Founded March 12, 2024, at Indianapolis, IN Vol. I, No. 33
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Indiana Golf celebrates opening of new Pete & Alice Dye headquarters
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Exactly one year after breaking ground on the new Pete & Alice Dye Indiana Golf Center at The Fort Golf Resort, center officials cut the ceremonial ribbon and opened the doors June 5, offering guests a first look at the 13,000 square foot headquarters that also houses a hall of fame celebrating Hoosier golfers.
DEVELOPMENT
Before the ribbon cutting and tour, a brief ceremony at The Garrison conference center next door highlighted the importance of the new facility. Indiana Golf Foundation President Gina Giancone noted that the foundation, which has offices at the new center, serves more than 130,000 Indiana youth through programs and scholarships.
“The foundation’s mission is to teach life lessons through the game of golf and what we are here to celebrate today — our new headquarters — will help us do that on an even greater scale and reach more people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities,” she said. “This new facility … represents the next chapter for Indiana Golf, one where we add more First Tee Indiana chapters and players, award more scholarships, introduce the game to more individuals, improve teaching opportunities at our facility and other Indianapolis public courses and support the amateurs and professionals throughout Indiana.”
The new building at 6002 N. Post Rd. in Lawrence is on The Fort Golf Resort, part of Fort Harrison State Park. Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Alan Morrison and his office were involved in the project and Morrison — who said he played a round at the resort just a few days earlier — said it was an exciting day for golf in Indiana.
“Fort Harrison State Park is the perfect place for the home of golf in Indiana and we’re thankful for what I’m hoping will grow to be an even deeper partnership in the future,” he said. “As a golfer myself, I understand a deep connection between this sport and outdoor recreation. Golf provides outdoor recreation and active lifestyle for over 550,000 Hoosiers, age 6 and above, and supports the health and wellbeing of an estimated one in 13 Americans.”
Steve Sterrett, who chaired the fundraising campaign for the $6.5 million project, said the idea started about eight years earlier.
“To see this building behind me come to life is an incredible testament to the golfing community we have here in Indiana,” he said. “The support of our donors, our players, PGA professionals, city and state has been incredible.”
Sterrett took the opportunity to tell supporters in the room that there was still about $123,000 needed to meet the $6.5 million fundraising goal, adding that the new building is just one part of the overall project.
“We also purchased a mobile simulator to take on the road to hospitals, veterans events, schools and more,” he said. “We invested in additional First Tee (youth golf) facilities upgrades across the state of Indiana and we endowed scholarships.”
Indiana Golf Executive Director Mike David said that while the construction timeline was short, the overall process has been long, starting with selling Indiana Golf’s offices in Franklin six years ago and moving into a temporary space.
“Though I firmly believe that our programs and services are why we exist, the relocation of the Indiana Golf offices to the new Pete & Alice Dye Indiana Golf Center does represent a truly impactful step for our programs and services,” he said.
“Alongside significantly boosting our exposure across the state, this purpose-built facility featuring an interactive Hall of Fame, dedicated administrative spaces and specific areas for vital initiatives like PGA Hope, First Tee and our adaptive clinics will not only amplify our outreach and impact, but also serve as a prominent destination for golf enthusiasts.”
Davis said the new building is not only a change of address — it’s a strategic investment.
Following the ceremony and ribbon cutting, guests crowded into the new center, admiring physical and digital displays in the Indiana Golf Hall of Fame on one side of the building, and inspecting gleaming new offices on the other end — complete with a small putting green in the hallway. Indianapolis City-County Councilor Ali Brown, who represents the Lawrence area, was among them. She said the new building was impressive and a plus for the community.
“I’m always excited when something amazing comes to our area that’s going to bring more people to Lawrence and see how wonderful we are,” said Brown, also the director of the nearby Benjamin Harrison YMCA. “The Indiana Golf building is absolutely beautiful and I’m so excited for all the future things that they’re going to be doing here.”
For more, visit indianagolf.org.
Guests celebrate the June 5 grand opening of the new Pete & Alice Dye Indiana Golf Center at The Fort Golf Resort. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
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!
DISPATCHES
Little Red Door donation — Little Red Door Cancer Agency recently received more than $2,000 from Hendricks County Community Foundation. The donation will help support critical programs and services for cancer patients throughout central Indiana, such as transportation assistance, nutritional support and client navigation. For more, visit littlereddoor. org.
Local student named Stamps Scholar — North Central High School graduating senior Katharine Hughley of Indianapolis has been named one of the incoming Stamps Scholars at Purdue University. The Stamps Scholars Program covers a student’s full cost of attendance — tuition, room and board — and connects students with a national network of peers. The award also gives scholars access to an academic enrichment fund of up to $10,000 to finance activities such as academic conferences, study abroad or research experiences. Hughley plans to study Engineering at Purdue University. She graduated third in her class at North Central.
Post Road rail crossing to be repaired — A deteriorated rail crossing at Post Road in the City of Lawrence will be repaired starting the week of July 7, following a letter of concern the city sent to CSX Transportation last month. Repairs are estimated to take about two weeks. The city will coordinate with IndyGo to manage traffic.
Academy receives Lilly grant — The Independence Academy, which serves children on the autism spectrum in the Indianapolis metro area, has been awarded the Lilly Endowment’s Marion County K-12 Private Schools Initiative Grant. The $200,000 grant will be used to implement a tutoring program for the 2025-26 school year that will provide personalized programs to help students succeed. Students will receive tutoring at least three times each week, with the flexibility to increase frequency based on individual progress or identified needs.
Free summer meals — Indy Parks will offer free meals for children 18 and younger Monday through Friday through July 25 at various locations and times throughout the city. No registration is required. For more, visit parks.indy.gov/programs/ free-meals-programs.
Brebeuf girls runners-up in state tennis final
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School girls tennis coach Brent Claymon figured his team gave all it had.
TENNIS
The top-ranked Braves lost to No. 3 Jasper 4-1 in the IHSAA girls tennis state finals June 7 at North Central High School. Brebeuf advanced to the final by edging Munster 3-2 in the semifinals earlier that day.
“Our girls fought as hard as they could,” Claymon said. “The better team won. I congratulate Jasper. They’ve had a great season as well. Our record over the past two years is 44-2. Our two losses have been the last match of the year. That’s always tough to take, but we certainly are appreciative of the opportunity to be here and we fought as hard as we could this time.”
Claymon said he looks at the positives from a 24-1 season.
“I told the girls that this is what makes us stronger, whether it’s on the tennis court or in life,” said Claymon, a Carmel resident. “I’m happy for them and we certainly had a great season. To be ranked No.
a new era for winning.”
At No. 2 singles, Jasper’s Marian Hayes edged junior Kitty Noga 7-6 (11-9), 2-6, 10-8. Noga finished with a 25-3 mark. Because the Wildcats had already clinched the match, the teams agreed to play a 10-point tiebreaker instead of a third set.
Jasper’s Harper Wigand defeated junior Chloe Wendowski 6-4, 7-5 at No. 1 singles. Wendowski finished with a 23-5 record.
DISPATCHES
1, it’s fun but it doesn’t mean anything until after this (state championship). I guess that means we’re ranked No. 2, but it’s been a great run. It is disappointing. It’s a life experience that you can’t just ask to have and I’m very proud of the girls.”
Entering the match, Claymon said the two teams matched up well at the singles spots and that proved to be true.
Braves senior Maureen Tandredi topped Lila Hawkes 3-6, 7-5, 6-0 at No. 3 singles to finish with a 25-0 record.
“This year has been the most fun I’ve had playing tennis,” said Tandredi, a Carmel resident. “We had a lot of wins. We started
Brebeuf senior Caroline Held and freshman Natalie Held, who are cousins, conclude with a 15-1 record at No. 1 doubles. The No. 2 doubles team of senior Chloe Cannon and junior Leah Klapper finished at 20-7.
Claymon said there are big holes to fill with the loss of three seniors.
“We have siblings coming in next year as freshmen as well as some other really good players,” Claymon said. “I think we’re going to pick up where we left off and be pretty competitive next year.”
It was the first time the Braves had been in the girls state championship match since winning it in 1984. The title was the first for the Jasper girls.
PACE hosting mobile health clinic — Public Advocates in Community re-Entry, a nonprofit that supports people who have been incarcerated, has partnered with Aspire Indiana Health to expand on-site health services for PACE clients, their families and the Indianapolis near northside neighborhood. Aspire’s Mobile Access Care for You mobile health clinic will be at PACE, 1314 N. Meridian St., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 11, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10, offering health exams for families and referrals for additional services. For more, visit paceindy.org.
Nonprofit raises $2M — Conquer Paralysis Now, a nonprofit founded by Sam Schmidt, paralysis advocate and former INDYCAR driver and team owner, dedicated to furthering advancements in spinal cord injury research and treatment, announced it raised more than $2 million at its Racing to Recovery Black & White Gala in Indianapolis May 23 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. For more, visit conquerparalysisnow.org.
The Brebeuf Jesuit girls tennis team with state girls tennis team runner-up plaque. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)
OrthoIndy teams up with Hancock Health
Central Indiana residents will have expanded access to orthopedic care following a newly announced partnership between Hancock Health and Indianapolis-based OrthoIndy.
PARTNERSHIP
According to an announcement from Hancock Health, OrthoIndy will become the exclusive provider of orthopedic services at the Hancock County health care provider starting July 1.
The new partnership combines OrthoIndy’s orthopedic and sports medicine expertise with Hancock Health’s commitment to delivering community-focused health care. According to the announcement, the partnership will help ensure patients receive the best possible outcomes through increased and timely access to leading orthopedic specialists.
“This partnership is a win for our patients and our community,” stated Steve Long, president and CEO of Hancock Health. “We’re proud to welcome the OrthoIndy team to Hancock Health and look forward to making health possible to all of east central Indiana by delivering clinical excellence and patient-first care together.”
The partnership’s ability to bring more orthopedic services to East Central Indiana will help eliminate the need for many patients to travel for specialized treatment. Additional benefits will include coordinated treatment plans across providers and access to OrthoIndy’s full range of specialties, such as sports medicine, joint replacement, spine care, orthobiologics and more.
OrthoIndy will grow its physician presence at Hancock Health over the next few months with added specialty care in sports medicine and joint replacement, according to the announcement. Future plans include spine, hand, foot and ankle services.
For more, visit hancockhealth.org or orthoindy.com.
Juneteenth and Jazz set
northindy@youarecurrent.com
Eiteljorg Museum will host its 11th annual Juneteenth and Jazz Community Celebration from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 21, with free admission and parking, live jazz music, storytelling and poetry readings, a percussion group, DJ and more.
CELEBRATION
According to a news release from the museum, the Eiteljorg, with the help of community groups, hosted its first Juneteenth and Jazz in 2015 on the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth. Since then the event has grown into an annual festival with a focus on cultural and musical performances for all ages.
“During the Juneteenth observance, family, friends and the community gather to remember all those who fought for freedom,” stated Alisa Nordholt-Dean, Beeler family director of education and vice president for public programs at the museum. “With Juneteenth now more broadly recognized around the country, the Eiteljorg Museum is honored again to host the Juneteenth and Jazz Community Celebration and welcome the public with free admission, live jazz music and meaningful cultural heritage presentations.”
The Juneteenth and Jazz entertainment lineup is:
• 10 a.m. — Welcome and spoken-word performance by jus Will, Indianapolis poet and comedian.
• 10:45 a.m. — Performance by Cassius Goens III and Groove Theory Quartet. An assistant professor of music at Ball State University, Goens special-
Eiteljorg Museum’s free Juneteenth and Jazz celebration June 21 will include live music. (Photo courtesy of the Eiteljorg)
izes in jazz drums and is featured on 17 professional recordings, including his own.
• Noon — DJ iSM, a professional DJ from Indianapolis and Seattle who combines hits from past and present.
• 2 p.m. — Shonda Buchanan, educator and author of “Black Indian,” returns to the Eiteljorg to present poetry and a reading from her new book about singer, songwriter and civil rights activist Nina Simone. Buchanan will conduct a book signing of her latest work, “The Lost Songs of Nina Simone,” at the museum.
• 3 p.m. — Led by Sister Stella, the SITEAW Drum Circle returns for an interactive percussion performance that includes a message of empowerment and cultural diversity.
• 4 p.m. — Local jazz saxophonist and arranger Rob Dixon and his group Trilogy. Dixon has played in the New York jazz scene and performed with renowned jazz artists, including the late Tony Bennett and the Count Basie Big Band, is an adjunct professor at Indiana University-Indianapolis and Earlham College, serves as artistic director for Indy Jazz Fest and previously performed at Juneteenth and Jazz. Juneteenth marks the day at the end of the Civil War in June 1865 when federal troops marched into Galveston, Texas, to announce the war was over and that all enslaved people were freed. The national holiday is traditionally celebrated with barbecues, parades, prayer services and more. For more, visit eiteljorg.org.
Guerin boys win 1A lacrosse title
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Guerin Catholic High School boys lacrosse team took some bumps and bruises playing a very tough schedule.
LACROSSE
“I think the tables turned following spring break,” Golden Eagles coach Charlie Barry said. “We were 2-5 going into the break, and since the break, we were 10-3. We had a team meeting prior to break on expectations and on what it means to play and be together. We cracked off a five-game win streak right after break with a lot of buy-in. I think that tough schedule really set us up for success in the second half of the season.”
Freshman Luke Shrift scored six goals to lead Guerin to a 14-5 victory over Evansville Memorial May 31 in the Indiana High School Lacrosse Association Class 1A state championship game at Hamilton Southeastern High School. The Golden Eagles also won the state title in 2021.
Barry said the student leaders took tremendous ownership of the team.
“Our captains and seniors held players accountable when it came to the details,” Barry said. “A lot of times, the captains were correcting teammates and coaching teammates before the coaches had to get involved.”
Guerin senior John Stordy had three goals and three assists in the final. Senior Dominic Elliott delivered two goals and
one assist. Others scoring single goals for Guerin were sophomore Gavin Soucie and juniors Vincent Elliott and JB Ford. Shrift finished with a team-high 67 goals and 18 assists for the season, followed by Soucie with 62 goals and 25 assists. Vincent Elliott had 38 goals and 34 assists. Other goal leaders were Stordy with 31, Dominic Elliott with 25 goals and Ford with 20.
Barry said senior goalie Elias Niccum, who plans to play football at Wabash College, had a 68 percent save rate in the final.
“Elias made a lot of saves,” Barry said. “He has been pretty solid for us all year.”
The Golden Eagles lose seven seniors, including four starters, to graduation.
GUERIN GIRLS PLACE 2ND
Carmel topped Guerin Catholic’s girls team 10-6 May 31 in the Indiana Girls Lacrosse Association 2A state championship at Noblesville.
Sophomore Caroline Ford led the Golden Eagles with two goals in the final.
It was the fourth consecutive year Guerin played Carmel in the state championship. Carmel repeated as state champion while the Golden Eagles won in 2022 and in 2023.
Senior Gabby Deer, who will play at Siena (N.Y.) College, led the Golden Eagles (182) with 75 goals and 25 assists. Ford was next with 58 goals and 25 assists. Senior Jane Cline scored 56 goals and sophomore Claire Flannagan scored 34 goals.
The Guerin Catholic High School boys lacrosse team won the Indiana High School Lacrosse Association Class 1A state championship. (Photo courtesy of Live Action Sports)
Congratulations To The UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025
Orly Alkaslassy
Saffanah Anwar
Eli Barnes
Guerin Barnhart Whitcomb
Eli Berger
Conor Bergeson-Dana
Milla Betley
Peter Biglan
Grace Blake
Alexander Blanch
Zien Bland
Cooper Burnett
Mikey Cardwell
Grace Cates
Bella Ciano
Brandon Clague
Kaela Crotchfelt
Casey Dahle
Eleanor Dillman
Brianna Dimond
Rielee Douglas-Jones
Lindsey Effland
Triston English
Lukas Fiur
Bridget Flanagan
Emily Ganter
Syed Hasan
Padric Hatton
Stella Henning
Khalea Hoggs
Hayden Hyde
Vick Kiger
Evie King
Bea Lacerda
Lauren Langer
Alice Li
Emma Louie
Wes Lucas
Max McComb
Brody McMurtray
Katy Morcos
Gabe Moshe
Noah Moshe
Jack Munneke
Polina Nix
Xander Odle
Tony Olson
Aidan Patel
Anisha Patel
Elgin Phillips
Luke Pierce
Dominic Poulter
Kelston Prieto
Cam Rady
Marti Ramirez
Bryce Redic
Ela Repetto
Vivi Reveal
Kayla Rosetti
Kate Rothwell
Lily Rothwell
Taylor Seay
Rayan Shah
Ahsas Sidhu
Annabel Simpson
Corbin Smith
Laine Spears
Malachi Spieth
Zach Sullivan
Mason Syrek
Sage Tracy
Kelley Trowbridge
Anyah Turley
Henry Wang
Sam Weaver
Phifer Whorley
Emerson Wilmore
Stacy Xu
Jack Zhang
Janny Zhang
Meridian Audiology: OPEN HOUSE
July 27, 2025 • 1-3PM
Win a Set of Hearing Aids!
*Bring a friend and get an additional entry!
Meridian Audiology and its founding Audiologists, Ali Wyss and Kira VonBlon are all having birthday’s this spring/ summer and we’re planning a party to celebrate! You are invited to come tour the office and enjoy cake and cookies with us on July 27, 2025 1-3pm as we celebrate our 40th, 50th and 4th birthdays! Those who attend can be entered into a drawing for a free set of hearing aids. Meridian Audiology performs comprehensive audiograms, tinnitus consults, auditory processing disorder evaluations and sells and services a variety of hearing aids and accessories. Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email or online
and we are independent of other medical practices or hospitals. Hours are variable Monday-Friday and patients are seen by appointment only. We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss. Give us a call at 317-731-5386 to schedule a speaking date.
We look forward to meeting you and seeing how we can help you with your hearing healthcare needs – see you July 27, 2025 1-3pm!
VonBlon
Wyss
Park Tudor student
Evan Ting, left, is congratulated by Seth Teitler, National Association of Quiz Tournaments president.
(Photo courtesy of Park Tudor)
Park Tudor teams compete in Quiz Bowl championships
northindy@youarecurrent.com
Students from Park Tudor School joined more than 300 top high school quiz bowl teams May 24 in Atlanta, Ga., for the 2025 High School National Championship Tournament, with one of the school’s teams finishing 13th overall. According to an announcement from the school, quiz bowl is a competitive, academic, interscholastic activity. Teams use buzzers to answer questions about science, math, history, literature, mythology, geography, social science, current events, sports and popular culture. Matches feature a blend of individual competition and team collaboration.
COMPETITION
Park Tudor School’s A team members who placed 13th were Gavin Sigua, Evan Ting, Insia Zaidi and Sameer Zaidi. The B team members were Alex Cheng, Evan Dahlie and Emily Hackwelder. The B team
finished in 157th place.
The teams were coached by Sven Dubie and Emily Hoff.
There were some tense moments, according to the announcement. The A team defeated Grosse Pointe South from Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., by a narrow margin of 275-260 during round 6 and eventually suffered a narrow loss to Georgetown Day from Washington, D.C., 295-280 in Round 24.
Ting was honored as a Freshman Rising Star for correctly answering 53 tossup questions in the preliminary rounds.
The A team’s 13th-place finish was the best performance by any of the seven Indiana teams participating, according to the announcement. The tournament champion was the A team from Livingston High School of Livingston, New Jersey.
The 2025 High School National Championship Tournament’s field featured 336 teams from 37 states, the District of Columbia and Guatemala.
DPW adding third bin at Geist-area recycling center
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Despite daily service, a city-operated recycling center at the Kroger store at 79th Street and Fall Creek Road
WASTE MANAGEMENT
has been filling up regularly with not only recyclables but trash and junk that can’t be recycled, causing an unsightly mess and making it challenging for residents to recycle items.
In response to questions from Current about the recycling center, Indianapolis Department of Public Works and Kroger have agreed to add a third recycling bin at the center, 9835 Fall Creek Rd., to address the demand for recycling.
However, DPW Communications Officer Kyle Bloyd said illegal dumping of trash and junk is an entirely different problem.
“Illegal dumping is generally an issue with these recycling sites,” he said. “People just put all sorts of stuff out there and sometimes they don’t even put it in the bin. I’ve seen pictures of toilets out there — it’s stuff that’s clearly not recyclable. So, it’s unfortunate that people treat them in this way. You know, it’s not really being a good neighbor to do this kind of thing.”
Bloyd said DPW crews pick up recycling and clean that particular recycling center daily, including Sundays.
“We clean up the site seven times a week and people still abuse the area,” he said. “These recycling bins, they’re typically hosted on business properties — private property — people who’ve reached out and have said, ‘Hey, we would like to host this.’ And those numbers kind of fluctuate over time. If people are not treating a site properly, a business owner may … no longer want to host it.”
Kroger Central Division Manager of Corporate Affairs Eric Halvorson said Kroger is happy to host recycling centers for the city.
“The recycling message matches Kroger’s commitment to healthier, cleaner communities as embodied in our Zero Hunger/Zero Waste plan,” a statement from the company read. “We are disappointed to see the bins used for the illegal dumping and we’ve expressed that concern to the Department of Public Works. We’re confident the city will fulfill its commitment to
clean the site regularly and guard against a recurrence of these concerns, even adding a third bin.”
The statement added that store leaders will monitor the area, to see whether the problems return or persist.
Bloyd noted that the City of Indianapolis will offer universal curbside recycling starting in 2028. He said there has not yet been a decision on whether that new service would affect community recycling centers. He asked that city residents dispose of waste properly and not use recycling centers as a dumping ground.
“We have heavy trash days available in the city where your larger items can be picked up by your regular trash provider,” he said.
Illegal dumping can result in a fine of up to $2,500. Residents can report illegal dumping at indy.gov/activity/ illegal-dumping.
Curbside heavy trash is picked up monthly for Indianapolis residents. To find the schedule for your neighborhood, visit indy.gov/activity/trash-pickup.
Halvorson added that Kroger collects plastic bags for recycling inside its stores and offers a plastic recycling program called TerraCycle. For more, visit terracycle.com/en-US/brigades/kroger.
The recycling center at Kroger on Fall Creek Road after Memorial Day weekend. (Submitted photo)
The recycling center June 5 after Indy DPW crews picked up recyclables and cleaned trash and junk. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
New home permits increase in central Indiana
REAL ESTATE
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently reported a 12 percent year-over-year increase in new home construction permits in central Indiana for April 2025, indicating a rebound in residential building activity.
According to the BAGI home permit report, 1,043 permits were issued across the nine-county Indianapolis region in April 2025, compared to 933 permits in April 2024. According to BAGI, the uptick reflects strong demand. Builders so far noted success in selling move-in ready inventory despite interest rate uncertainty and policy changes.
In Hamilton County, the City of Westfield has issued the most new-home permits in 2025, with 95 issued in April and 495 issued since January.
In Boone County, the Town of Whitestown issued 90 new-home permits in April and 208 since the start of the year.
Permits issued from January through April include 152 in Noblesville; 144 in Fishers; 84 in Carmel; 67 in Zionsville; 28 in Lawrence; and 508 in Indianapolis.
“April’s permit growth highlights the resilience of central Indiana’s housing market,” stated Chris Hancock, CEO of BAGI. “Builders are strategically responding to economic signals and buyer needs, ensuring alignment with market trends. This region remains highly attractive, and we anticipate sustained demand through 2025.”
View the permit breakdown report at BAGI.com/Permits.
New home construction permits were up in April, according to the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis. (File photo)
A ‘ONE-STOP SHOP’
Gleaners Food Bank opens Tom and Julie Wood Family Resource Center
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana celebrated the opening of its new facility, the Tom and Julie Wood Family Resource Center, May 29. Funded by the Wood Family Foundation, the center at 3737 Waldemere Ave. also will house several other nonprofits that help people in need.
Gleaners serves Hoosiers facing hunger and poverty. Billed as the first-of-its-kind “one-stop shop,” the facility is the only comprehensive resource center in the Feeding America Network of food banks, housing the nonprofit’s outreach team, a free clinic, legal aid and other nonprofit services, according to Gleaners.
“We talk a lot about trying to help people in two ways: By feeding the line — taking care of the people — but also shortening the line,” Gleaners President and CEO Fred Glass said during the grand opening celebration. “Some people will always need our help. About a third of the people we serve are either children, disabled or elderly, and we help them without stigma.”
Gennesaret Free Clinics, one of the nonprofits housed at the resource center, is one piece of the “one-stop shop” strategy. Executive Director Milele Kennedy said the goal is to break down barriers to wellness for the community.
“Today marks the beginning of a partnership that is grounded in dignity, health and hope,” Kennedy said. “We believe that no one should have to choose between putting food on their table or going to the doctor. We bring free, compassionate health care directly into this hub of food security and community connection. This clinic is here for individuals who have long been overlooked and underserved by our traditional health care system.”
The Marion County Public Health Department will play a role in the operations of the resource center.
Dr. Virginia Caine, Marion County Public Health Commissioner, wants to inspire nationwide change through the unique efforts that will be made at the center.
“Truly, this is a model for the country to adopt for the incredible contributions we’re going to make to this community,”
Caine said. “I’m privileged to lead the largest local public health department in the state, where we devote every day to trying to improve the lives (of the community) by focusing on better health outcomes. The only way to do it is that we’ve got to join forces in this community with incredible partners, and we’re going to provide nutrition education, breastfeeding support, supplemental food vouchers for pregnant and breastfeeding women and we’re also going to care for their children up to the age of 5.”
The Marion County Public Health Department’s WIC Mobile Clinic also will make regular appearances at the resource center to provide services in areas of the county that lack WIC Clinics.
“We also want to help our existing WIC Clinics on the days we have a high number of participants,” Caine said. “So, by having this program here, that will help get that reach.”
Ultimately, the goal for the center is to ensure that Marion County residents can live a healthy life, regardless of background, according to officials.
“My hope is (not only) that more Marion County residents will live longer, healthier lives, but, to see other states in this country adopt this very model,” Caine said. “Because we’re going to be one of the most successful counties in this community that knows how to protect our babies and protect our mothers. We want them to grow to be the greatest citizens that you
ABOUT GLEANERS
According to its website, Gleaners Food Bank was founded in 1980 by a group of citizens who believed that no one should go hungry. Since then, it has become the largest hunger relief organization in Indiana.
“As one of 200-member food banks in the Feeding America Network, Gleaners provides nutritious food to roughly onethird of the food insecure population in Indiana,” the website states. “We achieve this through our own initiatives
and by serving as a wholesale distributor through a committed network of more than 300 network partners in our 21-county service area.”
The service area includes Marion, Hamilton, Boone and Hancock counties.
In addition to distributing to partner food pantries, Gleaners operates its own drive-thru and mobile food pantries and offers home delivery for homebound Indianapolis residents.
can ever have in the community.”
In the inaugural year of the center during the 45th anniversary of the Gleaners Food Bank, she encouraged those who are in need take advantage of the resources available.
“This clinic is here for individuals and families who have long been overlooked and underserved,” Kennedy said. “This is for the person who’s managing diabetes without health insurance. This is for the grandmother who needs dental care in order to be able to eat without pain. This is for the working woman who is trying to care for her family and, in that, neglects her health. This is for every neighbor that deserves to be seen and heard and cared for, no matter the circumstance.”
The new resource center houses Gennesaret Free Clinics; WIC Mobile Unit; SK Huffer & Associates free legal aid; CICOA Community Health Workers, who support older adults and people with disabilities; and the Indiana Justice Project, which can help with SNAP appeals and technical questions about the SNAP food program. For more about the new resource center, visit gleaners.org/resource-center.
ON THE COVER: Julie Wood, second from right, cuts the ribbon for the new Gleaners Food Bank Tom and Julie Wood Family Resource Center. (Photo by David Jacobs)
People gather to celebrate the opening of the new Gleaners Food Bank Tom and Julie Wood Family Resource Center. (Photos courtesy of Gleaners)
Gleaners CEO Fred Glass speaks during the grand opening ceremony of the Tom and Julie Wood Family Resource Center.
Blueprint for Improvement: Carmel bath gets complete makeover
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Carmel primary bathroom transformation shows how strategic design choices can create a stunning, spa-like retreat. THE BLUEPRINT
The renovation replaced outdated beige walls with crisp white cabinetry and elegant Cambria quartz countertops. A spacious zero-threshold glass shower with geometric tile work became the centerpiece, while dual vanities with black-framed mirrors added
Glazed porcelain flooring extends seamlessly into the shower for a
Modern lighting fixtures and sleek hardware complete the contemporary aesthetic, transforming this master suite into a hotel-worthy sanctuary.
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.
Before After
Get Ready with Girl Scouts!
Girls entering kindergarten or rst grade can join Girl Scouts through this limited-time offer! You’ll get:
• A summer Girl Scout experience, PLUS next year’s troop experience
• An opportunity to meet new friends before school starts
• Free activity books and Girl Scout Daisy patch
Register by 6/30! Financial assistance is available.
Actors Theatre of Indiana to present ‘Titanic The Musical’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Michael Blatt became a fan of “Titanic The Musical” when he saw it during its original run on Broadway. The premiere was in 1997. The musical won five Tony Awards.
“I’ve been a huge fan of the show ever since,” Blatt said. “It’s a show I’ve wanted to do ever since. Theaters don’t often do it because it’s such a gigantic show. It’s not really economical for theaters to do, so it’s really a treat to get to do the show.”
Blatt directs Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Titanic The Musical” at 7:30 p.m. June 20-21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The musical features Indy Arts Chorale, members of the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and a 21-member cast.
“It’s a big extravaganza,” Blatt said. “It’s an amazing cast. It tells the huge, epic story of the Titanic. Most of the cast play different roles. It’s really exciting to put it together.”
The Titanic sank after it hit an iceberg on its maiden voyage in 1912. There were approximately 700 survivors while an estimated 1,500 passengers and crew died.
show here.”
Dimon plays Kate Murphey, a third-class passenger, and a first-class passenger. She said there was a difference between how third-class passengers and first-class passengers were treated.
“So, it’ll be interesting to experiment with that dynamic,” she said.
Blatt, who lives in New York, is a longtime friend and former North Central High classmate of ATI Artistic Director Judy Fitzgerald. Blatt is directing with ATI for the fourth time.
Annika Dimon is making her ATI debut, but she is intimately familiar with the Carmel-based acting company.
“I grew up watching shows here,” said Dimon, a 2023 Carmel High School graduate and Ball State University dance major. “Seeing so many (ATI) shows is a big part of why I am pursuing this now as a career and pursuing this in college. It feels very full circle to be doing my first professional
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’
“The Little Mermaid” runs through July 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Potts and Devan Mathias give a sneak preview of “Titanic the Musical” at the June 5 ATI gala. (Photo courtesy of ATI)
Cunard’s ships were faster and Ismay knew it was important for international travelers to reach New York in six days rather than seven. It was going to be a competitive edge, Trapp said.
At CHS, she performed in show choir, the all-female Accents, for two years, and the Ambassadors, the mixed show choir, as a senior.
“Most of my work has been dancing,” Dimon said. “So, I’m really excited to get to dive more into the musical theater world. I was not familiar with this show until I found out that ATI was doing it and I listened to the soundtrack. It’s a beautiful score and now it’s become one of my favorites.”
Doug Trapp, a New York-based actor, is performing with ATI for the third time.
Trapp plays J. Bruce Ismay, owner of the Titanic, part of the White Star Line.
“His father owned the line, and he passed away and he was the oldest son, so he had a huge responsibility to step into his father’s shoes,” Trapp said. “The Titanic was their big thing because they were competing with (the cruise line) Cunard. Ismay’s goal was to compete as far as being a luxurious way to travel.”
“So, he was very much about them having the best of everything on board the ship but also pressing that they be as fast as the other ships that were known for speed,” Trapp said. “So, the challenge of playing someone like that is not to play him as the bad guy. Ismay actually got himself on one of the lifeboats and became known later on in life as the coward of the Titanic, which was a little unfair because he felt a tremendous responsibility to survive because someone is going to have to be responsible for all those families that perished. There is a song called ‘The Blame,’ because they each think the other is to blame. The owner thinks that the builder is responsible. The builder thinks that the captain is responsible and the captain thinks that the owner was responsible. They are all right.”
Trapp said that unlike the 1997 movie that centered on the love story, the musical centers on the facts.
“The music is spectacular and a good friend of mine, David Garrison, played the role of Ismay on Broadway,” Trapp said. “So, I got a little bit of inside track from him.”
For more, visit atistage.org.
“Summer Nights: The Music of Grease” is set for June 19, followed by Dinner with Divas June 20 and Dueling Pianos June 21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
CARMEL PLAYERS
Carmel Players’ Rising Star production of “This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing” runs through June 22 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
‘SEUSSICAL
JR.’
Junior Civic presents “Seussical Jr.” June 20-25 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘REVUE!’
Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program presents “Revue!” at 6 and 8 p.m. June 23 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘LEADING LADIES’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “Leading Ladies” June 18-22 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
STRAIGHT UP CHUMPS
Late Night on Night will feature Straight Up Chumps at 8 p.m. June 21 in a free concert at the Carmel Arts & Design District. The street party is from 6 to 11 p.m. For more, visit carmelporchfest.org.
‘PEACE
ON EARTH’
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra presents “Peace on Earth: Beethoven’s 9th Symphony” at 3 p.m. June 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
MUSIC
Kevin
Trapp
Dimon
Blatt
From left, Jackson Noonan, Ethan Mobley and Cate Thomas perform in Junior Civic’s “Seussical Jr.” (Photo by Joshua Hasty)
Actors embrace ‘Seussical’ roles
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Ethan Mobley, playing kind-hearted Horton the Elephant is a true change of pace.
MUSICAL
“I usually play more of an antagonist or villain or a rich person,” Mobley said. “It’s a really cool character to play because there is a wide range of emotion.”
Mobley portrays Horton the Elephant in Junior Civic Theatre’s production of “Seussical Jr.” June 20-25 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Jackson Noonan plays The Cat in the Hat. Mobley and Noonan will be freshmen at Zionsville Community High School in August.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Mobley said. “There is so much energy. It’s this big, animated character that bounces all over the stage and (I) really got to play around with it. It just brings so much life to the environment. I act as the narrator telling the story and walking JoJo through it.”
Noonan said there is a lot of memorization.
“But overall, I’ve been able to get a pretty good grasp of it,” he said.
Noonan said he read several Dr. Seuss books when he was younger.
“So, it’s fun to bring that character to life on stage in a unique way that still holds true to the original stories,” he said.
Cate Thomas, a Carmel resident who will be a fifth-grader at St. Maria Goretti Catholic School, plays JoJo.
“JoJo shows so many emotions and she just kind of follows The Cat around and The Cat sometimes gets her in trouble,” she said.
Thomas said she re-read the books to prepare for the role. She enjoys the number “It’s Possible.” This is her first year with
Junior Civic. She appeared in “White Christmas,” a Civic main stage show, in 2024.
Indianapolis resident Shelby Myers is directing at Civic for the first time. Myers performed in “Romeo and Juliet” in 2024 and started teaching classes at Civic.
“I’ve directed a lot of stuff at the high school and middle school level at Warren Central and Shortridge high schools,” Myers said. “Civic is a very special place to get to do children’s theater because you have a whole staff of people just so dedicated and so passionate about teaching young artists.”
There are 40 cast members.
“It’s a big ordeal, but it’s amazing the level of talent we have,” Myers said. “Narrowing it down to just 40 was incredibly challenging. You know you have a group of kids who are the best of the best and are dedicated to putting on a professional level show.”
Myers said she encourages the cast to have fun with their roles.
“The thing about Seuss is you can’t go too big with it,” she said. “So, it’s encouraging the kids to go even bigger, take creative risks and find the magic along the way.”
For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘REVUE!’
SET
“REVUE!,” Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program’s annual cabaret-style show, is set for 6 and 8 p.m. June 23 at the Studio Theater in Allied Solutions Center.
The cast, which includes students from Carmel, Noblesville, Zionsville, Fishers and Westfield high schools, among others, collaborate with the directors to create the show that allows them to share their personal stories — via song, dance and spoken word — directly with the audience.
It is directed by Kenny Shepard and Johnna Tavianini.
For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘Piano Guy’ to perform
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Matt Soverns embraces his moniker, the “Piano Guy.”
JuNe 20 & 21
CONCERT
Soverns will perform at 7:30 p.m. June 27 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Soverns, who will play his original songs, will release a new dance remix of his single “Tell Me Why.” He has appeared at Feinstein’s with Dueling Pianos with Brittany Brumfield and had a solo show in February.
Soverns released his album “Phoning It In” in 2024. “Phoning It In: Dropped Calls,” a five song EP with alternatives, will be released the day of the Feinstein’s show.
“We’ve been working on the show and improving it until I’m extremely satisfied,” he said. “I’ll be doing alternative versions of everyone’s favorite songs, like ‘Rosé.’ On the release, I have two alternative versions of the song. I’ve also had people tell me they want to hear an alternate version with just me and my piano. Especially with the emotional ballads. The ladies love to hear me and my piano.”
Matt Soverns, whose album “Phoning It In” was released in 2024, will perform June 27 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Matt Soverns)
When he doesn’t have a gig at a bar or private event, the 31-year-old Pendleton resident takes his 64-key Melodigrand on a homemade cart to play large gatherings and, sometimes once a month, on Saturday nights on Mass Ave in Indianapolis.
Soverns said he knows about 1,000 songs from various genres
“I can play Frank Sinatra, and I can play Chappell Roan,” he said. “I can play almost every Billy Joel song.”
Through the years, Soverns has improved his setup.
“I’ve added a microphone and a little battery pack-powered speaker, so I can sing and don’t have to scream at the top of my lungs,” Soverns said.
For more, visit feinsteinshc.com or mattsoverns.com.
Local Mix Music Series set
editorial@youarecurrent.com
in collaboration with
CONCERTS
Original music by Indiana-based artists will continue to have a home next season at Carmel’s Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Five bands representing a range of genres will perform in the 2025-26 Local Mix Music Series, previously known as Live at the Center. All shows are at 7:30 p.m. weeknights at The Tarkington.
Admission is j$10 to attend in person at The Tarkington, and other fans can watch the livestream and archived video free on Allied Solutions Center’s Facebook and YouTube pages. Each set is streamed and recorded in multicamera HD video and stereo sound. More information on tickets and viewing options is available at thecenterpresents.org/localmix.
THE LOCAL MIX SCHEDULE FEATURES:
King Bee & The Stingers (blues/soul), 7:30 p.m. Aug. 7.
King Bee & The Stingers is a six-piece band from Bloomington.
The Wallow Hollows (folk rock), 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11.
The Wallow Hollows was founded in 2015 by songwriters Jonathan Hunter (lead vocals) and Dakota Girton (guitar). Teresa Reynolds and the Slicktones (R&B/soul), 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22.
Formed in 2021, Teresa Reynolds and the Slicktones have performed around Indianapolis and in New York City, where lead singer and songwriter Reynolds was based for more than 14 years while touring as a backup singer for Gloria Gaynor.
The Operators (ska/reggae), 7:30 p.m. April 2.
The Operators formed in 2018 from members of Indianapolis ska/punk bands the Circle City Deacons, Harley Poe, Lockstep and Indien, later joined by lead vocalist Brittany Brumfield.
Northside Exchange (jazz/funk), 7:30 p.m. May 20.
Northside Exchange was founded in 2022 in Indianapolis by guitarist/vocalist/ producer Joseph Filipow and drummer/ producer Darnell Perkins, with rising star Daniel Hicks on keyboards.
LIFESTYLE
Short albums, for short
___-Seltzer 8. “Now!”
14. Wayne County capital city (VA)?
16. Word on a wanted poster
17. Provided with the necessities
18. Baby’s wear
19. Gather selectively
20. Still-life vessel
22. Belief system
23. Centier Bank worker
25. Ending for Gov. Braun’s web address
27. Final at Fishers HS, e.g. 29. Ruby or Sandra 30. “___ the Walrus” 33. Attempt to get 36. Sitar music
38. Commit perjury in Hamilton County Court
39. Seniors’ org.
40. Washington County capital city (OR)?
41. Alan of “M*A*S*H” 42. Calypso offshoot
43. Finished
44. Take away
45. QVC alternative
46. Kissing on the street, briefly
47. Thailand, once
49. Enters, as a password
52. Barbecue application
56. Up to now
58. Wawasee or Lemon
60. Lion’s pride
61. “Aha!”
63. Big snake
65. Lambaste
66. Bartholomew County capital city (OH)?
67. Parlor piece
68. VA concern
69. Up to now
1. Standing 2. Irritate
3. Geist racing boat 4. Mellencamp sound booster
5. Leisurely runners on the Monon Trail
6. Comprehended
7. Summed up
8. Crooked Stick golf instructor
9. Break a promise
10. Be indebted
11. Brown County capital city (TN)?
12. Threesome
13. Poems of praise
15. Sledder’s starting point
21. Avon HS grad who is ranked as the 83rd best golfer in the world: Patrick
24. Always, poetically
26. Fever or Fuel 28. Toil and trouble 31. Lends a hand 32. Vegan’s no-no
