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Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 21
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Meet the candidates for Superior Court 3
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Chris Evans, a magistrate judge for the Hamilton Circuit and Superior Courts, and Amy Summerfield, a Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office legal advisor, are running in the May 5 Republican primary election for judge of Hamilton County Superior Court 3. There are no Democratic challengers. The candidates answered the following questions from Current:
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?
Evans: To ensure the citizens of Hamilton County have the most experienced, effective representation on the bench. Now, more than ever, we need someone with a proven track record. I am dedicated to serving the interests of our community by providing for the fair and impartial administration of justice within our courts.
tice, I handled all kinds of cases including civil, probate matters, domestic relations cases, criminal cases and juvenile matters. I am the only candidate who has handled all of these cases as an attorney and a judicial officer.
Summerfield: My career has been dedicated to civil service and public safety. I have practiced civil and criminal law as a deputy prosecutor and as legal counsel for the sheriff’s office. I have helped lead initiatives improving Hamilton County’s criminal justice system and bring deep knowledge of the community and its courts.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Evans: I am committed to ensuring the continued fair, impartial and respectful treatment of all litigants that appear in my courtroom, providing for the efficient administration of justice by implementing measures aimed at reducing court backlogs and to preserving the safety and stability of the larger community.
Summerfield: I’m a lifelong public servant dedicated to Hamilton County. Professionally, my career has focused on public safety, supporting law enforcement and strengthening our justice system. Personally, I am a mom of two teenagers and a Christian who enjoys learning new skills. I promise to work hard for Hamilton County if elected.
HOW WILL YOU EFFICIENTLY MANAGE INCREASING CASELOADS WHILE ENSURING EVERY INDIVIDUAL RECEIVES A FAIR AND THOROUGH HEARING?
Evans: As a magistrate judge, I have a proven record of efficiently adjudicating cases while ensuring every individual is fairly heard. We have a high volume of cases in Hamilton County, and this is an objective I seek to achieve every day with every case that comes before me.
Summerfield: I’m running to continue serving Hamilton County with fairness and integrity. After more than 21 years in public safety and the justice system, I want to ensure cases — especially criminal cases — are handled with a focus on public safety and meaningful solutions that strengthen our community.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT?
Evans: My real-world experience and preparation for the job. In private prac-
Summerfield: My priorities are protecting public safety, creating an efficient and accessible court system and establishing a mental health problem-solving court to reduce strain on our courts, hospitals and public safety partners while delivering outcomes that make our community safer.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Evans: I have been a resident of Hamilton County for most of my life. I am dedicated to extending my best efforts on a daily basis to improve the community that shaped the person I am today, and in which I reside with my wife and am raising my three children.
Summerfield: Efficiency comes from preparation, strong courtroom management and respect for everyone’s time. I will use proven case-management practices to ensure cases are heard thoroughly while keeping the court moving. Justice must be fair and timely. As an elected official, I am here to serve the citizens of Hamilton County.
Summerfield: Voters can contact me through my campaign website, summerfieldforjudge.com, social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn), or by email at amy@summerfieldforjudge.com. I welcome conversations with residents across th county and encourage anyone with questions about the campaign or the courts to reach out.
Summerfield
eCommunity.com/cancer
Byron H., patient
High school journalist recognized
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville High School senior Lilah Cross, a member of the school’s student newspaper staff and broadcast news team, was recently named one of the top five student journalists in the state by the Indiana High School Press Association.
Cross is co-editor-inchief of the broadcast team and a staff writer for the school’s student paper, Mill Stream. She said she got involved later than most students.
“I didn’t join a staff at the school until my junior year, but I’ve been making videos and content online since I was really young,” Cross said. “I always knew I wanted to pursue some kind of media in high school.”
Cross said she went through an extensive process of applying for the honor.
“We go to the (IHSPA) conference every year, and they have a bunch of awards that our school enters,” Cross said. “I had to make my own website, include a personal narrative and then there are several different categories on the rubric like reporting and writing, design and broadcast. I had a page on my website for each one of basically everything I’ve ever done in journalism. I also had to include letters of recommendation and transcripts and resumes.”
Cross was pleasantly surprised to be recognized.
“I was definitely really happy,” Cross said. “I know a lot of people that enter these contests have been doing it their whole lives, so I’m really grateful that it worked out and that I got the award. It was a really cool experience.”
Joe Akers, who leads the NHS journalism program, said Cross is a key contributor.
“She’s a gifted writer, photographer and leader, and she’s a big reason for the success of our broadcast and newspaper staff the past two years,” Akers said.
After high school, Cross plans to major in multimedia journalism at Loyola University Chicago.
Prevail fashion show returns
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Prevail, a Noblesville-based nonprofit that advocates for victims of crime and abuse on their path to healing, will present its 2026 Spring Fashion Show beginning at 10 a.m. May 8 at Ritz Charles in Carmel.
“Spring represents renewal, resilience and hope, and this event is a wonderful reflection of that spirit,” said Tami Wanninger, executive director of Prevail. “I’m always inspired by the way our community comes together to support survivors.”
The event offers attendees an opportunity to browse and shop 10 local boutiques and enjoy a runway show featuring boutique items. Abby St. Amand, Prevail’s marketing and events specialist, said the organization has conducted the fundraiser for more than a decade.
“This is definitely one of Prevail’s signature fundraising events,” Amand said. “It’s a fun community event that brings people together for an afternoon of shopping and camaraderie but also surrounding Prevail’s mission — mak-
ing sure our attendees leave with a good understanding of what Prevail does in the community, that we’re here to help and that our services are available to all.”
An individual who benefited from Prevail’s services will share their survival story of strength and resilience at the event. The speaker’s focus word is “fearless,” so Prevail will sell apparel themed around the word. All proceeds benefit Prevail.
This year, Amand said the event will be themed around the organization’s 40th anniversary.
Tickets are $75. For more, visit qtego. us/l/prevailfashion/tickets.
KNB to enhance trailhead
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Keep Noblesville Beautiful, a nonprofit community improvement organization, has received a $1,500 grant from Hamilton County Tourism to support upgrades to the Midland Trace trailhead along the Midland Trace Trail.
The Midland Trace Trail runs east and west through Hamilton County, connecting Westfield and Noblesville. The trailhead along Hazel Dell Parkway has parking, seasonal bike rentals and public restrooms.
Ann Lemna, KNB’s part-time executive director, said the grant will help fund improvements to a stormwater swale that functions as a retention and filtration area for runoff. She said vegetation has become overgrown with invasive plants, and a controlled burn is planned this spring, followed by the installation of native pollinator plants.
“The upgraded garden will provide habitat for birds, butterflies and pollinators while also creating an educational experience for trail visitors,” Lemna
FOR
said. “A new bench will allow people to relax and enjoy the space and plant identification signage with QR codes will help visitors learn more about native plants and their importance to local ecosystems.”
KNB also wants to install a webcam that will livestream the garden during the spring, summer and fall seasons on the KNB website so visitors can observe pollinator activity in real time.
“People love seeing natural wildlife in action,” Lemna said. “The logistics of it still need to be worked out, but that’s something in the plans just to see how active the pollinator garden is and what kinds of things it is attracting.”
KNB works alongside the Noblesville Parks and Recreation Department to maintain the trailhead landscape. The organization’s volunteers have helped to care for the area by weeding, performing plant care and refreshing mulch.
Lemna said improvements are scheduled to be completed by this summer. For more, visit keepnoblesvillebeautiful.org.
Attendees shop at a previous Prevail Spring Fashion Show. (Photo courtesy of Prevail)
NYB eyes expansion
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville Youth Baseball, a nonprofit founded in 1998, wants to expand its facilities behind Hazel Dell Elementary School in Noblesville.
“We’re a very popular program,” NYB President Adrienne Colla said. “We have kids coming from Lebanon, Lapel (and) Indianapolis just because they want to play at NYP, which is great.”
NYB is exploring expansion possibilities. It has developed several conception design plans, including the addition of several new fields.
“The concept being explored includes additional baseball fields and supporting amenities that would enhance the overall experience for players and families,” Colla said. “Those amenities could include things like concessions, restrooms, storage and potentially a playground area. The exact number of fields and final layout will be determined as part of the due diligence and planning process.”
The Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees recently approved NYB
moving forward with exploring the feasibility of acquiring land and design options.
“From there, the process would include site analysis, preliminary design work and continuing coordination with Noblesville Schools before any construction plans are finalized,” Colla said.
A fundraising campaign is in the early stages of development. It could include sponsorships and partnerships with local businesses.
“As that work progresses, NYB will continue working with Noblesville Schools and will share updates with the community as plans develop,” Colla said. “Noblesville Youth Baseball has been part of this community for decades, and our goal is to continue creating opportunities for kids to play, learn the game and build friendships. This exploration phase is about making sure we can support the program’s growth while continuing our strong relationship with Noblesville Schools.”
NYB serves players ages 3 through sixth grade in its recreational program. For more, visit noblesvillebaseball. org.
COMMUNITY
Class of 2026 Hall of Fame honorees announced
news@currentnoblesville.com
Noblesville Schools announced the 2026 Hall of Fame honorees March 13 at the Noblesville Schools Education Foundation’s annual Miller-Palooza fundraiser.
The 2026 honorees are Chris Beaver, Sally Crow, Fred Farley and Bruce Hitchcock.
This is the second year for the district’s Hall of Fame program, a collaboration between the district and NSEF that celebrates people who have positively impacted the students, staff and overall success of Noblesville Schools. The district solicited Hall of Fame nominations from the community, and a selection committee chose the honorees.
The district will induct the honorees this fall at a new Hall of Fame Courtyard outside of the Noblesville Schools Community Center.
“We’re honored to recognize the significant contributions of these special individuals who have played an important role in strengthening our schools and the Noblesville community,” stated Dan Hile, superintendent of Noblesville Schools.
Beaver is a Noblesville High School graduate, Miller Ambassador, district sponsor and president of the Miller Backers athletic boosters.
“Chris Beaver represents a legacy of giving back to the Noblesville community that spans five generations,” Noblesville Schools Executive Director of Marketing and Communications Marnie Cooke stated. “An active donor with NSEF and leader of the Noblesville Masonic Lodge, he has been a tireless advocate for Noblesville students and staff.”
Cooke said Beaver is known for his hands-on dedication and can often be found running concession stands during events.
Crow taught language arts at Noblesville Schools for more than 30 years. Cooke said Crow has mentored fellow teachers, supported extracurriculars including Spell Bowl and led the NHS girls golf team to two state
championships.
“Already a member of the NHS Athletic Hall of Fame, (Crow’s) coaching led to NHS securing the first IHSAA championship in 1987 for any Noblesville girls team,” Cooke stated. “In retirement, Sally continues to be an active community leader, volunteering with Riverview Health for over 20 years and supporting many organizations and causes in the Noblesville community.”
Farley, who served the district for 34 years, has supported multiple schools as a facilities supervisor and also led the district’s transportation department. Cooke said he was known for his operational excellence and strong personal connections.
“A quiet leader, he transformed school maintenance into an opportunity for mentorship, famously engaging students with magic tricks, classroom reading and secret handshakes,” Cooke stated. “From hosting staff hayrides to his recent leadership award from the state of Indiana, Fred’s legacy is defined by his servant’s heart and a commitment to ensuring everyone in his school felt welcomed.”
Cooke said Hitchcock, who spent more than 40 years as an educator, challenged his students to think critically through social studies.
“Known for his high standards, written essay assignments and his ‘Devil’s Advocate’ approach to questioning, he fostered in his students a deep appreciation for American history,” Cooke stated.
Hitchcock also created the district’s Washington, D.C., study program.
“By leveraging his connections with government leaders, he provided unparalleled access to national landmarks and began the district’s D.C., trip tradition,” Cooke stated. “His enduring legacy lives on in the generations of engaged citizens he inspired through his passion and commitment to excellence.”
Nominations are open for future Hall of Fame inductees. For more, visit tinyurl.com/bzdparpz.
Beaver
Farley Crow
Hitchcock
MILLERS CELEBRATE RECORD-BREAKING GYMNASTICS SEASON
and
at the
state gymnastics meet March 14 at Ball State University. The team competed in the state meet for the first time since 2008, finishing ninth with 103.325 points. Homestead High School won with 112.125 points. Besides competing in the state meet, the Millers set a new school record team score this season of 106.55 at the March 6 Franklin Central Regional. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville High School Gymnastics)
Girls basketball coach resigns
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Donna Buckley views it as a privilege to have served as the Noblesville High School girls basketball coach for 18 years.
Buckley recently resigned with a record of 275-148, winning a Class 4A state championship in 2022 and reaching the semistate final in 2024. The Millers won four sectional titles under her leadership.
Buckley said she would like to coach again.
“I love being a teacher and a coach.” she said.
Leah Wooldridge, athletic director at Noblesville High School, said there is no timetable for hiring a new coach.
“It was an honor to work with hundreds of incredible student-athletes, parents, coaches, custodial staff and community members,” she stated. “I poured my heart and soul into Noblesville and am very proud of what we were able to achieve. While we were successful on the court, my greatest memories will always be the relationships that were built over the years. I will miss those the most.”
The Millers, who were slowed by injuries, finished 9-12 this season, their first losing campaign since 2018-19.
“I want to thank Coach Buckley for her dedication and commitment to Noblesville High School basketball over the past 18 years,” Woolridge stated. “During her tenure, she has developed countless student-athletes and helped lead our program to a state championship, along with many other accomplishments. We are grateful for the lasting impact she has made on our program and look forward to the continued positive influence she will have on students in her role as a health and wellness teacher at NHS.”
A 1993 Clinton Central High School graduate, Buckley coached at Fort Wayne South for one season and then coached at Greenfield-Central from 2001 to 2008. She has a combined record of 371-222 in 26 seasons.
From left, Noblesville High School gymnasts Vera Deichman, Hailey Nobbe, Valorey Bittles
Emmerson Leckrone
IHSAA
Buckley
Everwise Credit Union
Opens New Branch for Zionsville-Carmel Community
Everwise Credit Union is expanding to serve the ZionsvilleWest Carmel community with its fifth full-service branch in Hamilton County and its 19th branch in the greater Indianapolis region. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on April 21 at 10920 North Michigan Road.
The new branch reflects Everwise’s ongoing commitment to our members and community-focused service, offering convenient access for commuters and families traveling between neighborhoods, downtown Indianapolis and surrounding communities.
Situated along Michigan Road, the branch is intentionally placed to serve growing families, professionals and small businesses whose lives and work frequently cross city and county lines.
“As communities like Zionsville grow, the needs of the people who live and work there continue to evolve,” said Jay Gendics, Chief Banking Officer at Everwise Credit Union. “Having a presence here allows us to meet members where they are and support them with the financial services they rely on.”
Inside, members will find modern digital banking tools and a team focused on one-on-one financial guidance, helping members build long-term financial confidence, whether they are purchasing their first home, refinancing an auto loan or preparing for retirement.
In an era defined by digital banking, Everwise aims to be digitally convenient and humanly accessible.
“Banking has always been personal,” Gendics said. “Technology should make things easier, not replace genuine connection. Digitize the process, but never the relationship.”
Comfortable seating areas, private consultation rooms and integrated digital tools in the branch allow members to move seamlessly between technology and personal interaction. Members can stop in to ask questions, explore options or gain clarity about their next step with Everwise’s experienced professionals.
With a long history of supporting local schools, nonprofits and small businesses in local communities, Everwise is also looking forward to establishing stronger roots in Zionsville and West Carmel.
The organization invests more than $1 million annually into local initiatives including supporting lifelong learning through financial education and scholarships. Everwise’s annual “Day of Giving” mobilizes employees to support local non-profits through hands-on service.
Millers senior softball player ready for leadership role
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comi
Noblesville High School senior softball player Haley Schatko wants to end her prep career with a flourish.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for me to show my leadership as a senior,” Schatko said.
“I think everything that we’ve been working on in the offseason is going to prepare us for the level of competition that we’re going to be playing this season. I think the competition in Hamilton County is amazing, and we’re really going to get pushed as a team. The team with better chemistry and better overall training is going to come out on top, and I think we’ve really prepared ourselves for that.”
Millers coach Deke Bullard said Schatko is a positive influence.
“Haley is a great vocal leader who encourages her teammates in practices and games alike,” said Bullard, whose team opens the season March 25 at West-
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
MEET HALEY SCHATKO
Favorite TV shows: “The Bachelorette” and “Love Island”
Favorite musicians: Lana Del Rey and Billie Eilish
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite subject: Biomedical inovations
ern. “She pushes them to be better and keeps the mood light and fun. As a senior, Haley will have the responsibility to step up and lead from the senior-level position. We will be looking for her to foster and help her younger teammates succeed at the varsity level.”
Bullard said Schatko will play shortstop, third base and catcher.
Noblesville High School senior Haley Schatko batted .463 last season. (Photo courtesy of Julie Montgomery)
Schatko said her goal every season is to win a state championship.
“I think we have a lot to prove after losing in regionals,” she said. “I think we want to prove we can go further.”
Schatko batted .463 with 11 doubles, six home runs and 33 RBIs last season. She hit .292 with five doubles and one home run as a sophomore. She hit .333 in 14 games as a freshman.
“I just want to be the best athlete I can for our team,” she said. “I hope I have a good hitting season again and a good defensive season. Last season was definitely one of my best stretches of hitting.
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The (stretch was) amazing and that’s a big thanks to my hitting coach, Justin Glass. He’s an awesome instructor and I think I’ve learned a lot from him. He’s prepped (me) for more of the mental size of hitting and making adjustments.”
Schatko travels to Fort Wayne once or twice a week to work with Glass during the offseason.
“He transformed my swing so much,” she said. “It’s a lengthy drive, but it’s worth it.”
Schatko, who will play for Indiana University next season, was recruited as a catcher. She has been a catcher for her Indiana Magic Gold travel team.
As a junior, she caught only one game and played every other game at third. She played catcher nearly every game for the Millers as a sophomore before suffering a season-ending ankle injury in the first game in the sectional.
“That took me out until mid-July,” she said of the injury. “I think it taught me a lot and I learned a lot sitting to the side and watching my teammates grow.”
Schatko’s older sister, Bella, a 2023 NHS graduate, is a junior infielder for Earlham College’s softball team.
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Schatko
He loves a parade
Longtime volunteer key to 500 Festival’s annual event
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Al Wurster’s passion for the 500 Festival Parade began at an early age.
“When I was 8 or 9 years old, I went down to the parade to help my uncle sell programs,” he said. “The programs used to (feature) the floats, the history, that sort of thing. So, that was my first taste of being at the parade.”
The 63-year-old Zionsville resident became a volunteer with the seating committee in 1987.
“I worked my way up to chair of the parade and then moved on to the 500 Festival board for eight years,” he said. “I started with that role in the fall of 1999, with the first race being the 2000 (Indianapolis 500) race. My last race and time on the board was 2007, the year after I was chairman of the board in 2006.”
Wurster has remained involved with the parade, serving as track liaison coordinator. He also serves on the 500 Festival Foundation board.
“It’s a great community event,” Wurster said. “The biggest event the 500 Festival does is the Mini-Marathon, and the second one is the parade. I’m engaged in logistics and where to stage things. I don’t get to see a whole lot of the fans because the fan experience starts at North Street and Pennsylvania Street, where I am. I see the first section of the crowd. But to see the kids and the energy there is really cool.”
As track liaison, Wurster helps get the 33 Indy 500 drivers from the drivers’ meeting at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to the parade in Indianapolis.
“I coordinate the activities that happen at the track,” he said.
After getting the drivers there, Wurster said he parks his car and heads to the starting line of the parade to work with longtime volunteer Chris Rehme to make sure everything is in order.
“I’ll absolutely do it as long as they’ll have me, as long as I don’t screw up,” Wurster said of volunteering.
Laura Bliss, vice president of operations for the 500 Festival, said Wurster’s contributions are major.
“Al’s dedication to the 500 Festival has been unwavering for decades,” Bliss said. “From his time on our board of
Al Wurster is a longtime 500 Festival Parade volunteer. (Photo courtesy of Al Wurster) directors beginning in 1999 to his continued involvement on the Parade Committee today, he has remained deeply committed to the success and tradition of the parade. His passion for the 500 Festival and our community truly embodies the spirit of this event.”
Wurster has attended all but two Indy 500 races since 1987, and one of those was 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic that kept fans from attending. Prior to moving to Zionsville 2 1/2 years ago, Wurster lived in Noblesville. Wurster is a commercial general contractor for Wurster Construction, a family business based in Indianapolis.
“I’m third generation and my son (Max) is fourth generation,” he said. Max, a Westfield resident, has been a 500 Festival Parade volunteer since graduating from college. Wurster has two other children, daughter Madison and son Fritz, who are not involved in the business. His first wife, Sally, died of breast cancer in 2016. He started dating his second wife, Marsha, in 2019 before they married in 2022.
FOND MEMORY
One of the neat things Al Wurster experienced while serving on the 500 Festival board was taking celebrities around the track for a parade lap before the race.
“One year I had actor Patrick Dempsey around the track,” Wurster said. “I knew he was on a TV show, ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ but I didn’t know he went by the nickname ‘McDreamy.’
And as we were going around the track, everybody was yelling ‘McDreamy.’ He was just getting the biggest kick out of that. He was a great guy. There’s a lot of great people I’ve gotten to meet.”
COMMUNITY
FOR THE RECORD
Noblesville resident reflects on time as county historian
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
After nearly two decades as the Hamilton County historian, Noblesville resident David Heighway has stepped away from the volunteer position.
Heighway, 65, began the role in 2007. A Boone County native, he has lived in Hamilton County since 1993. He succeeded Joe Burgess, who had been in the role since 1981.
As a public historian, Heighway said he has spent the last 20 years as a resource for residents by promoting local history.
“I did a lot with programming — talking to schools or talking to people in the Kiwanis (International),” Heighway said. “Just getting the information out there so people could then say, “Oh, this is really unique, and we want to be able to lean into this.’ When I moved in, there were a lot of people who were interested in history, but they didn’t know what they had. I’ve been finding bits of history and bringing them up and kind of saying, ‘Look.’”
Heighway said the public has shown a growing interest in local history, especially during development and construction projects.
“For example, Noblesville is very concerned about staying as authentic as they can,” Heighway said. “(The city has) made it clear to me that they love the idea of preserving bits of what they find in the (Embrace Downtown) excavation that’s going on. People are much more into it.”
Heighway, a history education coordinator at Hamilton East Public Library, said he is pleased with his accomplishments, including finding lost stories and authoring a book, “Hidden History of Hamilton County.” Although he has uncovered several stories, he believes he will be most known for discovering a story about a squirrel stampede in the county in 1822.
“There’s an old county history book from 1901, and there’s just a paragraph in there where a guy talks about this great mob of squirrels running across the county obliterating corn fields and
swimming across the river,” Heighway said. “The first time I read that, I just thought, ‘You have got to be kidding me.’ Turns out, modern historians and biologists have looked at it, and it actually happened. I gave it the name The Great Squirrel Stampede, and needless to say, that has followed me for the last 30 years. So, that is what I will be famous for, whether I like it or not.”
Jessica Layman assumed the role of Hamilton County historian Jan. 1. Heighway, who is now the Hamilton County historian emeritus, said his primary focus moving forward is writing.
“One of my problems is that a lot of
what I know about the history of the county is in my brain,” Heighway said.
“That’s one of the reasons why I’m leaning into writing right now, trying to get a lot of information, get files organized and hand them off to Jessica. So, if somebody wants to talk to her about railroads in the county or Native American history, she’s not working from scratch. She’s been getting organized and setting a high standard.”
Heighway said he will miss the position and teaching students about local history.
“It was fun. It was unique. I enjoy talking to the school kids,” Heighway
said. “It’s kind of wild to have someone come back now and they’ve got kids of their own. The role was all about the ability to talk to folks and get them interested in the local history. It hasn’t always been like that. I’m hoping we’ll see a lot more of that in the future.”
DISTRICT DECLARATION
Indiana State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler (R-Noblesville) recently presented Hamilton County historian emeritus David Heighway with a House District 29 Declaration to recognize his service and leadership in the community.
Shonkwiler said Heighway promoted scholarship, storytelling and civic engagement that strengthened the culture and fabric of the county.
“There is no one who understands and appreciates the history of Hamilton County more than David Heighway,” Shonkwiler said. “For nearly two decades, David has helped our community connect with the stories that shaped who we are today. While he is retiring from his role as county historian, we are grateful that his passion for preserving our local history will continue through his work with the Hamilton East Public Library and the Hamilton County Historical Society.”
A House District Declaration is a local award presented to constituents in House District 29 who serve their community with high distinction and positively impact the lives of others. Heighway said the honor was unexpected.
“I was shocked, surprised and very honored,” Heighway said. “In the past, as we’ve changed over from one county historian to another, it’s not been particularly a big deal. This kind of celebration — I’m completely gobsmacked. I’m very pleased, but it was still a surprise.”
David Heighway with his House District 29 Declaration from State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler (R-Noblesville). (Photo courtesy of Hamilton East Public Library)
ON THE COVER: Noblesville resident David Heighway now serves as the Hamilton County historian emeritus. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Café provides jobs for individuals with disabilities
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
As construction continues in Noblesville’s downtown square, the Capabilities Café in the basement of the Hamilton County Judicial Center continues to find ways to attract customers.
The cafe, operated by Janus Developmental Services in Noblesville, is a vocational training site for individuals with intellectual disabilities that offers paid work experience.
“Over the past two or three years, we’ve really changed it up to where we have four different participants that we support every day here,” Janus Director of Career and Community Support Brennan Greer said. “It’s an opportunity for them to get paid while learning teamwork, how to work a cash register, cleaning skills and food prep. The ultimate goal would be for them to graduate out of here and get a job out in the community.”
The cafe, open from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, offers several lunch specials like soup and baked potatoes and some breakfast options like coffee and bagels.
Christy B., who works in the cafe, said the opportunity has taught her teamwork and cleaning skills that helped her obtain a second job.
“I worked here for about two years, and then I got a job at a hotel,” she said. “So, now I (do both). I’m learning about the cash register and getting more comfortable. I’ve (gained) a lot of experience, and I like the people I work with.”
For more, visit janus-inc.org/ capabilities-cafe.
Braun, CIRDA announce investment in life sciences
news@youarecurrent.com
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, Secretary of Commerce David Adams and Central Indiana Regional Development Authority leaders have announced an investment of $1 billion in tax credits for the life science industry, in hopes of creating an anticipated 100,000 new jobs over the next decade.
As part of the March 17 announcement, Braun designated CIRDA as the regional steward to coordinate alignment and execution of the initiative.
search infrastructure, innovation and commercialization capacity, advanced manufacturing expertise and central location drive central Indiana’s growth and investment in life sciences.”
“Anchored by global companies and supported by world-class institutions like Indiana University and Purdue University, central Indiana is a leading hub for life sciences,” the announcement stated. “The region’s robust re-
Jennifer Messer, executive director of Central Indiana Regional Development Authority, said the investment will allow CIRDA to continue to build out the region’s life sciences ecosystem and enable all communities to grow jobs and wages.
This spring, CIRDA will complete its Catalyze Planning Process, a strategic plan to expand the region’s life sciences ecosystem and accelerate innovation already underway, according to the announcement.
For more, visit centralindianarda. org/life-sciences.
Braun
From left, Capabilities Café staff members Heather N., Christy B., Donna M. and Chelsea C. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
BFF Indy to offer walks
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
BFF Indy, a community for women in the Indianapolis area who are looking for friendships, has announced it will hold weekly walks along the White River Greenway in Noblesville beginning in April.
Noblesville resident FrancesMary Loughead, founder of BFF Indy, said walks also are held in Fishers, Carmel, downtown Indianapolis, Broad Ripple, Greenwood, Brownsburg, Bloomington and Lafayette.
“We kept seeing women in the community ask if anyone wanted to go for a walk on our Facebook page, so we turned that into something consistent,” Loughead said. “The goal was to create a standing weekly plan people could count on, where they know if they show up, there will be others there to walk with.”
The walks will take place from 6:30
to 7:30 p.m. every Monday from April through October. In Noblesville, participants will meet at the Forest Park trailhead.
“We do our best not to cancel because of the weather,” Loughead said. “If it’s unsafe, we’ll share a nearby indoor option so people can still come and connect.”
Loughead said the main goal is to help women make friends. BFF Indy also hosts a run club that meets on the first and last Saturday of each month in Broad Ripple, and the organization also partners with local fitness businesses to offer various classes throughout the year.
“The walks are a simple, approachable way to meet new people while getting outside,” Loughead said. “We host a variety of events each month and we’re continuing to host more opportunities focused on staying active in an affordable and accessible way.”
For more, visit bffindianapolis.com.
Have a good night’s sleep
Commentary by Farah Myers
Sleep is one of our most basic human needs — so why does it slip away from us just when we need it most? Many factors can disrupt sleep, but small, consistent habits can make a real difference. Here are practical lifestyle sleep hygiene tips to help you get back on track.
TROUBLE FALLING ASLEEP?
The biggest barrier I see is screens in the bedroom. Your bedroom should be for sleep and intimacy only. When phones or tablets are nearby, your brain stays on alert for notifications and late-night scrolling becomes too tempting. Removing screens helps your mind associate your bedroom with rest — not work, news, or social media. Try putting all screens away at least an hour before bedtime. Use that time to create a calming wind-down routine so your body has space to relax and get sleepy.
TROUBLE STAYING ASLEEP?
If you wake in the night and can’t fall back asleep within about 15 minutes, get out of bed. Go to another room and choose a quiet, nonstimulating, screen-free activity in dim lighting.
When you feel drowsy again, return to bed and keep lights off.
This technique may take time, but the goal is to retrain your brain to associate your bed with comfort and sleepiness. With consistency, falling back to sleep becomes easier.
A SOLID SLEEPER — BUT STILL TIRED?
A common pattern I see is sleeping in on weekends. These shifts create “social jet lag,” like forcing your body to jump time zones every Saturday and Sunday. No wonder it feels draining. Try to keep your bed and wake times within about an hour of your usual schedule each day. Staying aligned with your natural circadian rhythm often improves daytime energy.
STILL STRUGGLING?
If restful sleep remains out of reach, there may be an underlying cause such as sleep apnea, restless legs or even a micronutrient imbalance. Be sure to reach out to your PCP for a full evaluation.
Farah Myers is a double board-certified nurse practitioner at Cool Creek Family Health. Call or text 317-6639932 for more.
Illusionist brings ‘Mansion’ to Carmel
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
There is one constant during a performance by illusionist Rick
Thomas
“My show is centered around my ‘Mansion of Dreams,’” he said. “I wanted to create an evening where I invite the audience into my home or mansion and take them from room to room throughout my ‘Mansion of Dreams’ and show them how my dreams become a reality. I do the same in reverse by sharing with the audience how they can follow their dreams as well. The theme of the show is ‘Nothing happens until you dream.’”
Thomas will perform at 8 p.m. April 4 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Thomas has received the highest recognition in the industry, the Illusionist of the World, presented by the World Magic Awards.
“I’m not a guy up there doing tricks,” Thomas said. “This goes far beyond magic and it’s a relationship that audiences will never forget.”
Thomas, who has won Entertainer of the Year and Show of the Year awards in Branson, Mo., has been a professional illusionist for 45 years.
“I was in Las Vegas for 20 straight years, and I had the most successful show for families in the history of Las Vegas,” he said. “I received a key to the City of Las Vegas.”
About 13 years ago, singer Andy Williams died and Thomas was asked to take over the 2,000-seat Moon River Theatre in Branson. Thomas now performs in the 700-seat Americana Theatre in Branson.
“I decided to go out there for one year and help them out,” he said. “Now, it’s our 12th year anniversary and I call Branson home. I know why Andy Williams called it home. He left Hollywood and never returned. It’s a beautiful part of the country. It gives me a chance to raise my family as I so desire and I get to tour the world be-
cause Branson is closed about three or four months a year.”
Thomas said he recently performed in England and Florida.
Thomas was the magician for Disneyland Hotel for two years when he began his career.
While in Las Vegas residencies at different casinos, he performed two shows a night for six nights for about 50 weeks a year.
“I (perform) about one month a year now in Las Vegas just to keep my name in Vegas,” he said. “But what’s funny about Las Vegas is, the longer you are there, the less of the world knows who you are. There are entertainers in Vegas who have been there for ages and outside of the Vegas community, if you’re not out there touring and traveling beyond Vegas, you al-
most disappear.”
Thomas has conducted five world tours in more than 50 nations.
“I know I did the Ohio State Fair and the Indiana State Fair when I was younger,” he said. “So, I did a lot of fairs in the industry before I started doing the big theaters. I had a lot of fun doing the fairs, and presenting a show in that atmosphere taught me a lot about how to handle crowds that weren’t particularly there to see your show.”
Thomas said the Palladium size of 1,600 seats is perfect for his show. He said he usually visits the venue the night before the show and discusses with cast and crew the setup for the next day.
For more, visit rickthomas.com and thecenterpresents.org.
‘PRETTY WOMAN’
“Pretty Woman” runs through April 4 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Now That’s Funny: Joey Villagomez” March 26, followed by Morgan James March 27-28 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘SCARLET LETTER’
Civic Theatre’s production of “The Scarlet Letter” runs through March 28 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘THE DROWNING GIRLS’
Main Street Productions’ presentation of “The Drowning Girls” runs through March 29 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
‘AND
THEN THERE WERE NONE’
The Carmel Apprentice Theatre will present Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None” March 27 to April 4 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
THREE ITALIAN TENORS
“Direct from Rome: Three Italian Tenors” is 7 p.m. March 29 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Connick set for Carmel concert — Grammy and Emmy Award-winning singer, composer and actor Harry Connick Jr. and his band are set to perform at 7:30 p.m. July 20 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center. Tickets are on sale at TheCenterPresents.org.
Illusionist Rick Thomas will perform April 4 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Rick Thomas)
GHDT reprises ‘Exodus’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre returns to what Executive Director Gregory Hancock calls perhaps one of his alltime favorite pieces that he created.
“Exodus” is set for 7 p.m. March 27 and 5 p.m. March 28 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
This is the third time “Exodus” has been performed. The last time was in spring 2022.
“It is also an important piece, and more relevant than ever with our world in so much chaos,” Hancock said. “It is a cautionary tale about not learning lessons from the past, but it is also filled with hope, strength and freedom. When I created ‘Exodus,’ the most important moment was when the mother sets her child adrift on the river and sacrifices her happiness so her child could be saved and have a better life. The piece is driven by this sacrifice for love.”
Hancock said his adaptation was inspired by the Book of Exodus in the Old Testament, but the setting is the modern world.
“It includes the contemporary plagues of desecration of the Earth, gun violence, racism, war, poverty, crime, social media, government, selfishness and death of the firstborn,” he said. “Some of the plagues are difficult to watch and perform due to the content, but art is intended to challenge at times. The Moses character is named The Chosen and is represented as female. This was a choice I made due to the sacrifice of her mother and my personal experience of having a strong, independent, powerful mother who sacrificed for me. While there are many hardships
represented in ‘Exodus,’ it is ultimately a story of love and sacrifice of a mother and the resilience of the human spirit and its capacity to find beauty and hope amid sorrow and despair.”
Hancock said the production contains powerful and athletic choreography.
“Images of the river, the Burning Bush and the voice of God are all represented through humans, which makes for incredible visuals through the fulllength piece,” Hancock said. “If audiences have not experienced a GHDT performance, ‘Exodus’ is a perfect entry being a full-length story piece driven by an epic story, powerful imagery, stunning music, dramatic lighting and costuming and tour-de-force performances from dancers. Presented a week prior to Passover, ‘Exodus’ reminds us to remember and learn from our past.”
“Exodus” features eight company dancers, 20 additional dancers from throughout Indiana and seven young dancers. Company dancer Olivia Payton will reprise her role as The Chosen, and company dancer Thomas Mason will reprise his role as The Oppressor.
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
Olivia Payton returns in the role of The Chosen in Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s production of “Exodus.” (Photo courtesy of Lydia Moody)
ENTERTAINMENT
British singer Harriet to perform
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
British singer Harriet’s first U.S. tour has been a success with several sold-out shows.
What she has enjoyed most has been finally being able to connect with her U.S. fans in person.
“So many people out here have supported me for years, so to be able to perform music for them live after so long is so exciting,” said Harriet Roberts, who performs under her first name. “I have also been loving traveling to all these new places. Everyone has been so welcoming and happy to have us, which makes all the difference. It’s going to take forever for us to cover the whole country, so I’m hoping to be back here as much as I can. We have a lot of ground to cover.”
Harriet will perform at 7 p.m. April 22 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield.
“It will be the last date on this run, which is always extra special,” she said. “The audience can expect a few of my original songs. We’ve carefully chosen the ones we think will resonate the best with fans who love all this music from the ‘70s. I can’t wait for everyone to ‘get the feeling again.’”
Harriet said social media has been vital for gaining exposure in the U.S.
“These platforms have helped me to understand where my fans are in the world and communicate with them through all this music that we have a mutual love for,” she said. “I love receiving comments and messages about what people’s favorite songs are, where they want me to come and visit on the road. It’s awesome.”
Harriet said the reaction to her album “Trying to Get the Feeling Again” has been wonderful. It includes covers such as “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King, “Mandy” by Barry Manilow, “Make it With You” by Bread and “Yesterday Once More” by The Carpenters. For more, visit hendrickslive.com and harrietsings.com.
Harriet
Amateur advice cramps my style
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
I have leg cramps. I know the last thing you want to hear about is the medical problems of some two-bit humorist.
Sometimes, my calf cramps into a knot at night and the pain becomes unbearable. My hands also cramp, along with my fingers. Sometimes, it’s my thigh. Keep reading this column; it’s about to get funnier. I promise.
I was tempted to go online for advice. AI also seemed like a good option, assuming that AI stood for arthritis information.
By pure chance, I was downtown the other day to see my accountant about taxes. While in the elevator, I saw an old friend.
“Hey, Dick, how ya doin’?” he said.
“Joel, I don’t like to complain, but at night I get these terrible …”
“Don’t tell me ... leg cramps. Me, too. Here’s what I recommend: Take vitamin E three times a day. It’s like a miracle.”
I’ve never trusted the internet for health information, but I am always eager to take advice in an elevator. To be certain, I called my doctor to ask for his opinion. He told me that vitamin E was not good for me because of an interaction with another medication I am taking for my cholesterol. Then he asked me exactly where I had gotten this faulty data. I told him the 14th floor of OneAmerica Tower.
“That’s a really stupid place to get medical advice,” he said. “You couldn’t wait another minute to get to Skyline Club? At least you’d have a good dinner before a bad night’s sleep.”
I went back to see my accountant later that week with some more forms. On the same elevator, I bumped into another old buddy.
“Hey, Dick, word is out you are having leg cramps.”
“Wow, word sure travels up and down fast in this building. Well, what do you think? I’m always open to a second-floor opinion.”
“My dad had leg cramps, then he started drinking a gin and tonic every night before he went to bed, and he never had cramps again.”
“What did the trick? The gin or the tonic?”
“Who cares? It worked.”
Over the course of a month, I asked several friends for recommendations. Suggestions were zinc, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin D, quinine, biofeedback, cherry extract, folic acid, potassium, pomegranate juice, turmeric and, of course, Tylenol (author’s note: Don’t send me any more suggestions. I have no room in my medicine cabinet). It seems my legs tend to cramp after vigorous exercise. I’m not a doctor, but I am prescribing myself a complete lack of physical activity for the next six months. And a shot of gin before going to bed. I’d take it with tonic water, but I don’t believe everything I hear in elevators.
What worked? Wait till next week to hear about it.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent. com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
16. Fishers N-S Road
17. ___ State Park (featuring water under the bridge)
19. Bad blood
20. Non-Rx
21. Herb that tastes like licorice
23. Wagering option, briefly
26. Secretary of State Rubio
30. Plow guy
31. ___ fatale
33. Zionsville Farmers’ Market corn unit
34. Smart-alecky
35. Arctic floater
36. Two-thirds of AOL
38. ___ State Park (featuring a big drop of water)
42. “Enough!”
43. Rapper on “Law & Order: SVU”
46. Group of plotters
50. IU conference foe
51. Delight
52. Connect
53. Front-wheel alignment
55. Nutritional fig.
56. Capital of Colombia
58. Point to pick
60. Tehran’s land
61. ___ State Park (featuring a water source not found in a waterbed mattress)
68. Stick with it!
69. Attention getter
70. Untidy
71. Boilermakers’ list of games, for short
72. Stately splendor
73. Battery terminal Down
1. Texter’s “incidentally”
2. ___ and aah
3. Lanka lead-in
4. Palindromic boy’s name
5. “Let’s get together”
6. Tuna type
7. AFC South, e.g.
8. Squeeze (out)
9. Soft ball brand
10. Eye part
11. Some skirts
12. Indiana State Prison long-term residents
13. Like a varied “crew”
18. Hoosier Dome sponsor, for awhile
22. Ford flop
23. Switch position
24. Business card abbr.
25. BSU hotshot
27. Lease
28. Caribbean music
29. Hole in the head?
32. Pacers Hall of Famer Daniels
36. Frequently, in verse
37. ___ King Cole
39. Part of an archipelago
40. Abner’s adjective
41. Evidence of an old wound
44. IND gate info
45. Mad Hatter’s drink
46. Ark measures
47. Winter coat
48. Galoot
49. Made amends
51. Puzzling situation
54. Brown County lodge
57. Letters of urgency
59. IRS employees
62. Chao Vietnamese Street Food soup
63. Sleep acronym
64. Little devil
65. Monument Circle music grp.
66. ‘60s psychedelic
67. Alkaline cleaner
Answers on Page 23
WE DO INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING ESTIMATES
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OUR STEAKHOUSE IN YOUR BACKYARD
SEASONING STRAIGHT FROM THE ST. ELMO STEAK HOUSE KITCHEN. JUST ADD A GRILL.
