March 18, 2025
Council approves $2 billion development
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Noblesville Common Council approved development plans for Gatewood Lakes, a $2 billion residential development by Henke Development Group, at its March 11 meeting.
CITY NEWS
Gatewood Lakes will be at the intersection of 146th Street and Olio Road, and the buildout will span seven to 10 years, with the goal of breaking ground in 2026. It will offer single-family homes, townhomes, multifamily homes and 2.5 miles of shoreline along the community’s lake district. It also will have 140 acres of green space, marked routes on waterways for recreation, parks, a mini marina for light watercraft and 20 miles of trails for walking and biking.
“I have been hoping that we would have a Henke development in the City of Noblesville, and (am) thrilled that it’s coming to the east side of town,” Common Council President Megan Wiles said. “That’s really the area that is booming for us, and Noblesville is fortunate (to) have that land available to develop.”
Henke Development Group first introduced the plan to the Noblesville Common Council at its meeting Feb. 11 and received
a favorable recommendation from the Noblesville Plan Commission Feb. 18.
“The next process they have is (working) on getting their engineering construction drawings complete so they can get an improvement location from it to move dirt, put in infrastructure, sidewalks, roads, fiber, water and sewer,” Noblesville Community Development Director Sarah Reed said. “From there, they’ll submit building plans, and then they can build the houses, the clubhouse and all of the amenities within there.”
Since its introduction, Henke Development Group has made various changes to
the development plan based on comments from the council, plan commission and the public. Changes include:
• Adding language to make it clear that all dwellings are subject to the four-sided architectural requirements.
• Providing additional imagery of townhomes.
• Making verbiage in the plan consistent.
• Infrastructure improvements and commitments.
• Incorporating commitments to Hoosier Heritage Farm, which will be surrounded on three sides by the development, into the plan requiring that the farm owner has the opportunity to review and approve covenant, condition and restriction language before it’s finalized.
Betsy Henke Garfield, a partner with Henke Development, said she looks forward to bringing a large-scale residential development to Noblesville.
“We’re excited to be in this location and bring new ideas and innovative things that will leave a high-end and lasting legacy for those that live there,” Garfield said.
The next common council meeting is at 6 p.m. March 25. For more, visit GatewoodLakes.com.
City donates $50,000 to support mental health
news@currentnoblesville.com
The City of Noblesville recently donated $50,000 to aid in the expansion of the Noblesville Schools Education Foundation’s Mental Health Support Fund.
EDUCATION
The fund helps students and staff in Noblesville Schools access additional professional counseling services. School officials said with increasing rates of stress, anxiety and depression among students and staff, the fund directly supports the well-being of the Noblesville Schools community.
“When we ask school leaders where NSEF funding can best support them, mental health resources consistently rank as a top area of need,” stated Adriann Young, CEO and president of NSEF. “By eliminating financial barriers to accessing professional care, we’re ensuring that everyone in our school community can receive the full mental health support to support their success in school.”
Julie Thacker, executive director of student services at Noblesville Schools, said the school district is thankful for the support from the City of Noblesville and NSEF.
“Our community is uniquely fortunate to have a partnership like this,” Thacker stated. “This invaluable support allows students and staff members to access the
mental health provider of their choice and receive reimbursement for those services.”
School officials said mental health support represents one of NSEF’s most impactful programs and provides benefits such as:
• Individual reimbursement support to help with the cost of external counseling and transportation to mental health services.
• Wellness initiatives for staff.
• Support for multilingual counseling initiatives.
“The Mental Health Support Fund aligns with the mission and focus of our administration to support the health and well-being of our community, which includes prioritizing mental health,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen stated. “Our community is better and stronger when resources are easily accessible to all who need them. I look forward to the positive impact this fund will continue to have on our students, teachers and the community.”
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Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 23
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From left, Noblesville Schools Executive Director of Student Services Julie Thacker, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen and Noblesville Schools Education Foundation CEO/President Adriann Young. (Photo courtesy of Marnie Cookie)
Map of Gatewood Lakes. (Map courtesy of Lexie Rock)
DISPATCHES
Humane Society — Every March, the Humane Society for Hamilton County hosts Pit Bull Education Month, a campaign that touches HSHC’s mission of saving lives, educating communities and completing families. During Pit Bull Education Month, adoption fees for all pit bulls and pittie mixes are $25. Lily Darling, HSHC community engagement manager, said pit bull and bully breeds represent the largest number of victims of animal cruelty and neglect that arrive at HSHC. All eligible dogs will be spayed/neutered, microchipped and be upto-date on age-appropriate vaccinations. Adoptions include a starter bag of food and a complimentary wellness exam with a participating veterinarian. To complete an adoption application, visit hamiltonhumane.com/application.
Webinars — The Hamilton County Health Department will host a series of free webinars focused on children’s health throughout the year. The webinars aim to provide information and resources to parents and caregivers in the community. The webinars will cover a range of topics relating to children’s well-being. Each session will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. The scheduled webinars are:
• March 19: How to tell if your teen is vaping
• June 4: CPR instruction for children
• June 18: Internet safety class for parents
• Aug. 20: Back to school immunizations All webinars will be hosted virtually. Register at tinyurl.com/ childrens-health-webinars.
BAGI appoints new CEO — The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently announced the appointment of Chris Hancock as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer. Hancock is the president and CEO of Quabachi LLC and Zealco LLC and serves as executive director for Indianapolis-based Fraternal Housing Association. BAGI is a nonprofit trade association representing builders, developers and affiliated vendors in the Indianapolis metropolitan area.
Kindergarten enrollment now open — Noblesville Schools kindergarten enrollment is open through May 9 for the 2025-26 school year. Children must be at least 5 on or before Aug. 1 to enroll. If your child will be 5 after Aug. 1, but before Oct. 1, they can be considered for early entrance. To enroll, visit noblesvilleschools.org.
Libraries seek local funding
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Sheryl Sollars, director of the Westfield Washington Public Library, gave a presentation to the Hamilton County Council at its March 5 meeting seeking local funding for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program.
PROGRAMMING
saying they would pay half of the total cost,” Sollars said. “They allocated $6 million to run through June 2025. As it sits now, the (state) budget has zeroed out that funding.”
American singer Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program where families sign up to receive free books for children from birth to age 5.
Sollars said Hamilton County is the only Indiana county that has never been part of the program. County libraries are interested in joining the program; however, budget changes by the General Assembly have impacted the county’s ability to determine funding needs to join the program.
“In 2023, then-Gov. Eric Holcomb and the General Assembly passed legislation to fund 50 percent for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library (program)— basically
Sollars said Gov. Mike Braun is tasking his wife, first lady Maureen Braun, with finding sources to keep the program alive in Indiana. Within the program, the total cost for books and mailing is $2.60 monthly per book and child, and, if the state continues with its 50 percent match, the local cost would be $1.30 monthly per child.
Currently, there are 21,085 children under the age of 5 in Hamilton County that would be eligible for the program.
Councilmember Ken Alexander said if the council authorizes money to support the program, it would be funded with county tax revenue but will not know for sure until the council gets the official request and defines the revenue source, which will happen at the April 2 council meeting.
Library representatives also will know by April if the state is moving forward with funding.
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Modern Homemaker Conference coming to Noblesville
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The inaugural Modern Homemaker Conference, presented by Noblesville resident Stacey Heiny, is coming to Noblesville May 17-18 at Teter Retreat and Organic Farm in Noblesville, 10980 E. 221st St.
EVENT
The two-day conference for women will provide resources and demonstrations on how to create a nontoxic home. Heiny, a holistic nutritionist and plant-based coach who owns Green Growers Farm with her husband Kyle in Sheridan, said she sees a need in the community to empower women to live a natural and holistic life.
The conference will include demonstrations, such as how to make sourdough bread; presentations on the basics of growing food and herbs; and plant-based lunches each day.
“We’re also going to have swag bags to help women walk away from the event with not only resources and recipes but also fun things to help them get gardening and lean into nourishing their home more,” Heiny said.
Heiny is looking for vendors who align with her mission of living a healthy, plant-based lifestyle.
“I want to help women find the skills to be a bit more self-sufficient and also teach them how to use a blend of modern and traditional practices to help nourish their home,” Heiny said. “At the conference, we will cover things like gardening, learning how to use herbs instead of always reaching for prescriptions or over-the-counter medications and ways to keep us well naturally.”
“I’m trying to make it as inclusive as possible, but also, this is not a homesteading conference,” Heiny said. “I have lived a plant-based lifestyle for over a decade, so it’s more about homemaking and things that align with a nontoxic lifestyle. I’m also mindful of the type of food vendors we will be bringing in. ”
Tickets for the conference are $299, and Heiny said sales cover the cost to presenting the event.
For more, visit theherbanfarmacy.mykajabi.com/modernhomemakerconference.
The Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville is preparing two weeks of spring break programming for children ages 6 through 12.
CAMP CROSSER
Nathan Helm, BGCN director of development, said Camp Crosser is a high-energy, outdoor program designed to provide kids with adventurous and educational experiences. Campers meet at the club at 1700 Conner St. each morning and ride a bus to Camp Crosser, a few miles north of Noblesville along the White River.
“Kids attending Camp (Crosser) can be most excited about being able to create memories and explore the great outdoors as well as connect and make new friendships,” stated Sophie Collier, BGCN youth recreation director. “Campers can also look forward to our daily activities such as archery, campfire cooking, fort building and outdoor art projects.”
Registration for Camp Crosser is $125
per child per week, with two sessions available. After care is available until 6 p.m. for an additional $25 per session.
CLUB
DAYBREAK
Club Daybreak takes place at the club from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. At this camp, children will participate in weekly themed activities like gym games, arts and crafts, STEM activities, daily snacks, cooking and roller skating.
The week of March 31 will feature a “Spring into Action” theme, and the week of April 7 will feature a “Spring Olympics” theme.
Club Daybreak participants can also take advantage of field trips to Kiln Creations and Bowl 32 for a small additional fee. Registration for Club Daybreak is $100 per child per week or $20 per child per day, and after care is available until 6 p.m. for an additional $25 per week or $5 per day.
For more, call the club at 317-773-4372 or visit bgcni.org to register for both spring break programs.
Riverview Health announces direct primary care agreement
news@currentnoblesville.com
Riverview Health has signed its first direct primary care agreement with KLR Medical Certification Training School, which provides education and training to aspiring medical professionals.
PARTNERSHIP
KLR employees can now access comprehensive primary care services at Riverview Health’s employer health centers in Noblesville and Westfield.
“We are thrilled to partner with KLR Medical Certification Training School and provide their employees with high-quality, personalized primary care,” stated Dustin Mikesell, Riverview Health associate vice president of employer partnerships. “This agreement underscores our dedication to supporting local businesses by offering innovative health care options that meet their unique needs.”
The partnership between Riverview Health and KLR builds upon an existing
relationship. KLR, which partners with The Pursuit Institute and Hamilton County high schools to offer dual-track pathways for medical certification training, has collaborated with Riverview Health for several years to provide clinical placement opportunities for its students.
Katie Reigelsperger, founder and CEO of KLR, said the direct primary care model, which provides a cost-efficient option for businesses without comprehensive care, as well as those looking to enhance their existing benefits plans, is an ideal fit, offering comprehensive primary care at a predictable cost.
“We have been impressed by the partnership we have built with Riverview Health and are excited to provide this excellent health care option for our employees,” Reigelsperger stated. “The direct primary care model allows us to offer valuable health care benefits while managing costs effectively.”
For more, visit riverview.org or klronlinecertifications.com.
A life saver.
Colonoscopies don’t just detect cancer – they can prevent it.
Hamilton County Tourism names new CEO, president
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Hamilton County Tourism Board of Directors has appointed Karen Radcliff as its new president and chief executive officer.
EMPLOYMENT
Gabby Blauert, communications manager for Hamilton County Tourism, said Radcliff will replace David West, who left to prioritize his family and other professional aspirations.
her the perfect candidate to fill this role,” Scott Spillman, Hamilton County Tourism board chair, stated.
Radcliff began her tenure at Hamilton County Tourism in 1995 as a communications specialist. Her accomplishments include leading the organization through a 10-year strategic planning process and developing the partnerships and research that led to building the Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield.
Over the past 30 years, Radcliff has served in various roles within Hamilton County Tourism, most recently leading the organization as its vice president and chief strategy officer.
“Karen’s vast knowledge of the tourism industry, her dedication to Hamilton County and (her) proven leadership make
“It’s been incredible to witness the evolution of Hamilton County throughout the years and I am honored for the opportunity to lead Hamilton County Tourism during this stage of our destination’s growth and development,” Radcliff stated.
For more, visit visithamiltoncounty.com.
OBITUARY
Raymond Ross Marconi was born in Gary, Indiana, August 21, 1938. He was the 3rd son of John Adamo Marconi and Anna Eugenia Nepsha (both deceased). He passed away Friday, February 21, 2025, at home in Carmel, Indiana. Ray had been in hospice at home for 10 weeks and his heart finally gave out. A big heart that always has been understanding, kind, and generous to all he met.
When he was in Hobart, IN elementary school, he was young enough to participate in the very first year of Little League in Hobart, Indiana. When he was 12, he entered the Soap Box Derby and came in 2nd in the world. He won a new car. He was also elected the 8th grade president.
In high school, he participated in Football and Boxing. He won the CYO Golden Gloves in Chicago. Boxing would stay with him for the rest of his life. He was a boxing inspector for the state of Indiana, manager, mentor, coach for pros & amateurs (Golden Gloves). Also taught an executive boxing class for 3 years in Indianapolis, IN.
Golf was his favorite his whole life.
He was in the Marines for 2 years. Also participated on the USMC Boxing Team during that time. When he returned to Hobart, Indiana, he married Judy Kay Mohrs (deceased). They are both survived by 3 sons, Michael Marconi (Greta), Jo-
seph Marconi (Tina), and Daniel Marconi (Cyndi), 4 grandchildren & 3 step-grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren & 6 step great-grandchildren. Ray is survived by his sister, Ruth Bell Marconi, her family, and his brothers, Robert Marconi & Richard Marconi (both brothers deceased) and their extended families.
Ray is also survived by his 2nd wife of 30 years, Vickki Marconi, and his 2 step-children he helped to raise, Jaclyn John Hanson (David) & Nicholas R. John (Megan). He also has 4 step-grandchildren. What a wonderful influence he was on all he met. He was loved and adored to the end. He will be sorely missed by all. Ray wanted a Celebration of Life Party. It will be held on Sunday March 23, 2025, between 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at: “502 East Event Center” at 502 E Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032 ph: 317-843-1234
No flowers please... if you choose to make a donation in Ray’s name, please email “Tunnel to Towers Foundation”. T2t.com
All but 1% of donations goes to homes and services for military, police, and fireman families.
Dress is casual as Ray has requested. If you have a funny story about Ray, please bring it to share with the group. I hope to see everyone there to celebrate his life.
Radcliff
Commissioners OK contracts
By Jessica Todd • jessica@youarecurrent.com
At its March 10 meeting, the Hamilton County Commissioners received an annual report from the director of Hamilton County East Public Library and approved a lawn and maintenance contract for landscaping in downtown Noblesville.
What happened: Melissa Loiselle, director of Hamilton County East Public Library, presented the library’s 2024 annual report.
What it means: HEPL, the largest library system in Hamilton County, serves residents in Noblesville, Wayne, Fall Creek and Delaware townships. In 2024, library program attendance increased compared to 2023, and more programs are now available for all age groups. In a survey conducted by HEPL staff, patron experience ratings regarding customer service, interior spaces, library materials and technology remained steady with ratings from the previous five years.
What’s next: Loiselle said the library continues to be community-focused in planning and operations. It is overhauling its security system and completing a feasibility study for a potential third branch to serve the growing populations of Wayne and Fall Creek townships. Library staff also recently launched a new website and app, which can be found at hamiltoneastpl.org.
What happened: The commissioners approved a lawn and maintenance contract for $22,927.82 with GKM Property Services, a landscaping company, for downtown Noblesville.
What it means: Hamilton County Director of Building and Grounds Steve Wood said the contract will include landscaping for the Hamilton County Judicial Center, the Hamilton County Parking Garage, the Historic Courthouse and Jail and the Hamilton County Parking Lot. GKM will take care of fertilization, mowing and other landscaping needs.
CONSUME
Your northside guide to the most outstanding restaurants, bars, breweries and coffee shops publishing April 22
Delivered to 131,191 households in Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Noblesville, North Indy, Westfield, Zionsville and North Indy via U.S. Mail, you may seize this opportunity to reach a wide audience at an affordable price and explore the best tips and listings to make the most of your dining options.
Space reservations due: Ad content due: Advertorial content due: April 11, 2025 April 14, 2025 April 14, 2025
For advertisings opportunities by email ads@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444
Noblesville junior forward’s improvement leads to honors
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville High School girls basketball coach Donna Buckley is convinced junior forward CC Quigley deserves all the honors she’s received.
“She had a great year for us,” Buckley said. “She worked hard to be a really good post option as well as a player who could step out and shoot the 3-pointer. She really improved her shooting range from last season. Her efforts have been rewarded with postseason awards. She was named to the All-Hoosier Crossroads Conference’s first team and Indiana Basketball Coaches Association Large School All-State honorable mention.”
Quigley, whose name is Caroline Cynthia Quigley but has been called CC since she was a baby, averaged 11 points and 5.6 rebounds per game for the Millers (19-5). She shot 55 percent from the field. She averaged 9.7 ppg and 5.2 rpg as a sophomore. After not taking a 3-pointer as a sopho-
CC QUIGLEY
Favorite TV show: “Gossip Girl.”
Favorite vacation spot: Costa Rica
Favorite athlete: Aja Wilson
Favorite subject: Photography
Favorite musician: Taylor Swift
more, she made 6 of 21 for 29 percent last season.
“I think I improved by creating a post presence for my team and also expanded my range by shooting more 3s,” Quigley said.
The 6-foot-2 forward plays for the Indiana Basketball Club on the 17U 3SSB team.
“My goals for the offseason are to drive to the basket more and work on creating my own shot,” she said.
The Millers will return three starters from this year’s team, which lost to Class
4A No. 1 Hamilton Southeastern in the sectional final.
“I am optimistic for my team next year with us each stepping into new roles,” Quigley said. “I am excited to play with this group and am looking forward to next season.”
Buckley said Quigley is working on being a more vocal leader.
“I’m sure she will be a more vocal leader as a senior,” Buckley said.
Quigley started playing basketball in sixth grade.
“I played travel soccer for five years and also ran track in eighth grade,” she said. However, she found her passion for basketball.
“I love the competitiveness and intensity of the sport and being able to play and work together with my teammates and friends,” she said.
Quigley has NCAA Division I scholarship offers from Kent State University, University of Buffalo, Wright State University and Central Michigan University.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
IndianaSpineGroup.com/Swiatek
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• Experienced,
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Noblesville High School junior forward CC Quigley was named to the All-Hoosier Crossroads Conference’s first team. (Photo courtesy of Miller Athletics)
Quigley
City Supporting NSEF Mental Health Initiative
The Noblesville Schools Education Foundation (NSEF) has announced the expansion of its Mental Health Support Fund thanks to $50,000 in support from the City of Noblesville.
The NSEF Mental Health Support Fund is a vital resource helping students and staff in Noblesville Schools access additional professional counseling services With increasing rates of stress, anxiety and depression among students and staff, this initiative directly supports the well-being of the Noblesville Schools community.
"When we ask school leaders where NSEF funding can best support them, mental health resources consistently rank as a top area of need," said NSEF President Adriann Young. "By eliminating financial barriers to accessing professional care, we ' re ensuring that everyone in our school community can receive the full mental health support to ultimately support their success in school."
Over the years, the demand for this support has increased, and the City of Noblesville has pledged $50,000 to support the Mental Health Support Fund to aid in sustaining this program for students and teachers.
"The Mental Health Support Fund aligns with the mission and focus of our administration to support the health and well-being of our community, which includes prioritizing mental health," said Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. "Our community is better and stronger when resources are easily accessible to all who need them. I look forward to the positive impact this fund will continue to have on our students, teachers, and the community."
From left: Noblesville Schools Executive Director of Student Services Julie Thacker, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen, and Noblesville Schools Education Foundation CEO & President Adriann Young
Ale Emporium sweeps wings, pizza, bar food categories
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Ale Emporium, with multiple locations in central Indiana, won three categories in the 2025 Current Best Of Suburban North Indy contest — best bar food, best chicken wings and best pizza.
Co-owner Tony Kwiatkowski said the business is honored to be recognized.
“Winning best wings and best pizza, and then winning best bar is a true compliment based on how many really nice and great bars there are in Hamilton County,” he said, noting that the business offers a sports-bar atmosphere with live music in addition to its signature menu. “The combination of our menu, our service and then the sports environment — and then on top of that, you do live music on the weekends — there’s a lot going on there that makes us pretty popular.”
Ale Emporium’s original bar opened in 1982 in the Castleton area, 8617 Allisonville Rd. Kwiatkowski said they expanded first to Fishers in 2018, 11501 Geist Pavilion Dr., and in 2019 opened a Greenwood location, 997 E. County Line Rd. B. They plan to open a fourth location in Avon this summer.
“(We’ve) been around a long time but our growth has really just come in the last seven years or so,” Kwiatkowski said. “We’re kind of famous for our wings and our wing sauces — our famous sauce is called Hermanaki.”
Hermanaki sauce, which is teriyaki-inspired, is one of the “Herman” series
developed by Herman Perryman, who joined the team in the late 1980s.
“Those main sauces are our most popular sauces,” Kwiatkowski said. “There are multiple contests throughout the year that we get submitted for best wings — a lot of it’s based on the Hermanaki sauce, which we win a lot of awards for, but … all those Herman sauces kind of put us on the map as far as wings.”
He said they refer to their pizza as “honest,” because they don’t skimp on the toppings.
Kwiatkowski said part of the Ale Emporium’s appeal is that it’s a local, family-owned business — started by Marc Luros and now co-owned by Luros’ son-in-law, Scott Baun and Kwiatkowski. While the Castleton business is 21-andover, the Fishers and Greenwood locations are family friendly.
Kwiatkowski added that the business helps raise funds for many area nonprofits, especially youth sports programs, and customers appreciate their community support.
For more, visit aleemporium.securetree.com.
Ale Emporium in Fishers is one of three locations owned by the Indianapolis-based business. (Photo courtesy of Ale Emporium)
Sara H., patient
Service makes the difference for Khamis Fine Jewelers
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Mary Khamis-Rowe, it’s the service that has kept her business going strong for three decades.
Khamis Fine Jewelers, which was named Best Jewelery Store in the 2025 Current Best Of Suburban North Indy contest, is celebrating its 30th year in business, having opened in November 1995.
Khamis-Rowe said two jewelers do the repairs and custom pieces. Khamis-Rowe performs appraisals. She is a certified gemologist and a certified appraiser of personal property.
Khamis-Rowe
“We were really excited to get the (award) and we appreciate all our customers voting for us,” Khamis-Rowe said of her store at 9763 Fall Creek Rd. in Indianapolis. “We enjoy helping people enjoy important milestones in their life by helping them pick the right piece of jewelry. We’ve become part of the neighborhood and the Indianapolis area — Carmel, Fishers and the surrounding area. We try to give the best service that we can.”
Khamis-Rowe said custom jewelry is an important part of the business.
“It’s a family piece that was handed down to you, which happens a lot these days, and it’s just not your style but you want to do something with the stones,” she said. “We can create a new piece where the customer would wear it and enjoy it.”
“I not only have training in the gemology aspect of it but also on the appraising aspect of it,” Khamis-Rowe said. “There are only two or three of us in the state that have that designation. I do a lot of appraisals for attorneys, for banks, for the FBI and for insurance.”
The service the store provides allows Khamis-Rowe to have more of a personal relationship with her customers.
“I get invited to weddings,” she said. “A lot of customers have become friends of mine. I’ve got customers texting me at 10 o’clock at night. Pretty much any jewelry store can sell anything or make anything, but it’s the service you give the customer that is going to bring them back to the store. That’s what I always tell my employees. We just need the best service and that’s what we strive for.”
Khamis-Rowe, a Geist-area resident, has been in the jewelry business for 47 years.
Khamis Fine Jewelers has four employeea. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday.
For more, visit khamisjewelers.com.
Khamis Fine Jewelers received Best Jewelers in the 2025 Current Best Of Suburban North Indy contest. (Photo courtesy of Mary Khamis-Rowe)
Rejoicing Vine celebrates wine, sustainability
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A family-owned north Indianapolis business that specializes in sparkling wines won top honors for Best Winery in the Current Best Of North Indy 2025 competition, only two years after opening.
Rejoicing Vine owners Brent and Frances Kumfer met in Connecticut. As they got to know each other, they toured local wineries in that state and talked about opening their own winery someday. After relocating to Carmel — and when their kids were old enough to be in school — they looked into how they could make that dream come true.
Brent Kumfer had left his corporate job to stay home with the kids. His former career focused on launching products, so he had a business background that complimented his more earthy interests of wine making and gardening. They said it took two years of searching before they found the right location at 8440 W. 82nd St., just south of Zionsville.
“It used to be one of the biggest orchid farms between the coasts, but it had closed down about a decade before we ended up coming here,” Frances Kumfer said. “Everything was overgrown — like, we had our son out in the field and the grasses were higher than his head.”
She said their Realtor was more than a little surprised when they decided to buy the spot, but it had everything they wanted — a building, a greenhouse and plenty of space. It just needed work — about two years’ worth of work, to be precise. They did a lot of the interior demolition themselves and cleared the field for grapes.
“It’s just a really kind of serene property,” Frances Kumfer said of the site, which is close to Eagle Creek Park. “It feels like you’re out in rural Indiana, but really, you’re only 20 minutes from downtown. It’s right off of 465 and 65, so it’s easy access to get to. We kind of really lucked out in finding this property.”
Brent Kumfer, who is at the winery pretty much every day, said customers seem to appreciate the hands-on, personal nature of the business.
“Customers have direct access to the
Award-Winning Catering!
owner, to the winemaker, and I think they find that exciting and love to learn about the stories,” he said, adding that they like to stress the importance of sustainability. “I felt like this was a calling from God to help the community. I kind of call wine our Trojan horse. So, we get people in the door and we talk about sustainability, we talk about our faith and things that people normally wouldn’t just openly discuss.”
To promote sustainability, they keg many of their wines rather than bottling them, which significantly reduces their carbon footprint. They also donate to local charities that help people get better access to fresh produce and they promote other small businesses through partnerships with local florists, cheesemongers, coffee roasters and bakers, among others. They also use a regenerative farming technique, which promotes natural diversity to improve the health of their crops — which leads to better tasting wine.
Grapes that do best in Indiana’s climate work well for sparkling wine, which is why Rejoicing Vine primarily offers the bubbly stuff. Unlike most wineries that have many still wines and just one or two sparkling varieties, Rejoicing Vine has about seven bubbly selections, with just one nonsparkling wine on the menu. For more, visit rejoicingvine.com.
Zing! Cafe is a Gold Winner in Catering and a top coffee shop nominee! As a locally owned, woman-run cafe, we serve quick, casual breakfast and lunch, plus expertly crafted coffee. Stop by for a fresh brew or a delicious meal and see why we're an awardwinning favorite! Visit
I’m honored to be chosen the Gold Winner in Travel Services for Suburban North Indy! I truly cherish helping families create Magical Vacation Memories. If you’re planning a Disney Vacation, I’d love to assist — let’s make your dream trip a reality! Danielle Ott danielle@hihovacations.com 317-750-0450 /totheparksandbeyond www.hihovacations.com Thank you for your votes!
As we mark the 20th anniversary of the opening of IU Health North Hospital, we celebrate the team members, providers and volunteers who have dedicated their lives to serving others. From broken bones to broken hearts, from miracles born to miracles made through innovation and medical advancement, we’re proud to care for our neighbors and call Hamilton County home. We look forward to continuing to serve with skill and
Frances and Brent Kumfer of Carmel are the owners and operators of Rejoicing Vine in northwest Indianapolis. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
8
March 18, 2025
Food quality, customer service top priorities at Joe’s Butcher Shop
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
It’s been nearly 20 years since Joe and Kathy Lazzara launched Joe’s Butcher Shop at 111 W. Main St. Since then, it’s become a destination for both hungry diners in search of a fresh sandwich and those seeking premier ingredients to cook at home.
Joe Lazzara answered the following questions from Current about the business and its long-term success in the Arts & Design District. Learn more at JoesButcherShop.com.
Why did you decide to open Joe’s Butcher Shop?
I traveled quite a bit with my previous career and made a hobby out of visiting James Beard-nominated restaurants. I learned that what made many of the restaurants and chefs great was sourcing clean, sustainably raised, fresh proteins. We felt there was a gap in the Carmel market for a butcher shop and fish market that provided higher quality proteins
for the home chef.
How would you describe the shop to someone who hasn’t been before?
A local butcher shop and fish market committed to customer service that serves the finest, most sustainable proteins they can source. We sell products from over 20 truly local providers and serve up what many believe are the best tasting sandwiches in central Indiana.
The staff is friendly and the butchers knowledgeable. Both care about serving your needs and keeping your business. What makes the shop unique?
The first is the quality of the beef and the expert way it’s cut for the customers’ needs. When it comes to fresh fish, it would be difficult to find somewhere that cares more about marine stewardship while providing a superior product. Our deli and sandwich area has a full kitchen where we craft our sides and sandwiches from over 140 unique fromscratch recipes.
What is your favorite item and why?
Wow, I have so many favorites! I can start with our incredible fresh reserve Salmon and move through our beef case from our vacio/flap steak to our reserve filet mignon. On the grocery side, it’s got to be Heidi Ho’s Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies. They are wickedly sinful. Sandwich-wise, it’s tough to beat our Evan’s IPA Braised Beef Sandwich, incredible. We dry-age our own beef and pork, and lately I’ve become obsessed with our double thick cut 14-day dry aged pork chop. It eats more like a great beef steak
than a pork chop. It’s just outstanding. What do you enjoy about operating in downtown Carmel?
We took a risk establishing a store downtown when the Art & Design District was in its infancy. Downtown Carmel has become a hub of great events and a true community place to gather. We’ve had a front seat to what might be the most beautiful, successful growth experience of any city in the U.S. over the last 20 years. What’s not to enjoy?
What do you most want people to know about the shop?
That we are committed and focused on serving our customers to provide the best quality proteins and experience possible. That we love serving our community not just through our work, in and outside of Joe’s, but in how we take care of our 18 full-time and 32 part-time employees.
Anything else you want to share?
How honestly humble and amazed we are every day that our customers and community have made the choice for nearly 20 years to support our employees and what we do.
Joe’s Butcher Shop sells products from more than 20 local providers. (Photo courtesy of Joe’s Butcher Shop)
BAKERY
Taylors Bakery
taylorsbakery.bakesmart.com 317-596-2253
Le Petit Gateau lpgbakery.com 317-408-5500
BAR
Ale Emporium aleemporium.securetree.com
317-288-7394
3UP
3uprooftop.com
317-740-0930
BBQ
Big Hoffas Smokehouse bighoffas.com 317-867-0077
City Barbeque citybbq.com 317-660-8369
BREAKFAST
Rosies Place rosiesplace.net 317-688-7350
Cafe Patachou cafepatachou.com 317-569-0965
BREWERY
Sun King sunkingbrewing.com 317-843-6250
Bier Brewery bierbrewery.com 317-444-8500
BURGER
Gold
BRU Burger Bar bruburgerbar.com 317-975-0033
Roots Burger Bar rootsburgerbar.com 463-273-2004
CATERING
Zing Cafe zingcafecarmel.com 463-248-6340
City Barbeque citybbq.com 317-660-8369
GOLD AND SILVER WINNERS
CHICKEN WINGS
Ale Emporium aleemporium.securetree.com 317-288-7394
The Friendly Tavern friendlytavernzionsville.com 317-873-5772
CHINESE FOOD
China Wok 161chinawok.com 317-896-8786
Kings Garden carmelkingsgarden.com 317-573-9999
COFFEE SHOP
RIVET Coffee Bar and Roastery rivetcoffee.com 317-763-0007
Indie Coffee Roasters indiecoffeeroasters.com 317-993-3443
DESSERT
The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers thecakebakeshop.com 317-257-2253
Graeters Ice Cream graeters.com 317-810-1673
DISTILLERY West Fork Whiskey Co. westforkwhiskey.com 317-763-5400
Four Finger Distillery North fourfingerdistillery.com 317-804-5675
DONUTS
Titus Bakery and Deli titusbakery.com 317-763-1700
Pana Donut
Coffee & Boba Tea panadonut.com 317-757-3933
FINE DINING RESTAURANT
Anthonys Chophouse anthonyschophouse.com
317-740-0900
Harry & Izzys harryandizzys.com
317-915-8045
GREEK / MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT
ATHENS ON 86th athenson86th.com
317-879-8644
Canal Bistro canal-bistro.com
317-254-8700
The Great Greek Mediterranean thegreatgreekgrill.com/ carmel-in-medical-dr 463-273-1311
HAPPY HOUR
Gold 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo 1933lounge.com
317-758-1933
Kona Grill konagrill.com 317-566-1400
INDIAN RESTAURANT
Amber Indian Restaurant indianindy.com/amber-carmel 317-580-0828
The Monks monkscarmel.com
317-564-8266
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
The Italian House italianhousedining.com
317-804-5619
Capri Italian Restaurant capriindianapolis.com
317-259-4122
JAPANESE RESTAURANT
Nori Japanese Steakhouse noriwestfield.com
317-763-9903
Sakura indysakuraexpress.com
317-259-4171
COME BY OUR SHOWROOM
Restore Your Core Physical Therapy aims to individualize care
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
In Current’s inaugural Best Of Suburban North Indy contest, which recognizes businesses that make local communities thrive, Restore Your Core Physical Therapy won the top honor for physical therapy provider. Restore Your Core Physical Therapy, which has locations in Carmel, Zionsville and Greenwood, offers pelvic floor physical therapy, such as birth preparation, dry needling and cupping, among other services.
ligaments and joints to improve musculoskeletal function and reduce pain, sets it apart from other physical therapy facilities in the area.
“We employ many different treatment techniques and provide individualized exercise programs,” Robinson said. “A lot of the times when you go to physical therapy, they give you exercises to do, and then you come back and do those same exercises. We don’t do that. We check the exercises, but then we give clients new ones. So, everything is very individualized.”
Dr. Amy Robinson, a physical therapist who opened Restore Your Core Physical Therapy in 2016, said it is an out-of-network practice, which means it provides services outside of a health insurance plan’s network.
“I chose to be an out-of-network practice because we get to spend more time with our clients 1-on-1,” Robison said. “We can work our clients through an entire plan of care versus in the insurance-based world, where you can only get patients good enough, and then they make you cut them free. In our business, we see patients until they are better and build some resiliency within their system so (that) their symptoms don’t return.”
Robinson said the practice’s manual therapy, a hands-on treatment that involves manipulation of muscles, tendons,
Robinson said Restore Your Core Physical Therapy staff are specialized in pelvic floor therapy.
“We look at the pelvic floor in a very functional manner,” Robinson said. “When you go to physical therapy school, you’re lucky to get an hour lecture in the field of public health, and you have to go back after physical therapy school to get that education. At our clinic, two of us have nearly 30 years of practice, and we don’t just look at our patients lying on a table. That’s not functional.”
Robinson said the goal is to show patients that Restore Your Core Physical Therapy cares about them as individuals.
“My business has personally grown more from word-of-mouth referrals and less from marketing,” Robinson said. “It feels good that our patients see that we are different from other similar places.”
For more, visit restoreyourcorept.com.
Robinson
LATE NIGHT EATS
The Mill Tavern barwestfield.com 317-399-6972
Melt N Dip meltndip.com 317-827-2120
MEXICAN RESTAURANT
La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant lahaciendaindianapolis.com 317-577-2689
Los Agaves losagavesgrill.com 317-804-9240
PIZZA
Ale Emporium aleemporium.securetree.com 317-288-7394
Bazbeaux Pizza bazbeaux.com 317-848-4488
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Monterey Cuisine montereycuisine.com 317-853-2280
noah grants grill house & oyster bar noahgrants.com 317-732-2233
STEAKHOUSE Anthonys Chophouse anthonyschophouse.com 317-740-0900
1933 Lounge by St. Elmo 1933lounge.com 317-758-1933
THAI FOOD
Thai Delight thaidelightwestfield.com 317-804-5553
Jasmine Thai Restaurant jasminethaiindy.com 317-848-8950
GOLD AND SILVER WINNERS
Winners were picked by readers at youarecurrent.com from Jan. 29-Feb. 11 with more than 36,000 votes cast.
VEGAN/VEGETARIAN
Yats
yatscajuncreole.com 317-581-1881
Garden Table thegardentable.com/carmel 317-669-0240
WINERY
The Rejoicing Vine rejoicingvine.com 317-946-1338
Peace Water Winery peacewaterwinery.com 317-810-1330
ASSISTED LIVING
The Barrington of Carmel tboc.org 317-810-1800
Zionsville Meadows asccare.com/community/ zionsville-meadows 317-873-5205
BARBER SHOP
Black Orchid Barbers blackorchidbarbers.com 317-829-5740
Barber Shop 32 barbershop32.com 317-804-3623
CANCER TREATMENT CENTER
Community Hospital North ecommunity.com/locations/ community-hospital-north 317-621-6262
Witham Health Services: Cancer Institute witham.org 765- 483-7310
CHIROPRACTOR
Hope Chiropractic hopeindy.com 317-973-0304
Rangeline Chiropractic rangelinechiropractic.com 317- 575-1115
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
SmileCentric smilecentric.com
317-764-2938
Turkle & Associates turklemd.com 317-848-0001
My Plastic Surgery Group myplasticsurgerygroup.com
317-848-5512
DENTIST
Alexa L. Haulk DDS park100dc.com
317-291-8957
Dr. Gregory J. Pease DDS weence.com/medical/ doctors/westfield/ dr-gregory-j-pease-dds-2 317-867-2828
DERMATOLOGIST
Forefront Dermatology forefrontdermatology.com/ location/carmel-in-46032 317-846-2396
Dawes Fretzin Dermatology dawesfretzin.com 317-516-5000
DOCTOR/HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
Be Well Family Care bewellfamilycare.com
317-938-4559
Cool Creek Family Health: Farah Myers FNP coolcreekfamilyhealth.com 317-663-9932
EYE CARE/ EYE DOCTOR
Abrams EyeCare abrams11455.wpengine.com 317-846-4223
RevolutionEYES revolution-eyes.com
317-844-2020
The Shooting Academy focuses on safety, training
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Shooting Academy, formerly Tim’s Shooting Academy, is more than just a shooting range and licensed firearms dealer.
Located just south of Grand Park in Westfield, The Shooting Academy is a destination for those who shoot and those who are looking to learn.
With the recent rebrand to The Shooting Academy comes a larger selection of firearms and accessories and expanded training course offerings. The indoor range includes 15 total lanes — five dedicated for rifles and 10 for handguns.
In addition to shooting practice, The Shooting Academy offers a number of training courses, including one-on-one training with certified instructors. One of the more popular classes is a ladies-only basic pistol training course.
The main focus at The Shooting Academy is safety — providing proper training on weapons so patrons learn not just how to shoot, but how to be comfortable around their weapons.
Typical customers bring their own guns to the range and purchase ammunition and a target on-site, or they can rent a gun for use within the facility. People who want to purchase or are considering purchasing a weapon can rent one of 50plus guns to try it out on the range and see what feels most comfortable.
The Shooting Academy is open to the public and offers a variety of memberships, ranging from $29 to $65 per
The Shooting Academy has 15 total lanes, with five dedicated for rifles and 10 for handguns. (Photo courtesy of The Shooting Academy)
month. Lanes can be rented for 30- or 60-minute sessions.
The number one benefit of The Shooting Academy over other shooting ranges — the Westfield location is indoors. That means people can participate in practice or training year-round.
The Shooting Academy is at 17777 Commerce Dr. in Westfield. The range is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. The range is closed on Mondays.
The business also considers itself an entertainment destination. Families, including children 12 and older who are accompanied by an adult, are welcome on the range to practice.
While the facility is undergoing rebranding to The Shooting Academy, information is available on the website under its former name, timsshootingacademy.com.
March 18, 2025
Best of Suburban North Indy youarecurrent.com/BestOf2025
GOLD AND SILVER WINNERS
Winners were picked by readers at youarecurrent.com from Jan. 29-Feb. 11 with
GYM/FITNESS CENTER
Roundtripper
Sports Academy roundtripper.com
317-896-2900 studio fitnez studiofitnez.com 317-225-1301
HAIR REMOVAL
Renova Aesthetics renovaaesthetics.com 317-564-8305
The Naked Monkey wax-that-monkey. myshopify.com 317-566-2929
HAIR SALON
Collective Beauty Salon & Med Spa collectivebeautysalonspa.com 317-399-7872
Renova Aesthetics renovaaesthetics.com 317-564-8305
HOME CARE/HOSPICE
BrightStar Care brightstarcare.com/ locations/indianapolis-nw 317- 706-0799
Suburban Home Health suburbanhomehealth.org 800-464-6716
HOSPITAL
IU Health North Hospital iuhealth.org/find-locations/ iu-health-north-hospital
Ascension St. Vincent Carmel healthcare.ascension. org/Locations/Indiana/ INEVA/Carmel-AscensionSt-Vincent-Carmel
MED-SPA
Renova Aesthetics renovaaesthetics.com 317-564-8305
Lash And Brow Design Co. lashandbrowdesignco.com 317- 800-2958
MENTAL HEALTH CLINIC
Thrive Counseling Services thrivecounselingindy.com 317-207-6301
The Cabin Counseling and Resource Center thecabin.org 317-873-8140
ORTHODONTIST
Village Orthodontics vosmiles.com 317-873-6927
Titus Orthodontics titusortho.com 317-399-9293
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics forteortho.com 317-817-1200
OrthoIndy orthoindy.com 317-275-6140
PEDIATRICIAN
Hazel Dell Pediatrics hazeldellpediatrics.com 317-843-9475
Northpoint Pediatrics northpointpeds.com 317-621-9000
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Restore Your Core Physical Therapy restoreyourcorept.com 317-559-2673 Get Right Physical Therapy getrightphysicaltherapy.com 317-750-0626
WOMENS CLINIC
OB/GYN of Indiana
more.axiawh.com 317-573-7050
Witham Health Services: Womens Center witham.org 765-485-8370
YOGA/PILATES
Fire & Flow Yoga fireandflowcarmel.com
317-296-7496
YogaSix Carmel yogasix.com/carmel 317-771-6049
APPLIANCE STORE
Lowes Home Improvement lowes.com/store/ IN-Carmel/1525 317-566-8124
Menards menards.com/store-details/ store.html?store=3083 317-580-9400
BATHROOM / SHOWER
REMODELING
Bath Experts bathexperts.com 317-576-4721
4011 Vincennes Road Indianapolis, 46268
New Bath Today newbathtoday.com 833-456-4537
CARPET & FLOORING STORE
Full Circle Flooring fullcirclefloors.com
317-550-3863
McCools Flooring mccoolsflooring.com 317-843-2655
CLEANING SERVICE
Mop It Like Its Hot mopitlikeitshot.net 317-345-0045
Bin Scrub binscrub.com 317-798-0000
CUSTOM CLOSETS
Closets by Design - Indianapolis indianapolis. closetsbydesign.com
317-766-9001
Innovative Cabinets & Closets inncorp.com 317-846-2018
We’re beyond grateful to be voted #1 Yoga/Pilates Studio in Suburban North Indy! Your support means everything, and we’re honored to share our space with you.
At Fire & Flow Yoga, every breath, every movement, and every shared moment weaves us together. Here, you’re not just practicing — you’re part of something bigger.
As a thank you, text, email, or call us — tell us you saw this ad, and you AND a friend get one free class! See you on the mat, where we rise together!
- Greg & Cindi Odle
March 18, 2025
Current Best of Suburban North Indy youarecurrent.com/BestOf2025
Be Well Family Care offers unique patient experience
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
your vote!
Moms at Sea Travel is honored to be acknowledged as a family cruise resource by our Indianapolis area customers. We thank you for your support and look forward to helping you plan a lifetime of vacations.
Be Well Family Care, a medical clinic at 12430 N Clark St. in Carmel, won top honors for Best Doctor in Current’s inaugural Best Of North Indy 2025 competition.
The facility offers primary care services, such as physicals and pap smears, and introduces patients to community partners such as restaurants, chefs, health coaches and martial arts instructors as resources for healthy lifestyle changes.
The clinic opened in 2017, and Dr. Swathi Rao is owner and medical director. She said her dream was to create a practice dedicated to partnering with patients on their medical journeys.
• Royal Caribbean Partner of the Year
• Dream Vacations Franchise of the Year
• Dream Vacations Top Producer of Royal Caribbean
• Featured in USA Today and Travel Weekly
• We are a Dream Vacations Circle of Excellence agency
WE ARE ALSO PROUD TO BE RECOGNIZED AS ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S CENTRAL PARTNER OF THE YEAR
“Oftentimes, you’ll go to family practices when you’re sick or once a year for a physical, but we are striving to find risk factors and treat them before disease happens,” Rao said. “We have much longer office visits with our patients and spend a lot of time getting to know them when they’re healthy, so they don’t get sick.”
The practice’s motto is to “Eat, sleep, move and cook well to be well.” The facility has a kitchen and offers cooking classes, yoga, discussions and a variety of events.
“We do group visits where we cook with our patients and have move-well visits with them,” Rao said. “We bring in local community partners that offer different ways to exercise, eat healthy and de-stress, and we do those classes
with our patients during the day or in the evening as group visits. For our patients, we bill those to insurance, but we invite nonpatients to come and join us in those classes as well.”
Rao said making the relationship between staff at Be Well Family Care into a partnership sets them apart from other area facilities.
“I think a lot of doctors are very authoritative, and we really try to meet patients where they are,” Rao said. “I feel like I only have a limited amount of time with patients to tell them how to improve their life and if I can use that time to help them understand what they need to change in their life, whether it be sleeping, stressing, eating or moving, then that impacts what we’re doing here. It motivates them to make changes, and they understand why they need to make those changes.”
For more, visit bewellfamilycare.com.
The teaching kitchen at Be Well Family Care. (Photo courtesy of Be Well Family Care)
CUSTOM HOME BUILDER
Old Town
Design Group
oldtowndesigngroup.com 317-816-3151
Wedgewood Building Company wedgewoodbc.com 317-669-6300
ELECTRICIAN
Huston Electric Westfield hustonelectric.com
463-294-2007
Electric Today electric-today.com 317- 252-0380
FENCE COMPANY
Amerifence amerifenceusa.com 463-259-6412
Cameron Fence Builders cfbindy.com 317-873-6950
FURNITURE STORE
RG Decor rgdecor.com 317-873-6139
Arhaus arhaus.com/pages/ indianapolis-in 317-913-9141
GARAGE DOOR COMPANY
Garage Doors Of Indianapolis doorstoday.com 317-820-2452
Precision Garage Door Service
garagedoorindianapolis.com 317- 846-2332
GARDENING STORE/ NURSERY
Sullivan Hardware & Garden sullivanhardware.com 317-255-9230
Rosies Gardens and Hughes Landscape rosiesgardens.com 317-844-6157
GOLD AND SILVER WINNERS
Winners were picked by
HANDYMAN SERVICES
Fix It In Fishers LLC nextdoor.com/pages/ fix-it-in-fishers-llc-fishers-in/ 317-440-0355
My Guy Services myguyservicesllc.com 317-755-6444
HEAT & AIR COMPANY
Airtron Heating & Air Conditioning airtron.com/indianapolis 317-489-0897
Control Tech
Heating Air & Plumbing callcontroltech.com 317-873-3737
HOME BUILDER
David Weekly Homes davidweekleyhomes.com 765-335-5034
Beazer Homes beazer.com 317-602-1498
HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE
Sullivan Hardware & Garden sullivanhardware.com 317-255-9230 Menards menards.com/store-details/ store.html?store=3083 317-580-9400
HOME MORTGAGE
Gatz-Knight Mortgage Team gatzknightteam.com 317-731-4760
Mike Miller
Prosperity Home Mortgage phmloans.com/ mortgageconsultant/ mikemiller 317-730-7049
LANDSCAPING
Sundown Gardens
sundowngardens.com
317-846-0620
Eagle Creek Nursery & Landscape eaglecreeknursery.com 317-291-7660
MATTRESS STORE
Holder Mattress Company Inc. holdermattress.com
317-848-2939
Village Mattress villagefurnitureandmattress.com 317-733-6406
MOVING SERVICES
Colt Moving coltmoving.com
317-476-3762
Carter Van Lines & A-1 Storage cartervanlines.com
317-873-3144
PEST CONTROL
Scat pest control scatpest.com
317-758-6300
Critter Control Of Hamilton County crittercontrolhamiltoncounty. com
317-953-2523
PLUMBER
Hope Plumbing hopeplumbing.com
317-207-2733
Howald Heating Air Conditioning & Plumbing howaldheatingandair.com
317-255-4328
POOL & SPAS
Family Leisure Indianapolis familyleisure.com/ Indianapolis 317-8234448
Master Spas masterspas.com 260-459-7727
March 18, 2025
Current Best of Suburban North Indy youarecurrent.com/BestOf2025
REAL ESTATE AGENT
Edwards Realty Group Encore Sothebys International Realty edwardsrealtygroupzionsville. com
317-270-2125
Stacey Sobczak Realtor/Broker compass.com/agents/ stacey-sobczak 317-650-6736
REAL ESTATE COMPANY
Circle Real Estate circle-re.com 317-989-0074
Catron Property Group talktotucker.com/ adam.catron 317-414-7219
REMODELER/ CONTRACTOR
Worthington Design & Remodeling worthingtonindy.com 317- 846-2600
Indigo Renovations Inc indigoreno.com 317-995-0083
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Hoosier Village Retirement Community hoosiervillage.com 317-873-3349
Promenade Trails A 55 & Better Community promenade-trails.com 463-227-0951
ROOFING COMPANY
Bone Dry Roofing bonedry.com/indianapolis 317-489-6400
Beard Roofing and Exteriors beardroofing.com 317-689-7663
TREE SERVICE
Xanderbuilt Tree Care xanderbuilt.net 317-848-8885
SavATreeTree Service & Lawn Care savatree.com/locations/ carmel-indiana 317-846-3778
AUTO BODY REPAIR
Caliber Collision caliber.com/find-a-location/ zionsville 317-875-8434
Performance Collision Center performanceindy.com 317- 733-2758
AUTO DEALERSHIP NEW
Tom Wood Subaru tomwoodsubaru.com 317-805-7775
Ed Martin Toyota edmartintoyota.com 317-764-2700
AUTO DEALERSHIP PREOWNED
Tom Roush Mazda tomroushmazda.com 317-896-5561
Bill Estes Toyota billestestoyota.com 317-434-6990
AUTO SERVICE CENTER
Eslers Auto Repair Inc. eslersautorepair.com 317-896-9060
Westfield
Automotive L.L.C westfieldauto1.com 317-867-5500
Tom Roush Lincoln tomroushlincoln.com 317-399-7474
CAR WASH
Crew Car Wash crewcarwash.com 317-272-0381
Prime Car Wash primecarwash.com 317-591-9385
TIRE STORE
Discount Tire discounttire.com/store/ in/carmel/s/1415 317-818-0273
Belle Tire belletire.com/ stores/detail/138/ belle-tire-carmel-in 317-688-1538
Winners were picked by readers at youarecurrent.com from Jan. 29-Feb. 11 with more than 36,000 votes cast.
CREDIT UNION
FORUM
Credit Union forumcu.com
317-558-6000
Centra Credit Union centra.org 800-232-3642
CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW
James H Voyles Jr Attorney at Law 317-632-4463
Yosha Law Injury & Accident Lawyers yoshalawfirm.com/ areas-served-indianapolis 317-648-7319
DRY CLEANING/LAUNDRY
Classic Cleaners classiccleaners.com 317-942-0844
Carmel Cleaners 317-846-8923
FAMILY LAW
Rebecca W. Geyer & Associates P.C. rgeyerlaw.com 317-973-0237
Lewis Wagner LLP lewiswagner.com 317-237-0500
FLORIST
Petals & Pollen petalsandpollen.com 317-260-0374
Oberers Flowers oberers.com 317-575-1197
FUNERAL HOME /SERVICES
ARN Funeral & Cremation Services arnmortuary.com 317-873-4776
Simplicity Funeral & Cremation Care simplicityfuneraland cremationcare.com 317-344-3600
INSURANCE AGENT
Dennis A. Hunt Insurance & Financial Services huntinsurance411.com 317-896-2420
Teresa ChapmanState Farm Insurance Agent teresachapman.net 317-844-1270
INSURANCE COMPANY
American Family Insurance www.amfam.com 800-92-6326 AAA aaa.com 866-209-8442
LAW FIRM
Dillman & Owen Estate & Elder Law applegate-dillman.com 317-492-9569
The Dollard Firm thedollardfirm.com 317-770-7070
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
Indiana Women In Need Foundation iwinfoundation.org 317-475-0565
Humane Society For Hamilton County hamiltonhumane.com 317-773-4974
PET DAYCARE/ BOARDING
K8s MoTail katelynmayner.wixsite. com/k8smotail 765-535-8242
Katy The K9 Keeper katythek9keeper.com 317-992-0089
PET GROOMING
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming woofgangbakery.com
317-660-2636
Club Canine carmelclubcanine.com 317-669-2162
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jen Clark Photography jenclark.photography 317-502-1160
Brian McGuckin Photography LLC brianmcguckin.com 317-496-8784
PRIVATE SCHOOL
Hasten Hebrew Academy hhai.org 317-251-1261
Guerin Catholic High School guerincatholic.org 317-582-0120
PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Carmel Clay School District ccs.k12.in.us 317-844-9961
Westfield Washington Schools wws.k12.in.us 317- 867-8000
TAILOR/SEAMSTRESS
PJ Alterations facebook.com/pjalterations 317-844-1192
Lucys Tailor 317-815-9586
TATTOO/PIERCING
Forever Gallery Tattoo 4evergallery.com
317-810-1049
Carmel Tattoo INK carmeltattoo.com 317-571-8282
thegreatgreekgrill.com/carmel-in-rangeline
March 18, 2025
Current Best of Suburban North Indy youarecurrent.com/BestOf2025
TRAVEL SERVICES
Danielle Ott Hi Ho Vacations hihovacations.com 317- 750-0450
Jamie Ross / Moms At Sea momsatsea.com/contact
VETERINARIAN
PetVet365 Pet Hospital petvet365.com 317-343-0550
Clayton Family Veterinary Care claytonfamilyvet.com 317-218-3142
WEDDING VENUE
Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts thecenterpresents.org 317-843-3800
Ritz Charles ritzcharles.com 317- 846-9158
BICYCLE SHOP
Future Velo Electric Bikes futurevelo.com 317-810-0940
Bicycle Garage Indy & BGI Fitness bgindy.com 317-842-4140
BOOKSTORE
Turn the Page Books & Gifts turnthepagewestfield.com 317-804-2363
Barnes & Noble stores.barnesandnoble. com/store/2933 317-844-2501
BRIDAL/FORMAL WEAR
Blue House Bridal bluehousebridal.com 317-683-3574
Nancys Bridal Boutique nancysbridalboutique.com 317-842-2080
CHILDRENS
CLOTHING STORE
Once Upon A Child onceuponachild.com 317-846-7011
Little Tulip Tree littletuliptree.com 317-564-0503
CONSIGNMENT/ THRIFT STORE
Amandas Exchange amandasexchange.shop 317-573-4400
Goodwill Store goodwillindy.org 317-524-4313
GROCERY STORE
Kroger kroger.com
317-867-6314
Market District Supermarket marketdistrict.com/ stores/6550 317-569-0171
HARDWARE STORE
Sullivan Hardware & Garden sullivanhardware.com 317-255-9230
Menards menards.com/store-details/ store.html?store=3083 317-580-9400
Whites Ace Hardware whitesacehardware.com 317-846-2311
HOME DECORATOR J. Gauker Interiors jgaukerinteriors.com 317-590-8627 Eleven 18 Interior Design eleven18design.com 765-425-6554
JEWELRY STORE Khamis Fine Jewelers khamisjewelers.com 317-841-8440
Hupp Jewelers huppjewelers.com 317-845-0777
MENS CLOTHING STORE
Bonobos bonobos.com 317-975-2984
Athletic Annex athleticannex.com 317-669-2191
PET STORE
Three Dog Bakery threedogindy.com 317-776-6699
Hollywood Feed locations.hollywoodfeed. com/indiana/ carmel/2484-e-146th-st 317-571-0080
PLACE TO BUY MEAT
Joes Butcher Shop and Fish Market joesbutchershop.com 317-846-8877
Moodys Butcher Shop moodysbutchershop.com 317-873-1800
WOMENS
CLOTHING STORE
A.D.A Vintage Boutique instagram.com/ a.d.a_vintageboutique/ AH Collection ahcollection.com 317-580-0370
ANNUAL EVENT/FAIR
Carmel
Christkindlmarkt carmelchristkindlmarkt.com 317-559-6608
Indy 500 indianapolismotorspeedway. com/events/indy500
ART GALLERY
CV Art and Frame cvartandframe.com 317-873-2976
Art On Main Gallery And Gifts artonmaingalleryandgifts.com 317-564-4115
BOUTIQUE HOTEL/INN
Hotel Carmichael marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ indak-hotel-carmichaelautograph-collection 317-688-1700
Brick Street Inn brickstreetinn.com 317-873-1900 175 South Main Street Zionsville, 46077
CASINO GAMING ESTABLISHMENT
French Lick Springs Hotel frenchlick.com 888-976-3617
Harrahs Hoosier Park Casino Racetrack caesars.com/ harrahs-hoosier-park 800-526-7223
DANCE STUDIO
Indiana Ballet Conservatory indianaballetconservatory.org 463-273-6441
Thank
Central Indiana Academy of Dance ciaodance.com 317-581-2423
EVENT VENUE
Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts thecenterpresents.org 317-843-3800 Fishers Event Center fisherseventcenter.com 463-244-2224
GOLF COURSE
Holliday Farms Zionsville hollidayfarmszionsville.com 317-973-5045
Prairie View Golf Club prairieviewgc.com 317-816-3100
Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre civictheatre.org 317-843-3800
PICKLEBALL COURTS
The Dink House thedinkhouse.com 317-564-0303 The Picklr thepicklr.com 317-936-3465
SHOOTING RANGE
The Shooting Academy formerly Tims ShootingAcademy timsshootingacademy.com 317-399-7918
Atlanta Conservation Club atlantaconservationclub.com SPA Woodhouse Spa carmel.woodhousespas.com 317-706-1300
Carmel Salt Caves carmelsaltcaves.com 317-533-1485
MARCH ACTIVITIES
Embrace Downtown Public Open House
The City of Noblesville is making critical infrastructure and beautification upgrades in the downtown area. This project will support the growth and opportunities of the city and enhance the historic downtown square.
The design team will unveil the preliminary plans for Embrace
Downtown for public information from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 27. Attendees can interact with the project team and view exhibits showing the preliminary plans at City Hall, 16 S. 10th Street. For more information on Embrace Downtown, scan the QR Code
Taste of Business Celebrates 25th Anniversary
Noblesville’s largest showcase of quality products and services is 4 to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 26 at Embassy Suites. Sponsored by the Noblesville Economic
Development Department, more than 90 business, and 14 restaurants are participating in the 25th anniversary of the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce’s Taste of Business, including a Made in Noblesville exhibit with some of our local manufacturers.
“Taste of Business | Made in Noblesville is our community’s chance to celebrate itself,” said Noblesville Chamber CEO Bob DuBois. “We invite residents to join in the celebration and sample the best of Noblesville. Where else can you taste specialties of the house from local chefs, peek behind the scenes of local manufacturers, and visit with some of Noblesville’s newest businesses?”
To purchase tickets, visit www.noblesvillechamber.com.
Upcoming EVENTS
Take a 7-mile round trip rail bike ride starting at Hobbs Station in Forest Park. Reservations required and can be made at www.nickelplateexpress.com
03/19 – Young Professional's Noble Social Presented by the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce at Bier Brewery, 4 to 6 p m
03/20 – Homebrewed Music at Bier Brewery, 1618 S 10th Street, 7 to 8:30 p m
03/22 - Paint with Animals! with Hedgehog Hannah at Kiln Creations, 60 N. 9th Street. Reservations required. 6 to 8 p.m.
03/22-23 – Free Kid’s Fishing Weekend at Cabela’s, 13725 Cabela's Parkway, Noon to 4 p m
03/24-25 – Community Dinner at 9th Street Bistro, 56 S. 9th Street. Reservations required. 6:30 p.m.
03/29 – Murder Mystery Train Ride, Hobbs Station at Forest Park. Registrations required.
04/04 – FIRST FRIDAY
Noblesville Main Street Downtown shops open late, 4 to 8 p.m.
04/04-05 – Art is Where You Find it, Hamilton County Artists’ Association, 195 S. Fifth St. Reservations required. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Noblesville cancer survivor gets second chance at life
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville resident Christy Heath spent the summer of 2022 preparing for her death.
ACHIEVEMENT
After more than a year on the waitlist for a five-organ transplant, doctors told her to start looking at hospice care services, which they thought she would need by December of that year.
But in the middle of the night in early October 2022, she got the call that would save her life.
Heath’s winding medical journey began in 2001 when she lived in Texas and was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. After treatment, she was cancer-free for 14 years, but when the cancer returned, it also came with a diagnosis of Stage 4 lymphoma.
The treatment worked but took a toll on her body. In July 2020, she learned the many rounds of chemotherapy had made her prone to blood clots, which can be fatal if not caught and treated quickly. Doctors told her she would need a multivisceral organ transplant, which in her case meant she needed a new pancreas, stomach, liver, small intestine and large intestine.
Heath, 52, also learned the procedure she needed was only performed at three hospitals in the U.S.
Her medical team recommended IU Health University Hospital in Indianapolis for the surgery, so after confirming she qualified for the waitlist, she and her husband moved to Noblesville.
That’s when the hard part began.
“(It’s) an excruciating wait,” Heath said. “You go in and do bloodwork every week. You see your doctor every couple of weeks. You’re getting sicker, so you’re not feeling well. Other things are popping up here and there, so you land in the hospital for a day or two. But you’re weaker and weaker as you’re waiting and waiting.”
So, when Heath’s phone displayed IU Health on the caller ID at 2 a.m., she thought it was a mistimed phone survey about her treatment experience and was more annoyed than anything. She certainly didn’t expect good news — but it turned out to be. A donor match had been found.
“It didn’t even cross my mind, because I’ve been waiting for so long,” she said. “I
got to the point where (I believed) it just wasn’t going to happen. I wasn’t going to get (a donor) because it was too hard to match up.”
The multi-organ transplant surgery stretched over two days, but it was a success. After a month in the hospital, Heath returned home.
But soon, Heath, a former middle school math teacher, learned that instead of forming in her digestive system, blood clots had developed in her lungs. The clots led to lung damage, requiring supplemental oxygen therapy.
As Heath worked with her medical team to identify and prevent additional clots in her lungs, a friend reached out to share an article about dogs being trained to detect blood clots by scent, which immediately piqued her interest.
Jax, a 2-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever, joined Heath’s family in late 2023. The two quickly bonded and became inseparable.
Thanks to Jax, Heath went to a medical center in October 2024 to check for a clot earlier than she normally would have, she said.
When the results came back, she was quickly on her way to the emergency room.
“They told me, ‘If you waited another day, you’d probably be dead,’” Heath said.
As she looks to the future, Heath doesn’t expect to be able to return to the classroom full time because of her medical complications. But she’d like to start a math tutoring business, which is possible with Jax at her side and her donor’s organs giving her a second chance at life.
Jax, a chocolate Labrador retriever, is constantly with Christy Heath. Jax can alert Heath if she detects blood clots by scent. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
THE VOICE
Noblesville teen accepted to elite a capella summer camp in California
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
For Noblesville teen Naomi Gray, learning to sing was easier than learning to walk.
Gray, 15, was recently accepted into A Cappella Academy, a 10-day vocal camp for youth ages 12 through 18 at Whittier College in Whittier, Calif., that was founded by Pentatonix, an American a cappella group. Gray said only 75 to 80 students from around the world are typically accepted each summer.
In light of that fact, Gray’s mother, Leslie Ober, said Gray’s acceptance was a surprise.
“I let Naomi audition for this because I thought it would be an easy door closed to help her build resilience as an artist,” Ober said. “I think it’s good to be told no and learn to experience rejection. So, I genuinely thought there was a zero percent chance of her making it in. We were shocked that she got into this because it’s so hard to get into.”
Gray will join other students from July 4 through July 14 to develop skills as vocalists, beatboxers, arrangers, music directors, songwriters, engineers and producers. Each day will include rehearsals, workshops, performances and time for campers to socialize and rest their voices.
A cappella is a singing style performed by an individual or group without instrumental accompaniment. Gray said she auditioned by submitting a 12-minute video.
“To audition, everyone had to sing two solo songs that were a cappella, and then they gave us the material for the rest of it,” Gray said. “I had to sing as high and low as I can, and they also had a new thing this year called ‘Repeat after me’ where a recording would sing something, and then you’d have to repeat it. At the end, we could share any other talents they didn’t cover in the video. So, I sang a song that I wrote and also did a song that I recorded on the a cappella app.”
Gray, who wants to use the camp as an opportunity to refine her skills, said she became interested in a cappella after seeing local musician Sarah McLaughlin perform in that style.
“Sarah would post videos of herself singing with an app called (Acapella from PicPlayPost),” Gray said. “I would watch her singing in these videos, and the app lets you loop so you sing with yourself a bunch of times. My mom got the app and we tried it out. I was pretty young and bad at it. But eventually, I grew in it and even made originals.”
Gray, who is home-schooled, said she started singing before she could walk. Prior to her interest in a cappella, she began performing in theater productions at age 8. She has performed at venues such as the Noblesville Farmers Market and the Birdie Gallery in Noblesville.
“I was 10 years old when I started voice lessons, and I fell in love with music right when I did my first musical theater production,” Gray said. “Since then, I’ve just grown to love music even more.”
Kathryn Henricksen, Gray’s vocal coach, said they have worked together since 2021.
“Naomi was born with an exceptional God-given (talent) in voice and piano,” Henricksen said. “It has been a joy to watch her have grit and tenacity as she’s displayed dedication to saturating herself in the technique and artistry that has brought her to this next level.”
Ober said part of that determination comes from Gray’s struggle with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder characterized by excessive joint flexibility, known as hypermobility.
“What a lot of people don’t see by looking at her or seeing her perform is that she also lives with some debilitating health issues and chronic pain,” Ober said. “She lives every day of her life in severe pain and with low iron, but she keeps pushing through all that to keep pursuing what she enjoys and loves in life.”
Gray, one of six siblings, said despite her serious physical challenges, she looks forward to spending time with other a cappella performers from around the world.
“The camp looks to be a creative, encouraging and sup-
portive environment,” Gray said. “Watching videos of performances from the camp has set a fire in me to want to be a part of something like that. Even just the aspect of a bunch of people singing together and creating something that sounds amazing has really inspired me.”
By participating in A Cappella Academy, Gray wants to inspire other aspiring artists to pursue the next step in their careers. She wants to pursue a music career and has a dream to tour with the Maverick City Choir, an American contemporary Christian worship music collective.
“Auditioning for something big can be really scary,” Gray said. “I was nervous and seriously expecting not to get in. But I think even the process of auditioning for something is great, and you can learn a lot from it all around. Being told no is a great lesson to learn, but I would encourage other small artists to have the courage to do it. Even if they don’t get what they are after, it’s still a great learning opportunity.”
Gray will perform at Songbird Social House in Carmel at 6 p.m. March 19.
For more about A Cappella Academy, visit acappellacademy.org. To view Gray’s audition, visit youtu. be/F_DEd647ruU
ON THE COVER:
THE GRAY FILE
Name: Naomi Gray
Age: 15
Education: Freshman, home-schooled
Favorite place where she’s performed: Fisher’s Art Council
Current favorite songs: “Be Alright” by Danny Gokey and “You Get The Glory” by Jonathan Traylor
Can play: Piano, ukulele, guitar
Inspiring artists: Chandler Moore, Brandon Lake, Jonathan Traylor and Jenna Raine
Noblesville teen Naomi Gray will participate in a 10-day vocal camp this summer. (Photo courtesy of Leslie Ober)
Naomi Gray performs as Rafiki in a recent production of “Lion King Jr.” at Attic Theater. (Photo courtesy of Leslie Ober)
Drummer Palmer brings music of ELP to the Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Emerson, Lake & Palmer is considered a pioneer of progressive rock.
The English supergroup formed in 1970 with keyboardist Keith Emerson, guitarist-vocalist Greg Lake and drummer Carl Palmer.
Emerson and Lake died in 2016, but Palmer is making sure the music lives on with the “An Evening with Emerson, Lake & Palmer” tour, which stops at 8 p.m. March 21 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Palmer, who turns 75 March 20, plays drums with actual footage of his late bandmates on screens.
“It’s all in perfect sync. It’s something we’ve been working on for a long time,” he said. “We’ve played some classic songs like ‘Lucky Man,’ ‘From the Beginning,’ Welcome Back My Friends’ and ‘Paper Blood.’ It’s a great thrill playing with Keith and Greg again.”
The footage is from a DVD recording of a 1992 concert at Royal Albert Hall in London.
“We just removed the drums,” Palmer said. “The audio tracks were recorded separately, completely separately to the visuals, which meant I could edit all the visuals to get me out of the frame. Then I could replace the drums, which means, technically, (the concert) is being mixed live in every hall.”
Simon Fitzpatrick on bass and Chapman Stick and Paul Bielatowicz on guitar provide live support.
“It’s quite an immersive experience,” Palmer said. “It’s very new and no one else is really doing it in this capacity. I’m playing about six pieces with Keith and Greg. That part runs about 50 minutes. Simon plays ‘Pictures at an Exhibition.’ It’s quite an interesting show.”
Palmer plays “Tarkus” with Fitzpatrick and Bielatowicz. There are guitar and
Chapman Stick solos. There are three screens.
“We can take one of the screens and we can show some vintage footage of that time period,” Palmer said.
Palmer said one of the more time-consuming parts was removing himself from all the footage on the DVD. It took eight to 10 weeks of editing, two to four days each week.
“The first three weeks were a little difficult because seeing these guys on my computer was a little strange,” Palmer said. “It was emotional. But I didn’t want to use a hologram. I wanted to use these guys at their best and this is Keith Emerson and Greg Lake at their best. I think it’s the way they would have wanted it, which is even more important.”
Palmer said he ran the whole project by the families of Emerson and Lake to get their blessing, which he received.
“They love it,” Palmer said of the concerts, which began in late 2022.
“It’s got a quality to it. It’s genuine. It’s real. We’re getting a cross demographic. We’re getting some people in their late 20s. (Maybe) grandfather was a fan to start off with. I’m really enjoying it and
it’s great having Simon and Paul out there and playing the rest of the catalog with them.”
Palmer said he found a couple of other pieces he could add to the show but wants to check with the families first.
“We’re improving it all the time. It’s an ongoing project,” he said.
Palmer said he uses AI to clean up some of the graininess on the footage and get it in sync.
“Technology has been on my side,” Palmer said. “This is laying down a blueprint. I’m sure there will be other people if they are fortunate enough to have the material, the videos, the audio lines, other people might follow this way.”
Palmer was a member of Atomic Rooster and The Crazy World of Arthur Brown before ELP formed. He later became a founding member of Asia in 1981. ELP reunited in 1991 and recorded two more albums and toured between 1992 and 1998. The group’s final performance was in 2010 to mark its 40th anniversary.
For more, visit carlpalmer.com. For tickets, visit elptickets.com and thecenterpresents.org.
‘JERSEY BOYS’
“Jersey Boys” runs through April 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
CIVIC THEATRE
Civic Theatre presents “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” through March 29 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre. org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“I Want My 80s: A Totally Tubular Party” is set for March 20, followed by “Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt and Friends” March 21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘BOOKSTORE’
The Cat presents “Bookstore” from March 21 to 30 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
TEGE HOLT
Carmel High School junior Tege Holt will hold an official album release party and performance at 7 p.m. March 20 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
GRUPO NICHE
Grupo Niche, a Colombian salsa orchestra, will perform at 8 p.m. March 22 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.
INDY OPERA
Indianapolis Opera’s 50th Anniversary gala concert is set for 7:30 p.m. March 22 at Hilbert Circle Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit indyopera.org.
DISPATCH
Marx to headline Center Celebration gala — Singer-songwriter Richard Marx will deliver a solo performance as headliner for the Sept. 20 Center Celebration 2025 presented by Ice Miller, the annual gala fundraiser for Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org
Drummer Carl Palmer will perform An Evening with Emerson, Lake & Palmer concert March 21 at the Palladium in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Carl Palmer)
Singer true to the blues
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
ZZ Ward was born into the blues.
“My dad did a deep dive into the blues with his garage cover band, discovering Muddy Waters, Big Mama Thornton and Son House,” she said. “I was daddy’s girl and impressionable. He and my mom would listen to blues records around the house and it’s what I grew up with. My dad would always encourage me to sing in front of people.”
By age 12, she was performing on stage with him.
Ward, 38, will perform as part of her “Dirty Sun” tour at 8 p.m. March 25 at The Tobias Theater inside Newfields in Indianapolis.
Her fourth album, “Liberation,” was due to be released March 14 by her label Dirty Shine and Sun Records. “Liberation” is a mix of covers and original songs. Dirty Shine has become a name for her fan base.
“It’s something that means being your
ZZ Ward will perform March 25 at The Tobias Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis (Photo courtesy of Charlie Ward)
authentic self, even if you don’t quite fit in,” Ward said. “Even if it’s dirty or rough around the edge, it means shining and being yourself.”
Ward, whose first name is Zsuzsanna, was familiar with Sun Records’ history.
“I knew a lot of the artists on Sun Records -- Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Howlin’ Wolf and the legacy of Sun Records,” she said. “I made the album independently before a call from Sun Records was interested. It made perfect sense for the place I am in my music career.”
For more, visit tobiastheater.com.
‘Bagrock’ lands in Carmel
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
It’s billed as bagpipes with an attitude.
The Red Hot Chilli Pipers are bringing their unique brand of “bagrock” to The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel for a concert at 7 p.m. March 23.
PERFORMANCE
The band mixes bagpipes with the covers of popular songs from all genres.
The band is known for performing reimagined classics like “Amazing Grace” and “The Hills of Argyll” or rocked-up anthems such as Queen’s “We Will Rock You” and AC/ DC’s “Thunderstruck.”
Willie Armstrong co-founded the Scotland band in 2002. The group’s popularity took off after winning the BBC talent show, “When Will I be Famous?” in 2007.
The nine-piece group features bagpipes, guitars, keyboards and drums. It recently released its ninth album, “Back to Roots,” which gives a nod to its original bagpipe roots with an added rock element. Armstrong said the group performs more than 200 shows annually.
Willie Armstrong is a cofounder of Red Hot Chilli Pipers. (Photo courtesy of Kerr Armstrong)
“We remain on tour constantly in America in this time period,” Armstrong said. “Nowadays, you can’t rely on your royalties and making money from your recorded albums because of the Spotify influence.
Armstrong said the group invites feedback from the audience on what songs they enjoyed the most.
“The show is always evolving and making sure the audience is getting looked after (is important) because they’re the ones that spent the money on the tickets and spent the time to travel to see the band,” he said.
For more, visit rhcp.scot. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Blueprint for Improvement: Zionsville master bath transformation
Commentary by Larry Greene
Built on 3 acres in Hunt Country Preserve, this home by Brad Bowman of Homes by Design needed a primary bathroom update to match its grandeur. Through a thoughtful renovation blending modern elegance with timeless charm, the result is a stunning space that enhances both aesthetics and functionality. The transformation has created a luxurious and inviting retreat, providing the homeowners with a serene sanctuary that elevates their daily experience.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The once dark and dated bathroom now boasts a sophisticated, airy design.
• Rich wood cabinetry was swapped for light oak, enhancing the soft, metallic plaster walls and adding depth as they shift in color with the light.
• The addition of gold accents, sleek mirrors and elegant lighting brings warmth and luxury.
• A refined quartzite backsplash and spacious double vanity create a spa-like retreat.
• Every detail was thoughtfully curated, turning this space into a timeless 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.
After
Before
The new Community Clinic at Walgreens in Noblesville offers convenient care with evening and weekend hours. Whether you need cold and flu care, treatment for minor injuries or help managing chronic conditions, our exceptional care team is here for you. The Noblesville Community Clinic at Walgreens is now open.
Now open at 2380 Pleasant Street. Scan the QR code to learn more and schedule your appointment.
Trinity Free Clinic launches new program
By Samantha Kupiainen news@currentnoblesville.com
Trinity Free Clinic, which serves Hamilton County residents, is piloting a program that aims to connect people who have a chronic illness with food to meet their specific nutritional needs.
NUTRITION
The Food RX pilot program launched in February at the Carmel clinic, which provides free health care to uninsured, underinsured or low-income Hamilton County residents. Through the program, clients meet with a dietician, who recommends food options they can pick up at the adjacent Merciful HELP Food Pantry.
“It is geared to patients who have chronic illness like Type 2 diabetes,” said Cindy Love, Trinity Free Clinic deputy director. “When they go to food pantries, they get a standard box of food, and if it doesn’t match what is within their diet to control their illness, then it isn’t food that is healthy for that patient. We have a volunteer dietician, Kristine Grider. She meets with our patients that have chronic illnesses and help them plan what their dietary intake should look like.”
Once a month, the clients will check in at the clinic.
“The first month they received some spices and got some more education on what to do with this food, how to prepare it (and) why this particular diet is important for their disease they have,” Love said. “The second month they will meet with a podiatrist here. We provide specialty care here also who will talk diabetic foot care and educate them on proper foot care for the disease they have. The third month they will have their eyes examined. Then the fourth month they’ll have another education on nutrition and then the fifth month they’ll have measurements of their blood sugars to see if this program has actually helped improve and decrease their sugar levels and improve their health.”
The effectiveness of the program will be evaluated at the conclusion, and depending on the results, it might expand and accept more patients.
“By July, we’ll be able to measure the outcomes of these patients,” Love said. Learn more at trinityfreeclinic.org.
- Kathy
Noblesville mom launches business
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville resident Rachelle Finafrock recently launched a small business, Triple Treats, to honor her triplets, who were born premature at 17 weeks in 2021 and did not survive.
Triple Treats specializes in cake pops, cookie cakes and chocolate-covered pretzels, Oreos and Rice Krispie Treats. Finafrock said she wanted to turn her postpartum hobby into a side hustle.
“The business, run out of my home, is a cottage bakery,” Finafrock said. “Baking is a creative outlet for me, so I finally decided to do what I am passionate about. The name comes from the loss of our triplets, so it’s a homage to them, in a sense, for us to keep their memory alive.”
Finafrock, who works full time from home, said she got the courage to launch the business after the birth of her daughter in August 2024.
“I finally feel like I’m out of that darkness of pregnancy and infant loss, and I feel like I am finally able to put my creative outlet to use,” Finafrock said. “I couldn’t do
BAKING DRINKS
it when I was in the trenches and a dark place. Having my daughter brought light to the situation and made me want to embrace what I’ve always wanted to do.”
Finafrock is accepting orders through Facebook and Instagram for bridal showers, birthdays and baby showers, among other events.
For more, visit facebook.com/ TreatsTriple.
Tea’Licious Cafe now open
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Tea’Licious Cafe, which serves beverages ranging from boba tea to smoothies and coffee, opened in late February under the Levinson Building in downtown Noblesville, 59 S. 9th St.
Owner Shar Shee, who lives in Marion, said she heard about the space through the business’s neighbor, Thai Sushi House, which also opened last month. It is the first Tea’Licious restaurant.
“I have worked as a server since I started high school, and since I don’t like studying, I decided to take starting a business as seriously as possible,” Shee said. “My former boss and I became close friends, and he helped me start.”
Shee, 25, said the menu, which features smoothies, smoothie bowls, milk tea and shaved ice cream, among other beverages and treats, is inspired by items she has seen while traveling.
“I travel a lot, mostly in Southeast Asia, and aside from my culture, I see drinks that are not super popular in America,”
Shee said. “So far, popular items are our milk tea with tapioca boba and matcha tea.”
Although business has slowly started to increase, Shee hopes to see an increase in traffic as the weather warms up.
“Everybody in town says to be patient and wait until the summer season, and that’s what inspires me to hang in there,” Shee said. “I am willing to wait for growth because I put everything into this.”
For more, visit facebook.com/profile. php?id=61573644881966.
Noblesville resident Rachelle Finafrock specializes in cake pops, cookie cakes and chocolate covered treats. (Photo courtesy of Rachelle Finafrock)
Tea’Licious Cafe at 59 S. 9th St. in Noblesville. (Photos by Jessica Todd)
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5. Butler frat letter
10. Ind., for one 14. Civil rights org.
15. Sophia of “Two Women”
16. Geist Reservoir marker
17. Hoosier Park jockey’s control
18. In debt
19. Ready, willing and ___
20. Two-time Masters champ
23. Celtics, on a Pacers scoreboard
24. Sales pitch
25. Caribbean island
27. Indiana State Fair woolly beast
31. Slowly, in music
34. Letters before QIA+
37. Poses
39. Sow’s sound
40. ___ de cologne
41. “It’d be my pleasure”
43. Old AT&T rival
44. Set securely
46. Mideast title
47. ZCHS transcript stats
48. Nonconformists
50. The “)” in :-)
52. Similar
54. Tarkington play place
58. Caribou’s kin
60. Name on frozen ground beef patties at Meijer
64. Meaningless
66. Sierra ___
67. Deserve
68. Pressing need
69. Danish currency
70. PNC Bank machines
71. Fishers HS mid-term exam, e.g.
72. Guitar attachment
73. “___ we forget” Down
1. Zingers
2. Freeze over
3. Suspect’s defense
4. Snowbird’s destination
5. Road sign
6. Big Ten university
7. Pluck
8. High-IQ set
9. Kind of wool
10. Pacers’ first org.
11. Seafood chain inspired by a Hanks film
12. Tie type
13. Shapiro’s loaves
21. 100 percent
22. Gentle push
26. Noblesville’s Silver Dollar, e.g.
28. Syst. with hand gestures
29. 1,760 yards
30. Physics units
32. Ancient Peruvian
33. Big name in elevators
34. Creepy look
35. Colts event
36. New burrito place on East 82nd Street
38. Do laps at the Carmel Waterpark
41. Go off script
42. X-ray alternative
45. White River snaky fish
47. “You can’t be serious!”
49. Moves stealthily
51. Baton Rouge sch.
53. “Your Movie Sucks” author
55. Precious stone
56. Lysol target
57. ___ & Young (accounting
Palindromic girl’s name
58. Give off
59.
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