FUELING THE BOOM
Council advances police HQ plan Page 7
School district may extend operating referendum Page 3
Page 4
County prohibits reckless driving exhibitions Page 12
Second Goddard School set to open Page 18
Janillia J., patient
COMMUNITY
City council advances police HQ plan
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Noblesville Common Council has taken the first steps to finance a new police headquarters at 1700 Division St. in Noblesville.
At the May 12 council meeting, Noblesville Deputy Mayor Matt Light said the $50 million project has been in the works for years. Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen announced in 2024 that the new headquarters is a top priority in the city’s 10-year Capital Improvement Plan.
The headquarters will be in a nearly 59,000-square-foot two-story building. It will be 230 percent larger than the department’s existing facility.
“We planned the utilities and building adjacencies to accommodate expansion in the future,” Light said. “Based on current staff and growth projections, that expansion won’t be needed for at least 15 years. We’ve also designed and planned for an outbuilding that we think will be feasible from a financial perspective, within five to seven years and potentially sooner, depending on some other factors.”
The outbuilding is expected to house a vehicle processing bay, a canine kennel, a training simulator and a training room.
The council approved two resolutions to advance financing for the project. The first resolution authorized the city to collect taxpayer signatures, which demonstrates a public need for the new building, and to obtain an appraisal for the property.
The second resolution addressed reimbursement of project costs.
“Design, survey, construction preparation, legal and site mobilization expenses are being paid out of the police
department’s operational budget until the city closes on long-term financing for the project, which is anticipated to occur in (quarter 3) of this year,” Light said. “A reimbursement resolution allows for a portion of the bond proceeds received at closing to be placed back into the general fund and appropriated to cover police operational expenses for the remainder of the year.”
Fraternal Order of Police Local 198 endorsed the recommended location for the police headquarters in 2024 after the city and its partners performed a site comparison analysis. The project team recently presented an update to the FOP on the design, budget, building and site plan to ensure ongoing alignment of goals and priorities.
“We’ve been working all through 2025 and the early parts of 2026 on design work for the site, and (NPD) Assistant Chief (Eric) Cunningham has played a vital role in that work,” Light said.
Light said initial work has involved working with NPD to identify needs, pressure points and what improvements
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are needed to help them do their job more efficiently, as well as looking at growth projections and site conditions.
Cunningham said NPD is pleased with the trajectory of the project and believes it leaves room for flexibility as the city continues to grow.
“There are some open office spaces, and with us having 24/7 operations, not all of those seats are going to be filled 24 hours a day,” Cunningham said. “I think the square footage and the spaces that are contemplated within this design give us some flexibility going into the future. The planned outbuilding with some extra square footage will ensure this building continues to serve us well beyond the 15 to 20 year mark.”
With the resolutions approved, Light anticipates a preliminary lease approval will be discussed at the May 26 council meeting at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 16. S. 10th St. A groundbreaking is anticipated to take place in September or October, and construction is estimated to take 18 to 24 months.
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Conceptual rendering of the future NPD headquarters. (Rendering courtesy of the City of Noblesville)
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees has taken the first steps toward extending its operating referendum.
At the May 19 Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees meeting, the board approved a resolution granting Noblesville Schools Chief Financial Officer David Hortemiller and Noblesville Schools Superintendent Dan Hile permission to begin discussions with the county auditor about paperwork required to place the referendum on the Nov. 3 ballot. It does not guarantee a referendum will occur.
gradual rate increase so as not to overly burden our taxpayers but also make sure we’re taking care of the needs of the district and maintaining financial stability moving forward,” Hile said.
Hile said the proposed gradual rate increase to counteract state policy changes would cost the median Noblesville taxpayer an average of “just under $2.50 a month” year over year.
Hile explained that the primary catalyst for the district’s revenue drop is a decline in student enrollment, which fell by more than 200 students this year. He also pointed to other factors impacting school funding, such as rising home prices and a national dip in birth rates.
The board will vote June 9 on whether to place a referendum on the ballot.
District officials reported earlier this year a multimillion dollar budget deficit for 2026, as well as concerns about the district’s expiring referendum, which provides approximately $25 million annually for staff and operating expenses. The district has had referendums in place to cover operations for the last 16 years.
As the district looks ahead, it is eyeing how 2025 property tax reforms will alter future referendum plans. The district partnered with a data firm to map out projections for the referendum fund, which differs from other funds because it includes revenue from properties within tax increment financing districts.
“We’re currently looking at what it would look like to have a maximum (tax) rate of 57 cents instead of 37 cents with a
In addition, Indiana’s state funding formula for education places Noblesville at a financial disadvantage, as schools in affluent areas receive less dollars per pupil. For instance, in 2025, the state provided an average of $7,490 per student to each school district’s education fund, but Noblesville only received $7,184. There was a gap in the operations fund, as well.
Financial changes have already resulted in a two-phase staffing reduction, which will lead to more than $4 million in savings across salaries and benefits. The administration has rolled out several cost-reduction strategies while aiming to protect the core student experience.
View Hile’s presentation at youtu. be/ZC8X4mTMd_E. For more, visit bit. ly/4uuhzdC.
Hile
JUNE EVENTS
GOLF OUTING
The Deb Castino Memorial Golf Outing benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville is June 4 at Pebble Brook Golf Course, 3110 Westfield Rd. Participants will compete in games and contests. Check in is at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. For more, visit pci.jotform. com/form/260993583416063.
LIONS CLUB MEALS
The Noblesville Lions Club will present its annual Pork Chop Dinner from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 5 and Pancake Breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m. June 6 on the downtown Noblesville square. This year, the Lions have added an optional chicken breast to the menu. Funds raised from ticket sales will support local kids and eyesight causes. Advance tickets are available from any Noblesville Lions Club member.
SPOONER SUMMER MARKET
Spooner Market’s Summer Market is set for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 14. The event will bring together more than 75 local vendors, food trucks, live music and ways to give back. Nonperishable food donations will be accepted for the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, and all donors will be entered to win a Lowe’s gift card. Admission is $5. Children 12 and younger are admitted free. For more, visit spoonermarkets.com.
HELPINGS LIVES BLOOM
Janus Developmental Services will host its sixth annual Helping Lives Bloom fundraiser from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 18 at Mustard Seed Gardens in Noblesville. The event will feature a wine pull, silent auction and first-hand accounts of how Janus has helped its participants. For tickets and sponsorship information, visit janus-inc.org.
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church will present its annual Strawberry Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 20 in downtown Noblesville. The event will feature strawberry shortcakes with ice cream and whipped topping. The festival is in conjunction with Noblesville Creates’ HATCH Fest, which will showcase the works of local artisans and makers. For more, visit stmichaelsepiscopalchurch. org/strawberry-festival or noblesvillecreates.org/hatchfest.
INDIANA PEONY FESTIVAL DRAWS CROWDS DESPITE RESCHEDULING
Meridian Audiology LLC is a private Audiology practice, founded by Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S. in 2021 after working together as Audiologists in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
Kira and Ali are available to evaluate your hearing and walk through your many options if you are a hearing aid candidate. They will spend the time explaining the differences in hearing aids, the best options for the hearing concerns you have, and will even have their billing company call to verify if you have a benefit or discount plan for hearing aids through your insurance. We believe we can make the difference in you feeling comfortable and confident with your individual hearing loss action plan.
Important Note: If you experience a sudden loss of hearing in one ear in conjunction with a significant distortion of sound, get to an Audiologist or ENT asap. Treatment within 24-72 hours significantly increases your chances of fully recovering your hearing.
Y Your hearing is more important than you may realize: Research is consistently showing us that hearing loss is related to diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, autoimmune diseases and arthritis…and untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, loneliness, anxiety, falls and a quicker rate of cognitive decline in those predisposed to dementia. Hearing loss is an easily treated piece of your total health puzzle. Let us help you find your solution!
Meridian Audiology is proud to host our next Hearing Aids and then some program 6/11/26 from 1:30-3pm in the conference room next to our office Cost is $45 for 2 people to attend, and we encourage the hearing aid user to bring their communication partner with them to the class! We will talk about how hearing aids are only one piece of the communication puzzle and help you find solutions and talk through challenges you have with your current situations. Please RSVP by calling 317-731-5386 or email info@meridianaudiology.com.
Meridian Audiology is located in Nora and is open 9am-4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only. We accept most major insurances, offer convenient scheduling via phone or email and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals.
Thousands of residents and vistors filled Seminary Park in Noblesville May 17 for the Indiana Peony Festival. The event was postponed one day because of inclement weather May 16. The festival aims to enhance the area through peony beautification projects and promote Hamilton County as a visitor destination when peonies are in bloom and Indianapolis 500 festivities are in full swing. The event included vendor booths and food offerings, among other attractions.
VonBlon
Wyss
(Advertorial)
Attendees explore vendor booths. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Although the festival was delayed because of weather, many people visited the site May 16 under umbrellas and raincoats. (Photo by Kelly Sullivan)
Artist That Painter Chikk paints a peony mural at the Indiana Peony Festival. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Grace Krueger decorated the Seminary Park sign. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
An attendee builds a flower bouquet at the festival. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
COMMUNITY
Network adds local podcast
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
HamCo Live, a Noblesville-based music and entertainment platform focused on Hamilton County musicians, venues and events, was recently added to Nate Spangle’s Get IN. Podcast Network.
Spangle’s podcast, “Get IN.,” was created to promote Indiana’s communities by highlighting Hoosier gems, businesses and personalities. He has since created a network of Indiana-focused podcasters.
create that content for our followers and help promote the music scene that’s growing in Hamilton County.”
The HamCo Live platform was created in 2024. Cecil said when he first started, there were about 50 bands and singers performing regularly at bars and venues around the county. He said more than 200 names now pop up routinely.
The weekly HamCo Live podcast, HamCo Live Hot Ticket Podcast, created by Noblesville-resident Josh Cecil, spotlights local musicians, weekend show previews, comedy, trivia and conversations about what’s happening around Hamilton County.
“Our hope with the network is to expand our reach,” Cecil said. “Nate’s media platform provides a much broader audience. He’s kind of a genius in terms of content creation, so I’m hoping to learn from him and his team about creating high-quality content so we can
“It’s grown a lot, and a lot of that is because of a willingness from venues to do live music,” Cecil said. “I think there’s a hunger for live music from consumers. I work part-time at Bier Brewery in Noblesville, and we have several calls asking about live music. I think there’s almost an expectation in Hamilton County for a lot of these bars to have live music.”
In addition to Get IN. and the HamCo Live Hot Ticket Podcast, the network also features a podcast called “IN the Parks” about the history, best trails, hidden gems and latest events at Indiana’s parks.
For more, visit getindiana.com/ podcast.
Hamilton County prohibits reckless driving exhibitions
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Commissioners approved an ordinance May 11 that prohibits reckless driving exhibitions.
According to Hamilton County Director of Administration Mike Hubbs, the ordinance aims to protect citizens from unsafe traffic conditions and public safety risks caused by certain reckless driving maneuvers on public and private properties in the county.
Hubbs said there has been a recent increase in “burnout parties,” where groups of people gather to perform street activities like “burnouts, doughnuts, drifting and wheelies” in their vehicles.
Hubbs said although these parties happen in various Indiana counties, it is a newer occurrence in Hamilton County.
“We’ve had increased problems that have come to the attention of the com-
missioners, and frankly, law enforcement officials in the county,” Hubbs said. “The ordinance is just another step to protect the citizens and have legislation on file at the county level for enforcement.”
Hubbs said it has been a major issue in the northern part of the county, as well as on Ind. 37 and I-69. He said the county’s ordinance is similar to one passed by the City of Carmel in 2024.
The ordinance sets a $500 fine for a first offense and $2,500 for subsequent offenses, with the possibility of having the vehicle impounded.
“(Violators would be) issued a citation for violation of a county ordinance, and then that person has the right to appeal to the county court,” Hubbs said. “The judge will have a hearing, and then issue his or her rendering based on the evidence presented.”
The ordinance will go into effect June 10.
Cecil
Mt. Vernon junior has impact in first HS baseball season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mt. Vernon High School junior Parker Althoff is getting his first taste of high school baseball and he loves it.
Althoff was homeschooled until this year.
Mt. Vernon coach Brad King said Althoff has been a nice addition to the program.
“Parker came in during fall workouts and immediately made an impression on our coaching staff,” King said. “He was present at each workout, brought the same work ethic each day and is receptive to coaching. Parker is athletic, versatile and brings a skill set not a lot of high school players have. Parker has played middle infield, outfield and is now in our pitching rotation. Offensively, he has hit throughout the lineup and been consistent at the plate and runs the bases very well.”
Through May 16, Althoff had a .279 batting average with three doubles and one home run. The right-hander
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has a 1-0 record with a 3.36 earned run average.
He will play for the Central Indiana Arabians during the travel season. He previously played for USA Prime.
“I’ve always kind of wanted to play high school baseball and go to high school, but it hasn’t always been the best decision in my parents’ eyes, so we decided to start off with home school.
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Then over the years, I slowly convinced them to let me go to high school, and a big part of that was the high school baseball program and how that would help set me up for the future.”
Althoff said the goal is to be a pitcher in college.
“At the start of the year, it was a little bit more pressure starting off for the high school team because it was my first time seeing that level of competition, because I’ve been homeschooled since middle school,” he said.
Althoff, who mostly plays second base when not pitching, said there was some added pressure, as he wanted to start varsity and the coaches didn’t know him well. He had known a few teammates from travel baseball.
“I’d say I’ve made the most improvement on the mound, honestly,” he said. His favorite pitch is curveball, and his fastball has been clocked at 87 mph. At 5-foot-10 and 160 pounds, he is hoping to get bigger and stronger. Baseball is the only sport he has ever played.
“My dad played baseball and my mother played softball in high school,” Althoff said.
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Mt. Vernon High School junior Parker Althoff is playing his first season of high school baseball. (Photo courtesy of Parker Althoff)
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Forgey seeking reelection to Noblesville school board
news@currentnoblesville.com
Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees member Joe Forgey will seek reelection for a third term in the November school board race.
A pediatric dentist, Forgey was elected to the board in 2018. His second term is set to expire at the end of this year.
“As a longtime member of the Noblesville community and proud grandpa of 13, I care deeply about the quality of our schools,” Forgey stated. “In my eight years serving on the school board, I’ve seen just how hard our staff and teachers work for our 10,000-plus students. The more I’ve learned about how others operate around the state, the more I can say that Noblesville Schools really is a model district. I’m proud to play a part in that.”
of the school’s accomplishments.
“At the end of the day, our schools are the heart of the community, and when they’re doing well, all of Noblesville does well,” he stated.
Forgey is endorsed by Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen.
“Noblesville is fortunate to have Joe Forgey serving on the Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees,” Jensen stated. “Dr. Forgey is the definition of a servant leader, and our community is a better place because of him. I am honored to support his reelection campaign and would invite all citizens to join me.”
Forgey said he is running to ensure the district is responsible with every tax dollar and to continue the momentum
Forgey, who also serves on the Noblesville Parks Board, is a graduate of Butler University, the Indiana School of Dentistry and the Miller Ambassadors program. He has coached basketball at the Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville and soccer with the Noblesville Soccer Club.
For more, visit Joe Forgey for School Board on Facebook.
Forgey
Noblesville delegation visits partners in Japan
news@currentnoblesville.com
Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen and a delegation of city leaders recently visited Japan to meet with representatives from international partners SMC Corporation and Toyota Automated Logistics.
SMC Corporation specializes in pneumatic technology. City leaders toured an SMC manufacturing facility in Shimotsuma and visited the company’s advanced engineering hub at the Japan Technical Center in Kashiwa-Wakashiba.
In the 15 years since establishing operations in Noblesville, SMC has created more than 900 jobs and invested more than $200 million in its North American headquarters in Indiana. It has become Noblesville’s largest private-sector
employer.
The delegation also met with leadership from Toyota Industries Corporation and Toyota Automated Logistics, which specializes in integrated warehouse automation and partners in Noblesville’s growing advanced manufacturing sector.
In 2024, Toyota Automated Logistics broke ground on a $165 million manufacturing and corporate headquarters campus in Noblesville, representing the single-largest private investment in the city’s history.
Aaron Jones, president and CEO of Toyota Automated Logistics, Americas, said Noblesville will play a critical role in supporting innovation, manufacturing and customer solutions across the region.
Foundation’s support in local college surpasses $100,000
news@currentnoblesville.com
high-demand fields.
Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County recently recognized the ongoing support of the Hamilton County Community Foundation, whose contributions have exceeded $100,000 since the campus opened July 1, 2021.
According to Ivy Tech Hamilton County officials, the foundation’s investment has directly strengthened student success initiatives, expanded workforce development efforts and supported signature campus events.
For the 2025-26 academic year, HCCF provided $40,000 in scholarship support, helping make higher education more accessible for Ivy Tech students pursuing degrees and credentials in
In addition to scholarship funding, officials say HCCF has played a key role in advancing campus engagement and workforce readiness by sponsoring several major initiatives, including Ivy Tech Hamilton County’s inaugural State of the Campus event in October 2025 and Ivy Tech Day 2025, a 24-hour giving event dedicated to advancing student success, scholarships and community impact across the college.
In 2024, HCCF awarded a $15,000 workforce grant, further supporting programming designed to align student training with local labor market needs and strengthen pathways into in-demand careers.
For more visit ivytech.edu/hamco.
City of Noblesville and SMC Corp. officials in Japan. (Photo courtesy of the City of Noblesville)
FUELING THE BOOM
New president of Pacers G League team shooting for growth, community connection
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Following the Noblesville Boom’s inaugural season, newly announced president of business operations Chris Defendis is looking to deliver an improved experience on and off the court.
Defendis, who has been a Westfield resident since 2015, was named president April 27. He succeeds Ryan Grant, who served in the role for the Boom’s first season.
Defendis has more than two decades of senior leadership experience in the sports, media and live entertainment industries. He most recently served as president of Xtreme One Entertainment/XFC Global and has held senior leadership positions with WWE, Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO.
Noblesville Boom Chief Operating Officer Barry Gibson said Defendis’ vision for the team and connection to the local community made him an ideal fit for the role.
“We are thrilled to have Chris a part of the organization, as he brings a wealth of experience and insight within the sports business industry,” Gibson said.
Defendis said working for the Noblesville Boom, the G League affiliate for the Indiana Pacers, has some similarities to his previous well-known employers.
“I’ve always kind of worked at bestin-class brands, and to me, the Pacers is a best-in-class one,” Defendis said. “I spent 21 years at HBO, and they were the best people I’ve ever worked with. They were super smart and committed to the success of the organization at large, but they were not necessarily out for themselves. I get the same vibe from the Pacers. They show up ready to work every day, and so far, I haven’t seen anybody make it about themselves. It’s about the organization’s goals overall.”
Defendis, who previously served on the Westfield Youth Sports Inc. board, graduated from Dayton University in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in sports management.
“I think one thing that has prepared me (for the new role) is my pure reve-
nue mindset,” Denfendis said. “We can do great things with the Boom and do a lot of community outreach, which we plan on doing, but at the end of the day, it’s got to be profitable.”
Defendis believes there is room for the Boom’s presence to grow. While he acknowledges the team has become established in the Noblesville area, his goal is to make all Hamilton County residents aware of the Boom and its home base, Riverview Arena at Innovation Mile.
He plans to partner with local organizations and schools throughout the year.
“The Arena is 15 to 20 minutes away from Westfield, Zionsville, Carmel and Fishers,” Defendis said. “It’s easy to get to, and there’s not a bad seat in the house. It’s a family-friendly environment that is affordable. We can have the Court of Dreams here during the season where kids play basketball before a Boom game or at halftime. We can do things with school districts like education days. We already have the foundation in place, so now it’s about going out to those groups, explaining who the (team is) and (identifying) what the opportunities are.”
Defendis also sees room for growth with corporate sponsorships and partnerships. He plans to educate local businesses about the team and identify its target audience.
He said the success of the Pacers organization as a whole gives local companies an opportunity to be connected to a professional basketball franchise in Hamilton County.
“Becoming a corporate sponsor with
Chris Defendis, president of business operations for the Noblesville Boom, plans to grow the team’s Hamilton County presence through corpo rate partnerships and community outreach. by Jessica Todd)
the Pacers is going to be cost prohibitive to a lot of companies,” Defendis said. “Just like with the recent partnership with Riverview for the naming rights, there’s a ton of other opportunities. One of the things we’ll likely do is sell the naming rights to the suite (area) and allow corporate partners to take advantage of that.”
As a local resident, Defendis said he understands “what moves the needle” in Hamilton County.
“I think part of it is about being local, but also knowing who the local players are and how to speak their language,” Defendis said. “I know how basketball needs to be viewed. This is serious basketball. We don’t want to do gimmicky things. What’s going to be on the court is going to be the most important thing. This is the Pacers’ chance to develop these players, and we need to make sure the players are focused on making it to the league and fulfilling their dream. So, that’s also going to be a focal point.”
For more, visit NoblesvilleBoom.com.
G LEAGUE ‘A GOOD SYSTEM’
The Noblesville Boom had a 16-20 record during its inaugural season. The team experi enced high turnover because of player buyouts for international opportunities, injuries and the nature of G League call-ups.
New president of business operations Chris Defendis said he believes the G League call up system is good for the players.
“The way the G League works is there are 10 players per team,” Defendis said. “Only three of those 10 are contracted with the Pacers. The other seven are contracted by the NBA, so any NBA team can take those seven players whenever they want. I think it’s a good system for the players because they’re not waiting for a spot to open up on the Pacers, per se. Any team in the league can pick them up.”
ON THE COVER: Westfield resident Chris Defendis is the new Noblesville Boom president of business operations. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
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Second Goddard School coming to Noblesville
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
A second Goddard School location is set to open this summer in Noblesville at 4903 Castamere Dr.
The Goddard School of West Noblesville, an early childhood education franchise, will be the second location for owners Mitch and Denise Manders, Carmel residents who have owned The Goddard School of Carmel-West since 2022. The couple expects operations to begin ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
The new facility will be 13,200 square feet and include 12 classrooms to provide care and education to approximately 175 students ages 6 weeks to 6 years old. The school will have a multipurpose room, two outdoor classrooms, multiple playgrounds and hospital-grade sanitization equipment. It will employ more than 35 people in teaching positions.
Mitch Manders said demand continues to rise for child care and early childhood education in Hamilton County, with the other Noblesville Goddard School location nearing capacity.
“We have seen a lot of strong and consistent demand for good quality child care in this area,” he said. “We see it at our Carmel school and from talking with people we know in the community. We understand it’s very hard to come by good quality child care, so it’s something we wanted to help people
access in the community.”
The Goddard School has an exclusive inquiry-based education program, Wonder of Learning, that allows children to learn at their own pace.
“One of Goddard’s biggest differentiators is the approach to learning,” Mitch Manders said. “It is centered on how children naturally learn with curiosity and exploration and asking them questions to get engaged with what they’re learning. It’s not a one size fits all approach, so teachers are able to customize the curriculum and guide children through those experiences to help them on the academic side, and also on the social emotional side.”
The couple has three children who have all graduated from The Goddard School. Mitch Manders said he has been able to see firsthand how the school helps shape children.
“We wanted to do something that mattered and would make a difference, so when we heard the old Carmel owner was looking to retire, we looked into it, and we decided this is the perfect opportunity to help make a difference that can impact people’s lives,” Mitch said. “We took a leap of faith, and it’s the best decision we’ve made. With how much demand there is out there, we want to help make sure people can have the opportunity that we had.”
For more, visit GoddardSchool.com or call 317-678-9055.
Rendering of The Goddard School of West Noblesville. (Rendering courtesy of Mitch and Denise Manders)
Drug court celebrates grads
news@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton County’s Drug Treatment Court recently recognized four graduates during a ceremony in the Historic Courthouse courtroom.
The program provides a treatment-based alternative for nonviolent offenders working to overcome substance-use disorder.
Among the graduates was Kimber Osborne, who has been sober since Aug. 27, 2024. According to a news release, Osborne began using opiates as a teenager and spent years navigating addiction and multiple treatment attempts. After relapsing during the COVID-19 pandemic and facing three arrests in three months, she entered the program ready for change.
“I was scared in the beginning — it was so hard,” Osborne stated. “But I needed the structure and accountability. This program, along with my sponsor and support system, helped me surrender and truly commit to recovery.”
Osborne is now working, pursuing an MBA in business at Indiana Wesleyan University and plans to continue participating in recovery groups.
Jason Landers also graduated after achieving sobriety in August 2024 following his arrest two months prior. Landers described his life before entering the program as chaotic and isolating, marked by substance use that led to legal trouble and instability.
“When I was arrested, I actually felt relieved,” Landers stated. “I had no hope and no way out. This program gave me a chance when I didn’t think I’d get one.”
Landers embraced the program’s structure, committing to therapy, meetings and personal growth. Early morning meetings helped him connect with others in recovery and today, he continues to stay involved in the recovery community, serving as a sponsor.
“You have to be willing to change your whole mindset,” Landers stated. “This isn’t just about getting out of legal trouble — it’s about changing your life.”
The program is designed to support long-term recovery.
Community Health CFO named
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Community Health Network recently named Jerry Yang as its new chief financial officer, effective June 9. He succeeds Kyle Fisher, who retired in 2025. Holly Millard served as interim CFO during the transition.
Yang brings extensive experience leading finance functions for large, multi-regional health systems.
Yang most recently served as senior vice president and chief financial officer of Aspirus Health, where he oversaw financial performance for a 19-hospital integrated delivery system. Previously, Yang held senior health
care finance leadership roles at MultiCare Health System in Washington, Beaumont Health in Michigan, Hillcrest HealthCare System in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and LifePoint Health. His experience includes financial operations, system integration and market-level leadership across complex health systems. Yang earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Outside of work, Yang enjoys traveling, cycling, hiking and spending time with his wife and daughter. Although he grew up in Alabama, Yang has ties to Indianapolis and stated that he is excited to return to the area.
From left, Hamilton County Drug Treatment Court graduate Kimber Osborne, Judge David Najjar and graduate Jason Landers. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County)
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Hawthorn Hills addition in Fishers transformed a dark, closed-off layout into a light-filled family room designed for connection, comfort, and everyday living.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Expanded the main living area with a spacious new family room addition.
• Added soaring ceilings with warm wood beams for architectural character.
• Floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace creates a bright, inviting focal point.
• Large windows and sliding doors flood the space with natural light.
• Seamlessly connected indoor living to the covered outdoor porch.
• Soft finishes and airy tones bring warmth, openness and modern simplicity.
New Center Presents season set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The 2026-27 Center Presents season will include two new series, some favorite repeat artists and first-time performers at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
A May 18 season announcement party at the Payne & Mencias Palladium revealed 71 shows for the season.
“It’s as robust as we’ve ever had at the beginning of the season,” Allied Solutions Center President/CEO Jeffrey C. McDermott said. “We’ll typically add a few shows during the season as well. We’re defining two new shows as well as part of the season.”
The two new series are the Spotlight Series and Tribute Series.
“We’ve done tribute shows in the past, and what we’ve tried to do is package them into one series,” he said. “We know there are a lot of people out there who enjoy a tribute show. We don’t go out and get any tribute artists and do these, we go out and make sure we get the top ones we can find.”
The tribute shows include Fleetwood Mac Tribute, Sept. 27; Billy Joel Oct. 8; Michael Jackson, Oct. 16; Paul McCartney, Jan. 30, 2027; The Beach Boys, March 5; and Steely Dan, April 2.
The Pop/Rock shows include first time appearances by Lou Gramm, who was Foreigner’s original lead singer, on Sept. 26 and Mavis Staples on Nov. 12. Staples is the only surviving member of The Staple Singers.
“Mavis has had a legendary career and we’re very excited to have her,” McDermott said. “She’s 86 and still performing and still putting new music out.”
Some other new performers include The War And Treaty, a new husband and wife soul duo, Oct. 28; Arrested Development, hip hop group, Feb. 5, 2027; and Marcus Miller, jazz bassist/ bandleader, Feb. 26.
Broadway legend Bernadette Peters returns Nov. 13. Among the returnees in the 2027 portion of the schedule are Mickey Dolenz with his 60 Years of the
Lou Gramm, the original voice of Foreigner, is set to debut Sept. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
Monkees Feb. 27 and Dionne Warwick March 20.
McDermott said the Spotlight Series are primarily non-music events,
“It doesn’t have to be music to be art,” he said. “The spoken word is an art form. We are bringing in comic actress and writer Amy Sedaris (Nov. 7), who is funny and brilliant. Something we’re doing is a screening of the movie ‘Hoosiers’ (Nov. 15) on its 40th anniversary of the release. We’ll have the actor who played Buddy and the actor who played Jimmy Chitwood and the writer and director to answer questions about the making of the movie.”
The Police drummer Stewart Copeland will bring his “Have I Said Too Much” show Aug. 2 to The Tarkington. The series includes cabaret and TV star Alan Cumming, from “The Traitors” Jan. 28, 2027.
McDermott said the two new series will likely draw fresh audiences.
“Our data shows when somebody comes here for the first time, there is an 80 percent chance they will return,” he said.
The artists enjoy returning as well.
“There’s a good reason for that is they like being here,” McDermott said. “Bringing (artists) back isn’t always easy because you have to get schedules to line up, but I think we’ve become a venue of preference.”
No one has appeared more than Michael Feinstein, naturally, since he is the Allied Solutions Center artistic director.
Instead of his usual concert in the spring near the end of the season, Feinstein will perform a Dec. 4 holiday concert.
“Michael is usually doing holiday shows in New York City, and this year we have asked him to do a holiday show here,” McDermott said.
Singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin will return with his holiday show Dec. 11, followed by saxophonist Dave Koz the following day. Koz & Friends are scheduled to make a 13th appearance overall and 12th with the holiday show in Carmel.
Two comedians, Michael Blaustein (Sept. 24) and Becky Robinson (Oct. 9) will make their Carmel debuts.
“We love doing comedy here. Every time we bring a comedian here it brings in a new audience,” McDermott said.
One of the new concerts McDermott is excited about in the Classical Series is actor John Malkovich and the Vienna Academy Orchestra March 18, 2027.
“I think that is going to be a very interesting, unusual and a really entertaining performance,” McDermott said.
Violinist Itzhak Perlman will return to the Payne & Mencias Palladium April 8, 2027.
Following the Songbook Academy concert to open the season July 18, Harry Connick Jr. will perform July 20.
The Encore Series opens with Art Garfunkel July 24, followed by Gladys Knight, Aug. 8; Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Oct. 11: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Nov. 21 and Ben Folds with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, May 7, 2027.
For a full list of shows, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘CINDERELLA’
“Cinderella” is set for May 28 to July 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny, Headlining Maggie Hughes DePalo” is set for May 28, followed by “All The Way Frank, A Sinatra Tribute” May 29 and “Thank You for the Music! An Abba Party” May 30 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
’THE
ADDAMS FAMILY’
The Drama Department will present the school edition of “The Addams Family” May 29-31 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more visit thecat.biz.
‘SECRET
GARDEN’
Main Street Productions will present “The Secret Garden” from May 28 to June 7 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
New Works show set — Four Indiana performing artists and one visual artist have been selected to receive cash awards and public premiere opportunities through Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts’ annual New Works commission project, now in its fifth season. The 2026 New Works Premiere Performances will take place at 7 p.m. May 30 at The Tarkington and will be livestreamed on Allied Solutions Center’s website and social media accounts. Free tickets are available at TheCenterPresents.org and 1-317-843-3800. The event also will include the unveiling of this year’s winning visual artwork. Each winning proposal receives a $2,500 cash award and technical support in adapting the piece for the stage.
Mavis Staples is set to perform Nov. 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth DeLaPiedra)
THE SONGBOOK ACADEMY® IN CONCERT
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HARRY CONNICK, JR.
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ART GARFUNKEL: WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD CELEBRATION CONCERTS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BRIAN SIMPSON, JACKIEM JOYNER AND JESSY J 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
STEWART COPELAND: HAVE I SAID
TOO MUCH
7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON
GLADYS KNIGHT
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
“PSYCHIC” COMEDIAN PETER ANTONIOU
7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON
THE CENTER CELEBRATION 2026
FEATURING THE BACON BROTHERS
5PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICHAEL BLAUSTEIN: THE TASTE ME TOUR THE FINAL LEG 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LOU GRAMM: THE ORIGINAL VOICE OF FOREIGNER
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
RUMOURS ATL: A FLEETWOOD
MAC TRIBUTE
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DEMOLA LIVE!
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE & PABLO CRUISE
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE BILLY JOEL LEGACY: CELEBRATING THE PIANO MAN
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BECKY ROBINSON: THE BEASTS IN ME TOUR
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS: INDIGO PARK TOUR
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE WAR AND TREATY
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE SIXTIES SHOW
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
INVINCIBLE: A GLORIOUS TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DANIEL EMMET: THIS THING CALLED LOVE
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
NILADRI KUMAAR: THE SPACE BETWEEN THE NOTES – HONORING ZAKIR HUSSAIN
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICHAEL CARBONARO: WONDERBOY
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE SHARPE FAMILY SINGERS: THE BEST OF BROADWAY 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HASTA LA MUERTE
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BLKBOK
7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON
YEFIM BRONFMAN, PIANO
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
RYAN AHLWARDT: CRYING IN THE CANYON RELEASE PARTY
8PM | THE TARKINGTON
THE FOUR PHANTOMS IN CONCERT
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BONEY JAMES
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
A CONVERSATION WITH AMY SEDARIS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SIMPLY THREE
7PM | THE TARKINGTON
MAVIS STAPLES
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH BERNADETTE PETERS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HOOSIERS 40TH ANNIVERSARY
SCREENING WITH Q&A
3PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PUNCH BROTHERS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD BAND: LEDBETTER HEIGHTS 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
GRAVITY & OTHER MYTHS: TEN THOUSAND HOURS
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD & SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LESLIE ODOM, JR. THE CHRISTMAS TOUR 2026
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN IN COMING HOME: THE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HOLIDAYS IN HARMONY WITH GIRL NAMED TOM
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ALAN CUMMING: UNCUT
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LIVE AND LET DIE: THE MUSIC OF PAUL MCCARTNEY FEATURING TONY KISHMAN
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BIG BANG BOOM 3PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE MONTEVERDI CHOIR AND ORCHESTRAS PERFORM BACH’S ST MATTHEW PASSION WITH MASAAKI SUZUKI
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MARCUS MILLER
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICKEY DOLENZ: 60 YEARS OF THE MONKEES
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BALLET FOLKLÓRICO DE MÉXICO DE AMALIA HERNÁNDEZ
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS WITH CONRAD TAO
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE MUSIC OF THE BEACH BOYS FEATURING PET SOUNDS LIVE 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
PAVLO AND BAND IN CONCERT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
VICTORIA CLARK: IMPROBABLE INGENUE
MUSIC DIRECTOR, TED SPERLING
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
VITALY: AN EVENING OF WONDERS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JOHN MALKOVICH AND THE VIENNA
ACADEMY ORCHESTRA: ROLL
OVER BEETHOVEN
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SPYRO GYRA WITH SPECIAL GUEST STANLEY JORDAN
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
KRUGER BROTHERS 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
DIONNE WARWICK: OVER AND OUT A FAREWELL TOUR 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A TRIBUTE TO STEELY DAN 8PM |
CATS’
ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AMY SEDARIS
MARCUS MILLER
BERNADETTE PETERS
ALAN CUMMING
HASTA LA MUERTE
GLADYS KNIGHT
LESLIE ODOM, JR.
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Jagged Little Pill’ to open Civic’s 2026-27 season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Civic Theatre’s 2026-27 schedule will include some blasts from the past, some new shows and a surprise to be named later.
The 112th season opens with “Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill, The Musical” Oct. 2 to 17 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. All but one of the five shows will be at The Tarkington.
“White Christmas” in recent years.
“We’re struggling to get the rights to one of the three shows we have in the rotation,” Lasley said. “We talked for a number of years about ‘Annie’ being the obvious holiday alternative. It’s a family-oriented show and it ends with a Christmas scene. It certainly fits our brand.”
The musical is inspired by Morissette’s groundbreaking album and is about a modern family navigating love, identity, addiction and healing in an increasingly complicated world. The Tony Award-winning show features iconic songs including “You Oughta Know,” “Hand in My Pocket” and “Ironic.”
“The first show has become for us where we are doing the edgier, socially relevant or something like ‘Something Rotten,’ which is newer and was just a fresher piece than some of the things we do,” Civic Theatre Executive Artistic Director Michael J. Lasley said. “This is definitely relevant. It hits home for a lot of people about mental health and addiction and belonging and fitting into families and mixed feelings.”
The show is based on Morissette’s “Jagged Little Pill” album.
“There are not many albums like it that had so many hit singles,” Lasley said. “As jukebox musicals go, I think it does a better job of integrating songs into the narrative, not performing the songs the way they were written. There is a lot of choral work written into them.”
Filling the holiday spot is “Annie” from Dec. 4 to 26. Civic has been rotating “Elf,” “A Christmas Story” and
The last time Civic presented “Annie” was in 2017. Brent Marty, Civic Theatre director of music and education, said it also has the benefit of having children in the musical, which helps with Civic’s younger performers.
The 2027 portion will open with what Lasley described as a fun, new comedy Feb. 5 to 20. Lasley said the title announcement will come out in mid-October because of contractual issues.
“Steel Magnolias,” a story about deep friendships between six women in Louisiana and heartbreaks, is set for March 3 to 27 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center. Civic Theatre last performed the play in 2014. The off-Broadway play was turned into a 1989 movie, which featured Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah and Olympia Dukakis.
The season will close with “Mean Girls” from April 30 to May 15. This is the first main stage showing by Civic, however, Civic’s Young Artists Program presented it in 2023.
“It’s a great, fun piece of theater,” Lasley said. “The musical has not been around that long, but the movie came out more than 20 years ago.”
Subscriptions will be available beginning May 27 and single tickets July 23. Tickets can be purchased at civictheatre.org or by calling or emailing the Box Office of the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts at 317-8433800 or tickets@thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
IWS names Cox executive director —The Indiana Wind Symphony has named Tim Cox as its new executive director. Cox brings professional administrative experience in education, nonprofits, arts and mission-driven organizations, most recently serving the Indiana Wind Symphony as 2025-26 board president and performing in the ensemble on percussion. He serves as director of educational outreach for Music for All and as director of operations of the Indiana Arts Education Network. Cox replaces executive director Nicole Keller, who will continue to support the organization as media specialist.
- 2/20
- 3/27
Lasley
‘The Secret Garden’ set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mike Lipphardt saw a production of “The Secret Garden, The Musical” when he was in high school.
“I immediately fell in love with the music and always wanted to perform in it,” he said. “Vocally, it’s just such an amazing challenge when it comes together.”
The Noblesville resident got his wish. He will play Archibald Craven in the Main Street Productions presentation of “The Secret Garden” May 28 to June 7 at Basile Westfield Playhouse.
“It’s one of the prettiest scores I think in musical theater and an amazing opportunity to sing some really good songs with the cast,” Lipphardt said.
Based on the 1911 children’s novel, the music is by Lucy Simon and book and lyrics by Marsha Norman.
“The story is very beautiful, but the music is where it really shines,” Lipphardt said. “I think ‘A Bit of Earth’ that Archibald gets to sing is one of the better male solos in the musical genre.”
Kata Ewigleben, a Geist resident, plays the ghost of Lily.
“Lily is still in the manor because Archibald, her husband, is still in love with her,” she said. “She is the keeper of the garden. She watches over things but she’s unable to interact physically. She’s always watching and trying to help and brings part of the magic. I think I have maybe five lines, but they are all from the past from Archibald’s memories. But most of the time Lily just sings.” Ewigleben, 37, said this was one of the first musicals she ever saw.
“I have loved the musical since I was 10 or 11 years old,” she said. “I love the book. It’s really lush, beautiful music and a dream of mine to sing in any capacity in the show.”
Music director Laura Hicks, a Pendleton resident, said the show has some of her favorite musical pieces in it.
“It’s what drew me to the show the first time I heard it, and it’s what’s kept me coming back to it over and over,” she said.
For more, visit westfieldplayhouse. org.
Cast of “The Secret Garden.” (Photo courtesy of Roger Manning)
ENTERTAINMENT
Actor returns in new role
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Danny Kingston will take a turn in a different role in “Cinderella” for Beef & Boards.
After appearing as the Steward in 2011, Kingston will play the Herald from May 28 to July 12 at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.
“(It’s) a really fun role,” he said. “I get to open the show with the song, ‘The Prince is Giving a Ball.’ I also get to be silly and dance with the stepsisters.”
small standout moment and to dance in the sweeping waltz scenes.”
While it’s just the second time he has acted in “Cinderella,” he choreographed a production of the classic musical for Carmel Community Players in 2007.
Kingston, a 2006 Westfield High School graduate who lives in downtown Indianapolis, was a recent college graduate for the last “Cinderella” performance.
“I enjoyed being able to further my experience in professional theater,” said Kingston, whose legal last name is Keivel. “I was much younger and still learning all I could about performing. Playing the role of the Steward back gave me the opportunity to have a
Kingston has performed in more than 20 Beef & Boards shows through the years.
“I’ll never forget my first show back in 2009, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,’” he said. “I had just graduated from the American Musical and Dramatics Academy (in New York City) and I was ready to start my career as a professional performer.”
Kingston said he has happy memories from performing in many of the Pyramid Players productions for children. Highlights include Joe in “Blues Clues” and Peter in “Pinkilicous.”
Kingston is a member of Indianapolis Men’s Chorus and works part time in the Beef & Boards box office. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Kingston
The whole truth about organic grocery stores
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
My wife says I’m not a spiritual person. The most spiritual thing I do is occasionally shop at Whole Foods, a place for people who seek organic, pure, chemical-free food. Personally, I prefer food that has preservatives. At almost 80 years old, I can use them, and they are cheaper than a facelift.
My wife loves Whole Foods. But for
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By: Chris McConnell, City of Westfield
a long time, I wasn’t a fan. Whenever I was in that area of town, I always stopped by just to pass the big window in the front of the store and laugh at people eating tofu pizza. After all, it’s all about the journey, isn’t it? See, I’m getting more spiritual, already.
“Personally, I prefer food that has preservatives. At almost 80 years old, I can use them, and they are cheaper than a facelift.”
I don’t like buying food at places where you can also buy a hammer, a microwave oven or an unassembled bed. So, I avoid shopping at Super Target, Walmart and Meijer. These are not whole-food stores; they are half-food stores.
At Whole Foods, most everything on the shelves is edible. Except for those things that are fat-free, sugar-free and gluten-free, which it seems is pretty much everything.
Last week, I was intrigued by a display touting a new organic product. I picked up the shrink-wrapped bar and
tossed it into my basket. The next morning, after I showered, I told Mary Ellen I didn’t think the soap lathered well. “Of course not,” she said. “That wasn’t a bar of organic soap; it was a bar of organic cheese.” I must have smelled pretty good, because when I went out for a jog, several mice followed me around the block.
Mary Ellen is very health-conscious. She buys almond milk, skinless chicken, salmon, broccoli and granola. When I shop, I smuggle in hard salami, white bread and my favorite, creamed spinach. Creamed spinach might sound healthy, but a serving contains 27 grams of fat. Not something even Popeye would recommend. When we go to Kroger, Mary Ellen insists on accompanying me. I am always on a very short leash. Sometimes I want a treat. I’ll even beg for it. Once, I rolled
– DICK WOLFSIE
over in aisle 3, hoping to score a bag of chips. Mary Ellen said no, but I did get a great belly rub from a very nice older woman. I sure wish Mary Ellen treated me more like a dog.
Whole Foods has an interesting display of magazines. One selection featured the headline: THE ROAD TO RENEWAL. That intrigued me until I realized it was just an ad to get you to sign up for another year of the subscription.
My favorite was another new age magazine with the headline: WHAT TO TAKE ON YOUR JOURNEY.
I was finally starting to feel spiritual. What would be on this list? Self-reflection, a measure of introspection and a positive attitude?
No, it was sandals, a swimsuit, underwear and plenty of sunscreen.
Congrats to Viking Cruises for a wellplaced ad!
Indy’s biggest 4th of July celebration! FOR INFO AND APPLICATIONS VISIT WWW.CARMELFEST.NET
JULY 3 & 4
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.
DOWNTOWN CARMEL Carter Green & Civic Square
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
Yours and mine
15. Preserve, in a way
16. GPS reading 17. Mind-bending puzzle
19. “___ alive!”
20. Indiana locale of the “Limestone Capital of the World”
21. Ball State bigwig
23. Squeeze (out)
24. O. Henry: “The Gift of the ___”
26. 007 portrayer Roger
27. Unlit
29. Adam’s grandson
32. Flat Fork Creek Park winter coaster
33. Kimono sash
36. Poet’s “soon”
38. Current revenue
source
39. Indiana locale of the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World”
42. Salt & Light Wellness
44. Move, in Realtor lingo
45. Hawaiian garland
46. Difficult
48. BBs, e.g.
50. Some jeans
54. Computer key
56. Playground comeback
59. ___ Fridays
60. Hamilton County Court officer
63. Indiana locale of the “RV Capital of the World”
65. Notre Dame sports org.
66. Neighborhood shopping sites
68. Blues group, for short
69. Polar covering
70. “The Simpsons” girl 71. “Golly!”
72. Abhor
73. Right on an Indiana map DOWN
1. Went up and down 2. “Aha!”
3. Stock exchange worker
4. “In your dreams!”
5. Jordan tourist attraction
6. Anxious
7. Hoosier Dome sponsor
8. Brewer’s oven
9. Addict
10. Antitoxin
11. Doritos company
12. Spoken
13. Plants anew
18. ___ de plume
22. Distress signal
25. Out for days
28. Campground letters
30. Lennon’s love
31. Spirit
34. “Turn up the heat!”
35. Fishers furniture chain
37. Opposite of SSW
39. Proton or electron
40. Hoosier National Forest tree
41. Up to, briefly
42. The whole ___
43. Pizazz
47. NJ neighbor
49. Some Swiss watches
51. Latin list ender
52. Way out
53. Occupies, as a table
55. Unyielding
57. Caught some Zs
58. Approves
61. Confront
62. Guitar ridge
64. In good shape
67. Top card
ANSWERS ON PAGE 23
WE DO INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING ESTIMATES
FIRST IMPRESSIONS LLC
Your Home. Your Yard. Your Peace of Mind. Let Me Help You With That Services Offered: Mowing, Edging & Trimming Pressure Washing General Home Maintenance Painting & Drywall Repair
Privacy Fence & Deck Cleaning/Staining Window Cleaning Full Home Cleaning Furniture Assembly
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Reliable. Local. Affordable. Fully Insured. References Available. FREE personal estimates (317) 516-8401 rameysfirstimpressions.com
John Kirk Furniture
JOB TITLE: Furniture Sales Person
DUTIES:
• Interacting and assisting customers in a furniture retail sales environment.
• Determining needs and advising customers on their purchases.
REQUIREMENTS:
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in sales. PAY: Competitive Disccused at interview.
LOCATION: Carmel Indiana CONTACT: Call 317-846-2535 ask for Nick.
Carmel area law firm needing Legal Assistant experienced in personal injury & medical malpractice.
5+ years of experience preferred. Must be reliable, have a positive attitude, understand legal & medical terminology, and can thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Salary at top of scale commensurate with experience, 401k with matching, fully paid health, dental, and vision benefits. Send resume to cyount@hovdelaw.com.
No phone calls or walk-ins accepted.
Automotive Window Tinter Pay Negotiable.
Work available 7 days a week
Apply via email: dan@dansdetail.com
Full-time receptionist needed for busy law firm located in Carmel. $20+/hour depending on experience. Previous experience working in the legal field required. Health, dental, vision, and 401k available. Send resume to cyount@hovdelaw.com. No phone calls or walk-ins accepted.
Seasonal Landscaping and maintenance position. Two available. Location: 146th St & Towne Rd. in Carmel
• Perform general landscaping duties including mowing, edging, trimming, and blowing
• Maintain lawns and garden beds by mowing grass to specified heights and ensuring a neat, professional appearance
• Operate and maintain landscaping equipment such as lawn mowers, string trimmers, edgers, and leaf blowers
• Assist with seasonal tasks including mulching, weeding, pruning shrubs, and debris removal
• Work efficiently both independently and as part of a team in various weather conditions
• Ensure job sites are left clean and customer-ready after each visit with an emphasis on quality over quantity. $15/hr, flexible hours with adequate notice. Email resumes to: kreg.fisher@gmail.com
