July 8, 2025 — Fishers & Geist by Current Publishing

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

BRAGGING RIGHTS

Fishers firefighters win ‘battle of the badges’ during celebration of new fitness court / P13

Century Club supports Kiwanis program / P9

MSDLT hires three Spark!Fishers Have You Heard The News?

Mochi Joy celebrates grand opening / P11

The SWEETEST SANDWICH of the Summer.

This summer, we’re celebrating Tenderloin Tuesday’s Sweet Sixteen! Over 50 Hamilton County restaurants will offer special deals and savory spins on Indiana’s favorite sandwich on Tuesdays from June 24th to July 29th . Claim your passport at TenderloinTuesday.com to redeem deals at your favorite tenderloin spots. Let’s celebrate 16 sweet years of Tuesday tenderness!

Puccini’s Pizza Pasta Puccini’s

Fishers High School Marching Band proceeds down 116th St. during the June 28 Spark!Fishers parade.

Spark!Fishers Parade Grand Marshal, the Fishers Event Center, was represented by three team mascots: Bandit from Fishers Freight, Pepper from Indy Ignite and Nitro from Indy Fuel.

A Ferris wheel was a new attraction during the June 28 Spark!Fishers street fair.

1970s tribute band Sixteen Candles kicked off the Spark!Fishers festival June 24 in front of an appreciative crowd.

The City of Fishers celebrated its annual Spark!Fishers festival June 24 through 28. The event included free concerts, an inclusive community race, a car and art show, a street festival and a parade. (Photos by David Jacobs)

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Donna Marino is a certified life and career coach and licensed Marriage and family therapist. (Photo by David Jacobs)

Fishers wellness center offers variety of services

By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com

Donna Marino has been working to establish her own counseling and wellness center for a long time. She finally opened her Fishers-based Armonia in January and hosted a grand-opening celebration June 28.

BUSINESS

“When I decided to leave my corporate career, it was to recalibrate my life and prioritize motherhood over my career,” Marino said. “My children were 5 and 7 years old when I left, and that was when I recognized that my natural abilities were in spending time with people and being fully present for others.”

Marino spent time in her 40s freelancing in various life-coaching fields before pursuing her master’s degree in her 50s.

“It was about me feeling more confident in getting my credentials and becoming licensed as a therapist,” Marino said. “That was the starting point, but probably in 2010 while I was waiting for a massage, I thought that someday I’m going to create a space that is both talk therapy and well-

ness therapy.”

About three years ago, she knew it was time to buy her own space.

“I knew I didn’t want it to be clinical or medical in nature, and I knew it wanted it in downtown Fishers,” Marino said. “Over the course of those three years, my realtor had me all over the city, in Carmel, Lapel, Westfield and I kept saying, ‘Downtown Fishers.’ This space finally became available in August and as soon as I saw it I knew it was the right location.”

The renovated house at 8865 South St. is between Lantern Road and Commercial Drive. The center offers a wide range of services — from counseling and life coaching to sound healing and massage therapy.

“Whatever you have going on in your life, if it’s causing you any kind of distress, we can serve you,” Marino said. “Sometimes, people are weary of going to a new place without a personal referral, so I would encourage folks if they’re interested at all to reach out and we’ll find time to offer our services.”

For more, visit thedonnamariemarino. com/armonia-life-design.

Lawrence Township Schools hires three new principals

news@currentinfishers.com

Three new principals have been hired at the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township. On June 23, the MSDLT Board of Education ratified the appointments of Sharifa Blackwell as principal of Sunnyside Elementary School, Jason Floyd as principal of Lawrence North High School and Ti’Asha Oglesby as principal of Brook Park Elementary School.

EDUCATION

Superintendent Shawn Smith stated that Blackwell brings valuable experience in education and a strong commitment to bilingual learning.

According to an announcement from the district, Blackwell brings 20 years of bilingual education experience as a teacher and administrator in Indiana, Illinois and Missouri. She most recently served as principal at Global Preparatory Academy.

“I am honored to join the Sunnyside community as principal,” she stated. “It is a privilege to lead a school where bilingualism, academic excellence and cultural pride are at the heart of learning. I look forward to working with the school’s dedicated staff and families to support every child’s success.”

“I am confident her leadership will strengthen both academic achievement and cultural connection in our dual-language community at Sunnyside,” he stated.

Blackwell has a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis. She holds a master’s in teaching from Southern Oregon University/University of Guanajuato, Mexico. Her Master of Arts in Educational Leadership is from the Teachers College of Columbia University

tionships and honesty.”

Smith stated that Floyd’s knowledge of students, staff and families, combined with his commitment to educational excellence, made him the ideal choice to lead Lawrence North into the future.

experience as a teacher and administrator in Lawrence Township to her new role. She most recently was the assistant principal at Winding Ridge Elementary.

Floyd brings 22 years of educational experience as a teacher and administrator to his new role at Lawrence North, where he served as assistant principal since 2015.

“My leadership philosophy is to leave things better than I found them,” he stated. “This is built upon four educational leadership building blocks: curricular focus, clear communication, building rela-

Floyd has worked at Lawrence North since 2003, teaching all areas of science until 2015 when he transitioned into administration. During his 10 years as assistant principal, he managed a wide range of duties and responsibilities, including overseeing student discipline, supervising staff, managing school safety protocols, implementing academic programs and fostering positive relationships with students, parents and the community.

He has a bachelor’s degree in science education with a primary focus on biology and secondary focus on chemistry from Indiana State University. He has a Master of Science in educational leadership from Butler University.

Oglesby brings 13 years of educational

“I am honored to join the Brook Park community and look forward to partnering with staff, students and families to support a culture of learning, belonging and growth,” she stated. “Together, we will continue to build a strong foundation that empowers every child to succeed.”

Smith stated that he was thrilled to welcome Oglesby to her new leadership role.

“Her passion for elementary education, proven track record of collaboration and student-centered approach makes her the right choice to lead this school forward,” he stated. “I’m confident she will have a lasting and positive impact on the entire Brook Park community.”

Oglesby has a bachelor’s in elementary education from Ball State University. She completed her master’s degree at Ball State in 2019 in educational administration and supervision.

Blackwell Floyd Oglesby

DISPATCHES

State chamber offers tobacco program — Indiana officials estimate that nearly 40,000 Hoosiers will soon be looking to stop using tobacco after tax increases went into effect July 1. The new average price of a pack of cigarettes in Indiana is $11 because of the $2 per pack bump. To assist individuals in the workplace, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Wellness Council of Indiana is releasing an enhanced version of its Quit Now Tool, a web-based platform that offers modernized ready-to-use modules for tobacco users, non-users and employers. The program is free for WCI members. For more, visit wellnessindiana.org.

Call for art — The Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists is set for Sept. 2-27. The deadline to submit work for that exhibit is July 25. For more about upcoming events and calls for art, visit fishersartscouncil. org/blog.

Farmers Bank honored by IBA — The Farmers Bank was recently honored as a Five Star Member of the Indiana Bankers Association. The Five Star Member designation recognizes IBA-member banks that demonstrate outstanding commitment to the association in political awareness; issues advocacy; lifelong learning; IBA volunteerism; and preferred service provider utilization. The Farmers Bank has locations in Hamilton and Boone counties, including Westfield, Carmel, Noblesville, Fishers, Sheridan and Lebanon.

Hamilton County young professionals golf outing — The Westfield Young Professionals Council will host its third annual golf outing Aug. 27 at Wood Wind Golf Course in Westfield. The outing is exclusively for young professionals aged 40 and under who live and/or work in Hamilton County. Tickets include 18-holes and access to the range; two golf carts per foursome; a Bloody Mary Bar; a box lunch; and entry to the 19th Hole Reception. Register at tinyurl.com/4d7dd9ka.

State of the Campus set — Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County will host its inaugural State of the Campus from 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 3 at The Bridgewater Club. The event will feature Chancellor Rachel Kartz and other campus leaders. Tickets are $30 through Aug. 29 and $45 after, and benefit students through the Ivy Tech Foundation. For more, visit link.ivytech.edu/IVY2025.

Fishers Century Club supports Kiwanis program

news@currentinfishers.com

Fishers Century Club members celebrated the club’s fourth anniversary during its quarterly meeting June 24 and heard presentations from local nonprofit organizations LifeWise Academy, the Hero’s Foundation and Kiwanis Holiday Hopes.

DONATION

Members voted to donate this quarter’s funds to the Kiwanis program, which was presented by Fishers resident Howard Burd. According to a Century Club announcement, the Holiday Hopes program provides a holiday shopping experience for underprivileged children in Fishers. Volunteers are paired with children to shop for gifts, using 75 percent of the funds for the children and 25 percent to purchase gifts for special people in the children’s lives.

“This model not only helps meet immediate needs but also teaches the children the joy and value of giving,” Burd told the group. “I recently joined the Fishers Century

Club by reading about the group in a published article in a local paper and absolutely loved the concept of helping local charities. There are far more underprivileged families and kids in the Fishers community than people might expect, and we are going to use these dollars to allow more children to experience this special holiday program in 2025. I’d encourage every guy in Fishers to join the Century Club, it’s an incredible way to make a real impact.”

A final tally of the crowd-giving funds is not yet available, but in the past charities have received about $3,000. The next Fishers Century Club meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 16. Men interested in giving back to the local community are invited to attend.

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Indy motorsports school celebrates 1st graduates

news@currentinfishers.com

MTS US, an Italian-based motorsport training school that opened in Indianapolis in May, celebrated its first graduating class June 29.

TRAINING

Ten students from Indiana, North Carolina, New York and Wisconsin received diplomas during a ceremony at the MTS Training Center, 4007 Guion Lane, including 21-year-old Ryley Lynch, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate.

According to a MTS announcement, Lynch soon will start a new job with Graham Rahal Performance, where he’ll work on high-performance vehicles.

“I’ve always loved motorsports, but it seemed like a hard industry to break into,” Lynch stated. “MTS gave me the only real opportunity I’ve seen to do it. The people I got to learn from — some of them I never imagined I’d even meet in my lifetime, let alone work with side by side.”

For more, including a list of previous winning charities, visit fisherscenturyclub.com or visit facebook.com/fisherscenturyclub. Those who wish to participate in the group but are unable to attend meetings can visit tinyurl.com/OnlineGivingFCC.

Learn more by contacting 317-983-2063

team manager Eugenia Capanna, MTS prepares students for careers with teams in F1, MotoGP, IndyCar and other top racing series.

“Since opening our doors in Indianapolis, we’ve dreamed of this moment — seeing our very first group of students cross the finish line,” Capanna stated.

notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2025 David Weekley Homes – All Rights Reserved. Indianapolis, IN (IND-25-002397)

MTS US offers hands-on training for aspiring race mechanics and data engineers. Founded by professional driver and racing

Applications are open for the next cohort, which begins Aug. 22. MTS expects to enroll 15 to 30 students in the mechanical program and five to 10 in its data engineering track.

For more, visit mtschool.it/usa-students.

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MTS students train at the Indianapolis-based motorsports school. (Photo courtesy of MTS)

Dillinger delivers annual State of the County address

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

GOVERNMENT

Steve Dillinger wants Hamilton County residents to know he and his colleagues have their backs. More than 500 people filled the conference center at the Embassy Suites in Noblesville June 25 for the Hamilton County Commissioner president’s annual State of the County address.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Dillinger recognized that residents are having a hard time navigating the county as road improvements are under way. He attributed the need for the work to a growing population.

“In 1990, we had a population of 110,348,” he said. “(The population of Hamilton County) reached 377,827 in 2024. If governmental entities did not take charge and fix these roads now, you wouldn’t be able to get around, period.”

Many road projects are nearing completion. The $37.6 million Ind. 37 and 141st Street interchange project, which began in June 2024, will be completed in the spring of 2026. Work on the $44 million roadway project at the 146th Street and Allisonville Road interchange began in 2023 and is expected to be completed this fall.

Dillinger said, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, 146th Street and Carey Road, 146th Street and Hazel Dell Road and 146th Street and Gray Road are three of the most dangerous intersections in the county.

“As soon as we get 146th Street and Allisonville Road finished, we’ll see if we can’t block up traffic a little more and irritate you,” said Dillinger, referencing the $37.8 million construction project that will begin on the 146th Street and Hazel Dell Road interchange next summer.

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

The Hamilton County Council appropriated $15 million to help Hamilton County 4-H Fairground officials develop a master plan. The fairgrounds require $65 million in renovations, according to county officials. The first phase of the project involved replacing the Winx and Annex buildings, upgrading the exhibition hall, improving classrooms and renovating the llama barn.

Another project underway is a Domestic Violence Center in partnership with Nobles-

The $37.6 million construction project on the Ind. 37 and 141st Street interchange will be completed in the spring of 2026. (Renderings courtesy of Envoy Inc.)

ville nonprofit Prevail, which will be on 9 acres on Ind. 38.

“We still are not where we want to be on construction yet, but we’re projecting a cost of around $12 million,” Dillinger said.

Two projects under construction, set to be completed in 2027, are the $32 million Hamilton County Public Training Facility and $85 million E911 Center.

The Hamilton County Child Care Center also will soon be constructed.

The child care center will replace the parks department and coroner’s office on Lakeview Drive. The parks department will relocate its headquarters to Morse Park in Noblesville, and the coroner’s office will be on the same site as the Hamilton County Public Training Facility.

SPECIAL TOPICS

Dillinger discussed several projects that involve the county, including the Rely Center — an urgent care facility for mental health, substance use and psychiatric crises -- on Aspire Indiana Health’s campus at 17840 Cumberland Rd. in Noblesville.

The center is expected to be completed this fall.

“There has been an opioid overdose rate of 10.6 per 100,000 residents in Hamilton County,” Dillinger said. “We don’t have anywhere to take these people. Right now, we take them to the jail or the hospital, and neither place is appropriate.”

COUNTY FINANCES

Dillinger said the county has more than $117.9 million in reserves and rainy-day funds and is the only county in Indiana to hold an AAA rating from S&P Global Ratings. “We have the sixth-lowest county property tax of any county in Indiana,” Dillinger said. “I think all the things I’ve talked about is what makes Hamilton County special, and it takes a lot of people to do that.”

Mochi Joy celebrates new Fishers storefront

By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com

Three years after bringing their unique mochi doughnuts to pop-ups at Noblesville’s Veterans of Foreign War post, Tom Nguyen and Rachel Burnett opened their Mochi Joy storefront in Fishers in January. They celebrated the new shop June 25.

RIBBON CUTTING

“The demand just got so much from doing pop-ups and festivals out of our commercial kitchen,” Burnett said. “We were lucky to find this place — this is the community I grew up in.”

Located off 96th St., Mochi Joy offers six rotating donut flavors and 12 everyday staples. Donuts are not the only offering, though, as Mochi Joy offers an extensive selection of non-donut treats, snacks and even a savory menu including their Japanese mochi hotdog.

“I quality control everything, so I approve everything that goes out the door,” Burnett

FOREVER YOUNG CLUB

Mochi Joy owners Tom Nguyen and Rachel Burnett receive a congratulatory certificate from District 32 State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers).

(Photo by David Jacobs)

said. “(My favorite non-donut item) would be our cake scoops.”

Burnett and Nguyen use local vendors for nearly everything inside their donut shop, and host a local bookstore.

“We are very community-based,” Burnett said. “When we were popping up, we were able to collaborate with all these different local vendors and businesses, and it created this collaborative approach to everything.”

For more, visit mochijoydonuts.com.

FORT BEN FARMER’S MARKET

THURSDAYS AT 11 AM & 2ND FRIDAYS MONTHLY LAWRENCE COMMUNITY CENTER EVERY THURSDAY, JUNE 5 – OCT. 2 • 4–7 PM FORT BEN CULTURAL CAMPUS

Stay active and connected with weekly Game Days every Thursday at 11 AM and Fitness Days on second Fridays, featuring chair aerobics led by KYT Fitness. Open to all seniors looking for fun, fitness, and friendship.

Shop fresh and local all summer long! Enjoy a wide variety of vendors offering produce, baked goods, meats, plants, and more at this beloved weekly market on the Fort Ben Cultural Campus.

This event is only possible with the support of sponsors. Please make their investment worth it by considering them for your business.

TUESDAY, AUG. 5 • 5–9 PM

Enjoy free backpacks, supplies, and food (while they last), plus kickball and a student fashion show. Celebrate the new school year with fun, support, and community!

Build community and strengthen neighborhood bonds as LPD, LFD, and City leaders visit neighborhoods across Lawrence during this annual night of connection, safety, and community pride.

See helicopters, rescue demos, and the LPD vs. LFD Suit Up Challenge. Enjoy food trucks, music, and hands-on activities with 50+ safety organizations and community partners!

Sen. Young recognizes interns

news@currentinfishers.com

Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.) recently recognized Hoosier students who participated in the first session of his summer internship program in his Washington, D.C., and Indianapolis offices. The students assisted with daily activities and special projects related to legislation, communications and constituent services.

POLITICS

The Washington D.C., intern class included Carmel native Caroline Modrall, who recently graduated from Purdue University, Westfield native Rex Burkman, a senior at University of Notre Dame, and Fishers native Makenna Watson, a junior at Purdue University.

The Indianapolis intern class included Fishers native Eli Adams, a sophomore at Indiana University Bloomington. Young’s office offers internship opportunities year-round, in both his Washington, D.C., and Indiana offices. The internship program offers students the opportunity to experience the legislative branch of government and serve Hoosiers.

Students interested in applying can visit young.senate.gov/help/internships.

Top, front from left, are Washington, D.C., interns Evan McDonnell, Mya Hardin, Sen. Todd Young, Makenna Watson of Fishers and Jack Henning. Back row are Caroline Modrall of Carmel, Rex Burkman of Westfield and Jack Kirsch. Bottom, from left, are Indianapolis interns Eli Adams of Fishers, Young, Yoezer Cassell and Georgia Carlson. (Image courtesy of Todd Young’s office)

COVER STORY

BRAGGING RIGHTS

Fishers firefighters win ‘battle of the badges’ during celebration of new

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

On a sweltering, humid day at noon in full sun in the middle of a heat wave, City of Fishers firefighters and police officers participated in a friendly “battle of the badges” competition — part of a celebration to officially open the city’s new fitness court at Brooks School Park.

The relay-style competition involved fitness apparatus at the new court, which includes boxes of varying heights for box jumps, push-up and chin-up bars, and a device for back extensions. The race was close and competitors didn’t appear fazed by the heat. Firefighters squeaked out a victory with a time of 2 minutes and 6 seconds, only 9 seconds shorter than the police officers’ time.

Before the race, Director of Recreation and Wellness Jake Reardon McSoley said the fitness court was funded in part through a $30,000 grant the city received from the National Fitness Campaign. The city spent an additional $185,000 to buy and install the court, which is open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.

“It’s the first one in Fishers (and) it’s one of 10 in the state of Indiana,” McSoley said. “It’s an amazing amenity that we’re excited to bring to our community, providing world-class outdoor exercise equipment for free to everyone.”

The court has been in place for a little more than a month and McSoley said it’s already been well used.

“I happen to live close by — I drive by here all the time, and I think every single time I’ve driven by, there’s been some family or individual or group exploring it,” he said. “We’ve actually had a few hosted workouts here already and we’ve just been doing kind of a soft opening to this point.”

The fitness court has workout apparatus on one side and a large open space on the other, which can be used for yoga or other group classes. McSoley said the Brooks School Park location was picked because it is easily accessed with plenty of parking and has walking and biking trails that connect it to various neighborhoods.

Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness thanked McSoley and other city staff members who

fitness court

worked to bring the court to Fishers, including the Department of Public Works.

“It’s one big step forward toward a culture of health and we’re excited to see it,” he said. “I’ve already seen tons of kids and families utilize this asset already in a very popular park. So, we’re really, really excited.”

Culture of Health Ambassador Ginny Zimmerman thanked the group gathered at the celebration for showing up despite the hot weather. She said fitness classes will be offered at the court through community partners, and she encouraged members of the public to use the court for a quick workout while their kids play at the nearby playground, for example.

“This is carefully designed to be an accessible fitness court to all levels of fitness and all abilities of motion,” she said. “There’s a massive QR code on the side

the

one

before a

IF YOU GO

— you can download a free app that will walk you through different movements that you can do at each station.”

She said people can curate their own workouts based on what they want to achieve and their personal fitness level. Zimmerman added that outdoor activity is especially beneficial for mental as well as physical health.

“We really hope that you guys will join us — bring your kids, bring your grandparents, bring your parents — and really just find your own unique ways to move outdoors with us,” she said.

For more, visit fishersparks.com/ parks-amenities/amenities/fitness-court.

ON THE COVER: Fishers Fire Department personnel won a relay-style “battle of the badges” competition with the Fishers Police Department June 25. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

The City of Fishers’ new fitness court at Brooks School Park, 11780 Brook School Rd., is designed to provide a full-body workout in seven minutes. According to the city’s website, people who choose to do the whole circuit rotate through seven zones — core, squat, push, lunge, pull, agility and bend.

Each of the seven stations can be used with different exercise variations, providing opportunities for beginners through experienced athletes, according to the website.

A library of workouts is available online through the National Fitness Campaign for people to make a plan before going, if they choose. Workouts include high intensity interval training, total body training and workouts for those who are 50 and older.

For more, visit nationalfitnesscampaign.com.

City of Fishers officials cut the ribbon during a grand opening celebration of the new outdoor fitness court at Brooks School Park. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

Ginny Zimmerman tries out the chinup bar at the new fitness court at Brooks School Park.

Fishers Culture of Health Ambassador Ginny Zimmerman demonstrates

relay exercises

“battle

the badges” competition at the city’s new fitness court.

Blueprint for Improvement: Wood accents elevate bathroom

Commentary by Larry Greene

This bathroom in Fishers went from outdated and cramped to bright, open and elegant with thoughtful finishes, custom wood accents and modern brass details.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The dated tub and tight shower were replaced with a spacious walk-in, enclosed in clear glass for an airy, open feel.

• Floating walnut-toned vanities add warmth and contrast against sleek white quartz countertops.

• Arched gold mirrors and brushed brass fixtures bring a modern, elegant touch.

• A wood-paneled ceiling draws the eye upward, adding texture and depth.

• The result is a bathroom that feels serene, bright and beautifully elevated.

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.

After

Before

Basile Westfield Playhouse to present ‘Puffs’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Teddy Epstein knew he was up for the demands of this acting role.

Epstein plays Wayne Hopkins in “Puffs” July 17 to 27 in Main Street Productions’ youth play at Basile Westfield Playhouse.

“I feel like I had to prepare a lot more because I have a lot of lines, so I really had to work hard,” said Epstein, who will be a junior at Westfield High School in August. “But I’m excited because I think it’s really going to pay off once the curtains open.”

The comedy by Matt Cox is the spin-off of the “Harry Potter” and title is supposed to be akin to Hufflepuff House at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where Potter’s character was based. The play was not authorized by “Potter” author J.K. Rowling or anyone associated with the books and movies.

“He’s just a fun, energetic person, always wanting to go help people,” Epstein said of Hopkins. “I feel it’s a character that is close to me as a person, which can be easy and hard because, of course, you don’t want to play yourself on stage. You still want to give a portrayal of the character. So, at times it can be difficult to find the right space to be in. But the biggest challenge is just getting all those lines memorized.”

This is Epstein’s fifth youth show at Basile Westfield Playhouse.

“This show is in the top three shows I’ve ever done,” Epstein said. “It really is just an amazing show. It’s such a great cast and just great people.”

Spencer Bland, who will be a freshman at Franklin Central High School, plays Oliver Rivers.

“He’s a little smart guy, but not when it comes to magic and wizard stuff,” he said, “You could say he’s a math magician. I love playing this character because he’s just like the complete opposite of me. It’s fun to be able to pretend I’m smart and he just generally is a funny character.”

The first show Bland ever auditioned

for was “Puffs.” He didn’t get a role but his brother did.

“I did end up watching the show because my brother was in it,” he said.

The production, however, was during the COVID-19 pandemic when the actors wore masks and had no microphones, so Bland couldn’t hear all the dialogue.

“But I did have an idea what the plot was like, and I do remember laughing once or twice when I could hear the jokes,” Bland said.

MJ Elliott, who will be a senior at Brownsburg High School, plays Megan Jones. Bland and Elliott are making their debuts at Westfield Playhouse.

Elliott has performed since age 7 but has only appeared in musicals.

“My character is very moody,” she said. “She starts out being very upset being put in the Puffs house, but then as the show goes on, she adapts to it with her two friends. Her mom works for a dark wizard, so she is trying to live up to that

reputation, but then she decides, ‘That’s OK, I don’t really want to be like her.’”

Elliott said her challenge is displaying her character as mean and then becoming a better person.

Elliott was a big fan of the “Harry Potter” books and movies.

“I even went as ‘Harry Potter’ for Halloween a couple of times,” she said.

Indianapolis resident Amber Roth, who is directing for the first time with Main Street Productions, said she proposed the play to the company.

“This is one show I’ve wanted to do for a while,” she said. “I usually tend to stay with more dramatic pieces that have small hints of humor. This definitely steps out of my normal comfort zone. Having there be more of humor up front (in the play) and smaller deeper meanings in the back of it is something that is a challenge for me, but something I’ve been wanting to do for a while.”

For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’

“The Little Mermaid” runs through July 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘XANADU’

Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “Xanadu” July 10-13 and July 16-20 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.

ROCK THE RUINS

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will perform at 6:30 p.m. July 9 at the Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park in Indianapolis. For more, visit rocktheruins.com.

Indy Shorts reveals lineup

editorial@youarecurrent.com

Heartland Film has announced the lineup for the eighth Annual Academy Award-qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival presented by F.A. Wilhelm Construction Co., running July 22-27. The festival will showcase 253 short films with screenings at Living Room Theaters, Newfields (The Tobias Theater, The Amphitheater and The Beer Garden) and available to stream.

The festival will feature short films from 36 countries and include 42 world premieres, 18 U.S. premieres and 112 Midwest premieres. With more than 200 filmmakers expected to attend, nearly every program will have a filmmaker Q&A following the screening. Fest Pass and tickets are now on sale at IndyShorts.org.

Indy Shorts is an Academy Award-Qualifying Film Festival in all three short film categories (Live Action, Documentary and Animated). The three grand prize-winning films will receive their Oscar Qualification in their designated category.

Filmmakers are competing for more than $35,000 in cash prizes that will be awarded July 26. Selected award-winning films will be showcased at The Amphitheater (Newfields) for the Summer Nights: Award Winners Program. Before the films, attendees can enjoy free HotBox Pizza and summer activities.

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

From left, MJ Elliott, Teddy Epstein and Spencer Bland appear in “Puffs.” (Photo courtesy of Indy Ghostlight)

THE SONGBOOK ACADEMY® IN CONCERT

SAT, JUL 19 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS MAN ON THE MOON TOUR

WED, AUG 6 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

HERB ALPERT & THE TIJUANA BRASS & OTHER DELIGHTS

THU, AUG 7 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

BURTON CUMMINGS OF THE GUESS WHO A FEW GOOD MOMENTS TOUR

SUN, AUG 10 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

AN EVENING WITH BRIAN MCKNIGHT

FRI, SEP 26 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

JAY LENO

SAT, SEP 27 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

RICK BRAUN & MINDI ABAIR SAT, OCT 4 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

IL DIVO BY CANDLELIGHT

THU, OCT 9 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

MATTHEW MORRISON: RHYTHMS & REVELATIONS

FRI, OCT 17 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

AN EVENING WITH TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP

SAT, OCT 18 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

VIENNA BOYS CHOIR

SUN, OCT 19 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS:

JAZZ FROM THE BACK O’ TOWN

FRI, OCT 24 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

BUGS BUNNY AT THE SYMPHONY

SAT, NOV 1 AT 8PM & SUN, NOV 2 AT 2PM

PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

LISA LOEB & JOAN OSBORNE

FRI, NOV 7 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

TITO PUENTE JR. AND HIS LATIN JAZZ ENSEMBLE

SAT, NOV 8 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

SAMARA JOY

FRI, NOV 14 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

PEABO BRYSON FRI, NOV 21 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE

TUE, DEC 2 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

SONGBOOK FOUNDATION

HOLIDAY FILM SCREENING

THU, DEC 4 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRI, DEC 5 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND CREOLE CHRISTMAS MON, DEC 8 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS FRI, DEC 12 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

CHRIS ISAAK

SAT, DEC 13 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WITH RAY CHEN FRI, JAN 30 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

WAYNE NEWTON: UP CLOSE & PERSONAL SAT, FEB 14 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

CHRIS BOTTI FRI, MAR 6 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

DIRECT FROM ROME: THE THREE ITALIAN TENORS SUN, MAR 29 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

MANDY PATINKIN IN CONCERT: BEING ALIVE THU, APR 9 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL FEINSTEIN FRI, APR 17 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

JOSHUA BELL

THU, APR 23 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM

AN EVENING WITH JAKE SHIMABUKURO FRI, MAY 8 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM AND MANY MORE!

Lobster Palooza set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indianapolis Opera’s Lobster Palooza’s Fund-A-Need has become an essential fundraising initiative for the company’s educational outreach program.

FUNDRAISING

“The funding goes directly to the programming for underserved or underfunded schools,” said Lyndsay Moy, Indianapolis Opera’s director of education and outreach. “It really has a tremendous impact.”

Moy

Lobster Palooza, the 15th annual fundraiser, is set for 6 p.m. July 26 at the Basile Opera Center, 4001 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Moy said in its first year, Lobster Palooza raised about $14,500 for the education portion and $17,000 last year.

“This year, our goal is $20,000, which we’ll be able to provide programming for about 40 schools throughout Indiana,” Moy said. “Obviously, there are a lot of inner-city schools that might be underserved or underfunded. Any school that has budget is-

sues, we are able to offer the program. This funding gives me so much flexibility to meet the schools where they are. We know most every school is facing budget cuts, particularly to music programs. This kind of music education outreach is important to expose the kids to all sorts of different arts and music and to bring classical music into these schools.”

Moy said the opera company has received positive feedback from educators and the children for their program.

The funding pays for resident artists to travel to the school for the approximately 40-minute program designed for pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. The outreach program includes field trips to the Basile Opera Center.

Indianapolis Opera also offers an elevated opera cabaret program for underfunded middle schools and high schools.

“The artists are able to talk about their careers, the pieces, vocal health and all sorts of things that go into a career in opera and the art of vocal performance,” she said.

For more, visit indyopera.org.

JAY LENO BRIAN MCKNIGHT

DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE SAMARA JOY JAKE SHIMABUKURO AIDA CUEVAS

1. Doctor’s request 6. Children’s Museum dino mascot 9. Brouhahas

13. Online party notice

14. Hoosier National Forest tree

15. ___ Wayne

16. Indianapolis Opera voice

17. Pie ___ mode

18. Tent “door”

19. Hamilton County city

22. Drain of energy

25. Beatles: “___ the Walrus”

26. Praise

27. Part of CIA

29. Indianapolis Indians dugout boss (Abbr.)

31. Shapiro’s loaf

32. Used to be 33. Better or best

35. July 11 event at 19-Across that is hosted by 53-Across and benefits local charities

40. Hall’s singing partner

41. “Fix” a pet

43. Have a ribeye at 1933 Lounge

46. Monument Circle music grp.

47. Option

49. Eddy

51. Eden lady

52. Hornets, on a Pacers scoreboard

53. Mayor of 19-Across 57. Mideast money

58. Bizarre

59. Behavior pattern

63. Ye ___ Shoppe

64. In the past

65. Stage comment

66. Garden nuisance

67. ___ Castle

68. Question of ownership Down

1. Zionsville HS tennis match unit

2. Keystone or College, briefly

3. Yang’s counterpart

4. Lots and lots

5. Like brave deeds

6. Royal domain

7. Fashion magazine

8. Dec. 25 9. Attach 10. Four quarters

By word of mouth 12. Florida city, familiarly

Geist cove 21. “Aida” composer

22. Was backward?

23. Gets older

24. City about 55 miles north of Westfield on US 31

28. Jules Verne captain

29. No ___, no fuss

Classic

33. Nabisco cookie

34. Words of approximation

36. Sends a letter

37. UFO crew

38. Huge

39. Pricing qualifier

42. Indiana Senate vote

43. Funds held by a third party

44. For some time

45. Angry outburst

47. Walgreens rival

48. Donkey cry

50. Irked

51. Provide funding

54. Cusack or Crawford

55. Slight advantage

56. The “N” of CSNY

60. Dust jacket blurb

61. Broad Ripple bouncers’ requests

30.

Pontiac muscle car

C&H TREE SERVICE FIREWOOD SALE

Topping

Deadwooding – Landscaping

Stump Grinding – Gutter Cleaning

WORK

Trim/Remove trees & shrubs Building Demolitions Clean Gutters Trash Removal & Odd Jobs Painting inside or Outdoors Property Clean Outs FULLY INSURED

Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com

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