July 21, 2026 — Current in Carmel

Council revisits micromobility ordinance Page 3

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Council revisits ‘confusing’ ordinance

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com Last year, after much discussion, the Carmel City Council approved a detailed ordinance regulating the use of micromobility devices, such as electric scooters and e-motos, on public streets and trails.

The goal was to improve safety for riders and pedestrians as the devices grew in popularity. But since then, the problem seems to have gotten worse, according to City Council President Matt Snyder.

So, the council is revisiting the ordinance. It was set to be introduced at a July 20 meeting (visit youarecurrent. com for coverage).

“Behaviors on all types of apparatuses seem to be spinning out of control on the Monon (Greenway) and the inner corridor with these doing wheelies past people and those types of things, just a lack of regard for other people,” Snyder said. “I don’t believe our ordinance, as hard as we worked on it, is effective. I don’t know what the solution is, but I think we do need to reopen it and dig deeper.”

Councilor Jeff Worrell said he has continued to receive complaints about unsafe behavior on the Monon Greenway and has frequently witnessed it himself. As a result, some people are avoiding the trail altogether.

Worrell believes the solution may

An e-bike travels along the Monon Greenway.

(File Photo)

be to rework the ordinance to focus on certain behaviors rather than legislating what types of micromobility devices are permitted on certain trails.

He described the existing ordinance as “confusing.”

“How do I tell the difference between an e-moto and an e-bike class two or class one?” Worrell asked. “There’s no way that a police officer can tell the difference, so it just seems to be too complicated. Which is why I think it doesn’t matter what (device) you’re on, if you’re speeding on a pedal bike or you’re speeding on an e-moto, that’s speeding and should be corrected immediately.”

Worrell has assembled a working group of residents concerned about the issue to discuss ideas. In the immediate future, the amendments set to be discussed at the council meeting aim to tweak the ordinance to make it easier for police to enforce.

Proposed amendments include:

• Clarifying that Class 1, 2 or 3 e-bikes are not e-moto devices • Allowing micromobility devices only in designated bicycle lanes on the Monon Greenway between Main Street and Walnut Street • Prohibiting e-bikes that have been modified to exceed performance characteristics established under Indiana law for Class 1, 2 or 3 e-bikes • Clarifying that e-moto devices may only be operated on streets • Prohibiting stunt riding, including wheelies and jumping curbs, and racing • Prohibiting the operating of devices in groups of three or more in a manner that obstructs or impedes pedestrian safety or movement • Increasing the fine for first and second offenses to $250 and adjusting the fine for third and subsequent offenses to $500 to $2,500 • Requiring notification of parents or guardians when a minor violates the ordinance and allowing officers to impound the device Snyder and Worrell said councilors are seeking public feedback on the proposed amendments and experiences on city trails.

“It comes down to public safety for everybody that uses our paths and trails and user experience and what is and is not appropriate behavior within the city right of way,” Snyder said.

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DISPATCHES  Indiana Humanities names CEO — Shelley Hunter of Carmel has been named president and CEO of Indiana Humanities. She was previously the CEO at College Mentors for Kids for 10 years. Hunter will work in close partnership with the nonprofit’s board of directors and staff to proHunter mote the public humanities across Indiana, fostering learning, connection and understanding through programs, grants and public conversation.

Hunter received her bachelor’s degree from DePauw University and her master’s degree in philanthropic studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. She replaces Keira Amstutz, who served as president and CEO of Indiana Humanities for 18 years.

From right, State Rep. Danny Lopez presents a House District Declaration to Rotarians Rick Markoff and Nancy Heck. (Photo courtesy of Matt Stachler)

 Lopez recognizes Rotary Club — State Rep. Danny Lopez presented Nancy Heck, president of the Carmel Rotary Club, and longtime Rotarian Rick Markoff with a House District Declaration commemorating the club’s 50th year of service to the city. While the Carmel Rotary was established in 1972, the city of Carmel was incorporated 50 years ago this year. “For more than five decades, the Carmel Rotary has been an invaluable partner to our city and a huge part of what makes our community unique and special,” Lopez said. “From CarmelFest to so many service-related efforts, the Carmel Rotary has, in many ways, grown up alongside the city, and I am thrilled to be able to celebrate this very special anniversary with them.”

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Amazon Now eyeing vacant Carmel office building

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com In the not-too-distant future, residents in Carmel and surrounding areas might be able to order groceries and other essentials from Amazon and receive them in 30 minutes or less.

The online retail giant has applied for a special use permit from the City of Carmel to operate an Amazon Now delivery facility in a vacant office building at 12208 Hancock St. Amazon is seeking to renovate 7,000 square feet in the building to use as space to receive, store, stage and dispatch products for local customer delivery.

Carmel’s Unified Development Ordinance requires storage and distribution facilities to receive a special use permit to operate.

An Amazon spokesperson confirmed the plans to Current July 10.

Amazon Now is available in Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Philadelphia and Seattle and is expanding to dozens of additional cities in the U.S., according to a company press release. The expansion is expected to add tens of millions potential customers in its service area by the end of the year.

“With thousands of items available

Amazon Now is aiming to open a delivery facility at 12208 Hancock St. (Map source: Hamilton County GIS)

for ultra-fast delivery, you can get everything from groceries for dinner, to AirPods before a flight, to household essentials like laundry detergent or toothpaste delivered right to your door” Udit Madan, senior vice president, Amazon Worldwide Operations, stated.

Amazon Now products include dairy, produce, bakery, health care and baby items and much more. U.S. Prime members pay a delivery fee of $3.99 per order, and those without a membership pay $13.99 per order. Additional fees may apply for orders that cost less than $15.

A Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals hearing officer is set to review and determine whether to issue the special use permit application at a future meeting.

Carmel hires director of marketing and we look forward to her bringing her experience to the City of Carmel.”

In her new role, Murphy will be reThe City of Carmel has hired a new sponsible for city branding, media redirector of marketing and community lations, public information, events and relations. event sponsorship, and other city Erin Murphy, who previously communications. worked in a similar capacity at Murphy’s past experience Purdue University and the City includes more than a decade as of Westfield and served as press a television news anchor and secretary for Gov. Eric Holcomb, reporter. She earned a bachelor’s began her new role July 13. degree in journalism and a mas“Erin brings a wealth of exter’s degree in public relations Murphy perience and enthusiasm to the from Ball State University. She is role,” Mayor Sue Finkam stated in a press a Westfield resident. release. “She will enhance our support to She replaces Kelly Douglas, who residents and businesses as part of a straserved as the department director from tegic and cohesive outreach plan. She has July 2024 until April of this year. a demonstrated track record of success

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

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Beckwith: Ban call to prayer

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Indiana Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith is calling for the government to ban public Islamic calls to prayer.

Beckwith, who also is a Life Church pastor, made the comment during an appearance on the June 26 episode of the “Conservative Beckwith Review” podcast.

“If you’re a mosque and you want to have a loudspeaker and you want to start pumping these out five times a day locally, the state can say, you’re not going to do that,” Beckwith, a self-proclaimed Christian nationalist, said on the podcast. “We’re not going to let you put these words of death and destruction throughout the city streets.”

On July 10, Beckwith confirmed his position in a social media post.

“Yes, I 100% want to ban mosques in America from blaring the Muslim call to prayer through loudspeakers 5 times a day across our cities,” he stated.

Current contacted the lieutenant governor’s office with questions about Beckwith’s reasons for supporting a ban and whether Islamic calls to prayer have been reported as problematic in specific communities and received a statement from Deputy Communications Director Graham Loughead.

“Hoosiers across Indiana are concerned about the rise of Islam, not only in our state, but across the country,” the statement reads. “Lt. Gov. Beckwith will always stand up for American values and refuses to apologize for saying Sharia Law has no place in this country and that America is now and always should be one nation under God.” The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations issued a July 10 statement in response.

“The adhan is a peaceful call to prayer recited by Muslims around the world for more than 14 centuries. To portray it as a call to ‘death and destruction’ is not only offensive — it is a malicious falsehood that demonizes an entire faith and the millions of Americans who practice it,” stated Hafsa Haider, communications director for CAIR-Chicago.

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Embattled Life Church pastor returns to pulpit

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com Life Church Lead Pastor Nathan Peternel returned to public ministry July 5, more than four months after announcing he would temporarily step away to undergo a “structured restorative process” guided by the Assemblies of God Indiana District leadership.

The pastor’s leave occurred after more than 50 videos of him and his wife nude or engaged in sexual acts were found on his son’s phone during a police investigation.

Peternel’s son, Jonathan Peternel, is in prison after pleading guilty in February to possession of child sexual abuse material. Police discovered the videos of the elder Peternels while investigating Jonathan Peternel’s case.

Life Church, which has campuses in Fishers, Noblesville, Pendleton and Indianapolis, is part of the Assemblies of God denomination. It is also a member of the Association of Related Churches.

In a Feb. 20 letter to congregants announcing his upcoming leave, Peternel stated that the Assemblies of God

Life Church Lead Pastor Nathan Peternel returns to the pulpit July 5 after stepping away for more than four months following a police investigation involving his family. (Screenshot via YouTube/Life Church)

Indiana District Executive Presbytery “concluded that certain personal behaviors related to my use and retention

of private digital content involving my spouse fell short of the standards expected of a credentialed minister and were determined to be unbecoming of ministerial leadership.”

Before giving a July 5 sermon, Nathan Peternel described the situation as the “hardest season” he and his wife have ever experienced.

“The enemy has attacked us,” he said.

“While we’re wrestling not against brothers and sisters, we also know that the enemy can sometimes use the people that we love and their voices and the words and all of that, and it hurts.”

Nathan Peternel also thanked congregants for their support and encouragement during the last several months.

He did not directly mention his son’s arrest or the reason for his leave, but he said the experience transformed him.

“Our dependence on the Lord during this time is going to help us to be better leaders and better pastors than before we went through this,” he said.

“I don’t think you go through the fire unchanged.”

The service fell on the same weekend the U.S. celebrated 250 years of

independence. In his sermon, Nathan Peternel compared U.S. President George Washington’s farewell address to speeches given by biblical figures during leadership transitions.

Current contacted Life Church to request comment from Nathan Peternel or other church leaders and did not receive a response. The church posted a statement regarding his return on its website.

“After a season of rest and renewal, Pastor Nathan and Christina are preparing to return to ministry, and we’re looking toward the first week of July as that time draws near,” the statement reads. “We’re grateful for this restorative season and for the ways the Lord has been strengthening them physically, spiritually, and emotionally. As they step back into the life of our church, we invite you to do two things: keep them in prayer during this time of transition, and reach out with words of love and encouragement. A note, a card, or a kind word means more than you know.”

The Assemblies of God Indiana District Leadership did not respond to a request for comment.

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Diocese asks judge to reconsider pseudonymity

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com The defendants in a civil suit that alleges unchecked bullying of a student at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School in Carmel have requested a judge reconsider a decision to allow the adult plaintiffs to use a pseudonym.

Attorneys for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lafayette-In-Indiana; Trudy Schouten Young, diocese superintendent of schools; the Rev. Richard Doerr, OLMC pastor; OLMC Principal Timothy Fletcher; and OLMC Assistant Principal Deanna Cotter filed the motion to reconsider June 30.

The lawsuit, filed by the student’s parents, accuses OLMC officials and the diocese of failing to adequately address and prevent intensifying harassment of their son that became sexual in nature.

The parents are identified as James Doe and Julie Doe in the suit.

The defendants argue that pseudonymity is an “extraordinary, disfavored exception” and that the plaintiffs’ seeking media coverage of the case is a contradiction to “any desire for privacy.”

“They demanded publicity, actively seeking widespread news coverage that not only broadcasted their complaint’s most ‘sensitive’ allegations to the general public, but added counsel’s inflammatory commentary going so far

as to invoke Jesus’ name in support of their claims — thus implicitly accusing Defendant of not only legal negligence, but also religious malfeasance and hypocrisy,” the motion states.

The defendants do not object to pseudonymity for the student, because he is a minor. Attorneys for the plaintiffs argued in their response to the motion that identifying the parents would naturally identify the student.

“Plaintiffs brought a matter of genuine public concern to light while doing exactly what the law encourages: protecting a child from being personally identified as the victim of sexual harassment and assault,” the response states.

“The Diocese’s motion would punish that responsible course.”

A diocese spokesperson declined to comment on an active legal matter.

Tammy Meyer, an attorney for the plaintiffs, described the defendants’ motion to disallow pseudonyms as “deeply disappointing.”

“Families should never have to fear that seeking justice will expose their children to even more trauma,” Meyer stated. “If schools respond this way when parents speak up, other families may think twice before reporting bullying. That should concern every parent.”

A hearing on the motion to reconsider pseudonymity is set for 10 a.m. Aug. 5.

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CCS updates phone policy

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com Starting this upcoming school year, a new state law requires Hoosier students to keep their cellphones put away for the entire school day.

In response to Senate Enrolled Act 78, the Carmel Clay Schools board of trustees adopted a new bell-to-bell cellphone policy at their June 24 meeting.

Emily Bauer, CCS director of community relations, said the district will allow students to keep their phones in lockers or bookbags, rather than require them to be placed in secure storage.

Students who violate the policy will have their phone confiscated. It will be returned to them at the end of the day.

Depending on the severity or frequency of infractions, a parent may be required to pick up their child’s phone.

Although the state legislature passed the law with the intent to shift enforcement from teachers to administrators and eliminate distractions for students, school districts have been left to determine how to implement it.

A previous law prevented students from having their phones during class time. SEA 78 prohibits phone use during the entire school day, including lunch and passing periods.

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Prevail celebrates 40 years of supporting victims and ensuring there’s no waiting list,” Wanninger said. “I think it’s about helping the community understand that we For four decades, Prevail — a Noblesprovide free and confidential services, ville-based nonprofit — has provided so contributions and fundraising events free, confidential services to Hamilton help us fill the gap. We have private County residents and people in grants and private funding dolneighboring counties impacted lars that also allow us to fill in the by crime and abuse. gaps, but clients have needs and Founded in 1986 by former we need to make sure we’re still Superior Court Judge Steve Naable to support and help them.” tion and Beth Gellhausen, who When asked how Prevail has worked in the department of made a difference in their lives, family services, the organization survivors shared that the orgaWanninger celebrated its 40-year anniversanization connected them with ry July 1. resources that helped them rebuild Prevail served only 43 individuals stability and independence and made in its first year. In 2025, it helped more them feel believed and supported. than 3,300 adults and 7,200 youth. ExJessica, a survivor who keeps her last ecutive director Tami Wanninger attriname private for safety reasons, said butes the growth to population increascommunity members could be saving es and a shifting society where people someone’s life by helping them connect are more willing to talk openly about to Prevail. domestic violence and sexual assault.

“It can be easy to pass judgement, but “Our county is growing, and our muyou really don’t have any idea what somenicipalities are growing, so we are seeing one’s dealing with,” she said. “Take time a greater need for services,” Wanninger to educate yourself and show up with said. “I think back to 40 years ago, and empathy, kindness and compassion.” people didn’t talk about victim issues, Looking ahead, the organization is domestic violence and sexual assault. It focused on building partnerships. was something that you closed the door “Partnerships are so critical and imon. I think we’ve evolved a little bit as a portant, and 40 percent of our referrals society, but there’s still a stigma.” come from law enforcement,” WanWanninger said staff are more edninger said. “Building up those partucated about trauma and how to help nerships, whether it’s with law enforcevictims navigate their healing journey ment, the prosecutor’s office, county than they were 40 years ago. officials or other nonprofits, allows us to “I also feel like a lot of our cases are be more accessible in our community.” more complex than they used to be,” Wanninger said. “People are coming ANNIVERSARY to us for safety, whether it’s domestic violence or whatever type of abuse it is.

CELEBRATION But there’s also a lot of modern things that are happening. We’re seeing a lot of This year, Prevail’s annual gala financial and technology abuse. As techwill be replaced with a public anninology has advanced, we’re seeing more versary celebration Aug. 1 at Ritz harassment and stalking. We have also Charles in Carmel. seen a huge shift to do case management “It’s really a celebration of our work in the last seven to 10 years.” community coming together to With growth comes additional chalsupport survivors that are served lenges. Prevail is bracing for an estimatthrough Prevail, and we are honored 40 percent reduction in its largest feding 40 individuals and organizations eral funding source this year following that have made an impact with multiple cuts. To fill the gaps and supPrevail in the last 40 years,” Prevail’s port clients, the organization is looking Executive Director Tami Wanninger to diversify its funding through private said. grants and community donations.

Learn more and purchase tickets “We’ve had to get creative in our apat prevailinc.org. proaches to serving people efficiently

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Grateful to be back in Carmel Commentary by Donna Gray

When my family moved to Carmel in 1975, it was a very different place than the city we know today. It was smaller, quieter and still becoming. At the time, I could not have imagined the vibrant community Carmel would grow into, but looking PLUS TAKE back, I can see AN EXTRA how much this Terms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $980 or more or 30% off any order place shaped of $680 or more on any complete unit order of custom closet, garage, or home office, and any other products. Take an additional 10% off on any complete me. system order. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $850 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires Like many young adults, I eventually 8/16/26. Offer not valid in all regions. left. I moved to California and spent 15 years building a life outside of Indiana.

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My children have grown up in a community that is vibrant, safe and inviting. They have benefited from the same kind of structure that helped shape me, but in a city that has continued to evolve with intention and imagination.

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Indy Drivers hold bootcamp

By Samantha Kupiainen news@currentincarmel.com The Indy Drivers professional pickleball team kicked off its upcoming season at Pickle on Penn with a bootcamp clinic July 11. The team and its coaches gave 10-minute instructional sessions to guests at the free event, giving patrons the opportunity to refine their pickleball skills and learn more about the sport.

“We’re excited to be here,” said Paula Nahmias, owner of Indy Drivers. “It’s great to introduce our team to the community here at Pickle on Penn. Our first game is July 22 in Chicago. Our team is stronger than ever.”

In addition to instructional sessions, the event included a meet and greet with Indy Drivers team members Amy Yarbrough, Chad Flynn, Jose Derisi, Karin Kochis, Lila Rawlings and Rich Lopez. A casual lunch with the team was served after the bootcamp.

“The event is more of a way to establish our presence in the community a little bit better,” said Matt Hale, Indy Drivers general manager. “We want to hold an event at a top tier facility in Indianapolis and showcase not only the

Teams play alongside the Indy Drivers at Pickle on Penn. (Photo by Samantha Kupiainen)

players but also get them excited about the upcoming season.”

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport across the nation. Pickle on Penn features eight state-of-the-art indoor pickleball courts.

“This event gives our members and the Indianapolis pickleball community a unique opportunity to learn from professional athletes, improve their game and celebrate the incredible growth of pickleball right here in our city,” said Kelly Bodner, owner of Pickle On Penn.

Pickle on Penn is at 11575 N. Pennsylvania St. in Carmel. Learn more at pickleonpenn.com. Learn more about the Indy Drivers at nplpickleball.com/ indy-drivers.

Foundation names director

and read the job description, it completely married everything that I love doing.”

What excited her most about the job was more volunteer engagement, nonThe Carmel Clay Public Library Founprofit leadership and the events aspect. dation has selected Jaime Medley as its “I love fundraising events and director after Elizabeth Hamilton planning events, and so that was announced her retirement. Haman opportunity to take everyilton served as the director for thing that I really love, that I feel more than 10 years before stepthat I excel in to one job,” she ping down this month. said.

Prior to assuming the role of As she settles into her new foundation president, Medley role, Medley is excited to get to worked in the nonprofit sector work on the library’s signature at the American Red Cross as Medley event, the Guilded Leaf author its regional officer. In that role, luncheon. The two-day event in October she worked with individual donors and is hosted at the library and Ritz Charles supported its women’s affinity group, and features book signings, lunch and six Tiffany’s Circle. nationally recognized authors.

“I have been involved with philan“It is not lost on me that I have really thropic and nonprofit organizations my big shoes to fill and what Liz has built,” entire adult life,” Medley said. “I love Medley said. “I’m so grateful for what nonprofit work. I love working with she’s done and the legacy that she’s volunteers.” leaving. So my intent is to honor and preMedley learned of the job opening via serve that.” social media.

Learn more at carmelclaylibrary.org/ “I was not unhappy in my current foundation. role,” Medley said. “As I clicked through

By Samantha Kupiainen news@currentincarmel.com

13

14

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN CARMEL

CITY RESPONDS 07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

Officials explain reasons, plans for Concord Village infrastructure improvements

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com The City of Carmel is planning to upgrade roads and some other infrastructure in Concord Village, an aging neighborhood residents say has been plagued by flooding issues for years.

Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and other city officials discussed the status of infrastructure in the area, reasons for the drainage issues and $4 million in planned improvements during a July 14 town hall meeting at the Carmel Clay Public Library.

The meeting followed two others held by Carmel city councilors since July 3 to discuss the matter and gather feedback from residents. At the first meeting, City Council President Matt Snyder proposed increasing monthly stormwater fees to fund a $20 million overhaul of Concord Village infrastructure and projects elsewhere, a plan Finkam said she does not support.

At the July 14 meeting, City Engineer Bradley Pease said the city has received 13 service requests in Concord Village since 2016 and that 12 of them were found to be the responsibility of private property owners to resolve. The other complaint led to the city clearing out a blocked pipe.

Pease said that the drainage system is primarily working as designed and that flooding in residential yards is primarily because of private improvements, such as fences or sheds, blocking or altering drainage easements.

Pease said the city plans to restore drainage easements to their original design.

“We are going to identify and remove private improvements residing within the easements that are causing a detriment,” Pease said. “By the ordinance, this is generally the homeowner’s expense. This is a situation where the city is going to do some other work, so the city is going to cover the cost to remove those obstructions.”

Finkam said despite their age, inspections show that the concrete roads in Concord Village are in good condition. This does not take into account ridability, which is less than ideal with the joints between concrete sections and patchwork throughout. The roads are also wider than newer ones throughout the city, which can lead to speeding.

So, the city is planning to replace the concrete with asphalt and add bump outs for parking, which will result in a narrowed roadway and aim to act as a deterrent to speeding. The installation of raised crosswalks is also expected to improve pedestrian safety.

Ryan Murt, senior project manager for the Carmel Street Department, said the city planned to make many of the proposed improvements in 2025, but the

The City of Carmel plans to replace concrete with asphalt and add parking alongside Lexington Boulevard.

(Image courtesy of the City of Carmel)

project got put on hold.

A city spokesperson told Current July 15 the project was paused to collect more data to better understand the potential stormwater issues and determine a comprehensive plan to address both concerns.

Finkam said the July 14 meeting aimed to clarify some inaccurate information shared at previous meetings and elsewhere.

“There’s no stormwater system failure,” she said.

“There’s no emergency access or egress or ingress problems with the school and the library. There’s no broken promises on a road extension, and no verified pattern of unresolved resident concerns.”

Allie Missler, a longtime Concord Village resident who said she has reported flooding issues to city officials for decades, said she felt “profoundly disappointed and disillusioned” by the city’s presentation at the meeting. She said after residents shared experiences, concerns and hopes for solutions at the previous town halls, the third one “felt far more like a lecture than a genuine effort to address the issues.”

“Every single concern raised during the previous two meetings appeared to be dismissed or characterized as a homeowner responsibility,” Missler said.

“Despite years of repeated flooding, property damage, aging infrastructure concerns, drainage issues, deteriorating roads and sidewalks, and the significant emotional and financial toll these problems have taken on residents, there was absolutely no acknowledgment of what our neighborhood has collectively experienced and, most disappointingly, no expression of empathy.”

Missler said many neighborhood residents oppose the city’s plans for the area as presented at the meeting, which she believes will do little to address many of the concerns raised.

Worrell, who said he organized the meeting after Pease was unable to fully present the city’s plans for the area at the first town hall meeting, said he heard mixed feedback after the July 14 event.

“I could read the room, and I saw some people shaking their heads,” he said. “I did have more people come up to me after the meeting and say, ‘Thank you.’”

Watch a video of the presentation and view the slide deck at carmel.in.gov/863/ Concord-Village-Neighborhood.

ON THE COVER: The City of Carmel is planning to spend $4 million to replace concrete roads in Concord Village with asphalt and make other improvements. (Rendering courtesy of the City of Carmel)

MAYOR OPPOSES RICHLAND AVENUE EXTENSION In addition to flooding, another topic of concern for Concord Village residents is the potential extension of Richland Avenue from its end point near Carmel Elementary to City Center Drive. The extension, which would require the removal of at least two homes, has been included as a possible project in the city’s comprehensive plan for years, but that does obligate the city to construct it.

“The worst thing we can do is buy a bunch of homes, take them down, let them sit there for several years before we build a road,” Mayor Sue Finkam said at the July 14 meeting. “That makes zero sense.”

At the previous meetings, some attendees said they support the extension to provide another access point to Carmel Elementary, saying they view the limited options to reach the school as a potential safety concern.

Finkam said officials from the Carmel police and fire departments reviewed site plans for the new Carmel Elementary building, which opened in 2021, and did not express any safety concerns.

“Our emergency responders navigate traffic and our roads every single day,” Finkam said. “If they had a concern about getting to or from something, that would be flagged immediately from them.

Carmel Elementary School specifically would have never been (built or) opened had there been any concerns about getting to that school and protecting our children.”

HEALTH

CURRENT IN CARMEL

07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

15

Carmel residents to bike in Pan-Mass Challenge

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Two Carmel residents share a passion for supporting cancer research.

Sean Edwards and Rob Beeler are fundraising for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a leader in adult and pediatric cancer research, in the Pan-Mass Challenge Aug. 1-2, which starts in Needham, Mass. Official Edwards routes range from 25 to 177 miles.

“I lost my sister, Jenelle Callahan, to pancreatic cancer in 2016, and in 2019 I was diagnosed with Stage 3 pancreatic cancer myself,” said Beeler, 60. “I was treated at Dana-Farber, and that treatment saved my life. Pancreatic cancer survival rates are still low, so I know I was one of the lucky ones.”

His sister died three weeks after being diagnosed at the age of 53.

“I ride to help fund research that can hopefully improve those odds and give more people the chance I had,” he said.

“Dana-Farber does some really important cancer research, including some groundbreaking work on treatments for pancreatic cancer. The research I benefited from didn’t happen by accident, it was funded by people doing exactly this kind of fundraising. Supporting that work is a direct way for me to help make sure more people survive this disease.”

This is Beeler’s first year riding in the Pan-Mass Challenge. He said he will ride 85 miles the first day and 25 miles on the second.

Edwards will ride both days for Team OOFOS for the second consecutive year.

“We actually added another 100-plus miles to the total with Team OOFOS,” Edwards said. “We meet at the N.Y. border and ride to the start, then I’ll be completing the full route with Team OOFOS, which is part of the larger Team Duncan.”

This is Edwards’ second year participating. Team Duncan has been participating for more than 10 years.

“The team was founded in honor of Duncan, OOFOS’ first employee, who passed away from cancer,” he said. “Last year, Team Duncan raised more than $1

million for cancer research through the Pan-Mass Challenge, and I’m honored to be a small part of that incredible effort.”

Edwards, 51, is a triathlon coach and the founder of Speed Factory Racing, so cycling is a regular part of his life.

“I train year-round and have always enjoyed endurance sports, but riding with a purpose makes every mile more meaningful and worth it,” he said. “This year, I’m riding in honor of Beeler two people who have deeply impacted my life. My friend Gary Webb is courageously living with a rare form of blood cancer, and every advancement in research offers hope for him and so many others. I’m also riding in memory of my friend Amy Cunningham, who passed away from pancreatic cancer.

Their stories remind me why every mile matters.”

Edwards said cancer research and fundraising have been close to his heart for many years.

“Before the PMC, I spent years involved with the Team in Training, raising money for cancer research,” he said.

“That experience was truly life-changing — it not only introduced me to an amazing community of lifelong friends, but it’s also where I met my wife, Kendra.

The Pan-Mass Challenge combines everything I love: endurance sports, community, friendship, and making a real difference for people battling cancer.”

Edwards was inspired to create Miles, Mimosas & a Mission, a community brunch fundraiser benefiting the PanMass Challenge and Dana-Farber. The event is set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 26 at Something Splendid, 217 Mill St. in Westfield. For more, visit linktr.ee/ milesmimosasmission.

“My hope is to bring people together around great food, music, fellowship, and a shared purpose,” he said. “We need more opportunities to connect with one another while making a difference, and this event is my way of combining community with a cause that has changed my life.”

For more on Edwards, visit profile. pmc.org/SE0114. For more on Beeler, visit profile.pmc.org/RB0388.

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Parency helps families navigate divorce

(of) people that will need it the most.”

ParencyLegal was introduced to a select group of attorneys June 1 and After struggling to navigate co-parexpanded to others July 9 at a launch enting with his ex-wife, Carmel resevent at Tiburon Coastal Cuisine in ident and Brownsburg native Fishers. Local family law firms Mike Estridge realized the were invited to test the product technology meant to support and begin offering its services them and reduce conflict was to their clients. The sites are foactually elevating it. Instead of cused on central Indiana, with accepting the few options availhopes to expand nationwide in able, Estridge spent the past year the future. developing new tools to help Estridge noticed his own repEstridge struggling families. resentatives taking hours to sift He founded Parency and ParencyLethrough documents by hand. One goal gal to help parents navigate their sepaof ParencyLegal is to help attorneys ration while putting children first. They sort information more quickly and use AI to analyze user-uploaded inforefficiently. mation and generate reports for parents Kena Hollingsworth, founder of and attorneys. The tools are designed to Hollingsworth Law Group and a memreduce stress for parents as they work ber of the Parency development team, through their separation. said people going through divorce “(The) divorce rate isn’t going down,” often experience heightened emotions Estridge said. “There’s new custody-rethat make productive communication lated situations (every day). The lawyers difficult. (will be) able to hand it into the hands Courts often require co-parents to communicate through court-approved apps that attorneys and judges can view when needed. Estridge said using those alongside calendars and scheduling tools creates confusion and frustration that can escalate conflict.

The Parency app allows parents to manage custody schedules, medical information and communication all in one place. An AI assistant in development will help parents manage everyday responsibilities and reminders.

The app will initially be distributed through attorneys before becoming available to the public. Court-ordered versions will include message filters and court-accessible chat logs.

Users will provide basic family information, and Estridge said uploaded data will not be used to train AI models.

Estridge’s team is also developing a continuing legal education course to teach family law attorneys about the advantages and ethical use of AI in legal practice.

Learn more at parency.ai.

By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com

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BUSINESS LOCAL

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07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

Veteran, former TSA official founds consulting firm

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com After retiring from a 17-year stint with the Transportation Security Administration, Tyson Miller wasn’t sure what he wanted to do next.

That changed when his young son explained how his class conducted active-shooter drills at school. Miller, who spent a career detecting and mitigating threats, wasn’t impressed by the protocols. His former Carmel High School teacher and wrestling coach, Chuck Ford, who had become a longtime friend, encouraged him to put his skills to use as a consultant.

So, Miller, a longtime Carmel resident, launched Critical Crossroads, a firm that provides personal safety training, security assessments and consulting services for residents, businesses and organizations.

“Even if you are (in) the safest city, crime can always hit you at any time,” he said.

Miller said he supports and respects law enforcement officers, but he believes individuals must take responsibility for their own safety because police aren’t usually already on site when a crime occurs.

“I love our men and women in blue,” Miller said. “They do the best they can, but your security is your responsibility.

It’s not the police’s. They’re not going to park a car outside your house 24 hours a day.”

Miller didn’t initially set out to become an expert in security. After graduating from CHS in 1990, he attended Indiana University to study biology.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with a minor in biology with a natural mathematical concentration.

But instead of working as a scientist, Miller became a police officer for Indiana University and later for the Westfield Police Department. Then, he briefly tried his hand as a stockbroker.

“I love the market, but being in an office, I was like, ‘I can’t do this,’” Miller said. “I can’t keep these headphones on all day.”

So, he joined the Navy. He spent eight years working in a unit specializing in identifying and neutralizing explosives. He executed more than 80 direct

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Critical Crossroads founder Tyson Miller speaks about home security during a seminar July 8 at American Legion Carmel Post 155.

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action missions during Operation Iraqi Freedom and helped direct underwater security operations with the Marine Expeditionary Strike Group.

During his time with the TSA, Miller helped clear high-stakes alarms, trained government employees, conducted vulnerability assessments and served as a security consultant for major events, such as the Super Bowl, Indianapolis 500, NCAA Final Four and the Kentucky Derby.

According to Miller, the biggest personal safety mistake most people make is not paying attention to their surroundings, often because their face is glued to a smartphone.

“You have zero situational awareness,” Miller said. “So, when a bad guy sees somebody and they’re totally unaware, especially if they’re by themselves, you might as well put that target symbol right on (their) chest.”

Miller, a U.S. Concealed Carry Association certified firearms instructor, and Ford often work together to offer gun safety, usage and maintenance training at a shooting range.

Critical Crossroads offers two-hour seminars covering Miller’s 14-point personal security strategy and 10-point home security plan. The next seminar is set for 2 to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 20 at PrimeLife Enrichment, 1078 3rd Ave. SW in Carmel. The seminar is free to attend.

Register by contacting PrimeLife Enrichment at 317-815-7000.

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Ice Management sold the Zotec Partners Ice Skadium July 14 to an affiliate of Podell Partners. (Photo courtesy of Podell Partners)

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By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com The Zotec Partners Carmel Ice Skadium has a new owner and management team.

An affiliate of Podell Partners, a Carmel-based real estate investment and development company, purchased the 65,000-square-foot facility July 14 from Ice Management. For more than 20 years, Ice Management owned and operated the facility at 1040 3rd Ave. SW. Spectate Group, the sports and recreation division of Nicholas Family of Companies, will lease, manage and operate the two-rink facility. Spectate will manage programming, marketing, maintenance, hiring, training and dayto-day operations.

“Having spent plenty of time at local ice rinks over the years watching my own kids play competitive hockey, I know firsthand how closely tied these facilities are to the community and the groups that use them,” stated Nick Papanicholas Jr., managing director and CEO of Nicholas Family of Companies, in a press release. “As we expand our

footprint in the Indianapolis market, our Spectate team is eager to not only bring our own brand of excellence for management and programming to the Carmel Ice Skadium, which has been serving the area for more than 50 years, but also strengthen the relationships we’re already building within the local ice rink and hockey community.”

In addition to its two NHL-sized rinks, the Carmel Ice Skadium includes party rooms, a snack bar and pro shop.

NFOC’s Big Fish Hospitality Group plans to operate new food and beverage options in space that previously contained an arcade.

The agreement also includes management of the ice at Carter Green, a seasonal outdoor rink previously operated

by Ice Management.

NFOC, based in Mount Prospect, Ill., manages three ice facilities and is set to add another by the end of the year when a new rink opens in the Chicago suburbs. It is also set to manage the Westfield Ice Facility when it opens in 2028 at Grand Park.

Learn more at spectategroup.com.

DISPATCHES  BuffaLouie’s gives back — BuffaLouie’s is celebrating National Wing Day July 29 by donating $1 for every bonein wing sold to Riley Children’s Foundation. BuffaLouie’s has locations in Carmel at 43 W. Main St. and in Bloomington at 114 S. Indiana Ave. Learn more at carmel.buffalouies.com.  Taste of Carmel returns — The Carmel Education Foundation will present Taste of Carmel on Aug. 27 at 502 East Event Centre. Taste of Carmel will bring together more than 40 local restaurants,

breweries, wineries, distilleries, caterers and beverage partners for an evening of food, drinks, entertainment and community impact. This year’s “Touch of Class” theme celebrates CEF’s diamond 60th anniversary. Guests are encouraged to embrace the occasion with elevated attire and a touch of sparkle, shimmer or diamond-inspired bling. General admission early bird tickets are $125 through July 4, with standard pricing beginning July 5 at $150. Learn more and purchase tickets at tasteofcarmelindiana. com.

INSIDE & OUT BLUEPRINT FOR IMPROVEMENT: Commentary by Larry Greene This east Carmel kitchen was reimagined with rich green cabinetry, improved storage and a brighter layout designed for everyday gathering.

CURRENT IN CARMEL

07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

East Carmel kitchen gets a bold refresh AFTER

THE BLUEPRINT • Deep green cabinetry brings personality, depth and a custom feel to the refreshed kitchen.

• A wood-toned island adds warmth, contrast, storage and comfortable casual seating.

• White quartz countertops and glossy tile keep the palette bright and balanced.

• Brass hardware and ribbed-glass pendants introduce polished warmth throughout.

• Reworked openings improve flow between the kitchen, dining area and adjacent hall for everyday entertaining.

BEFORE

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

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Your source for local arts & entertainment and upcoming events • youarecurrent.com

Carmel filmmaker focuses on tragic story

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com The tragic story of Sylvia Likens has long weighed on Carmel filmmaker Ashton Gleckman’s mind, even though it happened long before he was born.

Gleckman, 25, has made a short documentary about Likens, who — at age 16 — was tortured and murdered in 1965 by her caregiver Gertrude Baniszewski, her children and neighbors.

Likens’ parents., who were carnival workers, left Sylvia and her sister in Baniszewski’s care.

“From the time I was growing up I remember hearing about this case,” Gleckman said. “My grandparents, who grew up in Indianapolis, recalled that memory. I continued to return to this case because what makes this is the element of communal silence.”

Gleckman’s documentary will make its debut during the Indy Shorts Film Festival July 21-25. The film will have its premiere at 5 p.m. July 23 at Frank Basile Theater in Indy Art Center. It will be shown at 2:30 p.m. July 26 at the same location.

“The fact that you have this horrific crime taking place, and as I discovered talking to neighbors, people could hear the screams,” Gleckman said.

“Children were participating in this and there was a sense of silence. We see in the film that when Sylvia’s best friend went to the teachers and tried to ask where she was and what was going on, the teachers would just shake it off.

It’s the ultimate example of what reporting could possibly do to save a life.

There were so many instances where someone could have and should have intervened.”

Gleckman said the neighbors next door heard the scraping of a shovel and the screaming going on for hours and never called police.

The documentary is 33 minutes long.

Gleckman said he wanted to tell Sylvia’s story and interviewed her Tech High School best friend, Sheila Jane Johson Wells.

“At the time, Sheila was a young

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’

Ashton Glickman gets ready to interview Sylvia Likens’ best friend, Sheila Jane Johson Wells.

(Photo courtesy of Ashton Gleckman)

African American student in her first integrated school, and Sylvia had no friends and (the) two of them came together,” Gleckman said. “This was the time she was being abused before she was pulled out of school for the last few weeks. Sylvia would go to school with all these marks on her body and Sheila would sit there with her in the gymnasium locker room. It went from a story about the case to being a story about friendship, about empathy and the way these two people came together amid extraordinary circumstances.”

Wells still lives in Indianapolis. The neighbor interviewed is Colleen Marsha Moore, who lives in Tennessee.

Her mother, Phyllis Vermillion, lived next door.

“She tells us she could hardly go to sleep because she would be hearing these sounds,” Gleckman said. “You could see the pain in this woman’s eyes. She’s now in her 60s, but the memory is still there of hearing these sounds. Her mother and father made a conscious decision not to get involved because they felt it wasn’t their business.”

Gleckman interviewed Andy Wysong, who had been friends with Richard Hobbs, a participant in the abuse. Hobbs, who was tried as a mi-

nor, was convicted of manslaughter and spent less than two years in the Indiana Reformatory. Wysong was affected when he learned his close friend was one of the abusers.

“One of the elements of Sylvia Likens’ story in Indianapolis is the pain that leaks down all the way through the generations,” Gleckman said.

“The people that were there and the descendants of the perpetrators are still affected by it. Every one of the people that I came into contact with had vivid emotional memories of this period. One of the interviews was with the daughter of the first police officer to respond to the crime scene, and she told me he was traumatized by the situation.”

Gleckman reached one of Baniszewski’s children, who was indicted but not convicted in the case.

“She did not admit anything to me, would not talk or take responsibility at all, so even within some of the perpetrators, there was no interest in confronting what had happened 60 years ago,” he said.

The producers are Sam Mirpoorian, Amy Pauszek and Andie Redwine. Daniel Ronacher is an executive producer.

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org/ events/indyshorts.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” runs through Aug. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

IBC SUMMER GALA Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s Summer Gala is set for 5:30 p.m. July 23 at Studio Theatre at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianaballetconservatory.org.

‘WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD’ Art Garfunkel’s “What A Wonderful World Celebration’ concert is set for 8 p.m. July 24 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET “Hoagy and Cole: Indiana Music on the Mind” is set for July 22, followed by “Now That’s Funny” July 23, “Thank You for the Music! An ABBA Party” July 24 and “Unbreakable Voices: An Evening with Effie Passero” July 25 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

CARMEL COMEDY CLUB Carmel Comedy Club presents a show at 7 p.m. July 25. For more, visit thecat.biz.

‘ALICE IN WONDERLAND’ Main Street Productions presents “Alice in Wonderland” through July 26 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘CHICAGO’ Civic Theatre will present Young Artists Program’s production of “Chicago: Teen Edition” July 23-26 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more,, visit civictheatre.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

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07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

YAP challenges teens with ‘Chicago’ production

By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com For 37 teens ages 14 to 18, Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program production of “Chicago: Teen Edition” is more than simply a community theater opportunity. It’s nearly five hours every weeknight of training, rehearsal and community.

The musical runs July 23-26 and is based on the Broadway musical with mature themes modified for younger performers. The production is directed and choreographed by YAP Coordinator Anne Beck, who trained with Ann Reinking, the director, choreographer and star of the 1996 Broadway revival of “Chicago”.

Students have requested “Chicago” for years, Beck said. She is trained in the dance techniques of Bob Fosse, choreographer of the original 1975 production, and teaches classes on it. His style is minimalist, satirical and requires more energy and containment than other techniques.

“Many of these kids are from top show choirs all over central Indiana where they are told to be bigger and energized,” said Beck, who also serves as an assistant professor of musical theater and tap dance at Ball State University. “(Fosse’s style) is having all of that energy, but super, super pointed. I have to reel them back and contain their energy to be really specific.”

The costumes are all black, mirroring the revival’s attire, and feature wigs designed by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Drew Bryson, also known as Blair St. Clair. This production also features the orchestra on stage as the revival did.

“Chicago: Teen Edition” draws students from 14 Indiana schools for intensive summer training. Beck calls the program “a conservatory and a rehearsal process all at the same time” and treats students like professionals.

Maaike Mora, who will be a senior at Carmel High School in the fall, plays Velma Kelly. Mora hopes audiences don’t let the musical’s subject matter overshadow its comedy.

“I hope that people laugh,” Mora said. “It’s a really funny musical, and I hope they find the satire in it too and not just think it’s a dark story.”

Kate Boice, a recent Noblesville High

Maaike Mora, left, and Kate Boice play rivals Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart from July 23 to 26 at Civic Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty)

School graduate who will attend the University of Oklahoma to study musical theater, has performed with Civic Theatre since fourth grade and plays the lead Roxie Hart. She enjoys portraying a character unlike herself.

“Theater is literally the personification of empathy,” she said. “You’re stepping into someone else’s shoes, literally and figuratively. I think that makes it really special, even though I’m so different (from) my character … To get to play in this new light and new character is really fun because it helps you learn about the world around you and different perspectives.”

Blake Valentine, another 2026 NHS graduate who is entering his first year at Ball State University studying media production, has performed since age 12.

He hopes his role as Amos Hart, Roxie’s forgotten husband, connects with audience members who are going through a hard time.

“I think a lot of people have had moments where they have felt alone or overlooked,” Valentine said. “I think (my solo ‘Mr. Cellophane’) shows them that there’s other people like this out there. You’re not alone in feeling alone.”

“Chicago: Teen Edition” is at 7 p.m.

July 23; 7 p.m July 24; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

July 25; and 2 p.m. July 26 at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre, 3 Carter Green in Carmel.

For more, visit civictheatre.org/ chicago.

21

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ENTERTAINMENT

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07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

H. Conor Angell, left, and Lyndsay Moy perform “People Will Say We’re in Love” from Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s musical “Oklahoma!” at Indianapolis Opera’s Lobster Palooza fundraiser July 11.

(Photos by Hannah Vanlandingham)

Indianapolis Opera closes curtain on Lobster Palooza

By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com Indianapolis Opera held its 16th and final Lobster Palooza July 11 at the Basile Opera Center in Indianapolis.

The event raised more than $28,000 to support the organization’s Fund-A-Need campaign, which will provide programming for 46 underfunded schools and libraries in Indiana. “(Being able to perform thanks to the education program) planted such an important seed for me,” said Lyndsay Moy, Indianapolis Opera’s director of education and former resident artist.

“I know, especially now when so many music programs are getting cut from these schools, that these experiences mean so much to these kids.”

The event included a cocktail hour with caricature and balloon artists, a four-course meal and a live performance by five opera singers: H. Conor Angell, baritone; Rachelle Woolston, soprano; Ganson Salmon, tenor; Angela Brown, soprano; Moy, mezzo-soprano; and pianist Elizabeth Goodenough. The concert was modeled on a jukebox. For every goal met, performances were unlocked.

Angela Brown is the organization’s artistic cultural ambassador. She won the National Metropolitan Opera Council Auditions in 1997 and has since performed as a professional opera singer on six continents. She gave a live rendition of Giacomo Puccini’s “Vissi d’arte” once donations reached $24,000.

“Opera looks like me, too,” Brown said before her performance. “Without a company like this in the state of Indiana, who else is going to do what we

Ganson Salmon, left, and Rachelle Woolston perform “O soave fanciulla” from Giacomo Puccini’s “La Bohème” at Indianapolis Opera’s Lobster Palooza fundraiser July 11.

From left, Lyndsay Moy, H. Conor Angell, Rachelle Woolston and Ganson Salmon perform “Va pensiero” from Giuseppe Verdi’s “Nabucco” after donations surpassed the $25,000 fundraising goal.

do? We do it so well … I want so many of those little babies to be able to come and enjoy what we do.”

David Craig Starkey, Indianapolis Opera’s general director, hosted the event and stressed the importance of supporting arts programs throughout the fundraiser. “(Performing arts programs are) not extra,” Starkey said. “It’s not a cute opportunity — this is essential … AI will never be able to duplicate (what live singers do) because it’s original, it’s one-of-a-kind.”

ENTERTAINMENT

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07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

23

Steel Petals set for July 30 PICK 4 OR MORE & SAVE UP TO 20%

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Although the Wright Brothers retired as a group in February 2023, Tim Wright stays busy playing with a few different bands.

Wright will play pedal steel guitar when the Steel Petals perform at 7:30 p.m. July 30 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael.

Wright, a Carmel resident, is joined by vocalists Catherine Federspiel and Jenn Moe. The trio, which formed in 2022, often performs with different band members.

“We found out we have a good harmony together,” Wright said. “It’s fun to have a group that is doing strong harmony together.”

The July 30 show is called “Nashville Nights.”

“It’s going to be all country, classics like Patsy Cline to more updated country songs, mostly from the ‘90s and early 2000s,” Wright said. “I’ll be doing a couple instrumentals on songs from Chet Atkins with David Jolley.

I’m going to feature him singing the

ASK ABOUT THE SUITE EXPERIENCE!

GLADYS KNIGHT From left, Jenn Moore, Tim Wright and Catherine Federspiel form the Steel Petals. (Photo courtesy of Tim Wright)

songs because he’s a really good country singer.”

Randy Melson plays the bass guitar, Larry Sauer plays drums, Keith Claghorn is the keyboardist and Rozlyn Turner is the fiddler.

Turner is from Carmel but has been in Nashville the last several years.

The Steel Petals played at Feinstein’s in May and have another date scheduled in October for a James Taylor tribute show.

“We sold (out) three out of four shows at Feinstein’s last year,” Wright said.

For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

JUL

BONEY JAMES

THE SONGBOOK ACADEMY® IN

18 CONCERT

7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

NOV

THE FOUR PHANTOMS IN

05 CONCERT

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HARRY CONNICK, JR.

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ART GARFUNKEL: WHAT 24 A WONDERFUL WORLD CELEBRATION CONCERTS

NOV

JUL

HASTA LA MUERTE

BONEY JAMES

20 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM 06 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM JUL

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

BRIAN SIMPSON, JACKIEM 31 JOYNER AND JESSY J JUL

8PM | THE TARKINGTON

AUG

STEWART COPELAND: 02 HAVE I SAID TOO MUCH 7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON

AUG

GLADYS KNIGHT

08 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

LOU GRAMM: THE ORIGINAL 26 VOICE OF FOREIGNER SEP

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

OCT

DEMOLA LIVE!

A CONVERSATION 07 WITH AMY SEDARIS

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

NOV

NOV

OCT

PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE &

PALLADIUM

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THE BILLY JOEL LEGACY:

AN EVENING WITH

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PUNCH BROTHERS

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DEC

BRUCE HORNSBY & THE INDIGO PARK TOUR

THE WAR AND TREATY

PET SOUNDS LIVE

8PM | THE TARKINGTON MAR PAVLO AND BAND IN CONCERT

06 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

MAR VICTORIA CLARK:

12 IMPROBABLE INGENUE MUSIC DIRECTOR, TED SPERLING

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18 THE VIENNA ACADEMY ORCHESTRA: ROLL OVER BEETHOVEN

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S

MAR SPYRO GYRA WITH SPECIAL

7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM DEC

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MAR KRUGER BROTHERS

20 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM MAR DIONNE WARWICK: OVER

DEC

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN IN

04 COMING HOME:

THE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM DEC

HOLIDAYS IN HARMONY

7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

20 AND OUT A FAREWELL TOUR

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

APR

STRAY CATS’ LEE ROCKER

APR

ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL

04 7PM | THE TARKINGTON

08 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

THE SIXTIES SHOW

JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS: 15 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM DEC 11 OCT

INVINCIBLE: A GLORIOUS 16 TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON

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05 BOYS FEATURING

7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

13 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM 10 WITH GIRL NAMED TOM OCT

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

MAR THE MUSIC OF THE BEACH

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

PARTY

7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM OCT

05 THE FIELDS WITH CONRAD TAO

30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

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7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

OCT

MAR ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN

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ODOM, JR.: THE 08 CELEBRATINGTHE PIANO MAN 03 LESLIE CHRISTMAS TOUR 2026

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8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

OCT

MAVIS STAPLES

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NILADRI KUMAAR: THE

DEC

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

APR

8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

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YASMIN WILLIAMS

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS

APR

THE BRUBECK BROTHERS

12 CHRISTMAS TOUR

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JAN

ALAN CUMMING: UNCUT

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ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT 29 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM 05 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

29 7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO

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24

VIEWS

CURRENT IN CARMEL

07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

Exit without harm

COMM UNI TY VO I CES

versation has run its productive course. Remind yourself that protecting the human connection matters more than getting the last word.

2. State the Value of the Exchange.

Exit with clarity and respect.

Say something like, “I value our relationship too much to let this disagreement damage it.”

3. Leave Without Throwing Stones.

Resist the urge to fire a parting shot or a sarcastic jab as you walk away. A truly civil departure leaves the door open for future dialogue.

Debates seek a victor, but Active Civility seeks a connection. By mastering the entry, the middle, and the exit of our interactions, we turn these daily skills into a community movement.

Let’s choose the disciplined way.

Commentary by Jeff Worrell In recent columns, I have mapped out a real-time playbook for navigating tough conversations. Now, we have reached the final stage of the exchange: the exit. This is where the fourth pillar of our framework takes center stage: No Harm.

What happens when you have done the work, listened with curiosity, and yet you still find yourselves completely deadlocked?

This is the moment for a Civil Departure.

Active Civility never asks you to compromise your deeply held convictions just to keep a fragile peace. It is about maintaining a human connection while navigating a deep divide.

But when a conversation begins to cycle into toxicity, the most disciplined choice you can make is to execute a clean, respectful exit.

When you need to bring an exchange to a close, use these three steps for a Civil Departure: 1. Prioritize Connection Over Victory. Recognize when a con-

Jeff Worrell is a Carmel City Council member and a civility proponent. To contact him, you may email JeffWorrell@ projectcivility.com.

BATHROOMS SCREENED IN PORCH BATHROOMS BATHROOMS BATHROOMS REMODELERS REMODELERS REMODELERS SINCE 1993 1993 SINCE QUALITY PRODUCTS, SINCE 1993 REMODELERS QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION GUARANTEED! EXPERT INSTALLATION SINCE 1993 GUARANTEED! GUARANTEED! QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXPERT INSTALLATION www.centennialremodelers.com GUARANTEED! www.centennialremodelers.com www.centennialremodelers.com

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Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers: Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC

By: Stan Pinegar, President

Editor, I was shocked and dismayed when I read in U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz’s recent newsletter that she has co-sponsored a resolution to repeal the 17th Amendment.

I cannot overstate how alarming I found this news. The idea that elected officials would seek to take away my right — and the right of every American citizen — to directly elect our U.S. senators strikes at the heart of representative democracy. Of all the issues facing our nation today, I was horrified to learn that a member of Congress representing me is spending time and political capital on a proposal that would reduce the voice of ordinary voters in our government.

The 17th Amendment was adopted to make senators accountable directly to the people. For more than a century, Americans have exercised the right to choose their senators at the ballot box. Repealing that right would not strengthen our republic; it would weaken public accountability and move power farther away from the citizens whom the government is supposed to serve.

Meanwhile, our country faces genu-

ine challenges that deserve Congress’s full attention. Social Security requires serious, bipartisan work to ensure that current and future retirees receive the benefits they have earned. Americans are concerned about economic security, rising costs, and the long-term stability of the programs they depend on. These are the kinds of issues I expect my elected representatives to be addressing.

I also believe Congress has a constitutional duty to provide meaningful oversight of the executive branch, regardless of which party controls the White House. Protecting the separation of powers and ensuring that no president is above the law are among the most important responsibilities entrusted to Congress. At a time when many Americans are concerned about the health of our democratic institutions, vigorous congressional oversight should be a priority.

I urge Spartz to withdraw her support for repealing the 17th Amendment and instead devote her efforts to addressing the pressing issues facing constituents and our country.

Rob Schultz, Carmel

Let young animals be Member Central Indiana Member Central Indiana

317-848-7634 www.centennialremodelers.com

Alarmed by Spartz’s support of 17th amendment repeal

Editor, Early spring and summer are generally the seasons many animals raise their families, from deer to rabbits to birds.

Animals make it their “mission” to continue their lineage. Unfortunately, the environment and/or humans can impede them from accomplishing this goal.

It is important to know what to do if you find an injured or abandoned animal, but most importantly we need to know what not to do. For example, just because you see a bunny nest and no mother, she has not left them alone. In order to not draw attention to them she only feeds them morning and evening then she goes away. Most baby animals are being cared for even if you do not observe it. Baby robins jump from the nest before they can fly and spend up

to a week hopping on the ground and slowly going higher into bushes and then trees all while being fed by both parents.

Unless an animal is in obvious danger or injured it is best to put animals back in their nest and watch from afar for parental care. If you find an injured or abandoned animal​the most important thing to know is to keep it safe and warm and do not feed it anything. For example, birds do not drink milk or eat bread and squirrels do not eat processed human food. It is best to contact a licensed Indiana wildlife rehabilitator found on the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website. Rehabbers are listed by county and the animals they will take. Please​help our wild animals in the safest way possible.

Nancy Tatum, Carmel

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31. Opp. of SSW 32. Like a bug in a rug 34. IU Health surgery centers 35. Apparel 37. Literary postscript 41. Geist Reservoir craft 43. Dots on an Indiana map 45. Midday 46. Vote against 48. New York baseball team 50. Feathery accessory 51. Ascend 53. “Evil Woman” band, for short 54. Boar’s mate 55. Urge 58. Alpine melodies 61. Narc’s org.

62. Levels 64. NHS junior’s exam 68. “Look what we have here!”...and a hint to the Carmel destination found in the puzzle’s circles 70. Shaken instrument 72. Cruise stop 73. ___ Speedwagon 74. Primitive weapons 75. Bird’s home 76. FYI relative 77. Longtime “Jeopardy!” host DOWN 1. Mythical man-goat 2. Priestly garb

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24. Colts QB stat 25. $100 bills, slangily 27. Not “fer” 28. Kind of call or cop 29. Farm harvest 30. PDQ 33. Big name in chocolate with a manufacturing facility along I-69

36. Personal ad abbr.

38. Soft throws 39. Colts shutout, on a scoreboard 40. Chew like a beaver 42. Matador’s foe 44. Requirements 47. Brawn 49. Costa del ___ 52. Shoelace hole 55. Former Indiana Secretary of State Simcox 56. Hoosier honkers 57. Really annoys 59. Simmering, say 60. Clay Terrace binge 63. Part of speech 65. Old Swedish automaker 66. Land measure 67. To-do list entry 69. Allow 70. Denver winter hrs.

71. Earth Day mo.

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GREYHOUND

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CURRENT IN CARMEL

07.21.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Covid-19 Store Update

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