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City announces 2026 arts grants recipients Page 3

Ex-CCI board chair appeals suit dismissal

Tuesday, January 6, 2026 youarecurrent.com

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Kocher becomes new Ham. Co. prosecutor Page 6

100-year-old vet shares memories of WWII Page 8

LEADING THE PACK Enhanced amenities, services land Carmel among Better Cities for Pets Page 13

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Friday, January 16 Carmel Arts & Design District

Saturday, January 17 Ice at Carter Green Carmel Fire Department chili cook-off

Saturday, January 24 Hero-Olympic games with city departments in the morning and local teams in the afternoon.

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City unveils 2026 arts grants recipients By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com The City of Carmel recently unveiled its 2026 arts grants recipients, a list of 27 organizations and amounts largely unchanged from 2025. Carmel will provide nearly $1.38 million in arts support in 2026, which is a 1 percent boost in spending from the previous year. Three organizations that received small grants last year (Cinematography for Actors Institute, Hamilton County Artist Association and The Point Theatre) will not receive funds in 2026, while three new ones will (Discovering Broadway, Janus Developmental Services and Lantern Islamic Theater Company). The city has provided nearly $20 million to local arts organizations since launching the grant program in 2004. “Through consistent, strategic investment in our arts institutions and organizations, we are fostering economic vitality and (elevating) Finkam Carmel’s overall quality of life,” Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam stated. “The artistic culture thriving in our city is, without question, a strong economic driver that enriches the lives of our residents, visitors and business community alike.” For many years, Carmel has dedicated 1 percent of its general fund budget to support the arts. During 2026 budget discussions, Finkam proposed decreasing that amount as city officials looked for ways to cut costs in response to Senate Enrolled Act 1. The new law decreases property tax bills for many Hoosiers while lowering related revenues municipalities initially expected to receive. As a result, Carmel is set to receive $10 million less

2026 ARTS GRANTS RECIPIENTS The following organizations received a 2026 arts grant from the City of Carmel: Organization Total Allocation Difference from 2025 Actors Theatre of Indiana $210,000 +$5,000 Bigger Picture Film Group $2,500 $0 Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre $210,000 +$5,000 Carmel Apprentice Theater $70,000 $0 Carmel Arts Council $3,983 -$2,017 Carmel Clay Historical Society $5,000 $0 Carmel Community Players $13,500 $0 Carmel International Arts Festival $52,000 -$4,000 Carmel Klavier $20,000 $0 Carmel Symphony Orchestra $280,000 +$5,000 Central Indiana Dance Ensemble $32,000 +$2,000 Discovering Broadway $5,000 NEW Great American Songbook Fnd. $210,000 +$2,000 Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre $105,000 +$2,000 Indiana Artisan $34,000 $0 Indiana Assoc. of Chinese Americans $3,500 $0 Indiana Ballet Conservatory $38,000 +$2,000 Indiana Wind Symphony $39,187 -$1,313 Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra $2,000 $0 Indianapolis Opera $15,000 $0 Indianapolis Symphonic Choir $5,000 $0 International Talent Academy $5,500 -$500 Janus Developmental Services $2,000 NEW Lantern Islamic Theater Company $1,000 NEW M3 Theatre Camp $2,500 -$500 Museum of Miniature Houses $4,500 $0 Nrityangan Kathak $4,000 -$500 TOTAL $1,375,170 in property tax revenue in 2026 than originally projected, with a steeper decrease in 2027. Before approving the 2026 budget, the Carmel City Council amended it to align arts grants spending with the

rate approved in 2025. Arts grant recipients will participate in free training on nonprofit operations, grant management and funding provided by the Hamilton County Community Foundation.

DISPATCHES  Recycle holiday lights – Carmel residents can recycle holiday lights at White’s Ace Hardware & Garden Center at 731 S. Range Line Rd. through Jan. 9. 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.

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 Earth Day art contest – Carmel Green Initiative is inviting students in kindergarten through eighth grade to enter the 2026 Earth Day art contest. Art entries will be displayed at several local exhibits to inspire the community to live more sustainably. Contest details are available through Feb. 6 at CarmelGreen.org.

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Former CCI board chair appeals lawsuit dismissal or behaved incompetently. McDermott told Current that she felt a responsibility to move forward with The former board chair of nonprofit her claim “in the hope that the full Carmel Christkindlmarkt Inc. is appeal- truth will ultimately be revealed to our ing the dismissal of her defamacommunity.” tion lawsuit against Mayor Sue “When I filed my claim, I reFinkam and the City of Carmel. quested a jury trial and served Sue McDermott filed the written discovery requests to notice of appeal Dec. 12. Hamsupport my defamation claim ilton County Judge Jon Brown to gather full information from dismissed McDermott’s lawsuit the city and the mayor about Nov. 14, ruling that the mayor’s what transpired,” McDermott McDermott comments about McDermott did stated. “The city’s efforts to have not meet the threshold of being considmy case dismissed prevented the true ered defamatory. facts from being released and seen by In the lawsuit, which was filed April the public. My goal has always been to 29 of last year, McDermott claimed provide full transparency surrounding Finkam defamed her when she stated the mayor’s actions with respect to the in public meetings, to reporters and on Christkindlmarkt.” her personal social media page, that McDermott resigned from the ChristMcDermott and the CCI board failed to kindlmarkt board in October 2024, the provide requested financial informaday after Finkam removed and replaced tion. McDermott claims she promptly its two other members. provided every piece of financial inforThe Carmel City Council voted in May mation requested by the city. to launch an investigation into the CCI In his ruling, Brown stated that board shakeup and subsequent resigFinkam’s allegations that McDermott nation of former director Maria Adele failed to provide requested financial Rosenfeld. The investigation is ongoing. documents is not an accusation of “outSamantha Karn, City of Carmel’s corright misconduct” and could be interporation counsel, declined to comment preted that McDermott made a mistake on pending litigation.

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The Carmel Clay Public Library’s Joyce Winner West Branch. (Photo courtesy of CCPL)

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Longtime deputy becomes county prosecutor By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

THE CITY OF CARMEL

C O M M E M O R AT I O N D R . M A R T I N L U T H E R K I N G , J R . D AY C E R E M O N Y

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Before becoming a prosecutor, Josh Kocher planned to become a biblical archaeologist. He got an undergraduate degree in the field, but ongoing tensions in the Middle East kept him from pursuing his plans. So, he went to law school. As it turns out, the two careers aren’t all that different. “When you take a step back and think about it, there is a pretty strong correlation between a criminal case and an archeological site, especially when you get into things like murder cases,” Kocher said. “You’re analyzing it for crime, for evidence, artifacts, and piecing together what happened.” Kocher became Hamilton County’s prosecuting attorney Dec. 30 during a Republican Party caucus. The caucus didn’t reach a quorum, so party chair Mario Massillamany appointed Kocher — the only candidate in the running — to the role. The position opened when county prosecutor Greg Garrison announced in early December that he would resign because of health concerns. Garrison, a former talk radio host who largely avoided media appearances during his time in office, did not respond to a request for comment. Kocher said Garrison, who was elected in 2022, always intended to only serve a single term, although he didn’t initially plan to step down early. Approximately a year ago, Kocher launched a campaign to run for county prosecutor in the 2026 election. Kocher, a 2006 graduate of the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, joined the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office in 2006 as a deputy prosecutor. He became chief deputy prosecutor in 2023 and briefly served as interim prosecutor between Garrison’s Dec. 20 departure and the caucus. The North Central High School graduate said he doesn’t plan to make any drastic changes to how the office is run but that there may be some “little course corrections.” “My goal is for us to be the most professional prosecutor’s office and to continue to maintain the special place

From left, Hamilton County Prosecutor Josh Kocher with Mario Massallimany, chair of the Hamilton County Republican Party. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County)

that Hamilton County is,” he said. “It is a very safe place to live. We have a very good quality of life here. I want to keep it that way.” In recent years, the prosecutor’s office has become more aggressive in seeking waivers to try certain juvenile cases in adult court, Kocher said. He plans to continue those efforts. “So much of the gun violence in Marion County is juveniles. I don’t want that happening here,” Kocher said. “I don’t want to wake up to the news of either school shootings or an argument that turns into a shootout over something that’s just not at all necessary. So, getting the word out that this is not an acceptable place to bring a gun is a big step in that direction.” Kocher said he also plans to continue filing charges, when appropriate, for dealing in a controlled substance resulting in death. The charge, enabled by a 2018 change in state law, allows for prosecution of high-level drug dealers in fatal overdose cases, even when they did not directly provide the substance to the user. A case in Hamilton County became the test case for the new law, Kocher said, which resulted in it being found constitutional and leading to a 40-year sentence for the dealer. Kocher and his wife live in Carmel with their two daughters.

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$9.5M to help fund interchange By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com The Hamilton County Commissioners approved a funding agreement for the construction of the 146th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway interchange and recognized emergency personnel at their final meeting of the year Dec. 18.

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 WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners approved an agreement with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization regarding construction of the 146th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway interchange.  WHAT IT MEANS: The agreement is for an award of federal exchange dollars in the amount of $9,490,194 that will go toward construction.  WHAT’S NEXT: The construction project is expected to begin in 2026. The purpose of the project is to improve the efficiency and safety of the intersection. The design team is evaluating multiple intersection options to determine which configuration best meets these goals.  WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners presented a proclamation of appreciation for emergency personnel for their work on the 2025 Hamilton County Domestic Terrorism Preparedness Initiative in November.  WHAT IT MEANS: The training involved participation from the police and fire departments in Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville and Westfield and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the Ascension St. Vincent Police Department, Indiana State Police, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, the East Madison Fire Department, Hamilton County 911 Communications, Hamilton County Emergency Management, Ruoff Music Center and the Arena at Innovation Mile. Hamilton County first responders conducted a full-scale training exercise at Ruoff Music Center, which involved more than 400 public safety officials and more than 550 volunteer citizens, resulting in the largest fullscale public safety training exercise in Indiana.

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100-year-old World War II veteran shares memories By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com World War II veteran Jules Goudy understands that with each passing year, he becomes part of a dwindling population. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 45,418 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War I were alive as of 2025. A 100-year-old Noblesville resident, Goudy was drafted out of Fortville High School (later part of consolidation into Mt. Vernon High School) in 1943. He served in the U.S. Army from October 1943 to April 1946. Goudy visited the Clay Township Military Library and Museum in Carmel Dec. 27. He had attended the Honor Flight breakfast at The Barrington in Carmel earlier that day and went on an Honor Flight to visit the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., in October 2024. Goudy served in Germany and the Philippines during the war. “Our division was training in California for amphibious landings,” he said. “When the Battle of the Bulge developed, (Supreme Allied Commander Dwight) Eisenhower brought an extra division over there because he heard the Germans were reinforcing. So, we were transferred from California to Boston in February (1945) and then across the Atlantic and landed in France.” The unit then went to Austria and met up with soldiers from the Russian Army in early May. Germany surrendered on May 7, 1945. “We were trained for amphibious (fighting), and the war hadn’t ended with Japan yet,” he said. “As we were traveling to San Francisco to go across the Pacific (Ocean), the war ended. We ended up in the Philippines as kind of an occupation force. All in all, I spent over 70 days at sea, which is a lot more than some Navy guys did.” Goudy, who spent eight months in the Philippines, started with basic training and then was supposed to attend colleges and universities for specialized training. “But the day we finished our basic training, they suspended that program,” he said. “The whole 86th Di-

Jules Goudy, a 100-year-old World War II veteran, visits the Clay Township Military Library and Museum in Carmel Dec. 27. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

vision was sent to Camp Livingston in Louisiana. A few of the guys were musicians, so we formed a dance band. We did USO shows or combo shows for officer club dances.” Goudy, who played trumpet in the band, said since turning 100 June 17 last year, he has been asked to share his story more frequently. “People want to know, because there are so few of us left,” he said. “I wasn’t part of the front line (combat). I always thought it would have been great if I kept a little diary.” Goudy’s wife, Audrey, died in December 2020 after 69 years of marriage. Two of Goudy’s four adult children live in Noblesville and the other two live in the New Castle area. After the war, Goudy studied to be a music educator at Butler University. He taught and was a high school band director for two years but didn’t enjoy it much. Goudy and his wife moved to Colorado, where he worked for the U.S. Postal Service. He eventually transferred to New Castle to be closer to family. He retired at age 59 in 1985. Goudy said genes might be responsible for his longevity, as his father lived until he was 99. “I don’t have any health issues except for stiff joints,” said Goudy, who quit smoking in 1954. “But I can’t complain.”

COMMUNITY DISPATCHES  Indiana Authors Awards nominees sought — Indiana Humanities is accepting nominations for the 2026 Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Awards. Books published between Jan. 1, 2024, and Dec. 31, 2025, are eligible. Nominations will be accepted until Jan. 9. To learn more about the Indiana Authors Awards, visit IndianaAuthorsAwards.org.

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 4-H callout — 4-H enrollment is underway in Hamilton County, and this year’s theme is “Wicked For Good.” There is an in-person call-out event from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 7 at 2003 Pleasant St. in Noblesville. In Hamilton County, 4-H is an experiential program for youth in grades 3-12 that is delivered by Purdue University Cooperative Extension. The enrollment target date is Jan. 15, and participating students must reenroll each year. For more, contact the Purdue Extension Hamilton County Office at 317-776-0854.

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 Rental registration deadline extended — In support of an ordinance approved by the Carmel City Council that establishes a mandatory registration and permitting system for all residential rental dwellings in the city, an online system opened Dec. 1 for residents to register their rental properties. The ordinance included a provision for Legacy Dwellings — rental properties existing prior to the enforcement date of Feb. 1 (a month later than previously approved). This means that dwellings registered by Jan. 31 will be issued a permit, regardless of whether they are in a subdivision with more than 10 percent rentals. Register at bit.ly/49owvRo.  Senate page program applications available — The Indiana Senate is accepting applications for the 2026 Senate Page Program. Through the full-day program, students in grades six through 12 tour Indiana’s Statehouse, listen to debates from the Senate floor and help staff with age-appropriate tasks. Students also have the opportunity to meet their state senator. The program begins in January and continues throughout the legislative session. Eligible students can serve as a Senate Page one day per legislative session and receive an excused absence from school. For more, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Page-Program.

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HCPR staff receives emergency training What can you use outside the box that you have around you? Maybe (use) a piece of cloth to make a tourniquet Hamilton County Parks and Recrewith. So, it is how to manage individuation has partnered with the Hamilton als from the time the incident occurred County Health Department to train until the time when advanced care gets staff to help them handle emergency there.” situations. Additionally, the staff reThe training, led by HCHD ceived QPR suicide prevention Health Education and Outreach awareness training. QPR stands Coordinator James Ginder, for question, persuade and refer. focused on Narcan administraGinder shared how the traintion, Stop the Bleed and suicide ing supplied individuals with prevention awareness. insight into how to initiate conStop the Bleed is a certificaversations with people who may Ginder tion program of the American be at risk and provide them with College of Surgeons offering strategies the appropriate resources and plan of to stop life-threatening bleeding. action depending on their condition. “It teaches the individual, No. 1, (to) “I’m really happy that the parks make sure the scene is safe, assess the department has paired up with us,” individual and what type of bleeding Ginder said. “This is valuable training. they are presenting with,” Ginder said. It can be used in (the trainees’) personal “Is it something that we need to do lives as well.” direct pressure or place a tourniquet Naloxone, AEDs, first aids kits and on? And (it) also teaches them what other resources have been placed withhappens if you don’t have a tourniquet. in Hamilton County parks. By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com

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Daily devotional book explores storms of life putting your toe into the Bible, because the Bible, if you open it up, can be very overwhelming. In the Christian world, devotionals are the bestselling books because they give people a little start.” Osborne said it takes five minutes a day to read the devotion. Each chapter starts with one word, and there are five stories in each chapter.

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Julie Osborne chose a popular story from the Bible to create a devotional book. The Carmel resident, who graduated from Christian Theological Seminary, recently released “Walk on Water: A 12week Devotional on Trust, Turbulence, and Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus.” Osborne said she explores each step of the story from Matthew 14, where Jesus sent his disciples into a storm and Peter’s bold step of faith into the turbulent water. Through the account, Osborne said readers are encouraged through the daily lessons to stop sinking and start walking. In the biblical account, Jesus called Peter out of the boat. “He took a step out of the boat,” Osborne said. “He was doing great until he got distracted and fearful. He went down and then, of course, Jesus was there. It’s really a great story of just a faith walk because we all have challenges. We all have encountered storms

“My goal was to try to keep it simple, so each week is based around a theme,” said Osborne, who has been guiding Bible studies for more than 20 years. “I’m going to have a Facebook group starting in January to do the devotional each week together.” The book is available on Amazon. For more, visit julieosborne.com.

OBITUARY Julie Osborne, with her dog Toto, wrote a 12week devotional book. (Photo courtesy of Julie Osborne)

and difficulties in life. We all have those opportunities to do something new and different. Are we going to step out of our own boat, or are we going to stay safe?” Osborne said she chose to make the devotional 12 weeks because it’s a good way to establish a habit. “It’s a daily devotion, so my goal is to break this into pieces, so they’re manageable and people can understand them,” she said. “I always say it’s like

Sue Potasnik, a skilled card player whether she held the right bower or nothing but nines, was dealt in by Esther Brown Parker on February 25, 1938 and played her last hand on November 21, 2025. Sue played life like she played cards: boldly and confidently. As she always said, “a card laid is a card played.” Long before her favorite card-table sayings became lore, Sue was already shaping her bold approach to life. She spent her humble early years in Saginaw (MI), graduating from Arthur Hill High School in June 1956. Shortly after, Sue enrolled in St. Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing: a moment of calling trump that set the course for a long and varied career. She delighted her grandchildren with stories of unexpected plays during nursing school, including times she snuck out with her pants rolled up under her skirt—always noting that a little mischief was fine, so long as you didn’t get caught. Sue graduated as a nurse in August 1959 with a group of women who would remain friends throughout the years. With the confidence of someone unafraid to “go alone” when she needed to, Sue’s nursing career spanned multiple states; however, no place caught her heart in quite the same way as Carmel (IN). Sue’s understanding of when to lead drove her to expand her work beyond the hospital, where she became one of the first women elected to office: serving on the Carmel City Council (1980–1988, president in 1983) as well as the Plan Commission (1980–1991). Sue was also a regular volunteer in the Friends Library Bookstore at the Carmel Clay Public Library. Sue left her mark not only through service, but through the relationships she built and sustained, often around her own table. When friends and family came over, they would typically settle onto the “interview couch,” snacking on cheese and crackers or mixed nuts while Sue presided from her “throne,” the living room wing chair. From there, she dealt conversation with the same fairness and clarity she brought to every hand, moving easily from

topic to topic. It was no surprise that her love of cards led her to bridge and another circle of lifelong friends. An evening out with Sue, whether at Woodland Country Club or another Carmel restaurant, was never a short one; someone would always stop by to say hello, and the conversation would simply widen to make room. While Sue ran her home and family like a tight table—no whining, no cheating, and above all, no dramatics—she also established a series of beloved family traditions. Annual “Grandma Sue” days, where her grandchildren spent the day one-on-one with her, were always a hit. These days often included an obscene amount of sugar, at least one new toy, and the profound experience of sitting down with an adult who truly wanted to listen to them. Another long-standing favorite was time in late July spent at “the cottage” in Northern Michigan. Sue’s days at the cottage were divided between watching grandchildren dive off the dock and watching everyone try (and fail) to beat her at euchre that night. Her family remembers the keen interest she showed in following their activities, keeping up with their friends, and getting to know who they were as they grew up. A brief phone call or conversation was impossible: calling to wish her a happy birthday often led to a conversation that was at least an hour long. Those rituals at the cottage became the foundation of a legacy her family carries with them today. Sue will live on in every postdinner shuffle at the lake, well-worn wing chair, or order of “the house cab,” as well as every family member who instinctively knows when to call trump, when to pass, and when to go alone. A private family service will be held in February to honor a life so fully played. If you are inclined to make a memorial donation, please select an organization/effort that is meaningful to you as there are many people and organizations in need.

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Wildcats forward’s mental toughness provides boost By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurent.com Lawrence North High School senior basketball player Brennan Miller’s confidence and mental toughness have helped improve his game. “I have a more hungry mentality this year,” he said. Miller, a three-year starter, averaged 20 Miller points and 12 rebounds per game in the first six games for the Wildcats (6-0). As a junior, the 6-foot-7 forward averaged 13 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. “He has improved greatly in his overall strength, stamina, ability to score multiple ways and defense,” Lawrence North coach Chris Giffin said. “Leadership and character are huge strengths of his. He is the best possible leader and captain.” An Indiana Junior All-Star, Miller said his goals include becoming an Indiana All-Star and top 1,000 career points. He accomplished the latter Dec. 29.

Brennan Miller is a three-year starter for the Lawrence North basketball team. (Photo courtesy of Oh Snap Indy)

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK BRENNAN MILLER Favorite athlete: Steph Curry Favorite movie: “Home Alone” Favorite TV show: “The Starting Five” Favorite musician: Forrest Frank Favorite genre of music: Gospel With the graduation of Azavier Robinson, now at Butler University, Miller said he has assumed a larger scoring role. “I’ve always been vocal but just more so,” he said. “There are teachable points for the younger guys.” Although he typically plays power forward, Miller also occasionally plays shooting guard and small forward. Miller was a middle hitter on Law-

rence North’s volleyball team in 2025, the first year boys volleyball was an IHSAA sport. Miller, who never played organized volleyball before last year, said he plans to play again in the spring. “They just told me what I needed to do,” he said. “In volleyball, you have to communicate a lot. I think it helped me rebounding as far as seeing the ball and helping with my reflexes.” Miller, who began playing basketball at age 3, played soccer when he was younger. He competed on the Wildcats’ track and field team as a freshman. Miller has signed to continue his basketball career at NCAA Division I Southern Illinois University Edwards-

ville and plans to major in business administration. “I had some offers from MAC (Mid-American Conference) schools, but the key that separated SIU Edwardsville was the family aspect, and they had a plan for me that I understand to really fulfill myself and grow there,” he said. SIU Edwardsville coach Brian Barone said Miller has a variety of skills. “He has a tremendous motor with the ability to play multiple positions,” Barone stated. “Brennan can play both inside and outside on both and will only improve on that as he develops.” Miller’s older sister, Aerial Miller, played for Lawrence North under Giffin, who was the girls basketball coach before taking the boys job in the 2022-23 season. Brennan Miller has written two books, “3-on-B — 3 Keys to Early Success” and “Fuel for Fire: A 30-day Prayer Journal.” The books are available on Amazon. “A lot of kids have come up to me and read my book, and it’s inspired me to do more things outside of basketball,” he said.

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LEADING THE PACK Enhanced amenities, services land Carmel among Better Cities for Pets

By Sara Palmer news@youarecurrent.com Carmel has been recognized as a Better Cities for Pets certified municipality, a national designation from Mars Petcare that honors communities working to ensure pets are healthy, welcome and cared for. The certification places Carmel among a growing network of cities using data-driven standards to make life better for pets and their families. Carmel is one of only three cities in Indiana to earn the designation, and the first in Central Indiana, something Mayor Sue Finkam said aligns closely with the city’s identity. “Darn near every house in Carmel has a pet,” Finkam said. “I just think it shows we’re a place with a lot of amenities and do things the right way, so people take care of people — and their pets.” The certification process requires cities to complete a comprehensive assessment that measures how well local policies, infrastructure and community culture support pets. It examines a variety of factors, from walkability and veterinary access to pet-friendly housing, shelters, parks and business participation. Kelly Douglas, director of marketing and communications for the City of Carmel said the designation reflects what city officials see daily: families integrating their pets into public life. “You see them all the time on the trail, walking their dogs,” she said. “It’s very friendly towards pets. We have restaurants that even have a menu just for dogs.” Pet-friendly amenities can be found throughout Carmel, from the many greenways and paths through the city to local parks and retailers such as Clay Terrace, where shops display small paw prints on windows to show where pets are welcome, Douglas said. Douglas said the certification also makes Carmel eligible for potential grant opportunities through the Better Cities for Pets program, although the city has not yet pursued that option.

A cat receives red light therapy. A similar service will soon be offered at Carmel Salt Caves in the Halo Pet Spa. (Photo courtesy of Skye Winslow)

Carmel resident Andy Straatman with his dog, Rollo. (Photo courtesy of Nancy Straatman)

For Andy and Nancy Straatman, who have lived in Carmel since 1999, the certification reflects what they’ve always loved about the city. Their household includes two mixed-breed rescue dogs — Rollo, 3½, and Millie, 9. They also have an affectionate cat named Gus,

who they adopted through Carmel’s Pawz Pet Café, where visitors can relax with adoptable felines in a comfortable, home-like lounge. Rollo loves walks at River Road Park, sunbathing on the patio and playing with canine friends. And while the family hasn’t yet taken their dogs to a pet-friendly restaurant, they say Carmel offers nearly everything a pet could want. “I can definitely see why Carmel was named a Better City for Pets,” Nancy said. “The green space, availability of parks and trails — some specifically for dogs — and the wide trails on the Monon make the city so pet friendly.” The Straatmans also appreciate the small touches — bag stations along trails, dog-friendly community events such as Pints and Pups, and programs like reading to pets at the library. The Carmel Clay Public Library’s Paws to Read program allows children to practice reading aloud to trained therapy dogs, blending literacy support with positive, pet-centered interaction. Carmel’s certification also reflects a

broader culture of innovation among local businesses that serve animals and their owners. At Carmel Salt Caves, owner Skye Winslow is preparing to open the Halo Pet Spa, a shared wellness space designed for pets and their people. The spa will offer four evidence-supported modalities: halotherapy, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, far infrared therapy and red light therapy. To Winslow’s knowledge, it will be the first dedicated shared pet-and-person wellness room in the nation. “Carmel has truly become a place where pets are treated like family,” Winslow said. “With the Halo Pet Spa, we’re taking (Carmel’s) commitment one step further. Pets benefit from the same calming, restorative therapies we do — and Carmel is the perfect community to pioneer this kind of healing space.” While future pet-friendly additions planned in Carmel — such as another dog park — will depend on available land and funding, officials said the city remains committed to expanding features that support pets as an essential part of family life. ON THE COVER: A pedestrian walks dogs on the Monon Greenway across Carmel’s Main Street. (Photo by Kelly Sullivan)

CARMEL PETS BY THE NUMBERS • 40,000 pet-owning households, with estimates showing more than 15,000 dog-owning households and 10,000 catowning households, based on national veterinary formulas • 16 public parks, with 15 allowing pets on leashes and one designated off-leash dog park • 16 veterinary clinics or hospitals, along with approximately 30 pet-focused businesses (Source: City of Carmel)

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01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

Mother, daughters open needlepoint shop By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com

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A mother and her two daughters recently fulfilled an ambition of opening a needlepoint shop. The Proper Stitch, 800 S. Range Line Rd., Suite 285, has more than 700 canvases available and sells a variety of threads, project bags and other needlepoint accessories. It also offers classes for needlepoint crafts. The shop is owned and operated by Kathleen Dusing and her daughters, Lauren and Megan Dusing. Megan began needlepointing during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and quickly fell in love with her new hobby. So, she taught the skill to her mom and sister. Opening her own needlepoint shop was something Megan kept in the back of her mind. During a trip to Florida last year, she began to more seriously consider it. “We were on vacation as a family in Florida, and my mom and sister and I checked out the local needlepoint store,” Megan said. “Afterward, we had lunch and we said, ‘Oh, it would be so fun if we opened a store.’ When we got back, one day I was in Carmel at the City Center and I saw the space and I thought, ‘Oh, my gosh, I feel like it will be the perfect spot.’ We looked into it and went for it.” That was in April 2025. By September, their online shop was accepting orders, and in November, their storefront opened. Kathleen handles logistics and operations for The Proper Stitch, Megan makes purchases and sets up events

From left, The Proper Stitch co-owners Kathleen Dusing, Megan Dusing and Lauren Dusing. (Photo courtesy of Megan Dusing)

and classes, and Lauren manages the shop and creates an exclusive line of canvases. Megan compares needlepoint to painting by numbers. “Artists and designers will come up with the design for the canvas, and then all of the intersections where you stitch are hand painted to coordinate with the design,” she said. “You can compare it to paint by number but you’re stitching, not painting. You buy a canvas, and then you pick out different threads.” She said it has been enjoyable to work with her mom and sister to open a shop. “Obviously, we’ve all been close over the years, but it’s been really fun to interact and talk with each other and work with each other on a daily basis,” she said. “It’s been fun to talk every single day and be like, ‘Oh, my gosh, did you see that order come through?’ It’s just fun to connect and strengthen our relationships together on a daily basis.” Learn more at TheProperStitch.com.

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Braun talks business at OneZone luncheon By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

OneZone CEO Jack Russell, left, speaks with Indiana Gov. Mike Braun. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

astounded — we only produce 20 gigawatts of electricity for all households and existing businesses (in Indiana).” Braun said he wants the state to keep utility rates low for residents but also find a way to bring data centers to rural areas that need the potential economic boost. OneZone Chamber serves Carmel, Fishers and northern Hamilton County. It has about 1,200 members and focuses on strengthening community businesses through programs and advocacy. For more, visit onezonechamber.com.

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Indiana Gov. Mike Braun told area business owners Dec. 10 that Indiana’s geographic location, business-friendly environment and fiscal health give the Hoosier state a leg up to maintaining its economic viability. Braun was the special guest during the OneZone Chamber annual meeting and luncheon. He spoke for about 30 minutes with OneZone President and CEO Jack Russell in front of a crowd of chamber members at the FORUM Event Center in Fishers. Braun said that while Indiana has great opportunities, leaders still need to put in the work to make sure the state benefits. He added that he wants the business community to step up and not rely on state government to solve everything. “Businesses are going to be the main beneficiaries of child care. They’re going to be the main beneficiaries of preschool,” he said, adding that he wants the business community to be involved in creating and financing solutions to those kinds of needs. “That’s kind of what I preach. I want to make sure that government is doing everything it can, short of paying for it, when the beneficiaries are going to be clearly Main Street and bigger companies.” Braun said Hamilton County is one of the state’s success stories, economically, but there are other counties that are struggling. “You need to keep doing what you’re doing,” he said. “Help us see how we can get more counties to take what you’ve got that’s working, and then I’m always going to be a business partner with you to make sure you keep heading in the direction that you seem to have done pretty well on your own.” He said energy is and will be the big issue moving forward, driven by the need for data centers. He said the amount of energy one center needs surprised him. “When you start hearing megawatts, gigawatts — and one data center can take one gigawatt of electricity,” he said. “I wondered how many gigawatts are we producing? I figured, just by common sense, surely one data center couldn’t be more than 1 percent. I was

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HEALTH

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Eye Myths busted part 1 Commentary by Dr. Amy Iddins “If you sit too close to the TV, you’ll ruin your eyes!” Sound familiar? Most of us have heard this at some point, usually from a well-meaning parent or grandparent. Over the years, countless “eye facts” have been passed down, but many don’t hold up to modern science. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common myths I hear as an optometrist — and what the truth really is.

It’s what we do.

MYTH 1: SITTING TOO CLOSE TO THE TV DAMAGES YOUR EYES Good news — there’s no scientific evidence to back this one up! Both the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association confirm that sitting close to the TV may cause temporary eye strain or fatigue, but it won’t cause permanent damage. This myth likely started decades ago, when older cathode ray tube TVs emitted small amounts of radiation. Today’s LED, LCD and OLED screens are completely safe for close viewing.

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MYTH 2: READING IN DIM LIGHT HARMS YOUR VISION While reading in low light can make your eyes feel tired, it won’t cause any lasting damage. Your eyes might work a bit harder to focus, but that’s about it. If you prefer brighter lighting for comfort, go for it — but rest assured, your eyesight isn’t at risk. MYTH 3: WEARING GLASSES MAKES YOUR EYES WEAKER Not true! Glasses don’t change the structure of your eyes or make them “lazy.” They simply correct your focus, helping you see more clearly. Hopefully, busting these common myths brings some peace of mind — and maybe even gives you a few fun facts to share at your next family dinner!

Dr. Amy Iddins of RevolutionEYES is a Fishers resident.

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CO M M UN I T Y VOICE S

ACE week policy problematic Editor, In response to the recent evacuation of the Carmel Clay Public Library after a midafternoon brawl involving unsupervised teenagers, Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent Thomas Oestreich expressed his deepest regret: Not for the policy that created the conditions, but for the teenagers who behaved exactly as unsupervised teenagers historically, scientifically and repeatedly do. “Their behavior does not reflect the expectations we hold for our students,” Oestreich said, helpfully clarifying that the district’s expectations include releasing minors into the community for four unsupervised hours; providing no transportation; outsourcing supervision to librarians, retail workers and first responders; and hoping for the best. To accommodate this educational pilgrimage across Main Street, the library converted meeting rooms into study halls, reassigned staff as crowd monitors and summoned police — thus fulfilling its evolving role as Carmel’s Auxiliary High School Wing (unfunded). Despite repeated warnings from library officials that this policy might, in fact, result in chaos, CCS responded with what officials described as “some personnel,” a move experts say demonNOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS Docket No. PZ-2025-00258 SE Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on the 26th day of January, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Special Exception application to: The applicant seeks approval of a Special Exception to allow the operation of a Short-Term Residential Rental at the subject property, in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Carmel Unified Development Ordinance With the property being known as 14020 brookstone dr carmel indiana 46032. The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2025-00258 SE. The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Tax Parcel ID: 16-10-25-0000-012.000 The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche. All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. Chirag Mahant PETITIONER

strates a bold commitment to vibesbased risk management. When asked whether the early-release policy itself contributed to the incident, district leaders pointed out that students had “options.” These options include: 1. Remaining on campus — but only if parents successfully decoded a buried email. 2. Going home — assuming they possess either a car, a parent with a flexible job or the ability to teleport. 3. Congregating in public spaces — where they may enjoy studying for finals while accidentally becoming a crowd of 1,000. CCS emphasized that “the vast majority of students use this flexibility responsibly,” which appears to mean they were not among the three arrested (this ACE week) after the situation had already spiraled beyond control. Sign a petition requesting changes to ACE week dismissal policies at bit. ly/4jjCFq8. Rochelle Meyer-Hall, Carmel resident and CCS parent

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS HEARING OFFICER Docket No. PZ-2025-00272 V Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 26th day of January, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to: (V) 110 Ute Dr. Front Yard Setback Variance. The applicant seeks the following development standards variance approval for a new custom home on a corner lot. Docket No. PZ-2025-00272 V UDO Section 2.10: Minimum 35-ft Front Yard Setback; 10-ft requested. With the property being known as 110 Ute Dr., Carmel, IN 46032. The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2025-00272 V. The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: 16-10-31-01-10-010.000 The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche. All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. PETITIONER: Gradison Design Build By: Adam S. Mears, Esq.

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A pool bath addition in McCordsville

BLUEPRINT FOR IMPROVEMENT: Commentary by Larry Greene Located in the Vintner’s subdivision of McCordsville, this pool bath addition was thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the home’s existing exterior while adding a functional, elevated interior space for everyday use and entertaining.

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FHS graduate creates 1st film By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Theonysios “Niso” Kapsalis has found his calling. “I found this passion for filmmaking in 2017 and once the passion took off, it never left,” Kapsalis said. “I always knew whether I was 22 or 92, I would be doing film work full time.” A 2020 Fishers High School graduate, Kapsalis is producing his debut film, “Trade Off” through his production company, Boiling Cactus Productions. It was filmed in June 2025 during a seven-day period in Fishers, Bloomington and Muncie. “This is the biggest and would be the first type of larger production for me and for the studio as well,” he said. Kapsalis wrote the script and was the director and executive producer for the 80-minute film. He said he plans to finish the film by the end of February and prepare it for film festivals in the fall. “The film is about two close friends, Ledger and Rash, who are moronic in their own sense,” he said. “They both have an investment opportunity that they are presented with. They are two very unserious characters who get themselves into very serious situations. It has that contrast of comedy and light-heartedness and then these real situations where they tense up and the audience will tense up. These guys aren’t thinking about their next move. They are just go, go, go. One of them acts more impulsively and is very persuasive.” Kapsalis said the characters are mean to each other with a brotherly dynamic. There are 14 actors in the film, with Christian Elijah Leighty as Ledger and Austin Veal as Rash. They are both Indianapolis residents. Kapsalis said they have both worked on different independent productions throughout Indiana. Miles Anderson, a veteran British stage and screen actor, has the other key role. “He’s a very creepy character and

‘THE MOUSETRAP’ “The Mousetrap” runs Jan. 6 to Feb. 15 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET “The Rush Experience” is set for Dec. 8, followed by “Sweet Caroline: The Life and Music of Neil Diamond” Dec. 9 and “Joe Wray, One-Man Band” Dec. 10 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

ICC to host ‘Day of Song’ Theonysios “Niso” Kapsalis gives directions to actor Miles Anderson. (Photo courtesy of Theonysios Kapsalis)

has two prominent scenes,” Kapsalis said. “He is an ominous character, and he gives the energy he can do anything drastic at any moment.” Anderson, who has numerous film and TV credits, had roles in “La La Land” and “The Tragedy of Macbeth” with Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand. The assistant director is Ben Johnson, Kapsalis’ good friend and a Fishers High School graduate. “The project to me is more than just about the film, it’s uplifting the arts community in Indiana,”Kapsalis said. “We have 15 different artists creating merchandise for the film that we will sell for the film — pins, hats, stickers, as well as local artists creating our posters. We have an Indianapolis jazz band, 2LIFETAVERN, creating our score.” Kapsalis said 80 percent of the $15,000 budget went to paying cast and crew. Kapsalis has eight years of experi-

ence running different independent film sets. “Independent filmmaking is something I’m very comfortable with as well as my crew,” he said. After graduating from FHS, Kapsalis originally planned to attend Columbia College Chicago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he decided to take classes at Indiana University. “I decided that college was not the space for me to grow, so I dropped out of college after one semester at IU,” he said. Kapsalis worked at remote jobs in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. He began living in Indianapolis in 2023 and started the production company in June 2023. Kapsalis, whose father Dan Kapsalis won a state title as Carmel High School soccer coach in 2006, played soccer growing up and one season for FHS. He played the Frisbee game ultimate with friends during his final two years in high school.

editorial@youarecurrent.com The Indianapolis Children’s Choir is hosting a low-cost, music-filled event for children in preschool through third grade Jan. 24 at the ICC Performing Arts Center, 9111 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis. The “Day of Song” is an event where families can enroll children in a short, one-day program and tour the center to learn more about the ICC’s program offerings. Music programming will run at various times based on age groups from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and require preregistration for the organization to prepare materials and staff in advance. “The ‘Day of Song’ is really our answer to a community need — which is easier access to music education starting at a young age,” ICC Executive Director Joshua Pedde stated. Registration costs have been kept to a minimum, according to the ICC, to allow more families to participate, plus IPS students and Access Pass holders can register for free by calling the ICC offices to register at 317-940-9640 or by emailing lsouthard@icchoir.org with proof of IPS or Access Pass enrollment.

ENTERTAINMENT

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01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

The longest-running play in history!

Opens January 6

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Actor returns to stage ew, who must take his uncle’s corpse on a trip to Monte Carlo to inherit $6 million. Like Norma Desmond, Sam Arce figArce, who goes by the nickname of ures he is ready for his close-up. Broadway Sam, has moved into behind“I’m having my ‘Sunset Boulevard’ the-scenes roles. return,” Arce said, referring to the “My love and passion for supporting movie about silent movie star Destheater got me involved with investing mond, who envisions making a and co-producing,” he said. triumphant return to the film “I’ve always wanted to come world. back. I love to perform.” After more than 40 years off A Realtor/broker with F.C. the stage, Arce is performing in Tucker, Arce said there is a lot Actors Theatre of Indiana’s proof physical comedy in the show. duction of the musical “Lucky “I’ve done a lot of theater Stiff” from Jan. 30 to Feb. 15 from the time I was young, and Arce at the Studio Theater at Allied over the years at Tucker, we did Solutions Center for the Performing a lot of skits,” said Arce, treasurer for Arts in Carmel. ATI’s board of directors. “This gives me “It’s been a while. The last time on a chance to do something fun. I love stage was when I was in college at Hofbeing part of the community and I love stra University, and then I did ‘Damn what we’re doing.” Yankees’ at (New York’s) Lincoln CenArce has invested in several shows on ter,” he said. “I was doing dinner theBroadway and London’s West End. ater back in the 1980s.” Following “Lucky Stiff,” ATI presents The 63-year-old Carmel resident plays the musical version of “Sunset Boulethe dead man in the show. There is a vard” from April 24 to May 10. recording played of Arce’s character, For more, visit atistag.org. Tony, giving instructions to his nephBy Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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29. Where a famous stone was found 31. Rowing need 32. Swiss painter 33. Neat 34. Latin 101 verb 35. *Tinseltown (Lawrenceburg) 37. I-65 tractor-trailer 41. Cry of dismay 42. Irritated 47. Hole-making tool 49. Lentil, e.g. 50. Talks back 52. Go too far 54. Inverted “e” 56. Struck down, in the Bible 57. Game show host 58. Capital of Senegal 59. Carpenter’s groove 60. Yankees superstar’s NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE nickname CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS 62. Train Docket No. PZ-2025-00211 SE track Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on the 26th day of 65. WestJanuary, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council field sumChambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN mer hrs. 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Special Exception application to: 67. Ruby or Seeking Short Term Rental permit Sandra

2. Ship’s lowest deck 3. As expected 4. Pampering, for short 5. “Very funny!” 6. Computer operating system 7. Stared in wonder 8. “Well, lah-di-___!” 9. Muse of astronomy 10. Snappy comeback 11. *Colts logo (Shelbyville) 12. Sheltered, at sea 13. Anti-DUI org. 18. Wipe clean 22. “We should just skip it” 25. Old Town Design Group blueprint detail, briefly 27. “Scram!”

With the property being known as 4402 E. 116th Street, Carmel IN The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2025-00211 SE. The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Tax Parcel ID: 16-10-32-0405-004.000 The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche. All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. Melissa Davidson / Lee Tesdahl PETITIONER

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01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

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