Carmel councilors push back on mayor’s proposal to launch nonprofit to manage events / P19 Carmel International Arts Festival to feature more acts / P3
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Arts Festival features more international acts
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Carmel International Arts Festival keeps boosting its international presence with a variety of dance performances.
The festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 27 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 28 in the Carmel Arts & Design District.
“We have more dance performances from different groups than we’ve had in the past,” said Andris Berzins, in his third year leading the international portion of the festival. “We’ve never had the Lithuanian group before, so we’re excited to have them come from Chicago.”
EVENT
Among the dance groups on the east stage performing are Indian groups from the Natyalaya School of Arts and Samyoga School and Hellenic Adult Group featuring Greek music.
There also will be performers representing Chinese and Japanese music.
Berzins said performers from Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre is a new addition.
“Dance is a great kind of art because you don’t need words to communicate,” Berzins said. “The dances speak for themselves.”
Carmel’s six Sister Cities will have booths. The cities are Cortona, Italy; Jelgava, Latvia; Kawachinagano, Japan; Rueil-Malmaison, France; Seiffen, Germany; and Visakhapatnam, India.
Berzins is president of the Jelgava-Carmel Sister City Committee.
There also will be booths from the Greek community, Ukrainian Society of Indiana and the Indiana Association of Chinese Americans.
The Beer and Wine Garden, featuring The Rejoicing Vine, Spencer Winery and Bier Brewery, will be on the north end of Range Line Road.
“The idea is to create an environment where people can go to a little bit more of a quiet area, maybe take a break, sit down and listen to some good music,” said John Greiner, who is coordinating the area. “It’s based on the wine garden principle of having decorations and plants and having a
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Crescendo, representing the Chinese community, consists of students from Carmel High School and Carmel Middle School. The group will perform at the Carmel International Arts Festival. (Photo courtesy of CIAF)
relaxing background.”
Greiner said Sullivan’s Hardware provided some plants and decorations.
“We have smaller acts,” he said. “It’s a more intimate setting versus having a
band or large group.”
Don Farrell and Terry Woods will open the Sept. 27 schedule in the area at 11:15 a.m. The Elizabeth Lee Band plays at 1:30 p.m. and Phil Stockton performs at 4 p.m. There is wine testing in between acts. The Sept. 28 schedule opens with Tim Wright at noon and Cole Woodruff at 2:30 p.m.
The main stage acts Sept. 27 include Tim Brickley and the Bleeding Hearts at 10:05 a.m., Touch of Grass at 12:30 p.m. and On the Record at 6 p.m. The Sept. 28 begins with Ten Branches at 11 a.m. and closes with Phone Club at 3:30 p.m.
There are also musical acts on the west stage.
WATERS TO BE HONORED
The Carmel International Arts Festival is honoring Rosemary Waters, a past executive director and a founder of the festival, who died in March.
During the festival, Main Street will be named Rosemary Waters Way. Artist Randy Sorrell will lead the dedication ceremony at 10 a.m. Sept. 27 at the Main Stage.
“Rosemary Waters transformed a vision into reality when she created the
Carmel International Arts Festival, bringing the world’s artistic talent to our doorstep and reinforcing Carmel’s identity as a premier destination for arts and culture,” Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam stated.
“The temporary renaming of Main Street to ‘Rosemary Waters Way’ during the CIAF is our community’s heartfelt thank you for her dedication and legacy.”
For more, visit carmelartsfestival.org.
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Waters
Project Civility Summit to emphasize respectful discourse
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel City Councilor Jeff Worrell has been an advocate for civility in public discourse since he founded Project Civility in 2024.
EVENT
The Project Civility 2025 Summit, which will take place Sept. 26-27 in Carmel, has been in the planning stages for several months.
Civility has been a passion for Worrell throughout that period, but recent events have shone a light on how disagreements can sometimes turn violent. As evidenced by the murder of conservative advocate Charlie Kirk Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University, Worrell said it’s vital to emphasize civility in political and general discourse.
“It feels very timely,” he said. “We have lots of interest that we did not see a week ago. We’re getting calls from people wanting to know if it’s appropriate for them to come.”
Worrell, said Project Civility stresses that disagreement shouldn’t include hate. A core belief of Project Civility is that disagreement must occur without harm.
“When we disagree, we have no desire to punish, to harm, to embarrass, to tribalize because you’re this and I have to hate you,” Worrell said. “That has been our mes-
sage from Day 1. We’re going to push that even harder — no harm.”
Worrell said the Project Civility Summit will host political figures and influencers from 15 states. All Hamilton County mayors will send staff to the event.
The goal is to spread the message of civility at the local level first.
“I believe at the local level we’re the glue,” Worrell said. “I’ve seen it at the local level, I’ve experienced it, personally, at the local level. We can make change. We’re bottom up. We’re not trying to change some national movement.”
Worrell was partly inspired to start Project Civility in 2024 when he read the book “The Soul of Civility” by Alexandra Hudson. She will be a leading figure in the events at the Project Civility Summit.
The Summit begins at 6 p.m. Sept. 26 with a welcome reception and fireside chat by former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels at the Carmel Fire Department Headquarters & Carmel Fire Buffs Museum at 210 Veterans Way. Daniels will appear with Hudson, and the Project Civility National Award will be presented. This part of Project Civility is a ticketed event. Tickets are $97 for the fireside chat.
The remainder of the Project Civility Summit will take place at 8 a.m. Sept. 27 at the Carmel Clay Library Main Branch. Hudson, national ambassador for Braver Angels
John Wood Jr., founder of Relational Wisdom 360, and Ken Sande will be morning keynote speakers.
Joanna Taft, executive director for the Harrison Center for the Arts, also will speak about “Porching–Culitvating Community” over a family-style luncheon. “Porching” is a movement to get people to invite one another to their porch or into their homes to talk.
“How do you get the person walking their dog in front of your house — you don’t have a clue who they are — how do you invite them up on your porch or into your home to have a glass of lemonade? That’s critical to changing the way we treat each other,” Worrell said.
Lori Leander and Lisa Brandt, founders of Reclaiming Civility, also will speak, as will Worrell, who will talk about how community leaders can take the principles of civility back to their communities.
“I’m very, very encouraged that we’re going to have a great summit and we’ll able to move the needle as far as creating a network across the country of organizations who want to increase the culture of civility,” Worrell said.
The cost to attend the entirety of the Project Civility Summit is $195. To register, visit eventbrite.com/e/the-inaugural-project-civility-2025-summit-tickets-1357763159159.
For more information on Project Civility, visit projectcivility.com.
Daniels Worrell
S&P Global reaffirms county AAA credit rating
news@currentnoblesville.com
S&P Global Ratings has assigned Hamilton County its highest credit rating — an ‘AAA’ long-term rating — on the county’s anticipated $12 million general obligation series 2025 bonds.
COUNTY NEWS
Hamilton County Communications Director Tammy Sander said the rating outlook is stable. S&P also reaffirmed the county’s ‘AAA’ long-term rating on its other outstanding general obligation and lease debt.
“This rating is a direct reflection of the county’s responsible financial stewardship and strategic planning,” stated Sue Maki, president of the Hamilton County Council. “By earning and maintaining an AAA rating, Hamilton County is able to finance critical projects at the lowest possible cost, saving taxpayer dollars while improving services.”
Sander said county officials plan to use
the bond proceeds to fund mental health facilities, the acquisition of a storage facility and the Sheridan Airport.
S&P analysts cited Hamilton County’s “very strong economic profile, characterized by robust economic growth,” and its “strong budgetary management practices” that “have enabled the county to maintain an extremely strong reserve position while managing its operating and capital expenditure growth.”
“This just demonstrates the strength of Hamilton County’s economy and the prudence of our financial management,” stated Steve Dillinger, president of the Hamilton County Commissioners. “It ensures we can continue to invest in projects that directly benefit our residents while preserving our long-term financial health.”
Sander said the county remains one of only a handful of counties nationwide to maintain an AAA bond rating, the highest rating awarded by S&P.
Carmel to replace existing school zone signs, hours
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The look and timing of school zones in Carmel will soon change.
CITY NEWS
The Carmel City Council approved replacing existing school zone signs Sept. 15 with a new version — including flashing lights, speed radar and solar panels — to establish a unified look throughout the city.
In addition, instead of stating that school zones are in operation between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on school days, the new signs will state that school zones are in effect when the lights on the signs are flashing. For most schools, that will be between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., but the zone surrounding Clay Middle School will remain 7 p.m.
“This is not about saving anyone four seconds to get through the (school) zone. It’s not about saving time, letting you go faster. It really is about consistency and knowing when to slow down because there might be children present,” said Jeff Worrell, one of seven city councilors to vote in favor of the ordinance.
City of Carmel Director of Engineering Bradley Pease said the change in school zone hours better reflects the timing when students are most likely to be in the area.
“The community has to trust that we are being meaningful with the hours that we set,” Pease said. “If they’re flashing 24 hours, (motorists) can always see them, but they don’t trust that we’ve been thoughtful with when students are there, and people have less compliance.”
Pease said that radar has been “one of the most effective tools” in controlling speeds in Carmel.
“The radar feedback sign works off of shame, that’s how they work in neighborhoods and everywhere else,” he said. “Everyone else gets to see the speed you’re going.”
The city can collect data from the radar signs to determine when and where drivers are speeding through school zones to determine if other measures should be implemented.
Pease said the total cost to purchase 32 revamped school zone signs is $450,000 and that Carmel Clay Schools will contribute $50,000 to cover the technology that allows the district to remotely schedule
the flashing lights. The city plans to dip into capital improvement local road and street funds to pay for the project.
“This is more than just new signs. It’s about aligning Carmel’s world-class schools with Carmel’s world-class infrastructure. And when you put those two together, you get something that really makes a difference for families in this community,” Pease stated. “I think the community is really going to like it.”
Councilor Matt Snyder abstained from voting on the ordinance, saying he believes it should be expanded to include all educational facilities in Carmel (including day cares and independent schools), not just those already within school zones.
Other city councilors said they support exploring an expansion of the ordinance and revisiting Snyder’s concerns. However, they voted in favor so it would not slow the process of replacing signs in areas already designated as school zones.
The city expects to have the signs installed and operational by the end of the year.
The new school zone signs will include flashing lights, speed radar and solar panels. (Photo courtesy of the City of Carmel)
Council OKs funds for senior housing development
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The Carmel City Council met Sept. 15 to approve a bond to support the Signature55
development, discuss updates to the residential rental cap ordinance and exempt certain areas from the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area’s operation during specific times.
What happened: The council approved issuing $11 million in tax increment financing bonds to help fund the Signature55 development.
What it means: Rebar Development is partnering with the Carmel Redevelopment Commission and Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation on the $88 million project, which is set to include 200 apartments for seniors and a park dedicated to veterans on 4 acres east of Old Meridian Street.
What’s next: After Rebar’s financing for the project is finalized, the CRC will transfer the land for the park to the city. CCPR will work with other partners to design the park.
What happened: The council discussed proposed updates to its residential rental cap and registration ordinance and sent the matter to its Land Use and Special Studies committee for further review.
What it means: Proposed changes include requiring a dwelling to possess a certificate of occupancy before it can be registered, prohibiting dwellings claimed for a homestead exemption from being registered as a rental, setting a deadline of Dec. 31 to register a home as a legacy dwelling, stating that registered dwellings that change ownership after Dec. 31 will lose legacy dwelling status and add an annual $5 registration fee.
What’s next: The committee is set to review the ordinance at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at the Carmel Clay Public Library in the second floor boardroom.
What happened: The council approved a resolution excluding specific areas from the DORA’s operation during certain events.
What it means: Alcoholic beverages may be obtained from participating businesses within the DORA and opened and enjoyed within the district’s boundaries. Libations from other sources are not permitted in the DORA, which created a conflict for special events within the DORA that provide alcohol or have historically encouraged it to be brought.
What happened: The council amended its Noise Exemption Ordinance to include the night before the Diwali festival of lights.
What it means: Fireworks were already permitted on Diwali, but the update allows them to be set off between 5 and 11 p.m. the night before the annual festival, as well.
What’s next: Exemptions are Carter Green from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 24, 2026, for the Winter Games festival; Carter Green between Nov. 18 and Dec. 24 and Nov. 19 and Dec. 24, 2026, for the Carmel Christkindlmarkt; and 5 to 9 p.m. on dates of the 2026 Summer Family Concert Series at the Gazebo in Civic Square. What’s next: This year, Diwali is on Oct. 20.
Oestreich addresses Mohawk Trails concerns
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent
Thomas Oestreich said he’s committed to addressing concerns raised by Mohawk Trails Elementary School parents in August.
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During the Sept. 8 Carmel Clay Schools board meeting, Oestreich said walls would be added to the Mohawk Trails library.
“We are moving forward with plans to add walls to the Mohawk Trails Elementary School Library to reduce noise and create a more focused space for our students,” Oestreich said. “We are in the early stages of planning and will share an updated timeline with the Mohawk community as the process moves forward.”
During the Aug. 25 CCS board meeting, library walls were mentioned by several parents as a security concern. Mohawk Trails parents said that the open concept of the library could be problematic in the case of a security situation such as an active shooter.
Oestreich focused more on the student learning environment he said would be
improved by the walls. He said he had the safety concerns raised by parents evaluated by CCS personnel.
“Mohawk Trails is a safe school and our building remains secure,” Oestreich said. “While listening to community and staff feedback, our safety specialists and school resource officers concluded that additional safety upgrades were not warranted.”
Oestreich also said the safety referendum passed by Carmel voters in 2020 provided for a district safety specialist and a Carmel Police Department resource officer at each school, each day.
“(It adds) a valuable layer of protection at the elementary level,” Oestreich said.
Oestreich also noted that playground improvements at Mohawk Trails are underway. The playground was also cited by parents as a safety concern during the Aug. 25 meeting.
“Replacement parts have been ordered, and those are expected to arrive within six to eight weeks, after which repairs will begin promptly,” Oestreich said.
Mohawk Trails, which opened in 1972, is scheduled for renovation in 2029, according to CCS.
CHS astronomy teacher receives national award
HONOR news@currentincarmel.com
Carmel High School astronomy teacher William Keith Turner, who also is director of the school’s planetarium, has been named the 2025 Thomas J. Brennan Award winner from the Astronomical Society of the Pacific.
The Brennan Award acknowledges educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to astronomy education in the classroom and through community engagement.
Turner
Turner was selected for his ability to spark curiosity about the universe, his innovative use of professional astronomy tools and technology and his dedication to training and supporting fellow educators, according to the ASP.
“Keith Turner has transformed astron-
omy education at Carmel High School,” CHS Principal Dr. Tim Phares stated. “His expertise and passion for astronomy have created unparalleled opportunities for our students and community to experience the wonders of space. We are grateful for the inspiration he provides and the unique educational experiences he has made possible.” In his role as planetarium director, Turner has advanced programming, upgraded technology and expanded access to astronomy for all learners, according to CHS.
Turner’s work has earned recognition not only from the ASP, but also from organizations such as NASA and the Lilly Endowment. He was previously named one of Carmel High School’s Most Influential Teachers. Turner will be recognized at the ASP Awards Gala Nov. 8 in Burlingame, Calif.
Dia de la Familia celebrates Carmel’s Latino culture
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The inaugural Dia de la Familia festival took place Sept. 13 at Midtown in Carmel. It was a celebration of Latino culture in Carmel, but for festival founder and chairperson Claudia Escalante, it was a celebration of family, too.
CELEBRATION
Escalante, who moved to Indiana from Colombia in 2000, sees parallels between the family-first tradition that is prevalent in Hispanic culture and in the Midwest. That family-first ethos has made Escalante feel at home in Carmel, and Dia de la Familia was a way to celebrate that part of both cultures.
“If you look at the Latino community, we are family oriented,” Escalante said. “That’s our value that we hold up the highest. That’s the same value that Hoosiers believe in and hold very close.”
Escalante said that the Latino population of Carmel deserves to be celebrated.
“We bring value to the community. We bring value economically with our brains. We bring value as a culture,” Escalante said.
During the formal ceremony, State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-District 39) and Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam both spoke about the importance of celebrating Carmel’s diversity.
“It’s important to me that we still help this event,” Finkam said. “Many communities canceled events like this, and we want to celebrate our cultural heritage right here in Carmel, Indiana.”
Lopez said it’s important for residents to understand the positive contributions the Latino community brings to the state.
“We have to continue to push and make sure people understand the importance of
Carmel mayor Sue Finkam, Carmel City Councilor Dr. Anita Joshi, Dia de la Familia founder and chairperson Claudia Escalante and State Rep. Danny Lopez present Escalante with a proclamation celebrating the inaugural Dia de la Familia.
the Latino community as it continues to grow in Indiana,” Lopez said.
Dia de la Familia kicked off with Latino music performed by the Direct Contact band. The event included food trucks and a scavenger hunt for kids that taught them about Latin American nations.
Escalante said that after high school she briefly lived in Cincinnati, but she missed Hoosier values and relocated to Carmel.
“This community has welcomed me. I have been here for over 20 years. This is where I gave birth to my kids and where I made friends that are now my support system. So, Dia de la Familia is my way of giving back to my community,” Escalante said.
Direct Contact, a Latino band, performs during the Dia de la Familia festival at Midtown in Carmel. (Photos by Todd Golden)
Children help create a chalk drawing that celebrated the inaugural festival.
Dance Marathon raises $3,000
The final two pickleball teams that participated in the 2025 Carmel Dance Marathon fundraiser. From left, Evan Coulter and Cal Carmichael from DutchPopp Painting LLC, Max Hall and Drew Hall from The Shockers, who won the marathon. (Photos courtesy of Claire Wolfgang)
news@currentincarmel.com
The Carmel Dance Marathon hosted a pickleball tournament Sept. 7 at the Dink House in Carmel to raise money for Riley Hospital for Children. The event raised $3,000 for the hospital. Thirty-six teams competed. The champi-
FUNDRAISER
for
onship match was between Cal Carmichael and Evan Coulter for the DutchPopp Painting LLC team against Max Hall and Drew Hall for The Shockers. The Shockers won the tournament.
The 2026 Carmel Dance Marathon will take place Feb. 21 at Carmel High School. Carmel Dance Marathon raised $400,000 through its charitable efforts in 2024 and 2025.
Volunteers
the 2025 Carmel Dance Marathon fundraiser, a pickleball tournament that took place Sept. 7 at the Dink House in Carmel. From left, Hadley Klein, Liv Barrett, Claire Wolfgang, Mysk Abedali, Juliana Rivas, Lucy Moore and Sara Keating.
Carmel senior quarterback finds perfect fit with new offense
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School senior quarterback Anthony Coellner credits a few reasons for his success this season.
“I feel like my accuracy has improved a lot,” he said.
Coellner said coach Kevin Wright’s runpass option offense is a perfect fit for his skills. Wright is in his first season back with the Greyhounds after he coached the team from 2010-14.
But being healthy has made the biggest difference, Coellner said.
“Not playing with a high ankle sprain and a broken tibia has been huge with me running the ball,” he said. “I can use my legs to escape sacks and extend plays on the ground.”
Coellner, in his third year as a starter, said he played through the ankle sprain, missing a few quarters with swelling.
“I fully snapped my tibia in the third quarter in the ninth game, so I wasn’t able to play in the playoffs,” he said.
Prior to the Sept. 19 game against Columbus North, Coellner had completed 59 of 81
MEET ANTHONY COELLNER
Favorite athletes: Jayden Daniels and Anthony Edwards
Favorite musician: Drake
Favorite subject: English
Favorite TV show: “Quarterback” on Netflix
passes (73 percent) for 814 yards with eight touchdowns for Carmel (3-1). He also had 216 rushing yards on 33 attempts, including five TDs.
As a junior, he completed 172 of 283 passes for 1,896 yards and 17 TDs.
“He’s done a really nice job of using both his arm and legs to make plays,” Wright said. “He’s been highly accurate, completing more than 70 percent of his passes. When
you have someone that is accurate with their arm and has the ability to beat people with their legs, that’s a good combination to be able to move the chains and put points on the board.”
Wright said Coellner has done a good job of creating versatility in the attack.
“From looking at film from last year, he’s playing with a lot more confidence,” Wright said.
Coellner said his season goals are to have a completion percentage above 70 percent, pass for 2,000 yards, rush for 500 and have more than 20 total touchdowns.
“As a team, our goal is for a (Class 6A) state championship,” he said.
Carmel, hampered by injuries, finished 3-7 last season, a rare losing season for the program. Wright replaced John Hebert, who resigned and took over as Noblesville’s head coach.
The 6-foot-2 Coellner played basketball through his sophomore year, playing on varsity a little as a freshman and his entire sophomore season.
“After that is when I went all in on football,” he said.
Coellner committed to NCAA Division 1 FBS Troy (Ala.) University, a Sun Belt Conference program, in June.
“I really loved the coaching staff, and I felt they showed me a lot of love and support through the whole process,” he said. “I feel like my game fits their offense perfectly, so that’s the main reason why.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
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Carmel High School senior quarterback Anthony Coellner is his third year as the starter. (Photo courtesy of CHS athletics)
Carmel resident wins teen pageant
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
From volunteer work with the Carmel Clay Public Library to ballroom dancing and 1-on-1 interviews, the process to be crowned Miss Indiana Jr. Teen can be challenging.
The Indiana chapter of the National American Miss pageant was held from Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. Carmel resident Jada Jones, 13, won the title and an invitation to compete for the national title in Orlando during Thanksgiving week.
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CHS senior’s paintings draw honors
“It’s hard, but it’s fun,” Jones said. “I couldn’t really fathom the moment that I had won it. I was so excited and grateful. I think it is still kind of hitting that I really won and (that) I’m going to nationals. I’ve spent two years up to this going for the title, and I finally won.”
Jones said being able to have a platform to advocate for was a big factor for competing in pageants. She’s been competing since age 10.
“My platform is SWISH: Supporting Women in Sports and Health, and it’s a platform to talk about mental health and how you can deal with that in a safe and good way,” Jones said.
With nationals looming, Jones’ goal is to finish in the top five or top 10.
In the meantime, Jones, a student at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis, will stay busy with her many interests, which range from playing basketball to violin and piano.
“I am immensely proud of her,” said Jada’s mother, Delilah Jones. “To see her go through the stress and pressure, putting in the hard work that she does, she’s so dedicated.”
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By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School senior Megan Xia had a special reason for her pursuit of painting.
“I was originally drawn to art through the works of painters and comic artists, which introduced me to the beauty of visual storytelling,” Xia said.
“I experience hypophantasia, or a very weak ability to visualize images, and art became a way for me to bring clarity to thoughts I couldn’t otherwise see. I’m also fascinated with the cultural contexts of artwork, particularly how it reflects and then influences the world around it.’’
Xia began painting five years ago with a specialty in oil and pastel. She was awarded the Congressional Art Award and her artwork is on display in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., alongside pieces from other recipients nationwide.
“Unfortunately, I had a prior commitment and wasn’t able to view my artwork at the ceremony in D.C.,” she said. “Still, I feel deeply honored that our district’s panel of judges selected my artwork to represent our district, and I hope I’ll have an opportunity to visit the exhibition sometime.”
Xia also has earned multiple Gold Keys as well as a National Visual Art Award in the Scholastic Art & Writing Competition, where she was recognized at Carnegie Hall in New York City earlier this year. In addition, she received first and second-place prizes at the Indiana State Fair. Xia, who plans to pursuit art and philosophy in college, also was named Teen Artist-in-Residence at the Carmel Clay Public Library in August.
Carmel High School senior Megan Xia holds the painting that on display in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy of Megan Xia)
Jada Jones, left, is crowned 2025 National American Miss Indiana Jr. Teen by the 2024 winner, Ruby Martin. (Courtesy of Delilah Jones.)
Reckless homicide charge added for Carmel man in fatal pursuit
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office has filed a motion to add three additional charges for Carmel resident Alexander Mitchell. The charges are related to a June 14 high-speed pursuit in which Mitchell allegedly caused an accident that led to the death of an Indianapolis man.
The additional charges are reckless homicide — a Level 3 felony — and two more counts of resisting law enforcement, one a Level 3 and the other a Level 5 felony, according to the prosecutor’s office. Mitchell had already been charged with two felony counts of resisting law enforcement and one felony count of criminal recklessness. He also has been charged with two misdemeanor counts of reckless driving, one charge of unlawful carrying of a handgun and one charge of driving while suspended.
COURTS REAL
IrsayAccording to the probable cause affidavit filed by CPD, Mitchell was pursued by Carmel Police Department officers June 14 after driving at a high rate of speed southbound on U.S. 31. Mitchell attempted to evade officers and was pursued at high speed down Meridian Street into Indianapolis.
At 64th Street, Mitchell lost control of his Kia and struck Kevin McKelvey head-on in the northbound lane, according to the affidavit.
McKelvey was hospitalized for what were believed to be nonfatal injuries, but 15 days later, blood clots reached pulmonary arteries of both lungs and blocked flow of blood, leading to his death. The Marion County Coroner’s Office determined that the car accident caused the death.
Mitchell is being held in the Hamilton County Jail on a $75,000 bond. He has a final pretrial hearing Nov. 20. A jury trial is scheduled for Dec. 3 in Hamilton County.
estate sells for $11.75M
news@youarecurrent.com
According to the real estate website Zillow, the Carmel estate owned by late Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has been sold. According to Zillow, the estate sold Sept. 15 for $11,750,000. The buyer is unknown.
The 9.4-acre property at 1147 W. 116th St., which is adjacent to Crooked Stick Golf Club, went on the market July 30 for $12 million. Five days after the property was listed, it had a pending offer.
According to the listing, the property
— which was built in 1996 — includes a 24,000-plus-square-foot main residence and two standalone guest homes. The estate includes The Cabin, a 2,700-squarefoot retreat with three bedrooms and 3.5 baths, and a second cottage offering two bedrooms and two bathrooms.
The estate has a gated guardhouse to the indoor recreation areas, which includes an Indianapolis Colts-branded basketball court.
Irsay, 65, died May 21. Ownership of the Colts passed to his daughters Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson.
DISPATCH
500 Festival Princess Program applications open for 2026 — Young women across Indiana can now apply for the 500 Festival Princess Program, presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis. Applications are open until Jan. 4, 2026. Selected Princesses will serve as ambassadors for the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500 and will participate in community service projects and outreach from February through May. Each Princess receives
a $1,500 scholarship made possible by Marlyne Sexton and the 500 Festival Foundation. Top applicants will interview with an independent panel of community leaders on Jan. 24 in Indianapolis. From there, 66 will advance to a second round on Feb. 7, after which 33 will be selected to serve as the 2026 500 Festival Princesses. To apply at 500Festival.com/Princess. To learn more about the 500 Festival’s events and programs, visit 500festival.com.
Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S., after working together as Audiologists in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
In stark contrast to the medical 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.
hearing loss action plan.
Kira and Ali are available to evaluate your hearing and walk through your many options if you are a hearing aid candidate. There are so many hearing aids on the market…prescription hearing aids, over-the-counter hearing aids, Costco hearing aids…how do you know what is best for you? And how do you know if your insurance has any benefit for hearing aids or a discount plan? Kira and Ali will spend the time to explain the differences in hearing aids, the best options for the hearing concerns you have, and will even have their benefit company call to verify if you have a benefit or discount plan for hearing aids through your insurance. We believe this makes the difference in you feeling comfortable with your individual
Kira and Ali are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing, hearing loss and the link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. 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.”
Big News! Kira and Ali are starting an Aural Rehab class for anyone with hearing loss and hearing aids AND THEIR COMMUNICATION PARTNER(S) beginning in 2026! Stay tuned for more information on date, time, cost and how to sign up!
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: www.meridianaudiology. com
Stickers with racist message found across Noblesville
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville residents have expressed outrage on social media after “Keep Hamilton County White” stickers were found on light poles and speed limit signs throughout the city.
CIYT NEWS
Noblesville business owner and resident Stephanie Ricciardi, who saw one of the stickers on a speed limit sign near the North Harbour neighborhood in Noblesville, said she was appalled.
“Seeing that message plastered on a public sign was shocking and heartbreaking,” Ricciardi said. “It was a bold display of racism meant to intimidate and exclude, and it should outrage every single person in this community. We cannot pretend this doesn’t exist or quietly scrape it away and move on, because silence is complicity. Our town is better than this, and we need to prove it by standing loudly and firmly against hate.”
She views the stickers as a “cowardly attempt to divide people.”
“Hate like this should not be normalized or brushed aside,” Ricciardi said. “It has no place in Hamilton County, or anywhere.”
Ricciardi said she scraped the sticker off the best she could.
Noblesville resident Dorothy Ferguson said her 18-year-old son and his friend saw one of the stickers on a light pole in downtown Noblesville and sent her a picture.
“My son is biracial black and his friend Mexican American,” Ferguson said. “I was really taken back and fearful for my kids and their friends. I moved my kids to Noblesville so they would be safer and have access to better resources and the community as a whole but to see that brought instant fear.”
Ferguson said it was a “smack in the face” to her son, his friend and herself.
“My children live in this community, and given the history of America and the current state of the divide in the country towards people of color, it is a very real threat we live with daily. More so for my children and their ethnic friends and families. It is very sad and disgusting. All people should feel welcome regardless of their race.”
It is not the first time similar messages have been seen in Hamilton County. County
(Photo courtesy of Stephanie Ricciardi) residents reported finding fliers in neighborhood streets last winter asking people to “track and monitor illegal immigrants” and “report them” to the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.
“There was a case report done, but nothing illegal was done, as disturbing as it may be. The literature may be disturbing to Hamilton County residents, but unfortunately, it’s not illegal.” Westfield Police Department Cpt. Rob Dine said at the time.
Per city ordinance, however, it is illegal to post stickers or signs on city light posts, according to Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen.
“We consider this to be vandalism of city property, and we are removing the stickers as quickly as we can,” Jensen said. “While any stickers would violate the city ordinance, I want to be clear that Noblesville has no tolerance for this hateful message.”
Jacob Strawn, a Sheridan resident, pushed back against the racist stickers by attaching stickers to magnetic paper and putting them around Noblesville. The stickers say things like “love is love” and “end gun violence.”
“After I saw those white supremacist stickers were put up so close to home, I grabbed the most popular stickers (from) Flags for Good, a local Indianapolis company,” Strawn said. “(I) wanted to share it with the community in an effort to help the people that felt unsafe and excluded, feel included and safe.”
Strawn said the stickers were put on magnetic paper to prevent property damage. Jensen reiterated that it is not legal to post stickers or signs on any city posts or poles. The stickers also have been removed.
A “Keep Hamilton County White” sticker on a speed limit sign near North Harbour in Noblesville.
VonBlon
Wyss
COMMUNITY
Carmel entrepreneur styles women from inside out
By Sara Palmer news@youarecurrent.com
Every closet tells a story. Some hangers hold pieces tied to first jobs, milestone birthdays or seasons of motherhood. Others carry the weight of insecurities, outdated identities or chapters women are ready to close. For many, opening the door can feel overwhelming.
FASHION
That’s where Marti Justice, 50, steps in. Through her Carmel-based business, Marti J Styles, she helps women edit not just their wardrobes, but the way they see themselves.
A friend reminded Justice of the joy she had found in helping others with their clothes and encouraged her to turn it into a business. The suggestion lit a spark.
“A girlfriend from church said, ‘Marti, I’m listening to this podcast, and this woman is doing what you did for me and several other friends. Do you want to start a business like that?’” Justice said. “I felt so much joy, and I hadn’t felt that in a long time because I wasn’t in a good place emotionally. And when that occurred, I started digging.”
With a mix of encouragement, practical styling and a girlfriend’s honesty, she turns fashion into a tool for confidence.
Victoria Odekomaya, CEO and chief brand strategist at Indianapolis-based LiMStudios, a creative studio, said Justice has elevated both her clients and her personally.
“At my studio, my goal is always to make clients, many of whom are not naturally comfortable in front of the camera, feel relaxed enough that I can capture their authentic selves,” Odekomaya said. “When Marti is on set, though, it takes the entire experience to another level. She comes prepared with exactly what they need to wear for each concept, and she notices the tiniest details — a collar, earrings, a necklace — that make someone feel polished and cared for.”
Justice didn’t plan to become a stylist. A homeschooling mother of four, she suddenly found herself with quiet days when her children transitioned to private school and college.
“When I was home alone, I felt purposeless,” she said. “I even went away for a weekend just to escape the noise. There were other things happening in my life during that transition that I didn’t fully
Through her business, Marti J. Styles, Carmel’s Marti Justice uses fashion as a means to help women feel empowered.(Photo provided by Marti Justice)
realize at the time, and I found myself thinking, I need a job. I didn’t know it then, but I was really praying for purpose, and that’s what happened.”
Justice quickly realized that clothing choices are deeply tied to self-perception. Before she pulls a piece from a hanger, she talks with clients about their mindset.
“My two pillars are mindset and wardrobe,” she said. “You cannot address wardrobe clearly without understanding what your mindset really is when it comes to you as a person, as a woman, as a successful business owner, as a woman who is making big decisions.”
Her goal is to reduce stress, not add to it.
“They don’t want to make another decision because they already do that so much,” she said. “I like taking the stress off of them by being their best friend in the closet, shopping in silence, taking that pressure off.”
Justice offers a range of services, from closet detoxes and private consultations to workshops, travel styling and closet parties — a styling party for a group of friends.
She recently added tiered packages to meet women in different “seasons,” from those beginning new careers to women ready for an upgrade to those celebrating major milestones.
As her business has grown and evolved, Justice has been refining her mission. That now includes a stronger focus on serving professional women, not as a limitation, but as a way to expand her impact.
“When women invest in themselves, they walk away more confident, and that confidence changes everything,” she said. For more information, visit martijstyles. com.
Meet Matt Sowder
By Shelly Gattlieb news@youarecurrent.com
Matt Sowder has lived in Carmel since he was a toddler and is a graduate of Carmel High School, class of 2001. As a self-described “athlete and nerd” in high school, he decided to attend Indiana University with the original plan of studying education.
CHARACTERS OF CARMEL
However, his fascination with exercise physiology led him to the field of kinesiology. He also met his wife, Alexis, on a blind date in 2003 while attending IU, and the couple moved back to Carmel after graduation to raise their son, Mitchell, and daughter, Molly.
Sowder is a physical therapist and recently opened his clinic on East Carmel Drive, Physio Indy, focusing on helping people achieve their physical goals and tangibly increase longevity.
Pet peeves: Nontransparent pricing, parents who put their kids on leashes
Rewarding experience: Coaching in Dad’s Club sports
Phrase used a lot at work: “Motion in lotion”
Who would play Matt in a movie: One of the Property Brothers
If he could be any animal: Affluent golden retriever
Favorite singer: Ben Folds
New law he would pass: Financial literacy classes taught in schools
Bucket list item: To see IU football win a national championship
Dream concert: Beatles Rooftop Concert Best way to relax: Walking his dog, Maui
Do you know an interesting character who lives, works or worships in Carmel? Send suggestions to sgattlieb. currentincarmel@gmail.com
DISPATCH
Current seeking freelance reporters and photographers — Current Publishing is seeking talented freelance reporters and photographers to join our team. We’re looking for passionate storytellers who can write compelling articles and capture high-quality images that bring our local news to life. Send your resume, a brief cover letter, and a link to your portfolio or writing samples to zach@youarecurrent. com. No phone calls, please. EOE.
Sowder
Carmel athletic director happy to be ‘home’ in MIC
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School Athletic Director Jim Inskeep called the Greyhounds’ return to the Metropolitan Interscholastic Conference a return “home.”
SPORTS
The MIC announced the return of Carmel and Center Grove to the Indianapolis-area high school athletic conference Sept. 11. Both schools are set to return for the 202627 season.
Carmel and Center Grove were founding members of the MIC in 1996 but were voted out in 2021 and have competed without conference affiliation ever since.
By returning, Carmel and Center Grove will resume playing conference games against Ben Davis, Lawrence Central, Lawrence North, North Central, Pike and Warren Central.
“I think having the ability to kind of come home is great for our teams and our student-athletes,” Inskeep said. “I think first and foremost, you talk about being able to collaborate with other schools that are very similar to you, and obviously the schools in the Metropolitan Interscholastic Conference bring that for us, not only athletically, but academically as well.”
Inskeep said conversations with MIC leadership had been ongoing for several months.
“Things really heated up in the last week, and from there, both Center Grove and Carmel wanted to be full members of the conference and there was mutual interest in that,” Inskeep said. “Why wait on that? Let’s move forward and start planning for the future.”
Inskeep said that whatever awkwardness existed between Carmel and MIC leadership in 2021 dissipated quickly as there was mutual interest to reunite. Carmel was voted out partly because it showed interest in the Hoosier Crossroads Conference.
“Times change,” he said. “As time goes on and we start laying out all of the issues or the challenges that were there, are they too big to overcome? You always have to keep the door open. I think it’s really important in leadership to always think about what’s best for kids and not just have hard feelings about decisions that were made (in the past).”
A major advantage of being in a conference is having stability in the nine-game football schedule. When Carmel last competed in the MIC during the 2021 football season, seven of its nine games were MIC contests. Carmel’s current schedule features four MIC opponents, but each of its nine games as an independent must be scheduled separately.
“I think there’s no secret that when you have a nine-game football schedule, it also becomes pretty important to have some affiliation with other schools for the longevity of that to continue,” Inskeep said.
Inskeep said he anticipates most of Carmel’s sports teams will have full MIC schedules for the 2026-27 season. Football schedules are made further in advance, and it’s unclear when the MIC will fully integrate Carmel and Center Grove.
“I’m pretty confident that we would be playing a full conference (schedule) late by 2027,” Inskeep said.
IS IT NECESSARY?
Carmel councilors push back on mayor’s proposal to launch nonprofit to manage events
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Several members of the Carmel City Council are pushing back on a proposal by Mayor Sue Finkam to launch Experience Carmel, a nonprofit that would manage city events.
The council questioned Finkam and other city officials about the necessity, financial impact and governance of Experience Carmel during a Sept. 15 workshop to review the city’s proposed 2026 budget.
Finkam is proposing that the city allocate $1.8 million from a fund that supports the arts and related operations in 2026 to help launch the nonprofit. The existing Marketing and Communications Department would be significantly downsized, with eight of its 15 employees relocating to the new nonprofit, three moving to other city departments and four remaining.
MAC Director Kelly Douglas told the council that the department planned 47 events occurring on 144 days this year, indicating it’s time for the city to create a destination marketing organization to manage them. She pointed to Downtown Indy, Inc., which promotes and oversees events in Indianapolis, as an example of how Experience Carmel could operate.
Douglas said the city’s efforts this year to bring event planning in-house — rather than heavily relying on contractors as it had in the past — saved money and proved that creating a nonprofit to run events will work.
“It does make sense to take that and export it out of the city,” said Douglas, adding that she expects to leave MAC to oversee the nonprofit — at least on an interim basis — if it forms.
The nonprofit board would include members appointed by the mayor, city council and other local organizations. The Hamilton County Community Foundation is expected to provide back-office support.
Councilor Jeff Worrell said he has concerns about making significant changes to MAC’s operations two consecutive years. He also questioned why Carmel would launch a nonprofit while the city is actively investigating the mayor’s handling of events surrounding the October 2024 board shakeup of Carmel Christkindlmarkt Inc., which manages the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.
“I’m being very cautious about jumping on this — what feels to me to be like a runaway train in the end of the year while we’re dealing with the budget — it’s just a lot,” Worrell said. “There’s so many unknowns. There’s no feasibility study. There’s no document I can hang on to. And we know that citizens who love the city may disagree with what’s in the best interest of the city.”
Several councilors questioned how the move would save the city $1.7 million in 2026 if the nonprofit requires a $1.8 million donation from the city to launch. They said they have asked but not received a clear answer, and Douglas indicated she would work to provide better documentation of the savings.
City Council President Adam Aasen said he does not believe the council has time to sufficiently vet the proposal before its Oct. 20 deadline to vote on the 2026 budget.
“I don’t want to see us panic about the effects of Senate Enrolled Act 1 and make a decision that really will affect city events for decades to come” Aasen said.
Although the city is set to collect millions of dollars less in property taxes than originally projected in 2026 because of SEA1, Finkam said the plan is not motivated by panic
and that she and other city officials have been diligently working on it for eight weeks. She initially proposed the idea during the May city council meeting during which the council later launched the CCI investigation.
At the budget workshop, Finkam told the council she does not have a backup plan.
“We don’t have an alternative at this time,” she said. “This is what we think is the best thing moving forward.” Aasen said if the council does not want to proceed with funding the nonprofit, it could cut the $1.8 million grant proposed in the budget, but it is prohibited by state law from increasing funds. That means, if Finkam doesn’t make any changes, the MAC department would be trimmed to four employees and Experience Carmel would not have startup funds.
A $1.8 million grant to launch Experience Carmel is not the only change proposed for 2026 in the fund that supports the arts and related operations.
The budget also includes a decrease in the amount of art grant funds available to support local organizations. For many years, the council has allocated 1 percent of the general fund to support the arts; for 2026 it’s proposed to be .87 percent.
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam said although less grant funds would be available, resident companies would be prioritized to receive them.
Finkam also said that she did not spend all the 2025 dollars allocated to support the arts as part of austerity measures to prepare for a tighter budget in 2026 caused by the passage of Senate Enrolled Act 1.
The proposed budget also includes a $100,000 reduction in the Center for the Performing Arts management fee, dropping the annual payment to $2.15 million.
Finkam
Worrell
Carmel doctor leads study on heart attack treatment
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel resident Dr. Keyur P. Vora was the lead author in a study that made a discovery in the treatment of a complication that can occur after a specific kind of heart attack.
MEDICINE
Vora, 42, the director of clinical imaging research at the Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center at the Indiana School of Medicine, discovered that a blood test can rapidly identify post-procedure hemorrhaging caused by a STEMI heart attack — cardiac arrest caused by a completely blocked artery.
post-stent hemorrhaging have a significantly higher risk of dying before leaving the hospital. Post-procedure hemorrhaging can occur within the heart muscle in 35 to 45 percent of patients, according to Vora. The only current method to detect post-stent hemorrhaging is via a cardiac MRI, which many hospitals do not have on-site, and that can be impractical for critically ill patients, according to Vora. His research team found that levels of a specific heart protein, measured by a troponin blood test, can accurately identify post-stent internal hemorrhaging. He said the blood test can make a diagnosis within the first hour after a stent procedure.
The 16-month study took place from 2023 to 2024 and was published in the Aug. 26 edition of the New England Journal Of Medicine. Vora also presented his findings to the European Society of Cardiology annual congress Aug. 31 in Madrid.
“It’s a major discovery and it’s being considered as a game-changer in the field of heart attacks,” Vora said.
Treatment for a STEMI heart attack involves putting a stent in the artery to restore blood flow, but there is risk involved.
Vora said data was analyzed from over 6,100 patients across seven IU Health hospitals and revealed that patients with
“All you need to do is do this blood test and identify who is at the high risk of complications, even after successful stenting,” Vora said.
Vora said his research could make diagnosis of the complication far easier, noting blood tests are also far less expensive for the patient.
“This changes the way cardiology can be practiced after the heart attack,” he said. “The patient will have an opportunity to have better, personalized care. Once you do the diagnosis, then you can do the treatment.”
DISPATCHES
Former EPA deputy administrator to speak at Sustainable Living Seminar –Indiana University environmental policy expert and former EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe will speak at the Carmel Green Initiative’s Sustainable Living Seminar at 6 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Carmel Clay Public Library. McCabe will share insights on recent environmental policy changes and their implications. She also will talk about stories of Hoosiers working at the state and local levels and in the business community to build sustainability and resilience. Sustainable Living Seminars are presented by Carmel Green Initiative in collaboration with the Carmel Clay Public Library. They take place at the Carmel Clay Public Library main branch and are free to attend and open to the public. Visit carmelgreen.org for more information.
Donations for local humane associations — Menards locations in Carmel, Indianapolis and Avon will serve as drop sites for donations benefiting local humane associations through the month of September. A large collection box is placed near the exit doors. Donations are accepted through Sept. 30.
Vehicle safety checks – As part of National Preparedness month in September, Jiffy Lube of Indiana is helping motorists stay safe by offering free vehicle safety checks in September. No purchase is necessary. Each inspection includes a tire pressure and tread depth check, windshield wiper blade check, exterior lights test, battery testing and an oil and fluids check. In partnership with with AAA Hoosier Motor Club, members can also save 15 percent on services at Jiffy Lube of Indiana locations.
Vora
Walmart officials surprised local businesses Archtek Dental and Tartar Shield with an invitation to the chain’s Open Call event in Arkansas. From left: Emily McGee, Walmart emerging market manager; Mo Zeinalpour, Walmart market manager; Jim Valent, Walmart regional vice president; Chris Gratzer, Noblesville Walmart store manager; Corey Heim, Tartar Shield; Nathan Hoover, Tartar Shield; Reed Elder, Archtek Dental; Ryan Day; Carmel Walmart store manager; Tammy Seitz, Walmart store manager; and Jeff Stone, Walmart community relations.
(Photo provided by Walmart Public Relations)
Local businesses get surprise
news@youarecurrent.com
Entrepreneurs from two Hamilton County companies — Archtek Dental in Carmel and Tartar Shield in Noblesville — have been invited to pitch their products to Walmart buyers nationwide.
And it was revealed to them as a surprise.
Reed Elder, from Archtek Dental, and Corey Heim, from Tartar Shield, were invited to Walmart’s Open Call, a chance for entrepreneurs who have “shelf-ready” products to present their product at Walmart headquarters in Bentonville, Ark. The Open Call takes place Oct. 7-8.
Elder and Heim thought they were going to the Walmart location at 2001 E. 151st St. Sept. 5 to pitch their products to store managers to get an invite to attend Open Call.
What they didn’t know is that Walmart leadership surprised both business owners with the news that they were already approved to attend Open Call.
According to information provided by Walmart media representatives, Archtek Dental will present its grind guard at Open Call. The grind guard is designed to protect teeth during sleep.
Tartar Shield will present oral care products for pets, including chews, treats, food toppers and water additives.
A ‘Butter’ path to wellness
By Brittney Dial news@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville resident LeeTosha Henry was searching for a way to enhance wellness when she founded her online business, A Butter Me. Designed to be a comprehensive stop for self-care needs, her spa-inspired products include a range of body care items and scrubs that promote rest and relaxation as a part of the daily routine.
“A Butter Me is more than skin care — it’s about being better in every way: mind, body, and soul,” Henry said. “Our products are designed to encourage you to carve out time for you, every day, not just when you’re stressed.”
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Henry was a teacher.
“I’m used to setting my own course,” Henry said. “I’ve always loved the creativity that comes with teaching and the ability to shape young people’s lives. As an entrepreneur, I enjoy those same things. I get to be creative every day and think, ‘How can I solve this problem?’ Whether it’s acne
Products are available at A Butter Me. (Photo courtesy of A Butter Me.)
or anti-aging, I approach it like I did in the classroom: finding solutions that make a difference.”
Henry has a multilayered definition of wellness.
“Wellness for me means good health from head to toe,” Henry said. “I’ve been in a place where I looked good on the outside, but inside I was weighed down by what people thought of me. Now, I’m working to simply be me — not the perfect Tosha, but the one who is growing, evolving, discovering, and becoming better every day.”
A Butter Me products can be purchased online at abutterme.com.
Actor finds lots of good in Civic’s production of ‘Something Rotten’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Jacob Schilling, this is a role he has wanted to play for some time.
MUSICAL
The Fishers resident portrays Nigel Bottom in Civic Theatre’s production of “Something Rotten,” which runs Oct. 3 to Oct. 18 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Schilling previously performed in the ensemble of “Something Rotten” when he was a student at Otterbein University in Ohio.
“This is actually one of my dream roles to play Nigel,” Schilling said. “I think the show is incredibly funny and it has so much heart and wit. Nigel’s entire character is kind of the heart of the show. It has the passion between his brother Nick and the love interest of Portia.”
Schilling said the brothers end up creating a silly musical.
“We both try to write something better than Shakespeare,” Schilling said.
Schilling said “Something Rotten” was one of the first shows he saw on Broadway.
“I fell in love with the music of the show, the story and always wanted to play Nigel because I relate so much with him as a writer myself and me being awkward and quirky,” he said.
Indianapolis resident Addi Koehler plays Nick’s wife, Bea Bottom.
“When this show first came out, I was listening to the recording every day in my earbuds at school and I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh, I would love to play Bee someday,’” she said. “So, I got really excited when I saw that Civic was doing the show. I’m having fun playing Bea and then playing a bunch of men. She is trying to make money for the family, so she goes out dressed as various different men to get different jobs.”
Carmel resident Michael Krauter, who made his Civic Theatre debut in “Joseph
and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in April, plays Shakespeare.
Krauter said he saw the show on stage out of town and thought Shakespeare would be fun to play.
“It’s kind of challenging because I sort of play like a character within a character within a character at one point because he goes undercover and tries to disrupt the (Bottom brothers’) operation,” Krauter said. “It’s an interesting version of Shakespeare because it’s sort of this rock star that everyone praises. But when you actually get to know him, he’s really a fake. He doesn’t really know what he’s doing. He’s pretty lazy.”
Shakespeare learns that Nick is trying to steal his ideas through a soothsayer, so he tries to infiltrate to see what the Bottom brothers are working on.
Yorktown resident Daniel Wilke, who plays Nick, said his character is struggling with a show.
“He wants his family to be happy and taken care of while also not fading into obscurity because of the looming shadow of Shakespeare,” he said. “Through a series of, let’s call them misfortunes, he comes up with this idea for a musical that nobody actually wants to see.”
The idea is to make a musical about
eggs.
Daniel Wilke, left, and Jacob Schilling perform as brothers in “Something Rotten.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty)
“I feel if you can make eggs funny, you have to go for it,” he said.
Wilke, who has been acting for three years, listened to the “Something Rotten” soundtrack and realized it could be a lot of fun.
“Every song, every number has a point and a purpose and drives the story, which I think is fantastic,” he said.
Civic Theatre Executive Artistic Director Michael Lasley, who is directing, said unfortunately the show’s title doesn’t really reveal what the story is about. The reference is to Shakespeare’s line “Something Rotten in the state of Denmark,” which is from “Hamlet.”
“It’s chock full, from top to bottom, with all these sorts of inside theater jokes, but you don’t have to know theater to get them,” Lasley said. “They’re very much a part of pop culture. It’s just a show that is so full of heart and it’s ridiculous. It’s dumb, in a funny and incredibly entertaining way.”
Lasley said his favorite song is “God I Hate Shakespeare.”
“It’s Nick’s rant about, ‘Why does Shakespeare get to be called ‘The Bard?’” he said.
For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘HEARTBREAK HOTEL’
“Heartbreak Hotel” runs through Oct. 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘THE WORLD OF HANS ZIMMER’
“The World of Hans Zimmer: A New Dimension” is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at Fishers Event Center. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny Comedy Night” is set for Sept. 25, followed by “Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends” Sept. 26 and “All the Way Frank: A Sinatra Tribute,” Sept. 27 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
BRIAN MCKNIGHT
“An Evening with Brian McKnight” is set for 8 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
JAY LENO
Jay Leno will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
Heart to perform at Fishers Event Center – Heart is bringing their “Royal Flush Tour” back to North America in 2026, stopping March 15 at Fishers Event Center. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers will be joined by special guest Lucinda Williams. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster.com. Heart recently concluded a summer run at Bethel, N.Y., that included many sold-out shows. Heart, led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide with a catalog that includes hits such as “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Crazy on You” and “These Dreams.”
Leno brings act to Carmel
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
At his core, Jay Leno has always viewed himself as a stand-up comedian.
COMEDY
“I was lucky enough to get a TV show, but TV shows can last 13 weeks or last 23 years,” he said.
Leno hosted “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” for 23 years.
“Sooner or later, you have to leave a TV show,” Leno said. “Standup is kind of like golf. You can do it until you’re 70 or 80 if you play it right.”
The 75-year-old Leno will make his first appearance at 8 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Leno said he is doing shows every weekend.
“I think the general rule is you do it until you have your stroke,” Leno said. “I’ve been doing this for 50 years. I don’t like doing TV specials or Netflix or any of that kind of stuff. I like a live audience. It’s just fun. It’s fun to tell a joke and then try it out. That’s what keeps you young. You try to remain reasonably relevant. You work on TV and there are applause signs and people tell you it’s funny. But you don’t really know if it’s funny until you do it in front of an audience who bought a ticket. They’ll let you know whether it’s funny or not. That’s always the best judge.”
Leno drew attention earlier this summer when he said some late-night talk show hosts have become too one-sided politically in jokes about President Donald Trump.
“When Johnny (Carson) and I did the show, you made fun of both sides,” he said. “That way you kind of get the whole audience. If you are aligned with one side and all your jokes are about the other side, then you are going to lose half the audience.”
Leno said he doesn’t do as many political jokes as he did during his “Tonight Show” monologue.
“If you go to a club, there’s a chance a third of the audience is not going to agree with you politically, but they might like your jokes,” he said, “There are plenty of musical artists I like that I don’t really agree with politically, but I don’t listen to their political side. If I’m paying for a comedy show, I want comedy.”
Normally, he said he isn’t too worried about politically correct material.
“If something is really funny, it’s OK,” Leno said. “It’s when an inappropriate joke is not funny, then you’ve offended someone. If a joke is really funny — I’m not saying someone might not get offended — but most people are pretty good about it. I just get annoyed when people try to put their personal opinion in front of a joke. I knew Rodney Dangerfield for 40 years. I have no idea if he was a Democrat or Republican.”
A longtime automobile enthusiast, Leno said he does 52 shows a year of “Jay Leno’s Garage.” It started as a web series on NBC.com and then became a series on CNBC from 2015 to 2022 before moving to YouTube.
Leno writes articles on automobiles for several magazines, including a column in “Popular Mechanics.”
“To me, when people want to talk to me about cars, it’s fun because it’s what I want to talk about, anyway,” he said.
Leno said he still rides his motorcycle, too.
“I still ride, crash and fall off,” he said. “A 75-year-old guy on a 100-year-old motorcycle, what could go wrong there?”
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Jay Leno will make his first appearance in Carmel Sept. 27. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
TO OUR TALENTED ARTISTS!
Photography
Karin Connolly
Ben Cooper
Derek Dammann
Brian Doyle
John Kennington
Angela Kullmann
Oscar Matos Linares
James Marsh
Matthew Platz
John Scanlan
Kyle Spears
Glass
Heidi Barron
Angelo Fico
Robert Lagestee
Meredith Wenzel
Kathy Woodruff
Painting
Catherine Adamkiewicz
Anna Afshar
Stephanee Ann
Betsy Becher
Kwang Cha Brown
Dick Close
Zhen Zhong Duan
Abigail Emmert
Cindy Evitt
Oriana Gerez
Shannon Godby
Sadoth Gonzalez
Michelle Johnson
Mary Johnston
Kwame Boama Mensa-Aborampa
Said Oladejo-Lawal
Holly Osburn
Emma Overman
Anne Parks
Jurate Phillips
Annette Poitau
Randy Sorrell
David Stratman
Matt Tisdale
Raisa Torres
Steven Ward
Nestor Yulfo
This list is just a portion of the artist featured at the festival this year! Visit carmelartsfesival.org for more information and the full list of participating artists.
Wood
Ed Bladen
Jennifer Boles
Brian Bortz
Emily Combs
Brooke Garber
Tina Hospers
John Kara
Donald Markham
Mark Martens
Lucas McGowan
Jeffrey Mead
Noah Mynes
Nadia Ogle
Robert Schafer
Tom Meehan Stahl
Aimee Wesling
Directors embrace cult classic
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
James H. Wiliams saw “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for the first time when he was 13 at a midnight showing of the movie. He quickly fell in love with the cult classic.
MUSICAL
“This has been a bucket list show of mine for quite a while,” the Fishers resident said.
Williams and Brandon Schultz are co-directing Main Street Productions’ presentation of “The Rocky Horror Show” Sept. 25 to Oct. 4 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. The Oct. 4 performance starts just before midnight.
“There is a lot of nostalgia about the show with it being the 50th anniversary of the movie,” Williams said.
A Carmel resident, Schultz said he fell in love with the rock ‘n’ roll aspects of the musical.
“We wanted to bring that sort of a concert feel, which the musical has. (What the) movie doesn’t have is that connection to the music being played live,”
Schultz said.
Logan Laflin plays Riff Raff in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” (Photo courtesy of Main Street Productions)
Indianapolis resident Logan Laflin plays Riff Raff, which is based on a parody of Dr. Frankenstein’s servant, Igor.
Laflin hasn’t performed in the show before but is quite familiar with the movie.
“I’ve watched it a million times,” Laflin said. “It’s kind of one of the roles I’ve always loved. Every time ‘Time Warp’ comes on, I always sing it. I thought that would be a fun role to play, such a fun challenge to sing and dance that (role). It’s kind of a vocal challenge. I am at the tip-top of my range (for some of it), so it’s kind of pushing me.”
For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
Heartland Festival lineup set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The 34th Heartland International Film Festival offers its usual diverse range in its 2025 lineup.
FILM
Heartland officials announced Sept. 18 the lineup of more than 100 independent films, including 19 world and U.S. premieres, 27 regional premieres, 17 special presentations from major distributors and nine Indiana Spotlight films.
The festival runs from Oct. 9-19 at five Indianapolis venues: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema at The Square; Indy Art Center; Kan-Kan Cinema; Living Room Theaters; and Newfields. Many of the films will be available to stream in the U.S.
“It’s about this guy that is a very sweet American actor and he’s trying to find work in Tokyo and his agent lines him up with a group at a Japanese rental family agency.
He finds himself inserted into people’s lives and figuring out how he can be both an actor and good person.”
The Centerpiece Night screening will be “Train Dreams” Oct. 15. The Netflix film is a portrait of Robert Grainier, a logger and railroad worker, played by Joel Edgerton, who leads a life of unexpected depth and beauty in the rapidly changing America of the early 20th century.
“He’s out in the wilderness and dealing with life and the beauty around them and acceleration of change on the railroad,” Opsahl said.
We couldn’t do it without you.
Thank you for believing in the power of the arts. Thank you for believing in us.
The Opening Night film is “Rental Family,” which stars Brendan Fraser, who was born in Indianapolis.
“Brendan Fraser has done a few roles since winning the Oscar for ‘The Whale’ (in 2023) but this is his first big starring role since,” said HIFF Film Programming Coordinator Sam Opsahl, a Fishers resident.
The Oct. 19 Closing Night film is “Nuremberg.” Rami Malek plays a World War II psychiatrist who evaluates Nazi leaders for the Nuremberg Trials and becomes obsessed with understanding evil, forming a disturbing bond with Hermann Göring, played by Russell Crowe.
For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.
Opsahl
READERS’ VIEWS
Housing options for the next generation
Editor,
For too many young Carmel graduates, returning home to build careers and families feels increasingly out of reach. Young professionals find themselves priced out of the community that shaped them, caught between proximity to family and financial stability.
The good news? Solutions abound.
In 2024, we started partnering with Mayor Sue Finkam to launch Team Bounceback, an initiative specifically designed to attract former students back to Carmel and encourage current students to build their futures here. I lead this committee, which serves as an advisory body focused on strengthening the city’s ties with younger generations and highlighting Carmel’s appeal as a place for young people to live, work, and thrive. Sue and her team have been accommodating and eager to hear how they can implement policies to create options for the next generation.
We’re also lucky to also have a partner in former Carmel high school student, Sen.
Todd Young, as well. In his role, he’s been a strong supporter of identifying ways to incentivize local municipalities to create housing options for young people eager to put down roots. In this congress alone, he has supported legislation to increase affordable housing stock in communities around Indiana. The beauty of Young’s approach lies in respecting local control while encouraging municipalities across the country to create options for people in my generation eager for affordable housing options.
For Carmel families watching their adult children leave for more affordable communities, this coordinated local and federal approach offers genuine hope. The young people who grew up in Carmel possess exactly the talent, energy, and community connection that will define our bright future. With the right policies and entrepreneurial spirit, we’re not just welcoming them home — we’re creating the foundation for Carmel’s next chapter of growth and prosperity.
Carlton
Anker, Carmel
Be positive examples for one another
Editor,
When my husband and I moved to Carmel in 2016, we started an “Indiana road trip” list to explore the state of Indiana. Our first road trip was to Corydon (first state capital). I grew up in Indiana, but except for an 8th grade field trip to Indianapolis, we rarely ventured out of northern Indiana. I asked my dad why most of our family road trips were to states west, east and north of us. He replied that the KKK was too pervasive outside Lake County. As we travel today, we occasionally see a sign that, to me, is a symbol of hatred — it could be a message posted or a
confederate flag, but the vast majority of symbols we see are those that capture America’s better angels. We see messages of hope and promise in people’s yards. We see the American flag waving proudly and respectfully. We see people tending their gardens, celebrating at festivals and serving people at the wonderful businesses within their towns. We see Indiana celebrating what we do well and working to always do better. It is wonderful to be able to explore and celebrate Indiana. Let’s be positive examples to one another — even if we disagree.
Shelley Carey, Carmel
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
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.
Don’t fund NFP at expense of the arts
Commentary by Jeff McDermott
I’ve watched the Carmel City Council’s 2026 budget hearings with great interest and appreciate that difficult decisions must be made in light of reduced tax revenue under Senate Enrolled Act 1.
VIEWPOINT
As an arts leader, I must advocate for our arts community. I speak primarily for Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, the Great American Songbook Foundation and our six resident companies, but also for the many arts groups that benefit from Carmel’s annual Arts Grant Program.
Mayor Sue Finkam proposes creating Experience Carmel, a nonprofit to manage public events, at a start-up cost of nearly $1.8 million. This restructuring would move members of the city’s Marketing and Communications Department staff to the nonprofit, supposedly saving money, though no clear explanation exists for how savings will occur. No feasibility study has been performed, and basic questions remain unanswered about the organization’s purpose, structure and leadership.
Curiously, the $1.8 million would come from the city’s 2026 arts budget. To cover this expense, the mayor proposes cutting $100,000 from Allied Solutions Center’s
management fee and, more important, $220,000 from the Arts Grants that local groups depend on. These reductions aren’t because of SEA1 budget constraints but rather a decision to fund Experience Carmel with arts money.
Here are questions Carmel residents should ask about this proposal:
• If the Marketing and Communications Department performs its work efficiently, as stated in Monday’s budget sessions, why create Experience Carmel?
• Why pay for Experience Carmel with arts funding when it’s not an arts organization?
• Why reduce arts funding, which generates cultural benefits and over $40 million in annual economic activity for Carmel?
On behalf of local arts groups and their patrons, I ask Mayor Finkam to rethink Experience Carmel before tampering with what has consistently been a winning arts formula.
Jeff McDermott is the president/ CEO at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts and the Great American Songbook Foundation.
Virtues of planning ahead
Commentary by Terry Anker
“Welcome,” she remarked, “do you have a reservation?” It opens thousands of conversations every day. We need to know if you have planned ahead. We need to know if you follow the routine. “Why, yes,” he responded, “we have a reservation for two at 7 p.m.” Perfect. As if the treasures to be found beyond the reception stand were to be ours as soon as we could open the lock, the reservation is the key required. Post haste, our intrepid diners were ushered into the restaurant where a table was awaiting them. The smiling server had already provided a cool glass of water and the menus soon were presented. There is advantage in the customs of human interaction.
ESSAY
While the system works, like most things, it is imperfect. Even as we have filled the request form online and responded affirmatively to the confirmation text received that morning, occasionally, the table is not waiting. The guests before have
not yet departed. The staff that clears and resets from previous diners called in sick and delays are ongoing. There are countless reasons. “But we have a reservation,” exclaims the frustrated patron. They had done their part! The social contract seemed broken, and a harm caused.
More often, no reservation is made, for lack of knowledge, planning or intent. Standing at the counter charming, demanding, or bribing, we work with staff to discover a way in without the prerequisite. Does it work elsewhere? Can we reserve time with our kids? Can we hold a space for family to be together for the holidays? Maybe, but without a reservation, what can we expect?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
READERS’ VIEWS
Get electric bikes off paths
Editor, Carmel needs to seriously consider some regulations for electric powered dirt bikes. For all intents and purposes, these are motorcycles. I am not anti-motorcycle, or dirt bike, but they simply do not belong on any bike paths. If gas powered motorcycles are not allowed on bike paths, then why should these be allowed?
Kids as young as 6 and 7 are now riding them. They have no training and have no real knowledge of proper rules and safety. On many occasions, people are walking along a path by our home, and an electric dirt bike will come up from behind, then go over into the grass to pass them and then do a wheel stand as if to taunt and speed away at 30 mph. In our area, they are everywhere! They have even started riding them over home construction sites in our neighborhood.
That’s private property. With no licensing or registration, they cannot be reported because there is no way to identify them.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with one of our fine officers who regularly patrols the area paths. He stated that it is currently very difficult to enforce, with any penalties, due to the confusing varied rules and regulations between state, county and city ordinances. As technology improves, these cycles are only going to get faster and more powerful with younger riders on them.
I urge Carmel to be in the forefront of regulation, registering and licensing for the protection and safety of everyone. I would also encourage parents to properly instruct their children on safety and courtesy should they purchase one for their child.
Thomas Beck, Carmel
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Department: Board of Public Works and Safety One Civic Square City of Carmel, Indiana 46032
Project: 111th Street Multi-Use Path - Monon Trail to Westfield Blvd 22-ENG-10
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Public Works and Safety for the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, will receive sealed bids for the above-described “111th Street Multi-Use Path - Monon Trail to Westfield Blvd” via the City’s e-Procurement Portal, https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/carmelin, until 9:00 am on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 and commencing as soon as practicable thereafter on the same date such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Council Chambers of City Hall. No late bids will be accepted.
All bids and proposals shall be properly and completely executed on the proposal forms provided with the plans and specifications, which will include the non-collusion affidavit as required by the State of Indiana.
A bid bond or certified check in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount bid must be submitted with each bid. A one hundred percent (100%) performance and payment bond will also be required of the successful bidder. It is intended that actual construction of all work divisions shall be started as soon as practicable, and each bidder shall be prepared to enter promptly into a construction contract, furnish a performance bond, and begin work without delay in the event the award is made to him.
The Project consists of, but is not necessarily limited to, the following:
Construction of a multi-use path from the Monon Trail to Westfield Boulevard. The project will also include a raised pedestrian crossing for the Monon Trail at 111th Street, a retaining wall, and minor drainage improvements.
Contract Documents and drawings for the Project can be found in this solicitation and the attachments section.
Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets of drawings and Contract Documents and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets of drawings and Contract Documents.
This Project will be funded by the City of Carmel.
A Non-Mandatory pre-bid conference for discussions of the Project, the bidding requirements and other important matters will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Caucus Room, One Civic Sq, Carmel, IN 46032 and offered virtually. Virtual meeting instructions available on the City’s e-Procurement Portal.
For special accommodations needed by handicapped individuals planning to attend the pre-bid conference or public bid opening meeting, please call or notify the city of Carmel, Engineer ’s Office, at (317) 571-2441 at least forty-eight (48) hours prior thereto.
No bidder may withdraw any bid or proposal within a period of thirty (30) days following the date set for receiving bids or proposals. The Carmel Board of Public Works and Safety reserves the right to hold any or all bids or proposals for a period of not more than thirty (30) days and said bids or proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said period. The City of Carmel reserves the right to reject and/or cancel any and all bids, solicitations and/or offers in whole or in part as specified in the solicitations when it is not in the best interests of the governmental body as determined by the purchasing agency in accordance with IC 5-22-18-2.
Winery choice
19. Santa ___, Calif.
20. Set securely
21. Subway gates
23. Possess
25. Competent
28. Ruoff Music Center concert, e.g.
29. Decomposes
32. Leases
33. 757 maker
36. Bike part
38. Well-known Indiana person...or a hint for the starred clues
43. Scandinavian capital
44. Alerted
1. Lots of ozs.
17. Wabash River transports of yore Down
31. Neither’s partner
NOTICE OF SALE
City of Carmel, Indiana
Department: Board of Public Works and Safety, One Civic Square, City of Carmel, IN 46032
Sale: Freightliner Hackney Fire Truck “AS-IS” Notice is hereby given that the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, is selling the following Freightliner Hackney Fire Truck “AS-IS”: VIN: 1FV6HLCA7TL794298
MAKE: Freightliner
MODEL: Hackney
YEAR: 1996
The sale will be via online public auction held on www.GovDeals.com. The deadline to submit a bid is Monday, October 27, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The Freightliner Hackney Fire Truck is sold “AS-IS” and subject to the terms of GovDeals.com. Jacob Quinn, City Clerk
46. Fluorescent bulb gas
50. Swiss peak
52. “Yikes!”
53. Sierra ___
54. Cat calls
57. Before, poetically
58. Sci-fi weaponry
60. Occupy the throne
62. At most
63. Organic foods no-nos
68. *Butler big shot
69. Old anesthetic
70. *Coxhall Gardens ringer
71. Border
72. Guitar music notation
73. Gusto
BATH REMODEL
2. Orchestra section at the IRT
3. Siam Star drink order
4. Carmel City Council President Aasen
5. Receded
6. *Type of spoon
7. Indianapolis Indians pitching stat
8. No longer working (Abbr.)
9. Leaky tire sound
10. Get there
11. Like some sweaters
12. Thumbs-up
13. Grand Junction Brewing Co. supplies
18. IU biz degree
22. Former Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education: ___ Lubbers
23. Sphere
24. “Bow-wow!”
26. I-65 pavement hazard
27. Threesome
30. Computer modeling, for short
34. Lunchtime meeting
35. NASA’s Grissom
37. Colts ticket word
39. Pacers dunk 40. Wrath
41. Bring about
42. Backside
45. JFK predecessor
Hint at
Harvested
Attend without a partner
49. Common soccer score 51. *Upland Brewing serving 55. Odd
56. [Not my mistake]
59. Blueprint detail, briefly 61. The “Gee” in Bee Gees 64. Biblical verb ending
HBO rival 66. Col. Lilly
67. ___-mo
Answers on Page 31
Studio M Architecture and Planning, LLC seeks Architectural Graduate in Carmel, IN to produce architect drawings (floor plans, elevations, details). Telecommute avail. Send CV to: rmills@studioarchitecture.net, ref. Job Code: AG-CIN.
be Detail-oriented, proactive and able to work independently. Email “Joshperez6647@gmail.com” for more details.
Be Where YOU are Valued
Clarity Care Givers LLC is Indiana’s premiere personal service agency for elder care. We hire, train, support and value all that it takes for our clients and caregivers’ success.
NOW HIRING
Visit our website:https//claritycaregivers.com/contact/ and click Careers to complete an on-line application. Our culture is welcoming, friendly and above all, professional and respectful to our clients and caregivers. We value the work being done and we offer,
• Competitive wage • Work life balance • Simple IRA • And, so much more
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS
If you or a loved one need an extra pair of hands to meet daily care needs, Clarity Care Givers may be exactly what you are looking for. Our service provides:
• Companionship • Assist with daily care tasks • Light housekeeping • And, so much more
FREE SUPPORT
Come join us every 4th calendar Tuesday at 7050 E. 116th Street, Suite 150 in Fishers, IN from 2:00 until 4:00. Witness and participate in SUSTAIN. It’s a time of respite for those who provide care to share and to gather tips from others facing same or similar concerns.
We do one thing only and we do it better than anyone else. We provide exceptional care. Come join us. That’s why Clarity Care Givers is Trusted, Requested – Preferred.
*** Attention Personal Trainers ***
Join our exciting and supportive team serving older adults in a non-franchise, local fitness facility. We are looking for an experienced, part-time trainer with the possibility of moving to full-time. Clients are provided, so there is NO SELLING. BA/BS 4-year or greater degree in exercise related field required. If you have a passion for changing the lives of older adults, you will want to be part of our welcoming environment. Send resume and cover letter to info@motion4lifefitness.com
THE PERFECT WINTER RETREAT
4 bedroom, 4 bath condo overlooking breathtaking views of the gulf in Navarre Beach, Florida. Our condo is fully stocked and has multiple balconies to relax upon. Each bedroom is equipped with an ensuite bathroom and internet TV. Special snowbird pricing available. Please contact beachlifenowfl@gmail.com or 850-293-4588 for more details!
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Kings: CHARLES, COBRA, CRAB, KONG, SIZE, TUT; Shapes: CIRCLE, CONE, CYLINDER, SQUARE, TRIANGLE; Hits: DOUBLE, HOME RUN, SINGLE, TRIPLE; Scores: FIELD GOAL, SAFETY, TOUCHDOWN; Holidays: LABOR DAY, PATRIOT DAY; City: VINCENNES
Current Publishing is seeking talented freelance reporters and photographers to join our team. We’re looking for passionate storytellers who can write compelling articles and capture highquality images that bring our local news to life.
FREELANCE REPORTERS
Research, interview and write engaging articles on a variety of local topics.
Requirements: Experience in journalism, a portfolio of published work, excellent writing and communication skills and a strong grasp of journalistic ethics.
FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHERS
Capture impactful photos for news, features, portraits and events.
Requirements: Proven experience, a strong portfolio, proficiency with camera equipment and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
HOW TO APPLY: Send your resume, a brief cover letter, and a link to your portfolio or writing samples to zach@youarecurrent.com. No phone calls, please. EOE.
