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‘THE BIGGEST BLESSING’
Board provides update on $7.89M facilities projects
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The Carmel Clay Schools Board of Trustees gave an update on several Carmel High School athletic facility projects during its June 23 meeting.
ATHLETICS
Updates were given on the replacement of tennis courts, the finished softball complex and the ongoing home grandstand renovation at the football stadium.
Renovations on the football field, which began in 2024, won’t be complete until 2026.
“I remember when that stadium was new and it was the state-of-the-art stadium in central Indiana,” said CCS Superintendent Michael Beresford, who recalled walking around the facility when he became superintendent in 2019. “There was a lot of crumbling, a lot of rust. We had outgrown the facility and the way that it was built for a smaller number of kids. It really had a lot of pieces that pushed us to start investigating the long-term plan with all of the construction. I don’t think that stadium has been touched since 1989 or 1991 (or) something like that.”
Cost was added to the project when an undercut was required to remove unsuitable soils under the entire addition footprint. A contract for $159,765 to Gibraltar Construction was added to the existing $7.73 million cost.
When completed, the new home grandstand will have improved ADA seating, an extended concourse, expanded locker rooms and a new press box.
sion concrete, which is not supposed to crack. Five additional courts were added, and the layout was changed to improve spectator seating. A new scoreboard will be added when the project is completed.
The tennis court project was approved in November 2024 and construction began the following month. The remaining work, which includes coating, fencing and netting, is expected to be completed this month.
The facility is scheduled to be ready when the boys tennis season begins in August.
Beresford said the tennis court renovation was “more of an emergency project” because of cracked asphalt on the former surface. The new surface is made of ten-
The softball complex, which received new artificial turf, was ready for the start of the 2025 season.
CCS makes changes to student handbook
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The Carmel Clay School Board unanimously approved four updates to the student handbook that were termed “minimal” during its June 23 meeting.
SCHOOLS
The changes are:
• Drones: CCS students are prohibited from possessing, operating, or using unmanned aerial devices on or over campus unless directed by staff.
• Smart glasses: Smart glasses are eye-worn computerized devices that can add a text display element to what users see through the glass-
es. The handbook states that smart glasses “cannot be used in a manner which constitutes an interference with a school purpose or educational function, an invasion of privacy, or an act of academic dishonesty.”
• Personal property: CCS said that it is not responsible “for the repair or replacement of personally owned instruments.” CCS includes accidental acts, negligence and theft within the definition of what it’s not responsible for.
The handbook also states, “Due to privacy laws we cannot share personal information about incidents involving instrument damage between
students. While a teacher may notify the involved parties about an incident, they cannot disclose further details.”
• School appearance: Students are prohibited from writing with any medium (chalk, markers, paint and equivalents) on CCS property without prior permission from the administration. This includes sidewalks, trails and other CCS surfaces. Violation of this rule may result in disciplinary action.
The stated reason in the agenda for the changes is to “maintain the integrity and appearance of our school environment.”
The next school board meeting is 6 p.m. July 28 at the Educational Services Center.
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Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XIX, No. 32
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An artist rendering shows what the completed football grandstand and widened concourse will look like when the Carmel home grandstand project is completed. (Image courtesy of Carmel Clay Schools)
An overhead view shows the installation of tension concrete on the Carmel High school tennis courts. (Photo courtesy of Carmel Clay Schools)
SweetenYour Savings
DORA creates ‘different feel’
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Since activating its Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area for the first time Memorial Day weekend, City of Carmel officials have noticed some unexpected results — in a good way.
CITY NEWS
Inside the DORA, which is generally bounded by the Monon Greenway, Main Street, Range Line Road and Carmel Drive, people of legal drinking age can carry alcoholic beverages in designated cups from one establishment to another.
According to Kelly Douglas, City of Carmel’s director of marketing and community relations, the DORA has brought a “different feel” to Carmel’s core.
“We have this feeling of like a living room now, which is different,” Douglas said. “We have that sense of maybe an informal gathering place, but now you have a beverage, you run into a friend that’s also drinking a beverage, and it has that nice extra layer that we didn’t have previously.”
Before the DORA launched, alcohol consumption was limited to designated areas at city festivals, and the city had to request a permit from the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission for each event.
created some energy that wasn’t here before.”
Previously, Fork & Ale could only allow customers to take prepackaged alcohol outside of its doors. Now, it can customize any drink.
“It really constricted the footprint. It made it difficult to walk around,” Douglas said. “It’s not an issue anymore. You don’t have to have these fenced off locations. There’s more community this way, so you’re not stuck staying in one little footprint with your beverage and consuming it there. It allows people to maybe enjoy a beverage longer.”
Jeff Blair, owner of Fork & Ale restaurant in Midtown, said the DORA has boosted foot traffic and helped strengthen ties between area businesses. He said customers have enjoyed purchasing a DORA drink from his establishment and wandering to nearby businesses and galleries to browse and shop.
“It’s really helping generate some energy in Midtown,” Blair said. “We’ve always had good business here, but it definitely has
“(Before the DORA), people came in and said, ‘Hey, can I get this?’ And we were forced to sell something that was in a can, like a vodka tonic that we don’t know what the vodka is,” Blair said. “Now, we can make you whatever you want. It’s nice being able to give the guests 100 percent what they want.”
Blair said Fork & Ale distributed 900 DORA drinks during the district’s week of activation — a period that included the Indianapolis 500, Indiana Pacers playoff games, Memorial Day weekend and ideal outdoor weather.
DORA beverages must be purchased from participating establishments and enjoyed in designated, recyclable aluminum cups.
A Carmel police spokesperson said law enforcement has not reported a rise in calls related to the launch of the DORA.
Learn more about Carmel’s DORA at carmel.in.gov/business/atc-licenses-and-dora.
DISPATCH
CarmelFest street closures — The following streets will be closed to traffic during CarmelFest July 3-4. Gradle Drive will be closed to all vehicular traffic, except emergency vehicles, between Range Line Road and 3rd Avenue SW from 8 a.m. July 3 until all vendors are out of the area July 4. Red Truck Road will only be open to emergency vehicles on July 3-4. 3rd Avenue SW will be closed to all traffic from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. July 4. The closure will be strictly enforced as a safety zone for fireworks preparation and launching.
A sticker on the sidewalk on Carmel Drive alerts pedestrians that they are at the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area boundary.
(Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
Dirt bikes targeted on trails
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
After receiving a number of complaints from constituents about electric dirt bikes speeding along the Monon Greenway, Carmel city councilors might soon consider an ordinance aiming to curb the issue.
CITY NEWS
Besides hearing from concerned residents, City Councilor Jeff Worrell said he also witnessed the problem himself when he saw young riders doing wheelies along the trail. He — and others — are concerned about the safety of the riders and those around them.
At the June 16 city council meeting, Councilor Matt Snyder said he has begun working on the framework of an ordinance addressing electric dirt bikes and other trail issues that he hopes to introduce at the next meeting. He said he met with Carmel Police Department Chief Drake Sterling and City of Carmel Alternative Transportation Coordinator David Littlejohn to learn more about the matter and how the city can address it.
“These new electric dirt bikes are not legal, but there are more and more of them flying around Carmel,” Snyder said. “It’s young children (riding them), and to me the safety of these children has become an impetus to make something happen much faster.”
He said the ordinance will likely propose speed limits and related fines that apply to all trail users.
Sterling told the council that it’s already illegal to ride electric bikes without pedal assist options on trails in Carmel but that it’s becoming increasingly difficult for officers to easily determine which bikes are legal, as some bikes have nonfunctional pedals.
CPD is proactively working to address the issue, Sterling said.
“We even had a pseudo-pursuit with one of these vehicles earlier last week,” he said. “We’re trying to be really, really aggressive with enforcement.”
Sterling encourages anyone who sees an illegal vehicle on a Carmel trail to call CPD’s nonemergency line to report it.
The next city council meeting is set for 6 p.m. July 7 at Carmel City Hall.
City provides updates on street projects
news@currentincarmel.com
The City of Carmel gave an update June 23 on summer infrastructure projects.
ROADS
Projects are designed to improve pedestrian safety, expand trail access and enhance neighborhood connectivity. Road closures, lane restrictions and detours will occur as part of the work, according to a press release from the city.
“This work goes beyond just sidewalks and crosswalks — it’s about improving how people move around Carmel,” City Engineer Bradley Pease stated.
The projects are:
TOWNE ROAD CONSTRUCTION
Project: Seven roundabouts will have raised pedestrian crosswalks will be installed. Each roundabout will be closed for approximately one month.
Schedule: Phase 1 involves roundabouts at 106th Street and Towne Road and 131st Street and Towne Road. Phase 2 addresses roundabouts at 116th Street and Towne Road and 136th Street and Towne Road. Phase 3 involves roundabouts at 126th Street and Town Road and Glebe Street and Towne Road. The final phase will be 141st Street and Towne Road.
Start and projected completion date: The project began June 25 and is expected to be completed by October.
MULTIUSE PATHS
Project: Multiuse path projects are underway to fill sidewalk and trail gaps, improve pedestrian safety and expand access to neighborhoods, parks and schools.
Schedule: Construction is underway at 116th Street from Shelborne Road to Towne Road with completion expected this month. Clay Center Road will have a 90day full closure from Clay Spring Drive to Clay Corner that will begin in midmonth with completion in October. 96th Street will have a three-day full closure in August with completion in October, while 99th Street has a westbound closure from Haverstick Road to Westfield Boulevard that began June 23 for 30 days.
FUTURE MULTIUSE PATHS
Project: Future multiuse path projects are in the design phase to fill sidewalk and trail gaps, improve pedestrian safety and expand access to neighborhoods, parks and schools.
Schedule: Phase 1 of the Westfield Boulevard project from 99th Street to 116th Street will begin in August with a fall completion scheduled. Phase 2, which will include a culvert, is projected to be completed in spring 2026. Work will begin in the fall on 136th Street from Towne Road to Ditch Road with completion scheduled in spring 2026. Work on 111th Street from the Monon Greenway to Westfield Boulevard will begin in spring 2026 with completion projected for summer 2026.
Carmel mayor named to USCM Advisory Board
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam was elected to serve on the United States Conference of Mayors Advisory Board during its June 22 meeting in Tampa, Fla. Finkam is part of a 33-person board that makes policy and program recommendations to the USCM’s Executive Committee.
MAYOR
“I am honored that my mayor colleagues elected me to serve in this position,” Finkam stated in a press release. “My work with USCM allows me to advocate for Carmel on a national stage.”
The USCM represents more than 1,400 cities with populations of 30,000 or more. Each city is represented by its mayor.
Finkam is the second Hamilton County mayor to join the board. Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen was elected in 2024. Former Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard served on the advisory board from 2002 to 2010 before serving on several USCM executive committees.
Finkam
Taste of Indy returns July 5 with food, music & fun
By Les Morris news@currentinfishers.com
Taste of Indy takes center stage on the holiday weekend, returning for its 14th edition at White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis. The culinary celebration is July 5 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
EVENT
The event is billed as Indiana’s largest food festival and there will be a wide variety of food tents and food trucks
The day also will feature a mix of local music highlighted by jazz legend Rob Dixon at 4:45 p.m. Cathy Morris takes the main stage at 6:15 p.m. and D-Roq + Bulletproof Soul performs the finale at 7:45.
General admission tickets are $20 each and are available at tasteofindy.org. Kids 10 and younger are admitted free. Food tickets are $1 per ticket and can be redeemed for food, beverages and alcohol.
“Come out and come hungry,” said organizer Jonathan Warren, who created the event in 2012. “We have people who come
out for lunch and usually stay for dinner. Food is a great motivator.”
Warren is excited about some new food vendors that showcase Taste of Indy’s wide variety and cultural fluidity. Pinoy Garden Cafe, a Filipino restaurant in Bloomington, will make its Taste of Indy debut. In the festival’s food tent, attendees will be able to taste dishes from Bawarchi
Biryanis Indian Cuisine Indianapolis and Bibibop Asian Grill.
Warren’s career has revolved around food safety consulting, both in his Army career and in civilian life. He founded Indy Food Safety Consulting in 2002 and his relationships with restaurants led him to start Taste of Indy.
Taste of Indy will also feature many family-friendly amusement activities from Jump N Play Party Rentals, including an axe throw, an obstacle course, yard pong, corn hole and a game that challenges participants to stay on their feet while dodging rotating boom arms called Toxic Meltdown. For more, visit tasteofindy.org.
against cell
Enhancing comprehens ive canc er care
Community MD Anderson’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Institute
The future of cancer care lies in delivering truly comprehensive treatment for patients – a commitment embodied by Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Institute (SCTCTI). Built on a foundation of clinical excellence and an experienced team led by medical director, Dr. Sherif Farag, the program offers both allogeneic and autologous blood stem cell transplants and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, providing eligible patients with cancer, hematologic diseases and autoimmune disorders access to potentially curative treatments.
Autologous blood stem cell transplants use a patient’s own stem cells to replace those destroyed by high-dose chemotherapy used to treat their cancer. This treatment is typically recommended for select patients with cancers still sensitive to chemotherapy at lower doses. Allogeneic blood stem cell transplants replace a patient’s stem and immune cells with healthy
cells from a donor, providing an immunological response that can target selected or chemotherapyresistant cancers.
SCTCTI also offers CAR T-cell therapy, a personalized treatment that engineers a patient’s own immune cells to more effectively target cancer. CAR T therapy inserts a new gene into T-cells collected from
Advanced cell therapies can improve the body’s own response against cancer. Building on decades of research, we’re offering potentially curative treatments for patients with autoimmune conditions and blood disorders. Learn more about our breakthrough work in stem cell transplants and cellular therapy at eCommunity.com/stemcell
the blood — improving their ability to target cancer cells. The modified cells (called CAR T-cells) are then infused into a patient after chemotherapy to begin fighting cancer. An approved treatment for specific blood cancers, CAR T therapy represents an innovative approach for improved outcomes and potentially a cure.
Most importantly, SCTCTI is built on a foundation of offering the best therapies with safety and vigilant monitoring. The team uses evidencebased, multidisciplinary practice to offer patients the best available treatment options and real-time data tracking for prevention and early recognition of complications such as graft-versus-host disease, infections, etc. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the program provides comprehensive services to support patients before, during and after their treatment.
This is just the beginning of Community MD Anderson’s effort to enhance the continuum of cancer care, with more advanced therapies set to follow in the near future.
Dr. Sherif Farag serves as the medical director of the Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy program. He specializes in the treatment of blood cancers, stem cell transplantation and cellular therapies.
Eyler to run in GOP primary for Hamilton Superior Court 8
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Danica Eyler, a Westfield resident, has announced her candidacy for judgeship in the newly created Hamilton Superior Court 8.
ELECTION
Eyler will appear on the ballot in the May 5, 2026 Republican primary.
Eyler is an attorney at Westfield-based Webster & Garino law firm. According to her campaign website, she has worked primarily with Hamilton County-based clients for the last seven years.
High School and Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business and McKinney School of Law.
Hamilton Superior Courts 8 and 9 were created as a result of Indiana House Bill 1144 — signed into law June 5 by Gov. Mike Braun — that mandated judicial administrative changes throughout the state. Among the changes was the creation of two new superior courts and two new magistrates in Hamilton County.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers), who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, authored the bill.
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
“I believe that everyone who comes before the court — litigants, attorneys, and citizens alike — deserves a judge who listens carefully, understands the law, and using their experience considers the real-world consequences of each decision,” Eyler stated in a press release.
Eyler is a graduate of Lawrence Central
“Due to the steady and continued growth in Hamilton County over the last decade, there’s a need for more judicial officers,” Jeter told Current in February.
The new Superior Court judges will be voted on in the Nov. 3, 2026 general election.
Eyler’s website is danicaeylerforjudge. com/.
A Juneteenth celebration took place at Carter Green June 19. The event was organized by Carmel High School students, including 2025 graduate Priscilla Smith, president of the CHS Black Student Alliance and African Heritage and Culture Club.
Eyler
Student organizers of the inaugural Carmel Juneteenth celebration pose with a certificate from the State of Indiana recognizing the Carmel Black Student Alliance. Above from left, Ceniya Cole, Matthew Mayberry, Priscilla Smith, London Anderson, Alyssa McLendon, Camil McGhee, Peyton White, Nylah Branch. (Photos by Aidah Brown)
Tenise Machaya, 2025 Carmel High School graduate, shares a brief history of Juneteenth to attendees of the June 19 event.
Carmel engineering student makes fusion impact overseas
David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
In Saint Paul-lez-Durance, France, more than 30 nations are collaborating to build the world’s largest tokamak, a magnetic fusion device that has been designed to prove the feasibility of fusion as a large-scale and carbon-free source of energy based on the same principle that powers the sun and stars.
INTERNSHIP
Thousands of engineers and scientists have contributed to the design of ITER (which means “The Way” in Latin) since the idea for an international joint experiment in fusion was launched in 1985.
One of the newest contributors is Carmel High School graduate and Purdue University mechanical engineering student Gavin Holmes, who has been working with ITER in an internship role.
“My official job is with cable tray routing and design,” Holmes said. “It’s a huge facility with a lot of different buildings. There are 200 to 300 kilometers of (cable) that need to be run through the facility. So, we route that from building to building, machine to machine, and we make sure that it’s going to carry the correct power, so it’s safe.”
Just a few weeks into the internship, Holmes is already learning engineering practices that aren’t taught at school.
“It’s been a hugely beneficial experience for me, just because it’s my first time in the industry as an engineer, and it’s also my first time experiencing working with people from other countries,” Holmes said. “There are a lot of things for me to learn, and that’s why I’m just happy to be here.”
While experiential learning is valuable for the Carmel native, the purpose of ITER
as a whole is research. Mainly in finding a way toward a world with unlimited clean energy.
“Nuclear fuel has been around for a long time,” Holmes said. “There are a lot of different types of reactors that have been done, and one of the most promising is called the tokamak, which has been developed the most. In an ideal world, probably 50 years from now, it would be nuclear energy without the nuclear waste and without the risk of a meltdown.”
Getting such an early start with a well-renowned organization, Holmes is grateful for options he will have in the future.
“I’m out here exploring what there is to do in the world,” Holmes said. “Once you get a mechanical engineering degree from Purdue and you get a job with one of the largest international projects in the world, the opportunities are almost endless.”
With the future still up in the air, for now, Holmes will be enjoying the rest of his summer in France as he continues to learn and grow as an engineer with ITER.
To learn more about ITER, visit iter.org/ few-lines.
DISPATCH
July Eggs & Issues scheduled — OneZone Chamber invites the business and civic community to attend the July Eggs & Issues, featuring special guest Jim Morris, President & CEO of Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity. The event will take place July 18 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at The Bridgewater Club at 3535 E. 161st Street in Carmel. Morris has more than three decades of leadership experience in both the nonprofit and market sectors, with the past 15 years dedicated to leading Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity. Under his guidance, the organization has grown from serving 24 families annually in Marion County to more than 100 families across four central Indiana counties each year. During his tenure, Greater Indy Habitat has provided 866 homes and completed 350 owner-occupied repairs, while helping to leverage over $118 million toward affordable homeownership in the region. Attendees can register now at onezonechamber.com.
Purdue University student Gavin Holmes of Carmel works with the tokamak, a magnetic fusion device, in Saint Paul-lez-Durance, France. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Holmes)
Work begins on Hamilton County nature theme park
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Site work began this month for a nature-based adventure park at 216th Street and Dunbar Road in Sheridan, west of U.S. 31 and just north of the Westfield border.
DEVELOPMENT
The Sheridan Town Council approved a planned unit development ordinance in May for SkyLake Adventure Park — a recreation facility developed by Monarch Ventures LLC, a division of Carmel-based Circle Property Group.
Lee Coulter, vice president of operations at Circle Property Group, said the idea formed when Phil Sack, the organization’s president, spent time at Grand Park in Westfield with his children.
“He talked to a lot of visitors over the years and repeatedly heard people say, ‘What is there to do around here? What is there to do around here for parents?’ And this began to build an idea in his head,” Coulter said. “Westfield reached out to us and (the city) was very interested in learning more about our project. (But) we had a hard time acquiring land in Westfield. We went through four different parcels and were unable to find any that were acquirable that really fit the bill. And we zoomed out and said, OK, we don’t have to be right next to Grand Park, but within a reasonable distance. And we began looking across the whole of Hamilton County.”
Coulter said the park will be built on 75 of the parcel’s 126 acres.
“We’re excited to be an anchor in that part of Sheridan, really setting the tone for how development will occur there,” Coulter
said. “The town has been well aware for a very long time that the U.S. 31 corridor is going to be developed. That really is exciting — there’s uniform support from the county of the town to really bring the kind of development that our project is — it’s harmonious with that development zone.”
Site work will include removal of some trees to make way for entertainment areas, a swim pond, detention ponds and a sled hill. Coulter said the sled hill will be 65 feet tall and 600 feet long. More than 1,000 parking spaces will be built, including a paved area and crushed stone and grass overflow areas.
The nature-based theme park will include a 6-acre natural lake and a 40,000-square foot central pavilion.
Adventure activities include a 40-foot modular slide-and-jump structure; a 300foot floating obstacle course; paddle board rentals; a 6,000-square-foot zero-depth splash pad; a 60-foot-high, 500-foot-long all-season tubing hill; a three-story ropes course; and mini-golf.
The park is expected to open in summer 2026.
Learn more at skylakeindiana.com.
SkyLake Adventure Park will be built at 216th Street between Dunbar Road and U.S. 31. (Google Earth image)
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CarmelFest Parade lineup and route / P6
CarmelFest KidZone details / P7
CarmelFest Freedom Run relocates / P11
CarmelFest chair has to be quick study
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Stanley Lebron was looking for a way to get more involved in the Carmel community, and he certainly found one.
Three years later, he is the CarmelFest chair.
Lebron is a former NBA gamer who started his cleaning company, Glorious Cleaning, in September 2022 after he moved to Carmel.
“I didn’t know anyone in Carmel. It was just me, my girlfriend and my dog,” Lebron said. “I was researching volunteer opportunities, and I volunteered for CarmelFest (in 2023), and that’s where I met a few Rotarians that were telling me all about the club and that they organized the event.”
So, Lebron, 30, joined the Rotary Club of Carmel, which runs CarmelFest.
“Last year, they needed a volunteer coordinator for CarmelFest, and I was overseeing about 120 volunteers,” he said.
Lebron was pressed into the role of chair when Jeff Lenz had to step down for personal reasons.
“They needed someone to step up and I was, ‘Let’s give it a shot,’” Lebron said.
Lebron had planned to be an assistant to Lenz this year to learn under him.
“I put a lot of work in ahead of time to get in front of late fires,” Lebron said. “It’s inevitable with it being such a big event, and there are so many moving parts and it being a volunteer effort. Most of the people on the committee have a business
or a full-time job, so there is only so much time we can dedicate to CarmelFest. So, it’s pretty cool we do it, considering the time constraints of everyone.”
Lebron said it’s a huge learning curve organizing an event as big as the two-day CarmelFest.
“My biggest challenge is the uncertainty,” he said. “I’m always wondering if something is falling through the cracks. Am I forgetting something? Because there is just so much to do, I’m constantly checking in with my committee. I feel like I am just creating anxiety for myself because it’s my first year. I learned a lot and I’m committed to do this again next year if Rotary allows. It’s going to be
Mix of merchants set for CarmelFest Marketplace
By Les Morris news@youarecurrent.com
Besides food and entertainment offerings, Fourth of July celebrants can once again purchase goods and services from 100 vendors at this year’s CarmelFest.
The Marketplace will be open from 1 to 10 p.m. July 3 and noon to 10 p.m. July 4 at Civic Square and Carter Green.
Demand to participate in the Marketplace has been strong, said Marketplace Volunteer Chairperson Kay Thompson, outstripping available space.
For Thompson, it’s not a mystery as to why businesses and groups want to have a presence at the Marketplace.
“CarmelFest has developed a brand that people recognize and are using it more in social networking,” Thompson said. “People are more aware. Word has gotten out that it’s a nice, clean and fam-
ily-friendly festival.”
Thompson is in her 21st year of volunteering and has noticed trends among Marketplace vendors. For a few years jewelry seemed to be in-vogue. This year, she has observed more skin care merchants selling oils and lotions.
There will be a great deal of variety. Thompson is excited about a rookie entrant who uses wire sculptures to make park scenes. There also is a virtual reality experience she expects will attract much interest. Photographers, woodworkers and other artists will showcase and sell their work.
A few vendors selling food also will be in the mix, offering treats such as salsa, honey and tea. Those interested in volunteering or donating to various civic organizations will see them represented in the Marketplace as well.
Learn more at carmelfest.net.
a lot easier next year and a lot of new ideas will come to life because I’ll be more comfortable.”
Lebron was immediately sold on the Rotary Club after many Rotarians were so friendly.
“They welcomed me with open arms,” Lebron said. “They were really excited about me joining the club.”
Lebron met Randy Sorrell, a Carmel artist and former business owner, and they had a 20-minute conversation.
“At that moment, he became my first business mentor at my first Rotary meeting,” he said. “I was like, man I need to come to more meetings and surround myself with great people that just want to see the good out of you. It’s really helped me with my business and just overall growth as a person. I’m running CarmelFest, it’s pretty crazy. I climbed the Rotary corporate ladder pretty quickly.”
Doug Willard, who begins his term as Rotary Club president July 1, has been Lebron’s right-hand man. Lebron has recruited his girlfriend, Ali Delgado-Watland, to be the volunteer coordinator.
“She is doing a better job at this point than I did last year,” he said.
As a CarmelFest guest in 2022, Lebron said he didn’t realize the Rotary organized the event.
“The Rotary Club of Carmel does not get the love it deserves for the huge volunteer effort it puts on,” Lebron said. “One of the early goals I established with the committee was making sure we bring more brand awareness to Rotary, so it gets the recognition it deserves as a club.”
By Aidah Brown aidah@youarecurrent.com
CarmelFest will feature a wide range of food vendors at the annual July 3 to July 4 event at Civic Square and Carter Green.
“There’s something for everyone,” said Chaya Reich, CarmelFest food vendor chair. “We’re going to have food over two solid days, so there’s going to be amazing lunch, dinner, snacks and sweets options.”
The festival will feature many returning favorites, including elephant ears, sweet corn, shaved ice, Dippin’ Dots, funnel cake, apple dumplings and cheese steak. There will also be several new food options.
“Rick’s Boatyard is joining us, which is going to be serving ceviche and fish tacos,” Reich said. “We have two boba tea vendors for the first time. Also, we have the new Samosa n Sauce. They are often at the Carmel Farmers Market and they make samosas and fried plantains.”
Other new vendors include Joella’s Hot Chicken, Filler Burger and Indi Taco, among others.
“We have a lot of vendors that return year after year,” Reich said. “From what I can see, the food vendors love vending in Carmel and they love CarmelFest. Here, the food is great and the community is great.”
CEVICHE, SAMOSAS AMONG FOOD OPTIONS AT CARMELFEST
Stanley Lebron, who has been a Rotary Club of Carmel member for less than two years, is CarmelFest chair. (Photo courtesy of Stanley Lebron)
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Six Foot Blonde returns
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Six Foot Blonde has steadily evolved from being a college band to a touring band based in Chicago.
The band, which is making its second CarmelFest appearance, will perform from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. July 4 on the Carter Green stage.
“Touring the country has been a blast,” said Brian Healey, a drummer and one of three Zionsville Community High School graduates in the band. “Seeing new cities, venues and bands really broadens my view of the music scene in the U.S. The fact that we started in a college town means everyone eventually moves away across the country, which means we’ve been seeing familiar faces in most places. But on that note, I know I’m excited to play CarmelFest again. It was a blast last time to play so close to home. Lots of family and friends were able to come see us that weren’t able to before.”
The band formed at Indiana University in 2021. Julia Rusyniak, the lead singer, and her brother John Alex Rusyniak, keyboard player, are the other ZCHS graduates.
“We will be playing mostly original songs, but we always like to throw in a cover here and there,” Julia said of the CarmelFest show. “This year’s schedule has been jam-packed. We are planning out our next tour already and will also be recording throughout the fall/winter. I think we’ve played 30 shows so far this year.”
The band released its first album, “Ask Me How I Am,” in 2024 and is working on new material.
Band members are back, from left, top row, Dom Heyob, Julia Rusyniak, Brian Healey and Elliott Obermaier, and front row, from left, John Alex Rusyniak and Zach Patrick. (Photo courtesy of Six Foot Blonde)
Entertainment includes fan favorites, new groups
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The two music stages at CarmelFest will present a variety of fan favorites and some newcomers.
Several music acts are set for the Carter Green and Gazebo stages July 3-4.
“I think once again we have a lot of local flavor with some originality,” CarmelFest entertainment chair Fred Yde said. “Brett Wiscons has a lot of original material. Marc Imboden and the Revelators play some original material that’s really good. So, we’ve got a really fine mix of things. Nobody’s going to be bored. Everybody is going to want to hear the next band.”
Returning favorites include Phone Club, Beatless and Touch of Grass.
“Touch of Grass has almost become a tradition to precede the Carmel Symphony Orchestra on the Fourth,” Yde said.
The Indiana Wind Symphony headlines July 3 on the Gazebo.
Six Foot Blonde, a band that includes three Zionsville Community High School graduates, will be making its second appearance July 4 on Carter Green stage.
“The lineup has got a good mix of people who’ve been doing it for a while and new acts as well,” Yde said. “So, we’re excited about what’s been getting presented.”
CarmelFest Has Talent featuring singers from various age groups is not being held this summer, because the two longtime event chairs decided not to return. CarmelFest chair Stanley Lebron said they will discuss whether to bring it back in early planning for 2026.
Yde said the School of Rock will perform for three hours July 4 on the Gazebo stage in place of CarmelFest Has Talent.
July 3 will include a Fleetwood Mac tribute act in the 8:15 p.m. slot at Carter Green, with Soul Street performing at 6:30 p.m.
“Soul Street is an interesting group because they come from all over the state and practice online,” Yde said.
The Indiana Wind Symphony has the final July 3 evening spot at the Gazebo.
The July 4 evening schedule in-
Groovesmash will perform July 4 at CarmelFest. (Photo courtesy of Groovesmash)
cludes Groovesmash at Carter Green and Touch of Grass at the Gazebo.
Carmel Symphony Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. on the Gazebo stage, followed by fireworks.
“We. have some real crowd-pleasing music on the Fourth,” Yde said.
This is Yde’s fourth year as the entertainment chair.
“As long as they keep asking me, I’ll keep doing it,” he said.
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE
JULY 3
GAZEBO STAGE
1 p.m. – Cease & Resist
2:45 p.m. – Brett Wiscons & The Benders
4:30 p.m. – That’s What She Said!
6 p.m. – The Wonderlands
8 p.m. – Indiana Wind Symphony
CARTER GREEN STAGE
1 p.m. – Blair Clark and the Fun Factor
3 p.m. – Beatless
4:45 p.m. – Phone Club
6:30 p.m. – Soul Street
8:15 p.m. – Back 2 Mac-Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
JULY 4
GAZEBO STAGE
1:30 p.m. – School of Rock
5 p.m. – The Revelators
6:30 p.m. – Touch of Grass
8 p.m. – Carmel Symphony Orchestra
CARTER GREEN STAGE
12:15 p.m. – Tommy Baldwin Trio
2:15 p.m. – Kickitlester
4:15 p.m. – Dude!
6:15 p.m. – Six Foot Blonde
8 p.m. – Groovesmash
4
5
PARADE ROUTE
Drive. The parade travels west on Car mel Drive to Rangeline Road, tur ning north to Main Street, traveling east on Main and ending at the Richland/4th Avenue stoplight west of Car mel High School. The parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. July 4th at AAA Way and Carmel Drive. The parade travels west on Carmel Drive to Range Line Road, turning north to Main Street, traveling east on Main and ending at the Richland/4th Avenue stoplight west of Carmel High School.
The parade steps off at 10:30 am on July 4th at AAA Way and Car
KidZone adds racetrack
By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com
The CarmelFest KidZone will feature kids-oriented vendors and a new racetrack option this year in addition to popular rides and attractions from years past at the July 3-4 festival.
Tom Wood Group is a sponsor for the 2025 KidZone event and will offer children the opportunity to drive pedal or battery-operated cars around an oval track in the Carmel City Hall parking lot.
Also new this year is the incorporation of kids-based vendors into the KidZone space. The vendors were previously located elsewhere during CarmelFest but will be moved this year to create a comprehensive space. Vendors include Master Yoo’s Tae Kwon Do; Carmel Ice Skadium; Off the Wall Sports; LiveLovePaint; and JAM Concessions.
One of the most popular attractions, the petting zoo also returns. Meg Gates Osborne, founder of Meg & Associates, is the event manager for the CarmelFest KidZone.
“They allow you to buy food, feed the animals, and (the animals) eat out of your hand,” she said. “I really like it, because I think it is important for kids to learn about animals and have the opportunity to touch and feel.”
The event also feature rides, such as dual-lane slides; toddle unit; giant rainbow bounce house; leaps and bounds; obstacle course; toxic meltdown; and large swings. Osborne said the rides were intentionally selected to create opportunities for kids of a variety of ages and sizes to partake in the fun.
Additionally, the KidZone will have a stage featuring a variety of performers including Mr. Daniels, Indiana Belly Dance Collective, Indy Family Folk Dance, The Ballet Studio of Carmel, Mudra Dance Academy, Indiana Ballet Conservatory, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble and Master Yoo’s Tae Kwon Do.
KidZone tickets can be purchased online at carmelfest.net/kidszone or at the event. Tickets begin at $3, with the option to purchase ticket bundles for varying amounts.
CarmelFest is only possible thanks to the hard work of the Carmel Rotary Club, volunteers and the support of our sponsors!
CCHS leader receives Rotary service award
By Les Morris news@youarecurrent.com
Deb Clark Gangstad, the executive director of the Carmel Clay Historical Society, has received this year’s Rotary Outstanding Service Award from the Rotary Club of Carmel. It’s the same honor her late father, longtime Carmel educator and coach Eric Clark, was presented in 2001. It’s the first time a parent-child duo has received the recognition.
The award was presented to Gangstad at the May 30 Rotary meeting. She also will be recognized during the July 4 Allied Solutions CarmelFest, organized by the Rotary Club of Carmel.
Gangstad and her father are being honored, but she is quick to acknowledge that the historical society’s work and notably the opening in late 2024 of the Carmel Clay History Museum was a group effort.
“I was very humbled,” she said. “We’ve had so many people working hard as a team. I feel a bit guilty about standing up there because we’ve all been pitching in together.”
Judy Hagan, a Rotarian who chaired the committee to determine the award winner, said the annual honor is given to a person who is not a Rotarian but exemplifies the Rotary’s ideals.
Gangstad assumed the CCHS leadership role in 2018. In November 2024, the $10 million Carmel Clay History Museum opened.
Gangstad played a pivotal role in closing a funding gap to get the museum built. In his introduction of Gangstad at the May 30 Rotary meeting, Brad Sexauer said, “Deb utilized her deep and lifelong Carmel connections to jumpstart the capital campaign. Working behind the scenes, she spent countless hours meeting with potential donors, acting as the primary contact with the construction team and Clay Township, involving the board of directors when needed, and acting as the face of the project in the community and with the media. In short, Deb did it all.”
Gangstad
JULY 3 & 4 DOWNTOWN
CARMEL
• DETAILED INFORMATION
• REGISTER TO BE A VOLUNTEER
• PRE-ORDER RIDE TICKETS
• SEE PERFORMANCE LINE UP
Carter Green Gazebo Stage
1:00-2:30 PM Blaire & The Fun Factor Band
JULY 3
JULY 4
3:00-4:15 PM The Beatless
4:45-6:00 PM Phone Club
6:30-7:45 PM Soul Street
1:00-2:15 PM Cease & Resist
2:45-4:00 PM Brett Wiscons & The Benders
4:30-5:30 PM That's What She Said
6:00-7:00 PM The Wonderlands
8:15-9:30 PM Back 2 Mac-Tribute to Fleetwood Mac 8:00-9:30 PM Indiana Wind Symphony
12:15-1:45 PM Tommy Baldwin
2:15-3:45 PM Kickitlester
4:15-5:45 PM DUDE!
6:15-7:30 PM Six Foot Blonde
8:00-9:30 PM GrooveSmash
1:30-4:30 PM School of Rock
5:00-6:00 PM The Revelators
6:30-7:30 PM Touch of Grass
8:00-9:30 PM Carmel Symphony Orchestra
CarmelFest is only possible thanks to the hard work of the Carmel Rotary Club, volunteers and the support of our sponsors!
Freedom Run relocates
By Aidah Brown aidah@youarecurrent.com
The 18th annual July 4 Freedom Run returns to Carmel with the option of a 4.5-mile run or 1.5-mile family walk. The event will begin and end at Upland Brewing and Pies & Pints in Clay Terrace at 14490 Clay Terrace Blvd, Suite 100.
“We were in contact with Upland Brewing and they wanted to get involved this year,” Race Director Don Carr said. “After some discussion, we decided to work out of Clay Terrace, which should work out really well. We’re very excited to work with Upland Brewing and also Pies and Pints, which is located right next to them.” Both races begin at 8 a.m. and end by 10 a.m. Cost is $35 per participant, with discounts offered for families of three or more. Prices increase June 24.
A free 100-yard race will be held for kids 10 and younger. Announcements will be made the morning of the event to direct participating kids to the race location. Participants will receive a post-race popsicle and snacks.
Those who pre-register by June 26 will receive a patriotic shirt. For the first time, finisher medals will be presented for both events. Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers and the top three by age group in the 4.5-mile race.
“We have always aligned this event with CarmelFest, which allows people and their families a fun, fitness-related event to start their holiday weekend,” Carr said.
According to Carr, more than 1,000 people are expected to participate.
To register, visit runsignup.com/ Race/Register/?raceId=126126.
CARMELFEST HOURS — The CarmelFest MarketPlace, food vendors and entertainment will be open from 1 to 10 p.m. July 3 and noon to 10 p.m. July 4. The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. July 4, and fireworks will start at 9:45 p.m. July 4.
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Building Legacy: Pete Gray Reflects on 30 Years of Executive Homes
By Kirsten Clark
For three decades, Executive Homes has been quietly shaping the landscape of Central Indiana—one carefully crafted luxury home at a time. As the founder and President of Executive Homes, Pete Gray has earned a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail, commitment to quality, and an unshakable focus on what matters most: his clients.
“In the beginning, I really wanted to build homes that felt like they belonged to the people living in them,” Gray reflects. “It was never about being flashy. It was about being faithful to the process—and to the people who trusted me with one of the biggest decisions of their lives.”
Gray founded Executive Homes in 1995 with a clear purpose: to build high-end, high-quality homes with integrity. Over the years, that purpose has guided him through countless builds across Westfield, Carmel, Zionsville, and the surrounding communities—each one a testament to thoughtful design, intentional craftsmanship, and a deeply personalized client journey.
“I’ve always believed that our job isn’t just to build homes,” Gray says. “It’s to build relationships. That starts with listening—really listening—to what people want their life to look like, and then figuring out how to make that happen through the home we build.”
Walk through an Executive Home, and the difference is palpable. From custom woodwork and luxury finishes to open-concept layouts and family-first floorplans, every element is designed with purpose. No detail is too small, no client request too big. It’s this commitment to excellence that has earned Executive Homes a loyal following—including many repeat clients who return for second, third or even fourth homes as their lives evolve.
That distinctive quality resonates deeply with homeowners. Over the years, Gray has heard countless people say that the moment they step into a home, they can tell it was built by Executive Homes.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to hear that repeatedly,” Gray says. “It means we’re creating something recognizable—not just a house, but a feeling of quality and care that stays with people.”
But for Gray, success has never been about quantity.
“We’re not a volume builder,” he says. “That’s by design. We take on a select number of projects each
year because that’s what allows us to stay hands-on, stay involved, and make sure we’re delivering the kind of quality and service people come to us for.”
The very first home he built still stands out in his memory.
“I can picture it clearly,” he says, smiling. “That build taught me that doing things the right way—taking your time, being precise, communicating well—it always pays off. And that mindset has stayed with me ever since.”
Advertorial
Over the past 30 years, Gray has witnessed significant changes in the homebuilding industry. Design trends have come and gone. Technologies have advanced. Customer expectations have evolved. But his core values haven’t wavered.
“The tools have changed, sure. But the foundation of good business hasn’t,” he explains. “People want to work with someone they can trust—someone who’s going to show up, follow through, and make sure the end result reflects their vision, not just ours.”
That collaborative spirit has become a cornerstone of Executive Homes’ approach. Clients are guided through every step of the design-build process—from lot selection and architectural planning to interior finishes and final walkthroughs—with a level of attention and care that is rare in today’s market.
Perhaps the most meaningful evolution in Gray’s journey has been the involvement of his son, Patrick, who has joined the business and has learned the ropes from the ground up.
“Watching him come into this with his own passion and ideas has been very fulfilling,” Gray says. “It’s not just about continuing the business—it’s about continuing the values, the reputation, the way we treat people. That matters to me more than anything.”
Family, in fact, is at the heart of everything Gray does—both at home and at work.
“When you build a home for someone, you become part of their story,” he says. “You’re giving them a place to grow as a family, celebrate milestones, weather hard times. That’s sacred ground, and I don’t take it lightly.”
Looking ahead, Gray remains as motivated as ever.
“There’s still so much I want to do,” he says. “New designs to explore, new ways to improve how we serve our clients. I love the creative challenge of it all.”
When asked what advice he’d offer to someone just entering the field, Gray’s answer is simple but sincere: “Stay focused. Be humble. Learn from the people around you. And always—always—care more about doing the job right than doing it fast.”
Thirty years in, that quiet, steadfast commitment continues to define Executive Homes—and the man behind it. Pete Gray hasn’t just built some of the most beautiful homes in Central Indiana. He’s built a legacy of trust, character, and craftsmanship that will carry on well into the next generation.
Jeff and Julie, satisfied clients of Executive Homes.
Pete and Patrick Gray.
A completed Executive Homes custom home.
‘THE BIGGEST BLESSING’
Retiring superintendent reflects on 7 busy years leading Carmel Clay Schools
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Much has happened since Michael Beresford became superintendent of Carmel Clay Schools in the summer of 2018.
A boiler exploded and caused major damage at Carmel High School less than six months into his tenure, a global pandemic shut down schools and led to virtual and hybrid learning options, school board meetings turned contentious for months in the pandemic’s aftermath, and the district closed one elementary school and opened another.
“It was the most incredible, wonderful, horrible, difficult, heartwarming, kind, ugly, hysterical – I could use every adjective in the book – seven years,” Beresford said. “These last seven years have had a lot in them.”
As he prepares to enter retirement July 1, another word came to mind describing his time at CCS.
“This has just been the biggest blessing to finish my career here,” he said.
‘THE BIGGEST CHEERLEADER IN THE DISTRICT’
Beresford joined CCS after spending 25 years working in Hamilton Southeastern Schools, where he oversaw student, parent and staff services; developed school safety and mental health initiatives; and recruited teachers.
Before that, he worked as a high school English and journalism teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, principal
and in other roles.
Visitors from across the decades and school districts stopped by the CCS Educational Services Center for a June 9 open house to congratulate Beresford on his career and retirement.
“It was like watching a reel of my professional career from most of the school districts I worked at,” said Beresford, 65. “Some family came, and my best friend and his wife came, and it was like all my
“(He) joined this school district at a time where we certainly needed new leadership, and we got that and more. I think anybody who is willing to take a step back and look at what has gone on within our community and look at our schools over the last seven years has seen the fresh air that has come into our schools and seen the impact.”
–Jon Shapiro, CCS school board member and CCS parent
(Above) Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent Michael Beresford takes the drivers seat in a school bus. (Right) Beresford takes to the baseball diamond in support of CHS. (Left) Beresford addresses the crowd at a Carmel High School commencement ceremony. (Photos courtesy of CCS)
worlds converging in one place.”
Special guests included representatives from the state legislature, who presented Beresford with a proclamation commemorating his career in education.
When asked what he considers his greatest accomplishment, Beresford rattled off praises for other CCS employees, such as the curriculum team for its efforts to close achievement gaps in recent years and the district’s technology experts’ work
“He was a wonderful leader who really supported our families and parents. He laid such a strong foundation that listened and valued feedback from all the stakeholders. He was always visible and open to honest and productive conversation. He led us through some great challenges and supported getting our schools the tools they need to be a top district in the state of Indiana.”
–Michele
Kirby, CCS parent, PTO president and Greyhound Coordinating Council member
to launch virtual, secure classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic.
That answer didn’t surprise Tom Oestreich, the district’s assistant superintendent of staff and student services, who will become the next superintendent upon Beresford’s retirement.
“He is truly a ‘we’ versus ‘me’ leader,” Oestreich said. “It’s, ‘What can we do as a
Continued on Page 15
“When he first got named (superintendent) in 2018 I had the opportunity to make a phone call to Hamilton Southeastern and my good friend, Jim Self, who’s been the athletic director there for over 20 years. I said, ‘Jim, What are we getting?’ He goes, ‘Oh, this is, this is a huge loss for HSE and a huge win for Carmel Clay Schools.’ And Jim couldn’t have been more true with his words that night.”
–Jim
Inskeep, CHS athletic director
Continued from Page 14
team? How can we solve problems together?’ He’s not a ‘me’ leader, and that is another thing I’ll be taking with me, that he’s been such a great role model.”
Other ways Oestreich aims to emulate Beresford is by keeping an open door to meet with those with feedback or concerns; spending time interacting with students, employees and community members at various CCS events; and being a good listener and transparent communicator.
“Dr. B is always the biggest cheerleader in the district, and I hope I can take that with me as well,” said Oestreich, 48. “You’re going to see me cheering on the sidelines or at competitions and being in the classroom, working side by side with our students.”
‘HE’S GOING TO BE THE NEXT BIG DEAL’
Beresford and Oestreich have spent the last year working closely together to prepare for the transition.
Oestreich joined CCS in January 2020 after working as an assistant superintendent in MSD Washington Township in Indianapolis. Beresford said he was thrilled when he saw that Oestreich had applied for the open position at CCS.
“When I hired him, I said, ‘He’s going to be the next big deal,’ and I also said that he brings the juice and what
a great, great thing that was for our district,” Beresford said. “And then he walked in, and it was pandemic time.”
Managing the COVID-19 crisis and other complex situations together continued building Beresford’s confidence in his eventual successor.
“I always want to leave the place better than the way I found it, and hopefully that’s happened,” Beresford said. “But I also don’t want to just give the baby to anybody. When the (school board) chose Dr. O, it lowered any anxiety I had, because I know he’s going to continue the work and that his priorities are right priorities.”
“It’s kind of like throwing the keys to your oldest son, ‘Take the Chevy, I trust you,’” he added. “I do trust him.”
After handing over the car, Beresford plans to spend a week in Nags Head, N.C., with his family before returning to his home in Fishers to tackle several projects. He’d like to write a textbook for school administrators and a coffee table book about humorous school stories, and he’d like to pursue his interest in music.
Beresford also plans to work on rehabbing lower body injuries so he can spend more time on his bicycle and visit U.S. national parks.
“My wife and I’s thing is to go to pretty places to hike and challenge ourselves that way,” he said. “So, I’ve got to get in shape for that to happen. That’s going to be a priority. This job does not match well with a good exercise program.”
Once Beresford retires, his therapy dog, Jim Dandee, won’t be a fixture in the superintendent’s office anymore, but the golden retriever will still be hard at work.
“Jim Dandee is too young to retire. He’s only five years old, and even if you count it in dog years, he’s 35, so he’s really in the prime of his career,” Beresford said. “We’re going to keep going to schools, hospitals and libraries. He needs a handler, so I’ll serve in that capacity.”
Oestreich said he does not plan to start bringing a dog to work each day, but he will continue the district’s therapy dog program, which has grown to include 10 canines. He also plans to launch a monthly radio show on WHJE, which is operated out of CHS, tentatively titled, “In the Know with Dr. O.”
But overall, he doesn’t expect to make many shifts when he assumes his new role.
“No major changes,” he said. “This is an extremely successful school district.”
ON THE COVER: CCS Superintendent Michael Beresford gives a student a fist bump at a Pup Running meet May 15 at the Carmel High School track. (Photo courtesy of Pup Running)
“Throughout his tenure, Dr. Beresford has modeled empathy, positivity and student-centered leadership. Uplifting a generation through his vision, care and commitment, he has embodied the spirit of ‘Together We Achieve’ uniting educators, students, families and the community in support of excellence for all. The Carmel Education Foundation has been deeply grateful for Dr. Beresford for his guidance, leadership and dedication to advancing opportunities for every learner.”
– Jenn Penix, Carmel Education Foundation Director
Beresford says emotional goodbye during final CCS board meeting
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel Clay Schools board meetings always close with a superintendent’s report. Michael Beresford, CCS superintendent since 2018, likes to close his own remarks with what he calls his “bell ringer”.
SCHOOLS
On June 23, Beresford metaphorically rang the bell for the last time retiring at the end of last month.
It was an emotional moment for Beresford, who credited CCS educators, administrators, staff and students for the district’s successes during his time as superintendent.
“The last month has just been amazing — so much kindness and just celebrating the end of not only my seven years here, but also a 43-year career (in education),” Beresford said. “It’s been kind of like seeing a reel of your life go by. And those pieces were good.”
Beresford’s departure wasn’t addressed until he delivered his “bell ringer” finale. He quoted Winnie-the-Pooh from the children’s classic, “House at Pooh Corner.”
“‘If there’s ever a tomorrow.’” he said, “‘when we’re not together, there’s something you must always remember. You’re braver than you believe, you’re stronger than you seem, and you’re smarter than you think. And I would add that you’re loved more than you know.’ But the most important thing is, even if we are apart, I will always be with you.”
He added another quote from Winnie-the-Pooh.
“He’s a great person, he’s a leader of high character, and he truly cares about the district and our students.”
– Thomas Oestreich, CCS assistant superintendent?
“‘How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard?’ And with that, that’s a wrap,’” he said.
School board members gave Beresford a standing ovation.
“He really does care about the students and their families,” Board Vice President Jennifer Nelson Willams said. “You can see it in the way he attends almost every single event, and it really is just exceptional to watch. It’s just inspiring that we can all take a little bit of that into our everyday lives.”
Retired Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent Michael Beresford, flanked by CCS Board President Jennifer Kouka, left, and new Superintendent Thomas Oestreich, makes his farewell statement during the June 23 CCS board meeting. (Photo by Todd Golden)
CCS Assistant Superintendent Thomas Oestreich shakes the hand of CCS Superintendent Michael Beresford at the June 9 school board meeting. Oestreich will become succeed Beresford July 1. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
The Perfect RETIREMENT
Nonprofit trains shelter pets to become medical service dogs
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
An Indianapolis-based nonprofit organization is helping dogs and people through its mission to take dogs from shelters and rescue organizations and then train them to be certified medical service dogs for people living with a variety of physical and mental health conditions.
ANIMALS
Medical Mutts was founded in 2013 by Jennifer Cattet and her husband, Jack Topham. Cattet said she started training dogs when she was 18 — about 40 years ago — and previously worked for a different nonprofit that runs a prison-based dog program.
“I became a trainer because of my love of dogs and also because it was really a harsh reality to face how many dogs are surrendered every year and euthanized, because our relationship with dogs is not as positive and rosy as we would want it to be,” she said. “The dogs are ending up in shelters because dog lovers are breeding them or buying them or surrendering them. … When we founded Medical Mutts, we wanted to find a way to pull dogs out of a difficult situation, give them a wonderful life where they’re not going to be surrendered again, where they’re going to be placed with a person who really knows what they’re doing.”
The organization not only trains dogs. It works with its clients to make sure they understand their responsibilities.
“The dog gets a really good-quality home and then the person gets a dog that is going to help them,” Cattet said, “We’re trying to create teams where the dog and the person really rely on each other and where they’re going to be able to grow together and together have a better life. So, we really wanted to help on both ends of the leash.”
Traditionally, service dogs are bred for the work — mostly Labrador or golden retrievers. Cattet said taking primarily mixedbreed shelter dogs was a “little bit of a bet,” but one that has paid off for the nonprofit. Medical Mutts trainers visit shelters and carefully assess dogs who might succeed. They look for young dogs between 1 and 2 years old, with friendly, loving dispositions that are not timid or easily spooked and have a deep love of treats.
“All of our dogs are trained with treats, and we want dogs that are very motivated, because some of these dogs are going to have to wake up in the middle of the night to alert somebody,” Cattet said. “If somebody’s glucose level is going down in the middle of the night, or some child is having a seizure and the dog has to wake up, that dog has to be motivated enough to get out of their bed and do their job.”
Even with a thorough screening, not all of the dogs chosen for the program become service dogs. Abby Harlan, development director for Medical Mutts, said that — similar to programs that train dogs bred specifically for service work — only about 30 percent of the dogs that start training with Medical Mutts graduate from the program. The rest are available for adoption — still a win-win for the dogs and the families they end up with, especially since Medical Mutts dogs have gone through that initial screening, a quarantine period to make sure they are healthy and veterinary care, including vaccines.
“All dogs are good dogs, right? But we really have some adoptable dogs that may have better temperaments or be better with kids or cats,” Harlan said. “Whereas, you don’t necessarily always know what you’re getting when you go to a city shelter.”
Medical Mutts has a resident cat named Marvin — also adopted from a shelter — whose job is to greet visitors, provide stress relief through gentle head butts and purrs, and test how well the dogs react to a cat.
For more about Medical Mutts, including the nonprofit’s adoption program, visit medicalmutts.org.
Medical Mutts founder Jennifer Cattet, left, and Director of Training Eva Rudisile with Amway, a service dog in training. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Contractor lends helping hand
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Ken Bennett is always eager to give back.
GIVING BACK
A Carmel resident and founder and president and CEO of Home
Experts
Indy, Bennett was selected by Angi’s House Calls national program to lead a $26,800 renovation for an Indianapolis family who has endured a series of hardships, ranging from a cancer diagnosis to home damage to a niece’s battle with leukemia.
Angi covering the cost, it’s like a weight has been lifted,” Amrozowicz said. “The new bathroom feels like a hotel spa.Iit’s something we never thought we’d be able to have. Ken Bennett and his team at Home Experts Indy did an amazing job, and we can’t thank them enough for the beautiful transformation.”
Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi (formerly known as Angie’s List), said Angi is committed to supporting community members who truly need a hand.
Bennett met with the homeowner, Victoria Amrozowicz, and asked her what she wanted done.
“I sent her information on how we could change it, move the toilet and tub, redesign the whole thing,” Bennett said. “We discounted everything on our pricing.”
Amrozowicz said she was grateful for the project, which was completed in May.
“It’s such a big undertaking, and honestly, we’ve been putting it off because of everything going on. But now, with
“Our Angi’s House Calls program allows us to highlight the skills of talented professionals while making a meaningful impact on families and communities,” Hicks said. “These projects, big or small, are a testament to the difference a great pro can make in someone’s life.”
Bennett said his business has previously helped with projects for Resources of Hope, which provides foster care support in central Indiana.
“We’d love to do another one for Angi’s House Calls,” he said.
For more, visit homeexpertsindy.com.
Accommodating ‘missing middle’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For senior communities such as Ritchey Reserve, Sade Hearns views it as increasingly essential to keep costs down.
SENIOR LIVING
“As the 55-plus population booms, there’s a huge demand for affordable senior housing that doesn’t feel like a downgrade,” said Hearns, director of property management for RItchey Reserve in Fishers. “Seniors want comfort, connection and amenities without sacrificing affordability. This isn’t a luxury; it’s an expectation.”
Hearns said it’s important to hit the “missing middle” of seniors who want upscale independence without overpaying.
Ritchey Reserve is at 7889 E 106th St. in the Nickel Plate District in Fishers. The community is near the Nickel Plate Trail, amphitheater, shopping, health care and the Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve.
Amenities include a clubhouse with coffee bar, concierge service, package delivery, controlled access, elevators, guest suite and community events.
Ritchey Reserve dog owners have a perk,
“A dog park and dog spa is definitely a rare amenity,” Hearns said. “The pet spas have a wash station equipped with easy-touse tubs — perfect for a post-walk rinse.”
It’s definitely a convenience for dog owners.
“Instead of hauling your dog to an off-site groomer, everything’s on-site — grooming, running and socializing, all without stepping outside the community,” Hearns said.
Gloria Miller said it’s a great place to let your dog run off-leash and relax with you on the bench.
For more, visit homeatritcheyreserve. com.
Ritchey Reserve has unique amenities, such as a dog park and dog spa. (Photo courtesy of Ritchey Rerserve)
Bennett
Carmel High School siblings land together on Broadway
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Christopher Ramirez was considering different career path when fate intervened en route to his Broadway debut.
PERFORMANCES
Ramirez is performing in “Real Women Have Curves,” a musical that opened in late April. To make it even sweeter, his sister, Monica Tulia Ramirez, is in the cast. Christopher graduated from Carmel High School in 2009, and Monica is a 2012 CHS graduate.
The stage pairing almost didn’t happen.
“I was interested in exploring other channels of the arts, such as arts administration,” Christopher said. “I was working as executive assistant to the general manager at the Metropolitan Opera. It’s kind of a crazy story. I was going to take a step back from being an actor. I thought I needed to enter this career path because it could be opening some exciting channels of income and future endeavors. It was a bittersweet email to send.”
He sent a long email to his manager and agent, and 30 seconds later his agent called. He asked if his agent had already read the email.
Instead, his agent said he hadn’t and then his manager joined on the phone
“They were calling to tell me I had the role and was going to Broadway with the show,” Christopher said. “It’s one of the classic tales of you are about to leave and get the Broadway call.”
The Ramirez siblings are in the ensemble.
“We cover other roles as typically the ensemble does in Broadway shows, so that’s been really fun,” Monica said. The siblings also rehearse together twice a week.
“Thank God, we love each other,” Monica said.
Monica, who made her Broadway
debut in “Suffs” in 2024, moved to New York after graduating from Ball State University.
Christopher said for his sister to be in back-to-back Broadway shows is a massive accomplishment.
Christopher, a graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music, moved to New York in 2014. Monica lived with him for 3 1/2 years when she first moved to New York.
“We also worked at a restaurant together at one point during that time,” Monica said. “So, we’re pretty locked-in best friends.”
This is the first time they have worked on a show together.
“We get to see each other work in a room, which has been really refreshing,” she said.
Christopher performed in “Real Women Have Curves” at the American Repertory
Theater in Cambridge, Mass,. in late 2023 and early 2024.
“I saw it in January 2024, and it was so incredible,” Monica said. “Christopher found out in the fall of 2024 he was going to go with it to Broadway.”
When Monica found out “Suffs” was going to close in January 2025, she decided to audition for “Real Women Have Curves.”
“Christopher helped and coached me through it, but it was an extensive process,” she said. “I went through five different auditions, including tapes. They combed through everybody to find the perfect people for this, and the fact we’re family members doing a show about families is really nice.”
They also did a short interview together on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.”
In previewing the show, Christopher and Monica were in a cast piece on the Tony Awards show June 8 on CBS. In addition, they were on “Good Morning America” on ABC, and Christopher appeared on “TODAY” on NBC.
“Real Woman Have Curves,” about a first-generation Mexican American woman who wants to go to college instead of staying with her family, has special meaning because the siblings’ father emigrated to the U.S. from Colombia and their mother is from Illinois.
“We acknowledged the privileges we have that we get to chase our dreams and get to be actors because of the sacrifices our parents made, especially my dad because he had an artistic side,” Christopher said.
But it wasn’t financially feasible for his father, Michael Ramirez, to be an artist while providing for his family.
Christopher, who earned his master’s degree through the University of San Diego’s Old Globe Theater, has acted regionally in California, Houston and Boston, among other places. Monica has worked on several workshop shows while attempting to make a path to Broadway.
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’
“The Little Mermaid” runs through July 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘THE COTTAGE’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “The Cottage” July 2-6, except July 4, at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
ROCK THE RUINS
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra performs at 6:30 p.m. July 9 at the Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park in Indianapolis. For more, visit rocktheruins.com.
DISPATCHES
Vocalist to hold album release at Feinstein’s — Two-time No. 1 Billboard vocalist Deborah Silver will take the stage for a special album release event celebrating “Basie Rocks!” at 7:30 p.m. July 24 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Silver, renowned for her dynamic jazz interpretations across genres, recorded with The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra. Along with her signature glamour and powerhouse vocals, Silver delivers a swinging twist to rock classics by The Beatles, Elton John, Peter Frampton, Steve Miller, the Eagles and more as she performs songs from “Basie Rocks!” Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for dinner and drinks. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
Molly Hatchet set for Palladium concert — Southern rockers Molly Hatchet will perform at 7 p.m. July 25 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The band will be joined by guests Timothy Scott and Toolbox Union. Since the early ‘70s, Molly Hatchet has injected a heavy dose of boogie into Southern rock. The band was originally formed by guitarist Dave Hlubek in Jacksonville in 1971. The band enjoyed commercial success during the late 1970s and early to mid-1980s. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Carmel High School graduates Monica and Christopher Ramirez are performing in “Real Women Have Curves.” (Photo courtesy of Monica Ramirez)
Wood Brothers to Rock the Ruins
By Bill Forman editorial@youarecurrent.com
For a dozen-plus years, brothers Chris and Oliver Wood had pursued separate musical paths — Chris in the acclaimed jazz-rooted group, Medeski Martin and Wood and Oliver in King Johnson, which released six albums of blues-infused country, R&B and funk. Finally, in the early 2000s, their paths converged when King Johnson opened a show for Medeski Martin and Wood.
CONCERT
The first time the siblings played together in the same room changed everything for the brothers.
“It was just this weird feeling, like I was looking in a kind of mirror when I was playing with him,” Chris Wood said. “I just saw the way he approached the instrument, like the musical choices, his style. There was something sort of almost creepily familiar.”
Soon the siblings had turned their attention to starting the Wood Brothers, and over the course of nine albums and more than two decades, that musical familiarity
has continued to grow. The Wood Brothers will co-headline with St; Paul & The Broken Bones at 6 p.m. July 10 in the Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park in Indianapolis.
As a trio with drummer-keyboardist-vocalist Jano Rix, they’ve earned a Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album, reached No. 1 on Billboard magazine’s Top Heatseekers chart, and built a loyal fanbase by touring.
The Wood Brothers’ upcoming album “Puff of Smoke” is scheduled to be released Aug. 1. For more, visit rocktheruins.com
‘25-’26 SEASON
At the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts
October 11 - 7 p.m.
DRAMA! Beethoven & Brahms
Guest Conductor Kelly Corcoran
Ludwig Van Beethoven - Egmont Overture
Edvard Grieg - Holberg Suite, op. 40
Johannes Brahms - Symphony No. 1, op. 68
December 14 - 2 p.m. Family Matinee & 7 p.m.
Holiday Pops: Spirit of the Season presented by IU Health
Guest Conductor Kelly Kuo
February 21 - 7 p.m.
Love Letters from Paris
Guest Conductor Kelly Corcoran
Jean Sibelius - Rakastava, op. 14, “The Lover”
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Symphony No. 31, K. 297, “Paris”
Edward Elgar - Salut d’amour, op. 12, “Love’s Greeting”
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Concerto for Flute & Harp, K. 299
Soloists Tamara Thweatt, flute & Melanie Mashner, harp
March 21 - 7 p.m.
Nordic Nights
Guest Conductor Kelly Kuo
Jean Sibelius - Karelia Suite, op. 11
Thomas Adès - Air - Homage to Sibelius
Soloist Davis Brooks, violin
Jean Sibelius - Symphony No. 2, op. 43
April 18 - 7 p.m.
Symphonic Odyssey
Guest Conductor Kelly Corcoran
Antonin Dvořák - Carnival Overture, op. 92
Cristina Spinei - …throes of increasing wonder
Gustav Mahler - Adagietto from Symphony No. 5
Felix Mendelssohn - Symphony No. 5, op. 107, “Reformation”
The Wood Brothers are, from left, Chris Wood, Jano Rix and Oliver Wood. They will perform July 10 in Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park. (Photo courtesy of Laura Partain)
Tamara Thweatt, flute & Melanie Mashner, harp Davis Brooks, violin
Weddings by the numbers
ESSAY Commentary by Terry Anker
Summer weddings are a traditional favorite. But interestingly, October and September have overtaken May and June in the top spots for nuptials. Still, none of the months are as busy. In fact, 1947, right after World War II, saw the biggest historical spike with 16.4 people per 1,000 Americans getting hitched. The years 1970 and 1980 found their way to 10.6. Since 2000, the numbers have been generally declining, with 2022, the last year of published data, sitting at 6.0 per 1,000. As the annual average is 8.4, we’ve experienced an almost 30 percent decline overall. Experts are predicting that the trend will continue. In 1947, nearly 80 percent of all households represented married couples, while today that number is just above 47 percent, even though it has been increasing slightly for the last number of years.
Those of us who have been getting our share of wedding cake are likely in the zones. Namely, we are young and watching our friends get married, or we are not so young and watching our friends’
children get married. Either way, we are included in celebrating an important life event for those whom we hold dear. Attitudes toward the institution are affected by social mores, pandemics, wars and popular trends, but most marriages kick off with a celebratory launch. To some of us, weddings have become too grand and costly for us guests, with many destination weddings consuming thousands and days of vacation time. To others, marriage is an arcane idea, no longer relevant in a modern world. There may be a few who just are cranky and don’t like to have fun. Regardless of our proclivities, shouldn’t we hope for the best and make it our business to attend? In most studies, married folks are still wealthier, healthier and happier. And for the couple, that’s worth celebrating.
READERS’ VIEWS
Student studies impact of body image, eating disorders
Editor,
Lots of readers probably have heard the words “body image” and “eating disorders,” perhaps when your science teacher made you watch a video for homework and, to top it off, answer questions about it. But have you ever thought about how they are connected?
I am a sophomore at Carmel High School. I learned about body image and eating disorders during an important research project I did for a competitive medical club I am in at my school. I understood the consequences of what a powerful effect eating disorders have on a person’s body image. So, I decided that I needed to do something to be part of a little change in this world that could become huge when millions of people join along the journey.
I conducted a survey of around 45 people, and they all seemed to think that
most of the time, people’s opinions about them affected the way they looked. The survey also showed that most people’s self-esteem was affected by their diet.
During the survey, I also had a quick section about Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder and Binge Eating Disorder.
As a young person, I want to do the right by helping others that have problems with these kinds of situations and sharing my knowledge with everyone as much as I can.
Today, I am requesting everyone in Carmel to attempt to put a little effort into spreading awareness about eating disorders and body image issues and learning more about these topics. Thank you so much to everyone who does and remember that every bit helps!
Dharini Selvakumar,
Carmel High School student
As a ‘manner’ of fact
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
Five years ago, while the world was in the throes of COVID-19, I started looking through some of my wife’s old cookbooks. I was preparing Mary Ellen for the next pandemic. I also found a couple of editions of books written by manners maven Emily Post, who died in 1960. Very few attended her funeral because people feared they’d wear something inappropriate. Here are some new insights from the second edition, with a few favorites from the first edition.
HUMOR
• Don’t tell guests beforehand if you are serving an unfamiliar dish. It could prejudice them before they even taste it. After the first bite, casually mention that it’s not beef burgundy but gopher goulash.
• In 1930, Emily said you should avoid “promiscuous kissing” at a dinner party. Yes, that’s her exact phrase. I’m no prude, but I agree. At least wait until you have been introduced. Then please wait until after dessert.
• Emily does not like pretension. She is not in favor of saying, “I am going to retire.” She wants you to say, “I am going to sleep.” In 2021, after 40 years on TV, I guess I went to sleep. She also prefers, “Excuse me” to “Pardon me,” unless you have committed a crime and are talking to the president.
• If you visit a friend’s home, you must conform to the habits of your host family — have meals at their hours, eat what is put before you and go to bed according to their schedule. Similar advice is found in “Joining a Cult for Dummies.”
• How about guests who overstay their welcome? Incredibly, the author says it is OK for the host to stifle a yawn. I prefer, “Would you mind dropping
our kids off at school on your way home?”
• If your hostess has not begun to eat, once several people have been served at the table, it is OK to pick up your fork and begin. I tried that once and Mary Ellen also picked up her fork … and stuck it in my thigh.
• “Napkins must be unfolded in your lap,” Emily said. I tried that and Mary Ellen thought I was secretly looking at my cellphone. Talking about folding, Emily Post says never cut your salad. Instead, always fold the lettuce leaves. Fold the lettuce leaves? I can’t even fold a fitted sheet.
• To prevent guests from showing up late, ask them to come about a half hour before you really want them to arrive. If the doorbell rings while you are still in your underwear, rethink the concept.
• The guide says at home to peel a banana halfway down and eat it bite by bite. These rules for humans are pretty much the same as for orangutans.
• Another prohibition: Ms. Post says never to say, “I’m stuffed” after dinner. Growing up, failure to make this observation meant you were disappointed with the food.
• “Overnight visits require written thank-you notes.” We spent five days at my sister’s house in New York recently. We consumed all the food she prepared, we agreed to sleep in her spare room and we let her do our laundry. So far, not a word of thanks from her.
I thought our mother taught us better.
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 once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
5. “Yeah, right!” 9. More rational 14. Pelvic bones
15. Boy’s name/Indiana city 16. Quickly
17. Muldoon’s menu item
18. Tibetan monk
19. Aquarium fish
20. Purdue professor’s offering
22. Boy’s name/Indiana city
24. Provide with funds 27. Existing
28. ___ fide
30. Photos, for short 32. Small salamander 36. Civil rights org.
37. Investment option, briefly 39. Butler frat letter
40. Between ports
41. UND’s ACC foe
42. Sporadic offering from the Golden Arches
44. Tuna type
45. Gremlin’s kin
47. To-do list item
48. Hoosier National Forest home
50. Former Yankee slugger, familiarly
51. Nobleman
52. Query
54. Stir from sleep
56. Boy’s name/Indiana city
60. Circular currents
64. Go one better
65. Lots
68. “Copacabana” showgirl
69. Make changes
70. Boy’s name/Indiana city
71. List-ending abbr.
72. Feather in one’s cap
73. Food stamp letters
74. Tirade Down
1. Catchall abbr.
2. Westfield HS choir voice
3. In ___ of (replacing)
4. Boy’s name/Indiana city
5. Ran in neutral
6. Hamilton County Fair barn sound
7. Zionsville street that goes past Pine, Cedar and Walnut
8. Oolong and pekoe
9. Woodland deity
10. Our ancestors, hypothetically
11. Defense acronym
12. Hosiery shade
13. Stern of a ship
21. Retort angrily
23. Right on an Indiana map 25. Choose
26. Boy’s name/Indiana city
28. Soak in the tub
29. Desert haven
31. Woulda, ___, shoulda
33. Victory Field miscue
34. Spin
35. One of Hamlet’s choices
36. Fresh Indian Grill bread
38. Hosted a roast
43. Boy’s name/Indiana city
46. Yard tool
49. Bicycle built for two
53. Colts 10, Titans 7, e.g.
55. Home country of 25 winners of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon men’s races
56. It’s sold in bars?
57. Word on a door
58. “___, Brute?”
59. Pasta sauce brand
61. Teeny bit
62. Panache
63. Pretzel topping
O’Hare’s airport code
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