Westfield Washington Schools.”
Founded in 1981, the Westfield Chamber of Commerce serves businesses and residents with partnerships, resources, sponsorships and events that support economic development, professional development and promotion of events and activities within the city and business community.
“Westfield is a vibrant and growing community. Our chamber plays a crucial role in fostering economic development, supporting local businesses and enhancing the quality of life for all residents,” Westfield Chamber of Commerce Chair Nolar Barr said. “As chairman, my vision is to strengthen our partnerships, innovate our approaches and ensure that every business — big or small — feels valued and supported. We’re at a unique point in time where collaboration and innovation are more important than ever, and I am committed to working closely with (chamber members) to find new opportunities, address challenges and create and support a thriving business environment. By working together, we can achieve remarkable things.”
Learn more about chamber activities at westfieldchamberindy.com.
ON THE COVER:Westfield Police Department Chief
Shawn Keen congratulates Detective Leeann Carter on receiving the First Responder Award of Distinction. (Photo courtesy of Whitey Moore Photography)
Westfield Washington Schools Superintendent Paul Kaiser presented the WWS Award of Distinction to 18-year district employee Jean Jackson. (Photo courtesy of Whitey Moore Photography)
Westfield Chamber of Commerce President Courtney Albright with Small Business of the Year winner Becky Lane, owner of Becky the Bakester.
Editor,
READERS’ VIEWS Park would honor legacy of Underground Railroad
Regarding Mayor (Scott) Willis stating that the city is planning on a possible park dedicated to the Underground Railroad:
How great it was to read that the future plans of Westfield’s unavoidable development will honor the city’s involvement in the Underground Railroad.
As a native of Georgia (with a stint in NYC and Chicago), my wife and I moved to Westfield in 2017 to raise our family.
As a history buff, then history major and now history teacher, when first I
learned that Westfield was founded by Quaker abolitionists from the South, I became extremely proud to call Westfield home.
I love the fact that I can share with my two young children how the place where they are growing up has meaningful and positive links to one our country’s harrowing time periods. I truly hope that the plans for the future park observing this respectable piece of Westfield’s story come to fruition!
David
Barronton, Westfield
“When first I learned that Westfield was founded by Quaker abolitionists from the South, I became extremely proud to call Westfield home.”
– DAVID BARRONTON
Spot-on shopping strategy
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
This past week, I did a little shopping to find some warm apparel for our trip to Iceland. I don’t like buying new clothes because I always seem to spill something on them.
HUMOR
If I enjoy my meal at a particular restaurant, I wear the same shirt the next time I am there. When the waiter asks what I’d like for dinner and I have trouble remembering the great choice I made the previous time, I just point to the appropriate spot on my shirt. The server knows exactly what I want.
My wife Mary Ellen also went shopping for our vacation. A woman’s shopping spree lasts longer than a man’s, so I was home for about two hours before Mary Ellen pulled into the driveway. When she walked into the house, I was trying on a pair of pants I had purchased.
“You have a stain on your pants,” Mary Ellen said.
“That’s impossible. I haven’t even worn them yet.”
“They must really know their customers at Macy’s. They pre-stained them for you.”
“Well, I guess I can’t wear those to dinner,” I said, hoping to return them and get my money back.
“I think you should wear them, anyway,” Mary Ellen said. “You’re missing a few food groups in your collection. That may be something new you’ve never spilled.”
Then, I reached into the package and pulled out the flannel shirt I had also bought. This was perfect for our trip.
“That’s another bad choice,” Mary Ellen said.
“Why?”
“It has a smudge under the second button.”
Sure enough, once again I had purchased something brand new that had somehow anticipated its unavoidable destiny to be dripped on.
“When the waiter asks what I’d like for dinner and I have trouble remembering the great choice I made the previous time, I just point to the appropriate spot on my shirt. The server knows exactly what I want.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
“Wait a second, Mary Ellen, my tie will cover the problem.”
“That’s a super idea, Dick, a tie with a flannel shirt. It’s too bad the Mickey Mouse tie you packed also has a stain on both his ears. Not that you need a tie in Iceland. Did you read the dress code for the trip? We’re going to Iceland, not Disneyland. And I know why you like flannel shirts. All the new drippings blend in together.”
On a previous cruise, I ordered shrimp cocktail and effortlessly completed my spillage.
“That needs to be soaked in cold water,” my wife said when we were back in our cabin. So, I threw it overboard.
After we returned home from our vacation, I washed my clothes and tried to remove the soiled areas, but what remained was evidence of some fine Italian wine and a delicious chicken parmigiana dish. Mary Ellen took more than 1,000 photos on that trip to create lasting memories.
I had a better idea. Let’s just say my approach was spot on.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
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 oncemonthly 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.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
LIFESTYLE
Across
1. IU athletics shoe sponsor
7. WFYI science show
11. Droop
14. Spanish wine city
15. Forehead
16. “Evil Woman” grp.
17. The ___ Brothers Band
18. Where to find the mountain gap HOOSIER PASS
20. App with pics, familiarly
22. Weather zones
23. Family room
25. African desert
28. Give a hoot
29. Smiley face in a text, e.g.
31. Tehran residents
33. Mideast ruler
34. Company with a crocodile logo
35. Kind of IUPUI prof
37. Snoring, in comics
38. Ritchey Woods Nature
Preserve trees
42. Sandwich cookie
44. Villain’s look
46. Cowboy movies
50. Metro ___ (local eatery)
51. Naked
52. Grating
54. Colts stats
55. Speaker on a soapbox
57. Big mess
59. Location of the motorsports store HOOSIER KARTSPORT
62. Delphi HS mascot
65. Spelling contest
66. Sam’s Gyros bread
67. Closed one eye quickly
68. Goof
69. Flower part
70. Enthusiastic consent Down
1. Doc bloc 2. Mavericks, on a Pacers
scoreboard
3. Home of the pie company HOOSIER MAMA and the Southern rock band HOOSIER DADDY
4. “___ Yankees”
5. Two-time US Open tennis champ
6. Mr. Claus
7. WTHR network
8. Spanish gold 9. Lava spewer 10. Truant GI
Sailor 12. Birch relatives
Gaggle member
Costa ___ 21. Tuna type 23. Sandra or Ruby 24. Jane Austen heroine
26. Site of the restaurant HOOSIER CAFE
27. Tease
30. Eleventh graders at
Westfield HS
32. Wedding vow
36. Youngster
37. Zilch
39. Boxing legend
40. Setting for the transportation service HOOSIER RIDE
41. Plant starter
43. Military newbie
45. They have Xings
46. More cautious
47. Pencil end
48. Zionsville HS volleyball match parts
49. 30-Down, next yr.
50. Darlin’
51. Cold molded dessert
53. Ashley Brown’s wintry forecast
56. “My bad!”
58. Boilermakers boosters
60. GPS reading
61. Beatles: “___ the Walrus”
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