October 21, 2025 – Current in Noblesville

eCommunity.com/cancer

Byron H., patient

COMMUNITY

County, state eye e-bike regulations

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton County municipalities are eyeing regulations to address the speed and safety of e-bikes on roadways and trails.

An e-bike, or electric bike, is a bicycle with a battery-powered electric motor that assists the rider with pedaling.

Several Hamilton County cities are taking steps to regulate e-bike usage. The Fishers Police Department announced Oct. 6 that patrols on and around trails will increase in response to reports of juveniles blocking and riding in traffic, creating dangerous situations for drivers; riding on private property; and riding recklessly or too fast in roadways without helmets.

are riding safely and appropriately,” Arnold said.

Indiana State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler (R-Noblesville) said e-bikes are a safety concern. She is examining the issue from a state policy and legislative perspective and looking to see if other states have addressed this issue.

“(Residents) I have spoken with are concerned for the safety of other pedestrians, children and cyclists on trails when an e-bike passes (on a trail) at a higher rate of speed,” Shonkwiler said. “Depending on the classification of the e-bike, they are restricted on where they can be ridden — roads versus multiuse pathways and trails.”

Some cities have begun looking at establishing ordinances for e-bikes.

“There has been a public education push by many of the communities in the area to explain the differences in classes, current laws/ordinances and safety concerns,” Westfield Assistant Police Chief Billy Adams said. “Several of the communities are also working together to look at our ordinances and making sure wording and enforcement is consistent, as many of our trails cross over into the next city.”

Although no major issues have been reported in Noblesville, Noblesville Police Chief Brad Arnold said the city is monitoring e-bike usage.

“If our officers witness a juvenile not abiding by the rules of the road or riding on a sidewalk, we use it as an opportunity to educate and ensure they

According to REI Co-op, a U.S.-based outdoor gear and apparel retailer, e-bikes are categorized into three classes:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, stopping at 20 mph.

• Class 2: Has a throttle-powered mode and offers pedal assist up to 20 mph.

• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, but the assistance continues up to 28 mph.

City officials in Carmel reviewed the issue in June after receiving several complaints from constituents about speeding along the Monon Greenway. An ordinance establishing regulations for the use of micromobility devices within the City of Carmel was scheduled for first reading Oct. 20.

“These new electric dirt bikes are not legal, but there are more and more of them flying around Carmel,” Carmel City Council Member Matt Snyder said in June. “It’s young children (riding them), and to me the safety of these children has become an impetus to make something happen much faster.”

Playground to receive upgrade

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The playground at Potter’s Bridge Park in Noblesville is getting a new look.

Officials from the Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department announced earlier this month that the playground at 19401 Allisonville Rd. will be closed as the equipment is removed and a new structure is installed. The project is funded by the park department’s 2025 project budget.

Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Dept. Resource Development Specialist Erica Foreman said the current playground was built in 1999 and is due to be replaced.

“Our department has made it a priority to update aging play infrastructure,” Foreman said. “Many of our playgrounds had reached or were reaching the end of their usable life. In the last three years alone, the department has updated the playgrounds at Morse Park & Beach and the playground at Prather

Park. With this update, the department will have completed this effort.”

Foreman said the new playground will feature a two-platformed elevated primary play structure with a connecting bridge. The platforms will be accessible via steps, vertical ladder and rope

ladder. Play elements include a slide, rotating overhead loop rings, a glider track and activity panels.

For small children and those with sensory processing needs, two engaging panels and play elements will be available inside the play area, which also features a standalone geometric climbing structure that provides challenging angles and gentle pitches for beginning and advanced pre-teen and teen climbers.

The new playground was designed by Recreation inSites, a Fishers-based playground equipment supplier.

“The department solicited design proposals from playground manufacturers across the Great Lakes region,” Foreman said. “Department staff and park board input were involved with the selection process. Ultimately, we believed that the proposal from Recreation inSites had the largest variety of play elements for the amount of funds we had budgeted for the project.”

The playground is expected to reopen to the public Nov. 1.

About us

Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 6

Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved. 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

Contact the editor

Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?

Contact the Managing Editor Jessica Todd at jessica@ youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444 You also may submit information at currentnoblesville. com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.

Share your thoughts

Letters to the editor may be sent for consideration to letters@youarecurrent. com. Letters have a maximum word count of 300 words. Please include your city of residence and a contact phone number for verification. Current Publishing may refuse letters.

Advertise your business If you’re interested in reaching the Noblesville market (22,087 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Noblesville advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.

Legal advertising legals@youarecurrent.com Obituaries obits@youarecurrent.com

Delivery questions

circulation@youarecurrent.com

Join our community facebook.com/youarecurrent x.com/youarecurrent instagram.com/youarecurrent

Opinions

The views of the columnists in Current in Noblesville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

Shonkwiler

Rendering of the new playground, which is expected to open Nov. 1. (Photo courtesy of Erica Foreman)

Expansion underway for IDE building

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

International Disaster Emergency Service, a Noblesville-based nonprofit, is undergoing a $6.3 million expansion of its building at 355 Park 32 W. Dr. IDES was founded in 1973. It responds to man-made and natural disasters by partnering with churches and ministries to provide relief in the form of meals, donations, storage sheds and repairs, among other services.

The organization moved into its building in 2014, and IDEA Advancement Director Jeff Greene said he never imagined it would outgrow the space.

“We work with Christian churches, so the thing that drew us to Noblesville is that there are hundreds of them in the Indianapolis area, and they’re full of volunteers,” Greene said. “We were way out in the middle of nowhere, basically, so we ended up moving here to have better access. Eleven years later, we’re out of space. We have guys in the hallway upstairs because there’s no offices.”

To fix the issue, the organization has built a 20,000-square-foot warehouse that connects to its building and will soon add an additional connection to house 14,000 square feet of office space. The 20,000 square foot warehouse will provide room for the organization’s God Always Provides, or GAP, program, which is a food packing program that sends shipping

containers of food and supplies around the world.

“If we wanted to continue to expand our ministry outreach, we had to build,” Greene said. “If we didn’t, we would just stay like we were. Right now, we help around 700,000 people internationally, and we’re hoping to make it 2,000,000.”

Greene said he hopes the additional space will allow the organization to expand services.

“We’re wanting to add other elements to responding, especially in disaster settings,” Greene said. “There’s usually around 260,000 meals per container, and we’re hoping to use our new space to start storing things like medicines, winter coats and new shoes.”

Greene said the new office space will allow staff to communicate better and be less separated.

“We’re going to double up our two story building and that will allow us to expand our workforce,” Greene said. “It will also bring our staff together. Part of that remake upstairs will also provide us with a studio where we can do videos and photography for when we have people coming in, like mission partners, for a tape interview. It will make it a lot easier and allow for a better work flow.”

The current building will continue housing the organization’s U.S. Response, or shed building program, which provides homeowners with sheds to store salvaged belongings while their homes are being rebuilt or repaired after a disaster.

IDES has launched a capital campaign to continue its expansion project. For more, visit ides.org.

Rendering of what the completed International Disaster Emergency Service expansion will look like. (Rendering courtesy of Jeff Greene)

What’s your bank paying you? If bigger banks are better, why aren’t their rates bigger and better, too?

Hop on over to where your money is safe, secure, and earning more.

Merchants Bank

a

as one of the nation’s

2025 SUBARU OUTBACK

Rotary Club donates funds

Defibrillator and $26,000 scholarship donation boost safety and success for Ivy Tech students

news@currentnoblesville.com

Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County is celebrating a dual gift from the Noblesville Rotary Club that will directly benefit the safety and success of students.

munity, while the scholarship support removes barriers and opens doors for our students to thrive. Both represent the rotary club’s lasting impact on our campus and Hamilton County.”

Jeff Chinn, president of the Noblesville Rotary Club, said the club is dedicated to service and community betterment.

$4,274.00

The Noblesville Rotary Club recently donated a defibrillator to the campus, ensuring immediate access to lifesaving equipment in case of a cardiac emergency. In addition, the club presented the campus with a $26,000 contribution to fund scholarships through the Noblesville Rotary Ivy Tech Scholarship Fund for Hamilton County students.

“We are deeply grateful to the Noblesville Rotary Club for this extraordinary generosity,” stated Rachel Kartz, chancellor of Ivy Tech Hamilton County. “The gift of a defibrillator provides peace of mind for our campus com-

“Rotary is committed to improving the communities we serve, and supporting Ivy Tech Hamilton County with both safety resources and scholarships is a powerful way to make a difference,” Chinn stated. “We are honored to partner with the college in preparing students for their futures while ensuring a safe learning environment.”

The club raised the scholarship funds at its annual BrewBQ fundraiser earlier this year. BrewBQ raised $27,000, with Ivy Tech Hamilton County receiving $26,000 and the Noblesville High School Robotics Club receiving $5,000.

Since 2019, BrewBQ has contributed more than $117,500 to Ivy Tech Hamilton County and Noblesville High School, according to the announcement.

DISPATCHES

 School board president earns top honor — Christi Crosser, president of the Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees, has been named one of the top 25 outstanding school board presidents in Indiana. Crosser was recognized by the Indiana School Boards Association with a 2025 Board Presidents’ Gold Seal Leadership Certification. The certification is ISBA’s highest leadership credential and reflects each recipient’s commitment to excellence in governance

and student-focused leadership.

 Menards hosting food drive — Menards home improvement stores in the area are serving as drop sites for local food pantries throughout the month. Menards offers a variety of nonperishable items that can be donated to the food pantries. Large collection boxes are available near store exit doors.

From left, Rotary club members Keith Gates, Emmanuel Flomo and Carrie Dixon, Ivy Tech Hamilton County Assistant Director of Development Emily Cullen and rotary club members Zach Lundin and Jeff Derda with a replica check. (Photo courtesy of Ivy Tech Hamilton County)

COMMUNITY

Artist honored by nonprofit

news@currentnoblesville.com

The arts organization Noblesville Creates hosted its annual Celebrate Noblesville Creates fundraiser last month.

Award winners:

Artist of the Year, Amanda Russo: Award recognizes established artists who excel in their chosen medium. McGill said Russo was selected for her work as a professional fine artist and arts educator.

Emerging Artist of the Year, Frank Hindes: Award recognizes artists who have been working for five years or fewer in their current field or medium and who have demonstrated professionalism, creativity, artistic excellence and leadership. McGill said Hindes was selected for his work on the Sister Cities mural, which was installed in Noblesville earlier this year.

Arts Partner of the Year, Noblesville Public Safety: Award recognizes individuals or organizations that have developed innovative opportunities to build or work alongside the local arts community.

Arts Advocate of the Year, Caroline

Director of Noblesville Creates

Aili McGill, left, and Artist of the Year winner Amanda Russo at the Celebrate Noblesville Creates fundraiser last month. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville Creates)

Hays: Award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their time to promoting the arts and highlighting how the arts create a positive impact.

Arts Champion of the Year, City of Westfield: Award recognizes individuals or organizations who have invested significant time and talent into the local arts economy.

Board Emeritus Award, Darren Peterson: McGill said the award recognizes Peterson’s 10 years of service to the Noblesville Creates Board of Directors, including his nine years as president.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN

2025 Show Dates

October 18, 2025

November 29, 2025

December 20, 2025

Mom seeks new approach to tech use in schools

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

As Connor Haynes’ oldest child neared kindergarten, she was pleased to see that the Hamilton Southeastern Schools handbook stated that parents could opt their children out of using a district-provided iPad as part of their educational experience.

But then she learned the handbook was outdated. It hadn’t yet been updated to reflect a change in school policy that requires students to use the digital device.

Now, Haynes isn’t sure whether she will enroll her child in HSE or choose another option when the time comes. In the meantime, the Fishers resident is advocating for more technology choices for parents and students, locally and beyond.

“I didn’t feel like I wanted my child to go to a school where, as a 5-year-old, they’re handed an iPad and almost given the messaging that, ‘You need this to learn. You need this to survive in this world,’” Haynes said. “It felt very opposite of what I had been learning and had been told from the early childhood specialists.”

HSE isn’t the only local school district that does not allow parents to opt their children out of using a 1-to-1 device. Noblesville Schools don’t allow a full opt-out, although the district’s director of communications Marnie Cooke said technology use is “more minimal” at the elementary level and that students can choose paper assignments when available. Carmel Clay Schools also does not provide an opt out, but the district will “work with any families concerned about device usage,” according to Emily Bauer, the district’s director of community relations.

Zionsville Community Schools and Westfield Washington Schools did not respond to a question from Current about whether students could opt out of digital device policies.

Emily Cherkin, a mother and former teacher who advocates for EdTech reform through her business, The Screentime Consultant, said she is increasingly hearing from parents who would

like to opt their children out of being assigned a digital device for learning but don’t have a choice. She said the trend toward moving learning online started more than a decade ago but was accelerated by the lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When remote learning happened, and oneto-one devices had been purchased and all this curriculum had been contracted and licensed, it became, ‘We have to justify it, because we’ve spent all this money,’” Cherkin said. “You’re basically locked in now, and to take it out is going to be incredibly disruptive and probably very expensive. So, now what you’re finding is that schools are really doubling down.”

Cherkin, who lives in the Seattle area, is the lead plaintiff in a class action lawsuit filed in 2024 against PowerSchool, which provides cloud-based software to K-12 schools, including CCS, Noblesville Schools, Zionsville Community Schools and WWS. The lawsuit accuses PowerSchool, which was purchased by Bain Capital in 2024, of selling student data to third parties without proper consent. Litigation in the case is ongoing.

Haynes hasn’t taken her cause to the courts, but she is hoping to make a difference locally. To connect with other parents concerned about technology in the classroom, she launched the Analog Kids Facebook page, and she’s coordinated a screening of the documentary “Can’t Look Away — The Case Against Social Media” at 3 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Fishers Public Library. The event is free and open to the public.

To present the screening, Analog Kids is partnering with Smartphone Free Childhood U.S., a nonprofit that provides resources and support for parents throughout the U.S. who want to “change the norms” for children regarding digital technology use, she said.

Emily Boddy, a member of the nonprofit’s leadership council, said Haynes is on the right track.

“The best thing parents can do is find other parents. That’s a really good first step,” Boddy said. “It’s really hard to be the only one. It’s easier when there are two of you.”

Haynes Cherkin

Hamilton County Clerk Kathy Kreag Williams, left, was honored as Clerk of the Year at the Association of Indiana Counties Conference in French Lick earlier this month. Williams has been serving Hamilton County since she was in high school. Other attendees the conference were Hamilton County Commissioners Steve Dillinger, Mark Heirbrandt, and Christine Altman and Jackson County Commissioner Drew Storey accepted the Local Government Cooperation Award. The two counties partnered on the Bell Ford Historic Covered Bridge project. (Photo courtesy of Tammy Sander)

 Exhibitor registration open for 500 Festival Mini Expo — Exhibitor registration is open for the 2026 500 Festival Indy Mini Expo, set for 4 to 8 p.m. April 30 and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 1. The expo serves as the official kickoff to the Indy Mini weekend and the packet pickup location for all participants ahead of the May 2 IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K. For more, visit eventhub.net/events/500-Fes-

tival-Indy-Mini-Expo-2026_7018 or contact Michael Spagnolli at mspagnolli@500festival.com.

 Trick-or-treat hours — The official trick-or-treat hours in the City of Noblesville will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31. The Noblesville Police Department will be out in the community to ensure everyone’s safety, and motorists are asked to drive with extra care that evening.

Senior’s leadership, performance powers Millers

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville High School senior volleyball player Reese Resmer keeps growing as a leader.

“I’m super grateful that I got to start my freshman year because I’ve learned a lot about leadership over my four years,” she said. “Now as a senior and captain, I feel I’m a better leader.”

Noblesville coach Annie Poulson said the 6-foot middle blocker has played an important role for Miller volleyball since she was a freshman.

“It has been amazing to watch her grow from her time gaining a starting role as a freshman to where she is now,” Poulson said. “Missing her junior season for shoulder surgery gave her the opportunity to gain her knowledge of the game from the sidelines and also help lead, coach and motivate other players. Reese has also been a great leader by example, quietly doing her job to the best of her ability, but this year she has stepped out of her comfort zone to put the team on her back as a vocal leader. She’s not afraid to jump into

MEET REESE RESMER

Favorite athlete: Olympic track star

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone

Favorite movie: “The Last Song”

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite musician: Morgan Wallen

huddles and communicate what she sees happening, as well as hold others accountable.”

Resmer said she wasn’t as comfortable at first being vocal.

“This year, I’ve really tried my best to be super vocal and super positive,” she said.

Poulson said Resmer is the go-to player for Noblesville’s offense and works extremely hard to make herself available every play.

“Because of this, her teammates trust her and buy into whichever way she

EXPERT SPINE CARE NOW IN WESTFIELD

guides them,” she said. “She has been such a steadfast presence for her teammates, but besides their play, she’s their biggest fan and motivation.”

Entering the Oct. 16 Class 4A sectional match against Fishers, Poulson was leading the Millers in kills with 390. Resmer committed to Kansas State University before her shoulder surgery in July 2024.

“I loved the campus and the smalltown feel, but the biggest thing for me was the coaches,” she said. “Even though I was injured and the coaches hadn’t seen me play for a couple of months, they were confident in me as a player and person and (said), ‘We know you are going to work hard to get through (the rehab process).’”

That was in contrast to other programs, which cooled in their recruitment, she said. Resmer returned to club play with Boiler Juniors in January. She was on a team that won three AAU national titles.

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.

• Treatment of back and neck pain, sciatica, spinal stenosis, herniated discs and work-related injuries

• Less invasive techniques for faster recovery and less post-operative pain

• Experienced, Compassionate, Fellowship-trained Spine Surgeon

• Same-Day and Next-Day Appointments

• No referral necessary*

Noblesville High School middle blocker Reese Resmer has committed to Kansas State. (Photo courtesy of Emma Waters Photography)

Nonprofit strengthens support Promenade Trails opens community building

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

United Way of Central Indiana Manager of Economic Mobility Initiatives George Hutton spoke at the Hamilton County Council meeting earlier this month to discuss how the organization is working to strengthen support for families in Hamilton County through its Center for Working Families initiative.

United Way is a nonprofit that provides basic needs like food, shelter and health care, supports early care and learning opportunities for children, expands economic mobility and ensures access to safe and affordable housing.

The organization recently partnered with Grace Care Center in Noblesville to launch the first Center for Working Families in Hamilton County.

“This nationally recognized model has three proven strategies under one roof — employment coaching to connect people with jobs, financial coaching and access to benefits like food, child care and transportation,” Hutton said. “This holistic approach helps families not only get by, but truly move ahead, breaking the cycle of poverty with long-term stability.”

United Way CEO Fred Payne said the initiative is part of the organization’s strategic plan.

“We have a goal of distancing 10,000 households

from poverty in a 5-year period, and 10,000 households is roughly anywhere between 30,000 to 33,000 people,” Payne said. “When we talk about economic mobility, Centers for Working Families is at the core of that, because it is a bundled approach to job services and job supports.”

Payne said Hamilton County has been part of the nonprofit’s geographic region since 1966, and the partnership with Grace Care Center is helping reach 10,000 households.

“We want to make sure that we are serving populations in each one of the seven counties within our geographic region and finding a partner that is trusted in the community that has the will and resources to help families get to their next level,” Payne said.

Payne said if demand grows, United Way of Central Indiana would look to expand the Centers for Working Families model in Hamilton County.

“Our goal is to make sure that we have at least one partner focusing on the Centers for Working Families in each of the seven counties that we serve,” Payne said. “We’re in discussions with folks in Boone County right now to expand there, but we want to expand it as far and as much as the need is there. So, if the need continues to grow in Hamilton County, we want to make sure that we grow partnerships or the capacity at Grace Care Center to adjust to that need.”

news@currentnoblesville.com

Promenade Trails of Noblesville, a 55-and-better community developed and operated by The Justus Companies at 17780 Navigator Trail in Noblesville, celebrated the grand opening of its community building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 9.

The first residents moved into the building, which features 151 one- and two-bedroom apartment homes, June 19, and the amenity spaces are now officially open.

“This building represents the next chapter in a community that has been thoughtfully designed for how residents want to live today,” President and CEO of The Justus Companies Walt Justus stated. “It’s a place where relationships are built, wellness is prioritized and residents truly feel at home.”

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees explored the new amenity spaces, including a Vista Club Room, pub, fireside lounge, life enrichment center and fitness center.

Promenade Trails offers leasing options with monthly rents starting at $1,559 for apartment homes and $2,440 for cottage homes.

As part of the grand opening celebration, Promenade Trails is offering an incentive of $350 off monthly rent on a 12-month lease.

For more, visit promenade-trails.com.

COMMUNITY

Forensics focuses on ‘The

Scent

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

In 2017, a Michigan City man killed his roommate and kept the body in the basement for nearly two months before disposing of it, thoroughly scrubbing the basement floors and applying several layers of paint to cover up evidence.

More than five years later, forensic scientists — and a dog — were able to detect compounds proving that a dead body had been in the basement, leading to the man’s conviction.

of Death’

scent, Goodpaster said. Law enforcement then collected samples for Goodpaster and his team to analyze.

Those “volatile organic compounds,” or VOCs, and how they can be used in criminal investigations were the topic of “The Scent of Death,” a presentation by Dr. John Goodpaster, a forensic scientist and professor at Indiana University Indianapolis. He told an audience gathered for the Oct. 1 Indiana Medical History Museum’s Forensic Science Lecture Series that he and his team worked on the Michigan City case.

“The moment you die, everything stops,” he said. “All your living processes stop, but microbiological processes begin and that whole process, the decay and decomposition, is something that people spend a lot of time and energy studying, and so we actually know a fair amount about it.”

The process of decay produces specific VOCs — compounds that evaporate easily and often are detected by smell. VOCs are how dogs, with significantly more sensitive noses than humans, are able to sniff out explosives, low blood sugar episodes in diabetic patients and, in this case, a dead body — even one that is no longer there.

Goodpaster said the perpetrator, John Hallett, initially got away with the 2017 crime — in part because the body of his victim, Paul Gonzales, never was found. For some reason, though, Hallett called law enforcement in 2022 and confessed. The confession was detailed and credible, which prompted a full investigation, although Hallett later recanted his confession.

Because the body was left in the basement for so long, plenty of fluids and their resulting VOCs were generated, so even five years later, dogs trained to find cadavers were able to detect a lingering

“They just drilled those right out of the floor, put them in packaging and they ended up in our laboratory in Indianapolis,” he said. The lab process was much more involved than the dog’s nose but confirmed what the canine detected. Goodpaster said they swabbed the samples and then used a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer to identify particles on the swab.

“A mass spectrometer is a really powerful instrument that allows you to look at a molecule … and those are essentially considered like a fingerprint,” he said. “It’s considered to be a pretty definitive identification.”

He explained that every compound placed in the machine has a different velocity, so each evaporated compound in a mixture makes its way through the process in its own time.

“And so, if they’re coming out one at a time, that enables you to use … the mass spec to actually ionize that molecule,” he said. “It breaks apart. It measures the mass of everything (and) you can search it against the database.”

Using that process, he said, they found positive results for VOCs related to decomposition that proved a decaying body had been in the home’s basement. There are limits to that proof, though.

“I can tell you that these are decomposition products of something decomposed here, but I couldn’t tell you who, and I can’t even tell you whether it was a human or not,” he said. “So, there’s an important limitation here and that’s kind of the way it goes with forensic science. You have to be able to talk about your evidence and give it its due, but do not oversell it.”

The forensic evidence coupled with other evidence gathered by investigators was enough to convince a jury in 2024 that Hallett was guilty and he was sentenced to 56 years. The Court of Appeals of Indiana upheld the conviction in a March 28 decision.

For more about Indiana Medical History Museum programs, visit imhm. org.

Goodpaster

SCAN FOR MORE

PAINTING PASTIME

Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S., after working together 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.

In stark contrast to the medical/ENT audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend whatever time their patients need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.

“The number of patient’s referring their family/friends, along with referrals from area Consierge and Internal Medicine Physicians speaks volumes to us,” VonBlon said. “We have the trust of our patients and many area physicians. They tell their friends and their patients about us, and we cannot buy that kind of loyalty and referral!” She goes on to say, “We’ve also had many of our previous patients find and follow us to Meridian Audiology and that is a testament to our relationships we build with them.”

The Meridian Audiology Audiologists pride themselves on keeping up with and offering the top-of-the-line newest technology in hearing aids, tinnitus and auditory processing disorder.

In March 2026 we are going to start a quarterly class for anyone who wears a hearing aid and their communication partner called “The Listening Lab: Connect & Communicate with your World” where we will discuss hearing aid use and strategies for better communication. You can call us for more information. We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss. Dr. Wyss states “We’ve done many presentations to community clubs in the area and the participants always appreciate our time in giving them information about hearing loss, cognitive decline and tinnitus as well as answering their questions.”

Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email, or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals. Hours are 9am-4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only. They are located at 911 E. 86th Street, Suite 035. Phone 317-731-5386. Email info@meridianaudiology.com Website: meridianaudiology.com

Stay safe and steady this fall

Commentary by David Stordy

Autumn in Indiana is one of the prettiest times of year — cooler weather, colorful leaves and cozy evenings at home. But along with the season comes a hidden risk: falls. For adults 55 and older, a simple trip or slip can lead to serious injury. The good news is that with a few mindful changes, your home can stay safe and comfortable year-round.

Light the way

Shorter days mean darker evenings. Make sure walkways, stairs and entryways are well lit. Nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways can prevent trips during late-night routines. Motion-sensor lights are another simple upgrade that adds safety and convenience.

Tidy up hazards

Loose rugs, electrical cords and cluttered hallways are common tripping hazards. Use nonslip pads under rugs, keep walkways clear and store everyday items where you can easily reach them — avoiding the need to climb on chairs to grab things from high shelves.

Add

extra support

Small home improvements can make a big difference. Install grab bars in the bathroom, add sturdy handrails to both sides of stairs and talk with your doctor

about whether a cane or walker would provide added stability.

Stay strong and active

Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. Gentle walking, stretching or chair exercises improve balance and flexibility, reducing fall risk and helping you move with confidence.

Plan for peace of mind

Safety goes beyond falls. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, keep emergency contacts easy to access, and consider technology like automatic stove shut offs or medical alert systems.

Even with precautions, some tasks can feel tiring or risky. That’s where inhome caregivers can help. BrightStar Care provides personalized support — from meal preparation and light housekeeping to mobility assistance and companionship — so you can enjoy your home safely and independently this fall.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call BrightStar Care at 317-706-0799 or visit BrightStarCare. com/locations/indianapolis-nw.

David Stordy is the directorowner of BrightStar Care. To learn more about home care or schedule an assessment, call BrightStar Care at 317-706-0799 or visit brightstarcare.com.

VonBlon

Wyss

Adults 55 and older should be careful of falls on walks. (Stock

Medicare open enrollment: What you need to know

Commentary by Julia DeLong

Open Enrollment started Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. Any changes you make during this period will take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

During Open Enrollment, you can make certain changes to your Medicare health coverage, such as:

• Adding, dropping, or changing your Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Part D prescription drug plan

• Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa

• Reviewing and selecting a new Part D plan that better fits your needs

You can make updates any time during the enrollment period, but the last change you make before Dec. 7, 2025, is the one that will go into effect.

When reviewing your 2026 Medicare plan options, take time to compare plans available in your area; you may find better pricing or coverage. Be sure to consider:

• Access to your preferred doctors, health care providers and pharmacies

• Access to the benefits and services you use most

• Total costs, including premiums, deductibles and co-pays

You should receive the “2026 Medicare & You” handbook, which provides details on Original Medicare benefits. If you have a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, your plan should also send an Annual Notice of Change and Evidence of Coverage outlining any updates for 2026.

Once you’ve made your decision, you can:

• Call 1-800-MEDICARE

• Visit Medicare.gov

• Or contact your plan provider directly to enroll

Always request confirmation of any plan details in writing before making your final decision.

Protect yourself from Medicare marketing violations

Medicare has strict rules about how Medicare Advantage and Part D plans can market their services. Knowing these rules can help protect you from

aggressive or misleading sales tactics. Keep these important points in mind during Open Enrollment:

• Unsolicited contact is not allowed. Plans may send you postal mail, but they cannot call, email, visit your home or approach you in public without your permission unless you are already enrolled with them.

• No false affiliations. Plans are not allowed to claim they represent or are endorsed by Medicare or any government agency. They also cannot use the Medicare name or logo in their marketing materials.

• Scope of appointment. If you agree to meet with an agent, they must provide a Scope of Appointment form that outlines what will be discussed. The appointment must take place at least 48 hours after you sign the SOA.

• Transparency before enrollment. Before enrolling you, a representative must explain how the new plan will affect your current coverage. They are required to review a checklist with you to ensure the plan fits your needs including your preferred providers, medications, and cost expectations.

State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, is a free, federally funded program available in every state to provide unbiased, 1-on-1 counseling to people with Medicare, their families, and caregivers. SHIP services do not sell insurance and are there purely to help you make the best decisions for your individual situation.

A review of your Medicare benefits is also included as part of many services offered at Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law. If you’d like to schedule a personalized consultation with our team, call our office at 317-492-9569. We’re here to guide you through your options, answer your questions, and help you make the best choices for your healthcare coverage and peace of mind.

Julia DeLong is a Medicare and benefits specialist for Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law.

Sycamore Reserve resident a working musician

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

New Sycamore Reserve resident Greg Anderson is always active and it’s music to his ears — literally.

Anderson, 74, an Indianapolis native and North Central High School graduate, maintains an active lifestyle.

“I moved to Sycamore in July but still own a log cabin in rural Owen County that we visit,” Anderson said. “Most of my musical contacts are in Indianapolis, so I got this (apartment) as a rented office, but I live here.”

Additionally, Anderson stays busy working as a musician. He plays in a duo with longtime collaborator Steve Quinn. They play together at Prime 47 in Carmel on Friday nights and also at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel.

Anderson plays bass and keyboards and has played professionally for 50 years.

Besides his current gigs, Anderson plays at weddings and has played at friends’ weddings and his friends’ children’s weddings and grandkids’ weddings.

Anderson said life at the Sycamore has been rewarding.

“I love living here at Sycamore,” Anderson said. “It’s a great community and I enjoy it a lot. It’s nothing like living in a nursing home and that’s a big difference to me.”

Anderson said Sycamore had good, friendly people

Whether you’re greeting attendees, assisting with rides, or making new friends, your involvement makes a meaningful impact. Volunteer with us to help create a stronger, more welcoming community.

Visit westfieldin.gov/volunteer or scan the QR code to find out how you can get started!

“I love living here at Sycamore. It’s a great community and I enjoy it a lot. It’s nothing like living in a nursing home and that’s a big difference to me.”

— Greg Anderson

and was fun. After looking at several facilities, Anderson said Sycamore resonated with him.

Anderson said amenities at Sycamore are part of the vibe, including the swimming pool and gym and the proximity to the Nickel Plate Trail for walking and biking.

“That vibe is a major reason I am here,” Anderson said.

Anderson said although he’s a working musician, he hasn’t had a chance to perform for Sycamore residents.

“I would like to play a show, but my schedule is very full,” Anderson said. “I’ve played at other communities like (Sycamore).”

Anderson and his wife Kathy have six children, Jaymi, Kara, Andy, Patrick, Drew and Paige.

Join your neighbors in staying informed! Subscribe to our e-newsletter for the latest city news, construction information, and upcoming events.

westfieldin.gov/enews or scan the QR code below to sign up!

Sycamore Reserve resident Greg Anderson stays busy as a musician. (Photo courtesy of Sycamore Reserve)

Pickleball helps Westfield resident with Parkinson’s disease

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Jennifer Joyce found a new pastime after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020.

The 62-year-old Westfield resident had always been an active runner who competed in running and masters swimming events and triathlons.

But she took up pickleball when she moved to the Osborne Trails neighborhood in Westfield after her diagnosis.

“I was involved with the whole idea of Pickleball 4 Parkinson’s,” said Joyce, a 1981 Carmel High School graduate.

Joyce shared her idea with Indiana Parkinson Foundation Program Director and co-founder Addie Cunningham and IPF Director Kim Williams

The tournament, which benefits the Indiana Parkinson Foundation, begins at 8 a.m. Nov. 15 at The Picklr, 9847 Cumberland Point Blvd., Noblesville.

Joyce credits her Osborne Trails pickleball group for spurring her interest.

“There is a huge group of people who are involved with pickleball here,” Joyce said. “This whole neighborhood group really taught me the game. I really started feeling a lot better when I was playing. You can’t think of anything else when you’re playing. You have to really concentrate and really be intentional be-

cause you can really get hurt whether you have Parkinson’s or not. I wanted to make sure it was something I could keep doing as I got older and as my disease progressed.”

Joyce was soon hooked on the game.

“The best part about playing pickleball is that you forget, if just for an hour, that you have a degenerative neurological disease. You are just another player trying to do their best to beat their opponent while making a new group of friends,” Joyce said. “I wouldn’t hesitate for a second, if I needed help, to call anyone on my

team. They would be there in a second.”

Joyce said the first year of the tournament, several members from her neighborhood played.

“This year, I decided I really wanted to play, and my husband is going to play with me,” she said. “I’m also going to try to be on a women’s team as well.”

Joyce runs and regularly competes in marathons.

“Pickleball is something anyone can do,” she said. “I’m starting to get into pingpong, and I think that can be the next steppingstone. You don’t hear of anyone getting hurt playing pingpong.”

Joyce said she liked going to the Rock Steady Boxing (in Indianapolis) but it’s just too far away with too much traffic,” she said. “So, I started doing some research and my husband a found boxing program inside the Meta Quest called Supernatural.”

Meta Quest is used with a virtual reality headset.

“It’s an excellent workout and helps me a lot on balance,” Joyce said. “You get good feelings when you hear the songs you love and (it) produces the dopamine and makes you feel better when you are actually exercising.”

Joyce said she recommends Meta Quest to people with Parkinson’s.

“It is hard, and some people can’t do it because it messes with their balance,” she said.

For more on the Pickleball 4 Parkinson’s tournament, visit indianaparkinson.org/p4p/.

Importance of podiatrist visits for skin lesions

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf

s we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and our skin is no exception. For individuals older than 55, regular health checkups become increasingly important, particularly when it comes to the skin on our feet and lower legs.

Although routine dermatology visits are essential for skin health, seeing a podiatrist specifically for foot and leg concerns is equally crucial, especially for identifying skin lesions that could indicate underlying issues.

Skin lesions, such as moles, growths or sores, are not uncommon in older adults. Some may be benign, but others can signify more serious conditions, including skin cancer. The feet often bear the brunt of various ailments and lesions may develop because of factors like diabetes, poor circulation or prolonged pressure. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot-related issues and can provide targeted care that other providers may not focus on.

One of the most significant reasons to visit a podiatrist for skin concerns is that they are adept at distinguishing between various skin conditions that can affect the feet and lower legs. They can perform thorough examinations,

often utilizing specialized tools to assess lesions more accurately. Furthermore, podiatrists can advise on the best preventive care for your feet, which is vital in maintaining mobility and reducing the risk of complications.

In addition to addressing current lesions, podiatrists can guide the management of underlying health issues, such as diabetes or circulatory problems, which could make you more susceptible to skin conditions. Regular visits can lead to early detection and treatment, minimizing the risk of more serious complications down the line.

Overall, while dermatology checks are essential for skin health, don’t overlook the importance of a podiatrist’s expertise. For those older than 55, making podiatric evaluations a part of your health care routine is a proactive step toward preserving not only your skin health but your overall well-being. Regular examinations can keep you active and mobile, ensuring quality of life as you age.

at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.

Podiatrist

(Stock Photo)

Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are boardcertified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them

How quickly things change

Commentary by Tom Weesner

Not too long ago, my mother was exercising twice a week with a personal trainer, as she had been for more than 25 years. She certainly doesn’t look like someone who trained that much, but her dedication to her body helped with speedy recovery for heart surgery and two knee replacements. Afterward she was back at the gym. Did I mention she is Motion 4 Life Fitness’ second-oldest member at 93 years of age?

And then things changed, quickly. A series of strokes landed her in the hospital for several days. When she moved to acute rehabilitation, her cognition was down and she was unable to walk. The next three weeks, she worked 15 hours each week in occupational, physical and speech therapy. And we saw significant improvement, not only in her physical movement, but more important, her cognition. She was sharp, alert and working hard to get back to her normal self. Despite her tremendous improvement, she had to move along to the next step of her recovery.

Because mom worked very hard at acute rehab, she qualified for assisted living with care. During this transition, she did not have physical therapy for the first week, and we noticed some physical and cognitive decline in this short period of time. She now only qualified for two, 40-minute sessions of

physical therapy each week. Five weeks later, insurance reduced PT to one session a week, and then it will go to none.

Takeaways from our experience:

Cognitive decline due to inactivity is real. During the COVID-19 pandemic, several of our members shared they experienced noticeable cognitive decline due to not exercising during the shutdown.

The harder you work prior to and during recovery, the more you will improve. If you don’t, you won’t. It will be up to you to keep up the hours of exercise because insurance continues to decrease covered physical therapy whether you get better or not.

It is vitally important to work with a professional trainer to provide encouragement and support when you feel you can’t do it on your own.

Socialization and connection are critical for brain health and motivation.

Please don’t wait. Things change quickly!

We are proud of our mom. She worked hard prior to and during her recovery. And now, she is returning to work with her trainer at the gym twice a week with the goal of three times a week!

Tom Weesner is president of Motion 4 Life Fitness.

Motion 4 Life Fitness members celebrate after a fun group exercise (Photo courtesy of Tom Weesner)

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

FINDING AN ONCOLOGIST

By Dr. Nawal Kassem, breast oncologist at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than a reminder to wear pink. It’s an opportunity to educate, empower and encourage people to take charge of their health. A breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but one of the most important steps a patient can take is building the right care team. At the center of that team is an oncologist, who helps guide treatment decisions, coordinates with other members of the care team and supports patients through every stage of their journey. Finding the right oncologist and the right team can make all the difference in both outcomes and quality of life.

WHAT IS BREAST CANCER?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, though men can develop it too. Early detection significantly improves outcomes. Screening tools such as mammograms, ultrasounds and MRIs allow doctors to identify cancer at its earliest stages when treatment is most effective. IU Health provides comprehensive screening and diagnostic services, as well as specialized highrisk programs for individuals with family histories, genetic predisposition or other risk factors.

When breast cancer is diagnosed, care is coordinated through a multidisciplinary team. This includes radiologists, breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, dietitians, psychosocial support and nurse navigators. Treatment plans are individualized, taking into account the type and stage of breast cancer, personal preferences and other overall health, ensuring that patients receive care that is both evidence-based and compassionate.

WHY ONCOLOGISTS MATTER

Oncologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer. In breast cancer care, several types of oncologists play distinct and essential roles:

• Radiologists: Interpret mammograms, ultrasounds and MRIs to detect abnormalities. They also perform image-guided biopsies when further evaluation is needed.

• Medical oncologists: Direct systemic treatments (chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy).

• Radiation oncologists: Plan and deliver radiation therapy when it’s part of treatment.

• Surgical oncologists or breast surgeons: Perform breast surgeries, sentinel lymph node evaluation, while collaborating with plastic surgeons on reconstructive options.

Beyond treating the cancer itself, oncologists work with other specialists to support prevention of recurrence, manage side effects and address quality of life, nutrition, mental health and survivorship care. At IU Health, patient care is coordinated across experts to ensure you’re supported in all phases, from diagnosis through follow-up.

HOW TO FIND YOUR ONCOLOGIST

Here are some practical tips:

• Start with referrals and reputable centers: Ask your primary care doctor for referrals. Look for cancer centers that are accredited and, when possible, affiliated with medical schools. These often provide access to leading specialists, clinical trials, advanced diagnostics and multi-disciplinary teams. IU Health’s partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine is one example.

• Check what services and specialties they offer: Confirm that the center has experience with your specific breast cancer subtype. Is there access to high-risk programs

or genetic counseling, if needed? Do they offer the full range of treatments that you might need, such as surgery, radiation, medical oncology and reconstructive surgery?

• Evaluate communication and support: Quality care goes beyond treatment. You want someone who listens, explains options clearly, considers your preferences and helps you understand risks and benefits. Ask about support staff, such as nurse navigators, social workers, dietitians and psychological support. At IU Health, shared decision making is central to the patient’s experience.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, informed decision-making and comprehensive care. Advances in screening, surgery, systemic therapies and survivorship support have significantly improved outcomes.

Still, navigating a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. That is why establishing a strong partnership with an oncologist and a multidisciplinary care team is essential. Together, they ensure that treatment is personalized, evidence-based and supportive of the whole person, not just the disease.

For individuals seeking additional information or resources about breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment options and support services, IU Health provides extensive expertise and comprehensive programs. To learn more, visit iuhealth.org/breastcancer.

Dr. Nawal Kassem

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Lynda M. Parziale wanted a purpose and a hobby.

“When you get older or retire, it’s very easy to just get into a rut,” Parziale said. “You really have to make the effort to go out and do things and meet people. I think that is one of the things that helps you stay young. I’ve met a lot of interesting people from all age groups.”

Parziale initially donated her time as a volunteer fundraiser for Franciscan Health.

More recently, the 79-year-old Parziale took up art in April 2024.

“It’s a stress reliever,” she said.

Parziale does acrylic paint pouring to create her pieces.

“You can pour it on in different ways, but once it’s on, you have to maneuver it,” she said. “One of the things that I tell people is the paint has a mind of its own. It will do what it wants to do, but you can cajole it along.”

Paraziale said each person might see something different in her work.

“I get pleasure out of doing it because you get totally immersed in it,” she said. “It’s very relaxing.”

She said she discovered acrylic pouring on Facebook.

“It clicked that I could do it,” she said. Her work has been on display at No blesville Creates and Fishers City Hall.

Parziale sold her first piece after six weeks and has sold several pieces since then.

“I just did my 11th piece for a brand-new building in Boston,” she said.

She has sold nearly 25 pieces.

“I went to school in England, and as far as artistic things, I had to write in calligraphy until I was 10

Continued on Page 11

Carmel resident discovers passion for acrylic pouring

Lyndia M. Parziale with her art work. (Photos courtesy of Lynda M. Parziale)

Continued from Page 10

years old,” she said. “In school in England then, you have to make choices whether you are going into the arts or sciences very early. So, I just had an art class for two years, probably when I was 12 and 13, and that’s it. Even though I went on the science track, I’ve always been very interested in the arts. I think it’s because when we moved around a lot, I had to decorate the house. I did a lot of sewing and knitting.”

Parziale has lived all across the U.S. after meeting her husband, Vincent, in his first year of medical school at Stanford University. She had moved from England to Canada in her early 20s. The couple have lived in Oregon, Wisconsin, Arizona and Nevada. They lived in Indianapolis for two years in the 1980s when her husband worked at Eli Lilly.

I’ll be honest, I’d never in a million years thought that my art would be hanging in galleries and people would be buying it — Lynda Parziale

erous with donations for pieces of art for fundraisers. I did fundraisers for Franciscan Health before they built the hospice.”

Parziale was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017.

“Everything was taken care of, which was great,” she said. “One of the ways that I felt I could pay back was to help raise money for The Giving Gig. On a couple of occasions we made over $2 million. Continuing my drive to bring in many, many items we were very successful.”

Parziale said one of her bucket list items would be owning her own art store or gallery.

“I’ll be honest, I’d never in a million years thought that my art would be hanging in galleries and people would be buying it,” she said. “It’s been a whole new lease on life and opened a lot of doors for me.”

For more, visit Parziale’s Instagram page at englishdame_lmrp_acrylics.

“When we found out our married daughter was pregnant, we came back here 18 years ago,” Parziale said. “We’ve been in Carmel for 10 years.”

Parziale’s daughter, Vanessa Barth, and her husband, Brian, have one child, Elyce, and live in Carmel. The Parziales lived in Bargersville before moving to Carmel.

GIVING BACK

From moving so often, Parziale has a lot of connections across the U.S. When she was younger, she worked in nuclear medicine research.

“When we lived in Las Vegas, I was director for one of the largest real estate firms in Las Vegas,” she said. “When we moved here, I was going to retire. Trust me, I can’t retire. I tried it before, and I ended up doing a lot of volunteer work. I met a lot of artists. People were gen-

Jeffery P. Schoonover, MD

RPVI, DABVLM Chief Medical Officer, Fellow, American Vein & Lymphatic Society

Are swollen ankles, leg heaviness, and muscle cramping keeping you from your daily routine?

Call Indiana Vein & Lymphatic today and get on the road to better health.

EVALUATION AND TREATMENT

Lynda M. Parziale with her acrylic pouring paintings. (Photo courtesy of Lynda M. Parziale)

Looking For A New Place

Stratford resident becomes author for 1st time at 91

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Marti Macke has been writing most of her life but never expected to publish her first book at age 91.

“I never thought I would see the day, and I was surprised how much fun it was,” said Macke, a resident of The Stratford retirement community in Carmel. “I should have written more. I was surprised everybody in the family wants the book, and they want it for their children, so that feels good. People always said to me, ‘I wish I would have asked my mother questions or I wish I had talked to my grandma.’”

So, Macke talked to her mother, Mary. Macke drew on those stories and memories over the years to write “Where the Heroes Are: Stories of an Immigrant Family and the Home Front During WWII.”

Macke, whose maiden name is Cmar, said she learned her family came from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which dissolved after World War I.

“(My mother) started to talk to me about what it was like in the olden days, and it was pretty interesting to me,” Macke said. “The Austrian part, where she was from, turned into Poland, but we didn’t speak Polish. I found out later my father was from the Hungarian part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and they had a different king.”

Macke moved to The Stratford 10 years ago. Her husband, Elmer Macke, died in 2007 at age 77 when the couple lived in Florida.

Macke said she remembers growing up like it was yesterday.

“I lived during a unique time and want people to learn from our history,” Macke said. “Many of the same issues, from when I was young during World War II, are still relevant today.”

She grew up in Gary, the youngest of six children. She graduated from Gary Tolleston High School in 1952. Tolleston closed in 1969 and is now a home to the Boys & Girls Club. She graduated from Indiana University with a radio and television degree in 1956.

Macke worked at a radio station, creating fun jingles. She also wrote articles for the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette

when she lived in Fort Wayne, where her husband had a land development business.

Macke’s daughter, Mary Lou Cox, said her mother has been writing all her life and taking writing classes.

Cox said her mother wrote stories and sent them to the grandchildren. The grandchildren began to request the stories as Christmas presents.

“Which was really cool because I didn’t have to go out shopping. I’d just sit down on these little typewriters we used to have and later the computer,” Macke said.

The book editor was Jenny Kalahar, who has written several books and is one of Indiana’s premier poets. Kalahar was recommended to Cox to help publish her book.

“She started working on it and (said), ‘This is an important book that people need to know about,’” Cox said.

Macke said she wrote the book for her own four children, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and her nieces and nephews.

Stratford resident Marti Macke with a copy of her book. (Photo courtesy of Mary Lou Cox)

Continued from Page 12

“My oldest brother was 20 years older than me,” she said. “My nieces and nephews are 12 to 20 years younger than me, so I’m as close to my nieces and nephews as I was to my brothers and sisters, who are all gone now.”

Macke’s two brothers served in World War II. One of her sisters was married during that time and her husband also was in the war. She talked to her siblings before they died and also had letters they had written from home. The book addresses the challenges her brothers faced after the war.

“My one brother, Peter, had malaria and he was a radio operator and he would wake up screaming, ‘Pop,

you son of a gun, pop,’” Macke said. “Mama and Dad would rush upstairs. What it was that Germans would play ‘Pop Goes the Weasel’ repeatedly (over the radio) and he said after a while, it messed with your mind.”

Her oldest brother, Johnny, slept between two beds because he was used to sleeping in a foxhole, which gave him protection.

Macke also has three sons, Chris, Michael and Mark. Cox said her mother’s family faced prejudice being an immigrant family when they first arrived in the U.S.

“One thing we all wanted to be was Americans,” Macke said. “My mother baked apple pies, and my brothers always said that was a pie worth fighting for.”

Macke said she relies on a little historical fiction to

One thing we all wanted to be was Americans.

— Marti Macke

recreate dialogue.

Macke will participate in the Carmel Library Local Author Fair from 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Carmel Clay Public Library’s Community Room. Books were submitted in advance and reviewed prior to her invitation. She will have books available for sale at the event and the book is available on Amazon.com.

Have Medicare question s? I have answers

I’m Kimberly Hughes, a licensed sales agent in Hamilton County, serving central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Make the most of my knowledge and experience to:

• Take the confusion out of Medicare

• Get help comparing plans

• Receive one-on-one service

• Make enrolling in a plan easier I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence.

Kimberly Hughes Licensed Sales Agent 3177925227, TTY 711 berlyhughes@gmail.com www.myuhcagent.com/kimberly.hughes

AND BETTER

This quarterly publication from Current Publishing will focus on how those 55 years old and older can make the most of every day to create and enjoy a vibrant, productive lifestyle. Focal points will include relationships of all sorts, handling grief and loss, dining, cooking at home, how to love again, fitness and wellness, active-life choices, travel, personal finance, scam alerts and, among other topics, making the home exactly what is wanted. 55 and Better is distributed as part of Current (126,986 households) by U.S. Mail.

Issue Date Jan. 27, 2026 April 28, 2026 July 28, 2026 Oct. 27, 2026

Ad deadine Jan. 16, 2026 April 17, 2026 July 17, 2026 Oct. 16, 2026

DISPATCHES

 M/I Homes of Indiana unveils plans for Montelena community — A new townhome community from M/I Homes of Indiana is coming to Noblesville in 2026. The Montelena community, located east of Promise Road on Greenfield Avenue, will feature 186 homesites offering two- and three-story townhomes starting in the mid $300,000s. Situated in the Noblesville Schools district, sales are expected to begin in February 2026. Each residence will include a 2-car garage, two to three bedrooms, a guest suite/study and between 1,500 to more than 2,000 square feet of living space. There also will be a shelter with picnic tables, a community dog park and a shared outdoor space featuring cornhole. For more, visit mihomes.com/ new-homes/indiana/indianapolis-metro/ noblesville/montelena.

 INDOT transportation survey — An online survey is open for Hoosiers to comment on INDOT’s 2045 Long-Range Transportation Plan. An update of the plan will incorporate changing transportation network demands and new trends and to satisfy new state and federal regulations. The LRTP is a policy-based plan that is used to guide the development of Indiana’s transportation system. It includes the vision and goals for the coming years, performance measures, transportation demands and strategic recommendations for all modes of transportation, including motor vehicles, public transit, freight, ports, rail and aviation along with pedestrian and bicycle movements. Take the survey though Dec. 20 at bit.ly/LRTPVirtualRoom.

PROVIDING A JUMPSTART

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Jeff and Robin Kontor are ensuring their late son’s memory lives on.

The Noblesville residents are the founders of Jojo’s Jumpstart Foundation, which provides financial assistance through scholarships and business support for continuing education, trade school or entrepreneurship.

The Kontors started the foundation in honor of their late son Jordan Kontor, who died in 2022 at age 28 from sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, or SUDEP. He was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 4.

Jordan also struggled with dyslexia.

“After he died, we talked a lot about his life and how he struggled so much, and there just wasn’t a lot out there for kids like him,” Robin said. “So, we thought maybe we should start something and give back to kids like him that want to go to a trade school or need a little extra help starting their business.”

Jordan attended Bishop Chatard High School in Indianapolis, and Robin said because of his learning disabilities, they knew a traditional four-year school wouldn’t be his next step. He attended Vincennes University for a construction management program, and after graduating college, he ran HoosierScapes landscaping with his father until the time of his death.

Jojo’s Jumpstart Foundation, founded in 2023, helps those in similar circumstances. It supports those with learning disabilities, fewer advantages and limited resources who need extra help to meet their educational or entrepreneurial needs. In the last three years, the Kontors have awarded 25 scholarships.

The bulk of the scholarship money is raised through the foundation’s annual fundraiser, Jojo’s Birthday Bash.

“We get donations throughout the year, but they’re minimal,” Jeff Kontor said. “Primarily, it all comes from that one night of his birthday bash. We had about 325 people attend in September this year. We generate money from selling tickets and live auctions. The only funds that we hold back are funds that we need to pay for things to get ready

for the next fundraiser. We give away the rest.”

The Kontors also have memorial scholarships set up with Ivy Tech Hamilton County, Vincennes, Ivy Tech Indianapolis, Ivy Tech Anderson and Providence Cristo Rey High School.

“We have structured gifts that we’ve set up with the universities and with Providence, but if someone comes directly to us, they just tell us their story, and we figure out what their needs are,” Robin said. “We love when we get recipients directly through our website, because part of our mission is to pair them with a mentor, so it’s just a really personal connection. It’s easy to throw money at someone, but if you can help find someone that can help guide them through that process, that’s what we love.”

Andrew Hubur, an Indiana University graduate, applied for the scholarship in 2023, requesting additional equipment to help grow his business, The Lawn Squad.

“I received a new 60-inch Exmark lawn mower, a Z-Spray lawn fertilization machine, a 36-inch John Deere

lawn mower and some small tools that are also beneficial for us around the shop,” Hubur said.

He said the tools helped him grow his small business faster.

“Being in my late 20s and basically (starting) my business from nothing, I realized that it was slow going, because in the lawn care industry, there’s so many capital needs,” Hubur said. “The scholarship gave me what I needed to grow a little bit faster, run my business much more efficiently and drive revenue even faster.”

The Kontors plan to continue growing the foundation and help more people like their son.

“Everyone should be valued because they are all working hard,” Robin said. “They’re all going to give back to society in one way or another. If you’re a doctor or you’re a plumber, you’re still a valued citizen. So, that’s what we do. We give back to kids just like (Jordan).”

For more, visit jojosjumpstart.org.

FOUNDATION’S WORK RECOGNIZED

JoJo’s Jumpstart Foundation was recently named Benefactor of the Year by the Ivy Tech Foundation in Hamilton County.

The Ivy Tech Foundation honored 37 distinguished alumni and benefactors from across Indiana to recognize graduates, donors and supporters who help elevate the college’s mission.

The Ivy Tech Hamilton County Jordan Kontor Memorial Scholarship was established in 2024.

“We went to Vegas, and we were sitting in a bar, thinking about starting this, and said, ‘Yeah, we should do it,’” said Jeff Kontor, who co-founded the organization with his wife, Robin. “So, to ever think that three to four years later we’d be the Benefactor of the Year was not even a possibility. We just wanted to keep his name and memory alive. So to be awarded that was pretty cool, but pretty overwhelming, too.”

There also is a student center and lounge at the school named in Jordan’s honor. It opened in August and was made possible through the partnership with JoJo’s Jumpstart Foundation.

For more about the Jordan Kontor Memorial Scholarship, visit ivytech.edu/locations/hamilton-county/local-student-resources/ local-scholarships.

Noblesville couple assists students through memorial foundation

From left, Ivy Tech Hamilton County Chancellor Rachel Kartz honors Jeff Kontor and Robin Kontor as the Benefactor of the Year. (Photo courtesy of Ivy Tech Hamilton County)

Jordan Kontor, who passed away in 2022 from sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. (Photo courtesy of Robin Kontor)

ON THE COVER: From left, Robin Kontor, Jojo’s Jumpstart Foundation scholarship recipient Andrew Hubur and Jeff Kontor. (Photos courtesy of Robin Kontor)

Vanquish Shower Mold! Conquer Dirty Grout Lines!

Epcon breaks ground on The Courtyards of Hazel Dell

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Epcon Communities, which builds 55-and-better residential neighborhoods, celebrated the groundbreaking of The Courtyards of Hazel Dell Oct. 10.

The residential development is a single-family neighborhood on the east side of Hazel Dell Road north of 169th Street. The Noblesville Common Council approved the development in July 2024. Move-ins are anticipated for late winter/early spring 2026.

The Courtyards of Hazel Dell will offer 111 home sites, with prices starting from the upper $400,000s, and four home designs ranging from 1,550 to 4,000 square feet. Amenities will include a clubhouse, pool, fitness center and bocce and pickleball courts. The community also will have direct access to the Midland Trace Trail.

“I’m really happy to now say that we’re part of the Noblesville family, and hopefully this is just the beginning,” Epcon Indianapolis President Robyn Crawford said. “What’s really unique about this location is the access to the Midland Trace Trail that expands all the way from Westfield to Noblesville. That opportunity for our buyers and 111

homeowners to be able to walk out their front door and connect to that trail and enhance their well-being is something we’ve been looking forward to.”

Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen lauded the development

“Our No. 1 goal is to make sure that people stay here, grow here, live here, work here, play here and as you look to age in place, making sure we have housing options for people to stay in Noblesville lifelong,” Jensen said.

Epcon has five other active communities in the Indianapolis area.

Artist moves into studio

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Heather Ward Miles, a contemporary artist who goes by H. Ward Miles, has moved into the White River Studio at 707 N. 9th St. in Noblesville.

The space is the former studio of Indiana artist George Elliot, who built the building in 1990. Miles said Elliot died six years ago, and she bought the studio from his family in February.

“I grew up in Noblesville, and when I was a kid, I would ride my bike by it, and I just thought it was cool,” Miles said. “I couldn’t believe that an artist needed that space. I think it sort of planted a little seed.”

Miles, a Carmel resident, will have a grand opening for the studio from noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 25.

“I sell large abstract paintings for

the most part,” Miles said. “Most of the time, if someone makes an appointment with me, they are going to see my workspace, but I do have half of it hung with paintings, and I sell directly out of there. I also travel and do shows and sell around the country. For the open house, there will be paintings, but there will also be gift items and holiday items. There’s no pressure to buy. I just want people to see it and hang out with me and have a drink.”

Miles previously taught art at Indianapolis Public Schools and rented gallery space in Carmel.

“I hope that it is a space that holds George’s legacy,” Miles said. “I hope that people feel comfortable coming and recognize it as an artist studio and my studio.”

For more, visit hwardmiles.com.

From left, Epcon Director of Sales Kara Shipman, Epcon Indianapolis President Robyn Crawford, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen, Epcon Director of Land Development Matt Harlan and Noblesville Common Council Members David Johnson and Todd Thurston break ground on The Courtyards of Hazel Dell. (Photo by Jessica Todd)

Left Grain now open Baggerstown to soon open

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Left Grain, a business that sells leather patch hats, keychains and handmade goods, is now operating out of 936 Maple Ave. in Noblesville.

There will be a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Oct. 29.

Owner Kim Davis, a Noblesville resident, said she previously operated the business full-time online. She moved into the space on Maple Avenue in August.

“I’ve been casually looking for a space for the last year and a half or so,” Davis said. “The space is perfect for what I need. I’ve always loved downtown Noblesville. I’ve done the Indiana Peony Festival for the last two years, which is always a successful event for small makers. So, being able to move into the space as I was becoming familiar with the city is exciting.”

She said the shop provides room to grow the business.

“I was working out of my basement in a tiny room for the last five years,”

Davis said. “I started using the laser engraver at the Hamilton East Public Library in 2019, and I fell in love with the process of turning my designs into products. In 2020, I bought my own laser and started selling more online.”

Davis said Left Grain will still primarily operate as an online store, with the Maple Avenue store open on weekends.

“Our current plan is to open retail on Fridays and Saturdays, because we do all of our own production work,” Davis said.

For more, visit left-grain.com.

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Baggerstown, a sports and recreation venue, will soon open at 16680 Mercantile Blvd. in Noblesville. The business, which is expected to open at the end of this year or early 2026, will feature 18 cornhole courts, four golf simulators that offer multisport game options, shuffleboard, pool, digital dart boards, 100 TVs, a VIP room for private parties, elevated bar food and two fully stocked bars.

Baggerstown Director of Marketing Jess Robison said the concept was developed while a group of friends were playing cornhole after work.

“This is the one and only,” Robison said. “A group of buddies that were playing cornhole were like, ‘Why isn’t there something like this around where we can go play no matter what the weather?’ The idea just kept growing and growing, and here it is.”

Many Baggerstown team members grew up in the Noblesville area. Baggerstown Operations Manager Nathan Dexter said the concept is something

the city was lacking.

“One can only hope that it’s successful enough that it warrants another location,” Dexter said. “I don’t think we’re opposed to that, but Noblesville needs a family spot like this.”

Robison hopes the business creates a sense of community.

“It’s a place where people can gather to eat and have fun,” Robison said. “I think it’ll be the next good gathering spot for after the games at Noblesville High School or to catch a game on TV while playing.”

For more, visit baggerstown.com.

Left Grain is now open at 936 Maple Ave. in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Kim Davis)

Baggerstown will be at 16680 Mercantile Blvd. in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Jess Robison)

County to open Rely Center

news@currentnoblesville.com

Hamilton County leaders and community partners will have a ribbon cutting for the new Rely Center at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 22 at 17840 Cumberland Rd. in

The Rely Center will provide rapid triage, assessment, stabilization and up to 23 hours of observation for individuals facing urgent mental health, substance use or psychiatric crises. It is the result of a partnership between Hamilton County; Riverview Health; the Hamilton County Health Department; the Hamilton County Council on Alcohol & Other Drugs; MindWell Solutions; and Aspire Indiana Health.

Hamilton County Council Member Steve Nation has long advocated for the facility, which is funded in part by $3.5 million approved by the Hamilton County Council and Hamilton County Commissioners.

“Too many individuals cycling through our courts and jails are there not because they are criminals, but because they are in crisis,” Nation stated.

“This center offers a new path — one focused on treatment rather than incarceration.”

The opening also marks a milestone for Aspire Indiana Health, which will operate the facility. Aspire Indiana Health President and CEO Antony Sheehan emphasized the importance of accessibility

“Meeting people where they are, in their moment of greatest need, is how we change lives,” Sheehan stated.

Officials with Aspire Indiana Health said the Rely Center will be staffed by a team of skilled multidisciplinary individuals composed of crisis responders, registered nurses, therapists and a psychiatric provider. When a patient first enters the Rely Center, they will meet with a registered nurse and crisis responder. Following the initial assessment, a therapist or psychiatric provider will develop a care plan.

President and CEO of Riverview Health David Hyatt said emergency rooms often serve as the default destination for people in behavioral health crises.

ATI cast ready to take on classic comedy

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Ben Asaykwee got his wish to be in “Young Frankenstein.”

“There aren’t a whole lot of shows that I really want to do, and this is one of them,” Asaykwee said. “I actually went to New York to see the Broadway cast because I loved the movie so much.”

The Noblesville resident portrays Frederick Frankenstein, a role Gene Wilder played in the 1974 movie, in Actors Theatre of Indiana’s musical production of “Young Frankenstein” Oct. 24 to Nov. 9 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Mel Brooks, who created the movie, also helped create the musical version.

“I love Gene Wilder, and throughout my career, I’ve been compared in a beautiful way to him,” Asaykwee said. “I think it’s really because we both have round faces. I just wanted to get my hands on the show one way or the other. I was willing to play Igor, which would be a fun role.”

Asaykeee said the biggest challenge is “keeping a straight face around all these jokers.”

John Vessels Jr., who has been in several ATI shows, plays Igor, a role the late Marty Feldman played in the movie.

“I was a huge fan of the movie. The musical I wasn’t super familiar with, but when I saw the script, I saw a lot of the movie is still there,” said Vessels, a Louisville resident who previously lived in Indianapolis. “I’m also a big fan of Marty Feldman. I think he was tremendously funny and naughty in the way Tim Conway was funny for the audience but also for your colleagues. To have (Feldman’s) body type, you have to have a thyroid condition. His eyes were that way because he had a thyroid eye condition. I have the exact opposite thyroid condition that makes you gain weight.”

Vessels said the tap dance number will be a challenge.

“Simply because I can’t remember which foot is which,” he said. “I’m mostly excited because I’m pretty sure Igor is a salamander with the heart of a golden retriever. He’s kind of this little gross thing with a heart of gold, so that’s where I’m going with (the character).”

Julie Lyn Barber, head of the musical theater department at Purdue University Fort Wayne, plays Frau Blucher.

“(The role) is the German cabaret woman that I love to sink my teeth into like Marlene Dietrich,” she said. She said she gets to play the straight comedian role most of the way.

“When I get my cabaret song, then all bets are off,” she said. “It’s called ‘He Vas My Boyfriend.’”

Sophie Jones plays Inga.

“The biggest challenge I conquered is the yodeling part,” she said. “I’ve been working on it for a bit. I really like it. My neighbors really hate it. It’s finding where she can be the straight woman in this zany cast of characters and also where she can fly off the handle a little bit and be the crazy one, then go back to playing the straight woman. That’s going to be really fun. If we’re going to be having fun on the stage, we’re going to be fun to watch.”

Jones, who is based in New York, saw her friend play Inga in a production in Philadelphia.

“It was really interesting to see all the small nods the stage version made to the movie,” she said.

ATI Associate Artistic Director Darrin Murrell is directing the show.

For more, visit atistage.org.

‘TOOTSIE’

“Tootsie” runs through Nov. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS

Squirrel Nut Zippers will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Now That’s Funny: Comedy Night “is set for Oct. 23, followed by “Human Jukebox with Ryan and Lauren Ahlwardt” Oct. 24 and “Monster Mash: A Night to Dismember!” Oct. 25 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘THE CASKET GIRLS’

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s production of “The Casket Girls” is set for Oct. 24-25 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

JESSE COOK

Jesse Cook’s concert is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

 Songbook Foundation presents ‘White Christmas’ — The Great American Songbook Foundation, in partnership with Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, will welcome Maria Ferrer Murdock, daughter of Songbook Hall of Fame inductee Rosemary Clooney, to the Payne & Mencias Palladium for a festive holiday film screening event of “White Christmas”at 7 p.m. Dec. 4. For more, visit thecenterpresent.org.

Ben Asaykwee, left, and John Vessels Jr. star in “Young Frankenstein.” (Photo courtesy of Actors Theatre of Indiana)

‘Monster Mash’ set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

As a kid, Don Farrell would help his father set up a haunted house attraction.

As the singer-actor got older, his love for Halloween never waned, which he said led him to create a fun offering for adults but family friendly as well.

The Westfield resident will present “Monster Mash: A Night to Dismember!” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 and 29 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael.

“It’s utilizing the iconic monsters, Dracula, the Bride of Frankenstein, the Werewolf,” he said. “Then we have Wednesday Addams and Terry Woods as the Phantom of the Opera with the rest of the band as the Undead. It’s frightfully fabulous fun.”

Farrell’s Crossroads Entertainment company regularly presents performances at Feinstein’s.

Besides the songs, Farrell, a co-founder of Actors Theatre of Indiana, said there will be a costume contest for “prizes to die for” and a haunted trivia on Halloween movies.

“I have a light storyline between the different characters and a lot of fun

songs that are a mix of pop songs with novelty songs,” he said. “I’m going to do my best to turn Feinstein’s into a macabre kind of crypt.”

Sherri Berry plays Wednesday Addams, a role she played at Beef & Boards’ presentation of “The Addams Family” in 2022.

“We’ll do ‘Paint it Black’ for Wednesday,” Farrell said. “We’ll have ‘Hungry Like the Wolf’ for the Werewolf,”  For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

Osborne to play Palladium

By Dave Gil de Rubio editorial@youarecurrent.com

The recent movie “A Complete Unknown” may have stoked a mini revival in all things Robert Zimmerman, but Joan Osborne has been paying homage to the man better known as Bob Dylan dating back a few decades. That admiration is reflected in her latest album, “Dylanology Live,” which features eight Dylan covers performed live at a show and also features guest appearances by Amy Helm, Jackie Greene and Robert Randolph.

of one of the shows at Tarrytown Music Hall. Normally, I’m the harshest critic of listening back to my live stuff. This time, I was pleasantly surprised that this nice discovery from the archives all sounded pretty good.”

“We put out a ‘Songs of Bob Dylan’ cover record studio album in 2017, and following that, I decided to do something really fun,” Osborne said. “I invited some special guest artists to come out and do a full-band show. It was great and turned out to be a nice tour. I was recently looking through some archives and found we had this recording

For her current tour, the Kentucky native is shaking it up a bit in terms of who will join her for this string of dates. Osborne will perform with Lisa Loeb at 8 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. It’s the 30th anniversary of Osborne’s album, ‘Relish.”

“Some of these shows are going to be trio gigs and some of them are going to be full-band gigs with special guests,” she said. “And it’s not the same ones that are on the album. I say it’s going to be like the (Dylan’s) Rolling Thunder Revue with more women and fewer drugs.”

For tickets, visit thecenterpresents. org.

Osborne

From left, Jaddy Ciucci (Bride of Frankenstein); Shelbi Berry (Wednesday Addams); Don Farrell (Dracula); and Matt Branic (Werewolf). (Photo courtesy of Don Farrell)

A quick word on numbers

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

There should be a law against having phone numbers that denote words instead of, well, numbers. It’s a phone number, not a phone word. For example, there is a national organization dedicated to educating people about a common but potentially serious illness. Their phone number spells the name of the disease.  Is that an incredible coincidence or what?

Here are some others:

1-800-CALL KEN

1-800-FLOWERS

1-800- GOT JUNK

1 800-GO FEDEX

I mean, what are the chances?

That makes the number easy to remember, but it’s impossible to dial on your cellphone if you are in the car, watching the road, balancing your coffee and trying to figure out where the PQRS button is. Now, there is technology that allows you to just ask your device to call your desired number. But I’ve had trouble with that service for years. I wanted to call my son, Brett.

“Calling Brad,” the device confirmed.

“No, call BRETT,” I yelled back, pronouncing it very clearly.

“Calling Britt.”

“NO, NO, I haven’t talked to her in years. Call BRETT.”

“Calling Barb.”

“DARN IT!”

“Calling Darla.”

I needed some music to calm my nerves. All I had to do was say the artist’s name, and his songs would play.

“BOB DYLAN,” I requested. Then I heard this:

“Looking up Bob Dylan on Wikipedia. Bob Dylan is an American singer-songwriter and artist who was born

in Minnesota …”

Now at my wits’ end, I screamed, “HOW DO I MAKE THIS THING WORK?”

Then a voice sang, “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind. The answer is blowin’ in the wind.”

I was so mad, I probably said a number I shouldn’t say in mixed company: 3687. Before you call the newspaper to complain that I mentioned some inappropriate digits, I simply picked four numbers at random. They don’t spell anything, but I’d better go back and recheck. I wouldn’t want any four-number words in a family newspaper.

I recently discovered that 426-3425 (I AM DICK) has more than 2,000 additional letter combinations.  Here are some that are unforgettable: GAN-EIJC, BNE-HBAL or IC-MFG-BK.  See how much simpler it is to remember seven letters rather than seven numbers?

I realize I will never be able to get I AM DICK for my phone number because many people with common names like IC-MEGAL or ICOD-IKM have probably been waiting for that number to become available for years.

If you enjoyed this column, don’t forget it was written by 3425. But you and I don’t have to be so formal. You can call me 3.

Do you think this is a good example of how 3425 gets paid for really stupid stuff he writes every week? If you do, you’ve got my number.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

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.

Invitation to digital age

Commentary by Terry Anker

In the days before reliable national post, invitations were hand delivered to the home of each would-be participant. Much like a child in third grade hoping to gather her friends but not knowing the right addresses would carry a stack of cards to school and pass them out during recess, adults were limited to hand-to-hand combat to host an event.

Times change, and we eventually found our way to standardized ZIP codes and forever stamps. For decades, we were delighted to find among the bills and flyers the coveted request for a presence at a social event, wedding or other fandango. We’d open as we returned from the mailbox, excited to see what fun it might bestow. Now, we find ourselves halfway through the curve of another direction change. Once prized, printed invitations are increasingly considered quaint but cumbersome. How can we respond without a button? Does the host expect us to notify them

of our intent to attend, or not, via any more than minimal effort?

Technology has advanced to the point that a save-the-date is sent via text, email or social media, automatically claiming a spot on our calendars. Eventually, the e-vite becomes formal. We are nudged to “comment” to our host and have a gift sent, in advance. The month, week, day and hour before, we get reminders. Details are confirmed, confirmed, confirmed and confirmed again.

Still, people don’t show up. In fact, the social contract here has frayed to near unrecognition. Guests, eager to keep their options open, don’t respond. Have we lowered our expectations? Perhaps. But if we didn’t get five reminders, what could they reasonably expect?

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent.com.

for extra in-

store letters

. ___-cone

. Animal rights org. 30. IND gate posting 32. Left-winger, for short

33. Moonshine

35. Pun: Why did the cow cross the road? To get to the ___ side!

39. Great Salt Lake state

41. Signed

43. Monetary unit

44. U-Haul rival

46. Wicker material

48. “___ Robinson” 49. Arrest

51. Guesstimate words

. Messed up 26. Hamilton Town Center

52. Carmel Middle School spelling contest

53. URL starter

56. Smooths

58. Poke

60. Fishers HS cafeteria worker’s headwear

62. Meadow

63. Bronte’s “Jane ___”

64. Indiana waterway... or a Hamilton County township

70. Over again

71. Like Indy Scream Park

72. Apple spokesperson?

73. Indiana Basketball

Hall-of-Famer Kitchel

74. Zionsville HS prom purchase

75. Online ‘zine

1. Hoosier Motor Club service

South Bend high school...or a Hamilton County township 12. Extend a subscription to IBJ

15. “Wow!”

17. Kind of stew or coffee 21. “___, Brute?”

22. Solidarity 23. Rot

24. Budget, in brand names

25. Co-owner of the Colts: Kalen ___...or a Hamilton County township

. Speak unclearly

. Luau fare

. Lady bird

. ___ Moines

2. One-time sponsor of the Colts’ stadium 38. Easley Winery choice

. JFK predecessor

. The next generation

. Disney elephant

. Brian Wilkes forecast, maybe

55. On a caffeine buzz

57. “None of the above”

59. Salary increase

61. DVR button

62. Some jeans

. Cowboy, at times 50. Made beer or tea 53. Third most common crop in Indiana, behind corn and soybeans 54. Fort ___...or a Hamilton County township

65. Wrath

66. “___ the season...”

67. Vigor’s partner

68. Historic

5-Star reviews!

*2 -bedroom, 2-bath Condo in the gorgeous Gulf Shores!

*Close to several sports complexes and just 1.5 miles from the beach. Across the parking lot is a pool open all year around.

*We are located one block off the main drag and walking distance to Walmart, Publix and many restaurants.

*The condo is fully stocked & you can enjoy the cooler GS nights on the relaxing balcony.

*Beds are super comfy and all of the rooms have large Roku TV’s!

This is a 2nd floor unit with wide exterior stairs.

We have Fall and Winter Snowbird discounts for longer stays that you can’t pass up. To rent, you must be 25.

Please email for pricing and we will send you a link to the photos of the condo and its location. mcnallygroupllc@gmail.com

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Cars: BUMPER, CLOWN, GETAWAY, MUSCLE, POLICE, RENTAL; Winds: BLAST, BLOW, GALE, GUST, HOWL; Coats: DUFFLE, PARKA, TRENCH, WINDBREAKER; Rivers: OHIO, WABASH, WHITE; Counties: NEWTON, NOBLE; Coach: RICK CARLISLE