June 16, 2026 — Current in Fishers & Geist by Current Publishing

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Fishers, HSE high schools honor Class of 2026 graduates

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern Schools Corp. celebrated 1,754 graduates June 3 and 4 with back-to-back commencement ceremonies for Fishers and Hamilton Southeastern high schools, each taking place at the Fishers Event Center.

FISHERS HIGH SCHOOL

About 900 members of the Fishers High School Class of 2026 celebrated their graduation June 3 at the Fishers Event Center.

Salutatorian Reva Peddi greeted graduates and all their supporters who filled the center’s stadium-style seating.

“I would like to thank all our parents, administrators, teachers, coaches, club sponsors and faculty members at Fishers High School, thank you for helping us pursue and achieve excellence, and thank you for setting us up for a bright future,” she said. “Additionally, I would like to express how proud I am of each and every one of our graduates today. It has been an honor to be your classmate.”

Valedictorian Eshan Jain told his fellow graduates that the event was a celebration of long nights, early mornings and overcoming challenges.

“To the teachers and faculty of FHS and past schools, thank you,” he said. “You showed up each day not just to teach us lessons, but to invest in us as people. You challenged our thinking and encouraged us when we struggled. The knowledge you gave us may fade over time, but the way you made us think and ask questions will stay with us forever.”

Student speaker Katie Wise recalled some of FHS’s accomplishments during the past four years and asked her fellow graduates to reflect on how far they’ve come.

“Think about who you were when

you walked through the doors of high school and who you are now,” Wise said.

“Think about how proud that fortunate version of you would be and think about those who helped mold you into the person sitting here today — the friends, family members and teachers who, yes, deserve a raise and our utmost respect.”

After each graduate received their degree, FHS Principal Kyle Goodwin closed out the evening congratulating the students for showing grit.

“You’re ready, not only for your next chapter, but for whatever life throws at you down the road,” he said. “And the last thing I need you to hear from me today: Thank you.”

HSE HIGH SCHOOL

More than 800 HSE High School Royals received their diplomas June 4, marking the end of the Class of 2026’s high school journey.

Salutatorian Maryam Hasanuddin welcomed graduates and their families and friends at the start of the celebration. She thanked everyone who helped her and her fellow graduates through the years.

“It is hard to believe that just four years ago we were all freshmen at HSE,” she said. “It is hard to believe how much we’ve all changed to become more capable and stronger versions of ourselves. I could not have asked for a better class to have shared this all with and I know without a doubt that each and every one of you will go on to achieve incredible things.”

Valedictorian Kahaan Modi also expressed gratitude for those who helped him and other graduates reach that milestone.

“As I stand up here and look at each individual in front of me, one word comes to mind: triumph,” he said. We’ve all had our individual journeys to get to this point in our lives. We cannot know from a bird’s eye view each story that got here today. We can only see that everyone made it here, the finish line. So I want you all to acknowledge your own story of resilience and growth, soak in the parts of your four years that led to your ultimate triumph today — graduation.”

Continued on Page 4

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Fishers High School seniors Ella Goergen, left, Sophia Phlipot and Paige Hughes sing “Vienna” by Billy Joel during FHS’s Class of 2026 commencement. (Photo courtesy of HSE Schools)

Continued from Page 3

Senior speaker Reagan Kurcinka reflected on the years leading up to graduation.

“We are not the same 5-year-olds we entered the school system as, and standing here now on the precipice of a new chapter, we are not the same people we will be at the end of our next chapter,” she said. “So, as we begin to write our next chapters, take one last second, look around right now and appreciate every moment, memory and person that made HSE the most special place to build your life around.”

HSE Principal Craig McCaffrey told the graduates that he was proud of what they had achieved.

“Tonight is a special evening that reflects years of dedication, perseverance and growth,” he said. “It is a privilege for all of us to gather together to celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding students and to recognize the collective support of their families, teachers and our community who helped make this moment possible.”

According to HSE Schools Corp., the two schools have a combined 99 percent graduation rate, with an average GPA of 3.5. One in four graduates earned a GPA of 4.0 or higher and more than 90 percent plan to pursue post-secondary education.

“This graduating class has demonstrated excellence both inside and outside the classroom,” Superintendent Matt Kegley said in an email. “Whether their next step is college, military service, the workforce or another pathway, these students leave HSE prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities. We are proud of all they have accomplished and excited to see what comes next.”

Recordings of each ceremony are on the district’s YouTube channel, youtube. com/@HamiltonSoutheasternSchools.

HSE High School Class of 2026 graduates turn their tassels, marking the end of their high school journey. (Photo courtesy of HSE Schools)

Fishers firefighters extinguish truck, home fires

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Nobody was injured when a moving truck’s engine area caught fire June 3 at The Yard at Fishers District.

According to a Fishers Fire Department social media post, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

“Fortunately, everyone was able to get out of the truck safely before firefighters arrived,” FFD stated. “Crews arrived to find the truck heavily involved in fire and quickly worked to bring it under control. No other vehicles or structures were affected.”

The department stated that vehicle fires can grow rapidly and drivers and passengers should act quickly if they notice smoke, flames or a burning odor while driving. The post recommends pulling over safely, turning off and exiting the vehicle, and moving a safe distance away before calling 911.

Firefighters also extinguished two house fires that week. FFD responded to a residential fire June 2 in the Plantana neighborhood. The resident at home had evacuated with their pet and no injuries were reported.

“Firefighters arrived to find fire impacting the exterior of the garage and garage attic,” FFD stated in a separate post. “Thanks to the swift actions of firefighters, crews were able to stop the fire from spreading into the home’s living areas.”

A neighboring home sustained exterior damage, but the fire did not spread beyond the original residence.

The second house fire was reported early in the morning June 4 after a neighbor noticed smoke and fire coming from the rear of a home and called 911.

DISPATCHES

 Lucas Oil wins Community Impact Award — Lucas Oil, a distributor of high-performance automotive additives and lubricants, was named a 2026 Community Impact Award Winner by Culture of Good for the second consecutive year. The award recognizes Lucas’ commitment to serving communities in central Indiana, where the company is headquartered, and beyond.

The family and their pets safely evacuated before firefighters arrived, according to FFD. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

“We’re grateful for the efforts of everyone who responded and helped ensure a safe outcome,” FFD stated. “A special thank you to Fishers Fire Corps for providing rehab support, and to Fishers Police Department for their assistance on scene.”

A moving truck on fire at The Yard at Fishers District June 3. (Photo courtesy of the Fishers Fire Department)

SAFETY, MEET STYLE

Ertel leads AllStars in cap to prep career

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mount Vernon High School’s Luke Ertel put a fitting cap on a memorable senior season.

The Purdue University-bound guard led Mt. Vernon to the Class 4A state championship in March. Ertel followed that up by winning the Indiana Mr. Basketball honor — then put the finishing touch by leading the Indiana All-Stars to wins over the Junior All-Stars June 3, and Kentucky All-Stars June 5 in Lexington, Ky., and June 6 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

“Playing in this event is like a college event. It has such great players, so it kind of gets you ready for college,” he said. “It was a great experience and you learn a lot from it and you’re able to play with the best people in Indiana.”

Ertel scored 21 points with eight assists and eight rebounds in a 94-80 victory over Kentucky at Gainbridge. Named the game’s Most Valuable Player, he was 1-of-6 on 3-pointers but hit a big one in the second half. Kentucky tied the game at 70-all before Indiana regained the momentum.

“I was shooting terribly all week, so to get that one 3-pointer to go, I was pretty excited,” Ertel said.

Ertel had eight points and 10 assists in the opening victory over Kentucky. He said the All-Stars developed strong chemistry.

“Usually, there’s some drama, people are jealous of each other, but that wasn’t the case at all this week,” he said of All-Star teams. “It shows that we went 3-0, we had a great group of guys.” Fishers forward Kai McGrew, who has signed with Ball State University, was not able to play in the three games because of a foot injury suffered in a June 2 practice. Lawrence North’s Brennan Miller, who is headed to Southern lllinois University-Edwardsville, scored 20 points and had 12 rebounds at Kentucky and 14 points and eight rebounds in the second game.

Ertel

Two new HSE School Board candidates file

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Two more candidates have filed for open seats on the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees.

Cyrus Keck, who did not declare a party affiliation, has filed for the District 2 seat, making that race competitive; and Stephanie Braden, also unaffiliated with a political party, is running for the District 4 seat.

The HSE board has four seats open in Districts 1,2,3 and 4. Earlier, Faiza Maqsood, nonpartisan, and Republican Greg Wright filed for the District 1 seat. Josh Perry, nonpartisan, is running for District 2; and Republican David Turk is running for District 3.

Braden, a nurse and member of the U.S. Army Reserves, stated that she’s lived in Fishers more than a decade.

“Service to others has always been an important part of who I am,” she said in an email statement. “I have actively volunteered within our community and church, including educating women on healthy behaviors and health promotion for mothers and babies. I have volunteered as an elementary school math tutor, served as a room parent, and supported classrooms and school activities as a parent volunteer.”

Braden has five children, three of whom have graduated from HSE Schools and two are still in the local public school system.

“I believe strong public schools are essential to preparing the future leaders, innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow,” she stated. “Strong lead-

ership is not siloed. The best decisions are made by reviewing diverse perspectives and working together collaboratively toward a common goal.”

For more, visit her Facebook page: Stephanie Braden for HSE School Board District 4.

Keck said his two sons attend Harrison Parkway Elementary School and he has watched many school board meetings in recent years.

“I have developed serious concerns regarding the management of our district, the lack of oversight of the administration and the poorly planned charter school attempted rollout,” he stated in an email. “I am also questioning the lack of financial accountability of the school board and administration.”

He said he wants to be a voice for financial accountability, for doing what’s best for students and celebrating teachers, staff and students in hopes of retaining top educators. Keck said he chose to run without declaring a political affiliation because he doesn’t fit either party.

“My conservative friends would call me liberal, and my liberal friends would call me conservative,” he said. “More importantly, our school board should not be about politics. Our school board should be about doing what is best for our students, our teachers and our community. We represent too many different people, religious views, wants and needs to be stymied by an arbitrary affiliation with a political party.”

The filing deadline for school board candidates is noon June 18. Election Day is Nov. 3.

 Clutch Kitchen starts renovations — Renovations are underway for the next phase of Clutch Kitchen at Sun King Fishers, created by Chef Kelsey Murphy, a longtime Fishers resident and winner of season 11 of MasterChef. She opened the restaurant in early January with a limited menu, featuring fan favorites from Murphy’s Clutch Kitchen at Lucas Oil Stadium. Renovations will combine three kitchen bays into one space, enhancing the customer experience and expanding the kitchen. Clutch Kitchen will remain open during renovations. Once completed later this summer, the renovated space will feature an expanded menu. For more, visit EatClutch.com.

Braden Keck DISPATCH

Enjoy an in-store discount of 20% off furniture & accessories, and 15% off all regularly priced decorative lighting all month long.

Local firm helping NASA

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

A Fishers-based company is producing technology for NASA designed to keep low-altitude air traffic safe as more drones fill the skies.

Pierce Aerospace, co-founded and run by 2007 Carmel High School graduate Aaron Pierce, is deploying its Remote ID technology throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, where NASA is conducting air traffic safety research and development. The FAA requires drones to use Remote ID to broadcast their telemetry so they can be tracked and identified in the air.

Pierce said drones have overtaken the number of commercial aircraft in the skies, and the gap is expected to widen substantially in the coming years. Eventually, some of those drones are expected to transport humans.

“We’re going to have a mixture of drones and other autonomous and electric-powered aircraft that are not necessarily taking someone from Indianapolis to the west coast but could be taking someone from the Indy metro

area to West Lafayette,” Pierce said. “A lot of those aircraft for their flight profile will share the same airspace where commercial drone delivery traffic is at.

Part of our role in that is to do the drone detection and make sure that we can feed that information to the air traffic control systems.”

Pierce Aerospace began developing Remote ID technology in 2017. Its sensors set to be deployed in California are manufactured in Indiana, Pierce said, and he has no plans to relocate the company.

Learn more at pierceaerospace.net.

PAIN ISN’T A LIFE SENTENCE

New surgery introduced

By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com

Ascension St. Vincent Fishers recently marked a new development in the world of breast surgery, adding new technology to the operating room.

On April 13, breast surgical oncologist Dr. Christina Kim and reconstructive plastic surgeon Dr. Ian Sando performed one of the first single-port robotic nipple-sparing mastectomies in the United States.

“I think we’re always looking to improve the quality of life for patients and the outcomes for patients, especially breast patients,” Kim said. “To be able to give them another option, a better option, is huge for us. Being at the forefront of it is also great, because then everything else follows.”

Using the Da Vinci SP Surgical System, a single-port robotic surgical system, they made a small, hidden incision along the side of the patient’s breast and used the robot to enter the breast and perform the surgery. In the past, mastectomy scars were typically between 15 and 20 centimeters, but the new technology reduces that to around 3 centimeters.

The new, less invasive method also helps to preserve sensation in patients’ breast tissue and nipples. But Kim said scar reduction and sensory preservation are not the only improvements.

“It’s a much gentler approach, so there’s not a lot of pressure on the tissue, so the tissue healing is much better, and I think it’s going to eventually lead to better post-op recovery,” she said. “The second part of the surgery is to do the reconstruction. With this approach we’re going to be able to do everything in one operation, as op-

posed to multiple operations that we do traditionally.”

The FDA approved the surgical procedure for use in the United States in December 2025, but it has been performed in other countries for years.

“They started before we started doing it in the U.S., so I went to South Korea (to train). There are also people doing it in Europe, where they pioneered the approach. It required a lot of training with them,” Kim said. “I’ve been looking at this for about five years now; I did a lot of the training, got everything ready to go. We knew FDA clearance was coming, and (we were) waiting on (that) to make sure that everything was safe and feasible before we could actually offer it to patients.”

Bringing the new technology to Fishers was not an easy feat, but Kim had support throughout the process.

“I’m doing the surgery, but it’s the hospital that supported me,” she said. “Everyone had an impact in all of this, so to be able to have that team [and] the hospital to drive it forward was just an amazing thing, for the hospital and for myself, to be able to get it done.”

For more, visit healthcare.ascension. org.

Dr. Christina Kim, a breast surgical oncologist with Ascension St. Vincent Fishers, uses the Da Vinci single-port robotic surgical system, a system that enables new methods in nipple-sparing mastectomies. (Photo courtesy of Rebecca Carl)

Close-knit: New yarn store invites all to the craft table

By Kaitlin Fallowfield news@youarecurrent.com

Indicating one of her products, Maddie Kellner — co-owner of the new Fishers craft store Flax and Fiber Yarn Collecting — notes, “This one is called Unicorn Barf.”

At the round table in the shop’s community room, Kellner points to lines of a knitted rainbow dress she’s wearing, and tells the origin story of each new color.

“That’s actually its name. And these little pops of color here are from a dyer called Be Ridiculous, which I mispronounced as bread-licious for a very long time, until someone corrected me,” she said, laughing.

To her right and laughing with her is Sarah Stuckey, fellow co-owner and friend of the last decade. As she told the rest of the history behind the dress, Kellner set aside her latest knitting project and adjusted the book she plans to introduce in a new monthly book club at Flax and Fiber. It’s a knitting-themed murder mystery.

Both women were working their normal nine-to-fives in health care technology and met over a shared Medicare contract. That led to a knitting class, and eventually opening a whimsical shop of their own.

Stuckey, who is affectionately called “The Yarn Fairy,” said she never imagined herself owning a business.

“I wanted to be a history professor, and I guess there are thousands of years of textile history,” she shrugged. “I did not think I would end up here, even when we were plotting this a decade ago.”

Kellner and Stuckey co-own Flax and Fiber with retired Indiana University professors Dr. Linda Williams and Michelle Salyers, who own and operate Flax and Fiber’s sister store, Color Me Happy Fiber Arts Studio. The four women connected through Hamilton County’s FIBruary Festival, an annual fiber arts festival started by Kellner and Salyers two years ago to celebrate the art medium and strengthen the fabric of the local artist community.

Kellner said it was kismet when she and Stuckey got the news during this year’s fiber arts festival that the lease for their own yarn store was approved.

Located on Lantern Road in a cottage where a bridal store once stood, the store is organized by yarn weight, with displays that highlight local artists’ finished work and their patterns for sale.

Roughly six weeks into new business ownership, Stuckey and Kellner said they want the store to be more than a hobby shop — they want it to become a community.

To make that happen, they have a packed calendar of events, from paid classes to free weekly open craft nights, where all experience levels are invited to bring in their “non-messy” project, sit at the round table and enjoy the company. The duo also is working on launching a monthly book club that will feature fiber-focused reads.

Although the shop is less than 3 months old, the owners said the community response has been strong.

“Someone at open craft night looked around — there were 20-ish people here chit-chatting — and they said, ‘I love it here,’” Kellner said. “I got goosebumps. This is what I wanted. I wanted to create a space for people to come and be, and feel like they belong.”

Flax and Fiber Yarn Collective is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. A calendar of events can be found in store and online at flaxandfiberyarnco.com.

Co-owner Maddie Kellner of the new Flax and Fiber Yarn Co. in Fishers. Photo by Kaitlin Fallowfield. (Photo by Kaitlin Fallowfield)

HSE junior runner earns 2 IHSAA state titles

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern High School junior Anissa Lammie credits an attitude adjustment for her success.

“Earlier in the season when I wasn’t doing as well, I was getting negative and down on myself,” she said. “If you change your mindset, it can carry you so well, and I just used that to win the 400. I’m a big Christian. I’ve been reading the Bible a lot and I feel God gives me strength to do well.”

Lammie came from behind to win the 400-meter sprint in 54.32 seconds June 5 at the IHSAA state girls track and field meet at North Central High School.

“You have to (race) all the way to the finish — even if you are far behind, you can still come back,” said Lammie, who was second in the state meet as a sophomore. “I feel like I worked really hard for this and I do deserve it.”

Lammie added another state championship medal in the final race. She was joined by sophomores Cianna Cunningham and Kaleah McCarter and senior Chloe Senefeld on the winning 1,600 relay. Senefeld and Lammie were on last year’s state-winning 1,600 relay.

“It feels amazing,” Lammie said. “The team hadn’t performed the way we wanted to (overall), so we figured this

is our last race. It’s really special. We’ve all worked really hard and we deserve it, so we wanted to give it our best shot.”

The Royals were fifth in the team standings.

For University of Iowa-bound Senefeld, it was her final high school race.

“Two of us had not such good races before it, so we had to focus on putting it behind us and forget about what happened before,” Senefeld said. “I focused on running relaxed. What happened in the 300 hurdles is when I get super tense, I forget how to run. It was our coach’s birthday, so we had to make this ending special.”

Senefeld took the lead early in the 300-meter hurdles but was passed by Eastern Hancock’s Isabella Sotelo. Senefeld placed second for the second consecutive year.

“I have certain steps that I do. I was a step short on my first two,” Senefeld said. “Then I felt I was stressed under the pressure and I started chopping my steps. It’s OK, I love Isabelle, so I’m glad it was her. She is super sweet.”

In the boys state finals June 6, Fishers senior Konrad Hayden was second in the high jump and Rocky Duplessis took third in the 400 meters. Lawrence Central senior Evan Williams was second in the 110 high hurdles.

SATURDAY, JUNE 20

6 p . m . – 11 p.m.

8 p . m . JAI BAKER TRIO

Jai Baker Trio returns to Late Night on Main. This high-energy country music band has an unmatched local following and knows how to rock the crowd.

The street party begins at 6 p.m. with plenty of food and beverage vendors! Don't forget your lawn chairs!

From left, front, Anissa Lammie, Kaleah McCarter, Back, Cianna Cunningham and Chloe Senefeld captured the 1,600 relay at the girls track state finals. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Everwise Credit Union offers local families a local solution for major home improvements.

Spring is a good time to start tackling summer home improvement projects.

Whether you’re dreaming of a brand-new deck to host cookouts or to finally install that heated pool in the backyard, Everwise Credit Union helps you navigate the costs of major upgrades by putting your home’s equity to work for your family.

Everwise can help homeowners turn their home improvement dreams into reality with a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). Unlike a traditional loan, HELOCs work like a revolving line of credit based on your home’s value (typically up to 80% minus your mortgage balance).

Why HELOCs are a smart choice:

• Pay for what you use: Homeowners only borrow what they need, when they need it, helping them stay in control of their budget.

• Significant interest savings: Rather than putting large expenses on high-interest credit cards, a HELOC offers a lower interest rate, making it a powerful tool for paying down high-interest debt.

• Flexibility and confidence: HELOCs provide flexibility and confidence by providing a simplified payment structure, making it easier to budget and reduce the chance of missed payments. This is especially beneficial when planning value-adding projects like kitchens, bathrooms, or energyefficiency upgrades that build long-term home value.

Don’t let financing be the hurdle between you and your dream home. This spring, let your home’s equity do the heavy lifting.

Turn your dream home into your reality. Find a branch near you or start your Home Equity application at everwisecu.com.

Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS #686706. Subject to membership eligibility requirements. Loans subject to credit approval. Borrower must be a resident of Indiana or Michigan, and for home loans property must be in Indiana or Michigan.

COMMUNITY

WHAT’S IT WORTH?

Antiques Roadshow tour stops at Newfields, attracts area residents

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

After a 10-year absence, the popular PBS Antiques Roadshow returned to Indianapolis on June 1, attracting people from Chicago, Cincinnati and even Texas, in addition to area residents, including some from Fishers and Carmel.

Fishers resident Diane Turner was among the approximately 2,000 people attending the event, during which participants bring a maximum of two antiques or collectible items to be appraised by experts.

“I am bringing my husband’s greatgreat grandfather’s pocket watch, that is currently not working,” Turner said before heading into the Newfields Museum garden, where appraisal tents had been set up. “He thinks it’s just a spring. It’s very old, obviously. It was given to his father and then it was given to him.”

She said her husband was told that his ancestor had carried it during the Civil War.

Her second item was a decorative cameo made with marble and brass, stamped “Made in France” on the back. Turner said it had belonged to her stepmother. She wasn’t sure what the value was of either item and was eager to learn more about both.

The people in line at Newfields waited cheerfully to get into the event, chatting as they carried totes and pulled carts filled with potential treasures from home. Among them were Chuck and Sandy Cowan, who drove the previous night from Chicago. Sandy said they brought her uncle Jack’s “junk,” which now counts as antiques — matching vases with stylized dragons wrapped around the bases.

“They’re antique dragon vases from Japan, I understand, because they’re three-toed,” she said. “And Uncle Jack used to have them on the mantle. He smoked Pall Mall, and (when I was) a kid he’d go behind to take a puff and blow it behind the dragons, and it looked like they were breathing fire and smoke.”

The Cowans said they were big fans of Antiques Roadshow, and coming to an event in person was a bucket-list item.

That was the case for many attendees, who signed up for a lottery-style drawing to get free tickets. About 20,000 people put their names into the drawing for only 2,000 available spots.

Gail and Steve Castle of Carmel were in front of Turner waiting for the watch expert to look at their vintage Gruen wristwatch. They’d already had their horse lithograph appraised, learning it could fetch about $900. It was made by artist George Ford Morris, known for his

horse paintings.

Their watch had belonged to Steve Castle’s father.

“I’m going to guess that he purchased it probably in the 1930s and it’s been repaired and cleaned and stuff through the years,” he said. “I have no idea what it’s really worth. I’ve looked them up online, but it’s really hard to tell. So, I thought, OK, let’s bring that to the roadshow and see what they say.”

Both have been longtime fans of the

HOW IT WORKS

Although 2,000 people received tickets to the Antiques Roadshow event at Newfields, they didn’t all arrive at the same time. Tickets included staggered entry times, with some people arriving as early as 7:30 a.m. and the last group allowed in at 4:30 p.m.

The process started at a “triage” area, where each person’s items had an initial review and were categorized by type — glassware, ceramics, paintings, watches, etc. A volunteer then directed participants to the correct

tables, where experts in those categories assessed the items, gave some history and estimated a price if the item were up for auction.

People who brought items those experts deemed extra special were sent to the show’s producers for potential filming.

Appraisals filmed during the Newfields event will be part of the Antiques Roadshow’s 31st broadcast season, which premiers in January 2027 on PBS.

show and in the past tried unsuccessfully to get tickets to a live event. This time, though, they got in.

When the expert looked at Turner’s silver pocketwatch, he confirmed it was a Civil War-era model, so the backstory could be accurate. If it were properly restored, he said, the watch could be worth up to about $900, but finding someone with the parts and expertise would be challenging and expensive. As is, he told Turner it was worth between $150 and $200.

Another expert told Turner that her cameo, likely from the 1930s, was a fairly common souvenir from that time frame and wasn’t worth much to collectors. Turner said the overall experience was delightful.

“I think this is fascinating. It’s very, very well done,” she said. “I didn’t come with any expectation to, you know, have a windfall out of anything. I just really wanted some more information about it. I’m really glad to know (more) about my husband’s great-great grandfather’s watch.”

The Antiques Roadshow 2026 tour has a total of three stops, according to the website. It kicked off its 31st season May 19 in Arizona. Indianapolis was the second stop and the tour concludes June 17 in Mumford, New York.

For more, visit pbs.org/wgbh/ roadshow.

ON THE COVER: Diane Turner of Fishers has an antique pocket watch appraised during the PBS Antiques Roadshow event at Newfields in Indianapolis. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

The PBS Antiques Roadshow 2026 tour stopped at Newfields in Indianapolis June 1. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

Diane Turner of Fishers waits in line for the Antiques Roadshow event.

courtesy of Allison Povinelli)

Geist-area shop offers charming experience

news@currentinfishers.com

BeCharmable, a new business in downtown Fortville, opened June 6 at 214 S. Main St. after an earlier soft opening.

The business allows customers to create their own personalized jewelry and accessories in a boutique-style atmosphere.

“We’ve built this dream piece by piece over the past few months,” owner Allison Povinelli stated. “This grand opening is more than a celebration — it’s a thank-you.”

Povinelli, 24, graduated from the Indiana University Contemporary Dance B.F.A. program. She performed as a professional dancer on a cruise ship for a year.

“Traveling the world, performing every day and meeting people from everywhere inspired me to chase something of my own,” Povinelli stated. “Jewelry has always been my favorite way to express creativity and individuality. I love how a single charm can hold a memory, tell a story or represent who you are in that moment.”

The shop offers customizable charm bracelets and necklaces, as well as charms for purses, backpacks, phones, water bottles, shoes and more. Charms include birthstones, initials, hearts, sports and faith symbols. The business can host groups at the shop and beyond.

“In addition to its downtown Fortville boutique, BeCharmable also offers private mobile charm bar experiences for birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, girls’ nights, influencer events, corporate gatherings and luxury in-home celebrations throughout central Indiana,” A news release stated. For more, visit becharmable.com.

Allison Povinelli opened BeCharmable in downtown Fortville. (Photo

Performers having ‘Shrek’ of a time

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Quincy Carman, this is a perfect way to start her summer.

Carman is performing as Fiona in Civic Theatre’s Junior Civic’s musical version of “Shrek Jr.” June 19-24 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“Ever since I was little I have loved the show, so it’s very cool that I get to play one of my dream characters,” said Carman, who will be an eighth-grader at Carmel’s Creekside Middle School in the 2026-27 school year. “I think all the music is very fun and creates a good match. The message is it’s OK to be weird, be yourself, don’t judge a book by a cover. Those are the main ones.”

Carman said “I Know It’s Today” and “I Think I Got You Beat” are her two favorite songs in the show, which she saw Junior Civic perform in 2019. This is the largest role she has had.

“Memorizing is very tricky but I’m trying my hardest,” she said.

Evan Cohen, who will be a freshman at Carmel High School in August, plays Shrek.

“Before I auditioned,I liked listening to Shrek’s solos and music from the main version,” he said. “Some songs are cut in the junior version, but I think the music is really good and pulled me into really wanting the role.”

It’s the biggest role Cohen has had, too.

“I’ve never had this many lines before, so I have to memorize a lot,” he said.

Cohen will be painted green before each performance. Carman also has to be painted green for part of the performance. Ari Yuckman, who plays the Donkey, will be a freshman at CHS.

“Travel Song” is one of Cohen’s favorites because it’s from two perspectives.

“One character is singing and he is annoying Shrek, and then Shrek is singing about how annoyed he is with Donkey,” Cohen said. “I like ‘I Think I

Got You Beat’ because we are not afraid to let our differences show.”

“I Think I Got You Beat’ is a one-upmanship between Shrek and Fiona on whose life has been more difficult. Fiona has been trapped in a tower and Shrek’s been shunned.

“That’s the song where Shrek and Fiona realize they aren’t as different as they thought they were,” director Shelby Myers said. “You start to see the kindling of a relationship. That’s the turning point in the musical.”

The cast features approximately 35 performers. Most are 14 or younger.

“There’s definitely scenes where we have everyone on the stage at the same time,” Myers said. “What’s great about this show is that there are so many opportunities for different groups of kids to have featured moments in the show. It’s such an ensemble show. It’s so much about community and togeth-

erness. Shrek’s story, in particular, is all about loneliness, what do we need from each of us as human beings.”

Myers said the message of the musical is relatable.

“The finale of the show is ‘This is Our Story,’” Myers said. “It’s about storytelling and it’s about the journeys we all go through. It’s about the assumptions we have as we go into life and how life can flip that right back around. It’s about how we are princesses and ogres at the same time. People are complex, and that’s what makes us beautiful. It’s celebrating diversity and inclusion.”

While the younger actors are performing “Shrek Jr,” Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program will present “Revue!” at 6 and 8 p.m. June 22 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center.

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘CINDERELLA’

“Cinderella” runs through July 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“The Magic of David Ranalli” is set for June 18, followed by Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends June 19 and Dueling Pianos June 20 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘DESCENDANTS’

The Carmel Community Players Rising Star production of Disney’s “Descendants: The Musical” runs through June 21 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

‘THE GERMAN TROPICS’

“The German Tropics” runs through June 21 at Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.

 Karaoke Night set for Palladium – Inspired by the success of its annual all-ages World Voice Day celebration, Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts is offering a new opportunity for local residents 21 and older to share their talents on stage. Adults of all abilities are invited to join in the inaugural Karaoke Night, set for 8-10 p.m. June 18, at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. Tickets are pay-what-you-can with a $10 minimum, on sale now at thecenterpresents.org or 317-843-3800. All proceeds benefit Allied Solutions Center’s arts and educational programming. Registration to sing starts at 8 p.m. on a first-come, firstserved basis.

From left, Quincy Carman, Evan Cohen and Ari Yuckman appear in Junior Civic’s “Shrek Jr.” (Photo by Joshua Hasty)

ENTERTAINMENT

Academy kids head to NYC

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel’s Midwest Academy students are getting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take the stage on Broadway.

Midwest Academy, which serves students with learning differences such as ADHD, autism and language-based processing challenges, is taking 21 students to the Arts for Autism, a one-night benefit performance June 22 at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City.

Broadway performers join performing arts students from across the U.S. for the benefit. It’s the 10th anniversary of the program and Midwest’s first appearance.

Alicia McClure, a Midwest music and theater arts teacher, said the school was invited to submit a video and sent one from a “Frozen Jr.” production in 2025.

“We have a piece we take with us and do two group numbers and we have 13 Broadway performers that work with us over the weekend (June 20-21) on the group numbers,” McClure said.

The performance piece is “Everybody Rejoice” from “The Wiz,” which was an

Midwest Academy students Katie Villamin (Dorothy), Ethan Hurry (Scarecrow) and Oliver Tuttle (Toto the dog) perform in “The Wizard of Oz Jr.” (Photo courtesy of Midwest Academy)

encore song when Midwest Academy presented “The Wizard of Oz Jr.” in March.

Ethan Hurry, who played the Scarecrow in the March production and is a 2026 graduate, said he has been part of each musical production at Midwest.

“I’m a big fan of the acting,” said Hurry, a Whitestown resident. “I think it’s really cool playing a different character.”

Indianapolis resident Layla Callahan, who wlll be a junior in the 2026-27 school year, played Glinda in the school production.

“I’ve always wanted to go to New York, it’s one of my dreams,” she said.

SCREENED IN PORCH

BATHROOMS

LEGAL NOTICE OF DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC’S TARIFF NO. 67 CREDITS ADJUSTMENT

Grammy-winning artist Clark set for concert

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Brandy Clark had trouble believing a New York Times panel had named her one of the 30 greatest living American songwriters.

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or about July 20, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit an update to its Tariff No. 67, Credits Adjustment (“Tariff No. 67”), to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (“Commission”) for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. Tariff No. 67 provides the rate adjustment to 1.) adjust for the 2025 reconciliation, 2.) refund the IGCC Property Tax Incentives, 3.) amortize Excess Accumulated Deferred Income Taxes resulting from the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017, 4.) reflect the Step 2 rate adjustment from Duke Energy Indiana’s retail rate case (Cause No. 46038.), 5.) refund expense associated with the Grantors Trust, and 6.) credit the amortization expense related to the IGCC Outage Costs.

Tariff No. 67 is applicable to all Duke Energy Indiana retail electric customers. This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, Dana Kosco or Carol Sparks Drake of 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

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC By: Stan

Pinegar, President

“It was a surprise to me then, and I actually thought when they called me they were calling to interview me about someone else,” she said. “I didn’t believe I was on the list for a bit. I had my publicist double-check because it’s such a weighty list. I think the great thing about it for me is I want to spend the rest of my life proving that I deserve to be on it because it is a big honor.”

Clark will perform at 7:30 p.m. June 21 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. Indianapolis singer-songwriter Kara Cole will open for Clark.

hear that song, and ‘Hold My Hand’ is one that always has to get played,” she said.

Clark grew up next door to her maternal grandparents.

AND APPLICATIONS

JULY 3 & 4

CARMEL Carter Green & Civic Square

4th of July celebration!

Clark won a Grammy Award for Best Americana Performance for her song “Dear Insecurity,” which featured Brandi Carlile. “Dear Insecurity” won the Song of the Year from Americana Honors & Awards.

Carlile produced Clark’s self-titled album in 2023.

“I won my first Grammy on that record,” Clark said. “It was so fun to work with her and it taught me a lot. It did get me back to my roots, not just to the (Pacific) Northwest, but just of songwriting, and reminded me of why we all write songs to begin with. It got me back to that sort of place.”

When she was young, Clark’s parents enjoyed the country music of that era while her grandmother favored older country artists.

“There are a couple songs on that new album that tip their hat to that oldschool country sound,” she said. “Then there are more progressive songs.”

Clark was nominated for Best New Artist and Best Country Album for her 2013 debut album “12 Stories.” She had already been writing songs for artists such as Sheryl Crow, Miranda Lambert, Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker for several years.

Clark’s next album will come out in late July, but the first single, “American Roots,” was released June 5.

Clark will perform new songs and some favorites, such as “She Smoked in the House.”

“I love that people always want to

“I feel like my influences go back further than most people my age because of my grandparents,” she said. “My parents were definitely listening to the country that was on commercial radio at that time. I’ve always felt fortunate for those influencers like Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette. There were artists like Kenny Rogers on the radio when I was a kid, so it was a good hodgepodge of music to grow up in.”

McEntire recently asked her to write a song called “Trailblazer” for McEntire, Miranda Lambert and Laney Wilson.

“That was incredible because those are three female singers and songwriters that I absolutely love,” Clark said. “So, getting to collaborate with them was such a big deal. I’m always proud when someone covers my songs.”

Clark was joined by collaborators Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne on the Times list. She and McAnally created a pop-country score for a Broadway musical called “Shucked” in 2022.

“Shane is one of the greatest collaborations of my life,” she said. “He’s a best friend, so the work we’ve done together means a lot more because of that. We’ve gone through a lot. We’ve written hits. We’ve had misses and we wrote a musical together. We’re turning that into a movie, so we are writing potential new songs for a musical movie. Shane’s always been my biggest cheerleader and I’ve been his.”

For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

Brandy Clark will perform June 21 at Hendricks Live! (Photo courtesy of Pamela Springsteen)

17. Abhors

18. Dog treat

19. Erase

20. Up in the air

21. Locale of I-90, Notre Dame and Shipshewana

auctions

24. Part of YOLO

25. Isn’t wrong?

26. ___ Angeles

27. Understand