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Construction pressures downtown businesses
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Velvet Plum Vintage & Consignment, a home decor and furniture consignment shop at 894 Logan St. in Noblesville, has announced it will close July 15, citing Embrace Downtown construction as the driving factor.
The Embrace Downtown project began earlier this year to provide infrastructure and beautification upgrades in the downtown area.
“Unfortunately, the downtown construction has won the war and we can no longer remain open,” The Velvet Plum Vintage & Consignment stated in a Facebook post. “Sales have plummeted and no one comes in to shop these days. I know we look closed, but we are actually OPEN.”
The small business, owned by Kelly and Lance Cook, has been on the downtown square for six years. Kelly said it was doing well before construction began on Logan Street in April. She said her sales dropped 78 percent by the middle of May, and construction was more invasive than they were prepared for.
“I read all of the emails and followed all of the information the city sent us for a good year or so before construction actually began because they were trying to prepare us for what was coming,” Cook said. “There is no way to prepare for orange barricades and great big chain-link fencing all the way around your building. I think when that happened, it discouraged people from coming down.”
She said sales basically stopped.
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“Unfortunately for retail, everybody that walks through the door doesn’t always buy something,” Cook said. “If it’s the ice cream shop, everybody that walks through the door is getting an ice cream. It takes a lot of people to come in and look around before you have a lot of sales, so it just went to where there was hardly anybody coming in. I spent a lot of nights crying, crunching numbers and wondering how I could keep my shop that I love, put my heart into it and started from absolutely nothing open. There was just no way to do so.”
“Surprisingly enough, foot traffic has really picked up at the Conner Street store because the construction does not affect that location,” Cook said. “People can easily get to it and can easily park around it.”
Although an Indianapolis newspaper reported that Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said the store’s Facebook post announcing its closure was “disingenious” and said the Vintage Plum “hasn’t really been engaged very much with the city” or “taken advantage of a lot of the programs (the city) or Noblesville Main Street has laid out,” he told Current in an email statement that the city respects the decisions downtown business owners have to make during construction.
“The Embrace Downtown investment is about more than infrastructure; it’s about preserving and enhancing the heart of Noblesville for generations to come,” Jensen stated in his email. “We’re focused on creating new opportunities, strengthening our downtown and committed to making it the best it can be and continuing to build the vibrant community that makes Noblesville America’s hometown.”
Jensen also cited several initiatives the city has implemented, including targeted social media ads, increased parking hours and the Embrace Downtown Stamp Program, a loyalty initiative launched to support local merchants during construction. He said the program alone has generated approximately $100,000 in economic impact for downtown businesses.
turn, but that’s because we knew construction was coming, and we worked to take our entire shop on the road a lot,” Blazucki said. “So, sales wise we’re doing well, but profit wise is a little bit lower than it should be because we have to spend so much extra time, effort and money in getting the product to the people and coming back.”
Blazucki said city officials could help businesses by promoting incentives, creating more signage and drawing attention to parking garages. Although she enjoys participating in the stamp program, she said many customersdon’t know about it.
She also believes Jensen’s comments to the Indianapolis newspaper were “insensitive.”
“It was an absolute disappointment to see him call another vendor out for just expressing frustration,” Blazucki said. “I don’t think anything she said was anything any one of us wouldn’t say if given the chance. It is hard having construction out front. We have to make difficult choices as business owners, and for him to essentially say ‘too bad so sad’ was very hurtful to everyone. It also highlighted that many people are afraid to say to him that we’re having a hard time because he is not compassionate about what we need or may think.”
Lindsey McVey, owner of retail store just lagom on the square, said her sales are up 6.4 percent compared to last year.
“I attribute that growth to pushing myself to be more creative with marketing and event planning, along with city support through initiatives like the Embrace (Downtown) Stamp Program,” McVey said. “It’s been a good reminder that while construction creates obstacles, it also challenges us as small business owners to adapt and find new ways to connect with our customers. I’m excited for the final result — it will be worth the wait.”
Cook encourages residents to brave the construction and shop, eat and visit the small businesses downtown, saying she hopes nobody else has to close.
Opinions
Columnist views are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of this newspaper.
The Cooks have another antique and vintage store at 939 Conner St. that will remain open. Operations from the Logan Street store will move to Consigned By Design in Indianapolis.
Louise Blazucki, owner of Kiln Creations on the square in Noblesville, said her business is faring “OK” throughout construction. She said about 50 percent of revenue is coming from events the shop is holding off-site.
“It’s not really seeing a huge down-
“This was probably the most difficult decision I have ever made as a business owner, and I’ve owned many businesses in my lifetime,” Cook said. “To close a business that I loved out of something I had no control over was really difficult for me.”
Embrace Downtown construction began on Logan Street in April. (Photo by Kelly Sullivan)
Area mayors conclude first public safety summit
news@youarecurrent.com
Area mayors and police chiefs kicked off the Regional Mayors’ Public Safety Partnership Summit June 26 with discussions about how to efficiently work together to improve public safety.
Zionsville Mayor John Stehr said between 30 and 40 people traveled from Boone and Hamilton counties for the first meeting at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis.
The summit was spearheaded by Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett following comments Finkam made about Indianapolis leadership needing to do more to prevent repeat criminals. The comments came after a man, who had dozens of charges in Marion County, allegedly stole a car in Carmel before crashing it.
Finkam described the meeting as a first step that will be followed by discussions with prosecutors, judges and state legislators.
“We had a productive conversation about how we can make our region safer for our residents,” Finkam stated in a press release.
Stehr said a topic of conversation was the disconnect between crime statistics and public perception. Crime is going down, he said, though the public doesn’t think so.
“You need to tell the story and what’s really happening,” he said.
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said the meeting was a positive step forward and the first of several that will take place this year.
“I think there are maybe three more meetings between now and the end of the year,” he said. “We have different topics that we’ll be addressing in each of those, so that we can kind of chunk this out and get more in depth on each of those subjects.”
Upcoming topics include law enforcement, the judicial system, the correctional system and the legislature. While the first meeting involved
mayors and police, Fadness said future meetings may include prosecutors, judges and lawmakers.
“I think we’re pretty well informed as mayors and police chiefs about what we’re doing to try to address crime within the confines of our abilities,” he said.
“The next few meetings will be more about us learning about the other aspects of the criminal justice system, and hopefully from that educational experience, we can gain some deeper insight into what some of the options are to improve.”
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said he looks forward to finding solutions.
“It’s definitely a problem,” he said of repeat criminals. “I don’t know if I would frame it in the sense of it’s a Marion County problem — I think it’s bigger than that, quite frankly.”
Willis said one way to tackle the problem is through better information-sharing technology, so regional and statewide law enforcement can help each other.
Noblesville Deputy Mayor of Development Sarah Reed and Noblesville Police Department Capt. Dennis Coffey attended the summit on behalf of the City of Noblesville. Reed said the summit reflects the strong partnership that keeps central Indiana moving forward.
“By coming together to understand crime trends and best practices better, share information and hear directly from our police department leadership about what is or is not working and the gaps that need to be filled, we’re strengthening the safety of every community in our region,” Reed said.
The group will meet three more times this year. The goal is to develop an action plan by the end of meetings. The next meeting is set for August and will focus on understanding gaps and barriers in the legal system.
Current editors Spencer Durham, Jessica Todd, Ann Marie Shambaugh and Leila Kheiry contributed to this report.
Stehr Finkam
Willis Fadness
Crafting for a cause
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville resident Adam Horbett has been interested in woodworking since childhood.
“One of my earliest memories is taking scraps in our basement and just pounding nails into blocks of wood,” Horbett said. “I had no idea what I was making, and I really didn’t care. I just wanted to play with wood and hammers.”
Horbett has owned Sunflower Woodworx, which specializes in handcrafted wooden home products, gifts and bespoke furniture, for three years. He recently moved operations online, but formerly had a booth at Logan Village Mall in Noblesville.
He started the business after visiting a store in Galveston, Texas.
“They had a prayer wall with thousands of requests,” Horbett said. “I was starting to get into making products and asked if I could send them some so they could use proceeds to answer some of those prayers. They reached out a few weeks later asking for more because everything sold out. That led to the beginning of the business.”
Horbett recently designed a time capsule to celebrate the City of Carmel’s 50th anniversary. The Carmel Clay Historical Society collected letters about modern life in Carmel that were sealed in the time capsule to be opened in 2076 to celebrate the city’s centennial.
Horbett said he was reluctant to take on the project.
“As I was thinking about it, it was making me anxious,” Horbett said. “I knew it had to outlast me. I visited the museum, and I was floored. My mind was going 100 miles an hour. It was like
at that moment any hang-ups and angst just totally went away. It was then about designing that vision. It was a lot of fun and a great experience.”
Horbett said Sunflower Wordworx also is about giving back. As a father to five biological children and two who were adopted, a portion of proceeds from sales go to family and child-focused organizations.
“Adoption has always been part of our family story,” Horbett said. “It’s a very expensive process, and there were a lot of people who blessed us with support throughout our journey. We wanted to be able to do the same for others. A good portion of proceeds fund organizations, including Life Song for Orphans, and others like those that support expectant mothers.”
Horbett wants to create more opportunities to support families as his business transitions online.
For more, visit sunflowerwoodworx. com.
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Noblesville resident Adam Horbett builds the time capsule for the City of Carmel’s 50th anniversary. (Photo courtesy of Adam Horbett)
Mental health nonprofit to host community fundraiser
By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com
Healthy & Dwell, a Noblesville-based nonprofit focused on improving the lives of those facing mental health challenges, will present its fundraiser “Summer Dwellin’ 2.0: Raise the Roof” from 5 to 10 p.m. July 10 at Dr. James A. Dillon Park in Noblesville, 6001 Edenshall Ln.
The event will raise funds for Healthy & Dwell’s planned expansion of housing for those in need. Plans are underway to create four duplexes in Noblesville to house up to 16 people struggling with mental health.
“We’re developing a community, and (social networks, friends and participating in community activities) are things that these folks sometimes struggle with,” Healthy & Dwell Co-Executive Director Ronda Owens-Dehmer said.
The event will include live bluegrass music performed by the Greenwood Rounders from 5 to 7 p.m. and The Roundup from 8 to 10 p.m.; mental health information tables; cornhole; food trucks; drinks; and activities for
kids. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
There also will be a silent auction and 50/50 raffle.
“We are literally raising the roofs to put over these folks’ heads,” Owens-Dehmer said. “(The money raised) will all go toward (the new homes) and (it will) help us get this mission accomplished.”
Healthy & Dwell also encourages community members to spread the word with friends and family, and has opportunities for businesses to participate in the event. Businesses looking to support the event can reserve a vendor table at zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ summer-dwellin-20-raise-the-roofvendor-application.
“Our mission is to support our community and to support the individuals who need it in regard(s) to mental health,” Owens-Dehmer said. “We need to do a better job of taking care of people.”
Tickets are available for $20 each or $50 per family at tinyurl. com/2wzmhwyj.
For more, visit healthyanddwell.org.
Event rallies against domestic violence
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
PB Time, which runs pickleball tournaments under the brand Victory Pickleball Series, will present a tournament July 18-19 at The Picklr in Noblesville to raise funds for victims of domestic violence across central Indiana.
The fundraiser, Dink Out Domestic Violence, supports the mission of Alternatives Inc., which has provided services for domestic and sexual violence survivors in Hamilton, Hancock, Henry, Madison, Marion and Tipton counties since 1978.
Kevin Huff, president of PB Time, said this is the fourth year for the fundraiser, and its first year at The Picklr.
“We’ve been running tournaments for about seven years, and when The Picklr opened in Noblesville — it’s the best facility in Indiana,” Huff said. “The previous locations did not have pickleball-dedicated courts — they were tennis courts that were taped, lined
and temporary. The Picklr has 19 indoor courts, so we’ve begun running tournaments there and have run several there at this point.”
The event will feature men’s and women’s doubles throughout the day July 18, and mixed doubles July 19.
“There’s obviously different skill levels, so throughout each day, there will be skill levels from what we call 2.5 all the way up to 4.5,” Huff said. “There’s also age levels from any age up to 70 and older. It’s just a big mix of a ton of different events — probably 60 or 70 different events throughout Saturday and Sunday.”
Huff said he looks forward to supporting the mission of Alternatives Inc.
“My company runs pickleball tournaments, so we’re interested in being involved in larger tournaments that have a great cause, and this is one of those tournaments,” Huff said. “It has had 300-plus participants in the past. We felt like if we took it over, within a year or two, we could get it up to 600 participants. That gets a lot more visibility and revenue back to the charity.”
Registration is open until July 11 and costs $75 to participate and $5 for an event fee. Huff encourages community members to come watch the tournament for free.
To register, visit pickleballtournaments.com/tournaments/dink-outdomestic-violence-2026-by-the-team-atvictory-pickleball-series.
DISPATCH
Christmas in July — This month, The Salvation Army in Hamilton County is working to bring a “Christmas in July” Red Kettle campaign to Walmart stores and Sam’s Club in Hamilton County, offering shoppers an opportunity to give back. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, starting July 9, shoppers visiting Walmart or Sam’s Club in Hamilton County will see The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles stationed outside, where donations will support individuals and families in need across central Indiana. Funds raised will support the Harbor Light Center’s recovery programs, which help thousands of Hoosiers each year break the bonds of addiction.
‘Dancing with Our Stars’ set
news@currentnoblesville.com
The 12th annual “Dancing with Our Stars” is set for 6 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 3 at Embassy Suites by Hilton in Noblesville.
“Dancing with Our Stars” continues to be Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County’s largest annual fundraiser, with proceeds directly supporting the organization’s mission of delivering medically tailored meals to the elderly or those with disabilities, facing food insecurities or unable to prepare food for themselves in the county.
“It’s the only event where a few left feet can deliver thousands of meals,” stated Jennifer Sturges, development and outreach director of Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County. “Our dancers are putting it all on the floor for Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
The event features local professional dancers paired with Hamilton County residents competing for the prize of being titled “Dancing with Our Stars Champions 2026.” Audience members
also can vote for their favorite dancer or dancers to win the night’s People’s Choice Award.
This year’s professional dancers are Olga Cansino; Diana Miller; Angelica Magana; Jennifer Fall; Rob Jenkins; Scott Shook; Yulia Shook; Zhivko Yankov; and Adam Trogdlen.
Hamilton County residents participating are Chad Lyon, suite manager of the Fifth Avenue Club at Saks Indianapolis; Kevin Smith, founding optometrist at Kevin D Smith, OD – Fall Creek Vision Center; Duke Sturges, area manager at Gosiger; Mitch Waldroup, personal injury attorney at Hensley Legal Group, PC; Faron Luce, educator with the Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse; Ashley Hobbs, property manager & real estate professional; Michael Sahm, sales manager at Indy Boat Co.; Natalie O’Hara, director of business development at The Skillman Corp. and Susan Hill, ordained minister.
To register, purchase tickets, donate or vote, visit mealsonwheelshc.org/ dancing-with-our-stars.
Nonprofit names directors
news@currentnoblesville.com
Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County recently named Tricia Hudson its new executive director and CEO, and Jennifer Sturges as its development and outreach director.
Hudson, a Fishers resident, will lead the organization’s mission of serving the elderly or those with disabilities, facing food insecurity or unable to prepare food for themselves. She brings decades of nonprofit leadership experience to the role with a background spanning human resources, accounting, finance and executive management.
“I have always wanted my work to help bring about life change for people, and Meals on Wheels does just that,” Hudson stated. “I have a passion for mission-driven work because I want my time and skills to contribute to something bigger than financial profit. I want my work to have a tangible human impact.”
Hudson is active in the Hamilton
County Nonprofit Collective, the Hamilton County Executive Directors group, the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce and the OneZone Chamber of Commerce.
Sturges will lead the organization’s fundraising strategy, donor and sponsor cultivation, community partnerships, grant management and stewardship efforts while overseeing the organization’s fundraising events.
“As we look toward the future, strengthening our development and community engagement efforts is essential to meeting the growing needs of Hamilton County residents,” Hudson stated. “Jennifer’s combination of business leadership, relationship-building and event management experience makes her an ideal fit for this role. She understands the importance of building meaningful connections that support our mission and ensure long-term sustainability.”
For more, visit mealsonwheelshc.org.
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DISPATCHES
Communities to receive funding — Communities in Senate District 20 will receive $2 million to improve roads and bridges through the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program, which, aims to advance community infrastructure projects, strengthen local transportation networks and improve Indiana’s roads and bridges. This additional round of awards is being issued following the passage of Senate Enrolled Act 179. In Senate District 20, Carmel and Hamilton County each received $1 million.
Hansen Legacy Foundation Golf Outing set — The eighth annual Evan R. Hansen Legacy Foundation Golf Outing is set for July 25 at Pebble Brook Golf Course in Noblesville. Following a mass and lunch, there is shotgun start to the scramble format at 1:30 p.m. The outing supports an annual scholarship at Guerin Catholic High School, a Marian University nursing scholarship, an endowed scholarship at Wabash College, Merciful HELP summer internship program and Concussion and CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) Foundation. For more, visit erh32.org.
The Justus Companies opens headquarters — The Justus Companies, which develops and manages residential, commercial and senior living communities throughout Indiana, celebrated the grand opening of its new corporate headquarters in Noblesville last month with a ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside community leaders and partners. The new headquarters serves as a central hub for the company’s operations while providing gathering spaces that encourage teamwork, wellness and engagement with clients, partners and the broader community.
Hamilton County Surveyor’s Office relocates — The Hamilton County Surveyor’s Office will temporarily relocate as part of the ongoing expansion and renovation of the Hamilton County Judicial Center. The surveyor’s office will begin serving the public from its new location at 9615 E. 148th St. in Noblesville July 7. The relocation is one of several planned moves that will allow construction crews to begin the Judicial Center expansion project.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
Growth, infrastructure focus of State of the County address
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
From tackling the county’s most dangerous intersections to funding capital improvement projects, Hamilton County officials are making investments to keep up with explosive population growth.
Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger delivered his 35th State of the County address June 24 at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in Noblesville, highlighting recent and upcoming investments in infrastructure, capital improvements and quality of life.
Dillinger chose this year’s theme, “Hamilton County: Doing the Right Things for the Right Reasons,” because he said it reflects a philosophy that has guided county leadership through decades of growth and change.
“It’s not always easy, because sometimes when you do things for the right reasons, politically, it’s not very popular,” Dillinger said. “So, if you’re just worried about getting reelected, which happens in some of our government, I don’t think you make the right decisions.”
INFRASTRUCTURE
Several roadway projects have recently been completed throughout the county, including the $181 million Ind. 37 project and the $44 million 146th Street and Allisonville Road interchange project.
Construction was completed on Ind. 37 in the spring, and on the 146th Street and Allisonville Road interchange earlier this summer. Dillinger said more construction is to come along 146th Street as the county looks at the 146th and Hazel Dell Road, 146th and Gray Road and 146th and Carey Road interchanges.
“The sheriff’s department tells us (these) are three of the most dangerous intersections in the county,” Dillinger said. “That’s not acceptable for Hamilton County, so we’re attacking that issue.”
Construction is expected to begin on the $44.9 million 146th and Allisonville Road project in the spring of 2027, with
completion expected in the fall of 2029. Construction on the $38 million 146th and Gray Road project will not begin until 2029.
Dillinger also noted the completion of the Pleasant Street Corridor project in Noblesville.
“We looked at (Pleasant Street) and tried to figure it out when I was on the city council (from 1980-84),” Dillinger said. “It’s only taken 40 years to get here. It takes a lot of guts and a lot of perseverance to get where (Noblesville has) gotten.”
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
Dillinger provided updates on several major projects, including renovation of the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds; construction of the new 911 Communications Center and Public Safety Training Facility; and the expansion of the Judicial Center, which will add seven new courtrooms.
The $32 million Public Safety Training Center, which also will house the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office, is expected to be completed in the fall of 2027. Construction is projected to be completed on the $73 million Judicial Center expansion in the spring of 2029.
The 911 Communications Center, an $85 million project, is expected to open in 2027 and also will include a child care center for children of Hamilton County
employees.
“Child care is not an inexpensive thing,” Dillinger said. “(It costs approximately) $25,000 a year to take care of one kid. How can (911) dispatchers and people like that do that? So, we felt like we needed to do something to correct that.”
Dillinger also provided an update on the county’s Domestic Violence Center off Ind. 38, a project in partnership with Noblesville nonprofit Prevail that was put on hold earlier this year.
“We have not trashed it — it is first on our mind,” Dillinger said. “I assure you it is not forgotten, it’s just tabled for a short period of time until we figure out exactly what the best thing to do is.”
Construction also continues on the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds. The $15 million Phase 1 included upgrades to the Exhibition Hall and Llama Barn and the expansion and improvement of classrooms. Phase 2, estimated to cost $20 million, will include a show area and sheep, hog and cattle barns. It also will expand parking from 238 spots to 768.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Dillinger emphasized county investments and partnerships aimed at enhancing quality of life. He highlighted the county’s recent partnership between Riverview Health and Parkview Health as a positive for local health
care.
“While we’re doing a partnership, a team thing, they don’t own it — it’s still a county hospital,” Dillinger said. “But they’re making great strides in helping us get it where it should be.”
He added that Riverview and Parkview are focused on expanding mental health resources in the area. He also provided updates on the county’s two aviation hubs.
Additional hangar construction is underway at Indianapolis Executive Airport, which is owned by the Hamilton County Airport Authority, and plans are in motion to relocate private planes from Indianapolis Executive Airport to the Sheridan Airport.
Dillinger concluded by discussing recent milestones achieved by the Hamilton County Parks Department, including the completion of the $7.5 million Bell Ford Bridge project, which opened in 2025. He also noted that the county is looking toward future park expansion following the parks department’s 2024 purchase of 50.85 acres near Potters Bridge Park, which is in preliminary planning stages.
ON THE COVER: A number of Hamilton County infrastructure and capital improvement projects are planned for the next several years. (Renderings courtesy of Hamilton County)
Rendering of the future site for a child care center for Hamilton County employees. (Renderings courtesy of Hamilton County)
(Above) Rendering of the future sheep, hog and cattle barns at the 4-H fairgrounds.
(Left) The parks department purchased land from Beaver Materials for future park expansion.
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Commentary by Larry Greene
This north Fishers primary bath was reimagined with an improved layout, timeless finishes and luxurious details for everyday comfort and relaxation.
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• Reconfigured the layout for improved functionality and openness.
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North Fishers primary bath reimagined
Dr. Susan Leedy Helsel Primary Care
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Business offers housing help
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville resident Karly Alvey recently launched Landlord Resource Solutions LLC, a business designed to foster housing stability and bridge the gap between temporary hardship and sustainable living.
Alvey, who operates the business remotely, wants to empower landlords to support residents through direct connections to rental assistance, financial counseling and employment services.
Alvey began serving the Hamilton County community in 2022 as an eviction prevention specialist and family advocate. She also has worked in the government sector as a client advocate.
“To me, not every household is onesize-fits-all,” Alvey said. “Everybody I’ve housed has come across different challenges, whether it is an eviction, felony or their income is too low for anything in the county. The same case management and services are not going to help each individual family.”
Alvey said one of the biggest needs is help with budgeting. She has created a budgeting app, MoneyWise Mobile, specifically for low-income households and people living paycheck to paycheck. It provides education and a finance tracker.
“The budgeting education I have is available for any landlord to provide to any tenant they have through my website, but I created the app to be available across the U.S. because budgeting has been something that has held a lot of families back,” Alvey said. “I realized there’s not anybody that’s connecting landlords with the resources to provide their tenants.”
Although Hamilton County is often viewed as an affluent area, Alvey said there is a need for a business like hers. For more, visit landlordresourcesolutions.com.
Alvey
Couple creates platform for caregivers, aging adults
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville couple Lauren and Jon Howard plan to launch a new company, CAEVO, an artificial intelligence-guided platform for rest-of-life planning and family caregiving, in August.
According to the Howards, the platform is designed to bring together two connected experiences — one for adults planning how they want to age and one for those who help care for them.
“It’s going to help those 55-and-older plan for the rest of their life so they can live it to the fullest,” Lauren Howard said. “That’s going to mean document storage, understanding how to plan their home as they age, putting all their key contacts in one space and things like nutrition and fitness guidance. They can share it with their children or a loved one via an in-tool feature called Family Loop.”
Family Loop will allow caregivers to access detailed care navigation guidance regarding how to care for a loved one as they age or as their condition worsens.
Howard said she and her husband’s personal experience was the inspiration for CAEVO.
“My mom had cancer when I was young, and it was terminal at the time,” Howard said. “She fought and overcame it, but I saw my dad be a caregiver, and then during that time, all my grandparents passed, and I saw my mom, even while she was fighting cancer, care for her parents. It takes a toll on a caregiver, and I think it goes unnoticed a lot of times. We are going to be caring for our parents eventually, so
we created a platform we felt we would want to use one day.”
Howard said her background in technology made her want to incorporate AI. She said the AI portion of the platform will offer games focused on cognitive health, adjust workouts based on health statistics over time and pull in suggestions as gaps form.
“I’m passionate about AI for good,” Howard said. “There are ways that AI is being used that I don’t always appreciate, but I think the intelligence and capabilities can solve so many dilemmas we’re facing that we didn’t know how to solve before. Evo, which is our AI bot, also will be available at any point someone wants to ask a caregiving or an aging question.”
For more, visit caevo.ai.
Noblesville couple Lauren and Jon Howard, who will launch their AI-guided platform CAEVO this August. (Photo courtesy of Lauren Howard)
Riverview Health enhances clinical training
Anissa Womack, a registered nurse and emergency department coordinator at Riverview Health with the new manikin. (Photo courtesy of Riverview Health)
news@currentnoblesville.com
Riverview Health is advancing clinical training and patient safety with the addition of a new high-fidelity simulation manikin, made possible through a trauma grant from the Indiana State Department of Health.
The acquisition was led by Anissa Womack, a registered nurse and emergency department coordinator at Riverview Health in Noblesville and Westfield, who secured the grant funding
�� Subaru Loves to Care® 2026 ��
By Tom Wood Subaru
On June 16th, a group of our Tom Wood Subaru team members had the privilege of visiting Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital as part of the 2026 Subaru Loves to Care® initiative in partnership with Blood Cancer United® (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society).
During our visit, we were honored to work with Laura Keefe, CCLS, Certified Child Life Specialist, and Kaitlin MacGruder-Knapp of Ascension, along with the incredible hospital staff and Mary Green from Blood Cancer United. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to supporting children and families facing cancer inspired all of us.
Together, we delivered 80 cozy blankets that had been lovingly rolled into heart shapes, along with patient care kits filled with thoughtful items such as socks, drink bottles, markers, sleeping masks, and more. We also included handwritten Messages of Hope to remind patients and their families that they are not alone in their journey.
The Subaru Loves to Care initiative is dedicated to providing warmth, comfort, and encouragement to those facing cancer treatments. Since the partnership began, Subaru and its retailers, including Tom Wood Subaru, have helped support more than 550,000 cancer patients and their families nationwide. Subaru is proud to be the largest automotive donor to Blood Cancer United, helping pro-
vide care, resources, and hope to those who need it most.
While blankets and care kits bring comfort during treatment, this partnership also helps support programs through Blood Cancer United that connect families with valuable resources and assistance during difficult times.
We are incredibly grateful to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, Blood Cancer United, and everyone involved in making this year’s delivery possible. Thank you for allowing us to be a small part of bringing warmth, kindness, and hope to patients and families in our community.
❤ At Tom Wood Subaru, caring for our community is at the heart of everything we do.
“We are committed to providing the highest level of care for our patients, and that starts with continuous training and innovation,” Womack stated. “This simulation technology allows our teams and partners to practice high-risk situations in a safe environment, strengthening both skills and confidence.”
The manikin replicates realistic patient responses, including breathing, heart rhythms and clinical scenarios
such as airway management, hemorrhage control, defibrillation and surgical interventions, providing a handson learning experience for Riverview Health nurses, physicians, student techs, first responders and regional partners.
Womack is completing on-site training with representatives from Nasco Healthcare, the manufacturer of the manikin, and will lead ongoing education initiatives using the device.
For more, visit riverview.org.
From left to right: Scott Reckley (GM), Bobby Miller, Alex College, Russ Stevens, Eric Nyberg & Alicia Frakes.
(Advertorial)
How hormone shifts can cause vision changes
Commentary by Dr. Kennedy Penny
Most people know that hormones can influence mood and energy levels — but your eyes are surprisingly sensitive to these internal shifts as well. Throughout life, natural hormone shifts can cause noticeable changes in how your eyes feel and how well you see.
One of the most common effects comes from changes in estrogen and progesterone. These are the hormones that help regulate the moisture levels in
your eyes. When their levels fluctuate — during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause or menopause — you may notice your eyes feeling dry, irritated or unusually tired. This happens because hormone shifts can reduce tear production or change the quality of your tears, making your eyes feel gritty or strained.
Hormonal changes also can temporarily affect vision clarity. For example, during pregnancy, an increase in fluid retention can slightly alter the shape
of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. This may cause blurry vision or make contact lenses feel uncomfortable.
Thyroid hormones also play a key role in eye health. Overactive or underactive thyroid function may cause symptoms such as dry eyes, light sensitivity or puffiness around the eyes. In some severe thyroid conditions, the tissues around the eyes can swell.
While most hormone-related eye changes are temporary and manageable, it’s important to pay attention to any-
thing that persists or feels unusual. If you’re noticing ongoing dryness, blurry vision or discomfort, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam can help you understand what’s going on and keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Dr. Kennedy Penny works at Little Eyes in Carmel. She earned her Doctor
McLaughlin returns to Songbook Academy
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Soren McLaughlin enjoyed her first Songbook Academy experience so much that she applied again.
The 2026 Noblesville High School graduate was selected as one of the 40 national finalists at Songbook Academy, set for July 11-18 at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The weeklong Songbook Academy features Broadway instructors.
“I’m excited to reconnect with friends from last year and definitely meet new people and mentors because that’s always something that’s really exciting,” McLaughlin said. “A lot of my main performances that took up my time were just high school things. I’m excited to be able to continue doing music stuff even once I’ve graduated. I would say Songbook definitely opened up a lot more performance opportunities within the week I’m there and outside of it.”
McLaughlin said the musical styles she sings are versatile.
“I probably listen to jazz the most, but I do like musical theater. I even like to do Broadway songs even though I’m not like a musical theater kid,” she said. “I also like to sing pop and worship music.”
She has been working on two songs, “Smile,” written by Charlie Chaplin, and “Orange Colored Sky,” written by Milton DeLugg and Willie Stein.
“That song was (popularized) by Nat King Cole,” she said. “I listened to the Natalie Cole version a lot, so that’s how I learned that song.”
She performed “Smile” as a solo during a show choir competition in Arlington Heights, Ill. Her mother, Sarah Scharbrough McLaughlin, a singer-songwriter, played piano for her daughter.
“I’m pretty familiar with that song and my grandparents take me to the Jazz Kitchen and they have open mic nights on Mondays,” she said. “I’m pretty sure I did ‘Smile’ last year and just did it for fun along with some oth-
er songs.”
Her father, Jeff McLaughlin, is a Westfield High School music teacher and percussionist. She also has performed with her uncle, Jon McLaughlin, a singer-songwriter based in Nashville, Tenn.
“My stage fright has gone down throughout the years,” she said. “The first time I did an actual solo, years and years ago, when I was in elementary school, I was definitely really nervous,” she said. “But my family has exposed me to a lot of opportunities and I would say that I don’t have that much stage fright anymore, definitely not at church or singing in school.”
McLaughlin said she was a little nervous at Songbook Academy last year.
“It was a new crowd of people and a really big event, but thanks to my family and being around a bunch of amazing musicians, it definitely helped me be more calm when I’m about to perform,” she said. “I just think about what I’ve done in my past and what
(family members) have done.”
Along with appearing with the mixed show choir, Noblesville Singers, McLaughlin was on the cross country team. She also participated in several clubs.
McLaughlin plans to major in kinesiology on a pre-medical or pre-physical therapy path at Purdue University.
She also intends to sing with Bethany Robinson, director of jazz bands at Purdue, who previously directed jazz bands at NHS and frequently performs with McLaughlin’s mother.
Those interested can register to watch the free public masterclass in person or by livestream at 2 p.m. July 13. Tickets for Songbook Showcase at 7 p.m. July 16 and Songbook Academy in Concert at 7 p.m. July 18 are available at thecenterpresents.org. All three public events are at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Center. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘CINDERELLA’
“Cinderella” runs through July 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
2000’s Night: BBMak, a British pop trio, is set for July 7, followed by Jed Harrelson July 11 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.
‘SOMETHING ROTTEN!’
“Something Rotten!” runs July 9-12 and July 15-19 at Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
LOBSTER PALOOZA
Indianapolis Opera’s Lobster Palooza is set for 6 p.m. July 11 at Basile Opera Center in Indianapolis. For more, visit indyopera.org.
MARSHALL CHARLOFF
Marshall Charloff & the Purple Xperience will perform at 7:30 p.m. July 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
‘A TAYLOR EXPERIENCE’
York Automotive Concert Series presents “Are You Ready For It? A Taylor Experience” at 8 p.m. July 11 at Hendricks Live! For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
CARMEL COMEDY CLUB
Carmel Comedy Club will present a show at 7 p.m. July 11 at The Cat in Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
Band of Horses set for Fishers show — Band of Horses will perform at 8 p.m. July 25 at Nickel Plate District Amphitheatre in Fishers. Band of Horses is co-headliner with Dinosaur Jr. For more, visit npdamp.com.
Soren McLaughlin will be making her second consecutive appearance at Songbook Academy (Photo courtesy of Soren McLaughlin)
ENTERTAINMENT
Farrell’s repertoire grows
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Since leaving his role as Actors Theatre of Indiana artistic director in September 2023, Don Farrell has stayed busy.
Farrell and accompanist Terry Woods regularly appear at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael about twice a month.
Farrell, a Westfield resident, said he and Woods have created 13 different shows, including the most recent, “Velvet Voices: A Coroner Celebration.” The concert begins with a lesser-known crooner, Russ Columbo.
bunch of artists, which I dearly love.”
Farrell also covers artists such as Nat King Cole, Mel Tormé, Andy Williams and Perry Como. Audience response might give him an idea who to feature next in a full docu-cabaret. Along with appearing at Beef & Boards, Farrell returned to ATI this spring to appear in “Sunset Boulevard.”
Farrell’s latest venture is ”Blé After Dark: An Evening in Paris” at 7 p.m. July 18 at Blé French Bistro in Noblesville.
“Columbo can arguably be called one of the first crooners in that style,” Farrell said. “We go from there to Bing Crosby to eventually Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra to Michael Bublé and Harry Connick Jr. We follow the progression of the art form and how the invention of the microphone allowed the singer to be a little more intimate with the audience. It’s a wonderful tribute and I’m able to cover a whole different
“It is a beautiful restaurant and seats about 60 people,” he said. “It’s like a wonderful French bistro. It’s the launch of a series that we’re hoping to continue doing.”
The upcoming shows at Feinstein’s are “Thank You for the Music, an ABBA Party,” July 24; “All the Way Frank, A Sinatra Tribute,” Aug. 1; “Sweet Caroline: The Life & Music of Neil Diamond” Aug. 8; and “Bubbles Up! Let’s Celebrate Jimmy Buffett,” Aug. 29 and “Velvet Voices,” Sept. 11. For more, blebistro.com and feinsteinshc.com.
Farrell
Hamilton County
July
16-20, 2026
Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds
2003 Pleasant St, Noblesville, IN 46060
Musical farce set for Red Barn Theatre
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Red Barn Theatre Artistic Director Michael Taylor is convinced audiences will embrace the season finale.
“It’s a newer show with a very contemporary feel that is based in the Renaissance times,” Taylor said. “It’s the story of the creation of the first musical. It’s funny. It’s a great way to end the season.”
Red Barn will present “Something Rotten!” July 9-12 and July 15-19 at the Frankfort venue.
The musical will feature a cast of 23 — the largest that Taylor has had in his 10-year tenure as artistic director.
“We’ve pulled together a cast that is very talented,” said Taylor, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate. “I think people are going to really love seeing and watching this cast.”
The cast includes Noah Johnson as Nick Bottom and Ben Brickner as Nigel Bottom.
Nick is a frustrated playwright who is obsessed with Shakespeare, and Nigel is his younger brother.
“The younger brother falls in love with a Puritan girl, whose father is (against) them coming together,” Taylor said.
Kody Horrocks plays Portia, the Puritan girl. Samara Rose Shavrick portrays Nick’s wife, Beatrice.
“It’s a show I’ve seen (on Broadway) and really loved,” Taylor said. “When I’m looking for shows, I’m trying to find shows that have a nice variety or
feel different. It’s very costume heavy. When I looked at shows, I thought this is the year to do it. We have enough local talent that can fill in the ensemble. I was able to bring in enough professional talent to fill in the leads and put together a strong cast.”
Taylor said some cast members are from area high schools.
“Some others are local but at the college level,” he said. “They’ve matured into excellent performers.”
Taylor was directing rehearsals for “Something Rotten!” while acting in “Wait Until Dark,” which was scheduled to end July 5.
“Fortunately, I don’t have any lines in the musical,” Taylor said.
Matthew Reich plays William Shakespeare, an arrogant, fictionalized version of the playwright, known as The Bard.
“The music is very clever,” Taylor said.
Red Barn Associate Artistic Director Luke McLaughlin, a Frankfort resident, portrays the soothsayer Nostradamus.
“It’s a really silly, fun part that fits right into my farcical wheelhouse,” McLaughlin said. “It’s going to be a lot of fun bringing this character and this story to life.”
McLaughlin saw a production in Fort Wayne several years ago.
“It has been a show I’ve brought up a number of times to Michael when we are thinking about the season,” McLaughlin said.
For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
From left, Noah Johnson, Ben Brickner, Anna Cari-Taylor and Delia Cragun rehearse for “Something Rotten!” (Photo courtesy of Luke McLaughlin)
PUZZLES
Kind of PU prof
15. Footnote abbr.
16. Overly sentimental 17. Hater of a laboratory substance?
20. Indiana’s tallest building: Salesforce ___
21. Loses traction
22. Wonder
23. Freddie Gibbs’ music genre
25. Classic pop
27. Colts foe
30. Online commerce
33. SeaWorld attraction
37. Bard’s “before”
38. Make a Current story better
39. Kick in or kick off
40. Spicy pepper chewy candy?
44. Asian nurses
45. Wrinkly fruit
46. Clean air org.
47. Indonesian island
48. Lukewarm
50. Change for a five
51. Stuff
53. Indiana School for the Deaf subj.
55. “Harper Valley ___”
58. “The Zoo Story” playwright
61. WRTV spot seller
65. Boutique lodging in Carmel...and an anagram of 17- and 40-Across
68. What Pavlov’s dogs were conditioned to do 69. NHS prom rental
70. Singer Guthrie
71. Cher’s early partner
72. Statistical average 73. Fishers HS mid-term, e.g.
